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Posted: 2022-09-28T09:45:08Z | Updated: 2022-09-28T09:45:08Z The Best Affordable Laptops Under $350 | HuffPost Life

The Best Affordable Laptops Under $350

These laptops are perfect for everyday computing without the expensive price tag.
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There are many ways to upgrade your work from home setup. This includes buying a new desk , organizing important files using a filing cabinet  and introducing a portable monitor to accompany your work computer. And even though you may love that company-provided MacBook or are considering splurging on your own, sometimes a less expensive device with fewer frills is all you need for everyday tasks. 

The best budget laptops have everything you need for basic functions, like sending emails, streaming your favorite shows, typing notes, web browsing, and even gaming with some models. This includes Chromebooks, notebooks and other small laptops that fit conveniently on your desk without taking up much space. (It’s important to keep in mind that these types of laptops don’t come with tons of data storage or exclusive features that you may find in a pricier, more advanced device.)

Below, we found six laptops under $350 that reviewers found fine for casual everyday use.

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
Acer Chromebook Spin 311
Best for: Maximum flexibility

Since this touchscreen laptop runs on the Chrome operating system, it comes with built-in virus protection (like all Chromebooks do), automatic updates and a fast startup. Aside from its convenient, user-friendly features, this sleek device has a 360-degree hinge, which allows you to rotate it at any angle so you can use it as a flat tablet, display or set it up like a tent. It even has an HD webcam for video calls.

Promising review:
"This is my second chromebook, both are the Acer brand. I really enjoy the security, the ease of use, and the touchscreen. I keep it next to my recliner and grab it several times a day to check the news, do some research, some shopping, or read up on email etc. So glad I decided to give the chromebook a try." Mandy
2
Lenovo 14-inch IdeaPad
Best for: Streaming your favorite shows

Equipped with an HD display, double Dolby Audio speakers, HD webcam and a long-lasting battery, this slim laptop is ideal for general everyday use. It works with the Windows 11 operating system.

Promising review:
"Very lightweight, basic laptop for my needs. I had to purchase a Windows PC to use along my main Mac computer due to using certain programs that only Windows can run. The IdeaPad has done that job perfectly for an amazing price (lowest, by far, that met the minimum requirements I needed). Extremely happy with my purchase!" Tiara
3
Gateway 15.6-inch notebook
Best for: High-quality audio and video that will delight gamers

Enjoy impressive imagery on the HD display of this notebook. Gamers and streamers will especially appreciate the audio quality, as it features sound tuned by THX engineers for the best audio performance. The notebook runs on the Windows 11 operating system.

Promising review: "This is an amazing laptop. It stays at a decent temperature even while under load. I can play games on it on low to medium settings just fine. That's mainly what I bought it for was to play Roblox, Sims, Skyrim, and a few Valve games. It's sturdy and it's not loud at all. Great laptop for a decent budget price!" brittany
4
Acer 11.6-inch Chromebook
Best for: An ultra low-profile computing experience

At just under an inch thick and weighing less than 3 pounds, this portable laptop is designed to be taken wherever you go or to just take up minimal space next to your main laptop. It has a built-in microphone, HD camera and a battery that lasts up to 10 hours.

Promising review:
"I've always loved Acer products since I was in middle school! Now I'm in college and this laptop is just perfect for it. It syncs with my phone for easy access, it's lightweight and looks cool. The processor is fast and reliable!! Highly recommend" Dominique
5
Acer 15.6-inch touchscreen Chromebook
Best for: A device that boots up fast when you need it

This fast-working Chromebook features a large 15.6-inch touchscreen display, crisp video playback, an HD camera, battery life of up to 12.5 hours and access to apps via the Google Play Store. It's slim and portable, designed to fit comfortably on your desk.

Promising review:
"I have been using this every day for a few months now and love it. For the price, it is outstanding. I transferred from a laptop and this Chromebook can do almost everything that the windows based laptop could. The start-up is fast which was the main reason I wanted to switch. Love it and for the price, really impressed. My only drawback is the lack of a backlit keyboard but again, for the price, this is terrific." CDS
6
Lenovo Chromebook Duet
Best for: Long battery life

Even though you may be using this touchscreen Chromebook as a supplement to your primary laptop, you'll be extremely impressed by its 10-hour battery life. It's thin, lightweight and easily converts to a tablet, thanks to the detachable keyboard. It boots up in just 10 seconds.

Promising review:
"This chromebook went on a trip with me and I forgot the charger. It lasted for 6 days and I used it at least an hour or two a day. I have tried several other models but this was the best by far." Laureen StHilaire

Before You Go

3 TikTok-Popular Products You'll Want To Get For Your Desk ASAP
A wireless keyboard and mouse set I've spotted in the background of countless TikTok desk setups(01 of30)
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The set includes a wireless keyboard and mouse with a USB receiver for a 2.4GHz connection. Pick up some AA batteries ; both will need them.

Promising review: "Absolutely amazing keyboard. Colors are eye-catching and make a drab office pop with color! I am currently the envy of the office. Ladies in the other departments are waiting on their own to come in now after seeing mine. Easy plug/play. It travels between home and office with me. Love the keys on this as well. Sleep mode seems to pop on kinda quick, but it's nothing bad. Just push a button or click the mouse and it's on again. I have had mine for about a month now and will not be going back to any other style!" Nikki Bell
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Or a higher-end Razer Huntsman Mini keyboard paired with white phantom keycaps(02 of30)
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Check out some different lighting effects in this TikTok from @airuka_ , and get a closer look at the keyboard with and without lighting in this TikTok from @razer .

Promising review (for the keyboard): "Compact, stylish, and just plain cool. I don't have much desk space, so this compact keyboard is perfect. The RGB LEDs look great, and the travel on the keys is nice and long just right for programming and gaming. Keyboard feels superb and looks fantastic." Christopher

Promising review (for the keycaps): "They feel great to click and press once you switch caps; they look super sharp and well made!! After switching to my new set, I was very pleased with how much more vibrant and colorful my keyboard is!" Justinwebb96

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A six-outlet wall charger and surge protector, which doubles as a night-light(03 of30)
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Promising review: "I work from home in a small apartment, and this really made my setup work the way I want it to. I need to use all six plugs, plus I like to keep my phone and MiFi charging while working too. This was the perfect thing for me to get everything plugged in and essentially retrofitted into a built-in apartment wall desk setup that was intended for the large desktop towers of the late '90s. Im ordering a second one in hopes it transforms another part of my weird floor plan. Bonus: The USB ports seem to fast charge my iPhone XS Max. I can go from dead to fully charged in about 90 minutes." Moose
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A cable cord-concealing box to finally address that ugly monster that is the power strip(04 of30)
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Promising review: "I bought it because I saw a woman on TikTok showcase something similar like this on her page (on how to keep a home tidy) and I was like I HAD to buy! Its wonderful! I have ALWAYS hated seeing all the clutter of cords stick out from cord extenders and having this makes my small place look cleaner and organized! I would recommend this for anyone!" Chidi
(credit:Amazon)
And a charging station that'll be a one-stop shop for organizing your devices(05 of30)
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This doc comes with six cords for Apple devices, but is still compatible with other charger types. If you have Android devices, pick up a set of short USB-C cords. You can charge phones, tablets, smart watches, and even a Nintendo Switch in this thing.

Get a closer look in this TikTok from @orcashopco .

Promising review: "This is a great device to organize all your mobile devices and charge them as well. I did not understand the LED function, but when you turn it on, each slot that is actively charging has slight blue glow to the divider. At a glance, you can see which devices are charging and which are charged. I like this. It is not so bright that it is distracting. I also love the fact that all my devices are now organized in one place with nice short codes for charging. Gone are all my cords snaked around on my desk. I am using it for both iOS & Android devices. The device only came with lightning cables, so I purchased some 6-inch USB-C cables for my Android devices. Everything is working great and looks great too. Also the device has a nice long power cord so it easily reaches to the wall plug for power." Amazon customer
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An Apple Pencil stand to hold your stylus at your desk when you're not using it(06 of30)
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Check it out in this desk tour from @life_with_jocelyn on TikTok! This stand can hold an Apple Pencil 1 or 2, without or without a grip/cover on it.

Promising review: "I cant believe how much I use this. Its so handy. I had to buy a new Apple Pencil because my old one kept rolling / falling off the desk and it stopped working. I pick it up and put it down SO many times a day, I was worried about the new one breaking from being clinked down on the desk so often. But now I have a nice safe, soft place for it to rest. It is genuinely one of my favorite things on my desk. Plus it matches my iPad cover and I love that." Miranda
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A colorful desk mat that's waterproof so your desk will be protected(07 of30)
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You'll spot this one in the same TikTok as above from @life_with_jocelyn .

Promising review: "The color is exactly as described and shown, a sweet little pink. It's got great desk coverage and I love it so much. I hate using a mouse pad and this works so perfect for my wireless mouse. The texture isn't weird so my arms resting on it isn't uncomfortable, and it wipes clean very easily. A great buy!" Faline Keller
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An ultra-thin webcam blocker you can stick on your laptop's camera for quick, seamless privacy(08 of30)
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Check out this "office must-have" in this TikTok from @teresalauracaruso .

Promising review: "Im one of those who never leaves a review but this deserves one. I bought this for my new MacBook M1 after reading horror stories how other products cracked/broke MacBooks because of the stickiness on them and not being able to be removed, and I have to say I am so happy I went with this one! I read reviews how theyre not super sticky and are thin, but they are everything I wanted. Theyre not to a point where I feel like I can wipe them off but they are sticky enough where I feel comfortable keeping it on until I want to change colors without a ton of force. Theyre also thin enough to comfortably close my computer. And no, theyre not see-through." Tiffany
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A USB-powered BenQ Screenbar Halo that provides cozy, dimmable lighting for your desk area(09 of30)
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Front and back lighting can be turned on separately *or* together, and the angle can be adjusted 35 degrees. It's also compatible with curved monitors! You can even set your preferred brightness and color temp as "My Favorite" on the controller for easy access.

Peep how neat this looks in a super cute desk setup from @sleepily_gaming on TikTok and see it in action!

Promising review: "This is an expensive lamp, hence why I put off buying it for a long time. But now that I've been using it, I'm sorry I didn't buy it sooner. No shadows from the overhead light or screen glare from desk lamps. It feels well made and the light control puck is heavy and well designed. There are cheaper clones out there, but given the number of complaints about the lesser units, I decided to go with the top of the line and I'm glad I did. One caveat: Plug it into a charging brick instead of the computer USB port and you'll avoid any chance of flicker." J. Cruz
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Or a simple LED light, also perfect for small desks(10 of30)
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Check out this TikTok from @homehomeplus of the magnetic LED desk lamp in action.

Promising review: "This light is everything it is effortless to use and very lightweight. The touch buttons offer temperature choice and brightness variations. I like how it detaches from its magnetic base so you can use it like a flashlight. Very versatile as it can be attached anywhere using self-adhesive tape. Plan to purchase more for my home." Shari Hoo
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A precious little mushroom lamp(11 of30)
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Peep it in this adorable desk setup from @kailacottage .

Promising review: "Cute, cute, cute! This is one of the cutest night lights ever! Not only does it change colors; it can be controlled remotely and changed in a variety of colors and effects, from flashing to slowly fading from one color into another, or if desired, one constant color to match any decor. The brightness can also be adjusted. And the wood base gives it more than the look of a toy; it is perfectly classy." roika
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Or a color-changing moon lamp(12 of30)
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Check out an unboxing + how it works in this TikTok from @heartdefensor !

Promising review: "I bought this lamp after seeing it on TikTok. It looked really cool and thought it would be nice edition to my bedroom! I actually expected to have some buyer's remorse but I couldn't have been more wrong! This lamp is so adorable and perfect for bedrooms of any age and would definitely go well with a kawaii gamer setup too. It has a multitude of color options; the gradient pastel rainbow is my favorite! It's controllable from your smartphone or touch, and it has a neat little feature where it changes color based on the sound it picks up! It's super affordable, especially compared to other smart lights like Phillips Hue." Alice
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A compact under-desk electric treadmill made for the multi-tasking mavens(13 of30)
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See it in action in this TikTok from @lindseycraven ! Its speed range is 0.56mph and its weight capacity is 220 pounds.

Promising review: "This thing is awesome. I'm a small, not technical person and managed to haul this thing up two flights of stairs (slowly), unbox, turn on and even connect my phone to the Bluetooth in it. No assembly. Simple instructions. Distance and time measurements seem to be accurate, but the 'calories' might be missing a decimal point. No squealing or groaning under my walking. Not too loud. Slides right under my bed. Didn't need to adjust the belt, though the tool to do so is included. Packaging says to oil every 30 hours. The remote is needed to make the treadmill function. It is extremely cheap like dollar store cheap. I hope the company has a remote replacement for if/when the remote bites it. Even still, I would 100% buy this again. Great treadmill!" Crowells
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A 3D digital clock perfect for adding some ambient light to your home office or bedroom(14 of30)
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Get a close-up look at it in this TikTok from @kalie_ho !

Promising review: "This clock is so cute and sleek. It adds the perfect amount of flare to a desk, and doesnt take up much space. Took a while to set up (since there were no instructions) but after messing with it for a while I got it to work the way I wanted it to." Vanessa V.
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Or a rotating digital clock packing a lot of functionality without taking up much space(15 of30)
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It's featured in this TikTok from @miriam.gin1 !

BTW, you can choose the 12- or 24-hour system for the clock display.

Promising review: "This was such a good find. I dont use it as an alarm, but I did test it out and it works great. I got it for my desk at work. I plug my charger and desk fan into it using the USB ports. And I love that its a mirror. I get so many compliments about it and people are constantly asking where I got it." Michelle Cienfuegos
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A sunset lamp so popular, it even spawned a TikTok filter(16 of30)
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The distance determines how wide and intense the light is position it farther away for a softer diffused light, or closer up to focus the colorful beam on a specific spot.

See one in action in this TikTok from @soft.milky.latte !

Promising review: "Eye-catching! It makes my office look so cool. So many compliments! It changes brightness and tons of color designs. It's got rainbows on the outer layer of the circle. Very mesmerizing! I own two now!" Thea
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Custom keycaps to incorporate literal art into your keyboard(17 of30)
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Check them out in this TikTok from @hirosart_ . This Vietnam-based small biz went viral for its Pokemon keycaps, but they have a ton of other designs too!

Promising review: "Holy smokes, amazing work! The level of detail in this keycap is incredible, and knowing that it's fully custom makes it even better. I had to place a second order for more keycaps as soon as this one arrived!" Kyle Dilger
(credit:Hirosart / Etsy)
A mini desktop vacuum(18 of30)
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Get a closer look at it in this TikTok from @fallenfoe .

Promisingreviews: "I'm obsessed with this little vacuum. I saw it on TikTok and immediately bought it for my living room coffee table, where I'm always spilling ashes and other things. Super easy to use and empty!" Nicole Charland

"I live in an older apartment that drops a lot of dust, and I like to eat at my desk so this was a no-brainer. I was pleasantly surprised, however, at the quality and power of this product! It is a must-have for an office, desk, or even a counter." Julian Askov
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A desktop whiteboard that fits in that lil' space between your monitor and keyboard for writing quick notes(19 of30)
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This whiteboard also comes with a single black dry-erase marker, accessory channel (to hold the marker), and a storage drawer. It's featured in this TikTok from @bymichellelei .

Promising review: "I bought this for work, and within days multiple coworkers stopped over to check it out. At least one of them has already purchased one, and several others said they are going to. What one person uses it for is to jot down notes to herself through the day. What I use it for is to mark down the two most important things I want to get done each day. If you also get a pack of colored markers, you can easily color-code (prioritize) items for this board. I love it and wish I bought one years ago." Mark A. Baron
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A lighted makeup mirror if your desk doubles as a vanity(20 of30)
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See why it's recommended as a "college dorm essential" in this TikTok from @cartiercc .

Promising review: "10 out of 10 recommend this mirror for your dorm. Thats what I use it for. I love the adjustments of the lighting; it has cool, warm, and regular lighting, and the brightness adjustment works for when you're studying, and you dont want to bother your roommate." Esmeralda Martinez
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A cute Bluetooth speaker that'll remind you of the computer your family owned in the '90s(21 of30)
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Check out an unboxing TikTok from @thatkawaiigrl . I've also seen this in the background of literally dozens of videos, like this one from @mochiiimarie which is why I ended up picking one up myself. If you're curious, you can read more on why I love mine here .

Promising reviews: "I actually impulsively purchased this because I saw it on Tiktok. I have had it for a little over a month now, and it is actually the best item I have purchased in a while. I admit, there is a slight learning curve when setting it up because there is not a clear-cut instructions guide for all of the features, but once you figure it out, its so worth it. It is really multifunctional and you can customize it to your liking. I really love the mini games feature on here, like Tetris and Snake, because they all bring back childhood memories for me. My favorite part is the fact that it works as a speaker and when I play music, I can have little videos sync to the music. Who knew a tiny little speaker could bring me so much joy. It is a bit pricy though, but it is just so cute. If youre looking for a sign to buy this, heres your sign." Khuyen Nguyen
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A stunning Pokemon terrarium(22 of30)
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Lxjery is a small biz that's one of the top stores selling these on Etsy, but there are a lot of stores out there selling these nowadays, if you're looking for a specific Pokemon.

Psst You can spot a very similar Pokemon terrarium (and the same Bluetooth speaker as above!) in this TikTok from @bbymimikyu . I see them in setups all the time.

Promising review: "One of the best gifts you can think of for Pokemon lovers! Had the best reaction and it's so pretty to have! Real eye-catcher for your desk!" Leezle
(credit:Lxjery / Etsy)
A sturdy laptop stand to elevate your setup(23 of30)
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Check it out in this TikTok from @designsbyjessirose .

Promising review: "I first saw these on TikTok and ordered one because of how high up they put your laptop, especially when you're using a monitor. This allows you to use both screens and they are almost at the same height. I have an HP and a MacBook Pro and it works great for both of them." Melinda
(credit:www.amazon.com)
And an adjustable tablet stand(24 of30)
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Spot it in the same TikTok mentioned above! Of course, you can use it as a phone stand too.

Promising review: "I got this for my iPad. It is compact enough to sit on my desk without wasting space but large enough to hold the iPad securely. I love the tilt feature and the fact that it holds the iPad vertically and horizontally. I have a case with a lid and bumpers around the edge, but it fits perfectly." Glory Stafford
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Prismatic window film to cover the windows by your desk(25 of30)
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Get a closer look at it in this TikTok from @eleanordriver .

Promising review: "I just moved into a house with a boring view of the side of the neighbor's garage from my home office, and I spend WAY too much time in my office. This stuff makes a rainbow migrate throughout the day from the floor to the wall and makes my long work day a lot more tolerable! It also blocks my boring view of the neighbor's garage and their view in my window. It looks cool at night too." Ariel Dutton
(credit:www.amazon.com)
An LED touch lamp you can just gently tap(26 of30)
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See how it's used in this TikTok from @teresalauracaruso .

Promising review: "I loveeee this little light. Its small, but it charges my phone and watch well. It also puts off some pretty bright light for something so small! Love it! Definitely recommend." Tara

Get it from Amazon for $23.99 when you clip the extra $10 off coupon on the page (available with a white or wood base).
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Or a crystal table lamp that's elegance on a budget(27 of30)
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Highly recommend checking it out in this TikTok from @heartdefensor .

Promising review: "The light looks so magical. My favorite part is that you can place it anywhere without having to plug it in. Comes with a USB charger to recharge the battery. Also dimmable. Perfect night-light for reading." Jasmine
(credit:Amazon)
A galaxy light so you can project the starry night sky onto your ceilings and walls(28 of30)
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You can check out a similar galaxy projector being used in this TikTok from @nintendo.grl it adds *such* a cool vibe to a desk setup, especially as an accent to other lighting. It's dimmable with 10 color options, including multicolor effects, and it can display either a starry projection or ocean waves via remote control or an auto-off timer.

Promising review: "I bought this for my game room because it was much more affordable than the brand name projectors. I expected it to be small and dim, but it covers the entire ceiling and about a third of all of the walls. The lights are bright and defined. The green 'stars' are beautiful and the moving blue swirls are mesmerizing. The speakers are good. They are not extremely loud but definitely loud enough for what I will use them for. The Bluetooth works great. I just got it today and have no complaints at this point." Meghan
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A glass essential oil diffuser that puts on a gorgeous light show(29 of30)
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It's featured in this TikTok from @haubes .

Promising review: "Beautiful and smells amazing! It fits perfectly on my work desk. Even with the lights on, you can see the beautiful colors change clearly. It doesn't make any noise at all! The thing that shocked me the most was how powerful the scent is. For such a little machine, it kicks out scent amazingly!" Amazon customer
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A productivity cube for that big project you've been putting off(30 of30)
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You set the countdown time, then flip the cube to start the timer. Two AAA batteries are needed.

Check it out in this TikTok from @bymichellelei .

Promising review: "This product has been a game-changer for my productivity. It allows me to have fully phone-free days and focused work sessions without any distractions. The numbers at the bottom are a little small and hard to read, but that's a perk for me because I can focus more on the task at hand." Acacia
(credit:www.amazon.com)

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