My Must-Have Tech Treasures of 2024: Beyond the AirTags!

I find myself managing and evaluating an astonishing variety of gadgets throughout the year, ranging from cables to satellite communicators. Nevertheless, I believe the true measure of any item is its ability to transition from something that I assessed to something I utilize consistently over time.

This collection includes gadgets that have evolved from simple review tasks to vital components of my gear. These are the items that reside in my pocket or laptop case or travel with me during my journeys, whether on-grid or totally off-grid.

Also: Why Oura Ring 4 is ZDNET’s product of the year – surpassing Samsung, Apple, and others in 2024

One stipulation here is that I’ve intentionally excluded any and all Apple gadgets, as my top contenders would consist of my iPhone, Apple Watch, MacBook Pro, AirPods Pro, and all the AirTags that keep me from misplacing my belongings. I want this list to extend beyond Apple!

So, without further delay, and in no specific order, here are my top 7 gadgets of 2024, along with a bonus “gadget” that is perpetually in transition but equally indispensable.

1. Klarus K5 waterproof power bank

I have lost several power banks to water damage, due to either accidental exposure or using them as external power sources for an action camera. I’ve searched for a waterproof power bank for years, and I have finally discovered one that can endure the challenges of being with me.

Read the review: My preferred power bank for travel is waterproof and unexpectedly lightweight

The Klarus K5 is a compact, slim, extremely lightweight power bank encased in carbon fiber and engineered to resist water. Ultimately, it fulfills its promises as stated on the packaging.

2. DJI Mini 4 Pro drone

I possess a variety of drones in my collection, yet the one that I frequently reach for is my sub-250g DJI Mini 4 Pro. It checks so many boxes — highly portable, easy to operate, outstanding photo and video quality, and it typically avoids significant scrutiny from authorities in most countries.

Read the review: DJI Mini 4 Pro: What a time to be alive

I’ve flown countless hours with my Mini 4 Pro, and although it may not be as impressive as the Mavic 3 Pro or as miniature as the Neo, for me, it comes remarkably close to being the ideal drone.

3. InCharge XS 4-in-1 keychain charge cable

I always find myself in need of a cable, be it for charging a device or transferring data. The issue is, carrying several of them in my pockets is quite inconvenient. This is where I opted for a keychain cable. And when it comes to versatile keychain cables, Rolling Square produces the best options available.

Read the review: This innovative 4-in-1 keychain charger has simplified my travels with devices significantly

After months of being carried around, squashed in my pocket or bag, accidentally stepped on, and even washed, my Rolling Square InCharge XS remains in excellent condition.

4. Bluetti AC60P

I devote quite a bit of time each year away from the grid, yet I still require power to charge my laptops, drones, and cameras. Power stations have now become essential for me, but previously, these were not designed to withstand the harshest elements that Mother Nature could deliver.

Until now. The Bluetti AC60P is among the first to earn the IP65 certification.

Read the review: The most resilient power station I’ve evaluated challenges Mother Nature to try her hardest

Be it rain, snow, or even a dust storm, my adventures need not conclude. I’ve tested my AC60P in dreadful weather conditions, and it continues to function like it did on day one.

5. InfiRay P2 Pro

Athermal camera has become an essential instrument in my repair toolkit. I utilize it to detect overheating electrical parts (defective components generally run at higher temperatures) and troubleshoot automotive issues. Claiming that they’re invaluable is an understatement when considering that my favorite — the InfiRay P2 Pro — tips the scales at merely 9 grams!

Read the review: This tiny accessory grants your phone thermal vision superpowers

I particularly favor this model due to its macro lens, which enables me to examine circuit boards and components closely, a necessity when working with densely packed electronic parts.

6. Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3.0

I dislike transporting data on unencrypted USB drives, so I’ve embraced something that even James Bond would admire — an encrypted USB drive featuring a built-in keypad.

Read the review: This USB drive will self-destruct (if you desire it to)

The Aegis Secure Key 3.0 is as secure as it gets: It provides state-of-the-art hardware encryption and will even erase data automatically if someone attempts to access it without the correct password.

7. 240W magnetic breakaway USB-C connectors

How often have you stumbled over a cable and nearly sent your laptop crashing to the floor? If you’re anything like me, quite a bit! For those with devices lacking a safety feature like Apple’s MagSafe, these are indispensable for you — 240W magnetic breakaway USB-C connectors.

Read the review: This compact USB-C accessory features a revolutionary magnetic capability

These connectors can handle power transfer of up to 240W, data transfer rates reaching 40Gb/s, and video output at 8K@60Hz.

Bonus: My keychain must-haves

From flashlight to bottle opener to multitool, my keychain holds a multitude of gadgets. And to share a little secret, these are the tools I reach for the most.

My keychain has become quite bulky, and the items are continually changing as I discover and test new products, but you can make yours as extensive or as discreet as you prefer!

Read the review: 10 tiny tools I always have on my keychain – and how each simplifies my life