Top-10 must-have gadgets

cnet.com - 8/20/2011
cnet

CNET has top products lists for each of the categories we cover--they're listed on the left--but this list brings the cream of the crop together in one place. For November, new additions include the iPhone 4S, the Droid Razr, and the Roku 2 XS streaming video box. Rather than trying to compare gadgets across multiple categories, we present them in alphabetical order, because when you get right down to it, we think they're all must-haves.




Apple iPad 2 (16GB, Wi-Fi)



The iPad 2 refines an already excellent product. Its easy-to-use interface, vast app catalog, and marathon battery life bolster Apple's claim to being the king of tablets.




Apple iPhone 4S


The iPhone 4S isn't the king of cell phones, but it's part of the royal family nonetheless. Even without 4G and a giant screen, this phone's smart(ass) voice assistant, Siri, the benefits of iOS 5, and its spectacular camera make it a top choice for anyone ready to upgrade.

Apple MacBook Air (11-inch, Summer 2011)

This year's 11-inch MacBook Air improves on last year's model in several significant ways and is by far the fastest ultraportable you're likely to find, though some users will consider the limited flash storage space to be a hindrance.

Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch Reader (Wi-Fi)

The new touch-screen Nook is a major advancement over its predecessor and offers some real advantages over the 2010 Kindle.

HTC Sensation 4G (T-Mobile)

Its excellent design and user experience, coupled with its solid performance, make the HTC Sensation 4G one of the best Android phones yet and a top pick for T-Mobile customers.


Kodak Playsport





The Kodak Playsport is an excellent minicamcorder that can take some rough treatment and capture solid HD video.



Logitech Harmony 650



The Logitech Harmony 650 is one of the best universal remotes you can buy for less than $100.



Motorola Droid Razr (Verizon Wirless)



With its razor-thin design, jam-packed features, and blazing speed, the Motorola Droid Razr is easily one of the year's top Android smartphones.

Roku 2 XS


Thanks to a varied range of content offerings--including Netflix, Amazon, Hulu Plus, Crackle, and Pandora--that beats the Apple TV, the Roku 2 XS is the best all-around streaming-media box you can get for less than $100.

Sonos Play:3 (black)


While it doesn't sound quite as good as the larger Play:5, the Sonos Play:3 delivers a superior streaming-audio experience that you can control from any iOS device or Android smartphone.

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