This Week The Trend (Issue 56)
This week's picks include a sunrise clock, headphones, and colorful light.
How I’d spend $500: Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Bose has new QuietComfort Gen. 2 headphones—these aren't those. Instead, the first-generation ones are on sale and worth considering. The new ones have a tweaked design, and some niceties around USB-C audio. But if those things don't appeal to you, then this is a chance to save on some well-tested headphones. These are lightweight, have solid ANC, and sound good.
Among other reasons to pick these headphones, there are a ton of cool colors to choose from.
Value Score: Good
I'm testing the new generation headphones now. They are better, but if you have a chance to snag these new-in-box for $230, then that's by far the best value for some Bose headphones. If you want the best ones, the QC Ultra Headphones are down to $369.
How I’d spend $150: Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light
The Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light offers the chance to wake up with a sunrise each morning. Not only can you get the visual light, but there are five nature sounds to help wake you in the morning.
The bedside light is geared around its dimming, but it also has features like tap-to-snooze and an FM radio.
Value Score: Fair
Several no-name brands offer cheaper lights. But this Philips one is 30% off right now and, I think, a better option than one from Hatch.
How I’d spend $50: Linkind Smart Light Stick
The new Smart Light Stick can display multiple colors at once for a fun light show. It can react to music and dance around, but it also has a full range of temperature hues for normal use. The bulb has a standard E26 base so it should fit in most lamps. For wide compatibility, the bulb is Matter-compatible so it can work across any smart home platform.
Value Score: Fair
I wouldn't fill my home with these bulbs (light sticks) because they are pricier than other options, but they are fun for certain areas like a front porch or kid's room.
The winning pick: Bose QuietComfort Headphones
It's always tempting to buy the new version of a product. But in this case, the price is good enough to pass on a few updated features. If you see a color you like, now is the time to jump on it.
Are you looking for even more picks this week? Here are a few things worth considering.
Expensive Pick: Insta360 X6
Insta360's new X6 360-degree action camera looks like a huge upgrade. Not only can it shoot 8K footage, but it has a new processor and image sensor. The battery life is improved, the mics are better, and stabilization is increased. The overall size is smaller than the X5 too.
I've been loving the new Insta360 Luna Ultra, so I can only imagine how fun this one would be for adventure days.
This week's other interesting deals and product news
- It seems like Sonos is gearing up to release new Ace Ultra headphones.
- Google's new Pixel 11 is available to pre-order for $899. It comes with a $100 Amazon gift card.
- The Matic robot vacuum can now respond to voice commands and hand gestures.
- The new Altar II mechanical keyboard is quite something. It's available for pre-order at a discount.
- Google has its own Bluetooth tracker, Pixel Tag, coming in November.
- If you've been eyeing the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, they're 18% off, down to $189.
- Apple will start broadcasting select Friday Night Baseball games in the Vision Pro.
This week's published stories
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