The Best Tech Deals Under $50 in 2023

Best Smart Speaker

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)

4.8

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Kickstart your smart home with Amazon's excellent 5th Gen Echo Dot, which retains the round shape of the 4th Gen model. The smart speaker has improved audio and eero built-in to boost your Wi-Fi throughout your home.

The 5th Gen Echo Dot has a temperature sensor that you can use to create Alexa routines to keep your rooms at the ideal temperature throughout the day. (You can also set up routines for custom workouts, security, and morning, evening, and bedtime rituals.

Best Tracker

Apple AirTag

4.7

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AirTags let you track anything, including your phone, wallet, and keys. It's incredibly convenient for Apple users, though that's not a requirement. They are small and easy to attach to a keychain or wallet, and then you can use your iPhone (or another smartphone) to track your items. There's even an option to play an alarm if you're having trouble getting the location of your keys or other prized possession.

Best Earbuds

Anker Soundcore Life P2 True Wireless Earbuds

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These wireless earbuds from Anker punch way above their weight. The Anker Soundcore Life P2 wireless earbuds with noise-canceling are perfect for commuting or the office. You can get 7 hours of playback on a single charge and use the carrying case to top off the earbuds with an additional 40 hours.  

The earbuds are protected by IPX7 waterproofing, making them resistant to rain and sweat and safe to wear in the great outdoors or at the gym. At this price point, the Anker Soundcore Life P2 is the model to beat.

Best Mouse

Razer DeathAdder V2 Mini

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If you're shopping for a new gaming mouse, it's tough to go wrong with the Razer DeathAdder V2 Mini. On the surface, it's tough to differentiate the V2 Mini from its big brother; it retains the classic, curved shape and RGB lighting but is noticeably smaller and lighter.

The most significant difference besides the size is the sensor. The V2 Mini utilizes an 8,500 CPI sensor instead of the larger 20,000 CPI sensor on the standard version of the V2. While this may lead you to believe that the Mini is less powerful, there's a lower ceiling on your mouse sensitivity, and realistically, most players don't go above 3,000 anyway. So unless you're playing in the top 10th percentile, you likely won't notice a difference.

Best Portable Streaming Stick

Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite

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The Fire TV Stick Lite ($30) is an affordable device that adds smart features to your TV so you can easily stream movies, TV, and music. It has Amazon's Alexa assistant built-in. The Fire TV Stick Lite is nearly identical to its non-lite counterpart. One difference is that the Fire TV Stick provides more immersive sound if your home theater has Dolby Atmos.

The Alexa Voice Remote Lite doesn't have television controls, so you'll need to use your TV remote to adjust the volume, for example.

Best Webcam

Logitech C270

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Everyone needs a webcam now, but finding a decent one at a reasonable price is easier said than done.
The Logitech C270 fits the bill nicely at around $30.

With 720p video calling and recording, the C270 is a good choice for a Google Meet or Zoom meeting.

Best Adapter

CARD KableCARD

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Keep a KableCard in your back pocket, and you'll never be left without the wrong adapter again. This slim device isn't much larger than a credit card and carries adapters and cables for all modern charging ports, including Micro USB, USB-C, and Lightning adapters.

However, the KableCard is more than just a handy place to stash a bunch of adapters; this device also serves as a portable wireless charger and media reader. With the KableCard plugged in, you prop it up and wirelessly charge your compatible devices. The card also had a built-in MicroSD card slot allowing you to transfer files or photos to your desktop.

Best Microphone

Razer Seiren Mini USB Streaming Microphone

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With everyone living on Zoom, you owe it to yourself and your coworkers to invest in a decent mic. And thankfully, with help from the Razer Seiren Mini, you no longer have to worry about sounding like you're talking into the business end of a tin can when trying to get your point across in a meeting.

This adorable, lozenge-shaped microphone is perfect for gamers or anyone who wants to elevate the sound quality of their online calls.

The Seiren Mini has a gimbaled stand that allows you to use it independently, but you can easily unscrew it and attach it to a mic boom, tripod, or another free-standing mount.

Best Drawing Tablet

Huion H610 Pro V2 Drawing Tablet

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While Wacom is the first name that comes to mind when discussing drawing tablets, it's not always synonymous with affordability. That's where the Huion H610 Pro V2 comes in.

This fantastic pen and tablet combo makes turning your desktop, laptop, or tablet into a sketch pad more accessible than ever. You can connect this device via Mini-USB or Bluetooth, and it's compatible with many platforms, including Adobe Sketch, Bamboo Paper, and Pen Up.

The tablet has eight programmable keys that you can link with various tools or functions in your drawing software, as well as 16 touch keys along the top edge of the work area. The pen has nine replacement nibs and doesn't need batteries or recharging.

Best Speaker

Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker

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The pocket-sized Tribit StormBox Micro is a fantastic Bluetooth speaker for use at home or on the go for less than $50. This compact speaker punches well above its weight with excellent volume and robust bass. This IPX67 waterproof and dustproof speaker comes with an elastic band around the back and weighs just a little over 1 pound, allowing you to easily lash it to belt loops, bike handlebars, and small children.

The StormBox micro is rechargeable via USB-C, lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge, and remains paired with devices up to 100 ft. away. One excellent feature that comes packaged with this handy speaker is that If you buy one for a friend, you can pair the two speakers together for an added sound boost. 

Best for Early Risers

Presto Dorothy Rapid Cold Brewer

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Programmers, gamers, and just about everyone rely on caffeine to keep them going throughout the day. The Dorothy Rapid Cold brewer hits the spot if you love cold brew but don't want to wait overnight for that concentrated caffeine.

This 22oz french press style brewer couldn't be simpler to use. Add water, turn on the base, and add your favorite coffee. In 20-30 minutes, you'll have a rich, flavorful pitcher of coffee that didn't have to sit overnight. Even better, Dorothy avoids the bitterness commonly associated with cold brew, making each sip awesome.  

Best Keyboard

Tecware Phantom 87

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If you're looking to jump into the RGB keyboard game on the cheap, look no further than the Tecware Phantom 87. This Tenkeyless mechanical keyboard features double-shot ABS keycaps to prevent wear and the buildup of visible fingerprints. Available in either linear, clicky, or tactile switches, there's something for everyone, regardless of your preferred typing style. With full N-kay rollover and a 1000Hz polling rate, you can rest assured that this keyboard will give you a leg up against the competition.

The Phantom has 19 built-in RGB presets you can cycle through without additional software. However, if you need to fine-tune your lighting, Tecware does have a rudimentary software that allows you to customize per-key RGB lighting, record macros, and save up to 3 separate profiles.

This keyboard also features a hot-swappable PCB, meaning the keycaps can be removed and replaced with different switches if you want that personalized, DIY touch.