What are some cool gadgets (under $200)

[Alex Mercer]

Recently bought some 10 x 42 binoculars to have a little gaze around my neighbourhood and I already have a multimeter to test out voltage in my house and in batteries. What are some other fun not to pricey gadgets that are fun to have around? I was also thinking of getting some night vision goggles...

[koti]

Powerful flashlight (10K+ lumen)
Powerful blue/green laser (above 1W)
Decent microscope with WiFi.
Leatherman/Gerber multitool
Tiny projector


 

[swansont]

!

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[Sensei]

On 4/23/2021 at 11:17 AM, Alex Mercer said:

and I already have a multimeter to test out voltage in my house and in batteries.

  ..the next step should be perhaps digital oscilloscope?

Endoscope for smartphone? ($10-$20 or so)

On 4/23/2021 at 11:17 AM, Alex Mercer said:

What are some other fun not to pricey gadgets that are fun to have around?

If you found multimeter "a fun little gadget to play with", then maybe Arduino?

Default introductory kit should keep you busy for a month or two.

e.g. get Bluetooth transmitter *) for Arduino, get water pump (in e.g. pet shop, pump for fishes), and build device for remote (by smartphone) control irrigation of indoor plants in pots. Make simple single button on/off Android app, which will connect to BT device and control water pump on demand. *) requires 5V <-> 2.5 V power/signal converter.

https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/neetithakur/automatic-plant-watering-system-using-arduino-uno-8764ba

 

Perhaps LCD microscope?

https://www.google.com/search?q=LCD+microscope

 

[Sensei]

IR camera for smartphone?

 

[denchikchyb]

For me, the best gadget was the JBL Charge 5 portable speaker. It has more than once saved our house parties with friends.

[Externet]

Stirling engine,  Heron fountain,  two line stunt kite, 

Any of these ----> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DC4uU_157oo

 

(Aimed for non-electronics...)