Taking a punt on budget-friendly technology can be quite the gamble. Occasionally, you hit the jackpot, but other times, you’re left rueing your purchase. Earlier this year, I delved into the world of AliExpress tech and was unexpectedly charmed. This time, I resolved to explore local dollar stores, setting myself a $10 limit per gadget. I gathered 10 devices to determine which ones were worth the investment and which were better left on the shelf.

Diving into Dollar Store Tech

Quite a rapid-fire list, it is. Hence, not every product will receive an exhaustive critique. Nevertheless, I’ll strive to highlight the crux of each device. Let’s set off.

Dollar Tree

Despite a recent price shuffle, Dollar Tree remains the most economical stop. Amazingly, their tech exceeded expectations.

Winner’s Circle Vacuum Cleaner

• Cost: $7
• Verdict: Good enough

When I evaluated car vacuums for CNET last year, I pondered including the $7 Winner’s Circle Vacuum Cleaner. Regrettably, testing wired 12-volt models in my domicile was cumbersome, so it was omitted. However, now that I’ve given it a whirl, I can attest it functions adequately. While it struggles with larger pebbles, it performs akin to the last-place Drecell car vacuum and boasts a more substantial dustbin. Accessories are flimsy, and its 9-foot power cord lacks the mobility of battery-powered models.

Bytech Wi-Fi Smart RGB Bulb

• Cost: $7
• Verdict: Keeper, for now

I chanced upon Bytech wares at multiple dollar stores, proving it’s not merely a house brand. After encountering trouble with my Sengled bulbs, I’ve embraced Zigbee bulbs at home. Yet, I snagged this $7 Wi-Fi bulb anyway. It’s not extraordinary compared to Amazon’s similarly priced offerings, supporting both Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Alas, with Wi-Fi bulbs, you’re susceptible to server issues if Bytech folds.

E-Circuit USB to Type C Adapter

• Cost: $1.50
• Verdict: Keeper

The E-Circuit USB to Type C Adapter’s data speeds are reminiscent of USB 2.0. It suffices to consolidate my desk of cluttered dongles. Until my laptop embraces USB-C ports, this adapter is essential.

Five Below

Last summer, Five Below dazzled me with smart string lights under $6. Those lights now grace my tent on camping escapades. Although they weren’t available at my local store this time, they remain the benchmark for commendable dollar store tech.

Up-Tech FreeVoice Clip-On Microphone

• Cost: $5
• Verdict: Good enough

The FreeVoice Clip-On Microphone delivers a workable recording. However, it suffers from a scratchy quality that can’t rival premium brands like Rode or DJI. Nevertheless, it captures quiet speech easily.

Bass Jaxx Air Conduction True Wireless Ear Cuffs

Although the sound quality is fairly decent, the volume lacks. Like much of its competition, rich bass is absent, and treble is tinny. The comfort is inadequate but could suffice for those less picky about seamless ease-of-use.

Bass Jaxx Amped Wireless Speaker

• Cost: $8
• Verdict: Good Enough

The Bass Jaxx Amped Speaker surprises with acceptable treble and midtones. While not gifting booming bass like my Tribit or Bose speakers, it’s apt as a child’s starter Bluetooth speaker.

Dollar General

Dollar General doesn’t grace my state, Utah, with a prominent presence. Curiously, both noteworthy tech items are quirky smartphone accessories as others exceeded my $10 limit.

iJoy Smartphone Projector Cinema

At $10, the iJoy Theater is a quaint contraption letting you project your smartphone’s image onto a wall. Projecting onto textured surfaces reveals its limitations, yet it retains a certain nostalgic charm for older anime.

Billboard Game Joystick

• Cost: $2.50
• Verdict: Reject

I unearthed a dusty Billboard Game Joystick, which adequately supports Minecraft. Yet, a Bluetooth controller might better serve your gaming needs.

Family Dollar

Sadly, Family Dollar mirrored many tech selections already seen, with nothing within my budget constraints. I left, disheartened but resolute.

Daiso

I was thrilled to explore Daiso, a famed Japanese “100 yen” store recently near me. Their tech section was modest yet refreshingly diverse from other stores’ usual fare.

Right-Angle HDMI Adapter

• Cost: $2.25
• Verdict: Keeper

The HDMI adapter solves spatial concerns with ease, reducing strain on my hardware.

USB Circulator Fan

• Cost: $11
• Verdict: Good Enough

The USB circulator fan boasts dual speeds, though this luxury lacked more powerful airflow compared to my existing fan.

Should You Invest in Dollar Store Tech?

Exploring dollar store tech was remarkably better than anticipated. While objects like projectors occasionally border on whimsy, many gadgets embraced practicality. For those constraining expenditure, these inexpensive alternatives offer a practical relief. Perfect as small, thoughtful gifts too.