Ask HN: What are your best purchases under $100?

#1

Post by krishadi » Thu, Jan 15, 2026, 8:01 PM UTC

Curious what items under $100 have made your life better or any meaningful impact.

Revival of this [thread](https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=23363396) from 6 years ago. Thought it would be fun to have new answers to this :)

Re: Ask HN: What are your best purchases under $100?

#2

Post by skeptrune » Thu, Jan 15, 2026, 8:03 PM UTC

Custom motorcycle handlebar ends and levers. Cumulatively ~$80 and makes my riding experience drastically better.

Re: Ask HN: What are your best purchases under $100?

#3

Post by krishadi » Thu, Jan 15, 2026, 8:07 PM UTC

Some of my best purchases were outdoor clothing I bought some 7 years ago on a whim. I constantly regret not getting some 10 of them, and sadly they don't make these anymore.

- Thermal inner pants from Berghaus - Knitted thermal jacket from Salewa

Re: Ask HN: What are your best purchases under $100?

#4

Post by brodouevencode » Thu, Jan 15, 2026, 8:07 PM UTC

A good burr coffee grinder.

Re: Ask HN: What are your best purchases under $100?

#5

Post by ezekg » Thu, Jan 15, 2026, 8:08 PM UTC

Ergodriven topo standing desk mat - $99

Deltahub carpio 2.0 wrist rest - $35

Re: Ask HN: What are your best purchases under $100?

#6

Post by idontwantthis » Thu, Jan 15, 2026, 8:09 PM UTC

A no name Espresso machine. I got it as a gift but I doubt it was much more than $100. It works great. I had always assumed I would regret not buying a super expensive one, but it turns out you can have great espresso for not much money.