
57 Affordable Products That Truly Rival Their Expensive Counterparts
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If you've had the higher-end versions of these on your wishlist, we're about to save you some serious cash.
1. A pair of pleated, bow-topped heels if you're looking for a Loeffler Randall-like look — for less. Reviewers note they're surprisingly sturdy and comfy, which is ideal for a pair of heels so you can actually get your groove on all night long on the dance floor. And for under $30 a pop, you might want to get a few colors to match all your go-to wedding guest and event dresses!
Promising review: "Great Loeffler Randall [alternative]. I ordered these for my baby shower and got many compliments! They were very comfy even at 30 weeks pregnant and great quality for the price!" — Amanda Morrisino
Promising review: "I wore a black dress to a wedding and wanted a pop of color and thought these were sooo cute! I love these! I wore these from 1 PM-1 AM and didn't take them off. These are well made, sturdy and comfy! I got so many compliments on these too! I love them and will definitely be buying another pair or two in a different color! True to size as well, I am a 9.5/10 but have a wide foot and the 10 was perfect." — Jacquelin
Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes 6–11 and seven colors).
2. A 3-in-1 foldable magnetic wireless charger perfect for at home or traveling, so you can charge your iPhone, Apple watch, and AirPods all at once without wasting space on bulky chargers or dealing with tons of cords. Several reviewers note that this connects better and lasts longer than the name-brand versions.
Promising review: "These chargers are great. Space for phone, watch, and AirPods, or two phones. They work much better than some of the more expensive brands. You can tell when you put your phone down that it connects like a magnet to make sure your phone is properly placed for charging. It also folds up small for travel. Only wireless charger you will need." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in six colors).
3. CeraVe's Retinol Serum, which lives up to the CeraVe name and uses *encapsulated* retinol to reduce the appearance of scars and pores without flaking or redness. If you haven't gotten into retinoids yet or are worried about irritating your skin, this gentle but effective serum is a great option — and reviewers say they like it better than other more expensive options (like Murad's Retinol Serum, which retails for $92).
www.amazon.com
And remember, like with any retinol (that actually works) *just do not use it every day.* Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this stuff! I saw a dermatologist on TikTok who raved about this product and tried it out, and it's been the most amazing stuff! It's helped my face to clear up very quickly removing all of the blemish spots and dark spots around my face. It's been one of the best products I've added to my face routine. This would be great for all ages/stages and for any weather types. It doesn't moisturize much, but that's not it's intention, and there is no scent, so I'd imagine it's great for all skin types and hypoallergenic." — Successful Solo
Promising review:"I bought this for my teenager to use for his acne scars, but he ended up not using it. I ran out of my Murad retinol serum, so I gave this a try. I actually like it better than the Murad! It absorbs quickly, with zero smell or irritation. As with any retinol product, be sure to wear sunscreen when you're going to be outside." — C. Munsterman
Get it from Amazon for $16.49.
4. A set of Amazon Basics silicone baking mats to make sure all of your homemade cookies and sheet pan dinners never end up stuck on the pan — and unlike parchment paper, they're reusable....forever! Exactly like fan-favorite Silpat mats, but without the fancy price tag — just ask the reviewer who took this photo and made a batch of macarons using both Silpat and Amazon Basics mats and couldn't tell a difference!
Promising review: "I am a macaron baker and have been using Silpat brand for years. I needed to order more silpats but didn't want to spend the money. I found these Amazon Basic nonstick baking mats and thought I'd give them a try. It has been a month now and they are still working just as great as my Silpat brand. Even baking, easy to clean, and clear (I bake shapes and use templates underneath). Hopefully they last as long as my Silpats, which I have had for three years now, but if I get at least a couple of years out of them before buying new ones I won't mind because of the price! The top macaron shell [pictured above] is from the Amazon Basics brand and bottom is Silpat. They baked up even and with the same feet!" — Mac MKE
Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in a plain version or one with printed circles for piping macarons).
5. A CZ tennis bracelet that looks similar to the pricey Swarovski (or even...the real deal). Reviewers agree it sparkles beautifully, has a super secure clasp, aaaand holds up well to repeated wear! And btw, buys like this are also a great way to "test drive" a piece of jewelry before splurging to make sure you like it for the long haul!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Soooo pretty. It's 100% a Swarovski [alternative] for so cheap. Looks exactly like the photo, and I wear it every day." — Trysten Walters
Promising review: "I just lost my very real gold tennis bracelet. I've heard good things about this company and decided to order one that looked like the one I lost. It just came in, and it looks as nice as my real one. I don't know how it will do as time goes, but for $19, it's a great buy." — Alina
Get it from Amazon for $17.90+ (available in three lengths,14K gold-plated or 18K gold vermeil, and in yellow, rose, or white gold).
6. A Sol de Janeiro fragrance mist in scent Cheirosa '68, which reviewers say has a similar smell to the very luxurious and oh-so popular Baccarat Rouge 540 — but in a lighter, body spray version with notes of jasmine, hibiscus, and sun musk.
Amazon
As someone who has and wears both, I was surprised by how similar the scents are, and I love wearing the Sol de Janeiro version on vacation, on warm summery days, or on other occasions that I'm feeling a ~lighter~ version of BR540.
Promising review: "I finally received my new body spray yesterday and was in complete shock at the resemblance to Baccarat Rouge 540. This body spray is so delicious. It is definitely a Baccarat Rouge 540 [alternative]. There were so many reviews that said how much this body spray resembled the very pricey perfume, and they were all correct. I absolutely love Baccarat Rouge 540, but it is so expensive compared to other perfumes like Chanel, so I opt not to purchase it regularly. This body spray is a wonderful substitute for overpriced perfume. Today will be my first day wearing the spray, so hopefully, it will have great longevity throughout the day as well. 🤞🏼 Regardless, I would still purchase it again moving forward." — Tina
Get it from Amazon for $38.
7. A pair of Colorfulkoala leggings in their ~Dreamlux~ fabric, which is designed to be buttery soft, sweat-wicking, and completely squat-proof, so your skin or undies never peek through the fabric. Reviewers back all of that up, tout them as a great alternative to Lululemon Align leggings, *and* say that they're super comfy (even enough to lounge in), with a waistband that never rolls down, like with some other brands.
Bonus: reviewers say they *don't* tend to attract dog or cat hair from shedding pets as much as other brands...which is borderline miraculous.
Promising review:"I can't say enough great things about these leggings! They don't roll down they feel amazing on. I have all kinds of brands: Lululemon, Vuori, Athleta, etc. and these are my favorites and the ones I feel the best and most confident in!! And the price you can't beat it. it's a win-win. I will be back to purchase even more colors!" — Lauren
Get them from Amazon for $29+ (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseam lengths, and 22 colors)
8. A versatile nylon tote bag comfy enough that'll be your new go-to option for everyday use — and unlike the Longchamp Le Pliage (which this is rahther similar to), you won't feel a single qualm dumping in all the random stuff you need to carry around. Leaky hand lotion, loose pens, a pint of ice cream from that last-minute grocery run? They can all be safely stored without fear of ruining a $$$ tote. And btw, it's water-reisistant!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought this for a trip to Italy and used it for the entire three weeks. Perfect!!! It's waterproof and large enough, has pockets where you need them, and even a place to attach keys. The handles are long enough that it's comfortable over your shoulder! Some are too small. It zips for security! Stylish! Can't say enough good things about this bag!!" — EWC
Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in four colors).
9. A patch pocket "shacket" that's drawing comparisons to the Sezane Betty jacket (tres chic!) — it's the perfect throw-on for days where you need a layer that's not too light, not too heavy, and only adds to the style of your spring fit.
Promising review: "I got the green one from Amazon in attempt to find a more affordable option after getting the rose one from Sezane, and I'm loving it. They are identical looking. Quality is great as well. It is cropped and shorter, but fits well with high rise pants. Will definitely consider getting more colors!" — Fer L
Get it from Amazon for $42.99 (available in women's sizes S–XL and seven colors).
10. A set of three remote-operated flameless candles with moving "flames" that flicker realistically for a relaxing atmosphere or the *look* of a fireplace — without worrying about whether or not you left a candle burning. They have a timer built in, so they'll turn on at the same time every day, too, so you'll be ready for cozy vibes when the sun sets....so early. Who needs Luminara candles at triple the price?
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
These require three AAA batteries per candle that will last you about 150 hours.
Promising review:"I like that you can control the brightness with the remote, and timer selection is just not one selection, and that is the first time I have seen a remote for candles with lots of options. These candles are better than my expensive flameless Luminara candles and look just like a real candle. This is my second set, and I just purchased a third set. You won't regret this purchase." — Experiencedandiknowit
Get the set of three from Amazon for $25.99 (available in six colors).
11. A spandex-blend slip maxi dress, because you deserved to feel dressed-up and oh-so-comfortable alllllll at the same time. Wear it at home, out to dinner, or even to a fancy event with the right accessories. Reviewers note that this is comparable to the Skims dress — and some even like it better!
Reviewers agree that if you want it fitted, size down.
Promising review: "I don't own any Skims clothing, but I saw this girl wearing this exact style of dress with a Skims tag on the back, and honestly, it made me so grateful that I purchased this dress instead. It looks exactly like the Skims version, and I could be biased, but the material of this dress looked better than the Skims one. If you want it to be a little snug, I would definitely recommend sizing down one size from your normal size. I usually wear a medium, but I got this in a small and it was so perfect. So freaking comfortable and made out of thick material. BUY THIS, don't waste money on Skims." — Kaitlyn
Promising review: "I have the Skims dress in black and wanted to look for a cheaper version. But read reviews and some said that it is a bit looser than expected. I would agree that the small is a bit loose. If you want a snatched look definitely get a size smaller as it is very stretchy. I'm 5ft tall so this is a bit long on me even when I wear heels. In comparison to the Skims, the material is smoother while skims has a ribbed texture. You honestly can't tell the difference. Good bang for your buck if you ask me! Would recommend this dress." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in women's sizes XXS petite–XL).
12. A pair of loafer mules so you can complete all of your outfits with ease without struggling with what to wear — just slip these on and head out the door! People might even think they're the $$$ designer version 👀 — we'll never tell.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising reviews: "The shoes come very nicely packaged! These are my favorite shoes; once you break them in, they are like BUTTER. I have bought two pairs myself, I own them in black and in white. My mom has then in black and wears them to work every day, she wanted to have a backup pair bc she loves them SO much. My brother wants to get a pair too LOL. I could not recommend these shoes more, I get so many compliments… people even think they are Gucci!" — Caroline King
Promising reviews:"Such cute shoes that are maybe even better than the designer inspiration! I ordered a 37 and usually am a 6.5. They fit perfectly. The footbed is more padded than the designer version. Leather is soft and comfortable on the foot. Sole is not slippery." — Emily Wilson
Get it from Amazon for $49.89+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in nine colors).
13. A Cosori gooseneck electric kettle that looks similar to the Fellow Stagg kettle — but the similarities don't end there. This bb has five temp pre-sets so you can get your tea or pour-over coffee made in no time flat, and the gooseneck makes for *very* precise pouring. Got distracted partway through your brew? Don't worry; just use the "hold temp" feature, which can keep your water hot for up to an *hour*.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "The Fellow Stagg alternative you're looking for. I'll be honest, I was one of those Fellow Stagg cultists and mine broke after some time using i t. I'm so glad I checked reviews on Reddit and Amazon, because this thing is amazing. It looks modern and sleek. The temperature controls are accurate and plenty. The boiling speed and 'hold' function are amazing. And most importantly the price is 1/3 of the Stagg (less if on sale!!)." — JLS
Get it from Amazon for $69.99 (available in four styles).
14. The TikTok-beloved Eos' Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion, because people love it for providing *serious* (and quick-absorbing!) hydration without feeling heavy or greasy aaaaand for the ahh-mazing smell that's drawing comparisons to pricey brands (hello Philosophy "Warm Cashmere" and Bath & Body Works "Vanilla Noel).
Promising review: "Heaven sent for your skin; heavenly scent to enjoy. This feels absolutely amazing going on. Gets absorbed quickly, for a lotion rich with oil. Doesn't leave a greasy feeling, as long as you give it a minute or two to fully absorb. The scent is, for me anyway, like aromatherapy. It smells like an iced sugar cookie, and is a great base layer for fragrance. Very relaxing." — Dragonheart Jo
Get it from Amazon for $8.98.
15. A layered necklace set that'll be the perfect (expensive looking!) cherry on top of your fancy or casual fits — without having to mix and match the perfect stack yourself. Many reviewers say they look way more expensive than they are — and even look like fine jewelry.
Amazon
Promising review:"I love the way these layering necklaces look! I haven't taken them off since I received them; they still look brand new. I've worn them in the shower, pools, and at the beach, and they are still perfect." — Allison Kwong
Promising review: " I had three Miranda Frye (super pricey jewelry) layering necklaces, and they ALL tarnished and broke (keep in mind I shower with my jewelry on and swim in the ocean and workout), but these cheap Amazon necklaces have not broken, tarnished, ANYTHING. I am rough with my jewelry, and I'm in shock. My cheap jewelry is holding up sooooo much better! Also, I have added a charm to one of these pieces, and it's adorable!" — Alexa
Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in three finishes and 15 other styles).
16. A pair of comfortable clogs if you've had your eyes on the Birkenstock Boston Clog, but aren't sure you're ready to splurge for the long haul. These babies are from the makers of the TikTok–famous cloud slides, so you know you're going to stay comfortable all day, without spending Birkenstock money.
Promising review:"My favorite shoes. I love these so much. I've been a Birkenstock girl for 20 years. But I didn't want to pay 160 for the style of clog I wanted. Plus, that didn't even fit me the best. These, no doubt, are a way better fit and so much more comfy than the clogs I originally tried on from Birk. Good quality and very stylish. True to size. I'm always a 7. Bought a 7. My new go-to. For jeans or leggings. If you are thinking about it, buy them!" — Jjackson
Get it from Amazon for $29.97+ (available in women's sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and in 15 colors).
17. Or a pair of Cushionaire cork-bottom sandals for your warm-weather needs — these have arch support for all-day walking at home or on vacation, and reviewers say these are quite similar to Birks and indeed, extremely comfy!
Promising review: "I honestly ordered this sandal three times. This is one of the best sandals I've purchased in awhile. This shoe is so comfortable, and the arch is perfect for all-day walking. No rub from the straps. I can't say enough what a great sandal. I ordered the stone color, and it's perfect to match everything. You will NOT be disappointed in this shoe." — Amazon Customer
Promising review: "I bought these sandals before a three-week trip in Europe; I didn't want to pay for Birks but did want something in a similar style with good arch support. I was a little skeptical about the low price but gave them a shot...and they were the MOST comfortable sandals I've ever owned. I walked over 120 miles in them in three weeks on our trip and never once had foot pain. They broke in so quickly and were very supportive from the get-go — and still are! Highly recommend." — Han Lin
Get them from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–12, including wide sizes, and 19 styles).
18. A set of (actually cute!) crew-style pilates socks with grips on the bottom if you're tired of splurging on the brand names available at your local studio. Reviewers say that 93% cotton and spandex blend fabric is high quality and the perfect thickness, too!
Amazon
Promising review: "These are the ones!! I've searched for awhile to find affordable grip socks for barre class. These socks are it!!! They stay in place, fit well, are the right thickness, have amazing grip, and are comfortable during the entire workout. These are comparable to the same quality of other brands that are much more expensive and are sold in the studio. I highly recommend these socks and would buy them again. They are awesome!" — Neat
Get them from Amazon: individual pairs for $6.99 and three-packs for $12.99+ (available in a variety of colors/sets).
19. A Simple Modern tumbler for all of your hydration needs. Not only is the monochrome body chic (you might want to pick one up in various colors to match your 'fits), but it's leak-resistant, dishwasher safe, cupholder-friendly, and keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours. Plus it has a built-in straw and ~ergonomic~ handle! Stanley, who?
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Please do not run out to Targé and waste your money on a Stanley IF you're only using a cup for ice/cold drinks. This cup is just as good and far more affordable. I put ice in my cup over 24 hours ago during my shift at the hospital, and there is still ice in the cup! This product is BEYOND worth it at this price point. You won't be disappointed. If the cup isn't in your cart at this point, I don't know what's wrong with you: GET IT! 😂" — Marie
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in 31 colors and patterns). Also available in a style without the handle!
20. Or a water bottle with some of the features that are *very* popular with the Owala, including a carry loop, locking lid that opens with the push of a button, and sip and chug options for however you'd like to hydrate. But unlike the Owala, this whole thing is (gasp) dishwasher-safe — and cheaper.
You can also refill easily without having to unscrew the lid! You need to disassemble it before throwing it in the dishwasher and make sure the silicone ring is back in place to make sure it stays leak-proof.
Promising review: "10/10 would recommend. I was originally looking at getting an Owala bottle because my boyfriend got one for Christmas, and I really liked the 2 in-one lid, but I could never find one with cute enough colors, nor could I justify spending 40 dollars on a bottle. Ello is the PERFECT bottle! My drinks stay cold all day, you can take the lid completely apart for a good clean, it has a chug and sip option, and YOU CAN DISHWASH THIS BOTTLE!!! This thing is perfect. I love the fun, bright color options that Ello has to offer. I've also already dropped my bottle a few times, and it's super sturdy with no dents or scratches!" — Meg
Promising review: "Best water bottle. I got this water bottle because the reviews were incredible. I had never seen someone write paragraphs about a product, but for this water bottle, every single review had multiple paragraphs. Honestly, they were right, though. This water bottle is amazing. The straw is perfectly sized and silent (my last one was so noisy). The design of the lid is awesome! It also comes on sale frequently, so I got it for $13, which is such a good deal considering the product! I like it better than the Owala, and it's half the price! Also very cute" — Caroline
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in 22, 32, and 40-ounce sizes and 15 colors).
21. NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip, a lip gloss that also has the hydration of a lip oil, thanks to vegan squalane, as well as raspberry and cloudberry oils. It's fairly new but already seriously beloved by reviewers who appreciate the sheer wash of color, high-impact shine, and non-sticky finish. And if you love Dior's Lip Oil (same), some reviewers say this is better!
Amazon
I have two shades and have already ordered a third!
Promising review: "The lip oil trend has fully saturated my TikTok feed. So, I was anxious to test and compare. I also own the Dior Lip Oil, and tbh, NYX is giving them a run for their money. This lip oil does its job for a fraction of the price. The formula isn't as thick as the Dior product, but the color options and leakproof packing make up for it. I'd definitely recommend picking this up to try!" — Courtney Calestiini
Get it from Amazon for $8.97 (available in 13 shades, plus clear).
22. And the Hanes Ultimate crew socks because it just feels painful to shell out $20 for a three-pack of the cult-fave Aritzia TNA socks. If you've fallen in love with the perfect height, ribbed ankle detail, and (my favorite) the extra-cushioned bottom of the original, fret not — these Hanes crew socks are *eerily* similar and just as cushy! And you get twice the socks for almost half the price.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
I personally have both the Aritzia TNA socks *and* these Hanes socks, and now the Hanes are all I'll buy! They are the perfect everyday sock with sneakers or slides, the perfect height, and the thick, cushy bottom is everything. I've walked for miles and miles and miles in them, and they haven't worn out yet.
Promising reviews: "BESTIES, if you don't own these socks yet, buy them NOW! I purchased these over and over again after finding them. They beat every other ankle sock I've tried in comfort, durability, and price! They are the perfect height on my ankles and look great with every shoe or slipper. A NEED!" — Carly Mabli
Get a six-pack from Amazon for $11.99 (available in women's sizes 5–9 or 8–12 and in two colors).
23. A pair of pink-tinted, gold-rim coupe glasses to give your bar cart an eye-catching element *other* than all the booze. And these are just gorge! Barbie Dreamhouse vibes, anyone? Reviewers say they're so pretty in person, and very similar to the pink glasses with gold rims at Anthropologie.
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Promising review:"I bought these after finding a similar glass at Anthropologie. These are more affordable and just as lovely. Cheers ♥️" — Nicole L.
Promising review:"I absolutely love these glasses! They're just as beautiful in person as you might hope, and the weight of the glass is very nice also. They're real glass, not plastic, and the gold is so elegant. I absolutely love these, and I'm thinking about getting an extra set." — JLJ
Get a set of two from Amazon for $19.99 (also available in larger sets).
24. A 100-piece set of Picasso Tiles, because reviewers say they're not only comparable to Magnatiles (which are $80 more for the same size set) but also work with the Magnatiles you may already have, so you can expand a world of creative and educational play for much less.
Promising review:"I wish I had known about these sooner! PicassoTiles are *exactly* like Magna-tiles but way more affordable. We just received the 100-tile set today — an early birthday gift for our soon-to-be-four-year-old. We have two sets of Magna-tiles — one with the grommets (purchased new last year) and one without (purchased secondhand [no idea how old they are]). The PicassoTiles are the same weight and size as the MagnaTiles and have the same exact magnets. They do not have metal grommets, but the old MagnaTiles are indestructible, so I know that these will be too. And PicassoTiles are much prettier, in my opinion, because they are slightly more translucent and have brighter colors. They integrate into the collection seamlessly. I highly recommend this product. And if you are considering buying any kind of magnetic tile toy for your child, I recommend purchasing as big a set as you can for versatility of play. Our son has played with these all day and night off and on every single day since we bought them last year. After integrating the new PicassoTile set, he hugged his enormous structure and declared them his favorite...twice. A wonderful toy!" — skater mom
Get it from Amazon for $39.99.
25. A suuuuper soft oversized hoodie, but not just *any* soft hoodie. This one has a thick, expensive-looking fabric and construction that reviewers swear is similar to brands like Skims, Aritzia, and Abercrombie. The price-per-wear on this thing is going to be excellent.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I'm obsessed with this hoodie. I've been looking for a warm, soft hoodie with a big hood for a long time. This quality is excellent and feels more expensive. It is an oversized fit. I usually wear an XL top and sometimes L. The large fit perfectly! I want one in every color now." — LindsayW
Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 26 colors).
26. L'Oreal True Match Lumi Glotion, a fan-favorite, glycerin-infused illuminator you can mix in with moisturizer or foundation, wear as a base under makeup, *or* apply as a highlight or bronzer for a natural-looking (and not glittery) glow — especially if you're not looking to drop a fortune on Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops.
Promising review: "I used this with my Olay Regenerist Cream (it helps with my wrinkles). I mixed it, and it does a great deal of shine! You should buy if you're looking for a Drunk Elephant Bronzi Drops substitute! Way better than Drunk Elephant." — raegan kuball
Promising review: "I actually like this glowy lotion better than the drunk Elephant one, and I have both. This goes on smoothly and not greasy. It leaves you very glowy with a beautiful tan and works well with makeup on top if you so wish. Lasting power, too. Recommend." — ggvega
Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (available in five shades).
27. The Revlon One-Step Hot Air Brush (now with an upgraded motor) with a unique oval-shaped barrel so you can get super close to your scalp for smooth hair and majorly boosted volume at the roots without having to juggle a brush and blow-dryer. One reviewer says it takes less time to dry than their Dry Bar Brush!
Promising review:"I thought my Chi hairdryer was good, but this takes it to a new level. My hair is very wavy, but I was able to straighten it very easily with this dryer. It took much less time, too, than the Chi or DryBar dryer." — Kristy C
Promising review: "Where have you been all my life? Omg this dryer was AMAZING!!!!! I don't understand why I didn't know about it sooner!!!! My hair is thick and curly and hard to control. Usually, I need to air dry it for at least an hour, then it takes 45 minutes to blow it out. Usually resulting in my arms being exhausted and my hair burned. BEST DRYER EVER! And I have spent $$ on a dry bar dryer. Never again. I need to buy a backup just in case. LOVE" — Brian Halpin
Get it from Amazon for $39.88+ at Amazon (available in 10 colors).
28. A set of buttery button-down PJs with piping detailing that'll make you feel like you're lounging and/or sleeping in the lap of luxury — one reviewer calls them "the softest I've ever bought" and several draw comparisons with Eberjey jammies (which are around $150 👀) aaand Skims and Cozy Earth.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Better than Eberjey! Impressed with the quality and softness of these pajamas. Ordered a size up bc I was worried about shrinkage, but they didn't shrink! I prefer these over Eberjys — the buttons don't come undone and just as soft — maybe softer!" — CDS
Promising review: " If you desire comfort, if you desire soft fabric against your skin, if you desire pajamas that fit perfectly, if you want to feel like you have your life together, then these are the pajamas for you. I'm currently 39 weeks pregnant and live in these now. I bought a size medium (pre-pregnancy size small) and have no intention of taking these off unless to wash them. And then I'll put on my other color option that I bought of these pajamas because these are so freaking great. The fabric is soft and not too sheer of a material that fits loosely as it should. The waistband does not feel constricting, and the lace drawstring on the pants does not make the bottoms feel tight. The pajamas are of great quality and are worth the investment. I plan on wearing these in the hospital and then probably for the rest of my entire life because they're so fantastic." — CMC
Get them from Amazon for $42.29 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 43 colors and patterns).
Also available in a short sleeve and pants set and a short sleeve and shorts set.
29. A belt bag so you can keep all your must-haves close and easy to access, but completely hands-free. Whether you're going for a long walk, traveling, or running errands, you'll want to throw this on all the time. The strap is adjustable, so you can wear it crossbody *or* around your waist, and you'll be surprised how much it holds, too! And....it's quite similar to Lululemon's belt bag and less than half the price!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
I just finally gave in and bought this, and it's my new go-to bag!
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly says, "I wear a size L/XL in clothing, and sometimes waist bags just don't work out so well for me. With this one, I can confirm that it fit around my waist comfortably without outerwear, across my chest without outerwear, *and* over a thick coat and several layers. The pockets inside are so handy, and I even had room to spare throughout my Iceland trip. Just make sure that you zip the zipper ALL the way because the zipper goes down pretty far on the sides for easier access to contents."
Promising review: "I'm SOO impressed with the quality of this bag! I've worn the Lululemon belt bag, and I gotta say, this is pretty similar. Almost identical, except the Lululemon is a tiny bit smaller size. The Lululemon one also has a plastic zipper but this Amazon one is metal. I prefer the plastic but this one is OK. It might be better than Lululemon JUST for the fact that they have so many color options!" — Em
Get it from Amazon for $12.98 (available in 44 colors).
30. Carenel Lip Sleeping Masks, which come in a set of three minis (for under $10!) so if you've been looking at the Laneige ones to keep your lips hydrated and supple overnight, you might want to try these. Plus, they're sized perfectly for travel.
www.amazon.com
For reference, the Laneige lip mask contains 20 grams of product, while each of these measures 5 grams, or 15 grams for the entire set. So even with product sizes taken into account, these are a much better deal!
Promising review:"Love this! In my opinion, better than Laniege at a fraction of the price. A bit thicker, which I like. Even though it's a sleeping mask, I use it throughout the day to keep my lips moist and soft. Will keep ordering again and again." — Michaela
Get a set of three from Amazon for $9.90 (available in six scent sets).
31. A pair of chunky droplet earrings so you can try out that oh-so-trendy Bottega look but don't want to commit to fine jewelry. Reviewers note they're lightweight but not flimsy, so they're comfortable for all-day wear — plus they go with everything!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Bottega, who? These are adorable and super close to the original ones! Perfect for work, events, or casual days. They don't get rusty or anything right away (I wore them while walking around in 90-degree weather). Love them, and I'm gonna get them in gold too!" — Amazon Customer
Promising review: "Yep..this is it, FINALLY! For those of you who have been searching for the best, affordable, similar looking Bottega [swap], THIS IS IT!! I searched many places and bought from other places, but this is the best one out there… I thought the price of these earring was sketchy, but NO…it's legit" — Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three sizes and 11 colors).
32. A set of internet-famous Mellanni sheets made of a super-soft and moisture-wicking microfiber fabric over 250,000 5-star reviewers (wow!) love for being cozy and sleeping surprisingly cool — at an unbeatable price! You just might want to ditch your expensive, name-brand sheets for these babies after the first night — lots of reviewers have.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "My favorite sheets have to be Cozy Earth. But they are way too pricey for a guest bed. These sheets are just as good without the huge price tag. Side by side comparison to these vs expensive brands like Cozy Earth or Peacock Alley — these sheets are thinner and deeper, which actually fit better on our deep mattress with a 3-inch topper; these sheets are just as cool feeling as the higher-end ones when you get in bed. They wash well. Actually better than Peacock Alley. They hardly wrinkle. And even after months of use, they are still in great shape. They haven't started to peel yet or fray. No loose threads or tears. Great sheets!" — Susan
Promising review: "I read from other reviews these sheets were soft, so I wasn't too surprised when I received them, and man are they soft and so comfortable. We have Egyptian cotton sheets that were expensive and I promise we have changed them back out for the comfort of these sheets. The cotton sheets were cold, and these were just right. The other thing is my husband has thin skin that any nick he will bleed. Well, he has bled on these white sheets, and when we washed them (in cold water as instructed), the blood always comes out and never stains. I can't say enough great things about them except to say all three of my adult kids are receiving a set as part of their Christmas!" — Sheree Chrestman
Get a set of queen sheets from Amazon for $34.97 (available in sizes twin–California king, plus sheet sets with deep pockets for taller mattresses and 40 colors and patterns).
33. A satin pillowcase to help maintain hair and skin health even as you sleep, reducing pesky frizz and breakage when compared with regular cotton or other fiber pillowcases — that means longer-lasting blowouts and less damage in the long run. Why spend the money on pricey brands like Slip and Blissy?
Amazon
This is my go-to satin pillowcase. I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward.
Promising review: "I bought these cases to match a new sheet set. I previously had bought much more expensive brands to match other sheets but I love the Bedsure brand of products and wanted to try these out. Arguably, they're softer than my more expensive ones! They did arrive very wrinkled, but a quick wash and dry, and they're shiny and wrinkle-free. I like the envelope closure a lot more than competing brands' zip closure. Highly recommend!" — Hannah Watkins
Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in standard, queen, king, and body pillow sizes and 35 colors).
34. A Briotech spray with the same magical ingredient as the very beloved Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray: hypochlorous acid (something our body produces naturally as part of our immune system!). Just spritz it on whenever your skin needs a little de-stressing, and it'll help soothe inflammation and speed up healing, tone down redness, fight acne-causing bacteria, and strengthen your skin's barrier.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings. Learn more about hypochlorous acid and how it benefits your skin at the Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review: " It works just like my Tower 28 spray. Smells the same and feels the same. It's more product and saves you money. It also comes with two lids which is perfect for traveling!" — Andrea Benton
Promising review:"Just an FYI, this product has the exact same ingredients as the Tower 28 spray! It's been absolutely amazing at reducing acne and texture! It's also so refreshing and gives a lil glow. So in love!" — BK
Get an 8-ounce bottle from Amazon for $16.49 (available in four sizes and in packs of two and four).
35. A sunrise alarm clock reviewers say is a great alternative to the Hatch (which is well over $100). This gradually brightens from red or orange to bright white, starting 30 minutes before your alarm goes off for a more natural wake-up, *and* it has an evening routine that glows softly (with optional sleep sounds for white noise) and has an auto-shut-off so you can drift off peacefully too.
Amazon
It comes with seven nature-inspired wake-up sounds, plus an FM/AM radio. And there are eight colorful night-light options as well!
Promising review: "I really needed another reliable alarm in the morning besides my cell phone (because I'm notorious for hitting sneeze), and this clock is exactly what I was looking for! I love that it slowly brightens as it gets closer to your alarm time because I feel less startled when my alarm goes off. This is super similar to the famous Hatch alarm clock and at a much cheaper price. Would definitely purchase again and again! Saves my morning" — Skylar Faul
Promising review: "I had my eye on the Hatch sunrise alarm but didn't want to spend over $100 on it. I am so glad I found this sunrise alarm clock instead! Has all the features I was looking for for a third of the price! Things I love about this product:
-It's easy to set up and use
-Can have 2 different alarms saved
-dimmable
-different color options
-several sound and brightness options
-snooze option
-looks nice
The only feature I do not utilize is the FM radio" — Olivia Nguyen
Get it from Amazon for $35.99.
36. A Renpho percussion massager with five different head attachments for targeting different areas and reviewers love it for soothing sore muscles, easing neck and shoulder pain, and working through tough knots. And who doesn't love a massage?! Reviewers agree that this version is comparable to, or even better than, the Theragun (which is almost $300)!
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I was avoiding buying a Theragun because of price issues, and this had a great deal on price markdown, even from the list, so I went for it. It was a great choice. Helps with pain relief and massage in pressure spots I wasn't able to get before. I had access to use a Theragun before and haven't noticed any difference between items, and it's at a much lower price point. Whatever extra Theragun features there might be I haven't needed, and the heads are interchangeable between Theragun and this. Very happy with my purchase." — tauntaun
Promising review: "I used a Threragun for about a month, and although it was great, this unit is better suited for my needs. I found the theragun to be too powerful on the lowest setting and bulky to handle. Some people prefer a lower setting than the "professional" brand offers. This unit is also easier to handle when massaging my partner than the Theragun. This gun goes from a comfortable low setting to very powerful on the highest setting. Much better fit for me and my partner, plus it's got solid battery life." — Pierremoe
Get it from Amazon for $89.99.
37. Essence's Lash Princess mascara, which over *170,000* 5-star reviewers for dramatic length and volume *without* clumps, thanks to the flake- and gob-free formula and cone-shaped brush. Tons of reviewers say it's a better version of cult faves like Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara (and even Diorshow!).
Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed, Emma Lord / BuzzFeed
Promising review:"OK. So, I'm a mascara snob! This is better than Dior Show, better than Better than Better than Sex. I've ordered this repeatedly, about 14x, and you won't be dissatisfied, I PROMISE. I use micellar water to remove my makeup on little cotton squares. EASY. Take a chance. $4.99 vs $40 for Dior. You can't go wrong. ❤️" — john t dowell
Promising review:"I can only praise this mascara! It's easy to put on; you control how dramatic you want your lashes. No smudge. Very easy to remove and the BEST part is the price!! In my opinion, this is better than Better than Sex. Definitely love and will buy again." — Mayra Zambrano
Get it from Amazon for $4.99.
38. A set of surprisingly affordable *noise-canceling* wireless earbuds so you can jam out to your favorite tunes, nod thoughtfully at your go-to podcast, or simply call into all your Zoom meetings with great sound clarity. They also come with three sizes of silicone tips so you can ensure a secure — and comfortable — fit. If you'd like to keep several pairs of headphones or often lose yours, they're a great alternative to Apple AirPods Pro!
www.amazon.com
And even better than AirPods Pro? These have an LED display on the case to show you the charge level at a glance (am I the only one who has a hard time getting my phone to show the charge of my AirPods??). Btw, these are also IP7 waterproof rated, which means they're protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes.
Promising review: " I have used these for about a month now, and they have been great! I had Apple brand AirPods for years but didn't want to spend that much this time, so I was looking for an alternative. I went through several from Amazon 'til I found these, and let me just say they are worth every penny!! I use them a lot, and I've charged them maybe two times this whole month. The purple color is an added bonus! Look no further, buy these!" — Amazon Customer
Promising review: "I bought these after getting an almost identical set previously from another supplier. I chose to buy the non-Apple pods because I tend to lose things, and after accidentally drowning my last set, I needed a replacement. These are hands down better. My last pair would cut out, refuse to connect, or disconnect randomly. These do none of those things. The connectivity is great, the noise canceling is really good, and they don't shut off on me. I would buy these again if/when I inevitably need to." — Cinnalosasha
Get them from Amazon for $26.99 (available in eight colors).
39. Skin-lifting, pore-tightening Skin1004 face masks with results that reviewers swear by — not to mention the fact that using them is weirdly fun? The mask tightens as it dries on your face, giving you the titular "zombie" effect (just like...or better than...the more expensive Hanacure).
www.amazon.com
Just wait 15 minutes and rinse to reveal your glowiest glow yet, thanks to the albumin (aka egg white) and aloe formula.
Promising review:"I was gifted the Hanacure masks and loved them, but they're just way too pricey. I heard SO many wonderful things about the Skin 1004 zombie mask, and at about $2.50 a pop, why not?! Let me tell you, this mask is just straight-up magic. I didn't notice any changes to my skin immediately, but a few hours later, when I looked in the mirror, I was shocked at how wonderful my skin looked. I've never noticed a difference like this. Hanacure who?!?? don't get me wrong, the Hanacure mask is amazing and magical, too, but it's expensive and impossible to maintain the twice-weekly mask schedule recommended. T his Zombie mask is every bit as magical with better results in my opinion. And it's super funny. A lot of the reviews mention a bad smell, which I was worried about, but I didn't notice a smell, and I'm so sensitive to smell I can't use scented lotions, lip balms, etc. Bottom line, this is better than Hanacure both price and results wise." — Dana Dane
Get them from Amazon for $19.01.
40. A set of breathable seamless thongs that over 10,000 5-star reviewers (including those who "never wear" thongs and "hate" thongs) swear by for looking seamless under clothes and staying actually comfy all day. And thong lovers say they are just as good or better than brands like Skims and Victoria's Secret.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Buying every color! These are the most comfortable high-waisted medium compact things I've ever owned, and I own Skims, Good American, and Spanx. They are super soft. They sit at just the right spot on your stomach. 15/10 would recommend!!" — Samantha Wroe
Promising review: "Absolutely blown away! I used to be a Victoria's Secret panty shopper, mainly due to their sales. The quality of VS underwear makes it so they never last past six months — if that. Not to mention the crotch section of all their underwear types is unrealistically narrow. I bought these as my everyday underwear and couldn't be happier. They are so comfortable, I hardly can tell I'm wearing them. The crotch part is a suitable size, and the back doesn't ride up or suffocate my backside. They sit perfectly on my hip bone and don't need adjusting throughout the day. The material is soft, and the quality is fantastic. Don't hesitate, buy these!" — Miranda
Get a set of six from Amazon for $24.98 (available in women's sizes XS–4X and 10 color packs).
41. A super plush blanket — it is just begging to be cuddled up with on a cozy day at home... "I bought a new blanket" is a valid reason to cancel plans, right? But seriously, reviewers love this one for looking stylish on their couch and being super soft but not too heavy for year-round use! It's often compared favorably to Barefoot Dreams (maybe not quite as plush or stretchy) but a real bargain for the price!
Amazon
Promising review: "We absolutely love this blanket. It is so soft and has now held up to about 4–5 trips through the washer/dryer. My 18-month-old is OBSESSED with this thing and steals it from me on a daily basis so both of my kids are getting their own for Christmas. The ONLY flaw of this blanket is that it comes shrink-wrapped and compressed and, therefore, really needs to be washed and dried before use to be presentable. It comes tied with a bow, but you could really never gift it as it comes because it doesn't come to life until after the first wash. I find it to be very comparable to barefoot dreams and will never buy another one of their blankets now that I've found this. 10/10 recommend." — Stephanie Mewherter
Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in 32 styles and four sizes).
42. Oversized square sunnies that'll make you feel like a celeb, thanks to their Bottega–inspired shape. But that's not all: they also have polarized lenses and UV protection to keep your peepers safer. (Not even luxury brands always have that!)
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Love these so so much. I wanted the chic Bottega Veneta designer pair, but these look exactly like those for less than $20. Deal of the century. They are comfortable and extremely well made and I seriously can't get over the price. I'm thinking about buying another color because I love them so much." — Kam
Promising review: "I saw these sunglasses on TikTok a couple of months ago and finally ordered them. I'm so glad I did. I LOVE them!! They're such good quality! And I love the way they look on. I'd definitely buy them again!!" — Sammie Batey
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in 13 lens colors).
43. NYX Brow Glue, an extreme hold eyebrow gel (up to 16 hours!) to keep your brow hairs in place alllll day long, especially if you like that "laminated" look. Reviewers agree that the hold is great, the formula doesn't flake off, and it also washes off easily — and is a great alternative to ABH Brow Freeze, too!
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I would use hair spray to hold my eyebrows, and throughout the day, I would sweat through it, and it wouldn't last. I tried this because the price was great, and I'm glad I did. This product is awesome. I've had it on my brows for a nine-hour shift, and they are still in place! It doesn't dry and get flakey, nor does it feel uncomfortable on the skin. Lastly, I use brow powder, and this does NOT affect the look of the powder, nor does it smudge it. I will FOREVER buy this product." — Shelby
Promising review: "OK, I was skeptical as I love my ABH Brow Freeze. But a friend did my makeup and used it, and I was really impressed. So, I got some and played with it on my own. It is so much smoother to glide through my brows. I work it through back and front, then again with a clean spoolie. I LOVE the results. It also washes out really well (even if I don't use a makeup wipe)." — Miss Jordan
Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in clear, plus four tinted shades).
44. LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream, which is designed to help deflate your under eye bags (some say better than Shiseido's Benefiance Wrinkle Cream), hydrate your delicate skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten your under eyes, thanks to a blend of aloe, rosehip seed oil, and vitamins C and E.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Best eye cream I have ever used!!! Better than Benefiance by Shiseido and Clinique or Lancôme, for less than a third of the price with the amount you get. It is rich enough to do the job but not greasy. It doesn't interfere with concealer, yet softens lines. Love it so much!!!!" — Lory Lacy
Get it from Amazon for $24+.
45. A long-sleeve bodysuit in a second skin–like fabric (called Smoke Cloud) reviewers compare to Skims and love for being buttery soft and *not* see-through. And once you fall in love with this crewneck style, don't worry, it comes in tons of sleeve lengths and necklines!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
And btw, reviewers say the double lining in the torso is supportive, so they don't need to wear a bra.
Promising review: "Are you kidding me? This is the softest, most comfortable body suit I've ever owned. I got so many compliments lol; everyone did think they were Skims lol, but it's definitely worth every penny. I love it and will be getting more colors!!! You need it." — Wendy L.
Get it from Amazon for $28.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3X and 14 colors). And check out all the styles available in the Smoke Cloud fabric here.
46. A slightly cropped half-zip pullover because it's key to have a super comfy sweatshirt option that also has a whole lot of look to it for when you're running errands and inevitably run into someone you know. Reviewers say it's even comparable to Lululemon!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I saw this sweatshirt advertised by an influencer on TikTok. I was blown away by the quality of this jacket!! It's super soft, and it fits perfectly." — Rebecca Slattery
Promising review: "Love it. So soft and comfortable. Such a great fit. Totally looks like Lululemon." — ahnjloo
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and 14 colors).
47. A three-piece loungewear set for when you want to have a stay-on-the-couch day but don't want to stay in your PJs — you'll be just as comfy, but feel a little more put together. And you can mix and match the pieces separately, too!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"No joke, these are pretty much exactly the same as my Skims lounge set for half the price. The pants graze the tops of my feet even when I wear them high-waisted at my belly button, so I think they're plenty long. The robe is like wearing a blanket but still looks put together. Anyway, I'm back here to buy a second color because I loved them so much!" — Jenna
Get the three-piece set from Amazon for $54.99 (available in women's sizes S–XL and in 23 colors).
48. A cropped padded workout tank reviewers swear is comfortable for lounging, layering, and working out (and psst being very comparable to Lululemon yoga camis). I mean over 200 reviewers have it or want it in every color!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Honestly saw this on TikTok and contemplated getting it for a long time. I'm so glad I committed! It's tight and holds everything together really well. It's extremely comfortable. The padding is amazing so you don't have to worry about a bra underneath at all. You can wear it with sweats or leggings to the gym or even dress it up for a night out. Considering more colors for sure!" — Kristyn Long
Promising review: "This cami is SOOO high quality; it feels exactly like if not even BETTER quality than similar Lulu lemon yoga camis. The length is perfect, not too short not too long. After reading reviews, I decided to size up and get a large because some people said if you get it too small, the straps might cut into you, and it'd be too short. I agree with that! They're so soft I'm just shocked at the quality, such cute colors! I got white and a light green. absolutely obsessed with these and will be ordering more!" — Rosa Rodriquez
Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in women's sizes S–XXL and in 26 colors).
49. A weekender bag with all the smart design of the much-buzzed-about Beis weekender — but for less than half the price. It has a zip-around bottom shoe compartment to keep your kicks away from your clothes, a super spacious interior, detachable shoulder strap, charging port, and a luggage strap so it fits neatly on top of your roller bag.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It comes in two sizes: one sized for a personal item, and one for a carry-on.
Promising review: "BUY NOW! BEST TRAVEL BAG! BEIS [swap]! This bag is great! Literally, don't hesitate to buy it!! I have traveled on Frontier, Spirit, Jet Blue, all no problem fit inside the bag measuring size perfectly! BEST PART I traveled a lot this summer, to Mexico, Nicaragua, and Jamaica, all for 5-6 days; all my stuff fit in perfectly!! I had three JEANS, two SHORTS, seven TOP, five bathing suits, two sandals, one pair of flip-flops, and three makeup bags, plus a charger on the side pockets! If you want to travel on a budget, this bag is your best friend. Plus the bag is super sturdy and great material with strong zippers." — Franyeska Pravia
Promising review: "So much room for packing with this little weekender bag. The shoe compartment is great for packing towels and shoes if you want. It fits perfectly under the airplane seat. All these little compartments to have your phone, keys, headphones, and wallet are very convenient. So many different colors to choose from which is also nice. I've convinced my mom to get one and all my friends because it is a [swap] for the Beis weekender but less than half the cost." — Hfr123
Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in two sizes and 17 colors).
50. Maybelline Tattoo Studio Pencils because if you're looking for a go-to eyeliner to stock up in neutrals and brights, these glide on with no tugging, with a creamy formula that rivals Urban Decay's eye pencils. And once they set, they won't budge or smudge!
Amazon
Promising review: "L ove this eyeliner and i think its way better than the urban decay one i was using." — itsmedb
Promising review:"You don't need a high-end eyeliner from Urban Decay or Bobbi Brown. I have oily lids, and this is smudge-proof and lasts all day. I use it to tight-line my eyes and it glides on like silk. This will be my go-to eyeliner from now on :) Thanks, Maybelline, for saving me money!" — Jenny
Get them from Amazon for $8.49+ each (available in 33 colors).
51. A Baroque mirror no one will believe came from Amazon with Prime shipping. If you've been looking at the Anthro mirror, or other pricier options but have hesitated to spend, look no further. Not only is it a stunning piece of decor, but large mirrors can help your space feel bigger, too!
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This mirror is gorgeous and very well-made. It feels heavier than I expected, so I used a 3M Claw to hang it and it's definitely secure. Looks exactly like the picture. I wanted the Anthropologie Primrose mirror but couldn't stomach the price tag, even with deep discounts from their home outlet pop-up. This is an excellent [alternative], so definitely worth it." — Jillian Coneys
Promising review: "I was looking for an inexpensive [version] of *the* Anthropologie mirror for my mantle. Did lots of searching and review reading, and this seemed like the best bang for your buck. It's so nice! It's heavy and sturdy (not chintzy), and looks great in my living room. The flourish on top is tasteful, and the antique gold color really does make it look vintage." — Eliza
Get it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in six sizes and five finishes).
52. A pack of reusable grocery bags if you're tired of forgetting yours and paying a fee for paper bags every time you need to stop for milk. These babies fold down compactly, are washable, and super sturdy (they can hold up to 50 pounds), so you can carry your groceries with confidence. Just like Baggu, but for less!
www.amazon.com
They fold up and come with elastic bands for easy storage.
Promising review: "I was looking for a reasonably priced re-usable grocery bags. I love Baggu, but they are pricey and I wanted several to leave around the house, car, and work. I bought several different brands, and these are by far the best that I've found. Very sturdy and cute patterns. The other brands started fraying and tearing right away, but not these. I'm buying another big set to break up and give them away." — Sassafras
Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $21.99+ (available individually and in smaller and larger sets, plus many different colors and prints)
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Travel + Leisure
38 minutes ago
- Travel + Leisure
The Best Outdoor Projectors to Give You Drive-in Level Entertainment
Going to drive-in movie theaters is one of my favorite childhood memories (and I went to our local theater with friends well into high school.) Now that I have an outdoor projector of my own, I can get that romantic, outdoor movie theater experience pretty much wherever I go. While it may be impractical, I often take my outdoor projector camping for late night movie watching. It can be a fun way to wind down with a group of friends, but I also enjoy setting it up and using the inside of my tent as a screen when my husband and I are camping alone. While an outdoor projector can also be used indoors, they are specially designed with high-powered lighting that can be utilized even when it's not pitch black outside. They're also lightweight and can be water- and dust-resistant for added durability. We tested a variety of projectors on camping trips and international vacations to find the best option for all of your outdoor needs. Credit: Amazon $1,050 $800 at Amazon View on REI View on Water-resistant, drop-resistant, and dust-resistant, this durable projector is made to travel wherever you go. With up to five hours of battery life and 1,000 ANSI lumens, it's even strong enough to work in dim daylight (though, like all projectors, it works better the darker it gets.) It has a quick and easy setup: within 10 minutes of opening the box, we already had a movie playing. The picture is sharp and the auto focus worked well. We also love that it has a built-in handle, but you may want to invest in a padded case if you plan to regularly fly with the device. While the sound was loud enough, we didn't have any problems connecting the projector to an additional Bluetooth speaker to give us more of a surround sound experience. It takes just about two hours to fully charge the projector's battery and comes with a backup power cord if you prefer to plug it in for longer viewing. We also appreciated that it has a built-in stand to help you get the right angle for viewing, but do note that it does not come with a tripod, so you may need to invest in your own or plan to stack some other items to optimize your image. As an added bonus, you can charge your phone using the projector. It also has a built-in flashlight to help you get to your campsite. The Details: 6.3 x 10.2 x 9.8 inches | 9.9 pounds | Up to 5 hours of battery life Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Best Buy $798 at Amazon $800 at Target $800 at Samsung I've been using this portable projector for over two years and it still works just as well as the day I opened it. I'm not generally a Samsung user, but it was easy to make a new account in order to log in (and I've never had to use the account since.) It is easy to connect with new Wi-Fi accounts and remembers each one for auto-connection the next time you use it. I love that I can download apps and customize my own home screen to what I use most. While you do have to purchase the battery separately, it's well-worth the investment. It connects to the main projector to become just one item to carry (and pack) and makes the base a little taller. Alone, you can easily watch a full movie on one charge and the battery itself recharges quickly. I've used this projector against indoor and outdoor walls as well as inside of camping tents. The image is always vibrant and crisp. I also appreciate the autofocus and automatic keystone correction, so if I accidentally bump it, it fixes the image without me having to pause. For added convenience, the remote has preset buttons for Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Samsung TV Plus, and is also compatible with voice command for faster searching. The Details: 3.7 x 6 x 3.7 inches | 1.8 pounds | Up to 3 hours of battery life Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Xgimi $899 at Amazon View on While most outdoor projectors work fine when projecting onto a wall, side of a building, or even a sheet pinned up, a taut screen can enhance the viewing experience with crisper images. The XGIMI MoGo 4 Laser Outdoor Collection is the only projector we've tested that comes with everything you need for the perfect outdoor setup—including the screen. It also comes with ground stakes to stabilize the screen when camping or sitting in the yard. After turning it on for the first time, it took less than five minutes to set up and log in to both Amazon Prime and Netflix (both have shortcut buttons on the remote.) It was easy to connect to Wi-Fi and we never noticed a lag in connection; plus, the image is incredibly crisp. We love that you can use this with or without the stand and that the stand itself is a backup battery that provides an additional 2.5 hours of play. The full set comes in a fairly large and durable case that works well for car trips, but if you want to bring just the projector without all of the accessories, it could easily fit in most travel totes or backpacks (just be sure to pack it with a bit of padding for protection.) The Details: 14.8 x 19.9 x 7.9 inches for full kit | 10.8 pounds for full kit | Up to 5 hours of battery life Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $799 $550 at Amazon View on Walmart View on If you're looking for a versatile projector that can be used indoors or outdoors and connect to just about any streaming service you could want, this BenQ projector is a great choice. While we do recommend keeping it plugged in for prolonged use, the rechargeable battery pack can last up to 2.5 hours, depending on your settings and usage. It connects quickly to Wi-Fi and also connects to phones via Bluetooth. You can use it as a portable speaker and pair it with other speakers for louder volume and a surround sound effect. We love that it's on the smaller size (especially compared to how powerful it is) and that it comes with its own carrying case that makes traveling with it a breeze. It's also durable, splash-resistant, drop-proof. We used this both indoors and outdoors and appreciated the auto focus and image correction, so your movies and shows aren't warped even if you aren't projecting onto a perfectly flat surface. We were impressed with the image quality in all locations; the picture is crisp and easy to see in pitch black and low light conditions. The Details: 5.75 x 7.32 x 6.06 inches | 5.07 pounds | Up to 2.5 hours of video play battery life Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $400 $380 at Amazon View on While outdoor projectors are a fun travel accessory, they aren't always the most practical since they can be heavy and bulky. This Nebula Capsule weighs under two pounds and features a slim pole-like design that is easy to pack and carry. The system itself is intuitive and looks like most television interfaces, so it's easy to navigate. We were impressed by the sharpness, color quality, and brightness of the images, especially when using the projector at night. The connection was great with phone hotspots and Wi-Fi signals alike. We also like that you can download an app on your phone to use it as a remote for the projector if you don't want (or forgot) to pack the physical remote. We weren't able to use this longer than two hours at a time, so we do recommend plugging it in for watching movies. Still, we found it to be quite sturdy considering how lightweight it is and loved it for taking to hotel rooms and camping trips alike. The Details: 2.7 x 2.7 x 5.5 inches | 1.43 pounds | Up to 2 hours of battery life Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure


WIRED
an hour ago
- WIRED
The Very Real Case for Brain-Computer Implants
A photo of a recipient of a Synchron brain implant, working on a computer at his home in Melbourne. Photo-Illustration: WIRED Staff; Photograph:All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. Brain-computer interfaces might have inspired works of science fiction, but the technology behind them is real and quickly developing. Companies like Synchron and Neuralink are racing to build a model that they can commercialize. Lauren and Mike speak with WIRED's Emily Mullin to discuss why Synchron's model is standing out, and the promises and limitations of these interfaces. Mentioned in this episode: There's Neuralink—and There's the Mind-Reading Company That Might Surpass It by Emily Mullin You can follow Michael Calore on Bluesky at @snackfight, Lauren Goode on Bluesky at @laurengoode, and Katie Drummond on Bluesky at @katie-drummond. Write to us at uncannyvalley@ How to Listen You can always listen to this week's podcast through the audio player on this page, but if you want to subscribe for free to get every episode, here's how: If you're on an iPhone or iPad, open the app called Podcasts, or just tap this link. You can also download an app like Overcast or Pocket Casts and search for 'uncanny valley.' We're on Spotify too. Transcript Note: This is an automated transcript, which may contain errors. Michael Calore: Hey, this is Mike. Before we start, I want to take the chance to remind you that we want to hear from you. Do you have a question around AI or politics or privacy that has been on your mind, or just a topic that you wish that we talked about on the show? If so, you can write to us at uncannyvalley@ And if you listen to and enjoy our episodes, please rate the show and leave a review on your podcast app of choice. It really helps other people find us. Lauren, how you doing? Lauren Goode: I'm hanging in there. Michael Calore: Yeah. Lauren Goode: It's been a hectic week, but hectic in a good way, I think. Michael Calore: Yeah, you've been very busy writing a lot of big scoops for Lauren Goode: Not a lot, but enough. The Business Desk at WIRED has been really busy this week. Michael Calore: Of which you're a part? Lauren Goode: That's right. Michael Calore: Yes. Lauren Goode: How are you doing? Michael Calore: I'm doing great, thanks. Lauren Goode: Wow, you rarely hear that these days. Michael Calore: I know. Lauren Goode: We can probably just wrap the podcast now. How are you feeling about the fact that Katie is not with us this week? Michael Calore: I think that she is going to stun and surprise us all with our third weekly episode that she's planning. Right now we have two episodes a week of the show. She's working on this project that's going to bring a third episode to the show, and I think we're all going to be very impressed by it. So, it's bittersweet she's not here, but the sweet part is that we get a third drop in the feed every week. Lauren Goode: Yeah, I think it's going to be really good. Michael Calore: Yeah. Lauren Goode: And also that means Katie still has time to run WIRED, which is another thing that she does on the side. Michael Calore: I thought you were going to say run nine miles a day. Lauren Goode: That too. She also runs, runs, runs. But yeah, no, here we are, just you and I in the San Francisco office dealing with the fog. It's very foggy this time of year. People don't think that when they think of California, but it is. And is it just me and you? Michael Calore: No, we have a guest. We have Emily Mullen on the show. Lauren Goode: You're kidding. Michael Calore: No, we're going to bring her on in just a minute. Lauren Goode: Let's do it. Michael Calore: This is WIRED's Uncanny Valley , a show about the people, power, and influence of Silicon Valley. Today we are talking about brain computer interfaces. They're also known as brain-machine interfaces or just BCIs for short. But whatever you call them, these are pretty incredible systems that allow direct communication between the brain and a digital device like a computer or a phone. People who have had a BCI surgically implanted can use their thoughts as commands to make machines perform different tasks. There's currently a race underway in Silicon Valley to build a model that will stand out from the rest. And among the front-runners are Elon Musk's Neuralink, and a New York-based startup called Synchron. We'll dive into why the competition is heating up between these two companies, and what the promises and limitations are behind this futuristic technology. I'm Michael Calore, director of Consumer Tech and Culture here at WIRED. Lauren Goode: I'm Lauren Goode. I'm a senior Correspondent at WIRED. Michael Calore: We are positively spoiled today to have a guest on the show who has reported on brain-computer interfaces extensively. WIRED's Emily Mullin. Emily Mullin: Hello. Lauren Goode: Emily, do you have a brain implant yet? Emily Mullin: No, I do not. Lauren Goode: Well, really, how committed are you to the bit then? Emily Mullin: I do not want a brain implant. No, thank you. Michael Calore: Before we dive into BCIs, I would love to know what is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of brain-machine interactions, Lauren? I mean, for example, I think of RoboCop, the 1987 original by Paul Verhoeven, where it's just the RoboCop, it's just his head and his torso, and then his limbs and all of his running and walking are controlled by a computer that is implanted in his brain. Lauren Goode: I have never seen RoboCop. Michael Calore: Oh, it's such a good movie. Lauren Goode: So, cannot comment on that. What I think of, what I think of? Well, this is a much headier response, but I think of all these promises that are being made around AI and healthcare and wondering if AI ends up being the sort of connective tissue between all of this that actually makes it viable. I wouldn't ever want one of these, because it feels to me like a needs-based technology, not something you should just drill a hole into your brain and for fun. But if you get to the point where you need it, hopefully the technology is in place to actually help you live aspects of your life that you wouldn't otherwise be able to live. Michael Calore: Sure. Lauren Goode: Yeah. Michael Calore: I think we all have sort of a vague concept of what a brain-computer interface is and what it's for. Lauren Goode: The sci-fi concept of it. Michael Calore: But I want to ask you, Emily, is there anything remotely accurate in the depictions we've seen in media? I mean, in the real world, how do these BCIs generally look and how do they work? Emily Mullin: Yeah, so I think the first thing to clarify is that these are often called mind-reading devices. And I'm going to hopefully read your mind by clarifying this, and that a brain-computer interface is not doing the kind of mind reading you might be thinking of. It's not extracting random thoughts from a person's brain. What it's actually doing is picking up on movement intention in the brain. When a person gets a BCI, they're asked to think about doing a specific action such as opening and closing their fist. A person who is paralyzed, who gets a BCI may not be able to physically make that action, but there's still a signal that's firing up in the brain that's this distinct signal that the BCI is capturing. So, the BCI learns to associate that pattern of brain activity with that specific action, and then the BCI is using AI to decode and interpret those neural signals, and then those brain signals get translated into a command. For instance, that opening and closing of a fist, that gesture might correlate to a mouse click. Lauren Goode: Okay. So, on the other end of that equation, there has to be some kind of physical or mechanical tool that then translates the movement. If you're a person, for example, who can no longer move your limbs and your brain isn't making that connection with the rest of your body, would you have to say, for example, have leg braces on that the computer would speak to in order for you to move? Emily Mullin: Right, yeah. Neuralink and actually other research teams before Neuralink have tried connecting robotic arms to BCIs to do exactly that. They've actually helped people feed themselves who were no longer able to do so because they were paralyzed. But this has happened at least in the past in these very controlled laboratory settings with these big clunky robotic arms, and that's not exactly practical for somebody to have at home. Lauren Goode: Okay, got it. So, you can have a BCI system that isn't relying on physical hardware or robotics. What you're describing is the person is just sending signals directly to a computer and a computer is doing the task? Emily Mullin: Yeah, exactly. This technology is really meant to provide a direct link from the brain to an external device just to make that faster, that process faster and more lifelike and seamless for a person with a severe disability. Michael Calore: When we talk about BCIs or we hear about BCIs, the company that most people think of is Neuralink, and that's because they're very high-profile company. They're run by Elon Musk, we all know who he is. But in your most recent reporting you have focused heavily on Synchron. This is a startup that's been making waves lately, because it has the support of several high profile investors in Silicon Valley. And the fact that unlike other competitors, its technology requires relatively non-invasive surgery. The implant process is much simpler than the Neuralink. Can you talk about the other ways that Synchron is different and why this company is such a big deal? Emily Mullin: Of course, listeners have probably heard of Neuralink, but I guess to start off this conversation we should go back to the OG BCI implant, which is the Utah Array. And the Utah Array has been the mainstay of BCI research for the past 20 years or so. It looks like a little mini hairbrush, like the head of a hairbrush. It's got about 100 metal spikes protruding from it. And on the tips of those spikes are the electrodes which record the brain activity, and it is pushed into the brain tissue and records signals in that way. And that device has been implanted in a few dozen people over the years, but it's not wireless. It requires this really clunky setup that involves a pedestal atop a person's head. And beyond that you need to get a craniotomy to get this chip implanted, and the chip can cause scar tissue to form over time, and that can interfere with the functioning of the device. Michael Calore: To be clear, a craniotomy is when you remove a piece of your skull with a bone saw temporarily to access the brain? Emily Mullin: Yes, that is correct. Michael Calore: No fun. Lauren Goode: Oh, sounds slightly less pleasant than a colonoscopy. Emily Mullin: All these reasons, this BCI technology has been promising for a long time, but there are clear limitations, as you can see, and this is why Synchron and Neuralink and others have been working to improve on the design. I guess back to your original question, Mike, which what's the major difference with Synchron's approach? And the major difference is that it doesn't require brain surgery. That doesn't mean it doesn't require any surgery at all. It's less invasive, it's not completely non-invasive, but instead of going directly into the brain Synchron's device is inserted into a blood vessel. It's a pretty unique approach. It actually is inserted into the jugular vein at the base of the neck, and then it's threaded up through the vein until it reaches the motor cortex, and that's the part of the brain that is responsible for movement. And this is a little device that looks like a heart stent used in cardiology, and the company, actually, one of its founders is a cardiologist. And that is what inspired this interesting design. It's dotted with electrodes, 16 of them, that record the brain activity. During the same procedure a second device is inserted into the chest pocket right below the collarbone, and that's what processes the brain signals and then beams them out of the body via infrared. Lauren Goode: Wow. So wait, the chest pocket interprets the brain signals and then beams them out of the body, beams them using what, like Bluetooth? Emily Mullin: Infrared. Lauren Goode: Wow. It's like a remote control, like a TV control? Emily Mullin: Yes. Michael Calore: And there's a receiver, there's like a second device that you just hold up to your body to read the signals that are coming out of your brain. Emily Mullin: Yes, there's this paddle-like device that sits on the person's chest, and then that device, it's kind of a complex system. That device is connected via a wire to another device that is doing all of the processing and interpreting of those signals and translating them into commands. But right now, yes, it is a WIRED system, but in Synchron's 2.0 version they are planning to remove that wire and have that communication happen via Bluetooth so that a person doesn't have to be physically tethered to the system. Lauren Goode: And Emily, you wrote about in your story on how Synchron is also being built to work alongside other consumer technologies too. Can you talk about this? Emily Mullin: Yeah. It seems like Synchron is really thinking about the ways in which its eventual users will want to use technology in their everyday lives. For instance, they have connected their BCI to Amazon Alexa, so their users now can use Alexa with just their thoughts instead of voice control. And you might be thinking like, "Well, why would you do that when you can just use your voice?" But some ALS patients, some people who are paralyzed do not have the use of their voice. That's where this would come in handy. Last year Synchron also rolled out a feature to allow users to use an AI chatbot operated by OpenAI, and that's to, again, facilitate communication. And Synchron also has connected its device to the Apple Vision Pro, which obviously if you are paralyzed or severely disabled, you might need somebody to put that device on for you. But the patient that I spoke with for my story on he uses the Apple Vision Pro to kind of transport him to places around the world that he will never get a chance to travel to, and he actually really loves using that device. Lauren Goode: Wow. Apple Vision Pro. I take back everything I ever said about Apple Vision Pro. Michael Calore: Let's talk a little bit more about a person who you profiled as part of your story. His name is Mark Jackson. He's a 65-year-old man from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who is living with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It's a disease that causes the person suffering from it to gradually lose all of their muscle functions. He's one of 10 people that Synchron chose to outfit with its device in a clinical trial that started back in 2023. So, he's using the device to talk to Amazon Alexa. He's using the device to control an Apple Vision Pro. How else is he using it? Emily Mullin: He's also able to do things like play computer games, and when I visited him recently he was playing this computer game that was sort of reminiscent of Pac-Man. He was in control of this little white circle, and he had to drive it into a target and miss these blue obstacles. And he can also use the BCI to do things like write emails or shop online, text message. He can do his online banking, and as we mentioned, he can use the Apple Vision Pro. And Synchron is also in talks right now with other tech companies to integrate more types of consumer technology. Michael Calore: As we said at the top of the show, it's not reading his thoughts. When he's playing the video game he's thinking of making a fist and releasing his fist and then making a fist again, and that's sending certain signals through the motor cortex, which is what the device is picking up. I'm assuming that there's probably some sort of motor cortex actions he's doing to write an email or send a text message. He's not just thinking of words and then it's writing them down? Emily Mullin: He is thinking about very specific commands that the BCI is picking up on. Yes, no, or selecting from certain letters, that kind of thing. Lauren Goode: It sounds like based on your reporting that Synchron is really focused on people who are living with severe disabilities. Elon Musk on the other hand with Neuralink, has talked about this vision of a transhumanist future where the mind and machine meld, not that that sounds dystopian in any way. So, they do have slightly different focuses, is my understanding. Can you talk about that a little bit? Emily Mullin: Yeah. So, we know Musk obviously has a tendency to present these very grandiose visions of his technology. Lauren Goode: Does he. Does he do that? Michael Calore: Sometimes. Emily Mullin: But like any medical device company Neuralink will need to prove a medical case to the FDA to get its product to market. So yeah, there's what Elon Musk says, and then there's sort of the reality of getting a product to market. And I do think he sees his technology as something that will be adopted by everyone someday. I don't think Synchron sees its technology in that way, but I think like Synchron, Neuralink is first focusing on restoring digital autonomy to people with severe physical disabilities. And while Neuralink is obviously much more explicit about a future in which BCIs are more widely adopted, I don't think that's necessarily Synchron's goal. Michael Calore: So, Synchron has a major trial coming up in 2026, and it plans to enroll between 30 and 50 patients for the next round of testing. What happens next after they do this trial? How fast do you think that BCIs could become widely available to the public for anybody who needs one to get one? Emily Mullin: Yeah, so this kind of pivotal trial is really what Synchron needs to show the FDA that their device is safe, it's effective, and it can restore certain functions to people. In the early feasibility trial they did they enrolled 10 total patients. There were four initial patients in Australia and six in the U.S. that got the Synchron BCI, and they followed those patients for a year after implantation. And they showed that there were no major safety events, which when you're talking about putting anything in the body, of course there can be risks like infection. As we talked about before, with putting something in the brain there's a risk of brain tissue damage. With the Synchron device it's more about the possibility of blood clots or blocking a blood vessel. So, that's what they want to look for in a bigger trial. And then the question in a bigger trial is sort of, "Well, how do you measure the effectiveness of a BCI?" And the problem is there's never been a big pivotal trial of a device like this before, a device designed to restore certain functions. So, one of the challenges right now is that these companies are working with the FDA. There was an FDA workshop back in the fall to get together researchers and BCI companies to talk about what are the clinical outcome measures that we are talking about here. We can measure how fast a BCI is, typing speed or how accurately it could decode speech, for instance. But how does that correlate with a person's quality of life or their autonomy, their freedom? How did they feel when they're using it? So, these are all questions that these devices are going to face as they head into bigger trials. And Neuralink is hopefully going to get there too. I think it's still going to be several years before one of these devices is on the market, because there are still some open questions. And also, of course, these devices are going to be expensive. So what is the threshold of benefit where an insurer would cover this device? Lauren Goode: Emily, this is super fascinating. Your story is great. Everyone should go read Emily's story. Thank you for joining us in the Uncanny Valley . Come back with more goodness and weirdness soon. Emily Mullin: Thank you for having me. Michael Calore: Thanks, Emily. We're going to take a break and we'll be right back. Welcome back to Uncanny Valley. Today we are talking about brain-computer interfaces, also known as BCIs, and why Synchron and Neuralink are representative of two different approaches to the future of this technology. So Lauren, we just had Emily on. She told us all about Synchron and the challenges and where the technology is and how Neuralink shapes up. Completely wild, what do you think? Lauren Goode: Mind blown. You know what I think? My first reaction upon hearing about this is, this is the real biohacking. Michael Calore: Yeah. Lauren Goode: One of our earlier episodes of Uncanny Valley , which everyone should go back and listen to, was about the quest to live forever in Silicon Valley and all of the weird biohacking stuff that folks like Brian Johnson or even the Jeff Bezos's of the world are doing. And of course, there's been all this lure around like blood boys, Silicon Valley venture capitalists taking the blood of young interns to make themselves more youthful and vital. Of course, there's a lot of really important and significant investment happening in cancer research and maternal health and things like that. But this is actually hacking the body to achieve outcomes that otherwise just would not be achieved. And it's high risk, it's invasive, it's expensive, it's all very experimental still. But it just seems like the upside, if you can get it right, is really significant for someone like the subject in Emily's story who is living with ALS and is paralyzed and is now able to experience the world through Apple Vision Pro. What? Michael Calore: And iPhones and iPads and computers- Lauren Goode: Of course, and Alexa and AI. Michael Calore: Yeah. And I think the idea of giving somebody back autonomy that they have lost, even if it's digital autonomy is really important. You can communicate again, you can type using motor cortex commands, but you can type again. And giving somebody that ability to exist in the world is something that feels like a pretty significant step. Obviously, there are limitations. There is one anecdote in the story that Emily wrote about the subject Mark trying to do a Venmo payment using voice assistance technology. Like dictating to Siri, basically, send a Venmo payment. But there is no way for the voice assistant to actually put in a reason for the payment, so there are places where voice technology falls short and maybe BCIs are a way to bridge that gap. But I do think it's novel that they're using iPhones and Apple Vision Pro as the things that you can control, but really that speaks to how the company is thinking about how people are going to be using this in the future. And I think that's really smart on Synchron's part. Lauren Goode: And it seems like their approach too, even though it's still invasive, is less invasive. The idea of threading something up through your jugular incredible. It really is. When the alternative is drilling a hole into your brain. Michael Calore: And Neuralink's interface is basically a mesh of little electrodes and they're robotically inserted into the brain tissue, and then they close you back up and they put a little sort of coin-sized plug in your skull where the interface goes in, and that does not feel great. That feels like a stopgap. And going in through the vein and going up close to the brain gets you pretty close. It does not get you as close as Neuralink's BCI. So, it seems as though there's less that you can do with Synchron than you can do with a Neuralink implant, but it's still probably the option that most people would choose. Lauren Goode: It's fascinating. Now, I was reading that there's a pretty big difference in how much funding these two startups have raised. Synchron to date has raised just $145 million. Neuralink has raised $1.3 billion. And I have to wonder how much of that is just because of the halo of Elon Musk being associated with Neuralink, or if there's something about their business that actually appears that much more viable to investors. I'm guessing it's the former. Michael Calore: Yeah, it really feels like the halo around Elon Musk is undeniable. He can just drive, pun intended, all kinds of attention to the companies that he fronts. And I think part of that is just that he has been able to do so much in the industry through sheer will that people sort of believe that, "Hey, here's this crazy idea. If anybody can do it, then he can do it." Lauren Goode: Well. And he gets the engineers to do all of the work for him. He motivates people. Michael Calore: So, how do you think AI chatbots are going to be used in brain-computer interfaces? Lauren Goode: This is the part that when you first hear about it sounds like a little hokey, like, "Oh, of course ChatGPT is a part of this." But actually, it makes a lot of sense. When you think about the way that these language models are built to be predictive and actually anticipate what it is you are trying to say next. Which we as humans who are able to vocalize and communicate the things that we want, you and I, like we even struggle with sometimes. When you think about that predictive technology being applied in a medical setting where someone actually cannot articulate what they need or what they want, it seems pretty smart. Michael Calore: And I think there are specific things that we can point to, besides just the chatbot use of AI. For example, there is this effect that BCI researchers refer to as the stadium effect. If you think about how thoughts are presented in the brain, if you're inside a stadium, you can hear the conversations going on around you. Lauren Goode: Oh, right, yes, this was an Emily's story, this was really good. Michael Calore: Yeah, you can hear the thoughts going on around you, and you have pretty good knowledge of what's going on inside the stadium. If you're outside the stadium, all you really hear is the roar of the crowd. And you can probably discern when something big happens, like a goal is scored or something like that. So, the Synchron device is a good example of something that is existing outside the stadium. It knows when the person who has it implanted is thinking about trying to make a fist and when they are thinking about releasing that. And it picks up these very broad signals. So, it's difficult to ascribe any kind of specific intent beyond that, that's a place where AI can probably fill in the blanks. It can probably understand what the patterns are, what the person is trying to do. And if they keep repeating the same thing over and over again and not getting the outcome that they want, it possibly could be able to try different outcomes or somehow bridge that gap between what the person is really trying to do and what the signal should be. Lauren Goode: I am a little bit curious too about the long-term support of these kinds of things. Once a BCI is part your body, part of your system, how long does it last for? Does it need to be replaced? Who does the maintenance? I mean, even now with medical devices that are external to the body, a lot of times the manufacturers keep a tight grip on how to repair them, how to maintain them, because those service contracts is very lucrative service contracts for medical device makers. What do you think are the ethical considerations around all of this? Michael Calore: Well, people are signing up to get this done. People are volunteering to get this done. It is something that's potentially life-changing, and I think that's wonderful. I think the ethics come into play when you talk about how the data is being processed, what types of things we're recording that are coming out of people's brains. As these devices get more sophisticated, those ethical considerations are going to come into sharper focus. But right now, since it's in the testing phase, I mean we're talking about, "Hey, I would like to put my hand up to get a device implanted in my body that will significantly improve my quality of life, please." Lauren Goode: And if OpenAI's model is being trained on your brain signals, you're probably. "Take my data. That's okay, because I want to see what I can get out of this." After hearing all of this from Emily, are you still thinking about RoboCop when you hear BCI? Michael Calore: I'm thinking more about The Matrix. Lauren Goode: Because you're jacking in? Michael Calore: Yeah, because The Matrix, it's a spike that drives into the back of the human skull, right? That's their brain-computer interface. I think that's a little bit closer to what we're talking about, but also maybe a little bit more grim. Lauren Goode: Keanu forever. Michael Calore: Keanu forever. All right, let's take another break, and we'll come right back with recommendations. We're back, and Lauren and I have some recommendations for you all. Lauren, why don't you go first? Lauren Goode: I'm going to toss it back to you, because I need a moment to think of something, honestly. Michael Calore: How dare you? Lauren Goode: Yes. Okay. What's your recommendation, Mike? Michael Calore: Mine's sad, but also we'll fill you with joy. Lauren Goode: Okay. Michael Calore: The day that we're recording this is the same day that Ozzy Osbourne passed. He has been ill for a very long time, so it was not surprising to learn that he died. And just looking at the reactions online, I realized that so many people know Ozzy Osbourne as this guy who was on a reality TV show 20 years ago. He was the guy in the Osbournes that everybody made fun of, because he was sort of like this bumbling guy who just sort of wandered around the house screaming his wife's name. And that's not who Ozzy Osbourne is in my mind. He is the guy who is the lead singer in one of the most important bands in rock and roll, which is Black Sabbath, which was formed in the late-nineteen-sixties and just dominated for six years and stuck around for a long time after that. But their most important work was done in those first formative years in the early 1970s, late 1960s. And that made me a little sad. I was sad that Ozzy died, but I was equally sad that the thing that he's remembered for is not the thing that most of us would consider his best work or his most important work. I would like to recommend that you go into the OzzyVerse, that you go back to Birmingham, England 1969 and listen to the first maybe four Black Sabbath albums. Lauren Goode: Just four albums. Michael Calore: Just the first. Lauren Goode: That's just a small recommendation. Michael Calore: You probably have this idea in your head about what they sound like, and it is almost certainly not what they actually sound like. So, familiarize yourself with them, your life will be richer for it. It's heavy, it's dark, it's fun, it's catchy, it's bluesy. It will make you do air drums, and it will make you love Ozzy Osbourne. Lauren Goode: You are so animated right now. You're really excited by this recommendation. Michael Calore: I mean, it's just some of the best music that you can make with a band. It's so good. How did they do it? It's one of those things. Lauren Goode: You know what, Mike, just for you, I'm going to listen to it in the car today. Michael Calore: Great. Lauren Goode: Yeah. Michael Calore: What's your recommendation? Lauren Goode: My recommendation this week is another literary recommendation. Do you remember I stole that book from a hotel room a while back? Talked about it on the show. Michael Calore: The Bible? Lauren Goode: No, it's a magazine called The Sun. Not to be confused with the British tabloid. This Sun is published out of North Carolina, is an advertising-free, wholly subscriber-supported magazine that has a lot of really great nonfiction, fiction, poetry, dispatches from readers, Q&As, it's honestly, one of my favorite magazines. If you're just looking for something that gives you a little bit of break from the news and you're looking for some good fiction. Michael Calore: So, whenever anybody recommends that I pick up a literary journal, I, in good faith, go to the bookstore and I pick it up and I'm like, "Oh my God, it's $35." Lauren Goode: They're so expensive. The Sun is $5 per month. Michael Calore: That's great. Lauren Goode: It is 100% worth it. Michael Calore: Nice. Thank you for telling me about it. Lauren Goode: You're very welcome. Michael Calore: Thanks for listening to Uncanny Valley . If you like what you heard today, make sure to follow our show and rate it on your podcast app of choice. If you'd like to get in touch with us with any questions, comments, or show suggestions you can write to us at uncannyvalley@ Today's show is produced by Adriana Tapia. Amar Lal mixed this episode, Megan Herbst fact-checked this episode. Mark Lyda was our San Francisco studio engineer. Kate Ozzie Osborn is our executive producer. Katie Drummond is WIRED's Global editorial director, and Chris Bannon is the head of Global Audio.
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Cheers — it's Friday! Ronnie here. Today is National Wine and Cheese Day — the perfect excuse to get fancy with some stinky delights and crisp sips. Food Tetris on a wooden board, anyone? We made a charcuterie board for my niece's first birthday. She had no idea it existed, but it stole the show. Anyway, treat yourself this weekend — you've earned it! Let's brie real... it's time to wine down. Shall we? 📦 An 'Amazon guy' asked to use the bathroom and then for soup! A puzzled grandma said yes — but wait 'til she found out who he really was. 🏃♀️ Everyone thought this runner at the Special Olympics was heading the wrong way … but he knew exactly where he was going, and it became the sweetest moment of the race. 💈 She lost all her hair at just 6 months old to alopecia — 16 years later, she's finally getting a first glimpse of herself with hair and the mirror moment was priceless. Cheesin' hard? Share the love — because good vibe pairs perfectly with any vintage of the day! Last week, we tested your good news knowledge about the golden retriever who risked it all for his best bud. And the answer is … C. The doorman of a building he doesn't even live in. Did you get it right? Scroll on for good news to fill your emotional charcuterie board — after all, just like the perfect bite of cheese, good news is best savored slowly. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Surprise delivery? 👀