The Gadgets that Stood Out in a Muted 2025
2025 was an understated year in the tech gadget landscape. While new devices hit the market with regularity, the trends were predictable, leading to a general sense of disillusionment among consumers. The anticipated excitement around advancements, particularly in AI, fell short of expectations. This disconnection was mirrored in purchasing behavior, with many opting to hold off on upgrades. However, several standout products broke through the monotony, capturing consumer interest due to their unique features or solid performance. Here’s a detailed look at the most appreciated gadgets of 2025.
iPhone 17
Despite not being the most revolutionary entry in Apple’s lineup, the iPhone 17 earned its place among 2025’s best gadgets. Sporting the powerful A19 chipset, stunning Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (up to 120Hz), and an 18MP Centre Stage front camera, it was well-equipped for everyday use. It shares many features with its Pro variants while improving battery life and camera performance, making it a practical choice for most users.
OnePlus Pad 3
Often catching users off-guard, the OnePlus Pad 3 emerged as an impressive competitor. This tablet blurs the lines between tablets and laptops, delivering a dynamic display, robust performance, and a plethora of accessories—all for an attractive price. Essentially, it positioned itself as a viable alternative to the iPad Pro.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
For many, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 exemplified the future of smartphones. Its ability to transform from a regular phone into a tablet is a game changer, making it remarkably thin and comfortable to handle. While it has some shortcomings, such as battery life and camera quality, it’s clear that the foldable phone category is still evolving and full of potential.
Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses
Though lacking in refinement, the Ray-Ban Display glasses offered a glimpse into the future of wearable technology. With a built-in heads-up display and gesture controls, they represent a significant step toward realizing the potential of smart glasses, despite current limitations like poor battery life and a hefty price tag.
Google Pixel 10 Pro XL
The Pixel 10 Pro XL surprised consumers by claiming the title of best Android smartphone of the year. Its blend of size, camera capabilities, and cutting-edge AI features impressed reviewers, although it fell behind rivals like the S25 Ultra in raw gaming power. Nonetheless, it remains a benchmark for high-quality Android devices.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Designed for serious photographers, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra excels in still and video capture. This smartphone, particularly effective when paired with the Legend Photography Kit, allows photographers to bring their vision to life with various customization options.
Nintendo Switch 2
The Switch 2 showcased how an iterative upgrade can feel remarkably fresh. With improvements in screen size, performance, and an array of exciting features like mouse control and built-in video chat, it felt like an entirely new console for many gamers, embodying the Switch philosophy of versatility.
Motorola Edge 60 Stylus
The Motorola Edge 60 Stylus stands out in a crowded smartphone market by integrating a seamless stylus experience. Despite being part of a saturated category, its affordable price point, impressive battery life, and large display make it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
Nothing Headphone (1)
The Nothing Headphone (1) represents a bold attempt in the headphone market, delivering a unique design and satisfying audio experience, even if they don’t lead their category in sound quality. Their stylish and comfortable design makes them a fashionable choice among tech enthusiasts.
iPhone Air
Serving as Apple’s equivalent to the MacBook Air, the iPhone Air balances power and elegance, targeting consumers who desire premium features without unnecessary complexities. Its launch has inspired other smartphone makers to follow suit in creating ultra-thin devices.
Instax Wide Evo
The Instax Wide Evo is not just an instant camera; it doubles as a smartphone printer, offering a unique mix of convenience and creative potential, making it a must-have gadget for photography fans.
SanDisk Creator SSD
For creators, the SanDisk Creator SSD has redefined content storage and transfer. This lightweight, portable SSD caters specifically to photographers and videographers, allowing them to manage their high-definition content effortlessly.
Sennheiser HDB 630
Renowned for its audiophile-grade quality, the Sennheiser HDB 630 caters to serious listeners with its versatile performance. Although it comes at a premium price, its features make it enticing for audio purists.
Samsung Galaxy S25
As one of the most compact phones of the year, the Samsung Galaxy S25 boasts a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and a stunning AMOLED display. Its innovative AI features and high-quality triple-camera system make it a strong choice in a competitive market.
JBL Tour One M3
Though priced on the higher end, the JBL Tour One M3 justifies its cost with a rich array of features and exceptional audio quality. They stand out in a crowded headphone market, especially for those who prioritize sound experience.
Google Android XR Glasses
The Google Android XR Glasses embody the intersection of AI and augmented reality, empowering users with context-aware functionalities while helping them capture and recall experiences more vividly.
OnePlus 15
Capstoning the year, the OnePlus 15 boasts high-performance specs, including a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Its massive battery and sleek design, characterized by various aesthetic options, established it as one of the standout smartphones of 2025.
Xscace Bonsai
Revolutionizing the home audio experience, the Xscace Bonsai offers high-fidelity sound in a diminutive size, hinting at a promising future for discreet home entertainment solutions.
Sony WH-1000XM6
Finally, the Sony WH-1000XM6 upheld Sony’s legacy in the ANC headphone segment by enhancing existing features instead of overhauling the design. Users appreciated the improved sound tuning, battery life, and overall comfort.
These gadgets stood out in a year where innovation seemed to stall, proving that even amidst predictability, remarkable products can capture our attention and approval.
