This Week The Trend (Issue 69)
This week's picks include a tech backpack, smart candle warmer, and Sony headphones.
How I’d spend $500: Samsonite Valt Tech Backpack
This might be THE backpack for Apple enthusiasts. It even has a spot for the Vision Pro. The company calls out areas of the backpack for Apple products, but there's nothing keeping you from using those areas for any gadgets.
In fact, I think the top pocket is better utilized as a spot for my tech pouch. It's easy to access and large enough to dump cables, earbuds, headphones, or most other travel accessories. The main compartment opens wide but has side protectors to keep items from spilling out.
If you're wondering why the Samsonite Valt Backpack is in the $150 to $500 price range, it's because it retails for $179.99. And if you want to get technical, the gray version is $153.99 right now. But I've used the black one and think it's a great option, especially for its current sale price of $143.99.
How I’d spend $150: Sony WH-CH730N
The WH-CH730N are Sony's mid-range wireless headphones. These skimp on some of the features of the more premium models, but still manage to deliver powerful sound and excellent comfort.
One of the reasons they're so comfortable to wear is because of their lightweight design. The downside is that this translates into a little bit of a cheap feeling because of the plastic used.
The new CH730N headphones usually retail for $180. That price is a little steep for these. But $50+ off and falling under $150 makes them a much better value. These would be good for general use, kids, or as a backup pair of wireless headphones.
How I’d spend $50: SwitchBot Candle Warmer Lamp
Not only is it sweater weather, but it's also candle weather. The SwitchBot Candle Warmer heats a candle from the top, so you get the fragrance without the fire. It's a high-tech gadget designed as a simple home accessory. It can be controlled with its on-board buttons, but it can also be set up to be controlled with your phone, Siri, or in several other ways.
I've been using a few of these around the house for more than a year, and they work great. I even have mine configured to turn off if my phone leaves the house—just in case I ever forget to turn it off myself.
The SwitchBot Candle Warmer Lamp normally retails for $39.99, so it's 25% off right now.
The winning pick: Sony WH-CH730N
The Sony WH-CH730N are good headphones, but they're not really a good value at their full price. Now that they've dropped below $130, I feel confident recommending them more broadly.
Are you looking for even more picks this week? Here are a few things worth considering.
Media pick: 12 Days of Snoopy
As great as the Charlie Brown Christmas special is, you probably have it memorized by now. So, if you're looking for a new ~40-minute show you can put on after Thanksgiving, 12 Days of Snoopy is it. Not only does it instantly feel like a classic, but there's a new original soundtrack that perfectly complements the special.
This week's other interesting deals and product news
This week is heavy on audio products. And yes, despite the model names looking similar, these are all different products.
- Ember's new self-heating Mug 3 is down to $89.99, from $129.99. The new Tumbler 2 is down to $119.99, from $179.99.
- Nothing's audio products are coming to select Target retail stores in the US.
- If you need more deals on bags, Alpaka has started its Black Friday sale.
- Sony WH-1000XM6 — $378, was $460
- Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199, was $249
- Beats Studio Buds+ — $100, was $170
- Beats Solo 4 — $130, was $200
- Beats Studio Pro — $200, was $300
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) — $360, was $449
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) — $242, was $299
- Sony WF-1000XM6 (earbuds) — $298, was $330
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) — $260, was $359
- Sony WH-CH720N — $88, was $180
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