Awesome Gadgets

The Meta Quest 3S has the same 120Hz 1832×1920 display as the Quest 2, but it has a newer processor, faster RAM, better controller tracking, and longer battery life. Connect it to the Meta Horizon app to enjoy a huge virtual screen, work in large floating windows, or stay fit and play with unique games and apps.

A welcome surprise from Bose, the new QuietComfort Earbuds dip into a more affordable price range without sacrificing quality or features. They’re comfortable, last up to 8.5 hours per charge, and have Bose’s signature clean sound and top-tier active noise cancellation. They come with three pairs of ear tips and stability bands to ensure a great fit.

Koss’ bestselling lightweight and affordable headphones finally go wireless. The Porta Pro Wireless delivers the same unbeatable sound quality for its price range while adding Bluetooth 5.2 support and built-in playback and call buttons. It lasts up to 20 hours per charge and tops up via USB-C. It also comes with a USB-C to 3.5mm cord for wired listening.

This pocket-size gadget connects to smartphones, adding a temperature-scanning ability. Its 256×192 thermal sensor provides more detail than others, refreshes faster, and can visually identify temps from -4ºF to +1022ºF. It’s available in iOS Lightning, iOS USB-C, and Android versions.

The latest version of DJI’s action camera has an upgraded 40MP 1/1.3″ sensor, which works better in dark environments, and improved subject centering and tracking. It shoots 4K video at up to 120 fps, 8K photos, and runs for up to 4 hours on a charge. The Adventure Combo adds three batteries, a charging case, an extension rod, and a mini quick-release mount.

Portable laptop displays are nothing new, but Kefeya’s Laptop Screen Extender is the only one we’ve seen with this degree of customizability. Not only can you swivel each monitor and put them in portrait orientation while attached to a laptop, but you can also stack them on top of each other thanks to a cleverly designed dock and attachment.

Finally, a high quality sub-$130 webcam. The Meet 2 is a tiny but powerful webcam that shoots at up to 4k/30fps, with 1080p/60fps also available. It attaches to its stand magnetically, not just for convenience but to easily switch between landscape and portrait modes. It also has phase detection autofocus, autoframing, and two omnidirectional microphones.

This neat desktop accessory uses an LCD screen in its base and a crystal cube with an optical prism to create a tiny, see-through display. Its 240 x 240 pixel screen can show full-color images, GIF animations, news, weather, and other information. It connects via Wi-Fi and can be configured easily from a web browser. Setup instructions here.

Digital paper is really here. The ReMarkable Paper Pro is an E-ink tablet with an 11.8″ 2160 x 1620 display. It has colored ink particles that allow it to display nine colors, which can also be blended into new ones. It has a low-glare backlight, a satisfying paper-like texture, and comes with a stylus. It also has an optional keyboard attachment.

NWM One Wireless headphones look like one of those AI-generated concept renders that plague Instagram. But it’s an actual product, albeit for specific needs. Instead of ear cups, its drivers dangle in open frames. Its noise-canceling tech does a good job of minimizing sound leakage. They’re not the best sounding, but unique and comfortable.

The smaller sibling of the original Creator Board keyboard. Work Louder’s new Creator Micro is a macro pad that more than justifies its price in both form and function. It has 12 keys, a knob, and a scroll wheel, all programmable using VIA. You can switch between up to four layers on the fly using the touch sensor. It also has full RGB underglow lighting.

Watch mechanical keyboard enthusiast Lightning build VK.Works’ The Compensator. It’s a hilarious monstrosity that takes the 40% layout and adds the arrow keys, the six specialized keys, the numpad, and eight macro keys. On both sides. See the finished build at 2:49:20 and join VK.Works’ Discord channel to learn more.

Bang & Olufsen’s new headphones are packed with premium tech and materials – 10 mics for active noise cancellation, Dolby Atmos spatial audio, lambskin leather headband, etc. But it’s also a modular platform. B&O promises to offer not just replacement parts but also upgraded versions of the headband, cushions, battery, and drivers in the future.

The latest version of Razer’s Xbox and PC controller has six remappable inputs: four back paddles and two bumpers near the shoulder buttons. Its triggers can be toggled between analog and instant actuation. It uses Hall Effect joysticks for a drift-free experience. It has a wireless dongle, while its wired mode gets you a 1000 Hz polling rate.

Why would anyone pay five more than normal for a 3-in-1 wireless charger? Perhaps if it’s the only one that makes charging a fun and futuristic ritual. Its top charger doubles as a magnetic phone dock and can swivel, giving you a great angle to view your device’s display. Its two other wireless pads pop out from either side when pressed.

A follow-up to the Xbox Adaptive Controller, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick is essentially half of a modern gamepad. Its thumbstick’s topper is meant to be easily replaceable to better fit users with limited mobility, with Xbox promising 3D printable toppers. It’s also compatible with Windows 10/11, Android, and iOS. Available early 2025.