(Sep 05, 2008)
Laura K. Cucullu
Features editor
This month, we welcome back the Apple iPhone, in its new 3G variety. What else is hot on our most recent Must-Have Gadgets list? A stellar flat-panel TV, a sexy Bluetooth headset, and an extreme LCD monitor. Rather than trying to compare gadgets across multiple categories, we present them in alphabetical order because, when you get right down to it, we think they're all must-haves.
Aliph Jawbone 2 (black)
Despite its quirks, the Aliph Jawbone 2 is quite possibly the ultimate Bluetooth headset in terms of design and sound quality.
Price: $109.99 - $119.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 14, 2008
Excellent
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Apple iPhone 3G (16GB, black)
The iPhone 3G delivers on its promises by adding critical features and sharper call quality. The iTunes App Store is pretty amazing, and the 3G support is more than welcome. Critical features still are missing, and the battery depletes quickly under heavy use, but the iPhone 3G is a big improvement over the original model.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jul 11, 2008
Excellent
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Apple iPod Touch (16GB)
The iPod Touch is a beautiful product, inside and out, but prepare yourself for sticker shock.
Price: $344.95 - $399.99 (check prices)
Review date: Sep 17, 2007
Excellent
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Canon PowerShot SD850 IS
The Canon PowerShot SD 850 IS has just about everything you'd want in a point-and-shoot.
Price: $219.94 - $299.99 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 5, 2007
Excellent
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Firefox 3
If only for the speed, lightness of being, and security alone, Firefox remains our Editors' Choice for best Internet browser.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jun 17, 2008
Excellent
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Gateway XHD3000 Monitor (30-inch)
Although it costs more than competing 30-inch LCDs, the Gateway XHD3000 goes a long way toward justifying its high price with a long list of features and outstanding performance.
Price: $1,449.99 - $1,599.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 28, 2008
Excellent
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Netflix Player by Roku
While it's still a work in progress--and currently lean on quality content--the Netflix Player's simple operation, overall convenience, and cheap price makes it a compelling option for Netflix subscribers looking for instant gratification.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: May 19, 2008
Very good
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Nikon D3 (body only)
Nikon's flagship dSLR packs a full-frame 12-megapixel sensor and is a highly versatile imaging powerhouse that lets photographers create images previously impossible to capture.
Price: $4,499.00 - $5,450.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 31, 2008
Outstanding
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Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ800U
With the accuracy of its THX mode and great black-level performance, the Panasonic TH-50PZ800U is one of the best-performing HDTVs available.
Price: $1,778.99 - $2,499.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 23, 2008
Excellent
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Wii Fit (Wii)
Price: $89.99 - $105.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 8, 2008
Very good
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