While technology and software companies have been the golden child when it comes to startup activity, companies from other niches are also starting to build a name for themselves. Today, we would like to focus on some of the biggest players in the hardware department. Following, we want to present you with a list we have compiled of the top 5 hardware startups. Read below to find out more about the 5 hardware companies that are really making waves nowadays. Let’s take a look at the countdown.
No. 5: Square
Founded back in 2009, Square set out to revolutionize the way we view commerce. Thanks to this hardware startup, you no longer have to worry that you’re not carrying enough cash or if a certain store doesn’t accept credit cards. Their first ever product, the Square Reader is basically a small device that can be connected to the audio jack of a smartphone or tablet, allowing for credit or debit card payments. Since then, they have continuously expanded their product base and they have also made their service available in Canada as well.
No. 4: Sonos
For all music lovers out there, Sonos is a dream come true. This hardware company manufactures wireless-controlled multi-room music systems, which let you play your favorite songs all throughout the house with the click of a button. Sonos has partnered up with other big names in the audio industry, such as Last.fm, Pandora Media Inc (NYSE:P), Audible.com, Rhapsody, or RadioTime. What is more, this hardware startup has also raised $25 million during its venture round funding back in November 2013.
No. 3: SmartThings
SmartThings, a hardware startup focused on manufacturing home and life improvement sensors, opened its online store back in August of 2013. The company, founded by Alex Hawkinson, strives to simplify the way we interact with the objects around us, by building sensors that can do anything from locking our homes and turning off the lights to detecting motion and alerting us if someone’s trying to break in. While still in its early days, SmartThings has already raised $12.5 million in its Series A funding in November of 2013.
No. 2: 3D Robotics
Launched just a little over 2 years ago, 3D Robotics has already made a name for itself in the unmanned aerial vehicle industry. The company manufacturers and designs a wide range of aerial vehicles, from drones and multicopters to airplanes. After a decent Series A funding back in 2012, when 3D Robotics received $5 million, this hardware startup had a really good year in 2013, ending it with a Series B funding worth $30 million.
No. 1: Oculus VR
After the release of their first product, the Oculus Rift – a virtual reality headset meant to revolutionize how users experience video games – the company raised $75 million in its Series B funding in December of 2013. Considering that Oculus VR managed to raise the money for its product from a Kickstarter campaign, this feat is impressive to say the least. With so much success early on, we’re on the edge of our seats to see what this hot hardware startup has in store for us next. Moreover, recently Oculus has been acquired by Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB), in a deal worth around $2.0 billion.
