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Forget the Apple TV — this dirt-cheap Google gadget revolutionised my living room (GOOG)

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Looking to spruce up your lounge?

An Apple TV top box starts at $149 (£139).

A PlayStation 4 is currently $269 (£227).

A smart TV will set you back hundreds.

Forget all of them — Google sells a gadget for just $35 (£30) that will transform how you watch TV.

It certainly did for me.

I'm talking about Chromecast. It's a "dongle" that Google sells that you plug into the back of your TV.



You slot it into a HDMI port, the sort found on basically all modern TVs. Once there, you control it with your smartphone.



You can throw videos and music onto your TV to watch by pressing the Chromecast button on any of the hundreds of compatible apps.



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Taylor Swift is going to court against a DJ she says groped her — here's what you need to know

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tswift not happy

Taylor Swift and David Mueller's long legal battle will come to a head Monday morning, when the jury for their upcoming trial is selected.

Mueller sued Swift in 2015, alleging that her accusation that he groped her butt, during a meet-and-greet in 2013, caused him to lose his job.

Swift then countersued Mueller a month later.

Two years after Mueller and Swift sued each other, their case is about to go to trial. 

Here is everything you need to know about the impending Mueller and Swift trial:

Mueller filed a lawsuit claiming that false groping accusations from Swift got him fired.

Mueller sued Swift in October 2015, alleging that false accusations of him groping Swift at a meet-and-greet resulted in his termination, according to the Denver Post.

Mueller had been invited to Swift's meet-and-greet when the singer was performing at the Pepsi Center in Denver, June 2, 2013.

Mueller attended as a part of his then-job as a morning DJ on "The Ryno and Jackson" morning show, on Denver radio station 98.5 KY GO.

Mueller and his girlfriend took a picture with Swift, and shortly after Swift's security found Mueller and accused him of groping her. 

Mueller was fired two days later.

While Swift never spoke publicly about the incident, the radio station was sent the picture that Swift alleged documented Mueller groping her. A spokesperson for Swift told People, “The radio station was given evidence immediately after the incident. They made their independent decision."

You can see the photo in question on TMZ

Two years after Mueller was fired, he decided to slam Swift with a lawsuit accusing her of making false accusations that resulted in his firing. In the suit, Mueller said he had met "hundreds of celebrities" in the past and has never been accused of anything like this previously.



Swift filed a countersuit one month after being sued by Mueller.

One month after Mueller sued Swift, she filed back with a countersuit, according to People.

In Mueller's lawsuit, he had accused his boss, Eddie Haskell of being the one who actually touched Swift inappropriately.

But Swift's countersuit dismisses this allegation:

“Resolution of this Counterclaim will demonstrate that Mueller alone was the perpetrator of the humiliating and wrongful conduct targeted against Ms. Swift, and will serve as an example to other women who may resist publicly reliving similar outrageous and humiliating acts.”

The countersuit continues to claim that Mueller reached up Swift's skirt and with purpose groped an "intimate part of her body in an inappropriate manner, against her will, and without her permission.”

The intimate part of Swift's body being referenced in the counter claim is her behind.

Marie Claire confirmed this when it released portions of Swift's released deposition from July 26, 2016, in which the star described Mueller grabbing onto her "ass cheek."

Swift also requested a jury trial in her countersuit, and declared that any money won would be donated to a charity that fights against, and protects women from, sexual assault.



Swift's mother will be a witness her during the trial.

Andrea Swift, Taylor's mother, has been named as a witness in the case and can be expected to testify in court, according to People.

Taylor's photographer who captured the alleged moment in which Mueller grabbed Swift, is also expected to take the stand, in addition to a senior member of her security team.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Kremlin releases photos of Vladimir Putin's vacation in Siberia

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vladimir putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin posed for action shots throughout his vacation earlier this week, as he fished, kayaked, snorkeled, and mushroom-picked his way through southern Siberia.

The Kremlin has often sought to portray the Russian leader through photos as a macho outdoorsman — he has been similarly photographed in the past doing activities like horseback riding, hunting, and practicing Judo.

On this vacation, Putin spent two days in the Tuva region and was accompanied part of the time by Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, according to Bloomberg.

And while the Siberian lake Putin visited is usually 63 degrees Fahrenheit, "that didn't keep the president from going for a swim," Peskov said. He added that Putin was "chasing a pike for two hours and just couldn't hit it, but he managed to get it in the end."

Here's what Putin got up to in the early days of August:

SEE ALSO: 18 photos that show Vladimir Putin doesn't mess around







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19 celebrity couples you didn't realize were together

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leighton meester adam brody

With red carpet premieres, A-list award shows, and fabulous parties every other night, it's no wonder so many famous people end up together.

In fact, these star-studded events are probably to thank for all your favorite #couplegoals relationships like Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, and more.

Believe it or not, there are even more celeb couples than you could imagine, but many have kept their relationships under wraps and out of the public eye. While some of these couples have been together for years, their love may come as a shock to you. 

Here are 19 celebrity couples that you didn't even know were together: 

"Game of Thrones" legend Jason Momoa has been married to Lenny Kravitz's ex, Lisa Bonet, since 2007. They have two small children together.

When Vulture asked him how he felt about working with his wife on the set of "The Red Road" his response was next-level cute:

I had to make sure I was on point because I knew she’d throw me under the bus if I didn’t have any backup. But I’m always excited to have her around because I really respect her opinion. If anything, it amps me up. It’s like showing off in front of your girl. You want your girl to be like, "Look at my man over there. Look at him go at it. Yeah he’s all emotional and shit. He’s so vulnerable. I love my man."



Lauren Graham and her "Parenthood" co-star Peter Krause have kept their relationship under the radar.

Graham says one thing that's made their love last is sharing a career.

"It's hard to explain to people when you have a fancy job like being an actor what is challenging about it," Graham told PEOPLE in November. "So we just kind of have that shorthand, a shared language, which is helpful."



Teen drama stars Adam Brody and Leighton Meester tied the knot in 2014 and had a daughter together in 2015.

Back in September Brody took to Reddit to answer fan questions. When someone asked what his favorite thing about Leighton was he replied, "Too many to count. She's the BEST." 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

From respected at elite universities to wanted for murder

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Chicago Murder

CHICAGO (AP) — After a cross-country manhunt, a Northwestern University professor and University of Oxford employee are in custody for the brutal stabbing death of a 26-year-old hair stylist in Chicago. The case has involved peculiar twists, including a cash donation by one of the two suspects in the victim's name at a Wisconsin library and a videotaped confession sent to friends. The two men surrendered peacefully in California after eight days as fugitives.

Northwestern microbiologist, Wyndham Lathem, and Oxford financial officer, Andrew Warren, were wanted on first-degree murder charges for the death of Trenton James Cornell-Duranleau. Lathem is due in court on Monday.

Here's a closer look at the case:

SEE ALSO: Northwestern professor, Oxford employee sought in slaying

The Crime

The body of 26-year-old Cornell-Duranleau was found stabbed to death inside apartment belonging to Lathem in an upscale neighborhood near downtown Chicago. The July 27 attack was so violent the blade of the knife believed to have been used in the stabbing was broken, police said.

Authorities said the building's front desk received an anonymous call that a crime had been committed in the 10th floor apartment. When police opened the door, they found Cornell-Duranleau's body. He had already been dead for at least 12 hours.

Police said the victim and Lathem had a personal relationship, but they have not elaborated or released a motive.



The Professor

Authorities' primary target in the investigation has been Lathem, who's been on Northwestern's faculty since 2007. The 42-year-old is an associate professor of microbiology and immunology, though university officials say he primarily worked in a research lab. Published in top scientific journals, he was a sought-after speaker on pneumonic and bubonic plagues.

Over the years, he taught medical students or graduate students, though he was not teaching at the time of the crime, said officials with Northwestern, which has campuses in Chicago and suburban Evanston.

Investigators said Lathem sent a video to friends and relatives apologizing for his involvement in the crime, which he called the "biggest mistake of my life." The video raised concern among investigators that Lathem might kill himself.

Lathem was under intensive observation over the weekend in jail, according to authorities.



The Visitor

Less is known about Warren, who's British. Warren and Lathem were seen in surveillance video leaving Lathem's high-rise apartment building the day of the stabbing, but it's unclear what Warren's relationship was to the other two men.

He is in charge of pensions and payroll at the University of Oxford's Somerville College. Chicago police have said he's 56 years old, while California authorities booked him into jail at 49 years old.

Warren arrived in the U.S. three days before Cornell-Duranleau's death and after being reported missing in Great Britain, Chicago police confirmed.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

17 times celebrities totally slayed as bridesmaids

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bridesmaids

The INSIDER Summary: 

  • Wedding season means bridesmaid duties — even for celebrities. 
  • Stars like Taylor Swift and Rihanna have been a bridesmaid for their closest friends and family members.
  • Most of them seemed to be enjoying their role, but Jennifer Lawrence said she'll never be a bridesmaid again.


Wedding season is in full swing, and that can only mean only thing — bridesmaid duties! You're not alone, since celebs including the
Olsen twins and Rihanna have been a maid to their besties. Scroll through to see how these A-listers and more rocked the role (and their bridesmaid dresses)!

Rachel Bilson

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The "Nashville" actress served as a bridesmaid, not once, but twice, standing up for friend Geraleh just this past March in a stunning blush dress that appeared to be of her own choosing, and donning a one-shoulder frock of the same color back in June of last year for yet another pal.



Taylor Swift

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Not only was T. Swift the maid of honor in childhood bestie Britany Maack (now LaManna)’s 2016 wedding, but she made a rousing speech on behalf of the bride, saying, “My favorite accomplishment of my entire life is that everything has changed in my life except for me and Britany… She was my partner in crime at Brownies sleep-away camp, and she was my date to the Grammys.” Awww!



Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

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The designers showed off their goth side in head-to-toe blackfor friend Maggie Kayne’s New Zealand nuptials back in March, but went full-on boho for the July nuptials of Golmelsky creative director Cassie Coane. Ashley wore a black, long-sleeved number and Mary-Kate rocked a golden kimono, bright flower crown, and green flats.



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Airlines are trying to make flying less terrible — here's how (AAL, DAL, UAL, LUV, JBLU, ALK)

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United Airlines cabin crew

Flying in America is truly awful.

For many, that's the prevailing view of the airline industry in the US.

While there's certainly merit to that argument, I don't completely agree with it. Now hear me out before you try to burn me at stake.

I admit, the commercial air travel experience is far from perfect. The lines are long, the terminals are crowded, the overselling of flights is loathsome, and the customer service in many instances leaves much to be desired. (I'll get into the nitty gritty of my gripes in a future story.)

With that said, there are many areas of the flying experience that have improved dramatically in recent years. The US airline industry and its partners have invested tens of billions of dollars over the past few years in equipment upgrades while working to improve aviation infrastructure, something over which airlines do not have direct control.

Here's a quick overview of a few areas where the US airline industry has make significant headway in recent years.

SEE ALSO: This luxury airport lounge has a hidden room for its most exclusive customers

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In-flight entertainment and connectivity

Growing up, in-flight entertainment meant a newspaper, magazine or, at best, a movie showed using a grainy projector at the front of the cabin.

However, technology has moved forward and the airline industry has gone along for the ride.

With the advent of seatback screens in the 90s, in-flight entertainment took on new meaning. In 1999, JetBlue made satellite TV free across their entire fleet. While they weren't the first with the service, making it free helped democratize the experience.

These days, seatback entertainment screens are now commonplace with free movies and television available at the touch of a button, especially on long-haul international flights.

In addition to seatback screens, high-speed internet service is becoming increasingly common. Previous generation ground-based internet technology proved to be slow, inconsistent, and expensive. But new satellite-based technology is delivering levels of connectivity unseen in years past.

In fact, the implementation of high-speed wifi means the seatback screens' days are numbered.

American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and Alaska Air offer free in-flight streaming TV and movies on passengers' personal electronic devices.



Seats

If you fly in economy like I do, then this one won't really apply to you. However, if you fly at the front of the plane in the premium cabin, then listen up. There's some good stuff up there for you.

While airlines have been retrofitting its economy cabins with lightweight, space-saving, yet painfully uncomfortable slim-line seating, their premium accommodations have become increasingly posh.

With American Flagship First, Delta One, and United Polaris, the nation's three legacy carriers now possess top-shelf premium cabins.

Domestically, JetBlue's Mint premium cabin has also met with rave reviews.

That means passengers are treated to 180-degree lie-flat seats, bedding sourced from luxury suppliers, menus designed by celebrity chefs, and wines selected by master sommeliers to name a few.

So if you or your employer is willing to drop a few grand on a flight, you are in luck.



New Airplanes

Generally, America's airlines have had the reputation for flying around in antiquated equipment.

Even though the stereotype may have been rooted in reality a few years ago, that's less true today. All of the nation's major airlines have been engaged in aggressive fleet renewal programs.

American, Delta, United, and Southwest all have more than 200 new planes on order with Airbus, Boeing, and Bombardier.

According to Airfleets.net, the average age of American's fleet is only 10.3 years, JetBlue is 9.3 years, Alaska is at 8.7 years, while Southwest is at 11.5 years. That's not back considering the average service life of a modern commercial airliner is between 20 to 25 years.

United's fleet averages out to 14.1 years of age while Delta's is at 17 years of age. Even though both are on the high side, these figures have fallen in recent years.

Newer planes translates to fewer mechanical failures, a quieter ride, and a more eco-friendly footprint.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The 12 biggest questions we have after this week's 'Game of Thrones'

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Game of Thrones Bran and Arya season 7Warning: Spoilers for "Game of Thrones" season seven episode four, "The Spoils of War." If you aren't caught up on the series, read at your own risk.

This week's episode of "Game of Thrones" started off with a long-awaited reunion and ended with one of the most brutal battles in the show's history.

Last week ended with a huge win for Cersei, but this week is just the opposite: Daenerys, Drogon, and the Dothraki ambush Jaime Lannister and his army outside of King's Landing.

This changes the game for Cersei, who could be doomed. In between reunions and that epic battle, there were some other important things that happened, too. And we have a lot of questions.

 Here are all the questions we have after this week's episode of "Game of Thrones":

SEE ALSO: These 10 'Game of Thrones' characters disappeared, but could come back in a major way this season

Will Tyrion reunite with his brother Jaime and his old pal Bronn?

Bronn helps Jaime avoid getting turned into Drogon ash. They end the episode in the water, but will they come up as prisoners? It's likely. Based on the episode five preview, Daenerys sticks around after the battle and tries to recruit the survivors for her cause. 

If Bronn and Jaime are taken prisoner, Tyrion could use his wit to persuade them to change sides. Jaime might be a harder sell, but all Bronn needs is the promise of a castle and he's in, no question. 



Did Randyll and Dickon Tarly survive the battle?

If so, they could bend the knee to Daenerys and get some Tyrell allies back. 



Will Tycho Nestoris and the Iron Bank betray Cersei in favor for Daenerys after her big win?

Yes, the money from Highgarden arrived in King's Landing before Daenerys attacked, but Cersei's most valuable army is nearly gone. Her failure could affect the Iron Bank's decision to support her in the war against Daenerys. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Jack Ma has been dethroned as China's richest man — meet the man who replaced him

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Pony Ma Forbes

China has a new richest man.

Ma Huateng, also known as Pony, surpassed Alibaba's Jack Ma to become the country's richest man on Monday, according to Forbes' billionaires list.

Pony Ma is the founder and CEO of internet company Tencent, which operates the super-popular WeChat app.

He shot up the rankings after his company's stock price jumped 3%, leaving Jack Ma in 20th place.

He is now the top-ranking Chinese citizen on the rich list, and one of the few non-Americans in the top 20.

Take a look at the slides below to learn more about Ma and Tencent.

This is 45-year-old Ma Huateng. He's the founder and CEO of Tencent, China's largest internet portal.

Tencent is the company behind WeChat, a multi-purpose app which is like a mixture of WhatsApp, Google News, Uber, and Deliveroo. It has around a billion users.

Ma is currently the company's largest individual stakeholder, with a 8.71% interest in the company, Quartz reported.



Ma's nickname is Pony — apparently part of a network of puns about horses.

Although his given name is Huateng, Ma also goes by Pony — a nickname likely chosen for its English meaning.

Pony and Tencent’s names, as well as Ma’s own surname, are all horse references. "Ma" means horse in Chinese, while Tencent’s Chinese name, teng xin, stands for "an era of messaging in the speed of 10,000 horses running."



Tencent had humble beginnings. Ma founded the company in 1998, aged 26, and its first product was a knockoff.

Tencent's first product was an adaptation of Israeli instant messaging ICQ for the Chinese market, according to The Economist.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The 5 ways to kill a dragon in ‘Game of Thrones’

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game of ThronesWarning: major spoilers for season seven of "Game of Thrones" lie ahead, including some speculation from the "A Song of Ice and Fire" books. Read at your own risk. 

One of the biggest threats to Cersei right now is Daenerys Targaryen, who has a large army and three dragons. Dragons!

Unfortunately for Cersei, there's not much known about how to kill the magical, violent, and long-dead creatures.

But in episode two of season seven, Qyburn (who seems to serve every position on the Queen's council now), shows Cersei an invention that might work. 

That weapon is put into action in episode four, "The Spoils of War." Bronn, fighting for the Lannisters, shoots Drogon with it. Although the dragon falls, he does not die. Will Qyburn's weapon eventually kill one of the dragons if aimed properly?

Although there's no proven and concrete way to kill a dragon, here are some of the ways that dragons could be killed, based on knowledge from the books and the show. 

SEE ALSO: All the biggest moments from this week's 'Game of Thrones'

Spears (with a lot of force)

In season seven, episode two ("Stormborn"), Qyburn shows Cersei a secret weapon he's developed that could kill Daenerys Targaryen's dragons. Upon hearing that Dany's dragons were wounded in Meereen by spears, he created a giant ballistae that shoots giant spears. He has Cersei test it out on the skull of Balerion the Black Dread. The spear goes through Balerion's skull, and Cersei has a look of satisfaction that rivals her look as she watched the Sept of Baelor collapse. 

Could it work? Maybe. Possibly. In season seven episode four, "The Spoils of War," Bronn hits Drogon with the weapon. Drogon falls, but he doesn't die, and we're not sure how badly he's wounded. In the story ofUrrax and Serwyn of the Mirror Shield from the books, Serwyn kills the dragon Urrax with a spear through the eye. The spear Cersei shot at Balerion's skull was through the eye. Meraxes, one of the great dragons used by Aegon the Conqueror to conquer Westeros (his the second largest dragon), was killed by an iron bolt to the eye from a scorpion, a weapon similar to what Qyburn made. 

Qyburn's device could work on Dany's dragons, but they'll have to be really careful, and aim well. Unlike dragon skulls, alive dragons move, fly, and breathe fire. And even the fall of a dragon can kill those near it. 

 



Other dragons

The Dance of the Dragons was a civil war between two Targaryens fighting for the Iron Throne, about 170 years before the events of "Game of Thrones." It was the only major war that had dragons fighting on both sides. Most dragons were killed during the war, killing each other.

After Aegon III (who hated dragons) defeated his half-sister, Rhaenyra, he put the remaining dragons in chains. They went extinct within a few years. 

Could it work?It's possible, if only someone can find a way to pit Dany's dragons against each other . . .



Dragonbinder

Dragonbinder, also known as the hellhorn, is a large dragon horn that is supposed to control dragons. In the books, Euron Greyjoy has Dragonbinder.  It is said that anyone who blows the horn will die but any dragons that hear it will obey the horn's master. Valyrian glyphs on the horn read, "I am Dragonbinder ... No mortal man should sound me and live ... Blood for fire, fire for blood." 

Could it work?If the writers introduce Dragonbinder to the series, it could help someone make Dany's dragons turn on each other. And that's likely considering how they've made Euron an influential character and ally to Cersei in season seven. Not sure how a dead person can tell dragons what to do, so we'll see. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

New drone footage shows how massive Tesla's Gigafactory is (TSLA)

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tesla gigafactory

There's a lot riding on Tesla's massive battery plant in Sparks, Nevada.

Tesla's Gigafactory is producing battery cells for the company's line of vehicles, which now includes the newly-released Model 3. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has said the plant will reduce the price of batteries by 30% once its operational, which will help cut costs for its vehicles down the line.

Scroll down for a closer look at Tesla's massive Gigafactory:

SEE ALSO: Tesla has said little about its solar roof since it began taking orders — here's what we do know

FOLLOW US: on Facebook for more car and transportation content!

This is the most recent shot of Tesla's Gigafactory, which is surrounded by mountains in Sparks, Nevada. The Gigafactory will stretch 5.5 million square feet.



The Gigafactory is already producing batteries while construction is ongoing and is slated to reach full capacity by 2018.



A lot of work has been done on the Gigafactory since December. At the time, much of the building was exposed and the roof was not complete.



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Bitcoin just hit an all-time high — here's how you buy and sell it

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RTS2X0L

Bitcoin hit a record high of $3,402 on Monday.

The cryptocurrency's value is surging a week after bitcoin split into two. While bitcoin has hit new heights, bitcoin cash, or bitcash, has been tumbling.

"All that money that seemingly came out of thin air to pump up the value of Bitcash is now being fed right into Bitcoin," Mati Greenspan, an analyst at trading platform eToro, told Business Insider's Oscar Williams-Grut. "Bitcash has fallen from its peak of $12 billion all the way down below $4 billion this morning."

Given the currency's covert nature, the average person still may not understand how buying and selling actually works. Using the app Coinbase, which lets anyone trade bitcoins for a small fee, we decided to find out.

A brief warning: If you're going to do this, tell your bank you're about to buy bitcoin. More on that later.

SEE ALSO: Bitcoin is trying to make a comeback

This is what the Coinbase app looks like on an iPhone.



When you first open the app, you're presented with the latest price of bitcoin and its change within a certain period. You can see in the chart below how wild the latest moves have been. (We bought the bitcoin in early January, when it was valued much lower.)



I happen to be one of the many who have never traded bitcoin before. There's a certain level of wariness in buying into the cryptocurrency world.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The best laptops you can buy

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

laptops 4x3

The Insider Pick:

  • If you’re looking for the best laptop out there, there are a ton of different choices. However, there's none better than the HP Spectre x360 13t, which boasts excellent specs, a gorgeous screen, and a convertible design.

The Back to School season is upon us, which means it's time for many students to start looking into buying a new computer for their studies. A great laptop is essential when it comes to studying and working — and one that doesn’t work well can bring plenty of unwanted distractions.

If you’re looking for a new laptop, there are quite a few things to consider. After all, laptops are pretty complex machines. Here are a few key terms and features to keep in mind when you’re looking for a laptop:

  • Operating system: While you will want to consider hard specs, the way that you interact with your laptop is through the operating system. You’re probably familiar with Windows, which is by far the most popular computer operating system, but there’s also Apple’s macOS, which is also very capable. Last but not least is Chrome OS, which is best for those who want a simple, affordable, no-fuss laptop for web browsing and other basic tasks.
  • Specs: Computers vary widely in terms of processing power and other specifications. The processor and RAM will essentially dictate how fast your computer is, while the storage will determine how many files you can store on the computer. The screen resolution is another important spec, and you'll probably want at least a Full HD, 1080p resolution. Battery life should be at least eight to ten hours.
  • Size: Another thing you’ll want to think about is how big the computer is. A smaller laptop will ultimately be more portable, but a larger one will have a larger display, which is better for watching movies and video production. Common sizes for laptops are 13 inches and 15 inches, though 11 inches and 17 inches also appear every now and then.

Of course, apart from all these things, you’ll want to think about price. Although the very best laptops will cost you $1,000 or more, we’ve tried to offer a range of different laptops in different price ranges in this guide. You can also check out the best Chromebooks and the best budget laptops if money is tight.

Although the HP Spectre x360 13t is our top pick, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the HP Pavilion x360, the Huawei MateBook X, the Apple MacBook Pro 13 and 15,the Asus Chromebook Flip C302A, the Dell Chromebook 11, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pro, and the Dell Inspiron 15 5000

SEE ALSO: The best budget laptops you can buy

The best laptop overall

Why you'll love it: The HP Spectre x360 13t is well-designed, high-powered, and versatile thanks to its convertible design.

HP has been a top company in the computer industry for some time now, and for good reason. The company has long offered computers that aren’t just high-powered and extremely capable, but that also come at a great price. The HP Spectre x360 13t is no exception to that rule. In fact, it has earned itself a top spot on our best laptops list.

The HP Spectre x360 13t comes in a few different variants, and the one we’re looking at is decked out with Intel’s latest 7th-generation i7 chip, a nice 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of solid-state storage. Beyond the hard specs, though, this computer has a lot more to offer. Like, for example, its 1,920 x 1,080-pixel touch-enabled display.

The laptop is convertible, too – that’s to say, you can use it in laptop mode, or you can flip the keyboard around to use it in tablet mode – which is great for watching Netflix in bed or drawing with the included stylus. It’s a perfect size for that, too, coming in at only 0.55 inches thick.

As far as ports go, the HP Spectre x360 13t comes equipped with two USB 3.1 Type-C ports, as well as a USB 3.1 Type-A port. And, you’ll get a headphone/microphone port. It also has built-in Bang & Olufsen quad speakers, so if you’re not using the headphone jack, the sound should still be relatively good.

Not everything is perfect though. While there are a good amount of USB ports, there’s no SD card slot or other ports, so you’ll need adapters if you have any peripherals that use ports other than USB. And, the computer isn’t necessarily cheap, either. It comes at $1,568.88 on Amazon, though you can get less high-powered versions for less.

Expert reviewers give this laptop high praise, including PCMag, Laptop Mag, and CNET.

Pros: High-powered, convertible, plenty of USB ports, touch display

Cons: Expensive, no SD card slot

Buy the HP Spectre x360 13-AC013DX 2-in-1 (13.3-inch, Core i7, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Certified Refurbished) on Amazon for $859.95

Buy the HP Spectre x360 13 Convertible Laptop (13.3-inch, Core i7, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) on Amazon for $949.99

Buy the HP Spectre x360 13-AC033DX 2-in-1 (13.3-inch 4K, Core i7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Certified Refurbished) on Amazon for $1,199.00

Buy the HP Spectre x360 13t (13.3-inch, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Core i7) on Amazon for $1,549.99

Buy the HP Spectre x360 - 13t Touch Stylus (13.3-inch, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Core i7) on Amazon for $1,799.99



The best laptop for less than $500

Why you'll love it: If you’re looking for a great computer on a budget, then the HP Pavilion x360 is for you, thanks to its decent specs and two-in-one form factor.

The laptops in this guide are all excellent machines, but they all have something in common— they’re expensive. Thankfully, you don’t necessarily have to spend thousands of dollars to get a great computer. In fact, we’ve written a whole guide about the best laptops under $500. The winner? The HP Pavilion x360.

The Pavilion x360 is more of a two-in-one than a laptop, so you can use it as a tablet or as a laptop, which is great for those looking for a versatile machine. On top of that, the computer boasts an Intel Core i3-6100U, which is coupled with 6GB of RAM. You’ll also get a 500GB hard drive.

When it comes to ports, the HP Pavilion x360 has two USB 3.0 ports, one USB 2.0 port, one headphone jack, and an HDMI port so there are plenty of ports for almost all situations. There are plenty of other reviewers who like the HP Pavilion x360, too. Laptop Mag gave it 4/5 stars, and buyers give it 4.1/5 stars on Amazon.  

The downsides? Well, it would be nice to have a solid-state drive rather than a hard disk drive, and the display isn’t all that great, but for less than $500, it's a great deal.

Pros: Great price, decent specs, plenty of ports

Cons: Hard disk drive, lackluster display

Buy the HP Pavilion x360 on Amazon for $461.62



The best lightweight laptop

Why you'll love it: The Huawei MateBook X is super slim and lightweight, so you can carry it with you all day without breaking your back.

Huawei is new to laptops, but its new lineup of MateBooks is impressive. Of the three new models, the most portable, powerful, and attractive one is the MateBook X. At first glance, you'll think it's a MacBook because it is so slim and gorgeous in gold or dark gray.

If you want a portable laptop that won't weigh you down, the MateBook X delivers. It weighs just 2.3 pounds and measures 12.5mm thick. Huawei brags that it's the size of a magazine, and it truly is. The 2K screen has a resolution of 2,160 x 1,1440 pixels and a 4.4mm bezel to give you a gorgeous 13-inch screen that's great for watching Netflix, or you know, doing actual work.

You can get the MateBook with your choice of 7th Generation Intel processors, including Core i5 or Core i7. Both models have 8GB of RAM, but the Core i7 version gets 512GB of storage to the Core i5's 256GB of storage. The Core i5 version should be more than enough for most people, and you'll save $200 if you opt for it over the Core i7 MateBook X.

Rounding out the specs are a Dolby Atmos Sound System, a slick fingerprint sensor, and Windows 10 Home. We tested the MateBook X and came away impressed by the slick design, slim build, gorgeous screen, and fast fingerprint sensor. Our favorite thing about it is undoubtedly its portability. When you have to carry your laptop to work or school every day, this is exactly what you want: a laptop that weighs just 2.3 pounds and takes up very little space in your bag.

The only tangible downsides to the MateBook X— besides its high price tag — is its lack of ports. It only has two USB-C ports: one for charging and the other for your peripherals. That means you need a dongle or a dock to connect to anything that's not USB-C. Luckily, Huawei remedies that problem with an included Mate Dock 2, which includes a USB-A port, USB-C port, HDMI port, and VGA port.

Expert reviewers agree that the MateBook X is a great buy for those who prioritize style and portability, including Digital Trends, TechRadar, The Guardian, and Laptop Mag.

Pros: Super slim and lightweight, powerful, attractive display, portable, good speakers

Cons: Expensive, few ports

Buy the Huawei MateBook X on Amazon for $1,099.99 (Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage) or $1,299.99 (Core i7, 8GB RAM, 512GB storage)



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12 of the most beautiful prisons around the world

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villa sbertoli mental hospital

Not all prisons are colorless concrete boxes.

Around the world, from Denmark to England to India, there are high-security facilities that feature stunning architecture and interior design.

Many of the most beautiful prisons are centuries-old, but some are more modern and feature sleek, simple designs.

Here is a sampling.

SEE ALSO: Abandoned Dutch prisons are being used to house refugees — here's what they're like inside

Austria's Justice Center was designed by Joseph Hohensinn to let in ample light. There are two inscriptions by the entrance, each affirming inmates' right to dignity and humanity.



Norway's Halden Prison lets inmates cook, play video games, shoot hoops, and sleep on plush beds. Rooms look more like college dorms than cells. The idea is to treat convicts like people, so they will re-enter society in a healthy mindset.



Villa Sbertoli, an Italian prison and mental hospital, was built in the 18th century and featured vaulted ceilings, interior balconies, and colorful frescoes.



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Amazing images of San Francisco before it was a city

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san francisco sand dunes 2

Before San Francisco was a bustling tech hub, before it was the center of the hippie universe, and before it became known for its lush hills, much of the area was covered in sand dunes.

Golden Gate Park, the 1,000-acre green space south of the famous bridge that turns 80 years old this year, is located on what was once the largest sand dune ecosystem in the western hemisphere. These dunes spanned seven miles, essentially the entire width of modern-day San Francisco.

About two square miles of dunes still exist today, but the Bay Area has evolved a great deal since then.

Take a look at the maps, paintings, and historical photographs that show the journey of San Francisco.

SEE ALSO: Amazing images of New York City before it was a city

San Francisco's first residents, members of the Yelamu tribe, began inhabiting the area around 3000 BC. Approximately 150 to 300 people lived in the boundaries of modern-day San Francisco, though they also roamed to neighboring sites.

Source: San Francisco Chronicle



A group of Spanish explorers, led by Don Gaspar de Portolà, arrived there in 1769. This was the first documented European visit to the San Francisco Bay.



At the time, sand dunes stretched for about seven miles from east to west.

Source: San Francisco Department of the Environment



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Everything we know about Google's upcoming smartphone, the Pixel 2 (GOOG, GOOGL)

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pixel 2 android police

Google just launched its back-to-school promotion for the original Pixel smartphones, and you can get a pretty decent discount on the original price of Google's first two Pixel phones.

While that's a great deal, you might want to hold off — we could be expecting the Pixel's successor within the next few months. If you want the latest and greatest at all times, you may want to wait a little while, especially if Google's Pixel discounts aren't as steep as you hoped.

Overall, it looks like we can expect some decent improvements in the Pixel 2 over the original Pixel, including in its camera and design. We're also expecting Google to fill some gaps in features, like water resistance, in the Pixel 2.

There's also perhaps some bad news, at least for some. It's looking more and more like the Pixel 2 smartphones won't come with a headphone jack.

Check out everything we know about Google's new Pixel 2 smartphones:

SEE ALSO: The 20 best smartphones in the world

There will be two new Pixel models.

At first, it was rumored that Google had two new Pixel models with the code names Muskie and Walleye. Most recently, however, it appears Google has canceled Muskie, which was supposed to be the larger of the two devices, and replaced it with an even larger model with the code name Taimen, according to Android Police.



The larger model will have a huge screen.

According to XDA, a mobile-developer website, the larger Pixel model will have a 5.99-inch display with a 1440p (2K) resolution.



The larger model will be made by LG.

The website 9to5Google found a bug report that suggested LG would manufacture Google's larger Pixel 2 model.



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7 things you should never do while traveling

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Tourist taking selfie

These days, travel can be fraught with ethical and moral decisions. We all want to see the world, but we don't want to leave a negative impact on the places, people, and animals we encounter during our travels. And with climate change, mass extinction, and a global refugee crisis generating daily headlines, making ethical travel choices can feel like a slippery slope. But the good news is that the world is still a very beautiful place and, arguably, easier to explore than ever. Here are some guidelines that individual travelers can keep in mind to lessen their footprint and cause less harm. Read on for seven things you shouldn't do while traveling. 

1. Don't feed the wildlife.

Yes, sharing your breakfast with a mostly-tame monkey in Bali or a raccoon at your campsite in Yellowstone will likely make for an adorable Instagram picture, but you definitely should not feed any animals you encounter on the road. For one thing, feeding animals encourages them to get used to humans and depend on us for food, but animals are still animals, and if they act erratically or violently they could be lethally terminated. Another important factor to consider is that food fit for human consumption isn't always the healthiest choice for wildlife. If you encounter a hotel or tour guide who puts out treats to attract animals and delight tourists, speak up. In many states and countries, it's illegal to feed wildlife, and fines can be enforced.



2. Don't take photos of people without permission.

Imagine if you were sitting at your desk, let's say...blogging, and a tourist with a Nikon stuck a wide-angle lens in your face. You would not be thrilled. The same goes for any person (especially children) you may encounter while traveling. Just because a woman selling fruit at the market would make a beautiful subject, doesn't mean she's keen on being your model. So what can you do if you want to take someone's photo? Put the camera down and talk to them. Then politely ask for their permission for a photo and be respectful if they decline. Some cultures consider photography taboo. Islamic countries do not allow photographs of religious artifacts or the faces of Islamic women. Permission is required to photograph mosques in Morocco, and many Asian countries consider it rude to photograph the bottom of a person's foot. Before you take off your lens cap, be aware of where you are and don't assume everyone and everything is available to photograph. 



3. Don't litter.

It should go without saying, but we're going to say it anyway. Don't throw your trash on the ground or in the ocean, even if you see locals or other tourists doing it. Tossing your garbage on the ground is disrespectful and harmful to the environment. Developing countries often don't have reliable trash pickup or recycling centers, so minimizing the amount of waste you produce is often key. One good prevention technique is to travel with a refillable water bottle (instead of buying disposable plastic water bottles) and a cloth tote bag (instead of accepting plastic bags at markets and stores). Campsites, national parks, and hiking trails often have strict laws about carrying out all accumulated garbage and properly disposing of it. 



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These 17 stocks have the highest exposure to emerging markets

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Shanghai China

HSBC released its list of US stocks with the highest exposure to emerging markets.

The companies on the list have an average exposure of 65% of total revenues and the entire list has outperformed the broader US market by 20%. Much of that performance is driven by the fact that many of these stocks are from the IT sector.

The list includes many semiconductor companies such as Texas Instruments and Qualcomm, along with companies from the consumer services, utilities, and software sectors.

Here is HSBC's US stocks with the highest exposure to emerging markets.

Las Vegas Sands

Ticker:LVS

Industry Group: Consumer services

Emerging Market %: 58

Domestic Market %: 42

Miscellaneous %: 0

Source: MSCI, Thomson Reuters Datastream, HSBC



Philip Morris International

Ticker:PM

Industry Group: Food, beverage, and tobacco

Emerging Market %: 59

Domestic Market %: 31

Miscellaneous %: 11

Source: MSCI, Thomson Reuters Datastream, HSBC



Microchip Technology Inc.

Ticker:MCHP

Industry Group: Semiconductors and semiconductor equipment

Emerging Market %: 59

Domestic Market %: 41

Miscellaneous %: 0

Source: MSCI, Thomson Reuters Datastream, HSBC



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The 39 best ways to burn the most calories in an hour

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SoulCycle spinning cycling

There are a lot of great reasons to exercise. But one of the most basic goals is to burn calories.

So what's the best way to do that?

Really, you should pick something you like enough to do regularly over time. But if you are deciding between a few different activities, you could pick the one that burns the most energy.

The Mayo Clinic, drawing on research published by the National Institutes of Health, ranks 36 popular forms of exercise based on their caloric impacts. We've ordered them from least to most intense, and listed the approximate calories burned in an hour for a 160- and a 200-pound person (in that order). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American women weigh 168.5 pounds on average, compared with 195.7 pounds for the average American man.

We also calculated the values for several other sports, including soccer, rock climbing, and kayaking, based on NIH data, and included stats for a few other popular activities as well.

It's worth noting, though, that all of these activities can be conducted at varying intensities, which means exact figures will vary based on energy input, body type, gender, age, and other factors. Additionally, exercise on its own doesn't do much to make you lose weight. If you want to slim down, we suggest talking to a doctor about what a healthy weight is for you and cutting down on sugar and large portions.

SEE ALSO: Your kitchen sponge is even grosser than you thought — here's how often you should replace it

DON'T MISS: 8 surprising ways exercise affects your brain

39. Hatha yoga: 183 calories/hour | 228 calories/hour

Hatha yoga, a version of the practice centered on specific poses and mental exercises, sits at the bottom of this list, burning an average of about 183 calories an hour in a 160-pound person.



38. A slow walk (2 mph): 204 calories/hour | 255 calories/hour



35. Bowling: 219 calories/hour | 273 calories/hour

Bowling can help you burn a few hundred calories an hour, but the alley snacks may counteract that.



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The best college supplies and dorm room essentials

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

dorm room 4x3

The Insider Pick:

  • Sending your kid off to college is nerve wracking. The best you can do is impart a few life lessons and outfit your kid's dorm room with all the essentials. We've rounded up everything your kid needs for their dorm room from bedding and decor to tech and school supplies.

Chances are your college kid hasn't lived on their own — ever. The thought of sending your kid off to fend for themselves against dirty laundry, piles of dishes, and the other inconveniences of adulthood probably sounds crazy to you, but they've got to learn somehow.

The college dorm is a good training ground for new adults, assuming they've got all the essentials.  We've rounded up everything your college kid needs to have in their dorm room, including everything for their bed, bathroom, kitchen, and more.

Before we get into our picks, here are some tips from someone was a college freshman not so long ago:

  • Know your dorm: How many roommates will you have? How much space is there? Do you even have a kitchen? Adjust accordingly.
  • Talk to your roommates: If you talk to your roommate(s) before you shop, you can coordinate and figure out who's bringing what. My first roommates brought a mini fridge, a microwave, and a TV. All I brought was a suitcase and a duffle bag. It was a pretty good deal.
  • Don't go overboard: Trust me, you don't need all those random things you think you'll need. The more stuff you buy, the more you have to carry back and forth for the next four years.

Living in a dorm is a crazy experience, but so long as you have the essentials, you'll be just fine. Read on to find our top picks for every dorm essential you can imagine. You can click on any category below to jump to a topic.

CLICK HERE: Bedroom | Bathroom | Kitchen | Small Appliances | Cleaning & Organization | Decor | Tech | School Supplies | Backpacks & Lunch Boxes | More Back to School Content

SEE ALSO: 14 ways to make your dorm room more comfortable

DON'T MISS: These 8 stores are the best places to go dorm room shopping

Bedroom: Sheets, Comforter, Pillow, Ear Plugs, Eye Mask

Sheets: The Twin XL Mellanni Microfiber Sheet Set feels soft, comes in lots of colors, and doesn't cost much.

The Mellanni Microfiber sheets are made from 100 percent polyester woven into an exceptionally fine thread to be super-soft, lightweight, and wrinkle and stain-resistant. These sheets are also resistant to dust mites and shouldn't shrink on you. You can choose from tons of different colors to suit your style. These are our top pick for budget sheets because they are soft, attractive, and well priced. We recommend you buy two sets so that you have something to put on your bed when laundry day arrives. If you want an upgrade, get these amazing all-cotton Brooklinen sheets.

Pros: Affordable, lots of color options, comes in Twin XL size

Cons: Not as breathable as cotton

Buy the Twin XL Mellanni Microfiber Sheet Set on Amazon for $29.70

Buy the Twin XL Luxe Sheet Collection on Brooklinen.com for $129.00

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Comforter: The LinenSpa All-Season Down Alternative comforter is cozy and affordable.

The LinenSpa All-Season Down Alternative comforter is our pick for the best affordable comforter because it is warm, comes in different colors, and doesn't cost as much as down-filled comforters. If you get the colorful versions, you won't even need a duvet cover, though you may want one because it'll be easier to clean. Check out our favorite duvet covers here.

Pros: Warm, comes in a few different colors, affordable

Cons: Not filled with down

Buy the LinenSpa All-Season Down Alternative comforter on Amazon for $26.99 and up

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Pillow: The Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow is great for any sleeping position.

The Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow is not cheap, but it is the very best pillow you can buy — period. It's our top pick for the best pillow overall because it's adjustable, suits all kinds of sleeping styles, and it's relatively affordable. The shredded memory foam is very comfortable, and you can remove some to make it less firm if you want. This pillow will last you way beyond college.

Pros: Incredibly comfortable, long lasting, adjustable

Cons: More expensive than budget pillows

Buy the Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow on Amazon for $49.99

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Mattress Pad: The Pinzon Hypoallergenic Overfilled Microplush Mattress Topper will turn that awful college bed into a plush mattress

College beds are horrible. If you don't put a mattress topper down, you'll never sleep. Luckily, you can get a great one that doesn't look like an egg carton for a reasonable price. The Pinzon Hypoallergenic Overfilled Microplush Mattress Topper is our top budget pick for a mattress topper because it adds softness and comfort to any mattress without breaking the bank.

Pros: Comfortable, softens mattresses, affordable

Cons: Not as soft as memory foam

Buy the Twin XL Pinzon Hypoallergenic Overfilled Microplush Mattress Topper on Amazon for $34.99

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Eyemask: The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask will block out your roommate's light so you can sleep.

The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask is among the things I should have bought for college. The eye mask will block out your roommate's light during their 2 a.m. study cramming session and it'll also block out other unwanted sights (co-ed dorms, am I right?). The Sweethome says this mask is as soft and effective as they come, and it's not too pricey.

Pros: Blocks out light well, comfortable, affordable

Cons: Not as cheap as some

Buy Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask on Amazon for $11.95 (originally $18.95)

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Ear Plugs: The Mack's Ear Care Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs block out noise so you can sleep.

Living with roommates is rough — especially when they want to party and you need to sleep. You'll want to scream in frustration at least once over the next four years, so save yourself and just buy these ear plugs. The Mack's Ear Care Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs come highly recommended.

Pros: Block out sound, comfortable, affordable

Cons: None

Buy Mack's Ear Care Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs on Amazon for $8.99 (originally $10.79)



Bathroom: Towel, Mirror, Shower Caddy, Makeup Organizer, Shower Shoes

Towels: The Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Bath Towel is soft, dries fast, and doesn't cost too much.

The Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Bath Towel is made from 100% micro-cotton that's Oeko-Tex certified to contain no harmful substances. It comes in a dozen different colors, and it's sure to dry you off fast. The cotton is soft and durable, too.

Pros: Soft, all cotton, dries fast, affordable

Cons: None

Buy the Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Bath Towels from Target for $12.99

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Shower Caddy: The InterDesign Orbz Shower Tote Holder and Organizer holds all your toiletries as you troop to the communal showers or shared bathroom.

The InterDesign Orbz Shower Tote Holder and Organizer keeps all your shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and so on in place so you can carry it along with you into the communal showers or shared bathroom. It's important to have one of these and to remove it from the shared bathroom (if you have one) when you're done each time so that you're never without your toothbrush in case your roommate stays in the shower for ten years.

Pros: Dividers keep products in place, nice handles, easy to carry, multiple sizes

Cons: A tad pricey

Buy the InterDesign Orbz - Shower Tote Holder and Organizer on Amazon for $10.49 (originally $14.99)

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Shower/House Shoes: The OOFOS OOriginal Unisex Thong Sandals are comfortable shower and house shoes.

The OOFOS OOriginal Unisex Thong Sandals are one of my favorite things. These Korean sandals are so soft and comfortable it feels like you're walking on a cloud. They're great as house shoes to give your feet support and they're even better shower shoes to protect your feet from fungus (ewwww). Sure, they're expensive, but they'll last for the whole four years and then some.

Pros: So comfortable, fun colors, dry fast, last long

Cons: Expensive

Buy OOFOS OOriginal Unisex Thong Sandals on Amazon for $44.95

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Makeup Organizer: The Jerrybox 360 Degree Rotation Adjustable Multi-Function Cosmetic Storage Box holds all your makeup.

Jerrybox makes our favorite makeup organizer. It's got tons of adjustable compartments for every cosmetic you own, it rotates so you can see it all, and it'll keep you in order. The Jerrybox isn't too expensive, either, and you can get it in black or white.

Pros: Organizes your makeup, lots of space, adjustable, rotates

Cons: Not portable

Buy the Jerrybox 360 Degree Rotation Adjustable Multi-Function Cosmetic Storage Box on Amazon for $20.99 (originally $39.99)

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Makeup Mirror: The Conair Oval Shaped Double-Sided Lighted Makeup Mirror will help you do your makeup in peace outside of the bathroom.

The Conair Oval Shaped Double-Sided Lighted Makeup Mirror makes it easy to walk out the door looking #flawless. It's not super expensive, it lights up your face to ensure you don't look orange, and it'll keep you out of the bathroom so your roommate doesn't complain about your hour-long makeup routine.

Pros: Lights up, looks good, affordable

Cons: Not a high-end one

Buy the Conair Oval Shaped Double-Sided Lighted Makeup Mirror on Amazon for $25.99 (originally $34.99)



Kitchen: Glasses, Flatware, Mugs, Dishes, Cookware

Dishes: The Corelle Livingware 12 Piece Dinnerware Set won't break and it looks classy.

The Corelle Livingware 12 Piece Dinnerware Set is just perfect for college kids. It's hard to break, it's affordable, and it should last beyond the four years it takes to finish your degree. You get four big dinner plates, four small plates, and four bowls in the set, so you can have a dinner with friends. The big plates measure 10-1/4 inches, the smaller ones measure 6-3/4 inches, and the bowls hold 18 ounces of liquid. The entire set is made from Corelle's break and chip resistant glass with a three-year replacement warranty. Corelle makes everything in America, too, which is neat.

Pros: Durable, affordable, 12-piece set serves four, three-year warranty

Cons: None

Buy the Corelle Livingware 12 Piece Dinnerware Set on Amazon for $30

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Glasses: The Libbey Diamond Swirl 12-Piece Glassware Set will have you drinking orange juice in style.

Libbey makes great glasses for drinking all kinds of beverages. These classic drinking glasses are perfect for everything from orange juice to soda. They're fairly light, comfortable to hold, and they look pretty. Just don't drop them or let your klutzy friend hold one during a party.

Pros: Beautiful glasses, 12 in a set, lightweight, 16 ounces

Cons: Fragile

Buy the Libbey Diamond Swirl 12-Piece Glassware Set, 16-Ounce, Clear, on Amazon for $19.94

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Mugs: The Unemployed Philosopher's Guild makes the kind of mugs that you'll be proud to bring to college.

Who wants a set of matching mugs in college? I certainly didn't. My collection was totally mismatched, so I always knew which mugs were mine. One of my first picks was a mug from the Unemployed Philosopher's Guild. I got the Shakespearean Insults one, in case you're curious. These snarky, intellectual mugs are perfect for college. You can even pick one that matches your major.

Pros: Hilarious mugs, novelty subjects, unique designs, well made

Cons: Pricey

Buy any mug by the Unemployed Philosopher's Guild on Amazon for $13.95 and up (price varies based on design)

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Travel Mug: The Contigo Autoseal West Loop won't spill and it keeps your coffee hot.

After that all nighter, you're going to need a vat of coffee. Take it with you in the Contigo Autoseal West Loop as you stumble to class. It's our favorite travel mug overall because it keeps drinks hot for hours and never spills. You can get it in tons of fun colors, too.

Pros: Keeps drinsk hot, never spills, easy to clean, many color choices

Cons: A bit pricey

Buy the Contigo Autoseal West Loop travel mug on Amazon for $15.03 and up (price varies by color)

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Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth keeps water ice cold for hours.

Staying hydrated is really important, so you need a great water bottle. The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth is our top water bottle pick overall, because it keeps drinks icy cold for hours, is easy to clean, and comes in tons of colors. You don't have to worry about breaking it, either.

Pros: Easy to clean, keeps drinks cold, comes in many colors

Cons: A bit pricey

Buy the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth water bottle for $39.95

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Flatware: The Threshold Jovita 20 Piece Flatware Set is simple and attractive.

Target's Threshold Jovita Flatware Set comes with 20 pieces, so you'll have forks, spoons, and knives for four people. It's a nice simple set that ought to last you for years. Each utensil is made out of stainless steel. Buyers say they're happy with the set, the pieces are comfortable to hold, and they're well priced.

Pros: 20 pieces, affordable, stainless steel, enough for four people

Cons: Not fancy, simple design

Buy the Threshold Jovita 20 Piece Flatware Set on Target for $19.00

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Cookware Set: The T-fal Simply Cook Nonstick C518SC Dishwasher Safe Cookware 12 Pc Set has everything you need to cook at home.

T-fal's cookware set comes with everything you need to prepare a meal. You get two pans, three pots, the corresponding lids, and some cooking utensils like a spatula, ladle, slotted spoon, and spoon. The pots and pans are non-stick and should last you at least the four years in college. Once you graduate and get a job, you can contemplate a fancier, high-quality set.

Pros: Comes with 12 pieces, has utensils, non-stick pots and pans, affordable

Cons: Not as high-end as pricier alternatives

Buy the T-fal Simply Cook Nonstick C518SC Dishwasher Safe Cookware 12 Pc Set at Target for $47.99 (originally $59.99)



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