CheckMag | MWC 2024: The 5 best gadgets you can buy right now, including Samsung Galaxy Book 4 and Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Samsung has recently expanded the availability of its Galaxy Book 4, initially launched last year exclusively in South Korea. The device, now reaching global markets, characterized by its sleek glass and metal construction. A standout feature is the generously sized trackpad, enhancing user experience when navigating across its impressive 120Hz AMOLED touchscreen.

The Galaxy Book 4 is available in several variants: the standard model, the Pro, and the Ultra, each tailored to different user needs. These models offer a range of specifications, including the latest Intel processors and an option to upgrade to the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card.

While the specifications are noteworthy, the Galaxy Book 4's integration with the broader Galaxy ecosystem is its most striking feature. It allows for seamless task transition between devices, such as starting a video editing project on a Galaxy S24 (available on BestBuy) and effortlessly continuing it on the Galaxy Book 4. This interoperability extends to accessories like the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro earbuds, emphasizing Samsung's strategy to create a cohesive and efficient ecosystem similar to Apple's.

Pricing for the Galaxy Book 4 starts at $1,099 for the base 360 model, escalating to $2,399 for the high-end Ultra variant. This pricing strategy positions the Galaxy Book 4 as a competitive option in the high-end laptop market, appealing to users seeking a blend of performance, design, and ecosystem integration.

The OnePlus Watch 2 distinguishes itself in the smartwatch market with its substantial, premium build, tailored for endurance-centric activities. Featuring a longer-lasting battery life, this Wear OS device by OnePlus makes a notable statement in both aesthetics and functionality. The watch's exceptional battery performance, claiming up to 100 hours of regular use and extending to 12 days in Power Saver mode, is attributed to its innovative "dual engine architecture."

This architecture incorporates two distinct chips: the BES2700 and the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5. The BES2700 chip runs a Real-Time Operating System (RTOS), efficiently managing basic functionalities such as movement tracking, thereby conserving battery life. When the watch transitions to more intensive tasks, it switches to the Snapdragon W5 chip, harnessing the full potential of Google's Wear OS, including an array of advanced features.

The OnePlus Watch 2 is now available for preorder at a price point of $300.

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5, revealed at MWC this year, marks a significant shift in the ThinkPad T series towards enhanced modularity and reparability. The model revisits the dual SO-DIMM setup from the ThinkPad T480, supporting up to 64 GB of replaceable DDR5 memory. Notably, it introduces a customer-replaceable internal battery with a new click-in connector design.

The ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 features several design updates: a rearranged keyboard with swapped FN/Ctrl keys, a new Windows Co-Pilot key, tactile keyboard markings, and relocated side speakers. It also boasts slimmer bezels, a reverse notch and a debossed black ThinkPad logo.

Internally, the T14 Gen 5 offers Intel Core Ultra with Meteor Lake-H or Ryzen 8040U options. The previous model's Nvidia GPU is not included. New features include optional WiFi 7, Sub6 5G/LTE, and a 120 Hz OLED screen. Standard WUXGA displays have increased brightness (400 cd/m²) and lower power consumption due to a new 3M optical film.

The Intel version of the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 starts at $1,200 from April, while the AMD version will be available in May, starting at $950.

At MWC 2024, Honor Magic V2 was a highlight, known for being the world's thinnest and lightest inward-folding smartphone. It measures 9.9mm thick when folded and 4.7mm unfolded.

While Honor's software may not yet match the refined experience of Google's Android, the Magic V2 compensates with a robust feature set. It lacks an IP water resistance rating, yet it impresses with its technical specifications.

This foldable phone boasts a 7.92-inch OLED main display with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 1,600 nits. Additionally, it features a 6.43-inch, 120Hz OLED cover display. All of these features are powered by the advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

Xiaomi has launched the Xiaomi 14 Ultra globally, just a week after its release in China. The device features the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, rapid charging significantly faster than competitors, and a camera system with four 50MP rear cameras, developed in collaboration with Leica, alongside new AI features.

The camera system, a central highlight of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, is further enhanced by the introduction of Xiaomi's Photography Kit. This accessory pack includes a dedicated camera grip with integrated hardware controls, an additional battery for extended usage, and a 67mm filter ring compatible with various lens attachments.

Though the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is not available in the US market, it is open for preorder in the UK, priced at £1,299 (about $1,650).