The entries in this holiday gift guide were sponsored. The actual contents and opinions are the sole views of the reviewers who maintain editorial independence, even with sponsored content.
Robot Vacuums
Roborock S4 Max Robot
The robot vacuum that actually does what you hoped it would do. Pros
Powerful suctionLiDAR sensorApp controlCarpet boostDesignations for rooms, no-go zones, and invisible walls
Cons
High price, though it equals feature setSlightly loud
Our rating: 4.5/5
Kyvol Cybovac S31 Robot Vacuum and Mop
The mapping function will impress you right away with this vacuum! Pros:
Impressive mapping functionComes with everything you need plus extrasDustbin doesn’t need to be emptied every time
Cons
Mopping function doesn’t work wellRemote gets confused with other infrared remotesVery loud spoken directions
Our Rating: 4/5 The Kyvol Cybovac 531 Robot Vacuum and Mop has the same basic functions as other robot vacuums, with spot cleaning, deep cleaning, etc., but what sets it apart is the dustbin emptying and mapping. The mapping alone deserved a rating of 5. However, the reviewer had to take off for the mopping and the remote issue, so she deducted a half point for each. It’s a very impressive vacuum with two issues she just couldn’t look past. You can get it now for $519.
Dreametech Bot L10 Pro Robot Vacuum and Mop
Exceptional cleaning ability while avoiding obstacles with ease. Pros
Powerful suctionQuiet motorThorough mopping150-minute runtimeExceptional LiDAR navigation
Cons
Remote in app doesn’t work wellInitial mapping takes a while
Our Rating: 4/5
Viomi V3 Max Robot Vacuum
A fast, powerful, and quiet floor cleaning solution. Pros
Super quiet2700Pa suctionVacuums and mopsUp to 5 hours of runtimeEasily switches between floor types
Cons
No external remote and mopping buttonWater tank is hard to empty
Our Rating: 4.5/5 Daily cleanups are so much easier with the Viomi V3 Max Robot Vacuum. It makes quick work of both mopping and vacuuming. Plus, it covered the reviewer’s entire home several times before it needed to be charged. And that includes mopping four rooms. If you want a dependable, quiet, and powerful vacuum/mop combo, the Viomi V3 Max Robot Vacuum is a worthy addition to any home. It’s also competitively priced for its features. Try it yourself for $299.99.
Yeedi Vac Station Robot Vacuum and Mop Review
Takes care of as much of the process for you as possible. Pros
Powerful cleaningSmart mapping makes custom cleaning easySelf-emptying feature is greatDo Not Disturb feature keeps the vacuum from waking you up
Cons
Self-emptying process is on the loud side
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Translators
Timekettle M2 Language Translator Earbuds
Reliable translations wherever you are, along with music and call support. Pros
Supports 40 languagesTranslates in near real timeListen to music and answer callsQuick chargingWireless charging case charges multiple times on a single charge
Cons
App is difficult to pair with initiallyTouch sensitivity may be too sensitive
Our Rating: 4.5/5 Whether you have a friend who speaks a foreign language, need translations during a class or in a group, want to travel the world, or even just learn another language, these earbuds are the perfect companion. Since they do double duty as standard earbuds, you only need to carry your smartphone and the earbuds, which fit in a small, convenient charging case. Translations are nearly perfect with only the occasional errors. You can try the Timekettle M2 Language Translator Earbuds yourself for $103.99.
Timekettle WT2 Edge Translator Earbuds
In a category of their own with fast, accurate translation and an easy-to-use interface. Pros
Translation is easy and shockingly fastMultiple handy translation modesSimple and easy pairingCase magnet is strong and keeps the earbuds secureIndicator lights handy and easy to read
Cons
Touch controls can be a little sensitiveDon’t function as standard earbuds
Our Rating: 4/5 The Timekettle WT2 Edge Translator Earbuds are called that for a reason. These aren’t meant to be a stand-in for your everyday earbuds. Instead, these are standalone translation devices. They are well worth it for anyone who spends time in places where they frequently encounter multiple languages. While the WT2 don’t instantly teach you how to speak a language, they may be the next best thing. You can set yourself up with a pair starting at $60.
Portable Monitors
INNOCN PF15-PRO Portable Touchscreen Monitor
So versatile, there aren’t many people who couldn’t find some use for it. Pros
Super portableBuilt-in battery lasts more than 4 hoursWorks with Windows, macOS, Android, iPad, Game Consoles, and moreIncluded case protects the monitor when you’re not using
Cons
Included USB-C display cable is a little short
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Security
SimShine Baby Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Powerful AI baby monitor is the perfect pair of second eyes. Pros
Easy setupClear night visionTwo-way audioCry and virtual fence detectionWorks offlineLocal file storage
Cons
Camera hesitates to turn back on in app
Our Rating: 4.5/5 Overall, the SimShine Baby Pro Baby Monitor is a truly impressive smart baby monitor. You don’t need a subscription, and cloud uploads aren’t even an option. Plus, you can easily access the monitor from anywhere using the convenient app. It’s simple to look back through the day’s footage. The only complaint is that when you’re trying to wake the camera back up through the app, after turning it off via the app, it took several tries before the app responded. If you want to keep a close eye on your baby or pets from anywhere, try the SimShine for yourself for just $169 for the 64 GB model and $174 for the 128 GB model.
X-Sense Home Security System
An amazingly easy-to-set-up, affordable home security system. Pros
Setup takes less than 15 minutesLoud alarmsWireless systemNo subscriptionSends alerts to your phone
Cons
Alarm might not be loud enough for large homes
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Webcams
Tenvis TW888 FHD 1080P Webcam Review
Affordable webcam with impressive video quality and noise reduction. Pros
1080P video qualityBuilt-in microphone with noise reductionEasy installationTripod includedWorks with multiple operating systems
Cons
Tripod slides
Our Rating: 4.5/5
COOLPO AI Huddle Pana 360-Degree Webcam
Innovative panoramic webcam transforming the way you meet. Pros
360-degree webcamFour built-in micsVoice and face trackingPlug-and-play installationWide compatibility
Cons
Voice tracking has a slight delay at timesPower cord could be a little longer
Our Rating: 4.5/5
NexiGo 60 FPS AutoFocus 1080P Webcam Review
Great webcam with smooth video for business meetings and chats with friends and family. Pros
60 FPS and 1080P videoBuilt-in privacy coverLengthy USB cableReduces background noiseEasy setupWide compatibility
Cons
No tripod included (a tripod is supported, though)Mic is quieterLengthy cable (can get in the way in smaller areas)
Our Rating: 4/5
eMeet c960 HD Webcam
A highly-adjustable competitively-priced webcam. Pros
Competitive pricingGreat stand for use with a large variety of devicesLow-profile storage and folding availableGreat picture qualityGreat sound capture, including noise reduction
Cons
Low-light correction may over-correct
Our Rating: 4/5 Overall, the eMeet C960 HD Webcam is a feature-complete HD webcam that offers everything you could reasonably ask for in its price range. The wide lens and actual 30 FPS capture go a long way in making the image on the eMeet C960 look better than it does on some other 1080p webcams. The addition of the dual microphones and extremely adjustable stand are definitely a bonus in this regard, too. You can buy the C960 for just $27.19.
Headphones
OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Headphones
Budget-priced headphones for professional use. Pros
Three different removable cables includedSwiveling ear cups are great for DJsMultiple inputs let you use any cables you wantComfortable for hours at a time
Cons
Frequency range isn’t as flat as other pro headphones
Our Rating: 4/5 If you’re interested in DJ’ing, the OneOdio Monitor 60 Profesional Headphones are a great buy. The multiple cables mean they’ll work with whatever you need to plug them into, and the swiveling ear cups are a key feature. If you’re just starting out in production or could use a set of professional closed-back headphones that bleed less audio into microphones, the OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Headphones are a solid, affordable option. If you’re a music listener looking to upgrade from the earbuds that came with your phone, the OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Headphones are a great option. You can pick them up for $79.99.
Mu6 Ring Open Air Headphones
Affordable and great open air headphones suitable for sports use. Pros
Open air – allows you to be aware of your surroundingEasy to pairLong battery lifeEasy to useWaterproofLightweight
Cons
Need to turn on higher volume during sportsMicro USB charging portMusic quality could be better
Our Rating: 4/5
Earbuds
xFyro ANC Pro Earbuds
Long-lasting, comfortable earbuds with AI noise-cancelling. Pros
Ergonomic fitLong battery lifeStereo-quality audioAI-powered noise cancelling and noise filtering
Cons
Short charging cable
Our Rating: 4/5 Overall, the reviewer was thoroughly impressed with how well the xFyro ANC Pro Earbuds delivered on what was promised. She did wish the case either had a longer cable or charged wirelessly and would have loved the option to turn them off other than by just putting them in the case. The AI-powered noise canceling and filtering allows you to stay immersed in your music while being more aware of your surroundings or blocking out distractions almost completely. Plus, they’re comfortable enough to wear through vigorous workouts. You can check out the earbuds yourself for just $89.
FIIL CC2 Wireless Earbuds
Competitively-priced wireless earbuds with great sound quality and top-notch noise cancellation. Pros
Great sound qualityFairly comfortable and stable in the earsVoice quality and noise-cancellation are top notchSleek and stylish aesthetic
Cons
In-app equalizer presets are largely worse than the stock sound profile
Our Rating: 4/5
EarFun Free 2 Earbuds
Superb sound at a bargain price. Pros
Superb sound qualityWireless chargingLow price30 Hours playtime
Cons
Bulky fit in earsNo in-ear detection
Our Rating: 4/5
Soundbars
GOKUID Storm Soundbar
Great-sounding convertible soundbar that can split into a dual Bluetooth speaker configuration. Pros
Subwoofer is as boomy as intendedSplit speaker mode works up to a 6-feet distanceA ton of connectivity options, including BluetoothRemote included
Cons
Slightly high price for a non-smart speakerVery short power cable
Our Rating: 4/5 The GOKUID Storm Soundbar is fairly decent for a convertible soundbar or Bluetooth speaker with a subwoofer, but it’s not as competitive as it should be, considering smart speakers are available for a similar price. Additionally, the short power cable and its lack of shielding from interference are considerable downsides. Yet, the reviewer found that these speakers in either their soundbar or split standing configuration sounded great; the subwoofer had more than enough punch to satisfy him. Pick one up for yourself at 89.98.
Office Furniture
Flexispot Comhar All-in-One Standing Desk
A highly functional and stylish standing desk to take your home office to new heights. Pros
Sturdy base allows for tall height adjustmentSleek look4 saved height profilesCharging ports built in
Cons
Big investment
Our Rating: 4.5/5 Overall, the reviewer thinks the Flexispot Comhar All-in-One Standing Desk is well worth the money, retailing for $429.99. The physical benefits that come from being able to switch from sitting to standing are definitely worth the price you might pay for something like this. One negative is that the tempered glass top: it’s more difficult to clamp a monitor arm to and prone to fingerprints.
Flexispot Sanodesk
A sturdy, spacious, and well-produced standing desk for all manner of applications. Pros
Weighty legs and sturdy frameSimple assembly for those without experienceA wide range of desktop styles to choose from
Cons
Requires a desktop that’s sold separatelyCan dent your budget just for the desk frame aloneCan seem gigantic in a smaller room
Our Rating: 4/5 We think the Flexispot Sanodesk is a top-notch standing desk for a wide variety of setups. It has a lot of space, it’s solid as a rock, and is adaptable due to its electric motors. The reviewer thinks this desk is a great value at £419.99, due to the quality and performance. For those working at home who want to make sure they’re in good health, the Flexispot Sanodesk hits the spot in a myriad of ways.
Flexispot Desksize Pro v9
Surprising innovation, sturdily built and fun to use. Pros
Sturdy constructionFun computer statsFolding design for easy storage
Cons
Too large to be left out all the timeHeavy – very, very heavyTakes some time to find perfect adjustments
Our Rating: 4/5 The Flexispot Desksize Pro v9 is a great invention and one the reviewer finds to his considerable surprise, really useful and fun to use. The cycle computer on the top of the bike is really fun and motivating and as easy or hard as you want it to be – however, it can take quite a lot of fiddling to find the perfect adjustments for the seat and the table. You can try it yourself for £359.99. If finding time for fitness while working at home is a problem for you, it’s a solution the reviewer recommends.
FlexiSpot Kana Bamboo Standing Desk
Pros
Solid bamboo desktopFrame supports up to 275 lbs.Adjusts up to 48.4″Smooth, quiet height transitions3 memory presets
Cons
Difficult to put together aloneHeavy to move (which is also a good thing)
Our Rating: 4/5 If you’re looking for a standing desk that will last you for years, the FlexiSpot Kana Bamboo Standing Desk definitely delivers. While it will take a little effort to put it together, it’s all worth it once you start using it. With smooth transitions at the push of a button, memory presets, and an elegant bamboo desktop, it fits well within any home office. Or, you could use it for any other area where you need an adjustable table or desk. You can try this desk for yourself and customize it a bit if you’d like for just $329.99.
Flexispot Flexi-Chair Oka Office Chair BS9
Modern, comfortable office chair for frequent use. Pros
Very comfortableEasy to put togetherSturdy and stable
Cons
Uncertain stain proofingChoice of colors
Our Rating: 4/5 Office chairs are something you should never scrimp on, making the £219.99 you’ll pay for the Flexispot Flexi-Chair Oka Office Chair worth it. It’s meant for office use and designed for long durations of sitting. The striking orange breathable seat feels comfortable and has great lumbar support. Although it’s not as configurable as chairs costing hundreds more, it is adjustable enough and comfortable enough to serve the needs of a frequent user.
Gimbals
Hohem iSteady X Gimbal
Value for money gimbal, sturdily built, with lots of great features. Pros
Sturdily built for the priceVery smooth and smart featuresFabulous built-in special effect templates
Cons
Templates don’t work flawlessly and still have a few bugsSoft pouch included instead of a proper case
Our Rating: 4/5
Hohem iSteady V2 Gimbal
Stabilization and AI tracking in one convenient package. Pros
AI tracking3-axis stabilizationMoment templatesCompatible with most other appsCompact, lightweight design
Cons
Hinge and thumbscrew can stickJoystick comes off easily
Our Rating: 4/5
Hohem iSteady Pro 4 Gimbal
Affordable gimbal with stabilization that’ll change how you film action. Pros
3-axis stabilizer and anti-shake technologyEasy mountingCamera connection controls for GoProSmooth gimbal adjustmentsIncludes a caseDoubles as a power bank
Cons
Camera connection only works with GoPro
Our Rating: 4/5 If you’re looking for a combination of performance and price, it’s hard to beat the Hohem iSteady Pro 4 Gimbal. The 3-axis stabilizer is made for an active life or to just keep you in the frame while vlogging. The controls are easy to access with just one hand, and mounting is an absolute breeze. While there are no connection features for action cameras other than Go Pros, it’s still a highly useful gimbal for other action cameras as well. Try it yourself for $99.
Routers and Repeaters
Rock Space AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Budget-friendly router with high-end features ideal for high-traffic smart homes. Pros
Wi-Fi 6 capableUp to 2,500 sq. ft. coverageExpands and strengthens 5GHz bandQuick and easy setup
Cons
Security options are minimal
Our Rating: 4/5
Rock Space AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Repeater
Create a stronger, more reliable network through your home. Pros
Compatible with most routersWorks in areas up to 1,500 sq. ft.Dual-band WPS buttonDual function as repeater and access pointMU-MMO technology
Cons
Setup was glitchyPlug doesn’t connect or disconnect easily at all
Our Rating: 4/5
Keyboards
Epomaker AK84S Mechanical Keyboard
A steller mechanical keyboard with many customization options. Pros
Feels great under the fingersBright backlightHandy set of extra shortcuts mapped to the keys
Cons
Key placement could be better suited to MacsHome keys may not be pronounced enough for touch typists
Our Rating: 4/5 The Epomaker AK84S Mechanical Keyboard is not presented at a throwaway price at $109, so it will end up being a considerable purchase. The keyboard feels good under the fingers, has many applications in darker rooms because of the lighting customization, and offers a range of extra shortcuts not found on a regular Mac keyboard. If you are looking for a keyboard that can outperform your current default model and have a need for the extra functionality on offer, consider the Epomaker AK82S a top-tier option.
Lighting
eco4life Wi-Fi LED Strip Lights
Vibrant LED strip lights to make the perfect addition to any smart home. Pros
180 lights per setCut to fit every few inchesConnectors included for additional stripsControl via remote, app, or voiceSet schedules, timers, and custom light scenes
Cons
Music sync doesn’t always work wellLights are waterproof but remote and adapter aren’t
Our Rating: 4/5 Overall, the reviewer enjoyed using the eco4life Wi-Fi LED Strip Lights. They’re a breeze to install and easy to customize to the length you need. The app puts you in complete control over the lights. From schedules to presets, you can have the lights ready to use and flashing in the pattern you want in just a few minutes at most. The vibrant colors look great. The reviewer loved how easy it is to dim them when needed for softer colors, too. While she wished the music sync worked a bit better, that’s really the only flaw. Try them out yourself for $29.95.
Daybetter Smart LED Strip Lights
Affordable DIY way to add ambient lighting anywhere in your home. Pros
50 feet of lightsControl via remote, voice, control box, and app16 million light optionsCreate custom scenes, schedules, and timersCut lights to fit where needed
Cons
Adhesive doesn’t continue to stick in some areasMusic doesn’t sync consistently
Our Rating: 4/5
MOMAX Q.LED Desk Lamp
Durable desk lamp with 30 light settings and wireless charging. Pros
30 lighting combinationsWireless chargerUSB chargerAuto-shutoff timerAdjustable lamp head and arm
Cons
10W charging can take 2 to 3 hours
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Smartphones
imoo Watch Phone Z6
Fun watch for kids to wear and a great communication device for parents to connect with their kids. Pros
Comes with phone dialerComes with GPS and rear/front cameras functionsEasy to usePlenty of parental control
Cons
Battery life can be betterWatch face can be a bit big for kidsNo easy way to start a video chat from watch
Our Rating: 4/5 The reviewer guesses that once kids are old enough, they won’t want to wear a tracker for you to locate where they are. But for younger kids who can’t always be by your side, the imoo Watch Phone Z6 is useful to help you monitor where they are and communicate with them in real time without them carrying a phone (and getting addicted to it). You can pick it up for $239 after applying the on-site $10 discount.
AGM M7 4G LTE Smartphone
A phone that can do everything you need and still hold up to the rigors of a rough and tumble lifestyle. Pros
Rugged, simple functionalityPowerful flashlightModern smartphone features in tough, classic bodyInexpensive
Cons
Locked applications and OS make for little flexibilityDifficult setup without proper guidance
Our Rating: 4/5 If there’s one thing the reviewer would have to commend the AGM M7 for, it’s being a rugged, traditionalist outlier in a fragile smartphone world. The removable battery, dual SIM cards, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Type-C charging make the AGM M7 4G LTE Smartphone a surprising mix of a lot of the things that people really like about old and new smartphones. It’s clearly meant to be a simple, rugged phone that does its job and nothing else. Plus, for a price around $56 after applying the on-site code, you can’t beat it.
RedMagic 6S Pro
Combination of specs, style, and game focus makes it a treat to use during game time. Pros
Touch-sensitive shoulder buttons a game-changerLED fan looks nice, keeps phone coolGame Space makes phone feel like a gaming device6.8inch, 165Hz AMOLED display is gorgeous
Cons
Won’t appeal to everyone
Our Rating:4.5/5 As with any phone, the RedMagic 6S Pro isn’t going to be for everyone. In this case, if you’re not interested in the RedMagic 6S Pro, you may not be interested in a gaming phone, period. Yes, the visual style is bold, but that is going to be a selling point for many phone-first gamers. The combination of specs, style, and game-focused features makes the RedMagic 6S Pro a treat to use when it’s game time. Once you have to get down to business, the 6S Pro holds its own, but it’s always ready for a quick five minutes or so of gaming on the side. Buy it now for $599.
Miscellaneous
GiiKER Super Cube
Anyone can solve the GiiKER Super Cube in a minute. Pros
Cute packagingSimple to pairFun tutorialMakes solving easy for pro and novice users
Cons
Long tutorialNo instructions for one gameTo solve without app will take time
Our Rating: 4/5 The reviewer didn’t even glance at the tutorial for this electronic game that functions much like a Rubik’s cube but still solved it in 62 seconds – with the app’s help! She couldn’t do it without that. After she made her way through the tutorial as well, she solved it in 54 seconds. Without the app, she still wouldn’t be able to solve it. She was already able to predict some solving moves toward the end. You can try your luck with the GiiKER Super Cube for just $38.99.
Carchet Discovery T12 Dashcam
Good buy if you’re looking specifically for both a dashcam and a backup camera. Pros
Great image qualityEasy setup for front-facing cameraGreat build qualityLarge mirror adds functionality
Cons
No MicroSD card includedInvolved setup for backup camera
Our Rating: 4/5
Linedock Dock for MacBook Pro
Perfect power docking and professional quality: a game-changer! Pros
Plenty of connectionsComplex and flexible chargingBuilt-in SSD for some modelsFantastic and thoughtful designRobust sustainability policy
Cons
None that we could uncover
Our Rating: 4.5/5 The Linedock 16″ dock for MacBook Pro itself is quality through and through: the company itself is making all of the right noises about its process and values, and the performance is stellar. On the whole, the Linedock is an exciting product that delivers. You can get your own for $679.
eMeet Luna Wireless Speakerphone
Clear call quality complete with noise reduction for better meetings. Pros
Three built-in mics for up to eight peopleNoise reductionMultiple connection modesWide compatibility
Cons
Charging can take up to four hours
Our Rating: 4.5/5
MegaModz Modded PS5 Controller
High-quality controller modding for real PS5 controllers Pros
Uses first-party Sony PS5 Controllers before mods are addedMods work as intendedSkins are of high quality and show very little wear and tear
Cons
Hair-Trigger Mod can interfere with some functionality
Our Rating: 4.5/5 All in all, this is an extremely good modified controller from MegaModz. The thorough testing the reviewer did of the controller’s mods showed how the custom paint job held up and helped it earn its high score. The paint job is immaculate, and the mods ordered work as advertised. Overall, the MegaModz Modded PS5 Controller is highly recommended for your next modded gamepad. You can try it yourself for just $79.99.
