Welcome to the latest edition of Weekend Recommender, where we take a step back from spec sheets and product launches to highlight a handful of items that recently landed on our desk.
This week’s mix spans desk gear, portable power, smart home upgrades, and audio, all chosen for how they fit into real-world routines rather than hype cycles.
As always, these are products we’ve been sent and spent time getting to know, with an eye toward usefulness, value, and whether they actually make day-to-day life a little better. Think of this as a relaxed walkthrough of what’s worth a closer look as you head into the weekend.
MOKiN 13-in-1 Docking Station
MOKiN 13-in-1 Docking Station ($90) is the kind of desk upgrade you don’t realize you need until cable sprawl quietly takes over your workspace. Built for modern USB-C laptops, it brings charging, display output, networking, and a wide range of ports into a single, compact hub. It’s especially useful for hybrid workers or anyone who regularly switches between a mobile setup and a full desktop environment.
One of the more thoughtful touches is the built-in LCD screen, which shows real-time power and connection status. It sounds small, but it becomes genuinely helpful when you’re troubleshooting charging speeds or external monitors. Dual display support makes it well suited for productivity-focused setups, while Ethernet and multiple USB ports handle everyday peripherals without hassle.
This isn’t a dock aimed at extreme gamers or niche workflows. Instead, it’s for people who want their laptop to behave like a proper workstation when they sit down, then disconnect cleanly when it’s time to go. As a weekend upgrade that simplifies daily work, it checks a lot of practical boxes without overcomplicating things.
HUANUO DS7 High-Performance Dual Monitor Arm
The HUANUO DS7 High-Performance Dual Monitor Arm ($150) is a strong reminder that ergonomics can change how a desk feels almost instantly. Designed to support larger and heavier displays, it offers smooth, flexible positioning that lets you dial in screen height, distance, and angle with very little effort.
Installation is straightforward, and once mounted, the arm feels solid and confidence-inspiring. Gas-spring adjustments allow for tool-free tweaks, which is particularly useful if you alternate between sitting and standing or share a workspace. Integrated cable management helps keep cords under control, making the entire setup feel cleaner and more intentional.
There’s nothing flashy here, and that’s part of the appeal. The DS7 is about reliability, range of motion, and comfort over long work sessions. It’s a great fit for remote workers, creatives, or anyone spending serious time in front of multiple monitors. If your weekend plans include fine-tuning your home office, this is the kind of upgrade you’ll appreciate every weekday after.
BMX SolidSafe 5K Solid-State Magnetic Power Bank
The BMX SolidSafe 5K Solid-State Magnetic Power Bank ($80) takes a more measured approach to portable power, prioritizing safety and durability over sheer capacity. By using solid-state battery technology, it’s designed to be more stable and resilient than traditional lithium-ion power banks, which makes it especially appealing for everyday carry or travel.
Its magnetic attachment snaps neatly onto compatible phones, creating a tidy, cable-free charging experience that’s easy to use on the move. With a 5,000mAh capacity, it’s not meant to fully recharge a phone multiple times, but it’s well suited for quick top-offs during a long day out or while navigating, streaming, or messaging on the go.
This power bank is best for people who value reliability, compact size, and peace of mind. It slips easily into a pocket or bag and feels thoughtfully built rather than disposable. As a weekend essential for errands, short trips, or daily commuting, the SolidSafe 5K delivers practical power without unnecessary bulk.
Lepro E1 AI-Powered Permanent Outdoor Lights
The Lepro E1 AI-Powered Permanent Outdoor Lights ($95) sit at the intersection of smart home tech and long-term home improvement. Designed to remain installed year-round, they aim to eliminate the seasonal cycle of hanging and removing decorative lights, replacing it with a single, adaptable lighting system.
Once installed, the lights are controlled through an app that leans heavily on automation. AI-powered features help create lighting scenes for holidays, events, or everyday ambiance without requiring constant manual adjustment. Brightness and color options offer plenty of flexibility, allowing the lights to feel expressive while still looking intentional and polished.
These aren’t novelty string lights. They’re a solid option for homeowners who want consistent outdoor lighting with the bonus of customization. If your weekend projects include improving curb appeal or simplifying how your home looks throughout the year, the Lepro E1 system offers a set-it-and-forget-it approach that still leaves room for creative flair.
Shokz OpenRun Pro 2
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 ($180) continues the brand’s focus on open-ear audio, using bone conduction to deliver sound while keeping your ears unobstructed. That design makes them especially appealing for runners, cyclists, and anyone who trains outdoors and wants to stay aware of traffic and surroundings.
This updated version improves comfort and audio clarity while maintaining the lightweight, secure fit Shokz is known for. They sit comfortably during longer workouts, and the physical controls are easy to operate without breaking stride. Battery life is strong enough for extended sessions, making them reliable for weekend runs, long walks, or active days outside.
The OpenRun Pro 2 isn’t about immersive isolation or heavy bass. It’s built for people who value awareness, comfort, and consistency during movement. If safety and usability matter more than total sonic immersion, these headphones make a strong case as a dependable companion for an active lifestyle. Snag ’em in the fancy new blue.
