Think British gadgets and you’ll probably conjure up thoughts of a shonky clockwork radio… or the ZX Spectrum. But there are a raft of killer British toys just crying out to be bought by you this Christmas. So if you want something infused with a bit of British engineering, or just a new video game that’s been made on these shores, you’d better read on. Here’s our definitive list.
Cool-er eBook
The nifty little Cool-er eBook is styled just like the iPod nano, and comes with more memory than rival e-readers too. As well as coming in stacks of pretty colours, it also has a Google-backed online store and, best of all, it’s cheap. Prices start at £189.
Monitor Audio Airstream
This streaming all-in-one is arguably the greatest British gadget going. The Monitor Audio Airstream might look a tad odd, but its hard drive hook up skills, coupled with DAB, FM and internet radio, make it a winner. And you can lay your hands on one now in out Monitor Audio Airstream competition.
Dyson Air Multiplier
Who needs a desk fan at Christmas, you ask? Let alone a bladeless one? Well, pick up a Dyson Air Multiplier and you can create a snow storm with the polysterene packaging. Oh, and it’ll cool you off once summer comes round again too. Did we mention it’s British, a bit bonkers, but utterly brilliant?
GTA: Episodes from Liberty City
British developer Rockstar is still at the top of its games with GTA: Episodes from Liberty City. Comprising The Lost and Damned and the all-action Ballad of Gay Tony, it’s the best game out of Britain right now.
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Pure Siesta FlowThis DAB and internet tuner from British radio cobblers Pure is an all new take on the bedside alarm clock. It rocks different alarms for every days of the year, DAB, FM and internet streaming, as well as USB charging for any gadgets you have loitering around. Stick it by your bedside, and we promise you’ll have a happy new year.
INQ Mini 3G
The ultimate messaging phone, from British phone manufacturer INQ, has led to a string of copycat social networking phones. Pulling in all your mates’ details from Facebook, Twitter and even showing their status updates in the address book, it also has a bargain price tag and stack of features make it hard to beat.
King of Shaves Azor
This four blade beard trimmer is worth a look if you’re sick of handing over loads of wedge for Gillette’s more expensive efforts. Designed here in Blighty, it looks ace and features a smart system to keep the blades in permanent contact with your face. It’ll keep you looking sharp over Christmas. Plus it only costs a fiver.
B&W Mini Zeppelin
The dinkier version of the blimp-like iPod dock, the B&W Mini Zeppelin is one of the best Apple friendly music stations out there. It makes your iPod-shackled tracks sound amazing, and looks the absolute business too. Designed in Britain, it’s the business, just make sure you’ve got the readies. It costs a hefty £299.
Cambridge Audio Fusion
Sound-obsessives at Cambridge Audio aren’t usually known for touting affordable kit, But the iPod-friendly Fusion mini system packs in a 30W 2.1 channel amp, as well as WMA and MP3 support. There’s DAB and FM on top too, perfect for showing your patriotic side, as well as your audiophile chops.
Roberts Sound MP-53
This clever little iPod dock-come-radio is from Roberts, a British radio institution. There’s 8W sound, DAB and a CD player, Not bad for £250 we think you’ll agree. Stick one under the tree this year, and tune in to BBC 6 Music while you’re scoffing that Christmas pud.
