Lab

Notebook accessories: USB TV tuners

If you've read the bargain notebook Labs over the previous few pages and decided to buy one, you'll no doubt be thinking of extras to add to the order. But before you simply put the suggested accessories in your basket on the supplier's website, take a while to browse our own recommendations.

We've spent the past month testing and rating almost 40 accessories to give you the definitive verdicts on what to buy and what to avoid. Regardless of your budget, we've catered for every wallet, from a £7 USB mouse to a £64 set of portable speakers. In fact, we've included a range of prices in each of the eight categories, so you'll find something to suit.

If you're like us, you'll want to avoid using a touchpad or trackpoint as much as possible, so we've tested a variety of corded and cordless mice. Then, we've rounded up a selection of USB keyboards, from portable models to hefty, but comfortable full-sized desktop keyboards.

Unless your notebook includes a stylish and durable case, you'll want to buy one to protect it. To try out what's available, we've stuffed plenty of gear into a range of trolley cases, rucksacks and messenger bags. And in order to keep your investment from wandering hands, you'll also want a security lock and, from £6, they won't break the bank. If you work at a desk, we've also got a selection of port replicators to save you connecting up each peripheral to your notebook individually.

Laptop speakers are usually poor quality, so we've listened to portable USB and battery-powered sets, which boost both quality and volume. You'll be able to watch and record digital TV if you invest in a USB tuner - we've looked at five units, costing from just £27. Last but not least, there are cable kits, most of which auto retract and mean you can always make the necessary connections while on the move. Whatever you're after, you'll find all the necessary accessories over the next eight pages.