accessories Archives

Amazon Haul: It’s like Temu in the Amazon Shopping app

Can you guess how much money super-cheap Chinese retailer Temu raked in last year? The answer is about $54 billion, and the latest numbers show almost half that total came from American shoppers.

It’s hard to resist inexpensive stuff shipped right to your door, even when you end up with hilarious fails like this. Want a way to score Temu-like deals without giving Communist China all your personal data? Meet Amazon Haul, the new online destination for dirt-cheap finds.

Before you light up my inbox with, “Kim Komando, this is just cheap crap from China!” … I know. If buying this stuff feels like a waste to you, keep scrollin’, my friend.

Amazon Haul 101

You can’t shop for this cheap stuff in your browser; Haul is only built into the Amazon Shopping app. Look for the “Haul” tab at the top. Here’s a link to download the Amazon app, if you need it.

Everything is under $20, but most items are way, way less. You’ll find everything from electronics to hair accessories to cooking utensils.

What about shipping? Free next-day Prime delivery doesn’t apply. For Haul orders over $25, there’s no shipping charge, but expect to wait a week or two while your stuff comes directly from China. For orders under $25, there’s a $3.99 fee.

🛍️ Haul returns are free for purchases over $3 within 15 days. Mail back your stuff or use any of Amazon’s drop-off spots, like Whole Foods, UPS, Kohl’s and Staples.

Red flags

Amazon Haul is full of brands you’ve never heard of. What you buy online might not be exactly what arrives. Here are a few musts so you’re not completely throwing away money:

Check the reviews: Amazon labels reviews from customers who really bought the item as a “Verified Purchase.” There aren’t many reviews since Amazon Haul is new.
Spot AI-generated pics: Do the pics look a little too perfect … or totally weird? Look for things like strange lighting and proportions that feel off.
Use common sense: You’re getting cheap stuff shipped from China, so buy accordingly. Avoid electronics with lithium-ion batteries, charging cables that could catch fire or beauty items that might not be safe on your skin.

🛒 Things in my cart under $2

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We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

5 features you should have in every indoor security camera

Research the best indoor security cameras and you’ll get many results. One way to cut through the nonsense and hone in on what you want is by asking yourself which indoor security camera features you need.

This way, you can filter out cameras that don’t have everything you need. Once you find your perfect camera, you must consider the best placement and location. Here are three ways to make the most of your video cameras.

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Pack light, travel right

✈️ These affordable, unique accessories should be in your bag.

Add an extra layer of security with a portable safe (17% off). Secure it with a cord when you arrive at your hotel.
On a plane that makes you plug in your headphones? Try these wired Sony earbud headphones (50% off).
Tidy up your wired earbuds with this pack of two cord organizers (13% off) for you and your travel buddy.
This travel wallet can hold your boarding pass, passport, ID and cards so you have ’em on hand.
Organize all your cords and wires with this accessories bag.

😎 For my biggest fans: Off to somewhere hot? Snag a portable neck fan (11% off), so you can chill out in the sun.

We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

Smart headlights, bionic eye for blindness, slim XR glasses

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Is the DeLorean coming back as an EV? Here’s all you need to know. Plus, Ford makes it easy to 3D-print accessories and a bionic eye partially restores a woman’s vision. Also, here’s how to trade in old gear for Amazon cash and how many steps you should take each day.

Nintendo Switch 2 update: Preorders are set for April 24, and the price is holding at $449.99. Accessories are getting more expensive. The Joy-Con is $94.99, the Pro Controller is $84.99, and the Switch 2 Camera is $54.99. Launch day’s locked for June 5. By the time I finish buying accessories, Nintendo is legally allowed to claim me as a dependent.

Best Android phone accessories under $20

Amazon

Whether it’s cases, new chargers or some accessories that you may have never even heard of before, this list gives you everything you need to maximize your Android phone’s potential without breaking the bank.

You may not be a photographer, but nowadays, we all can take amazing footage and glorious photos with our phones. Just pop up your Aureday phone tripod, affix your phone to the mount, and you’re ready to go.

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Ask Kim: 'Can you help me choose a new PC and printer?'

Every week, Kim is asked tech-related questions. Which organizers are best for home offices? What apps are the safest for kids to use? What are brands worth the cost?

Kim recently received one question that stood out. Marion from Tennessee explained she helps run two small companies. They want to upgrade two desktop computers and a printer since they have been very slow. She’d like to know what fast computers and printers Kim recommends.

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Up your phone photography game

🤳 Who has an actual camera anymore?

Spend $13 on a phone tripod (12% off) instead of leaning your phone on a pile of books every time you want to take a family photo. It comes with a remote, too.
Beach vacay planned and don’t want to buy a GoPro? A waterproof phone pouch saves you $200.
No amount of Photoshop will save that smudged Christmas dinner pic. (Blame the ham.) If only you’d had a microfiber cleaning cloth (30% off, $7) …
Facebook Marketplace hack: If you use a white backdrop, the stuff you’re selling looks a lot fancier. Only $10!
A clip-on selfie light is great for stuff like selfies, Zoom meetings and taking your own passport pictures (with the white backdrop!).

🤑 FYI: Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program can save you a bunch on the essentials you always use. I use it for vitamins and other things I never want to run out of.

We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

👮 Stop, it’s the police: DJI made new drone accessories that let cops yell at you from the sky. The Zenmuse V1 speaker blasts voices at up to 127 decibels, which is about as loud as a jet taking off. Nothing says “subtle police presence” like a screaming metal bird. There’s also a spotlight that beams light up to 500 meters (that’s 0.3 miles for the rest of us).

All it takes is a few hundred bucks: Sites like China’s Temu sell cheap drone accessories that can turn them into DIY weapons. We’re talking AI-guided cameras that recognize people and vehicles, and cargo holders that can carry explosives. Seriously frightening.

🤩 I’m a Barbie girl: For $129, you can have your very own hot pink flip phone that looks just like Barbie’s. Manufacturer HMD (the folks who own Nokia) call it a vacation, as in no social media apps — just calls, texts and a 5MP camera. Accessories include stick-on charms, vintage Barbie stickers and a beaded strap. Preorders open Sept. 23. People want it so badly that they’re lining up in a Barbie queue.

Best Apple AirTags accessories for your keys, bag, pet, luggage and more

Amazon

Apple AirTags can help find your keys so you’re not late to work, but they could be used for much more. This list of accessories is a good starting point to make the most out of your AirTags.

Imagine losing your wallet and then finding it right after you cancel all your payment cards. Perhaps this has happened to you! You won’t have to worry about it anymore.

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Need help setting up your home security system? SimpliSafe is just a call away

By now, it’s crystal clear that a home security system is a literal lifesaver. Depending on your choice, your cameras can catch burglars and even call for emergency help. Despite the many benefits, a few key concerns stop people from buying one.

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8 smart ways to use Bluetooth trackers like the AirTag and Tile

You’ve probably heard all the buzz about Bluetooth trackers, from Apple AirTags to Tile trackers. Tap or click here to find out the difference between these two beloved gadgets.

Whichever one you choose, you’re buying a popular piece of lost and found software that can save your hide in times of crisis. Bluetooth trackers are most famous for helping people track down lost or stolen items. But there are a few different uses you might not have known about.

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Best wrist rests to help with carpal tunnel and hand cramping at your PC

Many of us collapse our wrists between different blocks of typing and lean them against the corner of our desks. That’s not good for your tendons. Wrist rests help prevent additional damage and reduce fatigue during long work days.

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Money tight? 10 ways you're wasting cash (even when you think you're saving)

You might think, “There’s no bad way to save money.” In reality, there’s a lot you can do wrong — no matter how good your intentions are. Tap or click here for five ways you’re wasting money on tech purchases.

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Shopping on Black Friday? Here's when your favorite stores open

If you’re brave enough to shop on Black Friday, you know the importance of a game plan. Some folks prepare by lacing up their running shoes; others are ready to throw some elbow jabs. We prefer the non-violent approach: Showing up bright and early to get a head start on the action.

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Belkin just released all kinds of magnetic iPhone gear - Are these accessories worth it?

Nearly a year ago, Apple released the iPhone 12 and resurrected a feature once exclusive to certain Mac computers: MagSafe. That opened the door to all kinds of magnetic chargers, mounts, wallets and just about any other kind of accessory you can think of.

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iPad accessories way cheaper than the original Apple versions

Do you love your Apple products but cringe at the prices of all those accessories? You’re not alone. Thankfully, there are tons of affordable accessories on the market that deliver the same high quality at a fraction of the price.

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It's back-to-school time: Great deals on home office essentials

Amazon

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be a drag. Instead of fighting over the last desk organizer or package of your favorite pens, go online. Visit Amazon and take advantage of free 2-day shipping for Prime members.

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