Latest news with #Fanttik
New York Times
08-08-2025
- New York Times
Scared of Drills? These Small, Sleek Electric Screwdrivers Want to Be Your First Power Tool.
You should own a drill. It's a beginner-friendly power tool that's handy for hanging pictures and assembling furniture. It can also tackle bigger household repairs and DIY home improvements. A basic model can last for decades and carry you from apartment living through homeownership. But if you haven't learned how to use one, a power drill can be intimidating. A few of my Wirecutter colleagues have told me that they're afraid they'll hurt themselves or destroy their apartment and lose their security deposit. My wife, who is otherwise pretty handy (she's been known to patch drywall and can fix a leaky toilet), says she doesn't like drills because they're too heavy. Recently, I've been getting lots of ads (and press pitches) for sleek, Instagram-worthy electric screwdrivers from new brands such as Fanttik and Hoto. They promise to be friendlier alternatives to the electric drill, and the marketing is starkly different from the get-it-done energy of a classic power tool. Traditional tool brands including Milwaukee and DeWalt make e-drivers, too. But the newer companies are trying to present a more casual vibe, in contrast to the artful plumes of sawdust and well-stocked garage workshops you typically see in ads from the traditional tool makers. Earlier this summer my local Costco even had a huge display of Fanttik e-drivers set up, featuring a picture of a guy with a trendy mustache assembling some Scandi minimalist furniture. Could these electric screwdrivers be a lighter, easier-to-use, less-intimidating alternative to the classic drill? I bought a Fanttik S1 Pro and got a Hoto Snapbloq kit on loan to see how they would compare to the drills I had around the house, which included the DeWalt DCD703F1 Xtreme 5-in-1, a relatively compact 12-volt drill that we recommend in our guide to the best drills, and the Ryobi One+ 18V PCL206K1, a cheap, chunky drill that came in a power tool starter pack. What I found is that an electric screwdriver can do the job more quickly than a manual screwdriver, but it's gentle enough that untrained, unsteady hands can't get into too much trouble. The e-drivers I tried were much smaller than typical power drills, and they came in compact, self-contained packaging with built-in bit storage. Liam McCabe/NYT Wirecutter It didn't come as a total shock, but I liked both of the electric screwdrivers for what they were. Their svelte chassis aren't much bigger or heavier than those of the multi-bit hand screwdrivers that Wirecutter recommends. My wife immediately felt comfortable with their light, compact frames, and even my 7-year-old daughter could hold them steady. Personally, I've found that a small drill like the 2.5-pound DeWalt model doesn't feel like a burden, especially for just a couple of minutes at a time. (The bulky Ryobi drill is another story.) But the Fanttik e-driver is a quarter of the weight of the DeWalt drill, and the Hoto e-driver is even smaller. That's enough to make a difference. Both e-drivers come in self-contained kits, with a broad selection of extra driver bits for different screw types. They also use USB-C chargers, like most current smartphones and many other gadgets, which is rather convenient. These kits take up much less room than the combined footprint of a traditional drill, bit kit, and battery-charger setup. The Fanttik S1 Pro is about a quarter of the weight and a fraction of the size of even a compact, 12-volt drill. And that isn't counting all the extra space that a drill's charger and bit kit take up. Liam McCabe/NYT Wirecutter The electric screwdrivers are also exceptionally easy to use. Swapping the magnetic driver bits couldn't be simpler, and they barely have any settings to puzzle over. Most drills, by contrast, have a twist-on bit holder, two speeds, and at least a dozen clutch settings to choose from, depending on how much torque you need for any particular job. I'm willing to bet that almost every DIYer occasionally forgets to adjust those settings correctly and ends up stripping a screw, rounding off a drill bit, splitting the wood, or twisting their wrist. You never have those problems with an e-driver. They spin much slower than drills, and because their maximum torque settings barely surpass a drill's minimum torque setting, there's little risk of overtightening a screw. They still have enough oomph to easily put screws through drywall or into (and out of) predrilled pilot holes in wood or other hard materials. Electric screwdrivers can't handle some basic drilling jobs. Liam McCabe and Aubrey Patti/NYT Wirecutter But the electric drivers struggle to drive screws straight into wood without a pilot hole. I managed to do it with the Fanttik e-driver and a nonslip, star-head screw a handful of times, but I had to lean into the tool pretty hard, and the motor sounded miserable. Plus, the Fanttik e-driver still couldn't quite sink the screwhead flush with the wood's surface, which could be a dealbreaker even for simpler projects like hanging floating shelves or curtain rods. E-drivers don't come with bits for drilling pilot holes, either. Even if you're willing to buy more bits, a lot of the common ones don't fit into an e-driver's hex-shaped chuck. There are probably some workarounds, if you have the money and patience, but at that point it makes more sense to just get a traditional drill and bit kit. So I haven't changed my mind: If you have to buy one power tool, and you have even the tiniest inkling that your DIY projects could stretch beyond flat-pack bookshelf assembly, get a drill. 'A really nice 12-volt drill can do 10 times the work of an electric screwdriver and might only cost an extra $20 or $30 if you get one on sale,' says Doug Mahoney, Wirecutter's veteran tool reviewer. Some great drills weigh as little as 2 pounds now, so yours doesn't have to be particularly cumbersome. If you're afraid of the power, you can find dozens of great tutorials that walk you through how to use a drill safely. I'm not even convinced that electric screwdrivers are much of an improvement over a great manual screwdriver, either. The ratcheting, multi-bit MegaPro 13-in-1 screwdriver, our recommendation, is half the price of an e-driver and is a wrist-saving, bit-holding pleasure to use. All that said, electric screwdrivers, across the category, have thousands of positive owner reviews. They do seem to serve a purpose in professional tool kits, even if their place is alongside a typical drill. Some Taskrabbit contractors prefer to use e-drivers for furniture-assembly gigs, if their Reddit posts are to be believed. Electric screwdrivers may not be strong enough for a lot of DIY projects, but they seem well suited for working on gadgets and other small machines. The Hoto Snapbloq kit comes with a massive variety of precision-size bits for all kinds of screwheads I've never seen in a home-maintenance context. Liam McCabe/NYT Wirecutter The best use for an e-driver might be as a replacement for a small precision screwdriver, the kind you might use for tinkering with electronics, watches, and other small machines. Hoto actually markets its Snapbloq S-A01 model as a precision screwdriver, and that model comes with smaller, more obscure bit shapes than you'd need for most household maintenance and upgrades. Fanttik also makes some popular precision kits. I'll keep using my drills, but I have a hunch that my wife might be reaching for an e-driver a lot more often. If that's what inspires her to take on more projects, more power to her. This article was edited by Megan Beauchamp and Maxine Builder. A good drill/driver raises your capabilities as a DIYer, and our picks are manageable even if you've never used one before. Ryobi's 300-Piece Drill and Drive Kit and 95-Piece Drill and Impact Drive Kit are the best drill bit sets we've found in years of testing. Enameled cookware and artfully crafted serving trays are wonderful, but a box of cordless tools makes a great housewarming gift, too.
Indianapolis Star
30-07-2025
- Indianapolis Star
Savings Spotlight: Get 40% off a Fanttik camping tent that sets up in 60 seconds
I love a good summer camping trip. Personally, I think a few days in the woods with no cell service can do wonders for your mental health. Obviously before you go camping, you need to take inventory of your gear and make sure you've got all the essentials. From a solid cooler for snacks and drinks to a reliable camping stove to help you whip up tasty meals outdoors, my camping packing list is pretty straightforward. I'm planning on embarking on a summer 2025 trip soon and decided to pull the trigger on a new camping tent because, it was just time. And I'm not kidding when I say that the Amazon deal I found on this massive Fanttik tent is unbelievable. With 40% off, I am going to be talking about this purchase for a long time. And for this week's Savings Spotlight, you guessed it: I'm highlighting the Fanttik Outdoor Zeta C8 Air Camping Tent. There are a few reasons why I love this deal and one of them is because setting up a camping tent can be time-consuming and sometimes annoying. The Fanttik Zeta C8 Air Tent is designed for instant setup so you don't need to worry about a missing pole or stake, and it won't take time away from enjoying the outdoors. It pops up in about 60 seconds, thanks to pre-attached poles and clever design. My husband and I popped ours open at home to see how it worked before going camping and he could've handled it without me but I like to be included. And yes, it took about a minute until we had a huge, eight-person tent built. Stop scrolling: We found hidden Amazon deals worth up to 65% off The eight-person tent measures 13 feet by 9 feet with a peak height of 78 inches (about 6.5 feet), so most people can comfortably stand inside. It can fit two queen size air mattresses and includes a zippered divider that can split the interior into two rooms for a little more privacy. Need even more space? Save 37% on the larger Fanttik Zeta C10 Air Camping Tent This tent only has 30 Amazon reviews and there's a good reason: The new release from Fanttik was just added to Amazon's site in late March 2025. Here are some of the main highlights from the brand: Original price: $279.99 | Amazon's sale price: $167.99 | Savings: $112 Save 40% at Amazon Amazon Prime is a paid membership that offers exclusive benefits like free same-day and two-day shipping on select purchases, access to Prime Video, Prime Music and early access to special sales and deals. Other perks include: As of 2025, Amazon Prime costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. Young adults and qualifying government assistance recipients may be eligible for discounted rates. More: Amazon Prime for Young Adults is back! Do you qualify for the discount? Find out here It is easy to sign up for an Amazon Prime membership. Visit this link, enter your information, select a monthly or annual payment cycle and you can start shopping with all the best member-only benefits!
Digital Trends
16-07-2025
- Business
- Digital Trends
Fanttik Aero X: the smartest pool cleaner just got a massive discount
Imagine if your pool cleaned itself before your next cannonball. That's essentially what the Fanttik Aero X robotic pool cleaner is built to do and right now, it's doing it for $400 less. The high-performance robot is down to $499 (from $899) when you check the coupon box at checkout. What makes the Aero X so compelling isn't just the steep discount, it's the drone-inspired engineering behind it. Designed by a team with DJI roots, the Aero X brings precision, power, and a whole lot of polish to pool maintenance. Intelligent Cleaning, Inside and Out Unlike typical cleaners that scrape by with basic suction and guesswork, the Aero X uses 12 S-FSD sensors and its AquaPilot™ navigation algorithm to plan an efficient, wall-to-wall cleaning route. The AdapDrive™ brush system spins its wide 15.7-inch roller at variable speeds depending on the grime, while SwiftCruise™ tracks help it cling to pool walls at a 15-degree incline for 130% waterline coverage. Translation: it doesn't just wander aimlessly. It thinks. It adapts. And it actually gets the job done: scrubbing away limescale, algae, and stubborn stains other robots leave behind. It also goes the distance. The Aero X runs for up to six hours on a massive 16,000 mAh battery, covering up to 5,382 square feet per charge. That's the equivalent of 12 backyard pools or two and a half tennis courts. And thanks to app control and a remote, you don't even have to fish it out to change its settings. Built with Pro-Level Performance The Aero X is the world's first robotic pool cleaner to combine an independent roller brush and mobile platform. This TwinFlex™ cleaning system pairs the AdapDrive™ active brush with SwiftCruise™ mobility, maximizing traction and flexibility across all pool shapes and surfaces. It's even collecting awards. The Aero X is a recipient of the prestigious American Good Design Award, which recognizes excellence in innovation and functionality. That stamp of approval isn't just for show; it underscores Fanttik's attention to detail and cutting-edge engineering. Fanttik is an official partner of the UFC, the Brooklyn Nets, and NASCAR drivers Noah Gragson and Cole Custer. That kind of partnership pedigree reflects Fanttik's broader push into high-performance tech, from tire inflators to pool-cleaning robots, all backed by serious credibility. Add that to a two-year warranty and stellar customer support via the Fanttik app's AI chat and phone support, and you've got a pool-cleaning solution that delivers long after the splash. This isn't some budget bot with a glorified scrub brush. It's a smart, self-aware, award-winning robot built to do the dirty work so you don't have to. And with $400 off right now, the Fanttik Aero X might just be the best smart home upgrade of the summer.
Indianapolis Star
10-07-2025
- Indianapolis Star
My Amazon wishlist is full of camping gear on sale for Prime Day ⛺️
Whether you have a 4th of July camping trip planned for a few summer hiking adventures coming up, who doesn't love scoring a deal on new gear? Ready to shop? I'm covering the 2025 Prime Day sale all week and here, I'm giving USA TODAY Shopping readers an inside look at a few Prime camping deals that I would purchase again, plus the five best deals that are at the top of my Amazon wishlist. From premium Ninja coolers and cool Fanttik camping tents to super affordable lanterns and camping caddies for outdoor cooking, check out the top savings below! These are my top five favorite Amazon deals on camping gear that I already own and love. Shop retractable camping lights, stackable cookware and a camping fan that I swear by. Get these rechargeable fairy lights that retract into a hanging container on sale for $15 at Amazon. Save 37% at Amazon I have a foldable solar charger like this one and it is a camping hero. Simply lay it outside and let the sun charge up your speaker or lanterns throughout the day! Save 28% at Amazon Stay powered up: Save up to 83% on portable chargers, power banks from Amazon 🔋 From sleeping and cooking to lounging, you can find some of the best camping gear on sale at Amazon right now. Save 20% at Amazon More: 5 popular Prime Day generator deals starting at $125 🔋 Choose from several different variations, depending on your needs. All options include stackable cookware, utensils and an easy carrying case. Save 27% at Amazon More: 10 camping cookware sets to buy before your next outdoor adventure 🏕️ I love having a fan with a built-in light. It is perfect for when your tent gets a little too warm in the mornings and when you need some illumination at night! Save 35% at Amazon More: I go camping every year. Here are 10 essentials I suggest buying I love to upgrade my outdoor gear and these awesome Prime Day deals are at the top of my summer wishlist right now! Shop an instant camping tent from Fanttik that sets up in just one minute, camping caddies to hold your cooking supplies and more. From sleeping and cooking to lounging, you can find some of the best camping gear on sale at Amazon right now. Save 30% at Amazon Cut smarter, not harder: Get the viral Fanttik electric scissors for 30% off This cooler is at the top of my Amazon wishlist. Get it for 21% off for a very limited time only! Save 21% at Amazon From sleeping and cooking to lounging, you can find some of the best camping gear on sale at Amazon right now. Save 31% at Amazon I love the idea of this all-in-one camping caddy for kitchen utensils, grilling supplies, paper towels and everything else you need while cooking outdoors! Save 20% at Amazon You'll always be prepared with this survival kit. It includes multi-tools, utensils, a bottle opener, fire starter and more. Save 46% at Amazon More: Are you ready for the unexpected? Here's what to pack in your go-bag The 2025 Amazon Prime Day sale starts on Tuesday, July 8 at 12:00am PT/3:00am ET and ends on Friday, July 11. USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the Prime Day 2025 deals during the sale, including post-Prime Day deals, so stay here: Yes, you must be an Amazon Prime member to access most deals. The July Prime Day sale has tons of special Prime-exclusive discounts on select products that can help members save more than anyone else. Plus, joining Prime helps guarantee you get other perks like fast shipping all year long, access to Prime Video, Prime Reading, Prime Gaming and more. → More: Is an Amazon Prime membership worth it? Here's what you need to know New members can try one week of Amazon Prime benefits for just $1.99. After that, Prime costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. Sign up for an Amazon Prime membership to get exclusive perks and benefits all year. Join Amazon Prime
Indianapolis Star
10-07-2025
- Indianapolis Star
My Amazon wishlist is full of camping gear on sale for Prime Day ⛺️
Whether you have a 4th of July camping trip planned for a few summer hiking adventures coming up, who doesn't love scoring a deal on new gear? Ready to shop? I'm covering the 2025 Prime Day sale all week and here, I'm giving USA TODAY Shopping readers an inside look at a few Prime camping deals that I would purchase again, plus the five best deals that are at the top of my Amazon wishlist. From premium Ninja coolers and cool Fanttik camping tents to super affordable lanterns and camping caddies for outdoor cooking, check out the top savings below! These are my top five favorite Amazon deals on camping gear that I already own and love. Shop retractable camping lights, stackable cookware and a camping fan that I swear by. Get these rechargeable fairy lights that retract into a hanging container on sale for $15 at Amazon. Save 37% at Amazon I have a foldable solar charger like this one and it is a camping hero. Simply lay it outside and let the sun charge up your speaker or lanterns throughout the day! Save 28% at Amazon Stay powered up: Save up to 83% on portable chargers, power banks from Amazon 🔋 From sleeping and cooking to lounging, you can find some of the best camping gear on sale at Amazon right now. Save 20% at Amazon More: 5 popular Prime Day generator deals starting at $125 🔋 Choose from several different variations, depending on your needs. All options include stackable cookware, utensils and an easy carrying case. Save 27% at Amazon More: 10 camping cookware sets to buy before your next outdoor adventure 🏕️ I love having a fan with a built-in light. It is perfect for when your tent gets a little too warm in the mornings and when you need some illumination at night! Save 35% at Amazon More: I go camping every year. Here are 10 essentials I suggest buying I love to upgrade my outdoor gear and these awesome Prime Day deals are at the top of my summer wishlist right now! Shop an instant camping tent from Fanttik that sets up in just one minute, camping caddies to hold your cooking supplies and more. From sleeping and cooking to lounging, you can find some of the best camping gear on sale at Amazon right now. Save 30% at Amazon Cut smarter, not harder: Get the viral Fanttik electric scissors for 30% off This cooler is at the top of my Amazon wishlist. Get it for 21% off for a very limited time only! Save 21% at Amazon From sleeping and cooking to lounging, you can find some of the best camping gear on sale at Amazon right now. Save 31% at Amazon I love the idea of this all-in-one camping caddy for kitchen utensils, grilling supplies, paper towels and everything else you need while cooking outdoors! Save 20% at Amazon You'll always be prepared with this survival kit. It includes multi-tools, utensils, a bottle opener, fire starter and more. Save 46% at Amazon More: Are you ready for the unexpected? Here's what to pack in your go-bag The 2025 Amazon Prime Day sale starts on Tuesday, July 8 at 12:00am PT/3:00am ET and ends on Friday, July 11. USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the Prime Day 2025 deals during the sale, including post-Prime Day deals, so stay here: Yes, you must be an Amazon Prime member to access most deals. The July Prime Day sale has tons of special Prime-exclusive discounts on select products that can help members save more than anyone else. Plus, joining Prime helps guarantee you get other perks like fast shipping all year long, access to Prime Video, Prime Reading, Prime Gaming and more. → More: Is an Amazon Prime membership worth it? Here's what you need to know New members can try one week of Amazon Prime benefits for just $1.99. After that, Prime costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. Sign up for an Amazon Prime membership to get exclusive perks and benefits all year. Join Amazon Prime
