TikTok has become a modern catalog of shopping recommendations, but can you trust the hype? The WIRED Gear team tested some of the most popular gadgets to find gifts that are both viral and worth the money. Here’s what made the cut, updated for November 2025 with new additions and price checks.
Protect Your Hearing in Style
Loop Experience 2 Earplugs ($35 at Amazon)
Loop earplugs have consistently gone viral, and for good reason. These aren’t your average concert plugs: they reduce sound without muffling it, so you can still hear the music and conversations while avoiding ringing ears later. What sets them apart is the visibility – they look like jewelry, making hearing protection a style statement.
A Bold Statement Speaker
Morningblues R1 Vinyl-Style Bluetooth Speaker ($1,049 at Amazon/Walmart)
This 3-foot-tall speaker shaped like a record is a conversation starter…and a luxury purchase. At over $1,000, it’s a bizarre price for a single speaker when many comparable options exist for under $300. The R1 has walnut legs, a black frame, and connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. When on, it displays album art or animations; when off, it turns into a vintage flip clock. It’s a novelty item with high-end aesthetics, but not for apartment dwellers due to its powerful bass.
Pimple Patches with a Pop
Starface Hydro-Star Pimple Patches ($27 at Amazon/Ulta)
These hydrocolloid patches flatten zits, reduce redness, and shield blemishes from bacteria. But their real appeal is fun: wearing them makes you feel more confident while breaking out. The Big Yellow compact keeps them stocked, and they’re a playful addition to any skincare routine.
Beginner-Friendly Waffles
Dash Mini Waffle Maker ($13 at Amazon/Target)
This affordable mini waffle maker opens up a world of homemade recipes. From chocolate chip waffles to cheese quesadillas, it’s compact, easy to clean, and perfect for cluttered countertops. It’s a gateway to cooking for those who typically rely on frozen waffles.
Air Fryer Versatility
Instant Pot Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven ($160 at Amazon/Williams-Sonoma)
An air fryer is an easy way to cook quickly. The Instant Vortex Plus has a six-quart capacity and a viewing window for monitoring cooking without interrupting the cycle. It includes odor-erase filters and is a great choice for larger households.
The Everyday Dress That Makes Sense
Halara Everyday Dress ($45 at Halara)
This stretchy, pocketed dress is a viral hit because it’s versatile: wear it to ride your skateboard, walk your dog, or go to lunch. The straps aren’t adjustable, but it’s perfect for warm climates or anyone who wants to look cute while being productive.
Fitness Tracking That Doesn’t Look Like Tech
Oura Ring 4 ($349 at Oura/Amazon/Best Buy)
The Oura Ring 4 is smaller, lighter, and more accurate than its predecessor. It tracks fitness metrics unobtrusively, looking like jewelry instead of a smartwatch. Battery life lasts around five days, making it ideal for those who want data without the bulk.
Easy Curling Iron for Beginners
Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron ($119 at Amazon/Target/Beachwaver)
This rotating curling iron simplifies the process of curling hair. Clamp, press a button, and let it wrap your hair around the wand for easy corkscrew curls. TikTok tutorials make it even easier to learn.
Stylish Headphones for the Trendsetter
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) ($549 at Amazon/Apple)
The AirPods Max are known for their excellent sound quality, comfortable fit, and seamless Apple connectivity. Celebrities and influencers alike sport them in social media posts, making them a statement piece. While expensive, they’re a popular choice for those who want premium headphones.
Hydration with a Twist
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle ($40 at Amazon/Owala)
The Owala FreeSip has two spouts – one for sipping, one for chugging – both leak-proof when locked. The 40-ounce size is popular for emotional hydration support, and it comes in fun color combinations.
Retro Aesthetics Meet Modern Tech
Nuphy Halo75 V2 Keyboard ($150 at Amazon/Nuphy)
This keyboard combines retro aesthetics with modern features. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, connects via Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, or USB-C, and comes in several colors. Its RGB lighting and cute design make it an adorable addition to any desk setup.
A Compact Retro Camera
Kodak Pixpro FZ45 ($130 at Amazon/Walmart)
For those who miss film but hate developing, the Kodak Pixpro FZ45 offers a retro aesthetic with digital convenience. It has a 16-MP sensor, 4x optical zoom, and stores up to 2,000 photos on a 4 GB microSD card. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to use.
Conclusion: TikTok’s viral trends aren’t always reliable, but these gadgets prove some hype is deserved. From hearing protection to stylish speakers, the products listed deliver on both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a gift, these picks are worth a look.
