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Ask Engadget: best screwdriver kit for DIY computer work?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Calvin, who needs a replacement for his recently broken Switztool 6-piece screwdriver kit. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I've always used a Switztool 6-piece screwdriver for my computer work. I love how it retracts all the bits into the screwdriver. But it just bit the dust after a very heavy fall. Just want to know from other fellow readers: what's the best screwdriver (or kit) out there for DIY computer work and electronics hacking?" Quite an interesting question, indeed. We'd probably recommend a kit with a 00-sized Philips screwdriver for getting those laptop bolts out from the casing, but desktop-specific ones are certainly allowed. And... go!
Ask Engadget: best multitouch / touchscreen-enabled laptop?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Sid, who ain't buying a laptop if it's LCD doesn't react to his digits, you understand? If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "What is the best multitouch entertainment laptop? The only one I'm aware of is the HP DV6Tse with a multitouch display. I'm just wondering if there's a better value multitouch laptop out there?" Well, we know for sure that you have a few options, but that whole "value proposition" thing is anyone's call. Any readers out there care to chime in on what their favorite / least favorite touchscreen laptop is? You know where to go.
Ask Engadget: best messaging phone that doesn't need a data plan?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Josh, who simply ain't interested in spending the loot necessary to get a full-on smartphone. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm a student right now on a tight budget. That said, I can't afford a data plan. What is the best messaging phone that doesn't require data? Also, I am a medical student, and for our third- and fourth-year rotations, we have to purchase something with Windows Mobile in order to communicate to our school's software for submitting patient data. They recommend the iPAQ handhelds, but what will happen since Microsoft has come out with Windows Phone 7 and HP has acquired Palm?" Hate to hear about your Windows Mobile dilemma, but hopefully that OS will be pushed aside as far more capable ones hit the market. It's tough to say at this point whether webOS or Windows Phone 7 will be your answer (probably not for some time, though), but we're pretty sure our commenters would be more than happy to assist with your need for a messaging phone. Right, guys / gals?
Ask Engadget: best FM transmitter out there?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Wes, who is actually brave enough to even consider an FM transmitter. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm in the market for a new car, and that has me thinking towards multimedia connectivity. I don't want to rule out direct iPhone integration, but since the car is almost certainly going to be used, I'd like to think more along the lines of AUX-in and FM transmitter capability. I've also read that many of the new products can enable hands-free cellphone use, so this would be great to include. Any recommendations for a good in-car charging unit with these features?" We'll go ahead and be straight with you -- if you're in the city or the suburbs, be prepared for long, frustrating fights to find a clear channel. We've never had much luck with 'em outside of the middle of nowhere, but maybe our dear readership will chime in with a few pointers below. Godspeed.
Ask Engadget: best all-in-one PC for dorm room life?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Wayne, who quite obviously needs a recommendation on a new all-in-one PC before hitting the books for the fall semester. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hi. I'm about to be crammed into a dorm room for a few years, and I need a decent all-in-one PC for my desk. Space is an issue, but anything from 20- to 23-inches would work. Mac or PC is fine for the stuff I'll be doing, but I'd like to keep it all under $1,500 if possible. Any strong recommendations from other students who were / are in a similar situation?" So, froshies -- what's it gonna be? He didn't mention the need for a touch panel, so you can obviously whittle down your choices somewhat. Anyone have a particular AIO that has treated them to straight As? Let us (and Wayne) know in comments below.
Ask Engadget: best robot platform for under $400?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Ryan, who reckons it's about time he stopped playing with Lego blocks and began playing with a real man's robot platform. Just kidding about the Lego bit. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am an aspiring roboticist who has been using Lego Mindstorms NXT for a few years and I am looking for the next step up. I have a budget of about $400. I am looking for something that has more motors, more sensors, and a way to have it live feed video back to a computer. I would also like a platform that has a large amount of building that can be done on top of it, such as adding an arm or another array of sensors, or a different drive base. I'm new to the world of robotics outside of the NXT, so any tips would be appreciated as well. Thanks!" Come on over, robot lovers. Toss those gloves and goggles aside for a moment and throw this guy some advice. What platform keeps you up in the garage at night?
Ask Engadget: best desktop replacement laptop?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Cameron, who'd rather buy the most powerful laptop the world has to offer than subject himself to a "desktop PC." If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm looking for a desktop replacement laptop. It needs to have at least a Core i3 processor, 3GB of memory and a 320GB hard drive. Of course, more is always better, but I'm not looking to spend a fortune. Recommendations?" We're going to suggest looking Clevo's way if you'd rather not pay the Alienware label premium, but we've got a feeling some folks in comments may know a few more underground avenues for securing a well-built beast-of-a-laptop. Help a brother out, won't you?
Ask Engadget: best note-taking tablet / laptop for under $200?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Max, who seems to be putting his old scattered life behind him in an attempt to get organized. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am a student looking for a second portable computer for taking notes in lectures, as I am ridiculously unorganized at the moment. The thing is, I only have a very small budget, and I need a tablet / touchscreen computer. I have at most £150 ($228) to spend." Max isn't even opposed to buying second-hand, but we just know someone out there has a delightful option on the new market as well. Don't bother putting off your answer in comments below -- that Fall semester is just about the bend, you know?
Ask Engadget: what's the best graphing calculator for under $200?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Brian, who just can't help but think about the dreaded back-to-school season already. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hello Engadget. I'm currently scouting a calculator for school. What's the best calculator to buy for around $200 dollars?" We're going to guess this guy's majoring in poetry, but those blasted math courses that "they" make everyone take is driving this need. It's funny to think how slowly graphing calculators have evolved (and how prices have fallen at an even more lethargic pace), but there's just got to be something better out in 2010 than the tried-and-true TI-83. Right? Let the man know in comments below.
Ask Engadget: best consumer / prosumer camcorder out now?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Chris, who just happened upon some cheddar and can't wait to buy some sort of recording device. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I've got $500 - $800 to spend for my company. We need a new consumer / prosumer camcorder. Wide open as far as what to expect, any ones that have really wowed you lately?" Just how we like it, short and sweet. We know a few of you have managed to pick up a camcorder in preparation for summer vacation, so don't be shy with the recommendations in comments below, cool? Cool.
Ask Engadget: best media display / internet viewer for bedside?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Jon, who just needs something to give him loads of glanceable information moments before he drifts off into the land of fairies, unicorns and deep-friend cotton candy. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I've been trying to buy a new alarm clock lately and am completely appalled at the selection available online or elsewhere. Most are basically docks for your iPod / PMP and have a pre-turn of the century LCD digital clock display and some shoddy speakers. They also range in price from $40 to $200. After seeing things like the Sony Dash and the new Insignia Infocast, I could see those as viable alarm clock solutions (with weather, music, maybe an RSS feed). Are there other items out there that have a great display that you can dim and would be able to serve this purpose? Or or either of those the one to get?" So, sweet-dreamers, what'll it be? Do you have a Chumby-infused widget display on your own night stand? Go on, don't be shy -- help a brother out in comments below.
Ask Engadget: best non-SSD laptop hard drive?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Jason, who needs a laptop drive upgrade that doesn't involve the words "solid state." Or "really expensive." If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am in the market for a 2.5-inch notebook drive for my new Core i7 MacBook Pro. The biggest concern for me is performance, with storage after that, and impact on battery life last. Every SSD I have seen is over my budget. I am wondering which hard drive will be the best non-solid state drive to fit in a MBP. Some people mentioned Seagate's Momentus XT, which is a hybrid drive -- are they any good? Thanks!" One thing Jason left out was his capacity requirements and actual budget, but we'll go ahead and assume he wants something larger than 40GB and cheaper than the average SSD. Any blazing HDDs out there for the taking? Go on, it's not like giving up your secret will make everyone reading this go buy up the remaining inventory. No promises on that, though.
Ask Engadget: best illuminated keyboard for the non-gamer?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Jeff, who can't be bothered to flip on a light switch before pounding away on the final third of his dissertation. If he can find a backpack, that is. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "As both a gamer and programmer, I spend all day at a keyboard in dimly lit environments. Work has me used to a Microsoft 'Natural' keyboard, but the closest thing that was backlit doesn't seem to be made anymore, cost a ton when it was, and didn't even have a number pad! Everything I've used or even found that is illuminated is a straight, traditional, keyboard. Is this too much to ask? So my question is: What is the best (if there even are any) illuminated, natural / ergo / curved, fully functional (dedicated "F" and number pad keys) keyboard out there? Or if one doesn't exist, what is the best illuminated keyboard for a work environment (not for home gaming... I don't need 18 extra WoW hotkeys on it)? Thanks!" Wow, that's a mouthful! But a solid question, indeed. It's not too tough to find a backlit keyboard on a laptop, but finding a desktop board with light-up keys is certainly a bigger challenge. Drop some advice in comments below, cool?
Ask Engadget: best backpack for holding a laptop and textbooks?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Eric, who is just about ready to ship off to the "best years of his life." If he can find a backpack, that is. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am going to be attending college in the fall and am l looking for a good backpack that not only provides protection for my 15-inch laptop but also has space for accessories and books. I don't care about brand; I want something that will last and I don't have to replace for a while. Thanks for your suggestions!" Look, this guy doesn't need yet another thing on his plate when it comes time to get ready for college. The least you can do is provide him a name and model of a solid backpack for carrying around his LAN party rig and [Insert Course Here] 101 books. Bone throwing is encouraged in comments below.
Ask Engadget: best smartphone without a camera?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from James' best bud, who would love to own an EVO 4G... if not for that 8 megapixel camera that's strictly against protocol. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I have a friend who's taken a job in a security field and the employer doesn't allow cameras on cellphones. He's currently happy with an iPhone 3GS and would definitely consider an Android device but is having trouble finding a decent phone with no camera. The only caveat is that for whatever reason he doesn't want a BlackBerry. Does anyone else make a decent smartphone sans camera? Thanks!" This is a fairly common question, actually, and despite the fact that few phones are made any more sans a camera, many organizations refuse to allow them. We'd hate for your friend be stuck with a dumbphone, so here's hoping our readers can drop some knowledge below. Otherwise, we suggest he / she just mail in a two-week notice -- Sent from their iPhone, of course.
Ask Engadget: what's the best 13-inch Core i5 / i7 Wintel ultraportable for running OS X?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Dan Murphy [great name!], who needs to know which ultraportable on the market today is best equipped to roll both ways... if you know what we're sayin'. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Real simple: what's the best Core i5 or Core i7 13-inch laptop (with discrete graphics) for running both Windows 7 and Mac OS X? I'm a video and photo guy who does marketing work for a university, and while I've been using a Dell M1330 to operate on both sides of the fence, I'm in dire need of a hardware upgrade. I'm not fussed by the Windows vs. Mac debate and use both on a daily basis, but I need as much power as possible in an ultraportable form factor in order to handle both of these operating systems (sorry, 13-inch MacBook Pro, but you aren't cutting it). Here's hoping your readers can help out!" We'd sure the master Hackintoshers out there would love to help out, and we're sure Apple will weep when realizing they'd have a sale if they would've crammed a Core i5 into their 13-inch MBP while refreshing the other guys last month. Go on, folks -- let this guy in on your secrets in comments below.
Ask Engadget: what's the best netbook out there now?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Garrett, who needs a few sets of fresh eyes on the netbook lineup that's out there today. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "This past week my mom decided she would like to be able to use her computer on the patio. The problem is she only has a desktop, so my question is what would be the best netbook for a not-so-tech-savvy mom? All she really would need is WiFi, access to the internet, and Word. Doesn't have to be too fancy, but she would want it to look nice too. Any suggestions?" Suggestions? Oh yeah, we're sure these fine folks have plenty of those. We've actually thrown this same question out in 2008 and 2009, but given all the changes since last decade, we figured the time was right to re-visit things. So, help a mother out, won't you?
Ask Engadget: best external laptop battery?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Anthony, who is looking for an external battery pack to keep his laptop humming through those 21-hour T / TH marathon days. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm going off to college soon. I have a new HP TM2. Obviously the 9 hour battery life isn't realistic, and I would like the fabled "full day computing" experience. I do have a second battery, but it's awkward to charge both batteries, the shape doesn't fit into my bag well, and I have to hibernate to switch (which introduces some wonkiness to some programs). I'm looking into external batteries which provide power to the DC input of my laptop (18.5V, but 19V will work too). It would preferably be approximately 9- to 13-inches diagonally to fit into my bookbag and / or laptop bag, and not ridiculously thick. USB charging would be a definite plus too, but not required." For Mac owners asking a similar question, we can personally attest to the greatness of the HyperMac, but we'll be looking to the collective brain of our dear readers to help on Anthony. Go on and toss your suggestion down in comments -- you wouldn't want poor Anthony running out of juice during his first Biology lab, now would you?
Ask Engadget: best HTPC for under $500?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Justin, who can't afford both a high-end HTPC and textbooks for next semester. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am a college student looking for a cheap way to hook up to my standard-def TV. It's not HD capable but has an HDMI input. What do you think would be the best sub $500 HTPC for my home use?" We served up a similar question a few years back for the high-end crowd, and we taught you how to build your own Blu-ray-capable HTPC last year for a solid grand, but this sub-$500 territory is all new. Anyone have any decent HTPC options that won't break the bank? Any tips on constructing your own from an older desktop? Go on and share in comments below -- it's good for the soul, we tell ya.
Ask Engadget: Best chiclet keyboard for desktop use?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Stephen, who digs this new chiclet keyboard craze, but wants one for his desktop. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am interested in building a brand new rig, and I've come to admire chiclet keyboards like those seen on various laptops and the Mac keyboard -- but I'm not a fan of the Apple tax. Is there a nice chiclet-style keyboard out there you would recommend for desktop users? I'd really like a full numeric keypad on it if possible." We know many of you use gaming keyboards and the like, but for those who've managed to locate a decent chiclet keyboard for desktop use, why not share your source? We're sure there are plenty to go around.
