Our readers can’t stop buying these 10 gadgets – and No. 4 really surprised us

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One of the great things about this job is that we get to write about all sorts of gadgets. Many times, the stuff that catches our eye isn’t the hot-ticket item like a new iPhone, but the smaller, stranger, and sometimes more obscure stuff. These are things you might never have known existed, but they enter your life and change it for the better.

And looking at the list of top-selling gadgets that ZDNET readers have been buying so far in 2026, it seems that readers share our taste for smaller gadgets that turn out to be super useful.

Also: 12 travel gadgets that can upgrade your spring break

So let’s take a quick look at what our readers have been buying from the beginning of the year through April. Note: (Your privacy is protected — we only have access to aggregate data from our user base, and there is no way for us to identify individual people’s purchases.)

The 10 most popular gadgets among ZDNET readers in 2026 (so far)

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Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

While are the best choice for iPhone users, Bluetooth tracker options for Android users have been somewhat limited over the years. But a few companies have stepped up to the plate to fill that void, and one of those is Chipolo.

The Chipolo One Point key fob is very much like an AirTag, powered by a battery that lasts about a year. It’s also water-resistant to IPX5 standard (which means it’s splashproof). It’s a great tag, and goes a long way to end the frustration (and arguments) that come from things like lost keys!

Also: I finally found Bluetooth trackers for Android that beat AirTags

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The Thermal Master P2 has a really handy carry case that can attach to a keychain.

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It's supposed to go in your ear -- but this one hasn't been in any!It's supposed to go in your ear -- but this one hasn't been in any!

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OK, probably one of the weirdest gadgets to make it onto ZDNET — a 1080p smartphone-controlled camera that’s supposed to go into your ear and help you excavate wax buildup.

“I can’t confirm or deny whether I’ve stuck this in my ear at any point, that’s not why it’s on this list,” ZDNET’s Adrian Kingsley-Hughes says. “This is a super-handy camera for poking into crevices, looking for water leaks, lost screws and bolts, and other stuff that might be happening outside of where I can get my eye into.”

The business end of the camera is just 0.17 inches/4.3 mm in diameter, so it’s perfect for probing into random places. And the business end of the unit is IP67 rated for water and schmoo resistance, and it can be cleaned with a cloth or alcohol wipe.

Also: The weirdest tool I own is also one of the most useful

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USB-C magnetic swiveling breakaway connectors

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https://www.amazon.com/Rolling-Square-AirNotch-Pro-Dual/dp/B0FV3VGN48

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This toolkit is proof that good tools can last a long time. Expert Adrian Kingsley-Hughes bought his Wera Tool Check Plus kit back in 2015, and he says it’s still going strong.

“The Tool-Check Plus holds everything together in a tough polymer carry case. There’s a small 1/4-inch ratchet, a screwdriver bit holder, and a selection of bits and sockets, and everything is of the highest possible quality.The ratchet might look small, but looks in this case are deceptive,” Kingsley-Hughes says.

Also: This is my favorite tool kit of all time – here’s why it’s still in use 10 years later

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Expert Adrian Kingsley-Hughes and I can both vouch for this odd gadget. If you enjoy being outdoors but are prone to insect bites, this unusual accessory could be a game-changer. Heat it is a USB-C phone bug bite zapper that quells the itch. It’s perfect for the upcoming summer months and is tiny enough to carry anywhere.

Also: This USB-C accessory gave my iPhone and Android an unexpectedly useful superpower

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Recent Reviews

We’ve Joined Forces: AZGYN and Gynecology Today Are Now One Team

We’re excited to share some big news with our patients and community! Arizona Gynecology Consultants and Gynecology Today have officially joined together to create one unified team, dedicated to expanding access, enhancing care, and supporting women’s health at every stage of life. Whether you’re coming in for a routine exam or specialized treatment, you’ll now benefit from a stronger network of providers, more locations, and a wider range of services across the Valley.

Why This Merger Matters to You

This partnership was created with you in mind, to enhance your experience and expand the care we provide. By bringing together two trusted teams, we’re strengthening our ability to offer more specialized services, greater provider access, and care that’s both comprehensive and convenient.

What this means for you:

A larger team of experienced providers and specialists
Access to a wider range of women’s health services
Coordinated care across multiple established locations in the Valley
The same compassionate support you’ve always relied on

You’ll still see the providers you know and trust, now backed by an even stronger network.

Meet Dr. Roy and Dr. Kidd

Two respected leaders in women’s health are at the heart of this exciting new chapter.

Dr. Kelly Roy, founder and CEO of Arizona Gynecology Consultants, is a fellowship-trained gynecologic surgeon with more than 24 years of experience. She’s known for her expertise in minimally invasive and advanced laparoscopic surgery, as well as her dedication to patient-centered care. Under her leadership, AGC has grown into one of Arizona’s most trusted gynecology-only practices.

Learn More About Dr. Roy

Dr. Alexandra Kidd, founder of Gynecology Today, brings more than 20 years of experience caring for women across Arizona. She’s passionate about hormone therapy, robotic and laparoscopic surgery, and ensuring every woman receives thoughtful, high-quality care. Dr. Kidd and her team are especially committed to supporting underserved communities, including Native American women.

Learn More about Dr. Kidd

Together, Dr. Roy and Dr. Kidd share a vision for compassionate, inclusive, and innovative care. With their combined leadership, patients can expect the same personalized attention they’ve always received, now supported by a stronger, more connected team.

Want to learn more about the experienced providers now working together under one roof?

Meet Our Team

What’s New and What’s Staying the Same

We know that change can bring questions – so here’s a quick look at what’s new, and what you can continue to count on from our team.

What’s New:

Broader provider network – more gynecologic surgeons, nurse practitioners, and support staff
Expanded services, including:
- Robotic and laparoscopic surgery
- Hormone therapy and hormone pellet treatment
- Pelvic pain evaluation and management
- Ultrasound and diagnostic imaging
Increased access – more appointment availability and multiple office locations throughout the Valley

What’s Staying the Same:

The same compassionate, individualized care you’ve always received
Your trusted providers, now backed by a larger support team
A focus on women’s health only, with no distractions from other specialties
Our commitment to helping women at every stage of life – from adolescence through menopause and beyond

This merger allows us to grow without losing what matters most: you.

See what we stand for:

Our History and Mission

Looking Ahead: A Stronger Future for Women’s Health in Arizona

This merger is more than a change in name – it’s a powerful step forward for women’s healthcare in our community.

By joining forces, we’re creating new pathways for care that support both patients and providers. Our collaborative approach allows us to continue offering advanced, minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, while also expanding access to supportive services like fertility evaluations, menopause management, and hormone therapy.

As Dr. Roy shared:

“This merger strengthens our unique model for gynecology-only medical practice support. Dr. Kidd and her team will continue delivering exceptional care, now with the added support of our expanded network and surgical partners.”

And as Dr. Kidd reflected:

“Patients will now have increased access to multiple surgeons and to a vast number of Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners. We’re thrilled to grow our reach while continuing to care for our wonderful community.”

Together, our team brings decades of experience, shared values, and a commitment to helping women feel seen, heard, and cared for – at every stage of life.

Our Locations and How to Schedule

With offices across the Valley, it’s easier than ever to get the care you need. Whether you’re an existing patient or new to our practice, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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