Plus, snowstorm essentials that will ship fast.

VIEW IN BROWSER | January 24, 2026

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Don't sleep on wired earbuds

sleeper hit
[ slee-per ] [ hit ]
noun
a secretly amazing product we’ve tried that should be popular but isn’t (yet)

The brand: Apple

What you’ve seen: Apple AirPods

What you need to try: Apple EarPods

Why I’m obsessed: 

  • The best call quality: I’ve tested over 50 pairs of wireless earbuds. None of them compares to how good I sound on a call using the wired Apple EarPods. That’s because the microphone is built into a wired cable that naturally rests close to your mouth, meaning it picks up your voice much more easily than wireless earbuds.

  • No recharging, ever: Wireless earbuds don’t get tangled, but they do run out of battery. I never have to charge wired Apple EarPods — I plug them in and they just work, every time. 

  • They’re $20: The best headphones cost hundreds of dollars. EarPods cost less than $20. I can buy multiple pairs, throw them in different bags, and don’t have to be too precious with them.

Something to note: They come in three versions: USB-C, Lightning and 3.5 Aux. I use the USB-C version, which connects to my phone, laptop and desktop.

$19 $16 SHOP NOW

Harry Rabinowitz

Tech Reporter

Snowstorm essentials that will ship fast:

  • Ihuan Waterproof Gloves | $20 $17

  • AstroAI Lightweight Snow Shovel | $29 $20

  • Zippo Refillable Hand Warmer | $30 $17

  • Baleaf Women's Thermal Long Sleeve | $43 $34

  • Everlit Winter Car Emergency Kit | $70 $63

  • Columbia Women's Ice Maiden II Snow Boots | $100 $90

  • Westinghouse Corded Snow Blower | $139

  • Sorel Men's Buxton Lace Waterproof Winter Boot | $150
 
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Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this newsletter are those of the NBC Select editorial staff's alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.