As the end of summer rapidly approaches, it’s time for college students to start gearing up for the new school year and thinking about what they will need to bring to campus. While electronics that are not so conducive to a good study atmosphere (say, video games and flat-screen TVs) might be on the top of most college students’ packing lists, we found seven gadgets that can help make school easier.
eReader
Save your back this semester and exchange the heavy textbooks for a ligh-weight eReader than can store all of your required reading. This thin device allows students to view books, magazines, newspapers, or any other printed material. Once you get past the initial sticker price of the eReader, students can download textbooks for a fraction of what it would cost in the bookstore. For an eReader review and comparison on a variety of models and prices, click here (Reuters)
Netbook
Although the laptop has long been a college staple, manufacturers are touting their netbook computers as a lower price than a regular laptop. Another bonus? It’s smaller than a regular laptop, so it’ll be easier to bring along to your lecture for taking notes. If you can deal with a smaller screen and keyboard, a netbook could be the way to go. Click here to see a review of a variety of netbooks.
Tablet Device
Whether it’s an iPad, an HP Slate, or any other brand, tablet devices have become the new easy to surf the web, check your e-mail, and look up information quickly. Although they can be a bit pricey, students will love all of the bells and whistles these devices have, including apps, games and a touch screen. You can read in-depth tablet device reviews and articles here.
(Apple)
Web Cam
While cell phones and e-mail can help you stay connected, a web cam can make staying in touch with your parents, friends at other schools, and your buddies who are studying abroad, a lot more personal. If both parties have a web cam, it’s almost like having a real, in-person conversation—until your roommate comes barging in yelling at her mom on the phone. Compare prices and find out which web cam is best for you.
USB Drive
USB drives can hold data and files for easy transportation and storage and they can attach to your keychain or thrown into a bag for easy and safe holding. Check out how the top ten USB drives were rated here.
Cell Phone Signal Extender
Don’t waste time trying to find the right spot to get a measly bar of cell phone service. Not all campuses are within close proximity to cell phone towers, so take it upon yourself to improve voice reception and signal strength by getting a signal extender or femtocell. All you need is a high-speed internet connection and your signal extender will act as your own miniature cell phone tower. Find out about the femtocells on the market here. (Reuters)