Forrester recently predicted that laptop sales will continue to grow from 26.4 million in 2010 to 38.9 million in 2015. In fact, even though tablets, like the front runner iPad, are on the rise, we're still not letting go of our laptops..just yet. Today we've put together six accessories that were designed with that modern consumer in mind. While some of these promise to provide a richer experience, still others were just made so that you can creatively express yourself. Enjoy!
1. Keyboard Shortcut Skins
If you're looking to become the master of creative software programs like Photoshop, Lightroom, Aperture or Final Cut Pro, this accessory is for you. This custom-fitted color-coded keyboard skin will guide you through some basic moves till you start feeling like a pro! So let your fingers do the walking and these shortcuts do the talking..until you're ready to go at it by memory. Just $30 for laptops or $40 for desktops. Find them at Photojojo.
2. Gold Privacy Filters
Have you ever been on a plane and sensed a stranger peeping over your shoulder? 3M has created a state-of-the-art gloss surface that will dazzle your unwanted onlookers! Precision-fitted filters will shield your data in a stylish way while keeping all of your information private. Creative and cool! It's only $48.24 at Amazon.
3. Joey Roth Ceramic Speakers
Carrying a $500 price tag, these ceramic speakers promise to give you more than just some solid sound. Created by San Francisco–based designer Joey Roth, they are handmade works of art constructed with Baltic birch plywood, cork, and porcelain. Each material is minimally finished, on purpose, so that you can feel its natural beauty. Interestingly, aside from the electronic components, plastic is completely avoided in the system's construction. Roth says these speakers were inspired by the harmonious contrast between electronic components and simple materials. Minimalists, rejoice! These beautiful speakers are for you. $495 at Joey Roth.
4. Hardback Leather Case for MacBook Pro
BookBook is a one-of-a-kind, hardback leather case designed exclusively for MacBook and MacBook Pro. The BookBook has a hard shell and a rigid spine to keep your MacBook from being crushed, and is lined with soft fabric so you don't have to worry about it getting scratched. The vintage book design also disguises your MacBook from been stolen, because nobody want to snatch an old book! (Or so we hope.) Only $79.99 to $99.99 at Twelve South.
5. Laptop Vinyl Skins by Gelaskins
Give your trusty laptop some love by dressing him up with a Gelaskin! These removable covers will not only protect Mr. Macbook Pro, it'll make him feel like you really care about him. Gelaskins has ongoing relationships with some of the coolest contemporary artists around so you'll always enjoy a wide selection. Also, they use advanced 3M adhesive that contains patented micro-channels for easy application and removal. This Boombox one by Lyle Owerko will make anyone's head turn! It's $29.95 for the 15″ MacBook Pro at Gelaskins.
6. Tron-Inspired Laptop Bag
Geeky chic! While all of the other products on this list comes with a price tag, this Tron-inspired laptop bag only requires some electro-luminescent wire, a small battery pack and a little patience and time. Get your hands dirty with a little soldering and bit of sewing and soon you'll have your own light up satchel. This project was the brainchild of Ladyada and Becky Stern. Check out the step-by-step instructions at Ladyada.
Which one was your favorite?