📖 Overview
Leo Laporte is an American technology broadcaster, author, and entrepreneur best known for hosting tech-focused radio and TV shows since the 1990s. He founded TWiT.tv, a netcasting network producing audio and video content about technology.
Laporte gained prominence as the host of "The Screen Savers" on TechTV (formerly ZDTV) from 1998 to 2004, where he helped demystify computers and technology for mainstream audiences. His syndicated radio show "The Tech Guy" has aired on over 200 stations across North America.
Beyond broadcasting, Laporte has authored multiple books on technology and computing, including works published by Que and Osborne/McGraw-Hill. His contributions to tech journalism earned him an Emmy Award in 2004 for his work on "The Screen Savers."
The netcasting network TWiT.tv, launched by Laporte in 2005, produces shows covering various technology topics and has become a significant platform for tech-focused content creation and distribution. His work has influenced how technology news and information is delivered to general audiences.
👀 Reviews
Leo Laporte is primarily known as a tech media personality rather than an author, so reader reviews focus more on his online content, podcasts, and TV appearances rather than written works.
Readers appreciate:
- Clear explanations of complex tech concepts
- Engaging presentation style
- Long-running Tech Guy radio show format
- Quick responses to caller questions
Common criticisms:
- Repetitive content across platforms
- Product recommendations seen as commercially influenced
- Recent quality decline noted by longtime followers
- Frequent interruption of co-hosts
From online reviews:
Amazon reviews for his "Tech Guy Labs" transcripts average 3.5/5 stars
Reddit and forum discussions mention:
"He helped me understand computers back in the Screen Savers days"
"Content feels more like ads now than authentic tech advice"
"Still knowledgeable but lost some credibility after TWiT drama"
Note: Most commentary comes from tech show viewers/listeners rather than book readers, as his published works are limited.
📚 Books by Leo Laporte
Technology Bytes
A weekly compilation of technology news, interviews, and insights collected from Laporte's radio broadcasts.
Leo Laporte's PC Help Desk A reference guide covering basic PC troubleshooting, maintenance, and common computer problems.
Leo Laporte's 2005 Technology Almanac A chronological collection of technology developments, tips, and predictions for the year 2005.
Leo Laporte's Guide to TiVo An instruction manual for setting up and using TiVo digital video recording systems.
Poor Leo's Computer Almanac A compilation of computer tips, tricks, and technical guidance for everyday users.
Tech TV's Catalog of Tomorrow An examination of emerging technologies and their potential impact on future daily life.
Leo Laporte's PC Help Desk A reference guide covering basic PC troubleshooting, maintenance, and common computer problems.
Leo Laporte's 2005 Technology Almanac A chronological collection of technology developments, tips, and predictions for the year 2005.
Leo Laporte's Guide to TiVo An instruction manual for setting up and using TiVo digital video recording systems.
Poor Leo's Computer Almanac A compilation of computer tips, tricks, and technical guidance for everyday users.
Tech TV's Catalog of Tomorrow An examination of emerging technologies and their potential impact on future daily life.