If you’re a regular reader of Make Tech Easier, you know that along with informative guides and tutorials and helpful lists of the best current software and hardware, we also provide unbiased reviews of products, software, and services. We’ve compiled a list of the best product reviews of 2021 to help you make some educated decisions when you’re shopping this year.

The entries in this holiday gift guide were sponsored. The actual contents and opinions are the sole views of the reviewers who maintain editorial independence, even with sponsored content.

Robot Vacuums

Roborock S4 Max Robot

The robot vacuum that actually does what you hoped it would do.

Pros

  • Powerful suctionLiDAR sensorApp controlCarpet boostDesignations for rooms, no-go zones, and invisible walls

Cons

  • High price, though it equals feature setSlightly loud

Our rating: 4.5/5

Kyvol Cybovac S31 Robot Vacuum and Mop

The mapping function will impress you right away with this vacuum!

Pros:

  • Impressive mapping functionComes with everything you need plus extrasDustbin doesn’t need to be emptied every time

  • Mopping function doesn’t work wellRemote gets confused with other infrared remotesVery loud spoken directions

Our Rating: 4/5

The Kyvol Cybovac 531 Robot Vacuum and Mop has the same basic functions as other robot vacuums, with spot cleaning, deep cleaning, etc., but what sets it apart is the dustbin emptying and mapping. The mapping alone deserved a rating of 5. However, the reviewer had to take off for the mopping and the remote issue, so she deducted a half point for each. It’s a very impressive vacuum with two issues she just couldn’t look past. You can get it now for $519.

Dreametech Bot L10 Pro Robot Vacuum and Mop

Exceptional cleaning ability while avoiding obstacles with ease.

  • Powerful suctionQuiet motorThorough mopping150-minute runtimeExceptional LiDAR navigation

  • Remote in app doesn’t work wellInitial mapping takes a while

Viomi V3 Max Robot Vacuum

A fast, powerful, and quiet floor cleaning solution.

  • Super quiet2700Pa suctionVacuums and mopsUp to 5 hours of runtimeEasily switches between floor types

  • No external remote and mopping buttonWater tank is hard to empty

Our Rating: 4.5/5

Daily cleanups are so much easier with the Viomi V3 Max Robot Vacuum. It makes quick work of both mopping and vacuuming. Plus, it covered the reviewer’s entire home several times before it needed to be charged. And that includes mopping four rooms. If you want a dependable, quiet, and powerful vacuum/mop combo, the Viomi V3 Max Robot Vacuum is a worthy addition to any home. It’s also competitively priced for its features. Try it yourself for $299.99.

Yeedi Vac Station Robot Vacuum and Mop Review

Takes care of as much of the process for you as possible.

  • Powerful cleaningSmart mapping makes custom cleaning easySelf-emptying feature is greatDo Not Disturb feature keeps the vacuum from waking you up

  • Self-emptying process is on the loud side

Translators

Timekettle M2 Language Translator Earbuds

Reliable translations wherever you are, along with music and call support.

  • Supports 40 languagesTranslates in near real timeListen to music and answer callsQuick chargingWireless charging case charges multiple times on a single charge

  • App is difficult to pair with initiallyTouch sensitivity may be too sensitive

Whether you have a friend who speaks a foreign language, need translations during a class or in a group, want to travel the world, or even just learn another language, these earbuds are the perfect companion. Since they do double duty as standard earbuds, you only need to carry your smartphone and the earbuds, which fit in a small, convenient charging case. Translations are nearly perfect with only the occasional errors. You can try the Timekettle M2 Language Translator Earbuds yourself for $103.99.

Timekettle WT2 Edge Translator Earbuds

In a category of their own with fast, accurate translation and an easy-to-use interface.

  • Translation is easy and shockingly fastMultiple handy translation modesSimple and easy pairingCase magnet is strong and keeps the earbuds secureIndicator lights handy and easy to read

  • Touch controls can be a little sensitiveDon’t function as standard earbuds

The Timekettle WT2 Edge Translator Earbuds are called that for a reason. These aren’t meant to be a stand-in for your everyday earbuds. Instead, these are standalone translation devices. They are well worth it for anyone who spends time in places where they frequently encounter multiple languages. While the WT2 don’t instantly teach you how to speak a language, they may be the next best thing. You can set yourself up with a pair starting at $60.

Portable Monitors

INNOCN PF15-PRO Portable Touchscreen Monitor

So versatile, there aren’t many people who couldn’t find some use for it.

  • Super portableBuilt-in battery lasts more than 4 hoursWorks with Windows, macOS, Android, iPad, Game Consoles, and moreIncluded case protects the monitor when you’re not using

  • Included USB-C display cable is a little short

Security

SimShine Baby Pro Smart Baby Monitor

Powerful AI baby monitor is the perfect pair of second eyes.

  • Easy setupClear night visionTwo-way audioCry and virtual fence detectionWorks offlineLocal file storage

  • Camera hesitates to turn back on in app

Overall, the SimShine Baby Pro Baby Monitor is a truly impressive smart baby monitor. You don’t need a subscription, and cloud uploads aren’t even an option. Plus, you can easily access the monitor from anywhere using the convenient app. It’s simple to look back through the day’s footage. The only complaint is that when you’re trying to wake the camera back up through the app, after turning it off via the app, it took several tries before the app responded. If you want to keep a close eye on your baby or pets from anywhere, try the SimShine for yourself for just $169 for the 64 GB model and $174 for the 128 GB model.

X-Sense Home Security System

An amazingly easy-to-set-up, affordable home security system.

  • Setup takes less than 15 minutesLoud alarmsWireless systemNo subscriptionSends alerts to your phone

  • Alarm might not be loud enough for large homes

Webcams

Tenvis TW888 FHD 1080P Webcam Review

Affordable webcam with impressive video quality and noise reduction.

  • 1080P video qualityBuilt-in microphone with noise reductionEasy installationTripod includedWorks with multiple operating systems

  • Tripod slides

COOLPO AI Huddle Pana 360-Degree Webcam

Innovative panoramic webcam transforming the way you meet.

  • 360-degree webcamFour built-in micsVoice and face trackingPlug-and-play installationWide compatibility

  • Voice tracking has a slight delay at timesPower cord could be a little longer

NexiGo 60 FPS AutoFocus 1080P Webcam Review

Great webcam with smooth video for business meetings and chats with friends and family.

  • 60 FPS and 1080P videoBuilt-in privacy coverLengthy USB cableReduces background noiseEasy setupWide compatibility

  • No tripod included (a tripod is supported, though)Mic is quieterLengthy cable (can get in the way in smaller areas)

eMeet c960 HD Webcam

A highly-adjustable competitively-priced webcam.

  • Competitive pricingGreat stand for use with a large variety of devicesLow-profile storage and folding availableGreat picture qualityGreat sound capture, including noise reduction

  • Low-light correction may over-correct

Overall, the eMeet C960 HD Webcam is a feature-complete HD webcam that offers everything you could reasonably ask for in its price range. The wide lens and actual 30 FPS capture go a long way in making the image on the eMeet C960 look better than it does on some other 1080p webcams. The addition of the dual microphones and extremely adjustable stand are definitely a bonus in this regard, too. You can buy the C960 for just $27.19.

Headphones

OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Headphones

Budget-priced headphones for professional use.

  • Three different removable cables includedSwiveling ear cups are great for DJsMultiple inputs let you use any cables you wantComfortable for hours at a time

  • Frequency range isn’t as flat as other pro headphones

If you’re interested in DJ’ing, the OneOdio Monitor 60 Profesional Headphones are a great buy. The multiple cables mean they’ll work with whatever you need to plug them into, and the swiveling ear cups are a key feature. If you’re just starting out in production or could use a set of professional closed-back headphones that bleed less audio into microphones, the OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Headphones are a solid, affordable option. If you’re a music listener looking to upgrade from the earbuds that came with your phone, the OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Headphones are a great option. You can pick them up for $79.99.

Mu6 Ring Open Air Headphones

Affordable and great open air headphones suitable for sports use.

  • Open air – allows you to be aware of your surroundingEasy to pairLong battery lifeEasy to useWaterproofLightweight

  • Need to turn on higher volume during sportsMicro USB charging portMusic quality could be better

Earbuds

xFyro ANC Pro Earbuds

Long-lasting, comfortable earbuds with AI noise-cancelling.

  • Ergonomic fitLong battery lifeStereo-quality audioAI-powered noise cancelling and noise filtering

  • Short charging cable

Overall, the reviewer was thoroughly impressed with how well the xFyro ANC Pro Earbuds delivered on what was promised. She did wish the case either had a longer cable or charged wirelessly and would have loved the option to turn them off other than by just putting them in the case. The AI-powered noise canceling and filtering allows you to stay immersed in your music while being more aware of your surroundings or blocking out distractions almost completely. Plus, they’re comfortable enough to wear through vigorous workouts. You can check out the earbuds yourself for just $89.

FIIL CC2 Wireless Earbuds

Competitively-priced wireless earbuds with great sound quality and top-notch noise cancellation.

  • Great sound qualityFairly comfortable and stable in the earsVoice quality and noise-cancellation are top notchSleek and stylish aesthetic

  • In-app equalizer presets are largely worse than the stock sound profile

EarFun Free 2 Earbuds

Superb sound at a bargain price.

  • Superb sound qualityWireless chargingLow price30 Hours playtime

  • Bulky fit in earsNo in-ear detection

Soundbars

GOKUID Storm Soundbar

Great-sounding convertible soundbar that can split into a dual Bluetooth speaker configuration.

  • Subwoofer is as boomy as intendedSplit speaker mode works up to a 6-feet distanceA ton of connectivity options, including BluetoothRemote included

  • Slightly high price for a non-smart speakerVery short power cable

The GOKUID Storm Soundbar is fairly decent for a convertible soundbar or Bluetooth speaker with a subwoofer, but it’s not as competitive as it should be, considering smart speakers are available for a similar price. Additionally, the short power cable and its lack of shielding from interference are considerable downsides. Yet, the reviewer found that these speakers in either their soundbar or split standing configuration sounded great; the subwoofer had more than enough punch to satisfy him. Pick one up for yourself at 89.98.

Office Furniture

Flexispot Comhar All-in-One Standing Desk

A highly functional and stylish standing desk to take your home office to new heights.

  • Sturdy base allows for tall height adjustmentSleek look4 saved height profilesCharging ports built in

  • Big investment

Overall, the reviewer thinks the Flexispot Comhar All-in-One Standing Desk is well worth the money, retailing for $429.99. The physical benefits that come from being able to switch from sitting to standing are definitely worth the price you might pay for something like this. One negative is that the tempered glass top: it’s more difficult to clamp a monitor arm to and prone to fingerprints.

Flexispot Sanodesk

A sturdy, spacious, and well-produced standing desk for all manner of applications.

  • Weighty legs and sturdy frameSimple assembly for those without experienceA wide range of desktop styles to choose from

  • Requires a desktop that’s sold separatelyCan dent your budget just for the desk frame aloneCan seem gigantic in a smaller room

We think the Flexispot Sanodesk is a top-notch standing desk for a wide variety of setups. It has a lot of space, it’s solid as a rock, and is adaptable due to its electric motors. The reviewer thinks this desk is a great value at £419.99, due to the quality and performance. For those working at home who want to make sure they’re in good health, the Flexispot Sanodesk hits the spot in a myriad of ways.

Flexispot Desksize Pro v9

Surprising innovation, sturdily built and fun to use.

  • Sturdy constructionFun computer statsFolding design for easy storage

  • Too large to be left out all the timeHeavy – very, very heavyTakes some time to find perfect adjustments

The Flexispot Desksize Pro v9 is a great invention and one the reviewer finds to his considerable surprise, really useful and fun to use. The cycle computer on the top of the bike is really fun and motivating and as easy or hard as you want it to be – however, it can take quite a lot of fiddling to find the perfect adjustments for the seat and the table. You can try it yourself for £359.99. If finding time for fitness while working at home is a problem for you, it’s a solution the reviewer recommends.

FlexiSpot Kana Bamboo Standing Desk

  • Solid bamboo desktopFrame supports up to 275 lbs.Adjusts up to 48.4″Smooth, quiet height transitions3 memory presets

  • Difficult to put together aloneHeavy to move (which is also a good thing)

If you’re looking for a standing desk that will last you for years, the FlexiSpot Kana Bamboo Standing Desk definitely delivers. While it will take a little effort to put it together, it’s all worth it once you start using it. With smooth transitions at the push of a button, memory presets, and an elegant bamboo desktop, it fits well within any home office. Or, you could use it for any other area where you need an adjustable table or desk. You can try this desk for yourself and customize it a bit if you’d like for just $329.99.

Flexispot Flexi-Chair Oka Office Chair BS9

Modern, comfortable office chair for frequent use.

  • Very comfortableEasy to put togetherSturdy and stable

  • Uncertain stain proofingChoice of colors

Office chairs are something you should never scrimp on, making the £219.99 you’ll pay for the Flexispot Flexi-Chair Oka Office Chair worth it. It’s meant for office use and designed for long durations of sitting. The striking orange breathable seat feels comfortable and has great lumbar support. Although it’s not as configurable as chairs costing hundreds more, it is adjustable enough and comfortable enough to serve the needs of a frequent user.

Gimbals

Hohem iSteady X Gimbal

Value for money gimbal, sturdily built, with lots of great features.

  • Sturdily built for the priceVery smooth and smart featuresFabulous built-in special effect templates

  • Templates don’t work flawlessly and still have a few bugsSoft pouch included instead of a proper case

Hohem iSteady V2 Gimbal

Stabilization and AI tracking in one convenient package.

  • AI tracking3-axis stabilizationMoment templatesCompatible with most other appsCompact, lightweight design

  • Hinge and thumbscrew can stickJoystick comes off easily

Hohem iSteady Pro 4 Gimbal

Affordable gimbal with stabilization that’ll change how you film action.

  • 3-axis stabilizer and anti-shake technologyEasy mountingCamera connection controls for GoProSmooth gimbal adjustmentsIncludes a caseDoubles as a power bank

  • Camera connection only works with GoPro

If you’re looking for a combination of performance and price, it’s hard to beat the Hohem iSteady Pro 4 Gimbal. The 3-axis stabilizer is made for an active life or to just keep you in the frame while vlogging. The controls are easy to access with just one hand, and mounting is an absolute breeze. While there are no connection features for action cameras other than Go Pros, it’s still a highly useful gimbal for other action cameras as well. Try it yourself for $99.

Routers and Repeaters

Rock Space AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router

Budget-friendly router with high-end features ideal for high-traffic smart homes.

  • Wi-Fi 6 capableUp to 2,500 sq. ft. coverageExpands and strengthens 5GHz bandQuick and easy setup

  • Security options are minimal

Rock Space AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Repeater

Create a stronger, more reliable network through your home.

  • Compatible with most routersWorks in areas up to 1,500 sq. ft.Dual-band WPS buttonDual function as repeater and access pointMU-MMO technology

  • Setup was glitchyPlug doesn’t connect or disconnect easily at all

Keyboards

Epomaker AK84S Mechanical Keyboard

A steller mechanical keyboard with many customization options.

  • Feels great under the fingersBright backlightHandy set of extra shortcuts mapped to the keys

  • Key placement could be better suited to MacsHome keys may not be pronounced enough for touch typists

The Epomaker AK84S Mechanical Keyboard is not presented at a throwaway price at $109, so it will end up being a considerable purchase. The keyboard feels good under the fingers, has many applications in darker rooms because of the lighting customization, and offers a range of extra shortcuts not found on a regular Mac keyboard. If you are looking for a keyboard that can outperform your current default model and have a need for the extra functionality on offer, consider the Epomaker AK82S a top-tier option.

Lighting

eco4life Wi-Fi LED Strip Lights

Vibrant LED strip lights to make the perfect addition to any smart home.

  • 180 lights per setCut to fit every few inchesConnectors included for additional stripsControl via remote, app, or voiceSet schedules, timers, and custom light scenes

  • Music sync doesn’t always work wellLights are waterproof but remote and adapter aren’t

Overall, the reviewer enjoyed using the eco4life Wi-Fi LED Strip Lights. They’re a breeze to install and easy to customize to the length you need. The app puts you in complete control over the lights. From schedules to presets, you can have the lights ready to use and flashing in the pattern you want in just a few minutes at most. The vibrant colors look great. The reviewer loved how easy it is to dim them when needed for softer colors, too. While she wished the music sync worked a bit better, that’s really the only flaw. Try them out yourself for $29.95.

Daybetter Smart LED Strip Lights

Affordable DIY way to add ambient lighting anywhere in your home.

  • 50 feet of lightsControl via remote, voice, control box, and app16 million light optionsCreate custom scenes, schedules, and timersCut lights to fit where needed

  • Adhesive doesn’t continue to stick in some areasMusic doesn’t sync consistently

MOMAX Q.LED Desk Lamp

Durable desk lamp with 30 light settings and wireless charging.

  • 30 lighting combinationsWireless chargerUSB chargerAuto-shutoff timerAdjustable lamp head and arm

  • 10W charging can take 2 to 3 hours

Smartphones

imoo Watch Phone Z6

Fun watch for kids to wear and a great communication device for parents to connect with their kids.

  • Comes with phone dialerComes with GPS and rear/front cameras functionsEasy to usePlenty of parental control

  • Battery life can be betterWatch face can be a bit big for kidsNo easy way to start a video chat from watch

The reviewer guesses that once kids are old enough, they won’t want to wear a tracker for you to locate where they are. But for younger kids who can’t always be by your side, the imoo Watch Phone Z6 is useful to help you monitor where they are and communicate with them in real time without them carrying a phone (and getting addicted to it). You can pick it up for $239 after applying the on-site $10 discount.

AGM M7 4G LTE Smartphone

A phone that can do everything you need and still hold up to the rigors of a rough and tumble lifestyle.

  • Rugged, simple functionalityPowerful flashlightModern smartphone features in tough, classic bodyInexpensive

  • Locked applications and OS make for little flexibilityDifficult setup without proper guidance

If there’s one thing the reviewer would have to commend the AGM M7 for, it’s being a rugged, traditionalist outlier in a fragile smartphone world. The removable battery, dual SIM cards, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Type-C charging make the AGM M7 4G LTE Smartphone a surprising mix of a lot of the things that people really like about old and new smartphones. It’s clearly meant to be a simple, rugged phone that does its job and nothing else. Plus, for a price around $56 after applying the on-site code, you can’t beat it.

RedMagic 6S Pro

Combination of specs, style, and game focus makes it a treat to use during game time.

  • Touch-sensitive shoulder buttons a game-changerLED fan looks nice, keeps phone coolGame Space makes phone feel like a gaming device6.8inch, 165Hz AMOLED display is gorgeous

  • Won’t appeal to everyone

Our Rating:4.5/5

As with any phone, the RedMagic 6S Pro isn’t going to be for everyone. In this case, if you’re not interested in the RedMagic 6S Pro, you may not be interested in a gaming phone, period. Yes, the visual style is bold, but that is going to be a selling point for many phone-first gamers. The combination of specs, style, and game-focused features makes the RedMagic 6S Pro a treat to use when it’s game time. Once you have to get down to business, the 6S Pro holds its own, but it’s always ready for a quick five minutes or so of gaming on the side. Buy it now for $599.

Miscellaneous

GiiKER Super Cube

Anyone can solve the GiiKER Super Cube in a minute.

  • Cute packagingSimple to pairFun tutorialMakes solving easy for pro and novice users

  • Long tutorialNo instructions for one gameTo solve without app will take time

The reviewer didn’t even glance at the tutorial for this electronic game that functions much like a Rubik’s cube but still solved it in 62 seconds – with the app’s help! She couldn’t do it without that. After she made her way through the tutorial as well, she solved it in 54 seconds. Without the app, she still wouldn’t be able to solve it. She was already able to predict some solving moves toward the end. You can try your luck with the GiiKER Super Cube for just $38.99.

Carchet Discovery T12 Dashcam

Good buy if you’re looking specifically for both a dashcam and a backup camera.

  • Great image qualityEasy setup for front-facing cameraGreat build qualityLarge mirror adds functionality

  • No MicroSD card includedInvolved setup for backup camera

Linedock Dock for MacBook Pro

Perfect power docking and professional quality: a game-changer!

  • Plenty of connectionsComplex and flexible chargingBuilt-in SSD for some modelsFantastic and thoughtful designRobust sustainability policy

  • None that we could uncover

The Linedock 16″ dock for MacBook Pro itself is quality through and through: the company itself is making all of the right noises about its process and values, and the performance is stellar. On the whole, the Linedock is an exciting product that delivers. You can get your own for $679.

eMeet Luna Wireless Speakerphone

Clear call quality complete with noise reduction for better meetings.

  • Three built-in mics for up to eight peopleNoise reductionMultiple connection modesWide compatibility

  • Charging can take up to four hours

MegaModz Modded PS5 Controller

High-quality controller modding for real PS5 controllers

  • Uses first-party Sony PS5 Controllers before mods are addedMods work as intendedSkins are of high quality and show very little wear and tear

  • Hair-Trigger Mod can interfere with some functionality

All in all, this is an extremely good modified controller from MegaModz. The thorough testing the reviewer did of the controller’s mods showed how the custom paint job held up and helped it earn its high score. The paint job is immaculate, and the mods ordered work as advertised. Overall, the MegaModz Modded PS5 Controller is highly recommended for your next modded gamepad. You can try it yourself for just $79.99.

Laura has spent nearly 20 years writing news, reviews, and op-eds, with more than 10 of those years as an editor as well. She has exclusively used Apple products for the past three decades. In addition to writing and editing at MTE, she also runs the site’s sponsored review program.

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