11 Cheap USB Gadgets That Users Swear By

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

The best USB gadgets aren't the flashy ones. They're the practical tools that quietly make your daily tech setup better, like small USB-C gadgets you didn't know you needed. This type of gear is now an easy and affordable way to upgrade your workflow, travel, or gaming.

While many people still view USB gadgets as the tech version of stocking stuffers (insignificant and easy to forget), some of the most popular and well-loved gadgets are USB accessories that don't break the bank. Thousands of consumers swear by them, saying that these USB gadgets helped level up their workspace or made a real difference in how they play games.

In the last few decades, these gadgets have grown into a whole world of useful accessories that often cost less than a meal but can work better than expensive gear. These are not gimmicky items like portable blenders or other USB gadgets that aren't worth your money. In this list, we'll look at some of the USB gadgets that users love. You'll find hand warmers, webcams, and even a fingerprint reader for quick Windows logins. If you want to know more about how we picked these products, check out our methodology at the bottom of the page.

You'll find a host of handy features in the Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1). You get two USB-A ports, a USB-C data port, SD and microSD slots, a 4K HDMI output, and pass-through Power Delivery USB-C charging up to 85W. This hub is great if your laptop doesn't have enough ports. It costs about $40, and with over 28,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it's proven to be a reliable solution.

Customers praise the USB-C hub for being an all-purpose upgrade that turns a laptop into a more capable workstation. They often mention the steady 4K HDMI output, speedy 5Gbps USB data transfers, and handy SD and microSD slots — saying everything works smoothly without problems. Pass-through charging is also popular, especially for MacBook and Chromebook users who want to charge their devices while using several accessories.

Buyers on Walmart repeatedly mention that the build feels solid, the ports stay stable even with multiple devices connected, and the data + video + charging combo just works. So, if you're stuck juggling dongles, adapters, card readers, and chargers every time you open your laptop, this Anker hub simplifies it all into a single device. 

If you've ever sounded like you're talking from a tin can on calls or streams, your laptop's built-in mic is most likely to blame. The FIFINE K669B offers a budget-friendly solution, delivering clear, almost studio-quality sound without a mixer or interface. It's a reliable USB condenser mic with a sturdy metal body and a handy volume knob for quick adjustments. The cardioid pickup pattern focuses on your voice and reduces background noise, which is especially helpful for gamers and people working from home.

This popular mic usually costs about $30 and has 4.5 out of 5 stars from thousands of Amazon reviews. Buyers say it easily improves audio for gaming, video calls, and meetings. Walmart reviews are equally positive, with one buyer commenting that it's truly plug-and-play. Others praised the mic for making voices sound much clearer than laptop or headset mics. A few other users stated that it feels sturdy enough for everyday use.

There are a few drawbacks to note: the included stand and fixed cable are not as sturdy as the mic itself. Still, this microphone is an excellent choice for quick, high-quality audio, and many users recommend it for its great value and easy setup.

Typing a password can seem outdated, especially when you watch someone at your workplace unlock their PC with just a touch. The ARCANITE USB Fingerprint Reader brings that Windows Hello magic to any desk. This tiny accessory is regularly priced around $31 and provides lightning-fast authentication, logging you in, in only 0.05 seconds.​

You get advanced protection that is far more secure than a PIN or password and a 360-degree sensor that reads your print perfectly from any angle. The product has so far accumulated more than 4,500 reviews on Amazon, averaging 4.1 out of 5 stars. Buyers report a high-speed, accurate response that significantly prevents password exposure and simplifies their workflow. It also supports up to 10 different fingerprints, making it ideal for a shared home or office computer.

While most users like the easy plug-and-play setup, some have had trouble with driver installation or occasional connection issues, though these problems are usually fixed by reconnecting the device. Still, most people agree it's good value. The device is a smart choice if you want to upgrade your PC.

Traditional desk lamps can cause harsh glare and uneven shadows, making it uncomfortable to sit at your computer for long periods. The Quntis Computer Monitor Lamp is a better choice because it gives you soft, flicker-free light across your desk without causing glare on your screen. It also has automatic dimming that adjusts to your room's lighting and lets you choose the color temperature that feels best for you.

This USB lamp costs $42.99 and has a 4.6-star rating from more than 14,000 Amazon reviews, showing that many people find it effective. Buyers say it helps reduce eye strain and makes long work or gaming sessions more enjoyable. The built-in USB-C charging port helps reduce cable clutter and its weighted clamp holds the lamp firmly on most flat or curved monitors, so it stays in place while you use it.

Getting the right lighting comes down to adjusting the brightness and color temperature, and users say this lamp makes that easy. One customer mentioned that it gives off a pleasant glow and directs light exactly where you need it without washing out your screen or creating glare. If you want to improve your desk lighting with something gentle on your eyes, this light bar is a small investment that's likely worth it.

We've all been let down by a power bank that's either dead when we need it or so bulky it's not worth carrying. The Anker PowerCore 10,000 is an exception. You get a slim, pocket-friendly charger that still packs enough juice to recharge a phone one to two times, which is sufficient to get through a full day. Its lightweight build and dependable 5V/3A output make it a go-to for commuters, travelers, or anyone who hates hunting for a wall outlet.

Anker makes some of the best portable power banks, so it's not surprising to see that people like how user-friendly this gadget is when you're out and about. It has two USB ports for charging two devices at once, and is small enough to fit in your pocket or bag. Best Buy customers praise its power delivery, saying it holds a charge for a long time and easily gives multiple full phone charges from its 10,000mAh capacity.

On the other hand, some buyers flagged slightly slower charging speeds compared with bigger power banks, and a few questioned whether it truly delivers top-tier capacity under heavy load. For around $25 and holding a 4.5-star rating across thousands of reviews, this is the portable power pack you'll actually have with you when your phone hits 1%.

If you've ever had to get through a hot commute or a summer workout without a fan, you know how unbearable it can be. The Grandfast 10,000mAh portable fan is often recommended because it solves this particular problem. It usually costs about $40 and provides strong airflow and a large battery, giving you up to 20 hours of cooling without needing to stay close to a power outlet.

The fan comes with a flexible clamp that attaches to almost anything, including treadmill bars, stroller frames, tent poles, and desk edges. Its head rotates 360 degrees in both vertical and horizontal, so you can aim the airflow where you want it. Currently, it has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, based on 1,130 reviews. Customers like how quietly it runs, especially on lower settings. For outdoor use or camping, the 10,000mAh battery stands out, with one customer mentioning that it lasted all evening and was still ready to use the next day.

There are a few downsides. The bigger battery makes this fan bulkier than the small clip-on fans you might have seen, and it takes longer to recharge because of its size. Some users also mention that the highest speed is louder, so it's better to use the middle settings for sleeping or phone calls. Still, if you want a portable fan that lasts all day, this one lives up to its reputation. It's the kind of USB gadget that becomes part of your daily routine, and you notice it most when it's missing.

If you've ever looked dim or shadowy on a video call, you're not the only one. That is why the Logitech C920s Pro HD webcam is a popular pick for people who want to move on from grainy laptop cameras. It costs about $70 and gets high ratings at Walmart (4.4 out of 5 stars) and Best Buy (4.7 out of 5 stars). The camera offers clear 1080p video, dependable autofocus, and light correction to optimize even poor conditions. 

You'll see a clear, balanced picture as soon as you set it up. There's no need to search for drivers or adjust settings. Many customers on Best Buy like how serviceable it is for Zoom or Microsoft Teams calls, online classes, streaming, and recording videos. The privacy shutter is a nice extra, especially if you prefer not to have the camera lens always in view. The two microphones also pick up your voice more clearly than most laptop mics.

As is usually the case with this type of gadget, there are some trade-offs. Some users mention having trouble with autofocus and cable length. Another customer notes that the camera holds up well in normal lighting, but it can show a bit of grain in dim rooms. Other users may also find Logitech's software a bit limited for deeper customization. Some buyers mention that the mounting clip isn't the most secure, especially on thinner laptop screens. But for most people who want a plug-and-play camera that instantly makes them look more professional on calls, those drawbacks don't outweigh the reliability.

Have you ever had a charger that's either too big or too slow, but never both fast and small? The Samsung 25W Super Fast Charging wall charger addresses that. It's a compact USB-C charger that supports Samsung's Super Fast Charging, so phones like the Galaxy S24 or Galaxy S25 charge quickly, and one customer even lauded how quickly it charged their Google Pixel 8. People like that it keeps delivering the full 25W, even after months of use.

At Best Buy, most customers are happy with how practical this charger is for their phones and other devices. It has a 4.8-star rating from over 1,200 reviews. Customers praise its quick charging, compatibility with many devices, small size, and good price. Its compact design also makes it easy to fit in pockets, travel bags, or crowded power strips without blocking other outlets.

For most people who want a utilitarian and fast charger, this is an excellent choice. It's affordable and dependable enough that many buyers get a second one for work or the car. If your old charger is slow, this is a no-brainer.

Bluetooth lag and battery worries can ruin a good gaming session. The Xbox Wireless Controller from Microsoft is already a favorite, but many PC gamers like to use it with a USB-C cable. This gives you the same comfortable design that's been popular for years. The controller features textured grips, a responsive D-pad, and sturdy analog sticks. That's why it gets high ratings on Best Buy, with an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,150 reviews, and 4.4 out of 5 stars on Walmart.

People like that it works easily on Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and cloud gaming services. You can take this controller almost anywhere. The included 9-foot USB-C cable is a hit, especially for desk setups or when you want a wired connection to avoid lag. Given its seamless connection with Windows, it's a top pick for Steam and Game Pass titles.

It's not perfect, though. The wireless mode still uses AA batteries unless you get the rechargeable pack, and some users have noticed stick drift after prolonged use. Some PC gamers also wish there were more ways to customize it without having to buy the more expensive Elite version. That said, if you want a controller that feels good, works right away, and requires little setup, this is a great option for $60, or even less in frequent sales. 

You probably have a drawer full of broken charging cables. That's why Anker's Powerline Lightning cable, typically priced around $17, has become the go-to replacement for people tired of buying the same cable over and over. It features a tough braided design and is properly MFi-certified, so your iPhone or iPad charges at full speed without showing the annoying "Accessory Not Supported" message.

On Walmart, where this USB cable has a 4.4-star rating, shoppers say it's a perfect choice for everyday use. One customer likes its versatility because it offers three connectors in one sturdy cable, making it easy to charge different devices without changing cords. The cable feels stronger than the standard Apple cord and holds up well to daily use, whether it's in a backpack, in the car, or used by kids. Reinforced stress points help it last longer, and the different length options make charging easier.

There are a few compromises. The cable is stiffer than regular rubber ones, so it doesn't bend around corners or fit into tight spaces as easily. One Amazon customer took off a star because the main plug is Micro USB instead of USB-C, which is what most devices use now. Regardless, if you're looking for the best USB-C cable for your devices, this is an upgrade people tend to keep.

If you've ever struggled to keep your hands warm during a cold morning walk or outdoor event, Ocoopa's Rechargeable Hand Warmers could help. Many reviewers rave about them, as they have a magnetic, pocket-sized design, three heat settings, and provide lasting warmth for outdoor activities. They cost around $35 and have a 4.6-star rating on both Walmart and Amazon.

These USB-C rechargeable hand warmers heat up quickly, in apparently only three seconds, lasting for up to eight hours, and are small enough to fit in gloves, coat pockets, or mittens. A Walmart customer found them especially helpful during walking tours in Europe, giving steady warmth without the bulk. The buyer said the hand warmers are lightweight and that both units can be recharged simultaneously in about three hours.

Keep in mind that battery life depends on the heat setting and how well you insulate the warmers in your pockets. That said, for everyday winter outings, camping, hiking, or just walking the dog, this affordable accessory is recommended by many customers.

Every product in this list underwent rigorous screening to ensure only proven, well-loved gadgets made the cut. To make the list, a product needed to have an average rating of at least 4.0 across Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, and 1,000 or more verified reviews on Amazon. Every item also had to cost less than $100. These thresholds help filter out poor items and highlight gadgets that work well for many consumers.