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Looking for devices that help you work, play, and stay connected with friends and family? You don't have to look any further than this slideshow. These are the best among their peers in the peripheral category.
Dong Ngo
CNET editor Dong Ngo has been involved with technology since 2000, starting with testing gadgets and writing code for CNET Labs' benchmarks. He now manages CNET San Francisco Labs, reviews 3D printers, networking/storage devices, and also writes about other topics from online security to new gadgets and how technology impacts the life of people around the world.
Eric Franklin led the CNET Tech team as Editorial Director. A 20-plus-year industry veteran, Eric began his tech journey testing computers in the CNET Labs. When not at work he can usually be found at the gym, chauffeuring his kids around town, or absorbing every motivational book he can get his hands on.
ExpertiseGraphics and display technology.Credentials
You'll have to make room for this one (in your dorm room and bank account), but if you're a PC gamer, the super-high resolution pays off by constantly melting your face. That's a good thing.
Your computer's hard drive is likely already overflowing. So, getting an external backup drive is a good idea. Getting an external backup drive whose software changes color to match that of the drive, however, is an even better idea.
Being the very first of its type to support both Thunderbolt and USB 3.0, the Buffalo MiniStation Thunderbolt's sexy aesthetic will impress dorm room visitors, while offering connection versatility.
School is a place for study, but it can also be a place for playing games or streaming media. Luckily, the DIR-857's HD Fuel technology specifically addresses the needs of those types of experiences.
The Synology Disk Station DS412+ offers so much in terms of features, you're likely to be overwhelmed before you've had time to even scratch its surface. Thank goodness for free time between classes.
With its ability to print on both sides of a sheet of paper, while still keeping ink replacement costs down, the Epson WorkForce 645 is a good choice for students wanting to keep a watchful eye on their budgets.
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