In this article, we're going to look at some great deals: gadgets that boast rock-bottom prices paired with sky-high quality. We'll also talk about a couple of devices which---although not cheap---still represent a steal in the price vs. quality battle.
Keep reading to find out which devices offer incredible value for their price.
1. Kill A Watt EZ Electricity Usage Monitor
Let's begin with a gadget that can save you money: the P3 International P4460 Kill A Watt EZ Electricity Usage Monitor.
Most of us leave all our appliances and gadgets plugged in around the clock. Of course, you can't suddenly decide to unplug your fridge, but you can save a lot of money on your monthly electric bill if you disconnect the items that are a significant drain even while not in use.
The Kill A Watt EZ Electricity Usage Monitor---which can typically be picked up for between $25 and $30 on Amazon---can assess the efficiency of an appliance. It will measure the Kilowatts per hour and show daily, weekly, monthly, and annual price forecasts.
2. Logitech Keys-To-Go Bluetooth Keyboard
If you've never used a portable Bluetooth keyboard, it's difficult to appreciate how life-changing they can be.
Obviously, you can use them to connect to your iPad or smartphone; it's much better than using the on-screen keyboard if you need to do a lot of typing. But the keyboards really come into their own when used to control gadgets like your smart TV and set-top streaming boxes. It's a faster and more enjoyable experience than using a TV remote.
Logitech's Keys-To-Go model is one of the best portable keyboards. A single battery charge lasts for three months, it has full-size keys, and comes in three different colors.
It also has a wipeable skin for easy cleaning. It makes the device perfect for throwing in your bag and using in public environments.
3. Amazon Echo Dot
The Echo Dot is a slimmed-down version of the popular Echo speaker. It's cheaper price tag makes it possible to buy a few dots and put them in your home's most-frequented rooms.
Now in its second generation, the Echo Dot can play music, control smart home devices, make phone calls, and send messages.
It's also Alexa-compatible. As such, you can ask for the latest news, receive traffic updates, and make use of third-party Alexa skills.
Lastly, because the Dot is manufactured by Amazon, it integrates seamlessly with the company's hardware (such as the Fire TV stick) and apps (like Amazon Prime Video and Audible).
If you buy six Dots, Amazon will give you a seventh for free.
4. Marpac Dohm-DS White Noise Sound Machine
White noise occurs when a sound has an equal intensity across multiple frequencies. It has several everyday uses; you can use it to help you sleep, drown out irritating sounds in the office, improve your concentration, and even treat tinnitus.
You've probably seen some white noise apps in the Google Play Store or App Store, but nothing can beat a dedicated machine.
There are a few models worth your time, but the best-in-class is widely considered to be the Marpac Dohm-DS All-Natural White Noise Sound Machine.
It's a standalone device that comes with two-speed settings and an asymmetrical fan. The fan creates the sound of rushing air. You can also adjust the tone and volume of the output.
The machine comes in white and tan.
5. Alpine Rivers RFID Blocking Sleeves
Recent years have seen a surge in the number of cases of "RFID Skimming." It's a form of digital identity theft.
In most countries around the world, credit cards, driving licenses, and other forms of ID now come with an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. A nearby hacker can activate and scan the chip if they have RFID or NFC reader.
Although they'll never make you totally secure (a hacker could turn up the power on their reader), the Alpine Rivers RFID Blocking Sleeves will protect you in most circumstances.
The company's pack of 16 sleeves come in a variety of sizes to suit everything from cards to wallet. Each sleeve is lined with an electromagnetically opaque shield to prevent RFID readers' signals.
6. CoolKo Magnetic Micro USB Charging Cable
Apple users have benefitted from magnetic charging cables for many years. There are two main reasons why they're so popular.
Firstly, magnetic cables will last longer. There is less abrasion every time you insert or remove the cable from your device. Secondly, they're safer. If you trip over the wire, it will disconnect rather than pulling your device onto the floor.
The CoolKo Magnetic Micro USB Charging Cable features aluminum housing at each end of the cable, an LED light so you know whether a device is charging, and transmission speeds of up to 480-Mbps.
7. Nvidia Shield
We'll end with an expensive-but-so-worth-it device: the Nvidia Shield set-top box.
Android TV boxes are not in short supply, but the market is flooded with poor-quality Chinese products. Don't waste your money on them.
Instead, pick up an Nvidia Shield. It's the best set-top box you can buy today. Not only can it help you save money by cutting the cord, but it also offers a great way to play games.
You can play games locally and---if your computer has a Nvidia graphics card---cast games from your PC to your TV.
Considering the Nvidia Shield costs less than $200, it's arguably the biggest steal on this entire list.
Bonus: Oculus Rift
I know. Some of you might immediately start rolling your eyes when you see the Oculus Rift's price tag. The device will set you back more than $400 unless you can pick one up during an Amazon sale.
For those who don't know, the Oculus Rift is a virtual reality headset. It's one of our favorite devices.
Owned by Facebook since 2014, the device excels when playing games. Some of the best AAA titles include Project CARS, Elite: Dangerous, Robo Recall, and Lone Echo. You can also watch movies and browse social media.
When opening the box, you can expect to find a headset, two tracking cameras, two controllers, and several free games. It's an incredible amount of gear; Facebook is surely making a loss on it.