DealUpdates
The Three Best Budget Tech Upgrades on Amazon Right Now
October 29, 2026 · 3 min read
Is the mouse you've got the one that was included free with your computer? And are your earbuds the ones with the cracked case and a battery that dies half way through your commute? Sometimes we tolerate sub-par devices since replacing seems like a chore and better quality items look costly.
It doesn’t have to be costly though. All three picks mentioned below cost less than $40, and they're from Acer and AOC, two companies that have been making computer equipment for decades. Each of them is available at the lowest price we have seen. None of this is flagship gear, it's just the type of everyday upgrade you don’t have to spend a fotune on.
AOC GM401 wireless gaming mouse
AOC is most famous for its monitors but they make other accessories as well This wireless mouse, which was designed for gaming, is just as well suited for spreadsheets. The big number on the box is 12,000 DPI. DPI refers to how far cursor moves when you move the mouse. A high DPI matters on a large screen or two monitors, since with a cheap mouse you would have to drag the cursor across the entire desk to go from one side to the other. You can reduce it if you want to work slower, more careful movement.
The bigger everyday advantage is the battery. AOC gives it a rating of 70 hours, so for the average person this means you'll need to charge it only a few times a month rather than digging around AA batteries. The RGB lighting is included if you prefer it, but since the lighting uses up battery, you can turn it off if you want to reduce the charging frequency.
AOC GM401 Wireless RGB Gaming Mouse, 12000 DPI, 70Hr Battery
This wireless gaming mouse combines fast performance with serious battery life. You get multiple connection options incl... more
Acer Bluetooth 6.0 wireless earbuds
This is the cheapest pick of the three featured items. It is a reasonable choice if your earbuds are old or if you want another pair to keep in your gym bag or in the car.
Bluetooth 6.0 is the latest version and it can connect to any recent phone, laptop or tablet. The 13mm drivers are on the large side for earbuds, and larger drivers generally mean better bass response. Acer rates the battery life at 35 hours when using the charging case, which will last for a week of commutes between charges.
Keep your expectations in line with the price. Don't count on noise canceling or the polished sound of Apple or Sony earbuds. What you get is a decent everyday pair you won't panic about losing.
At around twenty bucks, this is an easy yes.
Acer Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 6.0, 13mm Driver, 35H Playtime
These ultra-light wireless earbuds pack a punch with powerful bass and crystal-clear call quality. You're getting 35 hou... more
AOC USB headset with noise-canceling mic
If you spend any time on video calls, the upgrade that your coworkers will notice is a headset. The mics on laptops pick up the entire room—such as the dishwasher, the dog, and the keyboard you're typing on but this AOC headset has a noise-canceling microphone which removes much of that background noise so your voice is clear.
Since it uses a USB connection, there is no need for Bluetooth pairing and no battery to charge. All you have to do is plug it into a Windows or Mac computer and it will function immediately. The downside is the cable – as you're attached to the computer, it is a desk headset and not suitable for moving about the kitchen during a call.
Before you place your order, note that this is the pink one. If you'd had black in mind, you should check the available color options first.
AOC USB Headset with Noise Cancelling Mic, Pink
This over-ear wired headset connects via USB-C or USB-A and is built for office work, call centers, and online meetings.... more
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