Starting college can be an overwhelming experience. It’s easy to forget the little things that can make a big difference in how you work and play while at school. To help you avoid playing catch-up, we’ve compiled a list of the best gadgets for school under $50. These gadgets will not only make your college life easier but also enhance your overall experience.
One essential gadget for college students is the Roku Streaming Stick 4K. If you know someone lugging an old flatscreen to their dorm, gifting them this device will make them feel like they just got a brand new set. With access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max, they’ll have endless entertainment options. The user-friendly interface and the ability to control the TV itself with the Roku remote make it even more convenient.
Another must-have gadget is the Logitech Signature M650 Mouse. While trackpads are convenient, they may not provide the precision and control needed for tasks like working on spreadsheets and creating presentations. This wireless mouse offers extra precision and comfort with its textured side grips and silent click technology. Plus, the exceptional battery life means you won’t have to worry about changing batteries for a couple of semesters.
For students with limited ports on their laptops, the Anker 341 7-in-1 USB-C hub is a lifesaver. Most modern laptops come with only a few USB-C ports, which can be frustrating when you need to connect multiple devices. This hub provides extra ports, including an SD card slot and a USB-C port for passthrough charging. It’s a compact and convenient solution for all your connectivity needs.
Balancing work and play is crucial in college, and the 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller can make your gaming sessions more enjoyable. With compatibility across multiple platforms, including the Switch, Windows, macOS, Android, and Raspberry Pi, this ergonomic controller offers a comfortable gaming experience. Its customization options allow you to personalize the buttons to suit your gaming style, and the option to power it with AA batteries ensures you won’t run out of juice.
A smart speaker like the Echo Dot is a versatile gadget that can enhance your college experience. It’s small and compact, perfect for a dorm room, and provides access to music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. You can also use its voice assistant, Alexa, for quick answers or assistance with assignments. Plus, it plugs into a wall outlet, so you don’t have to worry about charging it.
Having a reliable charging cable is essential for any college student. Anker’s Powerline II USB-C to Lightning cable is MFi-certified and offers flexibility with its 10-foot length. It’s compatible with Apple devices and supports fast charging. This extra-long cable ensures you can charge your iPhone even when the closest outlet is far away. Anker also offers a 10-foot USB-C to C cable for those with non-Apple devices.
To keep track of your numerous online accounts and passwords, a subscription to 1Password is a lifesaver. With one master password, you can securely access all your login information. This eliminates the need to remember multiple passwords and saves you time and effort when logging into student portals and personal accounts. It’s a convenient tool for any college student juggling multiple online platforms.
In conclusion, these affordable gadgets can significantly improve your college experience. From streaming devices and wireless mice to USB-C hubs and smart speakers, these gadgets offer convenience, entertainment, and enhanced productivity. By investing in these gadgets, you can cross off the most crucial items on your college packing list and ensure a smooth start to your semester.
