From robot vacuums to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, here are the top 10 tech gadgets of 2025

It’s been another year of technical innovation at a breakneck speed, and chief among those are the refinements to already existing products like robot vacuums, digital cameras, and smartphones.

Smart devices dominate this list, as there’s nothing quite like building an ecosystem to suit an individual’s needs.

The advances in robot vacuums have been significant, while the steady progress in smartphones continues unabated.

In no particular order, here are the 10 top tech gadgets of 2025 so far.

Roborock Saros 10 and 10R robot vacuums

According to techradr.com, these are the best of the best when it comes to robot vacuums. The speciality of these two models is their ability to clean low-height areas like under your bed and couches. These are areas that aren’t normally cleaned regularly, so this is a big selling point.

However, the new feature on this vacuum is the robotic arm, which, to be honest, can’t do much on its own and relies on the user to control it via the app. Still, this is certainly a nifty innovation.

It’s definitely a lucky device though, and at around R50k, the old-fashioned broom and electric vacuum will be far more appealing for the average consumer in South Africa.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone

If you’re not stuck in the Apple ecosystem, the S25 Ultra is by far the best phone you can get. From its camera system to its actually useful AI (here’s looking at you Apple), this is a high-end phone with all the features.

One of the most useful features, that many recent models have, is Samsung Dex. This allows you to connect a USB-C cable to a compatible monitor, and the phone functions as a personal computer. This is a feature Apple is only currently dreaming of, and with the performance capabilities of the latest Samsung offerings, this eliminates the need for a laptop almost completely.

Depending on where you go, the phone will be in the region of R27k - but it’s a highly capable device, so if you can afford it, you won’t have buyer’s remorse.

Apple MacBook Air M4 laptop

Released in March, this thin and light laptop from Apple is an absolute powerhouse. With incredible battery life available in 13” and 15” form factors, this is the first MacBook Air to finally come with 16GB of unified memory. With this upgrade now standard, along with a lower starting price compared to the M3 Air, which was released in 2024, it’s much easier to recommend this incredible all-rounder.

Currently retailing at R22,499 at the iStore, it’s twice been on sale already this year for R19,999. With Black Friday specials not too far away, another great sale price could definitely be worth the wait.

Nintendo Switch 2 hybrid gaming console

The latest offering from the Japanese gaming giant, the new handheld gaming device features an improved screen and joysticks. It’s also been eight years since the launch of the first Nintendo Switch, so the performance jump is huge.

The drawback, though, like many devices on this list, is that it’s not cheap. Around R12,500 at most retailers, its performance is still some way behind the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, which hardcore gamers would likely choose instead.

LG G5 OLED TV

As an owner of an older model LG OLED TV, I can confirm you can’t go wrong with this brand. The new G5, though, is exceptional in its performance when it comes to gaming and fast-action movies.

The 65” TV, though, comes with quite the price tag at R54,999.

Q-series Soundbar HW-Q930F

While the name of this Samsung soundbar leaves much to be desired, the same cannot be said for the sound produced. The sound quality is excellent with extraordinary bass and features like SpaceFit Sound Pro and Q-Symphony.

Though not cheap at R16,999, it’s a worthwhile buy for a theatre-quality audio experience.

Canon EOS R100

Though this camera was released a couple of years ago, its 2025 price of around R10,000 makes it an excellent choice for beginners. The ability to attach different lenses gives this entry-level camera exceptional versatility, making it highly competitive with more expensive, high-end models.

Apple Watch Ultra 3

Currently available for pre-order, the latest addition to Apple’s smartwatch lineup is the most advanced wearable they’ve ever shipped. Starting at R19,499, it’s a premium device but certainly not easy on the wallet. While it boasts improved battery life, a more affordable Garmin watch may be a more practical choice for most consumers. However, if you’re looking for the best of the best, the new Ultra 3 is an easy choice.

Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Earbuds

Another tech gadget that sounds like it could be the name of one of Elon Musk’s offspring, these wireless earbuds are refreshingly competitive at a starting price of R5,499. They offer excellent noise cancellation and a degree of water resistance. Their sound quality is certainly comparable to other high-end competitors.

iPad A16 Tablet

Although this Apple tablet has a forgettable name, it offers incredible value not typically associated with the brand. Currently priced at R6,999 at the iStore, it features an increased base storage of 128GB.

As the name suggests, it houses the powerful Apple A16 chip. With the new iPadOS 26 featuring the “Liquid Glass” design launched on Monday, this budget iPad can function much like its higher-end siblings, such as the iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Its improved functionality and enhanced file management system could even make it a viable alternative to the MacBook Air in some use cases.

@Michael_Sherman

IOL Tech