
60 Weird Things Under $20 That Are Actually Badass
And you’ll feel like a baddie using these budget-friendly finds.
It doesn’t take a lot to upgrade your life — sometimes it can cost as little as $20. For essentially the price of a movie theater ticket, these badass things will make your life easier, more comfortable, or just a little more enjoyable. And so what if these random Amazon finds are a little weird? Sometimes, the best things in life are that, too.
01A Cable Tie That Uses A Combination Code To Open & Shut
Whether you need to lock up a bike helmet, a suitcase, or cabinet doors, this cable tie is a handy way to secure your goods. It looks like a beefed-up zip tie, but it’s actually a reusable steel-core cable lock with a three-digit code. An adjustable strap covers up to 22 inches and withstands up to 500 pounds of force, so it’s great for everyday items, while its slim, lightweight design makes it a convenient alternative to bulky padlocks.
02A Wax Warmer That With A Fireplace Vibe
This wax warmer is designed to look like a tiny fireplace — complete with simulated flames — for a cozy glow without the risk. Three light modes (bright, dim, or a flickering pulse) let you set the exact mood, and an easy-to-clean silicone tray makes adding and removing wax easy. A built-in timer offers two-, four-, or eight-hour options, but its low 15-watt energy draw also means you can run it all day without running up your electricity bill.
03Avocado-Shaped Hand Warmers That Heat Up Quickly
These avocado-shaped hand warmers look cartoonish, but they’re secretly heat-powered beasts that will provide instant relief in cold weather. Built-in rechargeable batteries take only three seconds to fire them up, and users can choose between three temperature settings from 104 to 149 degrees for the perfect level of warmth. Each half works together or separately, so you can keep them in separate pockets or snap them together for one mega-warmer.
04Ballpoint Pens That Celebrate Your Snarky Side
If you’re proudly fluent in sarcasm, these pens are the perfect mood booster. There are 12 in a set, and each is printed with a snarky little quote — think colorful barrels that read “Not My Problem” or “Blah Blah Blah.” Ballpoint tips write smoothly in black ink, and the other end works as a stylus tip for touchscreens. They’re a fun way to show off your personality at work, school, or wherever else you need to jot down notes.
05A Modular Lamp Inspired By A Classic Arcade Game
This DIY stackable lamp looks like a simple Tetris-inspired novelty, but once you start clicking the seven glowing blocks together, it becomes a full-blown obsession. Each piece lights up instantly when connected, letting you build custom shapes, patterns, and sculptures that double as retro room decor. Keep it on your desk, use it as ambient lighting, or gift it to a creative kid for home décor that feels like a toy.
06A Pocket Microscope With 20X Magnifying Power
Despite its size, this mini microscope is way more useful than you’d expect. With 20x magnification, LED illumination, and a smooth focus wheel, it turns everyday objects into mesmerizing close-ups in seconds. The built-in UV light is convenient for checking currency, spotting scuffs on collectibles, or highlighting hidden features on fabrics and sneakers. It’s perfect for hikers, hobbyists, students, or anyone who loves weird gadgets.
07An Electric Candle Lighter That You Can Recharge Easily
If you’ve ever fought with a stubborn lighter that refuses to spark, you need this rechargeable plasma lighter. With the press of a button, it shoots out a windproof, splash-proof electric arc that lights candles, grills, or campfires without fuel or flint. A USB battery indicator tells you exactly when to recharge, and a single charge lasts for up to 600 uses. It’s a simple, modern, and extremely useful addition to any toolbox or drawer.
08A Portable Lock Box That Keeps Your Stuff Secure On The Go
Whether you’re at the gym, on the beach, or staying at a hotel, this compact travel safe instantly makes you feel more at ease. Built with a shock-absorbing, water-resistant shell, it protects your phone, passport, cards, and cash without weighing down your bag. A four-digit combination is fully customizable, and the built-in cable lets you lock the box to a bench, lounge chair, or backpack frame so no one can walk off with your valuables.
09A Mini Pry Bar That Turns Your Keychain Into A Survival Tool
For something barely bigger than a house key, this stainless steel pry bar is a handy tool for everyday tasks. It’s milled from solid steel so that it won’t bend or snap, and it’s shaped to handle all the tiny jobs your fingers can’t, from opening paint cans to slicing open boxes. Just slip it onto your key ring, and you’ll feel like MacGyver at all times.
10Hair Styling Clips That Fight Frizz & Add Volume
These volumizing clips are a quick and easy hair styling hack for salon-quality locks. Simply pop them in while air-drying your hair so your curls can set with more lift, bounce, and definition. Sturdy plastic claws stay in place without snagging, and they’re vented to speed up drying. There’s no heat damage in the process, and strands stay frizz-free. Each set includes nine clips in assorted colors.
11A Stick-On Car Organizer That Creates An Instant Pocket
This compact organizer is an unexpected upgrade your car didn’t know it needed. It’s small enough to disappear into your interior, but big enough to hold your phone, cards, chargers, snacks, and other essentials. Made of smooth PU leather, it also looks more expensive than it is. Simply mount it to door panels, console sides, or even indoor furniture using adhesive Velcro strips.
12Crystal Window Prisms That Turn Sunlight Into Rainbows
Hang these crystal sun catcher prisms near a sunny window, and your space will look like a rainbow exploded in it. Each set includes seven iridescent glass crystals in different lengths, all designed to catch sunlight and scatter it into vivid, shimmering patterns. Strings and hooks are included to make installation effortless, and you can even use them as Christmas tree decorations when daylight is shorter.
13An Emergency Hammer That Can Literally Save Your Life
This emergency escape hammer is the kind of car gadget you buy hoping you’ll never use, but feel instantly safer once it’s in your glove box. A rugged, contoured grip stays steady when adrenaline is kicking in, while a tungsten steel spike shatters glass fast. It’s a fantastic way to give anxious drivers peace of mind.
14A Stress Toy That Melts Anxiety With Every Squeeze
This squishy stick of butter might look like a novelty, but it’s secretly an elite stress-relief weapon. Made from non-toxic latex with a soft, slow-rising texture, it’s ridiculously satisfying to squeeze, stretch, and knead when your brain is in overdrive. Use it for anxiety, focus, or sensory relief — as a bonus for foodies, it even has a mild butter scent that transports you to the kitchen table with every whiff.
15An Untangling Strategy Game That’s Fun For All Ages
If you want a screen-free game that keeps both kids and adults hooked, this rope-twisting puzzle is a fun pick. One player creates a colorful challenge by threading ropes through 22 board holes, then the other is tasked with untangling the mess using only “over” moves. Difficulty is customizable based on the number of ropes used, and it’s a great way to build problem-solving skills and boost spatial awareness.
16A Vintage-Feeling Beeswax Coil Candle That Self-Extinguishes
This coil candle isn’t just a charming alternative to ordinary candles — it’s also safer, cleaner, and less wasteful. Made from 100% natural beeswax with a cotton wick, it gives off a warm honey scent that helps neutralize odors. A copper-tone holder looks like an antique, while a built-in extinguishing clip snuffs the candle at the end. Just unravel it inch by inch for a dripless flame that adds a cozy vibe to any space.
17A Resin-Infused Paper That Freshens Up Rooms
Around since the late 1800s, these French deodorizing papers are an old-fashioned yet effective way to freshen up any space. Each sheet is infused with benzoin resin, a natural air purifier that neutralizes kitchen and pet smells, cigarette smoke, and basically anything else lingering in the air. Light one, let it smolder, and within seconds, the air will fill with a warm, classic scent that blends myrrh, vanilla, balsam, and rose.
18Iridescent Window Decals That Drench A Room In Rainbows
Take advantage of south-facing rooms with these magical window decals. Each is made from prismatic vinyl that casts colorful patterns on walls and floors on sunny days. Installation is as simple — just spray, peel, and stick — no glue is needed, and they pull off cleanly whenever you want to rearrange them. Each pack includes 24 hummingbird shapes and 24 circles, which is more than enough to transform any ordinary room into a colorful wonderland.
19Scented Gel Pens That Transport You To A Cozy Cafe
These coffee-scented gel pens are the strangely delightful writing upgrade you never knew you needed. Each set includes six gourmet aromas, so every note, sketch, or to-do list smells like your favorite cafe. A medium tip writes in smooth black gel ink, and the scents last up to two years, energizing your senses like a shot of espresso every time the pen hits paper.
20A Beaded Charger That Has A Dual Connector For Fewer Cords
Measuring 3.3 feet long and strung with colorful round beads, this flashy USB cable could easily be mistaken for jewelry. But thankfully, it’s just as functional as it is eye-catching. It delivers fast, stable charging, and the dual connector works with both USB-C and iOS devices. No more digging through your bag for the right charger to match your gadget — everything you need is conveniently combined in a single cord.
21Gel Press-On Nails That Look Like A Salon Set
This press-on nail set is basically a cheat code for achieving a salon-level gel manicure at home. Each nail is made with real gel polish, so you get the same dimension, shine, and luxe finish you’d expect from a pro, but in a fraction of the time (and for a whole lot less than a salon visit). The kit includes glue, tabs, a file, prep pad, and 15 sizes so your set fits perfectly.
22Car Ornaments That Have You Smiling Behind The Wheel
If you love miniatures and kitschy decor, this 20-piece chicken figurine set brings a weird-but-cute vibe to your ride. Each tiny vinyl chick sticks securely to your dashboard, mirror, or console with the included traceless stickers, adding instant personality without blocking your view. They’re a treat for car lovers, collectors of cute things, or anyone who wants their daily drive to feel a little more fun.
23A Flower-Shaped Reading Lamp That Bends For Precise Lighting
The so-called stem of this flower-shaped light is highly bendable, so you can stand it up on a table, wrap it around a bedpost, put it in a vase, or even wear it around your neck. The light itself has seamless dimming and is rechargeable via USB for ease of use.
24Metal Book Darts That Mark Pages Without Damaging Them
These stainless steel book darts look like delicate little slivers of metal, but they’re a low-profile way to mark pages. Instead of dog-earing novels or plastering textbooks with sticky notes, slide one of these paper-thin tabs onto the exact line you want to revisit. They stay put, never wrinkle pages, and just look damn cool. Each set includes 50 darts.
25Winged Eyeliner Stamps That Create The Perfect Cat Eye
If you love the look of a sharp cat eye but struggle to freehand a wing, this eyeliner stamp set is a makeup game-changer. One end has a pre-shaped wing (with separate left and right stamps for symmetry), and the other end is a precise felt-tip liner for filling and defining. The template works on every eye shape, and a waterproof, smudge-proof formula stays put all day.
26A Spilled Milk Bowls That Looks Like An Accident In Action
Designed to look like a milk mishap frozen mid-splash, this cereal bowl brings chaotic charm to your breakfast routine. Crafted from soft yet sturdy BPA-free silicone, it’s playful, practical, and durable enough for daily use. It’s microwave-safe for quick reheats and dishwasher-safe for stress-free cleanup, making it perfect for busy households and those who love quirky kitchenware.
27Acrylic Paint Pens That Add A Metallic Sheen To Projects
These pre-activated paint pens add instant shine to your arts and craft projects — no pumping or shaking required. The set includes 12 pens, each pre-loaded with metallic ink that flows smoothly from the moment you uncap it. Medium tips are perfect for clean detailing or filling in bigger shapes, and the water-based acrylic ink goes on bold and opaque in just one stroke. Every line is clean, bright, and effortless.
28A Retractable Car Charger That Reduces Car Clutter
This four-in-one car charger is one of those little gadgets that instantly upgrades your ride. It plugs into a standard 12V cigarette lighter and gives you four charging options at once, including a fast USB-C port for powering phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The retractable cables extend over 30 inches to reach the back seat, while a 180-degree rotating head and shockproof design keep it steady on bumpy rides.
29Multitool Pens That Can Do 11 Jobs In One
If you love gear that punches above its weight class, this pair of 11-in-one multitool pens is straight-up badass. Each one hides a cache of tools inside — including an LED light, stylus, two rulers, a bubble level, a bottle opener, and even a Phillips screwdriver — all wrapped in a sturdy aluminum body. They’re shockingly useful for random fixes, office tasks, or glove-box emergencies.
30Mini Wildlife Whistles That Help Keep Animals Off The Road
This two-pack of wildlife warning whistles might look like nothing, but they make a huge impact when your car is in motion. Designed to help scare off deer and other animals before they bolt across the road, these mini devices stick right onto your bumper and emit a subtle ultrasonic sound to keep animals at bay. If you’re someone who drives rural roads or just loves clever safety hacks, this low-profile upgrade will make you a potential hero.
31A Metal Scraper That Tears Through Burnt-On Gunk
If you’ve ever battled a crusty stovetop or tried to remove a sticker that won't peel off, this razor blade scraper is a badass tool that will solve your problems. The stainless steel blades glide across glass, ceramic, tile, and metal to lift burnt-on food, grime, paint, film residue, and more without damaging the surface. A screw-lock mechanism keeps the blade firmly in place, while a built-in storage compartment and safety cap make it easy to store between tasks.
32A Keychain Flashlight That’s Way Brighter Than You’d Expect
With its compact size and fun colors, this tiny keychain looks like a toy, but it actually blasts 500 lumens of light, making it a handy everyday flashlight. An aluminum body and IP66 weatherproof rating make it rugged enough for outdoor use, while its beam is powerful enough to reach a distance of 230 feet. Just toss it on your keys for a handy companion in crawl spaces, on night walks, and in emergencies.
33A Fridge Deodorizer That’s As Cute As It Is Effective
Add Cool Guy to your fridge for a goofy little guardian that will ward off weird odors. Just load him up with baking soda, close the drawer, and let him work his magic. A food-safe silicone body is easy to clean between uses, and its design is undoubtedly a cheerful alternative to ordinary baking soda boxes.
34A Mini Label & Sticker Printer That Doesn’t Require Ink
This mini label printer is basically a sticker-making sidekick you can take anywhere. It’s ultra-light, super portable, and ridiculously easy to operate, even if you’ve never used a label maker before. Thermal printing technology delivers crisp results without ink, and designs are easy to create using an app.
35A Squid-Shaped Stick That Helps To Clear Out Your Pores
If you struggle with unwanted blackheads, this scrub stick will help to deeply clean your pores and extract those blackheads and sebum. In the shape of an adorable squid, this stick melts into your skin. Charcoal absorbs impurities, while Dead Sea salt, witch hazel, and hyaluronic acid help to hydrate and soothe your skin.
36Self-Heating Masks That Relax Tired Eyes
Treat tired, puffy, or overworked eyes to these self-warming steam masks for a calming, spa-like reset. They activate the moment you open the pouch, heating to 114 degrees to melt away tension without feeling too hot. The masks rest comfortably against the contours of your face, while soft elastic ear straps keep them in place. There are 20 packs in a set, and each provides about 30 minutes of relief.
37Mini Bean Fidget Toys That Are So Satisfying To Squeeze
These tiny fidget toys might look a little silly, but they’re secretly one of the most reliable boredom relievers you can carry in your pocket. Simply pop a pea out of the shell whenever you’re feeling antsy, and let it flash a smile before retreating into its pod. It’s small enough to live on your keys, backpack, or lanyard, so you can keep your hands busy anywhere, anytime.
38A Silicone Stove Shelf That Adds Extra Storage In An Unexpected Place
Maximize your kitchen storage space with this sturdy silicone stove shelf. It attaches instantly using six ultra-strong magnets that run the full width, staying put even on curved stove tops. Food-grade silicone construction is heatproof up to 482 degrees, so items stay cool even when the oven’s running. Just drop it in place and enjoy the instant upgrade.
39A Super Slim Fan With 100 Speeds
Don’t underestimate this tiny desk fan — it's basically a personal cooling system disguised as a cute little gadget. A quiet motor runs at 100 speeds to suit every comfort level, while a foldable, battery-operated design makes it ultra-portable. Whether you're traveling, camping, or roasting under fluorescent office lights, it delivers serious cooling without taking up more space than a wallet.
40A LEGO Plant Kit That You Never Have To Water
This adorable LEGO botanicals set gives you all the joy of growing plants, minus the pruning schedule. Build a baby dracaena and baby pilea, complete with smiling pastel pots. With 217 pieces and two different plants to assemble, it’s the perfect mix of hands-on crafting and display-worthy decor. Use them to brighten desks, shelves, and play areas without ever needing sunlight or water.
41A Plug-In Night-Light That’s Completely Customizable
This sleek plug-in night-light is an upgrade from the models you grew up with. Choose between three sensor modes and multiple brightness levels, then customize it with stickers so it can double as a decorative accent during the daytime. A double-layer design gently diffuses the light, and it's available in a variety of colors, from cool white to a racy red.
42A Tiny Pot That Gives Your Houseplant Personality
This smiling pot might look like adorable home decor, but it’s also a high-quality piece that will last for years. Made from weather-resistant resin, the pot is hand-finished with bright, fade-proof colors, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use. A built-in drainage hole keeps roots healthy, while the expressive design add instant personality to your room.
43Arc-Chill Pillowcases That Relieve Hot Sleepers
If you run hot in bed, these cooling pillowcases are like sleeping on a chilled cloud. One side is made with Japanese cooling fibers that instantly draw heat off your skin the moment your face touches it. Flip it over, and you get soft 100% cotton for cozy nights, giving you a year-round, two-sided sleep upgrade. A hidden zipper keeps everything sleek, while the fabric washes easily, dries fast, and never pills.
44A Foldable Lamp That Doubles As A Charging Device
Part lamp, part power bank, this portable light is a handy companion when studying, camping, or traveling. It features 48 long-life LEDs that are easy on the eyes, with touch controls for adjusting color temperature and brightness. Just tap to set the perfect atmosphere. A built-in battery recharges fast via USB-C, and its foldable design makes it easy to store in bags.
45After-Shave Patches With Aloe & Witch Hazel To Soothe Nicks
These clear hydrocolloid after-shave patches are one of those genius grooming upgrades you never knew you needed. Packed with aloe and witch hazel, they help calm freshly shaved and nicked skin. Instead of slapping on a stinging liquid or dealing with chalky white residue, you just press a patch on. There are 72 patches in a pack, enough to get you through months of trimming, shaving, and special-occasion touch-ups.
46A Crossbody Bag That Looks Like Buttered Toast
If your style leans playful, this toast-shaped purse would make a great addition to your bag collection. Made from soft, buttery plush (literally), it looks like a slice of breakfast turned into a fashion accessory, but with enough room for essentials like keys, glasses, cards, and cosmetics. The single zip pocket keeps things tidy, and the ultra-lightweight build makes it perfect for hands-free travel.
47A Heart-Shaped Purse Light To Help You Find Things Quickly
This quirky heart-shaped handbag light is one of those genius little gizmos that make everyday life easier. Made with built-in sensors, it kicks on automatically when you open your purse, giving you instant light to find your keys, wallet, or whatever else is swimming at the bottom. The light’s soft glow is comfortable on the eyes, and it can be clipped or hung in your bag.
48A Car Trash Cans That Opens With One Hand
Made from food-grade silicone, this car trash can features a lid that opens with one hand so you can drop stuff in without fumbling at the wheel. A 15-ounce capacity provides ample space for wrappers, receipts, and other debris, and a wide 3.5-inch mouth makes it easy to clean. Simply pop it into a cup holder or door pocket for a convenient way to tame car clutter.
49A Journaling Kit That Makes It Fun To Stay Organized
This bullet journal kit may look cute and colorful, but it’s a tool for staying thoughtfully organized. The hardcover A5 dotted journal opens flat, holds up to heavy ink with no bleed-through, and comes packed with 925 grids ready for planning, tracking, and plotting. You also get 15 fineliners, slim washi tapes for flawless borders, five stencils, six sticker sheets, and a classic black pen. It’s everything you need to track habits, plan your week, or jot down thoughts.
50A Travel-Friendly Pill Box That Keeps Your Doses Secure
If you’re tired of flimsy travel pill cases popping open in your bag, this sturdy little organizer fixes the problem for good. Inside are eight compartments that keep vitamins, supplements, and medications neatly sorted. Six smaller chambers hold tiny pills without mixing, while two larger ones fit bigger tablets. A silicone sealing ring and double-lock system keep everything secure, even if it gets tossed in a bag or dropped.
51Privacy Film That Turns Plain Windows Into Stained-Glass Art
This reusable vinyl window film is one of those upgrades that looks way too fancy for the price. It clings to glass without any adhesive — perfect for renters, commitment-phobes, and decor tinkerers. During the day, it transforms sunlight into vibrant rainbow patterns while blocking UV rays to help keep your space cooler. At night, it turns clear windows into softly blurred, semi-private panels. It’s all the beauty of stained glass without the price tag or upkeep.
52Handmade Squishy Toys That Are Delightfully Squeezable
If you love weird little stress toys, these squishy chicks are adorable, tactile treasures. Each one is unique, thanks to the handmade process, and they’re designed for gentle squeezing. A slow-rising rebound is satisfying to watch, while a fuzzy texture is an unexpected alternative to smooth toys.
53Magnetic Phone Mounts That Lock Securely In Place
If you want a mount that stays put and doesn’t wobble, these magnetic phone holders earn their spot on your dashboard. A high-bond adhesive keeps each stand secure on your car, while an eight-magnet core maintains its grip on devices even through potholes, speed bumps, and sudden stops. The tiny footprint looks clean, each one rotates a full 360 degrees, and you can grab or add your phone with one hand.
54Mason Jar Bags That Look Cute & Save Space
These mason jar bags have the novel charm of a vintage jar, but they’re also a practical, space-saving storage solution. There are 20 in a pack, each made from BPA-free material with an airtight zip seal. Each pouch stands upright when full, just like a real jar, but collapses flat when empty, saving a ton of space in drawers, freezers, and backpacks. Lightweight and leakproof, they’re perfect for keeping snacks, spices, and leftovers fresh.
55Honeycomb Drawer Organizers That Instantly Multiply Your Storage
Transform any messy drawer into a hyper-organized honeycomb with these clever interlocking dividers. The 12-piece system snaps together to create custom-sized compartments, giving every pair of socks, rolled tee, or stray belt its own tiny home. It’s made from sturdy PP plastic for smooth, thick, and totally uncrushable walls, making them perfect for dresser drawers, office cabinets, and more.
56A Garden Dibber That Speeds Up Seed & Bulb Planting
If you love planting from seed, this sturdy dibber will make gardening easier and more precise. Made of stainless steel, it features a T-handle and engraved depth measurements, giving you total control so every hole is perfectly straight and precisely placed. You can also use it to mark soil for address stakes or make holes for solar garden lights and decor.
57An Ear Pillow That Eases Pain & Helps Piercings Heal
This ear pillow looks bizarre at first sight, but it’s a genius invention for anyone with fresh piercings or ear pain. The built-in center hole relieves pressure on irritated ears, while a shoulder groove keeps everything aligned as you sleep. You can even unzip the side to adjust the filling and customize your perfect height.
58A Tumbler Lid Organizer That Puts An End To Cabinet Chaos
This tumbler lid organizer is a surprising but welcome fix for chaotic cabinets. Instead of digging through a graveyard of toppled lids, this vertical rack stacks them neatly so every Yeti, Stanley, and Hydro Flask topper has its own place. A round steel base keeps everything solid and upright, instantly freeing up your shelves and making things look tidier.
59Card Sponges That Make Dish Duty Feel Like Less Of A Chore
Designed to resemble face cards, these sponges add a little joy to dish duty. Each is built with three hardworking layers to power through crusty plates and greasy pans. Durable, non-scratch scrub pads lock in suds and wipe away messes without damaging cookware, while soft upper layers soak, clean, and rinse easily. Beyond dishes, they can also be used for appliances, countertops, or even bathroom touch-ups.
60Car Seat Gap Fillers To Stop Stuff From Vanishing Between The Cracks
If you’re tired of keys, snacks, or coins slipping into that black hole between your car seats, these gap fillers are the weird little upgrade that saves your sanity. Made from durable, flexible TPE, they wedge securely into gaps from 0.8 to 1.6 inches wide without scratching your upholstery. Each piece adds a bonus storage slot big enough for your phone, plus a built-in cable hole for charging devices while driving.