Most year-end top gadget lists include the most advanced products and the most ground-breaking technologies. For me, the products of the year are those that have become an indispensible part of my everyday life. And so, in alphabetical order (until my top pick) here are my Top 10 Gadgets of 2011.
I'm expecting the LilyPad solar-powered iPad case, which will provide perpetual power for my iPad, any minute now. But for the bulk of this year, the rear of my iPad 2 has been protected by this clever ZeroChroma kickstand case ($50). Its 11-position kickstand swivels completely around; so, instead of Apple's limited tri-fold Smart Cover, which this case accommodates, creates an seemingly unlimited number or stand angles, both portrait and landscape mode. Plus, when you wrap the Smart Cover under the kickstand, it becomes a little table top to prop your iPad across your lap. The kickstand also acts as a handle when holding iPad while you're standing up. It's the handiest iPad attachment I've found.