Gadgets That Are Better Than the Apple Versions
Apple might be known for its sleek design and tight ecosystem, but that doesn’t mean it’s always leading the pack. In fact, there are several non-Apple gadgets that outperform their Cupertino counterparts in real-world use. Whether it’s sound quality, battery life, or sheer versatility, some brands are simply doing it better—and often for less.
Take smartwatches, for example. While the Apple Watch is polished and popular, it’s no match for Garmin’s high-performance models or Samsung’s Galaxy Watch when it comes to battery life, durability, and health tracking depth. Runners, hikers, and fitness pros know the difference—and they’re choosing watches that keep up with them for days, not hours.
When it comes to audio, Sony’s WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds leave AirPods Pro behind with superior noise cancellation, richer sound profiles, and support for high-res audio. They work flawlessly across platforms without locking you into a single ecosystem. They’re made for listening, not brand loyalty.
Apple’s MacBooks are great machines, but ultrabooks like the Dell XPS and ASUS Zenbook now rival or surpass them in screen quality, ports, and price-performance balance. Some models even feature touchscreens, OLED panels, and more customization—areas where Apple still holds back.
Even tablets have serious contenders. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, with its massive OLED display and included S Pen, offers more flexibility than an iPad Pro. With Samsung DeX, it can even become a desktop workstation, something Apple hasn’t quite cracked without clunky accessories.
And for simple tracking? Apple AirTags work well for iPhone users, but they’re limited to iOS. Tile and Chipolo trackers are more versatile, offering broader compatibility and extra functionality like loud alerts or two-way find features—making them more useful for everyday users.
The truth is, Apple makes great gadgets—but they’re not always the best choice. Whether you’re after better features, more freedom, or better value, looking beyond the Apple ecosystem opens up a world of smarter tech options.
