Smart lights, VR, connected fitness and clever gadgets that are easy to set up.
Heads up: we earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Commissions never decide what makes the list. Ratings are from Amazon.com and were checked on Oct 27, 2026.
Smart homeIllustrative imageWhy we picked it: The starter kit for colour smart lighting you can schedule or control by voice.
Good quality, easy setup, bright bulbs and flexible schedules and colours.
A few had trouble getting the bridge onto Wi-Fi.
Best for: Smart-home beginners who want it done properly.
Under $50Illustrative imageWhy we picked it: Voice-controllable colour bulbs with no hub needed.
Vibrant colours, good value and easy Alexa and Google Assistant setup.
Brightness and app connectivity get mixed reviews.
Best for: Teen bedrooms and first smart-home setups.
Room glow-upIllustrative imageWhy we picked it: A colour light bar for behind the TV or monitor; it's the go-to gamer room upgrade.
Vibrant colours, adjustable brightness and easy setup in the Hue app.
Some think it's overpriced.
Best for: Gamers and movie-night hosts who already have (or want) Hue.
Big giftIllustrative imageWhy we picked it: A standalone VR headset with no PC or console needed.
Easy to use, very entertaining and kids love it.
Some report blurry visuals.
Best for: Families and gamers trying VR for the first time.
SplurgeIllustrative imageWhy we picked it: A bright AMOLED running watch with accurate tracking and suggested workouts.
Accurate tracking, bright readable display, multi-day battery and useful workout suggestions.
A few report phone connection issues.
Best for: Runners and step-counters who want more than a basic band.
CleverIllustrative imageWhy we picked it: Write by hand, scan to the cloud with the app, then wipe the pages clean and reuse.
Great paper feel, handwriting scans well and it holds up.
Some coloured pens stain the pages, and wiping clean is mixed.
Best for: Students and list-makers who want paper and digital.
