Top 6 Wellness Gadgets You Should Have in 2026

As 2025 draws to a close with just a day left, it's the perfect moment to reflect on your aspirations for the year ahead. ZDNET's crew of experts specializes in evaluating a spectrum of technology, from mobile devices and computes to entertainment systems and software, among other things.

However, as the authority on deals and shopping for ZDNET, my primary eagerness lies in sharing tech items that truly transform day-to-day life. As 2026 approaches, procure technology that supports achieving personal goals or fostering healthier habits. Here's a curated list of my preferred wellness gadgets that could invigorate new beginnings in the approaching year—and some are on sale too. Warmest wishes for a remarkable New Year, dear readers!

Must-Have Wellness Devices for 2026

Introducing the Brick

Reduce Screen Time with Ease

The Brick is a tool synced with an app to help minimize screen usage. Noted wearables authority Nina Raemont employs the Brick to significantly taper her mobile use, so much so that she added it to her list of gift suggestions.

So, how does it operate? After downloading the app, users decide which applications to block when 'bricking' the phone. Brick utilizes NFC technology, best known for digital wallets and secure access systems, to enable or disable app usage. The user simply taps the Brick, and those apps remain locked until another tap releases them.

Users can create schedules that restrict app access at designated times or when operating certain modes. Raemont finds it exceptionally effective for diminishing screen dependency. The Brick was wildly popular during ZDNET's Black Friday sales, currently available for $53, marking a $6 discount.

Skylight Calendar: Stay Organized

Relieve Scheduling Pressure

For a stress-free, organized 2026 in both personal and family planning endeavors, a smart calendar can be your best ally. Maria Diaz, an expert in smart home tech, praises her wall-mounted smart calendar from Skylight for the considerable improvement it brings to her household.

Diaz explains, 'The Skylight Calendar is akin to a premium tablet, boasting a 15-inch smart screen and operating on Android. It continuously showcases a calendar. You can place it in visible spots like a shelf, table, or wall.' Through the Skylight app, users can swiftly update the calendar with tasks, events, or meal plans, making them visible to everyone in the home.

Enjoy a $30 reduction on the Skylight calendar until January 3, 2026.

Hatch Restore 3: Wake Up Refreshed

Trade in Your Smartphone Alarm

For optimal mental and physical health, sound sleep is non-negotiable. If traditional alarms and phone notifications aren't working, consider a sunrise alarm like the Hatch Restore 3.

Allison Murray, a noted expert, has reviewed both the Restore 2 and the newer version, pronouncing the latter a substantial improvement that enhances user experience.

Murray observes, 'The Hatch app's sleep protocols offer a host of options: from meditative narratives and calming stories to ASMR, stretches in bed, or podcasts. These routines helped me break the habit of scrolling my phone an hour before sleep.’

Having recently acquired the Hatch Restore 3 myself, even with limited use over the holiday break, I'm already appreciating the freedom from my phone's nighttime notifications.

Kindle Devices: Expand Your Horizons

Commit to More Reading

Reading exercises the mind, entertains, and informs. Many aim to increase their reading as the year begins, and Kindle streamlines achieving this goal. My Kindle Paperwhite, acquired last year, makes immersing in a book and portability seamless.

Nina Raemont recommends the basic Kindle model for general use. Priced at $110, it's the most budget-friendly in Amazon's series. This 2024 version is not only lightweight and vibrant, available in new hues like matcha green, but it also boasts superior battery life, improved screen brightness, enhanced contrast, and rapid page transitions.

Oura Ring 4: Track Health Insightfully

Enhance Your Health Monitoring

Though priced at $350 plus a $70 yearly membership, the Oura Ring garners high praise as the superior choice among smart rings, according to wearables expert Nina Raemont.

The Oura excels at monitoring sleep, stress, and exercise. 'Each day, it offers insightful sleep assessments, pinpointing strengths or weaknesses—whether the culprit is a heavy dinner or a nightcap,' Raemont notes.

The ring provides stress level readings and data on daily stress's impact on your well-being. It includes Symptom Radar for disease symptoms and integrates with various apps, like Dexcom's glucose monitor or Natural Cycles' menstrual tracker. Make informed health decisions in 2026 with this smart accessory.

Loop Dream Earplugs: Quiet Nights at Home

Achieve Nighttime Quietude

Seeking serene nights in 2026 without spending extravagantly? Loop Dream earplugs could be the answer. At only $50, they're a budget-friendly alternative to pricier sleep earbuds.

Nina Raemont shares her favorable experience with these earplugs at her Brooklyn residence. 'If pure silence is what you seek, without distractions like pleasant ambient tones or wireless features, then I wholeheartedly recommend these for undisturbed rest,' she asserts.

Raemont also highlights the earplugs' comfortable, discreet fit—ideal for those who favor side sleeping.