In the fast-paced world of consumer electronics, staying ahead of the curve is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. As your friendly tech enthusiast, I’ve scoured the market to bring you the cream of the crop—the best-rated gadgets of 2023. From cutting-edge laptops and smartphones, to gaming consoles and accessories, these gadgets are build not only for daily use but to immersive gaming experiences, this list has it all. Let’s dive in.
Asus ROG Ally
Best handheld PC or gaming console
Unleashing Power and Performance!
PROS
- Fast performance
- Smooth refresh rate
- Quiet fans
- Charges fast
CONS
- Battery life needs improvement
- Challenges in using Windows
Kicking off our list of the best rated gadgets, is the powerhouse known as the Asus ROG Ally. This gaming handheld doesn’t just meet expectations; it shatters them. Join me as we explore its impressive specs and why it’s a top pick for gamers and professionals alike.
I firmly believe that the true portability of a handheld gaming PC hinges on the optimization of battery life and user interface for on-the-go use.
Moreover, I am of the opinion that individuals intrigued by this device might find greater value in investing an additional funds for a premium gaming laptop, especially one from Asus.
If genuine portability is your priority, perhaps consider saving a few hundred dollars by opting for a handheld Steam Deck and supplementing it with a modest SSD drive of your own choice.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that the Asus ROG Ally shouldn’t be dismissed as a bad mobile device. It stands as a robust gaming handheld that, although reliant on a power source and an adjacent mouse and keyboard, has the potential to deliver a formidable gaming experience.
In fact, envisioning it as a versatile solution, I can picture situations where users may use it as their primary desktop, seamlessly transitioning into a couch-locked gaming setup.
Personally, I spent a few days working with the Ally, and throughout this time, it remained connected to nearly all the external monitors and peripherals that I typically use with my standard desktop gaming PC.
Sony PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2)
Best VR gaming console
Immersive Virtual Realities Await!
PROS
- Easy to use
- Impressive controls & feedback
- Impressive display
- Immersive VR experience
CONS
- More expensive than PS5
- Awkwardly placed controller straps
Virtual reality takes center stage with the Sony PlayStation VR2. In this section, we’ll delve into the mind-bending experiences this gadget offers, making it a must-have for VR enthusiasts. Get ready to step into a new dimension of gaming.
Summing up my encounter with the PSVR 2, I eagerly anticipate the next time I get to wear it.
Unlike previous VR headsets, which failed to consistently captivate me, the PSVR 2 stands out by amalgamating the finest aspects of VR technology with the exceptional haptics and audio capabilities of the PS5.
The result is a user-friendly and surprisingly robust system that significantly enhances the appeal of VR, especially when seamlessly integrating it with my PlayStation 5 gaming console.
Certainly, the high price tag might give pause to all but the most affluent consumers. However, if you’re genuinely intrigued by VR and seek to enhance your PS5 gaming experience, I believe the investment in the PSVR 2 is worth it.
However, for those less inclined to immerse themselves in virtual realms, the PSVR 2 could appear as an overly expensive accessory.
Nevertheless, should Sony deliver on its promise of more high-end VR games harnessing the power of the PS5, the PSVR 2 could transcend being merely an accessory, becoming an additional gaming system complementing its connected console.
Moreover, it has the potential to establish a benchmark for other VR platforms to emulate, a prospect that genuinely excites me.
Sony Dual-Sense Edge
The best elite gaming controller
Elevating your Gaming Experience, with a better Dual-Sense controller!
PROS
- Works well as a PC gamepad
- Awesome customizable software
- Includes metallic back buttons
- An improved Dual-Sense gamepad
CONS
- Very expensive
- Needs charging frequently
- Short battery life
What’s a cutting-edge console without an equally innovative controller? The Sony PlayStation Dual Sense Edge takes gaming to the next level. Join me as we explore its unique features and how it enhances the overall gaming experience.
The Dual-Sense Edge introduces improvements that are easy to appreciate compared to the standard Dual-Sense controller. Considering the fact that the default PS5 controller is already recognized as one of the best ever created, these enhancements are no small feat.
Despite my deep admiration for this Dual-Sense Edge controller, leading me to purchase one, I can’t deny there are some drawbacks. My love for playing my favorite PC and PS5 games with PlayStation buttons and triggers, allows me to almost overlook certain shortcomings.
But, it’s crucial to acknowledge the persistent battery issues.
If your gaming roots are firmly embedded in PlayStation, and you aim to relish the best PS5 games or indulge in top-notch ports like Marvel’s Spider-Man on your PC, the Dual-Sense Edge stands out as an excellent choice.
Just be mindful that you’ll be frequently charging the controller – a lot.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
The best gaming headset
Crystal-Clear Audio Excellence!
PROS
- Acceptable sound quality
- Impressive design
- Good controls
CONS
- Limited connectivity
- High price tag
- Inconsistent volume
Audiophiles, rejoice! The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headphones redefine sound quality in the gaming world. Discover why these headphones stand out and how they deliver an immersive audio experience for gamers and music lovers alike.
While I thoroughly enjoyed my experience using the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, recommending it to a broad audience comes with challenges.
The intricate DAC (which is a small 4.5-inch black box with a rounded side, a dial, two buttons and a battery charging port), may be appealing to audiophiles, and some might find the higher price justifiable.
However, for the majority of console and PC gamers, opting for an Arctis 7X or a SteelSeries Arctis 7+ seems like a more fitting choice.
Nevertheless, if you’re open to embracing the unique qualities of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, there’s much to appreciate.
The DAC allows for a range of interesting features, the sound quality surpasses the rest of SteelSeries’ lineup, and it boasts compatibility with nearly every system you own, even though you can only use it with two of them simultaneously.
Personally, I find satisfaction in using the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, but my curiosity is piqued about the potential evolution of the Arctis lineup.
With SteelSeries refreshing its appearance, we might witness the emergence of more affordable headsets following in its footsteps, or the premium design could maintain its premium price point.
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M2)
The best laptop
Sleek Design. Unmatched Performance. Definitely a 5 star rating!
PROS
- Comes with a bright vivid display
- Sleek & elegant design
- Very portable
- Really fast performance
- Impressive sound quality
CONS
- High price tag
- Meagre selection of ports
- Supports one external monitor
Apple continues to set the standard with the MacBook Air 15-inch featuring the M2 chip. Let’s explore the sleek design, powerful performance, and why it’s one of the best rated gadgets for those who demand excellence from their laptops.
While the MacBook Air 15-inch may not introduce groundbreaking features, it stands out as one of the finest 15-inch laptops available.
Its M2 chip provides reliable performance for day-to-day computing tasks, and the 15-inch display is well-suited for activities like video watching and web browsing.
With an impressive 15-hour battery life and an elegantly designed body, the MacBook Air 15 proves itself as a top choice, especially at its high price tag of over US$1000.
For those inclined towards a more compact unit, the MacBook Air (US$1100) delivers comparable performance to its 15-inch counterpart. Alternatively, individuals willing to invest more for enhanced capabilities can explore the 2023 entry-level MacBook Pro 14-inch (US$2000).
If Apple isn’t your preference, the Dell XPS 15 OLED (US$1300) presents itself as a commendable alternative.
All in all, the MacBook Air 15-inch is a highly recommended option. At present, it stands as the Apple laptop to beat, offering an excellent balance of price and performance.
Apple iPhone 14 Pro
The best smartphone
The Epitome of Smartphone Innovation!
PROS
- Includes ‘Dynamic Island’
- Impressive performance
- Stunning display
- Impressive overall camera
CONS
- No SIM tray available
- Battery life needs improvement
- High price tag
The Apple iPhone 14 Pro takes center stage in the smartphone arena. Join me as we unravel its impressive features, stunning camera capabilities, and why it’s a frontrunner in the competitive world of mobile technology.
Confidently based on my prolong use and experience with the smartphone, I’ve come to realize that the iPhone 14 Pro stands as Apple’s most exceptional phone to date.
Personally not favoring larger phones, the 6.7-inch screen on the iPhone 14 Pro Max doesn’t appeal much to me, although it looks and feels much more superior.
However, aside from battery life and screen size, these two phones share identical capabilities. With its outstanding cameras, stunning display, and formidable performance, the iPhone 14 Pro outshines any competition.
It proves faster, smoother, and even surpasses Google own Pixel 6 Pro in certain aspects, although it’s a close contest.
The primary drawback of the iPhone 14 Pro lies in the absence of a physical SIM tray in U.S. models, potentially causing some irritation. Additionally, I found the device’s performance in our battery life test to be less than impressive.
At a price tag less than US$1000, the iPhone 14 Pro is a solid choice. While it may not be a significantly compelling upgrade from the iPhone 13 Pro, it surpasses anything older. Even the iPhone 12 Pro lags behind the iPhone 14 Pro, given the former’s lackluster battery life.
In my view, the iPhone 14 Pro truly stands as the pinnacle of Apple’s smartphone lineup, eclipsing all its predecessors. It easily earns my highest recommendation as one of the best rated gadgets of 2023.
Google Pixel Tablet
The best tablet
A Nexus of Power and Portability!
PROS
- Comes with a useful charging dock
- Takes good quality photos
- Includes a impressive editing software
CONS
- Average performance
- Very few productivity accessories available
Google enters the tablet scene with a bang, presenting the Google Pixel Tablet. In this section, we’ll explore its features, performance, and why it stands out in the crowded tablet market.
Designed with a speaker dock, Chromecast capabilities, and smart home controls, the Google Pixel Tablet is intended more as a home companion than a productivity device.
This orientation towards home use is advantageous, as it might face challenges in a direct comparison if you’re seeking a tablet for productivity tasks.
However, if your goal is to have a tablet around the house, casually browsing the web while watching TV—typically the common tablet usage scenario—the Pixel Tablet proves to be a suitable choice.
Its charging dock with a speaker offers a unique feature not found in competing tablets. At the very least, this feature ensures that the tablet’s battery won’t be depleted when you pick it up next.
Apple Watch Ultra
The best smart watch
Revolutionizing Wearable Tech!
PROS
- Impressive battery life
- Includes ‘Action’ button
- Comes with large display
- Good for divers
CONS
- No offline maps
- High price tag
- Too large for small wrists
Closing our list is the Apple Watch Ultra—a marvel of wearable technology. Discover how it goes beyond the basics of fitness tracking, setting a new standard for smartwatches.
With its Action Button, Precision Start feature, and improved battery life, the Apple Watch Ultra indisputably stands as the top choice for individuals engaging in serious training.
It marks one of the most thrilling releases in the Apple Watch lineup in years, yet it does lack certain features mastered by competitors like Garmin and Polar.
Notably absent are recovery data and the option to upload offline maps onto the watch at the time of writing. For those primarily seeking an Apple Watch for text checking and occasional gym workouts, saving money and opting for the Apple Watch Series 8 might be a more sensible choice.
While the Apple Watch Ultra boasts features like Precision Start, a dive app, and the Way Finder face, the new and improved workout features in WatchOS 9 are consistent across both models.
If you’re in the market for a Garmin watch with a bright screen like the Apple Watch Ultra but desire the battery life characteristic of Garmin, the Garmin Epix 2 emerges as a strong contender.
In summary, the Apple Watch Ultra proves to be an excellent companion for activities such as running, swimming, or biking before work, followed by a day of managing emails. However, whether it truly lives up to its “Ultra” moniker is debatable.
For endeavors like ultramarathons or extreme adventures, one might desire a longer battery life and mapping capabilities. Nevertheless, Apple’s proficiency in rolling out updates suggests that the current shortcomings of the watch can easily be addressed with future tweaks.
From a smartwatch and design standpoint, Apple has once again demonstrated excellence—making the Apple Watch Ultra a stylish accessory for daily adventures.
Final Thoughts
In the ever-evolving landscape of consumer electronics, these gadgets have proven themselves as the best-rated for 2023. Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or someone who simply appreciates cutting-edge tech, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So what are your thoughts on this awesome list of gadgets? Do they fit the profile of the best-rated gadgets of 2023? Leave your comments below with your thoughts.
Stay tuned for more updates as technology continues to push boundaries and redefine our digital experiences.
Hi LG, these all look super cool!
I see you’re a fan of Apple – we are big on Samsung phones. do you think it’s worth making the switch? I’m so nervous to try a new OS – although I had an Apple iBook back in the day and adored it.
Do you have an article comparing the latest iPhone to the Samsung S23? My cellphone was stolen a couple of weeks ago, so I’m considering the S23 FE when I do my upgrade.
My son is a gamer and we got him some Volkano noise-cancelling headphones last year, which are amazing. I use them when I’m recording podcasts sometimes. Are the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headphones noise-cancelling?
Hi there.
Thank you so much for your comments.
Let’s start off with the SteelSeries headphones. Do they include noise cancelling? Yes, they do. They are a great feature for anyone who loves listening to music, podcasts or gaming especially in a noisy environment.
As much as I like the features of the new Apple iPhones, I prefer Android smartphones like Samsung as well, because of its premium design and features. If you want to switch, I suggest considering the better features each phone brand provides, then switch. For example: Do you prefer a smartphone with a better camera, or better battery life? Best check out my comparison article between the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and the Apple iPhone 15 Pro MAX HERE.
It’s not a good thing to lose a smartphone, but if a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is what you considering, then check out my review of the smartphone HERE. It will help you make a better decision. I hope you queries are addressed.
Thanks again.
Hi LG,
I am so pleased I came across your article on these gadgets.
I am still looking for something to get my nephew for Christmas, and I think I’ve found it.
I am going to get him the Sony PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2), he will absolutely love this and it will make me the best uncle 🙂
I will let you know what he thinks when he opens it up on Christmas day and how excited his face is 🙂
Thank you for sharing these gadgets and helping us to see new things that we can get our family and friends for Christmas. AMAZING!
All the best,
Tom
Hi LG,
Hey there! This list is a gem! It’s like a one-stop shop for tech enthusiasts. I appreciate the straightforward breakdown of each gadget—it makes choosing way easier. Personally eyeing that Sony PlayStation VR2 for some next-level gaming fun!
Thanks for simplifying the tech maze.