We surveyed our team about budget-friendly devices they rely on, all available for $50 or less.
At The Verge, we often feature exciting but costly tech like high-end OLED TVs and advanced robot vacuums. Yet, not everyone can afford such luxury amidst rising costs linked to factors like the US tariff issues and global memory shortages.
Just as before, we requested our staff at The Verge to list their top gadgets under $50. These are not only affordable but also durable and practical, like power banks and backup bulbs. They also offer different utilities, such as an inexpensive Bluetooth speaker, earbuds with great features, or a meticulously designed fitness tracker.
Explore our top picks below.
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This compact keychain is under seven dollars, about the size of a key, and attaches to your keyring with a carabiner. It’s handy for tasks like opening boxes or tightening screws, even if less effective than larger tools. Still, it’s likely to be more accessible when needed. — Nathan Edwards, senior reviews editor
For earbuds, my primary choice is the AirPods Pro 3, but for backup I bought CMF Buds 2A. They’re about a tenth of the Pro 3’s cost, providing solid value. — Brandon Widder, senior commerce editor
They offer decent sound, customizable touch controls, and up to eight hours of use per charge. With Fast Pair, IP54 water and dust resistance, and minor noise cancellation, they’re a deal at $49. — Brandon Widder, senior commerce editor
Want better phone grip? There are numerous phone rings, but the Syncwire AirGrip has two-sided magnets. It attaches to several surfaces and feels secure with a satisfying ratcheting sound. — Sean Hollister, senior editor
Before relocating to a cooler area, Vornado fans helped me endure extreme Californian heats, often exceeding 100 degrees. The Vornado 133 is a small model, suitable for desks and nightstands when a strong breeze is needed on scorching days. <