Of course, the question then becomes… 

What even is a “gaming” product? 

While the answer to this question is rather open-ended, we’d like to think that gaming products are simply a more high-performing version of an average product for an audience that appreciates the little details and quality-of-life improvements.  

Of course, aesthetics certainly play a role too. But because getting the aesthetics to resemble what gamers view as a gaming look––whether that be a simple red and black color palette or blinding RGB implementation––is a lot easier to achieve than paying attention to details and adding useful features, a lot of pseudo-gaming products have entered the market. 

The only way you can shield yourself from falling into the traps that some companies lay out for the unsuspecting gamer is to be vigilant and understand what a good gaming chair or desk is before you start doom-scrolling along the thousands of gaming desks and chairs available online. Providing you with that understanding is the focus of this article. 

The features of a gaming chair 

What does a good gaming chair offer?  

Obviously, when it comes to a gaming chair, its main functionality is to provide you with comfort; everything else is secondary. While comfort is subjective and a chair that feels comfortable to some might not feel the same way for others, there are still general rules of thumb that you can look out for when picking out a model that has caught your eye. 

Support for your neck and back  

One of the most basic rules of thumb is that you probably shouldn’t be going for a model without a neckrest or backrest (although, depending on the person, some believe that having no backrest at all may force the user to sit up straight). You are not likely to find a model without a neckrest or backrest in the gaming chair market anyway, so this requirement is hardly a consideration.  

Additional or built-in lumbar support 

The next important feature to consider with buying gaming chairs is the addition of a lumbar support. The lumbar support may come in the form of a pillow that comes with the chair and is hopefully height-adjustable, or it comes built into the chair in some of the more high-end models that can be adjusted, typically using a knob. There are chairs that have a fixed lumbar support built into the ergonomics of the chair, but having the lumbar support may not always be the most comfortable experience. 

Ergonomic design 

The ergonomics of the chair also certainly matters; however, it is much more difficult to measure. A trend among gaming chairs is replicating sports car seats’ hugging design that is meant to provide better back support and promote an upright posture.  

Part of the ergonomics also includes the armrest. Because of the various sizes that people come in, we cannot expect their elbows to rest in the same spot if they sit on a chair; taller individuals will want a higher armrest, while broader individuals will also require more distance between the armrests. Although the former group usually has the benefit of height adjustable armrests even in semi-decent gaming chair, the latter rarely gets the luxury of being able to adjust the space between the armrests.  

Therefore, if you are broader or more petite than the average person, make sure to pay special attention to a gaming chair’s ability to adjust the distance between the armrests.  

Are leather gaming chairs better? 

The material is also another consideration that mostly comes down to your preference and how you feel about leather seats. Some people like the looks and the premium feel of a leather gaming chair, but they go with soft fabric because they sweat too much. Of course, leather can make the chair quite expensive, which is an extra case for fabric seats. 

What about aesthetics? 

In terms of aesthetics, of course, this is going to be a heavy subject. However, we advise that you don’t feel obligated to go for a “gaming” look. Comfort and functionality should always be prioritized, and aesthetics should come second. Afterall, as mentioned above, nowadays “gaming” just means high performing. So, when you think about how to choose a gaming chair, make sure you consider all the aforementioned factors. 

The features of a gaming desk 

Gone are the days of computer desks with multiple shelves installed on the closed back and a slide-out keyboard drawer that would always interfere with your chair’s armrests. Today, users generally prefer deeper, wider desks without any intrusion at the back, especially if they have a desktop PC to take up all that space.  

While there isn’t that many universal gaming desk features, we have compiled a list of the most useful features in our perspective that you will find helpful. 

Mixed material for durability and structure 

In essence, modern day gaming desks resemble traditional dinner tables more than ever in all aspects but the material. Wood used to be the main material used in “computer desks” at a time when we didn’t even have “gaming” desks. While we still use some type of wood in the top part of the desk, metal is being used more and more to offer more structural integrity in the feet and the chassis.  

Design protrusion allowing for more space 

Another welcome feature that is included in some modern gaming desks is that the front of the desk protrudes as you go away from the center. This gives even more depth and space for the even increasing number of gear that gamers may end up accumulating, including a gaming microphone, headset stand, or even a 55” gaming monitor.  

Cable management  

For any PC user, cable management can be both a blessing and a curse. It is a curse because it is an absolute nightmare to deal with, especially if you have a lot of connected peripherals. It can take a couple of hours to tidy things up, only to realize after a while that the setup was not optimal, putting certain things slightly out of reach. Cable management is also a blessing because once you find the right strategy to manage your cables and take a few steps back to marvel at your work, bliss is your reward! 

But wouldn’t it be wonderful if you didn’t have to spend a good few hours managing your cables and still be able to step back and feel bliss? Thankfully, that is possible in some gaming desks that offer a net underneath the desk that you can simply stuff all the excess cable lengths inside (although we recommend being gentle).  

It would also certainly help if there the table offers strategic holes put in 3 different spots on the desk that would remove the necessity of having to run the cable from behind the desk. In extreme cases where the cable length is just a few centimeters too short, the strategically placed holes can be quite game-changing.  

Water resistant desk mat 

Here is another feature found in very few gaming desks: a water-resistant desk-wide mouse pad! While it is always an option to purchase a separate XL mouse mat, it would look much sleeker and less busy if the whole desk was just covered with a mouse pad that you can remove and even put in the washing machine whenever you wanted.  

Introducing Arozzi’s gaming chairs and desks  

Arozzi is a decade-old Swedish company with special expertise in designing gaming accessories and some of the most intricately made gaming chairs and desks. Many of the rather unique features described above for gaming chairs and desks are ones that Arozzi offers almost exclusively.  

Below, we have selected a few of their most popular offerings to provide you with a better perspective on the quality and features of their products. 

Arozzi Gaming Chairs 

Arozzi Primo Full Premium Leather 

The Primo, as the name suggests, is Arozzi’s most premium offering in their gaming chair lineup. It is a sizable and hefty chair (thanks to the aluminum base and the heavy casters) that can withstand up to 145kg of weight. It is made from genuine Italian leather and is sure to catch the eye while delivering maximum comfort. It also comes in various colors, including black, brown, and ocean. It is, hands down, Arozzi’s best ergonomic gaming chair.  

Although the Primo certainly features the same hugging-backrest design found in many gaming chairs, we seriously hesitate to call it a gaming chair because the design is much more subtle and much less flashy and attention-grabbing than a gaming chair. However, it feels just as comfortable in a gaming setup as it does in a productivity-focused one.  

The ace up the sleeve of the Primo is its built-in lumbar support as well as its 4D armrest, on top of its perforated premium leather that is more breathable than most leather seats, without losing any of its premium feel and look. This gaming chair features adjustable heigh and backrest (up to 145 degrees).  

What is 4D armrest? 

The Arozzi Primo goes one step beyond the typical 3D adjustable armrests and adds a 4th D to the degrees of freedom.  

Now you can not only increase/decrease the height of the armrest, push it back or forward and angle it how you want, in the Primo, you can also position the armrest inwards and outwards. This is especially handy if you feel the seating area is slightly too large for you and your elbow doesn’t quite rest on top of the armrest, so you can bring them a little bit closer to your body for extra comfort. 

Smartly implemented lumbar support 

You will find a hidden knob on the right side of the backrest that adjusts the protrusion of the built-in lumbar support. This implementation is a much cleaner take on the lumbar support that not only gives you much more granular control over exactly how much support you want against your back, but it also removes the need to find a space to put the pillow when you don’t need it.  

Final thoughts 

With all the features that tweak the ergonomics of the chair, the Primo is truly one of the best adjustable gaming chairs on the market and with the advanced backrest adjustability, also one of the best reclining gaming chairs. 

If you want to enjoy the same exact features as the Primo Full Premium Leather gaming chair but with a fabric finish, then there is another Primo that is built just for you: the Arozzi Primo Woven Fabric gaming chair. It features the same unique adjustable built-in lumbar support, the 4D arm rest, and an accented neck rest pillow of your choice.  

Arozzi Vernazza Soft Fabric 

If premium leather is not your cup of tea, perhaps because you sweat too much on leather seats, then Arozzi still has you covered with their other premium gaming chair: the Vernazza. The Arozzi Vernazza is among the larger chairs that Arozzi makes, it features a hugging backrest and a deep and wide seating area that can withstand 145kg and is also suitable for taller people.  

First-class and tested material 

The soft fabric on this model is as durable as it is breathable. The breathability makes it a great option for long gaming/productivity sessions. The soft fabric is also utilized in the neck rest and the lumbar support pillows. The fabric is made to last with ISO-tested qualities that measure its tear growth resistance, seam slippage resistance, and tensile strength. It also doesn’t produce noise like leather does when you move around. 

The use of quality material doesn’t end in the fabric, though. The base and the wheels are made of aluminum with a stylish black finish to give it a more subtle and understated look.  

Other important features 

The Vernazza features rocking and lock-tilt functions as well as an adjustable backrest (up to 165 degrees) and adjustable height. The chair provides a 3D armrest that can go up and down, forward and back, and angle clockwise or counterclockwise. The Vernazza also features an adjustable lumbar pillow on top of the neck rest pillow that you can lock in place at the desired heigh or remove entirely. 

The cherry-on-top is that this chair is priced much more competitively compared to the leather Primo, simply because fabric is more budget-friendly than leather. Along with the Primo lineup, the Vernazza is among the best reclining gaming chairs and certainly among the best ergonomic gaming chairs currently on the market. 

Arozzi Gaming Desks 

Arozzi Arena Fratello 

In the sea of similar looking “gaming” desks, one may easily think that they are all the same and there is no differentiating factor. That may be true in a lot of cases, but in the case of Arozzi’s IKEA style AIY (assemble it yourself) desk, the concept doesn’t quite hold up. The Arozzi Arena Fratello has a few tricks up its sleeve that make it stand out from the crowd. 

Height adjustability for increased flexibility 

The Arozzi Arena Fratello features adjustable height. The feature operates manually and gives you roughly 10cm of height adjustability. The assembly process is not necessarily very easy, but it is very simple; you will need a good half-an-hour at least to assemble it, but you know exactly what to do at each stage as there is a very helpful assembly video published by Arozzi on YouTube.  

Desk-wide water-resistant mouse pad 

Outside of the height adjustability, another unique feature of the Fratello is the massive, thick mouse pad that expands the entirety of the surface area of the desk. No need to worry about it gathering dust and grime though, as the mouse mat is completely water resistant and machine washable; so, spill away. 

Cable management and monitor stand installation 

As for what goes on underneath the desk, the desk features a net that expands the entire width of the desk to fulfill all your cable management needs, regardless of where you put your computer case. It is a simple addition, but if you are at your own desk and look underneath it, you can imagine just how welcome of an addition it truly is.  

One last neat feature built into the chassis of the Fratello as well as its mouse pad, is that there are 3 cut-outs on the surface of the desk that are accompanied by cuts in the same spot on the mousepad to allow not only easier cable management across the desk, but also enabling the implementation of monitor stands that are more accessible. This also allows for installation of monitor stands when there is no gap between the desk and the wall behind it.  

Final thoughts 

With the Arena Fratello, you have a very well-sturdy steel construction that is accompanied by several quality-of-life features, with the cherry-on-top being the thick, corner-to-corner mousepad that cleans up the aesthetics of the desk. 

Arozzi Arena Moto 

The Arena Moto is Arozzi’s response to people with back problems, or those who want to avoid it. Whether you are sitting in the most ergonomic chair or not, you will still need to get up from your chair as often as possible. But sometimes, your busy schedule, or the next round doesn’t let you be away from your desk recovering for long enough.  

In that case, using the Arozzi Arena Moto, you can turn your seating setup into a standing one with the press of a button to avoid missing a single beat. The height adjustment is done via the small console that can be attached to either side of the desk. And of course, for more ease-of-use, you can program different heights to 4 separate buttons for convenient and quick switching.  

Other features of the Arena Moto are shared with its non-motorized brother (the Arena Fratello). It features a desk-wide mouse pad that is water resistant and washable, sturdy steel construction, packageable AIY installation, cable management net underneath, 3 cutouts for more convenient cable management, and mounting options for monitor stands.  

Arozzi Arena Moto – New Motorized Desk 

Interested in learning more about Arozzi? 

As the official distributor of Arozzi in the UAE, Newcom offers a wide range of Arozzi gaming chairs and desks, including the leather gaming chair and motorized standing gaming desk mentioned above. 

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Arozzi releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts.  

With an every expanding range of smart, high-resolution monitors (recently labeled as ViewFinity), Samsung offers a wide variety of top-notch monitors with numerous great features. However, understanding the purpose and significance of these features can sometimes pose a challenge.  

In this article, we will look at the features offered by different categories of monitors made by Samsung using specific lineups and series as illustrations. 

M-lineup smart monitors 

Mobile connectivity 

There is no other display on the market that can connect to so many different phones. If you have an iPhone, you can enjoy seamless AirPlay 2 with Samsung smart monitors. If you have one of the select Samsung Galaxy phones, you can use Samsung DeX wirelessly to turn your display into something dangerously close to a PC. If you have any other Android phone you can both use Cast or you can share the content of your screen by simply tapping the phone to your display, using Tap View. 

Laptop and PC connectivity 

For more serious workloads you even have access to a Smart Remote feature built into the display that allows you to get a remote connection to your computer of choice and control it via a mouse and keyboard that is connected to the monitor. 

IoT Hub and SmartThings 

For the tech savvy users that have “smartified” their house and would like to squeeze every inch of value out of their “smart” monitor, they can use the monitor’s remote or built-in voice assistant to control their smart home. Samsung’s M-lineup of smart monitors can also act as a hub for all your smart home appliances. 

The Samsung M8 Smart monitor is the best example of Samsung’s M-lineup, showcasing all the smart features in a sharp and bright 4K display with eye-catching aesthetics and a genius snap-on webcam. If you want to know more about the M8, here’s our full in-depth look at Samsung’s top-of-the-line smart monitor. 

If you want to have all the same smart features packed into a more modest and budget friendly package, you can check out the still-4K M7 or the budget friendly and popular M5. You can find an overview of their features in this article. 

Odyssey series gaming monitors 

Top-notch displays 

The ultra-popular Odyssey gaming monitors bring superb value for gamers on different budgets. The G3 brings 144hz to the budget conscious gamer with excellent construction. The G5 introduces AMD FreeSync Premium and a 1000R curve into the Odyssey lineup with a wide range of sizes and the G7 ups the resolution to 2K or 4K (depending on whether you buy the older G7 or the newer one) in what is the best panel that Samsung makes in their gaming lineup.  

On the highest end of the Odyssey series, the G9 Neo cranks everything up to the max in an ultra-wide package. Last but not least, the Odyssey Ark, for gamers who are looking for the most over-the-top experience that has no competition; a 55” beast with spaced-out quad-speakers for cinema-grade audio. 

Built-in FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility 

There are features that all Odyssey models share, alongside many other Samsung gaming monitors. One of them is FreeSync Premium and FreeSync Premium Pro (for HDR models), which enable smooth tear-free 120hz (minimum) gaming without having to worry about losing performance by enabling V-Sync.  

AMD FreeSync Premium w/Pro monitors are able to communicate with the graphics card to optimize frame rendering to prevent both image-tearing as well as wasted frames. Nvidia G-Sync is also enabled on all Odyssey models for similar advantages for Nvidia users. 

 1000R curve 

 You will also find that all models (except G3) come with the option of an aggressive 1000R curvature for extra immersion. 1000R is the most natural curvature possible for a display as it reflects the curvature of the human eye. All models also enable you to use them as if they were an ultra-wide monitor (with black bars on top and bottom) so that you can see more of the action in yout game. 

 For a deeper look at the Samsung Odyssey lineup, click here. If you feel like you are ready to take in the madness of the Odyssey Ark and want to know more, click here for all you need to know about it. 

General purpose/Productivity monitors 

 Features to improve picture and sound quality 

 Nearly all of these types of monitors feature adaptive picture that automatically adjusts the brightness based on ambient light, and in select models, adjusts the white balance of the image based on the color temperature of ambient light.  

 They also feature adaptive sound, which acts as an audio compressor for a non-disruptive listening experience, free of sudden volume fluctuations, especially when switching between sources or channels. 

 Picture-in-picture and picture-by-picture modes are also available in most Samsung monitors that allow you to either run a small window of a different input in one corner of the screen, or run two sources side by side if you frequently shift your attention between the two.  

Quantum Dot Color technology and HDR10+ 

 On select models, you will also find Quantum Dot Color technology for the richest colors that the display giant can give. Monitors capable of reproducing HDR10+ images are also becoming more standard and you can find many of them in Samsung’s offerings, even ones on the more affordable side of the price range.  

Feature variability 

Of course, these are some of the very general features that you will find across Samsung’s productivity-focused monitors, but you need to look deeper to find the type that you are looking for unique features that suit you the most.  

For example, the LC34J791 features Thunderbolt 3 connectivity that is excellent for laptop users who frequently take their laptops with them and need a robust but small and easy-to-use (and elegant!) connector. On top of that, there has been extra attention to the aesthetics on this particular model, apparent by the chamfered edges on the metal base. It is also ultra-wide for the productivity enthusiast.  

There is also the 49” S95UA ultra-wide model that features a built-in KVM switch for users that frequently switch between two computers but want to work with only one mouse and keyboard. The CF models are also made for those who are looking for a curved monitor but don’t want to pay through the nose.  

High-Resolution Monitors: Innovative displays that power your performance | Samsung 

Interested in learning more about Samsung products?  

As an official Samsung monitor distributor within the United Arab Emirates, Newcom offers a wide range of Samsung gaming monitors, including the Samsung Odyssey Ark.  

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Samsung releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

If your office space is a dull, gray environment devoid of any soul or art, doing anything, even relaxing, will feel wrong. But even if you are at home, while it is much less likely that your home office’s environment would hurt your productivity, your equipment certainly can. Your room can look gorgeous, decorated with your favorite plants and posters, but it still won’t be able to save you from the blow that using cheap, low-quality computers or even peripherals will deal to your productivity. Having good equipment is one of the must-haves for a home office.  

A while ago we made a video review of the Logitech Craft, which still is Logitech’s most premium desktop keyboard offering. In the video, we mentioned that you certainly don’t need to own a Craft if you are going to be more productive. But the Craft, while serving a clear purpose targeted at creators, also aims to be something more than just a functional premium keyboard.  

With the meticulousness that the Craft is crafted, it goes beyond being a tool, and invites the user to use it more. The Craft can make its user more productive, not because it has better/extra functionality (even though it does), but because it feels good to use! The Craft is an expensive keyboard, but if it is going to be one of the tools that you are going to use to make money, it might be worth spending the extra. Having tools that you don’t feel like you must use, but want to use, is priceless for your productivity when considering gadgets for hybrid work. 

What makes the best productivity gadgets excel? 

There are certain things that make a product like the Craft stand out from the crowd and a joy to use. We will try to take inspirations from the Logitech Craft as a guide on what makes a tool -specifically a computer peripheral- premium and inviting to its user and what makes it one of the best work-from-home accessories. 

The basics: build material 

The foundation of having a premium product that you enjoy using is that it is durable and made up of good material. Good material can be anything, if done right. And, just as important, is the assembly of the parts. A budget keyboard that is assembled well can still give off a sense of quality. The combination of these with the next item will ensure a product’s success and user satisfaction. 

How good it looks and how good it works 

A product that invites the user to use it is rarely designed with form over function. Form is a great bonus to a functional design. Even if you look at Logitech’s funky Pop Keys and Pop Mouse, as form-oriented and quirky as they are, they still have a very solid foundation in the form of a high-quality keyboard with secure and trusted wireless capabilities and a mouse that is as durable as it is compact. 

The Craft keyboard is also a great example. While it is a very premium-looking keyboard, its main strength is the extra functionality it adds and the level at which it delivers the most basic of functionalities. In short: form is an amazing addition to an already well-functioning and well-designed product.  

Big names’ ace up the sleeve: Software  

This is usually an area where bigger brands display why they are bigger than the rest. Offering great software to go along with your mouse, keyboard, headset, webcam, etc. can be game-changing in more ways than one. With such software, you can intuitively create custom macros. In the case of Logitech’s Options+ software, you can even change the function of keys based on what window/application is currently active. This high level of customization allows the user of the likes of MX Keys keyboard or Craft to really make their experience with the product their own.  

With good headset software, you would also be able to customize the sound profile to your liking and the more advanced the software is, the more fine-tuning options it will give. And with good webcam software, for example, you will be able to adjust the lighting, exposure, color and other metrics to make sure you are being seen as clearly as possible.  

The indescribable: that special something… 

In some cases, the reason why you love using a product doesn’t necessarily fit into a category. Maybe it is a combination of all of the above. Maybe it’s an attention to detail that makes it one of the best productivity gadgets and a must have for the home office. 

This is where Logitech comes in 

During the past couple of years, Logitech has been spearheading the transition to hybrid work in the field of computer peripherals. They have released an entire ecosystem of products designed for end-users and enterprises that make the experience of hybrid work better. Logitech has combined all the qualities in their entire lineup. We are looking at a couple of their newest additions that focus on making working from home a better experience. 

Logitech Zone Vibe Headset: One of the best work-from-home accessories 

Logitech never puts form over function, but it also never makes a functional product that isn’t stylish! The Logitech Zone Vibe Headset is one of the best examples of Logitech’s design prowess in a package that is every bit as performant as it is stylish. The first element that immediately grabs the attention when you look at/hold the Zone Vibe headset is the use of fabric in the build. The gray soft-knit fabric on the headbands and on the ear-cushions gives it a unique style while still being subtle.  

An understated design 

The understated look of the Zone Vibe is accompanied with a big sound. Behind the super-comfortable memory foams is a set of 40mm drivers that deliver crisp highs and deep bass simultaneously, with minimal distortion at any volume. Every word and every note, will be heard the way it is supposed to. You will also be heard the way you are supposed to, thanks to the noise-cancelling microphone that has a flip to mute feature for extra convenience. 

Convenient media control 

Staying on the topic of functionality, you get analog media and call control. We already tried touch controls on headsets, and the hassle and the glitches were just not worth the cool factor: analog media control is the way. You will also find a USB-C charging input that can juice up the device for up to 18 hours of talk time.  

Feature-set 

Now we get to arguably the best feature of the Zone Vibe 125 that makes it one of the best work from home accessories; and that is its quick switching between Bluetooth mode and USB mode. Using the Zone Vibe with the USB dongle on your computer while also being connected to your phone’s Bluetooth is better than just being connected to both of them via Bluetooth; not only do you get to switch between them instantly, but you also don’t have to worry about inconsistency issues that connecting two devices to one headset via Bluetooth usually brings (i.e. intrusive notification sounds from your phone directly into your ear while you are trying to focus on your work on your computer). 

The special sauce 

The special something for the Logitech Zone Vibe 125 headset is definitely its design. From the fabric headband and ear-cushions to the retro telephone cable that comes out of the headbands to the ear-cups in a subtle gray design.  

But as said before, the focus on design never takes away from functionality in any Logitech product. What you are dealing with under the well-thought-out design is a combination of high-quality audio input and output that has a number of quality-of-life features such as instant switching between Bluetooth mode and USB mode, flip-to-mute microphone, a carrying pouch and analog media control.  

Logitech Brio 505: One of the best productivity gadgets when it comes to conference calls 

The latest webcam by Logitech is a perfect example of having that special something as its main selling-point. Yes, it is a 1080p 60fps webcam with clear visuals. Yes, it features a noise-cancelling microphone. But it’s the features unique to the Brio 505 that makes in one of the must haves for home office. 

You have an ultra-wide lens that you can use to fine-tune your frame with different viewing angle options. You can also use the software to determine how close or far you want the viewing distance to be, so that the frame can always follow you even if you go out of it, thanks to the ultra-wide lens. That is all enabled by Logitech’s proprietary RightSight technology that you will either get out-of-the-box or through a firmware update as soon as you connect the webcam to your computer.  

A unique feature 

Another neat feature almost exclusive to this particular model of webcam is ShowMode. It allows users to orient to Brio 505 downwards looking at the desk while flipping the image to make it usable on the other side. It really does look like just a simple flipping of the image, and that is true! But there’s also the ability to even flip the webcam downwards so easily using the magnetic attachment of the webcam to the stand that is unique to the Brio 505. It’s the hardware design element that enables such a simple but genius software feature.  

Elevation through software 

Finally, through the Logi Tune software, you will be able to have comprehensive control over every metric of the video you get from the Brio 505. The software is so well-built that it’s almost a reason to get this headset alone, with the level of fine-tuning -especially over lighting- that it gives you for use system wide.  

The Brio 505 is a great deal, considering not just the image quality, but the quality-of-life features like ShowMode, RightSight and the thorough control over image is what really sells the Brio 505, making it one of the best work from home accessories. 

Enterprise versions vs consumer versions 

There is almost no difference between these two products, except for the fact that the Brio 505 is meant for enterprise use whereas the Brio 500 is for consumers. That translates mainly into the packaging. The packaging for the Brio 500 is much more consumer friendly whereas the 505 has a more industrial theme to the packaging. The same can be said about the Zone Vibe 125 headset vs the Zone Vibe 100. The 125 is the industrial version and the 100 is the consumer model. 

The only other slight difference between all these models is the addition of a couple of extra certifications for popular video-calling software that makes no difference in how you use them in those platforms. Whichever model you have available, is till going to be one of the best productivity gadgets you can find. 

Conclusion 

The Zone Vibe 125 and the Brio 505 are some of the best work-from-home accessories available on the market as of recently. Investing in premium gadgets for hybrid work like Logitech’s is, at the end of the day, an investment. Being economic about must-haves for your home office might save you a few bucks here and there, but by making the process of using them uninviting, they make you less productive and essentially cost you more money than you saved initially.  

Interested in learning more about Logitech’s best productivity gadgets? 

As the official distributor of Logitech’s products in the UAE, Oman, and Ghana, Newcom offers a wide range of Logitech productivity gadgets, including ergonomic office gadgets like the MX Vertical and Lift Vertical mice. 

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Lindy releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

While the main question we are asking is the latter, we will need to get into the nuances and look for small differences; because it is easy to clump all headsets together into the same category. In this article, we will cover the main features of three main types of headsets: gaming headsets, audiophile headphones/headsets, and headsets for conference calls. Then we will introduce one of the latest and best headsets for video conferencing available in the market: Targus’ Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headset.  

Gaming headsets 

Aesthetic qualities and a boom microphone are the two most differentiating features of headsets for gaming. Moreover, these headsets are also usually larger as they are most likely not going to be moved around a lot. Gaming headsets are also generally wired because even a few milliseconds of delay in competitive play can be costly. No matter how amazing the wireless technology is, there will still be a few milliseconds of delay compared to wired audio. 

In short, gaming headsets: 

• Are bigger and look more flashy 
• Come with RGB lighting 
• Have boom-mics (rarely noise canceling) 

• Are wired, typically

Audiophile headphones/headsets 

The focus on audiophile headphones is so much on the audio output that even though most of them have microphones, they don’t call them headsets. Audiophile headphones can be the most expensive type of headphones because of the focus there is on the drivers and the sound profile as well as Active Noise-Cancelling features (ANC) on more premium headphones. Nowadays, unless they are hardcore audiophile headphones (with no microphone) meant for studio use, audiophile headphones are generally wireless.  

In short, features of headphones/headsets for audiophiles include: 

• Put heavy focus on sound profile (results can vary significantly) 
• Are generally wireless 
• Don’t have boom-mics 
• Can get very expensive 

Headsets for video conferencing 

Headsets for conference calls are supposed to be the lightest as they are expected to potentially be worn for hours on end. They also almost always have a boom-mic for clearer audio input. In terms of sound profile, it is great if they have a bit more high-end to have more focus on people’s voices but they rarely advertise the sound profile accurately so it’s difficult to tell unless you try them on.  

One of the other features of video conferencing headsets is that they are generally on the smaller side with on-ear designs for extra portability. They come in both wired or wireless mode, each with their own benefits. Wired connection, without fail, gives higher microphone quality than wireless audio but of course, wireless headsets have the added benefit of portability and convenience, plus better compatibility.  

In short, video-conferencing headsets: 

• Are smaller, with on-ear design for extra portability 

• Have boom-mics for better audio input 
• Can be wired or wireless 
• Have answer/end call and microphone mute button 

Now that we know what we can expect from a headset for conference calls, allow us to introduce a wireless video-conferencing headset that is recently released by Targus. 

Targus Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headset (AEH104TT) 

This Targus headset is one of the best headsets for video conferencing for a reason. It checks all the boxes in what makes a good headset for video conferencing and then some! It covers the basics like being relatively compact and portable, having a boom-mic, offering wired and wireless options, 16+ hours of battery life, having a slew of analog controls on the cups and on the mic, and a comfortable set of cushions and headband. The feature-set clearly makes this a headset for conference calls. But let’s go over the features step by step.  

Understated, functional design 

This wireless headset for video conferencing will fade into the background very quickly with its all-black design; it won’t turn heads, but it’s a serviceable design. While there is room for improvement in the form, the functionality of the design gets an A+. There are thick, soft, padded cushions on the earcups as well as a padded headband with decent thickness to ensure maximum comfort for those who need to be on conference calls for hours.  

A unique “twist”  

On the earcups, you will see all the buttons you need for media control and answering/ending calls as well as an extremely handy rotating volume control knob that is one of the most genius designs for controlling volume in any headset. The same design exists on the other earcup as well, with an extra twist. The boom on this headset is detached by default. You can attach it via the audio jack at the end to the rotating wheel on the right cup.  

The boom even has a mute button on it and can be rotated if you already have the headset on backwards, so you don’t have to take the headset off and miss a beat. But the boom is not necessary; if you are using the headset on the go and you forget to bring the boom, there already are two holes on the right cup that act as a set of noise-cancelling microphones. Having noise-cancelling microphones is another one of the features of headphones designed for conference calls. 

Battery life and charging 

The headset is charged via an included USB-A to USB-C cable and can be used for over 16 hours of playback/talk time before needing to be topped-off again. If the battery runs out and you have no time to charge, you can plug in the included audio cable and use the headset in wired mode.  

A solid choice overall 

Aside from the name, there isn’t much to gripe about with the Targus Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headset. The subtlety of this headset’s design is very much appreciated given that it hides in the background of any conference call without drawing attention to itself. It is meant to fade in the background of a conference call and not be distracting at all; and it serves exactly that purpose. What we do get is a headset that ticks all the boxes that a good headset designed for video-conferencing needs to tick; not the least bit, in the comfort department. An included carrying pouch would have been nice though. 

Interested in learning more about Targus products? 

As the official master distributor of Targus products in MENA, Newcom offers a wide range of Targus products, including the AEH104TT mentioned above.  

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Lindy releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

 The release of the Logitech Zone Wireless Bluetooth headset brought with the excellent performance of the microphone a lot more comfort, a more premium look, portability, and Bluetooth functionality that were obvious hints that this headset was meant to be used outside of calls as well. The general-purpose headphone uses like music listening and media consumption on the go were given a lot of focus with the Zone series to make the headset a solid recommendation for a variety of users.  

The success of the primary Zone Wireless model prompted several spin-offs with slight modifications as well as the more recent release of the Zone True Wireless Earbuds: an everyday pair of earbuds that has not forgotten its roots by still being an excellent option for video and voice calls. 

 In this article, we’ll explore Logitech’s Zone lineup of headsets and earbuds. 

Logitech Zone Wireless Bluetooth headset 

 The understated classy look of Logitech’s top-of-the-line wireless headset puts all the features that you can expect from a headset with focus on key areas like comfort, active noise-canceling, and microphone quality. Let’s first talk about the design. 

 Subtle design, comfortable wear 

 The headset comes only in gray with a matte finish all around. It’s a subtle design that doesn’t attract much attention to itself but is far from boring, even though the packaging is on the industrial side. But perhaps the best part of the design is the earcups and just how comfortable they are. The padded cushions are thick, and the swivel action is smooth. Combined with the adjustable headbands, they create an extremely comfortable fit that you can wear for hours, whether you’re on a long call at work or listening to music. 

Microphone and control 

 On and behind the left earcup, you will find analog volume control, pause play/answer or end calls button as well as the power button, Bluetooth pairing toggle and the microphone mute switch. There are no finicky touch controls to speak of; just solid analog controls all around. 

 On the exterior of the left earcup, you will find the microphone boom that can freely rotate backwards to allow the headset to be worn without paying attention to the orientation. When you flip the microphone upwards, it automatically mutes, and lets you know with a voice prompt. Naturally, rotating it downwards turns it back on.  

 For comfort and efficiency 

 The reason why this headset is popular for business use is only partly because it can be worn for long hours due to its extreme comfort. The other reason is the great noise-canceling mic that lets you be heard as clearly as possible with a good deal of the background noise taken out. The noise-canceling works especially great with lower-frequency sounds, removing them completely with no effect on the clarity of the speaker’s voice. The noise-canceling extends to the audio output as well in the form of active noise-cancellation (ANC) to cut down on the coffee-shop or office chatter noise and completely remove constant noises such as the office AC, plane engine noise or the sound of a bus passing by and the like. 

 Connectivity 

 You can connect the Zone Wireless to your computer via a USB dongle (with an included USB-C-to-A adapter) or via Bluetooth. Logitech states the operation range for the headset is around 30m but if you are in an office, the effective range is closer to 20m. The audio switches seamlessly between Bluetooth and USB depending on what device is sending audio at any given moment.  

Battery life and charging 

 The Logitech Zone Wireless headset delivers high-quality audio for a rated battery life of up to 14-16 hours depending on the volume you set it at and whether or not ANC is turned on. To top up the battery, you can charge it via a USB-C cable or simply put it on a Qi wireless charger. The headset easily balances itself on a wireless charger, whether it is folded or not. And yes, you can fold the headset and put it in the included carrying pouch for easier transport and some protection. 

 Customize your audio experience 

 To fine-tune your audio experience and enter even more into the Zone (inevitable pun), you can use the Logi Tune software on your computer or phone. The app lets you manipulate the 5-band equalizer so you can achieve the audio profile you like. It also allows you to adjust the Sidetone feature, which customizes how much of your own voice you hear when you have the headset on.  

Verdict 

The Logitech Zone Wireless Bluetooth headset has been popular since its release back in 2019. Logitech knows this and has expanded on the Zone lineup by adding iterations to it to make it an optimal option for an even wider demographic.  

 As it stands, the Zone Wireless is a jack of all trades, packed to the brim with all the features you would want out of a proper headset. It’s extremely comfortable fit and great noise-canceling retractable microphone with ANC (a rarity in on-ear designs) and wireless charging capability make it well worth the premium price point it comes in.  

Logitech Zone Wireless Certified for Microsoft Teams 

The Microsoft Teams-certified version of the excellent Logitech Zone Wireless Bluetooth headset is designed for a very specific group: businesses that use Microsoft Teams often. The only difference between this headset and the regular Zone Wireless is that the former has a button on the left earcup that instantly launches Microsoft Teams and accepts calls in the software. Otherwise, it provides the same excellent experience. 

 Step into your Zone – Logitech Zone 750 

Logitech Zone Wired headset 

 The wired version of the Logitech Zone headset lineup brings many of the characteristics that made the Zone Wireless such a hit into a more stationary iteration that is less pricey. The only difference between the wireless and wired version of Zone headsets, aside from connection type, is the removal of ANC in the latter.  

 You still get the same stylish, understated Teflon-covered stainless steel frame with generous 40mm drivers for great audio output. The audio input is even better on the Logitech Zone Wired because the excellent noise-canceling rotatable microphone can now draw more power from the computer for better performance. On the generously long 1.9m cable you get the same analog controls as the Zone Wireless with volume up and down, microphone mute toggle, answer/end call toggle with a shortcut to Microsoft Teams and play/pause button in-line controls. 

USB-C connection; a first for USB headsets 

A unique feature of the wired Logitech Zone headset is that unlike every other USB headset on the market, the Zone Wired connects to computers using USB-C as opposed to the typical USB-A. It makes the connector a lot smaller and compatible with modern laptops without the need for a USB dongle. But if you do need to connect it to a USB-A port, an adapter is already in the box. Frankly, it’s high-time computer USB audio also moved to USB-C because so far, we’ve only seen portable wired earphones sometimes coming with USB-C.  

 A more accessible Zone 

 The Logitech Zone Wired headset, if nothing else, opens the Zone experience to a much wider demographic for its significantly lower price alone. This lets more companies consider upgrading their employees’ equipment to Logitech’s standard. That standard brings with it more comfortable long call sessions and much better audio quality––both in terms of input and output––for their calls and video conferences.  

 For home users, the Zone Wired is a reliable headset for general use as well as video conferences and meetings because of the excellent performance of the noise-canceling microphones and the overall audio quality. This is especially if you sit behind the computer for long hours and prioritize comfort just as much as you do audio quality. 

Logitech Zone True Wireless Earbuds 

 Logitech’s first foray into the saturated market of true-wireless earbuds (TWE) does not feel, at all, like just another middling TWE that almost every tech company started to churn out to capitalize on the hype that followed the original Apple AirPods. The Zone TWE has a clear purpose that makes it distinct and puts it in a category of its own. But what is that category? 

 There has never been a TWE that was focused on business! But now there is. 

 USB>Bluetooth 

 The Zone TWE has Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet integration that allows the earbuds to communicate directly with these video-conferencing software through the wireless USB dongle. You can launch the programs or answer or end calls using the button on the right earbud.  

Outside of a couple of other models, every TWE only has Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth works great with phones but doesn’t allow for any real interface beyond audio-transmission between a computer and a pair of TWE. Because the Zone True Wireless Earbuds can connect to the computer via the USB dongle, they can interface with the computer in ways that a regular Bluetooth pair of TWE cannot. It even allows you to tune the audio profile of the earbuds through Logi Tune, a feature unique in the TWE realm to the Logitech Zone Wireless earbuds.  

Be heard better… 

Another feature that makes this pair of earbuds an attractive option for business meetings and video calls compared with others is its emphasis on microphone quality. Traditionally, wireless earbuds have never had great microphone quality or loudness. Even the de facto standard of true-wireless earbuds––the AirPods Pro––don’t offer good microphone quality. But the Logitech Zone wireless earbuds break the trend by offering noise-canceling microphones that provide a decent and usable audio experience for the other end of the call; a truly underrated feature among true-wireless earbuds. 

…and hear better 

We’ve established that you can clearly be heard well with these earbuds. You would be pleased to know that you can also hear others in the call without the intrusion of background noise. Zone True Wireless Earbuds ship with the much sought-after active noise-cancellation (ANC) feature that uses the microphone array in both earbuds to cancel out the noise coming to your ear by sending the reverse frequency back at it before it reaches your ear canal. ANC is always a welcome feature in headsets, headphones, and earbuds alike. 

Final thoughts 

Outside of the features mentioned above that suit business needs, you are dealing with a very solid overall package with features useful for business and otherwise. The earbuds come in a high-quality case that takes up very little space and charges both wirelessly and via USB-C.  

Logitech Zone True Wireless Earbuds are the only pair on the market that connect to a computer via a USB dongle (dongle is USB-A but there’s an included Type-C to Type-A adapter in the box). The dongle allows for faster audio transmission than Bluetooth as well as the option to seamlessly switch the audio source of the earbuds between a connected computer via USB and a connected phone via Bluetooth.  

On top of the physical button to control the software, there is touch control on the left earbud to turn the ANC on or off, with the option to customize the functionality of it. The cherry on top is the battery life: 5-6 hours of talk time and 6-10 hours of music listening depending if ANC is on or off. With just give minutes of charging the buds in their case, you can enjoy an extra hour of use.  

The Logitech Zone Wireless earbuds have recently been launched in the Middle East. Make sure you check the availability soon before you go out to your local store to pick one up. 

Interested in learning more about Logitech products?  

As an official Logitech distributor within the United Arab Emirates and Oman, Newcom offers a wide range of Logitech products, including those featured in this article. 

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Rapo releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

The bundles combine Samsung’s excellent smart displays and interactive displays with Logitech’s keyboards, mice, webcams, and its all-in-one Rally series video conferencing solutions. Once we go over what each bundle contains, it is only a matter of a simple needs assessment to determine which bundle works best for your conference room or desk space. 

Bundle #1: Best for home offices and individual workspaces 

Logitech MX Keys and MX Anywhere 3 

The first bundle is a dream setup for any work desk, at the office or at home. It combines Samsung’s 4K smart monitor, which offers extreme levels of connectivity options and smart features, with Logitech’s gold standard of all wireless keyboards in the form of the MX Keys and its most premium compact wireless mouse in the form of MX Anywhere 3.  

The trick up Logitech’s sleeve with the choice of these models is that they both support Logitech Flow. This feature enables users to switch between two devices that they use as seamlessly as possible by simply dragging the mouse cursor to the edge of one display to have the cursor activated in the display of the other device––no button-press required. You can even transfer files between the two computers with a simple Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V press over your local network.   

Samsung M7 Smart Monitor 

Let’s not forget how the M7 ties into the Flow-enabled keyboard and mouse combo. The M7 also has a similar trick up its sleeve when considering seamless connectivity. On top of the plethora of smart features enabled by TizenOS on the M7, this monitor is jam-packed with a multitude of connectivity options in the form of Cast, AirPlay 2, Remote PC Access, wireless dual monitor, DeX, TapView, and your regular HDMI inputs. All of these sources would look great on the crisp 4K display. 

Logitech Brio 4K webcam 

No video conference setup is complete without a webcam––enter the Logitech Brio. The Brio is referred to, by Logitech, as a “pro business webcam.” The reason for that is the crisp 4K sensor, the HDR capability, and the rare Windows Hello support. The Brio webcam for video conferencing also features Logitech’s RightLight 3 technology that, combined with HDR capability, delivers excellent exposure for the user, even in tough lighting situations. Logitech Brio features variable resolutions from 4K at 30 fps to 720p at 90fps, and variable viewing angles. The dual omni-directional microphone array completes this top-notch Logitech video conferencing webcam by providing clear audio. 

Who is this bundle for? 

This bundle is particularly great for home offices as well as individual workspaces in the office. If you use multiple computers on the same desk, this setup almost seems like a must as the flow-enabled devices remove the hassle of either switching the connected device on your mouse and keyboard via the corresponding key or just using two mice and keyboards. The M7 also turns the setup into a productivity beast that is a joy to use.  

Bundle #2: Best for smaller conference rooms 

Samsung 55” Flip 2 interactive display 

The versatile and portable Flip 2 interactive display is the digital flipchart you want in your small conference room. With interactive flat panels like the Flip 2, you can say goodbye to messy flipcharts and smelly markers. The all-digital flipchart upgrades your conference room meetings to modern standards and allows you to recap meetings like never before.  

The pen-to-paper feel of the stylus and the 4K resolution are what makes the Flip 2 such a joy to use for the presenter, and a joy to view for the audience. Once you are done scribbling meeting ideas and annotating the documents, you can instantly share them via email, network, flash drive or printouts. 

Logitech Rally Bar Mini 

This all-in-one Logitech video conferencing solution for small spaces is the perfect companion for the 55” Flip 2. While being the smallest in the Rally Bar series, the Rally Bar Mini still packs incredible features for the best possible video conferencing experience. The device is equipped with Logitech’s RightSight, RightLight, and RightSound technologies to always deliver the right frame, adjust to the right exposure regardless of lighting condition, and boost the audio of lower voices and remove background noise.  

With the motorized pan and tilt feature, 4K image sensor, room-filling audio, beamforming microphone array, and support for up to three Mic Pods, it’s not hard to see why the Rally Bar Mini video conferencing system is worth its premium price. 

Who is this bundle for? 

This bundle is firmly in the business conference room category. The mini version of the Rally Bar series and the smaller 55” version of the Flip 2 hint at the combo being better suited for small to medium-sized conference rooms and huddle spaces. 

Bundle #3: Best for medium conference rooms 

Samsung 65” Flip 2 interactive display 

The difference between the 55” and 65” versions of the Flip 2 interactive display is more than just the 10 extra inches of real estate. The 65” model is in a landscape orientation, unlike the portrait flipchart that is the 55” Flip 2. This means that the Flip 2 is meant to be mounted to a wall and not move around, acting more as a drawing board than a flipchart. It still offers the same software functionality and the same pen-to-paper experience of using the stylus along with the same sharing options to bring about the convenience of digital note-taking. 

Logitech Rally Bar 

The industry defining Rally Bar video conferencing solution shows off its capabilities with full force with the original Rally Bar. The dual 4K main camera and the AI viewfinder setup allow the crisp footage to be framed on the main speaker during a video call. The ultra-wide angle viewfinder detects who is speaking at a given point in time and uses a combination of the motorized pan and tilt as well as the optical zoom to fix the frame on the speaker. 

The Rally Bar’s dual speaker setup offers some of the clearest audio experience possible in a video conference, with a patented anti-vibration suspension system for the speakers to avoid the typical rattle caused by deeper voices. This all-in-one Logitech group video conferencing system offers support for up to four Logitech Mic, each adding an extra seven meters of audio pick-up range. 

Who is this bundle for? 

Medium-sized conference rooms (around ten people) and those slightly on the bigger side can take full advantage of the soundstage and smart framing technology of the Rally Bar while the 65” interactive canvas of the Flip 2 remains firmly in view. 

Bundle #4: Best for large conference rooms 

Samsung 85” Flip 2 interactive display 

We are firmly in the large conference room category with the massive 85” version of the Flip 2 interactive display series. The huge canvas supports up to 20 people using the passive stylus at the same time, drawing or writing with it and erasing their scribbles through a swift touch of the hand. With support for various document templates, the Flip 2 interactive display is ideal for a music class or a kindergarten, just as much as it is helpful for a business scenario.  

The 85” Flip 2 also features a very comprehensive set of connectivity options so you can attach any device you can think of to it and be able to annotate on almost everything, whether it is a webpage, PDF document, image, or a screen grab of a movie. The 85” canvas also ensures that you can see everything sitting even over 20 meters away from it. 

Logitech Rally Plus 

The Rally Plus was the inspiration for the newer Rally Bar series. But while the latter is newer, the Rally Plus fills a different niche and is undoubtedly the best video conference camera for larger rooms. With a separate dual speaker setup, two Mic Pods, a large 4K camera module with 5X optical zoom and a wide range of freedom of movement for automatic framing, it is clear why this is the best Logitech video conferencing solution for bigger spaces.  

The Rally Plus supports up to seven Mic Pods––the highest supported number in the Rally series––making it the go-to option if you are dealing with many video call attendees in the same room. The Rally Plus video conferencing system, with all the amazing hardware it has at its disposal, reads the room and balances the exposure in tough lighting scenarios, normalizes the audio levels of different speakers, and always puts the speaker in frame no matter where they are in the room.  

Who is this bundle for? 

This bundle is made for large conference rooms (over 15 seats) with a high number of attendees/speakers. The inclusion of two Mic Pods and support for an extra five greatly increases the audio pick-up range of the Rally Plus and the smart framing combined with the lossless 5X optical zoom means that a speaker can be relatively far away from the camera, and they would still be in the center of the frame, thanks to the Rally Plus camera’s AI-driven smart framing.  

The 85” canvas of the Flip 2 is designed to easily viewable even if you happen to have the farthest seat in the room, making it a great combination with the Rally Plus for a comfortable video conferencing experience in a large room.  

Conclusion 

The only thing you need to consider when choosing between these bundles is your use-case scenario. Logitech and Samsung set the standard in their own respective industries. Logitech is the undisputed leader of providing video conferencing solutions to businesses and individuals and Samsung has always been a household name when it comes to anything display-related. When they collaborate, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible package for the demographic and use-case scenario they are targeting. 

Interested in learning more about Samsung and Logitech products?  

As an official Samsung monitor and Logitech distributor within the United Arab Emirates, Newcom offers a wide range of products from these two brands, including the Logitech video conferencing solutions and Samsung smart monitors mentioned in this article.  

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Samsung or Logitech releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

What is an ergonomic mouse? 

A product is typically referred to as ergonomic when it features a design that is more natural for the body to fit into. An ergonomic mouse is one that is made to match the natural positioning and shape of the user’s hand, thus creating a more comfortable browsing experience. Ergonomic mice often come in different shapes and sizes and are featured in both gaming and professional mice lineups. The best ergonomic mouse options typically feature wireless connectivity and a multitude of multi-functional buttons. 

Is there a difference between an ergonomic and a vertical mouse? 

Although the two terms can be used interchangeably, not all ergonomic mice are vertical. Some mice, such as the Rapoo VT950, carry the “ergonomic” label because of their contour or the addition of a thumb rest. However, it is more accurate to think of a vertical mouse when you hear someone is looking for an ergonomic option. The vertical design of most ergonomic mice is simply because the wrist is at more ease in this position.  

Why use a vertical mouse? 

First of all, vertical mice are not exactly vertical; they are just vertical relative to regular mice. They, at least in theory, angle the mouse in a way that allows the hand to rest in the most natural and comfortable way. If designed correctly, these vertical ergonomic mice can help create further comfort, even improving existing wrist pain and preventing it from developing in the future. 

Prevent arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome 

Regular mice don’t take into account people with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. It is understandable as the majority of users don’t have to deal with those problems. But there definitely are a number of mice options for those who suffer from either of the two problems.  

Mice that place the hand and wrist in a natural “handshake” position minimize strain on the wrist and fingers. While resting in that natural position, your fingers no longer need to “grip” the mouse per-se, which puts less pressure on sensitive fingers, especially the thumb. The relaxed position also extends to the forearm and the elbow as it requires less movement from the user. 

Alleviate ongoing pain related to fatigue or ongoing health problems 

Even if you are suffering from some pain in your hands, wrist, elbow, or forearm, you might not have the option to just quit working with your computer for a while until you get better. In these situations, the best thing you can do is to dampen the strain that you would otherwise be putting on your wrist and fingers by using an ergonomic mouse. These ergonomic mice might not be able to fix joint pains or other health problems, but they help the healing process by at least removing the strain from your hand, fingers and wrist.     

Our recommendation: Rapoo EV250 vertical wireless mouse 

A great entry into ergonomic mice is the Rapoo EV250. For a very reasonable price, you get access to a comfortable vertical mouse that you can use for hours without any strain on your wrist or fingers. That is because the design of the mouse is in such a way that not only your wrist is at a comfortable angle, but your fingers are also stretched out on the buttons, so they won’t get cramped.  

The wireless mouse comes with a USB nano-receiver that houses neatly inside the base of the mouse. There is also a wired version of the EV250, which is called EV200. The features are shared across the two models. Both feature a 1600dpi sensor which you can adjust via a button next to the scroll wheel and two back and forward buttons above the thumb rest.  

One of the major benefits of the EV250 and its wired version, for some, is that they are silent; that is, they are a lot less noisy than your regular mouse-click sound. Thankfully, the scroll wheel is 2D, which can really help when zooming in on browser tabs and images as well as some other nice use-case scenarios. The wired version is lighter as the wireless version has two AA batteries that can last up to 9 months.  

Overall, the Rapoo EV250 is a great entry point to vertical mice and perhaps the best ergonomic wireless mouse option for the price. They are an especially great Bluetooth ergonomic mouse for wrist pain and people who have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. They offer basic functionalities plus some extra goodies like a silent click, 2D scroll-wheel and a couple of extra buttons on top of the option to go wireless. At this price point, it is easy to recommend users at least trying out a vertical mouse to see if it can possibly bring them a much more comfortable behind-the-desk experience, at least for their right hand!

Interested in learning more about Rapoo products?  

As an official Rapoo distributor within the United Arab Emirates, Newcom offers a wide range of ergonomic mice, including the EV250.  

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Rapo releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

 If the G9 Neo wasn’t over the top enough, Samsung has one-upped itself once again in a market that it’s been leading already since the release of their first lineup of Odyssey monitors. The Samsung Odyssey Ark is a mammoth of a monitor; figuratively and literally. It goes above and beyond with everything from the display to the sound to earn the title, “personal theater.” Let’s explore this absolute unit in our in-depth introduction to the Samsung Odyssey Ark. 

A two-man setup! 

The Samsung Ark’s beastly 57kg package definitely requires an extra pair of hands to unbox and setup. After all, it is a 55-inch curved monitor that weighs over 20kg with a stand that weighs just as much as the display. Despite the weight though, the setup process is actually very simple. You only need to attach the base of the stand to the stand itself and slide the spring lift mechanism into the display and fasten a couple more screws.  

 The Samsung Odyssey Ark’s design 

The design isn’t as aggressive as some of Samsung’s other Odyssey monitors. It’s rather industrial looking and practical, with a huge base and super-wide stand to support the heaviest monitor on the market. There are, however, two RGB strips along the top and bottom behind this 1000R curvature monitor to keep the Odyssey DNA intact. In the box, you will also find a Samsung One Connect box, a remote typically found in their Smart TV’s, and an Ark Dial. We’ll get into the functionality of each of them further down below.  

Show-stopping display 

This 4K 165hz 1000R curvature monitor is gorgeous, with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio that is color accurate but doesn’t overdo colors just because it can. It’s all about the display with the Samsung Odyssey Ark, so let’s look at all it offers. 

The raw specs 

While 80 PPI may not seem like too high for a 55” monitor with 3840 x 2160 resolution, rest assured that at a reasonable distance of 80cm, it is impossible for you to notice any pixels. 4K will look just as sharp as it sounds. Paired with the 165hz of refresh rate, you are looking at the highest possible bandwidth in any display that can only be used with DisplayPort 2.0 or HDMI 2.1. The Samsung Ark uses the latter, with a transfer rate of up to 48Gbps to deliver the smoothest 4K stream possible.  

Driving all that 4K goodness is made possible through Samsung’s Quantum mini-LED technology with 1056 local dimming zones. That insane, unprecedented number of local dimming zones ensures that there will be no halo around bright objects on dark backgrounds, a common problem in LED backlit monitors.  

Samsung’s revolutionary Quantum Matrix technology, a proven concept in the company’s top-of-the-line TVs, enables controlled brightness and perfect contrast combined with great control over HDR to deliver unmatched picture quality. The 1ms GtG response time also ensures that the crisp visuals and colors never suffer from ghosting effects because of sudden movement of objects on the screen.  

Head-turning curvature 

When you sit at the optimal distance from this 1000R curvature monitor, every pixel is going to be at the same distance from your eyes. This means that the display is going to take more of your peripheral vision, creating an almost VR level of immersion. The 1000R, which is the same radius as that of the human eye, also means that no zone in this 55-inch curved monitor will be off-angle to cause any sort of color shift.  

Note that if you sit too close to this 55-inch curved monitor, you’ll hurt your neck trying to look at all its. Have at least 80cm of distance with the monitor, lean back in a gaming chair, and you’ll see where exactly your money went. 

Other features to note about the display 

Through multi-layered neural networking, the Samsung Odyssey Ark can enhance the image with an AI-powered in-built processor. This allows the monitor to make its fantastic image quality even better by amplifying contrast in certain scenarios, optimizing the resolution, and automatically adjusting brightness. Speaking of brightness, the display can get up to a maximum brightness of 2000 nits, a truly ridiculous number.  

Combined with HDR 10+ certification, you can be sure that every detail in a frame with dark shadows and bright highlights will be visible and easily discernible. The SAGAR (Super Anti-Glare, Anti-Reflection) film on the display ensures that light reflection does not impede your immersive experience. 

2.2.2 audio 

You’ve heard of 2.1 audio, even 5.1 and 7.1 audio, but have you ever heard of 2.2.2 audio? The audio system of the Odyssey Ark, which Samsung calls a Personal Theater, consists of 2 speakers on the left (one in both corners), 2 on the right, and 2 woofers in the middle; hence 2.2.2.  

The display on this 1000r curvature monitor is so big that the space between the drivers creates an incredible stereo setup with great object tracking capabilities to help the audio be as immersive as the display. The dual 60W woofers also help the bass on this monitor punch way above the (non-existent) competition. On top of that, the AI-Sound Booster, combined with Dolby Atmos certification, further cements this monitor as a proper audio setup leaps and bounds beyond anything that a monitor can produce. The Sound Dome moniker assigned to the audio setup of the Samsung Ark can only be achieved through the vast soundstage that is enabled by the distance between the four corner speakers. 

Cockpit mode 

The elaborate spring/bearing mechanism of the Samsung Ark’s stand allows for height adjustability, tilt, and swivel for maximum flexibility. Once you push the display to its maximum height, you can then rotate the display to turn it into cockpit mode, which is just an elaborate form of referring to portrait orientation. The 55-inch curved monitor automatically readjusts the elements and resolution once it is rotated.  

In cockpit mode, you have the option to allocate each third of the screen to different sources. You can have your Windows workspace running at the bottom, closest to your eye-level, have the built-in browser running in the middle segment of a page you might want to reference every now and then, and have YouTube running up top for the occasional glance as you listen to a podcast. This scenario is the equivalent of having three 27” monitors stacked on top of each other.  

In landscape mode, you can extend the number of simultaneous inputs to four with in-between scenarios that you can customize and save for later use. But how do you control the size and arrangement of the windows? How do you interact with this gigantic monitor? Thankfully, it’s not through poking a tiny nub at the bottom of the monitor. 

Interface options galore 

Inside the Samsung Odyssey Ark‘s box, you will find a smart remote as well as the unique Ark Dial as your primary means of interacting with the monitor. While the remote gives you easier access to all the smart features of the display, the Ark Dial is meant to allow you to quickly transition between the different viewing modes. Both the Ark Dial and the smart remote are solar powered, so you’ll never have to worry about them running out of juice. 

The Dial has a rotating wheel that, in combination with the directional buttons, allows you to adjust the size and position of your primary window in either single-view mode or multi-view mode. This is especially helpful when you don’t want to use all the 55” of real-estate or if you want to sit closer to the display without having to move your head to be able to see everything. While there is a night mode, another application of shrinking the display is when you want to lower the overall light emitted by the display in a dark environment, especially if the background is white.  

Smart TV functionalities and more (PC/console-less gaming!) 

The Samsung Odyssey Ark 1000r curvature monitor gives you all the functionalities you will find in a Samsung smart monitor, which includes all the features a Samsung Smart TV offers. The TizenOS powering the monitor’s interface has incredible flexibility in content consumption and productivity. Here is a list of everything you can do with Samsung Ark’s software + a special one at the end: 

• Stream shows from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, etc. 

• Watch videos from creators on YouTube, DAZN, and more. 
• Browse the web through the built-in browser. 
• Access your computer (Mac/Windows) remotely through the Samsung Remote Access. 
• Mirror your Android phone or tablet’s display using Cast. 
• Mirror your iPhone, iPad or Mac display through AirPlay 2. 

• Use DeX wired or wirelessly with select Samsung Galaxy phones. 
• Do office tasks and edit documents using Office 365. 
• Stream games through Xbox Cloud Gaming, Nvidia GeForce Now, Stadia, etc. 

While each of the listed features are truly useful in different scenarios, the star of the show is the Gaming Hub. Samsung’s partnership with Microsoft has resulted in the Ark being able to essentially be an Xbox Series S/X through streaming without you having to spend the extra money. Combine that with GeForce Now and Stadia, along with Utomik and Amazon Luna, and you’ve got yourself a comprehensive game streaming beast. Connect a controller or a mouse and keyboard to it and you’ve got yourself a proper console/PC-less gaming experience. 

The elephant in the box: Samsung’s giant One Connect interface 

With a display of this caliber, you may want to connect every device you have lying around to it and the back of the monitor could get crowded very soon. Samsung’s solution for a tidy setup was to connect all the inputs to the monitor to a box that you would put out of sight, and out of mind.  

The Samsung One Connect box connects to the monitor via the One Connect cable. It is a massive connector that takes care of all sorts of data transfer needs. On the One Connect box, you will find four HDMI 2.1 ports, all capable of delivering 4K video streams at 165hz to the monitor. Next to video inputs, you will find an Ethernet port that can be used for a more stable wired connection for the monitor. There is also a USB-B uplink port that you can connect to the monitor to enable the two USB 2.0 ports on the box that can be used to connect any USB device for some light data transfer. 

The wow factor 

With all that has been said about the monitor and all of the specs and bullet points listed, there is one notable and common theme you will find in all the reviews and hands-on experiences with the Samsung Odyssey Ark: the wow factor. 

This monitor isn’t racing with other monitors to deliver the best specs for the best price. The Odyssey Ark isn’t even competing! The Odyssey Ark exists as an almost unattainable benchmark that displays the pinnacle of an audio-visual experience that is currently possible with the available technology. And while the price certainly makes it inaccessible for the vast majority of those mesmerized by the idea of having it, it sets the precedent for what will be available to most in a few years, as is the case with all bleeding edge technology.  

The Odyssey Ark doesn’t need convincing to be sold, it just needs praise for how it was able to create a piece of technology that could well and truly blow the mind of anyone that sits in front of it. If you are one of the very lucky few who can consider forking over the premium for the Odyssey Ark, you can pre-order now but will have to be patient for a little bit longer before the international release.  

Interested in learning more about Samsung products?  

As an official Samsung monitor distributor within the United Arab Emirates, Newcom offers a wide range of Samsung gaming monitors, including the Samsung Odyssey Ark.  

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Samsung releases in the region, such as the Samsung Ark, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts. 

Nevertheless, things are still in our hands to a very good extent. You can up the quality of your video-conference sessions or classes by getting a high-quality webcam. You can add some character to your desk by adding a funky keyboard. If you suffer from wrist fatigue or pain, you can opt for an ergonomic mouse instead of using your laptop’s trackpad. Luckily, all of these, and more, are possible as we go through the offerings by Logitech, j5Create, Targus, and Rapoo in this article, which include some of the best wireless keyboard, laptop mice, and universal docking station options.  

You are most likely already familiar with Logitech, so let us briefly introduce the remaining brands. j5Create is a company that specializes in making high-quality webcams, USB hubs, docking stations, adapters, USB cables, and more. Targus also makes high-performance, pro-grade docking stations, but they also focus very heavily on their bags, backpacks, and shoulder bags designed in large part for the tech enthusiasts who take a lot of their tech with them on the go. Last but not least, Rapoo is an emerging brand in the field of computer peripherals focused on bringing the best possible performance and looks at an affordable price.  

j5Create JVU430 4K Ultra HD Webcam 

While 720p webcams on laptops are mostly a thing of the past and 1080p is the new norm, no laptop ships with a 4K resolution webcam. The JVU430 not only brings you the highest resolution that currently exists in webcams, but it also brings with it a much larger image sensor and a wider field of view than the one found on your laptop. Arguably, the size of the sensor matters even more than the resolution.  

Another factor nearly as important as the size of the sensor is the aperture width. At f/2.0, the aperture width of the JVU430 is comparable to modern smartphones’ main sensors in an area where webcams have not made major strides. The f/2.0 aperture ensures you will have more light coming in to leave more detail in the darker areas of the scene, which is especially helpful in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.  

With the JVU430, you will also get a dual microphone setup, a privacy protection cover for peace of mind, and a chassis that can rotate 360° and can be mounted on a tripod. The webcam is compatible with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. 

Rapoo C280 2K QHD Webcam  

The successor to the Rapoo C260, the C280 kicks the resolution up a notch to 1440p. The image quality improvements are accompanied by some audio improvements as well––the dual omnidirectional microphones help a lot with noise-reduction. The auto-focus-capable lens on the C280 can be hidden easily with the built-in cover for extra peace of mind. This 360° rotatable webcam can be mounted on a tripod to offer you more control over your image.  

But at the end of the day, it’s all about the combination of the C280’s image quality and price. At a very affordable price, you are upgrading the webcam on your laptop significantly whether you use the webcam in 2K or 1080p mode. Note that at 1080p, you can utilize the webcam at 60fps and get a slightly better-exposed image.  

Keyboards 

Rapoo Ralemo Pre 5 Multi-Mode Wireless mechanical keyboard 

This incredibly stylish keyboard took everyone by surprise at its release! Although the design is the main selling point for the Ralemo Pre 5, this mechanical keyboard features Rapoo’s Multi-Mode wireless technology. This technology allows for connectivity and instant switching between four devices––three through Bluetooth 5.0 and 3.0 and one with the 2.4Ghz USB dongle. The variety of mechanical switches, including Blue, Brown, and Red switches, are covered with what is probably the most recognizable aspect of this keyboard: the round, almost muffin-liner keycaps.  

The Ralemo Pre 5 comes in many funky colors, some with accents of different colors. Keyboard and mechanical switch color availability, however, depends on your region. The Ralemo Pre 5 will definitely get a comment from anyone who walks by it, especially if it’s accompanied by a matching-color Ralemo Air 1 mouse.  

You can find a much deeper look at the Ralemo Pre 5 and Air 1 keyboard and mouse in our latest review. 

Logitech MX Keys Mini wireless keyboard 

The MX Keys Mini is Logitech’s default portable keyboard for any desk and one of the best wireless keyboard options for tablet and laptop users. It has fantastic build quality with a metal chassis and a hard plastic accent. The keycaps are extra comfortable because of the circular recess on top of the keycaps, which make for a very enjoyable typing experience despite the mechanism being a normal butterfly switch. 

 The smart backlight is a feature unique to this keyboard (and the MX Keys). As a result of the built-in proximity sensor and an ambient light sensor, the backlight turns on when your hand hovers close to the keyboard and adjusts the brightness automatically depending on the lighting conditions of the environment.  

The MX Keys Mini offers infinite customizability over the function of each key on a per-app basis, meaning you can assign, for example, the F-row buttons as shortcuts to do app-specific tasks and have the functionality change depending on what is the current active window. Despite the attention to customizing the keys, the keyboard is wonderfully easy and compact for other users who wish to keep things simple. The keyboard also features some handy shortcuts, such as an emoji key, a mute mic toggle for use in conference calls, and even a voice dictation key through the Logitech Options software.  

Once again, if you are looking for a compact, premium quality keyboard and you’re looking to Logitech, the MX Keys mini (and its bigger brother, the MX Keys) must be on your shortlist. They are what Logitech is putting front and center as its flagship productivity models with an emphasis on creators as its main target demographic. 

We have a more in-depth look at the Logitech MX Keys mini here. 

Mice 

Logitech MX Vertical ergonomic mouse 

This is a mouse designed for the adventurous and fatigued. Whether you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or occasional wrist pain after long hours behind the computer, are trying to prevent wrist pain due to incorrect hand posture, or just want some extra comfort as you are looking for the best mouse for your laptop, the MX Vertical is probably the mouse you’ve been looking for.  

The 57° angle on the MX Vertical is the scientifically tested sweet spot for maximum comfort of the wrist while your thumb rests in a natural position on the thumb rest. The scientifically-tested claim isn’t just marketing bogus. The MX Vertical has been designed in Logitech’s ErgoLab and tested in accordance with criteria set out by leading ergonomists.  

Outside of the benefits in comfort, the MX Vertical is a modern Logi-branded mouse, meaning it takes advantage of the incredibly sophisticated Logi Options software that enables nuanced control over the mouse’s tracking, scrolling, and per-app functionality of each of the six buttons. The MX Vertical is ideal for medium-sized to large hands. If you have smaller hands, you need to check out Logitech Lift, which we covered extensively in this article. 

Rapoo M200 Silent wireless USB/Bluetooth mouse 

A low-profile wireless mouse by one of the top manufacturers of budget computer peripherals, the super light and portable M200 Silent by Rapoo has quite a few selling points.  

Let’s address the reasoning behind the name first: the M200 Silent is indeed very silent. It is one of the quietest mice you will find on the market. The quietness comes especially handy if you share a room with someone (at a college dorm room, perhaps) and you want to be working until late at night while your roommate is asleep. The M200 (if accompanied by the right keyboard) will not wake anyone up at night. The silent nature of the mouse does not at all detract from the clicky-ness of the left and right clicks, however.  

You also have the option to seamlessly switch between two connected devices; one through Bluetooth and one through the USB dongle that neatly houses inside the mouse, so you don’t lose it during transport. The M200 Silent is a sleek wireless mouse that feels great to click without making any noise. If you are feeling especially funky, you should check out the M200 Silent Plus, which uses fabric on top of the mouse instead of the regular plastic. No matter which version you go with, it is one of the best mice for laptop there is on the market for the price with a clear selling point. 

Docking stations 

Targus Dock419  

There is no getting around it at this point; if you have a modern laptop, you need a USB hub or docking station. Modern laptops, if they are generous, will give you two USB-A or USB-C ports for maybe a mouse and keyboard or a flash drive or two. But the second you decide to use an extra peripheral with your computer, you’re going to be out of luck. Having the right USB hub gives you that peace of mind that no matter the use-case scenario, you will have enough ports.  

Whether you want to add an extra display, a couple of extra hard drives or a RAM reader, or an RJ45 (Ethernet) cable while charging your device at up to 100W of power, you need not look further than the Dock419 by Targus. Known as one of the best universal docking stations, it even allows you to connect your laptop to legacy monitors/projectors because it also comes with a VGA output on top of the HDMI port. The HDMI port can support up to 4K resolution at 30Hz, 2K at 75Hz, and 1080p at 144Hz (although you can only use one of the display ports at the same time).  

Each USB port offered by Dock419 can transfer data at a rate of up to 5Gbps. To top it off, Dock419 is portable enough that you can just always have it in your bag, and rest assured that you don’t have to face any connectivity issues. It is one of the best docking station for laptops that does all you expect from a compact dock.  

j5Create JCD389 Ultradrive multi-display USB-C modular dock 

If you have a MacBook that has come out in the last six years and are willing to spend a few extra dirhams for quality, the JCD389 Ultradrive kit by j5Create must be on your shortlist. It is difficult for a USB hub to look/be unique, but the JCD389 is just that. It features a modular design: you get five detachable magnetic adapters that can be connected to the main body or used independently.  

The main body features an HDMI 1.4 port capable of 4K resolution at 30Hz, a USB-C port, two USB 3.1 Type-A ports all capable of up to 5Gbps transfer rate, and a PD3.0 certified USB-C port that allows for charging the MacBook with up to 100W of power. The JCD389 modules combine to offer a Gigabit Ethernet adapter, a micro-SD and SD card adapter, a mini-DisplayPort 1.2 adapter and an HDMI 2.0 adapter both capable of 4K @ 60hz, and finally, a VGA adapter capable of supporting 1080p at 60Hz.  

The main body and all the modules come in a hard carrying case that allows you to bring all of them with you on the go. But most likely, you won’t always need all of them. You have the option to bring with you only the main body, or the main body with a few of modules you will need, or just a single module without even the main body if that’s the only thing you’ll need on the go.  

Note that you can connect an additional module to the USB-C port on the main body if you want to (a total of 2 modules can be in use at a time). This daisy-chaining trick allows for up to three additional displays for your non-M1 MacBook. M1 MacBooks only support one extra display, but that’s on Apple.  

If you are a MacBook owner and you were looking for the best docking station for laptop, you can be sure that the JCD389 is arguably the best one out there for you. For non-MacBook users, consider reading more about a few of the latest j5Create adapters and hubs here. 

Bags 

Targus Cypress EcoSmart collection 

The various bags included in the Cypress collection, including the Cypress Briefcase, Cypress Hero Backpack, and Cypress Convertible Backpack, are among the best backpacks for students who are eco-conscious. All of these bags are suitable for laptops of up to 15.6” and are made from durable material. The Cypress line has been made to be environmentally conscious by using recycled plastic bottles in the build without sacrificing comfort, features, or durability––hence the EcoSmart moniker.  

The Cypress Briefcase features a quick-stash pocket and allows you to: (1) grab the handle, (2) use the shoulder strap, or (3) use the trolley strap to secure your rolling luggage to carry it around. The Cypress Convertible Backpack features the same quick-stash pocket and three modes of transport, with the difference being that the shoulder straps are backpack-style instead of putting on one shoulder like with the Cypress Briefcase. The shoulder straps can be tucked away in a zipper when not in use. The Cypress Hero Backpack features an adjustable ergonomic shoulder strap and a padded back panel for a comfortable fit. All the models mentioned feature a padded laptop compartment, naturally. 

For students with multiple use-case scenarios, the flexible Cypress EcoSmart collection gives them the optimal solution for each of them. You can use it as a regular backpack with average load or one-strap it for extra style points. But you can rely on this bag for more than everyday tasks. The trolley strap means it is ready for a trip as well. The handle on top is just the cherry on top!  

We took a much deeper dive into Targus’ different collections and models within those collections in another article, which you can find here. 

Targus CityLine 

The focus of this collection of laptop bags by Targus is combining style, flexibility, and protection. Below, we highlight a few of this collection’s offerings. 

The CityLite Pro Premium Backpack is designed for the modern-day tech enthusiast with a removable, customizable accessory holder that organizes all of your cables, external HDDs, power banks, and dongles. It also features Targus’ patented DOME shock-distribution system to provide extra protection to your laptop and accessories. As a student that might take a laptop, charger and/or a tablet with them, the CityLine collection works great as it provides the space and the necessary protection for all of them. 

The CityLite Security Backpack, as the name suggests, emphasizes security and the protection of your belongings. It has RFID-blocking pockets to protect your credit cards etc., from being scanned by thieves. Both zippered pockets are concealed to be much more difficult to open discreetly, with the zipper for the main compartment completely hidden from view behind the shoulders.  

The final entry into the CityLite line is the CityLite Laptop Slipcase that almost has the profile of a laptop sleeve because of how thin and light it is. But the main compartment can actually expand quite a bit, and with the extra pocket out the front, this small-looking shoulder-carry can fit a surprising amount of components inside while looking extra stylish. 

Interested in learning more about Newcom’s offerings? 

As an official distributor for Logitech, Targus, j5Create, and Rapoo in the Middle East, Newcom offers a wide range of products from various categories offered by these brands, including the MX Vertical, Targus Cypress bags, and j5Create modular hub. 

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

Why universal docking stations matter 

Modern laptops would be considered extremely generous if they come with a couple of USB-A ports and one HDMI out. And that’s for the bulky gaming laptops, ultraportable laptops that are designed to be mobile rarely have even that! But there is a way you can get all of that with the single (hopefully good!) USB-C port you will find on most modern laptops: get yourself a universal docking station. 

With a universal docking station, you will enable yourself to turn your port-less laptop into a workstation and have access to the freedom that a desktop PC will give you in your home office (or your actual office). Through a single cable, you will be able to charge your laptop, connect a microphone, a pair of speakers, a flash drive, a microSD, a monitor or two, a LAN cable or pretty much anything else you can think of.  

Yes, you will still most likely see all those cables on your desk, but it’s a small price to pay to turn a portable laptop into a workstation in your room. But make sure you know what exactly you are going to be connecting to your laptop to find exactly what number/kind of ports you will need to have when you are making a purchasing decision. 

Universal docking station for laptop recommendations from Lindy Electronics 

Lindy Electronics is a century old German company, which began to dive into the computer accessories market in the 1980’s by designing their own range of cables and KVM switches until they expanded their product range to now include high-quality universal docking stations.  

Below you will be introduced to two top-of-the-line Lindy docking stations that provide maximum port expandability for your ultraportable laptop, plus one unique model if you are not planning to add a display to your laptop. If you pick the right option based on your needs, you can rest assured that you have picked one of the best universal docking stations you can find on the market. 

Lindy DST-Mini Plus 

The first item on the list is an extremely powerful laptop universal docking station that can pass through 100W of power to your computer. So, if you have no extra USB-C ports to spare, you will still be able to charge your laptop at full speed. With the DST-Mini Plus, you get three USB-A ports 3.2 ports offering a transfer speed of up to 5 Gbps. Speaking of Gigabits, there is also a Gigabit ethernet port on the docking station for extra reliable internet connectivity.  

Modern standards + legacy compatibility 

Looking at the image output situation, things get more interesting. On the one hand, you have a standard HDMI output that is capable of outputting 4K image at 30hz using the DisplayPort Alternate Mode. But you also get an additional legacy VGA port if the display/projector you want to view your content on doesn’t support newer standards. You may even use both ports at the same time, but the content is going to be limited to 1080p, and it’s going to be mirrored on both displays.  

The device is also accompanied by microSD and full-sized SD card slots. 

A durable design 

All the ports above are packed into a high-quality aluminum shell that, combined with the braided USB-C cable, ensures its durability. If maximum video compatibility is a priority for you, the DST-Mini Plus is one of the best universal docking stations you can find. Otherwise, go for the next item on the list. 

Lindy DST-Mini XT 

Our next laptop universal docking station on the list does away with the legacy VGA port on the DST-Mini Plus and instead goes for the much more powerful DisplayPort. Both ports are capable of 4K image at up to 30hz of refresh rate, but when used simultaneously, they can run at 1080p @60hz; and this time around, not mirrored.  

Another meaningful difference with the DST-Mini Plus is that now, instead of the three USB-A ports, you are looking at two ports, one of which is capable of BC 1.2 charging. This port allows you to charge mobile devices through it with 7.5W of charging, on top of being able to transfer data with a rate of up to 5Gbps. Although 7.5W might not seem like much, you must consider that without this standard, even that amount wouldn’t be possible with a universal docking station, or even the port on your laptop.  

A trade-off 

The removal of the third USB-A port instead brought with a combo audio port. Most laptops have one combo audio, which means if you want to plug in a microphone input and a pair of wired headphones, you’d be out of luck. This extra audio port gives you the ability to use both at the same time.  

Another scenario where having an audio combo port is handy is when your laptop comes with separate audio in/out ports. If you get a pair of wired headset or earbuds that you want to use both as an audio input source and for listening, you would have to have a 2-to-1 adaptor to connect the earbuds/headset to the combo out. With the DST-Mini XT, you no longer have to worry about this.  

Another small difference between this docking station and the DST-Mini Plus is that the MicroSD slot is dropped, so you only have the SD card slot. That means you must have your adapter handy if you use a microSD. The RJ45 port (for Gigabit Ethernet) is still present. 

Packed to the brim, in aluminum 

This Lindy docking station is the company’s most feature-packed and one of the best docking stations for laptop users, housed in the same durable aluminum housing as the rest of Lindy’s models. The DST-Mini XT is the perfect option for turning your laptop into a versatile workstation by having all your peripherals connected to the docking station and just connecting one cable to your laptop when you want to be extra-productive. 

Lindy DST-Micro 140 

The extra cable offered by the DST-Micro 140 universal docking station arguably makes for a cleaner desk than any other docking station could potentially offer.  

Usually, docking stations come with the option for X Watts of power passthrough, which means you will still need both your laptop charging brick as well as the charging cable to be connected to the dock if you want to charge the laptop while using the docking station. But with this docking station, you will need to bring one less cable with you as the other end of the cable plugs into your laptop charging brick (through USB-C) and charges the laptop with up to 60W of power.  

In addition to this incredibly unique feature, the DST-Micro 140 Lindy docking station is capable of 4K resolution @30hz (2K @75hz), offers you two USB-A 3.2 ports, and microSD and full-sized SD card slots. This docking station is ideal for Thunderbolt 3/4 ports on modern laptops, as well as new MacBooks. 

Conclusion 

The DST-Mini Plus universal docking station offers enough ports for most power users, but especially for users who often need to connect their laptop to a projector or a display at their workplace or university that uses the legacy VGA connector. But if you don’t need to connect your computer to a VGA-enabled device, you would be better-off with the DST-Mini XT. It ditches the old VGA port with a much more modern DisplayPort 1.1. You also get the ability to charge your mobile phones through the USB-A ports at a reasonable speed.  

But if you are feeling adventurous! You may need to look into the DST-Micro 140 that allows you to carry one less cable if you want to bring your docking station with you as it ditches the power passthrough functionality with giving you a power cable that you can directly connect to your laptop’s power brick. Whichever your needs may be, you will most likely find a model in this list that suits your needs best.  

Interested in learning more about Lindy docking stations? 

As the official distributor of Lindy’s products in MENA, Newcom offers a wide range of Lindy docking stations, including the universal laptop docking stations mentioned above. 

If you are interested in any of the products discussed in this article, please make sure to check out our products page. For further information or any inquiries, make sure to directly call us or reach out through our contact us page. 

To make sure you are the first to find out about the latest Lindy releases in the region, be sure to frequently check out our blog posts.