10 Most Useless Gadgets You’ll Regret Buying This Holiday Season

From a smart water bottle that reminds you to drink more water to a jump rope that tracks your jumps, we’re coveirng 10 useless tech products that were probably well-intentioned, but didn’t really do anything revolutionary.

Shaun Key Avatar
Shaun Key Avatar

By

Our editorial process is built on human expertise, ensuring that every article is reliable and trustworthy. AI helps us shape our content to be as accurate and engaging as possible.
Learn more about our commitment to integrity in our Code of Ethics.

Image: Gadget Review

Technology has seamlessly woven itself into our daily routines, transforming everyday objects into smart, connected tools. From the moment we wake up to the end of our day, there’s a gadget designed to enhance even the simplest tasks. Smart trash cans now promise to revolutionize waste management, while water bottles track every sip to ensure we stay hydrated. Anti-drowsy devices aim to keep drivers alert, and even nail clippers have been given high-tech upgrades with features that would leave past generations scratching their heads.

These innovations highlight just how far we’ve come in reimagining the ordinary, making once-simple tools smarter and more capable. Yet, as clever as these gadgets are, they also raise questions about necessity versus novelty. Do we truly need all these upgrades, or are they solutions searching for problems? As we look at these intriguing gadgets, it’s clear that the next ordinary item to get a tech upgrade isn’t far off.

10. Resqme Anti-Drowsy Device

Image: Resqme

Marketed as a lifesaver for drowsy drivers, this ear-hook gadget aims to wake you up with an alarm if you nod off behind the wheel. However, the concept is fraught with risks. A sudden jolt could startle drivers at the wrong moment, potentially causing more harm than good. Instead of relying on this questionable device, a better solution might just be getting enough rest before hitting the road.

9. Anti-Snoring Device

Image: Healthline

This gadget claims to reduce snoring by forcing air into your nose. While the intention is noble, the execution leaves much to be desired. The discomfort of wearing a device while trying to sleep seems counterproductive. For those struggling with snoring, consulting a doctor may be a more effective and less intrusive option.

8. Auto Clicker

Image: Amazon

Designed to tap your phone screen repeatedly for mobile games, the Auto Clicker takes the effort out of gaming. While it might help you win tap-heavy games, it raises the question: is it still fun if you’re not actually playing? This gadget might help rack up points, but it strips away the joy of the gaming experience.

7. Smart Trash Can

At $120, the Smart Trash Can features motion sensors for opening and auto-sealing when full. While it’s undeniably high-tech, it’s hard to justify the price for something as simple as taking out the trash. For most people, tying a trash bag doesn’t require a gadget, making this product more of a luxury than a necessity.

6. Mouse Jiggler

The Mouse Jiggler keeps your computer mouse moving to make you appear active. While this might fool your boss, it’s a band-aid solution for productivity issues. Instead of relying on a gadget to simulate work, focusing on genuine work habits might be a better long-term strategy.

5. HidrateSpark

Image: HidrateSpark

This water bottle tracks your hydration and lights up to remind you to drink water. While staying hydrated is crucial, the $70 price tag for a bottle requiring app integration seems excessive. A standard water bottle (or even a sticky note reminder) can achieve the same goal without draining your wallet.

4. Smart Jump Rope

Image: Crossrope

For $40, the Smart Jump Rope tracks your skips and syncs the data to an app. While it’s a fun fitness tool, many users might find the price unjustifiable when they can count skips the old-fashioned way. For most people, this gadget feels more like a splurge than a necessity.

3. Electric Nail Clipper

Image: Amazon

This device promises to simplify nail trimming by letting you insert your finger for an automatic cut. However, the thought of using a machine for something as delicate as nail care can feel intimidating. Traditional nail clippers are faster, cheaper, and more reliable, making this gadget unnecessary for most.

2. Automatic Umbrella

Image: Amazon

Opening with the push of a button, this umbrella requires charging to function. While it’s undeniably modern, the risk of a dead battery during a sudden downpour makes it impractical. A regular umbrella might not be flashy, but it’s reliable and always ready to go.

1. Smart Thermometer

Image: 9to5Mac

This thermometer connects to your phone to display readings via an app. While it sounds innovative, the need for multiple apps and its lack of a simple on-device display make it inconvenient. When you’re under the weather, the last thing you need is troubleshooting tech issues.

Share this Article



About Gadget Review’s Editorial Process

At Gadget Review, our guides, reviews, and news are driven by thorough human expertise and use our Trust Rating system and the True Score. AI assists in refining our editorial process, ensuring that every article is engaging, clear and succinct. See how we write our content here →