The Wirecutter Show

We’re fielding listener questions with pro tips for delighting picky friends, impossible relatives, and other challenging recipients on your holiday list. Guest:  Staff writer Samantha Schoech   Products we recommend: Beautiful Utilitarian Upgrades: * Brushed Stainless Steel French Press [https://wrctr.co/41rgGXq] * Rough Linen Robe [https://wrctr.co/4felsen] Personalized Gifts:  * Handwriting Cuff bracelet [https://wrctr.co/49zX8Cj] * Personalized retro view finder [https://wrctr.co/4g6sGlJ] * Customizable drinking straw  [https://wrctr.co/4gv2NM7] Experiential Gifts:  * Teas to try together [https://wrctr.co/49Aiwr5] * Bokksu Japanese Snack Box [https://wrctr.co/4g88Oi3] Great for Dads:  * Yeti Cooler [https://wrctr.co/3Zvrlhj] * LL Bean Wicked Good Slippers [https://wrctr.co/3VAXcfl] Digital gifts that don’t clutter:  * MasterClass subscription [https://wrctr.co/4f8MpzX] * Libro FM  audiobook subscription [https://wrctr.co/4itHTyU] * Met Opera subscription [https://wrctr.co/3OMVqUv] * BritBox British movies and TV subscription [https://wrctr.co/3VwbEW7] For a brother who buys himself what we wants:  * Williams Sonoma Monogrammed Steak Brand [https://wrctr.co/4gw3SUh] * The best growler [https://wrctr.co/49D5gSM] * The best home brewing kit [https://wrctr.co/41n0x5u] * Happy Tooned Print [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/64507/205869/4/197136?merchant=Happy%20Tooned] For people you don’t know that well:  * Fast Growing Trees Citrus Trees [https://wrctr.co/4iIEc8T] Sam loves: * Italian loafers [https://wrctr.co/49u9Pyy]   Additional Reading:  * Most Gift Baskets Are Terrible. These Are Great. [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gift-baskets/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * 36 Gifts for People Who Have Everything 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * 28 Best Personalized Gifts of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/personalized/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * 15 Aesthetic Gift Picks (for Those With Impeccable Taste)  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/aesthetic-gift-picks/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * The 48 Best Gifts for Dads 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gifts-for-dad/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

This week, we dive into our gift team’s best-in-class tips for finding awesome affordable gifts for everyone on your list.   Guest: Wirecutter editor Hannah Morrill   Additional Reading * The 45 Best Gifts for Teens in 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gifts-for-teens/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 43 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gifts-for-travelers/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 25 Best Gifts for Plant Lovers of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-plant-gifts/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * The 39 Absolute Best White Elephant Gifts Under $25 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/white-elephant-ideas/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 31 Best Secret Santa Gifts of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-secret-santa-gifts/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 50 Wirecutter-Approved Stocking Stuffers for Adults [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/stocking-stuffers/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17]   Products We Recommend Great value: * Baggu Small Cloud Carry-On [https://wrctr.co/3CHl0aL]   Playing with shape & size: * Bonilla a La Vista Potato Chips [https://wrctr.co/3Vd3odg] * Maldon Sea Salt Flakes (3 pounds) [https://wrctr.co/3OxMF0s] * World's smallest Uno  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/47742/177838/4/194636?merchant=Amazon]   Novelty: * Lazy Duck, Lying Flat LED Duck Lamp [https://wrctr.co/3Owr1K1] * Puebco Empty Book [https://wrctr.co/4gaSqNF] * Kikkerland Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker [https://wrctr.co/41d3ZPZ] * Emile Henry Salt Pig [https://wrctr.co/3Zs27Bw] * GurglePot Fish Pitcher [https://wrctr.co/4eNOam9]   Utilitarian upgrades: * TravelCard Plus [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/54313/187584/4/205151/?merchant=TravelCard] * MoMA Self-Watering Wet Pot Planter [https://wrctr.co/3ZoDBkW] * Heirloom Art Co. Larissa White Nightgowns [https://wrctr.co/419M6BO]   Tech ideas: * Epicka Universal Travel Adapter [https://wrctr.co/3Z5VGCW] * Google Chromecast with Google TV [https://wrctr.co/4icLgu4]   Cooking ideas: * The New York Times Cooking Page-A-Day Calendar 2025 [https://wrctr.co/4g0RCL8] * Mosser Glass Jade 3 Piece Mixing Bowl Set [https://wrctr.co/3Z5VPGu]   Beauty/Luxe ideas * Dr. Singha’s Mustard Bath Salts [https://wrctr.co/3Zs4Z1j] * Senteurs d’Orient Fleurs d’Oasis L’Huile [https://wrctr.co/3Bg07TH]   Secret Santa or White Elephant: * 101 Pooping Puppies Jigsaw Puzzle [https://wrctr.co/3VebEda] * LEGO Cherry Blossom [https://wrctr.co/3OA7gBe] * Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When [https://wrctr.co/3V9gYOH] * Retro Point & Shoot Camera Phone Converter [https://wrctr.co/3Ovna04]   Hannah recommends: * Dorsey Kate Riviere in Silver [https://wrctr.co/4fMY74t]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

Most of the deals you’ll see for Black Friday and Cyber Week aren’t worth your time. This week, we reveal how to actually get a deal that’s worth your money.   Guest: Wirecutter senior deals editor Nathan Burrow    Products we recommend: * The best bluetooth speaker: Bluetooth Speaker: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 [https://wrctr.co/4g1uHzi] * Nathan Recommends: Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO  [https://wrctr.co/4fKqKzb]   Additional reading links: * Best Black Friday Deals 2024 [http://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/money/best-black-friday-deals-2024/] * Daily Deals - Wirecutter [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/deals/] * Wirecutter Deals, Explained [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/money/how-wirecutter-finds-deals/]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

Thanksgiving is (almost) here, and this week Wirecutter experts share their best last-minute tips to make your holiday a success.   Guests: Wirecutter staffers Hannah Morrill, Rose Lorre, Lee Neikirk, Lauren Dragan, Ellen Airhart, James Austin, Phil Ryan, Michael Sullivan, Ben Frumin   Products we recommend:  * Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil [https://wrctr.co/4g6B6Jl] * Taza Mexican-Style Chocolate Sampler [https://wrctr.co/494lMuJ] * Tony’s Chocolonely Super Milk Bundle [https://wrctr.co/495StrI] * Bananagrams [https://wrctr.co/4eMsyGz] * Tide Pen [https://wrctr.co/4eGSEuE] * Korky 99-4A Max Performance Plunger [https://wrctr.co/4g6spz4] Podcasts that are great for families * Wow in the world [https://tinkercast.com/all-podcasts/wow-in-the-world/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * Brains On [https://www.brainson.org/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * Once Upon a Beat [https://wondery.com/shows/once-upon-a-beat/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * Radiolab for Kids  [https://radiolab.org/radiolab-kids/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * 99% Invisible  [https://99percentinvisible.org/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * The Good Whale [https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/podcasts/serial-good-whale.html] Audiobooks for families * Mouse and the Motorcycle [https://www.amazon.com/Mouse-and-Motorcycle-audiobook/dp/B000MV8X42/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum [https://www.audible.com/pd/Montgomery-Bonbon-Murder-at-the-Museum-Audiobook/B0BVDKVG91/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] Website recommendation for learning new card games * Pagat [https://www.pagat.com/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16]   Additional Reading:  * Taking better iPhone photos  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/iphone-photo-tips/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * The Best Fake Christmas Tree [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/national-tree-company-feel-real-review/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16] * Rose Lorre's article about what to bring to Thanksgiving as a guest  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/what-to-bring-to-thanksgiving-dinner/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_16]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

Few ingredients are as loved (and villainized) as butter. We discuss how to pick a great butter, and the best ones for eating, cooking, and baking.    Guest: Wirecutter staff writer Lesley Stockton   Additional Reading:  * The 7 Best Butters of 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-butter/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_15] * The Best Vegan Butter [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-vegan-butter/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_15] Products We Recommend: *  Kerrygold Salted Butter [https://airtable.com/appfS4bwbfY6Epv3e/tbl7kImtcCgMzWDai/viwh0nWg68ph6Nyg2/recAHEjqKPWlJSACk/fldq2ir4yvAlEW71k?copyLinkToCellOrRecordOrigin=gridView] * Isigny Ste Mère Salted Butter [https://airtable.com/appfS4bwbfY6Epv3e/tbl7kImtcCgMzWDai/viwh0nWg68ph6Nyg2/recK4ILsXUXc2geI5/fldq2ir4yvAlEW71k?copyLinkToCellOrRecordOrigin=gridView] * Finlandia Imported Salted Butter Bar [https://airtable.com/appfS4bwbfY6Epv3e/tbl7kImtcCgMzWDai/viwh0nWg68ph6Nyg2/recECL6LdkPJqvRBl/fldq2ir4yvAlEW71k?copyLinkToCellOrRecordOrigin=gridView] * Kirkland Signature Grass-Fed Butter Salted [https://airtable.com/appfS4bwbfY6Epv3e/tbl7kImtcCgMzWDai/viwh0nWg68ph6Nyg2/recMucstI5L8E0RW1/fldq2ir4yvAlEW71k?copyLinkToCellOrRecordOrigin=gridView] * Kirkland Signature Butter Unsalted [https://airtable.com/appfS4bwbfY6Epv3e/tbl7kImtcCgMzWDai/viwh0nWg68ph6Nyg2/recQtkm9XpQTeOZZd/fldq2ir4yvAlEW71k?copyLinkToCellOrRecordOrigin=gridView]     We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]