Kickstarter: TAIHE Gemini 15.6" Portable Monitor

There are a few portable monitors on the market but they are all 1080p. TAIHE was present at CES 2019 with their Gemini, where they not only offer 1080p but a 4K version as well. Shortly after, they launched a Kickstarter campaign. At the time of writing, the Kickstarted project has raised $841,000, way beyond its funding goal of $10,000.

Chinese firm TAIHE, headlines its Gemini as the world's "most affordable on-the-go monitor". The Gemini is a 15.6-inch IPS LCD that looks quite sleek in its design and offers a collapsible hinge stand that makes it ideal to stow and take on the go. There are two variants of the monitor, a 1080p FHP model with touchscreen capabilities, that has ports for power, USB Type-C, dual micro-USB, and dual mini HDMI. The 4K UHD model does not have a touchscreen and has two USB 2.0 ports, USB Type-C, mini DisplayPort, HDMI port, and power. However, for an extra $120, you can add touchscreen to the 4K UHD model. Both also have HDR support.

There's a 180-degree kickstand on the back, allowing you to prop it up next to your computer. You can also rotate it to use the monitor vertically if you're going to scroll through long documents. The monitors are 8mm thick for the FHD and 10mm for the UHD and they weigh 2 pounds.

This is great for those who want a second monitor in a portable form factor. This sounds like a dream for editing your photos or video and the Gemini works with Macbooks, Chromebooks and PC laptops. You can also connect your smartphone and game consoles such as the Nintendo Switch, Playstation and Xbox. I don't think you'll have an issue with connecting a Amazon Fire TV Stick either.

Since the project has went live, it has already passed a couple of Stretch Goals. The Stretch Goals that have currently been unlocked is the upgrade of the USB 2.0 ports to USB 3.0 ports for the 4K UHD, everyone will get a free screen protector in the box and it just surpassed $800,000 in funding, so everyone will get a multifunctional bag for free. The next Stretch Goal is $900,000 and if this is met, they will incorporate USB-C charging.

If interested, you can head to the Kickstarter page. The 1080p touchscreen model starts at $159, while the UHD variant can be had for $269. These prices are for those that get in on the campaign early. The price will increase as more folks fund the project. The retail price of the FHD model will cost $299, while the UHD variant will cost $499. Like with any crowdfunding campaign, be aware that you are supporting an idea and not purchasing a product. There is always the chance the company can fail or unable to meet demands and the product might not be delivered. Campaign ends February 18, 2019 10:59 AM EST.

Deal: Rangers 55" Aluminum Tripod w/ Ball Head

Tycka Direct via Amazon offers the Rangers 55" Compact Lightweight Aluminum Tripod with Panorama Ball Head for $71.99. Coupon code "KC4D8C2V" cuts the price to $57.59 with free shipping. Deal ends February 6.

Features include:

• high density aluminum alloy frame
• 360° rotating ball head with 2 control knobs
• quick release flip locks on the legs
• built-in bubble level
• removable leg to convert to monopod

Review: Peak Design Travel Rain Fly

Overview : When you need total protection from the elements, the ultra-packable 45L Rainfly is your best friend. It’s not your run-of-the mill rain cover, either. Constructed from burly 200D siliconized ripstop nylon, the Rain Fly packs into an integrated carry pouch. That pouch securely connects to exterior attachment points on the Travel Backpack 45L and stows neatly inside a magnetically sealed exterior sleeve. When the rain hits you can instantly deploy the Rainfly while it’s still connected to your backpack.

Features :

• Fully waterproof rain protection
• 200D ripstop nylon with siliconized coating and fully taped seams
• Integrated stuff sack, which mounts to exterior of Travel Backpack 45L and stows in the backpack's magnetically sealed external sleeve
• 1-handed cinch cord keeps Rainfly snug around bag
• Drainage grommet at bottom lets out any moisture that accumulates inside

Review: Peak Design Travel Shoe Pouch

Overview : Strong, ultralight, and ultra-packable, Peak Design Travel Shoe Pouch provides basic storage for shoes or clothes. Works great with any suitcase or bag, and sized to fit perfectly into any bag in the Peak Design Travel Line. Uniquely patterned from a single piece of self-healing 70D nylon, the Shoe Pouch weighs in at a feathery 48g. When you're not using Shoe Pouch, stowe it in the integrated storage pouch. A perfect little bag to have on-hand in case you need more storage or organization mid-trip. Typically fits 1-2 pairs of shoes, depending on size.

Features :

• Fits 1-2 pairs of shoes, depending on size
• Packs into integrated storage pouch
• Unique ultralight construction from a single piece of fabric
• Ultralight 100% recycled weatherproof 70D nylon/poly shell with abrasion & rip resistant coating
• Beefy #8 zip
• External loops for carrying with any Peak Design strap (sold separately)