The cost-of-living crisis has shoppers looking for deals, and online retailers like Temu are capitalizing on that with shockingly low prices. But are these budget car accessories, tools, and gadgets too good to be true? A recent test compared Temu’s offerings against established brands, and the results are mixed. Some items hold up surprisingly well, while others reveal why you often get what you pay for.
The Temu Gamble: Price vs. Quality
Temu’s business model relies on direct-from-China sourcing, cutting out intermediaries and slashing prices. Shipping times vary dramatically—some items arrive in days, others take over a month. The shopping experience can be overwhelming, with relentless emails and pop-up ads. But for those who persevere, the potential savings are significant. The catch? You can’t inspect the quality until it arrives, and descriptions are often vague. This makes buying a bit of a gamble.
Breathalysers: Trust Your Life to a $6 Device?
When it comes to safety-critical items, cheap is rarely better. Temu’s $5.81 portable breathalyzer showed some correlation between alcohol consumption and readings, but it was slow and unreliable. In contrast, a professional device like the AlcoSense Excel delivers precise results for around $100. A cheap breathalyzer is a risk if you’re relying on it to determine legal driving status.
CarPlay & Android Auto: Temu Wins This Round
Upgrading your car’s infotainment system can be expensive. Temu’s $29.19 wireless CarPlay/Android Auto screen connects via Bluetooth and Aux-in, offering a functional upgrade for a fraction of the cost of a full head unit. While messy with wires, it works well. This is one area where Temu delivers real value without sacrificing usability.
Construction Models: Lego Still Reigns Supreme
Lego remains the gold standard for building toys. Temu’s $9.78 Land Rover-style construction kit looked good but lacked the crisp fit and solid feel of Lego. The instructions were confusing, and the bricks didn’t slot together as seamlessly. Lego’s quality justifies the higher price point, especially when avoiding Christmas Day tantrums.
Dash Cams: Don’t Skimp on Evidence
Dash cams are essential for accident claims. Temu’s $10.65 dual-lens camera records front and rear but lacks the image stabilization and low-light performance of higher-end models like the Miofive S1 ($70). The cheap camera’s video is blurry unless you’re stationary in daylight. Spending extra on a reliable dash cam is a worthwhile investment.
Drying Towels: Temu Can Compete
Car drying towels are more effective than chamois leather. Temu’s $7.17 extra-large towel absorbs 2.4 liters of water, but Hydro’s $19 towel absorbs 3.1 liters and feels gentler on paint. While the Hydro is superior, the Temu towel is a decent budget option for dirty wheels.
Key Trackers: Temu Steals the Show
Apple AirTags cost $35. Temu’s NLT-10A Smart Tag tracker works with Apple’s Find My app and costs just $3.68. While not as polished, it functions similarly, leveraging the network of Apple devices to locate lost keys. At this price, it’s a no-brainer.
Phone Holders: Temu’s Surprise Win
Temu’s $4.21 phone holder is surprisingly good, securely clamping to vents and holding smaller phones well. Mous’s $15 suction mount is more refined, but Temu’s cheap option gets the job done for basic use.
RC Buggies: Pay for Performance
Temu’s $17.68 RC buggy offers decent speed and suspension, but it won’t last as long as PD Racing’s $70 truggy. The higher-end model is more durable and upgradeable, making it a better long-term investment.
T-Shirts: Quality Matters
Temu’s $5.99 DeLorean Motor Company T-shirt felt cheap and looked shiny. T-Lab’s $35 shirts are made from premium cotton and feature unique designs, making them worth the extra cost.
Torches: Temu Delivers Surprising Brightness
Temu’s $2.42 tactical flashlight feels toy-like compared to LED Lenser’s $160 P7R Pro, but it’s surprisingly bright and lasts over seven hours on its brightest setting. The P7R is more durable, but the Temu torch is a steal for occasional use.
The Verdict: Buyer Beware
Temu isn’t a complete waste of time. Some products, like key trackers and phone holders, offer incredible value. But when it comes to safety-critical items or long-term durability, established brands still deliver superior quality. The key is to know when to take the risk and when to spend a little more for peace of mind.
