Dumbest Tech 2023 Reviewed: 5 Bizarre Gadgets Tested

Weird Tech That Defies Logic

As tech lovers, we’ve seen products that solve real problems—and others that invent them. After testing five of 2023’s most baffling gadgets, from nostalgic footwear to "soundproof" gamer masks, one truth emerged: novelty often clashes with practicality. Based on hands-on testing and industry expertise, we’ll break down what works, what doesn’t, and whether any justify their price. Spoiler: most don’t.

Windows XP Crocs: Nostalgia Over Function

Imagine walking on desktop icons—literally. These limited-edition Crocs feature Windows XP motifs like Clippy and the Recycle Bin. While the novelty sparked genuine excitement during unboxing, they’re fundamentally standard Crocs with printed graphics.

Key takeaways:

Priced around $60-$70, they’re a collector’s item, not a footwear upgrade.
Build quality matches regular Crocs, but the prints may wear off quickly.
Worth it only for die-hard Windows XP enthusiasts seeking conversation starters.

For context, Microsoft hasn’t endorsed these, making them unofficial merch. If you crave retro tech wear, vintage Microsoft tees offer similar nostalgia at half the cost.

Higround Half-Life Keyboard: Intentionally Blurry

This $160 keyboard pays homage to Half-Life 1’s low-res graphics with deliberately out-of-focus keycaps. With glasses off, the keys look identical to real-life blur—a clever trick.

Testing revealed:

Surprising build quality: The keyboard feels premium with creamy, "thocky" key switches.
RGB lighting subtly enhances the retro aesthetic without overwhelming it.
Sold out instantly, proving hype-driven demand despite niche appeal.

Practical note: Gamers needing functionality should skip this. It’s a novelty piece, not a performance upgrade.

reMarkable Paper Pro: Pocket-Sized Luxury

Shrinking the e-paper tablet to 7.3 inches, this $569 bundle includes a folio and stylus. The writing experience rivals pen-and-paper, with near-zero latency and realistic texture.

Our assessment:

Strengths: Eraser functionality feels natural; portability is excellent for notes on-the-go.
Drawbacks: Prohibitively expensive for most users. No color display or major upgrades over larger models.
Who it’s for: Professionals who value digital note-taking and can justify the cost.

Comparatively, the iPad Mini with a Paperlike screen protector offers similar utility at a lower price.

ExtremeRate Switch 2 Shells: Customization on a Budget

ExtremeRate’s $39 mod kit lets you reshell your Switch 2 with atomic purple, white, or other hues. Installation was straightforward, but tolerances aren’t perfect.

Hands-on insights:

Buttons feel slightly softer than stock, and the kickstand isn’t flush.
Aesthetic customization shines, especially for transparent "retro" looks.
Best for: DIY enthusiasts wanting personalization without voiding warranties.

Expert tip: Avoid mixing clashing colors—Matt’s "ugly" warning proved accurate during testing.

Vekta Soundproof Gamer Mask: $200 of Isolation

Designed to muffle rage screams, this mask claims 20dB noise reduction. In tests, it dampened shouts but made voices sound nasal, "like you have a cold."

Critical flaws:

Comfort issues: The mask presses against nostrils, causing discomfort during extended use.
Microphone test: Audio quality worsened, with muffled, indistinct recordings.
Safety warnings: Instructions stress "not for children" and breaks every 15 minutes.

Verdict: A solution searching for a problem. For noise reduction, acoustic foam panels are cheaper and more effective.

Power Saber Energy Blades: $60 of Wobbly Fun

These 35-inch extending "lightsabers" mimic Star Wars with whooshing sounds but suffer from flimsy construction. During duels, blades often jammed mid-extension.

Reality check:

Entertainment value: High for casual play, as seen in our office duel fails.
Durability concerns: Plastic feels cheap; mechanisms are prone to malfunction.
Safer than fire: Unlike flame-based sabers, these won’t burn your house down.

Final word: Stick to Disney Parks sabers for authenticity.

Should You Buy Any of This?

Most of these gadgets prioritize novelty over utility. Before purchasing ask:

Does it solve a real problem? (Spoiler: The mask doesn’t.)
Is the price justified? The reMarkable costs 5x a basic e-notebook.
Could mainstream alternatives work better? Yes—almost always.

Pro tip: For collectibles like the Higround keyboard, buy only if you value artistry over function.

Final Verdict

While testing absurd tech is undeniably fun, 2023’s lineup proves dumb rarely equals revolutionary. The reMarkable Paper Pro stands out for its legitimately great writing experience, but even that’s a luxury. The rest? Memorable misfires.

Question for you: Which gadget would you try—and which would you trash immediately? Share your picks below!