Tag Archives: logitech.

Logitech G Fits earbuds have custom molding ear tips for passive noise isolation and peak comfort

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The sound quality and comfortable fit of any pair of earbuds depends on how well they rest inside your ear canals. Audiophiles who want the best experience often go for the custom-fit ear tips that mold to the shape of the ear canal for the best possible passive noise isolation and state-of-the-art comfort.

Logitech is entering the highly competitive true wireless earbuds market with a USP all audiophiles will be interested in. The stylish earbuds bring to the fore custom molded ear tips that promise the best-personalized fit audio lovers can wish from TWS earbuds on the market. Of course, not forget the enhanced bass, sound quality and isolation from disturbing noises in crowded spaces without relying on Active Noise Canceling feature.

Designer: Logitech

In a way the Logitech G Fits are similar to the Ultimate Ears’ (a brand that Logitech owns) UE Fits earbuds that boast the Lightform feature making the custom molded fit possible. Their feature list for gamers and power users makes the G series earbuds a better option. The pill-shaped earbuds when inserted for the first time in the ear canals will prompt the user to push a button so that the gel tips harden with flashing LEDs, taking up the ear’s canal shape in a 60-seconds setup. This totally seals the cavity without causing long-term wearing discomfort and blocks all the noises. Now, how cool is that?

Let’s not forget, these are centered on gaming and an active lifestyle, so Logitech has equipped them with Lightspeed wireless technology for the lowest possible low-latency connection. Also, there are Bluetooth capabilities for gaming and standard mode options depending on usage. The Lightspeed dongle connects via USB-A or the USB A-to-C adapter for a negligible audio delay while gaming. This ensures seamless connectivity with any device you want to connect with like the Logitech G Cloud handheld or even PlayStation 5.

Since the G Fits virtually eliminate the need for any active noise canceling, the earbuds last for 10 hours on a single charge and another 12 hours in the battery case. Though it should be noted, the Lightspeed mode will bring the figure down to 7 hours and 8 hours in the charging case respectively. Having 10mm drivers, the G Fits promise a “full, warm, detailed sound with deep, punchy bass.” The dual beamforming microphones per bud deliver vocal clarity for taking calls or in-game conversations.

Overall, I like the prospect of Logitech’s unique offering – especially, the ability to get the best custom fit as it enhances the overall listening experience. They’ll be available for a price tag of $229 in two color options – back and white – when finally available in October next month. Initially, the earbuds will be launched in North America and in other parts of the world in 2023.

 

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Logitech G Cloud handheld device puts a different spin on mobile gaming

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For gamers, being able to play anywhere at any time is a bit of a dream come true. Of course, that has always been possible with certain game systems, like the Nintendo Game Boy, the Sony PlayStation Portable, or even smartphones, but a single device that is able to do all of these is still an unreachable goal. Thanks to advancements in technology, particularly in cloud computing, that dream is slowly becoming a reality. And it’s that kind of reality that Logitech’s latest device is trying to achieve with a gaming handheld that lets you play almost any game available, at least any game that’s available on smartphones or through the cloud.

Designer: Logitech

Logitech is best known for its line of computer accessories ranging from keyboards and mice to webcams. It doesn’t make nor sell computers, and this Logitech G Cloud handheld would be one of, if not its first, computing device. It’s a device aimed at a rather niche market that straddles the line between smartphone and gaming console, and it’s a market that it might have difficulty winning unless it plays its cards right.

This isn’t the first handheld gaming device to come in this form, after all, with the Nintendo Switch and Valve’s Steam Deck leading the market in terms of popularity. It isn’t even the first dedicated Android-powered gaming handheld to make its way to the market. And as those other attempts might have proven, it’s not an easy market to conquer. Then again, they might have just been ahead of their time.

In terms of design, the Logitech G Cloud aims for comfort and convenience to set it apart from both smartphones as well as other gaming handhelds. It’s relatively light, thanks to having nearly the same specs as a 7-inch mid-range Android tablet. Compared to a smartphone or tablet, however, it has dedicated physical controls that make playing many games easier. Logitech has even set its sights beyond just technical performance, boasting of the device’s carbon neutrality and sustainable packaging.

In terms of user experience, the gaming handheld is pretty much an Android tablet with a few built-in features related to gaming. In addition to a game launcher that takes a page out of the Nintendo Switch, it also has built-in support for cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Game Pass and NVIDIA GeForce Now. Additionally, it can also stream games running on an Xbox console or Steam PC at home, thanks to remote play functionality available on these platforms. In other words, the device can practically run any game from any platform except the PlayStation, presuming those services and features are available in the owner’s region, of course.

While it sounds like heaven for gamers, it’s still uncertain whether it will be a commercial success for Logitech. Many of these features can also be enjoyed on a large smartphone these days, so the Logitech G Cloud doesn’t really sound too unique. It does have the convenience of having a single device for gaming with built-in controls, but almost everyone has that kind of device in their pockets these days; they just need a good controller to go along with it.

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Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals elevate racing sim experience to god level

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Logitech is making all the news today with quite a few announcements breathing down our neck. The one that’s making all the limelight though – the gaming brand’s new racing wheel and pedals for hardcore gamers who’ll go any length for maximum in-game immersion.

The PRO racing Wheel and the PRO racing Pedals aim to elevate the simulation of sim racing to an unprecedented level for compatible gaming titles and platforms like PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One or PC.

Designer: Logitech

According to Logitech G (brand’s gaming wing), the steering wheel very closely emulates the car’s feedback, just like it would be in the real world. Thus, racing game pros can feel every jerk or turning stress with 100 percent accuracy. It’s almost like being right there on the racing track. The gaming accessories are designed keeping in mind the professional sim drivers.

The heart of the racing wheel is the high-performance Direct Drive engine and the high-definition TRUEFORCE feedback technology for “pure connection to racing.” The motor generates 11-newton meters of force with a very low-latency response. When mated to the TRUEFORCE tech, the racing wheel is capable of delivering never-before-experienced realism.

According to rising star Formula-1 racing driver Lando Norris (team McLaren), the G PRO Racing Wheel simulates the real-time conditions of the track and how the car chances during the race. After spending time with the wheel, Lando said, he feels like being right there on the track even when he enjoys simulated runs in his home.

Richard Neville, head of simulation and controllers for Logitech Gaming further retreats this fact by explaining that they have analyzed everything in detail right from how many gear shifts, turns and impacts an 11-newton meter wheel takes, to which materials and components will last through even the most grueling racing conditions.” The wheel also has a precise button and dial placement along with the magnetic gear shift paddles, and dual-clutch paddles for a tactile analog response for varied gaming functions.

The new set of pedals is the perfect alibi for the racing wheel, as they are equipped with the load cell on the brake for the braking pedal, and contactless hall-effect sensors for the clutch and gas. The three pedals have pressure detection technology for realistic muscle memory and consistent performance. The G PRO Racing Pedals can be adjusted to be soft or firm depending on the gamer’s preference.

For professional gamers who want to invest in a state-of-the-art setup, the Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and the Racing Pedals will come at a price tag of $999 and $349 respectively.

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This gaming handheld wants to be the Nintendo Switch of Android

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Handheld gaming devices have exploded in popularity after the success of the Nintendo Switch. None of the other console makers, namely Microsoft and Sony, seem to be eager to jump on that train yet, but PC makers have started to show interest, particularly with the launch of Valve’s Steam Deck. Of course, when it comes to being a portable gaming device, nothing really beats a smartphone, especially when you’re talking about games that are designed from the start to be enjoyed in bite-sized parts while on the go. It is arguable, however, whether a smartphone is a proper gaming handheld, considering its multi-functional nature, so Logitech is attempting to solve that by creating an Android device designed and dedicated solely to gaming.

Designer: Logitech (via Evan Blass)

Mobile games have been around ever since Snake first appeared on Nokia handsets, but truly immersive and addictive ones didn’t appear until smartphones did. There are hundreds of games today that you can play on smartphones, plus a thousand more copycats and malware-bearing Trojan horses. What all these games have in common is that they were developed with a touch screen in mind as the primary input method. In fact, many titles don’t even work with a controller, even a Bluetooth gamepad connected to the phone.

That’s what makes the idea of a dedicated Android gaming handheld in the style of the Nintendo Switch a bit less exciting than it is for Steam Deck PC. What would be the point of having physical gaming controls flanking a big screen if the game being played only responds to touch input? That doesn’t seem to worry Logitech, who partnered with Chinese gaming giant Tencent to create a “cloud gaming handheld” device. A leak of the device shows a rather uninspiring design that houses a curious gaming experience.

The white Logitech G Gaming Handheld, as it is being called, easily resembles a Nintendo Switch Lite, which doesn’t have the removable Joy-Cons. While it looks more like a tablet than a phone, it’s what’s running on the screen that makes it really interesting. It shows not just Google Play, which would be a no-brainer for an Android device, but also Xbox, NVIDIA, and even Steam, suggesting it can handle those brand’s cloud streaming services. It seems that Logitech and Tencent are aiming for an all-around handheld gaming device, which would make those buttons and joysticks more useful indeed.

Designer: AYN Technologies

Of course, Logitech is hardly the first to try making an Android-based gaming handheld, and it definitely won’t be the last. The past two years alone have seen a sudden rise in gaming handhelds running Android inside. To some extent, that’s unsurprising because Android is the easiest and cheapest operating system to put on any device. It’s arguable, however, if it has the best selection of mobile games.

The bigger question, however, is whether it actually makes sense for an Android device to have permanent controllers flanking the screen, even if one of them can be removed. Android can be used for more than just gaming, of course, but the fixed controller almost limits how the device can be used for a single purpose only. That’s why Bluetooth controllers that can be attached to smartphones and then removed as needed have somewhat become more popular, offering that same gaming experience without imposing arbitrary limitations.

Designer: GPD

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The best iPad accessories for 2023

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Accessories will be key whether you’re turning your new Apple iPad into a laptop replacement or just trying to protect it against daily-life hazards. It’s tempting to turn to Apple’s own accessories — and in some cases, you should — but there’s a slew of alternatives that work just as well and are often more affordable. We tested out a bunch of cases, keyboards, styli and other miscellany to see which iPad accessories are worth buying and that will help you get the most out of your iPad, from the iPad Air to the iPad Mini or a different iPad model.

Otterbox Symmetry 360 case

Otterbox is an expert when it comes to protection, as seen with their phone cases, but its Symmetry Series 360 series shows that it has design chops, too. Symmetry cases look similar to the Apple’s Smart Cover, but the clear, scratch-resistant back is sturdy without adding a lot of weight to the iPad. Plus, the edge protection is substantial, so you won’t have to worry about damage from the inevitable, accidental bumps your tablet takes. I also like the extra flap Otterbox added that keeps the iPad screen cover closed and holds the second-generation Apple Pencil to the side of the iPad Pros. Symmetry Series 360 cases are available for most iPad models, and while they’re more expensive than some no-name iPad case you might find on Amazon, they’re worth it if you want a great balance of protection and style.

Speaking of cheaper cases that fill up Amazon’s search result pages, some that are actually worthwhile are from Moko and ProCase. If you like the look and feel of Apple’s Smart Cover, but don’t want to drop $50-plus on one, both of these brands have dupes that give you that style at a fraction of the cost of the first-party option.

Shop Moko cases at AmazonShop ProCase cases at Amazon

Twelve South HoverBar Duo

Of the plethora of iPad stands I’ve used, Twelve South’s HoverBar Duo is the one that has come closest to perfect. The “duo” in the name refers to the fact that the gadget can either prop your iPad up using an arm attached to a weighted base, or the same arm just attached to a desk or table using its included clamp. The stand comes fully assembled on the weighted base, but it’s pretty easy to switch to the clamp thanks to the included instructions and basic tools in the box. If you spring for the latest model, it’ll be even easier thanks to a new quick-switch tab that lets you swap between the weighted base and the clamp attachment with any extra tools.

It wasn’t hard to secure my 11-inch iPad Pro in the vice-grip that is the HoverBar Duo’s tablet clip, although it did take some force to move the arm into the right position. That’s probably for the best because it showed how strong the arm is; it stayed in place without buckling, sliding down or otherwise breaking a sweat. I mostly used the HoverBar Duo with the clamp attachment, which allowed me to use my iPad as a secondary screen while working. The included clamp should fit most desks and tables too, as it can accommodate surface thickness from 0.4 inch to 1.4 inches.

If you’re willing to sacrifice flexibility for something more elegant, Elago’s P2 stand for iPad may be a good fit. It’s made of a single piece of aluminum with a ledge for your iPad and a few well-placed cutouts that you can snake a charging cable through. The ledge is also wide enough to accommodate most iPad cases. It may not be foldable or adjustable, but its minimalist design will make it an attractive addition to your desk.

Buy Elago P2 stand at Amazon - $20

Logitech MX Keys Mini

One of the best Bluetooth keyboards I’ve used recently is the Logitech MX Keys Mini. It’s not designed specifically for the iPad, but it works quite well with it. It combines a lot of the ergonomics and the general look and feel of the MX lineup into a compact and portable keyboard. The Keys Mini has a slim profile that’s slightly raised due to its top bar, plus comfortable backlit keys that are a dream to type on. The backlight is one of my favorite features because it automatically comes on when it senses your hands getting close to the keyboard. That way it only stays illuminated when you’re typing, conserving battery life in the long run. Logitech estimates the Keys Mini will last up to 10 days, depending on backlight use, or up to five months without any backlight use.

Logitech’s $100 MX Keys Mini may be on the expensive side, but it’s one that could be both your iPad keyboard and your main desk typing device. It can connect to up to three devices at the same time, allowing you to swap between them quickly with just a press of a key, and it has a few other handy keys too like one that brings up the emoji picker and another that mutes your microphone (quite useful on Zoom calls). But if you want something even more affordable, or even thinner, we still like the Logitech Keys to Go, which we’ve recommended in the past and you can usually find for between $50 and $70.

Buy Logitech Keys to Go at Amazon - $60

Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad

If you really want to indulge, Apple’s own Magic Keyboard is the way to go. This expensive case magnetically attaches to the latest iPad Pros and keeps them “floating” above the keyboard and trackpad. We praised the Magic Keyboard for its typing comfort and precise trackpad, but dinged it for its limited range of motion. It’s easily the fanciest keyboard available for the iPad and it’s one to consider if money is no object — or if you want the most stylish iPad keyboard money can buy.

Apple Pencil

This likely won’t come as a surprise, but the Apple Pencil is the best stylus you can get for the iPad. Both the first- and second-generation Pencils are designed to work specifically with iPads and it shows in their smooth writing performance. The second-gen stylus has a double-tap feature that you can customize to a certain degree, and pressure-sensitivity allows you to add as much or as little detail as you want to digital artwork. I highly recommend shelling out $100 or $130 for the Apple Pencil if you’re an artist — you won’t be disappointed.

Buy Apple Pencil (1st gen) at Amazon - $99

Logitech Crayon

There are other options that are more affordable than the Apple Pencil, though, like Logitech’s $70 Crayon. It’s just as good in terms of latency and accuracy — drawing in Procreate was a lag-free experience and my strokes always ended up exactly where I wanted them to be – and it’s even more grippy by default thanks to its oval-shaped design. But as someone who primarily uses an Apple Pencil for digital art, I missed pressure sensitivity when using the Crayon.

Aside from that, the other biggest annoyance is that you have to use a Lightning or USB-C cable to charge it. (Even the newest model for the iPad Pros doesn’t magnetically attach to the tablet for charging.) While I wouldn’t suggest the Crayon for serious artists, I would recommend it for anyone who’s on a strict budget, especially digital journal-keepers, committed note-takers and the like.

Paperlike screen protector

If you’re a heavy user of the Apple Pencil or some other stylus, you should consider getting a screen protector for your iPad. They pull double-duty: Not only do they act as a first line of defense if your iPad goes careening onto the concrete, but they can also enhance the digital drawing and writing experience. Using a stylus on an iPad is strange at first because gliding the stylus nib over a glass surface feels nothing like “normal” writing. Matte screen protectors can get closer to replicating the pen-on-paper experience, and they also prevent the stylus nib from wearing down so quickly. Paperlike is the most popular in this space, but Bersem’s screen protectors are a great value at $11 for a pack of two. Not only does the matte finish help when you’re drawing or taking digital notes, but it also reduces screen glare and doesn’t interfere with FaceID on the newest iPads.

Buy Bersem screen protector (2 pack) at Amazon - $11

Satechi Aluminum Stand and Hub

If you plan on pushing your iPad Pro to its limits as a daily driver, you’ll probably need more than the tablet’s single USB-C port. Apple has provided little guidance to which USB-C hubs and adapters work best with the iPad Pros — there’s no MFi certification for accessories like this yet. Some hubs specifically advertise that they work with the newest iPad Pros, and if you want to be extra safe, I recommend buying one of those that comes from a reputable brand.

Satechi’s $100 Aluminum Stand and Hub is a favorite for its foldable design and how it packs ports and charging capabilities into a compact iPad accessory. The holder itself rotates outward, revealing a hidden, attached USB-C cable and a rubber bumper that keeps the stand in place in your desk. On the back edge are a 4K HDMI socket, one USB-A port, a headphone jack, both SD and microSD card slots and a 60W USB-C connection for charging.

I liked the versatility of Satechi’s hub. I could easily use it when I needed to prop my iPad up to watch a YouTube video, and by just plugging in the attached cable, I could switch to using my iPad as more of a work device with all of the necessary connectors in place. It’s also surprisingly light at 10 ounces. Combine that with its foldable design and you have a full-featured hub that can easily be stuffed in a bag.

Anker 7-in-1 USB-C hub

Not everyone needs, or wants, to spend $100 on a dock for their iPad. (If you’re using it as a laptop replacement, it’s worth the investment.) If you’d rather spend less, or just want something a bit more lightweight, Anker’s 7-in-1 USB-C hub is a good choice. It has most ports that you could ever want, with the only exception being an Ethernet jack. The slim dongle houses two USB-A ports, two USB-C connections, SD and microSD card slots and a 4K/30Hz HDMI port. We also like that it provides up to 85W of pass-through charging, which means you can power up your iPad while using Anker’s hub as the main connector between the tablet and its charging cable. Anker makes a couple of versions of this hub, including one that does have that coveted Ethernet port, but it’s hard to beat $35 for the standard 7-in-1 model.

Buy Anker 8-in-1 hub at Amazon - $80

Samsung T7 SSD

It can be hard to anticipate how much storage you’ll need in your iPad. Maybe you picked up the base model, but over time the device has turned into your main gadget, holding most of your important documents, photos, apps and more. If you have one of the latest iPad models with USB-C, you can use that port to connect the device to an external drive, offloading files and freeing up onboard space on your device. We like Samsung’s T7 series of portable SSDs for their slick designs, fast speeds and various modes of protection. The T7, the T7 Touch and the T7 Shield all support read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, and their palm-sized designs make them easy to toss in a bag before you leave for the day. All three also support AES 256-bit hardware encryption and optional password protection, but you’ll get the added bonus of a fingerprint reader on the T7 Touch. As for the T7 Shield, it’s the newest in the lineup and has a more durable design with a rubberized exterior and an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.

Buy Samsung T7 Touch (1TB) at Amazon - $160Buy Samsung T7 Shield (1TB) at Amazon - $160

Anker Nano II 45W GaN charger

Apple and other tech companies are increasingly leaving wall adapters out of their devices’ boxes, so it’s worth picking up a couple that can handle charging a couple of pieces of tech as quickly as possible. Anker’s 45W Nano II GaN adapter is a good one because it can fast-charge iPhones and iPads, plus the gallium nitride technology built into it helps prevent overheating. In just a half hour of charging, I got about a 33 percent boost in battery life on my 11-inch iPad Pro when using this accessory. Gallium nitride is also a big reason why the 45W adapter is smaller than a lot of competing adapters available now, including Apple’s. We also like its foldable design, which will allow it to fit better in cramped spaces and in travel bags.

Anker PowerCore 26,800

It’s smart to have a portable battery with you when you’re using your iPad on the go – regardless of if it’s your daily driver or you’re only using it for a few select tasks. Anker’s PowerCore 26,800 has a high enough capacity to charge up most tablets almost two times over, making it very unlikely that you’ll totally run out of power before you get to your next destination. While it won’t charge laptops, it will work for most mobile devices, and it has three USB-A ports so you can power up to three devices simultaneously. And since the brick itself weighs just over one pound, it won’t weigh down your bag all day long, either.

Logitech’s gender inclusive headphones, keyboards and mouse are pure eye-candy but a tad pricy

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Logitech has just dropped its colorful line of PC gaming peripherals keeping in mind gender inclusivity to capture a wider audience. Dubbed the Aurora Collection, these gadgets are targeted towards users who value approachability, playfulness, comfort and of course a premium gaming experience.
The collection including gaming headsets, gaming keyboards, wireless mouse and other gaming accessories shaped-up with a chunk of feedback from female gamers. Not surprising, the peripherals are developed by a female dominant research and engineering team at Logitech G. The result, a set of PC gaming hardware draped in vibrant colors and carry an exclusive price. According to Logitech, the realization was that “we could be doing more” for pure gamers, hence the origin of this eye-candy collection.

Designer: Logitech

The Aurora Collection is prime example of how Logitech is breaking the shackles of the contemporary design language it followed for years. This new range focuses largely on gaming and not much on productivity-oriented approach. First up we have the G735 wireless headset that looks like a souped up version of the G Pro X model. The smaller sized headphones (remember we’re talking of gender inclusivity) have a white color finish with the RGB LEDs encapsulating the extremities of the rotating earcups.

Heaphones

There’s braille on each side to identify left from the right. This one is the company’s first gaming headset with the Blue VO!CE microphone technology for voice modulation. Battery life on the G735 is an average 16 hours on LED light on mode and around 50 percent volume. Turn the LEDs off and the figure jump up to 56 hours – nothing impressive though considering the $230 price tag considering the options on the market.

Then we have the G715 and G713 wireless and wired keyboards each priced at $200 and $170 respectively. Colorplay is apparent in these peripherals with the per key and perimeter RGB lighting. They also get the option for GX mechanical switches including tactile, linear or clicky; and a cloud-soft palm rest for serious girl gamers. The more premium and lifestyle oriented G715 has a battery life of 25 hours which is again not that impressive keeping in mind the asking price tag.

Keyboards

Mouse

Next up is the G705 wireless mouse that’s crafted for players with small hands. The ergonomic peripheral gets an 8,200 DPI gaming-grade sensor, two thumb buttons and a contoured thumb rest. On a single charge the cute little mouse clad in LEDs can work for up to 40 hours. I hate to say it again, but the battery life again brings a grim look to my face.

Apart from these peppy gaming PC essentials, Logitech is also offering add-ons such as pink or neon boom mics with earpads for $20, 18-inch mousepad or $40 heart-shaped carrying case for G735 headset and G705 mouse. For the keyboard one can also buy the top plates or the set of keycaps priced at $20 and $40 respectively.

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The best study-from-home essentials for students

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Engadget recommends a variety of laptops every year as part of our back-to-school guide. But that’s not quite enough if you want a productive study environment. Whether you’re a student staying home this year or you’re returning to campus, you’ll benefit from a few additional essentials. A laptop stand is useful for preventing neck and arm pain, while a lumbar pillow supports the lower back. A pair of noise-cancelling headphones does wonders for blocking out distractions and a LED lamp helps ease eye fatigue. From an external keyboard to a USB dock, we think all our suggestions below will lead to much-improved setup for those long study sessions.

Soundance Laptop Stand

Soundance Laptop Stand
Engadget

While laptops are more convenient than desktops, using just your notebook for long periods of time is bad for your posture and can lead to neck ache. That’s why we strongly recommend getting a laptop stand. You can position your machine so that the screen is at the appropriate height. In general, you want your eye level to be one to two inches below the top of the display.

One of our team’s favorites is this one from Soundance, which can support laptops with 10- to 15-inch screens. It’s made from a sturdy aluminum alloy and the surface that holds the laptop is rubberized, which prevents it from sliding around. And, thanks to a series of detachable components, it’s also one of a few stands that’s easily portable. You can take it apart and put it together in minutes, making it great not just for your desk at home, but also for using it in the library.

The Soundance raises your laptop six inches above the desk, which should work well for most people. Also, the elevated design both facilitates better posture and helps ventilate your laptop. There’s even enough space underneath for you to store your keyboard and mouse when they’re not in use. If you want one with adjustable height, we recommend the Rain Design iLevel 2. It’s not quite as portable and it’s more expensive than the Soundance, but it’s a good option if you need a stand with more flexibility.

Buy Soundance laptop stand at Amazon - $40Buy Rain Design iLevel 2 at Amazon - $65

Logitech K780 multi-device wireless keyboard

Logitech K780 multi-device wireless keyboard
Engadget

If you do get a laptop stand, you’ll definitely want an external keyboard to go along with it. (It’s not going to be comfortable typing on your laptop while it’s docked in the stand.) We recommend a wireless model so you don’t have to worry about cords cluttering up your desk. Logitech’s line of Bluetooth keyboards is an Engadget favorite, and the K780 is one of the brand’s most versatile models. It’s a full-size keyboard complete with a numpad, but it still feels slim and compact. The keys are responsive and comfortable as well, and you can pair it with up to three devices. There’s even an integrated cradle if you wish to use it with a smartphone or iPad.

Buy Logitech K780 at Amazon - $65

Logitech M525 wireless mouse

Logitech M525 wireless mouse
Engadget

In addition to the external keyboard, you should get a wireless mouse to match. Logitech’s M525 is a great option thanks to its ergonomic design and affordable price point. It’s small enough that it won’t take up much space on your desk and It has an ambidextrous design that’ll fit both right and left-handed users. Its precision scroll wheel has a tilt function that allows for side-to-side scrolling as well. We should note, however, that this isn’t a Bluetooth mouse; you connect it to your computer via a USB receiver.

If you’d rather have the convenience of Bluetooth, consider the MX Anywhere 3. It has a 4,000-dpi Track Anywhere sensor that works on most surfaces, even glass. However, the MX Anywhere 3 is a lot pricier at $80 and it doesn’t include the aforementioned tilt wheel, so bear that in mind.

Buy Logitech M525 at Amazon - $40Buy MX Anywhere 3 at Amazon - $80

Purple Back Cushion

Purple Back Cushion
Will Lipman Photography for Engadget

Long study sessions often mean sitting for an extended amount of time, which can result in lower back pain. You could get a chair with better back support, but those can be expensive. Plus, if you’re living in a dorm, you probably don’t have much choice in furniture anyway. The next best option is to get a lumbar support pillow. I personally recommend the Purple Back Cushion because it has a cushy grid that’s malleable enough to mold to the contour of my spine. One of the features that sets it apart from other cushions is that it has hundreds of air channels, which means you won’t get a sweaty back after sitting in a stuffy dorm room all day long. It comes with a washable cushion cover and an integrated strap that helps you attach it to most chairs.

Buy Purple Back Cushion at Amazon - $59

AFROG Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp with Wireless Charger

AFROG Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp with Wireless Charger
Engadget

Studying into the wee hours of the morning will be more difficult if you have bad lighting. Not only will you strain your eyes to see anything, but you may be more inclined to climb into bed as the sun sets and you get deeper into the night. A versatile desk lamp like this one from AFROG is essential because it will illuminate your whole work space easily, plus this particular model has five color modes and seven brightness levels, so you can customize it to your liking. The color modes will be crucial since they allow you to change the light’s temperature, so you don’t have to stick with harsh, white light the whole time if you don’t want to. We also like the built-in wireless charger on this model, which allows you to keep your phone topped up while you study.

Buy AFROG desk lamp at Amazon - $40

Sony WH-CH710N headphones

Sony WH-CH710N headphones
Will Lipman Photography for Engadget

A pair of noise-cancelling headphones is great for blocking out unwanted noise during study sessions, be it from annoying siblings or a raucous roommate. You might be hesitant to get one because you think noise-cancelling headphones are expensive, and for the most part that’s correct. Fortunately, there are some budget options that aren’t terrible.

Take Sony’s WH-CH710N wireless cans, for example. Engadget’s Billy Steele noted that it offers decent range and good clarity, adept ANC, plus it has dual noise sensors that can detect environmental noise. You can also switch to ambient sound mode if you need to quickly hear the world around you. They also offer an impressive 35 hours of battery life, plus USB-C quick charging that promises 60 minutes of playback on a 10-minute charge.

These headphones may look a little more basic than the higher-end XM5s, but Sony didn’t compromise on comfort here thanks to adjustable sliders and soft oval-shaped earcups. They’re also much more affordable at $148 (and we’ve seen them for less), giving you a lot of bang for your buck.

Buy WH-CH710N at Amazon - $148

Fully Cora standing desk converter

Fully Cora standing desk converter
Fully

A good workspace is key when you’re studying at home (or in your dorm room) and chances are you have a desk setup that’s not perfect, but merely suitable. One way to upgrade it is by adding a standing desk converter like the Cora from Fully. It sits on top of your desk and allows you to stand and work whenever you want, which is much healthier for your body than sitting all day. The Cora is made from liquid-resistant laminate and it comes with non-skid pads so it won’t damage any surface you put it on. Plus at $179, it’s much more affordable than buying an actual standing desk.

Buy Cora at Fully - $179

24-inch ViewSonic VA2456-MHD monitor

24-inch ViewSonic VA2456-MHD monitor
Engadget

Sometimes a laptop screen just isn’t big enough, and an external monitor is needed for you to do your best work. It’s useful for those who need more screen real estate for stats and charts, Excel spreadsheets, editing photos or video, or just looking over copious amounts of code.

However, monitors can be pricey. ViewSonic’s 24-inch VA2456-MHD, however, delivers an impressive feature set for the price. Though we haven’t reviewed it, it’s highly-rated on Amazon and we’ve liked ViewSonic’s other monitors in the past so we know the company has a solid track record for quality. The VA2456-MHD has HDMI, DisplayPort and VGA connections, which makes it pretty versatile for a budget monitor. It also has 1080p resolution and an IPS panel for wide-angle viewing. Its three-sided frameless design is sleek too, an important quality for such a relatively large object. Lastly, it has a blue light filter to help minimize eye strain.

Buy 24-inch ViewSonic monitor at Amazon - $190

Ironflask 32 oz Sports water bottle

Ironflask 32 oz Sports water bottle
Engadget

You have to stay hydrated while you’re rushing around campus and trying to get your work done while also trying to fit in a little fun now and then. A water bottle like this one from Iron Flask will make it that much easier for you to keep your favorite drink with you at all times. Its double-walled, vacuum-sealed design keeps cold liquids cold for 24 hours and hot drinks hot for 12 hours, plus it comes with three lids (straw, flip and stainless steel) so you can choose your favorite. We like the 32-ounce model because it’s big enough that you can fill it up in the morning and have enough water for a full day of classes and activities. However, the 32-ounce doesn’t fit in a standard cup holder, so if you spend a lot of time in the car, opt for the 22-ounce model or smaller.

Buy Iron Flask (32 oz) at Amazon - $24

Logitech expands its MX series with a new Mechanical Keyboard and the Master 3S Mouse

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Sitting at the nexus of professional hardware and gaming hardware, the Logitech MX series gives its power-users a taste of great mechanical action along with precision tools. “There is a growing community of software developers who fell in love with mechanical keyboards when they started playing games, and now they want the same feeling of precision and control with their professional desktop keyboard,” said Tolya Polyanker, head of the MX Series for Creativity and Productivity at Logitech. “MX Mechanical combines the best of both – Logitech’s gaming keyboard expertise with MX Master Series signature experiences.”

Logitech unveiled the MX Mechanical Keyboard and the MX Master 3S mouse as an expansion of their MX series. The keyboard, available in full and compact sizes, offers the latest generation of low-profile mechanical switches. The mouse, on the other hand, takes the MX Master 3’s design and makes some significant tweaks to it, including an 8000 DPI optical sensor, and clicks that are 90% more quiet than its predecessor.

Designer: Logitech

Click Here to Buy the Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard
Click Here to Buy the Logitech MX Master 3S Mouse

Logitech’s MX Master 3S follows the Master 3’s ergonomic shape, and even comes with the same metallic primary and secondary scroller that allows creatives to unlock newer interactions to help accelerate their workflows.  The 8,000 DPI optical sensor tracks on most surfaces including glass, and offers a fast, quiet scrolling and clicking experience. The MX Master 3S also features the MagSpeed ElectromagneticTM wheel that zips through 1,000 lines in one second, the side scroll wheel for faster horizontal navigation, and additional buttons under the secondary scroll wheel that can be mapped to other commands and shortcuts through Logitech’s Logi Options+ software.

Logitech’s MX Mechanical keyboard has the best gaming keyboard features, but with new design elements that are focused on boosting productivity. The mechanical keyboard offers users with 3 switch options to choose from – Tactile Quiet (Brown) makes the keyboard Logitech’s quietest mechanical keyboard currently on the market, while Clicky (Blue) and Linear (Red) switch options are also available to users in certain markets.

The keyboards come in a Mini version without the numpad, and a regular version that includes said numpad. The intuitive design and tactile feel were crafted keeping Logitech’s advanced users in mind, including software developers, analysts, graphic designers, and dedicated gamers.

Logitech’s been making a committed effort to also ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly and carbon-neutral as possible. For instance, their Lift Vertical mouse used as much as 70% PCR plastic, and came in entirely biodegradable paper packaging. The MX series are no different. A portion of the keyboards use post-consumer recycled plastic – 45% of the MX Mechanical is made from recycled plastic, whereas 47% of the MX Mechanical Mini uses recycled plastic. Even the aluminum top case for the keyboards is made from low-carbon aluminum and produced with renewable energy rather than fossil fuels. For the MX Master 3S, the mouse uses anywhere from 22 to 27% PCR plastic, depending on the color variant.

The keyboards and mouse both run on Logitech’s Bolt wireless protocol, and are equipped with Bluetooth to allow them to wirelessly connect to as many as 3 devices. They’re compatible across a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Android, Chrome OS, and Linux, and can be configured using Logitech’s Logi Options+ software that’s in its beta stage and free to use.

Click Here to Buy the Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard
Click Here to Buy the Logitech MX Master 3S Mouse

The post Logitech expands its MX series with a new Mechanical Keyboard and the Master 3S Mouse first appeared on Yanko Design.

The best gifts for grads under $50

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Finding the right gift for a new graduate in your life can be tough. Default ideas like a fancy watch or a monogrammed bag can be pricey and, let’s face it, boring. Tech can be a good option, and no, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a solid gadget that they’d like. While expensive stuff like iPhones, smartwatches and game consoles may come to mind immediately, they aren’t the only options out there. And sometimes all it takes is a practical gadget like a power bank to make someone’s life a little easier — that’s especially applicable to new grads who are focusing all of their attention on snagging that new job or applying for further education. Here’s Engadget’s list of the best gifts under $50 for new graduates.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/best-gifts-for-grads-under-50-114506320.html?src=rss

Logitech unveils the Lift Vertical – A $69 ergonomic mouse designed for the WFH lifestyle

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Contrary to popular belief, Working From Home (WFH in short) isn’t easy or comfortable. It involves working for longer hours, and sometimes even over weekends. Logitech’s latest gadget is the perfect addition to everyone’s workplace arsenal. The Logitech Lift Vertical sports an ergonomic design that feels like the spiritual successor to Logitech’s MX Vertical mouse… albeit with a pocket-friendly $69.99 price tag.

Designer: Logitech

A part of Logitech’s ERGO Series, the Lift Vertical’s design is directly informed by its need to facilitate a comfortable working experience – “Feel better, do better,” mentions Lars Lauridsen from Logitech’s Digital Wellness lab. The Lift Vertical sports a uniquely shaped form, with a  precise 57° tilt that allows your hand to naturally wrap around it. The design’s origins began with the MX Vertical, which was inspired by the ergonomics of a handshake – the Lift Vertical follows its footsteps, with a refined design that’s 22% smaller than the MX Vertical, making it suitable for smaller hands too.

Driven by the need to achieve a ‘zen-like state’ while working, the Logitech Lift Vertical’s grip sports a zen-garden-inspired horizontal rib texture. The texture, Logitech’s design team explains, plays a visual role, in creating a pattern that inherently feels meditative, while also ensuring your hand doesn’t slip while working. The product’s zen-like experience extends to the buttons and scroll wheel too, as the Lift Vertical comes equipped with a new silent magnetic SmartWheel and 5 silent click buttons (left and right-click, two thumb buttons, and a button under the scroll wheel).

The Logitech Lift Vertical comes in 3 colors (graphite, rose, and off-white) to complement most workspace aesthetics. Portions of the mouse’s body are manufactured from post-consumer recycled plastic, mentions Logitech – with the graphite variant using as much as 70% recycled plastic, while the off-white and rose use up to 54% recycled plastic. The newly unveiled mouse also comes in both left and right-hand varieties, a feature that was missing in the MX Vertical.

The Lift Vertical is priced at $69.99, putting it squarely in the consumer category. The ergonomic mouse runs on a single AA battery, delivering a stunning 2 years’ worth of use on a full charge. It can connect with up to 3 devices via Bluetooth or the Logi Bolt USB receiver, letting you toggle through devices simply by sliding the cursor off one screen and onto the next. The ergonomic mouse also comes equipped with support for Logitech’s Logi Options+ software, letting you configure your mouse’s features and assign shortcuts to its buttons. The Lift Vertical is available on Logitech’s website and starts shipping this April 2022.

The post Logitech unveils the Lift Vertical – A $69 ergonomic mouse designed for the WFH lifestyle first appeared on Yanko Design.