Whether you’re an early adopter who gets excited about purchasing the latest tech toy, or you’re a busy professional looking to find the perfect gift, everyone knows that searching for products can be a long and frustrating experience. Lucky for us, we now have top-tier websites who can guide us through it all. Today, we’ve chosen six that not only possess expert knowledge, they have the discerning, carefully curated eye that we can rely on to give us the best products that fit our own, personal style. From the more tech-savvy blogs like Engadget and CrunchGear to the design-centric websites like Uncrate and Coolhunting, we’re confident that these sites will help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
1. Engadget
Early adopters and trend spotters, if you want to be at the forefront of consumer electronics, make sure you bookmark Engadget (which is owned by AOL). Launched in March 2004, the blog claims that they are “obsessive” about their daily coverage of tech news. This year, Engadget was awarded not one but two Webby awards – one for Consumer Electronics and the other for the People’s Voice in Online Film and Video. If you’re interested in learning more about the good and bad features of a particular product, check out their Reviews section.
Tip: Though Engadget is still widely recognized as the go-to source for tech news, a recent departure of key staff members puts the site on shaky grounds. Those who defected are migrating to SB Nation, a network of sports websites, which will make a new website that’s dedicated to the digital world. Though the fate of the yet unnamed gadget and tech site will be unknown for at least a little while, you can be sure that it will compete with Engadget.
2. Uncrate
Uncrate has a dedicated team that carefully curates the newest and hottest gadgets and gear for the modern man. You can always count on this web magazine to show you everything from the latest tablets, digital cameras or smartphones to the highest quality speakers, sound systems and televisions. Aside from just gear, Uncrate also brings you the best in style, rides, entertainment, culture and more. So next time you’re in the market for a new sportscar or just a new wardrobe, head on over to Uncrate to see what the super stylish are sporting.
Tip: In May 2009, Uncrate launched a new section called Uncrate Answers which is described as “Real Advice from Real Men.” It’s a forum where you can ask any question, from “What are some essential books every man should read?” to “What are some nice, reasonably priced wines?”.
Bonus! Tip 2: In August 2010, Uncrate launched Devour, a site where curators sift out the best videos that they think you will enjoy. It’s a great place to see some of the most creative, interesting and viral videos of the day. If you like Uncrate’s style, you’ll appreciate Devour.
3. CrunchGear
Part of Michael Arrington’s TechCrunch network of sites (which sold to AOL in 2010), CrunchGear is a blog that covers gadgets, gear, games and tech culture. Whereas TechCrunch covers technology related news on startup companies, CrunchBase focuses its stories solely around breaking news on gadgets and electronics like tablets, computers and HDTVs. Visit this site to find out about product launch dates, reviews, product giveaways and to see on-the-ground coverage of tech events like CES and Apple’s press conferences.
Tip: If you can’t keep up with CrunchGear on a daily basis, read over their top stories in their CrunchGear Week in Review posts. Or, if you have just a little bit of time each day, check out their Daily Crunch posts which all surround a particular theme.
4. Cool Material
Cool Material is one of those websites that prides itself on keeping up with the latest trends in gadgets, gear and more. You’ll find everything from backpacks, camera bags and wallets to coffee makers and grilling tools. Interspersed amongst it all are Link Roundup posts where they’ve selected newsworthy articles, celebrity scoops or beautiful editorials from around the web.
Tip: After three years of running just the blog, Cool Material started its own shop where they sell “awesome stuff” like bottle openers, business card holders and drinking paraphernalia. In addition, they have section called Men’s Gifts, where you can shop both by price or personality type like “The Workaholic,” “The Artist,” or even “The Lush.”
5. Cool Hunting
Cool Hunting is made up of a global team of editors and contributors. Founded in 2003 by former user-interface designer Josh Rubin, it’s a daily blog that puts out four to six original posts covering everything from design, technology and style to travel and culture. You can always count on Cool Hunting for well-written, thorough explanations of ideas and experiences. Head on over to their Tech section to sort through their recommended gadgets and gear.
Tip: Download the free, well-designed Cool Hunting iPad app to quickly scroll through their latest stories. One of their coolest features is Local. It’s where the company maps out a selection of cool places for you to check out on your next trip.
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