Going back to school in style doesn’t just apply to fashion (or satellite services); it now includes technology and the gazillion gadgets students use every day. From noise-canceling headphones, suped-up digital cameras to robotic vacuum cleaners, today’s students are constantly surrounded by cutting-edge technology and endless fun. I know that this isn’t exactly about satellite services, but my kids are getting ready for school so I have first hand experience with several of these 10 must-have gadgets for the school year:
- iPhone 4
The newest addition to the iPhone family will definitely be the hottest gadget on college campuses this year, and for good reason. The iPhone 4 has all of the original features we have come to know and love, as well as its new and innovative applications like iBooks, a free eBook reader, FaceTime, a video calling feature, and HD video recording.
- Verbatim Portable Hard Drive
Keep your English papers, study guides and pictures on-hand all the time with the Verbatim InSight portable hard drive with optional 320GB or 500GB. This sleek and ultra-handy hard drive is compatible with both Macs and PCs, and has an Always On display that shows how much free space is available on your drive.
- Kensington Portable Notebook Lock
With the Kensington notebook lock you don’t have to worry about packing up your computer every time you need to run to the restroom or refill your coffee. This lock is equipped with a self-coiling cable that extends up to six-feet, and uses a combination lock to keep computers securely locked around an immovable object.
- Livescribe Smartpen
Notetaking will never be the same once you use the Livescribe Pulse Smartpen. This smartpen records what you hear and write with a built-in microphone to record lectures and exam reviews, as well as an infrared camera that picks up everything written on the special Livescribe dotted paper. The pen is also equipped with a USB connector so students can transfer, save, search and play old notes and recordings on the computer, and capabilities to search handwritten notes by specific keywords.
- Clocky Alarm Clock
If you’re one of the many students who can’t seem to rise and shine when your alarm goes off in the morning, you’ll benefit from Clocky, the alarm clock that moves. Clocky might look cute and cuddly, but this clock won’t let you get away with snoozing after your alarm, because it is programmed to spin its wheels, jump off your nightstand and ride around the room until you get up to turn it off. Say goodbye to oversleeping and hello 8 a.m. classes!
- HP Mini 210-1092DX PC
If you’re looking for a laptop that’s compact, lightweight and equipped with all of the basic features of today’s PCs, the HP Mini 210-1092DX PC is it. This 10-inch netbook has an Atom’s N455 processor, 1GB of memory and optional Windows XP or Windows 7 software, all for under $400. It’s the perfect personal computer for K-12 students, who need to type essays, research information and, of course, play their games.
- Nook
This year, students will be curling up with their nooks to read electronic books for class and pure enjoyment. The Barnes & Noble nook gives readers access to more than one million eBooks, magazines and newspapers, as well as free Wi-Fi and AT&T 3G wireless connection. Students can tote their nooks around campus and read just about anywhere on this lightweight reader that keeps dropping in price.
- Portable Induction Cooktop
Graduate from the daily routine of ramen noodles and PB & J sandwhiches, and start cooking delicious meals with the Fagor portable induction cooktop that makes dorm-style cooking a breeze. This powerful cooktop can reach 430 degrees Fahrenheit and boil water in less than 5 minutes, while remaining cool to the touch since only the cookware is heated. There are no open flames, smoke or gas emissions, and it has an automatic shut off feature for super safe cooking.
- Canon Pixma MX870 Wireless Printer
Print, scan, copy, fax and repeat with the all-in-one Canon Pixma MX870 wireless printer that produces quick prints and high-quality pictures in a jiffy. This top-notch printer also has an automatic document feeder and is wireless, so you won’t have to trip over wires on your way to class.
- iPhone/iPod/iPad Keychain Charger
If you’re an iPod or iPhone owner, you’ll want to consider this Apple accessory that charges and syncs your products while you study. It also has a convenient keychain attachment, so you’re always prepared when your gadgets run out of juice.

