Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Buddha Machine

$25

The Buddha Machine is a portable music player that plays ambient loops to aid in relaxation and meditation. It's compact and easy to carry.

Our take

Carry tranquility wherever you go.

Alright, so the Buddha Machine is one of those quirky little products that you don’t really know you need until you try it out. It’s basically a small, portable music device that plays ambient loops. If you’re into meditation or just need some background noise to chill out, this might be your jam. The thing is, it’s super simple—there are no fancy features or complicated controls. It’s all about zoning out and letting the loops do their thing. But I gotta say, if you’re someone who needs high-tech gadgets with a million options, this might feel a bit too basic.

Now, what’s cool about the Buddha Machine is its sheer simplicity. You turn it on, and it just works. There’s a charm in not having to fuss with Bluetooth or apps. The loops are pretty soothing and can set a nice vibe in your space. Think of it as a modern-day music box with a Zen twist. However, the sound quality isn’t going to blow your mind. It’s good enough for what it is, but if you’re an audiophile, you might find the sound a bit tinny.

On the downside, variety is pretty limited. You’ve got a handful of loops to choose from, and that’s it. No downloading new tracks or customizing playlists. It’s more of a "what you see is what you get" deal. If you’re someone who likes to mix things up, this might get old fast. But if you’re cool with a minimal, consistent soundtrack, then this won’t be a huge issue. Just know what you’re getting into before you buy.

It’s also worth mentioning the portability factor. This thing runs on batteries, so you can take it anywhere. That’s a plus if you’re on the go and want to bring some calm with you. But, remember to keep some spare batteries around, because it’s a bummer when it runs out of juice right when you’re getting your Zen on. It’s definitely more of a niche product than a must-have gadget. But for what it sets out to do, it does pretty well.

In the end, the Buddha Machine is a neat little gadget for folks who appreciate simplicity and have a thing for ambient sounds. It’s not going to replace your fancy sound system or your go-to meditation app, but it’s not trying to. If you’re looking for something straightforward and unique to add to your relaxation toolkit, give it a shot. Just keep your expectations in check, and you might find it’s exactly what you need to unwind.