The 5 best ‘smart’ gadgets I’ve tried and love — as low as $35

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Today, more than ever, technology is integrated into just about everything we do and most of the products we use. From making a cup of coffee to streaming our favorite shows, none of these practices are possible without the use of some kind of device. It’s their “smart” capabilities, though, that sets apart the good gadgets from the great ones.

Smart devices are now more widely available than ever before. Once upon a time, these were considered luxuries. But today, it can be more of a task to find a device that’s missing at least one built-in smart feature.

From notebooks and mugs to Bluetooth speakers and robot vacuums, I’ve tried some of the most popular smart devices on the market. And while some of them don’t always deliver in performance and user-friendliness, these five products certainly passed the test.

1. Rocketbook Fusion Smart Reusable Notebook, $35

Credit: Amazon

This reusable notebook is one of the most popular products on Amazon. With over 19,000 ratings, the Rocketbook Fusion smart reusable notebook is a customer-favorite item that does more than meets the eye.

To ensure that you never run out of paper, this book blasts any notes you jot down to the cloud for proper organization. Once the notes are safely stored onto your drive or choice (iCloud, Slack, Dropbox, etc.), simply wipe the pages clean with the included cloth.

2. Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light With Colored Sunrise And Sunset Simulation, $99.99

Credit: Amazon

Philips simply delivers when it comes to sleep-related tech. In fact, Amazon editors and shoppers both agree that this wake-up light is one of the best gadgets to ensure that you have a sound night’s sleep and a peaceful wake-up process.

Boasting the coveted “Amazon’s Choice” label and with over 9,000 ratings, this Philips SmartSleep device features five natural alarm sounds and allows you to wake up naturally with sunrise simulation. Also, Wirecutter dubbed it the “best overall sunrise alarm clock” in 2020.

3. Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug, 14 oz, $132

Credit: Amazon

If you’ve ever waited too long to finish a cup of coffee or tea, this one is for you. Ensuring that your hot beverage never gets cold, the Ember smart mug keeps your drink at a specific temperature until you’re done.

After filling your cup, just set your desired peak temperature in the smartphone app and your drink will stay hot until your last sip.

4. Marshall Uxbridge Home Voice Speaker With Amazon Alexa Built-In, $199.99

Credit: Amazon

When it comes to quality premium speakers, Marshall‘s where it’s at. While the brand is definitely one of the best in that space, many of its products lack smart capabilities. With this void in mind, the brand recently released the Uxbridge and it’s, by far, one of the best speakers in its lineup.

Compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, this compact speaker packs a significant punch in sound and complements any space — both small and large. You can also connect to this device via Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, SpotifyConnect or Bluetooth. The possibilities are endless!

5. Proscenic M7 Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner With Alexa Control And Multi-Floor Mapping, $399 (Orig. $499)

Credit: Amazon

Let’s face it: robot vacuums are super convenient, but also super expensive. The iRobot Roomba, one of the most sought after, retails for a whopping $799 (and that’s while on sale)! So, when I saw that shoppers were saying this option from Proscenic was “miles ahead” of the Roomba, I had to give it a try — and I was impressed.

Retailing for $400 cheaper than the Roomba, this robot vacuum is feature-packed and includes a 2-in-1 system that allows it to both sweep and mop, synchronously.

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More from In The Know:

This iPhone hack will help you capture the background in all your vertical photos

This smart mug keeps your coffee or tea at the perfect hot temperature

Shoppers say this 2-in-1 robot vacuum is ‘miles ahead’ of the Roomba — and it’s on sale for $100 off

Marshall just released the ‘perfect-sized’ smart speaker for smaller apartments

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