Best Smart Projectors And Handy Gadgets: From Mini Projectors to Pet Grooming Tools | Vol. 12
Five editorially chosen picks: one hero, three supporting acts, and one wildcard. This drop is designed to be browsed as a full collection, not just a pile of affiliate links.

Hero Pick
XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro Mini Projector
A compact and portable projector that comes with Google TV, Netflix, and Harman Kardon sound.
At a glance
Everything in this drop

XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro Mini Projector
A compact and portable projector that comes with Google TV, Netflix, and Harman Kardon sound.

PRO Solar Smart Bird Feeder - Bird Buddy
A solar-powered bird feeder that lets you watch and learn about birds in stunning detail.

Smart Mini Electric Engraving Pen By ARROWMAX
A miniature engraving pen designed to tackle your precision engraving projects with ease.

Portable Electric Lunch Box - Crockpot
The Crockpot Portable Electric Lunch Box is your new best mate in the daily lunch battle, keeping meals hot and fresh without breaking a sweat (or a container). Perfect for those on-the-go days when you need a proper meal but can't bear soggy sandwiches.

PETKIT AIRSALON MAX - The Pet Hair Dryer That Packs a Punch
The PETKIT AIRSALON MAX offers an innovative approach to pet grooming that promises to take the hassle out of drying your pets after baths, walks, or any wet misadventures. With its quiet operation and 60L spacious design, it's a game-changer for pet owners looking for an efficient way to keep their furry friends not just clean but fab!
Deep dive
Why each pick earned its place




XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro Mini Projector
A compact and portable projector that comes with Google TV, Netflix, and Harman Kardon sound.
Price
£298.97
Editorial rating
4.5 / 5
We've all been there: you arrive at your mate's BBQ, your phone's charging while you desperately try to find a wall to project the evening's entertaining Netflix binge on. Enter the XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro-a real unsung hero for such dire situations. This mini projector isn't just a gadget; it's a portable imprester, ready to turn any dull wall into an instant cinema!
In the relentless battle against bad TV reception or cringe-party games, having something like the MoGo 3 Pro isn't just nice; it's absolutely essential. Imagine unfolding this pocket powerhouse in the middle of nowhere and transforming boredom into applause-worthy entertainment. It's perfect for impromptu film screenings or camping adventures, assuming you packed the popcorn-don't forget the popcorn!
And if you're worrying about fumbling around with cables and set-up-fear not! This sleek device comes with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, allowing it to connect with a couple of buttons. It's as if this little beast was designed for those of us who can barely manage our phone charger-let alone a whole projector system!
The Irresistible
- Incredibly portable; take it anywhere without feeling like you've packed unnecessary weights.
- Stunning 1080P quality that transforms your living room into a dazzling cinema-who needs the IMAX?
- With Harman Kardon sound, your neighbours will either love or hate you, but at least you're living the high life!
The Clever Part
- Google TV integration means you won't be stuck searching for content; it's all right there, fancy and ready to go.
- 2.5 hours of battery life means no scrambling for an extension lead just to watch a film-freedom at last!
- Adjustable stand ensures you can project from literally anywhere-a true multitasker's delight!
The Fine Print
- 450 ISO lumens might not match your granddad's projector from 1985, so ambient light issues could still crop up-sorry!
- It won't perform like a full home setup, so the moonlight ambience may be your only foe when you're outdoors.
- No built-in storage means you'll need to rely on streaming services or external devices, don't forget to download that episode!
The Reality Check
- True, it can be a bit pricier than some garden gnomes, but then again, have you ever thrown a gnome party? Didn't think so.
- The hassle of setting up Netflix can be a game-changer, so prepare for a five-minute interlude-cheers for your patience!




PRO Solar Smart Bird Feeder - Bird Buddy
A solar-powered bird feeder that lets you watch and learn about birds in stunning detail.
Price
£174.31
Editorial rating
4.0 / 5
I don't know about you, but the concept of watching birds has always sounded a bit... leisurely for my taste. But when I stumbled upon the PRO Solar Smart Bird Feeder from Bird Buddy, I was intrigued. This nifty contraption doesn't just serve seeds; it serves up a whole lot of entertainment-complete with a camera to capture every feathery moment. It's the perfect sidekick to my main pick: a classic wooden bird feeder.
You see, it's not meant to replace your old reliable feeder; it's here to spice things up while giving you a lush glimpse into the lives of our avian pals. Who knew birdwatching could be as engaging as binge-watching the latest series?
Also, let's be honest: this gives me something to talk about when I inevitably find myself at a barbecue with all the other gardening enthusiasts. "Oh, you just have a regular bird feeder? How quaint! Have you seen my camera-equipped avian restaurant?"
The Irresistible
- The built-in camera lets you get up close and personal with your feathered friends, capturing 5MP photos and 2K HD live video.
- Solar-powered means less faffing about with batteries or extension cords-perfect for those of us who prefer to keep things simple (or just forgetful).
- AI Bird identification helps you learn about your visitors. Finally, a way to show off to friends without sounding like a total nerd!
The Clever Part
- The slow-motion video feature is a game changer for those odd moments when birds take flight in what feels like slow-mo-nature's dramatic art piece fit for the Oscars.
- The design is sleek and modern, so it won't clash with your garden aesthetic. It's like the James Bond of bird feeders-stylish and secretive about its tech.
- Installing it is a doddle, so you can stress about where to hang the laundry instead of struggling with complicated setups.
The Fine Print
- While the camera is great, the quality dips dramatically in low light. So evening birdwatching? Not the best idea, unless you fancy a blurry black shape flitting about.
- The app can be a bit temperamental at times-like your phone when you're trying to show off photos and it freezes. Just a bit frustrating, to say the least.
- You might find yourself spending more time watching the birds than actually enjoying the garden-with the risk of friends questioning your priorities.
The Reality Check
- As fabulous as it is, the cost might make your wallet a bit squeamish. But then again, can you really put a price on nature? Well, yes, apparently.
- The solar panel does need some sun exposure, so if you're in the UK and it's a typical grey day, you might have to wait for that elusive sunshine to charge it properly.




Smart Mini Electric Engraving Pen By ARROWMAX
A miniature engraving pen designed to tackle your precision engraving projects with ease.
Price
£69.97
Editorial rating
4.0 / 5
I've been on a quest for the perfect little gadget to transform my half-hearted attempts at DIY into something that resembles actual craftsmanship. Enter the Smart Mini Electric Engraving Pen by ARROWMAX, the cheeky sidekick to my main crafting hero.
This pen isn't your run-of-the-mill engraving tool; it packs a punch in a pint-sized package, supporting all my wild creative urges. Paired with fancy bits and a jazzy OLED display, it's the ideal choice for those moments when I want to impress my mates without the mess of traditional tools.
In a world where cluttered desks and rushed mornings reign supreme, this nifty little device is the practical alternative we didn't know we needed. No longer do I have to battle with bulky machines or spend an hour cleaning up after my artistic endeavours.
It stands perfectly next to my main pick of a full-sized rotary tool, providing that extra flexibility when the moment strikes and I just want to etch something cute onto a bit of wood or personalise a gift.
I might not be the next Picasso, but with this pen, at least my mugs look like they were crafted with love rather than thrown together in a fit of creativity!
The Irresistible
- Sleek and compact design makes it perfect for those tiny desks.
- Charges via magnetic connection, making it as easy as a cheeky cuppa.
- Comes with 42 bits, so you're sorted for just about any engraving adventure.
The Clever Part
- OLED display is surprisingly easy to read, even in dim light.
- Perfectly balances power with precise control, preventing any accidental disasters.
- Lightweight and cordless, so you can take your artistry anywhere-like the nearest coffee shop for some extra inspiration.
The Fine Print
- The battery life is decent but could use a bit more oomph for lengthy projects.
- Not as sturdy as traditional engraved tools, so a delicate touch is necessary.
- Could leave a few stray metal shavings behind-definitely a mess to clean up later.
The Reality Check
- I might have accidentally gone full destruction mode on my first attempt-watch out for the learning curve!
- If you're looking for a professional-grade tool, this might feel like a toy in comparison.




Portable Electric Lunch Box - Crockpot
The Crockpot Portable Electric Lunch Box is your new best mate in the daily lunch battle, keeping meals hot and fresh without breaking a sweat (or a container). Perfect for those on-the-go days when you need a proper meal but can't bear soggy sandwiches.
Price
£40.75
Editorial rating
4.5 / 5
Have you ever opened your lunch at work and wished you could swap that sad sarnie for something a bit more luxurious? Don't worry, me too. Enter the Crockpot Portable Electric Lunch Box, the perfect supporting player alongside your main attraction, which is undoubtedly your lavish home-cooked meals. This nifty gadget doesn't just warm your food; it brings a touch of gourmet to your lunch breaks, turning leftovers into something worth savouring.
As someone who's seen a fair share of grey meals in the office microwave, I can't stress enough how glorious it is to open a steaming hot lunch, ready to eat like you've just emerged from a four-star restaurant. This little powerhouse is not just a lunchbox; it's a portable feast, keeping your food piping hot and vastly improving your lunch game.
Compared to the standout Hero (you know, the shiny lunchbox from your childhood that failed by lunchtime), this electric wonder delivers gourmet vibes with minimal effort. It's not just for the office; perfect for road trips or even park picnics when you fancy a touch of class among soaring pigeons and ants. It's the ideal sidekick for something truly special!
The Irresistible
- Keeps meals warm and fresh for hours, so you get to enjoy proper food, not just reheated plate mush.
- Spill-free design means I can toss it in my bag without worrying about a soupy disaster hiding my laptop.
- Dishwasher-safe feature makes cleaning up surprisingly hassle-free after a hearty lunch. What a treat!
The Clever Part
- Great for those who are constantly on the move, making lunchtime a bit more civilized against pre-packed nonsense.
- Fits easily into most bags, meaning I can tote it around without feeling like I'm lugging around my own personal five-star buffet.
- Ideal for both work and leisure; you can even use it for travel! Turns boring car journeys into food-filled adventures.
The Fine Print
- Takes a while to warm up, so you'll need to plan ahead, which some days feels like a Herculean task.
- Only holds 20 oz - for those of us with bigger appetites, this might not cut it, especially on hungry days.
- Cord could be longer; if your office doesn't have a convenient socket, you'll find yourself in quite the awkward situation.
The Reality Check
- It isn't the sleekest design out there, and it might spark an existential crisis about your lunch choices.
- If you're not careful, it can get a bit hot to touch on the outside - ice cream, anyone?




PETKIT AIRSALON MAX - The Pet Hair Dryer That Packs a Punch
The PETKIT AIRSALON MAX offers an innovative approach to pet grooming that promises to take the hassle out of drying your pets after baths, walks, or any wet misadventures. With its quiet operation and 60L spacious design, it's a game-changer for pet owners looking for an efficient way to keep their furry friends not just clean but fab!
Price
£399.99
Editorial rating
4.0 / 5
Picture this: you're stood in the kitchen, towel wrapped around you like some sort of disgruntled spa attendant while your cat, Max, is wildly shaking off the water from his latest bath. I mean, how can something that looks so fluffy turn the entire space into a mini water park so quickly? Enter the AIRSALON MAX by PETKIT, an almost magical contraption that promises to turn your wet pets into fluffy clouds without the soggy chaos.
Now, let's be honest; I didn't know I needed a pet hair dryer until this little gizmo came into my life. It's not just another gadget - it's the Wildcard of the grooming world! It tackles the very specific problem of water-logged pets and does so with what looks like something out of a sci-fi film. And yes, my scepticism was high, but I was also slightly giddy at the thought of walking my now glamorous pooch, Bella, through the local park.
Sure, there are practical solutions around, but rarely do they come with such flair (or gadgetry)! Once I got past the initial "do I really need this?" thought, it was all too clear; I was ready to embrace the whimsical side of pet care. If you've ever found yourself in a tussle with towels and wet pets, you'll get why this product is delightfully quirky and utterly necessary!
The Irresistible (Great)
- It offers an almost silent operation so your pet isn't subjected to the aural assault that typical dryers might present.
- The 60L large capacity means it can accommodate even the fluffiest of cats and dogs without them feeling cramped or nervous.
- Smart temperature control via app and touch panel translate to round-the-clock grooming on your schedule without burning any furry fingers or ears.
The Clever Part (Good)
- An automatic grooming and drying system lets you multi-task while your pet enjoys a spa-like experience - lounge time for both of you!
- The 360-degree drying feature can reduce drying time substantially and, believe me, it's a game changer when you've got a busy schedule.
- The app control makes it easy to monitor the drying process from another room - because who doesn't love tech that enables us to do less?
The Fine Print (Bad)
- It requires a bit of space, so those in snug flats might need to rethink their setup - goodbye shoe rack, hello drying box!
- The initial learning curve for my pets took some patience; Bella looked at it with a mix of fascination and mild terror.
- It isn't exactly cheap, so beware if you're expecting a bargain; this is an investment in fluffiness.
The Reality Check (Ugly)
- If your pet absolutely hates baths, you might still have a battle on your hands; this dryer won't magically make them love water.
- And while it's great for drying, it's not a substitute for grooming; a good old brush is still necessary to avoid that dreaded matted fur post-dry.
In short, the PETKIT AIRSALON MAX is that quirky but essential addition you didn't know your furry life was missing. Happy drying!
The Irresistible
- It offers an almost silent operation so your pet isn't subjected to the aural assault that typical dryers might present.
- The 60L large capacity means it can accommodate even the fluffiest of cats and dogs without them feeling cramped or nervous.
- Smart temperature control via app and touch panel translate to round-the-clock grooming on your schedule without burning any furry fingers or ears.
The Clever Part
- An automatic grooming and drying system lets you multi-task while your pet enjoys a spa-like experience - lounge time for both of you!
- The 360-degree drying feature can reduce drying time substantially and, believe me, it's a game changer when you've got a busy schedule.
- The app control makes it easy to monitor the drying process from another room - because who doesn't love tech that enables us to do less?
The Fine Print
- It requires a bit of space, so those in snug flats might need to rethink their setup - goodbye shoe rack, hello drying box!
- The initial learning curve for my pets took some patience; Bella looked at it with a mix of fascination and mild terror.
- It isn't exactly cheap, so beware if you're expecting a bargain; this is an investment in fluffiness.
The Reality Check
- If your pet absolutely hates baths, you might still have a battle on your hands; this dryer won't magically make them love water.
- And while it's great for drying, it's not a substitute for grooming; a good old brush is still necessary to avoid that dreaded matted fur post-dry.
