GADGET LAB → LEARN
DELL XPS 13
This sub-3-pound Windows notebook comes with a nice full-
size keyboard, a nimble Intel Core i3 chip, and a 128-GB SSD
for stuffing full of coursework, games, and memories. Dell’s
13-incher has long been our top PC pick for college students
because of its solid mix of price and performance; now that
the camera has been moved from below the screen to up top,
we can make that recommendation more heartily. No more
awkward “nose cam” Zooms during internship interviews.
Room Mates
Dorm living is a riot, but the close quarters
can be stifling. Carve out some extra “me space”
with this gear. —Michael Calore
$100
$900 AND UP
GEARHEAD
ULTIMATE EARS WONDERBOOM 2
The second iteration of UE’s grapefruit-sized
Bluetooth speaker is markedly better than the
first. It kicks out clear audio with improved bass
in a 360-degree arc for study breaks (of up
to 13 hours!). If your friend has one, you can
sync the two to double the size of the party.
The rugged design is waterproof too, making
the Wonderboom the perfect accessory for the
shower or the beach; it even floats.
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