Our back-to-school tech wish list

Microsoft Surface Go Laptop

As a super small and lightweight laptop that’s similar in size to a standard school textbook, the Microsoft Surface Go Laptop is the perfect companion to take from class to class. Use it in tablet mode with the Surface Pen to take notes during a lecture or meeting, then in laptop mode with the Surface Mobile Mouse to get reports done. Hold it horizontally, and view pages side-by-side, just like a paperback.

$529 - $699, microsoft.com. 

Roku Streaming Stick+

Access more than 5,000 streaming channels by plugging this device into a TV’s HDMI port. Ideal for students living in shared housing without a cable TV subscription, it comes with a handy remote with voice search, or operate it using the free Roku mobile app.

$90, roku.com.  

Ikea Eneby Bluetooth Speaker

For students on a budget, the Ikea Eneby Bluetooth speaker is a super-cute and stylish option for the dorm. Use the convenient carry handle to bring it from room-to-room: it can run on AC power or an optional battery pack for $20. You can also grab a matching stand for $10.

$60 - $99, Ikea.ca. 

Epson EcoTank Printer

Great for both students and the office, Epson Ecotank Supertank printers start from about $350 and go up to about $680, depending on the model. But you save money (and time!) in the long run thanks to ink reservoirs versus cartridges that hold enough ink for up to two years worth of printing. Many models can be used to make scans and copies as well, and come with built-in Wi-Fi for sending print jobs wirelessly. Each one comes with a two-year supply of ink in the box.

$350 - $680, Epson.ca

Jam Audio Live True Wireless Earbuds

Listen to tunes during your commute or between classes without the annoyance of wires with these buds. They come with a carrying case that doubles as a charger not only for the headphones, but also for your phone to help get you through the day.

$120, canada.jamaudio.com. 

Amazon Echo Spot

Unlike other Amazon Echo smart speakers, the Spot has a screen that can display useful information, like the weather, news briefings, and more as you get ready to start the day. Use it to read aloud calendar items and appointments, and make video calls to friends and family back home.

$170, amazon.ca. 

HP Sprocket Portable Printer

Make stickable prints using special paper that has built-in ink instantly and wirelessly from a smartphone. Add fun filters and cute emojis to the photos using the app, print, then stick them on your notebook, locker, or backpack.

$173, store.hp.com/CanadaStore.  
 

Sprocket LED String Light Clip

Put your creativity on display with the Sprocket LED String Light Clip and decorate a dorm or bedroom with all your fun snapshots.

$18, store.hp.com/CanadaStore. 

Samsung Galaxy Note9 Smartphone

If a new smartphone is on the radar, the Samsung Galaxy Note9 is a serious option for power users. It works with the S Pen with Bluetooth for taking notes, and has an intelligent camera for snapping great pics, including social media-worthy selfies. There’s more than enough space to store important working files, photos, and videos; and you can add a memory card for more. With Samsung DeX, connect the phone to a monitor and use it as a virtual desktop or second screen. Available August 24.

$1,300, samsung.com.

Anker PowerCore Portable Power Bank

Make sure your mobile devices don’t run out of juice halfway through the day with this portable power bank that has a massive 20,100mAh battery capacity to charge a smartphone five-seven times over, or a tablet twice before it needs to be recharged. Its dual USB ports can even charge two devices at once. 

$52, amazon.ca. 

Kensington Microsaver Retractable Laptop Lock

Don’t worry about leaving your laptop unattended in the dorm, office, or while grabbing a quick refill of coffee with this device, which includes a built-in lock that protects the computer against tampering, and a four-foot retractable cable for easy storage when you aren’t using it. 

$53, amazon.ca.