When you’re a tech enthusiast or browsing a cool gadget list, it’s easy to get excited about the possibilities of a shiny new tech. But the reality is that a lot of tech items that seem essential might end up collecting dust in a drawer.
High Refresh Rate Monitor
A high refresh rate monitor can sound like the ultimate tech upgrade, especially with promises of ultra-smooth visuals. For gamers and graphics professionals, yes, it can be a game-changer.
But if you’re not playing fast-paced video games or working in visual design, a monitor with a refresh rate of 144Hz or higher may be overkill. For the average user—someone checking emails, watching Netflix, or working on a spreadsheet—a standard 60Hz monitor will do the job.
Would a high refresh rate monitor look nice? Absolutely. But if your daily routine doesn’t call for it, there are other ways to spend your money more effectively.
Tablet Without Purpose
Tablets have their appeal—they’re portable, versatile, and packed with apps for everything from note-taking to gaming. But unless you have a specific use in mind, they can become an expensive paperweight. Many people buy a tablet expecting it to replace their laptop, only to find that it doesn’t quite fit into their daily workflow or ends up duplicating what their phone already does.
Before buying a tablet, ask yourself what specific tasks it will handle. If the answer feels vague, it might be worth reconsidering. Tablets are great, but only when they serve a real function in your life.
USB Mixer/Audio Interface
If you’ve ever been inspired by a YouTube tutorial or dreamt of starting a podcast, you might’ve considered picking up a USB mixer or audio interface. These devices promise high-quality audio inputs, perfect for musicians, streamers, and podcasters. But for anyone who’s only dabbling in audio or planning the occasional Zoom call, getting any of these might be too much tech with too few practical applications.
Unless you plan to commit to regular audio projects, that USB mixer could easily go from an exciting new purchase to yet another dust collector on your desk.
Laptop Cooling Pad
Laptop cooling pads can seem like a practical fix for anyone worried about their device overheating. These gadgets often have built-in fans to boost airflow, promising to keep your laptop cooler and extend its lifespan. However, unless you’re running resource-heavy programs like video editing software or graphics-intensive games, most modern laptops are designed to handle everyday tasks without additional cooling.
If you’re primarily using your laptop for browsing, streaming, or word processing, you likely won’t notice much temperature difference. Plus, cooling pads typically require a USB port, potentially draining your battery faster.
Phone Stand
Phone stands can seem handy. I mean, think about the many potential benefits: adjustable angles, portability, and even cable management. However, the reality is a bit different. A dedicated stand often becomes redundant—especially when so many other items around you can serve as a phone stand. Books, cups, or even just the edge of your laptop can hold your phone at a decent angle without needing a separate gadget.
Unless you’re someone who regularly takes calls or needs your phone at eye level for extended periods, you’re likely to find that a phone stand isn’t as essential as it seems.
Ring Light
Ring lights are another piece of tech that seems essential, especially with the rise of video calls and content creation. They promise professional lighting for everything from Zoom meetings to TikTok videos, and it’s easy to see the appeal. But for most people, this gadget gets used far less than expected.
A ring light is great for dedicated content creators who require consistent, professional-looking lighting. But for most of us, the occasional selfie or virtual meeting can be lit just as well by a desk lamp or natural light from a window.
VR Headset
A virtual reality headset is one of those tech gadgets people think they need until they get one and realize how rarely they use it. Playing games on an infinity screen, exploring virtual worlds, or even taking VR fitness classes sounds exciting. But this pricey gadget often doesn’t see regular use unless you’re a serious gamer or VR enthusiast.
Popular standalone VR headsets like the Meta Quest 3 offer impressive experiences. However, the novelty can wear off quickly unless you’re a dedicated gamer or someone deeply interested in VR. VR headsets also require space to move around, can cause motion sickness in some users, and may sit idle after the initial excitement fades.
It’s easy to get excited about the latest gadgets. However, some tech just isn’t as essential as it seems. Often, the things we’re convinced will improve our daily routine become occasional-use items at best. And though some gadgets, like a tablet or ring light, serve specific needs well, they only shine if they align with your lifestyle.