gadget of the year

From smartphones and gaming consoles to smart home gear, here are the gadgets that got us hot under the collar this year

Samsung Galaxy S8

Although it didn’t quite take the honours in this category, the S8 claimed the top spot in 2017’s Phone of the Year. Its Infinity Edge Display, which made the shortlist for Innovation of the Year, proves that smartphones still have new design frontiers to explore, and it didn’t forget to be a fantastic phone as well.

LG G6

LG has learned from its past mistakes with last year’s LG G5 – instead of quirky upgrades, its G6 focuses on the phone essentials. The result? A mature device with a classy all-metal body and classleading stretched display. It’s proof that you’re only down, never out, in the phone world if you’ve got great execution.

Google Pixel

Considering Google owns the Android brand, it comes as no surprise that its first smartphone is an all-round stonker. It captures breathtaking photos, has a splendid AMOLED display (in the larger 5.5-inch Pixel XL) and Daydream compatibility allows you to hook it up to Google’s own headset for your VR kicks.

Apple MacBook Pro

The Apple logo no longer lights up, but the Macbook Pro’s new Touch Bar more than makes up for it. By adapting to the app you’re using, it adds a unique way of interacting with your laptop. The Pro is also super powerful, yet surprisingly sleek considering what’s going on inside, making it the most beautiful way to work.

Google Home

Coming after the Echo made Google’s Home AI home assistant look a little like an also-ran, but it’s a true contender on its own merits, and Amazon should definitely be looking over its should – Home looks sexier, answers wider questions, and is cheaper. This is a fine alternative to the smart home king.

Apple iPhone 7

Apple made a bold decision to remove the headphone jack on its latest handset, but it didn’t matter a jot. The iPhone 7 was still a tremendous success. It’s blisteringly fast, looks better than ever, has a phenomenal dual-camera set-up on the Plus, features a brilliant wide-colour display, and adds waterproofing, too.

Sony PSVR

Sony brought affordable top-tier virtual reality to the masses with its Daft-Punkesque PSVR headset, with the huge thing being that it works with a console you probably already own. It’s easy to use, really comfortable, and the VR experience is exceptional, with incredible motiontracking tech, and loads of games.

Sony PlayStation 4 Pro

The PS4 Pro built on the huge success of the original by adding eye-popping 4K HDR graphics for the modern visual connoisseur. Provided you pair it with a quality 4K panel, you’ll be in heaven, and – hardcore PC gamers take note – you’d have to spend thousands more to get the same experience, so it’s a bargain too.