Grouticus's stats
- Review count191
- Helpfulness votes437
- First reviewApril 22, 2016
- Last reviewOctober 1, 2025
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- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count12
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- First answerJanuary 25, 2017
- Last answerNovember 14, 2021
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The Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded is the next evolution of the award-winning modular Pro BFG wireless controller, designed for elite gamers who demand precision, customization, and versatility on PlayStation and PC. At its core are customizable modules with built-in Hall-Effect technology, ensuring drift-free precision for consistent and reliable input accuracy. With three modules and eleven interchangeable components you can customize your controller for optimal comfort and performance. Modularity meets precision with four mappable back buttons, dual rumble motors, impulse triggers, 5-stop Hall-Effect Clutch Triggers with Hair-Trigger mode, and a lifetime subscription to Sony 3D Audio spatial surround sound. For the fighting game community, the ergonomically enhanced 6-button Fightpad module with Kailh microswitches delivers tournament-level accuracy for flawless combos. With pro-level customization and tournament-grade performance, the PlayStation officially licensed Pro BFG Reloaded is the ultimate weapon for PS4, PS5, and PC gamers.
Customer Rating
5
The update to the modular controller king
on October 1, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
At this point in the games, and I mean four decades of gaming, I’ve been through my fair share of gaming controllers. And, as with all things tech, controllers continue to evolve and get better adding additional customizable buttons, more comfortable ergonomics, compatibility and, plain and simple, more features all around. That continues to hold true with Turtle Beach’s latest Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded gaming controller built specifically for the PlayStation 4/5 and PC. The Victrix Pro BFG is arguably their most versatile premium controller available compounding on the strengths of the original BFG and adding additional features which I will cover below in this review.
Out of the box and after removing the controller from the included protective case, you can immediately feel the sturdy physical build of the Pro BFG Reloaded. The BFG is more aesthetically and ergonomically sound in comparison to a standard PS4/5 controller due to its more chunky design that you can wrap your hands around. It has much better textured grips that are excellent for long gaming sessions and prevent slippage during intense sweaty hand moments. The Pro BFG Reloaded has what you would now expect on any Pro or high-performance gaming controller, but even more, including four mappable quick-action buttons located on the rear, their patented 5-stage clutch hair triggers as well as their patented on-board audio controls. The included durable case conveniently stores everything you can swap out on the controller including four thumbstick caps (different heights and shapes), three D-pads, stick gates (circular and octagonal), the USB dongle and the tool used to easily swap the parts out. The controller supports both wired and wireless (via 2.4 GHz dongle) modes. Its low-latency wireless performance is reliable enough for competitive play, backed by a generous 3-meter braided USB-C cable for tournament use. The website claims the battery can last up to 20 hours on a full charge which is significantly longer than the standard DualSense controllers. After a quick charge and plugging the included USB dongle into the front port of my PS5, I was excited and ready to give it a whirl.
One of those new features, and perhaps the biggest upgrade, is the Hall Effect magnetic thumbsticks and triggers which eliminates the threat of stick drift and significantly boosts long-term reliability. The magnetic sensors measure position without physical contact virtually eliminating mechanical wear and the notorious stick drift that traditional controllers eventually suffer from over time. This offers peace of mind for competitive gamers relying on pixel-perfect aiming. Perhaps its core appeal is its extreme modularity, allowing users to transform it from an traditional FPS style controller to a symmetrical pad, or a 6-button Fightpad which are included. While it sacrifices PlayStation’s DualSense haptics and adaptive triggers for competitive responsiveness, the Pro BFG Reloaded is a high-performance option for players who demand precision and customizability across multiple genres and platforms including the ability to use it on PC games.
The most striking feature of the Pro BFG Reloaded which I have not personally seen or used on any other controller in the market is its tool-free modular design. The controller is composed of three main swappable sections, secured by captive screws and an included tool, allowing for instant configuration changes. The left module can be reversed to choose between the asymmetrical (Xbox-style) or symmetrical (PlayStation-style) thumbstick layout while the right module can be swapped between the standard analog stick and face button layout, or the 6-Button Fightpad Module. The Fightpad features improved Kailh microswitches and a re-engineered ergonomic layout, is a major win for fighting game competitors.
In conclusion, the Turtle Beach Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded is a purpose-built peripheral for the dedicated hard-core gamer who prefers more customizable features. However, I would also recommend it as a great option for someone who wants a handheld controller for use in arcade style fighting games and does not want a full-size fightpad controller with six buttons and a joystick. If you are a multi-genre player who bounces between FPS, RPGs, and fighting games, or if you simply refuse to deal with stick drift, this controller offers unparalleled flexibility and high-quality components that justify the premium price tag. Bottom line is the Pro BFG Reloaded is an elite peripheral designed to win and not for casual gamers.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Experience better hearing today and save thousands ~ with clinic-quality hearing aids & licensed audiology services, at half the cost of in-person clinics. Meet the world~s smallest rechargeable receiver-in-ear hearing aids, the Select 700. Conversations are clear and effortless with advanced Auto Focus technology that locks on to speech and applies top-tier noise reduction in real-time. Make hands-free calls with iOS and Android, and know that your hearing aids are ready for the future of connectivity with Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast~. When you choose Jabra Enhance, you're not just getting hearing aids~you're getting virtual audiology services with an in-house team of licensed hearing professionals, excited to help you hear better. The Jabra Enhance Audiology Team uses clinical software to professionally program your hearing aids based on your audiogram or online hearing test, and are available 7 days a week for unlimited adjustments.
Customer Rating
5
Revolutionary over-the-counter hearing aids
on September 30, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
After working decades in an industry where loud noises are commonplace along with aging, I finally succumbed to the fact that hearing loss is now, unfortunately, part of my everyday life. I can no longer hear as good as I used to, especially when surrounding noises drown out conversations and the excuse to my wife of selective listening is actually a result of actual hearing loss. Fortunately, technology has come so far in the past several years, especially when it comes to discreet and high performing hearing aids that you can purchase over the counter versus paying much more to go through a doctor or specialist for hearing aids that can be much more expensive. After doing a little research, I came across a brand that I was already familiar with, Jabra, who specializes in audio devices and whose products I have used and trusted for decades with their headphones and earbuds. They recently developed and released their latest generation Enhance Select 700 model over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids that claim to have some of the latest built-in technology specifically built for someone in my situation. They are considered Jabra’s flagship model of OTC hearing aids and are beautifully designed and packed with the latest technology and features.
After wearing the hearing aids for a few days, I honestly feel as if I have super human hearing when I’m wearing them. This, in part, is a result of their next-generation SoundScape™ technology with Auto Focus. This sophisticated system is engineered to deliver exceptional speech clarity, dynamically prioritizing human voices while simultaneously reducing distracting background noise. The Auto Focus feature automatically adapts the microphone directionality in real-time. Whether you are navigating a bustling restaurant or engaged in a lively group discussion, the hearing aids intelligently lock onto the strongest voice, ensuring conversations are effortless and natural. This technology represents a significant leap forward in OTC hearing aids, offering the kind of performance previously reserved for high-end prescription devices. The result is a more immersive sound experience and improved spatial awareness where you feel more aware of your surroundings and not isolated. The sound difference does take a little while to get used to since you’re hearing things you haven’t heard in awhile and you’re able to adjust the volume and certain other features through the Jabra smart phone app.
Some of the best features of the Select 700s are not only comfort and convenience of having high performing hearing aids you can use and take anywhere but also how discreet they are when you are wearing them. The micro receiver-in-ear (REI) is Jabra and the world’s smallest receiver, is incredibly light and discreet built for comfortable all-day wear. Their durability is also great, consistent with Jabra’s other audio products, and features an IP68 rating that provides robust protection against dust, sweat, rain, and water—a crucial factor for every user. They come with a plethora of cleaning and fitting tools including a variety of dome shape earbuds used to seal them securely in your ear and ensure the proper fit for anyone.
In terms of power, the Select 700 can deliver over 24 hours of listening time on just a 3-hour charge. The included portable charging case’s size is convenient enough to stash away in your pocket or purse and can charge the hearing aids three times before needing to be charged providing up to 96 hours of additional power on the go. Furthermore, the device is future-ready, featuring advanced Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast™ for high-quality audio streaming.
Another incentive for investing in the Select 700s is the inclusion of three years of comprehensive virtual audiology services. Unlike many self-fit devices, this package connects you with a licensed hearing specialist who can remotely review your hearing test and send professional, customized adjustments directly to your hearing aids via the mobile app. This blend of OTC pricing and prescription-level remote care significantly boosts user confidence and ensures optimal performance over time.
The Jabra Enhance Select 700 is arguably one of the best OTC hearing aids on the market for users with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, especially those who prioritize performance in noisy environments and the price point reflects this. However, since it is for one of your main senses, it should be a priority and well worth the investment considering the technology built into them and how well they perform. They also have a 100-day risk-free trial, three year warranty and comes with US-based remote support.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Samsung~s 40" Odyssey G7 Curved Gaming Monitor provides breathtaking realism for epic game play. The 40" 1000R curved display with its 21:9 screen and brilliant WUHD (5120 x 2160) resolution wraps around the field of vision for next-level gaming. VESA DisplayHDR 600 delivers more contrast, with deeper blacks and brighter whites for greater clarity even in dark scenes. 180Hz refresh rate and near-instant 1ms response time (GtG) minimizes lag for ultra-smooth gameplay. AMD FreeSync Premium Pro syncs the GPU and panel to reduce choppiness, screen lag, and image tears. Picture-by-Picture maximizes screen potential with a split screen to team up with friends, while Picture-in-Picture allows content management on a single screen. Auto Source Switch+ detects when connected devices are turned on and instantly switches to the new source signal. CoreSync technology with 16.7 million colors and CoreLighting+ project vibrant on-screen colors into the real world for a fully immersive experience. The ergonomic stand enables monitor tilt and height adjustment for optimal gaming comfort.
Customer Rating
5
Butter smooth, responsive, stunning gaming display
on September 10, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
Samsung’s latest line of Odyssey gaming monitors utilizes and maximizes the latest technology in displays built for hardcore gamers like me. I replaced my 37” 165Hz bendable OLED monitor with the Odyssey G75F WUHD 40” curved monitor upgrading to newer, better technology and a larger display. Out of the box, the monitor was relatively simple to set up, similar to most other monitor setups and includes all the cables needed for any setup including a HDMI cable, DisplayPort cable, USB Type-C cable and 59” power cable. The monitor is fairly heavy, weighing almost 25 pounds on the base, and large, measuring 16.6” high without the stand, 36.6” wide and 12” deep with the stand, so be careful while you are mounting it to the stand post.
The G75 is equipped with a VESA certified 5120x2160 resolution HDR600 21:9 aspect ratio display has deep blacks, bright whites and a brilliant 16.7 million color palette thanks to CoreSync and CoreLighting+ technology. Pairing this display with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, a 180Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time brings gaming to life reducing studder and screen lag making gaming ultra-smooth. One cool feature, although I’m not sure whether I would ever use it, is its ability to simultaneously use two inputs for split screen, picture-by-picture where you could have a game running on one side of the screen and a video playing off a separate device on the other. The rear ports include two USB Type-A Downstream ports, one USB Type-B Upstream port, a headphone output, two HDMI inputs, a DisplayPort input and the power source plug-in giving you a variety of options great for any setup. As you would expect from newer monitors, it has an auto source switch that can detect when devices are turned on/off without having to switch inputs. Unlike my previous monitor, you can adjust the height and tilt of the monitor to make your gaming more ergonomically sound. And, as with most gaming peripherals today, you can customize the RGB lighting circle on the back of the display.
After gaming on the 40” Odyssey G75 for hours, somehow I felt more immersed in the action. Perhaps it is because it is something shiny and new but I believe it has more to do with its smooth, buttery graphic display and technology packed within. Perhaps its because there is way less glare on this display than the shiny OLED display I replaced with this one. For those who have used curved displays, you know reflections seem to be amplified because of their ability to capture more around what’s behind you; somehow, that’s not the case with this display. The display just felt and looked softer, smoother yet still bright and vibrant. To be honest, I wasn’t sure whether I would stick with the G75 after setting it up because of its size, however, I am now fully invested in Samsung’s latest technology innovation and would recommend it to anyone in the market for a high-end display upgrade from a highly reputable company who has set itself as an industry leader in gaming displays.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Cue the connection with the back and better-than-ever SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen). Deceivingly small, this portable powerhouse can fit in the palm of your hand, yet still deliver up to 12 hours~ of crisp sound. Powerful enough to break any silence, anywhere.
Customer Rating
5
Tiny portable speaker with a powerful punch
on September 9, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
Being one of the most recognizable names in the sound industry, Bose continues to innovate and refine their products while not trying to keep up with the Jones’ and continue down the same successful paths they’ve paved in that industry. That continues to hold true with their updated SoundLink Micro 2 Bluetooth speaker which is a convenient audio device you can take with anywhere.
Unboxing the SoundLink Micro 2, setting it up and syncing it with your Bose Companion smartphone app was a breeze. I was ready to crank it up and rock out within 10 minutes minus the time it took to charge it to 100%. The buttons are conveniently placed and easy to understand with the power button located on the bottom near the USB-C charging port and the Bluetooth, volume, play/pause and shortcut link, which you can use to link Bose speakers as well as other options available in the app, are all located on the front of the speaker. On the back of the speaker is the strap you can use to mount it to things such as a bike handle, bag strap and much more. The speaker itself is so small, shall we say micro, measuring approximately 4” squared by 1.5” thick, that you can even tote it around in your pocket or purse.
Now, regarding the sound, it’s everything you would expect from a Bose product with its deep lows and crisp highs somehow crammed in this tiny device. After walking around with it in my pocket, I even had someone ask how my phone speaker is so loud. It’s a perfect fit for those who like to walk around with their phones playing on their body, like our housecleaner does, and does not prefer to be confined and shut out by headphones or earbuds that can cancel the ambient noise around them. I find it convenient when I’m working around the house, in the yard or on a bike ride and don’t want to subject others to my loud music playing on larger speakers playing for everyone to hear. The other thing I’ll be using this speaker for is travel as it fits unknowingly inside a carry-on or purse for use once I arrive at poolside or on the beach at my destination. And with the second generation, the ability to quickly pair it with other compatible Bose speakers, you’ll be blowing everyone’s minds and eardrums with ease. I would like to note that at maximum, or near max, volume and with the bass turned up in the equalizer feature located within the app, I did notice distortion and rattling so I would recommend dialing down the bass at high volumes to reduce the distortion while still being able to enjoy the great sound.
Considering its small size, portability and powerful punch, I think it would be a perfect addition to anyone’s audio arsenal and would definitely recommend it especially at this price point.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Make every microsecond count with the Crucial T710 Gen5 NVMe SSD. Built for serious gaming and professional creative applications, the T710 speeds up your experience with up to 14,900/13,800MB/s sequential and 2.2M/2.3M random reads/writes. The T710 is based on Micron G9 TLC NAND and features an optional integrated heatsink for unthrottled use. Its single-sided and low-power design makes it ideal for use on PCs and laptops.
Customer Rating
5
Worthy upgrade to existing internal SSD
on August 29, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
I recently got a new gaming laptop and was looking at upgrading the storage to allow for more game installs along with potentially speeding up load times. That’s when I came across the latest generation of the Crucial T710 2TB internal Gen 5 M.2 SSD. Immediately what caught my eye was the claim for sequential read/write speeds of over 50% faster than what I was currently using… a whopping read speed of 14,900MB per second and write speed of 13,800MB per second! After doing a little extra research, I also learned that one of the specs that set the T710 aside was its temperature management, which was also a selling point for me, especially in a high-end laptop build where heat can be an issue. I have previously upgraded some of my other build with Crucial products, including SSDs and RAM, and have never had any issues with their products therefore I was sold in going with their SSD in a crowded market.
Installation of the SSD was better and faster than expected using their software you can download off their website. I simply placed the SSD in one of the extra storage slots under the chassis and rebooted the system. The Crucial software automatically recognized the drive, walked me through a few simple steps and took it from there. The cloning for my initial drive took less than 20 minutes to transfer a little less than 1TB. After powering the system down and installing the new Crucial T710 in the original SSD slot, I was back up and running in no time. Since I already owned software that manages performance, I immediately noticed faster boot times reflected on my system.
Of note, I ran SSD benchmarks on my previous drive for comparison once I got the T710 up and running. After running several benchmarks to compare specs, the T710 clearly beat my previous Gen5 SSD in every aspect including read/write speed, gaming and temperature. It’s also designed to handle hardcore AI tasks which seem to be what everyone is focusing on nowadays along with gaming.
After using the drive as my OS and also where my high-end AAA games are installed, I have been impressed overall and would recommend the T710 to anyone in the market for a new or upgraded storage option as, in my opinion and as the benchmark reflected, it’s worth the extra investment.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Escape the ordinary with Google Pixel 10. It has Pixel~s most powerful chip, an incredible camera, and Gemini built in to supercharge your productivity and creativity.~
Customer Rating
5
The well upgraded evolution in Google's Pixel line
on August 29, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
The Google Pixel smartphone line has now been around for a decade and throughout their evolution, like all tech, they continue to get better on all aspects. With their 10th generation of smart phones, specifically this Google Pixel 10, they stayed true to their base by offering a well-rounded device capable of everything you could ask in a high performance, affordable, smart phone experience while also giving users the peace of mind they will get access to all things “Google” including their Gemini AI services and top notch software you would expect to see from a Google phone. Having been a long-time user and admirer of both Google products and their Android software, I was excited, to say the least, to see and feel what changes they made to their latest drop.
From the moment you unbox the Pixel 10, the build quality, durability and Google worthy aesthetics is evident. The device exudes a refined elegance with its aluminum frame, glass back highlighted by with Google’s “G” logo and protruding advanced triple rear camera housing, continuing Google’s tradition of combining functionality with style. The edges are subtly curved making it comfortable to hold despite its generous 6.3-inch Actua display with a 60-120Hz variable refresh rate that’s protected by strong Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The ultra-thin bezels provide a nearly edge-to-edge viewing experience, interrupted only by a small, unobtrusive punch-hole cutout for the 10.5MP auto focus front camera. Unknowingly hidden underneath the display is the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor which you can use for unlock, payments, authorizations, etc. Weighing in at only 185 grams, the phone strikes a balance between a lightweight feel and a reassuring heft.
Being a user of prior generation Google phones, perhaps one of the best features of their phones is the quality of the camera and the software they have created to enhance image quality. I have made side-by-side comparisons with several other high-end smartphones and, in my opinion, Google Pixel phones have always taken better pictures, especially in low light. The Pixel 10’s advanced triple rear camera has a 48MP Main + Macro Focus camera combined with a 12MP ultrawide with 120-degree field of view and a 10.8MP telephoto + 20x super resolution zoom. It does an amazing job focusing on subjects using its multi-zone laser detect auto-focus (LDAF) for improved performance. Adding Gemini AI and Camera Coach to their already impressive photo software guides users through better framing and composition if you’re a beginner or ready to fine tune your photography skills.
Even though the Pixel 10 is the base model of their new line, it still has many of the hardware specifications and software that the higher-end Pro and Pro XL models have including the latest Google Tensor G5 processor which, according to their website, boasts up to 60% more powerful TPU and an average of 34% faster CPU making it more responsive that its 9th generation predecessor. Combining this processor with the base model Pixel 10’s 12GB RAM allows it to easily perform tasks and make the most use of their advanced on-device AI, the Gemini Nano, on any phone running 2.6x faster and 2x more efficiently. It also allows the entire Pixel 10 line to unlock other useful features like Magic Cue, Voice Translate, Call Notes with action and Personal Journal. Combining this latest generation processor with its camera also enhances the all-new Image Signal Processor (ISP) helping you capture the highest-quality video, even in low lighting, with motion deblur and default 10-bit video for 1080P and 4k at 30fps. The 128 GB storage is ample for most users, allowing plenty of space for photos, videos, apps, and offline content. While there’s no microSD card slot, Google’s deep integration with cloud services makes it easy to optimize local storage. Connectivity options for the Pixel 10 include 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6 and NFC. The model of the Pixel 10 houses a 4,970mAh battery, which is slightly larger than the Pixel Pro, offering 30+ hour battery life and offers fast wired charging using a 30W charger. It is also compatible with their Pixelsnap magnetic wireless 15W Qi2 charging cables.
The other feature I absolutely love about the Google Pixel software is its helpful prompts after startup which are far better than any other Android experience I have used. If you already have an Android phone, it will simply and quickly take you through the steps of transferring all the settings, apps, contacts, etc. you have saved over years of use. After initial set up, the helpful prompts and reminders will also guide you through all the most important and useful stuff, things you may not think of right away such as adding emergency contacts, activating useful tools like crash detection and find my devices, importing and saving accounts, contacts and passwords. I honestly don’t know what I would do without these prompts considering the overwhelming amount of information we allow our tech devices to remember and do relieving the burden of writing things down, which I was always terrible at.
Overall, the Google Pixel 10 is a worthy upgrade in comparison to previous generations as they have upgraded every aspect of the phone. In most cases those upgrades are quite substantial due to combining their hardware tech with all the useful AI features. Whether you’re upgrading from an older Pixel or joining the Pixel family for the first time, the Pixel 10 delivers a polished, intelligent, and genuinely enjoyable mobile experience. If you value refined software, reliable updates, and cutting-edge photography, the Pixel 10 deserves to be at the top of your shortlist.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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SCUF Envision was designed to deliver the best controller experience for PC gamers. Equipped with 11 additional remappable inputs, ultra-fast wired/wireless connectivity, and advanced software for macros and endless customization options. Our new OMRON mechanical ABXY and D-Pad buttons offer crisp and responsive clicks. Adjustable Instant Triggers allow you to switch between mouse-like clicks and full trigger range. Unlock the full power of Envision by mapping the fully configurable inputs to any PC shortcut, customizing your RGB Lighting Strip, and tailoring your anti-drift Hall Effect thumbstick and trigger response curves. More control, more finesse, and more performance to once again, change your game.
Customer Rating
5
Top notch customizable PC gaming controller
on August 21, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
I finally did it. I finally pulled the trigger, literally and figuratively, on switching from a standard gaming console controller for my PC, which I have been using for a decade, to the latest upgraded version of SCUF’s Envision Pro wireless controller specifically built for PC gaming. The reason I waited so long was not only because I had become accustomed to using a standard console controller, the feel of it, the button placement, etc., that I just couldn’t justify spending double, sometimes triple, the amount on something, I thought, was getting the job done when, in reality, I was missing so much more than I ever realized. Allow me to explain.
One of the main reasons for me to finally upgrade was the button customization options, or lack thereof, and the number of buttons accessible by some of my idle fingers. I’ll admit, and I’m sure plenty of you would agree, there are some occasions while gaming on the PC where using a quick shortcut on my keyboard was the quickest way to access certain things as there was not a dedicated controller button for that selection on a standard controller. I know, I know, there are other options out there with Elite or Pro style controllers with back paddle options; I have been intrigued for years at the SCUF brand however, for years, they didn’t offer much more bang for your buck compared to cheaper controller options. That has all changed with their newest Envision Pro model made specifically for PCs, hallelujah!
From the moment you unbox the SCUF Envision Pro, its premium hardware and stand-out aesthetics are unmistakable. The controller rocks a sleek, modern silhouette that aligns with SCUF’s signature design, but with subtle refinements for PC users. It has a removable and customizable faceplate, removable anti-drift hall effect thumbsticks, highly customizable, adjustable instant triggers and five customizable G-Keys located on the bottom and highlighted with customizable RGB lighting. All that combines to offer 11 more buttons than a standard controller… yes, 11 more! You can really feel the quality of the build when you hold it in your hands from the back grips, the textured controllers, smooth trigger feel and pleasant click of the OMRON mechanical button switches. It is very ergonomically sound fitting naturally in my hands with what feels to be a perfectly balanced weight and feels comfortable with the non-slip performance grips.
SCUF’s controllers have always been renowned for their customizable features, and the Envision Pro amplifies this legacy with both its hardware and software. The most striking aspect is the array of programmable paddles and side buttons, which can be mapped to any input of choice. This allows for complex macros, rapid weapon swaps, or streamlined movement without ever lifting your thumbs off the analog sticks. It has four perfectly placed rear paddles as you would find on “pro” or “elite” controllers that you can customize, like every other aspect of the controller. The two side action buttons are definitely new to me and took a little getting used to as I would sometimes accidentally squeeze the controller in intense gaming sessions and activate some feature I didn’t mean to. The adjustable trigger stops located on the backside of the triggers are great for FPS titles, and you can customize the triggers even more within the software. Onboard Profile Switching allows users to quickly switch between setups without tinkering with software in between games, sessions or users.
The Envision Pro has ultra-fast wireless connectivity using advanced Bluetooth protocols promising low-latency, stable wireless performance which is crucial for competitive PC gaming. It uses SlipStream wireless connectivity and you can hardwire it with the USB-C port on the back which doubles as the charging port. This makes input lag virtually nonexistent, thanks to robust Bluetooth technology and optimized firmware. The analog sticks offer precise movement, with adjustable tension options available for those seeking ultra-responsive aiming. The triggers and bumpers are satisfyingly tactile, and the face buttons register quick presses with minimal travel.
Even with all the tech packed into the Envision Pro controller, the battery life is impressive, averaging around 20 hours of continuous play. Recharge times are fast as well and the controller supports play-and-charge functionality via USB-C, ensuring you’re never out of the game for long.
SCUF’s customization software deserves special mention offering a user-friendly interface however can be very overwhelming considering the amount of customization options and PC performance it monitors including the heat of all the processor cores, GPU, overall PC heat, processor speed, etc.. Users can calibrate stick sensitivity, remap all buttons, adjust vibration levels, and fine-tune profiles with ease. The software’s cloud-save function syncs settings across devices, making it ideal for gamers who play on multiple PCs or require frequent adjustments for tournament play.
While the Envision Pro is a premium controller, the price point clearly reflects that. However, it is in line with other competitors in the market and is definitely worth consideration for serious gamers seeking an edge. Casual players may find less need for the advanced features, but the Envision Pro offers enough versatility to appeal to a broad spectrum. Despite the price, the Envision Pro sets itself above the rest of the competition, as expected from a company whos heart and soul is poured into this work of art and will, I’m sure, remain a top choice for PC gamers who value control and personalization.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Alienware Area-51 gaming laptops are engineered for maximum power, packed with innovation, and encased in other-worldly design. By fusing an advanced thermal strategy, increasing airflow and elevating power with Intel Core Ultra HX processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs, we're bringing alien-class performance to the most passionate gamers.
Customer Rating
5
Stunning performance and specs in a monster laptop
on July 25, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
Having decades of PC and laptop gaming experience, there are a few companies that have been around as long and carry as much weight as Dell’s Alienware line of gaming hardware and peripherals. Alienware’s Area 51 legacy line of laptops is considered their flagship line and has always set the bar in the ever expanding gaming industry and, to many, could be considered what other competitive gaming manufacturers look to for inspiration. Their latest addition arrives with the new Alienware Area 51 18” gaming laptop promising break-neck speed, stunning visuals, and a design that may look familiar until you open the hood. The lid sports a subtle liquid teal finish with the signature light-up Alienware logo, as you would expect, which you can customize to match the other RGB lighting that surround this beast including the keyboard, mouse trackpad, fans and bezel around the ports on the back. The Area 51 combines the latest high performance Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 24-core 5.4 gigahertz processor, NVIDIA Geforce RTX 5070 Ti graphics card, 2 TB SSD with two additional SSD expansion slots and 32 GB of 6400 MHz DDR5 RAM that come together in unison to provide some of the highest performance I have ever seen in a factory setup.
Considering all the hardware stuffed insider the chassis, this Area 51 is quite heavy, weighing at just under ten pounds so it’s not exactly as easily portable as other, smaller, gaming laptops. Obviously there’s a reason for all the weight, not only because of the hardware, but also because of the larger, stunning, 18” 300 Hz LED display with 2560 x 1600 resolution, the AlienFX fans located behind the transparent Gorilla Glass Cryo-Chamber panel on the bottom of the rig quietly pumping out the heat this beast can produce, a full size keyboard with a number pad (which I always miss having on smaller laptops), a large 6-cell 96.0 Wh battery amongst a plethora of other hardware; you would sacrifice many of these features going with a smaller laptop. The chassis, wrapped in a dark liquid teal color, feels very solid and the zero hinge design for the display also feels sturdy.
This Area 51 laptop is equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, a 24-core, 24-thread processor capable of boosting up to 5.4 gigahertz able to multitask with ease and handle any amount of work you can throw at it. This is paired with 32 GB of 6400 megahertz DDR5 RAM making the system super responsive when multitasking and ultra-fast load times. Although not their highest model, the NVIDIA Geforce RTX 5070 Ti is still very impressive, delivering desktop-class graphics performance in a portable package. Ray tracing and AI-driven graphics enhancements elevate supported games to cinematic heights, while DLSS 4.0 ensures smooth gameplay even in native QHD+ resolutions. In the benchmarks I ran, the notebook consistently posts frame rates well above 200 fps in popular esports titles and maintains over 100 fps in the latest AAA releases at max settings. In comparison, it also rated higher than many desktop gaming PCs hence why I will be swapping out my PC tower with this rig. After already gaming on it for hours, I’m still taken back by the stunning and smooth graphics it produces without overheating and is surprisingly very quiet in comparison to some gaming laptops I have used in the past.
The Area 51 has numerous ports including two USB-C Thunderbolt ports, 3 USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports (one with PowerShare), one HDMI 2.1 output, a RJ-45 Killer E5000 ethernet port on the back side and a full-size SD card slot and headset jack on the side of the rig. Wireless connectivity is top-tier, with the integrated Wi-Fi 7 card providing low-latency connections even in crowded networks, and Bluetooth 5.3 ensuring compatibility with a range of peripherals. It is also compatible with the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology.
One thing I would like to mention is how loud and crisp the speakers are considering they are built into the laptop. They have Dolby Atmos support capable of delivering immersive sound with crisp highs, punchy mids, and surprisingly robust bass. Whether gaming, watching movies, or listening to music, the experience is rich and room-filling. The built-in microphone array and 1080p IR webcam provide excellent clarity for streaming and video conferencing, complete with noise cancellation and Windows Hello facial recognition for added security and convenience.
The Area 51 comes preinstalled with the Alienware Command Center software that remains the central hub for system management, letting users tune performance, lighting and more with intuitive controls. Fortunately, the bloatware is minimal can be easily uninstalled if you prefer.
This Alienware Area 51 18” 300 Hz gaming notebook still stands atop as one of their flagship models for portable gaming combining some of the best hardware and tech capable of delivering unrelenting performance suited for both gamers and content creators. If you demand the best and want to make a hefty investment that should still keep up with the latest technology for a few years, this just might be the machine for you.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Introducing the EcoTank ET-4950~The Ultimate Home Office Printer. Say goodbye to expensive cartridges with the Epson EcoTank ET-4950, the newest innovation from a recognized leader in photographic printing. Combining simplicity with a modern design, the ET-4950 features advanced technology that enhances both performance and print quality, making it an ideal choice for productive office printing~including content created by AI. Powered by PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology, the ET-4950 offers a duty cycle that~s twice as robust as its predecessor (1). And unlike conventional thermal inkjet printers, its unique permanent printhead is engineered to last the life of the printer. Designed to be simple and error-free, refilling ink is a breeze with large ink tanks and uniquely keyed EcoFit bottles~no mess, no stress and no ink bottle mix-ups. And with enough ink in the box to last up to three years (2), you'll enjoy affordable color printing without the hassle of frequently replacing cartridges. Featuring Ethernet and Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity, along with the user-friendly Epson Smart Panel app (3), you can easily print, scan, and more directly from your computer or mobile device (4). Choose Epson EcoTank, the #1 Best-Selling Supertank Printer (5). With more than 100 million units sold globally (6) across seven generations of innovation, EcoTank consistently delivers affordable, photo-quality prints, making it a reliable choice for all your printing needs.
Customer Rating
5
Innovation in printing efficiency and cost saving
on July 17, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
With decades of experience investing in and working with home or office desktop printers, it was always frustrating when it came time to replace costly ink cartridges. I’m sure I’m not the only one that felt this way but I eventually convinced myself it was cheaper to just upgrade to a new printer with new technology that included the ink cartridges versus investing in cartridges for an old machine. Mind you, the last printer I was using also had extra-large ink cartridges and those lasted me nearly three years however I was still dealing with old, slow, tech that often needed to be troubleshot including rebooting, resyncing, etc. That’s when I decided it was time for an upgrade and landed on Epson’s latest EcoTank ET-4950 wireless all-in-one Supertank printer that is, I believe, their flagship model for the ET line.
The ET-4950 promised high-yield ink performance, wireless capability, and true all-in-one versatility. The printer was surprisingly much smaller, measuring approximately 14.8” W x 13.7” D x 9.4” H, and lighter, about 17 pounds, than my last printer which was a beast. It has a modern design that seamlessly integrated into my home office and onto my desk taking up much less space considering the large ink tanks are located on the front of the machine. The 2.4 inch color touchscreen is relatively small compared to some printers I have used in the past, however still works great and responds quickly to touch. You can easily navigate through the print, scan and copy settings and is easy to understand without having to rely on instructions. It features a 250-sheet front-loading paper tray and a rear specialty feed, supporting various media sizes and types, from envelopes to glossy photo paper.
Perhaps its defining feature which, in my opinion set it aside from the competition, is its EcoTank system which is four separate refillable, extra-large ink tanks that eliminate the need for cartridges. The included ink bottles provide enough ink for thousands of print jobs which not only reduces the frequency and cost of refills, it reduces plastic waste. Initial setup was a breeze as the smart phone application walked me through the process with step-by-step easy to understand instructions and took about 15-30 minutes to finish including the time it took to automatically adjust the print settings after filling the tanks. After the initial set up and printing a test page, I jumped straight into printing a colorful photo onto glossy printer paper and I was amazed at the color, brightness and sharpness of the photo as if I paid to have it printed somewhere.
Speaking of performance-related specs, the ET-4950 can print at a rate of up to 18 pages per minute (ppm) for black and 9.0 ppm for color. It has a maximum print resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi and you can really see the clarity of any colorful documents you print; text is sharp, graphics are smooth, and photos are detailed and richly colored. It is able to print double-sided reducing paper consumption. The copy and scanner is very efficient and fast with a maximum resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi. The 35-page automatic document feeder can handle legal size (8.5” x 14”) documents. It supports Wi-Fi 5 with mesh connectivity, Wi-Fi Direct, Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print Mopria Print Service and Epson’s Smart Panel app which you’ll have to download for remote management and I feel works better than some of the other print services. If you’re “old-school”, It also has an ethernet connection if you prefer that. I haven’t tried it yet or would know what it would work to print but it also has Voice-Activated Printing that is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free operation. You are reminded of maintenance, which is basically ensuring the ink cartridges are filled, print heads are cleaned and aligned, etc. (stuff you get used to after dealing with printers for so long) through the software you can download through Epson’s support website, via the smart phone application or on the color touchscreen.
Overall, the Epson EcoTank ET-4950 has plenty of bells and whistles to cover all the bases of an at-home or office printer, is compact and light considering the tech packed inside it, steps up on the innovative front and should not be overwhelming for even beginner users. I would recommend it to anyone in the market for a great printer investment with peace of mind that you won’t be paying up the Waa zoo for replacement cartridges eventually.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The LifePro BioHeal Red Light Panel is designed to enhance healing, recovery, and skin health. By deeply penetrating the skin, red and near-infrared light boosts cellular repair, reduces joint pain, and accelerates muscle recovery. Whether you're an athlete, dealing with inflammation, or looking for anti-aging benefits, this portable, easy-to-use device delivers powerful, science-backed results.
Customer Rating
4
Red light therapy for wellness and recovery
on July 6, 2025
Posted by: Grouticus
Easily one of the most trending products in today’s health and wellness industry is the ever-expanding options for at-home red light therapy. I jumped on this bandwagon a few years ago starting with what limited options we had at the time which was a simple flashlight. Over the past year or two I have expanded my inventory with a face mask and the latest addition, the new LifePro Bioheal red light panel in an attempt to treat my entire body for pain relief, skin rejuvenation, and muscle recovery.
Considering the box that the Bioheal panel is packaged in does not give many product specifics and did not come with a user manual even though the box said it did, I had to do a little digging myself to find out more details and how to use it correctly. The panel itself is relatively light and easy to place and store almost anywhere. The package includes hanging screws, hanging cables, two protective eyeglasses, a hanging pulley, a door hook and a 9-foot power cable. We decided to set it up for use in our formal entry room since it is so nonchalant and wouldn’t stand out. Set up was very simple using the power cord and use is pretty much self-explanatory with no reliance on instructions using simple to understand buttons for power, red and near-infrared light and a timer.
This light panel contains 60 lights which can combine wavelengths of 660nm (red) and 850nm (near-infrared) LEDs, targeting both surface and deeper tissues. The red wavelength is used for its effects on skin health, collagen production, and inflammation, while the near-infrared can penetrate to treat muscle and joint tissue for relief from soreness and stiffness. During or after use, you can expect to feel a sense of warmness which can be strange initially considering the panel and lights remain cool thanks to effective heat dissipation and the fans located on the back of the panel. Over days of use, I have personally noticed reduced muscle soreness and less recovery times between workouts. I have recently started using it on my back since I have suffered from back pain and stiffness for over a decade and hope that eventually I will start to notice a difference there as well. Since I was already using red light therapy on my face using a different device, I noticed brighter and more even skin tone and hope that with enough use the Bioheal panel will also do the same for the rest of my aging body.
The LifePro Bioheal Red Light Panel is a convenient red light therapy option for at-home or office use thanks to its compact size, versatility, and ease of use. Obviously, like all things therapy and wellness related, results WILL vary depending on regular, consistent use and recommend doing your homework to find out what might work best with your specific needs as this is not a cure-all device but another tool for better health and wellness.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Clean your home with voice command or app-based programs by using this Samsung robot vacuum. Its digital camera and nine sensors let it find its way around, avoiding obstacles and mapping the most efficient path through your home. Wi-Fi connects this powerful Samsung robot vacuum to your smart home systems.
Can this robot machine vacuum carpet for one hour?
Yes, from my experience with a new machine and battery, it appears to be able to vacuum for about an hour before having to dock and charge.
7 years, 5 months ago
by
Grouticus
Enjoy your music while training with these Under Armour wireless headphones. These audio devices are sweat proof and have TwistLock technology to keep the earpieces in place through any workout. Designed by JBL, these Under Armour wireless headphones meet the highest audio standards and provide up to 8 hours of battery life to last many workouts.
Do they have a microphone and can the microphone be worn in either ear
They have a microphone on the power/volume control piece that is part of the wire and hangs closer to the right ear bud side, not in the ear bud itself.
8 years, 9 months ago
by
Grouticus