Guides
14 guides from Gadget Rivals.
Fitness trackers: what they measure, and how accurate they are
What fitness trackers and smartwatches actually measure, how accurate step counts, heart rate, calories, sleep and blood oxygen readings are, how to get better data, privacy settings, and when to see a doctor rather than trust a gadget.
How to judge whether a gadget is worth the money
A five-question scoring method for deciding whether a gadget is worth the money: real use, cost per use, alternatives, lifespan and resale.
Extended warranties: do you need one?
What extended warranties and product insurance cover, how they overlap with your free legal rights, questions to ask before buying, and cheaper alternatives.
Buying refurbished tech: what to check
How to buy refurbished phones, laptops and tablets safely: grades, sellers, warranties, battery health, checking a phone isn't stolen, your legal rights and what to test on arrival.
Smart home devices: security rules and how to stay safe
The UK rules on smart device security, and simple steps to keep cameras, speakers and other connected devices safe.
How Much Does Tech Worth Cost in 2026? Navigating the Price of True Value
I vividly remember the collective gasp at CES 2026 when the
The Great 2026 Display Showdown: MicroLED vs. QD-OLED – Which Screen Reigns Supreme?
Did you know that the human eye can distinguish between approximately 10 million different colors? That staggering number is what display manufacturers have bee
AI features in gadgets: which ones are worth paying for
A practical look at the AI features now sold in phones, laptops, earbuds, cameras and smart home kit: which genuinely help, which are marketing, what runs on the device versus the cloud, privacy questions and subscription costs.
Smart home security cameras and devices: the privacy and security checklist
How to choose and set up smart cameras, doorbells and other connected devices securely, what UK law requires of manufacturers, and your responsibilities if a camera films beyond your home.
Beyond the Beep: Why Custom Notification Sounds and Haptics Are Your Phone's Secret Weapon for Focus and Fun
Discover how personalized notification sounds and haptic feedback can transform your phone experience, helping you stay focused and adding a touch of personality. Dive deep into the often-overlooked world of digital sensory cues and learn to master your device
Beyond the Bezel: Unpacking the Hidden Value of Enterprise-Grade Monitors for the Everyday Home Office & Creative
Discover why professional-grade monitors, designed for demanding enterprise environments, offer surprising benefits for your home office, creative endeavors, and even casual use. We dive deep into the often-overlooked features that justify their investment for anyone seeking superior visual performance and long-term value.
Beyond the Beep: Unlocking the Smart Home Symphony with Thread & Matter - A Deep Dive for Everyday Users
Ever wonder why some smart devices play nicely together while others stubbornly refuse? This deep dive demystifies Thread and Matter, two revolutionary technologies poised to finally bring true harmony to your smart home, making setup and daily use a breeze.
Beyond the Bezel: Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Smartwatch's Hidden Sensors for Personalised Wellness Tracking
We’ve all seen the headlines. The latest smartwatch boasts a brighter screen, longer battery life, or a sleeker design. But what if I told you the real…
Beyond the Bezel: Unlocking the Productivity Superpowers of Ultrawide Monitors for the Remote Creative
Discover how ultrawide monitors revolutionize the remote creative workflow, offering immersive multitasking and a seamless digital canvas. Learn to choose, set up, and optimize an ultrawide for peak productivity in your home office.