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The 5 Best Gadgets of 2025, According to a Tech Expert
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The year 2025 delivered a wave of innovative technology, from increasingly sophisticated smartphones to AI-powered wearables. After extensive testing throughout the year, one tech editor has compiled a list of the five gadgets that truly stood out.
As technology continues to rapidly evolve, staying ahead of the curve requires hands-on experience with the latest innovations. “My job allows me to go hands-on with all the bleeding-edge gadgets and innovations you can think of,” explains Max Buondonno, an editor at the Shortcut. He’s been reporting on consumer technology since 2015, with his work appearing in publications like CNN Underscored and ZDNET. Buondonno’s criteria for a standout gadget are simple: it must be unique and compelling enough to become an everyday essential.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: The Foldable Finally Done Right
The smartphone landscape of 2025 saw numerous contenders, but the Galaxy Z Fold 7 emerged as the clear winner. Samsung has refined its foldable technology to create a device that feels remarkably thin and lightweight, while simultaneously delivering remarkable performance and stunning dual screens.
“It feels like you’re using a normal phone when it’s closed, and when you open it, you have a tablet-sized display that’s perfect for multitasking,” Buondonno says.
Price: $1,999
Where to buy: Samsung / Amazon / Best Buy / Verizon / AT&T / Walmart
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Incremental Improvements, Meaningful Impact
Despite not being a revolutionary leap forward, the Apple Watch ultra 3 solidified its position as the top smartwatch of the year. The increased display size and extended battery life offered tangible improvements over the Ultra 2,enhancing the overall user experience.
Backed by a comprehensive suite of health features, a durable titanium design, and critical safety features like Emergency SOS via satellite, the Ultra 3 continues to be a reliable and powerful companion.
Starting price: $799
Where to buy: Amazon / AT&T / Best Buy / Verizon / Walmart
Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones: The Pursuit of Audio Perfection
While Sony’s naming convention may be questionable, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver an unparalleled audio experience. These over-ear headphones boast the best combination of sound quality, noise cancellation, spatial audio performance, and battery life tested throughout 2025.
The compact case and lightweight design further enhance their portability and comfort. “They’re the closest to perfection you’ll find on the market,” Buondonno asserts, making them a permanent fixture in his tech arsenal.
Price: $460
Where to buy: Sony / amazon / Best Buy / Target / Walmart
Whoop MG: A Deeper Dive into health and Recovery
The Whoop MG fitness tracker takes a unique approach to health monitoring, focusing on strain, recovery, and overall well-being without the distraction of a screen. This latest version builds upon the success of the Whoop 5.0, offering even longer battery life, ECG recordings, and blood pressure insights.
The intuitive companion app provides valuable data and insights, while the discreet design makes it feel like a natural extension of daily life.”Its ability to operate in the background makes wearing it feel like wearing any other accessory, far less of a commitment than a traditional smartwatch,” Buondonno explains.
Starting price: $239/year
Where to buy: Whoop / Amazon / best Buy
Dyson Zone: A Breath of Fresh Air
The Dyson Zone isn’t just a pair of headphones; it’s a personal air purifier. This innovative gadget combines high-fidelity audio with a visor that delivers purified air directly to your nose and mouth, making it ideal for urban commuters and allergy sufferers.
“It’s a bold and unconventional product, but it addresses a real need for people living in polluted environments,” Buondonno notes.”The audio quality is excellent, and the air purification system is surprisingly effective.”
Price: $999
Where to buy: dyson / Best Buy / Amazon
What was your favourite gadget of the year? Let me know in the comment section below.
Max Buondonno
