We scoured the best-selling items from Canadian retailers and top-ranked electronics to find the most in-demand tech gadgets Canadians can't get enough of.
The results led us to an outdoor camera for under $50, a top-of-the-line soundbar and a light-up keyboard fit for a Fortnite streamer.
Here’s what your fellow Canadians are stocking up on right now.
KNOCK KNOCK... WHO'S THERE?
Ring revolutionized the home security industry with its door camera; fast forward a few years and there are multiple options for inexpensive, easy-to-use smart cameras.
The hard-wired Wyze Cam V3 with Night Vision is the most wished-for tech gadget on Amazon, with reviewers giving it top marks for the low-light function, two-way talk feature, device-pairing capabilities and ability to withstand inclement weather.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone looking to fortify their home security.
Why we're endorsing it: Price, connects to Wi-Fi, robust user reviews and colour night vision capabilities.
Where it could use improvements: Cloud-system holds 14 days (there is a fee for extra storage via the app), camera stays in a fixed position.
Size/weight/dimensions: 6.38 x 5.69 x 9.98 cm.
THE SUPER SMART FITNESS WATCH
The Fitbit Sense is the priciest offering from the go-to fitness tracking brand, but maybe that’s why it’s so popular and directly competes with the Apple watch in both size and style.
It combines all of the features from the different Fitbits (Charge, Versa, Ace and Inspire), meaning it’s waterproof, pairs to a smartphone for music and notifications, monitors sleep patterns, and has a built-in GPS. And, of course, it has all of the health tracking you’d expect and more: it can measure skin temperature, blood oxygen levels, electrodermal activity (which is tied to stress) and has an ECG app to keep track of heart rate.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants a fitness assistant and smartphone on their wrist.
Why we're endorsing it: Multiple health features and brand trust.
Where it could use improvements: A bump in price compared to other Fitbit trackers.
Size/weight/dimensions: 4.04 x 4.04 x 1.23 cm.
AN EASY-TO-USE STREAMING STICK
The Amazon Firestick Lite is a physical streaming device that plugs into the USB port of a TV and connects to both paid services (like Amazon Prime and Netflix), live TV (depending in individual subscriptions) as well as free content on platforms like YouTube. It pairs with Alexa for voice control (but also comes with a simple remote) and is lightning-quick and easy to install. The endless options allow for a lot of streaming flexibility.
Who it's ideal for: Those who want to cut the cord from traditional cable.
Why we're endorsing it: Cost, ease of setup (no complicated wiring).
Where it could use improvements: The Firestick Lite does not have TV controls (if that is important, go with this version).
Size/weight/dimensions: 38 x 142 x 16 mm.
IMMERSIVE SONOS ARC SOUNDBAR
The Sonos Arc Smart Soundbar debuted in the summer of 2020 and was instantly popular. This sleek bar is wireless so it can be hung or placed on a TV stand or shelf, has built-in voice support for Google Home and Alexa and boasts 11 drivers (speaker nerd talk for the elements that vibrate to make sound). User reviews give it high marks for clarity and the three-dimensional volume experience. (Available at The Source and Amazon.)
Who it's ideal for: Someone who wants movie theatre sound without a clean setup.
Why we're endorsing it: Brand reputation, user reviews and quality guarantee.
Where it could use improvements: Some users prefer more base and purchase a complementary sound woofer.
Size/weight/dimensions: 8.64 x 114.3 x 11.43 cm.
A SUNRISE ALARM CLOCK ON THE NIGHTSTAND
As Canada creeps into fall (and darker morning), this Phillips Smart Sleep Wake-up Light can help lighten up mornings. The glow mimics a natural half-hour sunrise, slowly rising to full brightness. The soothing yellow light can also be paired with one of five natural sounds (like ocean waves or chirping birds) and there’s a sunset option for the evening.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants a gentle wake-up call.
Why we're endorsing it: Nice way to wake up in the morning, brand trust, intuitive design, can also be used as a light.
Where it could use improvements: For snooze-button addicts, the sound will shut off but the light will not.
Size/weight/dimensions: 20.1 x 26.9 x 26.2 cms/16.5 watts.
This Wake Up Light Digital Alarm Clock has many of the same features, with seven natural sounds and multi-coloured lights.
Who it's ideal for: Someone who wants lots of options on a light clock.
Why we're endorsing it: Price, user reviews and good price option when buying multiples for a family.
Where it could use improvements: Users report FM radio directions are hard to follow.
Size/weight/dimensions: 8.89 x 18.29 x 18.29 cm.
MULTI-FUNCTION COFFEE MAKER
Sticking with the morning routine theme, this double-duty Keurig K-Duo coffee maker is super in-demand because it satisfies two kinds of coffee drinkers: those who want to start with fresh grinds and those who love the convenience of a quick individual pod. Combining two devices into one machine, with an 8,10, 12oz cup on one side and a 12-cup carafe on the other (it stays hot up to two hours), it's the kind of countertop combination we can appreciate. Available at Walmart and Amazon.
Who it's ideal for: Multi-person household with different coffee tastes, people who like compact appliances.
Why we're endorsing it: Best-of-both-worlds option to brew a full pot or single cup
Where it could use improvements: K-pods need to be separated to be recycled.
Size/weight/dimensions: Single cup (8/10/12 oz) or pot (up to 12 cups).
THE KEYBOARD FIT FOR A TWITCH STREAMER
To gamers (or those who enjoy Twitch live streams), a backlit keyboard is a must-have, which is probably why this Havit keyboard-and-mouse combo is the number one seller in the PC gaming keyboards section. With thousands of five-star reviews, this is a good mix of eye-popping colour and functionality.
Who it's ideal for: Kids, teens and adult gamers who aren’t looking for professional equipment.
Why we're endorsing it: Inexpensive and positive user reviews.
Where it could use improvements: Check the details to make sure it’s compatible with the device or console you intend to use it with.
Size/weight/dimensions: 48 x 21 x 3.5 cm.
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