One of President Donald Trump's most trusted lawyers reportedly sent $130,000 in hush money to a porn star just weeks before the 2016 presidential election to keep her silent about an alleged 2006 sexual encounter she had with the then-Republican presidential nominee.

Stephanie Clifford, who also goes by the stage name "Stormy Daniels," met Trump at a July 2006 celebrity golf tournament at Lake Tahoe. In an interview with InTouch magazine that was published Friday, she revealed more details of the encounter.

Here's what you should know about her:

SEE ALSO: Trump's lawyer reportedly paid a porn star $130,000 just before the election to keep her quiet about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump

Daniels was born and raised in Louisiana.

She started stripping as a teenager and soon entered the porn business.

In 2002, she became the lead actress in a film for Wicked Pictures, a porn movie studio based in California.

HBO has given us the gift of some of the greatest TV shows of all time — like "Curb Your Enthusiasm,""The Wire," and "Game of Thrones"— throughout its history of original programming.

But HBO has also released a lot of prestige shows that critics love, but normal people don't. And the other way around.

When audiences and critics agree, however, you know the show is definitely worth your time. This is especially relevant now that old shows are available to binge-watch on HBO Now or HBO Go.

So which shows do both groups agree on? There's "Game of Thrones," of course, but there are also 28 more that make the cut.

We ranked these universally beloved HBO shows according to their scores on Rotten Tomatoes, which aggregates critic reviews and audience scores and assigns each show a score. We chose shows with a combined score average of over 80 percent, then ranked them by those averages (with audience score breaking any ties). 

Here are all the HBO shows that critics and audiences agree on, according to their scores on Rotten Tomatoes:

(Note: We left off animated, children's, documentary/reality, and foreign programming, as well as miniseries, with a few notable exceptions.)

SEE ALSO: Amazon just canceled 3 shows at once: 'Jean-Claude Van Johnson,' 'One Mississippi,' and 'I Love Dick' — here are the others it has dropped

29. "Big Love" (2006-11), five seasons

Critic score: 85%

Audience score: 77%

Average: 81%

"A very original, extremely well-acted and complexly written drama."— SFGate

28. "The Young Pope" (2017), one-season miniseries

Critic score: 78%

Audience score: 85%

Average: 81.5%

"'The Young Pope' is TV's equivalent of a dorm-room poster of Bob Marley blowing smoke or the Lenny Bruce mugshot: a depleted symbol of a radical reaction to society that finally most clearly represents the status quo."— Collider

27. "Vice Principals" (2016-2017), two seasons

Critic score: 82%

Audience score: 85%

Average: 83.5%

"The two leads remain horribly entertaining as small men with huge chips on their shoulders."— Entertainment Weekly

Drew Houston is on top of the world.

His company, Dropbox, is a sprawling enterprise with more than a thousand employees. The cloud storage giant now provides services to more than 500 million people and generates a billion dollars in annual revenue. 

Better yet for Houston, it could soon go public. Earlier this month, Dropbox quietly filed the paperwork for its initial public offering, becoming the first major company in 2018 to set those wheels in motion.

But things weren't always easy for Houston or his company. He struggled with his initial entrepreneurial venture and faced several obstacles getting Dropbox off the ground. Dropbox started with just two people, and it's taken 10 years to get to the point it's at now.

But Houston hung in there. Despite multiple opportunities to sell his company in its early stages — including a bid from Steve Jobs in 2009 — he held on.

Here's a rundown of Houston's journey from a precocious tech-loving kid to the CEO of a billion-dollar enterprise:

Houston had his eye on tech from an early age.

As he confirmed to Business Insider in an interview last year, Houston started programming when he was as young as five years old. He began working on ideas for startups when he was only a teenager.

His first company was an SAT prep company he started while in college.

Before his junior year at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Houston took a year off to work with a former high school teacher on a test prep company. The company's goal was to help students get perfect scores on the SAT college admissions test.

After graduating, Houston hoped to get his SAT prep company into a startup accelerator — but was rejected.

Houston applied to get his startup into the first batch of Y Combinator companies in 2005.

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. 

As much of a fashion statement watches can be, a dead watch is no good.

Rather than having to continuously replace the battery in your timepiece, buying an automatic watch can save you the hassle of dealing with a watch that doesn't work.

Automatic watches are powered by the movement of your wrist. As long as you wear it, it will keep ticking. And if you go long enough without wearing it and the reserve power runs out, simply put it back on and fix the time. No more taking your watch to a jeweler for an expensive battery.

Generally, automatic watches cost a bit more than traditional quartz options, but spending the extra money is well worth it.

With a budget of $500, you can get a high-quality automatic movement watch from brands like Hamilton, Seiko, Tissot, and Invicta. 

If you're in the market for a watch that's just as functional as it is stylish, an automatic watch is for you.

Shop all automatic watches at Jomashop now.

If you're considering dropping money on a luxury watch, as with any other major purchase, be sure to compare prices and do some research first. All of the watches are guaranteed to be 100% authentic, but they do not come with a manufacturers warranty. If you have any concerns at all, you can view Jomashop's full warranty policy here.

Hamilton Khaki King Scuba Automatic Watch

The Hamilton Khaki King Scuba features a stainless steel case and bracelet, contrasted by a black rotating bezel and dial. The watch displays the day at 12 o'clock and the date at 6 o'clock. The back of the case is see-through, reveal the intricacies of the automatic watch.

Hamilton Khaki King Scuba Automatic Watch, $439 (Originally $695) [You save $256]

Glycine Combat Sub Automatic Watch

The Glycine Combat Sub uses a beautiful combination of silver and gold on the case and bracelet. A blue uni-directional bezel and dial adds a bold hit of color, while gold accents are used on the hands and bezel markers. 

Glycine Combat Sub Automatic Watch, $475 (Originally $1,150) [You save $675]

Heritor Pytheas Diver Automatic Watch

Using a unique combination of rose gold and carbon fiber, the Heritor Pytheas Diver is classy, yet sporty. It features white hour markers, a scuba diver silhouette, and the date at 3 o'clock. With a 42-hour power reserve, your watch will keep ticking for a long time without movement. 

Heritor Pytheas Diver Automatic Watch, $499 (Originally $1,400) [You save $901]

• "Paddington 2" broke the record for the best-reviewed movie on Rotten Tomatoes of all time, officially surpassing "Lady Bird."
• It was supposed to be distributed by The Weinstein Company in the United States, but producers looked for another distributor following allegations of sexual misconduct against Harvey Weinstein.
• The movie is adorable and enjoyable for kids and adults, and has received glowing reviews from critics. 

"Paddington 2" — a movie about an adorable Peruvian bear who wears a blue raincoat and a red hat, and is obsessed with marmalade — just broke a record as the best-reviewed movie on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing Golden Globe winner "Lady Bird."

It has 164 "fresh" reviews and no "rotten" ones.

The first movie in the franchise, "Paddington," which starred Nicole Kidman, was released in 2014 and is now on Netflix. Kidman plays an evil taxidermist and you should definitely watch it.

In "Paddington 2," Paddington is adjusting to his new life in London with the Brown family. He gets framed for stealing a special pop-up book of London, gets sent to prison for the crime, and has to figure out how to prove he was framed. It's one of those rare sequels that's better than the original. And the original is still really good.

"Paddington 2" stars an adorable computer-generated British bear voiced by Ben Whishaw and features Hugh Grant, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Bonneville, and Brendan Gleeson in live-action roles. 

Responding to the news that his movie broke the record, director Paul King said, "The 'Paddington' films are a real labor of love. So many people pour their hearts and souls into them for months or even years, hand-crafting every last frame, and we are all incredibly grateful for the overwhelmingly positive response we’ve had so far. We hope it inspires people to go to the cinema to see for themselves if a talking animal film really can be any good, and whether Hugh Grant really can look devilishly handsome even while dressed as a nun. Clue: yes."

"Paddington 2" was originally meant to be distributed in the United States by The Weinstein Company, but following the allegations of sexual harassment and assault against Harvey Weinstein, producers began looking for another American distributor. Producers believed that a pleasant, upbeat children's film should not be associated with the scandal. In November, Warner Bros. acquired the film's North American distribution rights for $32 million. 

Here are the most breathless quotes from critics about "Paddington 2," along with adorable images of Paddington Bear:

SEE ALSO: Amazon's 26 notable original TV shows, ranked from worst to best

"'Paddington 2' is 'The Godfather Part II' of Peruvian bear movies, a sequel that surpasses the superb original."

Joe Morgenstern, Wall Street Journal. 

"It's an exquisite reminder of the wondrous things that can happen when a storyteller of boundless imagination avails himself of some rigorous discipline."

Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times. 

"If you have kids, take them. If you have nieces and nephews, take them. If you don't have kids but just want to feel like one yourself, go see it. Paddington is a bear for all seasons."

Adam Graham, Detroit News. 

Eating out at a restaurant can feel like the ultimate luxury, especially when you can’t manage to look at your stove again. However, some people still make a few faux pas when dining out.

INSIDER spoke to restaurant insiders and hospitality experts to identify the big mistakes Americans make when they eat at a restaurant.

Modifying your meal.

Excluding allergies, restaurant goers oftentimes try to change the dish to align with their own preferences.

"Most current, on-trend restaurants have gone the route of fully composed dishes," Nicole Biscardi, a partner and director of operations at New York City-based restaurant consulting firm AllDay Industry, told INSIDER. "The days of 'choice of side' are more or less gone. As a result, changes or modifications to menu items are often frowned upon, as changing one element can throw off the balance of the entire dish."

Biscardi recommends trusting the chef and venturing outside of your comfort zone when ordering.

Showing up late to a reservation, or not making a reservation at all.

Many restaurants use a reservation system to make sure parties — oftentimes large groups — are accommodated in advance, with a portion of the tables being left for walk-ins.

When a party is late to their reservation, it throws the whole night off for a host, the person who is frequently in charge of seating parties.

Likewise, Josiah Salerno, general manager of Toca Madera in Los Angeles, told INSIDER that not making a reservation during prime or peak hours can be just as bad.

In major US cities like Los Angeles or New York City, the wait can be up to two hours without a reservation.

Ordering with another waiter.

Although it can be frustrating when your waiter takes a long time to return to your table or take your order, getting the attention of another waiter can make the matter worse, Salerno said.

Ordering with another waiter can cause confusion, whether that's because they put your order in without telling your designated server or the request can be misunderstood or duplicated.

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

The Insider Pick:

• We tested dozens of smartwatches to find the best ones. After much testing, we found that the Apple Watch Series 3 offers the best smartwatch experience.

Smartwatches aren't yet mandatory tech purchases, but they may be one day. For those of you who like to live on the cutting-edge side of the tech world, there's no better status symbol than the smartwatch.

Thankfully, smartwatches are a lot more attractive than they used to be, so you don't have to worry about strapping a clunky, futuristic gadget on your wrist anymore. 

We've tested dozens of smartwatches over the years, and these are the very best ones we've used.

There's a smartwatch for everyone on this list, whether you're an iPhone user who needs the latest and greatest Apple Watch, a Samsung fan who wants to pay for your latte with your wrist, a fashionista, or an Android Wear aficionado, we've got you covered. 

Updated by Malarie Gokey on 01/19/2018 to include the Fossil Q Venture and Fossil Q Explorist. We look forward to testing upcoming Android Wear smartwatches, including the Skagen Falster and the Kate Spade Scallop.

The Apple Watch Series 3 may be our top pick, but for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Samsung Gear S3, the Huawei Watch 2, the LG Watch Sport, the Fossil Q Venture, and the Fossil Q Explorist. Read on to find out more.

SEE ALSO: 11 of the best watches you can buy for under $100 right now

DON'T MISS: The 8 iPhone and iPad accessories I use every day

Best smartwatch overall

Why you'll love it: The Apple Watch Series 3 is the most fully-featured smartwatch with a great interface, strong fitness tracking, and an optional LTE connection.

It doesn't get better than the Apple Watch Series 3. It's sleek and stylish with a modern design that works for both men and women. The smartwatch comes in 38mm and 42mm styles to fit wrists big and small. You can buy it in several finishes to match your style and there are dozens of Apple-made and third-party watch bands to make the Watch your own. 

No other smartwatch offers this much variety and customization, especially when it comes to female-friendly options. The Apple Watch is the only smartwatch I've ever worn regularly each day for months on end. I've reviewed dozens of Android Wear watches, and although many of them are nice looking as well, they're not as fully featured or easy to use as the Apple Watch.

The Apple Watch boasts cutting-edge smartwatch tech including mobile payments with Apple Pay, stand-alone GPS, full waterproofing, and thousands of apps. The user interface is very simple and attractive. It's easy to use and it has all the fitness tracking features you'd expect. 

You can also get an LTE version of the Series 3 for standalone smartwatch functions like calls, texts, and internet access. That way, you can leave your phone at home when you go out on a run or a long hike.

The LTE connection will cost you about $10 a month at most carriers, and the LTE model does cost more. Some early reviewers had connectivity issues, so beware if you're an early adopter. There's a non-LTE version, too, if you're not interested in the new feature. Most people probably don't need LTE, frankly, unless you regularly go on hikes or long runs and you don't want to be weighed down with your phone. Still, it's a nice option to have. 

The Series 3 lasts about a day on a charge, but you can get more out of it if you don't get notifications from every app on your iPhone.

Tech reviewers across the board from Digital Trends, CNET, Ars Technica, and Business Insider agree that the Apple Watch Series 3 is an excellent device. While other companies struggle to pack tons of tech into bulky smartwatches, Apple effortlessly offers all the tech you need in the most compact and attractive smartwatch you can buy. 

Pros: Waterproof and ready to swim, sleek design in two sizes for all wrists, works with Apple Pay, LTE option, GPS, easy to use and fully compatible with iPhone

Cons: Pricey, only compatible with iPhone, LTE may be finicky

Buy the 38mm Apple Watch Series 3 (no LTE) from Target for $329.99

Buy the 42mm Apple Watch Series 3 (no LTE) from Target for $359.99

Buy the 38mm Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE from Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, or Sprint for $399.99 full price (monthly payments vary)

Buy the 42mm Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE from Verizon,T-Mobile, AT&T, or Sprint for $429.99 full price (monthly payments vary)

Best smartwatch for Samsung fans

Why you'll love it: Samsung's Gear S3 looks like a sporty Swiss watch, but it's a full-blown smartwatch with Samsung Pay, GPS, and more.

If you're the proud owner of a Samsung smartphone, you'll probably want the Gear S3 smartwatch. It comes in two versions, which are nearly identical in terms of functionality: a sporty LTE-enabled version called the Frontier and the more traditional-looking Classic.

The Gear S3 Classic boasts a slick leather strap and a classy polished finish, while the Frontier has a dark finish and a tough silicon strap. This is definitely a man's watch, but women who like chunky and sporty smartwatches might also be interested. 

Many of my guy friends are in love with the design, and the Classic looks very slick when you're wearing a suit. The Frontier is best for hikers and guys who like a more rugged look.

The Gear S3 is water-resistant, has GPS for tracking your workouts, and offers Samsung Pay so you can buy coffee with a tap of your wrist. Samsung's Gear app store boasts thousands of apps for downloading. Its rotating bezel and circular interface make it a real winner. If you buy the Gear S3 Frontier from your carrier with a data plan, you can even run off with your watch and leave your phone behind.

Samsung fans will love the Gear S3. We personally love the look of the Classic, but the Frontier model is ideal for anyone who wants a stand-alone smartwatch with LTE for making calls and leaving their phone behind.

Pros: A classic masculine look, Samsung Pay, and it works great with Samsung phones

Cons: No lady-friendly version, and it's bulky

Buy the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier (no LTE) on Amazon for $279.99

Buy the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier (LTE) on AT&T for $349.99

Buy the Samsung Gear S3 Classic on Amazon for $347.99

The best Android Wear smartwatch

Why you'll love it: The Huawei Watch 2's sporty good looks, built-in GPS, and high-tech features make it the best Android Wear watch you can buy.

The first Huawei Watch won much acclaim from tech reviewers for its classic good looks and high-tech features. The Huawei Watch 2 is less sophisticated, and a lot more sporty, but it's also much more powerful. 

Built-in GPS and a great workout coach make the Huawei Watch 2 a great companion on long runs and intense workouts. You can leave your phone behind, too, thanks to onboard music storage and the ability to connect Bluetooth headphones to the watch. Like the LG Watch Sport, the Huawei Watch 2 has an LTE version, but unfortunately, Huawei isn't selling that model in the US yet.

Like the LG Watch Sport, the Huawei Watch 2 has an LTE version, but unfortunately, Huawei isn't selling that model in the US yet. However, it does have Android Wear 2.0, Google Assistant, and mobile payments with Android Pay, so the Watch 2 is very high-tech.

The design is slimmer than the LG Watch Sport, so it will look good on slimmer wrists. It's important to note that this is still a very masculine watch with a sporty design, and it's certainly chunkier than the Apple Watch 2.

Regardless, the Huawei Watch 2 is a great choice for sporty Android Wear fans who don't need LTE or simply prefer Huawei's design.

Pros: Android Wear 2.0, sporty design, built-in GPS, two-day battery life, Google Assistant, and mobile payments

Cons: Masculine style isn't very female friendly, no LTE support in the US

Buy the Concrete Gray and Yellow Huawei Watch 2 on Amazon for $259.99 (originally $299.99)

Buy the Carbon Black Huawei Watch 2 on Amazon for $242.80 (originally $299.99)

Queen Elizabeth II can often be spotted in vibrant coats and matching hats. Wearing hats to formal occasions is part of royal protocol, but wearing bright colors is a specialty of the Queen's for a reason. According to her daughter-in-law Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, her penchant for vivid outfits is more than just a fashion statement.

"She needs to stand out for people to be able to say 'I saw the Queen'," she said in the Smithsonian Channel documentary "The Queen at 90.""Don't forget that when she turns up somewhere, the crowds are two, three, four, 10, 15 deep, and someone wants to be able to say they saw a bit of the Queen's hat as she went past."

Here are some of Her Majesty's most dazzling looks that can be spotted from afar.

The Queen wears neon colors to stand out.

Her matching hats make a statement, too.

She wore a festive bright orange to church on Christmas Day this past year.

As the #MeToo movement gained momentum in Hollywood following the Harvey Weinstein sexual assault allegations, Dylan Farrow asked pointedly in a Los Angeles Times op-ed in December, "Why has the #MeToo revolution spared Woody Allen?"

In 1993, Allen faced accusations that he had sexually abused Farrow, his then-seven-year-old adoptive daughter. Allen, who has continually denied the accusations, was investigated but never prosecuted. 

But Farrow has long maintained that Allen sexually assaulted her, after she first discussed the issue publicly in a New York Times op-ed in 2014. 

In her 2017 op-ed, Farrow asked why A-list actors like Kate Winslet, Blake Lively, and Greta Gerwig have continued to work with and praise Allen.

And in an interview with "CBS This Morning" on Thursday, Farrow described Allen's alleged sexual assault in disturbing detail, while calling on actors to to "acknowledge their complicity" in perpetuating Hollywood's "culture of silence."

Over the last few months, Farrow's words appear to have shifted to the tide against Allen, as a number of actors who starred in Allen's movies (including Gerwig, Rebecca Hall, and Colin Firth) have now either disavowed him or donated their salaries from his films to abuse victims charities.

Here are all the actors who have disavowed Woody Allen after working in his movies:

SEE ALSO: 19 Netflix original shows that both critics and audiences agree are amazing

Griffin Newman

In October, before the LA Times published Farrow's op-ed, actor Griffin Newman said on Twitter that he regretted his "one-scene role" in Woody Allen's upcoming film, "A Rainy Day in New York," and would donate his salary from the film to RAINN (the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network).

"I need to get this off my chest: I worked on Woody Allen’s next movie. I believe he is guilty. I donated my entire salary to RAINN," Newman tweeted. 

Newman said he "spent a month debating whether or not to quit" the movie, but decided to speak out following the "compounded" list of sexual misconduct allegations in the wake of Harvey Weinstein.

Rebecca Hall

Rebecca Hall, who starred in Allen's 2008 film "Vicky Cristina Barcelona," said in an Instagram post on Saturday that she regretted her brief role in Allen's "A Rainy Day in New York," and would donate her salary from the part to Time's Up, a movement in solidarity with victims of sexual misconduct.

"After reading and re-reading Dylan Farrow’s statements of a few days ago and going back and reading the older ones — I see, not only how complicated this matter is, but that my actions have made another woman feel silenced and dismissed," Hall wrote in the post.

"I regret this decision and wouldn’t make the same one today. It’s a small gesture and not one intended as close to compensation but I’ve donated my wage to @timesup," she continued. 

Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet, the breakout star of "Call Me by Your Name," said in an Instagram post on Monday that he would donate his salary from "A Rainy Day In New York" to Time's Up, The LGBT Center in New York, and RAINN.

"I have been asked in a few recent interviews about my decision to work on a film with Woody Allen last summer. I am not able to answer the question directly because of contractual obligations," Chalamet wrote. "But what I can say is this: I don't want to profit from my work on the film, and to that end, I am going to donate my entire salary to three charities: TIME'S UP, The LGBT Center in New York, and RAINN."

"I want to be worthy of standing shoulder to shoulder with the brave artists who are fighting for all people to be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve," he continued.

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.

The Insider Pick:

• Your feet carry you on every run you undertake, so why not pamper them with the best pair of running socks? Of all the socks we've researched and tested, the Darn Tough Tab No Show running socks are our top pick because they are durable, comfortable, and wick moisture away to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.

Running doesn’t need a lot of equipment. While the fancy gear is fun and can make runs more enjoyable, some would argue that all you need is a good pair of running shoes. However, there’s another key piece that shouldn’t be forgotten no matter how many miles you log: a good pair of running socks.

These two pieces of running apparel work in tandem to keep your feet happy from heel to toe, and as most runners know, happy feet make for a much more enjoyable run. You may think that any old pair of socks will do (I used to be in this camp myself), but we encourage you to try out a pair of running specific socks if you haven’t already.

Because there are so many options, it can be tricky to wade through the mixed reviews and opinions. Luckily we’ve done the research for you, rounding up a group of socks that are highly rated, and offer features that meet a wide range of needs. Below we’ve also listed some helpful things you should pay attention to so your feet can meet their best match.

• Material: One of the most important things to consider is material. Synthetic materials like polyester, acrylic, and nylon are your best bet because they help wick away moisture and prevent blisters. A wool blend can also be a good choice to keep your feet warm and dry — especially if you’re running in the winter. You’ll want to avoid anything that’s 100% cotton as it will only hold in moisture, making for very sweaty and uncomfortable feet.
• Cushioning: The cushioning and the thickness you desire in your running socks is a matter of personal choice, and luckily there are all types to choose from. Plenty of running socks are also designed to provide cushioning in places that are more likely to develop blisters.
• Height: The height of your running socks can be a matter of personal style, but it can also serve a more useful purpose. Maybe you’re tired of chafing the backs of your ankles. Or maybe you’ve noticed that mid-calf ankle socks have roared back into style, rejoining us from the 1980s. Either way, it’s enough reason to try out a pair of crew length running socks. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler look, no show or quarter length socks are also available. 
• Specialized Features: Aside from the basics, there are also socks designed to meet running specific needs and issues. Compression socks are a good option if you want to improve blood flow through your legs and ankles, or you want additional arch support. If you’re especially prone to blisters, some runners swear by toe socks.

We all tend to have strong opinions on which brand is the best, but it’s important to note what works for one runner may not work for another. That's why we give you a variety of options.

Read on in the slides below to learn why the Darn Tough Tab no show running socks are our top pick and why you might prefer the Balega Hidden Comfort no show socks, the Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather mid crew socks, the Saucony Performance No Show socks, the Injinji Run 2.0 lightweight no show toe socks, or the CEP Progressive Compression socks.

SEE ALSO: The best running belts to hold your phone and keys

The best running socks overall

Why you'll love them: The Darn Tough Tab No Show Light Cushion socks are durable, have a seamless toe for added comfort, and a merino wool and nylon blend that wicks away sweat to keep your feet dry.

True to their name, these are durable running socks that will get you through anything from a short jog to an arduous trail run. Every pair of socks made by Darn Tough is crafted in the United States in Northfield, Vermont and comes with a lifetime warranty.

These socks are thoughtfully designed to withstand some of the toughest sports, and it shows in the attention to detail given to the Darn Tough Tab No Show Light Cushion running socks. It’s a wordy name, but these socks live up to it. The no-show style is subtle, and the tab provides extra cushion where your running shoe meets the back of your ankle to prevent any possible chafing.

Another winning feature? These socks are seamless, so your toes won’t be subjected to any uncomfortable rubbing. Runners who tested out these socks described them as having “out of the bag comfort.” 

As far as material goes, you won’t find any cotton here. These Darn Tough socks feature merino wool blended with nylon and lycra spandex. You may think that wool is only reserved for cold weather running, but not in this case. These are all-weather socks that will wick away moisture to keep your feet dry and blister free. Wool also helps resist odor, so even after a sweaty run you’ll be far less likely to offend anyone when you take off those running shoes.

These Darn Tough socks are available in both Men’s and Women’s styles and come in Small, Medium, and Large sizes that will correspond with your shoe size.

Overall, these socks receive consistently positive reviews from runners, but some reviewers do wish that they came in a wider range of colors, and a few wish they had sized up. These are on the more expensive side of the spectrum as running socks go, but runners like this one say they’ll never go back to regular socks for running. We think these Darn Tough running socks make a darn good addition to your sock drawer.

Pros: Durable, no seams for added comfort, wool and synthetic blend to wick away sweat, resist odor, all-weather appropriate

Cons: Not many colors to choose from, some reviewers thought the sizes ran small, on the more expensive side,

Buy the Darn Tough Men’s Tab No Show Light Cushion running socks on Amazon starting at $15.20

Buy the Darn Tough Women’s Tab No Show Light Cushion running socks on Amazon starting at $15.63

The best running socks for all-around comfort

Why you'll love them: The Balega Hidden Comfort No Show running socks have a seamless design crafted with synthetic materials and elastane throughout to make for a better fit and prevent blisters.

Even if you’ve been running for a relatively short amount of time, Balega is likely a brand name you’ve heard before. I own a few pairs of these socks myself, and can confidently say that these are some of the most comfortable socks I’ve ever worn.

They’ve seen their fair share of runs, but they’ve also been through trips to the grocery store, and some intense Netflix binge sessions on the couch. In other words, they’re so comfortable you’ll probably find yourself wearing them even when you aren’t running.

Each pair is carefully crafted to help runners perform at their best. The seamless design of the Hidden Comfort running socks reduces the friction that can cause blisters. They have a reinforced heel and toe for increased durability, and the top of the sock is constructed with mesh construction for extra breathability and comfort.

These are no-show socks with a heel tab at the opening that makes them easy to slip on. It also reduces chafing and prevents them from slipping down into your shoes. The elastane provides added stretch and comfort, but some testers from Outdoor Gear Lab did find that this could make them more prone to slipping around more in their running shoes. They also would have liked additional padding in other high abrasion areas like the sides of the foot.

However, other reviewers say they fit true to size and have had no issues with slippage. While there isn’t targeted cushioning in these socks, the under sole has a layer of plush cushioning for all-around comfort.

These socks come in sizes ranging from Small to Extra Large. It’s important to size correctly so you get the best fit and minimal slippage. There are also a fun variety of colors to choose from if you like to add a little flair to your running outfit.

“The most comfortable socks I’ve ever worn” is a common sentiment that came up repeatedly in reviews. Overall, runners love these socks saying they have just the right amount of cushion, keep their feet cool, and help prevent blisters.

Pros: Synthetic materials keep feet dry, mesh construction for added breathability, heel tab to help prevent slippage, seamless design, multiple colors to choose from

Cons: Some reviewers reported slippage, they don’t have targeted cushioning

Buy the Balega Hidden Comfort No Show running socks on Amazon starting at $12

The best running socks for cold weather

Why you'll love them: The Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Mid Crew socks are designed for cold weather running, with a longer length for extra warmth under your tights, and a wool blend that will keep your feet toasty and dry.

If you live in a location where the winters bring cold and snow, but you still don’t call it quits on your running routine, you need a pair of running socks specially designed to keep your feet warm. Smartwool is known for a wide range of specialized socks, and its line for cold weather running has received positive reviews from runners who regularly brave the cold. 

These socks are mid-crew height, perfect for wearing under your running tights for added warmth, and preventing the cold ankles that often result from wearing no-show socks. It may sound silly, but when it comes to running in the cold, every bit of skin coverage makes a difference.

These Smartwool socks are made of 55% merino wool for warmth, nylon for breathability, and elastane for flexibility for stretch. They’ll wick away moisture to help keep your feet dry and free of blisters. If you’re afraid that warmth equates to added bulk, you won’t have to worry in this case. The 200 needle construction allows for high density cushioning while keeping these socks lightweight.

Smartwool has designed the PhD cold weather socks in both men’s and women’s styles for a better fit, and they come in Small, Medium, and Large sizes. Unfortunately, you won’t have many colors to choose from, but in this case, comfortability and warmth will likely be more important than style as you brave those chilly weather conditions.

As with most other wool blend socks, these are also on the more expensive side. That being said, they don’t skimp on quality and have a loyal following in the running world.

Overall, men and women alike turn to these socks for cold weather running, liking the way they fit and how warm and comfortable they are. With socks like these, you have one more thing to help motivate you to get outside, even when the weather isn’t so balmy. Another bonus? They’ll keep your feet just as warm afterward when you’re on the couch catching up on your favorite shows.

Pros: Wool and synthetic blend keeps feet dry and blister free, mid-crew length for extra warmth, 200 needle construction for warmth and cushioning without the bulk

Cons: Not many color choices, on the expensive side

Buy the Men’s Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Mid Crew Socks on Amazon starting at $20.95

Buy the Women’s Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Mid Crew Socks on Amazon for $20.95

Think back to your teenage years and all of the wild and just-not-true things you used to believe about sex. 

There seems to be an endless amount of myths and urban legends when it comes to sex. Unfortunately, these fabrications are what muddies up the water when it comes to helping couples with intimacy issues and they can stay with us into adulthood.

That’s why INSIDER reached out to a few experts to help debunk some of the more common sex myths.  

Myth: All orgasms feel the same — and they should be explosive.

Truth: Kait Scalisi, MPH, intimacy educator and founder ofPassionbyKait.com, told INSIDER that orgasms exist on a spectrum from whisper quiet to mind-blowing. "No sensation feels the same all the time," she said. Lots of factors play into how your body processes sensation, whether that's pleasure, pain, or anything else.

Myth: What you do during sex determines how good your sex life is.

Truth: "Most of what matters for sex has nothing to do with sex itself," Scalisi told INSIDER. Instead, she explained that it's about creating the right context for intimate, exciting, and fulfilling sex.

For most people, Scalisi said that context is high trust, low stress, and high affection. "By reducing the things in your life that turn you off, you're generally more easily able to enjoy the moment and find freedom in pleasure."

Myth: If you're aroused, you shouldn't need lubricant.

Truth: Needing more lubrication than your body produces doesn't mean you're not aroused.Dr. Ava Cadell, clinical sexologist and AASECT certified sex counselor, told INSIDER that a lot of people equate wetness with how turned on they are, but that’s not necessarily an accurate barometer.

"Your monthly cycle, pregnancy, illness, menopause, medications (such antihistamines and decongestants) can affect lubrication, no matter how much water you drink," she shared. Cadell even suggests lube when using condoms since latex doesn’t slide well even if you're naturally lubricated.

With Prince William and Kate Middleton as parents of two (soon-to-be three) adorable children, and Prince Harry's recent engagement to Meghan Markle, it's easy to forget that these grown-up royals were once just kids themselves. 

From Queen Elizabeth II and her descendants' regal childhoods to Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle's ordinary lives growing up outside the palace, INSIDER has rounded up nostalgic childhood photos of the British royal family.

Keep scrolling to find out what your favorite royals looked like when they were just kids and teenagers. 

When she was 12, Queen Elizabeth II was just Princess Elizabeth, who loved watching pony shows with her sister.

Queen Elizabeth II's well-known love of animals (especially her corgis) started at a young age. She was gifted her first pony at the age of 4, and has owned and raced horses ever since. 

The Duke of Edinburgh was born Prince Philip of Greece and spent most of his tumultuous childhood in Paris, years before marrying into the royal family.

The Duke of Edinburgh had a famously traumatic childhood.

Born into the Greek royal family, Prince Philip's father was accused of treason and exiled. When he was just a baby, Philip was secretly transported to Paris in an orange crate, where he spent many of his early years before meeting Queen Elizabeth II. 

Prince Charles — Queen Elizabeth II's oldest son — was the first heir apparent to actually attend primary school instead of just having a private tutor.

Charles, Prince of Wales, is Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's first child who became the heir apparent to the British throne at just the age of three. 

• Optical illusions have been keeping us entertained for hundreds of years.
• There are plenty of optical illusions that go viral and stump the internet, but there are also classic ones that continue to confuse people to this day.
• From the famous artist M.C. Escher to Magic Eye posters, here are some of the most famous optical illusions.

Optical illusions are hard to understand — they involve a lot of science and understanding of how the eyes and brain work together to perceive the world around us. And some, like the Jastrow illusion, are still not completely figured out.

Keep scrolling to revisit some of the most famous optical illusions of all time.

SEE ALSO: The best time to do everything if you want to get great results, according to research

The Impossible Trident was first published in 1964 by D.H. Schuster.

The Impossible Fork is exactly that: impossible. When looked at from the bottom, it appears to have three prongs, but at the top it clearly is only split in two.

The shape is impossible because it would violate rules of Euclidean geometry. 

These dots appear to be moving — this is due to a phenomenon called illusory motion.

Illusory motion is the appearance of movement in a static image. For instance, the dots appear to wobble, but it's just a normal, non-moving pattern.

A study led by researchers from the Barrow Neurological Institute explained that the dots look like they're moving because of tiny eye movements and blinking.

The two dots in the middle appear to be different sizes, but are actually the same size.

The circle on the left appears to be bigger than the circle on the right because it's surrounded by tinier circles.

This illusion happens because the brain uses context in order to judge size — like when the brain assumes something small is far away. Since the circle on the left is surrounded by tiny circles, it makes sense that the brain thinks it's larger than a circle surrounded by much larger circles.

• The fast-food value wars are heating up again, and McDonald's has introduced a new chicken sandwich on its $1 $2 $3 menu.
• It's almost a carbon copy of Chick-fil-A's classic chicken sandwich.
• But — surprise — it's just not as good as the original. 

McDonald's new value menu has reignited the fast-food wars, but there's yet another battle brewing because of it.

On the three-dollar tier of the menu sits the new Classic Chicken Sandwich, which almost anyone can see is a direct stab at Chick-fil-A's classic chicken sandwich.

Fried chicken and pickles on a bun: a simple and iconic item that the Southern chicken chain has mastered, and that other chains constantly try to replicate with the same level of success. 

While it wasn't a direct parallel, McDonald's has tried to attack Chick-fil-A's iron grip on the chicken sandwich market before, with the Buttermilk Crispy Chicken sandwich. But Chick-fil-A's strengths — simplicity and quality — helped it come out on top in the end. 

And recently, McDonald's unveiled a revamped chicken tender that was surprisingly good — it didn't win against Chick-fil-A, but it came close. McDonald's is clearly on the chicken warpath, and Chick-fil-A seems to be the main target. 

This new sandwich, however, is as close as McDonald's can possibly get to Chick-fil-A's formula. But can the Golden Arches match Chick-fil-A's quality? Or will it be another fowl disappointment?

SEE ALSO: Here's everything on McDonald's new Dollar Menu, ranked from worst to best

DON'T MISS: We visited convenience-store rivals Wawa and Sheetz to see which does it better — and the winner is clear

It has been a long time coming — McDonald's true answer to Chick-fil-A's iconic sandwich.

In terms of size, the sandwiches are rather distinct. Chick-fil-A's, on the left, is substantially larger and, in this instance, substantially less smushed.

Let's start with the leader of the pack: the Chick-fil-A classic sandwich.

• Amazon has narrowed its search for the site of its next headquarters, dubbed HQ2, to 20 cities.
• Amazon HQ2 would have great economic impact on the city it chooses, potentially lowering unemployment, increasing average wages, and raising rents.
• A report by Apartment List predicts Raleigh and Pittsburgh would feel the rent increases the most. 

Amazon revealed the 20 locations on its shortlist for HQ2, its new $5 billion headquarters, on Thursday.

The e-commerce giant announced last year that HQ2 will eventually house 50,000 mostly white-collar workers making an average of over $100,000 a year.

Since Amazon has taken over Seattle, where it employs over 30,000 workers, the city has become the fastest-growing in the US and the nation's largest company town, The Seattle Times reported. As such, residents are paying a premium to live there.

The situation is likely to be the same for one of the final 20 cities vying for Amazon's HQ2 as they hope to replicate Seattle's economic boom. That's according to a report from Apartment List, which analyzed how rents in the top contending cities would be affected if Amazon moved in.

Apartment List gathered data — including vacancy rates, median income, and median rent, as well as housing development and rent increases from 2005 to 2015 — for 16 American cities in the running. They used this data to project how HQ2 could change annual rent growth and then calculated the expected additional cost to renter households over a 10-year period.

The study looks at the metro level, so Newark, New Jersey, and New York City, are broadly considered the New York metro area and Montgomery County and Northern Virginia are part of the Washington, DC, metro. Apartment List did not estimate the rent impact on Toronto, the only non-US city in the running, because their calculations used US Census and Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

All data is from August 2017, when Apartment List first calculated the impact of HQ2 on the top contending cities.

Below, check out how rents would change in 16 cities if Amazon moved in:

SEE ALSO: Only 17 US cities are left in the running for Amazon's HQ2 — here are the ones in most dire need of Amazon's 50,000 jobs

DON'T MISS: Amazon offers these perks to workers — and they reveal why cities are fighting over who gets to host HQ2

Atlanta, Georgia

Median rent: $1,160

Additional annual rent growth: 0.5% - 0.7%

Cost to renter over 10 years: $3,882 - $5,208

Austin, Texas

Median rent: $1,386

Additional annual rent growth: 0.8% to 1%

Cost to renter over 10 years: $7,441 to $9,706

Boston, Massachusetts

Median rent: $1,969

Additional annual rent growth: 0.5% to 0.8%

Cost to renter over 10 years: $6,608 to $10,539

• While crews couldn't actually go inside certain places — like Buckingham Palace — fans can visit a number of locations featured in the show.
• These include Lancaster House and the Lyceum Theater in London.
• In Scotland, Ardverikie House and Slains Castle served as Balmoral and the Queen Mother's Castle Mey.

Already through its second season, Netflix’s biographical series on Queen Elizabeth II has taken the streaming world by storm—the drama, the costumes, those sets, and the real-life palaces that bring royal life and post-war Britain back into the present day.

At $100 million, the show clocks in as Netflix’s most expensive production to date—but no amount of money can buy filming crews a way into the Queen’s beloved Buckingham Palace.

So where were those scenes filmed? Jetsetter found out.

SEE ALSO: Here's exactly how many days you should book your flight in advance to save the most on airfare

1. Buckingham Palace, London

Of course, a show about England’s longest-reigning monarch couldn’t get away with leaving out her royal residence. Though Buckingham Palace’s interiors remain off-limits to film crews, its iconic exterior makes its cameo more than a few times.

2. Lancaster House, London

Despite being the “lowly” neighbor of Buckingham Palace, the interiors of this grand house in London, built in 1825 by the Duke of York, are arguably just as grand. The Long Gallery room, in particular is used as a dining room in S1:E7 in preparation for the American President’s visit; the main hall, with its double iron-wrought staircase, glowing lamps, and scarlet carpets, provides another dramatic stage as the couple accept Buckingham Palace as their new residence. While not open to the public, you can still catch a glimpse of its opulent interior architecture during September’s annual Open House London.

3. Ely Cathedral, Cambridgeshire

Only real royals, like Will and Kate, can get married at Westminster Abbey. To stage Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s royal wedding in S1:E1, and Elizabeth’s subsequent coronation in S1:E5, the cast and crew headed to Ely Cathedral, an Anglican church built in 1083 near Cambridge, whose enormous cast-iron doors, dramatic stained-glass windows, and soaring romantic archways is the perfect stand in. The show’s location scouts weren’t the only ones to appreciate the resemblance: you’ll spot Ely Cathedral standing in for Westminster in both The King’s Speech and Elizabeth: The Golden Age.

• Some of the world's richest people are famously frugal.
• Warren Buffett lives in a modest home he bought in 1958 and eats McDonald's for breakfast every morning.
• Jeff Bezos, the world's richest person, drove a Honda Accord until 2013. 

Frugality is a subjective term. To the average Joe it could mean eating meals at home or scouring the internet for cheap flights.

But to a billionaire it means showing up to work in a T-shirt and jeans, driving a Toyota or Volkswagen, and, in some instances, foregoing the purchase of a private jet or lavish vacation home.

Surprisingly, some of the richest people on earth are incredibly frugal, each one with their own penny-pinching habits.

From eating lunch in the office cafeteria with their employees to residing in homes worth a fraction of what they could afford, these nine self-made billionaires — many of whom are also generous philanthropists— know the secret to keeping their net worth high.

SEE ALSO: 7 mind-blowing facts about Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos' $105 billion fortune

DON'T MISS: 24 mind-blowing facts about Warren Buffett and his $87 billion fortune

Jeff Bezos, Amazon founder and CEO, was still driving a Honda Accord as a billionaire.

Net worth: $109 billion

Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos may be the richest person on earth, but as of 2013, he was still driving a Honda Accord, according to Brad Stone's book "The Everything Store." 

From the driver's seat of his Accord, Bezos told Bob Simon during a 1999 "60 Minutes" interview that "this is a perfectly good car."

Before that, Bezos was driving a 1987 Chevy Blazer, which he used to deliver packages to the post office in the early days of Amazon.

Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, still lives in the same home he bought for $31,500 in 1958.

Net worth:$91.7 billion

The "Oracle of Omaha" is one of the wisest and most frugal billionaires around. Despite his status as one of the richest people on earth, he still lives in the same modest home he bought for $31,500 in 1958, doesn't carry a cellphone or have a computer at his desk, and once had a vanity license plate that read "THRIFTY," according to his 2009 biography. And when his friend of 25 years Bill Gates visits Omaha, Buffett picks Gates up from the airport himself.

Buffett also has a decidedly low-brow palate, known not just for investing in junk-food purveyors like Burger King, Dairy Queen, and Coca-Cola, but also for filling up on them as well. The Buffett diet includes five Cokes a day, as well as Cheetos and potato chips.

At his annual shareholder's meeting in 2014, Buffett explained that his quality of life isn't affected by the amount of money he has:

"My life couldn't be happier. In fact, it'd be worse if I had six or eight houses. So, I have everything I need to have, and I don't need any more because it doesn't make a difference after a point."

Mark Zuckerberg, founder and CEO of Facebook, drives a manual-transmission Volkswagen hatchback.

Net worth:$74.2 billion

Despite his status as one of the richest tech moguls on earth, Mark Zuckerberg leads a low-key lifestyle with his wife Priscilla Chan and their young daughter. The founder of Facebook has been unabashed about his simple T-shirt, hoodie, and jeans uniform.

"I really want to clear my life to make it so that I have to make as few decisions as possible about anything except how to best serve this community," Zuckerberg said.

The trappings of wealth have never impressed the 33-year-old, who in December 2015 announced he would donate 99% of his Facebook shares during his lifetime.

Zuckerberg chowed down on McDonald's shortly after marrying Chan in 2012 in the backyard of their $7 million Palo Alto home — a modest sum for such an expensive housing market and pocket change for a man worth more than $70 billion. In 2014, he traded in his $30,000 Acura for a manual-transmission Volkswagen hatchback.

• Amazon released its short list of the 20 cities that might be the site of its second headquarters.

• The retail giant also came in seventh place on FlexJobs' list of the best companies when it comes to telecommuting, meaning the offer a ton of work-from-home jobs.

• We've listed some of the best full-time telecommuting jobs Amazon has on offer.

The battle for Amazon's second headquarters has entered the final stages, and just 20 places are left vying to become home to HQ2.

But if your goal is to land a role at Amazon, don't feel bad if your city gets passed over. The company offers numerous telecommuting jobs that won't require you to pack up and move.

FlexJobs recently released a list of 100 companies with the most telecommuting jobs. Amazon came in seventh, out of a total of over 49,000 companies.

Here's a look at some of the full-time telecommuting job openings they've offered in the past, along with salary data from Glassdoor:

SEE ALSO: Amazon, Dell, and 23 more companies that will let you work from anywhere

Solutions architect

This full-time role involves technical engagements with Amazon's partners and customers.

Average salary: $140,818

Canadian-English linguist

Communications program manager

There's no doubt about it: The Oscars are flawed.

Sometimes deserving movies simply don't generate enough hype, and get nothing more than a nomination. Or no nomination at all. We'll see all of that at this year's Oscars, airing on March 4.

Then there are the terrible movies and performances that somehow manage to snag the enviable trophy. 

There's a long list of actors, directors, and more who you probably think have an Oscar, but don't. Some of them have been nominated dozens of times. Some a few times. And some, tragically, not at all. 

Here we take a look at some of Hollywood's finest who somehow haven't won an Oscar already:

SEE ALSO: Hollywood stars who rejected their Oscars

Glenn Close

Between 1983 and 2012, Close got six Oscar nominations. Her last nomination in 2012 was for “Albert Knobbs.”

Sigourney Weaver

Ripley herself got a best actress nomination for “Alien” but didn’t win. She also got a best actress nomination for “Gorillas in the Mist: The Story of Dian Fossey” and a best supporting actress nod for "Working Girl." Weaver has said that awards shows give sci-fi films "no respect."

Annette Bening

Three nominations, yet she always gets beaten by another powerful performance. Her latest nomination was in 2011 for "The Kids Are Alright." She lost to Natalie Portman for her performance in "Black Swan." In 2017, she was snubbed with no nomination for her acclaimed work in "20th Century Women."

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.

The Insider Pick:

• Food storage containers keep your food fresh and can handle the microwave, freezer, and dishwasher without staining, taking on odors, or experiencing damage. Our top pick, the Snapware 8-Cup Airtight Rectangle Food Storage Container, does all this and more, plus, it provides an airtight seal that snaps tight.

Developed in 1946 by Earl Tupper, Tupperware not only gave us an airtight way to keep food fresh, but it also introduced the direct marketing strategy to the post-World War II United States. The “Tupperware party” was a way for women to earn an income after much of the labor market closed to them as soldiers came back from war.

These days, you can still attend Tupperware parties, but they are nowhere near as popular as their 1950s and ‘60s heyday. And, for most of us, it’s more convenient to buy food storage containers from brands that make their wares available online or in brick-and-mortar stores.

When shopping for food storage, you still need to look past the marketing to find out what you are really paying for. For example, brands will advertise “X-piece sets.” You should know that X rarely refers to the number of containers you are getting. Instead, they also factor in the lids as separate pieces. So, a 42-piece set will have 21 container bases and 21 lids.

Food storage containers are generally made of glass, plastic, or stainless steel. Each material has its benefits, though we did not include any of the stainless steel options on our list because they are generally expensive, not as useful, and have bad reviews. Glass containers cost more than plastic, but they tend to hold up better in the microwave, don’t take on the characteristics of the food they hold, and some of them can even go in the oven.

Plastic still reigns supreme in this space mainly because of the affordable price, tight seals, and ability to handle being dropped. Though most containers are BPA-free and brands claim they are microwave safe, our research shows that microwaving plastic can lead to stains, odors, and damage to the Tupperware.  

We closely examined the expert and consumer ratings and reviews of dozens of options while searching for the best Tupperware. The solutions we chose to include in our guide have demonstrated a long history of durability, strong seals, and ease of use.

Read on in the slides below to learn why the Snapware 8-Cup Airtight Rectangle Food Storage Container is our top pick and why you might want to buy the GlassLock 14-Piece Oven-Safe Box Set, the EasyLunchboxes 3-Compartment Bento Lunch Box Containers, the Rubbermaid Easy Find Lids Food Storage Containers, and the LOCK & LOCK Airtight Rectangular Food Storage Container.

SEE ALSO: The best lunch boxes you can buy

The best food storage container overall

Why you'll love it: If you are looking for a container that snaps closed easily and provides a tight seal, the Snapware 8-Cup Airtight Rectangle Food Storage Container is your best bet.

The Snapware Airtight Rectangle Food Storage Container comes with a BPA-free polypropylene container and lid, which measure 10.2 by 8.5 by 2.5 inches. The containers are designed to be freezer, top-rack dishwasher, and microwave safe. The lid features snaps on each side and a silicone seal for airtight, leak-proof storage. For an optimum seal, Snapware recommends removing the gasket and washing it before using your container.

This container comes with a lifetime warranty and is made in the United States, specifically Mira Loma, California. The 8-Cup Airtight Rectangle Food Storage Container earned the top spot in our guide, but if you are interested in container sets, Snapware offers excellent plastic and glass sets that use technology that is similar to this container. We like the 24-piece set for its versatility in container sizes.

The Snapware Airtight earned the best plastic Tupperware distinction from Cook’s Illustrated because it passed a submersion test after dishwashing, stacks easily, and is designed for quick heating or cooling. The Wirecutter found that Snapware's could handle dropping and did not retain food smells or stains. Reviewers also liked that Snapware backs their products with a lifetime warranty.

Around 71% of the buyers who reviewed the Snapware Airtight on Amazon gave it five stars. People appreciated that it’s big enough to hold a variety of items, including a package of bacon, and it snaps shut easily. The snaps make it clear that the container is sealed.

Buyers also noted that this model holds up well, even after repeated trips through the dishwasher. There was one complaint about difficulty getting the box to close and the hinges breaking.

Pros: Tight seal, durable, snaps ensure a quality seal, lifetime warranty

Cons: Some reports of difficulties closing the container

Buy the Snapware 8-Cup Airtight Rectangle Food Storage Container (Slim) on Amazon for $8.99 (slim) or $16.49 (set of two)

Buy the 24-piece Snapware Airtight Food Storage Container Set on Amazon for $24.12

The best glass food storage container

Why you'll love it: The GlassLock 14-Piece Oven-Safe Box Set with Lids is ideal for people who like to heat their leftovers and are nervous about the toxins released by heated plastic.

The GlassLock 14-Piece Oven-Safe Box Set with Lids comes with seven containers: one 1.6-cup round, one 3.1-cup round, two 1.5-cup square, one 3.3-cup square, and two 1.6-cup rectangular container. Note that the largest container holds less than a quart.

Each component is completely recyclable and BPA free. These containers are made of limestone, soda ash, silica and other natural compounds. The containers are also FDA-approved for use in the food industry and can be used in the oven, dishwasher, freezer, and microwave, though the lids should not be used in the microwave or oven.

The Spruce liked that you get an excellent value for your money with GlassLock's sets, and the lids are effective. The reviewer also noted that the containers stack well. The Wirecutter recommends a similar GlassLock set, but we chose not to include this set in our guide because of too many buyer complaints of glass shards breaking off the container. We didn’t see this issue with the 14-Piece Oven-Safe Box Set.

The GlassLock 14-Piece has received five-star ratings from 73% of the people who reviewed it on Amazon. Buyers were particularly impressed with the locking lids. The most helpful commenter noted that they had used several other containers previously, and this was the first set where the lids continued to lock after months of use.

Buyers also found that the seals are tight and leak-proof. The main complaint we found was that the containers are rather small, so pay special attention to the sizes listed above to make sure this set fits your needs.

Pros: Versatile, oven-safe, can handle dropping, durable locking lids

Cons: Lids are not microwave-safe

Buy the GlassLock 14-Piece Oven-Safe Box Set with Lids on Amazon for $32.49

The best bento box food storage container

Why you'll love it: The EasyLunchboxes 3-Compartment Bento Lunch Box Containers are a quick and easy way to pack your lunch for work, school, or play.

“Bento” is Japanese for “convenient,” and bento boxes are generally single-serving meals that you can take with you on the go. They are basically healthy Lunchables that adults can eat without losing face. The EasyLunchboxes Bento Lunch Box Containers are all about convenience. They are stackable, portable, microwaveable, and freezable. However, they are not leak-proof so it’s best to avoid putting runny food or liquids in these containers.

The containers are made of polypropylene number 5 plastic and are free from phthalates, PVC, and BPA. The overall size of the lunch box is 9.4 by 6.1 by 2 inches with the largest compartment measuring 4.5 by 5 by 1.75 inches and fitting 2.5 cups of food. The smaller sections fit ¾ and ½ cups of food each.

A Merry Life likes the EasyLunchboxes containers because they are healthy, convenient, kid-friendly, and they help provide portion control for any meal. However, the containers are a bit tough to close and they're not completely spill-proof. That will be a deal breaker for some people. 

This EasyLunchboxes container has more than 2,500 five-star reviews on Amazon. Buyers comment that they were pleasantly surprised by how thick and durable the plastic is and several buyers would make Jell-O or pudding the night before and pour it into the bento lunch box to let it sit for the next day. The biggest complaint we found was that the tab will eventually break off the lid. Though, much of the time, the container is still usable.

Pros: Makes packing lunch effortless, good quality, stackable, fits in many types of lunch bags

Cons: Not leak-proofs, doesn’t have hinged lid snaps, tab breaks off the lid

Buy the EasyLunchboxes 3-Compartment Bento Lunch Box Containers on Amazon for $13.95 and up