GARMIN NUVICAM LMTHD
$400

GPS option includes dashboard camera

Garmin makes some of the best dashboard navigators on the market, offering features like an easy-to-read interface, high-resolution graphics and a handy point-of-interest search.

With the new NuviCam LMTHD, Garmin packs in more functionality, including a forward-facing dash cam that continuously records the road ahead. If an impact occurs, the device automatically saves the event on a microSD card. Other driver-assisted safety features include voice-activated navigation and warnings if the driver is too close to the car ahead or drifting off the road.

NEW YORK TIMES

DROPCAM PRO
$199

Camera watches your home while you're away

You want to make sure your home is secure while you're away, and a home surveillance camera can offer peace of mind. Dropcam, which was acquired by Google's Nest Labs last year, makes some of the best cameras on the market. Its latest product, the Dropcam Pro, offers high-definition video that is two times as sharp as the previous model and a 130-degree field of view.

Setup takes only a few minutes, but you need a Wi-Fi network. Once the camera is connected to your network, find a good placement and it's ready to go. A built-in microphone and speaker allow for two-way communication. Live viewing is free. You can sign up for a fee to get recordings.

NEW YORK TIMES

NETGEAR AROUND TOWN
$200

Internet connection, wherever you are

Netgear Around Town is a mobile Internet device that creates a 4G LTE hot spot using the Sprint network. The compact, lightweight device provides a secure wireless connection for up to 10 devices, and Netgear says the battery will last up to 10 hours on a full charge.

The first gigabyte of data is free; refills are $25 for each additional gigabyte. The data does not expire and there's no contract or commitment, which is not the case for similar devices on the market. Because you don't have to pay for a monthly data plan, you can tuck the Around Town away between trips.

NEW YORK TIMES