The latest in tech

Samsung's Galaxy Note defies easy categorisation and really begs the question: just how big is too big? This Android 2.3-powered device packs a 5.3in screen, but it’s a little too large to really be called a phone and a little too small to be called a tablet. Samsung itself describes it using the slightly cringeworthy moniker of ‘phablet’. It’s not all bad, however, and in both design and use the Note actually fills its unusual niche quite effectively.

As increasingly we're carrying tablets and smartphones with us, we expect them to double as work tools so we can at least see our data, if not work on it, too. However, there are significant compatibility and access issues to deal with anytime you step away from your desk. Here we explore these issues with Excel spreadsheets and offer one possible solution.

There’s something to be said for the increasing commoditisation of PC products. It seems like only yesterday that good-quality 27in LCD screens were a rare luxury, but now practically every vendor has a big monitor going cheap. That said, with prices plummeting all over, quality can be a bit hit and miss. The AOC E2752PHZ, however, is a 1080p 27in screen selling for around $400, though you’d be hard pressed to tell it's price, with even LED backlighting, bright colours and plenty of detail evident across our test gamut of games, media and productivity.

Performance is a word that appears to have a different meaning depending on who you buy from. As you’d expect, it’s something many local PC makers offer in spades, while big brands often seem to have a different interpretation. However, if you need a desktop PC with the backing of a big brand and an onsite warranty, there are still plenty of alternatives to look at. The question usually comes down to how much performance and/or features you’re willing to compromise to get that extra support.