40 Affordable Alternatives So Good, Only Your Wallet Will Tell The Difference

40 Affordable Alternatives So Good, Only Your Wallet Will Tell The Difference

BuzzFeed-Shopping·2025-05-22 05:03

1. A pair of high-waisted ~DreamLux~ leggings that reviewers compare to the more expensive Lululemon Align ones. Everyone is obsessed with their ultra-comfy stretch and ridiculously soft, moisture-wicking material that makes it feel like you're wearing next-to-nothing — did I mention they're squat-proof and won't randomly roll down?!

www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "I can't say enough great things about these leggings! They don't roll down, and they feel amazing on. I have all kinds of brands Lululemon, Vuori, Athleta, etc. and these are my favorites and the ones I feel the best and most confident in!! And you can't beat the price — it's a win-win. I will be back to purchase even more colors!" —Lauren

"The stitching and logo placement is similar to Lulu; however, these feel more compressive and thicker than Aligns, which I prefer. Lulu stretches over time and for a fraction of the price, this entire line feels way better." —Fiona

Get them from Amazon for $29 (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 22 colors). 

2. A Renpho percussion massager to help you release knots, muscle tension, and other body aches you might not even have noticed were making you a grump on the daily! Sometimes foam rolling just isn't working out your knots enough, and this massager is cheaper than both the triple dollar sign TheraGun *and* paying for a professional.

www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Helps with pain relief and massage in pressure spots I wasn't able to get before. I had access to use a TheraGun before and haven't noticed any difference between items, and it's at a much lower price point. Whatever extra TheraGun features there might be, I haven't needed and the heads are interchangeable between TheraGun and this. Very happy with my purchase." —tauntaun

"I used a TheraGun for about a month and although it was great, this unit is better suited for my needs. I found the TheraGun to be too powerful on the lowest setting and bulky to handle. Some people prefer a lower setting than the 'professional' brand offers. This unit is also easier to handle when massaging my partner than the TheraGun. This gun goes from comfortable low setting to very powerful on the highest setting. Much better fit for me and my partner, plus it's got a solid battery life." —Pierremoe

Get it from Amazon for $68.94+ (available in three colors and three styles).

3. E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen, which boasts a lightweight, non-greasy finish with SPF 35, so you don't feel sticky and weighted down before even stepping outside. You can even use it as a priming base for your makeup, so if it's time to reup but the price of Supergoop is making you (and your budget) cringe... this is a darn good alternative!

Jenae Sitzes / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com

FYI — Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen has SPF 50, while E.l.f.'s product offers SPF 35. Both of these meet the American Academy of Dermatology's recommendation of using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, which blocks both UVA and 97% of the sun's UVB rays. So, basically they both offer a similar amount of protection, one is just a little better and a lot more expensive!

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes has tried both, and here's her review: "The packaging similarities are impossible to ignore, but that's not where the comparisons between this E.l.f. sunscreen and Supergoop's cult-fave product end. I've tried both, and I honestly prefer this E.l.f. version. Supergoop's had a slight graininess to it that I didn't love, while this E.l.f. sunscreen is exactly what I'd hoped Supergoop's would feel like: totally smooth and velvety. Like Supergoop's, it goes on totally clear and doesn't feel like you're wearing a mask; it sinks in immediately. And of course, a major selling point: A 1.7-ounce bottle of E.l.f. Suntouchable will cost you $14, while Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen in the same size will put you back $38."

Promising review: "This sunscreen is a gem. I was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I absolutely love E.l.f. products, but I rarely try their skincare. Something told me to try this. When I put it on, it gave a smooth silicone finish and feel. I was faithful to Supergoop but didn't want to spend as much as the product is listed for. I will continue to use this sunscreen; it has been one of the best I’ve ever tried. I’ve been into skincare since I was 15; I am 37, and for me to say that this product is a gold mine is rare." —Angelina S

Get it from Amazon for $5+ (available in two sizes).

4. Some slip-on pointed-toe flats to make you feel like you're walking on cloud nine with a comfy memory foam insole. Because they're a much more affordable option to the popular Rothy's and Vivaia styles, yes, these are also machine washable, so you never have to worry about wearing sweaty, smelly flats to work!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Even though they are machine washable, these flats are air dry only! 

Promising reviews: "I have several pair of Rothy’s in a very similar style to these, and they are actually just as comfortable right out of the box as Rothy’s…maybe more so. I also purchased in black. LOVE THEM!!" —Amazon Customer

"I couldn’t be happier with these flats! As a result of them dropping in price, I purchased four pairs in varying colors to wear with jeans and sweaters. Not only do they look cute, but they are also decently padded and comfortable. I have been buying Vivaia flats for over $100 and these look just as good and are more comfortable to wear." —PSK

Get it from Amazon for $28.04+ (available in women's sizes 6–10 and 14 colors and patterns).

5. A 20-pack of extra-thick melamine cleaning pads, which are a great alternative to your favorite name-brand Magic Eraser, but offering a great deal at under 75 cents per sponge. Even better: Because they're twice as thick as that brand, these sponges are even more durable and can tackle all the food drippings in the bottom of your oven that have been burning up for weeks, maybe months...possibly years!

www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "These are the best. Sooo much better than Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Won't buy those anymore and these will last me a very long time. I scrubbed and they got everything clean and didn't break apart!!! Can even reuse if I wanted." —miguel mendez

"I own a cleaning business and have spent a small fortune on the name brand. I clean everything from condo rentals to long-term lease/residential rentals and I have had to clean unimaginable NASTY, I mean 'pics or it didn't happen' kind of nasty, and these cut right through it. These work just as well as the name brand, if not better, and they seem to last a little longer!" —Keisha Marie

Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $14.95.

6. Rael Beauty's Miracle Patches that are slightly more affordable than the popular Mighty Patch ones with the same hydrocolloid to absorb sebum, pus, and other fluids while preventing you from picking at your zits. Each one boasts a transparent, ultra-thin matte design that's super discreet during wear, so you don't have to worry about anyone staring at the pimple that seemingly popped up overnight while you're making small talk! 😅

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

BTW, these work best on open, draining pustules (rather than blackheads or pimples that haven't come to a head yet). You can read more at Cleveland Clinic!

Promising review: "I RARELY write product reviews, and if I do it’s because something is either so terrible or so incredible that I can’t keep it to myself, and these are the latter!! For some reason I have a hard time getting pimple patches to really stick to my face, and I have very dry skin. I’m also not willing to regularly spend $15 on nine patches — so when I saw these 96, I repeat, 96 patches for this price along with a good star rating, I just had to try them. And let me tell you, THEY ARE AMAZING!! 

"I can put them on and then do all my skincare over top, including wetting my face for snail mucin, and they do not budge. They don’t come off on my pillow or slide around, and I think they minimize and reduce redness WAY better than Cosrx, Mighty Patch or Peach Slices. They pull out everything and don’t leave you with a little whitehead to deal with in the a.m. If you’re not sure, just trust me babe, I’m sure for you!" —Sydney

Get a 96-count pack from Amazon for $16.99.

7. A ribbed workout jumpsuit, which has many reviewers sporting it year-round as a go-to layering piece because of its comfy stretch material. It boasts a similar seamless and compressive design as Skims, but without the price tag — and honestly, who would be able to tell the difference if you don't tell them?!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Imagine all the jackets, crop tops, and sweaters you could pair with this style!

Promising review: "I absolutely love this bodysuit! I discovered this brand from my coworker who was wearing this bodysuit in a different color and it looked so good on her I knew I had to give them a try. Finding items that fit my body nicely is next to impossible; but THIS?! It was literally perfect and full coverage + support and not sheer at all! I’m buying this in so many colors and the quality is SO good. I love this more than my Skims!" —Zoe T

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and four colors).

8. Plus, a budget-friendly Skims-like sweetheart neckline bodysuit that you definitely will want to buy more than one of after seeing how seamlessly it pairs with your favorite pair of jeans and mini skirts. It's designed with a comfy double-layered fabric that offers shapewear-level support without feeling too restrictive!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "My fave Skims [alternative]. I love this brand; their bodysuits are so soft and buttery, and they wash well. You can pair easily with jeans, sweatpants, or joggers — super cute!" —RK

"Love this bodysuit; it's so soft and fits great. It's very similar to the Lululemon bodysuit that sells for $90. What a steal!" —Katy B

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and nine colors).

9. An adorable pair of wrist and ankle weights, so you can get your sweat on while walking the dog without needing to run or spend a bunch on a barely-used gym membership. And yes, these cuties are verrrrrry similar to the popular Bala Bangles, but literally less than half the price!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The weights are designed with a sweatproof silicone exterior and an adjustable elastic band to make them comfortably fit. And you can even remove the weights to customize the feel if necessary!

Promising review: "I love these! So great for yoga or mat Pilates. I like that they are 2 pounds each, which is the perfect weight, and you can even take off weight as well. I use them every week for my workouts. Very durable band as well!" —Robyn

Get a pair from Amazon for $19.63+ (available in two sizes and 14 colors).

10. A bottle of the top-rated Elizavecca hair treatment, which helps restore and repair damaged hair that's been through... a lot (aka dye jobs, heat damage, and even sun damage). Packed with collagen and ceramide 3, this protein treatment brings your hair back to life and has some reviewers even saying it's better than the much more expensive Olaplex treatment!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

This reparative mask is designed for heat-damaged hair of all types, but definitely beloved by reviewers with fine and wavy hair!

Promising review: "Like many others, I tried this as a replacement for Olaplex. Honestly, Olaplex never had a great effect on my hair and certainly wasn’t worth the price. This did an unreal job on my hair!! I was skeptical (tried a little bit first because I was petrified it would burn off my hair and I would end up bald!) but, lo and behold, it was magic! My hair is so strong, silky, and healthy looking after just one use. Plus you can’t beat the price! Have already ordered another box. I should also add I have curly/wavy hair that’s been colored to a light brown. Buy it!!" —BB

Get it from Amazon for $7.60.

11. A professional-quality black makeup sponge that one MUA says is "Hands-down, superior" in texture and blending your favorite liquid, cream, or powder beauty products! If you're like me and always *wince* whenever adding a Beauty Blender or Real Techniques sponge to your cart...this one will make it so you can stop clutching your pearls every time it's time to replace one.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Aesthetica Cosmetics is a Miami-based small business specializing in vegan, cruelty-free beauty products.

Promising review: "I was super skeptical because I love the OG beauty sponge. I had tried other alternatives before and hated them. *This* one has that same soft, squishy texture as the OG. When you wet it, it expands and stays soft and bouncy like the OG. I’ll say that one difference I note that this one is sliiiightly softer when wet, but that does not bother me. I wash mine after each use and do find I need to squeeze it/wring it out a bit more. Really glad I tried this because at this price, it’s easy to justify buying more frequently and not risk germs/bacteria." —PC

Get a pack of five from Amazon for $7.95.

12. And a bottle of makeup brush–cleaning shampoo because your brushes are soiled with layers and layers of remnants from your past six months of makeup looks, so it's way past time to clean them. BTW — a lot of reviewers compare it to Beauty Blender's own $15 liquid cleanser, which is more than double the price. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes has to say about this: "I've used Ecotools brush-cleaning shampoo for years, and it makes cleaning my brushes so much easier. I just add a bit of the shampoo to my brush and gently rub it against a silicone mat under running water, and it makes quick work of removing all the makeup that's built up on my brush for, frankly, way too long. You'll see the water start running brown immediately, which is always super gross but also really satisfying, and once you see your brush return to its original color, you know you're done. And the bristles are always left as soft as before too!"

Promising review: "Despite the great reviews for this product and the hyping on social media, I wasn’t expecting much. But my mind is blown at how well this soap works. I have tried all kinds of soap (Beauty Blender soap, Ivory bar soap, MAC brush cleaner, Dawn dish soap, etc). I am very thorough but could never get my sponges or brushes completely clean. But a little soak in a small bowl with this Eco soap, and the makeup comes right out. A little rubbing and squeezing is all it takes. I’m a convert. Will be repurchasing!" —ss3745

Get a 3-ounce bottle from Amazon for $5.82 (also available in a larger size).

13. An Overmont cast-iron Dutch oven for a dependable and versatile pot you can use to boil potatoes, roast a chicken, bake bread, or even fry fish when you feel like throwing down in the kitchen. Seriously, if you've been obsessively trying to recreate the taste of NOLA red beans and rice at home, this might just be the slow cooker you need to get the job done. Did I mention it's significantly cheaper than the aesthetically-pleasing, but budget-busting Le Creuset Dutch ovens?

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The cast iron material is oven safe up to 500 degrees F and the lid boasts a beaded design to help keep your food hydrated by returning any created steam back into the pot. 

Promising reviews: "I researched a lot before choosing this Dutch oven. I wasn't sure that this brand would be of high quality because the price is so much lower than the famous Le Creuset and others. This Overmont product is stylish and big enough to hold a whole chicken or probably roast. On first cooking, we did jerk beef ribs and were pleased with the result. Heat distribution is excellent, and it's easy to clean with hot, soapy water." —NJM

"I bought this specifically for baking bread. Everyone was suggesting I buy the Le Creuset brand, but I'm new to the task, so I didn't want to spend an exorbitant amount. I could not be happier with my purchase. I've preheated both the pot and lid for an hour, as the recipes have said, and it works beautifully. It bakes fresh sourdough and yeast bread, yielding really beautiful brown crusts and even cooking throughout. I use parchment to line the pot for cooking, so clean-up is a breeze. 5 stars!" —Iris C. Wilson

Get a 5.5-quart pot from Amazon for $59.99 (available in eight colors and three sizes). 

14. E.l.f's Camo Liquid Blush with highly-pigmented hues just perfect for building and blending onto your cheeks for a soft, dewy finish. Reviewers are obsessed with how it lasts all day long without fading and even compare its quality to a similar blush by Rare Beauty, except it's a fraction of the price!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This stuff is no joke. I like to use one product for my full face for a quick makeup routine: as eyeshadow, blush, and some highlight all at once. When I tell you I need exactly two dots for my whole face, I couldn’t be more serious! Has a different, more glossy texture than a Rare Beauty blush, but the pigment is much stronger. Comes off very dew-y and kind of glossy but can be made matte with powder. The only thing I will say is that if you overwork it, there can be small lifted spots, which happened to me when I first tried it because I used too much then had to try to blend so much. Already purchased another color." —Oscar Julian Zapotitla

Get it from Amazon for $6.65+ (available in 12 shades).

15. A bottle of Nyx setting spray because you want to be confident that your makeup actually makes it to *and* through the day without worrying about sweating, crying, or wiping it off. Reviewers even say this spray is comparable to the more expensive setting sprays by MAC and Urban Decay!

www.amazon.com

BTW, the formula is vegan and cruelty-free!

Promising review: "Expensive isn't always better. I tried this spray before spending the day outdoors in 90-degree heat at Disneyland, and the only place my makeup moved was on the tip of my nose because I have allergies and use a lot of Kleenex. But otherwise it looked as fresh as it did when I put it on. I’ve used MAC and Urban Decay setting spray and they never worked as well as this stuff. I am completely amazed. Definitely give it a try." —Stephanie

Get it from Amazon for $9.97+ (available in four finishes and a jumbo size).

16. And a 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup-removing towels that only require water to remove your makeup! Stop wasting money on disposable wipes and cotton pads. Each cloth is around $1, aka definitely worth it since the popular Makeup Eraser towels are $19+ each. 😳 

www.amazon.com

HuffPost Shopping writer Haley Zovickian swears by these: "I only use these now to remove my makeup, including heavy mascara, and they are great for my sensitive skin. I do follow up with a gentle cleanser to cleanse my skin once all my makeup is off. They're big and dry quickly so you can use the same towel a number of times before having to wash it or switch to another one."

Promising review: "These things are so soft! Great for taking off makeup. I was using the Makeup Eraser before, but these are 100 times better. You just wet them, wipe off your makeup, rinse, and hang out. I guess you could use a new one each day, but I they are very big so you can get a few days out of one. Great value for the money!" —Shopforbargains

Get a pack of 12 from Amazon for $9.98+ (available in 13 color combos and in packs of 30). 

17. An ultra-hydrating TruSkin vitamin C serum featuring a blend of vitamins C and E, plus hyaluronic acid, which together help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots with regular use. Reviewers report noticing brighter and firmer skin within weeks, and with over 93,000 5-star ratings... this $20 serum is practically a steal compared to SkinCeuticals' $140 version!

www.amazon.com

The ingredients lists are different between the two products, but both vitamin C serums pack a similarly potent punch.

As with most concentrated skincare products, you should do a patch test on your skin 24–48 hours before using it on your face. Apply three to five drops daily and follow with a moisturizer, and don't worry — reviewers say this bottle will last you awhile!

TruSkin Naturals is a small business creating unique skincare products.

Promising reviews: "Best $20 ever spent!!! The results are unbelievable. I was a bit skeptical because all the reviews were from Caucasian women, and I was slightly worried that my skin would not respond as well, but I was quite mistaken. With or without makeup, my skin is bright and smooth, and my spots are disappearing. One other result I am sure a number of people have not noticed is that your palms get softer too; I guess the residue on the palms makes it soft and supple." —Mayowa O

Get it from Amazon for $18.68+ (available in two sizes).

18. A Briotech topical skin spray featuring an alcohol-free, dermatologist-approved formula that contains hypochlorous acid — the main ingredient in the more expensive Tower 28 SOS Spray, BTW — for targeting the kinds of bacteria that lead to skin irritation, acne, and other blemishes.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This spray is amazing. I had a rash on my face and it disappeared after one use of this spray. I had a stye in my eye and the skin around the eye was irritated. This spray fixed not only the irritation but the stye went away as well. Any sort of blemish or acne is taken care of with this simple inexpensive spray. Great for after-sun care or workout redness. Everyone loves Tower 28's expensive SOS spray. The SOS spray contains hypochlorous acid, which is the exact same ingredient in the Briotech spray for much less money. It’s a miracle worker." —Squid466

Get an 8-ounce bottle from Amazon for $16.49 (available in four sizes).

19. A pack of reusable duster sponges  — a great alternative to the always selling out Scrub Daddy Damp Duster — that allows you to clean your surfaces effectively to remove all that lingering pet hair and dust. Simply dampen it, wipe any surface, and then rinse when you're done!

www.amazon.com

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says, "I bought a pack of these recently, and so far love dusting with them! All the dust sticks right on, so you don't end up breathing in all the dust you just tried removing. It's great for baseboards, too!"

Promising review: "I rarely review products, but this little sponge literally changed my life! It picks up EVERYthing in one swipe! Hard water marks on your bathroom mirror, no problem! Hair clippings on your sink and counter, one swipe and they are gone! Dusty blinds? Swoosh, swoosh, swipe! And ala-presto ka-bam, like magic they are perfect and dust free! I just need one of these for my floors! I love, love, love how the sponge picks up everything and with a little running water, all the dust, hair, muck, and guck just rinsed away!!" —DayDreamer

Get a pack of four from Amazon for $9.99 (available in six color packs).

20. Essence's Lash Princess Mascara — an under-$5 reviewer fave that delivers a voluminous, bold finish with its long-lasting, sweat-resistant, flake- and clump-free formula. Lots of reviewers even swear it's a great alternative to more expensive name-brand mascaras like Too Faced Better Than Sex and L'Oreal Telescopic Lift!

Mallory Mower / BuzzFeed

My lovely colleague Mal Mower is a huge fan of this mascara: "It was one of my first BuzzFeed Shopping list impulse purchases! I was sold by all the wild customer images (it feels like this stuff makes lashes illegally long!) and positive reviews. I was *so* excited to get my hands on their brown version! I have naturally light lashes and red hair, so black lashes look really unnatural on me. I've loved using the brown and having a color that better complements my skin/hair. You can see my before and after photos above. This stuff is magic."

Promising reviews: "The best I’ve tried so far and I used Dior, Tarte, Two Faced, you name it. I always have a problem with brand-new mascara because they have too much product on the brush, especially first few uses, and my lashes stick together. I didn’t have this problem with this one. I could layer it without any product starting to fall off or my lashes sticking together. And I love that they don’t test on animals." —Detti

Get it from Amazon for $4.99 (available in black or brown).

21. *Or* E.l.f's Lash XTNDR Tubing Mascara that uses innovative "tubing" technology to wrap around your eyelashes and deliver natural-looking length and volume with a smudge-proof finish. Plus, the "tubing" makes it SO much easier to remove your makeup without any specialized cleaners or abrasive scrubbing! Not-so-falsies for less than $10? NEED.

Emma Lord / BuzzFeed

Check out a TikTok of the E.l.f. mascara in action.

BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord swears by this: "I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact readily spent $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc every time it needed replacing. I didn't even love it for the length half as much as the fact that tubing mascara like this genuinely never smudges, but can I just say — regardless of price, the E.l.f. tubing mascara formula blows all the others I've tried out of the water. It gives me way more length and volume than other brands, slides on so much more easily, stays put ALL day, and never, ever smudges. My favorite part, though, is how gently and easily it comes off with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt rough on my lashes, but this comes off so fast that I'm like ??? was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?? Anyway, I hesitate even writing this review because I want to gatekeep the hell out of this before it sells out, but the world needed to know. I'm a big fan of the brown shade (which is what I'm wearing above!) but it also comes in black and soft black."

Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in three shades). 

22. A set of satin pillowcases, which are great for your skin *and* hair because the silky material helps lessen friction. This means reduced damage to your tresses and salon looks that'll actually last! Who wants to spend money on more expensive brands like Slip and Blissy, when you could save money without sacrificing comfort with these?!

Amazon

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says this is her go-to satin pillowcase: "I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward, and I recommended them to my mom and now she's in love with them too!"

Promising reviews: "I ordered these pillowcases just to see if they could compete with Blissy. Well, they can. I have washed them three times and they came out great. They seem to protect your hair and skin. So, I’m very happy with them." —EMc

"Arguably, they’re softer than my more expensive ones! They did arrive very wrinkled but a quick wash and dry and they’re shiny and wrinkle free. I like the envelope closure a lot more than competing brands zip closure." —Hannah Watkins

Get a set of two from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in standard, queen, king, and body pillow sizes and 35 colors).

23. A cruelty-free brightening facial scrub featuring a blend of French green clay, Madonna lily, and sea kelp to help exfoliate and remove dead skin, so you can step into tomorrow and the next day with a glowing complexion. The best part? It's designed for ALL skin types, and reviewers swear this little bottle lasts a long, long time and even better than luxury microdermabrasion scrubs from brands like Kate Somerville and Rodan + Fields!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The reviewer on the left above is showing an improvement in melasma on their forehead after using this scrub (before applying a serum). 

BTW — this is one of BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes's go-to exfoliators: "I have super sensitive skin and this doesn't irritate it at all, but it DOES leave my face silky smooth and soft."

Promising reviews: "You need this face scrub. Got rid of my obvious blackheads after two to three uses. Just make sure you tone or moisturize after each use. This is much, much better than the $60 scrub I purchased last year at an expensive chain makeup store. Do it!" —WhatTheFrenchRoast

"I have no clue how this stuff works as amazing as it does, but it's AWESOME! After getting this and using for over a week I officially switched from the Rodan + Fields reversal line to the Acure brightening scrub. It work evens better than products that were costing almost 15x the amount. I've even gotten two of my friends to order it and they love it as well. You can't go wrong." —Michelle A Malaska

Get it from Amazon for $8.92.

24. An app-controlled Govee neon rope light for adding customized lighting to your space thanks to a flexible design that morphs into different shapes for unique backlighting *or* colorful decor. And compared to the pricey Phillips Hue rope lights, these won't cause you too much emotional pain when you click *add to cart*. So if you want to elevate the vibes of your Sims 4 gameplay, this an affordable option to add even more drama in your meticulously crafted PC soap opera!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The app offers 64 preset lighting options and is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free control.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes owns the older version of this light (before this one was released), and here's her take: "[I] still absolutely love it. First of all, it's SOOO easy to put on the wall — it comes with these little adhesive plastic brackets that you just slide onto the rope and then press against the wall, and continue adding them as needed to support the shape you're making. The Govee app makes it so easy to program the lighting however I like, and it's upgraded my nighttime cozy vibes in a MAJOR way. Also, I recently moved apartments and re-mounted my Govee rope light in a different shape on my new wall, and it was just as easy as the first time (just be careful removing the adhesive brackets as it can rip paint off — this happened to me with one of them, but we patched it easily).

I'll probably come back for this improved model eventually, which is made of even more flexible, softer materials and has improved lighting effects and upgraded bend clips. Plus, they now only offer this light in 9- and 16-foot lengths, which totally makes sense — mine is the old 6-foot version that they don't even sell anymore, probably because it's not quite long enough to make elaborate shapes with. You might not think you need that much length, but once you start creating waves and shapes on your wall, you'll realize it's very much needed to get the full effect!"

Promising review: "These rope lights truly complete my setup! They create an incredible atmosphere that makes streaming and gaming so much more immersive. Whether I’m relaxing solo or hanging out with friends—online or in person—they add the perfect vibe. The build quality is excellent, and I love that I can adjust the brightness from a subtle glow to a vivid shine. The app is super intuitive and syncing with Alexa was seamless. If you want to level up your space, these are a must-have!" —Kyle

Get it from Amazon for $74.99+ (available in three lengths).

25. E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer with a hydrating formula featuring squalene to keep your skin hydrated underneath a blurred, photo-filter matte finish. If you've been spending $$$ on velvety primers like Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer, this affordable option is going to blow your mind!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes has to say: "This stuff is gold. I'm relatively new to the Poreless Putty Primer fandom but now that I'm here, I'm not leaving anytime soon. This makes SUCH a difference in how my foundation goes on, and it makes it look as close to poreless as I think is humanly possible — and maintains the smooth look for many hours! Just be sure to let it sit for a little bit before applying your foundation."

Promising review: "Okay so first nothing will make you 'poreless' but this stuff is amazing. Will even out fine lines and help with super porous areas; my T-zone [has really visible] pores and this definitely gave me a boost in confidence. I would highly recommend. Especially to those not to familiar with makeup, this is a game changer. Honestly it works better than my $30 primer from Urban Decay and lasts all day. I am oily so I usually blot some powder on later in the day but if you have dry skin this could be the ultimate game changer!" —Olivia

Get it from Amazon for $10.

26. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks that make a worthy affordable alternative to the popular Laneige lip masks with the same moisturizing overnight transformation of chapped lips. Plus, this set offers three different flavors, making the math come out to around $3.30 per mask! Hoard them all in your makeup collection or dole them out to your besties as teeny just because gifts!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

And if you want even more math to convince you: each Laneige lip mask is about 20 grams of product, while each of these measures 5 grams, so you're getting 15 grams of products for less than half the price! Girl math: if you bought two of these sets, you'd still spend less and actually have more product (30 grams)!

Promising review: "It’s been four months since ordering this and it’s now part of my nightly routine. I can’t go to bed before putting this on. I highly recommend this! And it’s worth it to get the three-pack. The flavors are not overly sweet and I think my favorite is the berry. I like it more than the Laneige night lip mask. For me, Laneige absorbs pretty quickly and in the morning I feel like my lips are dry again. With these, my still lips feel moisturized in the morning. It has a thicker consistency. I used to get dry/peeling lips pretty often as I’m outdoors/in the ocean a lot. However, since incorporating this in my routine, I haven’t had peeling lips in a long time. Loooove these!" —Angela

Get it from Amazon for $9.90 (available in four flavors and six combo sets). 

27. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer that'll deliver 12 hours of buildable medium coverage, in case you need a quick fix for under-eye circles (or on-the-go touch-ups)! Plus, it's less than $10, making it a great alternative to more expensive concealers from luxury brands like Bobbi Brown or Mac.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "I have extremely dark under eye circles. Honestly that is the only reason I wear makeup, is to cover them. I've used numerous kinds of concealers. Tarte Shape Tape, Mary Kay, Estée Lauder (assorted kinds), IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye, Clinique, Laura Mercier, Mac, and Bobbi Brown. I usually spend anywhere from $25–$30 on one tube of concealer and still feel unsatisfied with the coverage. This little gem is great. I use this concealer every day instead of all my high-end brand concealers. It's full coverage, buildable, lasts all day, not drying and not too liquidy. I'm so happy I gave this a try, will definitely be keeping this baby in my everyday makeup bag." —Brittney

"Oh my gosh. I have spent so much money on expensive concealers and this is my all-time favorite. I’m 61 and starting to get crepey skin under my eyes. Other concealers make it worse, but I also have dark circles so I feel like I need something. And this is it! Moisturizing, silky and covers the circles. I love it!" —Lynnette Smith

Get it from Amazon for $8.98 (available in 22 shades, plus two color-correcting shades).

And check out our Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer review for more deets!

28. Skin1004's skin-lifting and pore-tightening face masks with over 8,000 5-⭐️ ratings from reviewers because it's that good at reducing the appearance of wrinkles, calming skin, and delivering a smoother, brighter-looking complexion! Similar to the much more expensive Hanacure masks, as it dries, it delivers a "zombie" look because of ingredients like aloe vera extract and albumin (egg whites), which aim to intensely hydrate and lift skin.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "As good as Hanacure, much better price! The Zombie pack face mask is the best! It works just as well as other tightening masks but it's a fraction of the cost. I use these once a week and am extremely satisfied. My skin feels so good after, and my wrinkles are getting less noticeable." —meredith shaputis

Get a box of eight masks from Amazon for $19.70.

29. A Coty setting powder, which makes an excellent alternative to the one by Laura Mercier (retailing at $43, btw) by offering the same blemish-minimizing mattified finish throughout the day. Now, you won't have to be stingy with your product when trying to touch up your makeup on the humid subway the next time you're rushing to your evening plans!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I normally use the Laura Mercier setting powder but it was getting a little pricey. I bought the translucent version of this powder, and I am so impressed. Not only is it extremely budget-friendly; you also get A LOT OF POWDER. You get over two times the product of the other more expensive ones. It’s blurring and soft, and doesn’t cause creasing even on my dry skin! There is a scent, but it smells like a rich old lady, and I’m here for it." —alice silva

Get it from Amazon for $13.40+ (available in six shades, including two translucent options).

30. A Lululemon-esque mini belt bag so you can keep all your daily must-haves on hand while remaining hands-free as you explore cities and navigate street fairs or concerts. The adjustable strap means you can wear it as a crossbody or in the classic fanny pack around-the-waist style. And according to reviewers, this little bag holds A LOT.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I’m SOO impressed with the quality of this bag! I’ve worn the Lululemon belt bag and I gotta say, this is pretty similar. Almost identical, except the Lululemon is a tiny bit smaller size. The Lululemon one also has a plastic zipper but this Amazon one is metal. I prefer the plastic but this one is OK. It might be better than Lululemon JUST for the fact that they have so many color options!" —Em

Get it from Amazon for $12.98 (available in 44 styles). 

31. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip — instead of splurging on the pricier Dior version, enjoy the same juicy finish and hydration benefits with this one, thanks to a blend of vegan squalane, raspberry, and cloudberry oils. Time to pucker up and receive compliments from everyone you cross paths with!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I have Fenty Cherry Treat, a lip oil from Dior, and several other brands that were $20 or more…and the Nyx Fat Oil is better! Same consistency as the others, but a little more color, which is a good thing. About as long lasting as any other thick lipgloss. It’s always awesome to find a less expensive [option] for the high-end products I like." —Jennifer

Get it from Amazon for $7.42+ (available in 14 shades). 

32. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers that lots of reviewers rave about being an affordable alternative to a certain Lululemon cult-fave. If you've been looking for a pant that does it all, these are the perfect addition to your closet, keeping you comfortable no matter the weather or occasion.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I wear athletic attire for work 90% of the time. I am also particular about how joggers look. These rival my Under Armour or Lulus. I get a ton of complements on them and couldn't be happier with the price and quality. These are also great for when I'm feeling a little bloated." —Mike Hooke

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 22 colors). 

33. Plus, this longline sports bra, which boasts a lightweight, compressive, and supportive design that can take you from an a.m. hot yoga class to brunch with the besties without a second thought about changing! This Lulu lookalike is a perfect base for the jacket above and several other everyday outfits when the weather starts warming up!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes has to say about these: "I own *several* of these workout tops from The Gym People now and absolutely love them; I have no doubt I'll be back for more. They're soft, comfortable to work out in, and look great on; plus, they come in the CUTEST shades and have built-in padding — what more could you want?"

Promising review: "Comparable to Lululemon. I love my Lulus but wanted something more affordable and this hit the mark! I’m typically a size medium, and the medium fits great! I bought two, the fuchsia and white — I love both colors and the material is very soft." —Alyssa Lynch

Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 29 colors). 

34. CeraVe's Retinol Serum because retinoid products can run pearl-clutching levels of expensive (hello, Murad we're looking at you), but you should be allowed to upgrade your skincare routine even on a budget. This version boasts the same retinol effectiveness, along with niacinamide and licorice root which work together to help reduce the appearance of acne scars and blemishes for a brighter, smoother complexion!

www.amazon.com

And of course, with any retinol-based product, you should go slow when you first start using it and pay attention to how your skin reacts to the product. You should also pair it with a sunscreen (with at least SPF 30)!

Promising reviews: "I absolutely love this stuff! I saw a dermatologist on TikTok who raved about this product and tried it out, and it's been the most amazing stuff! It's helped my face to clear up very quickly removing all of the blemish spots and dark spots around my face. It's been one of the best products I've added to my face routine. This would be great for all ages/stages and for any weather types." —Successful Solo

"I bought this for my teenager to use for his acne scars, but he ended up not using it. I ran out of my Murad retinol serum, so I gave this a try. I actually like it better than the Murad! It absorbs quickly, with zero smell or irritation. As with any retinol product, be sure to wear sunscreen when you're going to be outside." —C. Munsterman

Get it from Amazon for $18.68.

35. L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion, which is similar to Glossier Futuredew for delivering a shimmering, dewy glow to your complexion, but at a fraction of the price. This lightweight tinted moisturizer goes on effortlessly and is even formulated with a blend of glycerin and shea butter to keep your skin hydrated underneath!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Similar to the Drunk Elephant bronzing drops but half the cost!!! Definitely has more shimmer/glow to it." —Taylor Luckhardt

"This is EXACTLY what I was looking for. I apply after moisturizer and makeup, highlighting under my eyes and brow bones. Not too sparkly, just makes me look like I’ve had enough coffee. Seems to last through hot and sweaty Florida days, so that’s a plus. I’ve tried other luminizers, and for me they are usually too sparkly or weirdly colored. I tried an $$ Glossier one that remained strangely sticky the whole time it was on my skin." —DLW

Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (available in five shades).

36. A six-piece (!!) set of BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks that deliver an expensive-looking, velvety bold finish thanks to a quick-drying, waterproof formula. And yes, the price is right because in this set of six, each lipstick comes out to $1.49! Reviewers say they compare to the matte lippies by Kylie Cosmetics, which cost $23 a pop!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "What can I say, I saw a TikTok about this lipstick and for $10 had to try it!The reviews are right, for some reason this lipstick is better than even $20 name-brand ones bought from Ulta. Not only does it smell great, but dries in under a minute and survived eating a cupcake, a Starbucks drink, and an entire evening out, no smudging and had to be removed with a makeup wipe. Fantastic product!!" —Claire

"Beautiful and soooo worth the money! Usually I always purchase either Stila Cosmetics or Kylie Jenner but both of those are very pricey and expensive, so I looked up matte lip glosses on Amazon and saw this and thought I would give it a try. I absolutely love it. Very easy to put on does not smudge, beautiful colors, very very happy about the size of it! I went and purchased set B now because I love this product!" —Vickyy

Get a six-piece set from Amazon for $8.99 (available in two styles and also packs of three). 

37. Or the long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint, which is celebrated for its ultra-pigmented formula that delivers a matte finish without being too heavy, dry, or sticky on your lips. This under-$10 lip tint is similar to more expensive matte lipsticks like YSL Velvet Cream and Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution, according to reviewers!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

And here's a brief review from BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes: "This is another one of those cheap holy grail products I'll keep buying for as long as they make it. It goes on so velvety soft and genuinely lasts all day — though I do like to reapply as needed for maximum intensity, the color holds up well against eating and drinking."

Promising reviews: "This is velvet, full coverage without feeling like glue on your lips. It does transfer. The color is very pigmented so what you see is what you get. Honestly one of the best lip color products I've ever used, I put this above Charlotte Tilbury." —Lexi Lee

Get it from Amazon for $6.90+ (available in 34 shades). 

38. Some extra-strength cleaning tablets that immediately get to work during each 15-minute soak removing food particles, plaque build-up, and other grossness trapped in your mouthguard, Invisalign trays, or other dental accessories. Psst — you could even use these to thoroughly clean your favorite stainless steel and ceramic tumblers and water bottles, instead of the more expensive Bottle Bright tablets! 👀 

www.amazon.com

Some reviewers use these for cleaning vases too!

Promising reviews: "These tablets work great. I usually use them for aligners daily and even to clean metal water bottles! They’re effective, and I’d repurchase." —Ange P

"I was very pleasantly surprised at how well these work! This stuff brightens [my retainer/night guard] in one use and I feel like they are clean. You can also use it for other things like your sports shaker bottles too." —Amaris Mathews

Get a pack of 120 from Amazon for $18.81 (also available in other packs).

39. An ultra-light milky toning lotion, an award-winning K-beauty staple designed to gently exfoliate your skin and help combat dryness and irritation. With daily use, you'll begin to notice a more hydrated, glowing complexion and reviewers say it's a slightly cheaper swap for the Cream Skin Toner by Laneige!

Good Light

Yes, it's extremely hydrating, but if you have dry skin you'll want to make sure to follow up this product with a moisturizer or serum!

Good Light is a small business based in NYC specializing in vegan, cruelty-free beauty products.

Promising review: “This toner is EVERYTHING! If you’ve ever tried Laneige Cream Skin Toner, this is similar, but way better. Laneige’s toner leaves a film while Good Light’s Moon Glow does not. It does exactly what it’s supposed to do: it dampens the skin and prepares it for moisture. Just like all of Good Light’s products, a little goes a long way, and it absorbs nicely. 100% great toner!” —Jane P

Get it from Good Light for $28.

40. A top-rated pair of hoop earrings that'll add some subtle glam to your everyday outfits, while looking strikingly similar to the $325 Jennifer Fisher hoops. 👀  Fortunately, these under-$20 beauties are from the TikTok-famous jewelry brand Pavoi, known for their high-quality accessories that boast designer-looking styles at budget-friendly prices!

www.amazon.com

The lookalikes are also available in a higher-quality gold vermeil; read about what that means here.

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes has to say about these: "Jewelry is not one of those things I like to splurge on, so when I found this budget-friendly pair, I decided to ~treat myself~. And wow, they look amazing in person! I'm sort of obsessed with this brand in general now (I wore one of their tennis bracelets to a wedding recently and got so many compliments!) and may finally be able to build up a collection of jewelry staples without going broke." 

Promising reviews: "This product is AMAZING! If you are looking for a good [swap] for the Jennifer Fisher earrings, these are it! They are super lightweight, effortless, and so cute!" —Anna Weir

"I've been wearing these earrings nonstop since receiving them. They're incredibly lightweight and I always forget I'm wearing them. I prefer these over my nicer Madewell hoops." —KFam

Get it from Amazon for $13.95+ (available in four sizes, four colors, and two metal types).

The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.

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