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FATHER’S DAY 2019 SPECIAL GREAT GIFT IDEAS FROM THE EXPERTS THAT KNOW HIS NEEDS!
IT’S HIS TIME
100+ TECH TREATS
A watch he’ll love
WORK & PLAY
FOR DAD
SMARTHOME
ACTIVE & OUTDOOR
Make it a top one, for him Father’s Day comes but once a year and the team at T3 want to help you make it special for dad, so we’ve created a lovely collection of tech treats to delight him. When is Father’s Day 2019? Sunday September 1
What will dads mainly be getting? Crap mugs with ‘Top Dad’ written on and novelty aprons.
What should dads be getting though? Something from this tasteful and lavishly hand-curated guide to the Best Father’s Day presents, of course…
Fitness father, tech dad and music pops are all catered for. And hey, if you happen to be a dad yourself, you could always leave this guide open in a place you know your other half/offspring are sure to see. You know, by accident. And, to make life easier, for many products here we’ve included a link so you can scope out the current price. Do also share this digital link around for others you know who may be searching for something exactly right for dad – and for a whole lot more that will excite dad, drop into your newsagent and grab a copy of the good old fashioned paper version of T3. It’s full of good stuff..
Ben Mansill, Editor ben.mansill@futurenet.com
T3’S MISSION T3’s mission is to help you find the best products for every area of your tech lifestyle. From traditional gadget buys like phones and TVs to connected home security and sports sensors, if it can make your life better, we’re here to make sure you get the right one for you. The products we feature are chosen by our expert writers, with years of experience in their key areas. We wouldn’t recommend something we wouldn’t be happy to live with ourselves – the tat is filtered out long before we print a page.
This goes for reviews too – you won’t us wasting your time with products you don’t need to know about. More than that, our aim is to make sure you get the most out of the things you buy, with in-depth guides to complex tech areas, tips on making better use of products, and recommendations for add-ons that make your favourite gadgets even better. We’re here to help you find things you’ll really love, and that make your life easier. Because we can all do with that.
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Inside the issue Feature
Ultimate 4K & Dolby Atmos setups Creating your home cinema isn’t as complicated as you’d think, and you can do it on pretty much any budget and for any room size.
Horizon
Action cams and drones
Home cinema
Computers
Phones and watches
Health and fitness
TVs and projectors
Cameras
Home entertainment
Smart home
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The best new tech for dad. Edited by Claire Davies
APPLE iPAD PRO From $1,229, apple.com/au Not content with already making a better tablet than your Nan, Apple is taking another leap forward to its iPad Pro line-up. For a start, the design has been updated, inheriting the curved screen corners from the iPhone, and slimming down to just 5.9mm thickness. There’s a new screen size too – Apple said that it could fit more pixels in the same body size as the previous 10.5-inch model (which is still on-sale), so it created a new 11-inch iPad Pro. The bigger sibling stays at 12.9 inches, but in a smaller and lighter body than the old model, making it perhaps the ultimate ultraportable computer at just 631g. And make no mistake, this is meant to be a full-on computer: the A12X chip that powers the iPad Pro is an octo-core monster more powerful than 92 per cent of PC laptops sold, according to Apple. Even the graphics are as potent as those of the Xbox One S, in a fraction of the space. And it has a 1TB storage option. To go along with all that power, this is Apple’s first tablet that has USB Type-C, replacing the Lightning connection of older iPads. This means you can connect external displays up to 5K resolution to present on, and connect hubs and external storage. The iPad Pro was already head and shoulders above the tablet competition, and this looks set to keep it there for a long time.
TECH-O-METER
Apple has gone all controversial again by getting rid of the 3.5mm headphone jack. You can buy a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter to use your wired cans, or you can go wireless
“This looks like one hell of a tablet. Love the design, and the speed is amazing.” Ben Mansill, Editor
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FACE ID COMES TO TABLET The new iPad Pro design ditches the Home button and adds Face ID for secure unlocking. Unlike iPhones, though, it works whatever way up you’re holding the iPad. If you’re covering the sensor with your hand when it’s trying to scan, it’ll flash a warning on the screen
APPLE PENCIL V2 The new iPad Pros will work with Apple’s next-gen Pencil, which is a big upgrade. It now attaches to the iPad magnetically, and charges wireless while connected. It also has a touch button for triggering different tools within apps, and it can wake the iPad when you tap it to the screen. The new Pencil doesn’t work with old iPad Pros, and the old Pencil doesn’t work with the new tablets, either
THE BIG SCREEN The 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s screen is 2732x2048, just like the last generation. The 11-inch model is 2388x1668. Both are LCD screens with a 120Hz variable refresh rate for super-smooth response, with widecolour gamuts and True Tone. You can connect 4K and even 5K screens via the USB-C port, for viewing images or video in ultra detail
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HUAWEI MATE 20 X $1,239
How big is too big for a phone? Is it over seven inches? Is it technically a tablet that takes calls? Huawei is answering these questions the practical way by releasing this 7.2-inch beast, which has a super-minimal camera notch for maximising that 1080x2224 OLED display. Between that and some hefty speakers, this is surely the ultimate phone for watching movies on. Elsewhere, you’ll find an octa-core Kirin processor, 6GB of RAM, and a huge 5,000mAh battery. We’ve been singing the praises of the 4,000mAh battery in the Huawei Mate 20 Pro, but this is in an entirely different class. That’s the advantage of making it the size of a dinner plate, we guess. T3 SAYS: We’re gonna need a bigger pair of trousers. Phones this size might be niche, but for movies and games, this looks fantastic.
TECH-O-METER
APPLE MACBOOK AIR $1,849
The MacBook Air has been a staple of offices and students ever since Steve Jobs first pulled it from an envelope onstage in 2008. It’s been massively overdue for an overhaul, and this is it: the MacBook Air now comes with latest-gen Intel processors, a high-res Retina screen, and its thinnest, lightest design yet at just 1.25kg. The dual-core processor is good for everyday tasks, and the 13-inch 2560x1600 screen looks bright and detailed. A Touch ID fingerprint sensor makes it more secure and also quicker to log into. Two Thunderbolt 3 ports double as USB-C ports, and a new full-size keyboard and bigger trackpad keep it usable despite getting smaller. Oh, and it now comes in Gold, Silver and Space Grey. T3 SAYS: Apple’s most popular laptop gets the modern update it deserves. Its portable design could open up your options for where to work.
TECH-O-METER
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SONY MASTER SERIES AF9 $5,799, sony.com.au
When it comes to TVs, it’s easy to get befuddled by all the alphanumeric names. But there’s nothing confusing about the sheer awesomeness of Sony’s new Master series of 4K HDR TVs. The tech giant’s aim with the AF9 OLED (available in 55- and 65-inch sets) was to create “a picture approaching the quality of a professional-grade monitor in a motion-picture studio”. Plus, with the help of its own next-gen picture processor, X1 Ultimate, Sony has achieved the kind of supreme accuracy and detail that you’d expect to find from the master. Sony has also teamed up with Netflix to offer Netflix Calibrated Mode. What’s that? Switch it on in the menu bar and your fave Netflix shows will come alive in exactly the way their creators intended. Prepare to fall in love with Stranger Things all over again. T3 SAYS: Packed with pro-grade smarts, Sony’s new panels are made for TV connoisseurs.
TECH-O-METER
LG 34WK95U-W $3,199
If Vincent van Gogh was alive today, he’d probably give his right ear for one of these. Destined to become the go-to monitor for digital artists, the 34WK95U-W is a borderless wonder that boasts the world’s first 5K2K (5120x2160 resolution) 21:9 display. The luxuriant DCI-P3 colour gamut – a film-industry standard – and certified HDR600 compatibility will bring breathtaking exuberance to any project, whether that be Photoshopping your holiday snaps or editing a wedding video. And if you want to multi-task, you can – the monitor’s Split Screen function, combined with a Thunderbolt 3 port that provides super-fast, 40Gbps data transfer, means two separate video streams can be viewed side by side. T3 SAYS: Even for creatives this is arguably OTT, but there’s no denying that it’s immense when it comes to multi-tasking and crisp colours.
TECH-O-METER
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SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH From $499 Smartwatches are like Vegemite: some see the appeal, and some don’t. Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch, a surprisingly attractive successor to the Gear S3, is hoping to convert non-believers and bolster the faith of the smartwatch loyal. The Galaxy Watch arrives in two sizes (42mm and 46mm), and is infused with a plethora of features that aim to make your daily life better. It’s clear that Samsung has designed the Galaxy Watch to look more like a regular timepiece rather than a big chunk of tech squatting on your wrist. In either its Black or Rose Gold persuasion, you’d be as happy pairing it with a crisp shirt as you would your gym clobber. And yes, the new Samsung wants in on your gym time… In addition to displaying notifications, and enabling you to make and take calls on the wrist, the Galaxy Watch tracks 39 workouts and offers guided indoor exercises (via Samsung Health), as well as monitoring sleep. It also wants to help organise your smart home, connecting with SmartThings-enabled devices for wrist-based control. We also like the sound of the My Day watch face, providing an at-a-glance peek at your schedule for the next 10 hours. Could there be a smartwatch hit for Android at last?
TECH-O-METER
Samsung reckons the 46mm Galaxy Watch’s battery should last up to seven days if you don’t hammer it with heavy use, with the 42mm version lasting for up to four days with light use
A good-looking smartwatch that’s fit for parties or the gym Matt Bolton, Editor
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POCKET SIZED PA The Galaxy Watch acts as a digital assistant, keeping track of your schedule and nudging you about upcoming events. The watch uses the Bixby virtual assistant, so you can set reminders and alarms using your voice
PERFECT PARTNERS Samsung’s newcomer is compatible with smartphones running Android 5.0+ or iOS 9+. SmartThings and Samsung Pay are also here, boosting control over your compatible smart home gear and your contactless shopping
DOCTOR’S ORDERS Cycling, swimming (it’s waterproof to 50 meters) and running (it has built-in GPS) are among the 39 workouts tracked, and there are 29 indoor exercises for you to explore, too
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GARMIN VIVOSMART 4 $199
When fitness trackers first appeared, many wrote them off as a fad – flimsy rubber step-counters that held about as much long-term appeal as calculator watches. But those cynics clearly underestimated the boffins that build these things, as sports bands have advanced beyond recognition. Garmin’s Vivosmart 3 was a massive hit with fitness freaks thanks to features like all-day stress tracking and a ‘rep counter’ for monitoring bench presses. The US company has upped the ante yet further with the tracker’s fourth edition, adding a blood-oxygen
sensor, energy-reserve calculator, a seven-day battery life and water resistance. It’s also slimmer than it used to be, which is handy for comfort, but is also a good omen for its wearers, right? T3 SAYS: This feature-packed fitness tracker may end up knowing more about your body than you do.
TECH-O-METER COOLNESS INNOVATION FEATURES
NIKON COOLPIX P1000 $1,499
Ever wanted to know what an ant’s earlobe looks like? Or what that microdot on the moon is? Now you can (maybe). The latest snapper in Nikon’s long-running CoolPix range is a wonder of science: it boasts the world’s longest optical zoom (125x, with a focal-length range of 24-3000mm!) for this size of camera – and yet, at a piffling 1.4kg, it’s a fraction of the weight of your average chunky DSLR. Nikon’s proprietary vibration reduction tech will help you capture eyepopping detail even when your hand is shaking. And that telephoto lens can be called into action while filming glorious 4K video, too, so you can shoot Blue Planet-style close-ups of sea anenomes to your heart’s content. T3 SAYS: Whether you’re a wildlife snapper or a super-spy, that mega-zoom will make a big difference to your work.
TECH-O-METER
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Ultimate 4K & Dolby Atmos setups Words: Steve May Photography: Neil Godwin
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Creating your home cinema isn’t as complicated as you’d think, and you can do it on pretty much any budget and for any room size. Here’s how… hanks to the glorious summer we had this year, your TV gear has probably felt a bit neglected while you’ve been enjoying outdoor walks, sport, gardening and, of course, drinking. But it isn’t for long that we can resist the allure of a glowing OLED an an enticing way to spend an evening. And if you’re going to enjoy more movies and TV, you want to make sure it’s in the best quality possible. It’s a perfect time, then, to
T
upgrade your home cinema setup. There’s a lot going on with TV and audio right now, and with the right new tech, you could make a huge difference to your living room. 2018 is definitely the year of OLED – the richness of the HDR images these TV panels can produce is astounding, and they’re now available for really reasonable prices. Even if you go with a different tech, including LCD or projector, a high-quality 4K HDR set looks like nothing you’ve ever seen before. And with Dolby Atmos, home
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cinema audio is getting an upgrade just as impactful as 4K. The addition of height to the 3D surround sound mix creates a whole new level of immersion, and is a massive upgrade to previous systems. And we know not everyone can fit in a huge set of speakers, so we’ve got the best soundbars too. We’ll take you through the options, section by section, suggesting the best options for all budgets and needs, so you can build your ultimate setup.
TVs and projectors After scouting out a dedicated space, your first home cinema job is finding the best screen for your budget
DOLBY VISION OLED HERO
MASTER OF THE CLASS
LG C8 (OLED55C8 )
SONY A9F
LG’s 55-inch C8 OLED is the very model of a modern major flatscreen. Its webOS smart platform boasts all the streaming services you could want, augmented by LG ThinQ AI voice control for improved search. Thanks to an Alpha 9 intelligent processor, picture quality is breathtakingly fine, with copious detail, excellent colour and perfect blacks. HDR coverage includes DolbyVision, HDR10 and HLG. It even has a Dolby Atmos-enabled Netflix app onboard. $2,260, lg.com
The Sony is an OLED just like the LG on the left – in fact it uses an LG manufactured panel, but adds some extra tricks. First the colours and HDR effects you see are ‘reference’, meaning it’s the same colours and brightness as pro video editors use, the catch is it’s only working with Netflix at the moment, but when it’s on it’s stunning. And, Sony’s Pixel Contrast Booster provides extra luminance so it just looks better. $5,799, sony.com
“ALEXA, PLAY MOVIES”
TIME TO GO 8K
OPTOMA UHD51A ALEXA 4K PROJECTOR
JVC DLA-NX9
Alexa can now turn on your home cinema projector, but that’s not the only reason to love this UHD-capable Optoma. This compact projector doesn’t just look crystal clear with 4K content, it’s also compatible with 3D too. TVs may have given up on the third dimension, but you can carry on watching your 3D Blu-rays on the bigger screen. The UHD51A is bright, with cinematic contrast. Operating noise is low, as long as you stick to the Eco lamp setting. $1,800
If you’ve got the budget and the space, why not leapfrog 4K and go straight to 8K? This stunning JVC D-ILA projector couples native 4K projection with 8K e-shift technology. Crafty pixel shifting delivers an image resolution of 7680x4320. There’s no native 8K content to watch, of course, but this solution delivers a sharper image with 4K. A variety of light scattering and diffraction tech improves brightness and black levels. The end result rivals commercial cinemas for clarity. $26,800, jvc.com
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HOLLYWOOD TUNED PANASONIC TF-65FZ1000 To ensure this 65-inch Freeview Play OLED flagship offered blockbuster image quality, Panasonic enlisted Hollywood creatives to fine-tune its performance. A True Cinema mode replicates the same image characteristics of a Hollywood mastering monitor. The set uses the brand’s HCX Studio Colour video processor, and boasts innovative Dynamic LUT technology for unbeatable colour fidelity. HDR support covers HDR10, HLG and HDR10+. It’s not just a stunning picture performer, though. The FZ952 comes with an integrated Dynamic Blade Speaker, designed by Technics audio engineers. $5,990, panasonic.com
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Soundbars With the screen sorted, it’s time for sound. Hey, there’s no point investing in great visuals if you skimp on audio
TOTAL 3D AUDIO SOLUTION SAMSUNG HW-N950 DOLBY ATMOS Compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, this 3D audio soundbar with wireless rear speakers and subwoofer is the real cinematic deal. Using both height and width drivers, plus wireless upfiring rear speakers, it offers a genuinely immersive 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos listening experience. Other niceties include 4K input switching, high-res audio support and Amazon Alexa voice control. Probably the nearest you’ll get to the power and presence of an AV receiver and separate Dolby Atmos speaker system, with a soundbar. $1,545, samsung.com
ATMOS FOR OLED
DOLBY ATMOS LITE
LG SKY10Y
SONY HT-ZF9
Styled to match LG’s 2018 65-inch OLED TV range, this premium soundbar is a bulky beast. Configured for a 5.1.2 Atmos soundstage, it boasts two upward-firing height speakers and is partnered with a wireless sub. Designed in partnership with Meridian Audio, the soundstage is wide and high, and there’s a huge sense of detail. $1,180, lg.com
Sony uses DSP audio processing to deliver Dolby Atmos with this 3.1 soundbar and subwoofer system that sounds 3D. We love the ZF9 because it sounds impressive virtually anywhere, no matter how large or small your room. Connections include two HDMI inputs, and Chromecast audio is integrated, making streaming a doddle. $695 sony.com
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“ALEXA, PLAY DAMN LOUD”
SONOS SIMPLICITY
POLK COMMAND BAR
SONOS PLAYBASE
Smarter than the average stereo soundbar, Polk’s Command Bar has full Alexa functionality, and even has room to accommodate a Fire TV streaming stick. If you need more, there are a couple of HDMI inputs and an optical digital audio input, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are builtin. The subwoofer delivers booming budget sound. $649
The Sonos Playbase stands 58mm high and incorporates 10 drivers and one woofer. The glass-filled polycarbonate exterior looks beautiful and offers enormous sonic width and depth. There’s no HDMI input, just a digital audio optical connection, but the Playbase functions just like any other connected Sonos multi-room speaker. $885
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Speakers The right speakers make a world of difference to your home cinema array, as these beauties demonstrate…
QUALITY COMPACT CINEMA SOUND
LIFESTYLE DOLBY ATMOS SYSTEM
Q ACOUSTICS 7000i
FOCAL SIB EVO 5.1.2
Space isn’t an issue with this diminutive 5.1 sub/sat system from Q Acoustics. The ultra-compact 7000i satellites sound crisp and tight, while the matching wireless subwoofer, with its seven-inch cone, is slim and powerful. Together they make a formidable surround sound system. Q Acoustics doesn’t make a specific Atmos 7000i speaker, but we’ve discovered that two additional satellite speakers, angled high above the seating position, will create a very convincing Atmos effect, so you can always upgrade as and when. $899 (for a 5.1 package), qacoustics.co.uk
Focal’s Sib Evo is a dedicated Dolby Atmos sound system with true designer style and hi-fi pedigree, so it sounds as good as it looks. A 5.1.2 Atmos setup, the system comprises two compact left/right Sib Evo Dolby Atmos speakers, which feature a front-firing speaker driver and an additional 76mm ‘up-firer’ for Atmos, plus three slightly smaller Sib Evo satellites for rear-surround duties and centre channel, with a Cub Evo subwoofer. The system is deeply immersive and a thriller with high-octane action movies. $2,399, focal.com/en
EXPANDABLE SMART SPEAKERS
HIGH-END HOME THEATRE
HARMAN KARDON CITATION
DEFINITIVE TECHNOLOGY BP9000 SERIES
A modular smart speaker solution, the Citation Series is designed for both multi-channel home cinemas and multi-room streaming audio. Embracing a cool Scandi industrial design, the speakers come wrapped in grey or black wool acoustic fabric from Kvadrat. They’re also compatible with Google Assistant and have Chromecast built in. Combine the Citation 3.0 (sound) Bar, with Citation surround speakers and wireless subwoofer for a home cinema sound system that’s literally smarter than the competition. $3,350 for the system, harmankardon.com
This contemporary loudspeaker system from US brand Definitive Technology is all about huge home theatre audio. Both the BP9040 floorstanders and CS9060 centre speaker come with built-in eightinch subwoofers, so there’s no need for standalone room shakers. A pop-off top plate on the stereo pair accommodates a plug-in Dolby Atmos A90 upfiring module. Rear duties are handled by a pair of SR9040 surround speakers. Partner this selection with a premium Dolby Atmos AV receiver and you’re guaranteed seismic shockwaves. $7,991 for the system, definitivetechnology.com
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MID-RANGE DOLBY ATMOS JAMO S807 HCS ATMOS 5.1.2 Key to Danish brand Jamo’s home cinema loudspeaker proposition is the S 8 ATM, a Dolby Atmos upfiring module that can be added to its select Studio 8 speakers. The S807 floorstanders have metal connectors that allow the Atmos module to be attached without ugly additional cabling. The system’s not only neat, but expandable. Start with a 5.1.2 package comprising a Jamo S807 HCS set with Atmos toppers and S808 subwoofer, then add additional speakers and Atmos modules for if you want to expand your sound. From $2,499, jamo.com
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DOLBY VISION 4K STREAMER APPLE TV The latest version of Apple’s streamer is an AV powerhouse, able to stream movies in both Dolby Vision 4K HDR and with Dolby Atmos sound. There’s a sprightly A10X Fusion chip beneath the lid, and Siri’s on hand when you want to chat. Beyond iTunes, you also get Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Now TV, Sky News, My5, BT TV and YouTube. For those playing in Apple’s sandbox, this is a practical alternative to a UHD Blu-ray player. $209, apple.com
Streamers
Now that we’ve nailed the visuals and sound, it’s time to hook you up with super-fast streaming and epic content
ALL FUN, NO FUSS
HIGH-RES AUDIO PLAYBACK
ROKU STREAMING STICK PLUS
GOOGLE CHROMECAST ULTRA
Thanks to a bulletproof user interface, this UHD streamer is a pleasure to use. There’s no Ethernet, but the supplied USB power lead doubles as a Wi-Fi antenna. A single HDMI plugs into your TV or AV receiver. Netflix, YouTube and Amazon are all available in 4K and HDR where available, and there’s a full complement of catch-up TV. $132
The smartest of Google’s Chromecast dongles, the Ultra supports 4K and HDR streaming over Wi-Fi. Usability is the key difference between the Ultra and other streaming boxes. There’s wide support for Chromecast-compatible apps, including YouTube and Netflix. And as it uses a Wi-Fi connection, it also offers high-res audio playback. $95, store.google.com
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AV receivers This isn’t the sexiest cinema buy you’ll ever make, but it’s essential to a surround speaker setup, so let’s get it right
THE AUDIOPHILE CHOICE
POWERHOUSE HOME THEATRE
MARANTZ SR7013 DOLBY ATMOS 5.1.4 AVR
DENON AVR-X4500 DOLBY ATMOS 5.1.4 AVR
Offering a classically refined Marantz sonic approach, the SR7013 is a nine-channel 3D audio amplifier (with 11-channel processing), tuned for movies and high-res audio. The brand’s sweet HDAM amplifier tech ensures supreme musicality, while a double-layer copper-plated chassis combats resonance during movie soundtracks. $2,672, marantz.com
With nine brawny channels of amplification, this big Denon opens the door to either 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 Atmos surround. More impressively, it can decode 11 channels (7.1.4) if you add an additional stereo amplifier. Built around a 9x200W power plant, audio quality is crisp and detailed, and connectivity is top class with eight HDMI inputs. $2,649
DSP MEETS DOLBY ATMOS SONY STR-DN1080 DOLBY ATMOS AV RECEIVER This Atmos AVR delivers enveloping home cinema sound without a hefty price tag. A 5.1.2 design, it uses clever DSP processing to add a virtual rear channel to your home theatre. The power output is a solid 7x165W, and those phantom rears help swell the soundstage. With six 4K-ready HDMI inputs, you won’t run out of inputs, and built-in Chromecast supports easy streaming. $1,199
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Blu-ray players With your home cinema nearly ready, you’ll want something to play Blu-rays on. Here are our top picks…
PREMIUM DISC SPINNER
CUT-PRICE 4K BLU-RAY
PIONEER UDP-LX800
PANASONIC DP-UB420
Built like a battleship, this high-end 4K UHD deck elevates disc playback to another level. With peerless build and best-in-class componentry, no expense has been spared. A 4.6mm double-layer composite chassis tips the scales at 10.3kg, thwarting resonance, and the analogue audio section adopts a pure audiophile design. Whether you’re playing Dolby Vision UHD discs or spinning Super Audio CDs, no other deck does it better. Just don’t drop one on your foot. $3,880, pioneer.com
This budget UHD disc player may have a paper-thin build, but beneath the hood it boasts the same impressive HCX image video processing as higher models. Image quality is sensational for the price, both with 4K HDR discs and regular Blu-ray discs. The deck is compatible with High-Res Audio 24-bit FLAC and DSD files and also has Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube onboard. If you don’t need audiophile disc playback, it’s a real bargain. $299, panasonic.com
THE GAMER’S CHOICE XBOX ONE X Microsoft’s bleeding-edge games console is a surprisingly adept UHD Blu-ray player. Navigation isn’t as slick as you would get from a dedicated player, but there’s no shortfall in performance. UHD Blu-rays look pin-sharp, and Dolby Atmos 3D sound is available via a dedicated Dolby app. The deck is also well-equipped for 4K streaming services. The Netflix app supports Dolby Vision streams, and, of course, native 4K gameplay with Dolby Atmos game audio is glorious fun. $649
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Movies
Finally, now is the time to kick back and enjoy your home cinema with a great movie or (in this case) nine HDR SHOWCASES
READY PLAYER ONE
BLACK PANTHER
STAR TREK: DISCOVERY
Steven Spielberg’s pop culture nostalgia ride makes extravagant use of wide colour and dynamic HDR. And the opening race sequence is an audiovisual eye-popper. (Blu-ray, iTunes)
Marvel’s superhero hit oozes 4K eye candy, thanks to ace VFX. Vibranium-powered weapons sizzle brightly, and T’Challa’s costume harbours so much near-black detail. (Blu-ray)
Discovery may ‘only’ be presented in 1080p, but the addition of exquisite lighting and ambitious visual effects go boldly where no other Trek TV show has gone before. (Netflix)
BEST 4K REMASTERS
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND 40TH ANNIVERSARY Freshly remastered, Spielberg’s sci-fi classic has never looked better. This edition unlocks hitherto unseen detail, while the use of HDR adds almost three-dimensional depth. (Blu-ray, iTunes)
THE DARK KNIGHT TRILOGY
APOLLO 13
Christopher Nolan’s Gotham gamechanger gets a welcome 4K update. All films have their moments, but that scene-setting IMAXlensed bank robbery in The Dark Knight exhibits sensational detail. (Blu-ray, iTunes)
Ron Howard’s white-knuckle retelling of the disastrous Apollo 13 moon mission is given fresh clarity in this superb 4K restoration. HDR ensures deep space is ominously black, the crippled Apollo craft glinting in contrast. (Blu-ray, iTunes)
BEST DOLBY ATMOS
STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI
JOHN WICK
A QUIET PLACE
You’ll feel the force with this 4K disc. Inventive sound design and copious space battles ensure thrilling dynamics – and when the Imperial Star Destroyer blows, even your neighbours will know about it. (Blu-ray)
If you want a 3D soundmix that’s as explosive as it is immersive, you won’t go wrong with Wick. Keanu Reeve’s anti-hero blasts his way through most of the running time, ensuring every sound channel gets a workout. (Blu-ray, iTunes)
A horror film predicated on silence seems like an odd choice, but this is a masterclass in subtle effects, such as whispered breaths and rustling leaves. And when the bass does hit, you’ll jump out of your skin! (Blu-ray, iTunes)
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If you’re looking for the very best tech available today, you have definitely come to the right place. Best of the Best is the most useful gadget-buying guide you will ever encounter. To create it, we’ve ruthlessly filtered down to the biggest groups, to bring you rock-solid recommendations for your home life, daily commute and the tech you use all the time. Within each of those groups, we’ve got a dozen categories for key tech buys. We’ve picked one product for every category that we think is the best you can get on balance, taking into account price, quality and features, so it’s easy to know what you need in your life. You should also check out T3.com, where you’ll find even more categories, if you’re looking for something that isn’t here. From big-budget buys to the little (but essential) accessories, we’ve got you covered.
INSIDE PHONES & WATCHES TVS & PROJECTORS SPEAKERS & CONSOLES SPORTSCAMS & DRONES COMPUTERS FITNESS SMART HOME
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CHEAP SMARTPHONES
SMARTPHONES APPLE iPHONE XS From $1,629
APPLE WATCH SERIES 4
HONOR PLAY $500
The phenomenal speed, hyperpremium build quality, fantastic camera and gorgeous HDR screen with Dolby Vision support make this the world’s most desirable phone.
SAMSUNG GALAXY S10+
From $599 Pitched as a gaming phone, but it’s just an all-round brilliant Android phone that’s a stone-cold bargain. It has a high-end processor, 6.3-inch screen, good rear cameras, and a fantastic design.
$599 A premium build, incredible Infinity-O screen with HDR10+, brilliant rear triple camera system and blazing performance in Samsung’s slick new One UI make this the Android king.
HUAWEI MATE 20 PRO From $1,100
From $399 This is a brilliant buy thanks to the price it’s dropped to, plus flagship-level specs such as the speedy Snapdragon processor, 6GB of RAM, OLED display and premium aluminium finish.
SONY XPERIA XA1 $250
With a lightningfast processor, a beautiful OLED screen, a knock-out Leica camera system, a next-gen in-display fingerprint reader, a 4,200 mAh battery, and Android 9.0 Pie, this is a marvel.
SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 9 From $800
The best smartwatch for Android users brings a circular screen with great rotating bezel, and slick Tizen software that’s easy to use. It looks good too, and the battery life of up to six days is ace.
TAG HEUER CONNECTED MODULAR 45 $1,650, tagheuer.com
A good budget buy with a superb camera sensor (23MP!), and design that looks smarter than the price suggests. You get good performance at all times from it, and an HD screen.
SAMSUNG GALAXY A8 $499
A stunning 6.4-inch screen, fast internals and advanced new S Pen digital stylus elevate this phone. The S Pen and clever split-screen app shortcuts make it a powerhouse for productivity.
This truly straddles the line between tech and fashion; it’s not just the bestlooking smartwatch, but its plethora of health and fitness features, plus strong app options, make it the most useful.
AMSUNG GALAXY S WATCH
ONEPLUS 5T
From $1,349
SMARTWATCHES
This beauty, mimicking a traditional mechanical watch, ticks the luxury and heritage boxes. The Modular adds some welcome customisation to the smartwatch mix, too.
SKAGEN FALSTER 2 From $499
The A8’s camera package, both front and back, is stellar, and the roundedcorner OLED screen, coupled with an eight-core processor and 4GB RAM make it feel high-end. A real bargain.
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This is an excellent choice for thinner wrists, thanks to minimal looks and a modern slim strap style. Wear OS bring notifications, activity tracking, Google Assistant, and more smarts.
TVS UNDER $2,000
TVS SONY AF8
SAMSUNG Q6F
From $2,295, sony.com.au Marrying a perfect OLED 4K screen with Sony’s picture processing prowess makes for a jawdropping HDR TV at 55 or 65 inches. Motion handling and upscaling of content are both brilliant.
PANASONIC FZ952
PROJECTORS ACER V7850
From $1,495, samsung.
$2,950, acer.com A great bargain. The QLED LCD screen offers glorious colours and HDR performance, including great upscaling of SDR content. Even the sound system is pretty solid.
SONY XF9005
Acer really hit the sweet spot here: small enough to fit on a coffee table, whisper-quiet in operation, and yet still produces a bright, crisp HDR 4K picture of 70 to 110 inches (at 3.5m).
OPTOMA UHD50
From $2,495, panasonic.com/au Panasonic worked with Hollywood to make this OLED 4K TV’s display match how movies are mastered, so the colours and depth here are unparalleled for cinematic viewing.
From $1,295, sony.com.au This delivers sharp, colourful images, thanks to its Triluminos LCD display, which kills it with HDR 4K movies. Motion handling and upscaling are fantastic, too.
$2,399
LG C8
SAMSUNG SERIES 7 KU7000
OPTOMA UHZ65
From $2,499, lg.com LG’s OLED technology produces beautiful 4K HDR images, and makes HD videos look ace too. LG’s webOS smart platform is one of the better systems around, and it’s ideal for gaming.
From $1,999, samsung.com This ticks almost every spec box. HDR support includes HDR10+ dynamic future-proofing, 4K images look supersharp, colours are rich and satisfying, and its smarts are a doddle to use.
PANASONIC FX600
SAMSUNG Q9F $4,979, samsung.com Samsung’s QLED LCD tech is not only able to stand up to the quality of OLED, but even surpasses it in areas such as brightness. It means you get the full effect of HDR even in brighter rooms.
From $995, panasonic.com The design of this TV is classy, as is its 4K screen. It upscales HD to UHD excellently, and HDR looks glorious. Motion handling is especially good for sports action.
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4K resolution and HDR in a projector for this price is hard to beat. It doesn’t quite have the pop and HDR richness of more expensive sets, but it’s way beyond HD projectors at the same price.
$8,999, optoma.com This is very aimed at the proper AV enthusiast, but laser projection at this price makes it worth it for anyone. 4K HDR video is supremely rich, and it can hit 120 inches from just 4m.
EPSON EH-TW6700W $2,333 If you’re happy with Full HD resolution, this is the best option, partly thanks to a super-easy setup process. The image quality is good, you just don’t get the future-proofing of HDR and 4K.
SOUNDBARS
STREAMERS ROKU STREAMING STICK+
SONOS BEAM $599
$67 If it were just a soundbar, the Beam’s great audio would still make it top – but with Amazon Alexa, Apple AirPlay 2 and support for a billion streaming services, it’s fantastically flexible.
Q ACOUSTICS M3 $339, rio.com.au Want superb sound without a big price and unnecessary extras? Q Acoustics’ M3 combines great simplicity and great sound. Impressive, affordable, and it wasn’t hit with the ugly stick.
SONOS PLAYBASE $999
GAMES CONSOLES MICROSOFT XBOX ONE X $649
The Swiss Army Knife of streaming delivers 4K HDR, isn’t locked to a particular ecosystem, has tons of available apps and is a joy to use. It’s the best streamer for many people.
CHROMECAST ULTRA $99, store.google.com The Chromecast Ultra is a receiver for phones and laptops and depends on them for control and content – but it’s simple, versatile and compatible with iOS, Android, Windows and Mac.
AMAZON FIRE TV STICK 4K
SONY PLAYSTATION 4 PRO $549 It’s still overkill if you don’t have a 4K TV, but with 2160p HDR gaming, the PS4 Pro delivers incredible visuals and is smoother and faster than its nonPro siblings.
NINTENDO SWITCH
$76 There’s no HDMI and the setup’s a pain, but this Sonos soundbase is sublime. The sound does detail as well as drama, it looks great and it works brilliantly in a Sonos multi-room environment.
With 4K, Dolby Atmos, Ultra HD Blu-ray and a fairly compact profile this is the best Xbox ever. It’s even more powerful than the PS4 Pro and also a great home entertainment hub.
$449 4K HDR for under $100 isn’t to be sniffed at. It’s best suited to Prime subscribers and Google apps are absent, but it’s a very capable and affordable streamer for TV and movies.
SONY HT-ST5000
APPLE TV 4K
$1,800, sony.com.au Sony’s powerful, precise and punchy soundbar is the best way to add Dolby Atmos to your system, and while it doesn’t deliver true overthe-head audio it does a good simulation of it.
$279, apple.com/au iTunes has the biggest source of 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos movies, and lots of other services have apps here too. You can also easily stream to it from Macs and iOS devices.
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We love the Switch, which brings Nintendo’s great gaming pedigree to genuinely stylish, premium-grade hardware. Forget the specs: it’s all about the sheer joy of gaming.
MICROSOFT XBOX ONE S $329 The S is smaller, whiter and much cheaper than its big brother, and while you don’t get its sibling’s super-powered specs you still get Ultra HD Blu-ray. A fine home entertainment hub.
ACTION CAMERAS
DRONES DJI MAVIC AIR
GOPRO HERO7 BLACK $588
$1,199 The Mavic Air is a superportable 4K camera drone. Video quality from the camera mounted on a three-axis gimbal is excellent, and it’s so simple to control that beginners grasp it fast.
DJI MAVIC 2 PRO $2,499
$298
$155 Packing a one-inch sensor, with a Zeiss lens bolstering the image quality further, in and out of the water. Other ace features include super-slow video and 15MP stills capture.
GOPRO HERO5 BLACK $298, gopro.com
The alter ego of the Mavic 2 Pro, the cheaper Zoom comes with a different camera, with a 2x optical zoom lens. Along with the folding design and long battery life, it’s really flexible.
Captures high-quality footage even in low light, thanks to an LCE sevenlayer all-glass lens and Sony Exmor-R IMX377 sensor. It shoots 4K at 30fps; buy a separate case for waterproofing.
OLFI ONE.FIVE WHITE $259, olficamera.com
While it doesn’t match the Hero7 for specs, the Hero5 is a solid GoPro for those on a budget. It has a two-inch touchscreen display, and records video up to 4K at 30fps, with 12MP stills.
PARROT ANAFI
TOMTOM BANDIT
$1,099
$499, amazon.com At just 320g, one of the lightest cameraequipped drones you can buy. Flight time is great, and the drone is nearsilent in the air, which is appreciated. The camera and zoom are amazing.
The wallet-friendly Hero7 White borrows premium features from the Hero7 Black. Ideal for part-time adrenaline junkies needing a simple HD camera that shoots YouTube-ready footage.
YI 4K
SONY RX0
While this doesn’t offer the same size to power ratio as the Air, its 4K video and stills capture are sensational, thanks to an on-board Hasselblad camera and fantastic stabilisation.
$1,899
GOPRO HERO7 WHITE
The waterproof Hero7 Black makes capturing pro-looking shots easier, thanks to HyperSmooth electronic stabilisation. 4K image quality is excellent, and there’s slick 60fps recording.
$699
DJI MAVIC 2 ZOOM
CHEAP ACTION CAMERAS
This camera might lack 4K, but 1080p/60fps and 720p/120fps video, plus 16MP stills, are plenty for weekend warriors. The One.Five White comes with a 30m waterproof case.
AKASO E7000 PRO $99, amazon.com.au
A rugged action camera that thrives in extreme situations. The low profile is ideal for helmet mouting (it’s compatible with GoPro mounts), with video automatically edited for you.
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At its top resolution, the E7000 Pro delivers crisp footage at 4K25. There’s a 16MP sensor, built-in EIS, adjustable viewing angle, and a neat Diving Mode. A waterproof case protects it to 40m deep.
2-IN-1 LAPTOPS
LAPTOPS MICROSOFT SURFACE BOOK 2 From $1,499
MICROSOFT SURFACE BOOK 2 From $1,499
Available in 13- or 15inch sizes, with a 3:2 screen that gives you more height than other laptops, and plenty of power, this is a light and fast machine that’s also really flexible. Perfect.
So good that it tops both our best laptop and best 2-in-1 laptop buying guides, the SB2 delivers an incredibly premium, fantastically portable, and jaw-droppingly versatile system.
HUAWEI MATEBOOK X PRO
HP ENVY X2
$2,295
$1,999 This marries style and function, delivering incredibly capable internal hardware in a form factor that also matches Apple’s MacBook range in terms of looks and feel.
DELL XPS 13
From $1,529, apple.com/au The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 is unbelievably powerful and slick, with an excellent screen, thin and compact design, great battery life and support for the new Apple Pencil. Pricey, but worth it.
From $879 The big sell here is the monstrous battery life, with up to 22 hours on one charge. This is because it makes use of ARM architecture, with a Snapdragon 835 CPU powering everything.
$789 The Dell XPS 13 is thinner and more powerful than ever. Up to 1TB of SSD storage, 16GB of RAM, and powerful Intel Core i7 processors help make it a high quality all-rounder.
The finest Android tablet, this delivers a system with a sharp OLED screen, S Pen stylus, excellent audio credentials, powerful internals, and a neat laptop-aping DeX mode.
APPLE iPAD 9.7-INCH $469
Weighing in at a svelte 1kg, this 12.5-inch laptop is just as usable as a tablet as it is a laptop. It’s thin, but packs in a clear 2560x1440-pixel display. It even fits in full-size USB 3.0 ports.
ASUS ZENBOOK FLIP S UX370
SAMSUNG NOTEBOOK 9 PRO
From $1,235
$1,787 A combination of quality internal hardware featuring an Intel Core i7, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD, a super thin and light build, and a super sharp 13.3-inch Full HD touchscreen.
APPLE iPAD PRO 12.9
SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S4
LENOVO YOGA 900S
From $1,519
TABLETS
The doesn’t have the TrueTone screen and stereo speakers of the iPad Pro, but its fast processor, slick support for Apple Pencil and solid rear 8MP camera make it a quality all-rounder.
MICROSOFT SURFACE GO $499
The specs here are top, the price is competitive, and it even comes bundled with a quality S-Pen stylus. It feels really well-made, too, especially the hinges on the 360-degree screen.
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While Windows 10 in tablet mode remains a ‘mixed’ experience, its versatility is impressive and the ergonomics of Microsoft’s new tablet computer are second to none.
FITNESS TRACKER FITBIT CHARGE 3 $198, fitbit.com
RUNNING WATCH GARMIN FORERUNNER 645 MUSIC $645
There’s no GPS and the capacitive ‘button’ isn’t great but this is otherwise a textbook tracker. Sleep, steps, swims, and serious cardio workouts are all handled with aplomb.
GARMIN VIVOSPORT $225
This does everything: GPS for running and cycling, heart rate tracking, VO2 Max, intensity monitoring and even acting as an MP3 player. Expect four days of use between charges.
GARMIN FORERUNNER 630
Garmin’s rival to the Charge 2 boasts GPS for a similar price, but it also has a dodgy interface and some pointless extra features. The core functionality is good, and it’s waterproof.
$349
GARMIN FORERUNNER 235
Running headphones often sacrifice sound quality. Not here. These sound stunning, fit like a glove and are great value. The effective sound isolation may be a bit much for some.
SOUNDCORE SPIRIT SPORTS BY ANKER $67
The Forerunner 235 is the best value running and general fitness watch around, offering more than enough data for most runners without the expense of slightly more powerful models.
ARMIN G FORERUNNER 935 $599 Cheap, waterproof to 30m and good for six months between charges, the Moov is a budget belter that offers coaching as you exercise. Some are better than others, but it’s good.
OPTOMA NUFORCE BE SPORT 4
The official price is similar but thanks to discounting this is often much cheaper than the 645. There’s no heartrate or music but you do get GPS, reliable tracking and ace running metrics.
The best tracker for strenuous exercise gives you VO2 Max readings and your Fitness Age, and it does the basics very well. It’s hideous, but it’s what it’s like on the inside that matters.
$79
These are the bestfitting true wireless buds we’ve tested. They’re particularly good for vigorous workouts and don’t suffer too badly from wind noise when you’re out for a run.
$132
$299
MOOV NOW
JABRA ELITE ACTIVE 65T $239
$799
TOMTOM SPARK 3 GPS+ HEARTRATE
RUNNING HEADPHONES
Our favourite budget running headphones fit brilliantly and are very waterproof and sweatproof. Sound quality is acceptable rather than astonishing, but we’ll forgive that.
RHA TRUECONNECT $287
Add Garmin’s extra sensors to this and you get incredible detail for how you run, swim, bike and more, as well as your VO2 Max, lactate threshold… it’s for the very, very serious.
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With sweat-proofing and comfortable (and secure) fitting thanks to the huge range of ear tips, these bring high-quality sound to your wireless workout. They last five hours per charge, too.
DSLR CAMERAS NIKON D850
MIRRORLESS CAMERAS NIKON Z 7
$4,498
SONY RX100 VI
$4,499 With a highresolution 45.4 megapixel sensor, 4K video capture, a 153-point AF system, and a sturdy body, you’ll never be disappointed with what the D850 can create for you.
CANON EOS 7D MARK II $1,355
$1,398 With a full-frame 45.7 megapixel sensor, a superb 493-point AF system, a 3.2-inch touch-sensitive screen and a stunning viewfinder, the Z 7 is simply a fabulous camera.
SONY A9
$945 The A9 is expensive but earns every penny by packing an incredible 24.3MP full-frame sensor capable of 20fps shooting with tracking autofocus the whole way. It’s a technical marvel.
FUJIFILM X-T3
$2,499
$799
$1,375 There’s plenty of things to like about the X-T3, including great autofocusing, fast frame rates, an impressive array of 4K video features and, this being Fujifilm, beautiful retro looks.
CANON EOS RP
The Fujifilm X100F is as beautiful as it is capable. If the retro look floats your boat, then the X100F is a thing to behold. It’s compact, but packs a large APS-C sensor and a lovely 35mm f/2.0 lens.
CANON G7X MARK II
$1,698 The 800D inherits specs from higher up Canons, including a snappy 45-point AF system. There’s also an excellent articulating screen with fast Live View. It’s perfect for DSLR beginners.
This might be the ideal travel companion, with a versatile zoom lens up to 15x, and a fantastic one-inch sensor that captures bright, sharp images. It’s also stylish and pocket-friendly.
FUJIFILM X100F
$2,198 This solidly built camera is the perfect choice for those who like to shoot a little bit of everything, thanks to a brilliant autofocus system and glorious image quality from its 20MP sensor.
CANON EOS 800D
The ultimate in pocket-sized image quality. A large oneinch sensor is joined by an ace 24-200mm lens, retractable viewfinder, tilting touchscreen and absolutely glorious picture quality.
PANASONIC TZ200
$4,698 Trading up from an entry-level camera? The 7D Mark II is the camera of your dreams. A superb all-rounder with a 20.2-megapixel sensor and a host of features to suit a variety of needs.
NIKON D500
COMPACT CAMERAS
$691 The EOS RP brings full-frame mirrorless shooting to the masses – its 35mmsize 26MP sensor captures high-end DSLR-class images, yet it’s much smaller and lighter, and it’s aggressively priced.
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Canon’s compact cameras are a great alternative to your DSLR when travelling light. This is the sweet spot in the range, with a great balance between small size and a range of features.
SMART SPEAKERS ECHO PLUS
SMART BULBS
SMART THERMOSTATS
PHILIPS HUE
$229
TADO SMART THERMOSTAT
From $144 Thanks to its integrated Zigbeecompliant smart home hub, the Plus is a great smart home starter. Never pay the RRP, though: Amazon discounts Echos every time it has a sale.
SONOS ONE
$219, tado.com/au Hue dominates the smart lighting sector for good reason: it’s a superb system with the widest range of bulbs and a simple, useful app. Rivals may be cheaper but they can’t compete with Hue’s variety.
NEST LEARNING THERMOSTAT
LIFX
$299
From $89 The Sonos One is a superb standalone speaker with integrated Alexa, but the real selling point is its flexibility: use it as part of a stereo pair or in a multi-room Sonos audio system.
ECHO SPOT
$376 If you fancy a Hue system but don’t want to spend so much, LIFX has a strong product range and integrates with your favourite personal digital assistant.
From $25 If you want a smart speaker with a screen, the Spot is the one to go for. The speaker bit isn’t spectacular but there’s an audio out and Bluetooth. It’s an excellent smart home device.
APPLE HOMEPOD $469, apple.com/au
$479 Ikea’s Zigbeecompatible system doesn’t have the range of Hue, but if you prize control over colour options it’s stellar value for money and has some great controllers and dimmers.
HIVE ACTIVE LIGHT From $295
Expensive? Possibly. Apple-centric? Indubitably. But if you don’t mind the focus on Apple Music, the HomePod sounds spectacular. You can also pair it to create a stunning stereo system.
Nest made smart thermostats sexy and this third-gen model looks great. It’s simple to use with good Google Home and Amazon Echo integration, but a tad pricey, especially with installation.
HIVE HEATING CONTROL
IKEA TRÅDFRI
$149
Tado is very sociable: it works with 95% of the systems out there. It’s flexible, clever and supports a wide range of accessories too. Price cuts have made it even more enticing.
Hive is great: it’s affordable, works well, and is part of a larger smart home system that includes bulbs and security options. This is an ideal way to jump in.
ECOBEE 4 About $250
Hive’s bulbs are very capable and attractively priced, and work great with Hive gear and Samsung’s SmartThings. There’s a great range of fittings, though less than Hue or LIFX.
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With wide compatibility, support for multiple temperature sensors and built-in Alexa the Ecobee is great for smart home heating, but it’s currently hard to find without high import prices.
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