# Still Great for Less: The Verge Staff Picks Budget-Friendly Tech That Doesn’t Disappoint

## Still Great for Less: The Verge Staff Picks Budget-Friendly Tech That Doesn’t Disappoint

With potential tariff hikes looming, many are looking for affordable alternatives to everyday tech. Continuing a tradition, *The Verge* staff has once again compiled a list of favorite items that punch above their weight class, proving that quality doesn’t always have to break the bank. This year’s selections, all aiming to stay under the $50 mark (for now), include everything from essential gadgets to handy tools, all vetted and genuinely loved by the team.

Here’s a glimpse at some of the budget-friendly gems they’ve unearthed:

**Anker Nano Power Bank: Battery Life Savior**

Battling dwindling battery life on an aging Pixel 6, Reviews Editor Barbara Krasnoff swapped a heavier 20,000mAh power bank for the compact **Anker Nano Power Bank**. Weighing just 3.5 ounces, this USB-C connected charger provides 5,000mAh of power, enough to top off her phone and last the day. Its small size and variety of pale colors make it a practical and easily findable addition to any bag.

**Magpul DAKA Essential Wallet: A Minimalist’s Dream**

Senior Reporter Andrew Liszewski’s search for the perfect slim wallet ended almost a decade ago with the **Magpul DAKA Essential Wallet**. Constructed from durable, reinforced polymer fabric with welded seams and an anti-slip texture, this wallet has proven its longevity. Even after eight years of daily use, the original shows minimal wear and tear, proving its worth.

**Hamilton Beach Egg Cooker: Egg-cellent Convenience**

Creative Director Kristen Radtke raves about the **Hamilton Beach Egg Cooker**, highlighting its surprising usefulness. Capable of perfectly cooking hard- or soft-boiled eggs in minutes with zero cleanup, this appliance has quickly become a staple. It’s not only a time-saver, but also a healthy choice, helping Radtke cut back on less nutritious breakfast options.

**ToAuto Soldering Station: Console Repair on a Budget**

News Writer Emma Roth dusted off her **ToAuto soldering station** to dive into the world of game console repair. While not a high-end brand like Hakko or Weller, this $55 station gets the job done. It features adjustable temperature up to 842 degrees Fahrenheit, interchangeable tips, and helpful accessories, making it ideal for beginners tackling projects like HDMI port replacements and battery swaps.

**Xiaomi Sound Pocket: The Pocket-Sized Audio Companion**

News Editor Dominic Preston’s go-to Bluetooth speaker is the **Xiaomi Sound Pocket**. Its tiny size makes it incredibly portable, easily fitting in a pocket or attaching to a backpack. While it might not deliver booming bass, it provides better sound than a phone speaker and is light enough to always justify bringing along on any trip.

**paleblue USB-C Rechargeable Batteries: End the Disposable Battery Cycle**

Deputy Editor Todd Haselton replaced disposable AA batteries with **$30 paleblue USB-C rechargeable batteries**. These batteries offer long-lasting power, can be charged simultaneously via USB-C, and eliminate the need for a bulky charger. They’re available in four, eight, and twelve-packs, making them a convenient and eco-friendly alternative.

**A Simple, Sturdy Water Bottle: Hydration on the Go**

News Editor Jay Peters keeps it simple with a sturdy stainless steel water bottle. Its ability to keep water cold throughout the workday makes it a reliable companion for trips and everyday use.

**Tile Slim: Peace of Mind for the Forgetful**

Reviews Editor Barbara Krasnoff recounts a story of a lost and found wallet to highlight the value of a **Tile Slim**. Having used Tile trackers for years to locate misplaced items, she purchased one for her partner’s wallet after a nerve-wracking bus ride incident, providing peace of mind and hopefully preventing future trips to the bus depot.

**Generic Precision Screwdriver Set: A Surprisingly Versatile Toolkit**

Senior Editor Sean Hollister was pleasantly surprised by this generic precision screwdriver, spudger, and tweezer set. Despite already owning a high-end iFixit kit, he found the short, front-heavy driver to be exceptionally useful for opening gadgets, offering better leverage and control for delicate tasks.

**Royal Kludge Folding Bluetooth Keyboard: Lap-Friendly Typing on the Go**

Senior Editor Sean Hollister crowns the **Royal Kludge** as the best folding Bluetooth keyboard he’s used, primarily because it actually stays on his lap. This mechanical keyboard features swappable keycaps, multi-device connectivity, USB-C charging, and a vertical folding design, making it a practical and affordable option for on-the-go typing.

These recommendations prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get reliable and useful tech. With a little research and the help of *The Verge*’s discerning staff, you can find great products that won’t break the bank. So, before those tariffs potentially hit, consider adding some of these budget-friendly favorites to your shopping list.