Temu has become one of South Africa’s most downloaded shopping apps since launching locally, with bargain hunters scrolling everything from kitchen gadgets to random impulse buys at 2am. But beyond the cheap phone covers and home décor, the platform is also packed with products that make you stop and ask: “Who actually thought of this?”
Here are five weird products currently available on Temu that people are genuinely buying.
1. Tesla coil “lightning” music speaker
This miniature Tesla coil creates tiny visible electrical arcs while playing music, essentially turning your desk into a mini science experiment. Some versions even sync the sparks to the sound.
It looks cool. It also looks like something your parents would immediately tell you not to touch.
Buy it here: Tesla coil speaker on Temu
Tesla coils are real high-voltage devices originally invented by Nikola Tesla in the 1890s.
2. Wireless Kindle page turner
Too lazy to touch your Kindle? Temu sells tiny Bluetooth remotes that clip onto your e-reader and turn the page for you.
These devices exploded on TikTok because people use them while wrapped in blankets during winter, without needing to move their arms.
Buy it here: Wireless Kindle page turner on Temu
The gadget trend has become so popular that major e-reader brands are now launching their own versions.
3. Anti-snore chin straps
Yes, this is exactly what it sounds like.
These stretchy straps wrap around your head and jaw while you sleep, claiming to keep your mouth closed and reduce snoring. Temu sells dozens of versions for just a few rand.
Buy it here: Anti-snore chin strap on Temu
Medical experts say some anti-snoring devices can help in certain cases, but persistent snoring may require proper medical evaluation, especially if sleep apnea is involved.
4. Mini hand-crank washing machine
This tiny portable washing machine is aimed at campers, students and people living in small spaces. There is no electricity involved. You literally crank it by hand.
It looks halfway between a salad spinner and survival gear.
Buy it here: Mini hand-crank washing machine on Temu
5. Finger chopstick snack rings
Temu sells wearable mini chopsticks that clip onto your fingers so you can eat chips while gaming without getting your keyboard greasy.
Yes, somebody invented tiny finger chopsticks specifically for gamers.
Buy it here: Finger chopsticks on Temu
The weirdness is part of the appeal
That mix of useful bargains and completely unhinged products is exactly why people keep scrolling Temu for hours. One minute you are looking for socks, the next you are considering buying a glowing duck banana lamp and a lightning speaker.
Tell us in the comments: what is the weirdest thing you have ever seen on Temu?
