The year in reviews: 2013's best gadgets : Home Entertainment

Home Entertainment : Chromecast

 

The Chromecast might not be as fully featured as competitors like Apple TV, but it doesn't matter. This small dongle is very easy to set up and turns HDMI-complatible TV into a smart TV, all for the low price of $35. Its app selection is still lacks, but for now, you're getting more than your money's worth.

 

The year in reviews: 2013's best gadgets : Smartphones

Smartphones : Apple iPhone 5S

Apple continued to improve the iPhone line with the 5s, while the phone maintains the same body as its predecessor, it packs in enough upgrades to appeal to hardcore and casual users of iOS alike. However, even with future-proofing measures like 64-bit support and the fingerprint M7 coprocessor on board, only the most forward-looking Android power users will find it interresting to switch.

The year in reviews: 2013's best gadgets : Laptop

Laptops : Apple MacBook Pro with Retina display
 
With a starting price that's $400 less than the 2012 model, the new MacBook Pro with Retina display is a whole new level. In addition to its lighting fast SSD and off the roof graphics, its epic battery life and thinner, lighter body might make you reconsider if you've been in the market for the slightly smaller MacBook Air.

The year in reviews: 2013's best gadgets : Gaming

Gaming : SONY PLAYSTATION 4

 

 

It doesn't raelly look like a PC, but the PlayStation 4's sleek black exterior is a powerhouse that bounce off gaming PCs, with a user-friendly interface, a great controller and the ability to share your gameplay ina single touch. The next generation of consoles might just get started, but it's one start with the PS4 at the front of the pack.

The year in reviews: 2013's best gadgets : E-Readers

E-Readers : Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2013)

 

The "all-new" Paperwhite doesn't really offer anything all that different from prvevious year's edition, but an improved frontlight and some new software have made an already great reading experience better. Unless Goodreads is a must-have app for you, but it's largely unnecessary upgrade if you already own previous model.

Over ear headphones to buy in 2014 : Griffin WoodTones

Griffin WoodTones

 
As you can probably tell by name, these over the ear headphones aren't made out of plastic - these include features made out of real wood. Available in a variety of tones, these Griffin cans have an air of classiness about them, though they still feel really sturdy and durable. Sound quality is impressive too, with a range of levels and crisp notes.They're comfy and you'll barely notice you've got them on.
Price: £74.99 | Griffin

Over ear headphones to buy in 2014 : Denon AH-D340

Denon AH-D340

 

The D340s follow many of the same ideas as the D7100s. Aesthetically they're a little closer to the acceptable middle ground, and the drivers are a little smaller but aside from that, the two are very similar. The 2-axis adjustable ear cups and pentagonal memory foam pads are as pillow soft as comfortable as before. Prolonged use does result in some sweaty ear syndrome, but it's a small price to pay for the comfort. And those 40mm drivers really deliver some thumping sound.
Price: £180 @ Denon

 

Over ear headphones to buy in 2014 : KEF M500

KEF M500

 

Boasting highly detailed sound, memory foam constructed ear pads for extra comfort and a design that just reeks of style and sophistication we have to say these cans are easily some of our favourites. The lack of sound leak is also highly welcome.
Price: £250 @ KEF

Over ear headphones to buy in 2014 : Focal Spirit One

Focal Spirit One

 

Clearly not the pair of ‘phones to buy if you’re looking to blend in with the crowd, these are colourful and chunky, really quite chunky. No matter though, the sound is the most important part and they have a real hit of punchy noise, extremely balanced bass and great volume. Another nice touch is that they are foldable, making them nearly in your bag.
Price: £139 @ Focal

 

Over ear headphones to buy in 2014 : Urbanears Humlan

Urbanears Humlan

 

Brand spanking new ‘phones look great and sound better.. Available in a range of colors, there’s a Humlan for every human. The washable parts ensure that you can get these on dirts, then bung them in the wash and there’ll be clean as ever.
Price: £39 @ Urbanears