The Wirecutter Show

Apple recently expanded its lineup with two new budget-friendly entries: the iPhone 17e and the MacBook Neo. Both start at $600—hundreds of dollars less than their standard counterparts—but what exactly are you giving up for that lower price tag?

 

This week, host Rosie Guerin talks with Wirecutter senior staff writer Brenda Stolyar to break down the trade-offs. Plus, Brenda explains why Apple is leaning into "affordable" tech right now.

 

Products we recommend:

Powerful battery, worst cameras in a slightly cheaper package: Apple iPhone 17e

The new, starter Mac: Apple MacBook Neo

 

Additional reading:

Apple Is in Its Affordable Era. Sort Of.

Which MacBook Should I Buy?

Which iPhone Should I Get?

The Death of the Cheap Laptop Is Coming

 

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

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

Minor home renovations can have a huge impact for how long you (or a loved one) can live independently into old age. This episode, Wirecutter’s home-improvement expert Doug Mahoney joins us to discuss the renovations to consider–-whether you’re looking ahead to your own future or supporting a loved one as they age in place.

 

Doug recently wrote a room-by-room tour of the best modifications to consider. He spoke with occupational therapists and other experts for their best tips on the most important changes to make to any home. And many of these modifications would be helpful for anyone, at any age.

 

This episode covers:

Fall prevention should be your first priority: The most critical step in aging in place is addressing potential trip hazards. Small, inexpensive changes like securing rugs, adding extra handrails, and installing high-visibility, motion-activated night lights can drastically reduce the risk of injury.

Don't rely on standard placement: When installing safety features like grab bars, avoid generic, one-size-fits-all measurements. It’s more effective to have an assessment where someone actually observes you moving through your home to determine exactly where you need support for your specific range of motion.

Focus on high-impact trouble zones: Start by modifying areas that present the highest risk, such as bathrooms and entryways. Simple additions like a bench in the entryway for changing shoes, or a shower transfer seat and handheld shower sprayer, can maintain independence without requiring a full renovation.

Incorporate smart tech for convenience: Modern technology can solve many mobility frustrations. Smart curtains, voice-activated or remote-controlled lights, and smart thermostats allow you to manage your environment from anywhere, which is particularly helpful if your mobility or dexterity is limited.

Be proactive: You don't have to overhaul your home overnight. By identifying and implementing these modifications gradually over time, you can manage the costs more effectively and avoid the stress of trying to retroactively "fix" a home during a sudden health crisis.

 

Products we recommend: 

An inconspicuous grab bar: Moen Brushed Nickel 8″ Grab Bar With Toilet Paper Holder LR2352DBN

Doug loves the U-Turn Orbit Basic for playing his dad’s record collection

 

Additional reading:

Aging in Place Home Modifications: Room-by-Room Tour

The 4 Best Grab Bars of 2026

The 2 Best Toilet Seat Risers of 2026 

The 6 Best Shower Chairs of 2026

The 6 Best Bidet Toilet Seats or Washlets of 2026

The 7 Best Bathroom Rugs and Bath Mats of 2026

The 4 Best Smart Window Shades, Blinds, and Curtains of 2026

 

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

Wirecutter Social and Website
Instagram: /wirecutter
Threads: /@wirecutter
Twitter: /wirecutter
Facebook: /thewirecutter
TikTok: /wirecutter
LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter
Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/
Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

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

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

Spring cleaning season is here, and we asked listeners to send us their most stubborn, embarrassing, and downright horrifying odor problems. Staff writer and cleaning expert Caroline Mullen joins us to answer your most confounding smell questions–from how to get rid of the odor of rotting meat in a freezer to  removing the persistent stink from workout clothes.

 

Caroline explains what actually works when it comes to removing odors—and what’s just masking the problem.

 

This episode covers: 

Why ventilation is non-negotiable: Whether it’s fish in a small apartment or smoke drifting in from neighbors, airflow is often your first and most important defense.

Why cleaning beats masking: Candles and air fresheners don’t solve the root problem. Removing grease, bacteria, residue, and trapped detergent does.

How to fix stinky laundry: Cold water, less detergent (about two tablespoons), no fabric softener—and turning clothes inside out can make a major difference.

Why your washing machine might be the problem: If your laundry smells off, the appliance itself may need cleaning.

How to tackle pet odors: Wash beds and rugs regularly, vacuum frequently, and scoop litter often—especially in small spaces.

Sometimes you need professional help: For car interiors, deep upholstery contamination, or truly embedded odors, a professional detailing service may be worth it.

 

Don't forget to sign up for the Clean Everything newsletter for even more cleaning tips from Wirecutter experts. 

 

Products we recommend:

An exceptional, efficient, affordable air purifier: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty

The best cleaner that kills just about everything: Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner + Bleach

The best cat litter: Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Unscented

A rug you can throw into the washing machine: Ruggable Justina Blakeney Sonia Terra & Sage Rug - Flatwoven Cushioned

A smart, quick robot that empties itself: Roborock Q7 M5+

The best liquid laundry detergent: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent

The best powder detergent: Tide Ultra Oxi Powder Laundry Detergent

Our go-to towel de-stinker: Borax 20 Mule Team Natural Laundry Booster

An affordable vodka we love: Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka

A hair cream Caroline loves for different textures: Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls Cream

 

Additional reading:

So, Your House Is Stinky. Here’s How to Fix It. 

How to Clean a Trash Can or Compost Bin

Ruggable’s Washable Rugs: Why We Love Them (but Also Hate Them Sometimes)

Workout Clothes Stink. Here’s How to Clean Them. 

This Tiny Laundry Tweak Helps Keep Towels Mildew-Free 

How to Deep-Clean Your Front-Loading Washing Machine

How to Wash Your Down Jacket

The Best Ways to Remove Smoke Smells From Delicate and Hard-to-Wash Fabrics

I’ve Used This Hair Cream on My Kids’ Curly Hair for Almost 6 Years. It Works.

 

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

Wirecutter Social and Website
Instagram: /wirecutter
Threads: /@wirecutter
Twitter: /wirecutter
Facebook: /thewirecutter
TikTok: /wirecutter
LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter
Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/
Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

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

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

For some people, shorter days and reduced sunlight in the winter can seriously disrupt sleep, mood, and energy levels. A light therapy lamp can help.

 

In this episode, senior staff writer Nancy Redd explains what seasonal affective disorder (SAD) actually is, how light therapy works, and why not all lamps are created equal. We cover what 10,000 lux means, why timing matters, and why you should talk to a medical professional before trying any.

 

We also break down the four lamps Wirecutter recommends, and how to choose the right one for your space, budget, and tolerance for clunky design.

 

This episode covers: 

What Seasonal Affective Disorder really is: SAD is a seasonal pattern of major depressive episodes. It’s more than the “winter blues,” and it’s officially classified as a depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern.

How light therapy works: Morning exposure to 10,000 lux of bright, UV-free light for about 30 minutes can help realign your circadian rhythm—your body’s internal 24-hour clock that regulates sleep and hormone cycles.

Why medical guidance matters: Light therapy affects mood and sleep. You should always consult with a medical professional before using a light therapy lamp. People with bipolar disorder, retinal conditions, or who take photosensitizing medications might even be at risk of worsening their conditions with a light therapy lamp.

Why regular lamps won’t cut it: A typical household bulb doesn’t deliver the intensity or the controlled light output required for therapeutic use.

How to choose the right lamp: Size, brightness distance, UV filtering, heat output, and positioning all matter more than you might think.

 

Products we recommend:

The best light-therapy lamp: Carex Day-Light Elite

Compact design and lower price, but less powerful: Verilux HappyLight Luxe

Best for warmer light: Northern Light Technologies Boxelite

Best for simulating sunlight: Beurer TL95

 

Additional reading:

The 4 Best Light Therapy Lamps of 2026

 

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

Wirecutter Social and Website
Instagram: /wirecutter
Threads: /@wirecutter
Twitter: /wirecutter
Facebook: /thewirecutter
TikTok: /wirecutter
LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter
Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/
Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

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

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

For the perfect cup of coffee, you need good beans. In this bonus episode, we talk with Sum Ngai, co-founder of Coffee Project New York and certified Q-grader (it’s like a sommelier, but for coffee!), to demystify the art of choosing a bean you’ll love. 
 
Sum breaks down everything a novice needs to know to shop with confidence, from decoding mysterious tasting notes, to understanding why you should avoid brewing coffee that was roasted too recently.
 
Plus, learn what to expect from coffee grown in different regions and why buying whole beans is the move for a better morning cup.
 
Additional reading and listening: 
Stop Making Bad Coffee
Our Favorite Coffee Subscriptions
The 4 Best Pour-Over Coffee Makers of 2026 
5 Cheap(ish) Things to Upgrade Your Coffee Experience
The 4 Best Coffee Grinders of 2026
 

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

Wirecutter Social and Website
Instagram: /wirecutter
Threads: /@wirecutter
Twitter: /wirecutter
Facebook: /thewirecutter
TikTok: /wirecutter
LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter
Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/
Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

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

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