Targus Mac Products : Back To School Guide

Targus Mac Products

By Rachel Rosmarin and William Van Winkle, published on August 21, 2009
Source: Tom's Guide US | Keywords: college, laptop, guide | Themes: Laptops and Notebooks

Contents

9. Targus Mac Products

Targus Mac Products

Though we have not recommended a Mac notebook in this Back To School guide—mostly since it would be difficult to describe those products as budget-sensitive items—we know that many students will purchase a Mac laptop anyhow. So, for those people, we’ve suggested a few items from accessory-maker Targus that are designed with the look and feel of the MacBook line in mind.

Targus Bluetooth Laser Mouse for Mac AMB08US, $69.99

Mac laptops are known for their limited number of USB ports. A Bluetooth laser mouse frees up one of those slots and gives the user freedom and flexibility. Rather than a scroll wheel or track ball, this comfortable, oval-shaped two-button mouse has a sort of scroll “spot” that needs a subtle touch to point the mouse in various directions. Two other buttons on the side of the mouse can be programmed with any combination of macro commands.

Targus Chill Mat for Mac AWE41US, $49.99

Many companies have begun making and selling notebook cooling pads. But most of these are bulky and uncomfortable to keep on the lap. Targus’ version features a mesh bottom layer that feels natural and pleasant. A tiny USB cable extends from the mat—when it is plugged into the computer, it draws power to the two fans inside the mat. The mesh protects your legs from any heat that might touch your skin, but the fans cool down the laptop itself. The curvy shape of the mat, tilted angle, and the white and gray color scheme complement the Apple MacBook notebooks. It is big enough for the 13.3" MacBook, up through the 17" MacBook Pro.

Targus USB Hub for Mac ACH105US, $29.99

This is a cheap, bare-bones travel USB dock that will bring the total number of USB ports on your MacBook Pro from two or three to six or seven. When not in use, the USB cable wraps around the ports, protecting them from dirt and objects that may accumulate in your bag or on your desk.

Targus Ecosmart Spruce Backpack TBB013US, $89.99

The Ecosmart Spruce pack fits either a Mac (though not the 17" MacBook Pro) or a PC. There’s nothing especially unusual about its design, other than how it is made from recycled plastic bottles. The texture of the fabric—highlighted with bright green accents on black—feels more natural than the traditional ballistic nylon material. Like the Ikea Sunnan lamp, we think this bag will appeal to students with an environmental bent.