We all know that it’s a good idea to keep keys together in one place, but no one talks about how painful that can actually be. Key rings are basically a single piece of metal bent to coil in a circle, and that design hasn’t changed one bit in decades. It’s a simple design that’s meant to keep your keys secure to the point that you’ll break a sweat or break a nail when actually trying to add a key to the ring. Worse, the rings that do try to be more flexible and easy on the nails end up being less reliable instead because of their softness. Fortunately, the solution isn’t as complicated as you might think, as demonstrated by this distinctive key ring that takes its smarts from the design of aerospace equipment and cars.
The common key ring is really just a flattened coil of metal, the most practical shape not just for holding a bunch of keys but also for securing them in place. In order to prevent those keys from accidentally getting loose, that coil provides no gap in between and is often quite rigid, requiring you to exert a lot of force to open one end for a key to get through, which often ends up with broken nails. Conversely, there are rings that are so thin and pliable that they get easily deformed the moment you deal with thicker keys and objects.
The simple answer to this decades-old probably is apparently to change the kind of structure used. Instead of that traditional coil spring, this key ring employs a “coiled wave spring” shape instead. This kind of spring is heavily used in heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, from aerospace to automobiles. Turns out that this same wavy shape is perfect for a more user-friendly key ring that won’t break nails or test your patience.
With this wave spring design, inserting a key is as easy as sliding it into the ring through the natural gaps made by the waves. To remove a ring, simply lift the tip without worrying about damaging your nail. The key ring is designed to be as stress-free to use as possible, removing any hurdle to keeping your keys organized and safe in a single place.
Despite its uncommon appearance, this stress-free key ring is actually lighter than a typical keyring at only 3 grams. That’s thanks to a thinner material, only 0.8mm thin, and its beautiful waveform shape. At the same time, it’s actually twice as strong with a high-tension stainless steel SUS304 body so it won’t get bent out of shape even if you insert a thick key. Whether it’s to protect your nails or to protect your sanity, this one-of-a-kind key ring will give you peace of mind knowing all your keys are in one place and that you can add or remove them easily as often as you want.
Most household items we own today are made one of two or three ways. If they’re made from plastic, chances are they’re injection molded… and if they’re metal, they’re either cast or they’re rolled/stamped into a distinct form. These methods end up defining what a product will look like. An injection-molded plastic part will never look as intricate as a 3D-printed mesh part… and a stamped metal utensil will never have the elegance of something like the Snapsys tray set. Designed using a series of strategic Origami-style bends, the Snapsys set of trays and table platforms are deceptively simple to look at, but are engineered and manufactured to perfection. Each item is made from a single 0.8mm sheet of metal that’s been creased, bent, and then anodized. The result is a set of kitchenware that’s incredibly slim, yet just as strong, thanks to the nature of the folds that help provide rigidity.
The Snapsys set of trays and table are ‘Origami-style folding plate’ that have a thickness of 0.8mm (about as much as a credit card).
The Snapsys set comes in three tray styles that double as decorative tabletop platforms for displaying your food. Most trays look terribly run-of-the-mill, but given the Snapsys set’s unique manufacturing technique, this tray collection has no such problem. The trays look defyingly thin, to the point of feeling fragile. They do measure just 0.8mm (about as much as a credit card), but are surprisingly strong thanks to the folding structures that give them the ability to carry well beyond their weight without bending or flexing.
Use as a service tray.
A decorative incense stick tray!
Candle Holder!
The secret lies in the origami-style folds that help strengthen the trays while giving them their rather memorable designs. The fold lines aren’t regular, but instead follow a curve, allowing the metal sheet to bend in a curved way too. This helps strengthen the metal, making it rigid instead of flimsy. You can try the same technique with paper, observing how curved folds help give paper additional stiffness too.
Some trays look conventional, with handles on either side. Others come with legs, elevating your food by an inch or two to help your dishes stand out against a laid-out table. All trays come with anodized color options, allowing you to add a splash of vibrance to your tabletop decor as well as allowing the trays themselves to serve as accent pieces. The anodized finish also makes them durable and corrosion-resistant, increasing their overall lifespan. The tray sets, which come in black, yellow, blue, or a nude silver, start at a discounted $149, which includes three trays – 1 rectangular tray, 1 oval tray, and 1 half-plate tray.
I personally know some people who go through sneakers and trainers like they go through toilet paper. Okay that maybe an exaggeration but there are a lot of collectors and wearers out there who do spend a lot on this kind of footwear and dispose of their old ones in a not so sustainable manner. So when we see designers and brands that recycle or upcycle these things as part of sustainable fashion, we pay attention and if we can afford it, we support them. If you also like owning limited edition pieces, then this new collection may be something you’d like to add to your closet.
Bibi Bazz is a brand that focuses on upcycling and their Genesis Collection brings handcrafted bags made from damaged or deadstock trainers. This is just the first drop in their collection and is made up of limited edition shoulder bags and crossbody styles that can make you look like an eco-friendly rockstar. Aside from the different colors and textures, these bags also come with denim shoulder straps for a chic look. They also have interior pouches if you need to secure some small items.
The Fresh Start Trainer cross body bag uses deadstock Puma trainers in white and black colors. The Emerge Trainer Bag is a shoulder bag using a blue base with pink details and a denim strap as well. If you want something with bolder colors, the Rebirth Trainer is a crossbody bag with blue and neon orange hues with white accents. Meanwhile, the Revive Trainer is a crossbody bag with a red base and black patterns. If you’re more adventurous in your color palette, you can get the Renewal Trainer bag with its mix of neon lime, black, and green colors or the Pioneer Trainer Bag with its neon orange, pink, and yellow hues.
The bags from the Genesis Collection has a price range of £70-100. They’re in fact the first items available for the launch of Bibi Bazz’ online store. Even though the model on their website is a woman, the bags “transcend gender” and are meant to not only be eco-friendly but also inclusive. Since there are only limited items available, you might want to buy your upcycled trainer bags now.
For those who value a well-maintained lawn but dislike manual labor in the hot summer sun, a solution is in sight. The Mowrator S1 is not just an average mower. This powerful, remote-controlled lawn mower does most of the work for you. It features a full-size blade for efficient cutting, a long-lasting battery, and built-in safety mechanisms to stay cool even in high temperatures. It also has smart sensors for easy navigation. When Autumn arrives with its inevitable blanket of fallen leaves, the Mowrator S1 shines again. An optional attachment transforms it into a powerful leaf vacuum, simplifying what could otherwise be a tedious cleanup task. Let’s explore how this innovative, battery-powered, remote-controlled mower, capable of handling slopes, can be the go-to solution for maintaining the neat look of your residential or commercial outdoor spaces.
The Mowrator S1 features a robust 21-inch blade, ideal for efficiently covering large areas and tackling dense, tall grass like St. Augustine, which can grow over 7 inches. The use of a standard-sized blade, similar to traditional mowers, ensures efficiency and reliability. Unlike many robotic mowers that struggle with tougher grass and even thick bushes of weeds due to smaller blades, the Mowrator S1 maintains consistent, high-quality performance across a range of lawn conditions.
Impressively, the company has tested this mower in some of the most demanding conditions, particularly on dense St. Augustine grass. This demonstrates that the Mowrator S1 can effortlessly manage what other robotic mowers can’t. It’s not just about cutting the usual lawn; even the tallest, driest grass doesn’t stand a chance. That said, the Mowrator S1 is also designed to conquer challenging terrains. From steep inclines to uneven fields dotted with ditches, its four-wheel drive system ensures smooth navigation and conquest – so powerful that it’s capable of pulling a car. No longer will you deal with the frustration of a mower that stumbles on uneven ground.
For anyone who’s ever struggled with the daunting hills and steep slopes of their property, the Mowrator S1 feels like a trusted landscaper, capable of tackling inclines that would make most mowers balk. The real charm lies in its remote control feature, offering a safer, more comfortable alternative to the precarious perches of riding mowers without any compromise on performance. And for someone like me, who battles fierce reactions to dust, pollen, or exhaust fumes, the ability to guide this mower from afar is nothing short of a breath of fresh air, making lawn care a breeze rather than a burden.
While not entirely self-operating, this lawn mower introduces an effortless approach to managing vast expanses of green. A simple button press activates seamless cruise control, propelling the device forward without constant guidance. Embedded within is a sophisticated IMU, ensuring it maintains a straight trajectory across uneven terrains. Another button press effortlessly makes a U-turn, easily laying down those professional-grade lawn stripes. It’s these intuitive, almost human-like touches that make the Mowrator S1 feel like more than just a machine; it’s a reliable tool that you can trust to get the job done right.
On top of everything the Mowrator S1 is capable of, from meticulously manicuring your lawn to bravely battling steep slopes, the real icing on the cake is its transformation into a formidable leaf vacuum. With just an optional add-on, this versatile mower becomes your garden’s guardian, wielding a specialized vacuum blade and a clever windshield design to summon suction power that rivals traditional gas-powered vacuums.
This upgrade enhances its utility and extends its reach to the nooks and crannies of your garden with an extendable vacuum hose, ensuring no leaf is left behind, even in the most delicate flower beds and around bushy areas. And the cherry on top? The Mowrator S1 simplifies your life with its one-button dumping system, allowing you to clear out collected debris effortlessly. This feature makes cleaning your lawn as relaxed as spending an afternoon in the comfort of your backyard.
Wrapping it all up, if tackling your weekend lawn care feels like going into battle with your yard, the Mowrator S1 is equipped and ready, from the front lines to the final retreat in the backyard. At its core lies a rechargeable 18Ah LiFePO4 battery, your secret weapon ensuring every inch of your terrain is covered on a single charge. This battery is built for the long campaign, with a lifespan of up to 1500 cycles, potentially serving you for a decade of weekly three-acre engagements. Its built-in cooling system and protective casing ensure it remains durable and reliable through every season.
The company is seeking TUV safety certification for the Mowrator S1 for enhanced safety. If granted, it will be the first RC Mower with this certification, further solidifying its reputation for innovation and reliability. Winning the lawn battle isn’t only about power. The Mowrator S1 uses advanced ultrasonic sensors to proactively detect obstacles, pets, or family members, temporarily stopping its blades to avoid accidents. And for those moments of unexpected encounters or curiosity, the mower features a quick-stop mechanism that immediately halts the blades if the grass discharge area is accessed, ensuring every surprise is safely managed.
We see a lot of Airpod dupes out there in the market that are not as expensive and therefore may also not last as long as the originals. I’ve heard of some people who keep getting these non-authentic earbuds that look the same as Apple’s original because either they stop working properly or they keep losing them. And with the way that a lot of these earbuds are made, it’s not surprising that people keep losing them. What if there are AirPods though that are meant to be lost….into your mouth?
The Brooklyn-based art collective called MSCHF, known for their unserious and sometimes prank-ish products, have come up with their own take on the AirPods. But instead of giving you music, this may very well give you a toothache. That’s because their Candy AirPods are just exactly what the name says. They are edible earbuds that don’t have any other function except to be consumed. Well, unless, you want to keep them around for a long time even though they can’t let you listen to your favorite songs or podcasts.
The AirPods-looking candy come in a box just like the actual AirPods. They really do look like the earbuds as they are “ergonomically fitted to your ears” even though they’re not meant to be actually be put into your ears. The edible earbuds are made from isomalt, water, food coloring, and natural and artificial flavors and only contain 10 calories per container. If you have any allergies, you shouldn’t worry as they are GMO-free, fat-free, and allergen-free. They’re even manufactured in a nut-free facility so you can be sure you won’t get an allergy attack if you eat them.
Right now, it looks like they’re already sold out on the MSCHF website and we don’t know if they will still be restocking. But in case they will, it will cost you $50 which is a pretty steep price for two pieces of candy. They also can’t ship outside of Continental America since it’s not meant to travel far.
The late Steve Jobs might have ridiculed the stylus of old, but it’s arguable that we would have approved of the Apple Pencil, or at least its second generation. It’s minimalist to a fault and, as of the current models, finally has a reasonable and not unattractive charging method. That simplicity, however, may have come at the cost of some features that many people have come to expect from digital pens in this industry, especially when it comes to buttons that can trigger different functions. The 2nd-gen Apple Pencil remedied that with a double tap gesture and rumors claim that the 3rd-gen model will expand that with a new gesture, among the other expected upgrades that will help give Apple’s creativity and productivity tool an even bigger edge.
The original Apple Pencil arrived with a smooth and completely circular barrel and a cap that hid its awkward Lightning charging connector. The 2nd iteration added a flat edge for a better grip and switched to wireless magnetic charging for a unibody design. Neither model, however, had the traditional buttons you’d see on styluses like those from Wacom and Samsung, which meant you couldn’t execute some special action instantly without having to dig through an app’s menus and options.
The Apple Pencil 2 does have a touch-sensitive area that you can double tap to the same effect. For many people who use iPads for creative work, however, that single gesture is hardly enough. According to the latest unofficial information, however, the next Apple Pencil will add another action to that list, allowing you to squeeze a section of the barrel to trigger a different action. Depending on how it’s implemented and how sensitive the pressure sensor might be, the feature could turn out to be very useful or very annoying.
Another major change expected for the Apple Pencil 3 is an interchangeable nib system using magnets. According to the information, users will be able to switch between different nibs with different shapes for points, and they will be able to do so using simple yet strong magnets instead of the screw mechanism available today. It’s still unknown what practical benefits this new system might bring, but it could make the Apple Pencil feel a little bit more natural for different digital brushes that might require broader or finer tips.
The Apple Pencil 3 is also expected or at least hoped to finally support Apple’s Find My network, a long overdue feature that would have saved many Pencils from being lost permanently. Most of Apple’s wireless devices already support this feature, so it’s unthinkable if the Apple Pencil 3, which is probably going to cost more than the current $129, would still be left out of this tracking capability. The new Apple Pencil is expected to be revealed next month alongside a new iPad Air and iPad Pro.
When we’re doing up our home, we always focus on the furniture we place in it or on the interior decor style we prefer, but focusing on home decor accents is equally important. These little decorative items can truly uplift the aesthetic appeal of a space, adding a personalized touch that will resonate with you and your visitors. A well-selected set of home decor accents can truly set the perfect tone for your home, and if they’re minimal and super-functional, well they tick all the boxes then! We’ve put together a collection of functional, nifty and visually pleasing home decor accents that you need to check out!
1. Pop-Up Book Vase
This enchanting pop-up book vase holds and presents your flowers in a manner that is truly fairy tale-ish! You can open the cover to reveal a 3D cutout of the vase, which is designed to showcase the colorful beauty of your precious floral arrangement. You can flip a page to unveil another graceful vase design, allowing you to have a fresh presentation when you feel like it.
You can even turn the book upside down, to get another pretty view from a different perspective. This pop-up book vase is a simple yet creative way to make your flowers stand out, and truly pop. You can start your flowery adventure with this clever pop-up book vase.
What we like
It features three unique and graceful pop-up vase designs
Crafted from 100% natural pulp with water-resistant coating
What we dislike
Looks a bit difficult to clean and maintain, no clear instructions on how to do so
2. Battery-free aroma Diffuser
Dubbed the battery-free aroma diffuser, this little product is an excellent option to bring some fragrant and fresh air into your home. You can take deep breaths and relax without causing any harm to the environment. The diffuser harnesses the power of a single candle by using simple physics and science.
This unique diffuser is battery-free, and you don’t need any external power sources to operate. It only relies on the heat of a single candle, spreading relaxing and calming aromatic scents through your house. The diffuser is also made from sustainable materials, lending it an eco-friendly ethos.
What we like
The diffuser is crafted from recyclable materials
It is compatible with different kinds of essential oils
What we dislike
Since the diffuser doesn’t have electric controls, it can be tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma
3. CD Jacket Player
Relive your favorite musical moments with CDs, while also appreciating their accompanying album art no matter where you may be with this CD Jacket Player. The CD Jacket Player not only accommodates classic audio CDs but also uplifts their aesthetic appeal by merging with their jackets.
This CD Jacket Player not only boasts the CD jacket art but can also be mounted on your wall functioning as a minimal and decorative element in your home. The jacket player lets you display your favorite album art, while also elevating the visual appeal of your living space.
What we like
The CD Jacket Player is designed to add some style and personality to your living space
What we dislike
Digital music streaming reigns supreme nowadays, so a CD player is a limiting product
4. Bookish Bookmark
Named the Bookish Bookmark, this little product lets you enjoy a hands-free reading session while letting you keep your book open without having to employ any awkward workarounds. You don’t need to put down the book with something ugly and heavy.
The Bookish Bookmark is great for those who want to showcase their favorite books as an element in their home. Equipped with a clean transparent design, it keeps your book open while adding a visually interesting element to your desk or bookshelf.
What we like
The Bookish Bookmark lets you display your favorite book in a neat and aesthetic manner
What we dislike
It might be too large for small books, and disliked by those who prefer discreet bookmarks
5. Moon Rock Clock
You can now bring your love of outer space and the Moon to your home with the Moon Rock Clock! This simple yet striking clock lets you live your space travel fantasies, within the comfort of your own home. It is made from specially polished stainless steel and features a circular shape while capturing the mystique of the moon with numbers that artfully float around the edges.
The numbers seem to wane and wax around just like the moon. As you take a glimpse of the clock, it gives you a subtle reminder to live life with a spirit of adventure, just like the rocket ship that makes its way around the moon. The minimalist clock with its moon travel-inspired ethos is a reminder to follow your dreams.
What we like
The printed numbers seem to float and vanish around the moon
What we dislike
It is a big and bulky design and will occupy substantial space on your desk or table
6. Invisible Shoehorn
Meet the Invisible Shoehorn, a nifty product designed to save your back and socks, as it will harmoniously disappear into the background when it isn’t being used. The Shoehorn features a long stainless steel body which prevents any kind of snags and tears in the stockings and shoes.
The Invisible Shoehorn is super unique as it artfully disappears into the background when it is not in use. It features a transparent stand and makes for an attractive and intriguing decorative element for your home. The shoehorn has a practical utility and decorative appeal.
What we like
Seamlessly merges with the background of your home when it isn’t being used
It is a functional product with aesthetic appeal as well
What we dislike
Not very economically priced
7. The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set
This tiny relaxation-inducing product is called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, and it lets you enjoy an outdoor fire within the comfort of your own home. This little set captures the various scents, smells and joy of a lovely outdoor fire, without any of the issues of a massive outdoor fire.
The mini hardwood used for the diffuser is collected from branches that were intended to be discarded away. They give off a warm smoky smell when burnt on the stainless steel mini oven, giving off a comforting aroma. You can add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt.Hakusan trees, and an authentic outdoor scent will spread through your home.
What we like
The diffuser can be used as a cooking or heating stool as well, by adding a piece of solid wood, making it a multifunctional design
What we dislike
Requires small pieces of wood
8. Jewelvase Mirror Stand
Called the Jewelvase Mirror Stand, this lovely mirror is designed to also function as an accessory stand or vase. You can not only look at your face in it, but it also elevates anything that is placed on it. The simple and elegant design adds character to your dresser, while also providing essential functionality.
The Jewelvase Mirror Stand has dual functionality which allows it to function as a mirror and a vase/accessory stand. Made using bioplastic material, which includes rice husks, the mirror stand has an elegant decorative quality to it. It serves as a stylish yet functional home decor accent!
What we like
Uplifts any dresser, table, desk, or furniture piece it is positioned on
What we dislike
Since it is a dual-functional product, the effectiveness of either role could be hindered
9. Retro Candle Lamp
Dubbed the Retro Candle Lamp, this vintage-inspired lamp will make a lovely addition to your bedside table or desk. It emits a soft subtle light, while also holding your scented candles. The scented candles in the lamp help spread a relaxing and sweet scent in your room.
Why is it noteworthy?
The warmth of the lamp helps activate the fragrance molecules in the candle, which lets out a pleasant and lovely smell, without even lighting it. This cuts out the danger of having an open flame near our bed or on your desk.
What we like
The handle on top lets you control and move around the lamp without touching any of the hot parts
What we dislike
Not a great option for those who like watching an open flame flickering
10. Key Holder Wakka
Always put your keys in the right place with the Key Holder Wakka! This nifty little product features a stylish key ring and a lovely wooden base which merge to form a functional and aesthetic home accent that stores your key efficiently and well.
The keyholder utilizes a powerful neodymium magnet that keeps the keyring in place, and a brisk tapping sound is created at separation. You can pick between iron, brass, or stainless steel in material choices with Silver/Maple and Silver/Walnut options which contribute to its decorative qualities.
What we like
Transforms the simple act of putting your key into something fun and interactive
What we dislike
It features a neodymium magnet which cannot hold heavy sets of keys well
Space is a very expensive commodity these days, especially for people living in cramped apartments in cities. Every square inch counts, especially on the floor where most things are placed unless they stick to walls or hang from the ceiling. Because of how most furniture, appliances, and tools are designed, you can quickly lose precious floor space even for things that you don’t have to use daily. A laundry rack, for example, should really only be there when you have clothes to dry, so it makes little sense for them to take up space on other days. That’s the principle behind this rather unique retractable clothes rack that descends from the ceiling when you need it and serves as a ceiling lamp on the days that you don’t.
Furniture designs are becoming smarter when it comes to space-saving tricks, which include modular parts, foldable sections, and the like. Most of these, however, are still placed on floors and are unable to utilize the free space of walls and ceilings. Singaporean company GoodLiving is trying to change that for at least one kind of household product, the rack where we hang clothes to dry even indoors.
These racks are installed on ceilings and are automatically deployed using scissor mechanisms at the press of a remote control button. This means that the collapsed form of the rack pretty much hides itself and gets out of the way when not needed. To make sure that even the space it occupies isn’t wasted when not in use, the base of the rack serves as LED lighting for the room.
These peculiar hanging machines, however, do more than just hang your clothes to dry. They’re equipped with fans and heaters that blow hot air to dry clothes even faster. It also has repellents for dust mites and bacteria, as well as ionizers that prevent the buildup of odor and keep the fabric soft to the touch. It’s definitely more than what you could get with a traditional dryer, and you don’t even have to sacrifice space to place such a large box in your house.
Granted, your room probably won’t look that presentable with clothes hanging from the ceiling, but that’s something no one else has to see. For single-person apartments or small houses, the practical benefits of having such a space-saving laundry rack far outweigh the temporary unappealing visual of hanging clothes. Then again, you would have probably hanged them on an equally visible regular rack as well, so might as well just bear with the sight for just a day than to always see that rack every day, even when there are no clothes hanging from it.
As smartphones become more powerful, the need to keep them from overheating becomes even more critical. Relying on simple heat dissipation is no longer enough, and sometimes even the more advanced passive cooling solutions, like vapor cooling chambers, are unable to compensate as well. This is especially true for phones used to play games, whether they’re formal gaming phones or just high-end models that have enough muscle but not the right cooling systems. RedMagic, nubia’s gaming sub-brand, believes that the answer lies in an external accessory, and it is now sharing that technology with others so that they, too, can benefit from it, even if they don’t have a nubia or RedMagic phone.
Smartphones generate a lot of heat when pushing their capabilities to the limit, and this causes not only discomfort but also degradation in performance, not to mention potential safety hazards due to the volatile battery powering the device. Unlike laptops and especially desktops, you can’t fit a reasonable cooling system inside a very thin phone, especially if it involves fans or more liquid. Delegating that to an external accessory is certainly possible, but the effort to attach and detach that gadget might be too much of a hassle.
The RedMagic VC Cooler 5 Pro remedies that by utilizing a feature that’s becoming more common among smartphones these days: magnetic wireless charging. This small squarish block can attach to any smartphone that supports this feature, which of course includes Apple’s MagSafe. What’s interesting is that RedMagic isn’t making it exclusive to these phones only, thanks to an optional back clip that can attach to any smartphone, making the VC Cooler 5 Pro almost universally compatible with all models.
But why would you want to stick or clip a small box onto the back of your phone? The RedMagic VC Cooler 5 Pro includes a 7-blade fan 3,060 sq. mm. vapor chamber liquid cooling plate that helps further pull the heat away from the phone and, consequently, away from your fingers. RedMagic claims it can drop the phone’s temperature by as much as 1°C, though your mileage may vary.
Rather than just offering a simple fan and cooling plate, RedMagic is unsurprisingly advertising the use of some AI to automatically adjust the VC Cooler 5 Pro’s speed. This feature, along with the customary RGB lighting controls, is available through RedMagic’s “Goper” app. Unfortunately, this is only available on Android, so while iPhone owners can still use the cooling add-on, they won’t be able to take advantage of AI-powered dynamic settings as well as custom RGB lights. The RedMagic VC Cooler 5 Pro launches on April 15th at 59 EUR ($64) for the magnetic version and 64 EUR ($69) with the optional back clip.
Irrespective if you’re working at home or in commercial life, both these scenarios involve a desk! A desk is probably one of the most important pieces of furniture in our modern lives, only because we spend the majority of our day on it. You may be typing away to glory, munching away on a snack, or simply fidgeting with a random object – you do end up spending hours on your desk. And hence, your desk must be neat, tidy, and uncluttered. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! And if they’re Japanese products then rest assured they’re gonna be minimal, functional, and ergonomic. And we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!
1. Levitating Pen 3.0
Dubbed the Levitating Pen, this sleek writing accessory features a Schmidt ballpoint cartridge, letting you hold it with ease, and write seamlessly and smoothly. The pen floats at a 60-degree angle when it is resting in its specially designed stand, which instantly reminds you of a spacecraft floating about in the galaxy!
This good-looking pen can be placed in its magnetized holder, which keeps it floating in position. You simply need to give the pen a little twist, and it will spin for 20 seconds, letting you have a playful experience with it.
What we like
Easy and sturdy to hold and use
Spinning the pen can be a fun stress-busting activity for you
What we dislike
When placed on a curved surface the pen can easily roll off, so you need to keep it aside with care
2. Bookish Bookmark
Have you ever found yourself browsing through your favorite book on your desk, and you want to leave it open while you quickly grab a snack or a drink, but you can’t find anything to mark your place with?! Well, this is where the Bookish Bookmark comes in. It is a unique acrylic bookmark that also looks like a book!
The second you look at the Bookish Bookmark, you know it is no ordinary bookmark. It is created to sit on your book, keeping it open for you as you sip some coffee, or chomp down on your favorite snacks. It lets you read while conducting other activities, but also ensures that the natural curved form of your book isn’t harmed.
What we like
Protects the natural curved form of your book, doesn’t damage its binding or ruin its shape
Lets you multitask while reading, you can sew or cook!
What we dislike
If you place the bookmark on your desk unused, it won’t lay completely flat
3. Serenity Pen Stand
Called the Serenity Pen Stand, this Japanese minimalist design exudes a metallic hint and is created to hold your pen upright, keeping it ready to use. This pen stand ensures that you never really lose your pen, since pens can be easy to misplace, it keeps your pen in sight always.
This minimal and sleek pen stand offers constant easy access to your pen, and making sure that you never lose it. Made using aluminum and copper, it functions as a well-balanced cylinder, that is designed to add a pop of personality and Japanese design ethos to your desk.
What we like
Features a sleek minimal design that is easy to set up, use, and carry
Equipped with a heavy copper bottom, offering a stable form
What we dislike
Since the pen stand is quite minimal and compact, it can be easily misplaced
There aren’t many color options to choose from
4. World Clock
If you’re someone who always ends up procrastinating, and often loses track of time, then the World Clock is what you need on your desk. It isn’t your everyday desk clock, and it has a unique dodecagonal shape with a single hand and a minimalist face. The innovative clock presents 12 time zones!
With a unique design and form, the World Clock not only offers the correct information about your country, but also extra details on the time in other parts of the world. At first glance, you can tell the hour, but with a closer look, you can figure out which quarter of the hour it is.
What we like
Has 12 sides with individual markings for a city that represents a certain timezone
What we dislike
It features only 12 set time zones, so you will be missing out on some time zones
5. Mecricco Catch
Called the Mecricco Catch, these elastic page-turning aids are designed by Plus, and let you turn your paper products with ease. The aids feature an outer rib, which lets you hold the paper firmly, while the inner rib doesn’t let your fingers slip while you’re flipping through pages.
Why is it noteworthy?
These page-turning aids have a concave curve at the bottom, which lets you move your fingers around as you flip through pages. It has holes that offer ventilation, giving your fingers some room to breathe.
What we like
An excellent option for those who have fancy nail jobs, and need to protect their fingers as they flip through pages
What we dislike
Not a necessary item, if you’ve gone completely digital
6. The Scissors w/ Base
Dubbed the Scissors w/ Base, these unique scissors are equipped with a magnetic base which makes the design a cutting-edge one. This innovative design allows you to completely reshape and jazz up your workspace organization, making sure your scissors aren’t lying around creating clutter.
The scissors’ feature a magnet base which is a total game-changer, snagging a VIP spot on your desk. They are crafted from lustrous Japanese steel, and besides functioning as a pretty nifty tool, they also make a sleek and good-looking addition to your desk decor.
What we like
The magnetic base can be utilized as a dedicated spot for your scissors
Equipped with a built-in cutter, which is quite an innovative forward-thinking detail we appreciate
What we dislike
Cannot function as an alternative to the heavy-duty scissors you need for difficult tasks
7. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
Dubbed the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter, this nifty tool is something you defo need on your work desk. This simple tool can totally elevate your daily productivity and ensure you have a clean and well-maintained desk. The letter cutter also doubles up as a paperweight!
The Effortless Standing Letter Cutter completely transforms an ordinary and standard office tool. You can cut through paper efficiently and effectively, while also functioning as a paperweight. It is an excellent solution for boosting productivity!
What we like
The letter cutter cuts precisely leaving no mess behind
Doubles up as a paperweight as well, maintaining an organized desk
What we dislike
The letter cutter is not versatile enough to deal with intricate mail or bulkier packages
8. Everlasting All-Metal Pencil
Called the Everlasting All-Metal Pencil, this little pencil is an essential addition to your work desk. You can now bid farewell to the mundane cycle of pencil sharpening and dealing with annoying mechanical leads. You can harness creative ideas, and let them flow freely without any hindrance.
This special pencil has been crafted with a special alloy core and has an aluminum body that doesn’t need to be sharpened. This pencil is a durable and practical writing instrument, and it leaves marks without causing any wear or tear to the core.
What we like
Can be easily erased with regular erases
Offers a seamless and smooth writing experience
What we dislike
Doesn’t offer the same grip and comfort as traditional wooden pencils
9. Japanese Drawing Pad
Japanese paper is known for its stunning and premium quality and is quite loved by designers and artists. If you want to add some beautiful Japanese paper to your workdesk, then you need to get your hands on the Japanese Drawing Pad!
This premium-quality pad allows you to jot down your thoughts and ideas without the fear of damaging the durable paper fibers. The pad builds an engaging, smooth, and relaxing writing experience.
What we like
The paper is micro-perforated, which makes the paper to tear
The pad is available in various colors and sizes, so you can pick the one that suits your drawing needs
What we dislike
Aesthetically it looks like an ordinary pad, but the high quality is an experience, nothing something that can be seen
10. ASMR Zen Ball
This cute-looking ball is called the ASMR Zen Ball, and it merges natural and engineered elements to build a space-inspired design that offers a calming experience to its users. It has a meteorite-inspired porous surface which can serve as an excellent absorbent surface for your aroma oils as well.
It is crafted from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy. It also doubles up as a fidget toy, which offers an interactive experience, allowing users to connect with the natural energy of the earth.
What we like
Functions as a fidget toy as well, which offers sensory stimulation
What we dislike
If the ball is not attached to the base, it can get rolling due to accidental bumps