As consumers eagerly await the potential impact of upcoming tariffs on pricing, many are compiling lists of affordable items that won't break the bank. In our annual survey at The Verge, we asked our staff to recommend their favorite tech gadgets, cooking gear, tool kits, and other essentials, all priced at $50 or less. This year, despite considering a higher budget of $75 due to rising costs, we discovered that our team excels at finding excellent low-cost options that are not only practical but also enjoyable to use.
As someone who tends to keep their phone until it shows signs of wear, I’ve recently faced the common issue of decreasing battery life. My trusty Pixel 6, which has served me well for over three years, struggles to last through the day. To combat this, I decided to invest in a portable charger. Initially, I considered the Anker Zolo Power Bank with a capacity of 20,000mAh, praised for its reliability. However, its weight of over 11 ounces felt cumbersome in my bag. Instead, I opted for the Anker Nano Power Bank, which weighs only 3.5 ounces and offers 5,000mAh of battery power. This compact charger plugs directly into my phone’s USB-C slot and comes in several appealing colors like Ice Lake Blue, making it easy to locate in my bag.
After years of searching for the perfect slim wallet, I found my top choice in the Magpul DAKA Essential Wallet. This wallet, crafted from reinforced polymer fabric and featuring welded seams, has proven its durability over the past eight years. Its anti-slip texture allows for easy access from even the tightest pockets, and I’ve purchased multiple units as backups, yet the original remains in excellent condition with minimal wear.
My culinary skills took a delightful turn with the purchase of the Hamilton Beach Egg Cooker. Unlike most kitchen gadgets that end up collecting dust, this appliance has become indispensable. It allows me to prepare both hard and soft-boiled eggs with perfect consistency in just a few minutes, all without the hassle of cleanup. By incorporating this cooker into my routine, I’ve also managed to reduce my unhealthy breakfast habits, benefiting both my cholesterol and my wallet.
After years of neglect, my ToAuto soldering station saw the light of day when I began experimenting with game console repairs. Although it’s not on par with high-end brands like Hakko or Weller, it’s an excellent choice for beginners at just $55. This station heats up to 842 degrees Fahrenheit and comes equipped with various soldering tips, steel wool for cleaning, and a rack for holding solder. It has enabled me to successfully complete tasks like soldering HDMI ports onto PS4s and replacing batteries in vintage Game Boy games.
The Sound Pocket Bluetooth speaker might not boast the best sound quality, but its compact size makes it my go-to audio companion. Small enough to fit in my pocket or backpack, it has a silicon loop for easy attachment. While it may lack booming bass, it outperforms my phone’s speakers, making it a worthwhile travel accessory.
For years, I relied on bulk AA battery purchases to keep my Xbox controller functioning—especially with kids in the house. However, I resisted switching to rechargeable batteries until I discovered the paleblue USB-C rechargeable batteries. Priced at $30, these batteries are easy to charge using a USB-C source and have significantly reduced the frequency of replacements. I opted for the four-pack, but larger options are also available, making them a practical choice for families.
This stainless steel water bottle is my trusty companion for keeping drinks cold throughout the day. Though it has acquired a few dents from accidental drops, these imperfections only add to its character. It’s durable enough for daily use and ideal for travel, ensuring I stay hydrated wherever I go.
After a recent scare when my partner lost his wallet, I realized the value of having a tracker. I promptly ordered a Tile Slim, a compact tracker that can easily fit into a wallet. Having used Tile trackers for my keys, I appreciate their reliability in locating misplaced items, and I hope this addition will eliminate any future concerns about lost possessions.
Two years ago, our managing editor recommended a precision screwdriver set that I initially thought I didn’t need. Priced at just $25, I eventually decided to give it a try. The collection includes a variety of high-quality tools that are incredibly effective. The short, front-heavy precision driver is particularly useful and has become my favorite tool for opening gadgets. It offers better leverage and control than my larger iFixit Mako kit, and I find it indispensable for various tasks, from repairing electronics to assembling household items.
Despite its amusing name, the Royal Kludge folding Bluetooth keyboard has proven to be the best multi-device keyboard I’ve used. Unlike other models that tend to slip off my lap, this mechanical keyboard offers a sturdy typing experience. It allows seamless switching between multiple devices without the hassle of re-pairing, and its USB-C port ensures charging is convenient. At $55, it’s a fantastic deal for anyone in need of a reliable and portable keyboard.
In summary, these carefully curated items demonstrate that you can find high-quality tech gadgets and everyday essentials for under $50. Whether you’re looking for portable chargers, kitchen appliances, or smart trackers, these recommendations from The Verge staff are sure to enhance your life without stretching your budget.
