Top-rated reviews of the week (pictures)
A car charger that lets you have it both ways -- Apple and Android, that is. An Editors' Choice Award-winning Sonos wireless speaker, and another try at beating the Energy Take Classic sound system. From a cute little e-reader to a brutally capable SUV, the theme of this week's top-rated CNET reviews is "cooler than you think." For example, just how smart can a smart lock be?
Kwikset Kevo
A car charger that lets you have it both ways -- Apple and Android, that is. An Editors' Choice Award-winning Sonos wireless speaker, and another try at beating the Energy Take Classic sound system. From a cute little e-reader to a brutally capable SUV, these are the products that CNET's reviewers approved this week. And we found out just how smart a smart lock can be, testing the...
Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Electronic Lock
If you've got a compatible smartphone, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better smart lock than the Kwikset Kevo. Why would you want a smart lock at all, you ask? Sure. Let's talk. Read the review.
Anker USB 24W USB Car Charger
Anker USB 24W / 2.4A + 2.4A (4.8A max) Car Charger
If you find it at a discount, the Anker USB 24W / 2.4A + 2.4A (4.8A max) Car Charger is an excellent option for powering multiple smartphones or tablets while on the road. Especially if, say, you've got an iPhone and your partner has a Nexus (or a BlackBerry, or a Windows Phone device), you may want to spring for one of these. Read the review.
Monoprice 10565
Monoprice 10565
The Monoprice 10565 speakers aren't quite as stylish as our longtime favorite Energy Take Classic speakers, but actually top them in sound quality, and at a good price. Read the review.
Sonos Play:1
Sonos Play:1
The Sonos Play:1 finally brings the company's wireless audio magic to the masses, in a fantastically designed compact speaker that's just $199. (Also available in black.) Read the review.
Ativ Book 9 Plus
Ativ Book 9 Plus
If you're just looking for an all-around excellently made Windows touch ultrabook and don't mind that it's on the expensive side, the improved Ativ Book 9 Plus is worth the investment. Read the review.
Sony Vaio Tap 11
Sony Vaio Tap 11
The thin, powerful Sony Vaio Tap 11 tablet shows up the competition in terms of design. It's not ideal for everyone, but only a few tweaks away from being the runaway leader in this smallish category. Read the review.
Sony Vaio Flip 15
Sony Vaio Flip 15
Sony's unique attempt at a big-screen hybrid looks great and is reasonably priced, but the Sony Vaio Flip 15 works better as a laptop than a tablet. Read the review.
Microsoft Windows 8.1
Microsoft Windows 8.1
If you're a dedicated Windows 8 hater, this update isn't going to change your mind. But for everyone dutifully using the OS, Microsoft Windows 8.1 will be a useful collection of tweaks, fixes, and new features. Read the review.
Kobo Aura
Kobo Aura
With its more portable design, the Kobo Aura is a worthwhile -- albeit pricier -- Kindle Paperwhite alternative for EPUB fans who don't want to be tied to Amazon's proprietary ecosystem. Read the review.
2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Except for the Meridian audio system, cabin tech in the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport remains run-of-the-mill, but this SUV's on- and off-road capabilities are truly extraordinary. Read the review.