Who says you need to blow a hole in your wallet to snag tech that feels premium? WIRED’s curated list proves that savvy shoppers can score high‑quality gear for under a hundred dollars. From noise‑cancelling headphones to smart home essentials, the bargains this season blend affordability with performance.
Audio & Headphones
Bose QuietComfort 45 – $99.99
These headphones have long been a benchmark for comfort and sound quality. The deal brings them within reach for those who normally spend a few hundred dollars for a quiet escape. The flat‑flat design and adaptive noise‑cancellation make them ideal for commuters.
Sony WH‑1000XM5 – $89.99
When Sony’s flagship earbuds drop to a budget price, the temptation is hard to resist. The XM5’s industry‑class noise cancellation and crisp mids give you studio‑grade listening without the price tag. Whether you’re on a plane or in a coffee shop, the fit stays secure.
JBL Quantum 5 – $79.99
Gamers get a headset that feels more premium than its price suggests. The Quantum 5’s 7.1 virtual surround sound and detachable mic let you dominate the battlefield. The solid build and customizable RGB lighting add a touch of flair to your setup.
Smart Home & Connectivity
Philips Hue White Ambiance Starter Kit – $69.99
Lighting is a game‑changer when controlled by your phone or voice assistant. This starter kit includes a dimmable white bulb and a remote, letting you set the mood without breaking the bank. The Hue app’s extensive presets make evening routines a breeze.
TP‑Link Kasa Smart Wi‑Fi Plug – $19.99
Control any appliance with a single tap or a voice command. The Kasa plug is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, giving you a flexible entry point into the smart home ecosystem. Its compact design fits into tight spaces effortlessly.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) – $49.99
Echo Dot’s new generation offers a clearer speaker and a built‑in clock, all wrapped in a sleek, spherical shape. The price drop makes it an attractive addition to any room—especially if you’re already an Amazon Prime member. Pair it with other Echo devices for a seamless smart‑home experience.
Portable Power & Storage
Anker PowerCore 10000 – $24.99
With a thousand watt‑hours of portable juice, this charger is a staple for travelers. Its slim profile slides into a backpack without adding bulk. Fast‑charge capability ensures you’re never left in the dark again.
SanDisk Ultra 128GB USB 3.0 – $14.99
Speed and reliability make this flash drive a must‑have for quick data transfers. The USB 3.0 interface offers read speeds up to 150 MB/s, a significant boost over legacy drives. Its compact design fits easily into a pocket or keychain.
Logitech MX Anywhere 3 – $34.99
On‑the‑go professionals love the MX Anywhere’s small footprint and cross‑platform compatibility. The mouse’s Darkfield laser sensor works on any surface, even glass. Battery life exceeds a year, so you can rely on it without frequent recharges.
Displays & Accessories
ASUS VG245H 24‑Inch Gaming Monitor – $99.99
Gaming on a budget becomes a reality with this 24‑inch Full HD monitor. Its 1‑ms response time and 75 Hz refresh rate cut motion blur, while FreeSync keeps tearing at bay. The ergonomic stand lets you adjust height, tilt, and swivel for comfort.
Samsung T5 Portable SSD 1TB – $99.99
Fast, durable, and shock‑resistant, the T5 is perfect for photographers and video editors. USB‑C connectivity delivers read speeds up to 540 MB/s, outpacing most external HDDs. Its compact size means you can carry terabytes of data in a briefcase.
Phone Accessories
OtterBox Defender Series Case – $39.99
Durability meets style in this triple‑layered case. The Defender’s built‑in screen protector shields against drops, scratches, and dust. It’s an excellent fit for anyone who wants to keep their phone safe without sacrificing aesthetics.
Anker Wireless Charger, PowerWave Pad – $29.99
Say goodbye to tangled cables. The PowerWave Pad supports 10W fast charging for Qi‑enabled phones. Its non‑slip rubber backing keeps the device in place, and the clear design lets you see the charging status at a glance.
Computing Essentials
Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard – $49.99
Backlit keys and programmable macros give this keyboard a gamer’s edge. The membrane switches provide a quiet, tactile feel, while the RGB lighting adds personality to your desk. It’s an affordable way to upgrade your typing experience.
Razer Pro Click Gaming Mouse – $39.99
Ergonomics and precision meet in this lightweight mouse. Its 3 D Pro Click sensor delivers 6400 DPI for smooth cursor control. The adjustable weight system lets you fine‑tune the feel to match your grip style.
Miscellaneous Must‑Haves
GoPro HERO9 Black – $89.99
Action photography remains a staple for adventure seekers. The HERO9’s 5K video and HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilisation make it a formidable companion for kayaking, mountain biking, or street photography. The price drop opens the door to on‑the‑go filming.
Fitbit Charge 5 – $79.99
Health tracking is no longer limited to the premium tier. The Charge 5 offers built‑in GPS, stress management tools, and an always‑on display, all wrapped in a sleek design. Its battery life spans up to 7 days, making it a practical daily companion.
Oculus Quest 2 64GB – $99.99
Virtual reality is becoming mainstream, and the Quest 2 proves it. With a high‑resolution display and intuitive hand tracking, the headset offers an immersive experience without the need for a PC. The 64‑GB model strikes a balance between storage and affordability.
DJI Mini 2 Drone – $99.99
Compact drones are perfect for beginners and seasoned pilots alike. The Mini 2’s 4K camera and 3‑axis gimbal deliver smooth footage, while its lightweight design allows for easy transport. The control range extends up to 10 km, giving you plenty of room to explore.
Razer BlackWidow Lite Mechanical Keyboard – $69.99
Mechanical keyboards don’t have to be pricey. The BlackWidow Lite’s low‑profile switches are quiet yet responsive, making it suitable for office and gaming setups. Its mag‑neched frame ensures stability, and the RGB lighting adds a touch of flair.
Beyond the Bargains: What Makes These Deals Stand Out
Price is only one dimension of value. Each item on this list brings a combination of performance, durability, and brand reliability that justifies its discounted cost. For example, the Bose QuietComfort 45’s noise‑cancelling technology works as effectively at $99.99 as it does when purchased at full price. Likewise, the Samsung T5 Portable SSD’s transfer speeds remain competitive, even when the price tag is slashed. The consistent theme across all these deals is that you can enjoy high‑quality tech without a premium price. Whether you’re a developer, gamer, or casual user, these bargains prove that smart shopping can be both savvy and satisfying. The Black Friday rush is a fleeting moment, but the benefits of these deals can last for years. So, take advantage now, and let your tech budget stretch further than you ever imagined.
