MOBILE CONNECTIVITY AND ENTERTAINMENT
iRiver Clix (4GB, second generation)
EDITORS CHOICE
1
EDITORS RATING
8.7
SPECS
4 GB, 1 year warranty, 1 year warranty, FM, FM, Digital player / voice recorder / radio, Stereo, Stereo, OLED, OLED, MP3, WMA, Ogg Vorbis, Rechargeable
THE GOOD
The next generation iRiver Clix is even sleeker and slimmer than its predecessor, but offers the same unique and intuitive interface and stellar audio quality. This player comes packed with extras such as an FM radio; a voice recorder; an alarm clock; support for subscription content as well as OGG and Audible files; and photo, video, and text viewing. The Clix includes SRS Wow sound effects, it has good battery life, and it's priced competitively.
THE BAD
There's no cradle or line-in recording options for the new Clix yet, and iRiver doesn't offer an easy way to get video content for the device.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The iRiver Clix offers the perfect blend of hot design, desirable features, and stellar sound quality. If you're looking for an alternative to the iPod Nano, this device should top the list.
REVIEWED:
25-Apr-2007 11:24 AM PDT
iRiver Clix (8GB, second generation)
EDITORS CHOICE
1
EDITORS RATING
8.7
SPECS
8 GB, 1 year warranty, 1 year warranty, FM, FM, Digital player / voice recorder / radio, Stereo, Stereo, OLED, OLED, MP3, WMA, Ogg Vorbis, Rechargeable
THE GOOD
The next generation iRiver Clix is even sleeker and slimmer than its predecessor, but offers the same unique and intuitive interface and stellar audio quality. This player comes packed with extras such as an FM radio; a voice recorder; an alarm clock; support for subscription content as well as OGG and Audible files; and photo, video, and text viewing. The Clix includes SRS Wow sound effects, it has good battery life, and it's priced competitively.
THE BAD
There's no cradle or line-in recording options for the new Clix yet, and iRiver doesn't offer an easy way to get video content for the device.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The iRiver Clix offers the perfect blend of hot design, desirable features, and stellar sound quality. If you're looking for an alternative to the iPod Nano, this device should top the list.
REVIEWED:
25-Apr-2007 11:24 AM PDT
iRiver Clix (2GB, second generation)
EDITORS CHOICE
1
EDITORS RATING
8.7
SPECS
2 GB, 1 year warranty, 1 year warranty, FM, FM, Digital player / voice recorder / radio, Stereo, Stereo, OLED, OLED, MP3, WMA, Ogg Vorbis, Rechargeable
THE GOOD
The next generation iRiver Clix is even sleeker and slimmer than its predecessor, but offers the same unique and intuitive interface and stellar audio quality. This player comes packed with extras such as an FM radio; a voice recorder; an alarm clock; support for subscription content as well as OGG and Audible files; and photo, video, and text viewing. The Clix includes SRS Wow sound effects, it has good battery life, and it's priced competitively.
THE BAD
There's no cradle or line-in recording options for the new Clix yet, and iRiver doesn't offer an easy way to get video content for the device.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The iRiver Clix offers the perfect blend of hot design, desirable features, and stellar sound quality. If you're looking for an alternative to the iPod Nano, this device should top the list.
REVIEWED:
25-Apr-2007 11:24 AM PDT
LG VX8700
EDITORS RATING
7.6
SPECS
With digital camera, With digital player
THE GOOD
The LG VX8700 has a stunning and attractive stainless-steel design. It also has impressive multimedia features, and the call quality was great.
THE BAD
The LG VX8700 has a flat keypad and lacks external music player controls, and the microSD card slot is inconveniently located behind the battery. The VX8700 does not come with a USB cable or a microSD card, so there are additional costs to reap the full benefits of the music player.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The LG VX8700 is a gorgeous phone with plenty of multimedia features that are sure to please if you can get past its design flaws. Also, the need to purchase additional accessories can be a pain.
REVIEWED:
27-Apr-2007 01:27 PM PDT
Motorola Razr V3xx (platinum)
EDITORS RATING
7.6
SPECS
0.2 lbs, Up to 210 min, GSM 850/1800/1900 / UMTS 850/1900, With digital camera / digital player
THE GOOD
The Motorola Razr V3xx cell phone offers decent call quality, stereo Bluetooth, and a great interior display. And thanks to the HSDPA data connection, it offers zippy Web browsing, fast downloads, and admirable streaming video quality.
THE BAD
The Motorola Razr V3xx isn't a quadband world phone, and its 1.3-megapixel camera is inadequate for such a high-end handset. Also, the voice dialing is unreliable, the phone lacks stereo speakers, and the data settings for third-party applications are too restrictive.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Though its feature set didn't live up to expectations, the Motorola Razr V3xx cell phone improves on many of the traditional Razr pitfalls that have plagued the product line since its inception. As such, it's the most satisfying Razr to date.
REVIEWED:
20-Apr-2007 09:36 AM PDT
Toshiba Satellite A205-S4617
EDITORS RATING
7.4
VALUE WATCH RATING
Poor value
SPECS
Intel Core 2 Duo (1.66 GHz), 2 GB DDR II SDRAM, 15.4 in TFT active matrix, Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium
THE GOOD
The Toshiba Satellite A205-S4617 laptop has 802.11n support, Harman Kardon speakers, and a Labelflash optical drive; a long, single hinge gives the laptop a sturdy feel.
THE BAD
Fingerprint-prone lid; no Bluetooth.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Toshiba adds faster Draft N Wi-Fi to this attractive if otherwise fairly conventional laptop. Just be sure you've got an 802.11n router to go along with it.
REVIEWED:
30-Apr-2007 12:07 PM PDT
Logitech FreePulse Wireless Headphones
EDITORS RATING
7.3
SPECS
Stereo, Black, Behind-the-neck, Headphones, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, 2 years Limited warranty
THE GOOD
The Logitech FreePulse Wireless Headphones are remarkably light, flexible, and resilient. The sound quality is decent overall with an emphasis on bass. The Bluetooth transmitter can be used with any audio source that has a minijack headphone output.
THE BAD
Troubleshooting possible Bluetooth connection problems can be a hassle compared to the reliability of hardwired headphones. Unlike previous Logitech designs, there are no playback controls on these headphones.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Compared to the range of options out there for Bluetooth MP3 player headphones, the Logitech FreePulse Wireless Headphones offer exceptional design and value.
REVIEWED:
26-Apr-2007 11:35 AM PDT
Brookstone Surround Sound Earbuds with Microphone
EDITORS RATING
7.0
SPECS
THE GOOD
The Brookstone Surround Sound Earbuds are lightweight and comfortable, and they offer good sound quality for the price. They do a decent job of creating a sense of open listening.
THE BAD
The ear loops of the Surround Sound Earbuds are not adjustable, and the cable isn't long enough for use with a computer.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Brookstone Surround Sound Earbuds are inexpensive, comfortable, and do a decent job of offering an open audio experience. If you frequently suffer from listener fatigue, definitely consider these headphones.
REVIEWED:
30-Apr-2007 01:59 PM PDT
Motorola Q, Amp'd Edition
EDITORS RATING
7.0
SPECS
Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone Edition, 64 MB, Up to 240 min, CDMA2000 1X 800/1900
THE GOOD
The Motorola Q boasts a sexy, ultrathin design and features a sharp display, a full QWERTY keyboard, and multimedia functionality. The Amp'd Edition also includes access to the carrier's TV and music services, and it features a revamped, hipper interface. This Windows Mobile 5 smart phone has integrated Bluetooth, a speakerphone, a 1.3-megapixel camera, and solid call quality.
THE BAD
Video playback on the Moto Q, Amp'd Edition was a bit choppy, and it was sluggish when accessing and downloading multimedia content.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Motorola Q, Amp'd Edition brings a fresh look and content to the Windows Mobile smart phone that will appeal to the provider's younger audience.
REVIEWED:
29-Apr-2007 04:31 PM PDT
OQO Model 02 - C7-M 1.5 GHz - 5" TFT
EDITORS RATING
7.0
SPECS
16 oz, VIA C7-M (1.5 GHz), 1 GB DDR II SDRAM, 5 in TFT active matrix, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
THE GOOD
Sleek black design; HDMI output; raised, backlit keys make it the most comfortable UMPC for typing; number pad; screen-side scroll bars.
THE BAD
Weak performance and battery life; BlackBerry-style keyboard not great for productivity.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The OQO model 02 is a well-designed, attractive UMPC. If not for its slow CPU and short battery life, it would be a clear category leader.
REVIEWED:
23-Apr-2007 11:36 AM PDT
XtremeMac Luna
EDITORS RATING
7.0
SPECS
3 month warranty, AM/FM, Clock radio with iPod cradle, Stereo, LCD
THE GOOD
The XtremeMac Luna offers a plethora of alarm options, and it tunes into both AM and FM bands. Sound quality at a close range is good, and the remote offers bass and treble controls. Includes auxiliary line input for use with non-iPod MP3 players.
THE BAD
The XtremeMac Luna lacks an autoscan function and you must manually input presets; FM radio reception isn't the greatest. The remote can't navigate through iPod menus.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The XtremeMac Luna is a decent-sounding tabletop iPod radio with plentiful alarm options and funky chrome knobs--if you're in the market for a bedside speaker unit, don't overlook this one.
REVIEWED:
19-Apr-2007 12:42 PM PDT
SanDisk Sansa Shaker (blue)
EDITORS RATING
7.0
SPECS
Blue, Blue, 512 MB, Digital player, Stereo, Stereo, MP3, 1 x AA alkaline AAA type Standard battery
THE GOOD
The SanDisk Sansa Shaker features a simple, kid-friendly design and will be available in a variety of colors. The player is half-toy and shuffles up music when shaken. Fun sound effects when the player is paused or turned on and off add to its appeal. It's inexpensive and includes an external speaker and two headphone jacks for sharing.
THE BAD
The flap covering the ports on the bottom of the Shaker may not be durable over time, and the lack of rechargeable battery may not appeal to everyone. The player only supports MP3s.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you want to get your children started on digital music at a young age, the Sansa Shaker provides a great way to do so: it's inexpensive, simple, and acts like a toy.
REVIEWED:
18-Apr-2007 03:38 PM PDT
Motorola Slvr L7c (Verizon Wireless)
EDITORS RATING
6.6
SPECS
3.7 oz, Up to 240 min, CDMA2000 1X 1900/800, With digital camera / digital player
THE GOOD
The Motorola Slvr L7c for Verizon offers a sleek design, EV-DO support, and a speakerphone.
THE BAD
The Motorola Slvr L7c for Verizon has a low-grade VGA camera and lacks stereo Bluetooth. The phone's EV-DO performance was a tad slow and call quality was shaky on our end.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Motorola Slvr L7c for Verizon undoubtedly offers style but missing features and uneven performance hold it down.
REVIEWED:
25-Apr-2007 03:37 PM PDT
Samsung SGH-T329
EDITORS RATING
6.6
SPECS
THE GOOD
The Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe has an appealing design with user-friendly controls. It also offers a decent feature set including Bluetooth and a speakerphone.
THE BAD
The Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe had patchy sound quality and lacks true world phone capability.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Though the Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe offers Bluetooth and an appealing design, sound quality wasn't reliable.
REVIEWED:
23-Apr-2007 11:14 AM PDT
Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe (black)
EDITORS RATING
6.6
SPECS
2.8 oz, Up to 360 min, GSM 850/1800/1900 (Tri-Band), With digital camera
THE GOOD
The Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe has an appealing design with user-friendly controls. It also offers a decent feature set including Bluetooth and a speakerphone.
THE BAD
The Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe had patchy sound quality and lacks true world phone capability.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Though the Samsung SGH-T329 Stripe offers Bluetooth and an appealing design, sound quality wasn't reliable.
REVIEWED:
23-Apr-2007 11:14 AM PDT
T-Mobile Sidekick iD
EDITORS RATING
6.0
SPECS
Up to 300 min
THE GOOD
The T-Mobile Sidekick iD carries an affordable price tag and features interchangeable bumpers for customization. The handheld also comes preloaded with popular instant messaging clients, its own e-mail account, and an HTML Web browser.
THE BAD
The Sidekick iD strips out too many features, most notably a camera. Surfing the Net on the device is slow without the EDGE speeds.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The T-Mobile Sidekick iD offers all the great messaging capabilities of the Sidekick 3 at half the price, but the rest of the handheld's feature set is very limited; too bare-bones, in our opinion. That said, young, cash-strapped kids will find the iD to be a good option.
REVIEWED:
18-Apr-2007 04:23 PM PDT
Pantech PN-218
EDITORS RATING
5.6
SPECS
THE GOOD
The Pantech PN-218 offers voice commands and a speakerphone. Also, the landscape display may be attractive to some users.
THE BAD
The Pantech PN-218 has a dull design, an awkward shape, and poorly designed controls.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Pantech is certainly different, but we couldn't get past the design flaws.
REVIEWED:
23-Apr-2007 10:50 AM PDT
iBuyPower Battalion 101 LX750
EDITORS RATING
5.3
SPECS
AMD Turion 64 X2 mobile technology (2.2 GHz), 2 GB DDR II SDRAM, 17 in TFT active matrix, Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium
THE GOOD
The iBuyPower Battalion 101 LX750 is inexpensive and has adequate performance for casual gamers. Compact and lightweight for its class, it has an attractive display and a built-in Webcam.
THE BAD
The keyboard is unnecessarily cramped; stiff mouse buttons; disc drive made mysterious noises; lousy Photoshop performance results; merely average selection ports and connections.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Despite its attractive price, a few design flaws prevent us from recommending the iBuyPower Battalion 101 LX750 gaming laptop.
REVIEWED:
28-Apr-2007 02:32 PM PDT
DreamGEAR i.Sound TimeTravel - clock with iPod dock
EDITORS RATING
5.0
SPECS
Clock radio with iPod cradle, LCD
THE GOOD
The i.Sound Time Travel iPod alarm clock is one of the smallest iPod docking alarm clocks we've seen, and its features are easy to use once you get past a few quirks.
THE BAD
The clock display is difficult to read at certain angles; there's no radio; and the alarm activation controls could be managed better.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you can live with some sacrifices, the i.Sound Time Travel iPod alarm clock offers an inexpensive and attractive way to wake up to music from your iPod.
REVIEWED:
26-Apr-2007 12:08 PM PDT
Systemax Pursuit 4155 (Intel Core Duo T2250, Vista Ultimate)
EDITORS RATING
4.4
SPECS
6.2 lbs, Intel Core Duo (1.73 GHz), 1 GB DDR II SDRAM, 15.4 in TFT active matrix, Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate
THE GOOD
The Systemax Pursuit 4155 laptop has a beautiful, bright display and a built-in Webcam.
THE BAD
Previous-generation components result in mediocre performance; keyboard uncomfortable for long stints of typing; lacks dedicated multimedia controls; lacks DVD burner.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Systemax Pursuit 4155 is one of the least expensive Vista Ultimate laptops we've seen, but its previous-generation components and mediocre features aren't worth buying. You can get more for your money elsewhere.
REVIEWED:
20-Apr-2007 05:30 PM PDT
T-Mobile Sidekick 3, D-Wade Edition
SPECS
Up to 270 min
THE GOOD
THE BAD
THE BOTTOM LINE
Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade lends his personal style to this limited edition of the T-Mobile Sidekick 3.
REVIEWED:
27-Apr-2007 02:21 PM PDT
Dooney and Bourke Clear Doodle Pouch
SPECS
THE GOOD
THE BAD
THE BOTTOM LINE
Carry your Sanyo M1 in style with this tan leather case.
REVIEWED:
24-Apr-2007 11:16 AM PDT
Micro Travel Charger CMT-60
SPECS
THE GOOD
THE BAD
THE BOTTOM LINE
This charger packs a lot of energy in a small, portable design.
REVIEWED:
24-Apr-2007 11:12 AM PDT
Executive Leather Holster "S" Belt Clip 21855
SPECS
THE GOOD
THE BAD
THE BOTTOM LINE
This black leather case combines subtle style and practicality.
REVIEWED:
24-Apr-2007 11:11 AM PDT
Kajeet
SPECS
THE GOOD
THE BAD
THE BOTTOM LINE
Kajeet is a pay-as-you-go mobile virtual network operator created just for families. The service lets parents control what services their kids use, and its offering of full-fledged cell phones for children gives kids the flexibility they want.
REVIEWED:
19-Apr-2007 04:34 PM PDT
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