The Next Upgrade Team's Best Purchases of 2025
These are our favorite tech upgrades from last year!
January 19, 2026 / by Gracey Maala / 5 mins read
Every year, new gadgets flood the market, promising big changes. In 2025, our team members didn't just buy new things, we also invested in transformative upgrades! We focused on what brought lasting, practical value. From an ergonomic keyboard that alleviated pain to a versatile dive device and a simple mini fan that saved the day on a hot commute, our best buys demonstrate how technology should adapt to us. Read on to see the Next Upgrade Team’s best purchases of 2025—the gear we now can’t live without!
Insta360 GO 3S
From Insta360 Official Website
“This is my companion whenever I travel and go on walks and run to record memories and capture moments.” – Matthew Balicudiong, Editor-in-Chief
TIXX 1.5L Air Dehumidifier
From TIXX Family Mall on Shopee
“My best tech buy of the year is the TIXX 1.5L Dehumidifier. The rainy season has been particularly challenging for our home, and we unfortunately have to deal with molds. To curb this, buying a dehumidifier that runs 24/7 may be costly on our electricity bill, but it gives me peace of mind that we’re gonna be okay health-wise!” – Elaine Carag-Calderon, Managing Editor
Garmin Descent G1
From Garmin Official Website
“I was never a fan of watches until the era of wearables. Getting a Garmin took months of thinking because if I was getting one, it had to be a dive watch too. As someone who does hiking and freediving, the Descent G1 was perfect. It's also helpful with runs and gym workouts! I love that the battery lasts for up to 21 days, as I often forget to charge my devices on time. Active girlies deserve a Garmin!” – Gelle Arcega, Art Director
Xiaomi Air Purifier Compact
Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop
“My best purchase of 2025 is the Xiaomi Air Purifier Compact, which improves our home air quality, easing breathing for someone like me who’s an asthmatic fur mom. It’s a smart device with real-time monitoring and easy control, available at the Next Upgrade Shop!” – Gracey Maala, Associate Editor
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
From Apple Official Website
“My best tech buy is the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Though my old iPhone was still functioning well, I pushed for an upgrade because I wanted a better camera to document my dogs' adventures and to share them online with ease. It also has bigger storage, a faster processor, and an amazing display, so I can do most of my work and even play on the device. So far it's been worth it!” – Kitty Carpena, Content Editor
Edifier M60
From Edifier Official Website
“My best tech buy for 2025 is the Edifier M60. I am not exactly a full-on "audio head," but I always enjoy having some ambient sounds playing in the back. Now, I like how it is both strong and balanced, but depending on its position, it can fill in my small room. When it is directed behind me, I can actually live in ambient sounds, such as cafe sounds. However, if I want a better music experience, I direct it towards the sides of my head and sit about 4 feet back. Having headphones is great, but if you want a freeing experience, good quality speakers are the way to go.” – Louigi Balao, Content Writer
GOOJODOQ Turbo Mini Fan
Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop
“My best tech buy this year isn't anything monumental, but it's definitely one of my best upgrades this year (and one that I don't leave home without anymore): a portable turbo mini fan, like the GOOJODOQ Turbo Mini Fan. From my now more frequent commutes to trips to the beach, and just anywhere where I know there won't be air conditioning, it's there to beat the heat. It's one gadget that I didn't really think I needed before I had it, but one that I don't see myself living without.” – Jay Carag, Content Writer
Samsung 55" UHD SMART TV
Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop
“Getting the Samsung 55" UHD SMART TV UA55U8000FGXXP this year truly elevated my home entertainment setup by literally providing me with a good TV. This big screen not only allowed me to enjoy top-rated movies, series, and vlogs, but also enabled me to stream sports events with life-like color and picture quality that truly captures real-time action. Just like any home buddy who spends her free time watching shows online, you can also experience immersive viewing at home with this 4K screen that retails for under ₱30K at the Next Upgrade Shop.” – Claire Sunga, Contributing Writer and Copywriter
Logitech Wave Keys Keyboard and Logitech Lift
From Logitech Official Website
Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop
“My best purchases would be the ergonomic Logitech Wave Keys keyboard and the Logitech Lift ergonomic mouse. It's a game-changer for me because I was diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy, or basically a pinched nerve in the neck that also affects my arm and fingers. With these mart purchases, the pain I feel decreased. Ergonomics smart devices are lurveeee." – Marhiel Garrote, Editorial Assistant
Looking back at 2025, the most valuable tech purchases were those that improved our routines and well-being. The best investments are personal, supporting hobbies or needs like comfort or communication. We hope our experiences inspire your own valuable upgrades!
