Ted Kritsonis

 Tablets are computers, but they aren’t necessarily the same as full-fledged laptops or desktops that offer the full breadth in hardware and software. That paradigm is slowly shifting, now that some tablets are being designed as full-on laptop replacements capable of creating content in much the same way. There are five tablets that do stand out in that regard, with promising abilities to help boost productivity, while shedding weight.  

 The concept of a laptop has shifted in the last five years to include a greater variety of models and form factors that can alter or expand usability. The Asus ZenBook UX360 is a hybrid PC that can act as a tablet when fully flipped over a full 360-degrees. How it does that isn’t new, but the combination of design, performance and affordability might be just the right mix to be appealing to anyone looking for something like this.

 How useful is a tablet when it comes to getting things done on campus? That may depend on what your needs are, but as tablet utility and functionality continues to grow and improve, a case can be made that having the right one can be vital to your overall productivity at school. The question is: are you in need of a laptop replacement or a situational substitute?  

 If a router could be designated as a tank, the Linksys AC5400 might be it. While already large in physical stature, it’s the power under the hood that makes this unit as robust as it is, even if a good deal of what’s in there can’t be utilized by most devices yet. In many ways, this is a router that is built more for the next year or two than it is for the here and now, and if that appeals to you, the AC5400 is worth a look.

 Shooting photos or video in 360-degrees is a unique proposition that has only become readily available to consumers in the last few years. Prior to that, it was either expensive or out of reach, and few options to display the content anyway. The LG 360 Cam is a pocket-sized camera that can shoot in 180- or 360-degrees, and works with any Android phone, not just LG’s models.

 It’s easy to find a Bluetooth speaker these days, but not always effortless to find one that delivers consistently good sound. That becomes more of an acute consideration when size is a factor. The Sony SRS-XB3 is small enough to wield almost anywhere as a travel companion, yet boisterous enough to keep a small party entertained. With water-resistance and the ability to sync two speakers together, there is a lot to like here.