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60 Dope Things That Seem Expensive But Are Actually Cheap AF On Amazon

These products feel oh-so-luxe for oh-so-cheap.

by Lauren Dana
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If you have a taste for the finer things in life but are on a budget, you can still indulge in the luxe life — without spending a ton of money. In fact, Amazon is packed with products that seem expensive but are actually cheap. Whether you want to upgrade your home, style, or everyday routine, these products can make a big difference, and they all have ultra-affordable price tags.

I’ve scoured Amazon and narrowed down 60 of the most expensive-looking products that actually live up to the hype. On this list, you’ll find a fan-favorite hair tool that makes it super easy to achieve salon-worthy blowouts at home, an insulated smart water bottle that can remind you to hydrate, and a set of cubic zirconia jewelry that could pass for real diamonds. You’ll also find unbelievably budget-friendly yet high-performing tech products, cooking tools, and decor. The best part is that they all ring in at under $50, which makes them a total steal in my book.

Scroll down to see all of the amazingly attainable luxuries. And don’t be fooled by their looks — they are definitely more affordable than they might seem at first glance.

1This Pair Of Waterproof, Noise-Canceling Wireless Earbuds

Not only are these wireless earbuds waterproof, but they also have noise-cancellation to help block out surrounding noise. Just connect it to your device via Bluetooth and use the touch controls to answer phone calls or skip to the next song. Plus, the portable charging case makes it especially convenient for on-the-go use.

2This Cuticle Cream Reviewers Say Works Like Magic

A small tube of this cuticle conditioner can save your cuticles from dryness and cracking and splitting. Natural ingredients including shea butter Japanese wakame seaweed, vitamin E, and aloe vera extract nourish and condition and the fine tip allows for precise application. One reviewer wrote, “I thought it was a bit pricey for its size but a little goes a long way but most importantly - IT WORKS! Like magic!”

3A Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker With High-Quality Sound

This waterproof Bluetooth speaker is the perfect accessory for your shower or trips to the beach because you won’t have to fret about accidentally dropping it in water. Despite its compact size, it packs a powerful punch: One reviewer raved that they were “blown away with incredibly rich sound and built quality.” Snag two of these speakers and pair them to create a surround-sound experience.

4This Square-Shaped Drink Dispenser That Makes A Great Gift Or Home Accessory

Serve lemonade, iced tea, sangria, or any other cold drink of choice in this square drink dispenser. With an 80-ounce capacity and a height of roughly 12.5 inches, it’s perfect for parties or keeping drinks cold in the fridge. Buyers rave about its practicality, with multiple sharing that they use it to store laundry goods, too.

5A Luxe Satin Sheet Set That Comes In 6 Colors

Upgrade your bedding with a microfiber sheet set which includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. They’re made from a soft and comfortable material that won’t wrinkle or pill after washing. As a bonus, they come in 13 colors. They’re available in every bed size from twin to California king.

6A Hair Styling Tool For Salon-Worthy Blowouts At Home

Treat yourself to a salon-worthy blowout at home using the REVLON One-Step hair dryer and volumizer tool. The fan-favorite hair tool — which simultaneously dries, volumizes, styles, and smooths hair — has amassed a whopping 249,000 Amazon ratings and counting. “I LOVE this dryer. It makes my hair so soft and amazing, and it dries it so quickly,” wrote one reviewer.

7A Set Of Magnetic Eyelashes For Glamorous Volume

Add some drama with this faux magnetic eyelash set, which comes with three reusable pairs of lashes. Simply trim the lashes to fit your eye shape, line your eyes with the included adhesive, wait about 30 seconds, and apply away. One reviewer raved, “Love these lashes!!! The magnets [are] very strong and stick very well to the eyeliner that it comes with.” And if you want a little less volume? Opt for the Natural Look set instead.

8A Travel Mug That Lets You Brew Your Coffee on The Go

Become a barista on the go with this travel mug that comes with a stainless steel mesh filter to make pour-over coffee. It’s ideal for taking with you while traveling or camping. The insulated mug also keeps your drink hot for up to six hours. It can also keep cold beverages cool for up to 20 hours.

9The Gooseneck Kettle That Lets You Perfect Your Pour-Overs

This carefully designed kettle lets your craft the perfect pour-overs and choose the correct temperature for teas like oolong with its easy-read temperature gauge. With a stainless steel body, the silicone handle and removable silicone jacket help prevent burns and also maintain heat on colder days. The narrow gooseneck spout allows for careful pouring.

10A 3-In-1 Essential Oil Diffuser, Humidifier & Night Light

This compact essential oil diffuser doubles as a nightlight and humidifier, and it features two misting modes: intermittent and continuous. On the intermittent misting setting, it mists every 30 seconds and can run for up to eight hours at a time. It’s also equipped with eight color-changing lights and an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overheating.

11These Eco-Friendly, Reusable Dishcloths

Save money on paper towels with these eco-friendly Swedish dishcloths that are reusable up to 100 times. They are super absorbent and have a diamond scrubbing textured side and a ridged side for wiping. They are safe for use on delicate surfaces like glass, wood, and marble. The cloths are machine washable and made from cellulose and cotton.

12A Magnetic Phone Mount That Fits In Your Car

Make it easier to follow the directions on your phone while driving with this magnetic phone mount for your car. The device clips onto your car’s air vent and has a strong magnet that holds your phone in place. It can also rotate 360 degrees, so you can safely see your phone without having to move around while driving.

13This Narrow Storage Cart To Keep Small Spaces Organized

This narrow four-tiered cart is just 5.1 inches wide, making it great for tucking into tight spaces. The wheels make it easy to maneuver, and it’s made with lightweight plastic and durable stainless steel for easy assembly and maintenance. It even comes with removable hooks for hanging items from the sides of the cart. The cart is available in white and black options.

14An Energy-Saving Timer To Automate Your Lighting & Appliances

If you're looking for a simple way to automate your lighting or appliances (such as air conditioner units and fans) and save energy, opt for this plug-in mechanical timer. Just connect your appliances — up to two at a time — and set your custom 24-hour cycle, which automatically turns your devices on and off as scheduled, even when you’re not home. “Super easy to use and works well,” one reviewer raved.

15These LED Light Strips That You Can Stick Anywhere

It’s easy to add more light to any corner of your home with these LED light strips that stick on with adhesive tape. Attach them under your cabinets to add more light to your kitchen, or put them in a closet to find your clothes more easily. Each battery-operated strip can provide light for up to 100 hours.

16A Water Bottle With An Infuser For Creating Flavored Drinks

This reusable water bottle features a removable infuser, so you can add flavor to your water, like fresh strawberry or cucumber. The bottle holds up to 32 ounces and has a leak-proof lead that keeps your drink and fruit from spilling. The whole bottle, including the infuser, are dishwasher safe.

17This Pair Of Versatile Baking Pans That Come With Lids

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or you’re newcomer to the kitchen, you’ll enjoy these loaf pans with coordinating lids. Made of transparent glass, they’re perfect for breads, cakes, loaves, casseroles, and more. The best part? They’re super durable, and can be used in the oven, microwave, fridge, or freezer, and can be washed in the dishwasher.

18A Smart Notebook You Can Reuse More Than 500 Times

Want to cut down on how much paper you use and simplify your notes? Homestec’s Reusable Smart Notebook features paper that can be reused more than 500 times. Jot down your notes with the included erasable pen, then scan your work via the corresponding smartphone app, which can upload your files to services including iCloud, Google Drive, email, and OneNote. When you’re done, erase your writing with the pen’s eraser or by heating the paper with a hair dryer.

19This Cute Utensil Holder To Instantly Elevate Your Kitchen Counter

Keep your spoons and spatulas within reach, thanks to this kitchen utensil holder. With a farmhouse chic vibe, it has a 6-inch wide mouth to comfortably hold your most important tools. The ceramic material is sleek and durable, and it’s easy to clean, too. You can also experiment with using it as a vase or centerpiece.

20An Electric Can Opener With Hassle-Free Operation

Opening a can of soup doesn’t have to turn into a full-on struggle. Not only is this Cuisinart electric can opener incredibly easy to use (it operates with just the touch of a button), it’s also super sleek-looking, too. It features chrome accents, a sharp blade, a magnetic lid holder, and a detachable lever for easy cleanup, making it a must-have accessory for any kitchen.

21This Vibrating Exfoliation Tool For At-Home Spa Treatments

Treat yourself to a facial from the comfort of your own home using this skin spatula, which cleanses and exfoliates the skin using high-frequency vibrations. It is USB-rechargeable and offers four different modes, which you can adjust depending on your individual needs and preferences. One fan described, “It works great and leaves my skin feeling so clean and soft.”

22A Candle Accessory Set to Make Your Favorite Candles Last Longer

Love candles? If so, snag this three-piece candle accessory set, which includes a wick trimmer, snuffer, and dipper. The stainless steel accessories allow you to better care for the wicks of your candles to minimize the production of soot and extend the lifespan of your favorite candles. One reviewer raved, “This set has been amazing to keep my candles in order and help them last longer!”

23This Easy-to-Install Rack For Electric Toothbrushes & Accessories

Keep your bathroom counter space clutter-free with this electric toothbrush organizer, which features three adjustable slots to hold your toothbrushes, a compartment for toothpaste, and four hooks for hanging other accessories, such as razors, hair ties, and anything else you need to keep close at hand at the sink. The organizer comes with adhesive so that you can install it to a smooth surface without the use of a drill.

24A Hanging Toiletry Bag That’s Ready For Adventures

With a handle at the top, zippered closure to keep your items from getting loose in your luggage, and a hook for hanging, the Wayfarer Supply Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag is roomy and divided into three zippered mesh interior pockets as well as the large open pocket for bottles of shampoo, condition, and more. The water-resistant polyester material is easy to wipe clean and it folds down to contain your toiletries compactly.

25This Space-Saving, Stackable Water Bottle Organizer

Clear the clutter with this space-saving water bottle organizer that can stow six bottles. Even better? It can be stacked to house larger collections. Pop it into the fridge to have cold beverages on hand or use it in a pantry for other bottled drinks like sports drinks. The food-grade material can be hand washed with soap and water.

26This Multifunctional Chopper That Makes Meal Prep Simpler

This chopper tool dices, chops, cuts, shreds, and slices your favorite fruits, veggies, cheeses, and more. One reviewer described: “I spend HOURS upon HOURS meal-prepping every weekend and my hands simply aren't what they used to be when it comes to chopping up vegetables. This thing turned one hour of work into 10 minutes.” It comes with seven interchangeable stainless steel blades, a drain basket, an egg separator, a peeler, and a hand guard. It’s also equipped with a non-skid rubber base to ensure stability while in use and it can hold up to four cups of prepared ingredients.

27A Set of Color-Changing Toilet Night Lights

Late-night toilet treks just got a glow-up — quite literally. These battery-operated toilet night lights use motion-sensor technology to detect movement from up to five feet away. Each light offers 16 colors and five brightness settings to choose from. If the lights don’t sense movement for 64 seconds, they will automatically turn off.

28This Nesting Set Of Mixing Bowls That Will Last Years

Nesting to take up as little cabinet or counter space as possible, this set of five stainless steel mixing bowls has endless uses and they are dishwasher safe. Freezer-safe and shatterproof, the rims are roller to allow for easy and mess-free pouring. They can be used for mixing and also double as serving bowls.

29The Milk Frother That Lets You Craft Barista-Quality Drinks

Create coffee shop-quality cappuccinos and lattes with this the Bean Envy Milk Frother. An included stainless steel stand keeps the frother clean and at hand. It can whip up foam within 15 seconds and can even be used to whisk eggs or mix powdered beverage drinks including protein powder shakes. The silicone rubber no-slip handle comes in eight colors.

30This Stainless Steel Knife That Can Spread Cold Butter

Spreading hard butter on bread can end in a crumbly, squished mess. Fortunately, this stainless steel butter-spreading tool features a 1-inch blade with small slotted holes that grate cold butter to make it easier to spread on toast. One reviewer attested that it “works great on butter right out of the fridge.”

31This Face Cream With 10,000+ 5-Star Ratings That Does It All

This retinol cream moisturizer from Kleem Organics is a powerhouse, does-it-all kind of face cream. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin E, this moisturizer helps to boost collagen and elastin production, plump and smooth skin, and even skin tone. Of course, it hydrates, too, with ingredients like jojoba oil and green tea. “Only a few days and I’m in love with this moisturizer!” one reviewer raved. “Even noticed a difference on the first morning. I’m in my 70’s and I think I can tell by now. Every single promise began to be fulfilled in only a few days.”

32This Money-Saving Cold Brew Coffee Maker

The only thing better than the fact that this cold brew coffee maker costs just $15? It will save you even more money by keeping you away from coffee shops. Featuring borosilicate glass, a stainless steel mesh filter, and a silicone no-slip base and lid, this coffee maker has a high-end feel and makes four cups of coffee in just 12 to 24 (hands-off) hours.

33A Set Of Detangling Hairbrushes With Adjustable Bristles

These detangling brushes were specifically designed with curly hair in mind. Available in packs of two, the brushes are suitable for wet and dry hair, and each offers eight rows of nylon bristles to detangle strands. What’s more, the brushes are adjustable — you can use the detachable bracket to increase or decrease the distance between bristles, depending on your needs.

34This Portable Screen Magnifier That Works With iPhones & Androids

This portable screen magnifier sets the scene (pun-intended) for a movie screening no matter where you are. It’s simple to set up and works with most smartphones, including iPhones and Androids. One reviewer wrote, “This is such a great product if you don’t have a tv in your room or if you’re traveling. It folds down easily to store, features a sleek wooden design, and works really well with your phone.”

35The Over-The-Door Organizer That Will Upgrade Your Closet

Available in three colors, this two-pack of over-the-door purse organizers has nearly endless uses. Reviewers have used them for everything from paper towels and toilet paper to bath towels and yoga mats. The top two slots are designed for smaller purses and objects and the four bottom holders are larger, but all of them feature a see-through panel to make it easy to see their contents.

36This 18-Karat Gold-Plated Device That Gently Removes Hair

If you’re looking for a hair removal tool that’s gentle enough for everyday use, try this Finishing Touch hair remover. “I love this hair remover,” one reviewer wrote. “It's super convenient. I just grab it and start shaving my face, when I feel any hairs. Works really well. Totally painless. Easy to clean the hair out.” Another reviewer noted that it’s “quick & easy to use anywhere, anytime.” Plus, the 18-karat-gold plating adds an extra-fancy touch.

37A 2-Pack of Trendy Retro-Inspired Shades With UV Protection

No need to shell out hundreds of dollars on a solid pair of trendy sunnies when there are options like these rectangular-shaped shades on Amazon. They come in a pack of two and feature UV protective coating to shield your eyes from harmful rays. One reviewer praised, “I’ve been wanting these glasses for so long and I finally got them I’m in love! Super good quality and go with everything.”

38These Glass Oil Bottles For Sleek Storing & Pouring

This set of glass olive oil dispensers is both form and function. Each set includes two bottles, four pouring spouts (two each of flip-top and dust cap styles), as well as two caps, two stoppers, and a pouring funnel. For the color, you can choose between amber, green, or transparent with measurements.

39This Cocktail Shaker Set To Whip Up Your Favorite Drinks In Seconds

This cocktail shaker set makes it so easy to prepare favorite cocktails and mocktails. It features a shaker with a lid and filter, a double jigger for 1- and 2-ounce pours, a muddler, can opener, six pourers, and a strainer. Plus, the stainless steel material is all dishwasher-safe, so clean-up is a breeze.

40This Dog Pee Detector That Attaches To Spray Bottles

Find and clean dried dog pee in one go with this UV flashlight that can clip onto your cleaning spray bottles. The UV light detects dried dog urine spots, so you don’t have to wether or not there’s a stain (meaning you don’t have to smell it to verify). “This thing is POWERFUL for being so tiny!” wrote one reviewer.

41An SD Card Reader That Transfers Files To & From Your iPhone

This compact memory card reader makes transferring photos and videos to and from your iPhone or iPad practically effortless. It reads CompactFlash, TransFlash, micro SD, standard SD, and SDHC cards, so it works great with digital cameras, GoPros, and drones. Since it measures just 2.3 by 1.8 by 0.5 inches, it’s perfect for taking with you on adventures.

42A Ladle With A Monster Design

This MOMA-worthy ergonomic ladle will have the famed Loch Ness Monster peeking out of your soups and sauces. The BPA-free food-grade material is dishwasher safe and unlike other ladles, it can stand on its own waiting to scoop up your food. It’s the perfect blend of quirky and functional for under $20.

43The Hawaiian Lip Scrub Reviewers Say Makes Lipstick Look Better

Reviewers are obsessed with Hanalei Sugar Exfoliating Lip Scrub, raving that it has “no strong fragrance or taste,” and that “a little goes a long way.” Hawaiian cane sugar, shea butter, and kukui oil combine to exfoliate, smooth and soften lips — making lipstick look better too. The formula is vegan too!

44This Burger Press For Perfectly Formed Burgers — Veggie Burgers Too!

Up your burger game with the Cave Tools Burger Press. From cheddar-stuffed black bean burgers to blue cheese-stuffed beef burgers, the options are endless but all your burgers will have one thing in common: they’ll be perfectly formed and portioned into a quarter or third of a pound.

45A Set Of Skincare Tools That Keep You Smooth

Keep your skin soft and smooth with this exfoliating brush that helps with razor bumps and ingrown hairs. It has an ergonomic handle that makes it comfortable to use, and effective yet gentle polymer bristles. Reviewers rave about the brush, with several writing how they struggled with ingrown hairs until they got it.

46These Reusable Glass Bottles For Enjoying Drinks On The Go

It’s easy to bring your favorite drinks with you when you’re out and about, thanks to these 16-ounce reusable glass drinking bottles. Fill them with water, smoothies, juice, or other drinks of choice, and use the included airtight seals to keep everything secure. Plus, they have a wide mouth to make for easy filling and sipping, too.

47A Solar Power Bank That Can Charge Your Devices On The Go

This solar-powered portable charger is waterproof, dust-proof, and shockproof is the perfect back-up power source when you’re hiking, camping, or fishing. Plus, it’s powerful enough to charge up to two smartphones at a time. A built-in LED light can be used as a flashlight, and a clip makes it easy to hang on your backpack and charge it on the go.

48This Classy Knife Set With Over 1,800 5-Star Ratings

Good knives are essential if you want to lean more into home-cooked meal prep. But, they can often be pricey. This set offers great knives at a cost you can afford. You get a lot in this 10-piece set, including an 8" chef knife, an 8" bread knife, a carving knife, a paring knife, a utility knife, kitchen shears, a knife sharpener, and a cutting board. They’ve got a modern look and are crafted from stainless steel. It’s perfect for a housewarming gift or an “I deserve nice things” present to yourself.

49The Wireless Stair Lights That Don’t Require Drilling

This best-selling wireless LED stair light three-pack lets you add light wherever you need it without drilling or the need for an outlet. The lights are motion activated (from up to 10 feet away) to conserve the AA batteries which last about 125 hours total. While you have the option to use the included screws for a more permanent solution, they also come with a heavy-duty adhesive for tool-free installation.

50This Brightening Repair Cream That Has 10,000 5-Star Reviews

With a higher snail mucin percentage than other snail creams (97.5%), this brightening and plumping repair cream is a fan favorite. It contains organic ingredients including shea butter, aloe, jojoba oil, and vitamin E. The brand claims it begins to work within just days of use and the formula is non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores.

51A Variety Pack Of Soothing Sheet Masks

This set of 16 sheet masks makes it easy to always have a mask on hand when your skin is in need of some extra hydration. Not only are the moisturizing masks paraben-, sulfate-, and cruelty-free, but they’re also made with plant-derived ingredients like bamboo, acai berry, and rose. One reviewer described them as “relaxing and soothing.”

52A Nesting Cook Set For Campfire Favorites

This backpack-friendly set is ready to go camping! The Stanley Adventure Nesting Two-Cup Cookset lets you boil water and make hot meals of coffee over a campfire with the included 20-ounce kettle. It comes with two insulated 10-ounce cups too. The entire kit is BPA-free.

53This Fan-Favorite Plumping Hyaluronic Serum

This face serum has over 11,000 five-star ratings thanks to its formula that features ingredients like aloe vera, witch hazel, organic jojoba oil, and green tea. The addition of vitamin C brightens skin as it hydrates. The brand recommends applying three to five drops daily to your face, neck, and décolleté to plump skin, as well as smooth and increase elasticity. “It helped clear up small rash like breakouts I was struggling with, and I no longer wake up in the morning feeling like all the moisture was drained from my face in the night,” one reviewer shared.

54This Spatula Set That Features Multiple Sizes Of Your Favorite Tools

An expansive set of silicone spatulas, whisks, and tongs is a great choice for new or aspiring cooks. Choose a matte black or multi-colored set, and enjoy the convenience of three versions of each tool, in three unique sizes. The handles are heat-resistant, and they’re dishwasher-safe, too.

55A Genius Mug Warmer That Keeps Your Coffee From Getting Cold

Bid adieu to lukewarm coffee once and for all with this genius coffee mug warmer. If plugged in, it automatically turns on when you place your mug on its surface — then it automatically shuts off when you remove the mug. One reviewer described, “I drink coffee super slowly and this keeps it warm until I remember to pick up my mug again. Without having to run to the microwave 8 times.”

56These Pillows That’ll Help You Rest Easier

If you love the restorative sleep you get from a hotel, then you’ll love upgrading to these bed pillows. Available in both Queen and King, these 250-thread count pillows have a 100% cotton cover. They have cooling qualities and are easy to wash. With a price like this, what’s stopping you?

57A Miniature Churner For Making Fresh Homemade Butter

Make your own fresh butter at home this nifty mini churner. All you have to do is fill it with whipping cream and shake it for three minutes. After some straining and rinsing, you’ll have actual butter. Add however much salt you’d like and serve it on bread for the fanciest-feeling buttered toast ever. Bon appétit!

58The Car Organizer That Makes Use Of Wasted Space

The clever design of this trunk organizer has four pockets to keep smaller items from rolling around. By hanging off the rear headrests, it keeps items off the floor, letting you store even more in your trunk — and installation takes 10 seconds. A plastic wall in the back adds strength and it has velcro in the back to adhere.

59An Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Perfectly Cooked Food

A brightly lit easy-read LED display and folding probe are just two of the great features of this highly rated meat thermometer that costs less than $20. It also has a hold for hanging storage and is magnetic for attaching to a fridge or metal range hood and a meat doneness chart is printed right onto the handle for ease of use. It’s not just great for checking if meat is cooked to a safe temperature — it can be used to check the doneness of baking bread or if leftovers have been heated up properly.

60A Cutting Guide For Perfectly Sliced Breads and Bagels

Slice homemade yeast bread and quick-rise loaves perfectly using the included knife. The bamboo slicer guide can also be used to safely slice bagels. There are three different thickness guides to choose between. A crumb-catching tray keeps counters clean and non-slip feet on the bottom keep it firmly in place while you work. It comes with a flour sack bag for storage.

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