Ever feel like Sisyphus? Ever feel like you’re stuck in a loop, pushing the same boulder uphill only to see it tumble back down?
I hear you; life can be hard, which is why I’m always searching for ways to make it easier. And sometimes, tech gadgets have the answer. It could be something small, like keeping your coffee warm. Sometimes it’s about more than a bag. It’s about finding a missing bag or being ready when the lights go out during a power outage.
I looked everywhere for products that make life easier. I used tips from platforms like 22Bit, which share smart solutions. Nearly everything on this list has been tested and given my full thumbs-up. I’ve tried and tested them all. Ready to break free from that endless uphill push? Let’s dive in!
Problem: Dead Phone Battery
It might seem like an obvious pick, but a dead phone is more than inconvenient — especially when you’re on the road. I once hopped into a rental car only to realize it didn’t even have the right USB port for my charger. Talk about panic mode!
A portable charger — whether you call it a power bank or backup battery — is a must-have. This device comes with three charging cords—one for micro-USB, one for USB-C, and one for Lightning. With many built-in cables, it works not for the latest devices but for older gadgets too.
It even includes a USB Type-A plug to recharge itself. Power banks come in every shape and size imaginable, but what matters is having one on hand when your battery runs low.
Problem: Lost Stuff
Apple’s AirTags are well-known trackers for misplaced belongings. Yet, they only work with iPhones. Yet, they miss out on one standout feature that Tile devices offer: two-way tracking.
With Tile, you can ping the tracker from your phone to find your keys or bag. You can also press the Tile to make your phone ring, even if it’s on silent. Best of all, it works with both iPhones and Android devices. If you’ve felt frustrated by lost items, try using a tracker like this.
Problem: Too Many Photo Albums
Photo albums made sense back when you’d only take a handful of pictures each year. Now we do that almost weekly. But what do you do now with thousands of cherished shots piling up on phones and tucked away in old albums? Transfer them to a digital picture frame. A digital frame lets you see your memories in a slideshow whenever you pass by.
YunQiDeer’s affordable frame stores thousands of photos, with the option to expand using a memory card. Sharing is simple — send images straight from your phone (or have friends and family do the same). It can even display videos. Best part? There’s no mandatory subscription, an optional plan for extra perks.
This is my top budget choice from our best digital photo frames list. It shares more about these products and their features.
Problem: Water Leaks When You’re Not Around Set featured image
Talk to a plumber, and you’ll hear plenty of horror stories. Pipes burst in vacation homes. Leaks go unchecked for days. Even a little water can lead to huge repair bills.
That’s why I’ve set up water sensors under sinks, near the water heater, behind the washer, and in other key spots. They detect leaks from the floor or overhead, then send alerts via sound, app notification, and even email.
At my place, these sensors have already caught two leaks I never would’ve noticed otherwise. Talk about prevention — and it’s a surprisingly inexpensive piece of mind.
Problem: Using your iPhone one-handed or hands-free
Modern phones have large screens. This makes them harder to use with one hand. Using a large phone for too long can be awkward and uncomfortable. This is true whether you’re reading or binge-watching.
The OhSnap 4 Luxe is a game-changer for iPhone owners. It snaps easily to the back of your phone or MagSafe case. You can pop out the grip, which tilts and locks in place. It also works as a hands-free stand.
It’s very thin when flat. It stays slim, never jutting out beyond your camera lenses. You can charge with MagSafe without taking it off. Since it’s magnetic, you can stick your phone on the fridge, gym gear, or anywhere else that’s convenient.
Problem: Can’t Use AirPods on Airplanes
Long flights can be boring, even with great entertainment. If you have wireless earbuds like AirPods, you might feel stuck without a way to connect. Most planes still use wired headphone jacks. So much for those pricey noise-canceling buds… until you find a workaround.
The AirFly Pro 2 connects to any standard 3.5mm jack. You can use it with AirPods or almost any wireless headphones. Even better, it allows dual connections. This way, you and your travel buddy can watch the same movie together.
Problem: Lost Wall Charger
Who hasn’t forgotten a charger in a hotel room at least once? Or simply forgotten where you put it. Enter Twelve South’s PlugBug — a wall charger built with Apple’s Find My tech. In other words, it doubles as an AirTag, so you’ll always know where it is. It has a standard CR2032 battery. Because of that built-in tracking, you can locate it even when it’s not plugged into the wall.
The standard model delivers 50 watts of power with two USB-C ports and foldable prongs. Need more juice? There’s also a 120-watt, four-port option. Just remember, it almost doubles the cost.
Conclusion
Life brings many daily challenges, but the right tech can ease stress. It’s proof that some of the smartest gadgets solve problems in the simplest ways. They help keep your phone charged and ensure you never lose your keys or charger. So, whether you’re facing big issues or small annoyances, having the right tools helps. You can stop pushing that boulder and start enjoying the climb.