Electrical Luxuries

This article continues from What to Take to University: Electrical.


Computer Speakers

If you like playing your music loud and don't think the laptop speakers will be good enough for you may want to think about buying some speakers. A good, cheap option is the Logitech X-230 Speaker System. For this price they are very good. For a more expensive option you can go for surround sound, and the Philips SPA2600 5.1 channel Multimedia Speaker are a good choice.

Games Console

A good way to meet new people is to own a games console and T.V. and invite friends round to play. The Nintendo Wii Console is great fun to play with friends and is the cheapest of the latest generation consoles. You might also consider the XBox 360 which comes in either Core, Premium or Elite versions. The Sony PlayStation 3 has arguably the best graphics of any console but you will need a good T.V. to get the best out of it. Consider also a Sony PlayStation 2 which has the benefit of having been out for a long time so is cheaper and there are more games available.

Handheld Device

These devices can be useful for keeping track of your assignments, making notes and balancing your finances. You can buy software which allows you to type documents in word or excel and then transfer them on to your laptop at a later date. Moreover, buying a keyboard connection allows you to convert your handheld into mini-laptop, so if you want to do some work in the library but don't want to take your laptop with you, then you can take this instead.

Palm are the most popular, and in my opinion best, brand of handheld. They come in a variety of styles and prices and it is worth considering what you need it for before making a purchase. The Palm Z22 is the basic model but for most purposes should do everything you need. You could spend a little more to get the Palm TUNGSTEN E2 which is a more advanced model, but it is up to you to decide whether it is worth the extra cost. You can read reviews on both of these here:

Palm Z22 Review
Palm TUNGSTEN E2 Review

iPod

I don't think I need to explain the benefits of an iPod and I expect most people will have one already. But for anyone considering getting one an iPod becomes a huge benefit at university either when you are getting the bus in and out or studying in the library. Go for the Apple iPod nano for a small version, or the Apple iPod 30GB Video (also available in white) if you want the option to watch films and videos as well as music.

T.V.

Some students decide to buy televisions. They can provide a useful distraction when you get bored and are a good way to bond with people. Remember you will need to buy a T.V. license as well, which isn't cheap. It's up to you to decide whether your favourite television programmes are worth the cost.

If you do decide to buy one, then a good option is the Philips 14PT6107 14" Combined TV/DVD. The built in DVD player is a nice extra for when you get tired of watching films on your laptop. If you have a lot more money to spend then Samsung LE19R71BX - 19'' Widescreen LCD TV is one of the most popular televisions at the moment, and its small size and high quality imagine is a good bonus.


This concludes the set of articles describing the types of electronics goods available. Now use this information to choose what you want and write a list of everything you think you need. Electronics are some of the best things to buy online for their lower value and the simplicity of having everything turn up on your doorstep. So, why not explore my recommendations and see whether they are right for you.


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