It’s 2024, and just when I thought the fidget spinner craze died out years ago, my nephew bragged about his collection of fidget toys. Why would a straight-A student love fidget toys?
I knew fidget toys were all the rage in 2017. But I didn’t join the bandwagon, thinking they were toys for boys. I later learned that my workaholic brother still enjoys the fidget spinner and always carries one at the office. That got me curious!
So, I did some digging. It turns out the humble fidget spinner has maintained its chokehold among many despite the infinite entertainment options available today. Fidget toys for adults remain popular, especially with newer models with innovative features.
Today, I’m sharing a few fun facts about this little gizmo, and I’ve got the inside scoop on how to snag the best fidget spinner to date. I’ve recently discovered the best 3-in-1 fidget spinner and I’m itching to share it with you!
How Does a Fidget Spinner Work?
Typically, a fidget spinner consists of three propellers and weighted points, with a circle in the center with ball bearings to allow the toy to spin smoothly. You can either place the fidget toy on a flat surface or hold it in your hand and flick one of the points to make it spin.
There are many YouTube videos showcasing cool fidget spinner tricks that you can try. Fidget spinners have become popular toys for people of all ages, partly due to the influence of social media stars who showcase their unboxings, collections, and tutorials.
Who Invented the Fidget Spinner?
The New York Post, The Guardian, and The New York Times have credited Catherine Hettinger as the brains behind the original design of the fidget spinner. She did patent a “spinning toy” in 1993 — more than two decades before fidget spinners became one of the most in-demand toys for adults in 2017.
According to Hettinger, seeing Palestinian youngsters hurling stones at Israeli policemen prompted her to create toys for boys as a way to divert their attention from violence and promote peace. Despite her efforts, her “spinning toy” failed to gain widespread popularity, and the patent lapsed in 2005 due to her inability to pay the maintenance fees.
Although several reputable publications credit Hettinger with inventing the fidget spinner, a casual observer can see that her patent drawings and descriptions bear no resemblance to the fidget toys that we know today. Hettinger’s patent depicts a plastic disc that resembles a tiny Frisbee, except for a dent in the middle into which you insert your index finger to begin spinning it with your other hand.
Many argue that the real inventor of the fidget spinner is American entrepreneur Scott McCoskery. Around 2014, he invented the Torqbar, a fidget slider aimed at addressing his tendency to fidget during meetings and conference calls.
However, McCoskery’s target market isn’t the average Joe. Due to the materials used, which include titanium and zirconium, his fidget toys start at $139 and could rack up to $800 for custom pieces. That’s why Forbes magazine dubbed the Torqbar “the iPhone of desk toys.”
Regardless of who invented the toy, the fidget spinner became a worldwide phenomenon, and many options are available to suit everyone’s budget and preferences.
Factors to Consider When Buying Fidget Spinners
If fidget spinners were created equal, McCoskery wouldn’t have to put a high price on his fidget toys. If you are looking for a fidget spinner that offers a seamless, enjoyable experience and lasts a while, here are some factors to look for.
Quality of the Materials Influences the Overall Experience
The quality of the materials used is the main differentiator among different brands of fidget spinners. Manufacturers often construct the body or frame of these spinners using plastic, metal, or a combination of both.
Lower-quality spinners are typically lightweight, as they are made of plastic. Some models, however, incorporate weights or additional parts made of aluminum, brass, copper, or other metals to provide extra weight and stability.
In contrast, higher-quality spinners feature stainless steel, titanium, or other metals. They are heavier, which is an advantage as heavier spinners deliver a smoother, longer-lasting spin and feel substantial on the hand.
Quality of the Bearings Affects Spin Time and Noise Level
The smoothness and duration of the spin largely depend on the bearings used. Ceramic bearings are considered the top-performing option, providing the longest spin times while producing minimal noise. On the other hand, steel bearings are commonly used, as they offer a good spin time, although not last as long as ceramic and may be slightly noisier.
Design and Aesthetics
Fidget spinners come in a wide variety of designs — some resemble a ninja star, Batman’s logo, or a UFO. The look and feel of the spinner may be an important consideration for some buyers, beyond just the functional aspects. But if you are looking to gift fidget toys to a child, you should avoid models having sharp edges.
Price
Fidget spinners range widely in price, which often correlates with the craftsmanship and quality of the materials used. While fidget toys can cost as little as $1, it is best to avoid basic plastic models under $10. High-quality metal spinners with excellent bearings are around $20.
Best Fidget Spinner in 2024: More Bang for Your Buck
As discussed earlier, the quality of the materials used for the body and bearings, design, weight, and price are among the most important factors to consider. That’s why I cannot help but gush over the Minkss Premium 3-in-1 Fidget Spinner because it ticks all of the boxes!
If you are looking for a fidgeting toy that excels in both form and function, then let me introduce Minkss Premium Metal Fidget Slider — the top-of-the-line, 3-in-1 fidget spinner.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this fidget spinner boasts a stainless steel construction, making sure it holds up well for a long time.
Don’t fret if it slips out of your hand and falls against the hard floor. It’s practically indestructible and a cinch to reassemble.
Also, worry not about sweaty palms or Dorito-dusted fingers; its matte black finish is built to withstand the elements, ensuring a smooth and reliable performance.
But the true allure of this fidget spinner lies in its multifunctional design. Performance-wise, it gives a satisfying click, slides smoothly with magnetic feedback, and spins beautifully like a Beyblade. The best part? It’s discreet, so you can fidget to your heart’s content without drawing attention to yourself.
Compact and lightweight, this EDC (Everyday Carry) toy is the perfect companion for those on the go. To top it off, it is conveniently packaged in a sleek tin can, which makes for a thoughtful and visually appealing gift that will impress even the most discerning of recipients.