The new tablet owner on your shopping list couldn’t wait for you to get her a tablet, but that doesn’t mean she’s making the most of her new slate. There’s a universe full of accessories out there - speakers, keyboards, styli, cases and more - that can add functionality and fun. We’ve narrowed the field to the very best options with this list of 10.
1. Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker
Not all Bluetooth speakers are created equal. We’ve reviewed dozens of tablet-compatible audio systems, but the Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker blew us away with its excellent audio fidelity, loud volume and sleek design. Sure, you can find cheaper options, but few other portable speakers offer the SoundLink Mini’s perfect combination of bass and tonal balance, all wrapped up in an elegant, Apple-esque aluminium exterior. Price: US$199.
2. Belkin Express Dock for iPad
No need to take off the case when docking your iPad - the Express Dock from Belkin features a dial on the back that raises or lowers the dock’s Lightning connector to ensure a snug fit with your iPad, regardless of the case you’re using. The dock also sports a 4-foot built-in USB cable, making it easy to plug this accessory into your laptop on the other side of the desk. Price: US$59.99.
3. rooCASE Google Nexus 7 FHD Dual-View Folio Case Cover
If you’re looking for an attractive case for their new Nexus 7 that doesn’t break the bank, this is it. The rooCASE Google Nexus 7 FHD case is made from synthetic leather and features a detachable inner sleeve for handheld use. The magnetic front sports an auto wake and sleep function, and can be used to prop up the device in landscape mode. The case comes in a variety of colours, including black, navy, red and magenta. Best of all, the rooCASE comes with a ballpoint pen stylus that clips to the side. Price: US$28.99.
4. Google Chromecast
Tablets are great for watching video, but there’s nothing like the lean-back experience of TV. Google’s Chromecast gives you the best of both worlds. Just plug this high-tech stick into your HDTV, connect to the same Wi-Fi network as your tablet, and you can start enjoying Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube and other services on the big screen. Best of all, Chromecast works with both Android and iOS devices. Price: US$35.
5. Logitech Harmony Smart Control
This gadget turns your tablet into a universal remote control that is compatible with more than 225,000 devices. Unlike traditional IR remotes, which rely on line of sight to operate, the Logitech Harmony Smart Control lets you control devices hidden behind cabinet doors or in closets. Better still, the Harmony smartphone app (compatible with both iOS and Android) is fully customizable, allowing you to reorganize your buttons, activities and favourite channel icons. Price: US$112.
6. Kingston MobileLite Wireless
No memory card slot on your tablet? No problem. This wireless flash reader lets you quickly view content stored on an SD card or USB flash drive on your tablet, no cables required. Just connect to the Wi-Fi network created by the MobileLite Wireless and start streaming photos, videos and music to up to three devices simultaneously. What’s more, the Kingston MobileLite Wireless can serve as an emergency charger if your tablet is low on juice. Price: US$59.99.
7. Griffin Capacitive Stylus - No. 2 Pencil
Feel like a kid again with the Griffin Capacitive Stylus shaped like a No. 2 pencil. Griffin carefully designed the stylus to mimic not just the look but also the feel of the ubiquitous school pencil. Use this accessory for more precise input, as well as for getting the most out of drawing and note-taking apps. Plus, buy this pen and you can avoid a fingerprint-smudged tablet face. Price: US$25.
8. Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Folio for Galaxy Tab 3
This elegant and sleek keyboard folio from Logitech features a built-in, full-size Bluetooth keyboard with discrete Android keys. The cover sports an auto wake and sleep feature, and you can lay your tablet flat with the keyboard hidden. The Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Folio itself is durable and water-repellent, meaning that you don’t need to worry if you accidentally drop your Galaxy Tab or get it a little wet. Price: US$99.99.
9. Seagate Wireless Plus 1TB
Between HD movies, photos, apps and documents, it’s not hard to run out of space on a 16GB tablet. Thanks to this 1TB wireless external hard drive from Seagate, you can load up as many files as you want and stream them directly to up to eight iOS or Android devices simultaneously. Seagate also provides an app that lets you quickly navigate your files on the drive. Price: US$209.
10. New Trent iGeek
The iPad already boasts the longest battery life we’ve seen on a tablet, but if you forgot your charger on a week-long trip, even Apple’s tablet won’t make it to the end. The massive 11,200-mAh iGeek external battery charger from New Trent offers 60 percent more battery life on the iPad. We like the sleek, rubberized exterior, and a light on the side of the device lets you know how much charge is left. Price: US$79.95.
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