If you’re heading to IFA 2025 in Berlin, you already know the drill. Massive exhibition halls stretch endlessly, product launches occur every hour, and back-to-back interviews with industry leaders take place, all under the constant pressure to capture everything worth covering. The world’s biggest consumer electronics show doesn’t mess around, and neither should your gear. Between navigating crowded press areas and chasing breaking announcements, having the right equipment can make the difference between professional coverage and completely missed opportunities that could define your reporting.
These five essential designs will keep you ahead of the chaos while everyone else is still fumbling with cables and dead batteries. From smart note-taking solutions that bridge analog comfort with digital efficiency to modular backpacks that adapt to changing coverage needs, this carefully curated toolkit ensures you’re properly equipped for comprehensive event coverage that stands out from the competition.
1. Almo
Most of us have tried going fully digital for note-taking, only to find ourselves missing the simple pleasure of pen on paper. The Almo gets this completely. Instead of forcing you into another app or complicated system, it lets you write naturally while adding just enough intelligence to make your life easier. Scribble down a meeting time next to your notes, and Almo spots it automatically, setting a gentle reminder without you touching a single button.
The magnetic back sticks to booth frames and equipment cases, while the kickstand works perfectly on those tiny press tables everyone fights over. The pen clips magnetically to the top because losing pens at trade shows is practically a universal law. As your deadline approaches, a subtle LED color shift gives you a heads-up without the jarring beeps that make you look unprofessional during quiet interview moments.
What we like
Handwriting recognition that works without making you change how you naturally write.
Smart mounting options that adapt to the weird spaces you end up working in at events.
What we dislike
Still a concept, so good luck buying one for this year’s show.
A small writing surface might frustrate people used to full-size notebooks.
2. Lancer300
Carrying camera gear to events usually means choosing between a bag that’s either too small for everything or too big for comfort. The Lancer300 solves this with a modular approach that makes sense. Start with the core pack for light days, then snap on modules when you need serious capacity. The exoskeleton frame looks a bit sci-fi, but it handles the abuse of constant movement while keeping your expensive toys protected.
The power station module transforms your backpack into a mobile charging hub. Cables run cleanly through the frame, so you can juice up cameras, drones, and even laptops while you walk. No more playing outlet roulette in crowded press areas or carrying a separate arsenal of battery packs. When that perfect shot opportunity hits and your camera’s at 15%, you’ll understand why this matters.
What we like
Modular design means you only carry what you need instead of lugging everything everywhere.
Built-in power system eliminates the anxiety of watching battery percentages drop during critical moments.
What we dislike
Learning curve for optimizing the modular setup might eat into your prep time.
Premium features probably mean premium pricing that’ll make your accountant wince.
3. Memento Business Card Log
Everyone exchanges LinkedIn details now, but there’s something powerful about physically handling someone’s business card while jotting down notes about your conversation. The Memento Business Card Log brings back this lost art without feeling outdated. It holds 120 cards with space for handwritten context about each person you meet. Those little details about shared interests or follow-up promises turn generic contacts into actual relationships.
The Japanese craftsmanship from Re+g shows in every detail. The binding system lets you reorganize pages easily, while the two-point card slots keep everything secure when you’re rushing between meetings. The paper feels substantial and inviting, encouraging you to slow down and actually think about the connections you’re making. In a world of digital overwhelm, taking time to write notes by hand signals true interest that people remember.
What we like
Handwritten context turns business cards into relationship-building tools instead of just contact info.
Japanese attention to detail makes this feel special rather than like another boring organizer.
What we dislike
Physical organization takes more effort than letting your phone handle everything automatically.
120 cards might not last through a major networking event if you’re working the floor.
4. Ridge Magnetic Power Bank
Event coverage means juggling multiple devices that all seem to die at the worst possible moments. The Ridge Magnetic Power Bank cuts through the usual cable chaos with a simple approach: wireless charging for your iPhone plus built-in cables for everything else. The magnetic connection holds strong enough that you can toss it in your bag without worrying about disconnection, while the 15W wireless charging keeps pace with your usage.
It truly handles real-world charging scenarios instead of trying to be everything to everyone. The built-in cables mean you’re never digging for the right connector when your camera battery hits red. The compact design disappears into jacket pockets, and the magnetic system works beautifully with existing MagSafe accessories. It’s not trying to revolutionize portable power; it’s just doing the basics well.
What we like
Built-in cables eliminate the eternal hunt for the right charging cord when you need it most.
Magnetic wireless charging that stays connected even when you’re moving around constantly.
What we dislike
Compact size means limited capacity for power-hungry professional gear.
Quality features typically come with quality pricing, so budget accordingly.
5. Lenovo C55
The best gear for event coverage isn’t the most expensive stuff. The Lenovo C55 proves this beautifully at just $70, offering excellent 4K video when you need a reliable backup or secondary angle. This little white camera isn’t trying to impress anyone or compete with your main setup. It’s just there when you need it, whether that’s grabbing B-roll while your primary camera handles the main interview or catching those spontaneous moments that happen between scheduled press events.
It is perfect for events and trade shows because the built-in ring light truly works. Anyone who’s covered IFA knows the lighting nightmare you’re walking into. One minute you’re under harsh exhibition spotlights, the next you’re squeezed into a dimly lit booth corner trying to get usable footage. Having that ring light built right in means you can grab clean interview shots anywhere without dragging lighting gear around. The physical dial feels solid and responsive when you need quick adjustments, and at 190 grams, it disappears into your bag until you need it.
What we like
Built-in ring light tackles lighting challenges without hauling additional equipment around.
Sub-$70 price point makes professional backup capability accessible to literally anyone.
What we dislike
The basic screen might make precise framing tricky in challenging lighting situations.
The compact size could get uncomfortable during longer recording sessions.
Getting Ready To Dominate IFA 2025
These five innovative tools work splendidly together without getting in each other’s way. The Almo keeps your thoughts organized while the Lancer300 carries everything you need, powered and ready. The Memento ensures those random booth conversations turn into meaningful connections, while the Ridge keeps your devices alive when outlets are nowhere to be found. The little Lenovo sits quietly in your bag until you need that perfect secondary angle or quick interview setup.
None of these will make you a better journalist or content creator overnight, but they’ll remove the friction that kills good coverage. When everyone else is scrambling for power outlets, untangling cables, or missing shots because their gear failed, you’ll be the one getting the story. IFA 2025 is going to be massive, chaotic, and essential for anyone covering tech. Show up prepared, stay mobile, and let your coverage speak for itself.
The post Top 5 Must-Have Gadgets & Gear For Effortless Event Coverage In 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.