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10 Best Smartwatches Designed To Up Your Wearable Game

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An exceptional smartwatch can really transform your everyday life. Since we can honestly use them for everything – sometimes for everything except telling the time! They go beyond simply telling the time, these multifunctional timepieces can now keep a check on our health, update us on the weather, function as an alarm clock, give reminders, cater to the blind, and even function as a case for your AirPods?! Designers are coming up with smartwatches that not only provide perfect form and functionality but also manage to look super smart when we wear them. The options are endless, so to help you pick a smartwatch that works best for you, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and cutting-edge smartwatches that will cater to everyone’s unique time-telling needs and requirements, and also totally deserve to be on your wrists.

1. MSI Gaming PC Watch

It looks like a watch from afar. Come close, however, and it looks like a gaming PC. What is it? Well, it’s both! The MSI Gaming Watch is a concept that pays homage to the detailed innards of most advanced gaming rigs. They say watches have complicated internals, which is why the transposition is perfect! Instead of a tourbillon and movement, you’ve got fans, graphics cards, and a motherboard, all scaled down to a size small enough to fit into a chunky wristwatch. Look closely at the fans and you’ll see tiny hands telling the time too. After all, the MSI Gaming Watch isn’t all show and no tell. However, it is a LOT of show! Just look at it! I dare you to look away!

Why is it noteworthy?

You’re likely to have one of two reactions to the MSI Gaming Watch – either you think it’s functionally useless, if you’re looking for an active timepiece… or you think it’s the most awesome thing you could wear on your wrist since those nixie tube watches we saw a few years ago. If you’re a gaming nerd or a PC builder, chances are you’re a part of the latter school of thought.

What we like

  • Hyper-cool design gives you gaming memorabilia on your wrist
  • Those components look very intricate, with tiny graphics cards, fans, etc.

What we dislike

  • It isn’t really a watch as much as it’s a really cool-looking wrist wearable. Time forms a very small part of what the MSI Gaming Watch is all about.

2. Rabbit R1 AI Watch

Named the R1, a walk-talkie-esque device was designed by Rabbit in collaboration with Teenage Engineering, and displayed at CES 2024. It is an AI-assisted smartphone alternative amped with a screen, camera, and scroll wheel. And, designer Alisher Ashimov has transformed it into a compact AI watch.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Rabbit R1 AI Watch is designed to eliminate the need to carry an extra device in your pocket. It functions as a wearable with enhanced portability, allowing you to carry it around without compromising on the uniqueness and utility of the original design.

What we like

  • Portable and easy-to-carry-design
  • Reduces dependency on smartphones

What we dislike

  • There is no information on the specifications of the AI Watch, so we’re unaware of its capabilities

3. Wrist (1)

Dubbed the Wrist(1), this innovative smartwatch reminds you of the high-end skeletal watches or the niche transparent watches that have their insides all exposed, where you can quite literally watch the watch movement. The Wrist(1) has a crystal-clear transparent case that reveals its internal component.

Why is it noteworthy?

The transparent case exposes the raw beauty of the accurate engineering, making it a unique and interesting-looking watch. The smartwatch also has health and fitness-centric features like a heart rate monitor and step counter. The LED and photodiodes work together with AI algorithms to provide accurate measurements.

What we like

  • Showcases the raw and real beauty of the complicated inner mechanism of the smartwatch
  • Gives the feel of a high end watch which a skeleton design

What we dislike

  • Watches are exposed to more wear and tear than a smartphone as we can easily bump our hand, however we don’t know how the clear material will fare. Also wearing a case will take away the appeal of the transparent design.

4. JUSTWATCH

Dubbed the JUSTWACH, this stunning smartwatch is a smooth amalgamation of the old and new. It is designed for individuals who prefer a futuristic smartwatch integrated with style and functionality. It is marked by clean lines, and a sleek profile, creating a smartwatch defined by classic beauty.

Why is it noteworthy?

The smartwatch is inspired by the icons of the past, and it has a delicate and subtle vintage vibe combined with modern functionality. It lets you take a trip down memory lane, where modern utility meets with the analog dial amped with a monochrome display.

What we like

  • Has a comfortable fit for all-day wear
  • Equipped with a rectangular digital watch display

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

5. Polar Vantage V3

Polar’s latest Vantage V3 smartwatch is a much classier successor to its 2020 Vantage V2. The new smartwatch is designed for athletes and is equipped with exciting features like the Polar Elixir biosensing tech and a bigger aluminum bezel that provides support for 22mm wristbands.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Polar Elixir biosensing suite has an improved OHR tracking sensor, wrist-ECG, skin temperature sensor to track body temperature, and an oxygen saturation monitor as well. These various elements deliver accurate biometric readings, offering you updated information about your body.

What we like

  • Has an almost Nordic look, giving the sports watch a fancy appearance
  • Gives you data-driven information on your body, letting you customize your fitness plan

What we dislike

  • Doesn’t have the best battery, could have a longer battery life
  • Doesn’t have a lot of scope for customization

6. VOIXATCH

Called the VOIXATCH, this is the first smartwatch ever to have its own built-in Bluetooth headset. The VOIXATCH is creating a world where watches and earphones exist in a close-knit ecosystem, with one single product carrying out all the functions your phone usually would, without you needing to even pull your smartphone out!

Why is it noteworthy?

The smartwatch features LTE and GPS, alongside its own SIM card slot, Google voice assistant, a battery life of 48 hours, a heartbeat sensor, and a gyroscope. Within the VOIXATCH’s bezel is a detachable ring that can transform into a Bluetooth headset.

What we like

  •  Only smartwatch to effortlessly combine a Bluetooth headset into its design

What we dislike

  • The battery life may not be long enough for some users

7. M O S KI T O

Meet M O S KI T O – a Swiss analog smartwatch and bike speedometer! It combines precision chronograph and smart bike computer into one sleek and aesthetic design. It is the ultimate design piece for gadget lovers! It merges a classic design, long battery life, and smart notifications.

Why is it noteworthy?

With the M O S KI T O, you’ll never miss another important call, message, or e-mail. It informs you immediately if you have an important notification incoming – all you need to do is take one glance at the dial! It has a charging function which means you’ll never have to change its batteries.

What we like

  • Compatible with Strava and Garmin
  • Available in a variety of color options

What we dislike

  • Functionality is a bit limited in comparison to other smartwatch designs on the market

8. Nubia

Dubbed the Nubia, this smartwatch has an impressive 4-inch display that smoothly wraps around the upper section of your wrist. It is supposed to have a pretty large display in comparison to other smartwatches. It is designed to present information in a way that is easy to see and access, irrespective of the angle.

Why is it noteworthy?

Nubia has a visually appealing vertical display, and it is long enough to ensure you don’t need to scroll away on a little screen. It features a real-time heart-rate tracker, 4 fitness tracking modes, a find your phone feature, and the ability to accept and reject calls.

What we like

  • The battery runs for a week in power-saving mode
  • Resistant and durable display

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t let you reply to messages from certain apps, or even read messages from some

9. TIME OFF!

“Time

Meet the TIME OFF! watch –  a smartwatch that is designed to mute those pesky smartphone notifications. The TIME OFF! has a companion app like most smartwatches, and you can control the settings through it. Using the app you can pick which apps to mute during your “time off” or resting mode.

Why is it noteworthy?

After you’re done saving those settings, you can simply silence notifications from those apps by pressing the red button on your TIME OFF! watch, you don’t even need to pick up or use your phone. It has a simple minimalist design with a solid-colored band and a face with a small LED sliver.

What we like

  • Lets you take time off from apps and social media
  • Minimalist design that complements all outfits and looks

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10.  SuperCharger2

Meet the world’s first self-charing smartwatch! Called the SuperCharger2, this innovative smartwatch stores and tracks all your activities automatically, keeping them ready to sync anytime you want. It features various interesting elements such as Personal Health Coach, Step Counting, and Sport Tracking!

Why is it noteworthy?

The SuperCharger has its own automatic self-charing mechanism, which provides it with complete autonomy. Besides charging itself, it also records your heart rate, workout, sleep, and Blood Oxygen Levels.

What we like

  • Stylish and long-lasting design
  • Eco-friendly design made from ocean materials

What we dislike

  • No vibrate mode to alert you to important notifications

The post 10 Best Smartwatches Designed To Up Your Wearable Game first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Audio Innovations That Make For Incredible Gifts For Music Lovers

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If you’re a true blue audiophile, or you have a few true blue audiophiles in your life, then you know that all they need are a couple of awesome audio devices to set their mood. All they require is an arsenal of excellent audio devices to blast out some groovy music at their parties or to sing along to their favorite tunes alone in the comfort of their room. Whatever your musical need may be, it is integral to own clear, distortion-free, nifty, and interactive audio devices. And, we’ve curated a collection of unique and innovative audio designs to cater to people’s diverse range of diverse audio requirements. From an invisible turntable to a Nothing-inspired resurrected iPod – there’s an ideal audio device in here for everyone!

1. Nothing x AIAIAI Headphones

The Nothing x AIAIAI’s headphones is a conceptual design that displays how two company’s visions can be merged to create one beautiful and functional product. The headphones feature individual details as seen in the AirPods Max, but they also have the transparent flair and beauty of Nothing.

Why is it noteworthy?

The headphone concept is made up of modular parts that can be easily replaced and swapped out on the fly. They feature stunning transparent housing on the cans, on the ear stem, and on the ear cushions as well. This transparent cushioning on the headrest truly makes the headphones stand out.

What we like

  • Equipped with slide-out cans, removable ear-cups, and detachable aux cable

What we dislike

  • There are only two color options – the usual black and white. Since it is a conceptual design, would have been fun if they’d experimented with different colors

2. Black Wheel

Called the Black Wheel, this unique innovation is the latest version of the Wheel design by Miniot. It smartly hides the electronic and mechanical components beneath the record, which seats all the different parts within a thin circular body, which disappears, the second you put a record on.

Why is it noteworthy?

When the Black Wheel is placed upright, the illusion created by it becomes quite obvious. It has a minimalist charm that pulls you in, even if it is placed horizontally. The Black Wheel also has a unique control system, that is felt but not really seen.

What we like

  • Features an incredibly thin and subtle body without compromising the audio quality
  • Space-saving design, that doesn’t occupy too much space

What we dislike

  • The Black Wheel has an old-fashioned charm which may not be preferred by those who like modern aesthetics and contemporary style

3. Wall Hanging CD Cover Player

Meet the Wall Hanging CD Cover Player – a minimalist CD player with an innovative retro design that offers you a distinguished listening experience combined with the beauty of visual art. You don’t need to hide away the CD jacket, you just need to slip it inside the specially-designed pocket, and put it on display!

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes the Wall Hanging CD Cover Player so unique, is that showcasing this CD player equates to physically displaying digital album art. It also lets you show off the fact that you have your own physical original CD!

What we like

  • Portable design that you can carry around with you, which also boasts a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit
  • Has a 1800mAh battery that provides 7-8 hours of excellent audio experience

What we dislike

  • Only offers an analog style of listening to music, it does not facilitate syncing music or playlists with any digital medium

4. Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeaker

Meet the Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers – this portable battery-free iPhone speaker is an innovative and unique version of the typical no-power smartphone speaker. It is made using metal, and offers a product with enhanced functionality and value, unlike other typical speakers on the market.

Click Here to Buy Now: $179

Why is it noteworthy?

The Battery-free Amplifying iSpeakers are made using Duralumin – a type of aluminum alloy that is used in aviation and aerospace industries, as it has vibration-resistant properties. All you need to do is insert the smartphone into the speaker and let the sound completely envelop you.

What we like

  • The speaker is electricity-free and doesn’t need any power
  • Features a minimalist and unique aesthetic that is quite captivating to look at

What we dislike

  • Will not fit with bulky smartphone cases

5. ERA

This retro-modern portable cassette tape player features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 3.5mm jack that can you plug into your headphones of choice. Called ERA, this unique device features a retro aesthetic with modern functionality, and it truly merges the best of both worlds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The ERA is equipped with a small display beside the physical play/pause and track change buttons. This display adds modern functionality to the device. But, on the other hand, the volume knob looks like the knobs from radio sets of the past.

What we like

  • ERA can by synced to your smartphone via Bluetooth
  • Merges modern functionality with old-school aesthetics

What we dislike

  • It isn’t designed for users who have a bias towards the medium they’re currently consuming music on

6. Ultra Open Earbuds

Bose teamed up with Kith – a fashion and lifestyle brand to create the Ultra Open earbuds. The earbuds were launched at CES 2024, and they mark the integration of Ronnie Fieg, the founder of Kith with Bose – where he will be responsible for merging fashion, culture, and sound to create interesting products.

Why is it noteworthy?

The earbuds are open-style, and they feature a distinctive design amped by a clip-on configuration which is not at all intrusive if you put on glasses or sport sunglasses on a hot day. The buds are cuff-shaped and can be easily hooked onto the outer ear for all-day-long comfort wear.

What we like

  • Has an easy on-and-off fit for active individuals
  • Designed to be a “breakthrough audio wearable” for enjoying music while “still hearing the world around you.”

What we dislike

  • Technical specifications are limited at the moment

7. Urbanista Second Gen Headphones & Earbuds

Urbanista has launched the second edition of their Los Angeles headphones, and Phoenix TWS earbuds. Both the audio designs are currently in production and are expected to be launched in mid-2024. And what’s even better is that they are going to cost slightly less than their first-generation variants.

Why is it noteworthy?

The devices absorb natural sunlight, as well as light from artificial sources to charge the battery. The amount they are charged depends on the intensity and duration of exposure to light. But if exposed to a good share of sunlight, they can offer a week of non-stop listening.

What we like

  • Feature better-designed components for improved efficiency so they can stay charged for longer

What we dislike

  • They are still in production, so we are unsure how the actual products will turn out to be

8. Nothing Npod (1)

Named the Nothing Npod (1), this resurrected iPod by Shreyansh Onial and Aditya Pandharpure is designed as a tribute to Apple’s iconic iPod Shuffle and Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic and glyph interaction. The design signifies how Nothing could transform the music industry by employing tech and nostalgia.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features a signature control panel on the front, as well as a matching circular glyph interface on the back, truly functioning as a fan-made reinterpretation of the iPod Shuffle. It also has a wireless charging coil on the back, as well as a USB-C charger on the bottom.

What we like

  • The concept perfectly merges the design language of Apple and Nothing, to build an innovative audio device

What we dislike

  • Lacks a pocket clip that you could attach to your clothes for easy use and control

9. CD Jacket Player

Meet the CD Jacket Player – a new minimalist CD player that merges functionality with visual appeal, creating an innovative product that provides users the freedom to listen to and enjoy their CDs anytime anywhere. It is a true blue portable design, that gives you access to your favorite tunes wherever you are.

Click Here to Buy Now: $159

Why is it noteworthy?

The CD Jacket Player serves as a minimalist piece of art, which looks like a picture frame or an oversized Polaroid photo owing to its boxy shape. It also features a transparent middle section. The transparent component unveils the CD’s spinning body, which is an excellent spot to place the CD’s cover jacket.

What we like

  • Besides being a CD player, it also functions as a decorative element
  • Portable and easy-to-carry design

What we dislike

10. The Earbugs

Called the Earbugs, this innovative audio accessory offers a unique audio experience, where the goodness of in-ear sound isolation of wireless earbuds is combined with the abilities of bone conduction technology to create a comfy and excellent listening experience for users.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bone conduction teams up with the earbuds’ dynamic drivers to form a 3D soundscape that offers a never-before audio delivery. The earbuds are ergonomically shaped are excellent for fitness and outdoor enthusiasts, and have a decent water-resistant rating.

What we like

  • Equipped with bone conducting technology, offering superior transparency mode

What we dislike

  • The Earbugs aren’t great for bedtime listening, as they don’t seem comfortable to use while lying on your side or sleeping

The post 10 Best Audio Innovations That Make For Incredible Gifts For Music Lovers first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Kitchen Tools For Brewing The Ultimate Cup Of Coffee, Tea & Espresso

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Everyone has a beverage of choice that they need in the morning to wake them up – usually, it is coffee or tea. For me personally it is coffee!  I love coffee, I need it to start my day, or else I simply refuse to start my day! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea or coffee. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive coffee machine or tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! From a smart teapot to the Tesla of coffee machines – this collection of super cool and easy-to-use tools will start you off on your coffee/tea brewing journey. Cheers!

1. xBloom

Meet the futuristic xBloom – the Tesla of Coffee Machines. It is the first coffee machine with an Autopilot feature, making it quite an innovative and unique one. This makes preparing coffee super easy and efficient, almost transforming it into an art. The coffee machine is quite sleek and pristine, and looks like it jumped straight out of a sci-fi movie!

Why is it noteworthy?

The xBloom was designed by ex-Apple employees, and it identifies, grinds, dispenses, brews, and pours your coffee for you. The machine uses the finest beans sourced from the top roasters worldwide, offering you the finest cup of coffee to enjoy!

What we like

  • With the xBloom, it feels as if a professional barista is making you a cup of coffee, creating an elevated coffee-drinking experience
  • Features the power of NFC technology

What we dislike

  • It does not accommodate instant coffee, which can be a hassle for some coffee drinkers

2. Smart Tea Pot

If you prefer tea over coffee, then you need to get your hands on the Smart Tea Pot. This connected teapot lets you brew yourself a cup of tea with the help of technology, creating the perfect brew for you. You can prepare a delicious brew based on the kind of tea you like, depending on your mood and needs.

Click Here to Buy Now: $314 $349 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Smart Tea Pot features advanced brewing adjustments that are influenced by the kind of tea you need, and your tea-drinking requirements. It has a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser, which is a perfect example of Japanese minimalism, and it merges technology with simplicity.

What we like

  • Has a compact size, and clean minimal aesthetics allowing it to perfectly fuse with your kitchen and dining space

What we dislike

  • The Smart Tea Pot employs technology for brewing customizations, which can be complicated for those who prefer traditional, simple tea-making processes

3. Ceramic Cup

This minimalist-looking mug is finely crafted, and is a true meeting of the earth and wood in a unique and subtle symphony of texture. It is designed to be a lovely treat for your sensitive lips as well as your fingers. As you drink from it, you are invited into a sensory experience where you can truly enjoy sipping your tea.

Click Here to Buy Now: $54 $60 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

When we’re sipping a drink, our lips come into contact with the surface of a glass or mug, and this impression sets the mood for the entire experience. This beautiful mug intends to create that kind of engagement in the form of a design with intriguing contrasts.

What we like

  • Crafted from quality Japanese ceramic

What we dislike

  • You cannot put the mug into a microwave
  • The aesthetics can be considered a bit simple and boring

4. Brewster

This battery-powered coffee machine is called the Brewster, and it is designed for the future. It will satisfy your random coffee cravings with complete convenience and precision, allowing you to enjoy the perfect cup of joe everywhere you like. It is a portable design providing you with coffee anytime, anywhere.

Why is it noteworthy?

Brewster is more than just a coffee machine, it is a lifestyle innovation designed for the future. It features a convenient compact design, that makes it super easy to carry around.

What we like

  • Features a battery-powered design that doesn’t really need to be tethered to a chord
  • It has an intuitive design that offers a hassle-free coffee-making experience

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we’re not sure how functional and practical it will be as a real product

5. Earth-friendly Stacking Cup

Enjoy your favorite beverage with this Earth-friendly stacking cup. It is a stylish and minimal stacking cup that helps you save the environment. It is built from eco-friendly synthetic materials and has a unique texture which contributes to a distinctive and sensory tea-drinking experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.5 $25 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The texture of the stacking cup is unique and resembles ceramic and wood. It provides a distinctive sensory experience to your mouth and lips, while also embodying minimal aesthetics and eco-friendly practices, forming a soul-enriching drinking experience that you won’t forget.

What we like

  • Made from plant-derived biodegradable resin
  • The material biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide through natural microbial action

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart

6. Earth-friendly Tumbler

Have you ever heard of PAPLUS? It is a new kind of thermoplastic resin that can be mixed with biodegradable paper to add durability, heat resistance, and moldability which normal PLA often tacks. This unique earth-friendly tumbler is made using PAPLUS, making it a sustainable and stylish drinking tumbler for your coffee or tea.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The earth-friendly tumbler is made using an eco-friendly material to add a unique texture that is similar to the surface of ceramic or wooden cups. As you take a sip from this tumbler, a wonderful flavor is brought to your tongue, which creates an engaging sensation for your lips.

What we like

  • Uplifts the act of drinking beverages to a new sensory experience for your tongue and lips
  • Has a heat resistance of 120°, allowing you to enjoy piping hot as well as ice-cold drinks

What we dislike

  • The natural color of the tumbler can fade or become uneven with use, which may not be appreciated by users

7. F1 Coffee Grinder

Dubbed the F1, this portable and sleek wireless coffee grinder works automatically and manually. It features industrial-grade conical burrs, and a motor that provides 100 grind settings, allowing you to prepare fresh coffee when you’re at home or even out camping!

Why is it noteworthy?

Features a built-in fold-out collection tray, and allows you to hot-swap for one-button electric grinding or a hank-crank for a more hands-on grinding experience. The grinder is the size of a small thermos, and can easily fit into bags and suitcases.

What we like

  • Travel-friendly grinder with Scandinavian minimalism

What we dislike

  • You need to remove the motor, before washing it in the dishwasher

8. Slim Fold Dish Rack

This unique and innovative dish rack can be carried anywhere with you. It has a patent pending spring mechanism, that you can adjust and shrink from 14″ to 1.2″ within seconds. Deployment of the dish rack is also just as fast, making it quite easy to set up and use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Called the Slim Fold Dish Rack, this product has a minimalist yet durable design, which ensures adequate ventilation, and has plenty of space for plates, utensils, and cookware of any size. It is an excellent design for your kitchen or for camping outdoors.

What we like

  • Flexible collapsible form that will clean and dry your utensils in no time
  • Easy to clean and dishwasher-friendly

What we dislike

  • The slim wires will find it difficult to hold heavy utensils (pots and pans)

9. Steampunk Espresso Machine

Called the Steampunk Espresso Machine, this unique espresso machine was designed by Ahmet Kemal Daşhan for Steam Espresso. It is adorned with brass fittings that take you on an exciting and surreal journey through time. It has a distinctive appearance, that makes it stand apart from boxy and typical coffee machines on the market.

Why is it noteworthy?

The espresso machine features exposed gears that are reminiscent of a bygone era’ mechanical marvels, which besides serving a functional purpose, also add a touch of authenticity to the entire espresso-making experience. The machine features vintage aesthetics which take you back in time.

What we like

  • Helps you embark on a visual journey through time

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we are unsure how it will translate into a tangible product

10. DOTS

Called DOTS, this portable coffee machine is an excellent fit for automated vehicles, but it can also be used for other on-the-go scenarios as well. It is a great option for those long car journeys, where you need to get somewhere in a jiffy, and cannot stop for a much-needed coffee break.

Why is it noteworthy?

The DOTS coffee machine has a removable bottom, so it can be adapted for whatever use you have for it. It utilizes coffee capsules instead of the usual brewing method to make it easier to use.

What we like

  • A control or lever lets you adjust the intensity of the extraction method from the capsule

What we dislike

  • It has a lid to place a straw on it, but sipping hot coffee with a straw seems weird and uncomfortable

The post 10 Best Kitchen Tools For Brewing The Ultimate Cup Of Coffee, Tea & Espresso first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Desk Gear Designed To Achieve Peak Productivity

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It doesn’t matter where you’re working, whether at home or in a 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 we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!

1. POD

This minimalist timer lets you enjoy the simple benefits of a Pomodoro timer without relying on a clunky analog timer, especially one that looks like an awkward little tomato on your desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

Dubbed POD, this unique tool combines the feeling of an analog timer with the convenience and utility of an electronic device in a simple, minimalist, and appealing form. The only control it has is pushing the puck down like a button, which then starts the countdown.

What we like

  • Minimally distracting, utilizing only flashing lights to get your attention rather than sounds or vibrations

What we dislike

  • Replacing the battery seems a bit tedious and annoying
  • It is quite tiny, so can be easily misplaced

2. Grovemade Note-Taking Kit

Named the Grovemade Note-Taking Kit, this innovative kit helps you effortlessly and efficiently capture down, process, and store notes, hence boosting your daily productivity, and ensuring your process feels simple and free-flowing.

Why is it noteworthy?

The kit includes a refillable notepad with dot grid paper and a solid metallic base, alongside a display rail to hold and store your notes and devices, while also offering a vertical organizer that stores your notes until you need to use them.

What we like

  • Provides a neat workdesk, that helps you complete the important tasks at hand, and elevate productivity

What we dislike

  • Occupies a substantial amount of real estate on your desk, not well-suited for smaller desks

3. Quick-Access Organizer

Dubbed the Quick-Access Organizer, this minimal and compact organizer is designed to ensure you never lose all your essentials. It is a well-designed organizer that helps you perfectly organize your essentials so you’re never in fear of losing them, allowing you to have a tidy desk that boosts productivity.

Why is it noteworthy?

This smart organizer isn’t simply a storage solution, it revolutionizes your desk, using magnetic wizardry to keep your essentials organized and easily available. It perfectly combines form and functionality, offering an excellent 21st-century design philosophy.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

What we like

  • Equipped with a rotating mechanism that will take all the annoying guesswork out of storage
  • It is a lid and tray, making it a dual-functional product

What we dislike

  • Those who possess a larger array of items will find this organizer limiting and may need a bigger one
  • It can be concerning having magnets around certain electronic devices or cards, hence you need to be selective about what you store

4. Nemonic Gen 2

Dubbed the Nemonic Gen 2, this inkless, thermal, and wireless printer lets you effectively and efficiently print your notes and even images on Ultra Sticky Notes, and they won’t easily fall off!

Why is it noteworthy?

The tiny printer can be connected to your desktop and mobile devices allowing you to print out any notes that you may have written, drawn, or typed on the connected app. You can even integrate it with the Microsoft Office apps, and Slack and Zapier too, allowing you to maintain smooth productivity.

What we like

  • It lets you print out your notes directly and has a de-curl feature too

What we dislike

  • They don’t sell refills individually at this point, which is inconvenient if you run out of the notes

5. Fold

Designed by Ganti and Teixeira Design Studio, Fold is a 3D-printed lamp that casts its light downwards and upwards serving as a functional lamp, as well as a source of some good lighting. It’s a unique lamp that helps you work properly, while also letting you relax.

Why is it noteworthy?

The wall light doesn’t need to be turned on or off, nor do you need to adjust it, as the design itself brings two kinds of light together. It is a space-saving design as it can be mounted on the wall, or placed on a small desk or side table.

What we like

  • Offers both ambient light and direct light, helping you save up on owning multiple lamps

What we dislike

  • It looks a bit bulkier when used as a desk lamp, as compared to when it is wall-mounted

6. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter

Having an organized desk is quite important, as it helps you work efficiently while boosting your daily productivity. Having the right tool can help you create the ideal organized desk, and one such tool to add to your desk is this unique letter cutter.

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative letter cutter reimagines a standard office tool, and efficiently slices through paper, while also doubling up as a chic paperweight ensuring there is no unnecessary clutter on your desk. A decluttered desk is the best solution for boosting productivity!

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What we like

  • Has a precision cut that ensures that no messy scraps are left behind
  • Doubles up as a paperweight, ensuring there is less clutter on your desk, making it a dual-functional product

What we dislike

  • While fantastic for standard envelopes, it is not versatile enough for those bulkier packages or intricate mail, so you may need a separate letter cutter for those

7. The Note

Called the Note, this small desk whiteboard lets you take notes with the utmost efficiency. Except it’s no ordinary note taker, it has a few tricks up its sleeve and adds some fun and spice to your work.

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique whiteboard can twist or flip over, giving you twice the space to write your notes down effectively and efficiently. One side features a dotted grid surface, while the other side can be plain, or they could have the same design on both sides.

What we like

  • Features a multi-purpose vertical screen that allows you to view the time, calendar, and appointments synced with your phone

What we dislike

  • The screen doesn’t show videos, a function that some people may need for their work

8. SCROOM

Dubbed SCROOM, this portable keyboard looks like a wireless mechanical keyboard at first glance, however when you slide down the keyboard or slide up its bottom, it unveils a display that’s almost the same size as the keyboard.

Why is it noteworthy?

This unique display is a touch screen that’s filled with large-sized buttons, sliders, and other controls that can help you multitask on a tablet that has otherwise pretty limited space for multitasking.

What we like

  • Features a to-do list so that you don’t have to switch back and forth between apps

What we dislike

  • The sliding mechanism is a risk, especially for devices that get carried around a lot

9. Current Task Light

Called the Current Task Light, UK-based Jones and Partners designed this simple, minimalist, and highly functional lighting design that would make an excellent addition to your work desk. It occupies minimum space while helping you work better and more efficiently.

Why is it noteworthy?

The award-winning task lighting + charging concept is a multifunctional product to aid in your daily multitasking and is perfectly complementary to both residential and commercial spaces.

What we like

  • Allows coworkers to plug their devices across a large desk while working together

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept right now, so we don’t know how the final product will turn out

10. Wipe

Dubbed Wipe, this unique and innovative whiteboard notebook features an eraser allowing you to write, erase, and write things over and over again. This helps you note down all your precious ideas and thoughts, letting you work in a streamlined and efficient manner.

Why is it noteworthy?

Wipe has a comfortable personal size that is a tad bit smaller than A4 paper. It is portable, and you can write on it, take a photo that you could save or send to the cloud, erase all of it, and write again. You don’t need any preparation to use it, it is a fast and effective product!

What we like

  • Equipped with a newly developed Mag Force system that combines magnets and rubber brands, building a handle that also doubles up as a pen holder

What we dislike

  • You need to specifically use a dry-erase or whiteboard pen, and not a permanent marker

The post 10 Best Desk Gear Designed To Achieve Peak Productivity first appeared on Yanko Design.