Amazon is a veritable wonderland of interesting products at budget-friendly prices. But, just because something seems cool — and is cheap — doesn’t mean it’s worth pressing “Buy.” To scratch that shopping itch with purpose, I’ve gathered a collection of cheap things on Amazon that are actually genius. I mean they’re practical, game-changing, or just pretty to look at. And since nothing here will break your bank, feel free to add more than a few to your cart.
This easy-to-install punching bag that mounts onto your desk
Blow off some steam at work with this punching bag. A sturdy clamp at the bottom lets you secure it to your desk — no need for any tools or drilling. And since it’s made from tough PU leather, you can rest assured that it’s designed to take a beating.
An assortment of delicious seasonings that take popcorn to the next level
Tired of eating plain butter popcorn? Then this variety pack of seasonings is worth a look. The shaker bottles make it easy to add just the right amount of flavor to your popcorn — and they’re also completely non-GMO. Each order comes with five flavors: caramel corn, chili lime, white cheddar, spicy sriracha, and kettle corn.
The portable thumb piano to awaken your inner musician
UNOKKI 17 Key Kalimba Thumb Piano | Mahogany Mbira, and Ore Steel Tines, with Tuning Hammer, Finger Covers, Key Stickers and More Included | Great Gifts for Kids and Adults | Cherry Finish
Amazon -Not only is this thumb piano made from solid mahogany wood, but it also comes with a tune hammer, polishing cloth, finger covers, as well as a travel bag. The keys are made from tough steel that are unlikely to warp over time. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to take with you.
This soothing lavender essential oil that’s easy to swipe onto skin
A little aromatherapy can help ease your mind when feeling stressed, so why not grab this lavender essential oil? The roller ball top makes it easy to swipe onto your wrists and neck whenever you’re feeling anxious. And unlike some essential oils, this bottle is made without any fillers or additives.
A retro digital Tamagotchi pet that’s so fun (& easy to take care of)
Ever wish you could have a pet without all the work that goes into taking care of one? Enter: this Tamagotchi toy. As a “digital” pet, you’ll have to feed it, play with it, give it medicine, and flush after it’s used the bathroom — but you won’t have to worry about anything bad happening if you forget to do all of the above. And with dozens of colors to choose from, don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to grab more than one.
The portable label printer that makes it oh-so-easy to stay organized
From kitchens to utility closets, this label printer is a clever way to organize all sorts of spaces in your home. It doesn’t require ink, toner, or ribbons, instead relying on thermal label tapes that are much more cost-effective. And with thousands of symbols to choose from, you can easily customize your labels however you like.
A hydrating face mask that can help shrink the appearance of pores
No skin-care routine is complete without this face mask. Simply place it on your face before going to bed, and it’ll help hydrate skin, as well as shrink the appearance of pores while you sleep. The best part? Unlike some face masks, this one is suitable for all types of skin.
The bracelet-making kit with more than 9,500 5-star reviews
Bracelets, earrings, necklaces — this kit comes with everything you’ll need to make all sorts of jewelry. The polymer clay beads are ultra-vivid as well as fade-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about how they’ll hold up over time. Many reviewers also raved about how it’s a total steal for the price, with one writing that “it was worth way more than what I paid.”
This cable adapter kit that’s compatible with an array of devices
This charging cable adapter kit is one of those rare items that’s sure to come in handy when you least expect it. Each kit comes with four adapters: type-C to USB, type-C to micro-USB, type-C to type-C, as well as one type-C to lightning. Plus, each adapter has undergone a bending test to ensure that it can withstand being plugged and unplugged up to 10,000 times.
The ramen bowl that lets you cook it up in the microwave
Eat your ramen in style using this bowl. Not only is it printed to look like a giant cup of instant noodles, but it’s also made from sleek, microwave-safe ceramic that’ll cook up your dish in minutes. And if that isn’t enough? There’s enough space inside to cook more than one brick of ramen, as well as veggies, hard-boiled eggs, or any other fixings you like.
Art brush markers that level-up taking notes & coloring
These markers are a definite upgrade from the cheap ones you likely had to use in elementary school. Each one features two tips: one brush tip that’s best suited for coloring, as well as a second fine tip that you can use to take notes. The best part? Each order comes with 34 different colors.
An 8-in-1 multitool pen with ruler, screwdriver, level, & more
You’ll be glad you grabbed this versatile multitool pen the next time you tackle a DIY project. It combines 8 tools into one, including a bubble level, ruler, flathead/Phillips screwdriver, and more. The aluminum body is built to last — and each order includes two ink refills to get you started.
This rose water facial spray that leaves your complexion so dewy
Dewy skin is only a few spritzes away when you have this rose water spray. Hyaluronic acid works to deliver a nourishing dose of moisture to skin, while the rose scent leaves you smelling refreshed. And unlike some skin-care sprays, this one is vegan, cruelty-free, as well as suitable for all types of skin.
Retractable charging cables that help keep your desktop tidy
It’s almost too easy for your desk to devolve into a jumbled mess of charging cables, which is only part of the reason why I’m a fan of these retractable ones. Their tri-tip heads are compatible with lightning, type-C, as well as micro-USB ports. And at 3 feet in length, you won’t have to be glued to an outlet or laptop port in order to use them.
The jar of mini f*cks that you can give out to friends & family
Whether you’re searching for stocking stuffers or shopping for a white elephant party, this jar of f*cks is a fun pick. The f*cks are made from real wood — not plastic — and each bottle comes with 100 inside. One reviewer wrote, “I keep it on my desk at work and it cracks my patients up, especially when I take a couple out and give it to them.”
A fun-shaped multitool that combines 8 gadgets into 1
This versatile multitool is one of those rare items that’s best to have and not need, than need and not have. It combines eight tools into one: a ruler, botlte opener, flat head screwdriver, butterfly wrench, and more. Plus, the attached carabiner lets you clip it to your bag so that it’s always conveniently within reach.
Bluetooth earbuds that deliver more than 32 hours of playback
You won’t be stuck having to constantly recharge these Bluetooth earbuds, as they’ll deliver more than 32 hours of playback when used with their charging case. A microphone built into each one lets you make hands-free calls. Plus, each order includes three sets of gel ear tips in small, medium, and large sizes.
Mini LED flashlights made from ultra-tough aluminum
You won’t have to worry about breaking these LED flashlights, as they’re made from tough aluminum that’s drop- as well as water-resistant. They’re small enough to fit inside your glove compartment or first aid kit. And since batteries come included, you can easily start using them right out of the box.
Paw-shaped rechargeable hand warmers that magnetize together
Stop wasting money on disposable hand warmers and upgrade to these reusable ones. You can adjust their temperature up to three levels — and the batteries lasts for up to six hours before they’ll need to be recharged. Plus, a magnet on the inside allows them to stick together so that they’re harder to misplace.
This scratch-off poster so you can show off all the movies you’ve seen
Enno Vatti Top 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster - Bucket List of Best Films - 100 Movie Scratch Off Poster (16.5" x 23.4") - Including Top 100 Movie Posters - Christmas Gift for Movie Lovers
Amazon -From Dirty Dancing to The Departed, any movie buff can appreciate this poster. It’s filled with 100 different movies that both critics and audiences worldwide can agree are worth the watch — and scratching off each little square after you’ve watched the movie is oh-so satisfying.
Food-safe markers that help you keep track of your wine glass
Can’t remember which wine glass is yours? Write your name on it using these markers. The ink is completely food-safe — so there’s no need to worry about accidentally ingesting any. And since it dries quickly, you won’t have to worry about accidentally smearing or smudging it away.
The big tub of modeling clay that doesn’t require a kiln
This 5-pound tub of white modeling clay is a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon indoors. The airtight container helps keep the clay fresh when not in use, and cleaning it off tables requires nothing more than plain soap and water. There’s no need for a kiln in order to preserve your creation — simply leave it out in the air and it’ll gradually dry out on its own.
This dumpster-shaped pencil holder with fiery note cards included
Need somewhere to stash your pencils? Search no further than this little dumpster. Not only is it a fun addition to any desk, but each order also includes three sets of note cards shaped like flames. Plus, many reviewers were able to assemble it in just a few quick minutes.
An under-the-desk hook that holds your headphones out of harm’s way
It’s almost too easy to accidentally knock your headphones onto the floor — but that’s where this hook comes in handy. A sturdy clamp on the top lets you secure it to your desk so that you can rest your headphones underneath, keeping them out of harm’s way. And with four colors to choose from (black, white, pink, or gray), you shouldn’t have any trouble matching it to your home office.
The magnetic pick-up tool that extends out to 22 inches
Can’t quite reach that bolt you dropped between your washer and dryer? Not a problem when you have this pick-up tool. The magnetic head latches onto all sorts of metal items, while the telescopic handle stretches out to 22 inches to help you reach down into tight spaces. Plus, an LED flashlight on the head makes it easy to see in poor lighting.
A fun word game where you race to create crosswords
If you and your friends (or your kids) are word game enthusiasts, consider grabbing Bananagrams. This award-winning game has players race against each other to build crossword grids — each game only takes about 30 minutes to complete, and even helps teach kids how to spell. “Easy to learn,” wrote one reviewer. “Like Scrabble but without a board!”
A silky-smooth pillowcase that can help tame frizz
Tired of waking up with morning bedhead? Try swapping out your cotton pillowcases with these satin ones. They create less friction against hair, helping smooth away frizz simply by sleeping on them. The envelope closure also helps keep your pillow from sliding out — and with dozens of colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble matching them to your current sheets.
Bluetooth sleep headphones that work even for side sleepers
Sleeping in earbuds or over-the-ear headphones is rarely ever comfortable. Enter: these Bluetooth sleep headphones. The ultra-slim speakers make them comfortable to wear when sleeping on your side, and you can even pull them down over your eyes to help block outside light. The best part? The battery lasts for up to 14 hours before it’ll need to be recharged.
Reusable cable ties to corral all your cords
Every home has at least one drawer filled with a jumbled mess of cables, so why not use these ties to get organized? Each order comes with a variety of colors so that you can color code your wires as needed — and the wide tabs make it easy to write on them if you like. “I use them for securing cables on my church stage, in my studio, and for outdoor events,” wrote one reviewer. “They are tough as nails and hold good.”
This ultrasonic gadget that helps deter your dog from barking
2024release Dog Bark Deterrent Device Stops Bad Behavior | No need yell or swat, Just point to a dog (own or neighbor's) Hit the button | Long-range ultrasonic, Alternative to painful dog shock collar
Amazon -Anyone with a dog who likes to bark can appreciate this gadget. It lets out an ultrasonic noise that only dogs can hear, helping deter them from barking, chewing, or any other behavior you’d like to correct. But if that isn’t enough? The automatic shut-off function ensures that you don’t accidentally keep it sounding for too long.
This easy-to-learn card game that’s fun for the whole family
Whether you’re eight or 80, SKYJO is sure to be fun for the whole family. The rules are simple: try to get as few points as possible by flipping, trading, and collecting cards with your fellow players. There’s also an educational layer to it as well, as you’ll have to mentally add the numbers on your cards in order to make sure that you’re in the lead. Plus, each game only lasts about 30 minutes.
The monstrous pasta spoon that doubles as a cheese grater
Not only is this pasta spoon designed to look like a quirky one-eyed monster, but it can even be used as a cheese grater — just in case you’d enjoy some fresh parmesan on your spaghetti. The best part? The combination of stainless steel and plastic is also BPA-free as well as dishwasher-safe.
A magnetic ‘chess’ game that encourages logical thinking
If classic chess is a little too strategy-heavy for your family to enjoy playing, consider opting for this magnetic version instead. Players take turns putting one magnet inside the game rope. If a piece causes two or more magnets to stick together, the player who put it down has to collect all of the magnets that stuck together. The first player who puts down all their magnets without any of them sticking together, wins.
Football-themed shot glasses that make game day a party
Flybold Shot Glass Set – 4 Reversible Football-Themed Glasses for Whiskey & Shots (1.7oz/4.2oz) for Game Nights, and Sports Celebrations – Ideal Gift for Football Enthusiasts - Dual Capacity
Amazon -Whether you’re in the mood for whiskey neat or a shot of tequila, these glasses have you covered. You can flip them upside down to adjust how much liquid they hold: either 1.7 ounces, or 4.2 ounces. The best part? Their football theme makes them perfect for game-day gatherings.
A culinary cooking torch for searing meats, flambéing desserts, & more
Culinary Cooking Torch - Kitchen Food Torch for Creme Brulee, Baking, Desserts and Searing- Butane Torch Lighter, Blow Torch for Cooking with Lock and Adjustable Flame (Butane Gas Not Included) Red
Amazon -Home and professional chefs alike can appreciate this culinary torch. It’s great for searing meat, flambéing crème brûlée, or even lighting your fireplace — it’s that versatile. Plus, the flame size can be adjusted using the switch on the side of the aluminum body. “This is well-made and doesn’t take up a lot of space,” wrote one reviewer. “I got it because I make crème brûlée a lot and it works perfectly to finish it off.”
This sleek toothbrush holder with space for toiletries
Not only does this toothbrush holder have enough room to store up to four brushes, but five hooks on the bottom also give you somewhere to hang scrubbers, razors, and more. Installation is a total breeze using the included adhesive. And with two colors to choose from (blue or pink), you shouldn’t have any trouble matching it to your bathroom.
Adorable fish-shaped paper clips that come in green & blue
30 Pcs Cute Paper Clips by OTOTO - Small Gifts for Coworkers, Cute School Supplies, Unique Office Supplies, Paper Clips Cute Office Supplies, Funny Gifts, Paper Clip Holder "
Amazon -Add a touch of fun to your office with these paper clips. They’re designed to look like small blue and green fish — yet do just as good of a job holding papers together as your standard oval-shaped clips. And if you aren’t into fish? You can also grab them as little bumblebees.
The family-friendly ring toss game you can mount outdoors
Looking for fun additions to your patio? Search no further than this ring toss game. It’s suitable for the whole family, as players will have to toss their rings onto the hooks in order to score points — the rules are that easy. “Really great for family fun night or hanging out with friends,” wrote one reviewer. “We played this at our friends cabin and the kids loved it so much we bought it for Christmas.”
Cool wooden arches that add a touch of chic to any shelf
Sometimes the most subtle decorations make the biggest impact — like these arches. They’re made from genuine oak wood, with a smooth, glossy finish that makes them look more expensive than they are. And with four shades to choose from (natural wood, white, beige, or navy), you shouldn’t have any trouble matching them to your home.
A space-saving set of kitchen gadgets
Running out of drawer space in your kitchen? Consider downsizing a few tools with help from this space-saving set of gadgets. Each order comes with six: one cheese grater, ginger grinder, pizza slicer, bottle opener, vegetable peeler, and herb stripper. Plus, the blades on all of them are made from rust-resistant stainless steel.
Premium colored pencils made with lead that won’t break, crack, or crumble
These aren’t the cheap colored pencils you grew up with. The soft lead is less likely to crack, crumble, or break, delivering a smooth coloring experience that makes it easy to achieve full color saturation. The best part? Each order comes with 72 different colors.
Wooden display risers that expand to fit large & small spaces
Cabinets, counters, desktops — these risers can be expanded to fit all sorts of spaces. They work just as well holding decor as they do toiletries and spice bottles. And since each tier can hold up to 6 pounds, feel free to load them up with heavier items if needed.
This honey dispenser that won’t leave drips on your counter
Whole Housewares Honey Dispenser No Drip - Maple Syrup Dispenser Glass - Beautiful Honey Comb Shaped Honey Pot - Honey Jar with Dipper & Lid, Great Bee Decor Glass Syrup Dispenser for Pancakes - 10 Oz
Amazon -Spooning honey from jar to plate is rarely ever a mess-free endeavor — unless you have this dispenser. It’s made from sleek glass, and comes with a wooden dipper that’s specifically designed to let you add honey to your meals without leaving behind any messy drips. “This is a beautiful, well made and durable honey dispenser and makes my coffee-tea area so pretty,” wrote one reviewer. “Its large and holds a fair amount of honey.”
Durable dish sponges shaped like pieces of fruit
Still using that grimy scrubber to clean your dishes? Consider upgrading to these sponges. The double-layered design helps them hold up against frequent use — and while tough on grime, they won’t leave behind any scratches on nonstick cookware or other delicate surfaces.
The exfoliating towel that helps you reach that spot in the center of your back
It’s nearly impossible to scrub the middle of your back — unless you have this towel. At 35 inches long, stretching it behind your back is no trouble at all. It also dries quickly when wet so that there’s no need to worry about it developing mildew, and the slightly gritty texture makes it great for exfoliating away flakes.
An odor-locking trash can that hangs on your cabinet
I’m a huge fan when it comes to this trash can — and not just because it can hang over any standard-sized cabinet door. The tight-sealing lid helps lock odors inside, making it great for kitchens as well as bathrooms. Plus, its stainless steel exterior is also resistant to rust.
This chic makeup organizer with 4 tiers of space
Consider this organizer a must-have if your vanity has devolved into a jumbled mess of makeup. Two shelves and two drawers give you ample room to store eyeshadow palettes, nail polish, and everything in between. You also have the choice of two chic finishes: clear or white.
The comfy seat cushion that looks like a giant cat paw
Office chair feeling a little stiff? Then this cushion is a total steal at less than $30. Not only is it designed to look like an adorable cat paw, but it also rises up in the back to help keep the lower part of your spine feeling comfortable. “Super cute and comfortable,” wrote one reviewer. “I put it on my new gamer chair and it fits nicely!”
A handled pumice stone that powers through grime without scratching
When no amount of scrubbing seems to get rid of the grimy water rings in your toilet, it may be time to try out this pumice stone. A built-in handle makes it easy to maneuver. And unlike some scrubbers, this one won’t leave behind scratches on tile, porcelain, or nearly any other delicate surface.
Hydrating beard balms that help strengthen & soften
Viking Revolution 4 Beard Balm Variety Pack (1oz Each)- Spiced Vanilla, Sweet Tobacco, Majestic Oud, Citrus - Beard Butter Styles, Strengthens and Softens Beards and Mustaches - Beard Wax for Men
Amazon -Anyone with a scratchy, irritating beard can appreciate these balms. Beeswax, argan, and jojoba oil work to deliver a nourishing dose of hydration to dry hair, helping soften the strands without leaving them feeling greasy. Each order comes with four scents: citrus, sweeet tobacco, spiced vanilla, and majestic oud.
Multi-blade scissors that make quick work of chopping herbs
Chopping up herbs can quickly become tedious — unless you’re using these scissors. Five stainless steel blades make quick work of slicing up basil, green onion, cilantro, and more. The ergonomic handle is designed to fit comfortably in both hands. Plus, each order includes a sheath to help keep the blades clean while in storage.
The universal socket that adjusts to fit nearly any nut, bolt, or fastener
Got an overflowing toolbox? Consider downsizing with help from this universal socket. The rods on the inside adjust to fit nearly any nut, bolt, or fastener, making it suitable for use across a variety of DIY projects. And since it’s made from tough steel, yo ucan rest assured that it’s built to last.
Travel-friendly watercolor paints that come with 2 brushes
Whether you’re headed out into nature to paint a landscape or looking for fun ways to blow off steam at home, this set of watercolor paints is a solid option. All 46 colors come in a handy travel tin that’s easy to take with you — and each order includes two brushes as well as one sketching pencil to get you started.
A gnome-shaped dish brush with a little drip tray holder
You don’t have to like gnomes in order to appreciate this dish brush. The gnome hat features a small curve at the tip to help you keep a firm grip when wet — and the stiff bristles easily scrub away grime without leaving behind scratches on nonstick pans. Each order also includes a small dish to keep it looking tidy on your sink top.
Candy-shaped highlighters in 4 ultra-vivid colors
These candy-shaped highlighters are a whimsical addition to any home office. They’re made from sturdy ABS plastic that’s built to last — and their small size takes up hardly any space inside one of your desk drawers. Each order comes with four colors: orange, pink, yellow, and blue.
This electric juicer that works with just about any citrus
Proctor Silex Juicer Electric Citrus Juicer Machine, 34 oz., for Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit Juice, White and Green (66340)
Amazon -Oranges, lemons, grapefruits — this electric juicer comes with two nesting reamers so that you can use it with nearly any type of citrus fruit. But if that isn’t enough? The detachable pitcher underneath also features a pour spout so that it’s easy to pour yourself a fresh glass of juice once you’ve finished.
An insulated waterproof backpack that can hold up to 24 cans
Whether you’re headed out for a hiking or going on a picnic, this backpack is a clever way to make sure you’re stocked on drinks. There’s enough space inside for up to 24 standard-sized drink cans, while a mesh pouch on either side gives you somewhere to store wine bottles. Plus, the waterproof interior won’t leak all over you if the ice inside begins to melt.
This cast iron grill press for spectacular grill marks
At nearly 3 pounds in weight, you won’t have to use much pressure in order to use this press to flatten your patties on the grill. The sturdy cast iron metal is built to last — and a wooden handle on the top gives you somewhere safe to grip when hot. And if you don’t cook many burgers? You can also use it to press panini sandwiches.
A cooling gel face mask that can help soothe away inflammation
Keep this mask inside your fridge, and it’ll always be ready to help soothe away inflammation the next time you wake up with a puffy face. The soft gel beads on the inside contour to the shape of your face to help keep you comfortable when wearing it. Plus, each order includes a bonus face roller.
This compact food chopper that doesn’t require electricity
Crank Chop Food Chopper and Processor Original - Chop Dice Puree Vegetables Onions Tomatoes Garlic Meats and Nuts in Just Seconds for Delicious Meals - Perfect for Homemade Salsa
Amazon -Anyone with a small kitchen can appreciate this compact food chopper. A few yanks on the rip cord is all it needs in order to send the sharp blades on the inside spinning. And while small, don’t be fooled — it’s still just as effective at whipping up everything from salsa to coleslaw as a full-sized food processor.
The sticky note pad shaped like a packet of ramen noodles
You don’t have to enjoy eating ramen to appreciate this notepad. The zipper-lock bag helps keep the notes inside safe from dust and dirt, while the vivid printing on the notes makes them look just like a real brick of ramen noodles. One reviewer wrote, “The notes are sticky and the image isn't too bright or too dark to take away from the gimmick or the legibility.”
A mini reusable calendar with a chic wooden stand
Don’t waste money on paper calendars. Instead, grab this reusable one. Each order comes with three white markers that you can use to highlight what day of the week as well as what month it is — and the chic wooden base gives it an upscale look no matter where you choose to display it.
This stimulating head massager that can help encourage hair growth
Not only is this head massager sure to feel great after a long, stressful day, but using it can also help stimulate blood circulation in your scalp. The result? You may notice your hair growing thicker — and since each arm is tipped with soft rubber, there’s no need to worry about any irritation.
The acupressure roller that helps soothe sore, aching feet
Sore, aching feet are no match for this roller. Hundreds of raised nubs across its surface dig into your feet, helping alleviate soreness, plantar fasciitis pain, and more by stimulating blood circulation. And if the roller isn’t doing the trick? Each order also comes with an acupressure ball as well.
This chilling container that cools down drinks without diluting
Adding ice cubes to your coffee will leave it tasting diluted as they melt. Instead, pour it into this hyper chiller. Simply keep it in your freezer, and it’ll always be ready to go whenever you’re in the mood for iced coffee. The best part? There’s no need to wait around for it to cool your coffee down, as it can get the job done in 60 seconds or less.
