My Favorite Devices of 2024 | Phone, Laptop, Earbuds and More
It's hard to believe that 2024 is almost over! This year, I've had the opportunity to test out a ton of new tech gadgets, and I wanted to share some of my absolute favorites that have earned a permanent spot in my daily routine. From phones to earbuds to some unexpected additions, let's dive into the devices that impressed me the most this year.
The Phone I Keep Coming Back To:
With so many amazing phones released in 2024, it might surprise you that my top pick is the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. While I do miss the aspect ratio of the original Fold, this phone is hard to beat. The camera might not be the absolute best, but it's incredibly reliable, and features like Magic Editor and Reimagine are game-changers for me. The hardware is sleek and lightweight, the dual screens are bright and beautiful, and the performance in normal day-to-day tasks is top-notch. It's the phone I reach for day in and day out.
A Surprise Champion in the Laptop World:
This year, I took a leap of faith and bought my first Windows laptop in a long time: the Surface Laptop 7. Powered by the Snapdragon X Elite chip, this Windows-on-Arm device has been a revelation. The battery life is simply incredible, lasting for days in standby mode. While there are some compatibility issues with certain applications, it hasn't affected my workflow at all. The keyboard, trackpad, and overall design are superb, making it the best laptop I've ever used.
Unexpected Audio Upgrade:
One of the most pleasant surprises of 2024 was the Edifier R1280DBs speakers. While they're marketed for use with record players or stereo systems, I had a different idea. I connected them to my Nebula Cosmos projector to boost the audio, and the result was a truly cinematic experience. The sound is rich and powerful, adding a whole new dimension to my movie nights and sporting events even if my Tennessee Titans just keep losing.
Earbuds That Finally Fit:
After years of searching for the perfect earbuds, I finally found them in the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. They have everything I've been looking for: great audio quality, a comprehensive feature set, seamless integration with Google Gemini, and most importantly, a comfortable and secure fit. The unique design keeps them snugly in my ears, even during long listening sessions. They've become my go-to earbuds for everything from music to podcasts.
Power on the Go:
As someone who relies heavily on mobile tech, a reliable battery bank is essential. The Ugreen 25,000mAh battery bank has been a lifesaver. With its massive capacity and 145W charging speed, I can charge my phone and laptop simultaneously without breaking a sweat. The built-in display keeps me informed about the remaining charge, ensuring I'm never caught off guard.
A Blast from the Past:
While I've tested numerous retro handheld consoles this year, the Anbernic RG35XXSP has captured my heart. Its Game Boy Advance SP-inspired design takes me right back to my childhood. While it might not be the most powerful option out there, its nostalgic form factor and the joy of playing Pokemon ROM hacks make it a winner in my book.