Gadget Watch

Useless USB gadgets

Just a few years back, connecting something to your PC involved a big plug complete with spikes and a couple of screws. Then came USB, making it easy to plug and play to our heart's content.

And it's not just printers and scanners that you can plug in - the world's gadget makers have been busy adding a USB plug to all manner of useless items.

We've searched around and found the 10 most pointless USB gadgets - would you consider buying one of them?

1. USB George Foreman grill

We're all guilty of eating at our desks.

However, I suggest you need urgent help and a month's holiday if you need to cook a mixed grill whilst catching up on your emails and web browsing.


2. USB aquarium

Of course it doesn't contain real fish - someone who needs company at their desk should never be allowed a pet.

It's just a motor that creates waves for plastic fish to bob about in.


3. USB beer cooler

Fridges have been around for a long time and have a proven track record at keeping things cool.

Cans of beer don't usually last more than a few minutes once opened. Do you still need this?

4. USB hand warmer

Ok, it might be cold at home or in the office, but a pair of traditional fingerless gloves could probably do the job.

And if you want to use some energy, put the heating on.

5. USB lava lamp

The manufacturers claim to will help you relax at your desk.

Will a fluttering pile of silver flakes really ease you through the working day?

6. USB pencil sharpener

Have you used a pencil this century?

Even if you are one of the very few people who need a pencil to operate a computer, it's probably no great hardship to sharpen it the traditional way.


7. USB shrimp

Ugly things these USB drives. Wouldn't it be great if they looked a little more like everyday items than pieces of metal?

And what better way to hide your USB drive than to disguise it as a 70s bistro starter.

8. USB slippers

Remember the big slipper? Always advertised in the back of the daily papers.

Now those ingenious Japanese that added warmth - ideal for an ageing computer geek.

9. USB thumb drive

Another name for a pen drive is a thumb drive. So some joker has designed one that really looks like a thumb.

If this is your idea of a joke, you need to get out more.

10. USB Christmas tree

And finally, if you're one of those poor people who has to work through Christmas, you can create your own festive frivolity with this small plastic electric tree.

And for double the fun, there's also a snowman available.