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Tom Brant

Deputy Managing Editor

My Experience

I’m the deputy managing editor of the hardware team at PCMag.com. Reading this during the day? Then you've caught me testing gear and editing reviews of laptops, desktop PCs, and tons of other personal tech. (Reading this at night? Then I’m probably dreaming about all those cool products.) I’ve covered the consumer tech world as an editor, reporter, and analyst since 2015.

I’ve evaluated the performance, value, and features of hundreds of personal tech devices and services, from laptops to Wi-Fi hotspots and everything in between. I’ve also covered the launches of dozens of groundbreaking technologies, from hyperloop test tracks in the desert to the latest silicon from Apple and Intel.

I've appeared on CBS News, in USA Today, and at many other outlets to offer analysis on breaking technology news.

Before I joined the tech-journalism ranks, I wrote on topics as diverse as Borneo's rain forests, Middle Eastern airlines, and Big Data's role in presidential elections. A graduate of Middlebury College, I also have a master's degree in journalism and French Studies from New York University.

My Areas of Expertise

  • Laptops, desktops, and tablet PCs

  • Data manipulation and content creation software

  • CPUs and graphics processors

  • Wi-Fi networking and smart home tech

The Technology I Use

While most people buy a phone or laptop and stick with it for years, I’m lucky enough to use devices based on Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows daily as part of my job. As a result, I cycle through lots of tech in addition to my IT-issue work laptop. (Yes, that's a ThinkPad.) Personally, I’ve also owned a lot of tech products both cutting-edge and cringeworthy, from the Nintendo GameCube and the original MacBook to the Palm m105 and the CueCat.

Recent Articles by Tom Brant

The Best Wi-Fi Range Extenders for 2025

Looking to beef up your Wi-Fi network? A wireless range extender is a less expensive alternative to a new router. (Some can even turn your router setup into a mesh system.) Here are the top performers in our testing.

By John R. Delaney & Tom Brant
Best Wireless Range Extenders

The Best Scanners for 2025

Whether you need to scan family photos, piles of documents, or expense receipts, a scanner out there is built for the task. Here's how to shop for the right one, plus the top performers in our lab testing.

By Tony Hoffman & Tom Brant
A scanner on a desk

The Best PCs (Desktop Computers) for 2025

Classic towers, sleek all-in-ones, space-saving mini PCs: Today's desktops pack neater designs and more value than ever. See our recent favorites based on our deep-dive reviews, plus all the shopping advice you need.

By Tom Brant & Joe Osborne
Dell XPS Tower 8960 2024

The Best Windows Tablets for 2025

A Windows tablet with detachable keyboard can be a more portable and versatile alternative to a laptop. We've tested all the major models, and these top performers should be on your short list.

By Tom Brant & Joe Osborne
Dell Latitude 7350 Detachable

The Best External Hard Drives and SSDs for Mac in 2025

Running out of storage space, or looking for a smart way to back up your Mac? Here's how to choose the best Apple-friendly SSD or hard drive for your needs, plus our top tested picks.

By Tony Hoffman & Tom Brant
LaCie External Hard Drive