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
- Featured answers0
- Best answers2
This Element 27" FHD 1080P LED Frameless Monitor provides simple connectivity to get straight to work. Whether you're adding to your current work from home set-up or purchasing a new monitor to stay in touch with loved ones, this full HD monitor will do the trick. This Element monitor offers a 1080P, full high-definition screen for a clear, vivid picture. Whether you're watching videos, video chatting, or playing basic games you'll find this full HD monitor provides a crisp viewing experience. Element's frameless monitor screens enable your monitor to blend in with your decor for a clean aesthetic. The thin bezel allows for a full-screen experience. Expand your view and get more done by adding a second or third monitor to your office set-up with easy HDMI and VGA connectivity. *No built-in speakers
Customer Rating
5
Bright and clear 27in
on December 31, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
This monitor flies under the radar with features normally found in more expensive models I really like the frameless look. They pull it off very cleanly here. The build quality seems decent and the panel itself is nice and bright. If I have any complaints about this rig it is how far behind the back of the monitor the included stand protrudes. The inclusion of a VESA standard mount is also something sometimes lacking in these frameless monitors including the ones from larger brands like HP.
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Get a secure and stable setup for your 2nd Gen Google Nest Hub with this Wasserstein adjustable stand. The built-in cable management storage lets you maintain a neat and clutter-free space, while the adjustable angle offers a flexible viewing experience. This Wasserstein adjustable stand features a versatile, streamlined design, allowing effortless installation.
Customer Rating
3
Nest Hub at the Wrong Angle? SORTED!
on December 9, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
For an accessory for something kind of mundane... I was surprised by how much I needed/wanted this product. If you find your nest hub isn't fully visible, or you wish you could slightly adjust the angle; you'll find that big brother Google has shorted us in that respect. Enter the Wasserstein stand. There are a lot of positives here, the stand gets the screen up in the air, it has some integrated cable management to shorten the cord if you're feeling like there is just way too much there. I'm struggling a little with the look. It's.... modern art weird. They definitely decided that one portion of the stand was going to be the back and one was going to be the front The problem is that I disagree with both these choices. The flat spot on the base isn't meant to tuck it closer to the wall, it's designed to keep it from sticking out farther. The top portion of the stand is separated by a vase/funnel shape that allows the top portion to swivel as well. This is part of the strange appearance. Also, the top portion has a definite front and back in terms of holding on to the hub itself, but this is accompanied by a hard stop on the swivel. If you install the hub in the direction they intended and face it the way they intended, the range of motion for tilting is limited by the stops and might not be where you want it to go. All of this being said, it's well made and does the job. I just find I have... different opinions about how it should be done.
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It’s easy to transform your home into a safe haven with SimpliSafe’s award-winning security system. Everything is simple to set up, effortless to use, and designed to do one thing only: keep your home and family safe. Outdoor security cameras let you see everything happening in full HD. So you can spot trouble before it comes knocking and capture the evidence if it does. And if someone tries to break in, the burglary sensors will sound the alarm right away. But that’s not all. Whenever your alarm goes off, we’ll call you and send police, firefighters, or ambulances to your door in a snap — and stay on the line with you until they arrive. So no matter where you are or what you’re doing, your home is protected 24/7.
Customer Rating
4
Perfect starter kit for home security!
on November 29, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
This kit is ideal for getting started on next-level security. Taking things one step beyond just the doorbell cam or just the outdoor cams, and bringing the base station, the keypad/fob some sensors, AND The cameras together. The cameras are where SimpliSafe goes a little awry in my opinion, but they do it in the best way possible. They have long offered unmonitored security, and if you were more interested in self-monitoring or not having a monthly fee, theirs was the best setup in town. Adding the cameras adds some complexity to that, in that you have to pay for unlimited storage of footage and there are limits to the ways you can access/be notified of camera activities if you're not paying for any levels of their service. Basic plans range from $10-$25 a month. The app feels like it was built around the cameras, but that's okay because there isn't really a way to interact with the other sensors anyway, other than arm/disarm/modes. The cameras are what I expect of a company bringing something to market in 2021 however. The battery life so far seems excellent, and I'm hoping it gets close to their reported "3-6 months". They do include some wise tips for maximizing battery life. The camera itself is well made, discreet and stylish, and mounts easily with minimal fuss. The optional power cable is a little steep at $50, but this kit comes in at such a reasonable starter price that I wouldn't mind paying it. Getting the base, keypad, and sensors set up is fairly easy once you realize it wants you to treat the keypad like a mobile device and you visit all your installed sensors. The camera was a little trickier but eventually paired and connected as it should without a phone call for help. Overall I'm loving this system, I think it's well made and well thought out, and I can't get enough SimpliSafe. Just go into the self-monitored/paid monitoring security realm with eyes wide open, as I feel they could do a better job of advertising what the device limitations are on which plans ahead of time, but that's really my ONLY gripe about this system.
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The entire Meta Portal family is video calling designed to bring people closer. Simple to set up and fun to use, Meta Portal is a smart video calling device for a closer connection to friends and family—wherever they are. Once you’ve connected, Smart Camera pans and zooms to keep you in frame so you can move and talk naturally, while Smart Sound minimizes background noise and enhances your voice. Meta Portal’s simple privacy settings mean you can easily disable the camera and microphone, or block the lens with the camera cover. All Meta Portal WhatsApp calls are end-to-end encrypted and you can choose to call individual Messenger contacts using end-to-end encryption. Meta Portal needs a wireless internet connection and AC power. Meta Portal voice command availability varies. Screen images simulated. User experience may vary. Requires wireless internet connection and Facebook or WhatsApp account. WhatsApp is not available on tablets. Features, functionality, and content vary and may not be available on all Meta Portal models or in all areas and languages. Some features may require a Facebook account and downloading the Meta Portal mobile app. Additional account registration, terms and fees may apply. Your employer may restrict your ability to login to third-party video-calling apps on Meta Portal.
Customer Rating
3
Huge Screen Focused on Messenger Video Calls
on November 29, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
Let me start off by saying that this thing is specific and focused. Like REALLY focused. This device is awesome at its job, which is enabling Facebook Messenger video calling. It's killing it at that. Having used a Facebook portal camera with my TV previously, this device is enabled with a similar super wide-angle camera (140 Degrees of view!) and it uses its AI to follow you while you use it. That's the most impressive part. The screen is massive and nice and bright/clear. Yet with this massive screen, you'd think that you would be able to do some other tasks... and this is where the portal+ starts to lose stars for me. As a voice assistant, it also falls short. It cannot use the screen to show you things via Alexa and it's not enabled for the screen as a doorbell cam or otherwise. Perhaps most glaring, and this IS an option with the portal camera tv device, you cannot add apps to it. The huge gorgeous screen is only for Facebook messenger calls. So that leaves me asking, who is this for? I would consider getting my grandmother one, she would love it. Also, I'm not sure the price of the portal+ is in the range of "casually leave setup at grandma's house"... but then again everyone's budget for that is different. While you'll be able to use it for that, and even for some zoom calls, you cannot scroll your Facebook feed on it. I loved the ability to follow me, the screen being able to rotate from portrait to landscape, the camera privacy cover, and the decent sound from the built-in speakers. I didn't care for the two voice prompts; Alexa and Portal for different things, and the downright hobbling of the device's ability to do other things. Overall this is decently made, but at the price point, you could have a device that can also do other things, if you're interested in that. I would recommend it for your parents/grandma if they are avid Facebook users, but that's a narrow target market.
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No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Nanoleaf Elements bring together the best of smart lighting technology and bespoke design into one sleek and sophisticated package. Beautiful both on and off, the textured panels create geometric wall art that illuminates with a dynamic glow to softly fill your space. With the full range of warm to cool white lighting options, you choose from a list of curated color animations or paint your own breathtaking murals of light with the intuitive Nanoleaf App. With their modular design and simple installation—with no tools required—you can transform any space into your personal oasis in minutes.
Customer Rating
5
Nanoleaf elements, but make it classy
on November 20, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
I have a previous version set of the hexagon elements, and I've never considered putting them somewhere in my home that was a more formal public space. The thought just never occurred to me. The older version is simple white plastic and looks like what you would expect. When they're turned on is when the magic actually happens. These new hexagons are a welcome change to that. The wood-look panels are still translucent enough to let the light shine through but are SO much more pleasant to look at when they're not activated. The app and the myriad of ways that these lights can be controlled, touch, buttons, sound, etc are all covered in depth elsewhere and are worth looking into. Personally, I feel that Nanoleaf has the most versatile control scheme on the market, at the moment, for non-DIY smart lights. If I have any complaints it's that Nanoleaf hasn't come out with a television backlight yet to sync these with. I might try mixing and matching the old versions with the new ones to see how large of an installation I can get away with in my primary living space, rather than having them as interesting backlights in my office. I highly recommend these smart lights!
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Meet the Ninja Foodi 14-in-1 8qt. XL Pressure Cooker Steam Fryer with SmartLid. The pressure cooker that steams and crisps. SmartLid slider unlocks pressure cooking, air frying, and Steamcrisping - all under one SmartLid. SteamCrisp Technology steams and crisps at the same time for faster, juicier, crispier results*. 14 one-touch programs unlock even more versatility. (*Vs. Ninja Foodi OL601 in dry mode only)
Customer Rating
4
Extremely Versatile beast combination appliance
on October 25, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
Ninja pressure cookers and air fryer lids are known for their versatility and ease of use. This version builds on their previous devices by combining the lids into one, so that you no longer need to store and swap for switching from pressure cooking to air frying. This is a well-made beast of a unit. I like to prescribe to the Alton Brown school of thought that devices that are given dedicated counter space need to have more than one function, or they do not belong there. This 8qt pressure cooker/air fryer fits that bill. Partially because it's so large and heavy you won't want to put it anywhere else... but also it will simplify the cooking tasks for many busy families. The included baskets and accessories cover the gamut of all the cooking/frying/baking/pressure cooking scenarios you could imagine. The ability to toss them into the dishwasher is also a nod to busy families and the versatility of this appliance. The size of the unit does pay dividends in being able to prepare enough food for an entire family of 5 at once, which I appreciate. It feels well made like most Ninja kitchen appliances and I'm hoping this one lasts for quite some time. My only reasoning for dinging it from 5 stars to 4 is the sheer size and weight making it difficult to store, but man if you're air frying and pressure cooking for a crew, it's all worth it.
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Enjoy sound with clear treble and powerful bass that’s enhanced in real-time by BassUp technology. 3 targeted modes are individually tailored to cancel out the most distracting sounds in each environment. Voice pickup is free from background noises thanks to Life Note 3’s 6 microphones that use Soundcore’s exclusive algorithm to enhance call quality. Get 7 hours from a single charge and up to 35 hours with the charging case. Choose from the variety of included eartips to find a fit that’s perfect for your ears. Life Note 3’s ergonomic design fits in your ear comfortably and remains stable even when listening on the move. Enhances and emphasizes the sound of footsteps, gunfire, and more for a more immersive playing experience.
Customer Rating
4
Anker keeps upping their game!
on October 25, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
These headphones are worthwhile in-ear true wireless Bluetooth alternatives to AirPods. Having owned other Anker products I was interested to examine their entry into the in-ear active noise canceling market. While that portion of these buds might be a low point in their features, I find these to be well made, last quite a long time for battery life and fit quite well. I've used them in a number of settings including flying on an airplane and inside of a motorcycle helmet while riding (for music only, I didn't attempt the microphone/calling in either of those settings. The Sound Core app brings a medium amount of value, requiring consultation very little, but it's there and lets you check on your buds, even though most of the pertinent details are available to you on an iPhone already. The locate my buds feature in the sound core app is slick though. The tips are typical of these kinds of headphones, and I find that the smaller drivers with the holes in the middle of the tips can have a tendency to accumulate... stuff. Making me self-conscious about my ear self-care, but also making them need to be cleaned more often to prevent obscuring sound. Rubber tips in general are a struggle for me, which mirrors some other reviewers' opinions. Call quality was reported as good, even surprised that I was on a headset, and the responses for both Siri and dictation were accurate for me. The charging case is nice and compact and fits the buds nicely, adding to the battery life on the buds. The only bummer is that I wish it was wireless charging. The active noise cancellation has 3 levels that are adjustable, While I find this portion of these buds to be lacking when compared to larger noise-canceling ear cans, they did reduce background noise, and created an enjoyable experience. I did find that the fit for the tips is as important, if not more so, in reducing background noise, but the effects were noticeable in an occupied office and a public space. Overall these are well made and present a quality entry into the now flooded earbud market. I would recommend them to anyone looking for this price range.
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JVC Gumy Mini True Wireless Headphones are lightweight and small in size. They offer high quality sound with a sleek in ear design. With the latest Bluetooth version 5.1, they will ensure a stress-free and stable connection. Pair the headphones with your bluetooth enabled device once and they will automatically power on and connect when the earbuds are removed from the easy to hold charging case. The Gumy Mini offer one button remotes on each earpiece for quick and easy operation. Control your music and phone calls with the touch of a button. The IPX4 sweat/rain proof rating allows you to enjoy sports or outdoor activies without worrying about getting weat or sweaty. Listen to music or talk on the phone for up to 5 hours. Extend this time with included rechargable battery case for up to 10 hours. Total battery life is 15 hours.
Customer Rating
3
True Wireless, okay sound
on October 5, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
I'm amazed that true wireless earbuds have reached this price point. These small buds have a charging case, IPX4 waterproof, and come with 3 sizes of in ear "gummies". It takes a certain amount of trust that these kinds of buds are not going to fall out... I'm not sure that I'm quite there yet to go running or exercise with them in. Overall they do the job, but clocking in at a reported 6 hours and me getting somewhere between 4-5 hours of battery life is pretty low. I would prefer they made them a little bigger and charged a little more and then gave them some extra juice. Sound quality is just okay. I'm not sure I would buy these again. Maybe at this price opt for some decent sounding wired headphones?
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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This dual-speed handheld spin brush works with your favorite cleanser and one of three interchangeable brush heads to customize the perfect routine for your skin type.
Customer Rating
4
Great little facial cleanser | nice package
on October 5, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
My 14 year old daughter who is just coming into her own with a skin care regimen did most of the testing with this product. She did her research and was excited to add this to the vanity. The included hard case and the charging stand are nice to have both for travel and keeping the brush charged. Also being waterproof let's you use this in the shower or anywhere in the bathroom without worrying about it coming into contact with water. The two speeds and selection of brushes/pad that are included are well suited to daily use, deep cleansing, and exfoliating. Some of the fit and finishes left a little to be desired, but I'm not sure that it matters at this price.
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The minute you put on Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, you feel it — the iconic quiet that allows you to concentrate on your music or work on your passion projects. Plus, with these wireless headphones, you can experience the comfort and crystal-clear sound that can only come from Bose headphones. The soft, plush cushions of these Bose over ear wireless headphones seal you in. Then you flip the switch and whoosh — the world fades. The music starts. It’s love at first listen. The original Bluetooth headphones are back, now with signature active noise cancelling technology and premium comfort. Plus proprietary technology for deep, clear sound, and adjustable EQ so you can tune your music to your liking. Bose QuietComfort 45 over-ear headphones. An icon reborn.
Customer Rating
5
Gold Standard for Noise Cancelling
on October 1, 2021
Posted by: dronedad
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
These headphones are amazing. If you're already a Bose fan and you're here looking... what are you waiting for? If you're new to noise-canceling or coming over from Sony, read on. Typical Bose here in terms of build quality. Audio quality is amazing and captures more range than most other headphones I know. Listening to things like movies with immersive soundtracks (as I just did on a flight from ATL to MSP) is amazing. The Noise Cancelling function works better than the pair of sony headphones that I'm coming from. There are still some ranges that it doesn't quite block out on airplanes, so you will get a mild background drone, but nothing like having no noise canceling. I have yet to push the battery to its full limit even though I want to, it continues to outperform what I expect. At this point, I do expect it to meet the full 24 hours. The ear cushions are wonderfully comfortable, although at this price point I did expect leather or synthetic leather and not the softer material that seems to be popular at the moment, which makes me a little worried about longevity. Also, the inclusion of a case is appreciated at this level, and it fits nicely in bags or seat pockets with its "half-folded rectangle" shape. I DO wish that the arms had a positive lock in the folded open position, but this is a minor minor complaint.
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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, 5 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, 9 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.
5 years 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, 7 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