Computers, Laptops & Tablets

With the start of school rapidly approaching, the rush is on to make sure students have the gear they need. The biggest purchase for most will be a computer, so you want the right one and making the right choice starts with picking the right form factor. A few days ago, I made the case for choosing a traditional laptop. This time, I’m going to switch hats and make the argument for choosing a desktop PC.

So you’re off to college or university, leaving home and high school behind for the challenge of post-secondary education. Naturally, you’ll be bringing some gear along with you, like your computer and maybe a stereo, game console or a TV. Don’t forget to include a printer in the mix! If you don’t have one already (or if the one you own has seen better days), I’ve put together a list of 5 of the best printers to take to your dorm room.  

A few weeks back I explored the topic of whether a tablet could be as good as a laptop for students. Here’s a hint (as a father whose kids have used both in class): yes, in many cases a tablet can be. However, I also know from experience that there are situations where a laptop just makes more sense. If you’re a student or you have kids in school, here’s the case for buying a traditional laptop over alternatives like a tablet or a desktop PC.

On Wednesday with the help of Microsoft Canada and Intel Canada, Best Buy Canada hosted a Twitter party aimed at helping followers find out what tech they will be needing for back to school.   There were some great questions and even better consumer tips, and as a bonus one of Best Buys’ followers won a fantastic prize pack. Read on to get a recap on some of the highlights of the hour.

A printer is one of the most popular PC accessories, and with good reason. Even in the age of the “paperless office” it seems that we are printing more than ever. Students, in particular, make extensive use of printers, with fall marking the time when home printers fire up to churn out essays, projects and artwork. Whether your printing needs lean toward term papers, family photos or quarterly reports, here’s what you need to know to get the most from your printer.

Using a tablet to get things done doesn’t have to be difficult, so long as the right tools are available to make the job or task easier. Those who have to write a lot, be it for school, work or hobby, likely appreciate the versatility and power of a tablet. With the ideal accessories in place, there are some quality apps to make the writing process more seamless.

Printers are inexpensive nowadays, and while you can get one for far less than a hockey ticket, you might want to look at getting a printer that does more than average. It’s possible to get a printer that also scans, faxes, copies documents and prints lab-quality photos, all in one solid package.

This ultra-wide gaming monitor from BenQ is fully loaded with lots of great tech and attention to detail. It really shines whether you’re watching a movie or playing a game and looking for the most immersive and comfortable experience possible. 

Virtual desktops are a wonderful way of helping you keep all of your open windows organized so your desktop environment is nice and tidy at all times, while helping you be efficient and orderly. Taking advantage of them is now easier than ever with Windows 10 having native support for virtual desktops and making them exceedingly intuitive and easy to use.

Wi-Fi has rapidly progressed from being a novelty to something we depend on. With a wave of ‘smart’ technology now flooding our homes, Wi-Fi performance is more critical than ever. The need for reliable speed, bandwidth, coverage, security, compatibility, upgradability and setup that anyone can understand has driven tech giant Google—working with respected industry leader TP-Link—to release its own wireless router. Meet OnHub, the “new router from Google that’s built for all the ways you Wi-Fi.”