Targus Privacy Screen

Alright, so the Targus Privacy Screen is one of those gadgets that's supposed to keep prying eyes off your laptop screen. If you've ever had someone try to sneak a peek at your screen on the subway or at the cafe, you know why this could be handy. The way it works is pretty straightforward: it limits the viewing angle of your screen so only you can see what's going on. From straight on, everything looks normal, but anyone trying to snoop from the side just sees a dark screen. It's a neat trick, but like a lot of tech, it’s not without its quirks.

You attach the thing to your screen with some adhesive strips or slide mounts, which is easy enough. But, here's the catch: it does add a bit of bulk to your laptop. If you're someone who's constantly on the move and slipping your laptop in and out of a bag, you might notice it. It also affects the clarity of your screen a bit, making it a tad dimmer. So, if you're working in a well-lit area or outdoors, you might find yourself squinting a bit more than usual.

Now, if you're into colors and sharpness, this privacy screen might rub you the wrong way. It slightly dulls the colors and makes everything look a bit muted. It's not a deal-breaker if you're just doing emails or spreadsheets, but it could get annoying if you're doing design work or watching movies. The trade-off for privacy is a hit to your display quality, so you have to weigh what matters more to you.

One thing to note is these privacy screens aren't cheap. You're paying a decent chunk of change for a piece of plastic that darkens your screen from the side. It's worth it if privacy is a big deal for you, but if you’re just a casual user, it might feel like overkill. The good news is that it’s durable, so once you slap it on, it should last a while without showing signs of wear.

Overall, the Targus Privacy Screen does what it promises: it keeps your business your business, as long as you're willing to put up with a slightly dimmer, less colorful display. If you work with sensitive information or just hate feeling like someone's watching you, it's a solid buy. But if you're more about vibrant displays and only occasionally worry about prying eyes, you might want to think twice before pulling the trigger. It's all about what you value more in your laptop experience.