# **DeskBuddy Review: A Simplistic Digital Calendar That Might Be Overly Basic**
In a time where digital calendars and productivity tools are prevalent, the **DeskBuddy** seeks to streamline scheduling with a straightforward desktop calendar display. At a price of **$100**, this petite device connects with your **iCloud, Gmail, and Office 365 calendars** to give a daily snapshot of your events. But does its streamlined design render it a practical tool, or does it eliminate too many vital features? Let’s explore the specifics.
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## **What Exactly is the DeskBuddy?**
The **DeskBuddy** is a **3.5-inch touchscreen gadget** crafted to showcase your daily calendar activities in a simple format. Developed by **Blueberry Consultants**, a UK-based software company, the device was successfully funded through **Kickstarter** in December 2023 and is now obtainable on sites such as **Etsy** and the official **DeskBuddy platform**.
### **Notable Features:**
– **Connects with iCloud, Gmail, and Office 365 calendars**
– **3.5-inch IPS touchscreen**
– **Powered by USB-C**
– **Color-coded event visualization**
– **Integrated speaker for event notifications**
– **Wi-Fi enabled for real-time updates**
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## **Installation and Build Quality**
Setting up the **DeskBuddy** is quite straightforward:
1. **Connect it** via the supplied **USB-C to USB-A cord**.
2. **Link to Wi-Fi** and visit the **DeskBuddy portal** using a web browser.
3. **Input a PIN** (provided with the device) to sync your calendars.
The **hardware is quite basic**. It comes encased in **3D-printed plastic**, featuring a **USB-C port** on the base and a **built-in speaker** at the rear for notifications. While it serves its purpose, the design feels a bit **inferior** for a **$100 item**.
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## **Functionality and Usability**
The **DeskBuddy’s interface is remarkably straightforward**—it presents a **list of today’s events**, colored according to calendar source. Yet, this extreme simplicity has **a few drawbacks**:
### **Advantages:**
✅ **Focused Environment** – Unlike accessing a phone or computer, the DeskBuddy provides a **dedicated** area for checking events without notifications or interruptions.
✅ **Clear Display** – The **color-coded** list of events facilitates distinguishing between work and personal commitments.
✅ **Fast Setup** – Calendar synchronization is easy, requiring only a **Wi-Fi connection and PIN input**.
### **Disadvantages:**
❌ **No Event Duration** – The DeskBuddy **fails to indicate the length of events**, making it hard to determine how much time is available for each appointment.
❌ **No Future Planning** – The device **only displays today’s events**, restricting users from organizing plans for the upcoming week or month.
❌ **Customization Limitations** – Unlike conventional digital calendars, there are **no features for altering event display, adding notes, or prioritizing tasks**.
❌ **Absence of Task Integration** – The DeskBuddy **does not show Google Calendar tasks**, leading to potentially missed important assignments.
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## **Is the DeskBuddy a Good Investment?**
The **DeskBuddy** is a unique idea, catering to individuals seeking a **minimalist, distraction-free calendar display**. Nevertheless, its **lack of fundamental features**—like event duration, forward planning, and task integration—hinders its effectiveness for robust time management.
### **Who Might Consider Buying It?**
✔️ **Minimalists** who like a **basic, no-frills** method to monitor their schedule.
✔️ **Individuals working at a desk** continuously needing a **quick-view calendar** without needing to open applications.
✔️ **Tech aficionados** who appreciate trying out **single-function gadgets**.
### **Who Should Pass It Up?**
❌ **Busy professionals** requiring **comprehensive scheduling tools**.
❌ **Individuals dependent on task management** alongside their calendar.
❌ **Anyone searching for a budget-friendly alternative**—a **smartphone or tablet** could offer much more at a similar price.
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## **Final Thoughts: A Niche Product with Limited Attraction**
The **DeskBuddy** accomplishes the task of **simplifying calendar oversight**, but it may **oversimplify** to the extent of being less practical. While it’s an **interesting idea**, it lacks the adaptability and control that the majority of users seek. At **$100**, many would benefit more from utilizing a **smartphone, tablet, or even a conventional paper planner**.
If you desire a **dedicated, distraction-free calendar display**, the DeskBuddy could be worth exploring. However, for the general population, **it’s a solution**
