Static-y walkie-talkie noise can blow the cover of anyone entrusted with a mission, but not with the Spy Gear Eye-Link Communicators ($35)--a set of silent keyboard transmitters and headset displays. Type a message of up to 22 characters on the QWERTY arm attachment, and it'll appear on the other communicator's LCD display up to 200 feet away.

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Instant-message junkies can chat without being tied to a computer–no need to "BRB" (be right back) if the contraption is strapped to your limb. Others can join in so more than two mini-spies can stay in the loop.

Baby Bonds beware–opponents' communicators can tap into the messages. You've got to switch broadcast channels to stay secret. Also, 200 feet may seem like a lot, but neighbors down the block may be too far away to play.

Typing a message isn't speedy, but the Eye-Link Communicator's stealth capability is indispensable for a secret agent on the go.
–Vicky Hallett