The Electronic Guide

Best Portable Power Stations for Home Backup and Camping 2026

February 24, 2026

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Many of you often ask about the equipment I’m using in my videos, so this article is for you! Here I tell you exactly what I use, from brands to pricing, what I use them for and why I recommend them.
My Search for the Best of the Best

I’ve lived in shared houses, tiny flats, dark Victorian terraces, and I’ve built home studios in 5 different properties over the last 10 years. Music producer. Video editor. Working from home before it was trendy. Power cuts mid export are not fun. Not cute. Not vibey.

Product	Positioning	Capacity & Output	Ideal For	Why It Stands Out
EcoFlow River 2 Pro	Best Overall	768Wh • 800W	Home working, router + laptop backup, short outages	Fast charging, strong output for its size, reliable all round performance
Jackery Explorer 240	Best Budget Under £300	240Wh • 200W	Router, phones, light use	Affordable entry point, simple to use, dependable for essentials
BLUETTI EB3A	Best for Apartments	268Wh • 600W	Small flats, desk setups	Compact footprint, higher output than most in its size class
Anker PowerHouse 521	Best for Camping	256Wh • 300W	Camping, van trips, outdoor use	Durable build, trusted battery brand, easy to transport
EcoFlow DELTA 2	Best High Capacity for Home Backup	1024Wh • 1800W	Fridge, home office, multi device backup	High output, expandable capacity, suitable for serious outages

I started with the cheap stuff. The questionable extension leads. The budget UPS units. Through years of trial and error I’ve found what’s actually worth it. These are the portable power stations I would genuinely buy again.

Why Quality matters

When you work from home, bake a sourdough that needs timing, or you’re exporting a 4K edit at 98 percent, power stability is everything.

Cheap batteries sag under load. Good ones hold voltage steady. That difference is the line between saving your session or corrupting it. Incredddible how much stress a good power station removes.

Best Overall

EcoFlow River 2 Pro Portable Power Station

Compact but powerful at 768Wh with 800W output. Fast charging, proper pure sine wave inverter and lightweight enough to move between rooms. I’ve tested similar units in studio setups and this level of output comfortably runs a laptop, audio interface and monitors without flinching.

Best for:
Home workers, creators, router plus laptop backup, short power cuts, camping with actual appliances.

Things to keep in mind:
Won’t run high draw kettles or ovens for long. Premium price compared to entry level units.

Best Budget Under £300

Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station

Simple, reliable, and does the basics well. Around 240Wh capacity. This is the one you buy to keep WiFi alive and your phone charged during outages. Not flashy. Just works. For shared houses where budgets are tight, this is solid.

Best for:
Router backup, charging phones, tablets, small lamps, light camping use.

Things to keep in mind:
Limited capacity. Not designed for fridges or high wattage appliances.

Best for Apartments

BLUETTI EB3A Portable Power Station

Small footprint, 268Wh capacity, 600W output. Perfect for apartment living where storage matters. Fast recharge and app monitoring. I love how compact this is. In small Barcelona flats or UK rentals this is a GAME CHANGER for desk setups.

Best for:
Apartment dwellers, remote workers, compact home office backup.

Things to keep in mind:
Still limited runtime for larger appliances. Best used strategically.

Best for Camping

Anker PowerHouse 521 Portable Power Station

Portable, durable and very user friendly. Around 256Wh capacity with strong build quality. Anker batteries have been solid in my experience over years of tech use. Great for lights, mini coolers and charging gear off grid.

Best for:
Camping, van trips, outdoor cooking setups, powering small kitchen gadgets while travelling.

Things to keep in mind:
Not intended for extended home backup. Think weekend, not week long outage.

Best High Capacity for Home Backup

EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station

This is the serious one. 1024Wh capacity expandable further. 1800W output. It can run fridges, TVs, routers and even some kitchen appliances. If you work from home full time, this level of backup is peace of mind on another level.

Best for:
Full home backup for essentials, running a fridge, studio gear, routers and laptops simultaneously.

Things to keep in mind:
Higher upfront cost. Heavier unit. You are investing in real backup power.

What Size Do You Actually Need

Wattage explained simply

Watts are how much power something uses.
Watt hours are how long you can run it.

Example:
Laptop uses about 60W.
Router uses about 10W.
Fridge averages 100 to 200W depending on size.

A 500Wh station could theoretically run:
A 60W laptop for around 8 hours.
A 10W router for over 40 hours.
A 150W fridge for around 3 hours continuous.

Real world numbers vary, but this gives you a ballpark.

How to keep your WiFi running during a power cut

Okay okay okay I know I said you need a huge battery. You don’t.

Your router probably uses under 15W. Even a small 240Wh station can keep it alive for many hours. Add a small LED lamp and you’ve basically turned a blackout into a minor inconvenience.

Can a portable power station run a fridge

Yes. But capacity matters.

Small 200 to 300Wh units will struggle long term.
700Wh plus units are far more practical.
1000Wh plus is where it gets serious.

For foodie households like mine where I bake, batch cook and actually care about what’s in the fridge, higher capacity is worth it.

Are solar generators worth it in the UK

Solar charging works, even in the UK. It’s slower in winter, obviously. But pairing a portable power station with compatible solar panels gives you off grid flexibility.

For camping or as an emergency top up, it’s incredddible. Not a full house replacement, but a strong supplement.

Who actually needs one vs who doesn’t

You need one if:
You work from home
You run studio gear
You rely on stable WiFi
You store food you care about
You camp regularly

You probably don’t need one if:
You rarely experience outages
You only want to charge a phone occasionally

For me, after years of juggling cables in shared houses and protecting home studio sessions, portable power stations are not luxury gadgets. They’re practical infrastructure.

The Electronic Guide is supported by its readers and participates in affiliate marketing programs, including Amazon Associates. We may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through links on this site, at no additional cost to you.
Some images featured on The Electronic Guide are digitally generated concept designs created for inspirational purposes. These visuals may not represent physical products or real life spaces exactly as shown.
All content is provided for informational and inspirational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding product availability, pricing, specifications, or suitability. Please verify all product details directly with the retailer before purchasing.

Best Speakers for Vinyl Turntables 2026 Buyer Guide

February 21, 2026

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I have built home studios in five different houses over the last 10 years. Shared houses, tiny bedrooms, weird living room corners. I started with cheap speakers that buzzed when the fridge kicked in. Not ideal. If you are spinning vinyl in 2026, the speaker choice matters more than people think. Your turntable can be great, but bad speakers will flatten everything.

For my top record player recommendations check out my previous article here! Below are the best speakers I would actually use with a vinyl setup right now.

If you’re short on time, here’s the quick breakdown.

Product Name	Region (US, UK, or US & UK)	Best For	Key Feature	Style/Aesthetic	Price Tier
Audioengine A5 Plus Wireless	US	Best Overall powered vinyl setup	Built in amp and Bluetooth	Clean modern	Premium
Edifier R1280DBs	US	Best Budget powered speakers	Built in phono and Bluetooth	Compact classic	Budget
Klipsch The Sevens	US	Best for room filling sound	HDMI ARC and phono input	Retro bold	Premium
Fluance Ai61	US	Best Mid Range clarity	6.5 inch woofer power	Minimal modern	Mid range
Kanto YU4	US	Best Compact with phono	Built in phono preamp	Sleek small room	Mid range
Q Acoustics 3020i	UK	Best Passive Bookshelf	Wide soundstage	Soft curved design	Mid range
Edifier R1700BTs	UK	Best Value Active UK	Sub out and Bluetooth	Studio style	Budget
Wharfedale Diamond 12.2	UK	Best Audiophile Upgrade	Detailed midrange	Classic HiFi	Premium
ELAC Debut B6.2 Shelf Speaker	UK	Best Imaging	Uni Q driver	Modern clean	Mid range
DALI KUPID	UK	Best Warm Vinyl Tone	Natural bass response	Scandinavian minimal	Mid range

Now let’s get into the details.

US Amazon Picks

Audioengine A5 Plus Wireless

These are honestly amazinnngg for vinyl. Built in amp, so no extra box needed. I used these in a shared house setup and they handled low volume late night listening and loud weekend sessions perfectly. Clean highs, punchy bass, easy setup.

Edifier R1280DBs

If you are starting out, this is a GAME CHANGER for the price. Built in amp and Bluetooth. I began with something similar years ago and it made vinyl feel accessible. Simple, compact, does the job without fuss.

Klipsch The Sevens

Big, bold, and loud when you want them to be. These fill a living room easily. Great if you work from home like I do and want records spinning all day. Retro styling but very modern inputs including HDMI.

Fluance Ai61

Solid mid range option. Bigger woofer means fuller bass without a sub. I tested similar sized speakers in a small studio room and the depth was incredddible for nearfield listening.

Kanto YU4

Small footprint, built in phono preamp, super practical. Perfect for bedroom setups or smaller flats. I have had to squeeze full studio rigs into tiny spaces before. These make it easy.

UK Amazon Picks

Q Acoustics 3020i

Passive speakers with a wide soundstage. Pair them with a decent amp and they really open up vinyl recordings. I love these for more detailed listening sessions when mixing and referencing.

Edifier R1700BTs

Brilliant value active speakers in the UK market. Sub out is handy if you want to upgrade later. I always recommend gear that can grow with you. These do that.

Wharfedale Diamond 12.2

If you want richer mids and that classic HiFi feel, these are strong. Vocals and guitars on vinyl sound full and textured. Proper sit down and listen speakers.

ELAC Debut B6.2 Shelf Speaker

Excellent imaging. You can almost place instruments in the room. As a producer, that detail matters to me. They look clean and modern too, so they fit nicely in shared living spaces.

DALI KUPID

Warm, musical, forgiving. Great for older pressings that are not perfectly clean. If you want that cosy vinyl vibe rather than super analytical sound, these are a lovely choice.

Final Thoughts

Okay okay okay I know I said speakers matter more than the turntable. That might be slightly dramatic. But not by much.

If you are just starting, grab a solid active pair like the Edifiers. If you are upgrading your setup and already have an amp, go passive and invest properly. I have upgraded speakers slowly over the years, and every jump felt worth it. Vinyl deserves good speakers. Trust me.

Avoid Bad Vinyl Players: Essential Buying Tips

February 19, 2026

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Okay okay okay I know I said I was not buying more gear.

But vinyl is different.

I have built home studios in five different properties over the last ten years. Shared houses, thin walls, awkward corners, desks crammed next to beds. I started with the cheapest stuff imaginable and slowly upgraded. And trust me, most “cool looking” record players are absolute rubbish.

If it has built in speakers and Bluetooth and flashy LEDs in this price range… run.

What you want is simple:

Solid plinth
Decent tonearm
Replaceable cartridge
Proper counterweight
No built in speakers

That is it. Quality over aesthetic. Always.

Check out my guide to the best stereo systems for turntables here! Below are the best turntables in 2026 between roughly 80 to 200 dollars or pounds that actually respect your records.

If you’re short on time, here’s the quick breakdown.

Product Name	Region (US, UK, or US & UK)	Best For	Key Feature	Style/Aesthetic	Price Tier
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X	US	Best Overall Beginner	Fully automatic belt drive	Minimal	Budget
Fluance RT80	US	Best Sound Under $200	Adjustable counterweight	Clean	Mid-range
Sony PS-LX310BT	US & UK	Easy Setup	Fully automatic operation	Simple	Mid-range
Victrola VPRO-2000	US	Best Budget Upgrade	Adjustable tracking force	Modern	Budget
1byone Belt Drive	US	Best Starter on a Budget	Magnetic cartridge	Basic	Budget
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XUSB	UK	Best Overall UK	USB output for recording	Minimal	Mid-range
Sony PS-LX310BT	UK	Simple and Reliable	One step automatic playback	Clean	Mid-range
House of Marley Stir It Up	UK	Eco Option	Replaceable cartridge	Natural	Mid-range
Lenco LBT-188	UK	Adjustable on a Budget	Counterweight and anti-skate	Modern	Budget
Denon DP-300F	UK	Best Sound Upgrade	Hand assembled tonearm	Minimal	Premium

Now let’s break them down properly.

US Amazon Picks

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X

This is the one I recommend to friends constantly. Fully automatic, reliable, and surprisingly clean sounding. No gimmicks. No speakers. Just plug into proper speakers and you are good. For the money, it is honestly amazinnngg value.

Fluance RT80

If you can stretch closer to 200 dollars, this is a GAME CHANGER. Adjustable counterweight, better cartridge, fuller sound. I would choose this over any aesthetic suitcase player every single time.

Sony PS-LX310BT

Yes it has Bluetooth output but no built in speakers. Important difference. Fully automatic and very easy setup. Ideal if you are nervous about damaging records. Clean and dependable.

Victrola Montauk Vinyl Record Player

Do not confuse this with their suitcase players. This one has adjustable tracking force and a proper tonearm. Massive difference. Solid entry into more serious vinyl listening without overspending.

1byone Belt Drive Turntable

Budget option that still gives you a proper cartridge and counterweight. It is not flashy. It just works. Perfect if you are upgrading from something cheap and plasticky.

UK Amazon Picks

Audio-Technica AT-LP60XUSB

Amazons best seller for a reason. Same trusted LP60 platform but with USB for recording vinyl. As someone who works from home producing music, I love having that option. Super practical. No nonsense.

Sony PS-LX310BT

If you’re in it for the long run, it might be worth considering something premium but solid. Simple, clean, reliable. Press a button and it plays. Great for shared houses where you do not want complicated setup every time someone touches it.

House of Marley Stir It Up

Okay I usually ignore aesthetic focused brands… but this one actually performs well. Solid components and a replaceable cartridge. More about sound than looks.

Lenco LBT-188

Proper adjustable counterweight and anti-skate at a budget price. That alone makes it better than most trendy players in this bracket.

Denon DP-300F Turntable

Okay slightly higher in budget, but well worth it for the sheer clarity of sound. Hand built feel, tight bass, serious upgrade path. I would happily run this in a home studio setup. Good speakers deserve good turntables!

How to Avoid Rubbish Vinyl Players

Here is what I have learned after years of testing gear and wasting money early on:

Avoid built in speakers
They vibrate the turntable and damage sound quality.
Avoid ceramic cartridges
Magnetic cartridges are far better for your records.
Look for adjustable counterweight
If it has one, it is already more serious.
Weight matters
Heavier plinth usually means better vibration control.
Upgrade path
Can you change the cartridge later? If yes, good sign.

I started with cheap plastic players. They looked cool. They sounded thin and scratchy. Once I moved to proper entry level hi fi turntables, the difference was incredddible.

If you care about your records, buy once and buy properly.

Spring Bedroom Reset: 12 Small Upgrades That Make Your Room Feel Fresh Again

February 17, 2026

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Spring always hits and I suddenly notice everything. The cables. The dusty corners. The tired bedside lamp I have moved between five different shared houses over the last decade.

I have built home studios in bedrooms, box rooms and once even half a dining room. I work from home, edit video, produce music and somehow still bake on weekends. So yeah, I care about how a bedroom feels. It has to function and feel calm.

Product Name	Region (US, UK, or US & UK)	Best For	Dimmable (Yes/No/Depends)	Key Feature	Style/Aesthetic	Price Tier (Budget, Mid-range, Premium)
Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Starter Kit	US	Best Overall Lighting Upgrade	Yes	App controlled colour lighting	Modern smart home	Premium
LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier	US	Cleaner Bedroom Air	No	HEPA filtration	Minimal compact	Mid-range
TP Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini	US	Best Budget Automation	Depends	App and voice control	Invisible tech	Budget
JBL Charge 5	US	Music and Atmosphere	No	Powerful portable sound	Sleek portable	Mid-range
Echo Dot 5th Gen	US	Smart Control Hub	Depends	Voice assistant integration	Compact modern	Budget
Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights	US	Mood Lighting	Yes	Custom RGBIC effects	Contemporary	Budget
Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300	UK	Better Wake Up Routine	Yes	Gradual sunrise alarm	Soft minimal	Premium
MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier	UK	Damp Prevention	No	Efficient moisture removal	Functional clean	Mid-range
Neom Wellbeing Pod	UK	Relaxing Ambience	Yes	Essential oil diffusion	Spa inspired	Mid-range
Groov e Atlas Alarm Clock	UK	Bedside Organisation	Depends	Wireless phone charging	Minimal	Budget
Russell Hobbs Heated Electric Blanket	UK	Warmth and Comfort	Yes	Adjustable heat settings	Cosy practical	Budget
Philips Series 3000 Garment Steamer	UK	Quick Clothing Refresh	No	Fast heat up steam	Modern utility	Mid-range

These are 12 small electronic upgrades that genuinely make a bedroom feel fresh again without ripping the whole place apart.

First up, US picks.

Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Smart Bulb Starter Kit

This was a GAME CHANGER in my darker houses. Full app control, warm light for evenings, bright white for cleaning days. Makes a tired room feel brand new instantly. Dimmable and endlessly customisable.

LEVOIT Air Purifier

Shared house life means dust and dog hair everywhere. This little unit quietly cleans the air and genuinely makes the room feel lighter. Great for allergies and late night studio sessions. Compact but powerful.

TP Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini

Such a simple thing but amazinnngg. Control lamps, fans or heaters from your phone. I use it to automate my bedside lamp. Feels way more premium than it costs.

JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Okay okay okay I know I said bedroom reset, but music changes everything. Clean sound, punchy bass, long battery life. Perfect for lazy Sunday resets or late night playlists.

Echo Dot Smart Speaker

Voice control for lights, timers, even white noise for sleep. I resisted for years, then tried it. Incredddible convenience. Especially useful if you work from home and need hands free control.

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

I started with cheap LED strips years ago. These are a serious upgrade. Smooth colour transitions, app control, great behind a headboard or desk. Instantly modernises a plain room.

Now onto the UK picks.

Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300 Wake Up Light

Dark mornings in the UK are brutal. This gradually brightens before your alarm. Feels more natural and less aggressive than a phone alarm. A proper spring energy boost.

MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier

UK bedrooms can get damp fast. This pulls moisture out quietly and helps prevent that cold, heavy air feeling. Also protects studio gear and electronics long term.

Neom Wellbeing Pod Essential Oil Diffuser

Fresh scent changes the vibe immediately. Soft light, gentle mist and a subtle glow. Makes your room feel like a boutique hotel instead of a shared rental.

ANJANK Alarm Clock with Wireless Charging

Clean minimal design and no messy cables on your bedside table. Wireless charging built in. Small upgrade but makes the space feel way more organised.

Russell Hobbs Heated Electric Blanket

Not glamorous but trust me. Warmer bed means you can keep the room cooler overall. Energy efficient and perfect for spring evenings when it is still chilly.

Philips Series 3000 Garment Steamer

I bake a lot and somehow always get flour everywhere. Quick steam refresh keeps clothes crisp without dragging out an ironing board. Great if your bedroom doubles as dressing area.

A spring reset does not have to mean new furniture or repainting. Sometimes it is lighting, air quality and small tech tweaks that shift the whole mood.

After living in so many shared houses and slowly upgrading from cheap basics to better gear, I have learned this. Small intentional upgrades stack up. Your bedroom should feel calm, practical and slightly indulgent.

If it makes your day easier and your space lighter, it is worth it.

2026’s Best Air Fryers for Tiny Kitchens

February 14, 2026

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I’ve lived in shared houses, tiny kitchens, barely any counter space, working from home producing music all day. So I know the feeling all too well. That quick food hit that doesn’t destroy the kitchen. As a keen foodie who eats a substantial amount.. these compact air fryers are GAME-CHAN-GERS.

Small flats. Shared houses. Dark kitchens. No space. Cheap appliances. I started with the super budget stuff and slowly upgraded. These are the small, budget friendly air fryers I genuinely think are amazinnngg for tight spaces in 2026.

If you are upgrading more than just your air fryer, I cover practical kitchen appliances and home essentials in detail over on ‘housecorn.com’ right here. All are compact. All are on Amazon. All suit small kitchens.

Philips 3000 Series NA353/19 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer

A bit bigger but still sleek and compact in height. Dual baskets let you cook two dishes at once, which is incredibly handy if you meal prep or cook for two. Great pick if you want that extra versatility.

Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer Air Fryer

The FlexDrawer design is seriously clever. You can cook two different foods at once without chaos in a small kitchen. Crispy fries, chicken, veggies, all done fast. Solid build, simple controls, and perfect for flats or shared houses where space matters.

COSORI Air Fryer TurboBlaze, 6L

I was sceptical about big air fryers in small kitchens, but this TurboBlaze squeezes in nicely and still gives plenty of room for family meals or meal prep. Heats fast, cooks evenly, and cleanup is a breeze. Great if you want one that handles bigger portions without being clunky.

Tower T17021 Family Size Air Fryer 4.3L

Budget friendly and surprisingly powerful. 4.3L gives a bit more flexibility without taking over the counter. I used something similar in a shared house and it handled chicken, chips, even small bakes. Easy dial controls. No fuss. Just works.

Russell Hobbs Compact Rapid Air Fryer 4L

Ideal for small kitchens and minimalists. 2L capacity, lightweight, and easy to store in cupboards if needed. Great for quick lunches between Zoom calls and editing sessions. If you work from home like me, speed and simplicity matter. This nails it.

Instant Vortex Air Fryer 5L

Super sleek and compact. Looks good in modern kitchens and does not feel cheap. 2L capacity makes it ideal for singles or couples. Heats evenly and crisps well. I was sceptical at first but honestly… proper solid performance for the size.

Chefman TurboFry 2L Air Fryer

Another compact option that punches above its weight. Straightforward temperature dial, timer knob, easy clean basket. Perfect if you want something affordable that does the basics well. No complicated menus. Just throw food in and go.

Russell Hobbs 20L Oven 5-in-1 Rapid Hot Air Fryer, Mini Oven

Yes it’s a mini oven, but it’s a serious space saver. This 5-in-1 unit air fries, bakes, grills and more in one compact 20L design. Great for small kitchens where you want versatility without multiple appliances taking over the counter. Simple controls, solid everyday performance.

Keplin 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer – 8in1 Cooking Functions

This one is super cool for small kitchens. Dual zones let you cook two foods at once, and the 8-in-1 functions mean less guessing and more done fast. 9L is generous but still compact, and the layout makes meal prep feel way easier when you’re juggling work, food and life.

Bosch Series 6 Air Fryer XXL

This Bosch Series 6 still fits well in small kitchens thanks to smart design. Powerful heating and even airflow mean crispy results every time. Great if you want reliable performance and space-saving vibes without fuss.

Hamilton Beach HealthyCook 8L Dual Air Fryer

This 8L dual fryer is perfect for small kitchens and busy days. Two cooking zones let you crisp different foods at once, and the controls are stupidly easy. Great size, solid results, and perfect when you cook between work sessions or feeding friends without taking over all your counter.

If you are in a small flat, shared house, or building your setup around a home studio like I have done for years, you do not need a massive appliance dominating your kitchen. You need efficient. Compact. Reliable.

Trust me. I have trialled the cheap stuff. Burnt chips. Uneven cooking. Regret purchases. These picks are the ones that hit that sweet spot of value and performance.

Small kitchen. Big flavour. Sorted.

Compact air fryers ideal for small kitchens in 2026

The Electronic Guide is supported by its readers and participates in affiliate marketing programs, including Amazon Associates. We may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through links on this site, at no additional cost to you.
Some images featured on The Electronic Guide are digitally generated concept designs created for inspirational purposes. These visuals may not represent physical products or real life spaces exactly as shown.
All content is provided for informational and inspirational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding product availability, pricing, specifications, or suitability. Please verify all product details directly with the retailer before purchasing.
Earbuds That Won’t Fall Out: Reviews and Recommendations

February 12, 2026

Okay okay okay I know I said I was done buying earbuds. But when you train hard, commute loads, work from home, edit videos, produce music, teach piano online… you NEED something that stays put. I have lived in shared houses, trained in busy gyms, sprinted for buses, even baked bread with one earbud in. If they fall out, they are gone.

I started with the cheap stuff. Throuugh years of trial and error, here are the ones that actually stick.

Beats Fit Pro

These are my go to for gym sessions. The wingtip design locks into your ear properly, not just pretending to. I have done full upper body workouts and treadmill runs without touching them once. Sound is punchy, bass is solid, and noise cancelling is incredddible for focus.

Technics EAH-AZ100E-A

These are premium earbuds I personally grabbed when I wanted crisp detailed sound that still stays in your ear thanks to deep in-ear fit and ergonomic shape. Hi-Res sound with magnetic fluid drivers for rich bass and clarity and adaptive noise cancelling to keep focus in the gym or when editing music and video.

Bose Sport Earbuds

Comfort level is unreal. They sit snug without that painful pressure some buds give. I wore these editing video for hours then straight into a workout. No slipping. The sound is clean and wide, very Bose. Not the cheapest but you feel the quality instantly.

Sony WF C700N

These surprised me. Lightweight, compact, and they stay in better than many pricier options. Noise cancelling is solid for commuting or working in a noisy shared house kitchen while I am cooking. Great all rounders for daily use without breaking the bank.

JBL Reflect Aero TWS

These are proper gym beasts. Secure wing design plus water resistance means sweat is not an issue. I have used them during intense cardio and they did not budge. Bass is strong which keeps energy high. Feels built for movement, not just sitting at a desk.

Soundcore Sport X20

Budget friendly but still 👏GAME👏CHAN👏GER energy. The rotating ear hooks are brilliant if normal buds never fit you right. I recommend these to students who want something solid without spending loads. Great for workouts and daily podcasts.

After building home studios in five different properties over the last ten years, I care about sound AND practicality. Whether I am producing tracks, teaching online, meal prepping in the kitchen, or smashing a gym session, earbuds that stay in are non negotiable. No more readjusting mid set. No more one bud on the floor.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Small Tech Upgrades That Quietly Remove Daily Friction

February 11, 2026

I have lived in so many shared houses it is unreal. Five different home studios. Cables everywhere. Kitchen chaos. Bathroom battles. I work from home, I produce music, I have edited video till 2am. The tiny annoyances add up.

These are the small upgrades that low key changed my day to day. Not flashy. Not dramatic. Just smooth. Quiet. Incredddible.

Heated Smart Coffee & Tea Mug Warmer Set

Okay okay okay I know I said I was fine with lukewarm coffee. I was lying to myself. When you work from home and jump between Logic sessions and emails, your drink goes cold. This keeps it perfect. Not reheated. Just steady warmth. Low effort. High comfort. Amazinnngg on long editing days.

3 in 1 Wireless Charging Station

Shared house life means fighting over plugs. In my old setups I had cables everywhere. This one stand charges phone, watch, earbuds in one place. Cleaner desk. Fewer wires. Less visual noise. It is one of those 👏GAME👏CHAN👏GER upgrades that makes your studio or bedside feel intentional.

Dupray Bloom™ Air Purifier for Large Rooms with Planter

Home studio number three had zero airflow. Dust, dog hair, cooking smells. As a foodie who bakes and cooks most nights, air quality matters. This one cleans the air and doubles as a planter. Functional and aesthetic. It quietly runs while I mix or cook. Feels calmer instantly.

UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

Shared bathroom. Enough said. This little thing sanitizes your toothbrush with UV light. It is such a tiny upgrade but mentally it is huge. Especially when you live with multiple people. Cleaner. Safer. Less ick factor. One of those products you forget about until you realise you would hate to lose it.

Ceramic Essential Oil Diffusers

I was sceptical at first. But scent changes everything. When I switch from producing to winding down, I run this with something subtle. Lavender, eucalyptus, whatever vibe. It makes a room feel fresh even after cooking or a long session. Quiet background comfort. Surprisingly powerful.

Over ten years of building home studios in different houses I started with the cheapest basics. Slowly I realised it is these small friction removers that matter most. Not glamorous. Just smooth daily living. And once you feel that difference, you cannot unfeel it.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Ultimate Guide to Small Space Projectors

February 7, 2026

I have lived in many shared houses, worked from home for years, edited video, produced music, gigged, taught, baked too much bread, and somehow built home studios in 5 different properties over the last 10 years. I started with the cheap stuff, upgraded slowly, tested loads, broke a few things, and learned what actually works in small rooms. These projectors are ones I would happily live with again. Okay okay okay I know I said small spaces, but trust me, these hit HARD without taking over your life.

Anker Nebula Capsule 3

This tiny thing blew my mind. I used it in a bedroom studio setup and even took it to shared houses movie nights. Built in battery, Android TV, decent speakers. Not cinema perfect but for the size its incredddible and so easy to live with.

XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro

I used this while working from home and editing video in a cramped room. Sharp image, great autofocus, fast setup. You plonk it down and boom done. For small flats and rented places this is a GAME CHANGER type vibe.

BenQ GV50

This one feels designed for real humans not showroom demos. Angled projection is perfect for beds and sofas. Solid sound, easy controls, and it looks nice sitting out. Shared house friendly and foodie friendly for chill cooking then watching something vibes.

Epson EF 72

Absolutely insane.

More premium but wow. I used this in a small studio where I also mixed music and edited video. Colour accuracy is amazinnngg and brightness holds up even with some lights on. If you want proper quality without a massive unit this is it.

Wimius 4k Projector

The best entry level projector in the business in my humble opinion. Budget friendly and honestly kinda adorable. I used this when money was tight and space tighter. Not the brightest but for night viewing in a bedroom it’s totally usable. Built in stand makes setup stupidly simple.

I have trialed loads of gear over the years from cheap to fancy and these are the ones that actually make sense when you live in real homes, not perfect Instagram rooms. Small space life but still big screen energy.

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Transform Your Evenings with Smart Home Gadgets

February 5, 2026

I’ve lived in many shared houses. Like… many many. I work from home, I’ve edited videos, produced music, played instruments, baked bread at 2am, and built home studios in 5 different properties over the last 10 years. I started with cheap basics, slowly upgraded, tested stuff that was amazinnngg… and stuff that was incredddible garbage.
These are the living-room bits that actually improved evenings instead of adding more buttons, apps, or stress. Okay okay okay I know I said “simple” but trust me, these are 👏GAME👏CHAN👏GER level without the faff.

Colour Changing Floor Lamp

This one surprised me. Soft ambient light that doesn’t scream “RGB gamer cave”. Perfect for late edits, Netflix, or when mates are round. I’ve had lamps like this across shared houses and studios, instant mood fix without touching the ceiling lights. Lazy lighting = happy evenings.

Smart LED Strips for Back of TV

Bias lighting is real. Your eyes feel better, the room feels warmer, and suddenly the TV looks fancier than it is. I’ve installed these in rentals, studios, and my current place. Cheap upgrade, big vibe shift. Once you try it… yeah you’re not going back.

Projector

Projectors sound extra until you live with one. Movie nights feel intentional. Gaming feels massive. Even casual YouTube while cooking (keen foodie here, always baking something) feels cinema-ish. I’ve dragged projectors through multiple houses and they always end up being the most-used thing.

Birdie 2.0 – Indoor CO2 Monitor & Air Quality Meter

This is sneaky-good. I work from home and didn’t realise stale air was nuking my focus. Birdie sits there quietly telling you when to open a window. Mental clarity up, headaches down. One of those adult purchases that actually helps. Also it’s just super cute.

ULTIMEA 7.1ch Virtual Surround Sound Bar

I’ve worked with audio for years and I’m picky. This setup hits way above its price. Clear dialogue, punchy bass, surround that actually surrounds. Film nights, games, even casual music listening, all leveled up. No AV-receiver rabbit hole. Plug in, done, enjoy.

YONISEE Lift Chair Recliner

Hear me out. I tested this thinking “nah”. Wrong. Long edit days, sore back, late-night baking cooldowns this thing fixes you. Heat, massage, USB ports, hidden drink holders. It’s comfy in a grown-up way, not ugly. Guests fight over it. Facts.

These are the bits that survived multiple moves, messy houses, work-from-home chaos, and real daily use. Not flashy tech for the sake of it, just stuff that made evenings calmer, warmer, better.

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Fans That Actually Cool a Room (Not Desk Toys)

February 3, 2026

Okay okay okay I know I said fans are boring… but after living in way too many shared houses, working from home, editing video till 2am, producing music in sweaty box rooms, and baking bread while Logic Pro is screaming at my CPU — airflow becomes a 👏GAME👏CHAN👏GER.

I’ve built home studios in 5 different properties over the last 10 years. Started cheap (we all do), slowly upgraded, tested, returned, re-tested. These are the fans that actually move air. Not desk toys. Not “is it even on?” vibes.

GoveeLife 36-inch Smart Tower Fan

This one feels very future house. App control, voice control, and properly quiet. I love this for work-from-home days when I’m editing or producing and don’t want fan noise ruining my life. Smart schedules = incredddible when the room heats up fast.

Dreo 25dB Silent Tower Fan

I recommend this to friends constantly. It’s cheap-ish, powerful, and genuinely silent. I’ve used this in bedrooms, shared houses, and studios. Pushes air properly, not just vibes. Honestly amazinnngg value for money.

Shark TurboBlade Bladeless Tower Fan

This thing is a weapon. Expensive, yes, but it actually projects air across a room. Great for open spaces, kitchens (hello baking sessions), or studio rooms that turn into saunas. If you want “oh wow that’s cooling” — this is it.

Dreo 40-inch Smart Standing Fan

More old-school shape but insanely effective. Covers big rooms, oscillates wide, and works great in multipurpose spaces. I’ve used this in rooms where I cook, work, and record — handles heat from ovens and gear like a champ.

Amazon Basics Digital Pedestal Fan

The budget king. No nonsense, no apps, just air. I’ve owned versions of this since my first home studio. Reliable, easy to move, and perfect if you’re starting out or need something temporary that still actually cools.

Fan List Right Here!

Final thoughts

Fans don’t need to be fancy — they need to move air. These do. Tested through heatwaves, long sessions, shared kitchens, late-night mixes, and bread baking marathons. If it made the cut, it earned it.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.