The Most Useful Item, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the item you think is the most useful!

Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:58

Decisions often require us to prioritize based on usefulness, yet individual experiences vary significantly, influencing what we find most beneficial. By pooling insights on which items are the most useful, we can create a collective guide that helps everyone make better choices. This process not only reflects a wide range of personal preferences but also adapts to the current trends and necessities as perceived by a diverse group of users. Here, you hold the power to shape the list through your votes. Each vote cast contributes to a dynamic, real-time ranking that highlights what the community finds most valuable at any given time. This interactive environment not only fosters a sense of community but also gives you the opportunity to impact what others see as most helpful. Your participation ensures that the list remains relevant and useful to all users.

What Is the Most Useful Item?

1

69
votes
Smartphone

A versatile device that allows us to communicate, access the internet, take photos, and stay organized.
A smartphone is a mobile device that combines the functionality of a cellular phone with features usually found in a computer. It allows users to make calls, send messages, browse the internet, take photos, and run various applications.

Operating System: iOS, Android, or other proprietary OS

Processor: Various, including Qualcomm Snapdragon and Apple A-series chips

RAM: Ranges from 2GB to 16GB, depending on the model

Storage: Typically between 8GB and 512GB, expandable via microSD in some models

Display: Various sizes and resolutions, OLED or LCD technology
2

35
votes
Computer

Enables us to work, learn, and connect with others.
A computer is an electronic device that can perform various tasks by executing a set of instructions, also known as programs. It processes input data, performs calculations, and produces output according to the specified instructions. The computer has revolutionized countless industries and has become an essential part of modern life.

Processing Power: Computers can perform billions of calculations per second.

Storage Capacity: Computers can store vast amounts of data, ranging from kilobytes to terabytes or beyond.

Operating System: Computers are powered by different operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Connectivity: Computers can be connected to networks, enabling communication and data sharing.

Multitasking: Computers can handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
3

18
votes
Internet

Provides access to an infinite amount of information and resources.
The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers that allows for the transmission and exchange of data and information. It provides a vast array of services and resources, including websites, email, file sharing, online communication, and access to databases and libraries.

TCP/IP: Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) provides the essential communication protocols for data transmission across the Internet.

World Wide Web: The World Wide Web (WWW) is a system of interconnected hypertext documents and resources accessible via the Internet.

DNS: Domain Name System (DNS) translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing easy access to resources on the Internet.

HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the foundation of data communication in the World Wide Web.

Email: Email, or electronic mail, enables the exchange of messages and files between users connected to the Internet.
4

9
votes
Refrigerator

Keeps food fresh and prevents spoilage.
A refrigerator is a common household appliance used to cool and preserve food and beverages. It typically consists of a thermally insulated compartment and a heat pump for removing heat from the interior to the external environment, thus keeping the contents at a lower temperature than the room temperature.

Capacity: Ranges from 50 to over 800 liters

Energy Efficiency: Varies depending on model and technology used

Temperature Control: Adjustable thermostat with cooling and freezing modes

Defrosting System: Manual or automatic defrost options

Storage Features: Shelves, drawers, door compartments, and sometimes specialized sections for specific items
5

12
votes
Medical technology

Includes various tools and equipment that help diagnose and treat illnesses.
Medical technology refers to the applications of scientific and engineering principles in the field of healthcare, aimed at improving the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and medical conditions.

Diagnostic imaging: Enables visualization of internal body structures using techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans.

Medical implants: Includes devices like pacemakers, artificial joints, and prosthetic limbs that enhance or replace bodily functions.

Robot-assisted surgery: Utilizes robotic systems to assist surgeons in performing complex procedures with precision.

Telemedicine: Enables remote healthcare delivery and patient monitoring through the use of telecommunications technology.

Electronic health records (EHR): Digitized patient records that facilitate easy access, storage, and sharing of medical information among healthcare professionals.
6

3
votes
Water filtration system

John Smith

Provides clean drinking water and reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.
The water filtration system is a device that purifies water by removing impurities and contaminants, providing safe and clean drinking water. It is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, making it an essential item for households, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Filtration method: Activated carbon and reverse osmosis

Water flow rate: Up to 2 liters per minute

Filter lifespan: Approximately 6 months

Filter replacement indicator: LED light or digital display

Capacity: 5 gallons (18.9 liters)
7

11
votes
NASA · Public domain

Solar panels

Generate renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Solar panels refer to a type of roofing material that utilizes photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity. These panels are designed to be installed on the roof of a building, capturing solar energy and generating power for various applications. They have gained popularity as an eco-friendly and renewable energy solution for homes and commercial buildings.

Efficiency: Typically ranges from 15% to 20%.

Power output: Varies depending on the size and number of panels.

Durability: Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including hail and strong winds.

Installation: Can be integrated into new or existing roofs of various types.

Maintenance: Relatively low maintenance with occasional cleaning and inspection.
Solar panels in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular roofing material
8

14
votes
Vehicles

Allow us to travel long distances quickly and efficiently.
Vehicles are complex machines designed for transportation purposes. They come in various forms, from cars and motorcycles to trucks, airplanes, and ships. Drawing vehicles can be particularly challenging due to their intricate designs and details.

Size: Vehicles can vary greatly in size, ranging from small compact cars to massive cargo ships and airplanes.

Shape: Vehicles have diverse shapes, including curved bodies, angular edges, and aerodynamic profiles, depending on their type and purpose.

Components: Vehicles consist of numerous components, such as engines, wheels, wings, propellers, and navigation systems, each requiring precise representation.

Details: Drawing vehicles involves capturing intricate details, from headlights and windows to exhaust pipes and landing gears, which require attention to accuracy and proportions.

Perspectives: Vehicles can be depicted from various perspectives, including front, side, back, and three-quarter views, each presenting its own set of challenges.
9

6
votes
Microwave

Provides a quick and easy way to heat up food.
A microwave is a kitchen appliance that uses electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range to heat and cook food quickly. It is a common household item found in most modern kitchens. The microwave is designed to efficiently heat food by using microwave energy to agitate water molecules within the food, producing heat.

Power Output: 500W - 1200W

Capacity: 0.5 - 2.2 cubic feet

Control Type: Digital or Mechanical

Cooking Modes: Microwave, Grill, Convection

Turntable: Rotating or stationary
10

5
votes
DogeGamer2015MZT2 · CC0

Air conditioner

Willis Carrier

Maintains a comfortable indoor temperature and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.
The air conditioner is a device used to cool or dehumidify the air in a confined space, providing a comfortable and controlled environment. It works by extracting heat and moisture from the air and expelling it outside, creating a cooler indoor atmosphere. Air conditioners are commonly used in homes, offices, and various other buildings to regulate temperature and improve air quality.

Cooling capacity: Measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), indicates the amount of heat the air conditioner can remove in an hour

Energy efficiency: Indicated by the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), measures the cooling output per unit of energy consumed

Refrigerant type: The cooling agent used, such as R-410A or R-22

Airflow rate: Measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), determines the volume of air circulated by the unit

Noise level: Expressed in decibels (dB), indicates the sound produced by the air conditioner during operation

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Ranking factors for useful item

Functionality

The item should be able to perform its intended purpose effectively.
Ease of use

The item should be user-friendly and easy to operate.
Durability

The item should be long-lasting and have a good lifespan.
Versatility

The item should have multiple uses or functions.
Cost

The item should offer good value for money.
Availability

The item should be easily accessible and readily available.
Safety

The item should be safe to use and not pose any risks or hazards.
Convenience

The item should be convenient to transport or store.
Environmental impact

The item should have minimal negative impact on the environment.
Customer feedback

The item should have positive reviews and high customer satisfaction ratings.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most useful item. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or item is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1847 views
180 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each item once every 24 hours. The rank of each item is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most useful item

When it comes to determining the most useful item, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. After all, usefulness can be subjective and dependent on individual circumstances. However, certain items tend to stand out as universally helpful. These include basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter, as well as tools and technology that make daily tasks easier and more efficient. From smartphones to multi-purpose tools, the most useful item is likely to vary depending on the situation and the individual using it. At StrawPoll, we aim to gather insights and opinions from a diverse range of people to understand just what the most useful item truly is.