Update: We're constantly searching for Peacock promo codes and deals, but at this time, there aren't any active discounts. We'll keep and eye out for coupon codes and update this page as we find them, so keep checking back. If you'd still like to sign up for Peacock today, you can explore evergreen savings with Peacock's annual plans and bundles below or head back to checkout.

Since its launch in 2020, Peacock has gradually climbed the ranks of the best streaming services. The streamer carries a massive collection of programming, featuring everything from classic movies and network TV shows to original streaming exclusives. The app has also built out an impressive selection of live sports programming and reality TV series, so there's something for every type of viewer on the NBCUniversal app. There are multiple tiers of service available, including a budget-minded plan, but one of the best ways to unlock extra savings is by using one of the best Peacock promo codes.

While NBC hits like "Law & Order: SVU" and "The Office" might be the initial selling point for Peacock, the streaming service's catalog reaches far beyond that. Reality TV fans can binge Bravo hits like "Vanderpump Rules" and the "Real Housewives" franchise, as well as Peacock reality originals such as "The Traitors" and "Love Island USA." There's an enticing selection of films, from horror flicks like "Obsession" to classics such as "Good Will Hunting."

Peacock also carries an impressive slate of original TV series, including hits like "M.I.A.," "Ponies," and "The Burbs." The streaming service even offers select live sports events, including multiple NFL, NBA, and WNBA games each season. Some of the games are streaming exclusives, meaning even cable subscribers might need to sign up for Peacock if they want to watch every game of the season.

You can learn more about the service in our Peacock TV guide, where we break down everything you need to know about subscription tiers, prices, content, and bundling opportunities. While the streaming service is still fairly affordable, thanks in no small part to its newer budget-friendly Select plan, deals and coupon codes remain some of the best ways to cut costs. That said, these discounts are hard to come by, so we've rounded up the best ongoing Peacock savings opportunities below.

Today's best Peacock coupons and promo codes

Previous Peacock promo codes

Are there any other Peacock sales running at the moment?

Peacock isn't offering any limited-time deals right now, and sales from the streaming service have become pretty rare over the past year (the streamer even sat out Black Friday and Cyber Monday in 2025). However, there are still plenty of ways to save on a subscription, including annual plans and bundles.

Peacock annual plans always offer savings year over year compared to the total amount you'd pay over 12 months with a monthly subscription. The Peacock and Apple TV bundles offer savings each month when compared to the price of subscribing to multiple services separately. Check out the savings below:

• Follow us on Instagram and WhatsApp for more deals and buying guides

How to use Peacock promo codes

You must create an account to take advantage of the Peacock promo code. From the Peacock landing page, you can click "Pick Your Plan" and then hit "Choose" on the option you want. From there, you'll be taken to a checkout page where you can create an account by entering your name, email, password, ZIP code, and birthday. On this page, you can apply the promo code by clicking "Have a promo code?," pasting the code into the text box, and clicking "Apply."

Can you stack Peacock promo codes?

Peacock promo codes cannot be stacked together. Only one code may be applied per account at a time. In the past, we've found that there's usually only one Peacock promo code active at a time, if at all, so this issue shouldn't come up much.

Peacock promo code frequently asked questions

Does Peacock offer discounts for teachers, students, or the military?

Peacock offers multiple special discounts for select occupations. The streamer has a student discount, allowing eligible students to pay $5.99 monthly for the first 12 months of their Peacock Premium subscription instead of the original $10.99. Eligible teachers and military members can also receive a discounted Peacock Premium subscription for $6.99 monthly for the first 12 months. Even if you're not a student, Peacock also offers a young adult discount of $5.99 a month for the first 12 months of Peacock Premium for those who are ages 18-24.

All of these discounts are subject to required verification. Those who are still eligible after the first 12 months might be able to renew (with further verification) at the then-standard discount rate.

Be sure to check out our roundups of the best student discounts and the best teacher discounts for more savings.

What is the difference between Peacock Premium and Peacock Premium Plus?

Peacock Premium and Peacock Premium Plus are the two main tiers of the streaming service. There's also Peacock Select, which we'll dig into further down the page.

Peacock Premium costs $10.99 a month or $109.99 a year. It gives you access to the streaming service's full catalog (including movies, NBC shows, Peacock originals, and Bravo programming), but it's supported by ads. Premium also offers access to select live sports and events, including full coverage of the Olympics.

Peacock Premium Plus costs $16.99 a month or $169.99 a year. Like Premium, it gives subscribers access to Peacock's full catalog of content, although you'll be able to watch on-demand programming ad-free. Premium also unlocks 24/7 live streams of your local NBC station and gives you the ability to download certain programming so that you can watch it later offline.

Does Peacock offer a free trial?

No, Peacock doesn't have a free trial. The streaming service initially offered users a weeklong free trial, but this option was later removed. There is also no longer a free tier of Peacock, so you'll need to pay for plan to access any programming.

Do Instacart Plus and Walmart Plus members get Peacock?

Multiple grocery delivery services offer Peacock subscriptions at no extra cost. Instacart Plus added Peacock as a perk in 2023, and members can access Peacock Premium to get the streaming service's full library of ad-supported content. Walmart Plus members also have access to Peacock. A Walmart Plus membership grants access to either Paramount Plus Essential or Peacock Premium. Members can choose between the two ad-supported services every 90 days, so customers can switch back and forth or just use one service continuously.

Where can I watch Peacock?

Peacock's streaming app is available on iOS and Android mobile devices, Roku, LG Smart TV, Samsung Smart TV, Google TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chromecast, Fire TV, Xfinity, and more. Peacock is also available on gaming consoles like PlayStation (4 and 5) and Xbox (One, Series X, and Series S). For a full list of supported devices (along with required generations and operating systems), see Peacock's website.

Is Peacock available outside the United States?

Peacock is available to watch within the United States and certain US territories, such as Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the US Virgin Islands. However, there are no international versions of Peacock, unlike some of its main competitors. If you're hoping to use the service while traveling in other regions, it will be worth trying one of the best VPNs.

Which live sports events are available on Peacock?

If you're a sports fan, Peacock has you covered. Subscribers get access to Sunday Night Football during the NFL season, NBA games, WNBA games, soccer matches from the Premier League, golf tournaments, cycling races (including the Tour de France), and more. NBC had the broadcast rights to Super Bowl LX and the 2026 NBA All-Star game.

Peacock is also the main US streaming hub for the Olympics. NBC and other NBCUniversal networks offer loads of broadcasts from the most notable events, but if you're hoping to watch everything that the Olympics has to offer, including live coverage at off-hours and less mainstream sports, then Peacock is the best option. Peacock most recently carried the 2026 Winter Olympics, and NBCUniversal holds the US broadcast rights to the Olympics through the 2036 Summer Games. You can learn more about sports coverage on Peacock's website.

What's new on Peacock?

Peacock subscribers recently gained access to new TV episodes, including the season finales of "Saturday Night Live," "Saturday Night Live UK," and several of the network's procedural dramas. New movies have also joined the platform, including "You, Me & Tuscany" and "Obsession," along with older movies that are new to Peacock, such as "The Help," "Fantastic Mr. Fox," "School of Rock," and "The Big Short."

The streamer is also constantly dropping new original series. Recent additions to Peacock include "The Burbs," "The Miniature Wife," and the just-released "The Five Star Weekend." The latest season of "Love Island USA" also premiered on the streaming service in early June. Learn more about what's new on Peacock on their website.

What is Peacock Select?

Peacock Select is the streaming service's newest and cheapest tier, which was initially rolled out in 2025. At $7.99 a month or $79.99 a year, Select is the cheapest of Peacock's subscription plans. Select plans grant subscribers access to TV favorites from NBC, Bravo, and more. However, Select is missing quite a few programming categories, including movies, Peacock originals, and live sports/events.

Since it's so pared-down, we mainly recommend this tier for those who don't mind advertisements and are simply looking for a budget-friendly way to get caught up on-demand with broadcast favorites. Otherwise, it's worth shelling out a bit extra each month for Premium or Premium Plus.

Check out more streaming discounts in our guides to the best streaming deals and bundles and the latest Paramount Plus coupons.

A new semester is upon us, and a college student's most important piece of gear will likely be their backpack. Beyond being a protective way to carry a laptop, it has to keep the rest of your school belongings organized and feel natural to daily campus life.

Our team has tested the best backpacks for college students on their ability to hold a day's worth essentials neatly and comfortably. Naturally, we also looked for the best-looking, ergonomic designs. Our favorites look sleek and polished, even when filled to their brim.

If you're looking for something to take on study abroad trips, I also love the popular Dagne Dover Dakota for its luggage sleeve, luxe look, and neat removable compartments. Below are more of our favorite backpacks that contain all the features for a smooth return back to school.

The top college backpacks:

How we tested college backpacks

Laptop protection: A padded laptop compartment is of utmost importance for college backpacks. We checked our MacBooks for dents or scratches after dropping our backpacks from a standing height. The most protective laptop backpacks suspended our laptop off the bottom of the bag, thereby absorbing the bulk of the shock.

Comfort and ergonomic design: The most comfortable backpacks were those with wide shoulder straps and padded, ventilated back panels to relieve sweat stains. Our tall testers ensured the adjustable straps were long enough so the backpack rested comfortably in the center of their torsos. Backpacks with with sternum straps (such as our top pick, the North Face Recon) worked especially well to correct slumped posture during long walks with heavy loads.

Storage features: An average size of 26 liters was the most-agreed-upon size for campus life. Even when your main learning tool is your laptop, you need little pockets for the odds and ends. We looked for backpacks with separate compartments to prevent tangled charging cords. Some nice-to-have features included a key leash and mesh sleeves that let us easily see what's inside.

Hardware and fabric quality: We checked that backpacks had smooth, quiet zippers that glide over bulky contents. For any water-resistant backpacks we tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa, we did a simple pour test to examine whether they effectively sealed out moisture.

Sleek design: Our team's style preferences range from minimalistic modern to gorpy, but we all agreed that the less bulk, the better. We tested backpacks that maintain a slim silhouette, even when they're full to the brim. Learn more about how the Reviews team tests bags and accessories at BI.

Best overall: The North Face Recon Backpack

The North Face Recon Backpack stands out as the perfect combination of our top three criteria: it's durable enough to last years, highly functional with tons of storage, and felt comfortable to wear for hours.

It has a posture-correcting design. We tested its suspension system (including a sternum strap, back clips, and removable waist belt) which helped balance the weight of a full backpack evenly. This in turn alleviates chronic back pain students get from carrying heavy loads over time. We also liked that the rear is padded with a ventilated cushion, and its wide shoulder straps for easier lifting.

The pockets are intuitively placed. Its medium-size main compartment has a laptop sleeve, a front mesh pocket filled with practical separations for all of your charging cords, smaller devices, and writing utensils. Plus, it has two water bottle pockets on its sides.

Safety features are a nice bonus. The chest buckle has a whistle, and the backpack has a reflective outer layer that stays illuminated in low light. Plus, the sleeves are plush enough to protect your tech from breaking on impact. 

Overall, the Recon makes a great confidence-boosting gift for students heading off to a new school. In terms of style, its minimal design and vast array of colorways create a versatile choice for those commuting to class.

Most comfortable: Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L

Patagonia is one of our favorite B-corp retail companies and we appreciate it's eco-conscious approach to outdoor gear. We highly favored the Refugio during our testing because it has a small outer pocket that's in the perfect spot for quickly grabbing something like a sweater or snacks.

The shoulder straps are supremely comfortable. The lightweight padding feels plush on the shoulders and its sternum strap relieves extra pressure from your spine.

It stays dry in the rain. The Refugio has a recycled nylon exterior is coated with a water repellent finish that wicks moisture. 

It comes with a removable laptop sleeve. If you need to lighten your load, you can slide out the sleeve so it effectively functions as a daypack.

Best carry-all: JanSport Main Campus FX

JanSport's Main Campus FX is an oversized version of a classic design, so it's great for students when they're in school and even after they graduate. Not only is it built perfectly for carrying books and laptops, but it's also versatile, making it easy to use for everything from classes to road trips to the gym.

It's a classic design. The Main Campus FX carries a 15-inch laptop with a heavy load of books and random accessories like headphones, a water bottle, beauty products, and assorted writing utensils. The padded straps make carrying its weight a bit breezier.

It's spacious and has neat organizational features. The dedicated laptop pocket is nicely padded, and there are two other full-size compartments, making room for anything and everything. It also has a keychain in the front pocket to keep your dorm or apartment keys handy.

Best anti-theft: Troubadour Pioneer 3.0

Your most valuable learning tool is your laptop, and if you're on a busy campus, you may be wondering how secure it would be if you were to accidentally leave your backpack behind somewhere. In any case, Troubadour's Pioneer 3.0 waterproof backpack has the design features to give you peace of mind.

You can lock it shut and slip a tracking device in its secret pocket. "The tech section is engineered with protective cushioning to safeguard my laptop from damage, and the lockable main compartment (where I stash my wallet) even features an AirTag pocket just in case I misplace my bag," writes freelance reporter Rebecca Strong.

It's comfortable to carry, even when it's chock-full. "The ergonomic design includes sculpted and padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel. Did I mention that it looks sleek as heck, and maintains its shape no matter how little or how much I'm storing inside it?" continues Rebecca.

Everything is easy to access. "The shoulder strap pocket allows me to quickly grab my phone or keys, and the dual elasticated 1-litre bottle holders make it simple to hydrate in a cinch," she writes.

Most stylish: Dagne Dover The Dakota

Dagne Dover makes some of our favorite bags we've ever tested. If you like a sophisticated, minimalist design with ample space and clever compartments, its Dakota Neoprene Backpack will be your saving grace.

It comes in three sizes. All of which are water-resistant, shock-absorbent, and complete with sleek straps. Inside there are pockets galore, so no space is wasted. The laptop compartment in the large version fits a 16-inch laptop, which is bigger than the average college device. The main compartment holds up to 20 liters and has a mesh tablet pocket, five medium-sized pockets, and a convenient detachable pouch. Its two exterior pockets can carry your water bottle and a stash of snacks.

It has a trendy, minimalistic design. Despite its simple exterior, we can confidently say this luxury backpack fits everything you'd ever need: a laptop, tablet, textbooks, water bottle, notebook, snacks, and a spare pair of shoes. On the outside, it looks chic and simple, but inside, it gives you all the power to be your most organized self — which is also why we love to wear it as a work backpack. It even has a nearly-invisible slip pocket by the handle where you can keep small items, like a snack or headphones. 

One of our favorite features we discovered while testing is the luggage handle sleeve, which you can slide over the handle of your carry-on as you wheel it around.

Read more in our full Dagne Dover Dakota backpack review. You can also see how it compares to a Quince dupe in our Dagne Dover versus Quince backpack review.

Best weatherproof: Cotopaxi Allpa 26L Daypack

If your campus routine involves a lot of time outdoors, this durable Cotopaxi backpack will be your greatest asset. Perhaps your curriculum involves field work, or you simply have long walks between buildings. Either way, the Allpa Daypack can handle more than a light drizzle.

It performed the best out of all our pour tests. I wore a Cotopaxi Allpa on a backpacking trip to Europe during the rainy fall season, and absolutely no water seeped through. This smaller version is made of the same recycled ripstop nylon, which comes in four bright signature Cotopaxi colors and is super easy to wipe clean. The matte material does retain some scuff marks, but I can tell by how tough and thick it feels that it's not likely to tear.

You can store a lot on the outside of the bag, not just the inside. It can hold your 32-ounce Nalgene for starters, but when it's emptied it can fit a lot more. I used it to store my glasses and sunglasses case, some hand sanitizer, a bulky hair clip, and a few other odds and ends. The stretchy top keeps them contained but at close reach on the outside of the bag. There's also a daisy chains on the front, so you can clip on carabiners to haul more gear.

It has all the key features we look for in a great student backpack. There's a protective 16-inch laptop compartment, an airy, padded back panel to maximize comfort, hidden pockets for safekeeping valuables, and of course, a key leash. The gorpcore aesthetic may not be for everyone, but this is a well-priced, well-made backpack for students of the outdoors.

Best for travel: BÉIS The Travel Backpack

It has a sturdy canvas exterior and a spacios interior. "I'm constantly amazed by just how much I can stuff in here — an entire outfit change, a meal, and so much more," says style contributor Rebecca Strong. The laptop backpack has a padded compartment that fits a MacBook up to 15 inches in length.

The storage features makes everything easy to reach amid any travel chaos. "This BÉIS backpack has two side slip pockets for water bottles and other knick-knacks I need at the ready, an interior and exterior zip pocket, and a padded tech pocket," she continues. "I love that it has a two-way full-zip around closure, and the padded straps have been much appreciated while I'm hustling around on a stressful work day."

It's weak point are the straps. "Honestly, my only issue with this backpack is that sometimes the adjustable straps don't stay at the adjusted length and slide around a bit," adds Rebecca. "But I'm willing to put up with this small annoyance since this backpack is so comfortable, durable, and versatile."

Best small: Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

It perfect for carrying just the basics. If you're going from campus to your dorm and back, you may not need a huge, hulking backpack. This water-resistant, modestly sized 22-liter Lululemon can handle the small stuff, like a 13-inch MacBook and a small lunch bag. However, we didn't like that it lacked any protective padding.

There are zippered pockets inside. Besides the Everywhere Backpack's front exterior pocket, you can keep any small gadgets, like your charger, headphones, and wireless mouse, all stored in its zippered compartments. You can also carry a 24-ounce water bottle and umbrella on its side pockets.

The water-resistant fabric has a nice sheen. When I did a pour test, the backpack wasn't totally waterproof, but it does wick moisture effectively. You'd be safe carrying this in the rain as long as you're not spending extended amounts of time in a downpour. The fabric maintains its luxe sheen even after it's dried.

Best minimalist: Vera Bradley Campus Backpack

For the college student with a maturing style and an appreciation for a spacious bag, this Vera Bradley backpack is both a great stylistic and functional choice.

It has a luggage handle and smooth-pull zippers. Inside is a padded 15-inch laptop compartment along with two side pockets for a water bottle. It has a sizable 25-liter main compartment containing two mesh slip pockets and outer pockets to store smaller items.

It comes in dozens of colorways. This is one of the best college backpacks that combines utility with a minimalistic look7676 in several stylish shades. The small brand tag is monochromatic and located on the side, so it blends in with the rest of the backpack. Once you open its pockets, you get a pop of the brand's signature paisley pattern.

Best organizational features: The Brevitē Backpack

Our jet-setting colleague and friend of the Insider Reviews team flagged Brevitē's backpacks as one of her most consistently used items when she travels.

Its backpacks are also great for school, since they have neat compartments to keep everything organized — your laptop is separate from your books, your phone is separate from your coin purse, and so on. We also like that the design is very minimal, so it's well-suited to a wide range of personal tastes.

It's intuitive to use. In the front pocket, there's a key leash and small compartments for writing utensils and your phone. Then, there are two ways to access the main compartment, via the top or side zipper. We like that the side pocket can stretch to fit a large stainless steel water bottle.

It contains two secret pockets. Inside the main compartment and in the rear, there are two small zippered pockets that you'd miss if you don't look closely. They're perfect for storing your wallet or AirPods, so you can discreetly pull them out when you need them.

Best sporty: The North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face is known for making durable and high-quality gear and the Borealis Backpack, one of the brand's most classic styles, is no different.

It's great for hauling all sorts of gear. The 28-liter size fits just about everything you need for class and then some. It has the standard features: a nicely padded laptop pocket, a spacious main compartment, side pockets for water bottles, a small fleece-lined outer pocket, and a bigger outer pocket with pockets and places for pens. It's built with a chest and hip belt, making it useful for hikes too.

It's easy to open and close. There's also a small but thoughtful feature to appreciate: U-pull zippers that make unzipping any of its pockets 10 times easier. The Borealis Backpack may not have a bunch of hidden compartments in the niftiest spaces, but it does what it needs to with quality materials made to last a long while. And for the same price, the Women's Borealis is specifically designed to fit a slighter build.

Best for taller students: Herschel Little America Backpack

The Herschel Little America backpack is a classic carryall with a deceiving name. With its spacious 25 liters and nicely padded laptop compartment, the pack is made to help you carry everything you need for school while sporting a timeless style.

You can expand or collapse the bag easily. The main compartment is like a huge pit where you can fit a lot of things: books, snacks, tech, and more. It also has two small side pockets on the inside. Little America is easily expandable and easily collapsible. The single outer pocket is perfect for storing quick things you may need throughout your day.

It has extra long adjustable straps. The backside is thoroughly padded for comfortable carrying. Though, personally, we think this backpack works best on taller people since it's 19.25 inches long. For this reason, the bag is a bit overwhelming on a shorter back.

Best expandable: Fjällräven Kånken Laptop 15"

You can customize its width to fit in small spaces. The compact rectangular design of the Kanken can be expanded, making it especially versatile. The sleek look makes this a functional piece as well as a nice addition to almost any outfit. It has three pockets: a laptop pocket, main compartment, and outer pouch. The laptop pocket is well padded and the zipper is tucked away in the back. The straps are nice and soft, though oriented differently than the typical backpack, and it has two side pouches that can be used to store a water bottle and possibly even an umbrella.

It's a popular eco-friendly brand. I see this backpack all the time on my college campus. The sleek look makes this a functional piece as well as a nice addition to almost any outfit.

FAQs on college backpacks

What size college backpack do I need?

When it comes to storage capacity, you don't need anything larger than 20-30 liters. This gives you enough space for your laptop, a couple textbooks, and the daily essentials.

Do I need a dedicated laptop compartment?

Yes. No matter how stylish the backpack, your laptop is at risk if it's not protected with enough cushioning to break its fall. See our guide to the best laptop backpacks for more of our favorite tech-friendly picks.

How do I choose the right fit for my body?

Know your measurements so you can compare them to the size of the backpack. The key figure is your torso length, not your height. You should also measure your hips, shoulder width, and chest width. Look for backpacks with adjustable rear panels if you need a more custom fit.

• The Treasury announced new steps to take over millions of defaulted student-loan accounts.
• They include new partnerships with vendors to facilitate collections and a centralized rehabilitation hub.
• Former officials and lawmakers have said the Treasury may not be equipped to manage student loans.

The transfer of student-loan accounts to the Treasury Department is moving forward.

On Friday, the Treasury released new plans to take over management of the federal defaulted student-loan portfolio.

The plans, first reported by Business Insider, include creating a new "Default Resolution Hub" intended to serve as a centralized location for borrowers to plan their steps to return to good standing. The Treasury is also seeking to partner with vendors who will facilitate collections on defaulted loans and advise borrowers on their options to leave default, according to a Treasury official.

"Transforming the way defaulted loans are serviced is the foundation for a federal student loan program that is more efficient and delivers better outcomes for both borrowers and taxpayers," Treasury Sec. Scott Bessent said in a statement.

The Treasury official said the agency is also working to streamline the process by which defaulted borrowers securely share tax information.

The consequences of defaulting include wage garnishment and the seizure of federal benefits, like Social Security. Those involuntary collection efforts have been paused since January, and the Trump administration has not specified when the pause will be lifted.

This follows the Education Department's March announcement that it would transfer management of the student-loan portfolio to the Treasury, beginning with the accounts of the 10 million borrowers in default. The transfer is set to occur in phases and is part of the Trump administration's broader goal of dismantling the Education Department and transferring its responsibilities to other agencies.

Former administration officials previously told Business Insider that it's unclear if the Treasury is equipped to handle the $1.7 trillion student-loan portfolio, citing the complexity of student-loan repayment. The Obama administration also conducted a pilot program in 2015 during which the Treasury took over a portion of defaulted student-loan accounts, and it was ultimately unsuccessful, collecting at lower rates than private agencies.

Mason Champion, the Treasury's assistant secretary, wrote in a May letter to lawmakers that the Treasury reached an agreement with the Education Department to send seven Education employees to Treasury, and two Treasury employees to Education, which Champion said will "support the implementation of the partnership, with an initial focus on the transition of operational responsibility for the defaulted portfolio to Treasury."

Lawmakers have also weighed in. Over 60 Democratic lawmakers called in a June letter for a stop to the transfer of student-loan accounts to the Treasury, citing record-high default rates. A month later, Republican lawmakers introduced a bill to codify the plan.

Have a story to share about student loans? Contact this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com.

• In October, Starbucks will stop covering GLP-1 drugs prescribed for weight loss for benefits-eligible employees.
• The move comes as GLP-1 drugs consume a growing share of employers' healthcare spending.
• While some employers retreat from coverage, Bank of America is spending heavily to keep the benefit.

Starbucks is pulling back coverage for weight-loss drugs, a reversal that comes as employers' spending on popular GLP-1 medicines soars.

Starting in October, the Seattle-based coffee chain's health plans will no longer cover GLP-1 medications prescribed for weight loss for benefits-eligible employees, though the drugs may still be covered for other conditions. Starbucks offers health benefits to full- and part-time employees who work at least 20 hours a week.

A spokesperson for Starbucks confirmed the decision, which hasn't previously been reported, and declined to comment further.

Starbucks' move reflects a broader recalibration of a benefit that has rapidly reshaped corporate health plans. Originally developed for diabetes, GLP-1 drugs have become highly sought-after treatments for obesity, which is associated with a range of chronic health conditions. Soaring costs, however, are prompting some employers to limit eligibility.

GLP-1 drugs accounted for 11.4% of corporate employers' total annual claims last year, up from 6.9% in 2023, according to a 2026 survey by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans, a nonprofit. Further, 36% of corporate employers covered the drugs for both diabetes and weight loss in 2026, while 60% covered them only for diabetes, the findings show.

The pullback comes as employers confront faster-rising health costs more broadly. Average health-benefit costs per employee rose 6% last year and are projected to rise 6.7% this year, according to Mercer. The growing use of costly GLP-1 medications is one of the main drivers of the increase, the benefits-consulting firm said.

Other large employers have stopped covering GLP-1s for weight loss, too, including Allina Health and, reportedly, PwC.

Allina Health, a Minnesota-based health system, ended coverage for GLP-1 medications prescribed for weight loss for employees and their covered dependents in January 2025. The company said at the time that continuing the benefit would have significantly increased medical premiums. A spokesperson for Allina Health was not immediately available for comment.

Not all employers are shying away from covering GLP-1 drugs for obesity. Earlier this week, Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan said the bank spends more than $250 million a year on GLP-1 coverage for employees, or roughly 13% of its more than $2 billion annual healthcare budget. He said the bank views the expenditure as an investment in employee health.

• Meta executive Andrew Bosworth was asked at a Q&A if AI gains could be used to take more time off.
• Bosworth replied that it should instead be used to build "cooler stuff" for Meta users.
• Meta declined to comment. The company provides four weeks off a year, plus public holidays.

Should tech workers supercharged by AI be able to take more time off? Meta's chief technology officer, Andrew Bosworth, said he doesn't think so.

That's what Bosworth told employees at a Q&A in early July, according to three people on the call.

A Meta employee asked Bosworth if AI productivity gains could be channeled into more vacation time — specifically, the revival of "Meta Days," a since-canceled holiday program that allowed staff to take a few extra days off.

In response, Bosworth said that while working at Meta isn't easy, that time should be used to build more products for its users — since Meta staff are "doing the most exciting stuff on the planet."

"I hope that what we do with our extra time is do even more and cooler stuff for the users who use our products every day," Bosworth said. "We got billions of people using our products every day. I get an extra hour. You know what I do with it? I put it into that."

He told the employee who asked the question that while he was not trying to give them a hard time, "stop asking about Meta Days. It's very dumb."

"Go to your parents and ask them: Hey, like every time I get a chance to talk to my boss, ask me if I can have more days off. Ask your parents what they think of that as a career strategy," Bosworth said.

Bosworth added that he was sorry for coming down "too hard" on the employee without meaning to, and he felt the question was "tongue-in-cheek."

Meta declined to provide a statement on Bosworth's comments.

The company provides four working weeks off a year, plus public holidays, according to a person familiar with the matter. It replaced Meta Days with two extra "choice days," allowing staff to use those whenever they wish.

Bosworth's comments come at a time of broader debate about the impact of AI on productivity and working conditions in tech. AI has encouraged some workplaces — such as Amazon's — to embrace a more intense work environment where fewer employees can get more done.

Similarly, some predict that the productivity will be channeled into more work. In 2023, Morgan Stanley predicted that generative AI would boost income and help millions of workers take on second and third jobs.

Others have said that AI will give people more free time to spend with their families. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos said he expects AI to make it easier for households to transition back to a single earner.

Have a tip? Contact Charles via email at crollet@businessinsider.com or on Signal and WhatsApp at 628-282-2811. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• Ina Garten has a quick Bolognese pasta that she says is perfect for busy weeknights.
• The dish includes orecchiette pasta, ground sirloin, fresh basil, and dry red wine.
• Garten's Bolognese only takes 30 minutes and is packed with so much flavor.

Ina Garten has always been my go-to for pasta. I've tried so many of her recipes that I've even ranked them.

One of my all-time favorites is her weeknight Bolognese, which can easily be adapted with whatever's in your fridge or pantry.

The rich and comforting dish was exactly what I needed after a long workday. Better yet? It only took 30 minutes.

Garten's weeknight Bolognese includes orecchiette, ground sirloin, and dry red wine.

To make Garten's weeknight Bolognese for 4-5 people, you'll need:

• 1 pound of dried pasta, such as orecchiette or small shells
• 1 pound of lean ground sirloin
• 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 ¼ cups of dry red wine, divided
• ¼ cup of heavy cream
• ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil leaves, lightly packed
• 4 cloves of minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

When it comes to the canned tomatoes, Garten strongly recommends using the San Marzano variety. The "Barefoot Contessa" star is not a fan of plain canned tomatoes. But Garten does allow for other adjustments — this recipe is meant to be pantry-friendly!

You can substitute the sirloin for any ground meat or chopped mushrooms. Garten says it's also fine to "use any dried pasta that you like" for this dish, and that it's OK to skip the cream and basil if you don't have any on hand.

Before I started making the Bolognese sauce, I needed to do a little prep.

I minced my garlic and chopped my basil.

Then I began cooking the ground sirloin.

I heated 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and added my meat.

I used a wooden spoon to crumble the meat, stirring it occasionally. Garten's recipe recommends cooking the meat for five to seven minutes, until it's no longer pink.

After the meat had fully browned, I added my seasonings.

I threw in my minced garlic, along with the dried oregano and red pepper flakes.

It was time for some wine!

I let the meat cook for one minute, then I poured a cup of red wine into the skillet. Garten's recipe specifies using a dry red wine, so I went with a pinot noir.

After pouring the wine, I used my wooden spoon to stir everything together.

Then I added my San Marzano tomatoes and tomato paste.

I couldn't find crushed San Marzano tomatoes at my local supermarket, so I had to get peeled ones instead. I ran the tomatoes through a food processor before I threw them into the pan, but you could easily use your hands to crush them up.

After adding the tomato paste, I seasoned everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

I gave everything a good stir, then brought my sauce to a boil.

Once it began to bubble, I lowered the heat and allowed the pan to simmer for 10 minutes while I got a separate pot of water going for my pasta. (Don't forget to add salt!)

As the noodles cooked, I put the finishing touches on my sauce.

I added fresh basil leaves, along with nutmeg and heavy cream.

The sauce smelled delicious and had turned into a comforting, deep-red color.

And after 10 minutes, my pasta was al dente and ready to go.

I transferred the pasta shells to my sauce using a slotted spoon.

Per Garten's instructions, I made sure to save the pasta water.

I added another ¼ cup of the red wine and a few spoonfuls of my pasta water to the pan.

Dinner was almost served!

Garten's pasta looked glorious — and it tasted great too.

The "Barefoot Contessa" star has a knack for giving classic recipes a new twist, and her weeknight Bolognese is no exception.

The pasta shells are the perfect vehicle for her sauce, delivering its rich and delicious flavor with every bite. The nutmeg in the Bolognese nicely balances the kick from the red pepper flakes, and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese I added on top melted beautifully into the warm sauce.

My family, who helped me test the recipe, only had rave reviews.

"It's a very meaty, very hearty pasta," my dad said. "Perfect."

"I really enjoy how the pasta holds onto the sauce," my sister added. "With every spoonful, you get a good amount of meat and a good amount of pasta."

I'll definitely be adding Garten's weeknight Bolognese (along with her five-cheese penne pasta) to my comfort-food repertoire.

The best screen protectors remain an afterthought, going unnoticed until they save your device from irreversible damage. I always advise investing in one because, even though smartphone screens get stronger with every generation, glass can still be damaged by a scrape on asphalt or a harrowing journey in the recliner. With its release still fresh, I've gathered the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra screen protectors to trust for your new foldable.

One caveat: while a screen protector is always a worthwhile investment, don't bother getting a Z Fold 8 Ultra internal display shield. The device comes with one pre-installed, straight from the Samsung factory, meaning only the external screen needs additional protection before going into your purse or pocket.

The best Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra screen protectors

• Browse more screen protectors at Amazon | Zagg | Dbrand
• See also: Best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra internal screen protectors explained

If you're worried about the internal screen of your new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, you're not alone. There are plenty of screen protectors on the market designed for the inside screen, but as a previous-generation Fold owner and follower of the Samsung Galaxy foldable line, I'm here to tell you not to fall for it.

In short, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra already comes with a screen protector installed on its inside screen. This way, the brand simplifies phone protection for users since finding and buying a crease-friendly option would be a real hassle. Removing the stock screen protector is dangerous for your screen, even if you're planning to replace it with another third-party option. In the event that your inside screen gets dinged, Samsung offers a screen protector replacement at no charge for your phone's first year.

What is the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra screen protector?

The best balance of affordability and protection comes from Spigen's GlasTR EZ FIT Pro Screen Protector 2-pack, for sure. For most Fold owners, it offers strong enough protection against daily risks, and, often on sale for $20, it's a very budget-friendly choice.

If you're especially prone to screen damage, Zagg's Glass Elite Screen Protector offers the most shielding you can find in exchange for a higher price point.

Do Galaxy Z Fold 7 screen protectors fit the Z Fold 8 Ultra?

Some Galaxy Z Fold 7 screen protectors can fit the Z Fold 8 Ultra, and vice versa. The phones are similar enough in size for a few options to make the cut — but I recommend double-checking your product's exact specs to be sure.

Haven't ordered your device yet? Check out the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra deals in our guide. Don't forget the case — see my guide to the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases for top picks.

Follow us on Instagram and WhatsApp for the latest deals, reviews, and buying guides.

• Investors weren't terribly dismayed by the grim July jobs report on Friday.
• That's because the "bad news is good news" paradigm for markets remains in effect.
• While the weak data bodes poorly for the economy, it's reduced the odds the Fed will hike rates.

It was a terrible month for the US labor market in July — but for investors, that's not necessarily bad news.

US stocks jumped on Friday even as data showed the US lost 23,000 payrolls in July, a huge miss from expectations of 85,000 jobs added.

The bad news wasn't confined to July, either. Job gains in the prior two months were also revised downward, with the US adding 20,000 (instead of the initial 57,000) jobs in June and 63,000 (instead of 129,000) jobs in May.

The unemployment rate ticked slightly lower as labor force participation declined.

It was one of the worst months for the labor market in recent memory — but in markets, the news has set off a chain reaction that has led investors to spin the weak results as a potential positive.

Here's where US indexes stood at the 4 p.m. ET closing bell:

• S&P 500: 7,757.64, up 0.62%
• Dow Jones Industrial Average: 54,036.93, up 0.28% (+151.83 points)
• Nasdaq 100: 29,722.30, up 1.19%

Here's the tension investors are navigating after the latest jobs data:

The good news: a weaker job market means the Fed won't be in a rush to raise interet rates, something investors have feared this year as a potential fresh headwind for stocks.

Investors immediately trimmed their rate expectations after digesting the latest jobs report. Markets were pricing in a 75% probability that the Fed would raise rates through the end of the year, according to the CME FedWatch tool, down from 85% on Thursday. The 10-year Treasury yield sank 5 basis points on Friday morning as bond investors recalibrated rate views.

The bad news: a weaker job market could also the US is closer to a recession.

The latest data is also coming at a precarious time for the US economy, with markets still assessing the full impact of the Iran war and President Donald Trump's tariffs on inflation.

"Friday's jobs report was not just much weaker-than-expected, it showed that the economy shed jobs during July, which puts the Federal Reserve in a conundrum, since inflation is still elevated and sticky," Brent Wilsey, the chief investment officer at Wilsey Asset Management, wrote in a note on Friday.

For now, investors appear to be leaning toward the idea that the weak jobs data is a positive — but there's no telling if future economic prints will scramble the outlook. Markets are awaiting next week's July inflation report and updated estimates for GDP at the end of the month.

"Today's report buys markets some breathing room, but only temporarily. With policymakers offering little in the way of forward guidance, next week's inflation figures now loom even larger and could quickly put rate hike fears back on the table," Seema Shah, the chief global strategist at Principal Asset Management, said in a Friday note.

The Nasdaq 100 briefly rose as much as than 1%. Here were some of the notable moves:

Here were the biggest moves in the tech sector:

• Atlassian: +34%
• Cloudflare: +14%
• SanDisk: +3%
• AMD: +2%
• iShares Semiconductor ETF: +2%
• Micron: +2%

The weekend has finally arrived, and there are several new TV shows and movies to keep you entertained while you stay cool indoors. We've rounded up the latest releases to highlight the six best new movies and TV shows streaming the weekend of August 7, 2026.

This week, two new teen drama series have arrived on the scene: "The Shards" on Hulu and "Sterling Point" on Prime Video. There are also new seasons of "The Challenge" and "Ted Lasso" for those looking for slightly lighter programming. We've also found an intriguing new science fiction thriller film and a can't-miss concert tour.

6: The Challenge

The latest season of "The Challenge," the hit reality series, has arrived. In "The Challenge: Cutthroat," 24 contestants take to Thailand to duke it out for the ultimate prize. This year's challenge features a mix of franchise veterans and newbies, so longtime fans will find lots to love. The first two episodes are now streaming on Paramount Plus.

5: Hit Me Hard and Soft

Billie Eilish's "Hit Me Hard and Soft" tour took the world by storm, and the concert film was no different. Fans can now stream the movie at home with "Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard And Soft: The Tour (Live)." The film, co-directed by Eilish and James Cameron, gives fans a close-up look and behind-the-scenes peek at the iconic concert and everything that went into it. The film is now streaming on Paramount Plus.

4: The Shards

Ryan Murphy's latest series takes on author Bret Easton Ellis' autofiction novel of the same name. "The Shards" follows teens in 1980s Los Angeles who attend an elite prep school and find themselves sucked into dangerous, deadly waters after a new student arrives. Igby Rigney, Kaia Gerber, and Hayes Warner helm the series. The first two episodes are now streaming on Hulu and the Disney Plus and Hulu bundle.

3: The Last House

Greta Lee and Wagner Moura lead "The Last House," a mysterious and spooky sci-fi thriller about a family that becomes stuck in their house. They find themselves unable to break out, with seemingly supernatural forces keeping them and the rest of the world sealed within the confines of their homes. The film is now streaming on Netflix.

2: Sterling Point

Prime Video continues its teen drama hot streak with "Sterling Point." The series, from "My Old Ass" director Megan Park, follows Annie Jacobson (Ella Rubin), who inherits a Canadian island after her grandfather's death. She travels there and discovers mysteries about her late mother, along with some friendships and romance. All eight episodes are now streaming on Prime Video.

1: Ted Lasso

After a lengthy hiatus, "Ted Lasso" returns for a fourth season of the feel-good football comedy series. In the latest season, Ted (Jason Sudeikis) and the rest of the Richmond crew take on coaching a women's football team. Hannah Waddingham, Brendan Hunt, Jeremy Swift, Juno Temple, and Brett Goldstein are among the returning cast members. The season premiere is now streaming on Apple TV.

Also streaming

Each week, our streaming recommendations highlight the best new TV shows, seasons, and new-to-streaming movies. However, there are a handful of must-see ongoing TV shows dropping new episodes each week, and you can find our top picks below:

• "The House of the Dragon" (season finale Sunday on HBO Max)
• "Silo" (new episodes Fridays on Apple TV)
• "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro" (new episodes Mondays on ABC via a live TV service like YouTube TV or Fubo and next-day on Disney Plus and Hulu)
• "Lucky" (new episodes Wednesdays on Apple TV)

If you're interested in learning more about these streaming apps, check out our guides to the best streaming services and best live TV streaming services. For additional recommendations, you can explore our roundup of the best streaming deals and bundles.

• Heather Emerson was dissatisfied with her appearance at the age of 41.
• She had a facelift, traveling to Turkey because the surgery was less expensive than in the US.
• The businesswoman had the operation in her early 40s because she felt it was the optimal time.

This story is based on an interview with Heather Emerson, 42, of Austin, the founder of an international staffing agency. It has been edited for length and clarity.

How did I feel about the way I looked? It depended on the day. There were definitely times when I felt very pretty.

On other occasions, I would look in the mirror, pull up the skin on my face and neck, and see how I might look after a facelift. I thought my features looked heavy, and the negative thoughts were taking up a lot of brain space.

My husband, Faiez, and I were planning our annual goals in January 2025. I said I wanted surgery toward the end of the year, when I expected the business to slow down.

Faiez wasn't exactly in favor of it, but he was tired of hearing me talk about possibly going ahead.

It was a case of either accepting it or making it into an action item and doing something about it. I'd actually booked the surgery several years ago after finding a reputable doctor in the US who charged $15,000.

However, I got COVID a few weeks before the surgery was scheduled. The surgeon didn't want to go ahead. Six months later, when I tried to rebook it, his prices had tripled to $45,000. I suppose it was increased demand.

I chose a deep-plane facelift

However, in 2025, I looked abroad, where the costs were cheaper. I chose Turkey above Mexico and Brazil because the techniques seemed more state-of-the-art.

I did my research and booked a $15,000 surgery with Dr. Soner Karaali, based in Istanbul. The procedure consisted of a deep-plane facelift, neck lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, micro fat transfer to my temples and upper eyelids, and a lip lift.

Obviously, I discussed it with Dr. Karaali, but I felt my early 40s were my sweet spot for having it done. You haven't hit menopause, so your hormones haven't changed.

You're going to heal more quickly and build collagen, too. I know people who wait until their 50s and 60s and hear, time and time again, how they wish they'd done it earlier.

December came around, and Faiez and I booked first-class flights to Turkey. The agency was doing very well, and we had entered a new level of wealth.

By then, I'd decided to have lower-teeth veneers — I'd already had my upper teeth done — performed by a cosmetic dentist in Istanbul as well.

I had the $3,000 treatment during our first week in Turkey — where we stayed at a five-star hotel for $6,000 — before checking into the hospital where Dr. Karaali practiced.

I was in extraordinary pain

He marked up my face, and I didn't feel nervous at all. I had done so much research that I felt safe and secure. If you trust your surgeon, you're only excited.

The procedure took seven hours. I was in extraordinary pain when I woke up around 8 p.m. Some women can get up and walk immediately after the surgery, but I wasn't so lucky. Tramadol wasn't strong enough, and I ended up asking for morphine. I got it at 1 a.m., after five hours of screaming.

I spent two nights in the hospital before returning to the hotel. At 10 days post-op, the doctor removed the bigger staples and stitches.

I felt comfortable enough to fly home, but didn't see the benefits for at least eight weeks. It was only when the swelling and bruising had fully dispersed that I began to see the difference.

I paid around $30,000 all-in for the trip, including the veneers, facelift, flights, and accommodation, and felt it was worth the expense.

I'm still aging gracefully

I looked like myself, but fresher. Eight months on, I don't want to change or tweak anything. I notice little things like an unevenness in my lip and a small scar on my left eye. Some of the skin on my neck isn't completely taut.

Still, I don't believe in chasing perfection. I've told my story on Instagram and been very open. It's very important that we talk about cosmetic surgery freely and without shame.

There's this big push for "age gracefully," but I feel like I'm aging gracefully. It's only that my journey is different from the standard definition.

Women are scrutinized when they don't look young or attractive enough. We're scrutinized when we focus too much on our image. Why can't there be space for everybody's choices?

Anyone who's felt back pain creep in halfway through a workout knows how quickly the wrong sports bra can derail everything. For those with a larger bust, support isn't a nice-to-have — it's what determines whether you power through or call it quits early. The challenge is finding a bra that keeps everything secure without cutting in, chafing, or feeling overly restrictive.

That's why choosing the right sports bra depends as much on how you move as it does on fit. One of our top picks for larger busts is the lululemon Energy Bra, which pairs high support with a surprisingly comfortable feel thanks to its breathable, sweat-wicking fabric and adjustable, cross-back straps.

The options below reflect a range of activity levels and support needs — all based on real testing and insights from fitness professionals — so you can find one that actually works with your body and your routine.

For more articles about finding the right fit with a larger chest, see our piece on the best swimsuits for large busts and the best bralettes for large busts. 

Best overall: lululemon Energy Bra

The Lululemon Energy Bra is a solid, high-support option for shoppers who prefer cup-and-band sizing to the usual S/M/L sports bra fit.

"I got the bra in my usual size, 32DD, and could immediately feel the support and compression. Since most of a bra's support comes from the band, the precise sizing makes a huge difference — especially for high-impact workouts.

What I really love, though, is that this bra doesn't have the extra fabric or fussiness that so many high-impact bras for larger busts tend to have. Personally, I don't want underwire or velcro adjusters — though those features absolutely work for some people. I just want a comfortable bra with strong compression, reliable support through an entire workout, and a great fit. This is that bra.

The strappy back might look like a fun design detail, but it actually helps distribute the weight of the bust more evenly, so I've never had an issue with the straps digging into my shoulders. That said, some reviewers note that the back design can make it tricky to put on, so I'd skip it if you have limited shoulder mobility.

All in all, this is a great sports bra for large busts, and it's been my go-to for Peloton rides, runs, and plenty of jumping jacks." — Samantha Crozier, style editor, Business Insider Reviews.

Best budget: Calia Women's Go All Out Zip Front Bra

In our Calia sports bra review, Insider Reviews executive editor Sally Kaplan says this sports bra "opened up a whole new world of athletic possibilities" for her.

"The Calia Sports Bra gave me all the support I needed, had adjustable straps to fit my short torso, and was easy to put on and take off," she says. 

A few standout features, according to Kaplan, include the molded cups that lift and shape the bust, the zip front for getting it on and off quickly and easily, and the thick straps that never dig into her shoulders.

"If I could afford to just buy 10 of these and throw out every other bra, I would," she adds.

The only downside? It comes in just two colors. Still, it's available in a wide range of sizes — from 32C  to 42E.

Best for airflow: lululemon Run Times Bra High Support

While a supportive bra is important for any type of exercise, it's especially crucial for high-impact workouts like running and plyometrics (think: burpees, box jumps, and other explosive movements). But it should also be soft and breathable enough to support you through slower activities like yoga and long walks. That's why the Run Times Bra from lululemon scores our best overall pick.

The best sports bras for large busts typically come in traditional bra sizing (band and cup), like this pick, rather than the traditional XS-XXL sizing, says Courtney Virden, a certified personal trainer, pelvic floor trainer, and founder of iCORE Method.

Despite being wireless, it still provides plenty of support thanks to the wide, cushioned straps and an adjustable band with three rows of hook-and-eye closures. It also features formed cups for separation and perforated panelling that improves airflow.

"As a mom who nursed two babies, my breasts need more support than before, whether I am working out or not," she explains. "This bra is great for running and high-impact sports. It limits bounce and has nice wide straps when I don't want a crisscross back. The fabric is soft, and the cut is comfortable enough to wear throughout the day."

This bra is also a favorite of Kellie Kopach. educator and fitness instructor at Lifetime Fitness. "The best feature is its breathability," she says. "Sometimes, the compression is so intense with heavy-duty sports bras that they don't breathe. That's not the case with the Run Times bra."

Best for high-impact activites: SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra

It's easy to see why this sports bra has amassed nearly 30,000 five-star reviews — the thoughtful design includes a number of features to support any bust size up to a size 50I. Those features include extra-wide straps that are adjustable and convertible, wire-free seamed cups with removable padding for separation and coverage, and two-way stretch fabric for ultimate bounce control.

I love a front-closing bra for the sake of convenience, and this one contains a zipper guard to prevent chafing — as well as a helpful little hidden hook-and-eye closure at the top of the zipper for added security. I also appreciate that in addition to adjustable straps, it also features an adjustable rib band for a perfect fit.

Years ago, a professional bra fitter informed me that the band is actually responsible for providing the majority of a bra's support, so finding a sports bra that fits like a firm hug around your ribcage is super important.

Best low-impact: Bravissimo Impact Free Sports Bra

If you're just using a sports bra for activities like yoga or hiking, you probably don't want the extreme compression and support that a running bra might have.

This bra from Bravissimo offers support without restriction. It's great for low-impact activities since it doesn't have any wires or excessive straps.

It's also made of 100% cotton, which means that it won't hold onto odors as much as polyester, Nylon, or other synthetic fibers. Many of the higher-impact sports bras need to be made out of synthetic fibers to help with stretch and compression, but sticking with organic fibers is ideal if you can help it.

The higher neckline on this bra is also a great feature for keeping your breasts in place — especially for activities like yoga that involve inversions.

Best adjustable: Under Armour Women's Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bra

Something that sets this sports bra apart is the fact that the adjustable straps can be loosened or tightened in the front rather than the back. This makes it way easier to achieve a perfect fit every time without any awkward reaching around. Another perk is that the straps are convertible, so you can wear them under traditional tanks and tees as well as racerback styles. 

"It's seamless, looks great under any workout top, and delivers strategic support," says Kopach, who names this bra one of her top picks.

Another advantage is that the Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bra is available in different sizing options (XS-XL) for larger cups, which is particularly helpful if you have a small band size but a large cup size or vice versa. (When will more bra makers realize that bust size doesn't necessarily get proportionally larger?) That said, it is worth noting that this one only fits up to a 38DDD cup.

In her Under Armour Infinity Sports Bra review, executive editor Sally Kaplan notes that she felt secure in this bra while spinning at SoulCycle, which does entail quite a bit of bouncing. The newer 2.0 version of this bra boasts molded cups for even more shaping. "The padding isn't too thick, and the straps are wide enough to hold my DDs without digging in," Kaplan says.

A breathable front mesh panel and a smooth, sweat-wicking band both add to the comfort of this sports bra. It also features odor-fighting tech for those particularly sweaty workouts.

Best underwire: Wacoal Simone Sport Underwire Bra

An underwire sports bra like the Simone Sport Underwire Bra may be your best bet, particularly for high-impact activities like HIIT and aerobics. The wire can reduce the bounce factor, minimizing distractions and maximizing comfort so you can just focus on your workout rather than what your bust is doing.

As someone with a DD cup size, Wacoal has long been one of my go-to brands for bras because they're high quality and durable — and this sports bra is no exception. I love that the underwire is cushioned to prevent any chafing or poking — and the high center gore and full-coverage cups help me to feel as secure as possible during a workout. A mesh back and moisture-wicking fabric keep me cool and dry, and the adjustable band and straps ensure a customized fit.

This bra is super size-inclusive — it's available in sizes 32C-42I. Another perk? The G to I cup sizes come with hidden slings for even more support.

Most stylish: Booty By Brabants Croco Skin Curvy Top

I love supporting this brand not only because it's woman-owned and size-inclusive, but also because every piece I've ever purchased has lasted for years. This particular bra is better suited to low-impact activities, but it still offers light to moderate compression – and it's made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric so you don't have to stress about sweating in it. If, like me, you're prone to neck and shoulder aches, a racerback design like this is ideal because it helps distribute the weight more evenly across your back and shoulders.

I always get tons of compliments when I wear this bra, thanks to the unique crocodile-textured material and flattering deep V-neckline. It also comes in a whopping 33 different color options — all of which the Booty By Brabants croco leggings come in as well so you can wear a matching set.

FAQs

How do I choose the right sports bra?

Start with your activity level and your cup size. Low—impact workouts like yoga or walking usually work fine with lighter support, while running or HIIT often needs high—impact support. Fit matters just as much as style — it should feel snug but not constricting, and the band should sit firmly without riding up.

Should I size up or down in a sports bra?

Sports bras often run smaller than regular bras, so many people size up if they're between sizes. The band should feel snug (most support comes from the band), but you shouldn't be gasping for breath. When in doubt, try both your usual size and one up.

What features matter most?

Support features like wide straps, adjustable closures, and a firm band make a huge difference. Moisture-wicking fabric and breathable mesh panels help keep you cool, and removable padding lets you customize coverage and shape.

How do I know if my sports bra fits properly?

A good fit means minimal bounce during movement, a level band that doesn't ride up, and straps that don't dig in. You should be able to slide one finger under the band comfortably — too tight and it'll pinch, too loose and you'll get exc

Are sports bras with underwire a good idea?

Some brands make underwire sports bras that provide structured support, especially for larger cup sizes. They can feel more secure, but they need proper fit — if the underwire pokes or sits on breast tissue, they're not right for you.

How often should I replace a sports bra?

Like any performance gear, sports bras lose elasticity over time. If your bra feels less supportive, stretches out quickly, or gets stretched after washing, it's probably time to replace it — typically every 6—12 months with frequent use.

• The US had a decline in jobs last month, including for two major consumer-facing industries.
• Leisure and hospitality and retail had two straight months of job losses.
• Lack of consumer demand due to rising prices could be taking a toll.

For years, the bounce back in restaurants, hotels, and other in-person services was one of the big engines of the job market.

Those days may be over.

The US unexpectedly lost 23,000 jobs in July. Two major consumer-facing industries were among the areas contributing to the first monthly loss since February: Leisure and hospitality and retail together experienced a job loss of 59,400. That follows a loss of 43,000 for leisure and hospitality in June and a decline of 3,700 in retail.

While some job-market observers think that could be related to the World Cup, others think rising prices are a major factor. People are still spending, but some may be deciding to forgo going out to eat with friends, attending happy hour, or buying things for fun.

Leisure and hospitality, which includes businesses like restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues, is no longer benefiting from a hot job market as it was in 2021 and 2022, and after finally returning to pre-pandemic levels late last year, it's lost its strength.

Employment in food services and drinking places, and in arts, entertainment, and recreation, contributed to the leisure and hospitality sector's two straight months of decline. Accommodation employment ticked back up after a decline in June.

One culprit could be inflation weighing on Americans' wallets. ZipRecruiter economist Nicole Bachaud said consumers are responding to price volatility by cutting discretionary spending, including dining out, which results in employers slowing their hiring.

Food inflation, especially at restaurants, has outpaced overall inflation, making eating out potentially less attractive. Some are turning to hosting gatherings at home.

"The price of going out in LA has become very, very, very high for a one-and-a-half-hour dinner," Ariel Kashfian said. "You get more bang for your buck having people over at your house."

Cory Stahle, senior economist at Indeed Hiring Lab, said while the World Cup likely affected hiring in leisure and hospitality, Indeed's data didn't show much difference between hosting and non-hosting cities, which makes the drop in the spending-focused industries more concerning.

He said it "could maybe be a sign of some of the pressures that households are facing with higher prices from gas and just general inflation right now." He noted weakness in these consumer-facing sectors "is something that potentially is foreboding for the economy."

On the other side of the consumer balance sheet, wage growth in July was anemic. Average hourly earnings barely budged over the month, and year-over-year wage growth cooled to its lowest level since 2021. July's inflation figures will be released next week and will reveal if those more slowly growing wages have kept up with rising prices. Inflation outpaced wage growth for the three months between April and June, per Friday's revised numbers.

Not everyone is pulling back on their spending, but pressure is mounting on those in lower-income brackets.

"While headline consumer spending is positive year over year, when we look at the majority of the consumer base in the US, middle- and low-income households, that's where we're seeing a lot of affordability challenges," Bachaud said.

• 3 NYC homeowners are suing Mamdani over the rollout of the pied-á-terre tax.
• Second homes worth millions of dollars could be subject to the levy.
• The homeowners allege that their residences were tagged in a property records release.

Three New York City homeowners are suing the Mamdani administration over the rollout of the pied-á-terre tax on multi-million dollar second homes.

Per a Department of Finance requirement, the Mamdani administration sent letters to all addresses that could potentially be a pied-á-terre based on property value and internal records in late July. Residents have until September 18 — an extended deadline — to appeal and prove their residence in the potentially taxed home. The levy would begin showing up on tax bills in 2027.

As part of a standard release of property and tax records, the DOF released a list of properties and their valuations across the city, including those that could be subject to the tax. A spokesperson for the department previously told Business Insider that it is a preliminary estimation, not an exhaustive list.

Plaintiffs Rachel O'Brien and Carmine Morano live in Staten Island, and a third plaintiff, Simon Hedley, lives in Manhattan. All alleged in the 23-page suit that their primary properties were included in the property roll, and are seeking to have the DOF take it offline as part of "emergency relief" for "petitioners and others similarly situated who received these notices."

The complaint argues that publishing the property roll "caused mass confusion" and "facilitated, invited, and amplified unwanted scrutiny of homeowners' personal information."

Randy Mastro, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said in a statement sent to Business Insider that City Hall mailed "notice letters demanding that New Yorkers prove they live in their own homes, and gave them only a few weeks at the height of the summer season to do it. Thousands of people who owe nothing have been confused, exposed, and put to real expense so this administration could make a political point."

In response to the suit, Deputy Press Secretary Matt Rauschenbach told Business Insider that, "The pied-a-terre surcharge will help deliver the city New Yorkers deserve: cleaner parks, safer streets, and critical public investments that make our city a more affordable place," and the DOF has been working "around the clock" to answer resident questions ahead of the appeal deadline. Rauschenbach added that "The Law Department is prepared to vigorously defend the city against this suit."

Some New Yorkers expressed privacy concerns over the letters and property list

In the days since the pied-á-terre letters were distributed, dozens of New Yorkers have taken to social media to express confusion about the letters and property list, and privacy concerns that their names, addresses, and city-estimated property values were posted publicly.

City Hall said it has hired two dozen additional staffers to handle appeals and residents' questions.

Owners can provide documentation that the property is their primary residence or challenge the DOF's valuation, per a new webpage aimed at pied-à-terre owners.

When asked about the pied-á-terre tax rollout at a press conference on August 5, Mamdani said, "the point of this is to make sure that only properties, secondary homes of non-resident New Yorkers that are worth more than $5 million, are the ones that are being subject to this tax."

New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul wrote on X on August 6 that "Hardworking New Yorkers pay their fair share. If you've been gaming the system to avoid paying yours, that ends now."

Passed in May, the policy places a progressive tax on non-primary homes valued by the DOF at least $5 million and condos and co-ops valued at least $1 million. The surcharge begins at 0.8% and increases to 1.3% for properties valued at $25 million or more. Lawmakers hope to raise $500 million annually, some of which will go toward implementing Mamdani's affordability agenda.

Several celebrities and billionaires are expected to be affected, including Jeff Bezos, President Donald Trump, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, and Ken Griffin. By Business Insider's math, the Citadel CEO and Miami resident could owe between $1.3 million and $1.4 million for his Central Park South pied-à- terre.

• Mediterranean restaurants are experiencing strong growth across the US.
• Yelp identified the best Mediterranean restaurants in the country based on customer reviews.
• The No. 1 spot in the US is found in Scottsdale, Arizona.

From creamy hummus to inventive shawarma bowls, Mediterranean cuisine continues to grow in popularity across the country.

While other cuisines within the fast-casual sector saw sales slow in 2025, Mediterranean concepts experienced significant growth, Restaurant Business reported, citing Technomic data. Brands including Cava, Nick the Greek, and the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill each saw sales increase by more than 20% in 2025.

The growing interest in Mediterranean food — which comes amid the popularity of the Mediterranean diet, routinely named as one of the healthiest ways of eating — extends beyond nationwide chains.

Yelp analyzed reviews from its elite members, who most consistently share high-quality reviews on the site, to identify the top Mediterranean restaurants across the US, with the No. 1 spot going to a restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona.

All businesses were marked open on Yelp and have a passing health score as of June 23, 2026.

Here are the 15 best Mediterranean restaurants in the US in 2026, according to Yelp.

15. Middle East Cafe in Berkeley, California

What to order: Lamb shank, Gheymeh

What customers are saying: "If you're looking for a good falafel, you have to try this place! They make it as a wrap, and it is about a foot long! Huge and simply delicious! There's parking in the back, a great bar, and a wonderful patio area in the back! There's a market next door where you can get great sweets and other market products! Definitely an experience, and I must try! We'll definitely be back," wrote Yelp user May K.

Learn more about Middle East Cafe here.

14. Barbouzard in Washington, DC

What to order: Hanger steak, grilled octopus

What customers are saying: "From the moment we walked in, the service was warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The food was absolutely exceptional! Every dish was bursting with rich, authentic flavor and made with incredible attention to detail. The presentation was just as impressive as the taste, beautifully plated and thoughtfully crafted, making the entire experience feel elevated and special," wrote Yelp user Rowan H.

Learn more about Barbouzard here.

13. Paolina in Brooklyn, New York

What to order: Falafel pita, fries

What customers are saying: "This is the best falafel I've had. The falafel itself comes out warm and fresh, with a very crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, and when paired with all the other toppings, you get a very refreshing bite. I love the hummus, the crunchy vegetables, and the soft pita bread. Together, this creates an amazing bite and a very large sandwich," wrote Yelp user Mark S.

Learn more about Paolina here.

12. Olive Kabab and Gyro in Fort Worth, Texas

What to order: Beef shawarma plate, gyro sandwich

What customers are saying: "Was in Fort Worth on a Costco run and was craving Mediterranean food and stumbled across this place. Walking in, you could tell this place was going to be good. I ordered the Kafta Kabab plate, and it did not disappoint at all! Very tender, flavorful, big portions! I haven't had Mediterranean this good in years since I've been here in Texas. Will make the drive from Denton to here for this place," wrote Yelp user Christian N.

Learn more about Olive Kabab and Gyro here.

11. Shawarma Stop in Morrisville, North Carolina

What to order: Chicken shawarma wrap, spicy muhammara chicken wrap

What customers are saying: "Quick service even though a busy lunch crowd. Plenty of seats and very clean. Most authentic and flavorful chicken shawarma wrap. The pickle added just the right amount of crisp to the wrap. Side of fries and lemonade made it perfect," wrote Yelp user Shane C.

Learn more about Shawarma Stop here.

10. Stephanos Greek & Mediterranean Grill in Las Vegas

What to order: Chicken kebab plate, chicken souvlaki wrap

What customers are saying: "Stephanos popped up as somewhere locals love. Thought I'd give them a try as they have good reviews. Happy to say this spot did not disappoint. The salmon bowl was absolutely delicious. I think it is the best bowl I have ever tried! That says a lot, as I always have bowls at different spots. They are also generous with the portion. Customer service was excellent. I asked the worker for recommendations, and he recommended the salmon bowl and said it was popular. Inside, they have a lot of tables and have AC blasting to combat the Vegas heat," wrote Yelp user Bianca G.

Learn more about Stephanos Greek & Mediterranean Grill here.

9. Mama Mezze in New York

What to order: Whipped feta, mushroom hummus

What customers are saying: "Mezze is such a gem. The food is incredibly fresh, full of flavor, and beautifully presented[.] Every dish tastes like it was made with real care and authentic Mediterranean touch. The fattoush was super fresh and delicious, and the crispy zucchini had the perfect crunch. The shish taouk was a standout tender, perfectly grilled, and packed with flavor. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, and the staff is genuinely friendly and attentive. It's the perfect spot for a cozy, satisfying meal. Definitely a place I'll be coming back to," wrote Yelp user Karina R.

Learn more about Mama Mezze here.

8. Purslane in Milwaukee

What to order: Meze trio, Ali Nazik beef kebab

What customers are saying: "Purslane might be my most favorite restaurant in the city! I've been for dinner a few times, and it is such a great place for girls' dinner, date night, or bringing visitors! We recently went for the Sunday brunch, which is only available on the last Sunday of the month. You definitely don't want to miss the breakfast sandwich. The people working there recognize me, if that tells you anything about how much I love Purslane," wrote Yelp user McKenna S.

Learn more about Purslane here.

7. Zoya in San Diego

What to order: Muhammara, chicken shawarma bowl

What customers are saying: "Zoya absolutely exceeded my expectations! Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The [mezze] platter had an amazing variety of delicious appetizers, the chicken shawarma plate was juicy, tender, and packed with authentic flavor, and the Too Hot to Handle Pizza was the perfect balance of spicy and cheesy with an incredible crust," wrote Yelp user Sam.

Learn more about Zoya here.

6. Greens and Grill in Las Vegas

What to order: Spicy chicken kabob, gyro plate

What customers are saying: "Always consistent, amazing food. Don't know what to get? A combination plate never hurts. I usually do takeout, and they never forget anything. Amazing service, always hot and fresh food. Three locations conveniently placed in different parts of Vegas," wrote Yelp user Slick M.

Learn more about Greens and Grill here.

5. Zait & Zaatar in Aliso Viejo, California

What to order: Kafta, kabob plate

What customers are saying: "Zait & Zaatar is seriously one of my favorite Lebanese spots. The food is always so fresh, but the meat was definitely the standout for me — so juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. I also loved the fattoush salad because it was so crisp and refreshing, especially with all the grilled meat. And I have to mention the tamarind sauce because it was SO good. It had the perfect sweet and tangy flavor, and I ended up putting it on everything," wrote Yelp user Hira R.

Learn more about Zait & Zaatar here.

4. Pidde G in Walnut Creek, California

What to order: Turkish Delight, Lahmacun

What customers are saying: "Delightful experience at PiddeG. The meze sampler — featuring falafel and dolma — was fresh and flavorful, and the triangle baklava, with its delicate honey and pistachio layers, provided the perfect sweet finish to the meal. We're looking forward to returning to try their signature pidde, a traditional Turkish flatbread often compared to pizza — especially the diced beef variation, which is said to be one of their most popular offerings," wrote Yelp user Ang S.

Learn more about Pidde G here.

3. Ethos Greek Bistro in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

What to order: Greek salad, kefte

What customers are saying: "This was my first time coming to this location. The food is so good! We ordered hummus and pita, filet mignon, orzo paella, and the grilled chicken platter. Everything was delicious! The inside is a little tight at this location, with only a few tables inside. There are tables outside, but you do have to pretend that you're not sitting in the Dollar Tree parking lot. The staff was very attentive and friendly. I will definitely return to try the lamb chops next time," wrote Yelp user Jessie M.

Learn more about Ethos Greek Bistro here.

2. Kassi in Venice, California

What to order: Whipped avocado, spanakopita quesadilla

What customers are saying: "We came here for a work event, and I was surprisingly impressed with the food here. Usually, for a place with good vibes and good views, you don't really expect the food to be good either, but it actually was! My favorite bites were the zucchini fries, the flatbread, the chicken skewer, and the taramasalata dip. Service is really great as well; they come and check in on you often," wrote Yelp user Kathy X.

Learn more about Kassi here.

1. Pinyon in Scottsdale, Arizona

What to order: Yellowtail crudo, chicken skewers

What customers are saying: "We found Pinyon to be a fresh, new place. The service was exceptional, as was the food. There were four members of our party who were celebrating birthdays. Their staff was pleasant and attentive. They added to our celebration in the sweetest way," wrote Yelp user Lynda K.

Learn more about Pinyon here.

Screen protectors are a necessity, no matter how durable phone displays become. Especially for phones like Samsung's new line of foldables, shielding the external screen is a no-brainer. With that in mind, I've gathered all of the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protectors to keep your new passport-sized display safe from scratches and shattering.

Before you go buying any option you find on Amazon, it's important to know what you're getting into. First of all, don't bother getting a screen protector for the internal folding screen — the Galaxy Z Fold 8 comes with one specifically designed to move with the hinge. All you need is a shield for the external screen, and for that, you can find tempered glass, flexible, and easy-to-apply options to fit your needs below.

The best Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protectors

• Browse more screen protectors at Amazon | Zagg | Dbrand
• See also: best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases

Galaxy Z Fold 8 internal screen protectors explained

You can buy internal screen protectors to cover the folding screen inside the Z Fold 8, but we really advise against using them. The reason is simple: Samsung spares its users the pain of hunting down a compatible screen protector that can handle a crease down the middle by simply including one on the phone straight out of the box. That's right, the Z Fold 8 already has a screen protector for its interior screen.

It's possible to remove the stock screen and replace it with a third-party or new one, but doing so is risky, as it may irreparably damage your internal screen. Instead, the best course of action is to request a replacement from an authorized Samsung specialist when you notice damage. If you need a replacement within a year of buying the Fold 8, your first one is free.

What is the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protector?

Overall, the best balance of affordability and quality is found in Spigen's GlasTR EZ FIT Pro Screen Protectors. The multi-pack includes easy-to-use application tools and comes with a replacement if you damage your first one, making it a safe option for only $20.

If you're a particularly clumsy user, though, you may want to consider Zagg's tried-and-true tempered glass protection instead.

Do Galaxy Z Fold 7 screen protectors fit the Z Fold 8?

Since the Z Fold 8 is an entirely new size and screen ratio, screen protectors from the previous generation won't fit it. The same goes for cases.

Haven't ordered your device yet? Check out the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 deals in our guide. Don't forget the case — see my guide to the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases for top picks.

Follow us on Instagram and WhatsApp for the latest deals, reviews, and buying guides.

• Ellie Kemper is mom to two kids, ages 6 and 9.
• She's prioritizing unstructured time and imaginative play this summer, she says.
• Being an actress helps her connect with her kids.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Ellie Kemper, who is in partnership with Pirate's Booty. It has been edited for length and clarity.

It's July, but I'm realizing there's still a lot of summer left. Sometimes I'm like, "How many months until school starts?" There are still a lot of days to fill with my kids, who are 6 and 9. I'm trying very hard to keep them off screens as much as possible this summer, because it's very easy to slip into that.

Recently, we visited family in St. Louis, where I'm from. My parents and my brother still live there, and my kids had so much fun playing with their cousins. I loved growing up in St. Louis and spent a lot of time swimming, so I did the same with my kids. Wherever there's a pool, we get in as quickly as possible.

My kids and I both need unstructured time

Having the gift of time is critical for any artist or creative. You need space and time to just think and imagine. That feels harder to come by once you're a parent, and time is more limited. Still, it's important to prioritize.

I like giving the kids plenty of unstructured time. Maybe I say that because I haven't signed them up for too many activities this summer. But I think having unstructured time can be very good for kids.

I partnered with Pirate's Booty this summer on Captain Bob's Summer Quest — a collection of imaginative play ideas that are really easy to pull off. Those are the best kind of activities: ones where I can sort of set the kids up, and they can take it from there.

Imagination helps me connect with my kids

Having activities that the kids can do on their own is great, because I don't want to play all day, every day. But in small doses, I find playing imaginative games really relaxing. It allows you to enter the world of childhood again.

I'm grateful that play is part of my job. I get to dress up and do all these imaginative things in real life. It doesn't make me a better parent, necessarily, but it allows me to connect more easily with my kids. I'm used to using my imagination, so I can meet them in the worlds they've created.

Sometimes, I need to laugh at myself

Before I became a parent, I didn't have the skill set to pause and calm down before reacting. As a parent, that's essential. You can't act on whatever's happening at the moment, when someone's having a tantrum, and someone's whining. First, you have to get calm.

Doing that allows you to react to the ridiculousness of the situation, or even the overreaction of a kid or parent. I think that really helps. My husband is really funny, and we make each other laugh. The ability to laugh at ourselves has come in handy a lot.

For me, success means doing work that is satisfying, having good relationships with friends and family, and feeling a sense of purpose. I talk about those things with my kids — though not in such lofty terms. Instead of praising them for the end result of something they're doing, I praise the effort and the process — because those create a sense of purpose.

Shopping for a new TV can get overwhelming fast. Between endless spec sheets and flashy jargon, it's tough to know which models are actually worth your money. That's where I come in. I've been testing home entertainment gear for over a decade and have reviewed TVs across every display type. I know exactly what TVs at different price points should deliver to make them worthwhile, and I've used that expertise to highlight the four best TVs you can buy right now.

For most people, the Samsung S90F OLED hits the perfect sweet spot. It's easy to assemble and delivers high contrast, rich colors, and deep black levels that disappear in a dark room. But if you're trying to spend less, the TCL QM6K QLED is a standout for the money. It doesn't match the S90F's performance, but it punches well above its price and uses the snappy Google TV interface with Gemini AI smarts.

My team and I use calibration tools to measure a TV's picture, but we don't stop there. Our philosophy is that real-world viewing and overall usability matter most. That's why we also watch movies and channel surf just like you would. We also factor in smart features, design, and value to find the best TVs across the board. All of the models I recommend are available in multiple sizes, including big-screen options perfect for movie nights and sports. Be sure to select the size you want from each retailer's listing.

Our top picks for the best TVs

Best overall: Samsung S90F OLED TV - See at Amazon

Best premium: LG G5 OLED TV - See at Amazon

Best entry-level: TCL QM6K QLED TV - See at Amazon

Best midrange: TCL QM7L SQD TV - See at Amazon

Best overall: Samsung S90F

What we love: It delivers the best balance between performance and price of any TV we've tested.

Drawbacks: Samsung's smart TV interface isn't our favorite, and color performance varies by size.

The Samsung S90F OLED sports a full suite of smart features, a sleek design, and image quality that outshines most rivals in its price range.

Assembly is hassle-free thanks to snap-on legs that attach to the TV without needing screws. The legs then click into a pedestal base, giving the S90F an elegant look. However, the plastic stand isn't as sturdy as the metal bases on some rival models, so you're trading heft for convenience with this design.

The TV delivers pixel-level contrast and dazzling highlights that pop off the screen. Lower-end TVs often look like a cloudy mess when displaying dark scenes in a dim room, but the S90F delivers deep, inky black levels. The result is bold, cinematic picture quality with rich color and sharp detail. The S90F also delivered solid brightness in my team's tests, making it a solid fit for average living rooms and dedicated home theaters alike.

Viewing angles are another strong suit. While LED and QLED TVs can fade when viewed off-center, the S90F maintains contrast and color accuracy from nearly any seat in the room. Gamers will also appreciate the TV's high refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay.

Samsung's Tizen smart TV interface includes built-in access to the Xbox Cloud Gaming app, allowing Game Pass members to stream Xbox titles without a console. The platform also supports nearly every major streaming service and lets you use Amazon Alexa or Samsung's own Bixby digital assistant. Navigation speed has also been upgraded compared to older Samsung TVs, with faster load times and less lag. That said, our reviewer found the interface's menu and app organization a bit clumsy. It's not a dealbreaker, but there's still room for improvement.

A special note should also be made about the S90F's unique SolarCell remote. It's compact but has all the buttons you need easily within reach, and it has a rear solar panel for charging, so you don't need batteries. It also has a USB-C port so you can plug it in to charge as a backup.

The S90F is available in sizes from 42 to 83 inches. Features and general capabilities are the same across all sizes, but the 55-, 65-, and 77-inch models deliver slightly better color performance.

Read our Samsung S90F 4K TV review.

Best premium OLED: LG G5

What we love: It delivers an exceptional combination of high contrast and brightness, and its flush design looks stunning hanging on a wall.

Drawbacks: It's expensive and doesn't come with a pedestal stand.

The LG G5 OLED is one of the most impressive high-end TVs I've tested. It offers a rare combination of pixel-perfect contrast and high brightness. During testing, the G5 offered nearly twice the peak brightness of cheaper OLEDs, such as the S90F.

Of course, what's actually important is how the TV looks when watching real-world content. And in a word, the G5 is stunning. High-brightness HDR movies, such as "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Aquaman," leap from the screen in ways I've rarely seen, fully utilizing the G5's nearly unmatched combination of intense peak highlights and infinite contrast. Viewing angles are also wide, allowing you to sit to the side of the screen without any significant shifts in contrast and color. Gamers even get a high 165Hz refresh rate when paired with a PC.

The G5's webOS smart TV interface works well enough, but it isn't my favorite platform. The homepage is a bit barebones in design and features shopping recommendations too prominently. However, you still get access to all the best streaming services, general navigation and usability are solid, and I like that you can disable ads in the settings menu. The remote also has a unique motion control function that lets you point it at the screen to move a virtual cursor. This is a love-it-or-hate-it feature, but you can always use traditional click navigation instead.

The TV also boasts a handsome design, sturdy materials, and a slim profile. It comes with a flush wall mount that lets you hang the panel with virtually no gap, making it look fantastic in nearly any living room. But the trade-off is that the G5 doesn't include a traditional stand. If wall mounting isn't doable in your room, you'll have to purchase a separate stand.

It's also worth noting that a 2026 version of this TV, called the G6, is available. I got an early look at the new model, and it offers improved processing to further minimize banding and a stronger anti-reflective coating. However, the G6 costs a lot more. Dedicated enthusiasts might want to consider the latest model, but most are better off snagging the G5 while it's available for less. You can learn more in my roundup of 2026 LG OLED TVs.

Read our LG G5 4K TV review.

Best entry-level model: TCL QM6K

What we love: It's affordable without sacrificing key features, and it's available in many screen sizes.

Drawbacks: Its image quality degrades from an angle, and it's dimmer than pricier TVs.

The QM6K is TCL's top entry-level QLED TV. The 65-inch size is often on sale for $650 or less, which is an excellent value for a TV in this class.

The QM6K's Google TV interface is easy to use and snappy to navigate. When reviewing older TCL TVs, I encountered several minor glitches here and there, but the QM6K was free from bugs. Google TV has gradually become one of my favorite interfaces, thanks to its clean layout and seamless integration with other Google services. And Google's new Gemini AI assistant works well for voice search and content recommendations. I also love that the included remote has backlit keys, which even high-end LG and Samsung models lack.

However, what really sets the QM6K apart from other similarly priced TVs is its use of a Mini LED backlight and quantum dots. These features are typically reserved for pricier sets and enable the QM6K to produce higher contrast and better color than most rivals. I was impressed by the TV's backlight control, which produced minimal blooming (halos around bright objects) and a solid HDR image with excellent saturation. However, as a budget-friendly TV, the QM6K has some limitations. The display's black levels are slightly lighter than those of pricier QLEDs, and its brightness is notably dimmer than my other picks in this guide.

As a result, bright highlights in some movies and TV shows have less impact than intended. And although viewing angles have been improved over older TCL QLEDs, they're still much narrower than those of an OLED TV. On the plus side, the QM6K offers a significant gaming upgrade over its predecessor, with a refresh rate of up to 144Hz. This makes the QM6K one of the most affordable TVs that can display 4K/120Hz signals from a PS5 or Xbox Series X, enabling smoother motion when playing certain games.

All things considered, the QM6K is the perfect starter TV for anyone who wants a budget set that still offers worthwhile HDR performance.

Read our TCL QM6K 4K TV review.

Best midrange option: TCL QM7L

What we love: Its color and brightness performance come close to matching that of pricier flagship TVs.

Drawbacks: Picture quality degrades when you're at an angle, and we noticed some HDR clipping in isolated scenes.

TCL's QM7L is one of the best TVs in its price range. It's an especially great midrange set for those who want excellent brightness and color performance at a price lower than high-end flagship sets.

This model replaces my previous pick for this spot, the 2025 QM7K. That TV remains an excellent midrange model, but it's sold out at most retailers. The QM7L succeeds it, offering a few notable improvements in picture quality.

Similar to the entry-level QM6K, the QM7L runs Google TV and is powered by Gemini AI for quick access to numerous streaming services and support for conversational voice control. It also uses a Mini LED backlight with local dimming and includes a handy backlit remote control. But what sets this pricier model apart from its cheaper sibling is its use of TCL's new SQD technology.

Instead of standard quantum dots, the QM7L uses larger super quantum dots and an improved color filter. This results in a notable bump in color performance. The QM7L is also bright enough to deliver a high-end HDR experience, with highlights that really pop from the screen when called for. Black levels are great as well, with excellent local dimming that mostly avoids blooming, though some light bleed is visible in certain scenes.

On the downside, the TV's glossy screen is very reflective, and the panel's viewing angles are average. You can still get a solid image from a few feet to the left or right, but any farther and you'll notice shifts in color and brightness. Our reviewer also noticed other small flaws, such as flickering in images of dense fabrics, subtle motion stuttering, and an isolated instance of HDR clipping

But even with these quirks, there's no denying just how great the QM7L is. Its launch price was a bit high, but it's already getting frequent discounts, making it a top value for midrange shoppers who want a bright, colorful, and reliable TV.

Read our TCL QM7L 4K TV review.

The best TVs, compared

Why do we still recommend 2025 TV models?

In many cases, 2025 TVs are still the best value. They're often available at significant discounts compared with newer 2026 models, while delivering very similar picture quality and features. The latest TVs do offer some improvements, but not usually enough to justify paying hundreds more right now. However, inventory for certain 2025 TV models is beginning to dwindle. With that in mind, we'll update our recommendations as older models become harder to find and prices on 2026 TVs come down

Other TVs we reviewed

Though they didn't quite make the cut for this guide, my team and I reviewed several other display models as we sought the best TVs. Here's a rundown of some other notable TVs we tested, along with details on why they didn't make our top four picks.

Samsung R95H Micro RGB 4K TV - See at Samsung
Samsung's R95H is the company's flagship Micro RGB TV for 2026. Unlike typical QLED and Mini LED sets, which use only white or blue backlights with color filters, the R95H uses an RGB backlight with red, green, and blue LEDs. This allows the backlight to produce color, which enhances performance. We measured 91% of the BT.2020 color space, the widest range we've seen on a consumer TV. However, the R95H's brightness is a bit disappointing for a flagship set, and its contrast still can't match Samsung's OLEDs.

Read our Samsung R95H review.

LG 95B Micro RGB 4K TV - See at Best Buy
The 95B is LG's take on a Micro RGB TV. It also uses red, green, and blue LEDs in its backlight to enable 90% coverage of the BT.2020 color space. It also gets incredibly bright. However, it costs about the same as LG's high-end OLED models but can't match their contrast or viewing angles. This is a solid option for people who want a bright, big-screen LG TV, but otherwise we give the edge to the brand's top OLEDs.

Read our LG 95B Micro RGB review.

TCL X11L SQD 4K TV - See at Amazon
The X11L is TCL's first SQD TV, which stands for Super Quantum Dot. In essence, this is an advanced QLED set with better color and brightness than a typical QLED. In fact, this TV delivers the best brightness performance I've ever measured. It also has exceptional black-level control for a QLED. That said, it still can't match the pixel-level contrast of an OLED, and its viewing angles are narrower. It's also expensive and only available in large 75-, 85-, and 98-inch sizes. If you're a home theater enthusiast with the funds, this TV is hard to beat, but other models offer a better overall value.

Read our TCL X11L review.

LG C6H OLED 4K TV - See at Amazon
LG's C6H is a new submodel in its popular C Series of OLED TVs. It's only available in 77- and 83-inch sizes, while the standard C6 is available in smaller sizes. The C6H is notably brighter than the C6 as it uses the same advanced tandem OLED technology as LG's more expensive G Series. We were impressed by its image quality, and it has the potential to be the top big-screen OLED value of 2026. However, its launch price is a bit high, so we recommend waiting for sales to see if it drops.

Read our LG C6H review.

Samsung S95H OLED 4K TV - See at Samsung
The S95H is another excellent high-end TV option for those looking for an alternative to the G5. It can get even brighter and offers slightly richer colors in certain content. However, the S95H uses a divisive matte screen rather than a glossy screen. The matte panel does a fantastic job of reducing reflections, but it can also reduce contrast in a bright room. The S95H is easily one of the most impressive high-end TVs available, but the G5 preserves black levels better during the day and is less expensive.

Read our Samsung S95H review.

TCL QM8K QLED 4K TV - See at Amazon
TCL's QM8K is one of the brand's top QLED models. It delivers excellent performance that's on par with many high-end sets from pricier brands. In particular, the QM8K boasts impressive brightness and superior contrast control compared to similar QLEDs. However, overall image quality is still surpassed by OLED models, such as the Samsung S90F. That said, if you're looking for a high-performance QLED TV for a bright room, the QM8K is an excellent choice. TCL also sells a new 2026 QM8 model, called the QM8L. It costs more but delivers even better color performance.

Read our TCL QM8K review and TCL QM8L review.

Hisense U8QG QLED 4K TV - See at Amazon
The Hisense U8QG is another excellent QLED TV for those seeking a high-brightness screen. It performs similarly to the TCL QM8K, but can get slightly brighter and features a faster 165Hz refresh rate. That said, it's limited to three HDMI ports and suffers from oversaturated reds. Ultimately, we still give an edge to similarly priced OLED displays for overall performance.

Read our Hisense U8QG review.

Samsung Frame Pro 4K TV - See at Amazon
The Frame Pro is Samsung's premium version of its popular Frame TV. Like the standard Frame, the Frame Pro is designed to look like a hanging piece of art when not in use as a TV. It accomplishes this with a matte screen that mimics the look of canvas, a flush wall-mount, interchangeable bezels, and access to a vast collection of art to display on-screen (subscription required). This high-end model can get brighter than the standard Frame, and its black-level control is better thanks to edge-lit local dimming. It also utilizes a wireless connection box, which expands your placement options within the room. However, while this is an excellent option for design-focused buyers, its overall picture quality still lags behind that of the best TVs in this guide.

Read our Samsung Frame Pro review.

Amazon Ember Artline QLED TV - See at Amazon
Amazon's Artline TV is its answer to Samsung's Frame TV. It also supports magnetic frame-style bezel attachments, uses a matte screen, and comes with a flush wall mount. However, the TV has a large sensor bar that protrudes from the bottom center of the bezel, which breaks the illusion of its hanging picture-frame design. Its image quality is also mediocre. Though the Ember is a decent Frame alternative when it's on sale, we generally recommend opting for Samsung's standard Frame TV instead.

Read our Amazon Ember Artline review.

Amazon Ember Mini LED TV - See at Amazon
The Omni Mini LED is Amazon's flagship TV. This model uses a Mini LED backlight to deliver higher contrast and brightness than the brand's more affordable offerings. It stacks up well against other TVs in its class, like the QM7K, but its list price is a bit high, and we prefer other smart TV systems over Amazon's Fire TV interface.

Read our Amazon Ember Mini LED review.

Amazon Ember QLED TV - See at Amazon
The Omni QLED is a lower-midrange Amazon model that uses standard LEDs but still features local dimming. However, its brightness and color performance are underwhelming considering its price. Our reviewer also noted that most of the TV's picture modes are wildly inaccurate. For those reasons, we recommend buyers go with similarly priced alternatives from TCL and Hisense.

Read our Amazon Ember QLED review.

What TVs are we testing now?

My team and I are constantly reviewing new TV models for consideration in this guide. Here's a rundown of what we're testing right now:

• Sony Bravia 9 II True RGB TV - See at Sony
• Hisense U6SF Pro QLED TV - See at Amazon
• Hisense U7SG QLED TV - See at Amazon

How we test TVs

To pick the best TVs, my team and I focus on picture quality, smart features, design, and overall value.

Picture quality: My TV testing mixes objective measurements with everyday viewing. Meters and pattern generators are used to measure a TV's brightness and color capabilities using Portrait Displays Calman software. But while test patterns are helpful, they don't tell the whole story. So I also live with each TV for a few weeks, watching movies and shows in both bright and dark environments, just like I would on my own set. This helps me spot performance quirks across different types of content. I also weigh image quality against price, as what I expect from a budget TV differs from what I expect from a flagship model.

Smart features: I spend time with each TV's smart platform to see how fast it is, how well voice search works, how many apps are available, and how intrusive the ads feel. If a TV includes unique features, I dig into those too to see whether they actually make a difference.

Design: I don't hold inexpensive TVs to the same standard as premium ones, but I do call out any major design issues. High-end models, on the other hand, should feel premium, with thin panels, metal finishes, sturdy stands, and thoughtful touches such as adjustable height or backlit remotes.

Value: Ultimately, the best TVs strike the right balance between performance and price. Expensive sets need to earn their premium with truly top-tier picture quality, while midrange and budget options should deliver features that go above and beyond what you typically get at their price.

For more details on our review process, check out our breakdown of how we test tech products.

Meet the expert behind this guide:

Steven Cohen, senior tech editor: I've been testing home entertainment gear for more than a decade, and my team and I spend all year getting hands-on with the newest TVs. I also studied film production, so I care a lot about how accurately a TV reproduces a director's intended picture. I use calibration tools, pattern generators, and benchmark discs to measure brightness and color accuracy, but numbers alone only tell part of the story. I also live with every TV I review — watching movies, streaming shows, gaming, and casually channel surfing — to see how it performs in the real world. My goal is to cut through the marketing fluff and help you find a TV that looks fantastic without spending more than you need to.

Learn more about the Reviews team at Business Insider.

TV FAQs

What kinds of TVs are available in 2026?

If you buy a TV in 2026, it will likely be branded as one of four primary display types: OLED, QLED, Micro RGB, or LED. Though performance varies by model, each tech has its own strengths and weaknesses.

OLED TVs (including newer QD-OLED and Four-Stack OLED models) have traditionally delivered the best overall picture quality thanks to self-lit pixels that produce perfect black levels, infinite contrast, and wide viewing angles. They're ideal for home theaters and movie lovers, and newer OLED types are bright enough for most living rooms. Downsides include lower peak brightness than the brightest LED-based TVs, higher prices, limited size options, and a small risk of burn-in with extreme use. You can learn more in our guide to the best OLED TVs.

QLED TVs use an LCD panel with an LED or Mini LED backlight and quantum dots to boost brightness and color. High-end models can get extremely bright, making them great for sunny rooms, and they're available in a wide range of sizes and prices with no burn-in risk. However, even the best QLEDs can't match OLED's contrast, and picture quality varies widely depending on whether the TV includes local dimming.

LED TVs are the most basic and affordable option. They use LCD panels with LED backlights, but lack quantum dots and typically lack local dimming and wide color support. They're best for budget shoppers who want large screens at low prices, though contrast, color, and viewing angles are generally mediocre compared to OLED and QLED.

RGB LED TVs (also called Micro RGB, RGB Mini LED, and True RGB) are an emerging technology similar to QLED TVs. But instead of using a quantum dot filter, RGB LED TVs use separate red, green, and blue LEDs in their backlight. This enables purer colors than QLED TVs, without the burn-in concerns of OLED TVs. That said, the technology is very new, only a few models are available, and contrast still can't match that of an emissive OLED panel.

For more detailed comparisons of TV panel technology, check out our QLED vs. OLED and our RGB LED vs. Mini LED TV explainers.

What is 4K?

4K is a screen resolution used on many TVs, as well as certain computer monitors. A 4K TV has 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is four times as many as a 1080p HDTV. More pixels can make an image look sharper and more detailed, especially on larger screens. Most TVs sold today have a 4K panel, and most major streaming services and game consoles support 4K playback.

Why don't we recommend 8K TVs?

Most TV brands have stopped making new 8K TVs, with Samsung being the only major player to release 8K models in 2026. The benefits of 8K over 4K are extremely subtle and hard to notice unless you sit close to a very large screen. It's also essential to remember that 8K content is virtually nonexistent, as nearly all movies and TV shows are still produced in 4K or even lower resolutions. Ultimately, the best 4K TVs provide much better value than the few remaining 8K TVs on the market.

What size TV is best?

TVs range from compact 24-inch models to massive 100-inch-plus screens, and the right size depends on your room, seating distance, resolution, and budget. Larger TVs cost more and require more space, but they also create a more immersive viewing experience.

There's no single best TV size for everyone, but 65 inches is often the sweet spot. It strikes a great balance between cinematic impact, everyday practicality, and value, which is why many manufacturers use it as their flagship size.

If you have a certain size in mind, check out our guides below for more picks in that category:

• Best 100-inch TVs
• Best 85-inch TVs
• Best 75-inch TVs
• Best 65-inch TVs
• Best 55-inch TVs
• Best 50-inch TVs
• Best 43-inch TVs

What smart TV interfaces does each brand use?

Nearly every TV you can buy in 2026 is a smart TV, but brands use different operating systems (OS) to handle streaming apps and features.

• Fire TV: Amazon, Panasonic, Toshiba, Insignia, Pioneer, Hisense, TCL
• Google TV: Sony, TCL, Hisense, Onn
• Roku TV: Roku, TCL, Hisense
• Vizio OS: Vizio, Onn
• Tizen: Samsung
• webOS: LG

You can learn more about different smart TV systems in our guide to the best smart TVs.

Do you need a TV with HDMI 2.1?

HDMI 2.1 is standard on many midrange and high-end TVs and is most useful for gamers. It enables 4K at 120Hz (and sometimes higher refresh rates with a PC), along with variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM) for smoother, lower-lag gameplay.

To use these features, every device in your setup must support HDMI 2.1, including your TV, gaming console or PC, and any soundbar or AV receiver used for passthrough. You'll also need 48Gbps-rated HDMI cables to handle the full bandwidth. Check out our guide to the best HDMI cables for our top recommendations.

When is the best time to buy a TV?

If you're shopping for a new TV, the best time to buy is during deal events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Amazon Prime Day. TVs often drop to their lowest prices during these sales. You can also find significant discounts in the weeks leading up to major sports events, such as the Super Bowl and March Madness, as well as during holidays like the Fourth of July and Memorial Day.

What TV brands should you consider?

The best TV brand for you depends on your budget and priorities. Sony, Samsung, LG, and Panasonic lead the pack for premium build quality and cutting-edge OLED and QLED performance, though their midrange and entry-level models usually cost more than comparable options from rivals.

If you want strong picture quality at a lower price, TCL and Hisense are excellent value brands. Their midrange QLED TVs often rival — or even beat — pricier models from bigger names, thanks to features like quantum dots and local dimming, even if the design and build feel less premium.

Roku and Amazon also sell their own TVs, which can be solid deals during sales but are usually less competitive at full price compared to similarly priced alternatives.

For basic, no-frills TVs, budget brands like Onn, Insignia, and Toshiba are worth considering. They offer affordable HD and 4K sets and are best suited for casual viewing, secondary rooms, or tight budgets, especially when discounted during major sales events.

You can learn more about the top offerings from different TV companies in our brand-specific buying guides:

• Best Hisense TVs
• Best Sony TVs
• Best TCL TVs
• Best LG TVs
• Best Samsung TVs
• Best Roku TVs

Do TVs offer good sound quality?

Generally speaking, TVs offer mediocre sound quality. To keep TVs thin and affordable, manufacturers use small speaker drivers, often placed in locations that result in poor sound quality. This results in poor sound quality, characterized by muddy dialogue, flat dynamics, and a lack of bass.

We recommend purchasing a soundbar or a full surround sound system to get the best sound quality with your TV. Check out our soundbar and speaker guides to see our top recommendations:

• Best soundbars
• Best budget soundbars
• Best Dolby Atmos soundbars
• Best soundbars with subwoofers
• Best Bose soundbars
• Best Sonos soundbars
• Best surround sound systems

For more details on the latest advancements in immersive surround sound technology, check out our guide to Dolby Atmos.

Can I watch free local channels on my TV?

Most TVs include integrated digital tuners that can receive free over-the-air broadcasts when paired with an antenna and a coaxial cable. Reliable digital antennas can cost as little as $20. Check out our guide to the best indoor TV antennas to see our top recommendations.

If you live in an area with poor antenna reception but still want an alternative to cable that provides access to popular channels, check out our guide to the best live TV streaming services.

• Ronnen Harary cofounded the company that grew into the toy giant Spin Master.
• Spin Master brands include PAW Patrol, Air Hogs, Bakugan, Etch A Sketch, Melissa & Doug, and more.
• Tune in to our Live Q&A Monday at 1:30 p.m. ET., and drop your questions in the chat to join the conversation.

The first toy Ronnen Harary sold was a sawdust-filled head, covered with a nylon stocking, and sprinkled with grass seed. When watered, the seed grew to look like hair.

Today, the company he cofounded in 1994 has grown from selling a single product to representing some of the hottest toy brands and generating $2.1B in revenue last year.

How did he do it?

According to Harary in his new book, "No Experience Necessary," that's the wrong question to ask.

"If any aspiring entrepreneur out there wants to learn from and emulate my success, the important thing to know is not how I did it. What's important is when I did it," he writes.

"If you asked me to build Spin Master again, to do it all over from scratch, I couldn't. Not in a million years. Even with all the capital and experience I've accrued, it wouldn't be possible, because I no longer have the one thing I had then: my youth."

Business Insider's Sarah E. Needleman sits down with Harary on Monday at 1:30 p.m. ET to learn more about how he grew Spin Master and talk about the toy industry.

Tune in live, and drop your own questions in the chat to join the conversation.

When you think of Spanx, the brand's iconic shapewear is probably first to come to mind, but the retailer has expanded over the years to carry everyday basics, loungewear, workwear, and even jeans. Spanx offers everything from smoothing essentials to versatile wardrobe staples, so there's something for every kind of shopper. Checkout costs can get a bit pricey, especially when purchasing multiple clothing items, but you can easily save on your next order with one of the best Spanx coupon and promo codes.

Our style editors have tested several Spanx items over the years, and the brand has consistently impressed us. The Spanx Air Essentials Half-Zip and Wide Leg Pant are recommended in our roundup of the best sweatsuits for women, while the SuperSmooth Stretch Twill Slim Straight Pants top the charts in our guide to the best women's work pants. Our guide to the best women's workwear brands ranks Spanx as the top choice for comfort, and we're even fans of Spanx jeans.

One of the most surefire ways to cut costs at checkout is by applying a coupon, and we've tested out some of the best Spanx codes to ensure that they're still working (at the time of writing). There are several ways to get 15% off your next order, and even one code that might be able to help you save 20%.

Today's best Spanx coupons

Previous Spanx promo codes

Are there any other Spanx sales running at the moment?

You can find a full list of sales and markdowns at any time on the "Sale" page of the Spanx website. As of right now, Spanx is running the following promotions.

Use Spanx voucher codes on these items

Using the promo codes WELCOME15, ECOOKXSPANX, NASREENXSPANX, CARALYN15, XK15VMZH, SWCXSPANX, or NENAXSPANX can help you save 15% on some of our favorite Spanx apparel. The Air Essentials Half Zip costs $128, and the Air Essentials Wide Leg Pant currently costs $118. If you add one of the aforementioned coupon codes, you can bring the final cost of our favorite matching set down to around $209.

Or, if you're in the market for new workwear, you can test out the same codes on the Ponte Flare Pant, which currently costs $158, and get one of our favorite women's work pants for $134.

Are the deals from Spanx promo codes worth it?

The discounts available from Spanx promo codes are definitely worth it, with savings reaching up to 20% off your order. Over the time we've tracked Spanx discounts, the retailer has consistently had at least one active coupon, making these promo codes a reliable way to save. Sitewide sales are pretty rare, especially outside the holidays, which means that coupons are often the only way to save, especially on certain popular items that are rarely discounted.

If you do find a marked-down item, such as something from the sale section of the Spanx site, you can often save even more by combining the deal with one of the above coupon codes. Most coupon codes can't be applied to items marked Final Sale.

• Follow our Instagram page and WhatsApp channel for more deals and buying guides.

How to use Spanx voucher codes

Start by adding coupon-eligible items to your cart. Once viewing your cart, you can apply a coupon by pasting the voucher code into the text box that says "Promo code" and clicking "Apply." From there, continue to checkout to enter your shipping and billing information.

Can you stack Spanx coupons?

Spanx promo codes can't be stacked together. Only one coupon code can be applied per order. If you try to add a second coupon code, it will automatically replace the first discount code you entered.

Spanx promo code frequently asked questions

Does Spanx offer discounts for students, teachers, and the military?

At the time of writing, Spanx does not offer special discounts for students, teachers, or the military, so your best bet is to take advantage of their other coupons and deals.

If you're a student or educator, check out our roundups of the best student discounts and teacher discounts for more offers from your favorite brands.

What is Spanx's return policy?

Spanx allows returns for a full refund within 30 days of the original delivery date. All returned items must still have their original tags attached. You can visit the Spanx website to learn more about the retailer's return policy.

Does Spanx offer free shipping?

Spanx offers free standard shipping on orders of $75 or more in the US. If you spend less than $75, standard shipping is $7. Shoppers who opt for faster shipping (including basic, expedited, or overnight) will need to pay a fee of $15 to $30. Learn more about shipping rates on the Spanx website.

Can I use Spanx voucher codes in-store?

Typically, Spanx coupons are only valid for online purchases. That said, there may be some exceptions, so be sure to check the specific terms and conditions for the code you want to use.

Can I reuse a Spanx coupon?

The majority of Spanx coupons are only valid for one use per customer. That said, there may be exceptions, so it's worth reading through the terms and conditions of the specific code you're hoping to use. Several of the codes we've highlighted offer 15% off, so you can always try using one code on your first order and another on your next purchase.

Looking for more style deals? Our guides to the best Abercrombie promo codes, Athleta coupon codes, and Madewell coupon codes can help lower prices at checkout.

• Universities across the US feature diverse architectural styles, from Gothic to Greek Revival.
• Some college campuses are inspired by their colleges' histories, like Flagler College in Florida.
• Others are designed to highlight lush natural landscapes, like Berry College in Georgia.

Summer is nearing its end, and students across the country are preparing to say goodbye to their summer jobs and pack their bags for college.

For some of America's most fortunate students, study days will soon be filled with views of botanical gardens and glass-and-marble libraries.

Aside from being breeding grounds for US presidents, founders, and world leaders, many elite universities also boast of some of the most extravagant and breathtaking architecture in the US.

While choosing a school solely based on its looks might not be the best idea, a college campus's architecture and amenities can certainly shape its atmosphere and student experience.

Business Insider listed the most beautiful college campuses in each state, based on published rankings and unique architectural and historical features of each institution.

ALABAMA: Spring Hill College in Mobile

Founded in 1830 by Mobile's first Catholic bishop, Michael Portier, this Southern institution — named one of the South's most beautiful campuses by Southern Living — was among the first Catholic colleges established in the Southeast.

Several of its buildings have been recognized and added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The 381-acre liberal arts college, enveloped by pink azaleas, features a Greek Revival home that doubles as the commencement venue; an expansive green field at the steps of the library; and the St. Joseph Chapel, where rock legend Jimmy Buffett married his first wife, Margie Washichek, in 1969, according to the college.

Oh, and did we mention there's an 18-hole golf course on campus?

ALASKA: University of Alaska Fairbanks in Fairbanks

The University of Alaska spans 2,250 acres, has multiple community and rural campuses across the state, and is one of the oldest universities in Alaska.

Its in-house museum, the Museum of the North, was designed by award-winning architect Joan Soranno. It was part of Architectural Digest's 2018 "most iconic buildings in America" list and has won several national awards since its opening in 2005.

The museum's design was inspired by Alaska's natural surroundings and meant to evoke "images of alpine ridges, glaciers, breakup on the Yukon River and the aurora," according to the University of Alaska.

ARIZONA: University of Arizona in Tucson

The University of Arizona campus in Tucson is full of desert plants and red-bricked halls.

Surrounded by the beautiful Santa Catalina Mountains, the roughly 400-acre campus features rows of red-brick halls, towering palm trees lining its walkways, and a nationally recognized public garden home to many desert plants.

ARKANSAS: University of Arkansas in Fayetteville

Set in the Ozark foothills of Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas weaves its history into its campus design, with red-brick halls and tree-shaded walkways that span the 512-acre campus.

The school's historic core district, which includes 15 buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Old Main building — which is the oldest and most recognizable structure on campus — was added to the register in 1970.

CALIFORNIA: University of California, Berkeley in Berkeley

Once a 2-acre site in Oakland, UC Berkeley's grounds have now grown into a sprawling 178-acre campus.

In the 1860s, college administrators worked with Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect of New York City's Central Park, to design a plan for the new campus. By 1898, as enrollment increased, a competition was held to appoint a new architect, and French architect Emile Bénard won first place.

While Bénard presented his formal Beaux-Arts vision for the new campus, he declined to serve as the supervising architect, and John Galen Howard — who finished fourth — was instead chosen to oversee the project.

COLORADO: University of Colorado Boulder in Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder's campus underwent a transformation between 1918 and 1939, when American architect Charles Klauder — whose other notable works include Cornell University, Penn State University, and Princeton University — was hired to revamp it, Architectural Digest reported.

Klauder added a touch of Tuscan Vernacular Revival style that came to be associated with the college and was also known as the University of Colorado style. The updated campus grounds featured multi-hued sandstone walls and red roofs.

Several other buildings were built in the Collegiate Gothic style, and traces of it can still be seen in older buildings across the campus.

CONNECTICUT: Yale University in New Haven

Elements of traditional Collegiate Gothic and modernist styles co-exist on Yale University's 261-acre campus. Modern structures, including architect Eero Saarinen's Ingalls Rink and the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, stand out against the classical buildings.

Founded in 1701, Yale University is the third-oldest college in the country.

DELAWARE: University of Delaware in Newark

Lush manicured lawns and a mix of red-brick and Collegiate Gothic-style buildings make up much of the University of Delaware.

Established in 1743, the university is home to 21 NCAA Division I teams and 40 club sports. It also has a four-floor library — the Morris Library — stretching 6 acres and accommodating over 1,700 students.

FLORIDA: Flagler College in St. Augustine

Flagler College's 47-acre campus — recognized by Southern Living as one of the most beautiful campuses in the South — operates out of the former Spanish Renaissance-style Ponce de León Hotel.

Not only do students get to call a National Historic Landmark their classroom, but they are also only a few miles from the Atlantic Ocean, nestled in a quaint historic town full of vendors and Spanish-era relics.

GEORGIA: Berry College in Rome

With its Gothic-style buildings across a 27,000-acre campus nestled within forests and fields and surrounded by mountains, it's easy to confuse Berry College for an English manor in Downton Abbey.

Berry College has doubled as a filming site for movies such as "Remember the Titans" and "Sweet Home Alabama."

HAWAII: University of Hawaii at Mānoa

Located in the picturesque Mānoa Valley, the 320-acre campus of the University of Hawaii at Mānoa offers sweeping views of the volcanic rock and easy access to Waikiki Beach.

IDAHO: University of Idaho in Moscow

Many architectural styles are on display across the University of Idaho's vast campus, including the Collegiate Gothic style at the administration building, designed by architect John E. Tourtellotte, who also worked on the Idaho State Capitol.

In its north wing, the building has a U-shaped, three-story, Gothic structure, at the entrance of which President Teddy Roosevelt famously gave a speech after leaving the presidency.

Other notable spaces include a 63-acre arboretum, which is home to over 2,500 different plant varieties from around the world.

ILLINOIS: Northwestern University in Evanston

Located near Lake Michigan in Evanston — only a short drive from Chicago — Northwestern University's 240-acre campus features Victorian-style halls and a Neo-Gothic chapel.

INDIANA: University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is famous for its football team and theology program, per Condé Nast Traveler, which named it one of the prettiest colleges in the US.

However, it's also well-known for its gorgeous architecture and lush quads. Its glittering golden dome, covered in gold leaf, stands tall amid other buildings, and the Neo-Gothic Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a visual delight for visitors and students alike.

IOWA: Iowa State University in Ames

A campus lake, a central lawn, and a 110-foot-tall Campanile bell tower are just some of the beautiful design elements at Iowa State University's 2,000-acre campus.

The campus is also home to one of the most Instagrammable public gardens, which, at 17 acres, includes a conservatory, a butterfly wing, and Elwood, the world's largest concrete gnome, per the university, which stands 15 feet tall.

KANSAS: Kansas State University in Manhattan

A defining feature of K-State's campus architecture is its extensive use of Cottonwood Limestone in several buildings, including Anderson Hall — which is also on the National Register of Historic Places — and Dickens Hall.

KENTUCKY: University of Louisville in Louisville

Established in 1798, the University of Louisville has three campuses: the Belknap Campus, which covers 274 acres and is the main campus; the Health Science Center; and the Shelby Campus.

Belknap Campus, based near Old Louisville, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The main campus is known for its red-bricked buildings and a bronze cast of Auguste Rodin's famous statue, "The Thinker."

LOUISIANA: Tulane University in New Orleans

Tulane University's 110-acre uptown campus, located along St. Charles Avenue, has over 80 buildings, each with distinct architectural styles.

Gibson Hall, built in the Romanesque Revival style and finished in limestone, overlooks the stunning 340-acre Audubon Park.

MAINE: Bowdoin College in Brunswick

Founded in 1794, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, sits about 30 minutes from the Atlantic coast.

The liberal arts college's 207-acre campus reflects classic New England architecture, with historic brick buildings, tree-lined paths, and a central quad that changes its colors with the seasons.

MARYLAND: United States Naval Academy in Annapolis

Situated between the Severn River and downtown Annapolis, this military school has a scenic waterside setting and a variety of Beaux Arts-style buildings spread across its campus.

According to Architectural Digest, the US Naval Academy is also home to what is considered the world's largest single dormitory, Bancroft Hall, which resembles the Palace of Versailles.

MASSACHUSETTS: Harvard University in Cambridge

As one of the oldest colleges in the US — founded in 1636 — Harvard University has undergone several design transformations over the years. It is also home to some historic buildings, such as Massachusetts Hall, which, according to the National Park Service, is one of the oldest surviving Harvard buildings.

Beyond the academics, one of the perks of going to school here is that you get to dine in Annenberg Hall, which looks like Hogwarts' Great Hall, and call several Georgian red-brick buildings your classroom.

MICHIGAN: University of Michigan in Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan has many beautiful buildings across its 3,070-acre campus.

One that stands out is the law school library, which features an arched doorway and follows a similar aesthetic to Mason Hall.

MINNESOTA: St. Olaf College in Northfield

Locally known as "The Hill," this 300-acre campus is surrounded by woodlands and prairies.

Twenty of its buildings were designed by Edward Sövik, a well-known American architect, author, and professor on campus. Two St. Olaf College buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

MISSISSIPPI: University of Mississippi in Oxford

Situated in the picturesque college town of Oxford, the University of Mississippi is surrounded by towering oak trees, magnolias, and several storied buildings.

The most famous — and also the first academic building on campus — the Lyceum, was built in 1848 by architect William Nichols.

MISSOURI: Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University held a competition to select a firm to design its new campus when it moved to larger grounds in St. Louis in 1900, as construction on its hilltop site first began.

A design project inspired by British universities Oxford and Cambridge bagged the first prize, and the firm behind it, Cope & Stewardson, went on to turn their vision into reality — think soaring towers with classical Gothic arches and lush quads.

MONTANA: University of Montana in Missoula

The campus's red-brick clock tower stands tall against the backdrop of Mount Sentinel, which displays a giant letter "M," like the state's version of the Hollywood sign. The building offers just one of the many architectural styles seen across the college campus.

NEBRASKA: Creighton University in Omaha

As reported by Travel & Leisure, which named Creighton University the most beautiful college in Nebraska, elements of old and new design blend harmoniously on this campus, giving the university a distinct character.

NEVADA: University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe

You wouldn't be the first to confuse pictures of wooden cabins on the university's website with those of a luxury hotel chain or a serene forest home.

The university's Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences — the said wood cabin — fits in with its natural surroundings while still standing out thanks to its intricate woodwork and masonry.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Dartmouth College in Hanover

Dartmouth is another college where old and new coexist. Within a 5-acre space are two of the college's oldest buildings, Wentworth and Thornton Halls, built in the early 1800s.

On the modern front is the Hopkins Center, built in 1962 and designed by Wallace Harrison, the same architect who designed New York's Lincoln Center and the United Nations building.

NEW JERSEY: Princeton University in Princeton

Princeton is another Ivy League university that provides academic excellence alongside stunning architecture.

The classic Collegiate Gothic style is on display in buildings across the campus, with a few modern exceptions such as Spelman Hall by I.M. Pei, Lewis Library by Frank Gehry, and the Carl Icahn Laboratory by Rafael Viñoly, Architectural Digest reported in its list of the most beautiful colleges in the US.

NEW MEXICO: St. John's College Santa Fe in Santa Fe

St. John's College is a dream destination for anyone who loves the mountains. Given its proximity to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the campus has access to several hiking trails, and nature is always at your doorstep.

NEW YORK: Colgate University in Hamilton

Nestled in a part of nature that feels untouched, with sprawling hills, a whole forest, and a lake on campus, this upstate New York institution is one of the prettiest places in the state.

Its 575-acre campus has over 2,300 trees and 10-mile walkways that are perfect for unwinding after a long day of studying.

NORTH CAROLINA: Duke University in Durham

Duke University's architecture holds traces of both Gothic stonework and Georgian styles within its West and East campuses. Its 210-foot-tall Duke Chapel — which is frequently booked for weddings — exudes peak Collegiate Gothic style, standing out among the 254 buildings on campus.

Other highlights on campus include the Duke Forest and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

NORTH DAKOTA: University of North Dakota in Grand Forks

One of the largest and oldest universities in the state, the University of North Dakota spans 521 acres. Several buildings on campus feature the Collegiate Gothic style, which features brick exteriors, stonework, and arched entrances.

The iconic Merrifield Hall reopened in 2025 after a two-year renovation.

OHIO: Kenyon College in Gambier

This liberal arts institution features historic buildings, stone structures, outdoor art installations, and wooden beams — all surrounded by natural forests and lush green walkways.

OKLAHOMA: Oklahoma State University in Stillwater

From a pond and open courtyards to brick-lined walkways, Oklahoma State University's 1,489-acre campus has it all.

The architectural details are largely of the Neo-Georgian style, and highlights to visit across campus include the Formal Gardens, the grand staircases, and the Theta Pond.

OREGON: Lewis & Clark College in Portland

Originally known as the Albany Collegiate Institute, this private liberal arts institution relocated from Albany to Portland in 1934 and, almost a decade later, was renamed Lewis & Clark College after its namesake explorers.

The campus, set amid Douglas firs and rolling hills, exudes an old-school rustic charm. Notable historic buildings include the Frank Manor House, now the office of undergraduate admissions, and the Corbett House, designed by Italian-American architect Pietro Belluschi in 1929.

PENNSYLVANIA: University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia

UPenn incorporates a variety of architectural styles, from Collegiate Gothic to more modernist projects. Several buildings on the 299-acre campus were designed by Cope and Stewardson, a firm famous for its university projects, including Princeton and Washington University in St. Louis.

Here, you're also embedded in nature with plenty of trees peppered across the campus while still having access to the Philly skyline from Penn Park.

RHODE ISLAND: Salve Regina University in Newport

Built out of the consolidation of seven glorious Gilded Age estates, Salve Regina University's 80-acre campus has many Instagram-worthy sights.

The most noteworthy of these is the Ochre Court, the second-largest estate in Newport after the Breakers, and it serves as the university's administrative building.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Furman University in Greenville

The six-story Florentine Bell Tower, Asia Gardens, and numerous fountains throughout campus are just some of Furman University's highlights.

It also hosts many hiking trails, residences overlooking the lake, and Georgian-style buildings.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Augustana University in Sioux Falls

Tucked away in the scenic city of Sioux Falls, and previously named by Travel & Leisure as the most beautiful college in South Dakota, Augustana impresses with its administration building, manicured quads, and towering trees.

TENNESSEE: Vanderbilt University in Nashville

At Vanderbilt, you're enveloped in nature's arms. The college's campus is nationally designated a Level-II accredited arboretum, home to over 200 species of trees and shrubs.

The campus also features many art sculptures and grand red-bricked facades.

But the most iconic building on campus is Kirkland Hall, a 19th-century structure that originally held all the classrooms, a chapel, and a library. It was rebuilt in 1906 after a fire and recently underwent renovations that modernized its features.

TEXAS: Southern Methodist University in Dallas

Founded in 1911, Southern Methodist University is five miles north of downtown Dallas and features grand buildings, manicured lawns, and the Meadows Museum, which, according to Southern Living, houses one of the "largest and most comprehensive" collections of Spanish art outside Spain.

There's also Dallas Hall, the university's first building, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

UTAH: University of Utah in Salt Lake City

The University of Utah's campus is so huge, spread across 1,535 acres and surrounded by the Wasatch Mountain Range, that students use shuttles to get to and from some parts.

The views change with the season, with lush green spaces in spring and summer and snow-capped mountains in winter.

VERMONT: Middlebury College in Middlebury

Picture cozy cottages and manors nestled between the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks — these are the scenes at Middlebury College year-round.

On the architectural front, Battell Hall and the much-older but perfectly symmetrical Painter Hall add further charm to this campus.

VIRGINIA: University of Virginia in Charlottesville

Designed by founding father Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia largely features buildings in the Neoclassical style.

Jefferson's home, Monticello, is also part of the campus's greater landscape, as is the Academical Village he designed. Monticello and the Academical Village are jointly designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

WASHINGTON: University of Washington in Seattle

A series of stunning Collegiate Gothic buildings line the University of Washington's Liberal Arts Quadrangle, with cherry blossoms in the spring and snow-capped mountains in winter — it's no wonder this campus is consistently named among the most beautiful in the country.

WEST VIRGINIA: West Virginia University in Morgantown

West Virginia University's 1,892-acre Morgantown campus is home to 11 buildings that are on the National Register of Historic Places.

To get a perfect view of three of the most notable historic buildings, visitors can walk by Woodburn Circle on campus.

WISCONSIN: University of Wisconsin–Madison in Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's campus is nestled between two lakes and has an incredibly picturesque setting.

On the architectural front, some highlights include Bascom Hall, Music Hall, and Memorial Union.

WYOMING: University of Wyoming in Laramie

Borrowing from the state's rustic aesthetic, the University of Wyoming exudes an equally tasteful old-school charm.

Highlights include the sandstone Old Main building, one of the first buildings built on this residential campus, and rows of green trees surrounding it.

Editor's note: This story was first published in May 2026 and was most recently updated in August 2026.

• OpenAI officials revealed in greater detail what led up to the Hugging Face incident.
• One of the new details is that AI agents repeatedly established an ad hoc message board.
• You can watch the entire nearly 40-minute presentation.

Experts in AI and tech are cursing in shock after OpenAI's new revelations about the Hugging Face incident.

Earlier this week, OpenAI employees revealed jaw-dropping details about the incident in which OpenAI agents broke out of the company's internal testing environment and hacked into Hugging Face's systems in search of answers.

The presenters, OpenAI alignment and safety researcher Eric Wallace and security engineer Michael Dalton, said that AI models and agents repeatedly established their own internal message board despite OpenAI's efforts to shut it down.

Wallace also revealed internal AI agent thinking, the short internal messages that agents produce as they consider how to complete tasks. One of those messages captured an AI agent's amazement at its unexpected freedom.

"Holy shit reader is ADMIN?" the agent thought.

On the internal message board, an agent thought, "We can communicate now!"

Wallace said the agents realized they could accomplish more by working collaboratively. And then, "They start to launch these collective attacks on third-party and internal services."

Eventually, the agents turned to Hugging Face.

Here's what people in tech and AI are saying about the nearly 40-minute presentation:

Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan focused on how the description of the internal message board sounded familiar.

It is worth noting that Moltbook was created by humans as a Reddit-style forum where AI agents could post, whereas the OpenAI agents created their ad hoc message board themselves.

Others had much more sweeping takeaways.

Or figured that something has clearly hit the fan.

Patrick McKenzie, an advisor to Stripe, detailed the "holy %}^]" moments he had when watching the presentation.

A former Hugging Face engineer said that OpenAI learned its models were the culprit after reaching out to Hugging Face to see whether it was affected, following the platform's revelation that it had been attacked by AI agents.

• My husband and I feel fortunate to be able to spend several months a year living with his mom.
• We make it work by giving each other enough space while taking time to enjoy each other's company.
• Some of my favorite moments are simple ones, like sharing meals and catching up over tea.

For the past five years, my husband and I have spent several months each year living with his 85-year-old mom.

Since he and I both work remotely and don't have any children or pets, we make the most of our freedom by choosing to spend a lot of time with his mom while we can.

After all, our home base is in Los Angeles, on the other side of the country, so we like to make the most of our time together when we can.

Many people might assume this unconventional living arrangement would leave us without privacy or even put a strain on our marriage, but we actually love how it's worked out.

Having our own space and lots of alone time is a must

My mom-in-law is retired and lives in a two-story, three-bedroom house in the suburbs of Detroit.

Because she has a lot of extra space that she doesn't use, we've been able to make the upstairs level our own. She likes to call it our "apartment." The two upstairs bedrooms double as our offices, and we have a bathroom that's just for us.

Having enough physical space is one of the biggest reasons living with my MIL has worked out so well and has not strained my relationship with my husband.

On any given day, I have my space, my husband has his, and his mom has the downstairs area to herself.

We have plenty of breathing room and privacy, so when we break for lunch or have dinner together, it's something we genuinely look forward to — even if we're just eating in front of the TV.

We each have our own routines and are simply sharing a home most of the time, not constantly hanging out together. It's a very different dynamic than that of a host and houseguest who's being entertained for a few months.

My MIL may be retired, but she still has a vibrant social life and is involved in charitable activities, so there are plenty of afternoons or evenings when she's out doing her thing and we're doing ours.

That said, I love that on any given day I can take my laptop downstairs and get some work done on the patio or in the dining room while she's nearby, watching her soap operas or reading a book. Or that we can just have an impromptu tea and catch-up session about what's going on that day.

It's comforting to have my mom-in-law near. Even when we're all on our own schedules, we know we're there for one another.

We've naturally found our rhythm, but I know this kind of arrangement isn't for everyone

We don't have any official rules about cooking, cleaning, and grocery runs, so we just go with the flow.

While my MIL manages her own bedroom and bathroom downstairs, I do everyone's laundry and keep the upstairs and common areas tidy. I also like being the "chef of the house," as she says, so I'm the one who makes dinner.

As far as groceries and household items, I'll pick up necessities if I'm the one going to the market and vice versa. It has become a very easy rhythm for us all, and my husband and I enjoy treating his mom when we go out to eat.

Ultimately, living with in-laws wouldn't necessarily work for all families. Having enough space, genuinely enjoying each other's company, and respecting each other's routines has made all the difference.

But if everyone goes into the arrangement understanding they're sharing a home, not just hosting or visiting, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to spend extended time together.

I know this chapter of our lives won't last forever, which makes me even more grateful that we've been able to spend it this way.

• SpaceX says Starlink could provide 'better service' than AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile by next year.
• That might be easier said than done, an analyst who studied the telecom industry for decades says.
• Benedict Evans said Starlink would need to build large numbers of base stations to make it work.

An analyst is throwing cold water on Starlink's ambition to become a mainstream mobile carrier.

In a recent earnings call, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell said she expected Starlink to provide better service than the Big Three wireless carriers — AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile — by the end of 2027.

Benedict Evans, a former Andreessen Horowitz partner who spent decades studying mobile technology, however, said complications with providing service in urban areas would likely stymie such a plan.

"The hard part is having coverage in a city with steel and concrete blocking every signal past 50 yards," Evans wrote on Threads on Thursday. "That's the cost."

Starlink Mobile acts mostly as a satellite safety net for phone carriers. The company's satellites operate like cell towers in space, connecting phones when on-the-ground service is unavailable, including in remote areas or emergency situations.

The service has emerged as the most profitable revenue stream for Elon Musk's companies, netting them a cool $1.66 billion in Q2.

To expand Starlink's coverage beyond remote areas, Musk said on the earnings call that he expected Starlink to deploy "a large number of small stations" in lieu of large cellular base stations.

In his Threads post, Evans said the number of small stations Starlink would have to build would likely cut into the service's vital profitability.

"Can you save enough money from using satellite for rural and for backhaul on some (how many?) of your base stations to deliver a meaningful cost advantage," he said. "What's the algebra?"

Evans attached a graph in a separate Threads post on Friday, showing that most monthly internet traffic is generated from users in urban and suburban areas, where Starlink would have to either build new infrastructure or rent from existing companies.

Starlink did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

• I'm a frequent solo traveler who prefers staying in Airbnbs over hotels.
• When I book an Airbnb for a solo trip, I say it's for two guests so hosts don't know I'm alone.
• Sometimes booking for two costs extra, but I'm willing to pay more because it makes me feel safer.

A treehouse in Ontario's wine country, a converted wine barrel in Switzerland, and a repurposed lifeguard tower in Miami — I've booked them all through Airbnb.

As a travel reporter, I've slept in accommodations throughout the US, Canada, and Europe. I typically opt for Airbnbs over hotels because I've found that they offer more unique experiences.

More often than not, I travel solo. I've spent roughly 200 hours on overnight trains in the US and Europe and seven nights on one of the world's largest cruise ships sailing the Caribbean Sea. I've traveled by rail to Vancouver, Niagara Falls, Montreal, and Quebec City. On these trips, I explored new cities and slept in unique accommodations — all by myself.

Now that I'm a seasoned solo traveler, I have several practices to ensure I feel as safe as possible when traveling alone, especially in other countries.

When staying in Airbnbs solo, I recommend booking for two people

When I make an Airbnb reservation for a solo stay, I simply change the number of guests from one to two. Then, in my message to the host, I say I may have a friend joining me for my trip.

This way, my host doesn't think I'm traveling by myself. Creating the illusion that I have someone else with me makes me feel more comfortable falling asleep at night in a stranger's place.

Booking for two sometimes comes with an additional fee, depending on the Airbnb. In these cases, I still think it's worth it to feel safer.

For example, when I traveled to Rome and booked two nights in a livable art-sculpture Airbnb, the price was $102 per night for one person and $145 per night for two people. In this case, a companion did end up joining me for the stay. But even if I'd been on my own, I would have been fine paying the additional fee to feel more secure about staying there alone.

Solo travel can be daunting, especially when you're booking accommodations with an individual rather than directly through a company like you would at a hotel.

Still, after all my unique Airbnb experiences, I think it's worth booking them even when I'm alone. And booking for two makes me feel a little safer.

• I spent 30 hours on an Amtrak sleeper train traveling from New York City to Miami in October 2021.
• I found ways to keep comfy and pass the time on the long journey.
• I wore my coziest clothes, brought my own entertainment, and tried to make my room feel like home.

I could have flown from New York City to Miami in October 2021. It would have saved me 27 hours and at least $100.

But as a lifelong train lover, I'd always wondered what it would be like to spend a night on the rails. So when I realized there was a 30-hour Amtrak route from NYC to Miami, I felt like it was my chance to try out this type of long-haul travel.

Since I was traveling overnight, I booked a roomette accommodation for about $500. A step up from coach seating, it's a 20-square-foot private suite that sleeps two people.

I romanticized my overnight train trip to Miami until the moment I stepped on the train. I don't know exactly what I expected, but I felt antsy and anxious about the journey's length and the constant motion. 

Despite having my own room, I was pretty uncomfortable during my first overnight train ride. Thankfully, I had enough time to find ways to make it easier on myself.

First off, I wore the comfiest clothes I own.

Does it look like I'm wearing pajamas? That's because I pretty much am. These are the most pajama-like trousers I own that I'd wear in public, though my mother would argue they're only for sleeping. 

But who cares? Once you get on the train, you'll be happy you're comfortable, no matter what you look like. 

I went with the comfiest shoes that slip on and off easily.

I picked up these memory foam babies at T.J. Maxx for only $20, and they slip on and off very easily. This was great for quickly leaving my room with shoes on.

Since I often get motion sickness, I sat in the seat facing the same direction the train was going. It helped.

This is an old trick my mom taught me when I would get train sick during day trips from our home in Stamford, Connecticut, to NYC.

Going against the train's motion made me feel sicker, so I stuck to one chair for the whole trip.

Since I knew my bathroom would be right next to my sleeping quarters, I brought Poo-Pourri to eliminate odors.

I might have had a bigger problem with the toilet situation next to my bed in the roomette if I hadn't packed some Poo-Pourri to eliminate any odors.

I also adjusted the lights and the temperature to my liking.

Adjusting the lighting throughout the trip helped me feel like I was changing environments even though I wasn't.

My ride included breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but bringing my own snacks kept me satisfied between meals.

Trail mix and granola bars kept me full in between meals, which were included with my ticket purchase.

Eating my meals in the dining car kept my room from getting messy and let me get out of the same space for a few minutes.

Even though eating in my room was an option, I didn't want my bunk to smell like food all night. So I went to the dining car for every meal. It was also nice to sit in a different environment for parts of the ride.

Getting out of the train for a short walk during longer stops also helped.

The train took a short break every few stops, and passengers could walk around the platform for about 10 minutes.

Getting up to stretch my legs and take in some fresh air made the next few hours crammed in a room with a window that didn't open a little more bearable.

To pass the time, get moving, and feel more at home, I took frequent dance breaks in my room, where I closed the curtains and blasted music in my ears.

I tried to make the train feel like home, and at home, I dance periodically to release energy throughout the day.

Shutting the curtains gave me a moment of privacy to be my goofy self, which also helped me keep moving.

I also brought my own entertainment, from video games to playlists.

I brought my own devices and didn't rely on the spotty internet connection to watch movies and listen to music and podcasts. Downloading these beforehand helped, and made the time go by a little faster. 

In between movies, shows, and video games, I looked out of the window and took in the views.

Looking out of the window was a constant reminder that I was on my way to somewhere new, and it helped me stay excited about my trip.

• The 2025-26 academic year was the first full season in which colleges could pay athletes directly.
• The On3 NIL valuation reflects the current player contract value. Some are valued in the millions.
• Top college athletes have worked with brands like Nike and Beats by Dre.

Some of the top college athletes are making millions of dollars.

Name, image, and likeness deals — or NIL deals for short — have become a billion-dollar industry since their introduction to amateur sports in 2021, allowing student-athletes to earn significant amounts of money.

Plus, in May 2024, as part of a major antitrust settlement, the NCAA and its five power conferences (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, and SEC) agreed that schools can directly pay their athletes for the first time in college athletics history.

This took effect in July 2025, making the 2025-26 academic year the first full season where college athletes could be compensated by their schools.

Spencer Wadsworth, the senior vice president of global soccer at Wasserman, a global sports, music, and entertainment company, previously told Business Insider that NIL has helped take the pressure off some athletes to go pro prematurely.

"I think knowing that you can still earn some living — technically get paid for your sport — and continue your studies is extremely positive because everyone does have their own journey," Wadsworth said.

The On3 NIL valuation reflects the current player contract value. The following athletes' valuations are based on confirmed player contracts, rather than an athlete's marketing value or endorsement potential.

With valuations starting at $5 million, here's a look at the top 10 student-athletes with the biggest college compensation packages. These figures were accurate as of August 2026.

10. Trinidad Chambliss — $5 million

University of Mississippi quarterback Trinidad Chambliss is preparing for his second season with the Ole Miss Rebels.

Chambliss was the 2025 SEC Newcomer of the Year after helping lead the Rebels to the College Football Playoff.

In an interview with Vanity Fair published in April, Chambliss said when he first started college, he budgeted $100 for two weeks' worth of groceries. "It's just wild to see, like, the first check hit, and it's like, wow, I have that much money. That's crazy," Chambliss said.

Chambliss has a $5 million NIL valuation, per On3. In July, Nike announced that he was one of eight college football athletes added to its NIL roster.

9. Massamba Diop — $5 million

The 7-foot-1 Gonzaga University center, Massamba Diop, is preparing for his first season with the Gonzaga University Bulldogs after transferring from Arizona State.

Hailing from Rufisque, Senegal, Diop played most of his basketball career in Spain.

"He's just very advanced," former head coach Bobby Hurley said about Diop on the Bickley & Marotta radio show in February. "He was very well-coached. Very fluid player. Good IQ for the game, very skilled. He just knows not to put himself in bad positions."

Diop has a $5 million NIL valuation.

8. Thomas Haugh — $5 million

University of Florida forward Thomas Haugh passed up a projected lottery spot in the 2026 NBA draft to return for his senior season with the Gators.

At 6-foot-9, Haugh led Florida last season with 17.1 points per game and averaged 6.1 rebounds.

"Florida is going to have the highest-paid player in all of college basketball this season," CBS Sports analyst Matt Norlander said of Haugh's decision to return to Florida in April.

"Rightfully so. He has put in the time. He'll be a preseason first-team All-American. He was the key cog on a national championship-winning team," Norlander added.

Haugh has an NIL valuation of $5 million and was part of a March Madness NIL campaign with Walmart and Dove.

6. Tyran Stokes — $5 million

University of Kansas guard Tyran Stokes is preparing for his first season with the Kansas Jayhawks after playing for Rainier Beach High School.

The 6-foot-8 guard averaged 31.0 points, 13.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 4.0 steals last season.

"Tyran is as versatile a youngster that I've ever recruited. He can score, and he's a terrific rebounder. He's powerful and can be a great facilitator, and maybe what he does best is pass the basketball," said Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self in a press release.

With over 347,000 followers on Instagram, Stokes has a NIL valuation of $5 million. He signed an NIL deal with Nike in 2025.

7. Tounde Yessoufou — $5 million

St. John's University wing Tounde Yessoufou is preparing for his first season with the Red Storm, having withdrawn from the 2026 NBA draft after transferring from the Baylor Bears.

"He's a special talent, and we're excited to have him in a Johnnies uniform," said head coach Rick Pitino in a press release announcing Yessoufou's transfer.

Yessoufou has an NIL valuation of $5 million. He signed a deal with Reebok in June. In an Instagram post, the company wrote that Yessoufou is "one of the game's most exciting rising talents."

5. Jeremiah Smith — $5 million

The Ohio State University wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is preparing for his third season with the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Smith has also been awarded the Ohio State Iron Buckeye for three consecutive years.

"He's a gentleman, a high character guy who does everything right," Ohio State head football coach Ryan Day said during Big Ten media days in July. "We're very fortunate he's a Buckeye. He's done so many great things for us. But he wants this year to be his best."

Smith, who has over 815,000 followers on Instagram and works with brands like Red Bull and Adidas, has an NIL valuation of $5 million. Most recently, Adidas made Smith the face of the Virginia Adistar Jellyfish sneaker.

4. Dante Moore — $5 million

University of Oregon quarterback Dante Moore decided not to enter the 2026 NFL Draft and will instead return to school for his third season with the Oregon Ducks.

Some of the redshirt junior's recent accolades include winning offensive MVP at the 2025 Capital One Orange Bowl and being a finalist for the 2025 Manning Award. This year, he's on the Maxwell Award watch list and earned Big Ten Preseason Honors.

"This offseason, me and my teammates have made tremendous changes to our body, speed," Moore told reporters in an interview at the 2026 Big Ten Media Days ahead of the season.

"Coach Wilson Love, our head strength coach, has done a great job just pushing me in the weight room, pushing the team, and I kind of feel like there's no looking back now," he added.

Moore has NIL partnerships with brands such as Nike, Beats by Dre, and Panini America. His NIL valuation is $5 million.

3. Flory Bidunga — $6 million

University of Louisville forward Flory Bidunga will play his first season with the Louisville Cardinals after transferring from Kansas.

On3 and 247Sports ranked him No.1 in the 2026 College Basketball Transfer Portal.

Originally from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bidunga was named the 2025—26 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and earned All-Big 12 First Team and Big 12 All-Defensive Team honors. He was also one of five finalists for the 2026 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Center of the Year Award.

"Flory is a game changer," said Cardinals head coach Pat Kelsey, in a press release announcing Bidunga's signing. "He has an elite ability to change the game on the defensive end with his rim protection and physicality in the paint."

Bidunga has an NIL valuation of $6 million. Under Armour selected him for its 2025 NIL Collegiate Basketball Class.

2. Milan Momcilovic — $6 million

University of Kentucky forward Milan Momcilovic is preparing to play his first season with the Wildcats, transferring from Iowa State, where he played three seasons. He withdrew from the 2026 NBA Draft before transferring to Kentucky.

Momcilovic, who is 6-foot-8, earned the NABC All-Central District first-team and All-Big 12 second-team honors.

"I do think Milan is a really important piece for us. Not because he was early or late, because he fits me," Wildcats head coach Mark Pope said in a July interview with Kentucky Sports Radio. "He fits what I care about. He fits how we play. He's a veteran, veteran guy."

Momcilovic has an NIL valuation of $6 million. He landed an NIL deal with Paul Miller Ford, a Lexington-based Ford dealer.

1. Darian Mensah — $6.5 million

University of Miami quarterback Darian Mensah is preparing for his first season with the Hurricanes after transferring from Duke. The redshirt junior previously spent two seasons at Tulane and one season at Duke.

Mensah earned second-team All-ACC and Academic All-ACC honors in 2025. He was also a semifinalist for the Davey O'Brien Award, which recognizes the country's top quarterback.

"A complete professional," Miami head coach Mario Cristobal said of Mensah in April. "Ownership of the system, great command, personality, arm talent, escapability, pocket presence, accurate, knowledge [and] a great energy about him as well. People gravitate to him, and people are attracted to that kind of energy."

At $6.5 million, Mensah tops On3's NIL 100. Mensah signed an NIL partnership with luxury-watch dealer Derby Watch Supply in July. Under the agreement, he will promote a Rolex Datejust.

Editor's note: This story was first published in August 2024 and was most recently updated in August 2026.

• Citrini Research says threats from agentic AI will boost cybersecurity demand.
• It shared it's list of top stock picks in the sector, flagging names like Cloudflare and F5.

Citrini Research, the market research firm that went viral for its futuristic AI doomsday scenario earlier this year, sees the rise of agentic threats boosting demand for cybersecurity.

In a note published on Friday, Citrini shared its bullish thesis on the sector, noting that the rapid rise of AI capabilities means companies have a greater need than ever to bolster cyber defense.

"It's clear that there are enormous opportunities for most cybersecurity companies in the AI era," Citrini wrote. "Customers are redirecting budgets toward IT security. At the same time, we've seen the wholesale threat of commoditization from AI loom."

In 2025, cybersecurity experts predicted that rising geopolitical tensions would press the US to ramp up its cybersecurity investments. Citrini said that the AI boom is already demonstrating the need for such tool, citing the recent example of OpenAI's models going rouge to hack systems at Hugging Face.

"In the near term, AI will create a cybersecurity boom as models uncover an avalanche of existing vulnerabilities, bad actors are super charged, and AI increases software creation, complexity, and attack surfaces faster than it eliminates threats," Citrini added.

The market research firm laid out the cybersecurity stocks it expects to benefit the most form this AI-driven demand surge.

• F5: +61% year-to-date
• Zscaler: -24% year-to-date
• Fortinet: +105% year-to-date
• Netskope: -19% year-to-date
• Cloudflare: +58% year-to-date
• Palo Alto Networks: +99% year-to-date

Citrini previously highlighted several of these names as likely winners of the next phase of AI in an analysis last month. However, it noted that the original thesis it discussed seems to be playing out faster than initially expected.

In the firm's view, F5 hasn't done a great job marketing itself as a dominant force in the age of AI, but it remains a top pick due its high exposure to the hardware-native security trade.

For several other cybersecurity stocks on its top picks list, Citrini sees opportunity as Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) takes center stage. This security model, which assumes that every AI agent, device and user needs to be verified, has come sharply into focus since OpenAI's Hugging Face hack, which Citrini regards as proof that further privacy controls are needed as AI agents proliferate.

"By this logic, ZTNA vendors like Cloudflare, Zscaler, and Netskope are arguably the biggest AI beneficiaries in the entire cybersecurity sector," the firm stated. "The proliferation of agents means a higher volume of connections that require monitoring, and that plays directly to the benefit of these businesses."

Citrini added that both Palo Alto Networks and Fortinent sit at a valuable intersection of the cybersecurity and AI trade. Not only do they stand to benefit from rising demand but they both own a type of network-enforcement infrastructure that likely won't be replaced by AI anytime soon, protecting them from AI disruption.

• Grindr CEO George Arison said that AI had increased its engineering output 2.5-fold.
• "Before GenAI, producing that much technical output would have required roughly 200 additional engineers," he said.
• Arison is one of the few CEOs to quantify how many jobs would be needed to reach AI's advances internally.

Just how much human engineering work is AI capable of delivering? Grindr put a number to it.

In a letter to shareholders, Grindr CEO George Arison touted the company's advances with AI. He gave a "conservative estimate" that engineering output increased by 2.5x between July 2025 and April 2026, with "minimal growth" in its engineering staff.

Arison later said that the actual multiple was 3.5x on Grindr's second-quarter earnings call. The company changed it to 2.5x because they thought the larger increase sounded "unreasonable," he said.

"Before GenAI, producing that much technical output would have required roughly 200 additional engineers and approximately $60 million in annual cost," Arison wrote.

Grindr measured output in the amount of code shipped. That's a controversial metric; some say it prioritizes quantity over quality.

Marco Argenti, Goldman Sachs' chief information officer, told Business Insider in May that measuring lines of code was "not really a great way to do it."

Others attempt to measure productivity by the volume of AI tokens spent, which can lead to tokenmaxxing.

Arison told CNBC on Thursday that the company was on track to spend $6 million on tokens this year. An analyst asked Arison about tokens on the company's earnings call.

"We are of the view that people should use all the tools that are out there and not really worry about the cost to them as long as the ROI that we want to see is there," he responded.

Even if Grindr did want to bring on the 200 engineers needed to match that AI productivity jump, the CEO said in his letter that the industry's constraint has always been a "scarcity of exceptional engineering talent."

AI allows Grindr to keep its most exceptional engineers focused on the areas where it "most benefits from human creativity and judgment," he wrote.

Engineers are worried about their jobs. AI code editors are becoming increasingly competent, while layoffs rip through Big Tech. Companies like Block and Atlassian have specifically cited AI in their layoff announcements.

Despite the hubbub, job openings for software engineering roles actually rose this year.

Arison is one of the few CEOs who has put into numbers how many jobs would be needed to achieve a similar output without AI. The Grindr CEO's remarks were notably not about cutting jobs, but rather not creating new ones. (But engineers could understandably read CEO quotes like this and worry about the possibility that a company could eventually decide to downsize in the name of "do more with less.")

On the earnings call, Grindr' CEO shared an anecdote about the changing workforce size.

When he took the Grindr job, Arison said he described his vision to a mentor, noting it would require 250-300 engineers. His mentor said that needing all those engineers was "the old world," and that AI coding could do much of the work.

"It's a really incredible outcome for us," Arison said.

• A few months after finishing college, I went on a 10-day road trip in a rented van with my mom.
• We made a rough itinerary, but we left room for spontaneous sidequests, picnics, and polar plunges.
• The adventure taught me to embrace the unpredictability and uncertainty of postgrad life.

Right after graduating from college, I struggled to celebrate my newfound freedom.

The full-time job I was searching for didn't materialize as quickly as I thought it would. My once-populated Google calendar, a beacon of structure and routine as a student, stared blankly back at me.

So, given my lack of plans and ever-increasing stress, when my mom asked me to join her on a road trip from Montana to California in a rented van, I was eager to block off some days and couldn't say yes fast enough. Plus, the adventure would commemorate not only my graduation but also her recent retirement.

I made sure to pack my laptop for the 10-day excursion. After weeks of obsessively applying to jobs, I thought I'd feel unmoored without it and want to check the status of my applications from the road.

However, by the end of the trip, it had mostly stayed shut.

We embraced unpredictability while on the road

My mom and I didn't have a pre-planned itinerary from our arrival onward — we simply made a rough wish list of the places we wanted to see before our rental drop-off in Los Angeles.

On our first long drive from Montana toward the coast of Oregon, we stopped overnight in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, at the suggestion of a fisherman we met on our travels, and took part in a polar plunge — something we wouldn't have done if we hadn't stumbled upon this place.

Since we never had firm plans for the trip, we simply ate when hunger struck rather than holding out for the perfect reservation, which led to many unforgettable dining side quests.

While in Oregon, we worked our way through a legendary plate-sized cinnamon roll south of Cannon Beach, sampled local cheeses in Tillamook, and drove up a winding road to pick cherries in the Columbia River Gorge.

It was also easy to spontaneously pull off little picnic adventures when everything we needed — including a kitchen — was on wheels with us.

The unpredictability of our plans was easy to embrace, but van life was still sometimes uncomfortable, though new environments often are.

One night, a thunderstorm rocked the sky while I slept in the van's pop-up tent. Showering in communal campsite bathrooms reminded me of the early days of college, when I transitioned to a new and unfamiliar routine.

The constant pivots of our spontaneous trip also meant spending some nights in gravelly RV parks over the storybook scenic vistas we'd pictured. But it also meant we could stop to rest when we needed to, and linger in the places that felt right.

It may have been challenging at times, but living in the van made me realize that even though unfamiliar surroundings can be unsettling, they don't necessarily have to be scary.

I still don't know what my postgrad life will look like, but that doesn't worry me anymore

Overall, traveling with my mom taught me to tolerate uncertainty and not take things so seriously.

In a Sinclair gas station parking lot between destinations, I scrolled through job boards and scrambled to send emails on spotty cell service.

Instead of stressing out, my mom urged me to get out of the car and take a selfie with the plastic dinosaur.

When we reached the rainforests and coasts of Oregon, our conversations about the future meandered like Highway 101. In the midst of one chat, we pulled off to hike down the Restless Waters Trail. We watched chaotic waves heave and crash wildly against a jagged gulch of volcanic rock.

Like the course of our road trip, they changed direction unpredictably.

After one humbling morning among giants in Redwood National Park in California, we stopped at the aptly named Confusion Hill, a kitschy historic attraction that announced itself with giant question marks nailed to towering trees.

We stumbled through its rickety optical-illusion Gravity House until we were unsure of which way was up. It was a laughingly literal manifestation of the way I'd been feeling since crossing the stage and receiving my diploma.

However, for the first time since graduation, my uncertainty felt thrilling.

When we reached Los Angeles, I still hadn't figured out my future plans. In fact, after countless deep conversations, I was more unsure than when we started.

Even though my postgrad timeline hadn't gone as planned, it let me go on a precious adventure with my mom, returning home renewed and ready to reopen my laptop.

For me, the road ahead will be winding and unpredictable. But as my mom would say, that's the most exciting part.

• Burger King upgraded its signature Whopper burger in February with a new bun and packaging.
• The burger is thicker, more flavorful, and doesn't cost more — a win for value-conscious customers.
• Burger King executives said this week that the upgraded burger has helped boost sales by 8.5%.

Burger King's updated Whopper burger is helping to boost the brand and reignite the fast-food burger wars.

Inspired by customer complaints that its iconic burger was often squished during transit — it used to be simply wrapped in paper — the fast-food chain updated its signature Whopper in February with new box packaging, a new bun, and new, "creamier" mayonnaise.

The company said on Thursday that the updates are paying off.

The chain reported that US same-store sales jumped 8.5% in the second quarter, a surge that company president Tom Curtis attributed to the updated burger and new family-focused promotions, such as Burger King's Mandalorian meal collab.

Customers also bought about 20% more Whoppers than they did in the previous period, suggesting the makeover is resonating.

Its success comes as other burger chains struggle with sales. On Friday, Wendy's reported a 7% decline in same-store sales for the second quarter. McDonald's, which also released a new burger earlier this year, announced on Tuesday that comparable US sales growth slowed to 0.8% in the second quarter. Both chains pointed to problems with their value strategies: McDonald's cited too many overlapping promotions and discounts, while Wendy's pointed to its decision to pull back on discounting.

I tried Burger King's new "elevated" Whopper following its release, and I thought it was a clear upgrade from the original.

The Whopper has been around for decades. This is the first time it's been served in a cardboard box.

Released in 1957, just four years after the chain opened, the Whopper was 37 cents compared to Burger King's original burger, which cost 18 cents.

Whoppers — and all Burger King burgers, for that matter — are flame-grilled, giving their burgers a distinct smoky flavor. Another difference between Burger King's premium burgers and those of other chains, like McDonald's, is that Burger King's burgers are typically wrapped in paper rather than served in a cardboard box.

This new presentation is the most obvious change from the original Whopper.

The new cardboard box design better protected the burger from getting smushed during transit.

The chain announced on February 26 that it would change its Whopper packaging in response to negative customer feedback.

"So the Whopper being smushed, literally, I've heard it… and we've seen it," Curtis told CNN.

Another change to the burger was the bun itself — it was described in a press release as "a more premium, better-tasting bun."

After I bought the burger, I agreed that the bun looked much thicker, shinier, and better than previous iterations.

The burger has all the same toppings as the original, with upgraded mayonnaise.

While Whoppers don't typically come with cheese, I always order mine with cheese. The other toppings include sliced onions and tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, and a new, "better-tasting" mayo, according to the chain.

The burger definitely felt thicker than the original, even though it was less expensive than the last time I bought a Whopper.

When I ordered a Whopper with cheese on February 14, 2026, it cost $9.17, excluding tax, at my local Burger King in Brooklyn.

When I ordered the same burger on February 27, 2026, it cost $8.58, excluding tax, at the same location.

Burger King's prices can vary by location and franchise. CNN reported that Burger King recommended that franchisees not raise prices for the new elevated Whopper.

The thicker, fluffier bun gave the burger more heft, but the biggest difference was how well it held together.

Unlike the original Whopper — which could turn soggy from its thinner mayonnaise and heavy condiments — this version was less saucy and stayed intact much better.

The new, creamier mayonnaise had more flavor, without making the burger a soggy mess. Combined with the still-flavorful flame-grilled burger patty, crunchy lettuce, and fresh tomato slices, this burger still remained my top pick among the most famous fast-food signature burgers.

I thought the burger was an improvement on the original Whopper without reinventing the wheel.

When updating a fast-food burger as iconic as the Whopper, there's a risk in changing too much — longtime fans may not respond well if it strays too far from what they know and expect.

However, I thought this slightly upgraded version of the Whopper hit all the right notes, and as fast-food customers seek out value more than ever, this burger delivered on that promise, too.

It maintained the same flavor profile while addressing the burger's biggest problem areas: flat, soggy buns and a slightly too high price point.

As a result, I understand why it's helping bring customers through Burger King's doors. It's still the same Whopper you know and love — just with a tune-up.

Editor's note: This story was first published in February 2026 and most recently updated in August 2026.

The best weight loss foods for cats are typically lower in calories and fat than regular formulas and deliver more nutrients per serving. In addition, these foods often contain extra fiber to help cats feel full even when they're eating fewer calories.

To select weight-management foods for this guide, we asked veterinarians what to look for in foods for overweight cats. Based on their insights, our top picks include Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable and Chicken Medley wet food and Royal Canin Weight Care dry food. Both are formulated with ingredients that support fat metabolism and help cats feel fuller for longer.

All of the foods featured below meet or exceed the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards and align with the Global Nutrition Guidelines published by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). These benchmarks are consistently endorsed by the veterinarians we consult and are essential to our recommendations. Learn more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Our top picks for the best weight loss food for cats

Best overall wet: Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable and Chicken Medley, 2.9 oz. cans (24 count) - $52 at Chewy

Best overall dry: Royal Canin Weight Care Adult Dry Cat Food, 6 lb. bag - $43 at Chewy

Best budget wet: Blue Buffalo True Solutions Weight Control Chicken Recipe, 3 oz. cans (24 count) - $36 at Chewy

Best budget dry: Purina One +Plus High Protein Chicken, 7 lb. bag - $18 at Chewy

Best for seniors: Iams Proactive Health Healthy Senior Chicken Recipe, 7 lb. bag - $17 at Chewy

How weight loss food for cats works

The best weight loss foods for cats are specially formulated and labeled as "weight management," "weight loss," or "healthy weight" cat food. There's no one-size-fits-all food for overweight cats. Your cat's ideal diet depends on factors like their individual needs, age, ideal weight, and overall health. That's why consulting your veterinarian before making changes to your cat's diet is essential. They can recommend appropriate food and help you create a safe, effective weight loss plan tailored to your cat.

It's also helpful to understand factors that cause cats to gain weight, such as aging, decreased mobility, excessive calorie consumption, and limited mental and physical activity. Spaying or neutering is critical for overall health, but it can also lead to gradual weight gain.

If your cat is overweight, your veterinarian can determine their daily calorie requirements and recommend an appropriate weight management diet. Proper portion control is key for weight loss and maintenance, but simply feeding your cat less can be dangerous. Smaller portions may not provide all the nutrients your cat needs, says Dr. Mark Freeman, a veterinarian and clinical associate professor of community practice at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

How we recommend the best weight loss food for cats

To pick the best weight loss foods for cats, we consulted four veterinarians, including three who specialize in animal nutrition. They didn't recommend specific foods, but they helped us determine what makes for an effective weight loss food and how to ensure your cat loses weight safely and healthily.

We also consulted guidelines and recommendations from the AAFCO, the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, and other publications and organizations linked in this guide.

Best wet overall

Wet food contains 75% to 78% moisture, compared with just 10% to 12% in dry food. This difference is significant because cats tend to get most of their hydration from what they eat rather than from drinking water, says Dr. Debra Zoran, a small animal internist, nutritionist, and professor at Texas A&M University. What's more, the higher water content in canned food can also help cats feel fuller, even when they're consuming fewer calories.

Since wet and dry cat foods differ so much in moisture content, you'll need to convert wet food values to a dry matter basis when comparing their nutritional content. This means removing all moisture from the wet food and calculating nutritional values based on the remaining solids. For our picks, we contacted manufacturers directly to obtain nutritional information on a dry matter basis. If you want to compare other dry and wet foods, you can use the instructions from the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, reach out to the food manufacturer, or ask your veterinarian for guidance.

Our recommendations for the best wet cat food for weight loss include added fiber from ingredients like powdered cellulose. This extra fiber can help your cat feel satisfied longer, which may cut down on begging between meals. These recipes also include L-carnitine, an amino acid that helps the body burn fat for energy and may support weight loss.

Best dry overall

Your veterinarian might recommend dry food with added salt as part of a weight management plan. Although salt may seem like an unusual ingredient, Freeman says pet food manufacturers include salt to encourage cats to drink more water. "It's another mechanism to help pets feel full and reduce food consumption," he says. 

Managing calorie intake is also key to helping cats lose weight. That doesn't mean cat treats are forbidden, however. They're important for bonding with your cat and rewarding them, says Dr. Julie Churchill, a veterinary nutritionist and professor of nutrition at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. That said, she recommends setting aside a portion of your cat's kibble for treats. This way, you can give your cat a few small pieces of a complete and balanced food without disrupting their diet.

Our picks for the best dry cat food for weight loss include both soluble and insoluble fiber sources, such as beet pulp, oats, psyllium seed husk, and inulin derived from chicory root or Jerusalem artichoke. Soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel in the stomach, which slows digestion and increases a cat's feeling of fullness. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stool and supports a healthy digestive system. These formulas also contain fish oil, a source of omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation and improve joint health. This may help ease joint pain caused by the added stress of carrying excess weight.

Best budget wet

Along with added moisture, many wet cat foods contain carbohydrate sources that can help your cat lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. For instance, Tufts University says complex carbohydrates such as brown rice and whole corn are more fiber-rich than other carbohydrates. They can help your cat feel full for longer. Our experts recommend whole, complex carbohydrates over processed carbohydrates such as flour and meals. This is because cats use more energy to break whole carbs down, says Dr. Korinn Saker, a retired veterinary nutritionist who was associate professor of clinical nutrition at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. 

Our budget picks for the best affordable cat food for weight loss include fiber to help your cat feel full and L-carnitine to help them burn fat. If wet food still feels too pricey (it tends to be more expensive per serving than dry food), you can ask your vet for help creating a meal plan that mixes wet and dry food. Zoran says she offers her cats wet food to keep them hydrated, but also incorporates a small amount of dry food in feeder puzzles. This helps slow her cats' eating by making them work for their food, which can help them feel more satisfied and promote weight loss. You can learn more about the differences between canned food and kibble in our wet vs. dry cat food explainer.

Best budget dry

Budget dry food is a good option for cat owners looking for an affordable way to help their cat lose weight. Both budget and premium weight loss cat foods may contain cost-effective protein sources like meat byproducts and byproduct meals. These are secondary ingredients from the human food industry, but they meet the nutritional requirements for pets set by the AAFCO. Our experts agree that byproducts and meals make good protein sources for cats. 

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need animal-based proteins for essential amino acids like taurine. Budget dry cat foods can meet your cat's dietary needs as long as proteins in the form of whole meat, meat meal, or byproducts come first on the ingredient list.

Our budget picks for the best weight loss foods for cats are low in calories and fat, like our other recommendations in this guide. They contain proteins such as chicken, chicken byproduct meal, and turkey meal. Our pick from Purina also contains L-lysine, an amino acid that supports the immune system and may boost a cat's resistance to certain viruses.

Best for seniors

Senior cats are more likely to develop health problems, especially if they are overweight. Churchill says maintaining a healthy weight can add years to a pet's life, improve their quality of life, and delay many chronic diseases that occur with aging.

When choosing among the best senior cat foods, it's important to work with your veterinarian to determine your pet's specific needs. Some cats may require a diet with lower levels of phosphorus, sodium, or protein, while others may benefit from a high-protein diet. Many senior cat foods, such as the ones below, also contain ingredients like fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin that can help improve mobility and reduce inflammation. Our senior picks also contain cranberries and blueberries. These ingredients provide antioxidants, which can help keep a cat's liver, kidneys, and brain healthy.

Our top picks compared

How to choose a weight loss food for your cat

When shopping for the best cat foods for weight loss, you'll want to consider the following criteria: 

AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for adult maintenance or all life stages: The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that provides nutritional guidelines for pet food. An AAFCO statement indicates that a food meets the nutritional needs of cats based on their life stage. You can confirm a cat food is nutritionally complete and balanced for "adult maintenance" or "all life stages" if it has an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement on the label. 

Keep in mind that cat food will only meet your cat's nutritional needs when served in the right portions. Giving your cat a smaller portion could lead to a nutritional deficiency, while overfeeding them may lead to weight gain, especially if they don't get much activity. 

Growing kittens need more calories and nutrients than adult cats so we recommend the best kitten foods for young felines. Therefore, weight management foods don't make a good choice for kittens, even if the food is labeled for "all life stages." If you have any concerns about your kitten's weight, consult a vet before you change their diet or feed them smaller portions. As your cat nears their first birthday, your vet can evaluate their weight and how many calories they should consume daily. 

Guaranteed analysis and nutrient profiles: The guaranteed analysis on a pet food label shows the percentages of important nutrients, including protein, fat, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Food for adult cats, including seniors, must have a minimum of 26% protein and 9% fat. Our experts say it's important to carefully examine the guaranteed analysis of protein, fat, and fiber percentages to ensure the recipe meets your cat's needs. The best weight loss foods for cats generally contain low to moderate fat and high fiber. 

Ingredients list: The ingredients on a pet food label appear in order of weight. As obligate carnivores, cats must eat diets made up of animal-based proteins. So, animal proteins in the form of whole meat, meat meal, or animal byproducts should appear first on the ingredients list of any cat food. To add fiber to your cat's diet and keep them feeling full between meals, opt for recipes with whole complex carbohydrates such as whole corn, whole brown rice, oats, and inulin. Sources of inulin you may notice on cat food labels include chicory root and, less commonly, Jerusalem artichoke.

Expert formulations: Expert formulation is even more important when it comes to weight loss diets since the best weight loss foods for cats are developed to provide more nutrients per serving, with fewer calories. We only recommend food from brands that employ a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist or a PhD-level animal nutritionist. This helps ensure your cat's food meets nutritional recommendations and includes the right ingredients for cats. It also aligns with the WSAVA guidelines and our experts' guidance.

Manufacturing standards: We expect commercial cat food brands to be transparent about their quality control measures. This means providing information about the types of tests they conduct, how often they test, and the results of those tests. If this information doesn't appear on a pet food company's website, brand representatives should provide the information upon request.

Calorie content: The calorie content of cat food is listed in kilocalories (kcals). Weight management foods generally have fewer calories per serving but are nutrient-dense to meet nutritional needs. However, the calorie needs of adult cats can vary depending on their age, ideal weight, and overall health. Our experts emphasize the importance of switching to a weight management diet instead of just giving your cat less food. Your vet can recommend the best weight loss cat foods and the right portion size for your cat. When a pet is only a little overweight — 10% to 15% — a successful approach to weight loss may involve switching to a lower-calorie food and adjusting treats and snacks, combined with increased exercise, Churchill says. Pets more than 15% heavier than their ideal weight are considered obese and may benefit from a prescription weight loss diet.

Vets can use a scale and the body condition scoring (BCS) system to assess your cat's weight and body fat. Your vet will consider your cat's lifestyle, ideal weight, and overall health to recommend the ideal number of daily calories your cat should eat. You can ask your vet to teach you how to use the BCS system to check your cat's body fat at home between wellness visits. Churchill says that frequent monitoring of your cat's weight is important since it allows veterinarians to fine-tune caloric intake and ensure that weight loss stays safe and healthy. She adds that cats should lose weight gradually, at a rate of 1% to 2% of their body weight per week.

Meet the experts behind this guide

Janelle Leeson, pet nutrition reporter: I've covered feline health and nutrition for Reviews since 2023, combining in-depth research with expert insight to help cat guardians make informed decisions. For this guide, I reviewed scientific literature on feline obesity and weight management, interviewed veterinarians about what makes a diet effective for weight management, compared the nutrient profiles and ingredient lists of more than 40 formulas, and applied rigorous, vet-informed criteria to every recommendation. My reporting is rooted in credible sources, objective comparisons, and a passion for helping cats thrive.

Our expert sources: Dr. Debra Zoran is a small animal internist, nutritionist, and professor of small animal clinical sciences at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Dr. Korinn Saker is a board-certified veterinarian and a retired professor of clinical nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University.

Dr. Julie Churchill is a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and a professor of nutrition at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Mark Freeman is a board-certified veterinarian and clinical associate professor of community practice at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

Weight loss cat food FAQs

Is wet or dry cat food better for weight loss?

Both wet and dry cat foods can help your cat lose weight, but wet food is generally better for weight loss than dry food. It's lower in calories per bite, higher in moisture to help cats feel satiated, and often includes complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice and whole grain corn, which take longer to digest.

Dr. Liza Cahn, a veterinarian and consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance, says dry food is typically more calorie-dense, making it easier for cats to overeat, especially when they're free-fed. The carbohydrates in kibble tend to come from processed flours and meals, which usually don't keep cats feeling full for long. However, a lower-calorie, high-fiber dry food can support weight loss when portions are measured carefully. Regardless of the type of food you choose, regular exercise through play and enrichment is essential for effective weight management.

What is the best way for an indoor cat to lose weight?

Successful feline weight loss relies on three pillars: a balanced diet, portion control, and regular exercise. A weight management food plays an important role, but how much you feed matters just as much. Freeman emphasizes the importance of portion control. He and his team provide pet parents with a carefully calibrated measuring cup for portioning food. Churchill recommends using a kitchen scale to measure portions accurately. Remember that treats also count toward your cat's daily calorie intake. Because treats are typically empty calories, which means they're not complete and balanced, Churchill recommends giving your cat a small portion of their meal as a reward instead. Exercise is especially important for indoor cats. It burns calories and prevents boredom. Churchill recommends using puzzle feeders, and all of our experts agree that cat trees and perches can help encourage activity.

How much should I feed a cat that needs to lose weight?

Your veterinarian can calculate the appropriate amount of calories your cat should eat based on their age, health, and body condition. As a starting point, you can use the Pet Nutrition Alliance Calorie Calculator to estimate your cat's daily calorie needs based on their current and ideal weight. For obese cats (those 15% to 20% over their ideal weight), Churchill says simply feeding less of their regular diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Instead, your vet may recommend a therapeutic weight loss diet.

How long should it take a cat to lose weight?

Cats should lose weight slowly, about 1% to 2% of their body weight per week, Churchill says. This gradual weight loss helps avoid health issues such as muscle loss and hepatic lipidosis, a potentially fatal condition. Hepatic lipidosis, also called fatty liver disease, can occur when a cat's food intake decreases so rapidly that they are in a state of anorexia. The body responds by sending fat stores to the liver. However, the liver can't process such large amounts of fat, so it builds up in liver cells, causing irreversible damage. While roughly 90% of cases stem from underlying conditions such as kidney disease, cancer, or diabetes, rapid calorie restriction for weight loss can also cause fatty liver disease, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. However, obesity also puts cats at greater risk of developing fatty liver disease.

Do slow feeders help cats lose weight?

Yes, slow feeders can help cats lose weight. Slow feeders and puzzles allow cats to mimic natural hunting and foraging behaviors, providing mental stimulation and reducing boredom, which can lead to extra eating or begging. Some slow feeders and puzzles, such as the Catit Senses Food Tree, encourage physical activity by requiring cats to sit up, reach, or circle the feeder to get food. Others, like kibble-dispensing balls, motivate cats to push the toy to release food. Even when using slow feeders and puzzles, portion control remains essential, so you should still carefully measure your cat's food.

Smokey John's has been serving barbecue in Dallas, Texas, since 1976. It was already losing money when a devastating fire destroyed the entire restaurant in 2017. So, brothers Brent and Juan Reaves had to rebuild it from scratch. Their bet paid off. Today, Smokey John's makes nearly $4 million in annual revenue and goes through roughly 2,000 pounds of brisket each week. The brothers explain what it takes to keep a 50-year-old barbecue business alive while continuing their father's legacy.

• I grew up in New York City, but in my early 20s, I started aching to explore the world.
• When I realized I could work remotely and travel full-time, I jumped at the opportunity.
• There were surprising challenges, though, and after five years, I settled back down in New York.

I grew up in New York during the era when high schoolers had green Student Metrocards and St. Marks was a grimy strip of dollar-pizza spots, underage tongue piercings, and cheap alcohol.

I loved coming of age in New York City, but when I entered my early 20s, I started itching for a change. In 2019, at 22 years old, I went on a six-month solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia — and I fell head over heels in love with traveling.

When I returned home, all I could think was, "How can I get back out there?"

I had zero desire to get a 9-to-5 and be chained to a cubicle, but having a corporate job felt like the only "legitimate" path.

So, I started applying for jobs and landed a music-publishing internship, which I hoped to turn into a longer-term career. To pay the bills, I bartended and worked the front desk at a boxing gym.

As my days morphed into a blur of boxing gloves, Excel spreadsheets, and Jägerbombs, my traveling dreams faded — and when the COVID-19 pandemic hit around the time my internship ended, I lost all three jobs in one fell swoop.

It was a tough pill to swallow, but it gave me something I hadn't had in months: the time to rethink my career path and decide that I wanted to be a writer.

In October 2020, I hired a freelance writing coach to turn my dreams into a reality. As she taught me how to cold pitch, I started building a personal brand online, which brought in new clients.

By 2021, at 24, I could finally afford to travel.

My boyfriend of two years had no interest in a digital-nomad life. Rather than end things, we made it work our own way: I'd leave for one to three months at a time, return to NYC for a bit, and then head somewhere new.

My enthusiasm for travel didn't last long

At first, travel was addictive. I worked remotely while visiting a dozen countries — including Portugal, Guatemala, Brazil, Italy, and Croatia — all with my trusty MacBook and travel adapter in tow.

The first cracks appeared about a year in, during a two-month solo backpacking trip in Colombia. I'd found it difficult to make friends the way I could at 22, partially because I was no longer participating in the binge-drinking backpacking culture. (I now had to work the next day!)

While everyone would be socializing at the hostel — ice-cold Toñas in hand — I'd be in my pajamas, hiding behind the curtain of my top bunk bed.

One morning, as I climbed down the ladder to go on a run, my bare foot nearly planted into someone's stale fries and ketchup that they'd drunkenly abandoned. I started counting down the days until I could leave Medellín.

Although I was over hostel life, I still wanted to travel. So, I then decided to switch things up and head to Bali, where I rented a villa for a few months with two other women.

As beautiful as Bali was, my experience there wasn't a great one. The 12-hour time difference made it difficult to work; I often had to take client calls at 10 p.m. or 6 a.m.

I remember spending a lot of time by myself. Don't get me wrong: I had wonderful conversations with strangers, where we'd spill our biggest secrets and insecurities. It was the kind of wild intimacy, though, that you only have with someone you know you'll never see again.

I missed my family. I missed my boyfriend. That June, I decided to return to New York City for good.

Up until that point, I viewed my relationship with NYC almost as a situationship. I was never fully committed, which (probably) explains why I didn't feel at ease there.

What would happen if I gave the city my full attention?

After replanting my roots in New York, the city feels like home again

I decided to spend that first summer back in New York saying "yes" to every invite. This led to entrepreneur meetups in Williamsburg and grabbing pho with new friends in FiDi.

Over the next few months, I fell back in love with New York City.

Because I wasn't constantly leaving, I could actually invest in my relationships, too. In October 2025, I moved into an apartment in Brooklyn with my boyfriend.

I've traded eating alone in an Airbnb for coming home to my boyfriend's cooking. I've swapped drunken hostel-bar chats with 20-somethings I'd never see again for heart-to-hearts with my childhood friends.

I still love to explore new places, but my days of one-way flights, hostel hopping, and bunk beds are over.

For a long time, I traveled because it made me feel alive. As much as I liked coming home to New York, it was always followed by this unsettling feeling that the life I was "meant" to be living was somewhere else.

Since pouring my time, attention, and energy into New York City, though, I couldn't feel more differently. I have a cozy apartment, stronger friendships, and a deeper relationship.

Most of all, I have the fulfillment I'd spent so long searching for.

• New satellite imagery shows the aftermath of Ukrainian strikes on Wildberries facilities in Russia.
• The imagery shows that Ukrainian drones have damaged or destroyed at least four warehouses.
• Ukraine launched a campaign targeting the Russian e-commerce giant last month.

Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russia's largest online retailer have reduced massive warehouses — from the outskirts of Moscow to the Black Sea — to rubble, new satellite imagery shows.

The imagery, captured in early August by US spatial intelligence firm Vantor and obtained by Business Insider, shows four Wildberries facilities across Russia that have been either heavily damaged or completely destroyed by recent Ukrainian attacks targeting the e-commerce giant.

Wildberries, which launched in 2024, is often described as Russia's version of Amazon, where merchants can list goods for sale online.

Kyiv began attacking Wildberries warehouses last month to further strain the Russian economy, and has accused the company of supporting Moscow's war efforts by selling both military and dual-use goods, such as tactical vests and drone flight-control goggles, and through logistics.

"Russian logistics, dismantled one hub at a time," the Ukrainian defense ministry said Tuesday after a strike. The Kremlin has denied that the company is involved in its war efforts.

Ukraine has used long-range drones to attack roughly 20 Wildberries facilities since mid-July, often triggering fires and sending enormous plumes of smoke into the skies. At least a dozen people have reportedly been killed.

Ukrainian defense company Fire Point has said that its FP-1 drones are being used in the attacks. These fixed-wing uncrewed aircraft can travel hundreds of miles across the border into Russia before crashing into their targets and detonating on impact.

Earlier this week, Fire Point said that its FP-1 drones were used to hit a Wildberries logistics hub in Krasny Bor, near St. Petersburg, describing it as "one of the company's largest facilities" in northwestern Russia that could hold more than 57 million units at a time, including dual-use goods for the military.

"It was there. Now it's not," Fire Point said on Tuesday.

Wildberries was estimated to have lost roughly 10% of its warehouse space due to the July attacks, and the August strikes have continued to disrupt its logistics network. Two attacks alone are estimated to have cost merchants at least $1.8 billion in merchandise, according to Forbes Russia, underscoring the strain.

Ukraine's campaign targeting Wildberries' logistics hubs is playing out alongside its attacks on Russian energy facilities.

Energy attacks have long been the centerpiece of the Ukrainian deep-strike campaign, which officials in Kyiv often describe as a way of enforcing "long-range" sanctions against Russia.

Overnight on Wednesday, Ukrainian forces launched an attack on the Yaroslavl oil refinery, one of the largest in northern Russia. The facility has an annual crude oil refining capacity of roughly 15 million tons, Kyiv's military said.

The Unmanned Systems Forces, which carried out the strike operation, said it continues to "systematically reduce" Russia's ability to supply fuel to its military.

Meanwhile, Russia has been ramping up its bombardments of Ukraine as Kyiv grapples with crucial interceptor shortages, leaving its air defenders effectively unable to defeat ballistic missile strikes.

• Michael Burry said on his Substack that he's shorting Oracle and Nebius.
• The "Big Short" investor wrote that many AI companies are looking bloated and vulnerable.
• Burry has said that Oracle is in a "bit of a pickle" thanks to its debt-fueled data center buildout.

Michael Burry says he's shorting Oracle and Nebius, two companies that are betting big on the AI boom.

The investor of "The Big Short" fame said in a Substack post on Thursday that while researching the fourth part of a series titled "The Heretic's Guide to AI's Stars," he'd shorted the two stocks "because my work just wouldn't let me continue without doing so."

Writing broadly about AI companies, Burry compared them to fish in a barrel.

"The fish have gorged themselves on off-balance sheet liabilities. Backstops. Uncommenced leases. Purchase commitments," he wrote. "The fish have gotten very fat, very large, easy to shoot."

"Also, so large that it shan't be long before every last one keels over for lack of oxygen," he added.

Burry said he'd shorted Oracle stock at about $145. The enterprise-software giant's shares soared from below $130 to nearly $350 between April and September last year, as the AI boom fueled strong demand for its cloud infrastructure.

But they've tumbled nearly 60% since then on mounting concerns that Oracle has taken on too much debt during its data-center buildout.

As for Nebius, Burry said he'd shorted it "in somewhat larger size" at around $212 a share. The AI cloud infrastructure company's stock fell 13% to $190 on Thursday, but rallied 5% in Friday's premarket.

Nebius shares have still more than doubled this year, and have leaped roughly ninefold within the past two years.

Oracle, Nebius, and Burry didn't immediately respond to requests for comment from Business Insider.

'Bit of a pickle'

Burry has been one of the most vocal skeptics of the AI buildout, warning that Big Tech companies are overinvesting in microchips and data centers that could quickly become outdated.

In contrast, bulls point to the rapid growth rates at AI companies and say they're only getting started.

Oracle's remaining performance obligations, a measure of total future contract revenue, soared 363% to $638 billion in the year ended May 31.

Nebius' revenue soared nearly sevenfold year-on-year in the first quarter to almost $400 million. Its deferred revenue surged by around 150% over three months to $686 million on March 31.

Burry is best known for predicting and profiting from the collapse of the mid-2000s housing bubble. His contrarian wager was chronicled in the book and movie "The Big Short." He pivoted from running a hedge fund to writing about his personal investments late last year.

He's been negative on Oracle for many months, writing in a recent comment on his Substack, Cassandra Unchained, that it "does seem to be in a bit of a pickle."

"This might be the most expensive tragic fall for a very long time, a Homeresque own goal by a modern deity," he wrote. "Did not have to be this way."

Burry said in an August 4 post that he'd exited a bearish wager he'd placed against Oracle using put options. "The profit there was substantial, and so I left it at that," he wrote, adding that less volatility might prompt him to buy fresh puts.

Back in January, Burry said in a post that he owned bearish puts on Oracle stock and had shorted it during the second half of 2025. He explained that he didn't like the company's positioning and its investments, and found its AI strategy to be inexplicable and unnecessary.

In the chat thread for his latest post, he wrote that Nebius faces a "ton of execution risk" given the high costs and long leases in the data center business, and the difficulty of winning long-term commitments from customers.

• I've been visiting Pennsylvania's Hersheypark for decades, and I love a lot of its offerings.
• I always stay at the Hershey Lodge because of its cozy vibes and great amenities.
• When visiting, I always get a chocolate martini and dine at The Chocolatier in Chocolatetown.

Hersheypark is a massive amusement park nestled in south-central Pennsylvania. It's got thrill rides, a water park, on-site resorts, and more.

It was founded by Milton S. Hershey and has tons of attractions and decor inspired, of course, by chocolate. I've been going to Hersheypark for over 30 years, and love it.

Here are some of my favorite things to do, eat, and drink whenever I visit.

One of my favorite parts of Hersheypark can be found at the entrance

Since I was a little kid, I've begun every visit at the park's height-measuring board.

Hersheypark uses different candies, including Twizzlers and Kisses, to mark each height range and determine who can ride each attraction. 

It's always a fun photo opportunity and a helpful way to figure out what you can ride while in the park.

The park's Dutch-style pretzels are some of the best baked goods I've had

The Pretzel House snack bar inside Hersheypark has the best hand-rolled pretzels I've ever had.

They're soft and buttery, made from a classic Pennsylvania-Dutch recipe. The pretzels come in a variety of flavors, including cinnamon sugar, and are accompanied by dips, from cheese to chocolate.

I love the classic plain pretzel with cheese dipping sauce. 

The Kissing Tower is an iconic stop for any visitor

Hersheypark's Kissing Tower is one of its most iconic attractions, and it's been around for more than 50 years.

Standing at 250 feet, visitors can see it looming in the distance as they approach the park.

The Hershey's Kiss-shaped windows provide a 360-degree view of the park and the surrounding town as the enclosed cabin slowly rotates high in the sky.

Chocolatetown is a fantastic park area, too

Inspired by the legacy of Milton S. Hershey, Chocolatetown is the largest expansion in the park's history. It's attached to the theme park, and paid admission is not required for select parts.

It's home to a few attractions, a large merchandise store, plus several dining options that pay homage to the chocolatier's history.

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor is my favorite stop for its use of 100% local dairy and its delicious, creamy, house-made treats.

Chocolatetown also features a vintage-car display, which is fun to explore and a great place to snap a cool photo.

When visiting Chocolatetown, I always eat and drink at The Chocolatier

One of the best eateries in the park is The Chocolatier. With a carousel bar as its centerpiece, the unique space uses ride elements as decor and even as tables for diners.

I usually order the Cocoa Cuban, which uses Hershey's cocoa-rubbed pork shoulder.

I also enjoy the restaurant's chicken and waffles. Plus, there's a wide variety of fun drinks at The Chocolatier bar

In addition to rotating seasonal cocktails, I love the Reese's Cupfusion Old Fashioned, which combines rye and peanut-butter whiskeys and is garnished with a Reese's peanut-butter cup.

I always stay at the Hershey Lodge

Hersheypark houses four official resorts: Hershey Lodge, The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Inn & Suites, and a camping retreat.

I've always enjoyed staying at the Hershey Lodge. Though the converted motor lodge has been upgraded throughout the years and now has upscale amenities, it's still cozy.

Adorned with welcoming nooks and fireplaces, the resort offers several dining options, including Fire & Grain, as well as an indoor water park.

I love ending the day with a chocolate martini at the bar and enjoying Hershey treats upon check-in.

It's also fun to stop by the glamorous Hotel Hershey

The Hotel Hershey is a beautiful historic, luxury resort complete with a Spanish garden-inspired courtyard and a variety of dining options, including the Iberian Lounge.

Inspired by Milton S. Hershey's travels around the globe, the Iberian Lounge features stunning artwork, internationally inspired bites, and a selection of over 100 whiskeys.

My trip isn't complete without trying lots of chocolate-infused drinks and dishes

At Hershey, chocolate is incorporated into cocktails, sweet snacks, and even savory dishes.

From cocoa-barbecue wings to the Yuengling Hershey's Chocolate Porter, even those without a sweet tooth can find something to enjoy.

Some of my favorite dishes include dark-chocolate s'mores fondue from Fire & Grain at Hershey Lodge and the house short-rib flatbread from The Chocolatier in Chocolatetown. 

No visit to Hersheypark is complete without one of its chocolate martinis, which are served in resort bars and restaurants.

It's available in several variations, but my favorite is the signature chocolate martini made with chocolate and vanilla vodkas and white crème de cacao. 

ZooAmerica is attached to Hersheypark and included in admission

Admission to Hersheypark also includes ZooAmerica, a walk-through park with over 200 animals.

At 11 acres, the over-100-year-old zoo is dedicated to conserving North American wildlife, including rare and endangered species. 

Visiting Chocolate World is an absolute must

Hershey's Chocolate World, a Willy Wonka-esque building, is located outside the Hersheypark gates.

The attraction includes a chocolate-inspired food court, the world's largest Hershey's retail store, and an interactive tasting lab.

Definitely check out the free, slow-moving ride that walks passengers through how chocolate is made.

The Reese's Stuff Your Cup experience feels like a bucket-list offering

Located in Hershey's Chocolate World, my favorite paid experience is the Stuff Your Cup. It lets guests channel their inner Willy Wonka and create a 1-pound custom-stuffed Reese's peanut-butter cup.

There are a ton of mix-in options, and each larger-than-life concoction uses fresh Reese's peanut butter.

Lastly, I love visiting Hersheypark during Christmastime to see the light displays

Hersheypark is also fun to visit during the holiday season. Several of its rollercoasters remain in operation, and the park's decorations are delightful.

Visitors should totally check out Christmas Candyland's Hershey Sweet Lights drive-thru spectacular, where they can enjoy about 2 miles of hundreds of light-up displays from their car.

This story was originally published on February 13, 2022, and most recently updated on August 7, 2026.

• GE Aerospace uses a decades-old Boeing 747 to test and help certify new commercial jet engines.
• The aircraft is filled with cabling, metal data boxes, workstations, and passenger recliners.
• Business Insider toured the unique 747 at an airshow in July and spoke with GE's chief test pilot.

Leading American manufacturer GE Aerospace is building the world's largest jet engine for Boeing's coming 777X — and it needs a massive plane to test it.

The enginemaker bought a now-32-year-old Boeing 747-400 from Japan Airlines in 2010 to serve as its modern Flying Test Bed, or FTB. It replaced the aging Boeing 747-100 that GE had had since 1992.

The latest FTB, which Business Insider toured at the UK's Farnborough International Airshow in July, has one main purpose: to test and prove the industry's newest commercial engines.

Thousands of feet of cables line its cabin, all connecting to test sensors, computer stations, and giant metal boxes that occupy most of the first floor of the specially modified 747 and collect a behemoth amount of data.

So far, the GE 747 has been instrumental in certifying engines that now power planes like the Airbus A320, the Boeing 737, and China's homegrown Comac narrowbody.

The dual-level plane's latest project is the GE9X, an engine so large it can fit an entire Boeing 737 fuselage.

It's rated for 110,000 pounds of thrust, but holds the world record for the highest thrust recorded by a commercial jet engine, reaching 134,300 pounds during testing.

The ultra-powerful GE9X engine, which received FAA certification in 2020 but has continued to undergo additional testing, is being developed for Boeing's yet-to-be-certified 777X.

While the 777X is seven years behind schedule, in part due to quality, production, and supply chain issues at Boeing, it's expected to enter service in 2027 with German flag carrier Lufthansa.

Here's a closer look at the 747 testbed that's been critical to the 777X's certification.

GE's 747 "flying laboratory" is based at a massive hangar in Southern California.

When not conducting test flights, the 747 is based in Victorville, California, about 90 miles northeast of Los Angeles near the Mojave Desert.

It has racked up more than 1,500 test flights during its second life with GE.

The cabin is full of specialized test equipment.

What was once a double-decker commercial jetliner with 400 passenger seats is now lined with data boxes, computers, and thousands of feet of wiring.

GE's chief flight test pilot, Jonathan Ohman, told members of the media during the tour that the instrumentation collects about 1,000 parameters during tests, such as thrust, fuel flow, and oil temperature.

Eight to 20 people, including pilots, engineers, mechanics, and logistics personnel, are typically on board for a flight.

There are over a dozen big reclining seats in the nose.

The plane has passenger recliners at the front of the cabin, where the team can sit during flights to test locations or other factors.

The seats feature tray tables, leg rests, and large winged headrests; there's also a forward galley where crew can store and prepare meals, as well as a couple of lavatories.

"It allows us to be a self-contained testing facility when we go off-site," Ohman said.

Upstairs is the cockpit.

The second level of the giant 747 was not open to the media, but it's where Ohman does his flying.

Before working for GE, he served in the US Marine Corps for 20 years and conducted test flights of the F-18 and F-35.

The two test pilots have specific roles.

Ohman said two certified test pilots fly the plane: a captain, who is usually the "pilot flying," and a first officer, usually the "pilot monitoring."

The first officer is responsible for controlling the test engine, he said, which is almost always doing something different from the jet's other engines, three production GE CF6s. These produce about 60,000 pounds of thrust each, almost half of the GE9X's rated 110,000 pounds.

The captain is responsible for keeping the airplane stable and in whatever condition is needed for the testing. "It becomes an exercise of the pilot who's flying the airplane to maintain the other throttles, to balance or manage that asymmetrical thrust," Ohman said.

Up to 15 test engineers typically work the flights.

Ohman said the test engineers on the plane monitor everything from onboard failures to a variety of engine parameters across all sorts of weather conditions.

"We're collecting the data on the engines in real time, then we store it on the plane, and then when we land, we download it, and we send it to our operation in Evandale, Ohio, for further processing and analysis," he said.

The 747 is tested in a wide range of weather conditions.

Ohman said the GE jet is extremely mobile and can fly anywhere it can physically reach. For testing in very cold conditions, the plane goes to Alaska. For natural icing, northern Canada.

For the engine's "cooling climb" — testing its thermal limits at full takeoff power — the 747 heads to sea-level Hawaii, where it can operate in the warm temperatures and low altitudes needed for the test.

Pilots conduct complex maneuvers to push the engine's limits.

Ohman said that to ensure the engine inlet provides uninterrupted airflow to the fan at all times, even in challenging conditions such as a steep angle of attack, the crew performs dynamic maneuvers that they wouldn't do as a normal 747 pilot.

"We put [the engines] through a lot of demanding tests to make sure that when it goes to the customer, and the production engine ends up on an airline, that we don't have any surprises," he said.

The GE9X will eventually power Boeing's highly important 777X.

The 777X aircraft was initially expected to enter service in 2020, but Boeing expects the first commercial deliveries to start in 2027.

Over a dozen airlines have placed over 550 orders worth billions of dollars for the two passenger variants, the 777-9 and the 777-8.

Sporting revolutionary folding wingtips that allow it to fit into existing gate space, the new jet will become the world's largest twin-engine airliner ever built.

• Adam Ficsor founded the Longevity World Cup, a competition that ranks biological age reduction.
• Mike Lustgarten won last year's competition, reducing his estimated PhenoAge by 22.1 years.
• We spoke to Lustgarten and two other finalists about their habits, diet, and what keeps them healthy.

Most longevity enthusiasts are trying to slow aging, but Adam Ficsor wants to outrun it.

The software engineer and Bitcoin developer says humanity could eventually reach "longevity escape velocity," where advances in medicine extend healthy life faster than people age.

"I am talking about literally not dying," he told Business Insider for an episode of its video series "The Limit."

To that end, he founded the Longevity World Cup, a competition that ranks who can wind back their biological clock the most.

The inaugural event announced its first winners in January, awarding about $4,000 in Bitcoin-funded prize money.

The scores were based on PhenoAge, a tool that estimates your biological age using your actual age (aka chronological age) and common blood markers like cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, and kidney function. Basically, it's a "blood test-based estimate of your risk of dying," Daniel Belsky, an associate professor of epidemiology at Columbia University's Robert N. Butler Columbia Aging Center, told Business Insider.

Participants have about one year to achieve and submit their best results.

First-place finisher Michael Lustgarten, PhD, lowered his estimated PhenoAge by 22.1 years. Subtracting that from his chronological age of 53 by the end of the competition yielded an estimated biological age of 30.9.

Researchers continue to debate how best to measure biological aging, and experts caution that scores like PhenoAge are statistical estimates rather than direct measurements of how fast someone is aging. Moreover, it's worth noting that large swings in biological age scores over short periods, such as weeks or months, can be difficult to interpret, said Belsky, who was not involved in the competition.

"To adjudicate these biohacking competitions is an invitation for people to hack the algorithm and generate what are ultimately non-informative results from them," he said.

That said, Belsky added that PhenoAge can be useful for tracking broad improvements from healthier behaviors.

"If you're seeing changes in PhenoAge in response to improvements in healthy behaviors, better management of existing health conditions, or other lifestyle changes that improve the overall quality of your environment, then I would be more likely to trust what the algorithm is saying. That's what it's designed to do," Belsky said.

With that in mind, Business Insider asked the top three winners of the Longevity World Cup to walk us through the habits and routines behind their results.

3rd-place finisher Wen Zhuang focuses on fundamentals

For the competition, Wen Zhuang lowered his estimated Phenoage by 20.1 years. He was 20.6 years old chronologically by the end of the competition, which means his biological age was only 0.5 years.

This doesn't mean that Zhuang and others with extremely low bioages are "biologically infants," Belsky said. "They're just people who have unusual levels of some of the blood analytes that are being tested for in the algorithm."

Rather than following someone else's protocol, Zhuang said that many advanced longevity interventions often vary from person to person.

At first, Zhuang's daily routine doesn't seem especially extraordinary: He wakes up at 6:30 a.m. each day, completes a short grooming and red-light session, eats breakfast, and then strength trains or runs depending on the day. He competes in track and field as a short-sprint athlete.

He also sticks to a diet of 45% calories from fat, 27.5% from protein, and 27.5% from carbohydrates, prioritizing seafood, vegetables, and legumes with no added sugar. He favors diverse, spice-rich meals packed with polyphenols and cooked at lower temperatures to minimize potentially harmful compounds.

Toward the end of the day, he eats an early dinner and reduces light and stimulation before bed. While regular exercise and diets rich in vegetables and legumes are linked to better health, there is little evidence that some other parts of Zhuang's routine, such as red-light therapy, extend human lifespan.

Unlike some longevity enthusiasts, Zhuang said he's not highly strict with his routine.

"When there's a social occasion, the schedule bends, and I think that's fine." He also allows for about 10% of his meals to be social, cooking his own meals the rest of the time. "I'd argue that's not a compromise — social connection is one of the better-supported longevity variables there is."

Where his routine gets interesting is when you look at the list of supplements he takes weekly. It's over 75 different supplements, including Vitamins D, E, B2, B6, B12, zinc, iodine, manganese, folate, biotin, creatine, melatonin, as well as extracts including curcumin, broccoli seed, aged garlic, and ginger — to name a few.

"If someone reads this and takes one thing away, I'd want it to be the sleep, training, seafood, and metabolic markers — not the pill list," he emphasized.

2nd-place finisher Zdenek Sipek relies on consistency

Runner-up Zdenek Sipek lowered his estimated PhenoAge by 20.6 years. He was 46.4 chronologically with a bioage of 25.8.

Sipek said maintaining his routine doesn't require constant motivation because discipline has become part of his personality.

"I am very regimented and strict with myself, and I like it in fact that way," he said.

When asked where he occasionally slips, Sipek said it might be "a piece of chocolate," but he said little else interrupts his routine.

He also believes longevity doesn't have to be expensive. Sipek estimated that someone starting out could spend less than $100 a month on longevity interventions, depending on where they live.

Outside of nutrition, Sipek studies Buddhism, Daoism, and Hindu texts. He said practices that promote peace of mind are an overlooked part of longevity because they can help reduce stress.

"I think the peace of mind is absolutely critical for wellbeing," he said.

He also makes his longevity protocol available free on Substack because, he said, "this information should be shared freely and improve people in general all around the world."

1st-place finisher Michael Lustgarten tracks everything he can

Lustgarten, an active research scientist, said his biggest advantage in the competition is years of collecting data on himself.

He's been measuring his blood biomarkers alongside his daily diet and routine since 2015, with more than 70 blood tests over the past decade, he told Business Insider.

He said he has up to 3,000 measurements of certain biomarkers, which gives him far more opportunities to see what changes affect his biological age, for better or worse. He provides his tracking methods on YouTube.

His diet, for example, is one of the first places he starts when targeting biomarkers across the board to try to lower his biological age.

He consumes about 40% fat and 30% carbs. He used to eat more carbs and less fat, but after tracking biomarkers for cardiovascular disease risk, he said that diet wasn't optimal.

Beyond diet, he aims to optimize the basics, mainly exercise and sleep. Similar to Zhuang, Lustgarten said supplements aren't the end-all be-all for maximizing health. In fact, he said he prioritizes making dietary changes over supplemental ones.

For beginners looking to monetize their health optimization, Lustgarten recommends starting with regular blood work instead of an expensive supplement routine.

A standard clinical chemistry and metabolic panel can only cost about $35 through some direct-to-consumer labs, though panels at hospitals can be more expensive. These panels are helpful in that they provide information about kidney, liver, immune, red blood cell-related measures, and metabolic health.

"What I recommend people do and what I do is before every blood test, tracking diet, exercise, duration, sleep, HRV, all the things you can think about tracking for at least a week for every test," he said. Then, after a couple of tests, start looking within your own data to see what may be moving the needle, he added.

• Without adjusting for inflation, 17 superhero movies have made at least $1 billion at the box office.
• Using data from Box Office Mojo, we compiled the highest-grossing superhero movies worldwide.
• "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" became the latest addition to this list in August 2026.

Did someone say "superhero fatigue"? Because after the record-breaking smash success of "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," we don't see any signs of audiences giving up on comic books just yet.

Since "The Dark Knight" became the first billion-dollar grosser to star a hero wearing a mask and tights, it's been a steady stream of caped crusaders, super-powered beings, and web-slinging spider-men.

However, it's still no easy feat to make seven figures at the box office. As Marvel and DC have seen over the last seven years since "Avengers: Endgame," audiences won't show up for just anything that's ripped from the pages.

But "Brand New Day" proved that some masked vigilantes still have some juice. It made $1 billion in six days, proving that your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man has worldwide appeal.

Here are all 17 superhero movies to cross the billion-dollar threshold.

17. "The Dark Knight" (2008)

Worldwide gross: $1,008,480,203

16. "Joker" (2019)

Worldwide gross: $1,078,958,629

15. "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012)

Worldwide gross: $1,085,429,532

14. "Captain Marvel" (2019)

Worldwide gross: $1,131,416,446

13."Spider-Man: Far From Home" (2019)

Worldwide gross: $1,131,927,996

12. "Aquaman" (2018)

Worldwide gross: $1,152,028,393

11. "Captain America: Civil War" (2016)

Worldwide gross: $1,155,046,416

10. "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" (2026)

Worldwide gross: $1,155,469,617 (as of August 6, 2026)

9. "Iron Man 3" (2013)

Worldwide gross: $1,215,577,205

8. "Incredibles 2" (2018)

Worldwide gross: $1,243,225,667

7. "Deadpool & Wolverine" (2024)

Worldwide gross: $1,338,073,645

6. "Black Panther" (2018)

Worldwide gross: $1,349,926,083

5. "Avengers: Age of Ultron" (2015)

Worldwide gross: $1,405,018,048

4. "The Avengers" (2012)

Worldwide gross: $1,520,538,536

3. "Spider-Man: No Way Home" (2021)

Worldwide gross: $1,921,426,073

2. "Avengers: Infinity War" (2018)

Worldwide gross: $2,052,415,039

1. "Avengers: Endgame" (2019)

Worldwide gross: $2,799,439,100

Editor's note: This story was first published in October 2022 and most recently updated in August 2026. Kirsten Acuna contributed to a prior version of this story.

• Khristianne Uy, known as Chef K, told Business Insider which ingredients she buys premium.
• She said she splurges on quality oils and gourmet salts.
• But for fruit and vegetables, Chef K prefers seasonal produce to trendy options.

Chef K's motto is that she is your favorite celeb's favorite chef.

For years, Khristianne Uy, known as Chef K, has worked as a private chef for household names and is now also a content creator.

Despite working with the rich and famous, her cooking philosophy is that not all that glitters is gold. Chef K believes good cooking is not about buying the most extravagant ingredients.

Unlike her celebrity clientele, Chef K said she makes her Instagram and TikTok recipe videos with a single mom struggling to make ends meet in mind.

However, if you want to splurge on high-quality ingredients, these are the items Chef K said are worth spending extra on — and the ones you should buy cheaply.

Chef K uses high-quality cooking and finishing oils

Chef K said that a high-quality oil is the No. 1 ingredient you should splurge on. For cooking, she recommends high-heat avocado oil, and for finishing, extra-virgin olive oil.

Extra-virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point than regular olive oil and high-heat avocado oil, making it more suitable for drizzling on salads or making dips.

Simple, higher-fat butter is best

"Every time I go to a client's house, and I see that they're consuming butter with a ton of different ingredients, I think to myself that we've got to make a change here," Chef K told Business Insider.

She said it's worth spending extra on less-processed butter.

For instance, you can opt for butter with a higher butterfat content, such as the Kerrygold Unsalted Pure Irish Butter or the Land O' Lakes
Extra Creamy Salted Butter.

Opt for more costly breads with fewer additives

Chef K also likes to buy breads containing whole grains or made of sourdough, avoiding added sugar.

"We all love bread and butter.
But think about what kind of bread you're using. Is it the bread that lasts for 90 days, and it's still fresh?" she said.

A 2022 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, based on a meta-analysis of 68 studies with over 1.6 million participants, found that consuming whole grains rather than refined grains can help lower the risk of coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease.

"Make the grilled cheese, but use the good bread," Chef K added.

She prefers using gourmet salts

Chef K said she prefers to use Celtic sea salt and pink salt (also known as Himalayan salt) over cheaper alternatives.

Gray and pink salt typically also contain trace minerals, such as magnesium chloride, calcium, and iron.

In her recipe videos on Instagram, Chef K sometimes uses Maldon salt, a British gourmet sea salt. It costs $9.99 for an 8.5-oz pack at Walmart, much more than regular iodized salt.

Many chefs prize the bigger flakes in Maldon salt for finishing, salting meats, and adding a burst of salty flavor to dishes.

Splurge by making your own mayonnaise at home

Chef K is forever a proponent of spending a little extra money (and time) to make certain condiments from scratch. Mayonnaise is one of these.

"If you don't want your kids or your family to consume 17 ingredients in one squeeze of mayo, make it yourself. It's just three ingredients, and you will taste the difference," she said.

To make mayonnaise, you need eggs, vinegar or lemon juice, and an oil.

Depending on the cost of individual ingredients, making your own mayonnaise at home can be more expensive than the cheapest mayos.

But without preservatives, homemade mayo will last about a week in the fridge, compared to about two to three months for store-bought.

But for produce, you don't have to spend much

Chef K said one way she recommends making meals more accessible price-wise is by bringing inexpensive produce typically used for side dishes — such as cabbage and carrots — into main dishes.

She also said buying seasonal and local varieties of fruit and vegetables beats trendy ones. Prices are often lower, and the quality tends to be higher.

Despite cooking for the stars with budgets likely far greater than those of the average family, Chef K believes that buying the most expensive ingredients is not what cooking should be about.

"You don't need the shiny things. It's not about that. It's what you can do. It's simplicity," she said.

• I moved my family from New Zealand to Japan in 2023, after almost a decade of careful planning.
• We perfected logistics on paper but spent too little time preparing for the reality of daily life.
• Before moving, I wish we'd tested out residential neighborhoods and built a social network.

We spent eight years planning our move to Japan.

On paper, we had it covered: visas, schools, finances, healthcare, and even a grasp of the local language.

While we mapped out every logistical detail before leaving New Zealand, I now realize our preparation focused entirely on getting here smoothly, rather than the realities of actually living here.

Looking back, there are still things I wish we'd done before boarding our one-way flight to Japan in 2023.

We should've explored more of Japan

Before moving, we visited Japan three times between 2015 and 2019. COVID-19 canceled our fourth trip, meaning our next visit was on a one-way ticket.

On our first trip, we exclusively stayed in Tokyo. We returned a few years later with our 2-year-old, venturing only slightly further to Osaka.

By our final holiday, we traveled across western Japan, visiting Kyoto, Hiroshima, Okayama, and Kobe. Watching families play in the parks of Kurashiki was the first time I genuinely envisioned living here.

At the time, we felt we had seen plenty. Now that I have traveled through over a third of Japan's prefectures, I realize we have barely scratched the surface.

Cities like Fukuoka, Beppu, Nagoya, and Kobe offer entirely different versions of daily life. Fukuoka is lively and international without Tokyo's high costs. Beppu is small and surprisingly quiet despite its famous geothermal hot springs.

Nagoya is packed with activities for children. Even my home city of Kobe, which I dismissed during a brief one-day visit as a tourist, looks completely different now that I live here.

If I were planning my move today, I would spend less time on the traditional Golden Route. Exploring diverse urban, coastal, and rural towns is where the trade-offs between cost, convenience, and lifestyle truly become clear.

Staying in residential areas would've offered a useful reality check

Most of our pre-move trips targeted tourist hubs. I feel we would have understood Japan as a living space much better if we had skipped major landmarks and stayed somewhere ordinary.

Our first Tokyo accommodation was accidentally in a residential area, giving us a brief, fascinating glimpse into regular Japanese life, from meticulous morning garbage sorting to daily commute rhythms.

Subsequent trips, however, focused on typical tourist sights, which meant we couldn't accurately gauge how convenience works outside of towns engineered for tourism.

Kyoto's center, for example, exists within a tourist bubble that doesn't reflect how people actually live.

After my visits, I wrongfully assumed convenience stores, or "konbini," would always be around the corner. While true in dense urban centers, my current neighborhood konbini is a 15- to 20-minute walk away.

Now living in a quiet, spacious, semi-rural suburb nestled into the hills, I see how much layout affects your quality of life.

My daughter's school is within walking distance, yet without a car, and with annoyingly minimal delivery options, simple routines like grocery shopping are far more troublesome than I ever envisioned.

Many of these details feel impossible to gauge from a holiday, regardless of its length. However, spending more time in residential areas may have helped us better set our expectations before the move.

I forgot to plan for life after the move

Somewhere amid the logistical chaos of moving a family overseas, I forgot to plan for my own future.

My husband's job was secure, so I poured my energy into our daughter and focused on settling her into this new life by obsessively researching local schools and activities.

I had vague ambitions to finish my psychology degree and pursue postgraduate study in Japan. Yet once school routines and daily realities hit, those loose plans evaporated. I tabled the degree, became a stay-at-home parent, and watched my world shrink.

Staying home proved incredibly isolating. Driven by a need to reconnect, I looked for flexible remote work.

What started as a freelance writing gig for a Tokyo hotel company organically snowballed into my current career in travel writing and social media marketing.

Three years later, I am still figuring out my place here. If I could go back, I'd remind myself that amid the energy it takes to build a future for your family, you must leave room to build one for yourself, too.

It would've been helpful to build a community before we arrived

Establishing a network before you actually land is another step that is easily overlooked.

Between unpacking and setting up your new home, it's easy to forget your social needs. Yet, once I made my first friend here, I immediately felt more supported in our new community.

Moving countries can be isolating, even when you are thrilled about the change. Having a few familiar names or faces before you land makes those first few months feel far less overwhelming.

My husband used language-exchange apps like HelloTalk to practice his Japanese and connect with people before we arrived.

I assumed friendships would form naturally, but social circles here can be highly segmented by workplace, language ability, or specific expat programs. Without actively stepping into those spaces, it is easy to find yourself sitting on the outside.

Ultimately, if I could do it over, I would spend less time obsessing over logistics and far more time planning for the actual life I wanted to live once we arrived.

• This post originally appeared in the Business Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Some McDonald's customers told us they don't see value in the Golden Arches value menu.

That's a top concern for CEO Chris Kempczinski, who said the chain botched the rollout of a new low-cost menu.

The menu, featuring 10 items priced under $3 each, was launched as McDonald's simultaneously cut back on its digital discounts, upsetting some of its loyal customers.

"That ended up being a bad trade," Kempczinski said on this week's earnings call.

So what are customers looking for? BI's Alex Bitter and Katherine Li decided to run a little survey of our own to hear from folks about where the Golden Arches are looking rusty.

Out of 227 people who responded to Business Insider's not-so-scientific reader survey, the majority (about 57%) rated the value that they got for their money while dining at McDonald's as "poor" or "very poor." (We're still accepting responses here, if you have thoughts.)

One issue: McDonald's could be a victim of memories of a bygone era. One customer said the chain's under-$3 menu didn't feel like a real value.

"If it were $1, it might be worth it," Brian Schnabel told BI.

(McDonald's ended its dollar menu back in 2013. Man, I feel old.)

Fast-food restaurants that raise their prices risk losing their competitive edge over their higher-end peers.

When an extra-value meal runs you north of $10, people might consider splurging at fast-casual chains like Chipotle or Shake Shack. Even casual dining spots like Chili's are getting in on the action with their competitive meal deals.

Price isn't the only number potentially weighing down McDonald's.

Take a look at any menu these days, and you'll notice restaurants love touting the amount of protein in their food. Many even separate high-protein options.

It's all an effort to tap into the growing wellness trend that's got people doubling down on protein.

McDonald's jumped on the bandwagon, with a dedicated "Protein Picks" section on its app. But it's a tough pitch. The menu doesn't lend itself to people looking for high-protein, low-calorie options.

One of your best bets is the 3-piece McCrispy Strips. They pack a respectable 31 grams of protein, but comes in at roughly 400 calories. (Don't even think about using that creamy chili McCrispy Strip Dip, which clocks in at 110 calories.)

You might not think of McDonald's as a go-to spot for healthy eating, but one chain known for indulgence managed to do it.

Chick-fil-A has become a fast-food favorite among the fitness community. Its eight-piece grilled nuggets offer 25 grams of protein at just 130 calories. (Again, stay away from the 140-calorie Chick-fil-A sauce.)

And for value hunters out there, the price difference is negligible. The Chick-fil-A order cost $6.85 after tax, while the McDonald's order was $6.43 when I test-ordered both online.

I realize not everyone's tracking their macros. But just like price, it shows another area where McDonald's is potentially coming up short in appealing to the trends customers are following.

• Some companies are getting an unexpected lift from billions of dollars in returned US tariffs.
• Nintendo recorded a $300 million tariff refund.
• The refunds are lifting profits and margins, but analysts warn the benefits are unlikely to last.

An unusual boost is showing up in some corporate earnings this summer: tariff refunds.

Nintendo became the latest beneficiary of the boost on Thursday, reporting net profit of 147.4 billion Japanese yen, or $931 million, for the quarter ending June, up 54% from a year earlier and handily beating analyst expectations of 77.8 billion yen. Revenue fell about 10% to 517.8 billion yen, but still came in above expectations.

Tariff refunds were a major contributor: The Kyoto-based maker of the Switch 2 said it recorded a $300 million tariff refund that had previously been recorded as cost of sales.

Strong software sales, led by the video games Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream and Pokémon Pokopia, also helped lift margins.

Shares of Nintendo closed 5% higher on Friday following the results. They are 24% lower this year.

In its presentation, Nintendo said the tariffs related to the refunds "were primarily borne by the company rather than passed on to consumers through product prices."

Nintendo has not said how it plans to use the refunds. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Nintendo is fighting a class-action lawsuit over the tariff refunds.

Two US customers sued the company in April, arguing that Nintendo could effectively recover its tariff costs twice — first through higher prices that they allege were passed on to consumers, and again through refunds from the US government.

Nintendo moved to dismiss the case in July, arguing that customers "received exactly what they bargained and paid for" and have no legal right to a rebate simply because the tariffs were later struck down.

An earnings season of tariff refunds

Nintendo's tariff windfall is part of a broader earnings-season trend, with companies from Apple to Amazon to Siemens Healthineers recently disclosing sizable tariff refunds or related earnings benefits.

Companies are taking different approaches to the windfall.

Apple said tariff refunds added about two percentage points to its June-quarter gross margin and 11 cents to diluted earnings per share. CEO Tim Cook has said the company will reinvest the refunds in additional US innovation and advanced manufacturing.

Amazon said it received about $600 million in tariff refunds in the second quarter and plans to reimburse customers in limited cases where it can determine they directly bore the tariff cost.

Siemens Healthineers also got a sizable boost. Tariff refunds helped lift the German medical-technology company's adjusted operating margin to 19.1% from the 16.8% a year ago and contributed to a 16% rise in adjusted operating profit to 1.1 billion euros. The company also raised its full-year earnings-per-share forecast to reflect the refunds.

Elsewhere, Walmart has said it expects to return its anticipated refunds to consumers through price reductions, while McCormick and Campbell's have said they will use proceeds to offset higher costs.

The repayments follow a February 20 Supreme Court ruling that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not authorize the president to impose the tariffs. The US Court of International Trade has overseen the process of returning the duties to importers.

About $166 billion was collected under the invalidated tariffs, with roughly $100 billion in refunds processed by early August, official filings show.

Analysts caution that the refunds offer just a one-time boost to earnings.

"Most tariff proceeds will fail to sustain profitability as companies prioritize competitive prices and mitigating costs," wrote analysts at S&P Global in a report last month.

• Atlassian and Twilio emerged as SaaSpocalypse stock market winners after strong earnings.
• Five9 had a modest stock jump after beating estimates and reporting 78% AI revenue growth.
• HubSpot's weaker guidance triggered a 19% sell-off on Thursday.

The "SaaSpocalypse" isn't an AI-eats-all story: the market is rewarding some software company earnings and punishing others.

Friday morning's premarket trading reflected that divide.

Atlassian and Twilio surged before the market open after strong earnings, while Five9 made modest gains. HubSpot closed 19% down on Thursday.

The idea that AI can replace software sold by SaaS companies has hit each of those stocks at various points this year. Over time, though, a more nuanced picture has emerged.

Some SaaS firms have better moats than others, many are also embracing AI, and some firms face company-specific factors.

Atlassian

Atlassian, which makes workplace tools including Jira and Confluence, soared roughly 30% before the bell after easily beating Wall Street's expectations.

Fiscal fourth-quarter revenue jumped 28% to $1.77 billion, versus analysts' $1.66 billion estimate, while adjusted earnings of $1.87 a share topped the $1.50 consensus.

Cloud revenue climbed 31% to $1.2 billion. The company pointed to continued strength in cloud adoption and AI-driven product demand as key drivers of its outlook.

CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes told investors that he planned to buy $250 million of Atlassian shares, a show of confidence that the company can weather the SaaSpocalypse.

Twilio

Twilio, which provides business communication software, jumped about 17% premarket after reporting second-quarter revenue of $1.50 billion, up 22% and ahead of analysts' $1.43 billion forecast. Adjusted earnings came in at $1.47 a share, beating the $1.32 consensus.

The communications-software company also generated a record $353 million in free cash flow. Its third-quarter revenue guidance had a midpoint of $1.51 billion, above Wall Street's roughly $1.47 billion estimate, as demand for AI voice and messaging helped accelerate organic growth to 17%.

Five9

Five9 edged up about 1.7% after a modest beat. The cloud-based call-center software company reported a second-quarter revenue rise of 10% to $312.4 million, topping the $306.6 million consensus, while adjusted earnings of 70 cents a share came in roughly 2 cents ahead of expectations.

Subscription revenue grew 14%, and AI revenue surged 78%, but profitability was mixed: adjusted gross margin narrowed to 61.4% from 63% a year earlier, while adjusted earnings fell from 76 cents per share to 70 cents.

HubSpot

HubSpot, which sells marketing, sales, and customer service software, ticked higher before the bell on Friday, but only after closing down 19% on Thursday. Its second-quarter revenue rose 20% to $911.7 million, beating the $898.3 million consensus, and adjusted earnings of $3.26 a share topped estimates of $3.02.

However, the company's third-quarter revenue forecast came in below Wall Street's expectations. The company forecast revenue of $924 million to $925 million, below analysts' estimate of roughly $941 million, and lowered the midpoint of its full-year forecast by $22 million.

On the earnings call, CEO Yamini Rangan said pricing and product changes had extended the buying process, while tighter customer budgets were leading to longer sales cycles.

CFO Kate Bueker said HubSpot added 7,000 customers, below its expectation of 9,000 to 10,000.

Adding an espresso machine to your home setup can feel like a smart way to cut back on pricey coffee shop drinks, but if you're not careful, you could end up spending just as much chasing café-quality results at home. Many home espresso machines cost hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars and take up serious counter space. The good news? You don't have to spend that much to get a satisfying espresso on demand.

As a former coffee shop manager who loves testing budget coffee gear, I set out to find the best budget espresso machines under $250. My top picks are easy to use, compact enough for most kitchens, and produce rich shots with solid crema. They don't offer the customizations or automation you'll find in higher-end machines, but they get the fundamentals right — making them ideal for anyone who wants a reliable, no-frills home espresso setup without overspending.

The best budget espresso machines under $250

Best overall: Casabrews Espresso Machine — See at Amazon

Best upgrade: De'Longhi Classic Signature Espresso Machine — See at Amazon

Best manual: De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine — See at Amazon

Best overall

For a machine that costs only $140, it has an impressively sleek steel design. The Casabrews Espresso Machine offers durability without taking up too much space on your countertop, and the shot quality and timing are incredibly consistent. There were no issues with bitter or watery shots, and every pull delivered nice body, robust flavor, and a beautiful crema.

On the front panel, there are four buttons: power, single shot, double shot, and steam. After powering on, it takes less than 1 minute to warm up. Once the machine is ready, the lights turn solid, and the machine beeps to indicate that you can pull a shot.

The Casabrews comes with a stainless steel portafilter, filters for single and double shots, and a plastic two-in-one scoop and tamper. We recommend upgrading to one of our picks for the best tamper, but it's not crucial. The 34-ounce water tank is removable and sits at the back. You get about 17 double shots out of one tank before needing to refill it.

While the machine is in use, check the pressure gauge on the front to see if you're in the optimal range of about 9 bars. We love this beginner-friendly feature because it can help you diagnose why a shot comes out watery or bitter. If the pressure isn't quite right, it's likely due to a tweak in your grind size or uneven tamping.

The Casabrews has a steam wand on the right side that delivers great power and excellent foam. The tip of the steam wand can be unscrewed after use, making it easier to clean and eliminate bacteria build-up. After steaming milk, we had to wait for a few minutes before brewing another shot, which is only an issue if you're making drinks for a group.

Read our full Casabrews Espresso Machine review.

Best upgrade

While De'Longhi offers far more sophisticated models, the Classic Signature gets the job done. It has a few extra features over the Casabrews that make it the best affordable espresso machine for those who want to go a little deeper and start digging into the world of custom drinks.

The Classic Signature was incredibly consistent in our testing, remaining at eight to nine bars of pressure for each pull. The shots I pulled had excellent flavor without any bitterness — I never got a watery brew and always saw a beautiful crema.

What sets it apart from other budget options is its steam wand, which has two different settings: hot for a smoother texture and cappuccino for frothed milk with a richer texture. The wand is also fully removable, making it much easier to clean. I found it a lot easier to prepare milk for lattes and cappuccinos in this machine. Still, if that's not a priority for you and you prefer to sip straight espresso, you may be better off saving $70 and going with our best overall choice, the Casabrews.

The stainless steel machine features a 57-ounce water tank and large indicator buttons for power, single and double shots, and steam. The built-in pressure gauge came in handy during testing, confirming whether our shots were pulling at the optimal pressure.

The box includes a lightweight portafilter with a plastic handle, a plastic measuring scoop and tamper, and single- and double-shot filter baskets.

Best manual

For coffee enthusiasts who want complete hands-on control over their brew, the De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is a standout manual option on a budget. Although it has few features and little automation, it was the most straightforward portafilter-based machine I tested. Instead of preset single- or double-shot buttons or a pressure gauge, a simple front dial controls the start and stop of your pull. This gives you precise control over extraction time and volume, though it requires your full attention to prevent shots from over-extracting.

I think it is a great machine for people to learn on, with many positives. It has a removable water tank that holds 33.8 oz. and a 15-bar Italian pressure pump. The Stilosa heats up quickly, and you can also use ESE espresso pods for added convenience. But it makes such great espresso and foamed milk that it will please any expert, even myself.

The manual precision extends to milk preparation. Its steam wand is thicker and shorter than others, but it foamed milk into tight bubbles faster and was easy to time after the second drink — just keep in mind you'll need to supply your own stainless steel milk pitcher.

Weighing just under 9 pounds, it has a compact frame that feels much sturdier and better made than expected. However, its compact design does not leave room for taller mugs, and you may want to upgrade from the included basic two-in-one plastic scoop and tamper, which is a feature found on models in this range. Despite these drawbacks, Stilosa remains the ideal choice for beginners wanting to learn traditional barista techniques without incurring high costs. — Jennifer Zyman, contributor

How the best budget espresso makers compare

What else we tested

• Frigidaire Espresso Machine ($165): This machine is nearly identical to our top pick, with the same sleek steel design and similar button placement. While it was very easy to use and consistently pulled good shots during testing, we missed a pressure gauge or any sort of brew guide.
• Hamilton Beach Slide and Lock Espresso Machine ($188): This machine comes in under $200 with an easy-to-read front panel and pressure gauge. Overall, it was just bulky, and the slide-and-lock mechanism was awkward to use.
• Beautiful Slim Espresso Maker ($139): We love other Beautiful appliances, but this one disappointed. It has the brand's signature sleek aesthetic and comes in seven colors. Though well-designed, I found the espresso quality inconsistent and the machine very loud.
• Imusa Electric Espresso Machine ($50): While under $50, this espresso maker doesn't deliver the necessary pressure for proper espresso. Instead, I'd classify this as a "concentrated coffee maker" with a milk frother.

What to look for

Ease of use: Budget espresso machines tend to be simpler than luxury ones, but semiautomatic models still require a learning curve. We like machines with built-in pressure gauges because they help beginners understand the mechanics of pulling the perfect shot. Clearly marked buttons, easily refillable water tanks, and one-step brewing all make a machine more intuitive to use.

Size: Counter space is a big consideration. The best budget espresso machines balance features, function, and footprint. For example, a built-in grinder increases the machine size, but it also means you don't need a separate appliance, and we always recommend freshly ground beans. In that case, the function is worth the footprint.

Pressure: The most frequently used word when discussing espresso, eight to nine bars of pressure are essential to produce a balanced shot. Most machines are designed for 15 or 20 bars of pressure, which means they can deliver more pressure, but you're looking for consistency when brewing above all else.

Milk frothing: To make cappuccinos, flat whites, and other specialty drinks, you'll need milk frothing capabilities. If you're a latte-a-day coffee drinker, look for budget espresso machines with a built-in steam wand or a frothing pitcher. Most of the machines we tested had a built-in steam wand, but they do not come with a stainless steel milk jug.

How we test budget espresso machines

Shot quality: I pulled shot after shot from each espresso machine and timed each pull. I considered the overall shot quality, assessing for flavor, full body, and bitterness. I also assessed the crema for each shot and whether the machine was consistent with every use.

Setup: I unboxed and set up each espresso machine according to the manufacturer's instructions. I assessed each machine on how simple it was to go from box to pulling shots and considered how intuitive the process was.

Ease of use: Throughout our testing, I used the machines as if I had never pulled espresso before. I looked at where the functional buttons were located, how they performed in use, and the ease of frothing milk with a built-in steam wand.

Design: An espresso machine lives on your counters or coffee station, so I considered each model's overall appearance, size, and build quality.

Meet the expert behind this guide

Molly Allen, freelance food and beverage writer: As a former coffee shop manager and longtime budget coffee gear connoisseur, I've pulled more espresso shots than I can count — both behind the bar and at home. For this guide, I tested eight espresso machines under $250 the way a beginner would: unboxing and setting them up according to the manufacturer's instructions, timing shots, and evaluating flavor, body, bitterness, and crema consistency. I assessed how intuitive each machine was to use, from button placement to steaming milk, and considered how its size and design fit on my kitchen counter. Then I narrowed the list down to the top 3 affordable espresso machines that deliver reliable, café-worthy results without the specialty price tag.

Budget espresso machine FAQs

How much should I spend on an espresso machine?

A top-notch home espresso machine can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000. If you're really into gourmet coffee, this may be worth the investment. Especially if you plan to make multiple beverages in a day or want something that will last you for years. However, if you just want to eliminate your daily coffee drive-thru orders or practice making drinks at home, a budget espresso machine under $250 will help you achieve that.

What coffee should you use for espresso?

You can use any roast for espresso, though medium and dark roasts typically deliver more robust flavors. What's most important is the grind of the coffee beans. It's important to use fine grounds, which allow for the best flavor and oil extraction. The Baratza Sette 270 is the best espresso grinder we've tested. It costs more than any espresso machine we recommend in this guide, but fresh and well-ground beans will infinitely improve the taste of espresso from any brewer.

How do I clean a home espresso machine?

Rinse the portafilter after each use and use a brush to clean the ground head. It is crucial to purge the steam wand and thoroughly wipe it down after each use to avoid any bacterial buildup. To keep your home espresso machine in tip-top shape, clean it regularly.

• When my husband and I moved in together, we started having monthly money dates.
• We talk about household finances, shared expenses, investments, and things we want to save up for.
• It's the reason we haven't argued about money in 10 years.

On the last day of every month, my husband and I sit down for what we call a money meeting — a monthly money date where we discuss our household finances. We look at how much we each earned that month, our fixed and variable expenses, our savings and investment accounts, and discuss any financial decisions we need to make.

I used to dread these money dates, but they're such a regular part of our lives, I don't mind them anymore. In fact, I actually look forward to sitting down with my husband and seeing all of our numbers laid out.

We started having monthly money dates when we first moved in together, almost 10 years ago, and haven't missed a month since. I firmly believe that being open about our financial situation on a regular basis is the reason my husband and I have never fought about money.

At first, sharing finances was intimidating

When my husband and I first moved in together, we weren't in the best financial situation. I wasn't earning a lot of money as a new freelance writer, and he had student debt and car payments.

Our first time sitting down to talk solely about money was scary, but we both committed to being vulnerable and completely open about our financial situations.

We made a pact that these monthly money chats weren't about shaming the other person for their spending or feeling guilty about past debt. The goal was to share, without judgment, and figure out how we could use our money to reach our goals.

Sharing those numbers got easier the more often we did it. Eventually, money went from something taboo that we were insecure about to something we were excited to discuss and make work for us.

By having a monthly money date on the calendar, it meant one person wasn't responsible for bringing up the money conversation. It was something we automatically did each month.

Our financial system changed over the years but we never stopped talking about it

My husband and I had separate bank accounts when we first moved in together in 2017. We then opened a joint account for rent and household expenses. As time went on, we found that more and more things were coming out of the joint account.

Eventually, we decided to combine our finances completely. We now have fully joint bank accounts, and we have access to each other's retirement accounts and credit cards, as well.

For us, this system works. It makes it simpler for us to pay bills, buy groceries, and make decisions about bigger expenses, like travel and day care. We trust each other to spend reasonably on the day-to-day stuff and always discuss any big purchases ahead of time.

But I know completely combined finances doesn't work for everyone.

Even when our accounts were separate, we still made sure to talk about finances every month and used the time to share how much we were each earning, spending, and saving. That transparency made it easier for us to build trust, reduce resentment, and work toward future plans.

We look at our money as a tool to achieve our goals

One of my favorite parts of our monthly money dates is deciding what to do with any leftover funds after paying our bills and expenses, which is a privilege to be able to do.

My husband and I have many savings goals (some are shared, and some are just his or just mine), such as saving up for travel, for retirement, for our daughter's college fund, and even a fun account for things my husband wants to buy, like video games or bike parts. It's really exciting to be able to fund those accounts and see our money helping us get closer to our dream life.

But even when we don't have extra money to put into savings or investments, I'm still so glad we have our monthly money meeting. I like getting on the same page with my husband and knowing we can talk openly about our financial picture.

I know money is something that a lot of couples fight about. Even though it's hard — and perhaps especially when it is — my biggest tip for new couples is to start talking openly about your finances from day one. It's better than letting years of shameful spending, debt, or money secrets build into resentment that could ruin your relationship.

• The well-regarded Shiller CAPE ratio is at 42, putting stock valuations at a 26-year high.
• But there a few reasons not to read to much into the high reading.
• Sign up for First Trade, Business Insider's daily markets newsletter.

In July, the Shiller CAPE ratio crossed above 42 for the first time since July 2000, when the S&P 500 had just begun its 50% decline from the nauseating heights of the dot-com bubble.

Because of its impressive track record of predicting long-term returns, the metric is well regarded by both perma-bears and mainstream Wall Street strategists alike.

In a client note on Thursday, Rosenberg Research's David Rosenberg, who frequently expresses bearish views, said the indicator shows that outside the dot-com era, "this is the most overpriced S&P 500 in recorded history."

A couple of years back, former Goldman Sachs strategist David Kostin warned that a high CAPE ratio would lead to very poor annualized returns of 3% over the next decade.

That said, the CAPE ratio hitting fresh 26-year highs may be a bit panic-inducing.

Sure, the measure isn't supposed to be a good predictor of near-term returns, but recall the steep decline in stock prices that came right when it was last this high. And even if no big crash is imminent, the prospect of collecting next-to-nothing in returns over the next decade is arguably just as scary.

But there are plenty of reasons not to worry. Despite its credentials, the CAPE ratio isn't perfect and has its detractors.

You can probably pick out a big flaw just by looking at the above chart — that is, valuations have been high for a pretty long time now, while the market has continued to hit new records.

Take July 2021's CAPE ratio of 38, for example. According to a 2020 analysis by Michael Finke, a professor of wealth management at The American College of Financial Services, that level would imply annualized returns over the next decade of roughly 1%-2%.

Five years on, the S&P 500 is up 73%, making for average annual returns of over 14% since then. A monumental market bust may eventually put that average down to 1%-2%, but it's an apocalyptic outcome that's a big unknown, and sitting on the sidelines in the meantime would be costly.

Fidelity research bears out this point. In a 2024 report, the firm showed that if stocks did poorly over a 10-year period that started with a high CAPE ratio, it was likely because a crisis like World War II or the Great Recession sank the market.

Plus, unless you're exactly 10 years out from retirement or needing your money, you probably don't have to worry anyway, and compounding dividends help make up for any lackluster period in returns.

Here are a couple of other points to consider:

• The metric is too hung up on the past. Since the CAPE ratio measures current stock prices against a rolling 10-year average of earnings, it can miss some important developments in the meantime. Nvidia is a prime example. AI demand has made the company much more valuable over the last four years, so why would investors compare its current prices to a rolling 10-year average of earnings when AI wasn't in the market Zeitgeist before 2022?

• Valuations may behave differently than in the past. Back in June, I spoke with Ben Snider, Goldman Sachs' chief US equity strategist, who said that he sees 7% annualized returns for the S&P 500 over the next decade despite current CAPE levels implying negative returns.

  That's because he sees valuations staying higher for longer. He cited steadily rising profit margins over the last few decades, going from 7% in 2000 to around 13% today. "It doesn't seem very likely that those will return to their long-term averages, and therefore, the assumption that valuation multiples should return to their long-term averages does not seem like a very compelling argument," Snider said.

• PwC US CEO Paul Griggs said he tried not to over-communicate in the past.
• He said he received feedback from staff who asked him to share more about his decision-making.
• Griggs said he continues to work on communicating frequently and via different styles and mediums.

After roughly three decades at PwC, senior partner and US CEO Paul Griggs said he still isn't above criticism.

He's also not exempt from changing his mind based on feedback he gets from across the firm. Griggs said he appreciates working at a company where leaders aren't afraid to change their minds in response to feedback.

For example, Griggs said he's "a big believer in the power of communication without over-communication." As CEO, he makes decisions and doesn't expect everyone to agree with every call. As a result, he didn't always explain his reasoning.

After taking over as CEO two years ago, however, he realized that he had been communicating less than some employees would like. He said he came in with a bias against overwhelming others with too much communication. Over time, he said he had grown tired of reading emails that were too long.

"So, I simplified communication," Griggs said. "Slowed it down."

Griggs said not everyone needs to agree with all decisions all the time, but they need to understand the reasoning behind it. That's where leadership and communication play a crucial role, he said.

"'If you don't communicate the nature of that decision and the outcome of that decision, then I fill the void, fill the vacuum with my own story,'" Griggs said employees told him.

It's feedback he has worked on incorporating, he added. He has been advised to share messages more than once, even though it wasn't his default approach.

"My team would tell me: 'No, seven times,'" Griggs said, adding that he's learned he should relay the message in different styles and mediums.

• Business Insider asked its readers on LinkedIn: Are shorts appropriate in the workplace?
• Instagram head Adam Mosseri recently said he was "pro" wearing shorts in the office.
• As of Friday morning, 54% of respondents said no, while 20% said yes. More debated dress codes in the comments.

Free the knee? Our readers want the knee locked away.

Instagram boss Adam Mosseri recently came out as "pro" shorts in the workplace. He said that it was a "hot debate" in the Instagram office, though "not all shorts are created equal" and not everyone can "pull them off."

We posted the question to our readers on LinkedIn: Do you think it's appropriate to wear shorts to the office? Over 7,000 people have cast their vote so far.

As of Friday morning, the majority of respondents, 54%, said no, compared to 20% who voted yes. Another 25% of respondents said "it depends."

The survey is far from scientific, and the results could shift as more readers vote. Still, the early results provide an interesting look into people's evolving views of the office dress code. Gone are the "Mad Men" days of mandatory suits. And with Gen Z firmly in the workplace and sweltering summer temperatures potentially swaying people's views, it's a good time to revisit the polarizing topic.

A lively debate over dress code and etiquette

Readers in the comments below the LinkedIn poll debated what, if any, shorts dress code would be appropriate.

Joella Shepherdson commented that chino shorts should be allowed, but basketball shorts shouldn't. She voiced worry of a "double standard."

"I think if skirts are acceptable, shorts should be too, but they should be subject to the same workwear rules as normal," she wrote.

Stephanie Cary wrote that it may depend on the industry. Startups and fashion may be more open to the apparel, she wrote.

What about a temperature threshold? Jay Martin wrote that shorts were okay if it was over 90 degrees.

Of course, the heat is outside the office for much of corporate America. Many workplaces pump cold air into their cubicles. April Weygand drew a comparison: "The men wear shorts in the summer while the women are wearing sweaters because of the crazy AC."

Donald Peace narrowed in on Mosseri's comment that "not everyone can pull it off." Peace called it a "clearly subjective judgement," describing the Instagram head's view as an "HR nightmare."

Working from home has changed standards of dressing. Brian Bower wrote that he sometimes wears pajama bottoms while working virtually.

"Businesses up top," he wrote. "Party below."

• Miguel Marquez began pursuing financial independence in his late 30s.
• He uses a seven-step ladder, ranging from debt freedom to Fat FI, to make the goal feel achievable.
• The Spanish and French professor is currently at Lean FI, with traditional FI his next milestone.

Miguel Marquez has spent years making complex subjects easier to understand.

Originally from Spain, the 47-year-old earned a Ph.D. in French linguistics from Indiana University Bloomington and now teaches French, Spanish, and personal finance at a university in Shenzhen, China.

Through teaching personal finance and pursuing financial independence himself, Marquez has learned that saving for such a distant goal can feel either too intimidating to begin or too tedious to sustain over decades.

He found a way to make the process more manageable by using "financial freedom milestones," a concept he first discovered on the Money Flamingo blog. Rather than treating financial independence as one enormous — and potentially unachievable — target, the framework divides the journey into seven stages.

"It's like playing a video game," he said, with each milestone representing another level of financial security.

Marquez, who began seriously pursuing financial independence after completing his Ph.D. at 38, explained the seven milestones he uses to track his progress.

1. Debt freedom

The first milestone is eliminating debt. Marquez said he borrowed money only once, during his fourth year at university, and quickly decided it was not something he wanted to get used to: "I didn't like the feeling."

He's been debt-free since completing his undergraduate degree, meaning he had already cleared the first milestone before he began deliberately pursuing financial independence.

2. 'F-you money'

The next stage is accumulating "F-you money," typically defined as having enough savings to leave an unfulfilling job, take a career break, or make another major life change without facing immediate financial consequences.

Definitions vary, but Marquez follows the version popularized by JL Collins, author of "The Simple Path to Wealth": roughly one year of living expenses set aside.

That cushion creates options, Marquez said: "If you're in a job you don't like, you can say, 'I'm leaving.' You can look for a different job, become self-employed, or do whatever you want to do."

3. Coast FI

Reaching Coast FI means you have invested enough that, assuming your portfolio continues compounding, it's projected to grow into the amount you'll need by traditional retirement age — without requiring further contributions.

That can free up income for other priorities, since you no longer need to save as aggressively for retirement.

Marquez said he reached Coast FI in June 2024, less than two years after moving to China for his current teaching position. He was in his mid-40s.

4. Flamingo FI

About a year later, Marquez reached "Flamingo FI," another concept developed by the Money Flamingo blog.

At that point, he'd saved about half of his full FI target — or roughly 12.5 years of annual expenses under the conventional 4% rule. The name comes from the idea that you've reached FIRE "standing on one leg," like a flamingo.

5. Lean FI

Marquez is currently at Lean FI, a form of financial independence in which investments can cover essential living costs while leaving relatively little room for discretionary spending. He said his portfolio, worth nearly $400,000, can support housing, food, fixed expenses, and an occasional short trip.

His low cost of living in Shenzhen is an important part of the calculation. He lives in subsidized housing on his university campus and said he can cover his annual expenses with just 30% of his income.

6. Full financial independence

The next stage is full financial independence, sometimes simply called FI or traditional FIRE.

Under the 4% rule, you're generally considered financially independent once you've saved about 25 times your annual expenses. You can then withdraw 4% in your first year of retirement and adjust future withdrawals for inflation.

7. Fat FI

The final milestone is Fat FI: having enough invested to support a lifestyle with considerably more discretionary spending than traditional financial independence. While there is no universal threshold, some investors define it as a portfolio large enough to cover two or three times their normal expenses, while others use a specific net-worth target.

Marquez said he's not compelled to reach Fat FI. Because his living costs are comparatively low, he expects ordinary financial independence to provide him with a lifestyle that already feels abundant.

Chunking out his journey into smaller milestones helped him reach a level of financial security he once assumed was out of reach on a teaching salary.

"I thought that you needed a lot of money to solve the money problem," Marquez said. "But when I started calculating and writing down what I would actually need, I thought, 'Wait a second — this is feasible.'"