Drew
Drew's Stats
- Review Count29
- Helpfulness Votes82
- First ReviewOctober 3, 2018
- Last ReviewJuly 17, 2020
- Featured Reviews0
- Average Rating4.2
Reviews Comments
- Review Comment Count0
- Helpfulness Votes0
- First Review CommentNone
- Last Review CommentNone
- Featured Review Comments0
Questions
- Question Count0
- Helpfulness Votes0
- First QuestionNone
- Last QuestionNone
- Featured Questions0
- Answer Count31
- Helpfulness Votes29
- First AnswerNovember 19, 2018
- Last AnswerAugust 17, 2023
- Featured Answers0
- Best Answers2
Speck - Presidio CLEAR + GLITTER Case for Samsung Galaxy Note8 Cell Phones - Clear/Bella Pink/Glitter
Use this Speck Presidio case to add a touch of sparkle to your Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Its raised bezel edges let you set your phone facedown on a table without scratching it, and its dual-layer construction disperses shock from hard impacts. This Speck Presidio case has precise cutouts for access to the volume controls.
Still looks great after a full year
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 19, 2018
Images for this Review
(click to see full-size image)
I purchased this Speck Note8 case from Best Buy over a year ago as a gift for Mom. I got this case back from her after trading in her Note8 for a new Note9. Although I wasn't using this case myself (it's really, really pink), I did the initial installation and gave it a pretty thorough inspection (14 months later). It has held up remarkably well to daily usage. The plastic is just as rigid as it was on Day 1, and the type of coating used by Speck makes it resistant to scratches and scuffs.
I've attached an image for people to see the condition after 14 months of use. *Please note that the original case definitely does not come with custom artwork featuring the Virgin Mary!* My mom is artsy and I have no idea how she managed to get the design on the case. But apparently it can be done! Well done, Speck!
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
0points
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Use the convenient controls of this wireless presenter to help you make your point. Intuitive buttons are easy to find by touch and feel great in your hand for better control. Laser pointer allows your audience to see exactly what you're pointing to. The 2.4 GHz wireless allows you to enjoy the freedom to move around the room and mingle with your audience for greater impact. Battery indicator lets you know how much power is available with just a glance. Plug-and-play wireless receiver requires no additional software to install.
Simple and Effective
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 19, 2018
I purchased this Logitech for emergency business use after we realized at the last minute that we had misplaced our old one. Yes, it costs over twice as much as its generic competitors that you'll find from various online retailers, and a review seems almost unnecessary considering that it's such a simple product. But all that matters is that it worked seamlessly out of the box for a PowerPoint presentation on a corporate Windows laptop (Lenovo T-series). If you're shopping for a wireless presentation remote, you're likely going to be giving an important presentation for business or school. Would you really want to risk it by fooling around with a generic remote (with unknown device drivers) when this Logitech model works perfectly?
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
0points
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ZAGG - InvisibleShield Glass + Anti-Glare Screen Protector for Apple® iPhone® XS Max - Clear
Add a layer of tough defense to your Apple iPhone XS Max screen with this Zagg InvisibleShield Glass + Anti-Glare screen protector. Constructed with proprietary Ion Matrix technology, this glass shield retains a smooth surface that doesn’t detract from touch function. Reinforced, beveled glass edges meld with your screen for an invisible appearance, and this Zagg InvisibleShield Glass + Anti-Glare screen protector features a matte finish that keeps glare from disrupting your view.
A little disappointing for Zagg standards
Customer Rating
3.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 19, 2018
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(click to see full-size image)
I would normally give this screen protector "3/5 stars," but Best Buy's accessory bundle deal and Zagg's lifetime warranty are enough to bump it up to 4 stars. Let me begin by stating the obvious. You save 25% by purchasing three or more Best Buy accessories in a bundle. Let's do the math: if you wanted to purchase two of these at $39.99 each (e.g. one for you and your spouse). the total comes out to $79.98. Now, add a third accessory to your Cart. Let's say you add a 6.6' Apple Lightning Cable that sells for $32.99. The new total with bundle savings? $80.97. Congratulations, you've just got yourself a free Lightning Cable!
Now, as for the screen protector itself, it's a little disappointing when compared to my previous Zagg products. I bought three of these for myself and two family members, and only one of them has performed as expected:
2 foot drop - screen protector cracked
While seated on the couch, my brother happened to drop his iPhone on the floor - a 2 foot drop at most. The screen protector cracked from the top right-hand corner down to the middle of the screen. Granted, Zagg did offer a replacement, and who knows if it might've saved the iPhone screen itself from cracking. But 2 feet is basically nothing, and I've seen plenty of bare iPhones emerge unscathed from much worse.
While seated on the couch, my brother happened to drop his iPhone on the floor - a 2 foot drop at most. The screen protector cracked from the top right-hand corner down to the middle of the screen. Granted, Zagg did offer a replacement, and who knows if it might've saved the iPhone screen itself from cracking. But 2 feet is basically nothing, and I've seen plenty of bare iPhones emerge unscathed from much worse.
Bubbled edges
I've attached an image as a second anecdotal example. Despite being meticulously installed just like on the other two iPhones, my screen protector has never settled down. If anything, the bubbling around the edges has gotten worse over time. I’ve yet to reach out to Zagg for replacement, but will be doing so shortly.
I've attached an image as a second anecdotal example. Despite being meticulously installed just like on the other two iPhones, my screen protector has never settled down. If anything, the bubbling around the edges has gotten worse over time. I’ve yet to reach out to Zagg for replacement, but will be doing so shortly.
I've probably owned at least a dozen Zagg screen protectors, and so far, this particular model has performed the worst out of all of them. I did happen to purchase this on XS launch weekend, so perhaps it's just a faulty early batch. Over the years, Zagg has built enough positive equity for me that I would still trust this brand over a no-name generic. But right now, I can’t recommend this exact model to a friend or family member.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
+2points
3out of 4found this review helpful.
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Insignia™ - 4' 4K Ultra HD HDMI Cable - Black
Connect your visual and audio devices with this 4-foot Insignia HDMI cable. It supports 4K Ultra HD resolution and Dolby TrueHD for clear, colorful pictures and dynamic sound, and its 18 Gbps of bandwidth ensures fast signal transmission. This Insignia HDMI cable has a compact form factor for installing in smaller spaces.
Perfect - Apple TV 4K + LG OLED
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 19, 2018
As a casual videophile and someone who is naturally suspicious of "house brand" electronics, I have to admit that I was reluctant to opt for this Insignia HDMI cable over a brand name cable (e.g. Belkin or Apple's official cable). You have absolutely no reason to fear. Not only does this cable connect my 4K Apple TV and 65" LG OLED with perfect picture quality, it is fully functional with the latest HDR10 and Dolby Vision standards at 60Hz. Best Buy offers this at $15 or less! Get this cable!
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
+1point
1out of 1found this review helpful.
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Apple Watch Nike+ Series 4 (GPS) 44mm Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Nike Sport Loop - Space Gray
Track your runs with GPS and altimeter. Pair your watch with compatible gym equipment. Apple Watch Nike+ is swimproof¹, so you can take a post-run dip in the pool. You can make phone calls, send messages, and get notifications. Train with Audio Guided Runs. And listen to Apple Music² and Apple Podcasts — Apple Watch Series 4 lets you do it all right from your wrist. There are new Nike watch faces and two Nike bands: The Nike Sport Band with compression-molded perforations for breathability and the Nike Sport Loop is woven with a special reflective thread.
I did the math - the Series 4 is a bargain
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 19, 2018
Images for this Review
(click to see full-size image)
Having purchased the 42mm Series 2 in late-2016 for $399.00, I was hesitant to upgrade to the Series 4 model, especially considering that the Apple Watches seem to depreciate at a more rapid rate than their iOS counterparts. Having said that, the redesign is refreshing and the difference in screen size is noticeable. The latter point is crucial, especially when purchasing one as a gift for someone who might be on the older side. Older (age 55+) family members have remarked how the Series 4 is easier on the eyes. This, along with the new suite of safety features (fall detection, EKG), makes it much easier to reach into the wallet.
Speaking of wallets, is it worth $429.00? Sure, the price tag is still relatively steep, but one should realize that Watch pricing has remained somewhat reasonable when compared to iPhone pricing. After adjusting for inflation (CPI-U), my $399.00 Series 2 Watch in 2016 costs $417.41 in today's dollars. As I already mentioned, I can justify the marginal price increase considering the Series 4’s new functions.
Here’s where it gets good. Just for fun, let’s take a quick look at the pricing on the iPhone side — in 2016, the 128GB iPhone 7 Plus was the “Goldilocks” model and retailed for $869.00 (+/- $100 for 32GB/256GB variants). After applying the same inflation adjustment, the $869.00 for the iPhone 7 Plus in 10/2016 equals $909.11 in today’s dollars. Now, consider that the equivalent “Goldilocks” flagship model in the current lineup (the 256GB iPhone XS Max) retails for $1249.00. This represents an eye-popping price hike of 37% from our adjusted figure of $909.11 for the iPhone 7 Plus. I do realize that we might be comparing apples vs. oranges here, so this is purely for illustrative purposes. Even if the analogy might be imperfect, the Series 4 Watch at $429.00 suddenly seems like a downright bargain next to the iPhone.
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
+1point
1out of 1found this review helpful.
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NBA 2K19 20th Anniversary Edition - PlayStation 4
NBA 2K celebrates 20 years of redefining what sports gaming can be, from best in class graphics and gameplay to groundbreaking game modes and an immersive open-world "Neighborhood". NBA 2K19 continues to push limits as it brings gaming one step closer to real-life basketball excitement and culture.
OK. Frustrating for the non-2k fan
Customer Rating
2.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 18, 2018
I'm writing from the perspective of someone who doesn't play non-sports titles. As a huge basketball fan, I've played every version of NBA 2K since its initial release on the PS2 in 2001. It goes without saying that the improvement in graphics has been commensurate with each console generation, but I can't say the same about the gameplay.
In the effort to develop a realistic NBA-simulation experience, 2K has made overall gameplay increasingly sophisticated over time. This is nice, but I believe most casual fans will find the level of options in 2K19 (playcalling, dribble/post moves, etc) to be needlessly complicated. One positive is that 2k has ironed out some of the basic glitches that plagued previous versions of the game. For example, the offensive team routinely used to get called for the turnover when defenders poked the ball out-of-bounds from behind. There are still gameplay quirks that are equally infuriating (like the inability for 7-footers to make open layups), but at least 2K has addressed some of the most egregious ones.
My main frustration with this version of 2K is the online play. I have a 100Mb internet connection, but the matchmaking system is slow and broken to the point where you wonder if 2K is using budget servers. Basic tasks like joining a friend's neighborhood are arduous to the point where you feel like rage-quitting. Furthermore, you will encounter an endless slew of "cheesers" who employ dribble and shooting hacks with impunity. The 2K Dev team always seems two steps behind in this regard; while 2K19 has been a little better when compared to 2K18, the developers consistently seem unable or unwilling to respond to these types of concerns.
In addition to my annual 2K purchase, I have spent an inordinate amount of real money on the Virtual Currency system. Given the lack of alternative basketball titles on the market (other than NBA Live), 2K can afford to implement this type of system with off-putting micro-transactions. But one has to wonder how much longer this will last. Even as a lifelong fan of NBA 2k, I find myself hoping that EA's NBA Live series gets to the point where I can finally make the switch. While 2K can be a lot of fun, the recent versions have consistently featured some combination of flaws that ruin the overall experience. I simply can't recommend this game in good conscience.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
+1point
1out of 1found this review helpful.
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Logitech - G603 Wireless Optical Gaming Mouse - Black
Navigate your desktop precisely with this Logitech wireless gaming mouse. Its sensitivity of 12,000 dpi ensures accurate movements, and it delivers up to 500 hours of nonstop gaming before needing batteries replaced. This Logitech wireless gaming mouse lets you connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth and switch between them with a push of a button.
Great (even as a non-gamer on a Macbook)
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 18, 2018
Although this mouse is tailored towards PC gamers, I use it on a Macbook Pro and I don't play PC games. I simply wanted a sturdy wireless mouse backed by a strong manufacturer warranty. I really wanted to like Apple's Magic Mouse (both 1st and 2nd-gen), but surprisingly didn't like either. This is personal preference, but I found that the flat design of the Magic Mouse didn't contour very well to my hand. The shape of the G603 is more traditional and I think most people will find it to be more familiar and natural for everyday use. Moreover, it feels like a premium product unlike many of the budget mice on the market.
My previous mouse of choice was the Logitech MX Master (1st-gen). It was a good mouse, but I had four primary issues with it:
1) unreliable left-click button,
2) jittery scrolling,
3) lack of bluetooth connectivity,
4) short battery life.
1) unreliable left-click button,
2) jittery scrolling,
3) lack of bluetooth connectivity,
4) short battery life.
Now, Logitech offers a fantastic warranty policy and readily offers replacements, but these problems persisted even with the replacement device. The G603 solves all of these issues, and I love that the bluetooth feature renders Logitech's little dongle obsolete.
Like I mentioned, I have not used this on a Windows PC nor do I play games on my computer. While Logitech offers additional gaming-oriented customization features for Windows, I don't think they're Mac-compatible. If you're like me though, you probably won't care. This is simply a great mouse for everyday desktop use.
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
+3points
3out of 3found this review helpful.
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Apple - iPhone® XS Max Leather Case - Midnight Blue
These Apple-designed cases fit snugly over the curves of your iPhone without adding bulk. They're made from specially tanned and finished European leather, so the outside feels soft to the touch and develops a natural patina over time. The machined aluminium buttons match the finish of your leather case, while a microfiber lining inside helps protect your iPhone. And you can keep it on all the time, even when you're charging wirelessly.
An exquisite leather option for the iPhone XS Max
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on November 18, 2018
Images for this Review
(click to see full-size image)
Although I use both iOS and Android devices, I have tended to be partial towards Apple products over the years. Of course, one of the problems with that is Apple's prices. For most people (including myself), the "Apple tax" can be prohibitive and excessive. If the iPhone XS Max is “Exhibit A,” then Apple's $49.99 Leather Case is “Exhibit B.”
I have owned the iPhone 5, 5S, 6 Plus, 6S Plus, SE, and 7 Plus, but always chose to go with a case made by a third party. First, I hate scratches on my phone and third-party cases offer coverage that includes the bottom lip. The second reason is price; cases from other reputable manufacturers are often cheaper than Apple-produced accessories. The internet is practically littered with budget iPhone cases for $15 or less.
But this time around, I opted to go with the official Apple leather case (in Midnight Blue). Here's what sealed the deal for me, and it might do the same for you. For many accessories, Best Buy often offers a 25% promotional savings when bundled in a set of three or more. It doesn't have to be three of the same accessory, and Apple products aren't excluded! Because I purchased a Zagg screen protector and Apple USB-C-to-Lightning Cable along with this case, the usual $49.99 price tag magically dropped to $37.49. I will always purchase my phone accessories from Best Buy for this reason. Obviously, this still costs more than a typical budget case, but consider that you use your phone for several hours each day. It’s worth the investment in my opinion.
Now a couple of tidbits about the product itself: Like most Apple products, fit and finish are second-to-none. The case feels luxurious and well-crafted. One concern that I have seen online is the slick texture of the leather. Depending on the person, this could be a real concern for you. For example, my own father could not get over the initial slickness of his leather case, so I replaced his with a different brand. However, my hands tend to be slightly sweatier than his, and I can attest that the texture has become far grippier over my six weeks of ownership. It feels secure in the hand, and it has not slipped out of my hands once. Two weeks ago, I cleaned the case and applied Meguiar’s leather conditioner to it. The leather patina has really blossomed into a deeper midnight blue hue.
Lastly, my initial concern over the exposed bottom lip has turned out to be a non-factor so far. Even though I routinely keep the phone in my pocket with keys, coins, and scraps of paper, the new stainless steel on the XS Max has been durable and scratch-resistant. The bottom lip still looks brand-new.
TL;DR: This Apple leather case is better than a third-party case. Bundle three accessories at Best Buy and save 25%.
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: False
+4points
4out of 4found this review helpful.
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Speck - Presidio GLOSSY GRIP Case for Apple® iPhone® XS Max - Black
Defend your phone with this Presidio GLOSSY GRIP case. The slim one-piece design guards against scratches and drops of up to 10 feet with a polycarbonate shell and an inner IMPACTIUM lining. This Presidio GLOSSY GRIP case features raised rubber ridges that prevent your phone from slipping off surfaces or out of your grip.
Good, but bulky
Customer Rating
3.0
Posted by: Drew
from Los Angeles, CA
on October 3, 2018
I’ve owned several Speck cases in the past and this one is not altogether different from other models. However, the XS Max is already an unwieldy size and this case isn’t exactly a slim fit. I may return this for a case that offers a little less bulk.
I would recommend this to a friend!
Verified Purchaser:Yes
Mobile Submission: True
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Drew's Questions
Drew has not submitted any questions.
Google - USB Type-C 18W Power Adapter - White
USB Type-C 18W Power Adapter
can I charge my ASUS laptop with this power adapter
Without knowing what Asus model you have, that's too broad of a question of a question to answer. It may work (very slowly) if your Asus is equipped with USB-C 3.0 ports, but laptop chargers are usually more powerful (around 65w). This is a 18w charger designed to deliver faster charging to phones.
Products from my answer
Google - 45W USB-C Power Adapter - White
(31)
Apple - 61W USB-C Power Adapter - White
(369)
Insignia™ - 65 W Charger for Select Laptops & Ultrabooks - Black
(2,375)5 years, 5 months ago
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Posted by:
Drew
Geeni - BR30 Wi-Fi Smart LED Bulb with Alexa, Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana - Adjustable White
Enjoy efficient lighting with this Geeni Lux Drop LED smart bulb. An output equivalent to 65 W and 700 lumens fills your room with illumination, while the adjustable color temperature lets you set a specific lighting mood. This Geeni Lux Drop LED smart bulb has Wi-Fi capability for convenient control via your smartphone or voice assistant device.
Google - Chromecast Ultra 4K Streaming Media Player - Black
Introducing Chromecast UltraDelivers everything you love about Chromecast plus faster processing speeds and up to 4K Ultra HD & HDR picture quality*. Chromecast Ultra works with iPhone®, iPad®, Android devices, Mac®, Windows®, and Chromebooks.
Google - Chromecast Ultra 4K Streaming Media Player - Black
Introducing Chromecast UltraDelivers everything you love about Chromecast plus faster processing speeds and up to 4K Ultra HD & HDR picture quality*. Chromecast Ultra works with iPhone®, iPad®, Android devices, Mac®, Windows®, and Chromebooks.
Does chromecast ultra output dolby digital 5.1 ? I have a roku and it says it does but it does not. It will output dolby digital, but only in a 2.0 stereo. Most of these devices wont do 5.1 which makes them garbage.
Google - Chromecast Ultra 4K Streaming Media Player - Black
Introducing Chromecast UltraDelivers everything you love about Chromecast plus faster processing speeds and up to 4K Ultra HD & HDR picture quality*. Chromecast Ultra works with iPhone®, iPad®, Android devices, Mac®, Windows®, and Chromebooks.
I have an older tv (not smart) but it has 2 HDMI ports on the back,one of which is connected to a laptop. We stream over the air and free internet shows. Would this device give us a clearer or faster stream content?
Apple TV 4K 32GB
Apple TV 4K lets you watch movies and shows in amazing 4K HDR - and now it completes the picture with immersive sound from Dolby Atmos¹. It streams your favorite sports, news, and TV channels live. Has great content from apps like Apple TV+, Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and ESPN². And thanks to Siri, you can control it all with just your voice.
Does 4k tv play blueray 3D movies , I have a blueray 3D ,and 4 k dv D player , I have an older tv , looking for one that will play blueray 3D movies?
Apple TV 4K 32GB
Apple TV 4K lets you watch movies and shows in amazing 4K HDR - and now it completes the picture with immersive sound from Dolby Atmos¹. It streams your favorite sports, news, and TV channels live. Has great content from apps like Apple TV+, Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and ESPN². And thanks to Siri, you can control it all with just your voice.
I am trying to use the mirror screen on my iphone to show directv on my tv that only has internet service and it says "Not HDMI supported" What do I need to get to make it work?
Unfortunately, HDCP (a copyright protection standard) doesn't allow for screen-mirroring for certain content.
Two ways to solve this:
1) If available, download and use the Apple TV-specific app, or
2) purchase an HDMI splitter or converter that doesn't comply with the HDCP protocol.
The first option is a far simpler solution.
Two ways to solve this:
1) If available, download and use the Apple TV-specific app, or
2) purchase an HDMI splitter or converter that doesn't comply with the HDCP protocol.
The first option is a far simpler solution.
5 years, 6 months ago
by
Posted by:
Drew
Apple - HomePod - White
HomePod is a breakthrough speaker that senses its location and tunes the music to sound amazing wherever you are in the room. Together with Apple Music, it gives you access to over 45 million songs. And with the intelligence of Siri, it's a helpful home assistant for everyday tasks, and for controlling your smart home accessories - all with just your voice. Welcome HomePod.
Apple - MacBook Pro® - 13" Display - Intel Core i5 - 8 GB Memory - 128GB Flash Storage - Silver
The new MacBook Pro is razor-thin, featherlight, and now even faster and more powerful than before. It has the brightest, most colorful Mac notebook display. And it features up to 10 hours of battery life.* It’s a notebook built for the work you do every day. Ready to go anywhere a great idea takes you.
If I purchase a MacBook from Best Buy can I buy the Apple care within the year from Apple?
Not anymore! They changed this last year. You used to be able to purchase Applecare within the standard 1 year warranty period, but this policy was changed after the protection plan was refreshed to "Applecare+." You must purchase Applecare+ within 60 days of purchase or else you will lose eligibility.
5 years, 7 months ago
by
Posted by:
Drew
Apple - MacBook Pro® - 13" Display - Intel Core i5 - 8 GB Memory - 128GB Flash Storage - Silver
The new MacBook Pro is razor-thin, featherlight, and now even faster and more powerful than before. It has the brightest, most colorful Mac notebook display. And it features up to 10 hours of battery life.* It’s a notebook built for the work you do every day. Ready to go anywhere a great idea takes you.