Kitchen Upgrades on a Budget: 12 Gadgets Under $200

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Cooking is one of life’s simple pleasures, and having the right tools can make a world of difference. Kitchen gadgets bring convenience and innovation to everyday tasks, helping to elevate the culinary experience. From speeding up meal prep to offering new ways to cook, these gadgets can turn a mundane chore into an enjoyable activity. With options to suit both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, there’s something for everyone who spends time in the kitchen.

Choosing the perfect kitchen gadget means considering several important factors. Size is crucial, especially if kitchen space is limited. Additionally, pay attention to the material and construction to ensure durability. For gadgets with electrical components, safety features and ease of cleaning should also be considered. By focusing on your specific needs and preferences, finding a gadget that fits seamlessly into your kitchen routine becomes much simpler.

We scoured the market to find twelve kitchen gadgets under $200 that promise to enhance your cooking and baking adventures. Our selections highlight functionality, value, and user-friendliness, making it easier to decide which gadgets deserve a spot on your countertop.

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12 Essential Kitchen Gadgets

We’ve gathered a selection of kitchen gadgets that not only excite but also make cooking easier and more fun. These 12 must-have items are all under $200 and can transform your culinary experience. Dive in and find the perfect tool for your kitchen adventures.

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1. Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker

The Ninja CREAMi is a must-have for anyone who loves to make their own frozen treats at home.

Pros

• Customizable for a wide variety of desserts
• Compact and easy to clean
• Smooth and creamy texture

Cons

• Needs significant freezer time
• Can be noisy during operation
• Not compatible with other Ninja pints

We recently tried the Ninja CREAMi, and it brilliantly transformed our frozen ingredients into delicious ice cream and sorbet. The seven one-touch programs make choosing the right setting easy, whether we’re in the mood for gelato or a smoothie bowl. It’s truly delightful to have control over ingredients, customizing flavors to fit our dietary preferences. Plus, it handles mix-ins like nuts and candies effortlessly, adding a personal touch to each creation.

A highlight of using this machine is its user-friendly design. You simply prepare your base, freeze it overnight, and let the CREAMi work its magic. The compact size means it fits neatly in our kitchen, without demanding too much space. Cleanup is straightforward too, as all parts are dishwasher-safe.

The main thing to note is that the freezer time is crucial for the best results. While waiting overnight might test our patience, the end product is worth it. Despite a bit of noise during blending, the creamy goodness of our favorite flavors keeps us coming back for more. For fans of homemade frozen desserts, this gadget is a great investment.

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2. T-fal Ultimate Cookware Set

This T-fal cookware set is a must-have for anyone looking to up their kitchen game with durable, nonstick pots and pans.

Pros

• Nonstick surfaces make cleanup quick and easy.
• Built-in Thermo-Spot feature helps ensure even cooking.
• Versatile and safe for oven use up to 400°F.

Cons

• Handles may get warm during stove use.
• Lids only oven-safe up to 350°F.
• Not compatible with induction stoves.

We found this T-fal set to be a game-changer for our daily cooking routines. The hard anodized aluminum ensures these pieces are sturdy, making them last longer compared to other brands. The nonstick coating simplifies cooking and cleaning, as nothing sticks, even with minimal oil.

The Thermo-Spot technology is a helpful feature, turning red to show when the pan is perfectly heated. This helps us cook meals more evenly, so everything from fried eggs to sautéed veggies comes out just right.

However, while the cookware excels in many areas, the handles can get pretty warm, so it’s wise to have a potholder nearby. Also, although versatile, this set isn’t suitable for induction cooktops. Despite these minor downsides, this set is a fantastic choice for enhancing meal prep and overall kitchen experience.

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3. Instant Pot Pro

This versatile kitchen appliance simplifies meal preparation, combining multiple cooking features into one user-friendly device.

Pros

• Replaces ten appliances, making it a great space-saver
• Quick pre-heating and cooking times
• Quiet steam release with improved design

Cons

• Learning curve with so many features
• May be too large for some countertops
• Requires regular cleaning and maintenance

We explored the Instant Pot Pro and found it to be a fantastic addition to our cooking routine. Its ability to replace ten kitchen gadgets is impressive, and it significantly reduces the clutter on our counter. There are customizable settings that allow us to prepare various meals with ease, making it a particularly versatile tool.

The quick cooking times caught our attention immediately. Pre-heating is 20% faster, speeding up meal prep without compromising on taste or quality. The new steam release design is quieter and prevents splashes, an underrated but welcome improvement.

Despite the benefits, the Instant Pot Pro does require some getting used to. With so many options and features, it took us a few trials to unlock its full potential. Additionally, it takes up quite a bit of space, which might be an issue in smaller kitchens. Maintenance is also key to keep it running smoothly.

All in all, the Instant Pot Pro is a solid investment for anyone looking to streamline their meal prep. It’s perfect for larger families or cooking in batches and its smart features make cooking more enjoyable.

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4. BLACK+DECKER Cocktail Maker Machine

For anyone who loves hosting or just enjoys a good cocktail at home, this cocktail maker is a smart buy.

Pros

• Simple to use with quick results
• Customizable drink strength
• Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning

Cons

• Requires separate purchase of Bartesian capsules
• Needs multiple liquor bottles for full functionality
• Takes up counter space

The BLACK+DECKER Cocktail Maker has truly elevated our home entertaining game. It’s a breeze to make cocktails that taste like they were crafted by a professional bartender. Just pop in a capsule, set your preferred strength, and let the machine do the rest.

This gadget stands out with its customizable drink settings, allowing us to adjust the strength to suit different tastes. We’ve found friends have specific preferences, so this feature comes in handy during parties.

Cleaning is often a hassle with kitchen gadgets, but this machine makes it easy. Several parts are dishwasher-safe, saving us time after gatherings. Though it’s a bit bulky, the sleek design means it fits nicely on our counter, adding a touch of class to our kitchen space.

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5. Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener

The Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener is a reliable tool for anyone who wants to keep their kitchen knives in peak condition.

Pros

• Easy to operate
• Provides precise sharpness
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons

• Limited compatibility with all blade types
• Magnetic holder can leave marks
• May become harder to roll over time

The first thing we noticed about the Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener is how simple it is to use. The design makes it easy to secure your knife and start sharpening right away. We appreciated the immediate difference in blade sharpness.

Diamonds are used in the sharpening disc, which impressed us with its capability to sharpen efficiently. The process is quick: a few rolls back and forth is all it takes. Plus, the dual sharpening angles (15 & 20 degrees) offer versatility for different knife types.

While the sharpener works well with most kitchen knives, it struggled a bit with smaller blades. We also noted that the magnetic holder sometimes left small marks. Over time, it might take a little extra effort to keep the roller smooth. Despite these minor issues, it’s a handy gadget for maintaining sharp blades in the kitchen.

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6. EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum

The EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum is a must-buy for pet owners and busy households due to its powerful suction and convenient hands-free operation.

Pros

• Excellent at picking up pet hair and dirt
• Hands-free operation makes sweeping easy
• Compact design fits in small spaces

Cons

• Sensitive sensor may activate unexpectedly
• Noise level can be high
• Must regularly clean filters for best performance

This EyeVac is a game-changer in our kitchen cleanup routine. With its impressive suction power, it swiftly gobbles up the mess left by kids and pets. We love how it saves us from constantly bending down with a dustpan, making cleaning effortless.

Its touchless operation is both practical and fun to use. We simply sweep debris in front of it, and the vacuum takes care of the rest. It shines in high-traffic areas like the kitchen or playroom where dirt seems to multiply.

While we adore its efficiency, the noise can be a bit much, especially in smaller homes. Also, the sensor sometimes reacts to close movements, which can startle pets or activate when not needed. Despite these quirks, the EyeVac remains a fantastic addition to our cleaning tools.

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7. Vitamix Immersion Blender

Anyone who enjoys cooking should have this immersion blender due to its impressive power and ease of use.

Pros

• Operates with one hand
• Has a strong motor
• Easy to clean and store

Cons

• Corded power source
• Slightly heavy
• Limited to larger containers

This Vitamix immersion blender is perfect for creating smooth textures quickly. Its power is evident as it effortlessly tackles frozen fruits and leafy greens. Blending different soups or morning smoothies becomes a breeze, offering smooth results time and again.

One of the most appealing features is its one-handed operation. It allows us to blend and add ingredients simultaneously, saving time in the kitchen. Plus, the design ensures our pots and containers stay unscathed thanks to the unique bell guard.

Despite being slightly heavy, which might take getting used to, the robust motor and long cord offer reliability. It’s a good fit for larger jars but could be limited if you’re working with small containers. We found it easy to store, making it a practical addition to any home chef’s collection.

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8. Vakumar Liquid Vacuum Sealer

This Vakumar vacuum sealer is a versatile and reliable gadget for anyone looking to keep their food fresh.

Pros

• Efficient liquid sealing options
• Easy one-handed locking mechanism
• Doubles heat seal for secure sealing

Cons

• Cutter can be difficult to use
• Occasional issues with heat seal durability
• Somewhat bulky for small kitchens

This vacuum sealer stands out with its ability to handle liquid-rich foods effortlessly. We found this feature especially useful for sealing homemade soups and sauces without any spills. The one-handed locking design is a real game-changer, making the sealing process straightforward and hassle-free.

The variety of modes—dry, moist, and liquid—offers flexibility, letting us choose the right setting for different foods. It successfully keeps food fresh and avoids freezer burn. Its sleek design fits nicely on the countertop but may feel a bit bulky if you’re short on space.

One minor shortcoming is the built-in cutter, which can sometimes be tricky to maneuver. While the device consistently provides tight seals, some users have noted occasional issues, particularly after extended use. Nonetheless, the Vakumar Vacuum Sealer remains a valuable addition to any kitchen.

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9. CHEF iQ Smart Meat Thermometer

The CHEF iQ Smart Meat Thermometer is a reliable choice for anyone looking to perfect their cooking process with accurate temperature monitoring and easy management of multiple dishes.

Pros

• Simultaneous tracking for three foods
• Long-range connection to monitor remotely
• Waterproof probes for easy cleaning

Cons

• May need frequent calibration for accuracy
• App-dependent for optimal use
• Limited to certain smart device compatibilities

Using the CHEF iQ Smart Meat Thermometer was a game-changer in our kitchen. We appreciated how it allowed us to track the cooking process for three different dishes at the same time. The ease of knowing that each probe can provide precise readings was invaluable. It helped us achieve the perfect doneness for our steaks without any guesswork.

The device’s long-range connectivity offered the convenience of moving around the house while still keeping an eye on the cooking status. This was especially handy during family gatherings or when prepping other dishes. The audible alerts kept us informed even when we were away from the kitchen.

Cleaning up after cooking was a breeze thanks to the waterproof probes. Tossing them into the dishwasher with other utensils saved us time. While the device performed well, occasional recalibration was necessary to ensure accuracy, and integrating it with the app was essential for a seamless experience. Despite needing a compatible device, it was still a valuable addition for us.

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10. KitchenAid Gourmet Pasta Press Attachment

This attachment transforms your KitchenAid stand mixer into a versatile pasta-making machine, simplifying the process of creating fresh pasta.

Pros

• Easily creates various pasta shapes
• Comes with helpful storage case
• Includes a stainless steel cleaning tool

Cons

• Dough can be slow to extrude
• Sticky dough might require adjustments
• Cleaning can be a bit tedious

Attaching the Gourmet Pasta Press to our KitchenAid mixer was straightforward, and we were soon crafting beautifully shaped noodles. It boasts six changeable discs, letting us experiment with spaghetti, rigatoni, fusilli, and more. The included wire cutter was handy for slicing long strands to our preferred length. Everything fits neatly in its storage case, keeping our kitchen organized.

While making pasta felt like a fun culinary adventure, the dough needed patience. It took a while to extrude, and for gluten-free versions, some trial and error was necessary to achieve the ideal consistency. However, the results were worth it, with each pasta shape turning out perfect once we mastered the technique.

Cleaning the pasta press was a bit involved, especially for those little dough bits stuck in crevices. Thankfully, the stainless steel cleaning tool made the task manageable. Overall, this KitchenAid attachment is an invaluable addition for anyone who loves homemade pasta, offering both variety and convenience.

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11. Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill

This versatile indoor grill offers excellent grilling and air frying capabilities with smart cooking features at a reasonable price.

Pros

• Simple temperature control
• Versatile with multiple functions
• Reduces smoke effectively

Cons

• Takes up counter space
• Initial learning curve
• Power cord could be longer

We recently tried the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill, and we must say, it truly elevates the grilling experience. The smart cook system takes away the guesswork, letting us achieve perfect doneness. Searing and air frying with this gadget was an enjoyable experience.

The grill excels at cooking juicy steaks and crispy fries, delivering impressive results every time. Its ability to transition from grill to air fryer means it can handle a wide variety of dishes with ease.

Cleaning up after a meal is straightforward thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts. However, it does take up a fair bit of counter space. Overall, this kitchen gadget is a win for food lovers seeking convenience and versatility.

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12. Ninja CREAMi

This ice cream maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen for creating quick and delicious frozen treats.

Pros

• Mixes in your favorite flavors and textures
• Easy for the whole family to use
• Simple cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts

Cons

• Limited overall capacity at 16 ounces
• Additional pints needed for multiple flavors
• Not compatible with certain older models

Creating frozen desserts at home has never been easier with the Ninja CREAMi. The machine lets you take control of your ingredients, so you can whip up everything from rich gelato to healthy, low-sugar options. We’ve found it to be a fun way to get the family involved in making their favorite creamy treats.

The seven one-touch programs make the process a breeze. You can choose your desired texture by selecting the re-spin option to get that perfect smoothness. One of our favorite parts is adding different mix-ins like nuts and chocolate to customize each batch.

Though it has a few limitations, like its 16-ounce pint capacity, the Ninja CREAMi is a great tool if you’re looking to make personalized ice cream at home. Remember, it’s compatible with specific pint accessories, which you might need for making different flavors throughout the week. Overall, it’s worth considering if you enjoy experimenting with dessert creations.

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Buying Guide

When choosing kitchen gadgets, several key features should be considered. First, functionality is crucial. What tasks can the gadget perform, and does it fit your cooking needs? Think about whether it will help make your cooking easier or more enjoyable.

Durability is another important factor. Kitchen gadgets often get a lot of use, so they should be made from materials that can withstand regular wear and tear. Look for stainless steel or high-quality plastics that promise longevity.

A tool’s ease of use and cleaning should also be evaluated. Gadgets that are dishwasher-safe can save time, and those with simple designs tend to be easier to use. Assess whether the gadget fits comfortably in your hand or kitchen space.

Size and storage are key, especially if you have limited space. Consider how easily the gadget can be stored and whether it’s compact enough to not clutter your kitchen.

Price is always a consideration. Set a budget and look for gadgets that offer the best value for the features they provide. Remember, more expensive doesn’t always mean better.

Finally, reading user reviews can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of each gadget. Look for feedback on reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness to get an idea of real-world performance.

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