Smart devices shouldn't cost too much

However, not all products labeled 'smart' are worth the money consumers spend. Some devices not only disappoint in terms of functionality, but also pose major privacy and security risks.

Smart refrigerator

Smart refrigerators may seem like an attractive product with many features such as food tracking via an app, temperature control, and touch screen interaction. However, in reality, many of these features do not work effectively or are unnecessary. Using an old tablet in the kitchen is often more convenient and economical than a smart refrigerator that costs 30 million VND or more.

Smart devices shouldn't cost too much Picture 1

Illustration photo.

Additionally, smart refrigerators often suffer from software issues, with the risk of stopping receiving updates after a period of use. This can result in consumers owning an expensive device that is no longer smart. Furthermore, if the refrigerator has a camera and collects the user's shopping habits, it can become a target for hackers, creating a security risk.

Smart toys for children

While tech toys for kids can be fun, unsupervised internet-connected products pose privacy risks. Some smart toys have cameras and microphones that can be used by hackers to spy on children. The risks extend beyond tracking, and can lead to data misuse.

Parents need to be careful when choosing tech gifts for their children. Stay away from toys with microphones, cameras, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to protect your child's privacy and safety.

Smart oven

Smart ovens aren't a bad thing, but the reality is that, beyond remote control, they don't add much value. Smart ovens promise to help users cook perfect meals, but in reality, many factors such as food thickness, water content, and other ingredients affect the final result. Therefore, relying on cooking programs on smart ovens may not be as effective as using timers, experience, and traditional cooking tools such as meat thermometers.

Smart devices shouldn't cost too much Picture 2

Illustration photo.

Furthermore, smart ovens are often much more expensive than conventional ovens without providing the same value. They cost around 9 million VND or more, while similar ovens cost just under 5 million VND.

Smart lights

Although it has RGB and warm white modes, users cannot adjust the warm white mode via virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. Instead, they have to rely on an unstable app. This light supports Wi-Fi but does not have Bluetooth, so users must be near the router to change the color.

If you are looking for a smart lighting solution, you may want to consider buying a regular lamp combined with a smart bulb. This solution is not only cost-effective but also easy to replace when the bulb breaks instead of having to throw away the entire device.

Smart trash can

Smart trash cans may seem like a novelty, but it's hard to see what problem they're solving. These bins often have motion-sensing lids, but if they break or run out of battery, users have to open the lids manually, making smart trash cans an expensive product that's no different from a regular trash can. Foot pedal trash cans, on the other hand, are more durable and easier to use.

Smart devices shouldn't cost too much Picture 3

Illustration photo.

Although some smart trash cans can replace bags themselves, users still have to manually remove the bags to throw them away. Changing bags in regular trash cans is not a big deal, while the price of smart trash cans can be up to more than 3 million VND, not to mention the cost of exclusive bags.

Smart water bottle

The main purpose of a smart water bottle is to keep the drink at the desired temperature for a long time. However, high-quality stainless steel water bottles that cost a few hundred thousand VND can still retain heat very well, much longer than needed. While smart water bottles cost up to 5 million VND.

While high-end smart water bottles can keep drinks at the right temperature, they're not as useful as regular bottles. Some have temperature sensors and displays, but the push notification or LED reminder feature feels like a pain.

Smart coffee maker

The device requires users to prepare ground coffee or pods in advance, which can then be controlled via an app or set a timer. While having a hot cup of coffee as soon as you wake up may sound appealing, users are actually just shifting the preparation process from 30 seconds to an earlier time.

Smart devices shouldn't cost too much Picture 4

Illustration photo.

Furthermore, if you use freshly ground coffee, the flavor will degrade overnight, resulting in a poor cup of coffee. Not only are these devices expensive, they pose a safety risk and are more prone to malfunction, while also limiting the user's control over the final result.

Micah Soto

Update 18 February 2025