A curated catalogue of field-tested hardware and software, selected through practical evaluation.

This MacBook Pro laptop handles demanding development workflows with processing power that never struggles. Complex builds, locally running servers, multiple Docker containers, and heavy IDE sessions run simultaneously without the fans even noticing. The display's colour accuracy proves brilliant for photo editing between coding sessions, while MagSafe charging returns as a welcome addition and the Touch Bar's departure feels like dodging a bullet. Battery life delivers 4-5 hours under heavy development load or nearly double for documentation work. The weight becomes noticeable during travel - it's a proper brick compared to Air models, but that's the trade-off for desktop-class performance. Build quality remains exceptional with ports that actually stay connected and a chassis that survives daily bag tosses. Where this machine truly excels is reliability under pressure. Perfect for developers needing guaranteed performance who value power over portability.

This iPad Pro tablet transforms into an invaluable second screen, eliminating the need for external monitors. The 12.9-inch display shows photographs beautifully, while there's plenty of real estate for documentation, terminals, or simply observing metrics. Sidecar integration feels seamless - extending the Mac desktop without cables or configuration hassles. The cellular connection mostly benefits the phone - avoiding battery drain from tethering, while 2TB storage proves perfect for quickly backing up photos, keeping resources and books handy, plus entertainment. Battery life can't quite last the entire workday but holds up admirably. While build quality matches other iPads in the Pro line, its dimensions warrant extra protection since you're essentially lugging a 13-inch screen around. Where this device truly excels is workspace flexibility without desktop monitor constraints. Perfect for anyone wanting an amazing tablet that also doubles as a brilliant second monitor.

This Thunderbolt 4 dock transforms desk setups from cable chaos into organised efficiency with a single connection. The abundance of ports handles everything - additional displays, external storage, different input devices such as tablets, printers, and everything else you can think of. While very compact for what it does, positioning, orientation, and mostly the number of connected devices will have a significant impact on how warm the unit gets. Where this dock really excels is rock-solid connection quality; docks in the same category often fail to recognise devices properly or maintain stable connections. Build quality feels properly premium with an aluminium chassis that matches Apple aesthetics - compared to other docks, this is built like a tank, which it's supposed to be. Perfect for anyone wanting a reliable and hassle-free setup with multiple devices.

This mesh WiFi system delivers enterprise-grade networking without the subscription nonsense plaguing modern routers. After years of reliable service from Velop that eventually struggled with growing device demands, the ZenWiFi proved refreshingly straightforward to configure while packing serious capabilities underneath. The interface balances simplicity with depth - basic users get working WiFi instantly, while network enthusiasts can dive into VLANs, QoS, and security settings. Coverage is reliable and consistent, handling dozens of devices simultaneously - multiple computers, tablets, e-readers, various WiFi-hungry gadgets, plus all the smart home devices - without stuttering. Setup takes minutes through the mobile app, though the web interface offers more granular control. The system handles heavy network loads without degrading performance. Where this system truly excels is respecting users who prefer owning their network infrastructure. Perfect for households demanding reliable coverage with professional features minus the subscription extortion.

This NAS storage solution operates so transparently you forget it's even there unless you explicitly need it. The DS920+ handles the 3-2-1 backup strategy brilliantly - local copies, network redundancy, plus automated cloud sync for complete protection. Beyond basic storage, it runs Docker containers, hosts development environments, and streams media throughout the house without breaking a sweat. The DSM interface makes potentially complex tasks surprisingly approachable - setting up automated backups takes minutes, not hours. Four drive bays provide flexibility for different RAID configurations, balancing speed with redundancy based on your needs. Silent operation means it sits anywhere without announcing its presence. The expandability through RAM upgrades and expansion units future-proofs the investment. Where this NAS truly excels is delivering enterprise-grade data protection without enterprise complexity. Perfect for anyone valuing their digital life enough to properly protect it.

This pen tablet transforms photo editing from frustrating pixel hunting into natural, precise adjustments that actually feel intuitive. The pen pressure sensitivity captures subtle strokes while the Quick Keys handle shortcuts without reaching for the keyboard. Build quality feels properly solid - the tablet surface provides just enough texture for control without wearing down nibs too quickly. Driver software stays reliable once configured, though initial setup requires patience with display mapping. The wireless option works brilliantly for decluttering the desk, with battery life lasting weeks between charges. Retouching work that took ages with a mouse now flows naturally, especially masking and dodge/burn techniques. The ergonomics reduce wrist strain during long editing sessions significantly. Where this tablet truly excels is precision control for detailed creative work. Perfect for photographers and designers who've grown tired of fighting with traditional input methods.

This photo printer delivers gallery-quality prints that transform digital photos into proper wall-worthy art. The PRO-200S handles everything from standard 6x4s to impressive A3+ prints with colour accuracy that matches what's on screen. Eight individual ink cartridges mean replacing only what's depleted rather than wasteful combo cartridges. Paper handling proves surprisingly versatile - fine art papers, canvas, glossy photos all feed without drama. The dye-based inks produce vibrant colours that really pop, though they're not as archival as pigment inks. Setup through Canon's software takes patience but delivers consistent results once configured properly. Print speeds won't win races but quality justifies the wait. Running costs are a very pleasant surprise - quite low compared to alternatives (even significantly cheaper ones), especially considering the actual output quality. Perfect for anybody wanting to see their photographs properly printed rather than trapped on screens forever.

This e-reader serves one purpose brilliantly - providing distraction-free fiction escapes without the weight of physical books. The Oasis handles my growing collection of hundreds of sci-fi novels that would otherwise dominate entire bookshelves. Page-turn buttons feel more natural than touchscreen swiping, especially during long reading sessions. The warm light adjustment prevents eye strain during late-night reading without disrupting sleep patterns. Battery life stretches for weeks with wireless off, though syncing highlights and progress requires occasional connectivity. The aluminium back feels properly premium while keeping weight manageable for one-handed reading. Strictly reserved for fiction - no technical manuals or work documents allowed - maintaining clear boundaries between leisure and professional reading. The larger screen compared to basic Kindles makes a genuine difference for reading comfort. Where this device truly excels is pure reading immersion without notifications or distractions. Perfect for bookworms wanting dedicated reading hardware separate from multipurpose tablets.

This digital writing tablet captures the paper experience without killing trees or losing notes in random notebooks. The reMarkable 2's e-ink display feels remarkably close to actual paper under the stylus, with just enough texture resistance for natural writing. No notifications, apps, or browser - just pure focused writing and sketching space. Templates handle everything from meeting notes to project planning, while handwriting conversion actually works reasonably well for searchable text. Battery life extends for days of heavy use, weeks with occasional note-taking. File sync keeps documents accessible across devices, though the subscription for full features feels cheeky. The stylus needs no charging and replacement tips last months. Perfect for capturing thoughts during calls, planning sessions, or when screens fatigue the brain. Where this device truly excels is eliminating digital distractions while maintaining digital convenience. Perfect for anyone drowning in scattered paper notes.

This gaming console brilliantly balances portable and home gaming without compromising either experience. The Switch OLED's screen transforms handheld play - colours pop properly, blacks look actually black, making games genuinely enjoyable on the smaller display. Docking to the TV takes seconds, seamlessly continuing games on the big screen when time permits. The suspend feature proves invaluable for busy schedules - pause mid-battle, return days later exactly where you stopped. Battery life manages 4-6 hours depending on the game, though intensive titles drain it faster. The game library spans everything from quick puzzle games to sprawling RPGs, with Nintendo exclusives justifying the purchase alone. Joy-Con drift remains an annoying possibility, but replacements are readily available. Build quality feels solid despite the plastic construction. Where this console truly excels is adapting to real-life gaming constraints. Perfect for anyone wanting proper gaming that fits around life rather than dominating it.