dronedad's stats
- Review count188
- Helpfulness votes387
- First reviewJuly 11, 2014
- Last reviewMarch 12, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4
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- Answer count8
- Helpfulness votes27
- First answerNovember 16, 2016
- Last answerApril 29, 2021
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Design meets function with the Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum. Innovative design combines a Clean Station, charging stand and powerful Jet Stick into one show-stopping vacuum. Available in contemporary colors and premium finishes to beautifully fit your décor and lifestyle. Built-in Clean Station lets you empty the dustbin at the press of a button while also charging your vacuum. The Bespoke Jet is a powerful Jet Stick, so you can tackle any mess across multiple floor types such as carpets, hardwood floors and tile. The Bespoke Jet is engineered around a lightweight, maneuverable design, plus a multistage filtration system that maintains cleaner air in your home.
Customer Rating
5
Holy Cow! This things is light AND powerful
on May 18, 2023
Posted by: dronedad
While I wish Samsung could have come up with a better name for this than the "Bespoke", I won't let that detract from my appreciation of this vacuum. Over the years I've ended up with more vacuums than one person should probably own. I'm not sure why, I just have.
The box is shockingly large, and a bit concerning. There isn't much to assemble however, as the stand/charger/holder/emptying device is packaged separately inside the box, and there's no need to worry. The stand, while at first seeming a little large for just a charging dock, starts to make sense when you understand that it also automatically empties the vacuum's dust chamber so that you get more runs between times that it has to be emptied. I'll be honest, I'm SO glad there is no app involved here. It really doesn't need one. The while color is a bit on the bright side for my decor, but we'll make due. The use of a proprietary cordless battery is both genius and annoying. After-all, why make something that has an on-board battery, if it can't be replaced? After a quick slap together of the wand and motor, and leaving it in the charging dock for a while, I was ready to test it out. Or so I thought. It turned out I hadn't fully seated the battery, so we went back for another few hours, to make sure it had a decent charge. The controls automatically power on to Medium, and then the plus and minus buttons on either side add or remove suction. This is probably the most well thought out vacuum control system I've ever used, and I'm impressed. I like the setup with the charging dock, this solves most of the complaints I have about the way that other vacuums are usually stored. It perhaps creates a new one, in that the stand does take up some space, and I didn't yet find a place to store the accessories, which is extremely annoying.
Overall this thing has MASSIVE suction. On JET mode you can kill the battery VERY quickly, but also it has the ability to almost pull things across the floor to it in that mode.I am going to go ahead and call this vacuum a dyson killer.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Introducing Logitech MX Anywhere 3S Mouse, a beloved compact wireless mouse with next-level precision and control – now with 8K DPI Any-Surface Tracking and Quiet Clicks so you can master your work anywhere.
Customer Rating
5
Great bag friendly version of Logitech's mice
on May 17, 2023
Posted by: dronedad
I use an MX Master as my primary "pointing" device on the desk at the office, but that's way too large and bulky to throw in a bag and take with you on the go. The MX Anywhere is a great option for that. This mouse has what feels like a semi ergonomic design, that could also be used right or left handed. I'm right, but my partner is left, and she sometimes grabs my computer mouse, so this works out well for her. Surprisingly a magnetic haptic scroll wheel is included in such a small package. The only downside was that this package is bluetooth only, as I see it's compatible with logitech receivers, but one wasn't included. In retrospect, this might be okay, since I have a bunch of these laying around at home now that almost all my devices are bluetooth capable, and the receiver isn't needed anyway. This becomes even more important with the thin form factor of lots of today's laptops and the low number of usb ports, or even my newest one with NO usb A ports at all. Charging over USB C and the ability to connect to 3 different devices are just added features. Logitech has the brushed plastic luxe feel down, and not many can recreate it as nicely as this one feels in the hand. Would recommend this mouse!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Oura Ring and the Oura Membership ($5.99/mo plus tax) work hand-in-hand to help you feel your best. Monitor your sleep, activity levels, temperature, stress, heart rate, and more with the most trusted Smart Ring. Whether you’re focusing on your fitness or want to improve your sleep, Oura helps you take control of your health — in style.
Customer Rating
3
Lighter weight tracker than a watch, some quirks
on May 6, 2023
Posted by: dronedad
The Oura ring is a great idea, I'm honestly surprised that I hadn't heard about this product until it was on "generation 3". The ring sizing process is slick and easy, you receive Oura's sizing kit and then confirm your size and they send you your ring. Of the available options I chose one without an obvious bump or flat spot indicating the top of the ring. This may have been a mistake, as I'll mention, the ring spins a little too easily. This ring is lower profile than a watch, yes, but as a ring it's quite chunky. The design and materials still leave it feeling comfortable and low profile-ish on your finger, but you can tell it's not standard jewelry. I'm not sure how they managed to cram most of the sensors from a smart watch into such a small form factor, but it IS compelling. This makes it possible to track your health metrics without having your wrist under the oppression of the great fruit. There is a tiny dimple indicating which side should be worn towards the palm, and due to the slim and smooth nature of the inside and outside of the ring, I found it spun around on it's own often. While they recommend it be worn with the dimple down, it did still seem to collect data when it was in the wrong place, especially at night, but I wonder about the accuracy during those times. I'm getting around 3 days of battery life out of the ring, and discovered that disabling the O2 sensor drastically extends the time between charges. This is kind of a bummer, and I wish it was a little more regular/went longer, but it is what it is. When I initially received the ring I had to go through a repeated cycle of firmware updates to enable the O2 tracking, and it took 5 times for it to succeed. The app is easy enough to use and get connected, and most things want the ring to be on the charging dock to pair/update/etc. the charging dock IS directional, with a small slot for the sensors to fit into. More than once I've found the ring crammed back onto the dock after someone wanted to peek at it, and that's problematic as well. Lastly, I'm never a fan of subscription models, and I'm still trying to determine if the ring will even report any data when the trial runs out. I hate this with a passion, and it's responsible for most of the poor rating here. Oura says that I should still be able to see my scores, and I believe it will continue passing data to the apple health app, but this is still not ideal at the cost of of a Hulu membership every month, in addition to the somewhat high cost of the hardware. At the price of a smart watch, but with only the health tracking benefits, I'm torn between loving the form factor, and wondering if Oura is sustainable with their subscription model, assuming that means they're not covering their costs.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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The Escort MAX 360 MKII can help make every drive legendary with many of the powerful features in our top-of-the-line radar detectors. Like the MAX 360c MKII, it features an all-new internal platform and more powerful components, providing 50% improved range and performance with the included Blackfin DSP chip and advanced false alert filtering intelligence.
Customer Rating
5
Awesome upgrade from my old Escort Solo S2!
on April 6, 2023
Posted by: dronedad
As someone who has used this technology in the past, and has been a user of other Escort products, I was excited to try the new MAX 360 MKII. As with all products like this, it's not an excuse to speed, and if you get pulled over with one of these hanging on the dashboard... you're MORE likely to get ticketed if you're going over the speed limit. With that out of the way, the insurance provided here let's you avoid many situations that could create liabilities. The GPS lockout feature that cuts down on repeated false alerts is a fascinating new feature that I'm enjoying on this product. The brightness of the screen bring adjustable, and a color LCD is a modern update to the tried and true design. Directional arrows are helpful, but not always reliable. The mounting system has also been updated from the flimsy two 1-inch suction cups in the past to a much more reliable mount that the detector clips out of at a moment's notice. The included power cord is nicely made, but based on my desired installation, I wish it was a little bit longer, or I had an option to swap it out for a non coiled one that is longer.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Philips Norelco Shaver 7600 glides smoothly over your skin, while cutting each hair close - even on 3-day beards. Equipped with SenseIQ technology, the shaver senses, adapts and guides on the correct motion, for better skin protection.
Customer Rating
5
Awesome Shaver! Lightweight and efficient
on January 31, 2023
Posted by: dronedad
I'm a hairy bearded dude, and I've used razors, shavers, and trimmers my entire life. Well at least since I was 12. I've shied away from the circular cutter style shavers in the past due to the sensations of hair being pulled or torn out, and missing spots. This shaver has NONE of those issues, and I'm so pleasantly surprised by it. I own other Norelco hair trimming products and was happy to add this one to my regimen. I did notice that it can be particular on the length of hair that it is able to cut, but when you clean the shaver, and you see the absolute "hair dust" that comes out of the blades and storage area underneath, you start to get a sense for how many blades are spinning how fast as it does its thing. The flex and size of the heads nicely fit the contours of my face and did a good job navigating my chin with minimal missed spots. The integrated hair collection makes it seem like the trimmings are just disappearing... until you open the face of the shaver, preferably over the sink or the bin. Mildly annoying that this only comes with a USB charging cable, as the bathroom is one of those rare places where I hope to NOT have to drag my power bricks, but here we are. There is app connectivity, and I haven't dug into it yet. Not totally sure what insights it will provide me, but that's next. The feel in the hand is a nice rounded rectangle with some heft, and is solid. the display is bright with only pictograms, and the button is easy to operate. The integrated trimming blades, while not my primary use for this product, do work well, when you might occasionally need to even up a sideburn.
Overall this product lives up to the higher end Norelco products for feel and construction. I'm floored by how good of a job it did on my face, and will likely be going clean shaven more often due to this device.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take your audio setup to the next level with the B450. Bass tones come alive and create a more well rounded sound with the included subwoofer¹. And if you want to crank it up even more, Bass Boost amplifies the deeper tones at the touch of a button. Whether you’re playing games or kicking back with your favorite show, Adaptive Sound Lite enhances and optimizes your entertainment. Plus, you can seamlessly pair mobile devices with Bluetooth® TV Connection². ¹Applicable on Q series, B models and S8 series. ²Please check whether your TV is Bluetooth® compatible.
Customer Rating
3
Good sound, wireless sub, be aware of connections
on January 1, 2023
Posted by: dronedad
I was REALLY excited Bout this sound bar. I had previously eschewed the soundbar ecosystem for quite some time, because of the quality of sound, and the inability to run a wire in the space I wanted to use it in. Cue the Samsung B450. I trust Samsung, they make good stuff! I have a bunch of Samsung components. I noted the comments about the age of TV that this could work with, but it never occurred to me that there would be limitations... after all audio is audio right? Well if you've got a less than 2 year old Samsung TV, good news, you can stop reading. If you're looking to hook this up to another TV, then read on. This soundbar has great sound. Love the 3 front channels, not a lot of bass, but crisp and clean and filling. Also there are some great built in modes for dialog enhancement. But this soundbar doesn't do any A/V switching, and doesn't connect to your video device. It's Bluetooth or SPDIF/Optical only. That's right, limited connection options. Because there's no way for it to do video passthrough, and therefore an on screen display, everything is handled with the remote and a criminally undersized segmented LCD display. I find myself needing the manual handy just to navigate the modes and how to get there. This is not optimal. Granted it's not that big of a deal at the price point, but man it's aggravating. I am able to connect it to a roku and an apple tv streaming devices as a bluetooth speaker, and it sends the full dolby channels, but I still have to contend with the delay, which is also not optimal for using it with a screen. Especially a large one. There ARE audio extractors that will pull an SPDIF signal from an HDMI cable and let you do passthrough/hook it up to any source, but this doesn't solve the lack of an on screen display and means you have to spend another $20+ on getting connected. had this product been marketed $50-$75 higher and included on screen menus and HDMI passthrough, I would gladly have paid the difference, as the audio is great.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Show up to every video call feeling confident, seen, and heard. Logitech Brio 500 includes features like auto light correction for low-lighting conditions, auto-framing so you can move during calls, and Show Mode for presenting objects on your desk. Brio 500 Webcam creates a more authentic Google, Teams, or Zoom meeting experience, allowing you to connect genuinely with others.
Customer Rating
5
Smart Framing and Full HD webcam
on November 10, 2022
Posted by: dronedad
In the "post covid" whatever times we live in, everyone has to endure some level of virtual call/meeting/space, and webcams are now catching up with how we use them in 2022. The Brio is a nice combination of those features and some thoughtful additions. While you DO have to install the logitech software for some of the more advanced things to work like smart framing, logitech is no stranger to this game, and their apps work well and don't seem to be too much of a resource hog on my computer. The newest style mounting points accommodate better fits on more monitor styles, and especially the minimal bezels that are being used now, and is more secure. The inclusion of a privacy cover feels more "standard" and integrated into this web cam. The added feature of being able to tilt down and show your desktop/sketches/something on the desk in front of the webcam is also an appreciated thoughtful feature. The gray speckled plastic used in the Brio is reported to be recycled, which I appreciate, but I think the white specs are them going out of their way to make sure we know it... when it just looks out of place. Switching to a USB-C plug is just one more way that Logitech has updated the Brio to be current for 2022. This webcam is working well for me, the software was easy to install and use, and the added features are worth the cost of upgrading.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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It's time to get SMART about Radon. View Radon is our most advanced smart radon monitor with the newest technology in digital radon detection. Radon is a dangerous gas that is found in every home, and is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. View Radon is a Wi-Fi -connected, battery-operated monitor with a built-in display, including our latest radon detection technology. Wave in front of the device for the current values of radon, humidity, and temperature. Per the EPA, "Every home needs a radon detector"—understand your long-term exposure with continuous monitoring. View series products are: battery operated or use USB plug; wireless and Wi-Fi -connected; work as a hub; include a customizable display; connected to an app (iOS/Android) and online dashboard with full data and reporting. Gain peace of mind. Use View Radon as a hub to connect up to 10 Airthings devices for a multi-room monitoring system.
Customer Rating
5
Bringing modern tech and data to the Radon Problem
on November 10, 2022
Posted by: dronedad
As a homeowner and a dad, I've done the awkward little tent radon tests before. Especially if your lower level is a living space, or even more importantly if your family sleeps there, Radon is a potential hazard that is not seen, smelled, or sensed, without a test, or testing unit. After struggling to determine that my home was mostly Radon free, it still kept me up at night that there might be environmental things that affect how much Radon is in the air in my lower level. Having considered and purchased the Airthings non smart sensor, this calmed my fears, but didn't give me the full peace of mind I was seeking. In the days of smart homes and big data, Airthings has stepped up, and given us tracking, trends, and real time access to this info. I loved that the sensor has a small display and a sort of "thermostat" look to it, designed to be hung or mounted on the wall. The sensor has both bluetooth and wifi options for connecting remotely, or connecting it to your home network. Getting set up and running takes advantage of a QR code that can sometimes be problematic, but once youre there things seemed to work well. I was hoping there would be some ability to export the data, or control how long they keep the data for, but the dashboards are useful and color coded, with links to knowledge bases on issues if one arises. Overall this is well made, if a little on the pricey side, but does the job well, and keeps me at peace with my children living in lower level bedrooms.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Experience ultra-fast streaming or downloads with this NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5300 Wi-Fi router. Wi-Fi 6 technology provides expanded network capacity and extended coverage of up to 2,500 sq. ft., while the triple-core processor and 512MB of RAM provide powerful performance. This NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5300 Wi-Fi router has five Gigabit Ethernet ports to effortlessly handle multiple devices.
Customer Rating
4
Robust and Speedy Wifi 6 Router
on November 4, 2022
Posted by: dronedad
Ugrade to Wifi 6! Everyone is doing it! It's taken a moment for the devices in your hands and on your laps/tabletops to catch up with wifi 6, but now it's starting to proliferate, and it DOES make a difference in speeds. Netgear's latest offering in the Nighthawk line is a robust example of that. This route is well made and includes what I like to think are some lessons learned by Netgear - Well made and decent gain antennas, 4 of them, indicator lights on the face of the router, opposite the feet/mounting tabs, and easy(ish) setup via an app. All of these stack up to make this router fairly user friendly and to blanket your home (or office) with sweet sweet wifi. The QR code for initial access was in the packaging, but for security sake NOT on the bottom of the router, my pro tip is to move it there. Once I got the app installed and connected to the router, setup was a breeze. It did immediately prompt me to upgrade firmware, which took a minute, and I wish I had deferred. The inclusion of advanced services such as Netgear Armor and Smart Parent Filters are appreciated...but also the need for a subscription after the free trial runs out are why I knocked this router down a star. Not cool man. I would love to see Orbi support added to some of these higher end Netgear routers so that if one had a need to spool up a mesh, you wouldn't have to replace pricey networking equipment just to do mesh routing, and mesh units always seem to be lacking in wired ports, usb ports, external antennas, or some combination thereof.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Introducing the 3-in-1 Video Smart Lock S330 - a feature-packed solution for unparalleled home protection. Experience crystal clear visibility with 2K clarity and a 160° wide field of view for easy monitoring of your doorstep. Featuring Self-Learning AI, it constantly improves fingerprint recognition accuracy ensuring fast and precise door access every time. With Person, Pet, and Vehicle Detection, only receive relevant alerts that matter to you. Dual motion sensors help reduce false alerts by 95% and can accurately detect movement up to 19 ft (6 m) away, identifying objects with 99% accuracy. Effortless control and management with the eufy Security App. Get instant notifications* when kids come home, see and communicate with visitors using 2-way audio, and unlock the door remotely – it's convenient and security when you're away. Videos and data stay protected with local storage - all with no monthly fees.
Customer Rating
2
Very smart lock with flaws
on November 1, 2022
Posted by: dronedad
I'm LOVING the eufy smart series from Anker. These products are great. This smart lock is no exception. It feels like a mash up of their excellent video doorbell products and their smart lock. My biggest complaint, and reason for not rating it 5 stars is that unfortunately their ecosystem is a little fractured. in less than 18 months they have come out with 3 different versions of their base station, and unfortunately NONE of their lock series are compatible with the base station to date, this product included. The setup is very straightforward once you get the lock bridge installed and connected to your network. The only mildly redeeming feature here is that the app is the same for the smart bridge and the home base at least. I just don't like that I have to have multiple devices to connect my other doorbells, cameras, and this video smart lock. Notifications and human detection all seem on par with their excellent camera offerings. I have yet to work out if I can use the (not connected) home base as an additional chime or the only chime for this device. Physical installation is fairly easy, especially if you're replacing an existing deadbolt. It DOES require a little bit more room and might be challenging in some door setups and/or if you have a screen door on the door you're attempting to lock up. Overall I think this is well made and the device is in line with eufy/Anker's ecosystem, just with one major deal breaking flaw for me.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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dronedad's Answers
Featuring a 1-inch CMOS sensor, powerful autonomous functions, and a compact body weighing less than 600 g, DJI Air 2S is the ultimate drone for aerial photographers on the move. Take this all-in-one aerial powerhouse along anywhere to experience and record your world in stunning detail.
While your taking video can you also take a picture at the same time?
You cannot trigger a still while actively taking video. You can grab frames from the 5.4k video after the fact, but you have to stop recording and switch modes to take stills/video.
3 years ago
by
dronedad
The Nanoleaf Shapes Hexagons elevate the concept of smart lighting into a creative journey of design. A combination of smart technology and sleek ultra-thin design, the modular LED light panels open limitless possibilities for you to explore, create, and play.
Can these be easily removed from the walls? Colleges request easy movable objects
The Nanoleaf Shapes Hexagons elevate the concept of smart lighting into a creative journey of design. A combination of smart technology and sleek ultra-thin design, the modular LED light panels open limitless possibilities for you to explore, create, and play.
Can these be easily removed from the walls? Colleges request easy movable objects
Yes. They use 3M command strips that are easily removeable.
3 years, 4 months ago
by
dronedad
iPod & MP3 Players
iPod & MP3 Players
iPod connector for 2005 Volvo XC90?
One of my collegues at work mentioned that he had Best Buy install an iPod adaptor to his 2004 Volvo XC90 (problematic for most of us owners as the radio user fiber optics, MOST system). I have a 2005 XC90, but the radios are the same. He had thought it ran him about $130 when he Best Buy did it a year or two ago. I have a local Best Buy that I can bring my car to and have this done as well, but I thought I would ask the question first of Best Buy online and understand what unit they offer for this connectivity and how it's installed. Please advise! I'd like to do this within a week... I miss having iPod connectivity!! Chris
The 2005 Volvo XC90 DOES NOT have an auxiliary input, nor can you add one without an accessory like the GROM MST. That's the only way to plug in an ipod or anything to an XC90
4 years, 8 months ago
by
dronedad
Accompany your workouts with streaming tunes from these JBL Endurance PEAK Bluetooth headphones. PowerHook technology switches them on when worn, and the TwistLock and FlexSoft features ensure a lightweight, ergonomic fit for comfortable, all-day use. Manage music playback effortlessly on these wireless JBL Endurance PEAK Bluetooth headphones via touch-enabled controls.
Can you listen to just one while leaving the other in the case?
Yes actually you can. I’ve only tried it with the right side. I’m. It sure if it’s interchangeable.
4 years, 11 months ago
by
dronedad
Take to the air with this Bower Sky Capture series carbon fiber propeller set. Made of durable yet lightweight carbon fiber, these propellers are pre-balanced to improve performance and keep your drone stable so that you can capture smooth videos. Install this Bower Sky Capture series carbon fiber propeller set quickly and easily to enjoy a quieter drone in minutes.
So are these actually quick release or the screw on props also are they 100% carbon or are they a blend with other materials
Display work or school presentations on this Epson projector. It produces 3200 lumens of white and color brightness for vivid images, and its easy setup lets you customize specifications in minimum time. This Epson projector is equipped with an HDMI port, so you can connect it to your computer or HD device.
how is the picture with this projector with daylight in the room?
3200 lumens is pretty bright. Epson would recommend you not have direct daylight for optimal use... I can tell you this projector works VERY well with direct overhead lighting, and it keeps up with sunlight okay. It's definitely not like the older deal breaker projectors that required the blinds closed.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
dronedad
Simplify your everyday life with the Google Home, a voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant. Use voice commands to enjoy music, get answers from Google and manage everyday tasks. Google Home is compatible with Android and iOS operating systems, and can control compatible smart devices such as Chromecast or Nest."
I want to use HUE lights with this. Can I buy a 2nd Google Home for my 2nd floor so both floors can access Home to turn off/on lights? If my phone (synced to Home) is out of the house, will voice activation still work for the lights?
Google home will let you group and name the lights for each room. I don't believe they are intended to be used overlapping though. In fact you might confuse it with more than one connected to the same google account. The Google Home works without your phone at home, since it connects directly to the HUE account as well as the internet and wifi directly.
7 years, 5 months ago
by
dronedad