I recently explored a new batch of tech gadgets from Amazon, and the results were mixed. While some items stood out as practical and innovative, others fell short of expectations.
You can watch the full video here and see all of the gadgets on Amazon here. (compensated affiliate link)
First on the list was the Minis Forum S100 Mini PC. It’s a compact device that can be powered directly through an Ethernet cable when connected to a POE (power over ethernet switch), which initially seemed like a convenient feature.
However, the performance significantly lagged when using Ethernet for power, with benchmark scores notably lower compared to when it was powered via USB-C. This performance disparity made it hard to recommend the device, especially since its primary selling point—Ethernet-based power—didn’t deliver as expected. It could still be useful for lightweight server tasks or digital signage, but its limitations were disappointing.
I did check with Minisforum and their response was “POE is only used as an auxiliary power supply, if you need a higher performance, it is recommended to use type c power supply.”
Next, I checked out the 8BitDo SN30 Pro controller, which now comes in an atomic purple case with upgraded hall effect sticks. These sticks offer better precision and durability compared to traditional ALPS based sticks. While the controller lacks some customization options available in higher-end models, its improved build quality and responsive controls make it a solid choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Another interesting gadget was the ProtoArc Hub Mouse. At first glance, it looks like a standard mouse, but it includes a built-in dongle that functions as a mini docking station, offering HDMI, USB, and power pass-through. It’s a versatile tool for those who need to connect multiple devices on the go. However, the HDMI output is limited to 4K at 30 frames per second, and the buttons on the mouse didn’t have a satisfying click, which could be a dealbreaker for some.
The Wavlink Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a more affordable option for expanding Thunderbolt ports on laptops. It performed well, delivering 90 watts of power and supporting multiple high-resolution displays. It’s a practical solution for those needing additional connectivity without breaking the bank, though the bulky power adapter was a slight downside.
The ProtoArc Foldable Keyboard was another product I was eager to try. It’s a full-sized, backlit keyboard that folds up for easy portability. Unfortunately, mine arrived with a defective D key, which made it challenging to use. Despite this flaw, the keyboard shows promise, offering convenience for those who work on the go.
Anker’s Fusion 10k charger stood out for its unique design. It features a wrist strap that doubles as a charging cable and supports dual charging with a 10,000mAh battery. It’s a clever, portable option for keeping devices charged, though it’s not the most powerful charger on the market.
For those needing more robust charging capabilities, Anker’s 100W 9-in-1 desktop charger provides multiple USB ports and regular outlets, offering more flexibility for charging several devices simultaneously.
Finally, I looked at the AGPtek MP3 player, which turned out to be a disappointment. The device boasts a sleek design reminiscent of an old iPod, with modern features like Bluetooth and video playback, and even supports lossless audio files. It even has an FM radio. However, the poor audio quality due to a subpar digital-to-analog converter severely undermined its potential. It’s a missed opportunity, as the player had the potential to be a solid alternative for those looking to move away from smartphones for media consumption.
All in this was another fun Amazon haul. It’s nice to see that there are still some obscure gadgets out there that I can share with all of you! Stay tuned for the next one!
