Heading off to college? Check out these 8 essential dorm gadgets to make your new space comfortable and efficient!
Starting college can be pretty overwhelming, especially when it comes to buying a dorm room. I remember feeling overwhelmed by all the advice from YouTube videos, online articles, and social media—most of which recommended buying way too many gadgets for your dorm room. I knew I wanted to avoid overpacking. But it’s difficult to figure out what you really need.
The truth is, you probably won’t have everything you need right away, but you can make your life a lot easier by focusing on the essentials. That’s why I’ve put together a list of the must-have items that have made my dorm life more enjoyable and manageable.
1. Electric water filter from Waterdrop
The dorm water made me nervous – it tasted funny and I wasn’t sure if it was safe. It’s annoying to have to keep refilling, so having a dorm water filter is a real help. It provides clean, great tasting water, helps you stay hydrated, and is super convenient. Filtering out things like microplastics and lead also makes it safer.
Check out Waterdrop’s electric water filter, one of the must-have dorm room gadgets for quick filtering and easy use. It’s a huge improvement over the old pitchers and offers faster and more precise filtering. Enjoy better tasting water with less effort. The countertop filter comes with a 0.5 micron carbon block that ensures accuracy and removal of contaminants. Just remember to replace the filter after 200 gallons or three months to keep your water fresh. Now it’s 40,00 € (originally $49.99) with a 20% discount code: ED01.
2. Electric standing desk from Claiks
The Claiks Electric Standing Desk is a solid addition to any dorm room and fits in perfectly with the dorm room gadgets. You can switch between sitting and standing with just a few button presses, which is extremely convenient during long study sessions. The desk is really sturdy thanks to its steel frame and the 40×24 inch surface gives you plenty of space for all your stuff.
Standing desks are great for your health, but it’s good to mix things up. Don’t stay in one place for too long – alternate between sitting and standing. You can adjust the height to keep you comfortable and avoid slouching. The Claiks Electric Standing Desk is currently 143,99 €saving you 10% off the regular price of $159.99.
3. Mechanical keyboard Keychron K1 Max QMK/VIA
If you share a room and want a quieter keyboard, check out the Keychron K1 Max QMK/VIA. It features IXPE acoustic foam that keeps noise to a minimum while still providing a comfortable typing experience. Plus, Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity lets you easily switch between your computer, phone, and tablet. Price is 94 $.
4. Fellow Clyde Electric Kettle
Most dorm rooms have tiny kitchenettes, so there’s usually not much room for large appliances. A compact electric kettle is perfect for dorm room appliances. It’s handy for heating up soup when the cafeteria is closed and you’re starving. Hotplates aren’t allowed in most dorms because they can get dangerously hot, and nearby books and curtains pose a fire hazard. However, electric kettles don’t get hot enough to be a concern.
People love the Fellow Electric Clyde Kettle (125$) for its user-friendly design, stylish appearance, and fast performance. It pours effortlessly, has a smooth matte finish, and heats up quickly. Plus, its sturdy build and overall quality get high marks from users. Overall, it’s a great choice for quickly making hot drinks during your study breaks.
5. Ember Cup self-heating espresso cup
When you’re juggling classes, study sessions, and all-nighters, it’s easy to get distracted and forget your hot drink. If you often lose track of time and end up with a cold coffee or tea, having a way to keep your drink warm can help you stay fresh even with a busy schedule.
The Ember Cup (99,95 €) is perfect for espresso drinks like cappuccinos and cortados. It keeps your coffee at the ideal temperature so every sip is just right. With its built-in battery, it maintains the desired temperature for up to 1.5 hours, or all day long if you use the included charging coaster.
6. Keurig K-Iced Single Serve Coffee Maker
By the time college started, I was drinking coffee like it was going out of style, and soon I thought it would be much easier on my wallet if I started making my own coffee. If you like the simplicity of an automatic machine and want to grab a good deal, check out the Keurig K-Iced Single Serve Coffee Maker. It’s currently on sale for 69,99 €instead of the original price of $99.99 – a whopping 30% discount!
This handy appliance brews over ice by adjusting the temperature—starting hot to bring out all the flavor, then letting it cool down so the ice doesn’t melt too quickly. Plus, you can use the Strong Brew option to make a stronger cup of coffee. For me, this is perfect because I love a hot coffee in the morning and an iced one later in the day. Keurig’s dorm machines do both without much hassle.
7. DormDoc 175 College First Aid Kit
I was the kind of student who always carried a full first aid kit. Funnily enough, I never needed it myself, but once word got around, friends and neighbors started coming to me and asking for help. It turned out to be a great way to meet people later in the semester, when everyone had pretty much settled into their friend groups.
If you need a solid first aid option, the DormDoc 175 College First Aid Kit is a great choice. Unlike many others, it includes not only first aid supplies, but also some extras for dealing with minor illnesses. It might be a bit pricey (58,95 €), but it’s worth it because it saves you the trouble of putting everything together yourself. Plus, there are even instructions on what each part is for.
8. iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum Cleaner
Dorm rooms can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, especially in common areas. A robot vacuum with a mopping function will help keep floors clean and reduce the spread of germs. If you’re busy with your studies and don’t have time to clean the dorm – not to mention empty the vacuum’s dust bin – a robot vacuum with self-emptying can save you time and effort by eliminating the need for a broom.
The iRobot Roomba 694 is an efficient robot vacuum that can tackle a variety of surfaces and keep your floors cleaner. While there are fancier Roomba models, I recommend the iRobot Roomba 694 for its simplicity and affordability. It does a great job with no frills, making it perfect for a tidy dorm room.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dorm Room Gadgets
Starting college can be a little overwhelming, especially when it comes to outfitting your dorm room. It’s tempting to over-stuff yourself with gadgets, but focusing on a few essentials can help you avoid over-packing and keep things manageable. Remember, it’s all about balancing what you need with what will actually make your life easier.
You don’t have to have everything on day one. It can be handy to build your collection of must-haves little by little. By prioritizing comfort and functionality, you can make the transition smoother and your college experience more enjoyable. Start your journey with just the right essentials! If you want to dive deeper into what to buy for back to school, check out my teammate’s article on the best picks.
