Top Gadgets and Gizmos Two of the year's top spots go to a company that is new on the list: Insta360.
The Insta360 Link 2 is the most extraordinary webcam I've ever used. First, it gets all the basics done right. The picture is stunning at resolutions up to 4k with HDR and good low light level performance. The microphone is more than adequate and the noise reduction extraordinary. But, there is so much more to the Link. It has a built in motor, so that it can track you as you move about the room. If you want it to try to keep your whole body in the picture, or perhaps just your torso or head, it can do that, too! The software is great; you can even view the image, control the position of the camera, and change settings on your smartphone. If you don't need the motor-powered capabilities, the Insta360 Link 2C comes in at $50 dollars less, but is otherwise just about identical, while delivering as-good-as-or-better performance than many more expensive cameras.
The Insta360 X4 ($499) camera is an action camera that can capture a full 360 degree sphere all around you. You can view and edit the images into regular rectangular "flat" aspect ratios, or give the user the ability to look around in a complete circle. A magical bit of software removes the (optional, but highly recommended) monopod from view. Use a longer monopod and it can get shots from above that almost look like a drone took them. The perfect second camera to take on vacation. I also love putting it into the middle of a family gathering and getting everyone's interaction at one time. It can also be used to capture videos of kids who are shy to appear on camera, as they don't know you are focusing it on them.
Apple Mini ($574 & up) It has been a long time since I've put a Mac on my list. In fact, I think it was the 1998 iMac G3, the colorful all-in-one. I haven't been anti-Mac, but always found the price-point, the so-called Apple Tax, a bit too high to justify the purchase. 2024's Apple Mini is a near-perfect family computer at a compelling price point. Packing power way above its size this computer can run virtually any important software package, from word-processors and browsers, all the way to photo and video editing. Though there are plenty of games you can play on the Mac Mini, this is not a gaming PC, and those who want that should look elsewhere (and be prepared to spend more). However, for most home use, the new computers with M4 processors have what you need. The caveat comes from expandability and upgradability, some and none, respectively. The base model only sports a 256 gig drive and 16 gig of memory. Doubling the memory and hard drive at purchase almost doubles the price of the unit, and upgrading memory after purchase is not supported, though you could always add an external hard drive. My recommendation would be to go with the upgraded model ($999) or if you are going to be doing heavy video editing consider the highest end model with the M4Pro CPU ($1299). At any of those price points you'll be getting a great value in the performance and capabilities. (Don't forget you'll need a number of add-ons to make your Mac work. You'll need a keyboard and mouse, probably ought to get AppleCare, and, oh yes, a monitor.)
Xbox Game Pass(from 9.99 per month) & Apple Arcade ($6.95 per month) Subscriptions Depending on your platform of choice and type of games you like best, these two services can be good deals and excellent entertainment options. You get dozens of games at a great price. The Xbox version has options that work on the Xbox ($9.99 per month), or both Xbox and PC ($16.95 per month).
Apple Watch 10 (from $399) and Apple Watch SE (from $189) Either of these smart-watches make excellent gifts for people already in the Apple eco-system. The slightly thinner Apple 10 is sleeker, has a few more health features, and sports a bigger display than the SE. However, both can be configured to work with your iPhone, or stand-alone (though you will need the cellular model and to pay for a monthly charge to get the watch its own phone number). You should visit an Apple store to try them on to see which size and watchband is right for you. Some parents prefer to gift the cellular connected watch to their kids rather than a phone since it is always "strapped on" and less likely to go lost. In that mode it can also be used to locate a child's whereabouts.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds If you are in the iPhone ecosystem, these are the earbuds I would recommend, even over the newer (and much less expensive) AirPod 4. I prefer the silicon seal to the "open ear" design of the new model, and they just sound better.
Nebula Capsule Air Projector ($399.99) This quick to setup, versatile, portable projector can throw up a big image in places where you wouldn't want to lug a TV. Tiny, it isn't much larger than a soda can. Perfect for campouts, sleepovers, and outdoor parties, this rechargeable battery powered projector goes just about anywhere; it even has a built in speaker. Add the optional tripod with extra battery to extend the claimed 2-hour built-in model and you can watch almost any movie without being plugged in. The projector has built-in wifi and built-in apps connect it to Netflix, Prime and other sources. The 720p display with 150 ANSI lumens brightness isn't the highest resolution or brightest picture you can get in a projector; but the alternatives cost more, weigh more, and aren't battery powered. They claim battery life of about 2-hours. Setting it up is a breeze, whether you're using a blank wall or a sheet, the unit has auto correcting to square up the image and bring it into focus automatically.
