In today’s digital world, there are countless opportunities to enrich traditional hobbies with modern technology and take them to the next level. Whether it’s cooking, gardening or creative activities, smart tools can help you develop new skills, simplify processes and unleash your creativity. Here are some suggestions on how to take your hobbies to the next level.
More fun in the garden
Gardening is one of our favourite hobbies, but the success of all that work and effort can depend a lot on the weather. If you want to make sure that your plants always get enough water, we recommend an intelligent irrigation controller such as the Hombli Smart Water Controller 2. Not only can it be used to control watering from a smartphone, it can also be used to create watering schedules. Simply install the Water Control between a tap and your sprinkler or garden hose (no tools required) and connect it to the Nedis SmartLife mobile app via Bluetooth.Solar lights are an environmentally friendly solution for garden lighting. Using high quality solar cells, they store the sun’s energy in rechargeable batteries during the day and light up paths or gardens in the dark at no extra cost. They can be used in a variety of ways, from fairy lights and table lamps for atmospheric lighting, to powerful spotlights for illuminating large areas of pathways and patios.


The trend is towards DIY
Crafting, tinkering and upcycling – DIY is still very much in vogue. With the CAMEO 5 WS hobby plotter, you can take your hobby to the next level. It can process thin and flexible materials. The cutting plotter is a real all-rounder that sets no limits to creativity – because it not only cuts, but can also be expanded with numerous tools, such as an embossing tool, a universal pen holder or a heat transfer pen. Thanks to two tool heads, you can perform two operations in quick succession. The powerful Silhouette Studio design software is available free of charge in a basic version that is packed with features and easy to use.In the DIY sector, 3D printers open up new horizons for creative projects. The Creality K2 Plus CFS Combo, a top-of-the-range model for dedicated hobbyists, offers outstanding print quality and the ability to process materials such as PLA, ABS and TPU. Thanks to the Continuous Filament System (CFS) technology, it is possible to print with different materials and colours in a single pass. This system allows users to efficiently create multi-colour and multi-material objects without having to manually change filaments. The automatic filament reload function minimises interruptions, which is particularly beneficial for long print jobs. As a result, the Creality K2 Plus expands creative possibilities and simplifies prototyping processes. Different materials and colours can be seamlessly integrated. These features make the printer a valuable tool for designers, artists and engineers who want to produce complex, detailed objects.
The child-friendly TOYBOX ALPHA 2 is ideal for families who want to do DIY projects together. Safe and easy to use, it is ideal for educational purposes and as an introduction to 3D printing. Kids can create their own toys and projects. An easy-to-use app provides access to a growing library of printable toys, encouraging creativity and technical education while providing a fun and educational experience.


Experience gaming in a new way
To take your gaming experience to the next level, all it often takes is a little tweaking of your own equipment. The LOGITECH G502H, a mouse specially designed for gaming, is equipped with an advanced optical sensor that guarantees one of the fastest frame rates to date across the entire DPI range of 100 – 25,600 DPI, without any smoothing. In addition, a total of 11 keys can be assigned commands and macros for customised control.The keyboard can also be upgraded to increase gaming fun. The Cherry G80-3000N is based on the classic from the 80s and offers the same popular typing experience, but in a slimmer and more ergonomic housing. It also comes with RGB lighting in over 16 million colours and various features such as full N-key rollover to allow as many keys as needed to be pressed simultaneously.
The ZOTAC Zones gaming console delivers the best gaming experience on the go. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor and AMD Radeon 780 graphics card, you can play all your favourite games in top quality on the go. The 7-inch AMOLED display also helps you immerse yourself in the world of gaming.


Cook like a pro
Attention pizza lovers: With the Nedis pizza oven and grill you can conjure up an Italian-style pizza in just a few minutes. You can also make omelettes, quiches or tarte flambée in no time at all. The oven is equipped with an adjustable thermostat that can reach temperatures of up to 230°C. An indicator light shows when the optimum temperature has been reached. For added convenience, the appliance can be opened and used as a tabletop barbecue – ideal for summer evenings in the garden.The Fromaggio makes it possible to produce delicious cheeses. From feta to gorgonzola to gouda, the automated processes and intuitive operation allow you to be creative. Recipes can be flexibly adapted via the mobile app. This means that cheese can be made to suit individual tastes, dietary preferences and budgets. It also provides access to a wide range of recipes from the Fromaggio community.
Want to brew your own beer after work? It’s easy to do in your own kitchen with the MiniBrew Craft Gen 3. The all-in-one beer brewer fits in any kitchen and revolutionises the brewing process with the industry’s first automated fermentation. Using the latest technology, the temperature cycle automatically adjusts to each specific recipe, allowing fermentation at both high and low temperatures. Within 10-25 days, depending on the recipe, your own craft beer is ready to be stored or tapped directly from the Smart Keg. Read more about the MiniBrew brewing system in this magazine article: MiniBrew: The Home Brewing Revolution


From efficiency to creativity – technology redefines hobbies
In conclusion, the integration of modern technology into our hobbies increases the fun factor. It also helps us to develop and perfect our skills. The technological tools presented here not only make it easier to do the hobbies in question. They also open up new possibilities for creativity and individuality.
Images: Adobe Stock, Manufacturer