Electronics

Whether you want to listen to music or movies without disturbing others, get the best out of your MP3 player, or drown out background noise while exercising, there's a set of headphones for you.

Even the most expensive digital TV can't convey the rich multichannel sound you'll find on most Blu-ray and DVD movies and high-definition television programs. There are two basic ways to upgrade the audio: Choose a home-theater-in-a-box system or build your own surround-sound system from separate components. (Last updated May 2, 2011.)

Home-entertainment options are expanding. High-definition Blu-ray players are steadily gaining favor, and new 3D-capable models are making a splash. Regular DVD players are still available as well. Portable players of both types let you take the show on the road. Digital recorders can capture HDTV content and standard-definition video.

E-book readers are portable devices, usually with display screens optimized to show the electronic text of digital books. These electronic book readers are typically larger than cell phones and smaller than most tablet computers. Tablets with e-book apps, Web browsers and more robust processors typically offer more versatile than e-readers.

Lightweight and highly portable, tablet computers are made to be carried wherever you go. They're multifunctional, serving as Web browser, e-book reader, digital picture viewer, movie viewer, and music player. All we tested have a webcam, and most have a 7- to 10-inch screen and weigh from just under a pound to about 1.5 pounds.