Top Picks in Tech for 2024

All of our Top Pick headphones sound great—and they’re innovative, too. Two are noise-canceling earbuds with modes that allow you to keep a connection to the outside world when you want it, while a third has a fresh design some people will find particularly comfortable. Plus: We’ve got a Better Deal on high-scoring over-the-ear headphones. For more choices in over-ear headphones and earbuds, see our roundup of the best headphones, which we update year-round.

The best security cameras and video doorbells provide terrific video quality and robust feature sets, including convenient capabilities such as AI object detection features. In addition to the Top Picks below, see our comprehensive roundups of the best DIY home security systems and the best video doorbells. We’ve also curated a list of the best video doorbells with no subscription.

This year brought big changes to two of the biggest players in home security: ADT and Ring. The former launched a completely redesigned system that you can install or hire a professional to do. And Ring has been raising its subscription prices, helping make other brands’ products worth a closer look. For options beyond the Top Picks shown here, see our reviews of all the best DIY home security systems and our separate roundup of the best security systems that don’t require a subscription.

If you’re laptop shopping this year, you’ll hear a lot about AI, with apps such as Microsoft Copilot, plus features like “generative fill” in Adobe Photoshop. (Type in “cat” and, yes, a cat will appear in your project.) But what’s most important is the expanse of great options you’ve got, from $500 machines perfect for everyday scrolling, up to premium laptops ready for high-end gaming. If CR’s Top Picks don’t suit your needs, dig into CR’s laptop ratings and our roundup of the best laptops of the year.

Of course they tell time, and they can help you stay on top of your digital life. But smartwatches have also become great additions to workout sessions and tools for tracking your overall health. CR testing takes special features into account, along with a watch’s step-count and heart-rate accuracy, and factors such as tough construction. Want more options? Check out our list of all the best smartwatches from our ratings or this guide to which Apple Watch to buy.

This year’s crop of premium phones from Apple and Samsung came with big claims for improved cameras (as they always do) and AI features (because it’s 2024). Like everything CR tests, we bought the new iPhone 16 and Galaxy S24 models at retail and brought them into the lab. While the Top Picks below edge out their competition, you’ve got plenty of high-performing phones to choose from at a range of prices. See our roundup of the best phones you can buy right now.

Many TVs can deliver stellar picture quality but have sound that doesn’t do justice to exciting TV shows or a blockbuster movie soundtrack. Getting a soundbar is an easy way to add some sonic oomph to your setup. More basic models, with decent sound, start at about $100, or you can spend $800 to $1,000 for a fully featured top-rated surround-sound model. In addition to our Top Picks, check out CR’s listing of all the best soundbars at every price, updated throughout the year.

Tablets can be broken down into two categories: Apple’s iPad line—and everything else. The iPad now comes in several different sizes, from the small but mighty iPad Mini (which was updated with a faster processor in October) to the powerful enough to replace your computer iPad Pro. Not interested in an iPad? Brands like Amazon and Samsung have plenty of options to choose from. (Members can see test results on more than 40 tablet models.)

For many of us, a new TV is an exciting purchase and a focal point for home entertainment. And we keep going bigger: More shoppers are choosing big-screen TVs, 65 inches or larger. The majority of new sets are smart TVs that let you access streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix right from the set itself. But only the best of them provide effective HDR (high dynamic range) performance, which can present bright, vivid images with excellent contrast and a wide array of colors. Here are two 65-inch Top Picks, plus one smaller option. You can also check out all the best TVs from our tests.

The top-performing wireless speakers in CR’s ratings provide truly excellent sound for your home, but pure audio quality may not be your only priority. Some people want a great portable speaker to take to the lake or a model that can pump up the volume for a party. The Top Picks below hit those marks, and you can find more great options in our roundup of the best WiFi and Bluetooth speakers.

Less Pricey Streaming
Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device, $50
This streaming player from Onn, Walmart’s house brand, does well in our tests and packs in a lot of features for its price. Its lost-remote finder feature will come in handy when your clicker takes a dive under the sofa cushions.

Smart Lock for Renters
SwitchBot Lock Pro + Hub Mini Matter Enabled, $200
This new lock is a great retrofit option that’s ideal for renters. It goes over the thumb turn of an existing deadbolt and allows you to remotely control the lock from wherever you are. It also works with most smart-home systems.

Fido Finder
Tractive GPS Dog LTE (TRNJAWH), $50
If your dog has ever run off, even for a short time, you understand the appeal of a device that updates you on your lost pet’s location in real time. The Tractive is the top-scoring pet tracker in our tests: It’s light, compact, and sturdy. It’s easy to set up and use, and has an intuitive smartphone app with helpful features, including location history.