According to Tom’s Guide equipment tests published in 2026, classic “As Seen On TV” gadgets from the past two decades show mixed long-term value, with products like the SodaStream earning top marks while others like the Slap Chop fall short of modern alternatives. Evaluating these infomercial items reveals how retro infomercial tech performs against contemporary consumer standards.
George Foreman Grill Performance and Value in 2026
According to Tom’s Guide testing, the George Foreman grill retails for $39 in the U.S. or £49 in the U.K. as of 2026, representing a lower nominal price than its late-1990s cost of roughly $49, which equals approximately $104 when adjusted for inflation. Marketed historically as the “Lean, Mean, Fat-Reducin’ Grillin’ Machine,” the appliance has reportedly sold over 100 million units globally since its 1990s debut.
In 2026 hands-on testing, reviewers noted that the modern iteration feels cheap and flimsy compared to older models. When cooking a strip or sirloin steak for two minutes to achieve medium-rare results, testers found the appliance failed to reach high enough external temperatures to properly sear the meat while overcooking the inside. Furthermore, because the lid flattens the cut and runoff channels waste flavorful caramelized juices, reviewers gave the appliance a score of 2 out of 5.
Pocket Hose Durability and Usability Evaluation
Launched in the early 2010s with fabric wrapping and a soft inner core, the Pocket Hose expands under water pressure and retracts for compact storage without requiring a traditional hose reel. Testing revealed that the retro early-2010s version successfully maintained internal pressure—shooting water nearly twice the distance of a standard rubber hose—while making transportation around gates and lawns significantly easier.
However, reviewers noted a primary drawback in older iterations: plastic connectors prone to leaking at the faucet junction. To secure better protection against leaks, testers recommended upgrading to modern copper-connector models. The Pocket Hose received a score of 4 out of 5 for practical convenience.
Slap Chop Chopping Efficiency Versus Modern Kitchen Tools
The Slap Chop, popularized in 2008 infomercials hosted by Vince Offer, relies on a spring-loaded plunger mechanism to dice food items when slapped from above. According to 2026 evaluations, the device struggles with moist foods like onions, which frequently get stuck at the base due to insufficient spring tension.
Testers observed that the tool cuts unevenly, sprays food particles when opened, and requires precise food sizing—such as half an onion or a fifth of a potato—to operate correctly. Retailing at $25 or £20, reviewers concluded that consumers can purchase electric dicers for comparable prices that handle larger food volumes with greater speed, resulting in a 2 out of 5 score.
JML Scrub Buddi Limescale Removal in Hard Water Regions
The JML Scrub Buddi is a motorized, USB-C rechargeable scrubbing brush designed for household cleaning tasks. Tested in the U.K. city of Bath—known for extreme local water hardness stemming from regional limestone geology—the Scrub Buddi demonstrated high effectiveness in removing limescale from metal faucets and chrome surfaces without requiring heavy chemical cleaners.
Reviewers noted that while the water-resistant device performs less effectively on glass surfaces, it provides adequate motor-driven abrasion to minimize physical effort during chores. Purchased for £11 in the U.K. (with equivalent Amazon models retailing near $25 in the U.S.), the Scrub Buddi earned a score of 4.5 out of 5.
SodaStream Carbonation Costs and Operational Efficiency
Originally launched in the 1950s, SodaStream units utilize replaceable gas canisters to carbonate water at home. Testing confirmed that the analog carbonation system requires no electrical power, allowing placement on crowded countertops or side stands.
A basic SodaStream unit costs $52 or £59, which includes a single gas canister capable of carbonating 60 liters of liquid. Replacement 60-liter canisters cost approximately $34 or £20, bringing the cost of a 500ml glass of homemade sparkling water to roughly 28 cents or 16 pence. Given its utility for sparkling water enthusiasts, the SodaStream earned a top score of 5 out of 5.
Did You Know?
Pro Tip
When purchasing retro-style expanding garden hoses like the Pocket Hose, opt for models featuring copper connectors rather than plastic fittings to significantly reduce faucet-connection leaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are George Foreman grills still manufactured?
Yes, George Foreman grills remain available to purchase new, retailing around $39 in the U.S. and £49 in the U.K. as of 2026.
How much does it cost to make sparkling water with a SodaStream?
Replacement 60-liter gas canisters cost about $34 or £20, resulting in an estimated cost of 28 cents or 16 pence per 500ml glass.
Does the Slap Chop work well on onions and moist vegetables?
According to product testing, moist foods tend to get stuck at the base of the Slap Chop because the internal spring lacks sufficient tension for smooth operation.
Join the Discussion
Do you still use any classic infomercial gadgets in your home, or have you spotted other retro products worth testing? Leave a comment below or explore more reviews on Tom’s Guide.
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