The power bricks we have to haul around to keep our electronic gadgetry charged are the balls and chains of the 21st century road warrior. Why oh why can't all the devices of this world get along with one, true, universal charger? Today, they very nearly can. Kensington sells several variations on this theme, including a $149 Wall/Auto/Air Ultra Portable Notebook Adaptor that comes with an array of tips that fit just about any laptop computer or USB device — except the newest ones from Apple (go figure). Tumi sells virtually the same kit, but more elegantly packaged with a spring-powered retractable cable and a leather-trimmed carrying case.
List price: $195
—Philip Elmer-Dewitt