Best business gadgets and accessories of 2021

Date:
Fri, 10 Sep 2021 14:29:14 +0000

Description:
Our round-up of the best business productivity tools around.

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Welcome to our pick of the best business accessories currently available. These are the latest gadgets and tools that can help transform any modern office to become more productive and better connected.

The best business accessories you'll find in this guide have novel approaches to improving productivity and efficiency, and would fit right in amongst office staples like printers, servers and routers. These are the products
that will give you that extra boost as the pandemic soldiers on and
businesses and organizations worldwide discover the joys and pains of hybrid working. Discover the best business VPN for you Image 1 of 4 Hyper 100W GaN laptop charger (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 4 Hyper 100W GaN laptop charger (Image credit: Future) Image 3 of 4 Hyper 100W GaN laptop charger (Image credit: Future) Image 4 of 4 Hyper 100W GaN laptop charger (Image credit: Future) HyperJuice GaN 100W USB-C charger

It's compact, stackable and surprisingly affordable Well priced Great design Stackable Up 100W per port No UK 3-pin plug version Short warranty

HyperJuice, which is owned by tech accessory behemoth Targus, launched a 100W stackable 100W USB-C charger that is based on Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, allowing it to be more power efficient. That means that it is far more compact than more traditional power delivery technologies and can also deliver much higher power outputs.

Other than a 100W model, there's a smaller 65W one which is currently out of stock. Note that there's no 3-pin UK plug version available at the time of writing and the warranty on the HyperJuice 100W USB-C charger is only one year. (Image credit: Future) Mujjo laptop sleeve

A stylish laptop sleeve, whatever your device Stylish design Lightweight Lots of storage Some laptops won't fit

Keeping your devices protected whilst out and about is always important - but what if you want to do it in style? Dutch company Mujjo has a number of high-end cases and sleeves for phones and laptops alike, and we got out hands on its Macbook Air 13" sleeve to try out.

The design is certainly luxurious, made from a combination of felt and vegetable-tanned leather, secured with a single snap button to allow for
quick opening and closing. The sleeve has been designed for the latest new
13" MacBook Air and MacBook Pro devices, but we found it worked with other laptops as well. Inside, your device is kept safe thanks to the felt
interior, which also includes integrated storage compartments to allow you to store documents and other essentials - and there's even a special slot to store debit/credit cards or an SD card.

This is definitely a luxury item for your device, and one that will certainly make you stand out from the crowd. (Image credit: Future) (Image credit: RAVPower) PD Pioneer 20000mAh 80W AC portable laptop charger

A compact portable laptop charger with a short recharge time AC wall socket USB C and USB A ports Carrying case included Bulky

Keeping all of your devices topped up and ready to use has certainly gotten easier with the advent of portable power banks . However, what about when you also need to power a laptop, portable monitor or even a small TV when
outdoors and away from a power outlet? Thankfully, some manufacturers have begun to add AC outlets to their portable batteries so you can charge or
power almost any device regardless of whether it connects via USB or with a plug.

For those looking for a portable laptop charger that wont break the bank, RavPower has you covered. The companys PD Pioneer 20000 costs only $89.99 and can charge all of your devices as it features a USB-C port, a USB-A port and
a three-prong AC wall socket. RavPower also makes two different variants of the device depending on whether you need a North American or UK wall socket
to charge your laptop or other AC-powered devices.

As its name suggests, the PD Pioneer 20000 contains a 20,000mAh battery capable of delivering 74Wh of power. The devices 30W PD port can fully charge a 2015 Macbook in around two hours while its Quick Charge 3.0 port can
deliver up to 18W of power to compatible USB-A devices. The PD Pioneer 20000s AC port can even reach a max AC output of 100W.

If youre getting ready for a trip and just remembered to pack your PD Pioneer 20000, you wont have to wait too long to fully charge the device as it can be recharged in just three hours. While certainly larger than most power banks, the device can easily be slipped into a side pocket of a backpack or
messenger bag as it is 2.7 inches wide and 5.8 inches long. However, you wont want to be lugging the PD Pioneer 20000 around for too long as the device weighs 660g.

In addition to one USB-C to USB-C cable, RAVPower also includes a carrying pouch complete with pockets to keep its portable laptop charger safe on the go. Its worth noting that a USB-C adapter isnt included but if youre in the market for a portable battery with a USB-C port, youll likely still have the one that came with your smartphone or laptop. (Image credit: Future) Logitech Zone Wired Headset

Possibly the best wired headset around today Excellent sound Fully adjustable Automatic mute function No wireless option, obviously

As employees around the world adjust to a new way of working from home, the need for a robust and high-quality headset can be vital for those needing to take part in multiple conference calls.

Logitech is well known for its wide range of computing accessories, and the Zone Wired headset is its pitch to conquer the headset market for home workers. Connecting via USB-C or USB-A, the Zone Wired headset is a handy companion for video conferencing and collaborative calls across all the major software platforms - we've tried it with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet and Cisco Webex with no issues. Audio quality is incredibly clear, with the built-in microphone having no problem picking up speech even at low volumes, and the headphones themselves giving excellent playback - and aren't half bad as general music devices either.

The microphone even features an automated mute function when you flip it up, meaning if you need to grab a drink of water, cough or even shout at the family to calm down, your colleagues will be none the wiser.

However the only downside is, as the name suggests - the lack of wireless capability. The Zone Wired does feature an extremely lengthy headphone wire, but if you're looking for something you can use whilst on the move, this is not for you. (Image credit: Future) (Image credit: Rapoo / Amazon) Rapoo
K2600 wireless multimedia keyboard with touchpad

A potential partner for your business presentation Very affordable Two-year warranty No Linux compatibility No physical mouse button

The K2600 is the latest in a growing band of multimedia keyboards invading boardrooms and TV lounges, as businesses and movie fans alike discover that smart TVs, HTPC and business displays require more than just a remote control to make the most out of their functionalities.

This keyboard comes with an integrated touchpad, but without physical mouse buttons, which is likely to irk purists that prefer the Logitech K400 Plus .

At 24.99 from Argos (roughly $30/AU$45), it is cheaper than the
aforementioned Logitech model, but less widely available. The much larger touch area of the K2600 means you will be able to swipe, pan, zoom, tilt and perform all kinds of multitasking gestures, perhaps with greater ease.

The peripheral connects with the host device via a bundled Bluetooth dongle (lodged inside the keyboard) with a range of up to 10 meters. But you wont be able to connect directly via Bluetooth, which is a shame.

There are also seven programmable keys located at the top of the keyboard for rapidly accessing your favorite applications.

Theres a sealed anti-oxidation membrane under the 86 scissor keys which, according to the manufacturer, extends the lifespan by preventing oxidization of the internal circuits and minimizing the risk of key defects.

Bear in mind you also get a two-year warranty, as well as two AAA batteries that should last about a year.

Note, the keyboard doesnt support Linux and theres no option for left handed people. We are also not huge fans of its non-chiclet key design, as the keys (which are part concave, part convex) tend to be slightly more wobbly, with spongy feedback and short travel. This certainly doesnt help if youre typing from your sofa, without a hard surface to work with.

Given the ubiquity of laptops, it is puzzling that only one known peripheral manufacturer has managed to produce a wireless keyboard (and touchpad) that mimics the design of laptop base units. The Keysonic ACK-540 series is more than a decade old and, while it may suffer from a way too small touchpad, it should provide a far more pleasurable experience for prolonged typing
periods, minimizing the risk of RSI and wrist pain. (Image credit: Amazon / Rapoo) Rapoo 8200M multimedia wireless keyboard and mouse combo

An affordable peripheral set that can connect to multiple devices easily Affordable for what it offers Two-year warranty Can connect up to 4 devices
No Linux compatibility

The 8200M from Rapoo is a wireless keyboard and mouse combo that can connect via Bluetooth and a bundled 2.4GHz adaptor to up to three compatible devices simultaneously, and switch seamlessly between them via four dual-function keyboard keys (1, 2, 3 and 4).

This means you should be able to connect to a smartphone, smart TV (or
Android box) or laptop with ease, at a range of up to 10 metres.

The keyboard is also spill-resistant and has 10 multimedia keys located on
the top edge, with 113 scissor keys in total.

The 8200M's chiclet-style keys have good travel, but the feedback should be better and the Enter key bigger. That said, we didnt encounter any issues
with touch typing and nor did we suffer a higher error.

The 8200M is available in black or white and retails for 37.70 from Box (roughly $50/AU$70).

As with other Rapoo models, this one comes with bundled batteries and a two-year warranty. The company claims the keyboard will last up to 12 months on one set of batteries, while the mouse will survive up to nine.

Speaking of the latter, you can adjust its DPI sensor from the mouse itself via a DPI switch, between 600 and 1600dpi. However, we have used it for a couple of weeks and find it slightly too mushy for our taste.

The mouse worked without trouble, but we would have preferred a rounder
shape. When it comes to input peripherals, though, it is often a matter of personal preference.

The 8200M is not the firm's top of the range keyboard combo; that title belongs to the 9900M, which has a 4.0 mm ultra-slim design with aluminum
alloy base and a different placement for the multimedia keys.

However, it is the mouse that boasts the greatest innovations, with a fully adjustable DPI sensor (up to 3200dpi), a far more ergonomic design, a side-scroll wheel and a built-in eco-friendly battery that can be charged via a USB port. (Image credit: RAVPower) RAVPower GaN Wall Chargers: 65W and 90W

Rapid charging for high-capacity devices Fast charge for later batteries Compatible with USB-A and USB-C Dual device charging Sometimes obscures adjacent power sockets

Gallium nitride (GaN) wall chargers are able to refuel devices at a much faster pace than their silicon counterparts - and theyre also more petite and energy-efficient.

So, if youre looking for a way to charge your high-capacity devices quickly - including laptops, power banks and more - look no further than these two GaN wall chargers from RAVPower.

The 65W RAVPower PD 2-Port model can push a 15-inch MacBook Pro from totally depleted to fully charged in two hours (instead of four). Thanks to its two ports, it can also charge multiple devices simultaneously, which is perfect
if youre caught short with both your laptop and phone out of power.

Its footprint is also 30% smaller than equivalent products (as well as most OEM chargers) and this compact design means the adapter fits easily into a pocket or backpack.

Then theres the even more powerful 90W PD Pioneer 2-Port adapter , a heavy-duty GaN charger for devices with massive battery capacities. If you find your current high-wattage charger is excruciatingly slow, this might be the perfect piece of kit for you.

With this 90W adapter, you can expect a 7.5x improvement in charging times in comparison to the 30W chargers that come bundled with many electronics. For context, it charges a 15-inch MacBook Pro even faster than the 65W model in just 1.8 hours.

Unlike silicon chargers, the PD Pioneer doesnt overheat or short-circuit, allowing you to charge your devices for as long as you need. RAVPower has
also worked hard to ensure the adapter is as power-efficient as possible, achieving a charging efficiency of over 93%.

Its slightly larger than the 65W model at 64 x 64 x 32mm, compared to 55 x 55 x 31.5mm. We also presume its therefore marginally heavier than its 125g cousin, but its official weight isnt listed on the RAVPower website.

We havent managed to drop USB-A for USB-C just yet, so we were pleased to see these RAVPower wall chargers are compatible with both old and new USB connectors.

We were a little disappointed to see the adapters sometimes obscure multiple power sockets, especially if attached to an extension lead, so just bear that in mind if youre thinking about making a purchase.

As youd expect, the more powerful 90W adapter is slightly more expensive at $54.99 (roughly 45/AU$85), while the 65W model will run you $39.99 (roughly 33/AU$60), but neither are outrageously priced compared to alternatives on
the market. (Image credit: Eggtronic) Eggtronic Sirius 65W Universal Laptop Charger

The smallest 65W USB-C laptop power adapter in the world Exceptionally small Intelligent voltage detection Energy efficient A little expensive Non-US versions not available

Gone are the days of packing tens of different device chargers for every
trip. This attractive little piece of kit from Eggtronic allows you to charge any USB-C device - from laptops to smartphones, tablets, cameras and more.

Eggtronic describes the Sirius as the smallest 65W USB-C laptop power adapter in the world - and we can certainly vouch for its miniature proportions. At less than 0.1kg and with dimensions of 69 x 50.5 x 19.5 mm, its smaller and lighter than a pack of cards.

Designed in Italy and available in black or white, the Sirius sports a sleek and minimalistic aesthetic, so it wouldnt look out of place connected up to, say, a MacBook Pro.

It's also finished with an anti-fingerprint coating that repels both oil and water, which means your charger should retain its clean matte finish long after its initial few outings.

The charger uses a nifty automatic voltage and current detection system to ensure its compatible with all USB-C devices (up to 20 volts and 3.25
amperes) and is safe to use in all scenarios.

Many similar products use GaN power transistors to shrink charger size and
cut costs. Eggtronic, however, uses EcoVoltas technology for an efficiency gain of 3% over other GaN chargers on the market. All in all, 93% of energy drawn from the mains is converted into device charge, which isnt bad going at all.

The same technology ensures gadgets connected up to the Sirius remain cool while on charge, extending their lifespan to the greatest degree possible.

In terms of quality of life features, collapsible prongs mean the Sirius wont snag on any items of clothing in your luggage as youre travelling from A to
B. The USB-C cable that comes bundled - which is an impressive 1.8m long - is also made of durable material, so you dont have to worry about it fraying or snapping with re-use.

It's also worth noting that cable tips for not USB-C devices are available on the Eggtronic website, if you've fallen in love with the Sirius but own a handful of non-compatible devices.

Our only major gripe with the product is the price point, which sits a little above rival products at $68.99 (roughly 55/AU$105). If youre willing to forfeit the sleek design and tiny footprint, you might want to consider a cheaper alternative.

Unfortunately, it also appears the adapter is only compatible with US wall sockets. The need for EU and UK-based customers to employ an additional converter does detract somewhat from the sleekness of the Sirius. (Image credit: Future) BenQ InstaShow S WDC20

Flexible, no fuss presentation system for conference rooms 4K resolution Plug-and-play; no software required Platform and OS agnostic No USB-C connector (yet)

Theres nothing worse than tech trouble at the start of a big presentation. BenQ's latest device does away with software and the need for a connection, allowing presenters to hit the ground running.

Its as simple as plugging an InstaShow Button into the presenting device via USB and HDMI, or casting via AirPlay for iOS, Miracast for Android or the InstaShow mobile app.

The InstaShow S WDC20 , designed for large conference rooms, can connect to almost any device. Its platform and OS agnostic, so notebooks using Windows, Mac and Chrome are all compatible.

It also supports 4K resolution, which is ideal for projectors and flat panel displays. Video is transmitted at a very healthy 60fps (up to 1080p) with low latency, which means no jarring screen tear or lag.

BenQs device can mirror the screens of up to four sources at once, so
multiple presenters can contribute simultaneously. Presenters using an interactive flat panel touch screen can also annotate their presentations at the front of the room, without input into the source device.

IT departments especially will appreciate the WDC20s commitment to security. The product operates independently of the network, minimising corporate network attack profile. It also establishes a 128-bit encrypted link before transmitting any content.

The WDC20 sports a slate grey and black colour scheme, with blue lighting around the perimeter of the buttons, making for a sleek and professional aesthetic. Provided the InstaShow Host kit is concealed effectively (e.g. under the conference table), its no eye sore.

On the downside, the InstaShow Buttons dont feature a USB-C connector, which means two cables (USB 3.0 and HDMI) run into the presenters device. On the rare occasion HDMI and USB ports are not on the same side of the laptop, this could pose a serious issue. BenQ says USB-C will be introduced to the transmitters later this year.

The pack contains two InstaShow Buttons for connecting to devices, one cradle to hold the buttons when not in use, and an InstaShow Host which receives the signal transmitted by the buttons. It comes in at $1,499 at the time of writing. (Image credit: Future) Skyroam Solis 4G LTE Hotspot

A well-built hotspot in a very crowded market No need to change SIM Very well built Relatively affordable Cost of data can be prohibitive Solis X may be a better option for data-hungry users

The Skyroam Solis is a palm sized, SIM-free Wi-Fi hotspot that is easy to set-up and use. There are no contracts involved, with four pay-as-you-go
plans available and up to five devices can connect to a single Skyroam at once.

This means that your cost per GB remains the same wherever you go, (with a
1GB package costing $9, with options going up to 20GB ($180)) but that you dont get any discounts for taking bigger packages. The device uses its own patented virtual SIM technology to connect to WiFi and has over 300 partnerships with network carriers around the world.

Its especially useful outside of Europe as it saves you from having to use unsafe and unreliable public WiFi connections and running the risk of incurring huge data bills. We tested the service outside of London and got 7Mbps upload and surprisingly, 17Mbps download speeds. In comparison, our smartphone - on Three - hit 12Mbps download speeds and 2.3Mbps upload -
hardly 4G speeds but good enough for most tasks.

The Solis itself resembles an orange puck and contains two batteries
totalling 6Ah that can power it for up to 16 hours, as well as charging other devices thanks to a clever adaptor. Getting it up and running was easy although we would recommend you do it at home (or where you have
connectivity) to avoid any data roaming shocks.

The free Skyroam app has a smart button option that allows you to send an emergency SMS or an email with your current location to your friends, keep track of your location on Google sheets, tweet current location, get daily news & weather reports, locate lost gadgets and use Amazon Alexa to activate
a Skyroam plan

Although there is a rental option available for $8.99 per day (it can be
found at all major American airports), you can buy it outright from $150. An upgraded option is the Solis X, which boosts the number of devices you can connect (from five to 10) while adding a remote camera, smart assistant, a speaker, Bluetooth connectivity and a microphone for $30 extra. (Image
credit: Future) ZeroLemon Extreme Charge Station

A versatile charging station with plenty of juice Affordable price Solidly built Short on USB connectors

An affordable charger that can power all your devices at once and more,
either wired or wirelessly, the ZeroLemon can deliver up to 135W of power through four USB physical ports - 87W Type-C, 20W Type-C, two 15W Type-A -
and two wireless contact points (10W Qi charger, 3W Apple Watch charger).

A 87W charging point means that it can fully charge a 15-inch Apple MacBook Pro laptop in two hours and doesnt require an external power supply unit.

Engineers have included temperature control management, overvoltage, overcurrent, overcharge and short circuit protection. All the ports are located at the front and other than a power button and a charge voltage indicator, the unit remains blissfully clutter-free, with plenty of holes to allow air to circulate.

The device is also surprisingly compact at 140 x 100 x 33mm, bearing in mind that it includes the power supply unit which competitors often leave out. You only need to choose to attach a power cable and off you go.

We would have loved to see a few more Type-A connectors and perhaps data capabilities, at least on one port, although this may have pushed up its
price - which currently stands at a mere $59 if you back it on Kickstarter.

As always remember that all Kickstarter projects comes with a degree of risk and challenge and that you are backing rather than buying something. That said, given that we have a working product inhouse, the chances of this particular campaign not working out should be greatly reduced. (Image credit: Future) OWC USB-C travel dock

A must-have for travellers and Mac users alike Great value for money Eye-catching design Smart cable management Hard to obtain

Travel docks have become more popular as laptop manufacturers continue to reduce the number of ports on their devices. Theres a lot of competition from established players (like HP or Lenovo) and new challengers (like Pluggable
or Anker), but then there is this new entry from Other World Computing (AKA OWC).

The company has introduced a new high performance workflow solution travel dock (OWCTCDK5P2SG) which is one of the smallest weve seen recently, and one that comes with the all important Power Delivery pass-through feature.

This allows up to 100W of power to be delivered to a laptop or anything else that has a Type-C plug, and is an upgrade to the existing tradel dock from
OWC that can only do 60W.

Theres a single Type-C connector, two USB 3.1 ports, an SD card reader and a HDMI 2.0 port. At 80 x 80 x 23mm, it is small enough to be carried in your back jeans pocket and includes a captive 15cm cable which has a groove to allow you to pull it out (and put it back) easily.

Now, you should in theory be able to connect your phone to a monitor for example although we couldnt get it done on our Google Pixel 2XL.

Other than the two year warranty and the deliberately subdued design, the travel dock carries a price tag of $54.99 (from Macsales) and is available in space gray only. The cheaper, smaller 60W version retails for $43.88 and
comes in gold, rose gold and silver as well. (Image credit: Future) Alogic USB-C dock plus

A unique product that comes some impressive features Can drive two external monitors Double card readers 100W power delivery Cable management could be better

It may not be as compact as some of the competition, but the Alogic USB-C
dock plus packs a big bunch with an affordable price tag. The ULDPLS-SGR, to give it its official name, retails for only $70 at Amazon and yet packs some features we havent found anywhere else (at least not on a travel dock).

Built from aluminum and ABS plastic, the docking station is portable enough
to be shoved in your shirts pocket. It comes with a two year warranty and has built in technology to shield it from surrounding magnetic interference.

The Alogic USB-C dock uses the latest Power Delivery (PD 3.0) specifications to provide up to 100W of power to compatible devices which is impressive enough compared to some of its competitors. But theres more; two card readers (although you cant use both simultaneously), two graphics ports (HDMI and DisplayPort) which can be used at the same time albeit at a reduced full HD resolution. Theres also a Gigabit Ethernet port and two USB Type-A inputs
plus a Type-C connector.

On the downside, the cable management could be better with a dedicated
storage slot. Wed also love more USB Type-C connectors but other than that
the dock itself is pretty much as mature as it gets. Note that a cheaper and simpler version exists, one which eschews the LAN and display port, offering
a near 50 percent discount. (Image credit: Future) Omars AC Power Bank

An absolute monster of a battery pack Huge capacity Excellent price Compact size No power delivery option Few connection ports

Imagine this; you are preparing to go on a weekend trip with a lot of gear that require an AC outlet. The problem is that theres no power ports where youre going. Whats the solution? A generator would be too big and probably
too expensive - but aA battery pack like the Omars AC power bank might be the answer.

With a staggering 40.2Ah capacity, it is one of the biggest power banks weve seen to date, one that can power virtually every single laptop on the planet (including this Eurocom workstation ).

On sale for as little as $119.95 , it is actually within the limit set by
the TSA for batteries on flights. External batteries can have a maximum capacity of 160Whr. The Omars AC Power Bank stands at 146Whr; note that you cannot check it in, you will have to bring it in your hand luggage.

It is about the size of a chunky bedside book and weighs just under 500g. As expected, it is jam-packed with technology to prevent it from breaking down: under voltage and over voltage protection, short circuit protection, over-current protection, AC out short circuit protection, AC out over-current protection and over temperature protection.

The electronics and a dozen of LG-built 18650 batteries are encased in a solidly built chassis and has two USB Type-A ports (sadly no Type-C)and a 2-pin power outlet (US version) or a 3-pin one (UK version), the latter of which can deliver up to 90W of usable power. Note that the device doesnt come with any USB cables and none of the USB ports are fast-charging ones. (Image credit: Future) Timekettle WT2 Plus AI translator

The real Babelfish has finally landed Works very well Reasonably priced Allow real hands-free communication Installation could be clearer One out of every 20 words is misunderstood Doesn't offer in chat copy No integration with
third parties

When Time Kettle approached us for a hands-on with the WT2 Plus , we didnt have much faith in it despite it raking in more than $275,000 on Kickstarter. Billed as the first AI-powered, single-app earphone translator and capable of translating 36 languages and 84 accents in near real time (complete with written translation), it sounded (pun intended) too good to be true, especially for $239.

You get a pair of earphones (one per person) that come in an AirPod-like charger box that splits into two, with each half magnetically attached to one another. You will need the accompanying app (available on iOS as well) and internet connectivity to get it working and you get two pairs of extra ear buds and a microUSB cable for charging the case.

The earphones are relatively comfortable to wear; just bear in mind that the one with the dash on top of the indicator is for your guest. Three
translation modes are available: simul mode which is essentially a normal conversation between two people speaking different languages. Touch Mode, which is akin to a walkie-talkie mode and a more traditional app based translation, great for situations where you dont want to use the app. Note that you can't copy the translated text into another app. A shame as the WT2 Plus doesn't also integrate into any other environment.

During our brief test, the WT2 Plus performed admirably well, both in app and using the earphones. Ideally you will have a good internet connection and not a lot of background noise. Keep the phrases short as well where possible to minimize mistakes and there is a slight delay as one would expect.

However, these are minimal and, thanks to WT2 Pluss built in adaptive noise cancellation technology, you can make full use of non verbal forms of communications (hands, facial expression and body language). We liked the
fact that it integrates auto voice detection and pick up for seamless conversation.

Time Kettle says that the earphones will last five hours on a single charge with the charging case extending that to 15 hours.

The app allows you to access historical conversations and you cant choose voice pairs and most are females for the in-app translation. We dont know how support will be in the long run but the WT2 Plus received a firmware update during our brief testing period.

Theres no need to pass your smartphone (or translation device ) back and
forth (risky when the person is a complete stranger) or to ask the other person to download an app. All you need to do is put on the earpiece and
speak normally. You can buy the WT2 Plus directly from Amazon. Bear in mind that you are responsible for any taxes (import duty and VAT). (Image credit: Future) Logitech Zone Wireless Bluetooth Headset

Active noise cancellation with Qi-charging but watch out the price tag Well design Comfortable QI charging Expensive No audio port Battery life could be better

Logitechs new wireless headphones, Zone Wireless , is aimed squarely at the office end user with a pull out microphone boom, active noise cancellation
and the ability to move seamlessly between a smartphone and a computer.

At 181g, it is light enough to be carried around; Logitech provides with a soft plastic pouch; wed have preferred something a bit sturdier given its premium price (200). Other accessories include a USB-A dongle, a long (1.3m) charging USB cable. You cannot switch to wired connectivity should the
battery run flat.

Speaking of battery life, Logitech promises up to 14 hours of talk time with active noise cancellation (ANC) on and 15 without. Listening time varies between 14 hours (ANC on) and 16 hours (ANC off). We didnt reach those numbers. With ANC on, we topped eight hours at 70% charge (or under 11 hours 30 minutes).

Logitech also claims up to 30m wireless range (line of sight); that number depends partly on the receiving unit as well so your mileage will vary.

Controls on this premium on-ear wireless headset are kept to a strict
minimum: all the controls are located on its right hand side. A white status LED shows when the Zone Wireless is connected or connecting to a device. It provides with a simple interface to adjust volume, play and pause music,
start and end calls, activate/mute the microphone, plus button controls for power, active noise cancellation, and wireless Bluetooth pairing.

The headset also supports wireless Qi charging (or via a microUSB port) and comes with a handy mobile companion app (Logitech Tune) that allows you to control headset functions like mute, ANC and EQ presets as well as the side tone, which lets you hear your own voice during a conversation.

The Zone Wireless is more expensive than most of the competition but theres a good reason; it comes with a two-year warranty and its built quality is
better than cheaper models: silicone-padded headband and soft leatherette
will improve your comfort over long sessions and allow your skin to breath
and reduce sweating in hot environment.

ANC worked reasonably well and the audio performance of the set was subjectively good with plenty of details in the mid-frequencies but lacking when it comes to lower ones.

Not a surprise there given the nature of the product. Call quality is equally good thanks to a dual MEMS microphone array in a proper microphone boom that also uses a proprietary algorithm to filter out ambient background noise during conversations. (Image credit: Dell) Dell U3219Q 32-inch 4K monitor

A pin-sharp yet bulk display that could be a great addition to your office Sharp 4K display Excellent connectivity Adjustable for greater flexibility Bulky build Quite pricey

Having a great display is becoming increasingly important in many home offices, especially as more of us move to a multi-screen environment. Dell's newest 32-inch 4K monitor, the Dell U3219Q . offers a bright and vibrant
Ultra HD display that is perfect not just for video or gaming, but for workplace applications such as video-conferencing and data modelling.

The unit is fairly bulky once unpacked, but when set up can be adjusted to
fit a number of different space allowances, and thanks to an moveable height option, should mean it's not a strain on the eyes or neck.

The U3219Q features an incredibly useful collection of connectivity options, sporting not just HDMI, USB and DP ports, but USB-C as well, meaning it'll easily slip alongside your existing laptop or PC. The unit even ships with a USB-C and HDMI cable, meaning set-up is quick and easy - just what you need
to smarten up your office. Check out the best productivity apps you can get for your mobile device FLIR ONE Pro

Get a closer look at the world around you with this handy plug-and-play add-on. Compact design Hard-wearing build Detailed imaging Fiddly set-up Poor battery life High price

More and more industries are now choosing to use mobile devices in day-to-day operations out in the field thanks to their portability.

The FLIR ONE Pro offers a compact and powerful thermal imaging camera than
can show up in-depth information about the world around you.

Attaching via USB-C, the device clips onto the bottom of your phone, acting
as an extension to your normal camera, and displaying heat information on the world around you, with hotter objects showing up in brighter colours (see below).

The technology could prove incredibly useful for a number of industries, such as home inspectors looking to find insulation leaks, or electricians aiming
to identify an over-heating connection.

Youll need to download and register with the free FLIR ONE app in order to start using the device, which is an unneeded extra step for many, but does grant you access to the companys helplines, galleries and app store.

The actual app was often slow to recognise when we had the device plugged in and turned on, however, and sometimes failed to detect it at all, which was slightly annoying for us, but for a worker in the field could be a major hindrance to getting your work done.

Once you do get it up and running, however, the FLIR ONE Pros VividIR imaging system reveals a wealth of information on the world around you, and the compact build and design means its easy to carry around (although could also make it easier to lose in a crowded toolbox as well.)

Battery life is also not very long, with our tests only finding the device lasting just over an hour, although re-charging was a speedy process. If
youre out working in the field with a cable though, this could be a major downside.

The FLIR ONE Pro also doesn't come cheap, costing 349.95 in the UK, but it could prove invaluable for workers in such specialised areas, and is definitely worth your consideration. TP-Link M7650 Mobile Wi-Fi hotspot

A majorly fast, and simple to use, compact mobile Wi-Fi hotspot Slim yet
tough design Fast download speeds Excellent battery life Simple set up Tough to track down in the UK

TP-Link says that the M7650 is the fastest Wi-Fi router it has ever made, offering speeds of up to 600MBps, which is easily enough to stream video to your laptop or tablet whilst on the move, as well as high-quality VoLTE audio through your phone - useful if you don't want to miss that conference call.

Our tests found that the device often reached speeds of over 500MBps, which
is impressive for central London, and more than enough to enjoy reliable connections whilst on the move.

The M7650 can support up to 32 devices at once, meaning you can set up multiple connections around the home, or even in a small office if needs be - although speeds will drop if you do so. Set up is remarkably easy, requiring you to just insert the SIM card and turn on, making this much more straightforward than other similar devices.

Battery life for the device was excellent, lasting a full working day with ease, as TP-Link says that the M7650 can offer up to 15 hours of juice, and recharging the huge 3000mAh battery is also quick and easy using the microUSB port.

The M7650 is also light and portable, being small enough to fit inside a jacket pocket, and its rubber build will help protect from any accidental drops or bumps.

However buying the device in the UK is a bit tricky, as you'll have to go through a reseller. This means you'll also need to be on the lookout for differing price options, but if you get the right deal, the M7650 is a must-have. Invoxia NVX200 desk phone

Turn your mobile into a desk phone Great design Easy to use Expensive No USB Type-C

We love our smartphones so much so that we carry them all the time even at
our work, prompting businesses to consider shedding regular landlines and simply embrace the BYOD (bring your own device) paradigm.

Which is why it is so surprising that few companies have come up with a product like the Invoxia NVX200. In a nutshell, this 209 device converts/transforms your smartphone into a desk phone with a Bluetooth
speaker and a charging dock thrown in. It comes with a bunch of connectors
and adaptors to connect most smartphones.

Most Apple devices (including the iPod, iPad and iPhone) are supported, as
are the latest Android smartphones, thanks to a USB Type-C port. A clever adjustable stand means that any device will sit snuggly on the NVX200.
Connect the device via Bluetooth to the latter, put your smartphone in place and youre ready to go.

Hold down the voicemail key bring up the settings and you will be able to configure the device to your taste, down to the ringtones. Outwardly, it
looks just like a normal desk phone, with lots of curves, a soft surface and
a handset with a cable thats sufficiently long for the user to stand up. Setting it up is straight forward: connect the device to a power socket, dock your smartphone, connect it to the NVX200 via Bluetooth and youre ready to
go. We did encounter some issues though.

The test smartphone, a Sony Xperia Z3, has a micro USB port located on the side rather than at the bottom of the device. To make matters worse, it is
not anywhere near the middle which makes it impossible to dock in landscape mode. Things got a bit more complicated when you factor in the casing used to protect it.

Altogether a wireless solution, which integrates no-wires charging, might
have been a better solution but would have restricted its appeal. We couldnt get the speaker to play music wirelessly but it did somehow play music via
the micro USB connector but only, and only if Bluetooth is disconnected. Immervox Multi SIM

An easier way to improve coverage Ease of use Works on feature phones Pricing

Fed up with losing your connectivity when out and about? Then check out the Multivox Multisim. It is a service that allows access to multiple UK mobile networks from a single SIM card.

No need to swap tiny pieces of PCB or opt for a sub-optimal dual-SIM smartphone to eliminate the issues associated with poor connectivity, especially when you are out and about. The technology works on almost any recent smartphones and feature phones and doesnt need a dedicated app.

If there is no coverage on the primary access network, then your phone will search for another available UK mobile network and if there is one available, it will connect to it. If there are multiple networks available, then it will pick up and run on the network with the strongest signal.

The Multisim works without having to manually select a different network to switch to and you get to keep your phone number regardless of the network.
The only caveat is that a call will drop when the network being used loses coverage altogether; there is no incall switching.

You get unlimited UK calls to mobiles and landlines as well as unlimited texts, all courtesy of EEs network. Four data packages are available, ranging from 2GB (29.40) to 10GB (41.90) excluding VAT. The packages can be
configured at Immervox . KnowRoaming Global Hotspot Service

Simplified, seamless worldwide communication Connection capacity: 15 | Connection type: 3G | Battery life: 15 hours Unlimited data in 92 countries Free Whatsapp Limited on-device control No consumer version available yet

There are a fair few solutions available for digitally-savvy globetrotters looking who whiz across the globe for leisure or pleasure. We might have uncovered one of the best ones yet.

From Knowroaming comes a global hotspot that uses a Novatel Wireless Mi-fi, the 6630, and can connect you up in more than 140 countries with 92 of them offering unlimited data for a flat fee of $7.99 per day (about 6.40), a price that even include free, unlimited Whatsapp.

We tried it during a recent trip to Japan where the cost of connectivity is prohibitive and international data roaming is a no-no unless you want to
spend hundreds. The Mi-fi device comes in a nice pouch with a few
accessories; we just took it out and used it for a few days. It is sturdy enough to withstand a few knocks.

The 6630 is about the size of a Tic-tac box and its user interface is intuitive with only three buttons and a small screen on its front. On top is the power button as well as two USB ports, one for charging up and the other to provide power to external devices.

Inside the 6630 is a 4,000mAh battery that can power the device for up to 20 hours. It is compatible with Cat4 LTE although KnowRoaming only supported 3G for now and an LTE offer is in the pipeline. In use, the service was as seamless as it could be.

Switch it on and connect to it using the provided login details. Note that
you cant change these from the device itself; that can only be done by accessing the device via a browser. Various options exist on the Mi-fi device including the ability to set a number of restrictions, the ability to view your consumption, the number of devices connected at any time and the battery life left. The 6630 supports dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi but no 802.11ac.

Since this is primarily marketed as a business device, it comes with a number of security features including VPN pass-through, NAT firewall, security hardened web interface, Anti-CSRF (Cross-Site Request Forgery) and session timeouts. Sadly though you wont be able to buy a consumer version of that
yet. Instead, the device is only being sold to corporates for $199 (about
160) with discounts being offered for multiple purchases.

As it stands, the service is meant to be managed centrally by an
administrator or IT manager with an entire backend, cloud-based
infrastructure provided by KnowRoaming. Suggested improvement to the Mi-fi device would include a thinner, more pocketable model, support for 802.11ac, the inclusion of a microSD card reader and having a smartphone app to allow you to access admin essential information from your smartphone, rather than through a browser.

Find out more at Knowroaming NUU Konnect i1

A light and slimline 4G mobile hotspot.
Elegant design Wide range of networks Speed throttling after certain usage Poor availability

If you've ever been stuck for mobile signal when travelling to a new country, then the NUU Konnect i1 could be the gadget for you.

Able to provide 4G connections in over 100 countries, the i1 looks to offer a simple, portable way to get online wherever you are in the world.

Most current mobile hotspots are only able to connect to 3G networks, so the Konnect i1 already has an advantage there, thanks to its LTE Cat 6 Qualcomm modem.

The device supports VPNs and Wi-Fi calling, and is equipped with LTE bands 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/17/20/39/40/41, meaning there's a wide range of possible connections.

NUU Mobile says that it is trying to target frequent travellers with the Konnect i1. The device itself is small enough and light enough to easily slip into your pocket, and is able to power up using its microUSB port.

Setting up is easy enough, with the capacity to connect up to five devices at any one time.

What's more, you'll only play a flat rate of $10 a day to use the device as much as you want, with no contract or sign-up fees.

However, after the first 500MB of data, you'll be dialled back to HSPA+ networks for the next 500MB you use, and then down again to just 128Kbps speeds for anything more than that, unless you spend more for further LTE usage.

For the moment, you can only get hold of the Konnect i1 if you backed the product on Kickstarter, with news of a wider release not available just yet. Netgear Nighthawk M1 mobile router

Slim and lightweight design Superfast speeds Easy set-up Day-long battery life Fragile build High price

Staying online when working on the go has become an incredibly important
issue for all mobile workers, as an unreliable connection can be a disaster.

Netgear is looking to solve these worries with its new Nighthawk M1 mobile router, which it says is the company's fastest yet. Capable of supporting Gigabit LTE speeds, the Nighthawk M1 uses four-band carrier aggregation and Qualcomm's Snapdragon X16 LTE modem to support mobile downloads of up to 1000MBps, as well as uploads of up to 150MBps. Our time with the device found the actual speeds to be fractionally lower, however streaming and uploading were both fast and reliable, both at home and out and about.

The Nighthawk M1 is slim and lightweight, meaning it can be easily carried around in a rucksack or messenger bag. Netgear says that the battery life of the can last 24 hours, and our tests found it comfortably survived a full working day. Set-up is a quick plug-in process, with no external software needed, and the device can even use its USB connectors to charge your mobile device.

In the UK, the Nighthawk M1 can be purchased from Amazon for 299, or via pay-monthly contract with BT or EE. Both options are fairly pricey, with EE offering the device for 29 a month for 24 months after a 99 upfront payment, but if you're looking for fast and reliable connections, this device is
ideal. (Image credit: Mike Moore) EMeet OfficeCore M2 Smart Speakerphone

A portable, but sometimes tricky smart speakerphone Stylish portable design High quality sound Smart Assistant links Set up can be tricky Hard to
purchase and quite pricey

With conference calls becoming an increasingly common part of modern business life, the need for reliable hardware to support this is greater than ever.
The OfficeCore M2 is the latest release from Chinese firm EMeet, and looks to provide a smart and stylish way to make sure your calls go off without a hitch.

The OfficeCore M2 offers 360-degree voice recognition thanks to a number of embedded microphones, supporting a range of up to 26 feet away, with the company adding that should support calls with up to 12 people without interference. The device can also link to mobile smart assistants to facilitate greater communication, with Siri, Cortana and Google Now all supported via Bluetooth, although our tests found that this was often patchy to set up.

The major selling point of the OfficeCore M2 is its portability. Equipped
with a 2500mAh battery that should easily last through even the longest conference calls, the device can quickly be picked up and carried around in a shoulder bag or rucksack. At $189, it's not the cheapest speakerphone on the market today, but if you're in the market for a device that can easily be taken on the go, this could be the one for you. GoTo Meeting

Everything you need to get your meeting room up to scratch - all in one box. Easy to unpack and set up Compact design Powerful hardware No standalone
mouse Need to buy as a package

If you've just started your own business, or need to work from home often, having a flexible and reliable technology set-up should be one of your top priorities.

In order to keep you from wasting time setting up complex systems, teleconferencing experts GoToMeeting have you covered with an all-in-one box of tools that should allow you to get up and running quickly.

The pack contains an Asus Chromebox PC, Logitech wireless keyboard, Logitech 1080p HD webcam and a FLX UC 500 conference phone from Revo labs - pretty
much everything you need to get started.

The products have all been specially selected to work seamlessly together, meaning most of the usual set-up process can be sped through quickly and easily - even if you're not particularly tech-savvy.

Setting up your new kit can be done in a matter of minutes - all you need is
a monitor to hook the PC and webcam up to, with all the rest of the hardware able to just plug and play.

The tiny Chromebox PC is incredibly powerful for something so small (at just 12.4cm wide and 4.2cm tall), coming with a powerful 1.7Ghz processor, 4GB of RAM and 16GB storage, making it a great choice if you are strapped for space in your office. The PC also features 4 USB ports alongside DP, HDMI and LAN connectors, offering everything you should need to get started.

Space saving is also helped by the Logitech wireless keyboard, which connects to the Chromebox via USB tracker, and also includes a trackpad in place of a mouse. If you do prefer using a physical mouse, you'll have to splash out on
a separate piece.

All the devices work together quickly and easily, meaning you'll be able to start working, calling and even videoconferencing in no time. The webcam is once again surprisingly powerful for its size, offering a smooth video experience, although we did see some slowdown in some cases.

The only minor downside is the need to buy the entire package, meaning that
if you only need a conference phone, or a compact PC, you may be better off buying these separately.

At the time of writing, the kit is only available to buy in the USA, costing $999, with a subscription fee of $99 a month, making it a fairly pricey proposition - however if you're already an existing GoToMeeting customer, it can be built into your current subscription. Orico SC28 Mobile Power Bank

A hugely flexible, but slightly bulky, laptop power bank that will keep you online all day. Huge capacity Flexible usage Slimline design Travel-friendly Slightly weighty

If you're someone who travels for work a lot, staying powered up on the move may often prove a challenge. Although power banks for mobile devices have
been popular for some time, anyone looking for a laptop equivalent could be caught short. However Orico's new SC28 offering provides a huge capacity that should be perfect for staying charged up on a trip. With a capacity of 28,800mAh, the SC28 provides easily enough juice for even the thirstiest laptops, which can be quickly recharged via USB or power socket.

The latter features a number of adaptors for different markets, meaning you

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