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Gift Guide: Kitchen gadgets and gear

What do you give the avid cook or grill master on your holiday shopping list?  You give them a cool new tool to help them whip up something tasty, that’s what.  Bob Patterson and I have selected 15 products that any gadget-loving chef will love!

Price range $100+

Joule Sous Vide by ChefSteps

The secret to perfectly cooked meats, fish, poultry, and vegetables is to cook them at the correct temperature for the correct time.  Cooking in the oven or on the stove top usually isn’t able to provide the correct temperature, because they use much higher temperatures because the heat must be transmitted through the air (oven) or a hot piece of metal (cooktop).  Because water can reach a set temperature and hold it for a long while (with a stable heat source), cooking in water is an ideal heating method.  Of course, cooking directly in water does bad things to meat textures and can extract all the vitamins and flavors from the vegetables.

The Joule Sous Vide heater sits in your cooking pot filled with water and heats and holds the correct temperature.  You immerse a food-safe plastic bag filled with the food and wait.  Because the water temperature is low and held at a steady temp, the food won’t overcook, even if left in the water longer than necessary.  After the food is cooked, you can transfer it to a pan for a quick searing or even coat and fry it just long enough to cook the breading.  The Joule is controlled by a smartphone app that allows you to choose the food type and degree of doneness (by looking at photos). -Janet

Price: $199
Where you can buy one: Sur La Table

Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Compressor

Making ice cream at home may be fun, but it usually involves keeping a big freezing vessel in the freezer at all times for modern machines or a keeping bunch of ice and rock salt on hand for when the urge to make ice hits.  With the Breville Smart Scoop, all you need is a bunch of counter space to hold this 6″ x 11″ x 9.5 ” high, 30.6 lb beauty.  The machine has a stainless steel and plastic housing and an aluminum mixing bowl.  All you have to do is add your ingredients and wait while the fully automatic Smart Scoop cools and stirs your to make 1.5 quarts of a tasty frozen concoction (no, not that one!). -Janet

Price: $399.95
Where you can buy one: Williams-Sonoma

Price range $50 – $100

Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp 1.7 liter cordless electric kettle

This electric kettle is perfect for coffee drinkers who use French press pots or AeroPress coffee makers, tea drinkers, or people who want to mix up instant soups, oatmeal, or noodles. The Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp kettle is made of stainless steel, and it has 1500W / 110V for quick heating. It holds 1.7L of water, and the six preset heat settings let you choose the perfect temperature for brewing. The pot itself is cordless for easy pouring, and the corded base has a 30-minute keep-warm function in case you decide on a second cup. -Janet

Price: $79.96
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Pampered Chef Ice Cream Maker

No one buys their own ice cream maker. That’s why they have friends like you! We reviewed the Pampered Chef Ice Cream Maker earlier this year and really liked it for its easy operation & cleanup.  It also makes a quart of ice cream at a time, so your cook can share the joys of your gift with you later. Everyone wins. -Bob Patterson

Price: $80.00
Read our review: Pampered Chef Ice Cream Maker review
Where you can buy one: Pampered Chef

Capresso Infinity Burr Grinder

Fresh ground coffee is simply amazing. Once you start grinding your own beans, you won’t go back. I’m shopping for a new coffee grinder at the moment, so I have been heavily researching the options. Burr grinders are the way to go, and the Capresso is one of the best you can find for under $100. With 16 different grind settings and a timer so that you don’t have to sit and stare at the machine, this is a good one. -Bob Patterson

Price: $82.00
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Weber Original Kettle Grill

Know someone who is ready to take their backyard grilling kung-fu up a notch? Charcoal grilling is magical, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good grill. Weber has been manufacturing the classic kettle-style grill since 1952, and it’s the gold standard for backyard barbecues. Searing, roasting, smoking… it handles it all. It’s easy to maintain, built like a tank, and backed by a ten-year warranty. There are also endless options to upgrade or mod the rig later for the gadget-inclined. This is the model that I have, by the way. -Bob Patterson

Price: $99.00
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Instant Pot DUO60 6 Quart 7 in 1 Pressure Cooker

I’m just learning about the joys of using a pressure cooker. They are amazingly versatile. I’ve cooked short ribs to pull-apart tender in under 40 minutes, and it does amazing things for soups and stews without cooking for hours. This digital model is getting a lot of rave reviews because it also a serious multitasker that will saute, steam, operate as a slow cooker or a rice cooker (among other things). It’s perfect for small kitchens or folks who want one tool to do it all. -Bob Patterson

Price: $97.50
Read our review: reviewing coming soon!
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Price range $10 – $50

Jokari hands-free baggy rack clips

Do you store food, either leftovers or meals from bulk cooking weekends, in plastic baggies?  You know how hard it can be to fill a plastic baggy with soup or stews without a helper to hold the baggy open.  With Jakari, filling up plastic baggies will become a one-person job.  You just slip the top of the bag into the Jokari clips and the bag stays open.  You can also use the Jokari arms to dry washed baggies for reuse. -Janet

Price: $11.26 for a set of two
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Star Wars R2-D2 Coffee Press

According to coffee lovers, one of the best ways to brew coffee is in an old-fashioned French press.  Nothing says your old French press has to look old-fashioned, and ThinkGeek is here to save you from boring with the R2-D2 Coffee Press.  This 32-ounce press is made of BPA-free plastic housing, a glass body, and a food-grade stainless steel filter assembly.  It measures 6.5″ wide x 9.5″ tall x 6.5″ deep (including the handle).  You’ll no longer have to head down to the cantina for a perfectly brewed cup of coffee! -Janet

Price: $39.99
Where you can buy one: ThinkGeek

The Glencairn Whisky Glass (set of 4)

Considered the “official whisky glass” by experts, you can’t go wrong with the Glencairn. The award-winning design features a tapered bowl enhances the flavors of the whisky and is dishwasher safe. Your whisky drinker will absolutely appreciate your taste in quality with these. I have several on my bar, and they’re essential for enjoying your whisky neat. -Bob Patterson

Price: $25.48
Where you can buy one: Amazon

The Malviner Poseidon Crystal Whisky Glass

I have an alternative pick for the whisky fan as well. If you’re looking for a fancy-pants upgrade, it doesn’t get much cooler than this. These crystal whisky glasses are stunning works of art. Just look at them. They’re gorgeous. These are on my wish list. They also sell sets and decanters that match the style if you’re looking to splurge a bit. -Bob Patterson

Price: $19.95 and up
Where you can buy one: Malviner

BBQ Dragon Chimney of Insanity

From Bob’s review linked below: I believe that the Chimney of Insanity performs well as a replacement for your current chimney starter with a solid build, a great handle, and some nice additional safety with the side-loading tube. The real magic happens when you get airflow going through that side tube. That’s when the beast earns its name, firing up a full stack of charcoal in half the time it would take otherwise. -Bob Patterson

Price: $29.95
Read our review: BBQ Dragon Chimney of Insanity charcoal starter review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Lodge 12” Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

Every cook should have a cast iron skillet in their arsenal. It’s the most versatile pan you can own. Sear steaks, fry eggs, throw it in the oven or on the grill… I even cook cornbread and paella in mine. Plus, there’s something really cool about learning how to maintain that nonstick surface. It’s easier than you think and shows off your skills. It’s a great gift for new cooks looking to fill out their toolset. Made in the USA, Lodge is still the best cast iron in my opinion. -Bob Patterson

Price: $29.00
Where you can buy one: Amazon

The AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

There is a reason that the AeroPress is beloved by hardcore coffee fans everywhere. As long as you have access to hot water and ground beans, you can create an amazing cup of coffee in under two minutes. It’s portable, easy to clean and even comes with its own storage bag. I keep one at the office and at home, so I can brew a fresh cup at a moment’s notice. -Bob Patterson

Price: $31.95
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Victorinox 10.25” Fibrox Pro Curved Bread Knife

Everyone should have a good bread knife in their arsenal. The wide, curved blade design on this particular model gives you amazing control… it’s a huge difference over typical straight-bladed models. The gentle serration on the blade will also handle all kinds of delicate work (sandwiches, soft bread, soft fruits & vegetables) without mangling them. I just replaced my old bread knife with this one earlier this year, and I should have done it sooner. -Bob Patterson

Price: $39.85
Where you can buy one: Amazon

 

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Gift Guide: Kitchen gadgets and gear originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 17, 2017 at 3:49 pm.

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Gift Guide: Bags and backpacks

What do you buy for a Gadgeteer who loves gear, but you’re not sure what new gear to get them?  Easy, you buy them a stylish but functional bag or backpack to carry their gear. We’ve created a gift guide of unique, useful, bags and related accessories. Enjoy!

Backpacks

Price range $100+

Timbuk2 Muttmover and Muttmover Light backpacks

Inspired by an employee’s commute with their dog, the folks at Timbuk2 designed a backpack to give your dog a safe place to ride while you walk, bike, or hike.  The Muttmover bags have a clip inside to keep your dog from jumping out, and there are pockets and pouches on the outside to hold the gear you and your dog need for a day out.  The Muttmover seen in the photo above is designed for dogs up to 20 pounds.  The Muttmover Light is available in two sizes for dogs up to 35 pounds.

Price: $118; $159-$179 for Muttmover Light
Read our post: He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother – er, dog – Part Deux
Where you can buy one: Timbuk2

Pad & Quill Roll Top Leather Backpack

This Pad & Quill backpack is made to last, with full-grain, tumbled American bridle leather; parachute-grade, UV-resistant nylon stitching; hand-pounded copper rivets; and solid nickel hardware.  Inside is a dedicated pocket for an iPad Pro 12.9 or up to a 15″ laptop.  The roll-top closure is weatherproof, and a side zipper makes it easy to quickly grab something from the interior.  The Roll Top Leather Backpack has a 25-year warranty and a 30-day money back promise.

Price: $319.00
Read our review: Pad & Quill Roll Top Leather Backpack review
Where you can buy one: Pad & Quill

Price range $50 – $100

Alpine Division 2017 McKenzie Backpack

The Alpine Division 2017 McKenzie Backpack is a simple & well-constructed rucksack. While its roots are in outdoor adventures, its streamlined profile and sophisticated styling make it an excellent (and durable) business commuter as well. Its size is ideal as a daypack or a travel companion when you need some of that extra flexible space.

Price: $54.00
Read our review: Alpine Division 2017 McKenzie Backpack review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

North St. Bags Pioneer 12 Hip Pack

If you’re not a fan of backpacks or shoulder bags, consider a hip pack. Nope, they are not called fanny packs anymore and they are actually…wait for it… HIP!

Price: $65.00 – $77.00
Read our review: North St. Bags Pioneer 12 Hip Pack review
Where you can buy one: North St. Bags

Price range $10 – $50

Star Wars R2D2 Knapsack Backpack

This Star Wars backpack is probably better suited to children or the young-at-heart who doesn’t need to carry a laptop or a lot of heavy textbooks.  It’s made of 100% polyester and has snaps and a drawstring closure.  This officially licensed backpack is 14″ X 17″ and has adjustable straps that some reviewers say will even fit adults.

Price: $23.45
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Shoulder Bags

Price range $100+

Timbuk2 Sunset Messenger Bag

The Timbuk2 Sunset Messenger bag is available in acid-washed cotton denim exterior and has a casual air that works in most environments.  It has premium trims and hardware; snaps and magnetized closures keep everything securely inside.  The interior is lined with soft fabric to protect all your gear.  A padded interior sleeve holds up to a 13″ laptop, and there’s plenty of room for your phone and other gear.

Price: $109
Where you can buy one: Timbuk2

Sena Cases Heritage Leather Commuter Bag

The Timbuk2 Sunset Messenger is more casual, but the Heritage Leather Commuter Bag from Sena Cases will be right at home in the most formal situations.  The commuter is handmade from Heritage leather, which is vegetable-tanned and tumbled to develop a natural texture.  It will darken with age and develop a natural patina.  The bag has a shoulder strap and double grip handles.  Inside, you’ll find a laptop compartment that accommodates up to a 15″ laptop, plus pockets for phones, notebooks, and other items.  On the exterior, a zippered front pocket and a magnetically-closed rear pocket provide even more storage.  The corners of the bag are reinforced, and the bottom is protected by metal feet.  The bag is available in a light and a dark (shown) brown; both bags have gunmetal hardware.

Price: $369.95
Where you can buy one: Sena Cases

Waterfield Designs Maverick Laptop Messenger Bag

You can always expect compact, sleek designs from WaterField, and the Maverick Laptop Messenger Bag is no exception.  It’s made of distressed, full-grain leather that will develop a richer patina with use, and has a 1.5″ webbing strap.  The hardware is black metal screw studs and industrial-grade rivets.  The interior is left unlined to show the beauty of the rawhide.  There are two padded interior pockets for a laptop and a tablet.  It’s available in black, chocolate, or grizzly leather and in a compact or full size to best fit your gear.

Price: $289 for compact; $319 for full
Read our review: Waterfield Designs Maverick Laptop Messenger Bag review
Where you can buy one: WaterField Designs

Price range $50 – $100

Tom Bihn Swift Bag

Several years ago, we reviewed the Tom Bihn Little Swift bag, which was a smaller size of the Swift bag designed by Tom for knitters.  Turns out, the Little Swift was a great everyday bag, with room to hold everything needed for the day, including ebook readers for even an iPad in a Cache sleeve.  The new iPad Pro 12.9″ needs more room, which is amply provided by the full-sized Swift.  The Pro fits inside the Horizontal iPad Pro 12.9 with Smart Keyboard Cache ($40.00), which in turn fits inside the Swift.  The internal clear, zippered pockets and the included Yarn Stuff Sack organize and secure all your daily gear inside.  It may be designed to hold knitting gear, but it works great as a daily gear bag.  We haven’t reviewed the Swift, but check out our review of the Little Swift to learn more about these bags.

Price: $90.00
Read our review: Tom Bihn Little Swift Review
Where you can buy one: Tom Bihn

Rolling bags

Price range $100+

ec-bc Sparrow II Wheeled Garment Bag

This wheeled carry-on bag holds all your gear and can charge it too!

Price: $299.99
Read our review: ec-bc Sparrow II Wheeled Garment Bag review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Biaggi Contempo 28″ Expandable 4 Wheel Spinner Upright folding luggage

This is a well made rolling case that has all the right features that you want in a piece of luggage. It expands to hold all your clothes and gear, and can then completely collapse for easy storage when you’re not traveling.

Price: $199.99
Read our review: Biaggi Contempo 28″ Expandable 4 Wheel Spinner Upright folding luggage review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Price range $10 – $50

AmazonBasics Rolling Laptop Case

My husband recently pinched a nerve in his back, resulting in a lot of pain and a weakened right arm.  His physical therapist told him to stop carrying heavy bags, so I went in search of a rolling laptop bag for him.  I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on it because I was afraid he would abandon it when his back was better.  I found that Amazon offered a rolling laptop bag in their AmazonBasics line.  I’ve loved every AmazonBasics product I’ve bought, so I decided I’d get this Rolling Laptop Case for Butch.  He’s used it for a couple of weeks now, and he has found it carries his 15″ laptop, binder, and other stuff with room to spare.  It rolls easily and quietly, and best of all, the handle extends to 39 or so inches, so my 6’2″-tall husband can pull it without it banging into his heels.

Price: $35.99
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Bag accessories

Price range $10 – $50

OP/TECH S.O.S. Curve Strap

This OP/Tech S.O.S. Curve Strap has been around for a long time, as witnessed by the 2004 Gadgeteer review (look at the bottom for this strap).  This strap has a neoprene panel acts as a “shock absorber” to make even the heaviest bag feel up to 50% lighter. The back of the neoprene panel has a non-slip surface to help keep the bag in place.  Heavy-duty 1.5″ webbing and sturdy metal hardware complete the S.O.S. (Saves on Shoulders) strap.  The length is adjustable, and it will work on a variety of bags, including briefcases, laptop bags, and luggage.

Price: $23.95
Read our review: Bag Strap Review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Packing Cubes and pouches

I know this might not seem like a very exciting gift idea, but once you start using packing cubes in your luggage, you’ll wonder how you ever got along without them. These zippered cubes with see-through tops and zippered pouches will keep everything in your luggage organized, neat, and tidy.

Price: $13.49
Where you can buy one: Amazon

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Gift Guide: Bags and backpacks originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 15, 2017 at 9:00 am.

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New Minecraft hour of code tutorial + 4 ways Microsoft is changing the way our kids learn

Remember when the most sophisticated item in the classroom was a calculator and maybe a computer with a CD-ROM? Those days are long gone. But it’s not just about bringing devices and Windows 10 into the classroom anymore, Microsoft has been rethinking how we use technology to encourage our kids to learn. Here are 4 ways that Microsoft is using technology to change the way our kids learn. 

1. Minecraft Education Edition

It’s no secret that kids absolutely LOVE Minecraft, so it’s no surprise that Microsoft’s Minecraft Education edition has been a smashing success. To that effect, since its launch a little over a year ago, Minecraft Education Edition now has over 2 million licensed users and over 250 lesson plans available that educators have contributed. Today, Microsoft is releasing a new Minecraft Hour of Code tutorial called Minecraft: Hero’s Journey. The tutorial includes introduces computer science concepts and such as debugging and functions. After kids are done coding their own Minecraft level, they can share it, play it, and even bring the level into Minecraft: Education Edition on a Windows 10 PC.

2. Making 3D Accessible

The Windows 10 Fall Creator’s Update heavily focused on making 3D object creation super simple. Thanks to an update to the Paint app, it has never been this easy for kids (and adults) to create advanced 3D objects. The 3D objects can easily be brought into Office apps like Powerpoint. You can even bring your 3D objects into reality using the Mixed Reality Viewer.

3. Mixed Reality

Think Mixed Reality is just for video games? Think again. Brands like Samsung, Acer, Dell and Lenovo are all releasing relatively affordable mixed reality headsets this holiday season, and all it takes is bringing one into the classroom to change everything for students. I experienced an educational demo where I was transported to Machu Picchu. I learned about the fascinating geography and history behind this world wonder, and was even transported back in time to get a picture of what Machu Picchu looked like over 500 years ago. This type of experience is a game changer in the classroom since it essentially brings the field trip to the classroom – especially when it comes to places and experiences that would otherwise be too expensive or impractical to travel to.

4. Hacking STEM

Despite all this talk of using digital media to educate kids, Microsoft is also aware of how important it is for kids to get “physical” with their learning. Hacking STEM offers free lessons which include hands-on activities. All of the activities can be easily put together using inexpensive everyday materials that Hacking STEM lists on their site. The lesson plans include everything from building a machine that emulates humans, to measuring speed using Hot Wheels tracks and cars.

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New Minecraft hour of code tutorial + 4 ways Microsoft is changing the way our kids learn originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 14, 2017 at 9:00 am.

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Gift Guide: iPhone cases and accessories

The iPhone X, the iPhone 8, and older iPhone models are the perfect gift giving category to consider this holiday season for friends and family who might have one of these popular smartphones. We’ve arranged our gift guide into sections and price for your shopping convenience. Click through to see our iPhone cases and accessories gift guide.

iPhone cases

Price range $100+

Sena Isa Crossbody Leather Hand Bag

The Universal Isa Crossbody Leather Hand Bag lists several iPhone versions that it works with, but it is a universal case that works with most phones with screens up to 5.5″.  The Sena bag is made of quilted leather and has gold-finished hardware.  There’s a dedicated pocket for the phone, plus other pockets for keys, cards, wallets, and the rest of your kit.  It’s available in black or red for $129.95 from Sena.

Price: $129.95
Where you can buy one: Sena

Vaja Premium iPhone X cases

We’ve been writing about and reviewing Vaja cases for over 17 years. My very first (I think) Vaja case review was for the Palm V. If a company has been around for 17 years, you can assume that they know what they are doing and Vaja definitely does. They make high-quality luxury leather cases and offer the customer a myriad of customization options from color selection to leather type.

Price: $119 – $289
Where you can buy one: Vaja

Price range $50 – $100

Apple’s iPhone X Leather Folio

If you want to fully protect your new iPhone X, consider the sharp looking iPhone X Leather Folio which wraps the iPhone on all sides and also provides a cover to protect the display. The cover can even wake and sleep the phone when you open and close it.

Price: $99.00
Where you can buy one: Apple

Price range $10 – $50

Totallee iPhone X case

Totallee cases (and I use the word case lightly) are the thinnest phone cases I’ve ever seen and used. They add just the right amount of grip to your iPhone to help you avoid dropping it. These cases won’t help soften impact if you do happen to drop your phone, but for everyday wear and tear avoidance, they have your iPhone covered.

Price: $29.00
Read our review:totallee $29 thin leather iPhone X case review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Platinum Genuine American Leather Folio Case for iPhone X

The Platinum Genuine American Leather Folio Case protects your iPhone X, front and back.  The phone is held in a hard PC shell for extra protection.  The interior is lined with microfiber, and the front flap has three card slots and a money pocket, so you can keep all your essentials with your iPhone X.  It’s slim and compact, for easy carrying.

Price: $49.99
Where you can buy one: Best Buy

Mujjo leather cases

I think of Mujjo cases as a Vaja (see above) alternative for people on a budget. They don’t offer a lot of color selections, but their cases are made very well, look great, and provide good protection for drops and everyday abuse.

Price: $43 – $48
Read our review: Mujjo Leather iPhone case review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

iPhone X and iPhone 8 wireless chargers

Price range $50 – $100

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad

Wireless charging for iPhones has been a long time coming, but now that it’s finally here, you need a wireless charger like this one from Belkin. Once you have experienced wireless charging, you’ll wonder how you lived without it all these years.

Price: $64.99
Where you can buy one: Newegg

TYLT ORB Wireless Charger

We haven’t had the opportunity to review this charger from TYLT, but we’ve reviewed some of their other wireless chargers in the past and I don’t have any problems recommending them for their design and functionality. This one is compatible with the new iPhone X and iPhone 8 devices and can fast charger newer Samsung Galaxy phones too.

Price: $49.99
Where you can buy one: TYLT

Price range $10 – $50

iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless Qi Charging Station for the car

The iOttie Wireless Qi Charging Station for the car works with the new iPhone X, iPhone 8/8 Plus, and any other Qi-wireless enabled device between 2.3″-3.3″.  The One Touch lock-and-release mounting system lets you mount your device with a one-finger push.  It comes with a USB cable to provide power to the charger, plus a dashboard pad for mounting to most dashboards (probably not leather nor vinyl, though).  The telescopic arm allows you to adjust the angle to best see your screen.

Price: $39.96
Where you can buy one: Amazon

iPhone screen protectors

Price range $10 – $50

Belkin InvisiGlass Ultra Screen Protection for iPhone X

Belkin InvisiGlass Ultra, made with Accessory Glass 2 by Corning, increases the scratch-resistance up to 3-5 times to protect your very expensive iPhone X.  A chemical Ion-Exchange process strengthens the ultra-thin (0.21mm) Aluminosilicate glass, so you’ll experience up to 25% increase in drop performance to prevent screen cracking or breakage.  And by the way, the Aluminosilicate glass is the same glass used in the windows of the space shuttles.

Price: $39.95
Where you can buy one: Apple

ZAGG InvisibleShield HD Glass+ Screen Protector

Another option to protect your iPhone’s display is the popular tempered glass protector from ZAGG which has IonMatrix technology for impact-resistant shatter protection.

Price: $39.99
Where you can buy one: Best Buy

Skinomi Tempered Tech Glass Screen Protector for Apple iPhone X

If you don’t want to spend $40 on a screen protector, you can be frugal and order a 3-pk of Skinomi protectors that have a 5-star rating on Amazon.

Price: $7.95
Where you can buy one: Amazon

iPhone miscellaneous accessories

Price range $100+

WaterField iPhone Camera Bag

Earlier this year, Julie announced WaterField’s new iPhone Camera bag.  This compact little pouch has room for an iPhone X, iPhone 8/8 Plus, and many other similarly-sized phones.  There’s also room for some add-on lenses, cables, and even straps on the bottom to hold a small tripod or monopod.  Check out Julie’s post or the WaterField site for more info and photos.

Price: $99 for ballistic nylon; $129 for leather
Read our post: WaterField’s new iPhone camera bag holds all your phonographs gear
Where you can buy one: WaterField

DJI OSMO Mobile Gimbal for iPhone

Vloggers who use their iPhone as their primary camera will flip over this combination selfie stick/gimbal that provides buttons on the handle that let you easily control cinematic video capture smoothly and effortlessly.

Price: $299.95
Where you can buy one: Amazon and Apple

 

Price range $50 – $100

Mujjo Leather Touchscreen Gloves

When the weather turns cold and you start wearing gloves, you need a pair of special touchscreen compatible gloves if you want to be able to interact with your phone while wearing them. Mujjo offers a variety of touchscreen gloves including these leather gloves shown above which keep your hands warm and also allow you to use your phone.

Price: $97 and up
Read our review: Mujjo Leather Touchscreen Gloves review
Where you can buy one: Mujjo and Amazon

 

Price range $10 – $50

Kenu Stance tripod

The Kenu Stance is a small folding tripod you can carry on your keychain when it’s no being used and when needed, it attaches to the Lightning connector on your iPhone to provide a stable stand for posed selfies and video. It even has a built-in bottle opener.

Price: $19.95
Read our review: Kenu Stance smartphone tripod review
Where you can buy one: Amazon

Loopy Case

Loopy cases guarantee that you’ll never drop your phone again because they provide a handy loop for your finger. Just slide over your finger and you’ll have a secure grip on your phone no matter what you’re doing.

Price: $35.00
Read our post:Get a Loopy Case and StoptheDrop
Where you can buy one: Loopycases.com

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Gift Guide: iPhone cases and accessories originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 14, 2017 at 8:00 am.

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Julie’s gadget diary – I received the nicest email this morning

I receive a LOT of emails every day that are usually from PR agencies pitching products that they want us to write about or review, people with new crowdfunding campaigns that they want us to write about, people asking for tech support for products that we’ve reviewed, people asking how to buy products that we’ve reviewed, and people complaining about articles we’ve posted or problems with the website. It’s not often that I receive an email where someone isn’t wanting something from me or not complaining about something unlike the thoughtful thank you email that I received this morning.

My name is Aaron Blair, and about 15 minutes ago I remembered the-gadgeteer.com and decided to see if it was still around…

I first bookmarked the gadgeteer somewhere around the year 2000… Which inadvertently resulted in causing my parents many nights of anguish, listening to my constant pleas at dinner for WinCE and palm devices….I vividly remember asking you to review a Casio be-300 at the time. It was all I could afford and I spent months modding the interface and patching for full wince compatibility…Which didn’t exactly succeed.lol

It is almost unbelievable how many things have changed since then. I miss the times of my childhood. It seemed that every day, I could read about a new device. That was unique and innovative.

I am 28 years old. I ended my career in electronics engineering before it even began. Stopping to take care of my sick mother…I am a caregiver now, employed by the state of Washington..doing my best to give my mom a more fulfilling, better life.

The sense of wonder, and interest in tech/electronics that I hold today was fostered and fed by your website years ago.

I want to say thank you, I didn’t end up where I wanted to specifically. But I wouldn’t know half of what I do now if I hadn’t stumbled on this site back around the year 2000.

Glad to see that it’s still going,
Aaron Blair.

Also, I still have my old Scott-e vest.. ;p

After more than 20 years of running The Gadgeteer, I still get a little misty-eyed when I read emails like this one because it makes me realize that even though this is just a gadget website and we’re not changing the world, what we do here can make a difference and help people. Thanks Aaron for energizing me to keep The Gadgeteer going hopefully for many more years to come.

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Julie’s gadget diary – I received the nicest email this morning originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 13, 2017 at 9:00 am.

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