Hot Electronics
Back to school is prime time for buying new electronics.
The season brings a host of cost savings on things like tablets, smartphones, laptops and other high-tech wizardry. Here are some hot gadgets to look for during this back-to-school season.
MONITORS
Fancy new computers mean new monitors, and today’s monitors are a far cry from the tiny glass boxes of years past. Most monitors these days are flat screened, and have more in common with the television on your wall. They even come in 4K and curved versions to satisfy the most tech-savvy students.
WIRELESS HEADPHONES
Wires are so last decade. And now, with virtual learning and online meetings not going anywhere anytime soon, a quality pair of headphones is a must.
True wireless earbuds fit in your ear and usually come with a charging case. They’re so portable that they can be easily lost otherwise. Often, users control the earbuds by tapping on the bud itself. Make sure you choose a pair that works with all your devices, is easy to control, and has the battery life to do everything you need it to during the day.
For younger users, true wireless headphones may be too easy to lose. Opt for an overthe-ear pair of wired headphones until your student is old enough to keep track of headphones themselves.
ROUTERS AND WIFI
It seems like students can’t live without Wifi, but picking the right hardware to make a difference can be tricky. The most stable connection, of course, is Ethernet, but ew, wires. Look for a model with 802.11ac, the current mainstream connection choice according to PCMAG, and for a Wifi-6-capable router if you can find it. If you’re covering a larger home, look for a mesh Wifi system or invest in extenders that can get your signal to more places.
PRINTERS
Distance learning brought printers back from the brink as students had to churn out worksheets, essays and more.
Look for all-in-one models that can also scan. If your students are older and printing long reports, consider a laser or bulk-ink inkjet. The regular inkjets may be cheaper off the shelf, but you could spend a fortune on ink. Pay attention to cost-per-page printing figures.