Tech isn’t about separate devices for work and play anymore. Whether you’re replying to emails at your favourite cafe, streaming a show on the couch, studying on the train or catching up with a friend via video call, the right tech should seamlessly be able to move between both without skipping a beat.

From powerful phones to versatile e-readers, we’ve picked five devices that can multitask like a boss to help you get the most out of your everyday tech, saving you valuable time and energy in the process.

What to Consider When Buying Double-Duty Tech

  • Is it flexible enough to switch between tasks quickly?
  • Does it have long battery life for a full day of use?
  • Are accessories or features included or sold separately?
  • Does it pair with other devices, apps or smart home tech?
  • Is it compatible with all the apps I need for work and entertainment?

Top Double-Duty Smartphone: Google Pixel 10 Pro XL 256G Obsidian

A front and back view of the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, a black smartphone, shown against an orange background.

Work: If you want a mobile device that can handle meetings, messaging, brainstorming and content creation, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is hard to beat. Its powerful Tensor G5 processor and 16GB of memory will keep everything running smoothly and allow you to switch between apps with ease, while Gemini AI helps you get things done faster, from drafting replies to managing apps with a single voice command.

Play: The 6.8-inch Super Actua display and pro-grade camera system make it perfect for capturing weekend adventures. With super-sharp 50MP photos and 8K video, fast charging, all-day battery life* and a tough build using spacecraft-grade aluminium, it is ready for whatever adventure you choose.

SEE ALSO: 8 Tech Tools to Make Life Easier

Top Double Duty E-Reader: Kindle Scribe 2024 32GB with Premium Pen

A front and side view of the Kindle Scribe 2024, a grey tablet and stylus, shown against a pink background. 

Work: The Kindle Scribe is more than an e-reader. It’s an all-in-one notebook, PDF viewer and distraction-free planner. For work or study, you can upload documents, mark up PDFs and handwrite notes directly on the page using the included Premium Pen. It’s perfect for reviewing presentations, annotating university readings or sketching out ideas without hopping between apps.

Play: When your workday is over, the Kindle Scribe turns into your portable library, storing thousands of novels, biographies or cookbooks for reading on the couch, in bed or when you’re cooking. The 10.2-inch glare-free display is easy on the eyes outdoors and at night, and with no notifications or social media interruptions, it’s a welcome break from screens that scramble your attention.

SEE ALSO: Your Guide to Smart and Small Home Appliances

Top Double-Duty 2 In 1 Laptop Tablet: Surface Pro (11th) Copilot+ PC 13" X Plus 16GB/512GB Black

The Surface Pro Copilot+ PC, a black tablet with stylus and detachable keyboard, shown against a teal background.

Work: If you like devices that can keep up with all your work software and tasks, the Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ PC is a solid choice. It works as both a laptop and a tablet, so you can handle video calls, presentations, document editing, design work or juggling multiple windows with ease. The 13-inch touchscreen makes sketching, scrolling or typing simple, and with up to 14 hours of battery life*, it will get you through a full day without needing a charge. With a detachable Surface Pro keyboard, which is sold separately, you have flexibility to use it how you like.

Play: When it’s time to down work tools, it flips into tablet mode for streaming shows, gaming, reading or creating content, whether on the couch or during your commute. Two USB-C ports make it easy to plug in accessories, charge devices or set up a home workstation, so it’s ready for whatever your day throws at you.

SEE ALSO: Your Laptop Questions, Answered

Top Double-Duty Power Bank: Belkin BoostCharge 20,000mAh Power Bank

The Belkin BoostCharge, a black power bank, shown against a yellow background.

Work: This one flies under the radar but earns its spot on the list because the Belkin BoostCharge Power Bank isn’t just for topping up your phone. With a capacity of 20,000 milliampere hours and an output of up to 65 watts, it can power laptops, tablets and headphones while you’re travelling, commuting or working remotely. It’s perfect for long days when you’re jumping between meetings, school pick-ups or airports and there’s no wall socket in sight.

Play: On weekends, it keeps your Bluetooth speaker going at a picnic or barbecue and quickly recharges multiple devices on a road trip. With two USB-C ports and one USB-A, you can charge three devices at once and check battery status on the built-in display, so you’re never caught short.

Top Double-Duty Handheld PC: Asus ROG Xbox Ally Ryzen Z2A 16/512GB

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally Ryzen Z2A, a white handheld PC, shown against a purple background.

Work: Need to send a last-minute email on your commute home? No need to swap devices when you can work and play with the Asus ROG Xbox Ally. It has Windows 11 built in, giving you access to a suite of apps that let you optimise this portable gaming console to be your mini desktop.

Play: You’ll have fantastical worlds and big boss challenges right at your fingertips with access to Xbox and PC gaming apps. Its driving force, the AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, is powerful enough to run all your favourite games, which you can enjoy any time, any place, through its dazzling 7-inch full high definition display.

What to Try 

‍

*Battery life/runtime may vary and is dependent on various factors including loaded applications, configuration, features, usage, network and settings. Battery run times quoted are typically results of benchmark testing by brands.