With smartphone prices climbing higher every year, many Canadians are thinking twice before upgrading. Instead of dropping over a thousand dollars on the latest model, they’re turning to gadgets that boost convenience, entertainment, and daily living without breaking the bank. From smartwatches that do more than just tell time to home tech that makes life easier, these devices deliver value in ways phones simply can’t. These are 19 gadgets Canadians are buying instead of upgrading their phones:
Smartwatches
Instead of upgrading to a new phone, many Canadians are investing in smartwatches. These compact gadgets let users track fitness, monitor sleep, and even respond to messages, all from their wrist. Popular models from Apple, Samsung, and Fitbit pair seamlessly with older phones, extending their usefulness without forcing an upgrade. For many, the health tracking features alone make them worthwhile, offering insights into heart rate, exercise, and daily activity. They also double as stylish accessories, making them one of the most practical alternatives to a new phone. A smartwatch delivers both utility and convenience, often at a fraction of the cost.
Wireless Earbuds
Wireless earbuds have become a must-have gadget for Canadians who value portability and convenience. Brands like AirPods, Galaxy Buds, and Jabra offer crisp sound quality, noise cancellation, and quick pairing with older phones, making them a smarter upgrade than splurging on a new handset. Whether for commuting, working out, or Zoom calls, earbuds are now part of daily life. They often come with long-lasting battery cases, so users can enjoy hours of uninterrupted music or podcasts. With comfort, style, and hands-free calls in one package, wireless earbuds deliver more bang for the buck than a pricey smartphone upgrade.
Portable Bluetooth Speakers
Portable Bluetooth speakers are booming among Canadians who want better sound without upgrading phones. Compact yet powerful, models like JBL Flip, Bose SoundLink, and UE Boom turn any room or park picnic into a concert. They’re water-resistant, rugged, and deliver bass-heavy sound that most phones can’t replicate. Many also last 10–20 hours on a single charge, making them perfect for travel, camping, or backyard barbecues, and since they pair effortlessly with even older devices, they extend the life of an existing phone. With music being such a big part of daily life, a portable speaker often feels like a better upgrade.
Streaming Sticks
Streaming sticks like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Google Chromecast have become household staples in Canada. Instead of buying a new phone, Canadians are spending on these devices to upgrade their home entertainment. A streaming stick plugs directly into the TV and gives instant access to Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and more. Many now support 4K resolution and voice control, features that make even an older television feel brand new. Affordable and easy to set up, streaming sticks transform the home viewing experience without requiring expensive upgrades, and for many households, it’s money far better spent than a phone upgrade.
E-Readers
E-readers like the Kindle and Kobo are winning over Canadians who want more out of their leisure time. These devices feature crisp, glare-free screens that mimic the look of real paper, making them ideal for reading both indoors and outdoors. With storage for thousands of books and access to digital libraries, an e-reader can replace shelves of bulky paperbacks. Many models also feature waterproofing and long battery life, lasting weeks on a single charge. For book lovers, investing in an e-reader feels like a smarter choice than buying a new phone, as it delivers endless entertainment while saving money and shelf space.
Smart Home Assistants
Smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub are finding their way into Canadian households as an alternative to upgrading phones. These devices answer questions, control smart lights, play music, and set reminders, all activated with a simple voice command. Many Canadians are discovering how convenient hands-free technology can be, especially in the kitchen or home office. Paired with other smart gadgets, assistants can manage daily routines and even help save energy. For a fraction of a phone’s price, a smart assistant delivers long-term utility, making it a popular investment for those looking to stretch their tech budget.
Fitness Trackers
Fitness trackers remain a top choice for Canadians prioritizing health over hardware. Affordable devices from Fitbit, Garmin, and Xiaomi offer step counting, calorie tracking, heart rate monitoring, and even guided workouts. Unlike a phone upgrade, which might add only minor camera improvements, a fitness tracker delivers measurable lifestyle benefits. Many also sync with apps to provide long-term insights into sleep quality, activity trends, and wellness goals. With battery life lasting days or even weeks, they’re designed for continuous use. For people looking to improve their health without overspending, fitness trackers are a smart and motivating investment.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones have become an essential gadget for Canadians seeking focus and quiet in busy environments. Brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser deliver immersive sound while cutting out background noise, making them ideal for commuters, students, or remote workers. Unlike a new phone, which offers marginal upgrades, noise-cancelling headphones provide a clear lifestyle improvement, transforming travel, study sessions, or relaxation time. With comfortable designs and long battery life, they’ve become a favorite for both productivity and leisure. Many Canadians see them as a long-term investment that enhances daily life more than any smartphone upgrade could.
Dash Cams
More Canadians are investing in dash cams to protect themselves on the road rather than upgrading their phones. These compact cameras record every drive, providing valuable evidence in case of accidents, disputes, or insurance claims. Popular models include features like night vision, wide-angle lenses, and automatic incident detection, and some even sync with apps for easy video sharing. For drivers, a dash cam offers peace of mind and security that no phone upgrade can match. Affordable and practical, it’s a gadget that delivers real-world benefits and savings, making it a smart purchase for Canadian motorists.
Robot Vacuums
Robot vacuums like Roomba and Roborock are giving Canadians more free time and cleaner homes without the hassle of manual vacuuming. Instead of spending money on a flashy new phone, many are opting for these gadgets, which automatically sweep and mop floors while navigating around furniture. Equipped with smart sensors and app control, they can be scheduled to clean even when you’re not home. While phones offer small convenience upgrades year over year, robot vacuums transform daily life by cutting chores in half, and for busy households, it’s an investment that feels both practical and luxurious.
Smart Glasses with AI Integration
Smart glasses are quickly becoming a futuristic gadget that Canadians are embracing instead of splurging on a new phone. Models like the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses blend style with function, offering features such as hands-free calling, AI-powered assistance, and built-in speakers for music. They let users capture photos or video and access navigation without constantly pulling out a phone. For tech enthusiasts and multitaskers, these glasses offer a fresh way to stay connected while maintaining more seamless and discreet interactions. They are also trendy, practical, and a sign of where wearable tech is headed.
GoPro Action Cameras
Adventure-seeking Canadians are choosing GoPro action cameras over new phones, especially for documenting travel, outdoor sports, and water activities. GoPros are built for durability, with waterproof designs and wide-angle lenses that capture experiences phones struggle with. The ability to mount them on helmets, bikes, or surfboards creates dynamic footage that feels immersive. For families, vloggers, and outdoor enthusiasts, the investment pays off in unforgettable memories. Rather than upgrading to the latest smartphone camera, many prefer the specialized quality and versatility that GoPros deliver, making them a top choice for capturing life’s more adventurous side.
Nespresso Machines
Coffee-loving Canadians are redirecting funds from phones to home espresso machines, especially Nespresso models. With rising café prices, many see the value in creating café-quality lattes and cappuccinos at home. These machines are compact, user-friendly, and deliver consistent quality in seconds, giving a sense of luxury without the long-term costs of daily takeout. The shift highlights how consumers are prioritizing lifestyle improvements over tech status symbols. A reliable coffee ritual often brings more satisfaction than the latest phone upgrade, especially for those who want to start the day with something indulgent and cost-effective.
Dyson Cordless Vacuums
For Canadians focused on home upgrades, Dyson cordless vacuums have become a must-have gadget, often purchased instead of upgrading phones. These sleek devices combine powerful suction with portability, making cleaning faster and easier. Homeowners, especially those with pets, rave about their efficiency in keeping floors spotless. With growing interest in smart, minimalist living, many Canadians see Dyson vacuums as an investment in daily comfort and hygiene. Unlike a phone, which is quickly outdated, a Dyson transforms household chores for years. It’s a practical, lifestyle-enhancing gadget that feels more rewarding than chasing incremental phone improvements.
iPads and Tablets
Instead of chasing the latest smartphone, many Canadians are opting for iPads and tablets, which offer bigger screens, better multitasking, and longer lifespans. For streaming, gaming, note-taking, and even light work tasks, tablets provide flexibility that phones can’t match. Parents also find them useful for kids’ educational apps and travel entertainment. With powerful processors and compatibility with keyboards and styluses, tablets are becoming laptop replacements for casual users. For the price of a premium phone upgrade, Canadians can get a gadget that expands creativity, productivity, and entertainment, making it a smarter choice for long-term versatility.
KitchenAid Stand Mixers
Cottage bakers and home chefs across Canada are splurging on KitchenAid stand mixers rather than upgrading phones. These iconic machines are built to last for decades, making them a worthwhile investment for families who love cooking together. With endless attachments that include pasta makers, meat grinders, and spiralizers, they turn a kitchen into a creative hub. The pandemic inspired many Canadians to rediscover baking, and the trend hasn’t faded. A stand mixer adds more joy and value to everyday life than another smartphone iteration.
Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots
Reliable internet access has become essential, and Canadians are turning to portable Wi-Fi hotspots to stay connected without overloading their smartphones. Devices like the SIMO Solis Lite allow multiple devices to connect to a secure network, perfect for road trips, remote work, or vacations. Unlike tethering from a phone, hotspots provide consistent coverage and help preserve battery life. Many also come with pay-as-you-go data plans, making them flexible and affordable. For those who travel often or live in areas with spotty cell service, a portable Wi-Fi hotspot has become an invaluable tool.
Smart Home Devices
Instead of upgrading to the latest smartphone, many Canadians are investing in gadgets that make daily life easier with smart home devices. Products like the Nest thermostat, Ring security cameras, or Lutron smart lighting systems offer remote control, energy savings, and peace of mind. These gadgets can all be managed from an existing phone, giving people powerful new features without spending thousands on a new device. As home automation continues to grow, Canadians are realizing that upgrading their living spaces provides more long-term value than swapping out a perfectly good phone.
Nintendo Switch Consoles
Gaming continues to thrive in Canada, and the Nintendo Switch has emerged as a more enticing purchase than phone upgrades. With its portability, family-friendly games, and ability to switch between handheld and TV play, the console appeals to all ages. Canadians are choosing to invest in experiences, whether that’s group play with friends or solo adventures like Zelda, over expensive phone models with minor updates. The Switch has proven to be more than a gadget, as it’s a hub for connection, relaxation, and entertainment, and for many, those experiences are worth far more than a shinier screen.
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