Tech Duds :: Some Gadgets to Avoid

While many lists this holiday season (including our own) will focus on what gadgets you should get (or at least covet), there aren't as many that will tell you which items you may want to avoid.

We asked the Hotspots staff if they had any items that came to mind that our readers might want to avoid purchasing right now. Not all are really duds, they might work just fine, but do you really need to spend $1000 just to have a robot vacuum your living room? Here is what our staff recommends you avoid.

Apple iPhone 7 While the iPhone sets the industry standard for smart phones, chances are the phone you are currently using works just fine. Is it really worth it to wait in line (trust me, there is a line at the Apple store right now) to have a better facetime camera and an iPhone that is "splash and water resistant"? Or, are you just purchasing the newest model as a status symbol? If you are up for a new phone on your contract, we definitely recommend the iPhone over all others on the market, but if not, skip this model till it's time to renew your contract.

Roomba Robot Vacuum If you read the introduction, this pick shouldn't surprise you. Several members of the Hotspots staff separately mentioned this item because, apparently they are over-priced and don't really work that well. And, they are bound to drive your pet absolutely crazy. With the newest model coming in close to $600, you are better served getting a quality vacuum that runs off of elbow grease and manual labor and stop trying to be so damned lazy.

Media Box A media box is a device that you hook up to your TV that allows you to use apps on your TV, in the event that you don't have a smart TV. There are tons of them available on the market but beware of cheap ones that are made in China and can really mess up your TV and other devices. For the price you might pay for one of these devices, you would be better to cough up a little more and get yourself a new TV that comes with those apps built in. During the holiday season, there are bound to be great deals on new TVs if you just stay patient and keep your eyes open.

Selfie sticks These things are so two years ago. Trust me, no one on your gift list is looking for one, and if they were, they already bought one, like, two years ago when they were the in thing. Trust us here that they just make you look like a narcissistic douche bag. Don't believe us? Search for the VP elect's selfie he took a few weeks ago and judge for yourself. Just Don't! Ok?

Voice Activated Home Controls Unless you are going to invest in WiFi lightbulbs and switches, or you are really in love with the idea of shopping online without really seeing what you are buying, these devices seem like a waste of good money. There are good ones on the market like Amazon's Echo, but beware of imitators who don't have the research and development that a company like Amazon has put into their product. And for Christ's sake, don't be so lazy, turn your lights on yourself -- and if it is too chilly in your house, get up and change the temperature. Or, be like my dad and have some kids to do it for you!