Awesome Gadgets

Analogue spent four years recreating the Nintendo 64’s hardware using FPGA circuits for the Analogue 3D. There’s no software emulation – it’s compatible with all N64 cartridges. It also comes with alternate display modes that the company claims are “virtually indistinguishable” from CRT displays. The matching 8Bitdo controller is sold separately.

The Dygma Defy is a split keyboard with an ortho-linear layout, programmable mechanical keys, and built-in stands to help you set up the most ergonomic typing position. The low profile keys in the middle let your pinkies rest and give more power to your thumb. It comes in wired and wireless variants and can also connect to devices via Bluetooth.

The Motorola ThinkPhone 25 has an impact- and temperature-resistant Aramid case and is rated IP68 for water- and dust-resistance. It also has robust software security features such as a built-in malware detector. It’s positioned mainly for enterprise deployment, but we hope more phones become tough enough to be used without a case or skin.

Time to hit up your favorite Japanese import site. Exclusive to Casio Japan, the unceremoniously named DQD-851J-8JF is a bedside alarm clock that looks like the company’s famous A158WA digital watch from the late ’80s. It has a radio function to keep its time in sync (though the clock can work without the feature). It also has a thermometer and hygrometer.

The SolidPixels Tetra is a desktop gadget that can display colorful animated images and data on a 64×32 RGB LED grid. It connects via wi-fi to update real-time information like stocks, news, sports scores, weather, and more. It works with a companion mobile app to select and configure its apps. Launches 10.15.24 on Kickstarter with three sizes available.

A worthy and budget-priced challenger to the Elgato Stream Deck. The DisplayPad gives you access to hundreds of commands, macros, status indicators, and more through its 12 tactile keys. Each key has a 104×104 display that can show various image formats, including GIFs. You can set it on its included base or attach it to the company’s Everest keyboard.

This gadget from the makers of the NeoRuler Go is a laser level that grabs onto vertical surfaces using vacuum suction. It even holds on bumpy surfaces, and its bright laser beams make it easy to hang pictures, install cabinets, and do other things that need precise alignment. The combo kit includes a measuring unit that piggybacks onto the level.

Josh King’s M-Con is a Bluetooth gamepad for smartphones that works with the iPhone’s MagSafe connector (and compatible cases). Once attached, it slides in and out the back of the phone like the controls on the PSP Go. Josh is planning on raising funds for the gamepad on Kickstarter in 2025. Retro Game Corps got their hands on a working prototype.

The GPD Duo takes Lenovo’s stacked screen laptop idea and makes it even more versatile. The 13.3″ displays are AMOLED with a 2880 x 1880 resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The second screen has a dedicated USB-C input, allowing it to be used as an external monitor. The Phawx got his hands on one early for a showcase.

The newest member of Leica’s Q series has the same 60MP full-frame CMOS sensor as its predecessor, paired with a new APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 lens. Its focal length is about the same as that of the human eye, making it perfect for portraits and street photography. Meanwhile, the lens’ apochromatic design also means incredibly accurate colors.

Insta360’s new 4K webcam has a 1/2″ optical sensor, allowing it to deliver crystal clear images, natural bokeh, and lightning fast autofocus. It also has a dedicated mic for noise cancellation and can track people, whiteboards, and even documents. If you don’t need the gimbal, grab the more affordable Link 2C instead.

The GB Operator is a tiny USB-C device that lets you play and manage Game Boy cartridges. It works with Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games. You can play your games on any computer platform using mGBA or any compatible emulator, and back up and restore saves. It even has a detector for counterfeit cartridges.

FiiO’s BT11 is a high-fidelity audio Bluetooth transmitter for devices with a USB-C port, including smartphones, laptops, and handheld gaming PCs. It uses a pair of Qualcomm DSPs to stream up to 24-Bit 96kHz wireless audio. It supports Bluetooth 5.4 and lossless codecs such as aptX Lossless and LDAC. It will be available starting 10.8.24.

Zung Hoang’s LEGO ZH1 is a fully functioning 35mm film camera. The ZH1’s components are all standard, available LEGO pieces, including the magnifying glass lens. It captures soft, dreamy photos in daylight conditions. It achieved the 10,000-supporter milestone in LEGO Ideas, so it might become an official set. Lens expert Mathieu Stern tested a prototype.

Orbitalworks may just have made a more practical and modern upgrade to Mad Catz’s R.A.T. gaming mice. The Pathfinder comes with four different humps, 11 different side grips, as well as spacers to give you a mouse that fits your hand size and grip the best. It packs Omron optical switches, PixArt’s PAW3395 sensor, and a 4000Hz wireless receiver.

Technology has gotten to the point where you can buy a full HD camera that fits on your keychain. Filmmaker Isaac Carlton picked up one of these tiny cameras from Amazon to see if he could shoot an entire short film using it. This fun behind-the-scenes video explains how he created the film, but if you want to cut to the case, here’s the 3-minute movie.