1. MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO 9
Despite only minor changes in its latest release, the Surface Pro 9 is still one of the best 2-in-1 laptops available. The headphone jack is gone, but you now have a selection of four colors including platinum, sapphire, graphite, and forest on the Intel models with platinum only for the SQ3 and base model Intel version. Both models are under 2 lbs. and less than a half-inch thick. The Type Cover keyboard is an option that will add to the base prices of $999 for the Intel model and $1,300 for the Microsoft SQ3 processor. Both support Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 6E, but the SQ3 also offers 5G connectivity. The Intel processor is either Core i5 or i7, and both models offer 8GB or 16GB of RAM. Internal SSD storage is available in 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, and the Intel models top out at 1TB. The 3:2, 13" touch display has 2,880 5 1,920 (267ppi) and a refresh rate up to 120Hz. The front-facing Windows Hello camera provides 1,080p FHD video with AI features, and the 10MP rear-facing camera has autofocus, 1,080p HD and 4k video. A Voice Focus feature can filter out background noise for audio and video apps. www.microsoft.com
2. APPLE IPAD, 10th GENERATION
The newest entry-level iPad 10th generation has a bigger 10.9" screen and faster A14 Bionic processor, but the headphone jack has been removed. On the other hand, the long-awaited USB-C charging port is a welcome change offering access to many accessories, including USB-C hubs. The design has been modernized, now with smaller bezels and no home button. You use touch gestures to navigate, and there’s a fingerprint reader for Touch ID in the power button. The front-facing camera has been relocated to the long side of the bezel to accommodate a horizontal position when used for Zoom or other video calls. One other unexpected change is that you can only use the first-generation pencil, and you’ll need an adapter to plug your pencil into the USB-C port. www.apple.com
3. GOOGLE PIXEL 7
Google’s new Pixel 7 smartphone still maintains its price advantage over the competing flagships from Apple (iPhone 14) and Samsung (Galaxy S22), and Google now offers its newly designed Tensor G2 processor, which has machine learning and AI to improve functions like the new photo-editing tool called Photo Unblur and to improve battery life. The $599 starting price becomes even more of a draw when you take a closer look at the Pixel cameras. The rear cameras include a main 50MP (f/1.85) and 12MP (f/2.2) ultrawide, and the front camera has a 10.8MP (f/2.2) lens. The rear lenses are set in a bar that runs across the entire back of the phone. The 6.3" OLED screen (2,400 5 1,080) has an adaptive 90Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling. store.google.com
4. ANKER 3-IN-1 CUBE WITH MAGSAFE
If you’re a fan of minimalist design and prefer the positive connection with MagSafe for your Apple phone, Watch, and AirPods, the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe will accommodate all three and provide up to 15W of fast, wireless recharging. Folded, it’s a palm-sized cube that measures about 3.5" on each side, and when opened it has a side shelf for your watch, the top surface for your earbuds, and a tilting, adjustable surface for attaching your phone in a vertical or horizontal alignment. Made for MagSafe, the Cube is compatible with iPhone 12/13/14 series and Apple Watch and AirPods. LED lights indicate charging. www.apple.com
December 2022
