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  • Review count
    140
  • Helpfulness votes
    274
  • First review
    August 11, 2014
  • Last review
    April 17, 2024
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  • Average rating
    4.5
 
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  • Answer count
    28
  • Helpfulness votes
    34
  • First answer
    May 12, 2016
  • Last answer
    January 21, 2022
  • Featured answers
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cinsteadofak's Reviews
<< 1 ... 10 11 12 13 14
 
Bring the power of Google directly to your fingertips with the Google Pixel. A large 32GB of storage keep data secure, while unlimited cloud storage transfers data as needed, and it's completely automatic. The large 5-inch screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4 to ensure the Google Pixel remains scratch-free.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Best Android phone, thanks to the Note 7 recall
on October 25, 2016
Posted by: cinsteadofak
Google’s first attempt at a high-end phone with 4GB of RAM, 32 or 128GB of ROM, and unlimited storage provides fresh competition against the iPhone and Samsung flagship phones dominating the market. Since this phone is made by Google, the Pixel will receive security updates first and will likely be the only Android phone to have Google Assistant. I am glad the Pixel chose not to add a curved display and removed the unnecessary home button.
After many requests from Samsung and Verizon (as well as the safety commission), it was time turn off my Note 7. After trying out the Pixel, I realized that I really liked the always-on display and the microSD card slot on the Note 7, so I hope Google decides to add these features on future phones. In addition, in the past I used the Galaxy S7 for a short time, but felt the screen was too small and did not like the feel of it. Even though the screen size of the Pixel is smaller than the Note 7, it didn’t bother me as much as much as the S7 screen.
For a premium phone, the Pixel has left out some important features. Samsung has the advantage with the iris scanner, wireless charging, onboard stylus, always-on display, dual speakers, and water resistance. Apple has the advantage with dual speakers, optimized programs, water resistance, and Siri. However, Google has the advantage with priority security updates, unlimited cloud storage, and Google Assistant. I feel Google should bring more to the table (for example, at least including water resistance) in order to win over Samsung and Apple customers. Even though all three of these phone manufacturers use a fingerprint scanner, I do not understand why it is not built into the main screen of the Pixel instead of on the back.
I am not going to debate which camera is better since there are many variables that can skew the results (which is why DSLR cameras have so many different available lenses). I am also not going to talk about the performance difference between Apple iPhone and the Google Pixel since Apple has control over its software vendors and is able to maximize program efficiency, and Android is open-sourced.

Pros
Unlimited cloud space
4GB of RAM
Headphone jack
Fingerprint scanner on back
Fast charging USB-C port
Cons
Missing microSD slot
Small screen compared to phone size (wasted space on top and bottom of phone)
Not water resistant
One speaker (the other cutout is a microphone)
No wireless charging
No always on display
Since the Galaxy Note 7 is no longer on the market, the Pixel or Pixel XL would be the phones for me. Being the first to have updated security patches and unlimited storage makes this phone a must-have. Since the phone performance can compete with the iPhone and Note in terms of photos, speed, and display, I would recommend this phone to anyone who would like an Android phone.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
-2points
0of 2voted this as helpful.
 
Power through your weekly carpet clean with this Shark Rocket with DuoClean complete upright vacuum. It eliminates particles both large and small, and the deep-cleaning bristle brush breaks through embedded dirt to ensure a deeper clean. Plenty of space for debris ensures this Shark Rocket with DuoClean complete upright vacuum is practical for your everyday cleaning needs.BR>
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Compact vacuum with versatility
on September 29, 2016
Posted by: cinsteadofak
I have been using this vacuum for about a week now and have been very impressed with it so far. I liked that the directions were on the packaging, since many people don’t like to spend time thumbing through the owner’s manual. I was also impressed with how many accessories were included. Often you would have to spend about $50-$100 more to receive what was included (see photos). There is an attachment that allows you to clean under appliances, but although I could fit it under the fridge, I could not fit it under the stove or the washer/dryer, as the clearance is only ¾ inch. If this attachment was about half as slim, it would probably be more useful.
Overall, when it comes to versatility, this vacuum has it. You can use it as a normal carpet/hardwood vacuum or a handheld, upholstery vacuum. You can even remove the middle chamber and connect the handheld directly to the base and use it to deep clean the stairs.
With the double rollers, I noticed it picked up even more dust/dirt than my Dyson.
The vacuum is also very quiet compared to my Dyson and other full sized vacuums I have owned. I used a sound meter and determined the sound emitted from this vacuum is 75-80 dB (a little louder than busy traffic or a ringing cell phone). It is nice to be able to have a conversation while cleaning.
One thing to note is that this vacuum is top heavy and cannot stand upright while fully assembled. For storage, you have two options: hang the handle/dust bin on the lower assembly, or install a hanging clip on a wall.
Pros:
Compact size
Bagless
Versatile
Does not lose suction
Quiet
Cons:
Small path width (about 9”)
Corded
Filters require monthly maintenance
Not free-standing
Air discharge is on back
Even though this may not be able to replace a full size vacuum due to its small sweeper path width, it will serve its purpose by getting in tight areas and on the stairs where I cannot bring my bulky Dyson. If you live in a small apartment or a dorm and can only afford one vacuum, this vacuum would fit your needs.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Brew delicious coffee your way with this single-serve Ninja Coffee Bar system. It uses any ground coffee while bringing out the best flavor with advanced thermal flavor extraction technology. This versatile Ninja Coffee Bar system has a built-in frother that lets you brew, froth and drink out of one mug.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Great varietity of coffee for the single drinker
on September 22, 2016
Posted by: cinsteadofak
Since I am the only one in my family who drinks coffee, I do not require a full pot. I purchased a Black & Decker Brew 'N Go a few years ago, but have had problems with the water overflowing in the filter from time to time. Ninja has really thought of a way to make this coffee machine almost error proof. There is a drip stop lever to prevent dripping after removing the mug/cup, and a warning beep if the lever is left in place during brewing. A very easy-to-follow recipe book is included, with 40 different coffeehouse-style beverages. I was able to make salted caramel coffee with a warm froth layer that you would think a barista whipped up, and then follow that up with a 20 ounce vanilla iced coffee. I was hoping this kit would include a mug or a cup, but my version did not (CF110 series).
I received my Ninja Coffee Bar with a small crack in the water reservoir. It appears that the small holes which hold the flip-top water reservoir lid in place weakened the plastic.
Pros:
Cup platform to prevent splashing of coffee from drip
Built-in frother
Reusable filter (can use paper filters too)
Unit pauses to prevent overflow in the filter
Cons:
Holes in water reservoir to secure flip-top water reservoir lid creates a weak point (arrived cracked)
Takes up a lot of kitchen counter space [9(W)"x9(D)"x14.5(H)"]
Pricey for a mostly plastic coffee maker
Conclusion:
With all the available features on this coffee maker and its flexibility in producing many different varieties of coffee, I would recommend this to only individuals who like experimenting with different drinks everyday. If you can live with the average cup of "joe" or have many cups to make in the morning with very little time, then the Ninja Coffee bar is not for you.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Prevent dead zones around your home with the help of this Linksys Wi-Fi range extender. It works with all types of Wi-Fi routers, and it uses multi-user MIMO for speed and efficiency. This Linksys Wi-Fi range extender can be used to create a different access point or to extend the field of the router’s connection.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great Wi-Fi extender for Max-Stream routers
on June 2, 2016
Posted by: cinsteadofak
I received this Linksys Next-gen AC Max-Stream AC1900+ Wi-Fi Range Extender to cover the weak signal, outside our all brick home, from my Linksys Max-Stream AC5400 MU-MIMO Gigabit Router.
The quick start guide instructions to install the extender were easy to follow. However, finding the "sweet spot" to place the extender was not well explainded by Linksys. The back of the box makes you think it is part of their app and you can use your phone to place the extender (see photo). I looked all through the Smart Wi-Fi app and searched online for an answer without success. I finally looked through the setup menus and located the Spot Finder at http://re7000-xxx/wireless/spot_finder.shtml (xxx= last 3 digits of MAC address for the extender - see photo). I really think Linksys should make this more clear. Hopefully Linksys will read this review and add it to their app.
I had no problem connecting to the extended network, and found the reliablity the same as the router. I would recommend this extender to anyone who has deadspots in their Wifi and already owns a Max-Stream router.
Pros
Extends a home Wifi signal without dropping connection
No loss of speed or connectivity
Cons
Spot finder located in browser window
Front outlet omitted
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Your household is busy streaming media, working online, and playing games every day. This Linksys Wi-Fi Router will expand your network coverage, send signals directly to your devices, and deliver a lag-free connection, even when you’re all online at the same time.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Great router, with a few caveats
on May 21, 2016
Posted by: cinsteadofak
I received this router to replace a Netgear R6300 v1 router. I ran a few tests on my old router before disconnecting it and compared the results against my new one. I did not notice much of a performance increase during a speed test comparing the two routers (with only one device connected). However, I did notice a big difference when I had multiple devices connected, while downloading at the same time. With more and more household devices using Wi-Fi, such as the thermostat, printer, TV, and even the fridge, I can see the value in a router that manages multiple tasks and uses multiple bands.

Pros:
2 bands 5GHz (for game systems, media players, and computers)
1 band 2.4GHz (for printers, remotes, and thermostats)
Fairly easy to set up and use the phone app to manage Wi-Fi
1.4GHz dual-core processor to ensure faster data transfer
Antennas can be moved in many different positions to provide a great Wi-Fi signal
Cons:
Large size takes up a lot more space than most routers (10.5"x9" base without antennas)
Aesthetically, it unfortunately resembles a large spider
During setup, I had to power cycle the router manually to reconnect to the internet (I would expect the router to cycle itself during setup)
High price
Conclusion:
If you are looking for the top-of-the-line fastest router on the market for your data hungry, movie streaming, online game playing family, then this is the best...for now. However, there are other great routers out there if you do not require the latest and best technology or are just unwilling to pay for it.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
This Just Wireless 13002 vehicle charger features 2 USB ports with a 3.4-amp, 5V output to deliver sustained power to your USB-enabled devices. The included 5' Lightning cable allows you to charge compatible Apple® devices.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Powerful, versitile charger in small package
on May 12, 2016
Posted by: cinsteadofak
from Minneapolis, MN
Verified Purchase:Yes
I am very happy with this charger and believe it is worth the money.
Pros:
-Small size
-Two usb ports - Can use different usb cables to charge devices.
-High amp and volt output (fast charge)
Con:
-I would like for this to have a feature to locate your vehicle in a parking lot using your phone (assuming the charger is plugged in).
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Samsung Notebook 9 pro Laptop: Get work done and stay entertained with this versatile laptop. You can watch movies and TV shows in rich detail on the 15.6" touch screen, which displays a 4K UHD picture. Pair your devices using the Bluetooth 4.0 interface, and connect to an HDTV using the HDMI output.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Great laptop with minor quirks
on December 29, 2015
Posted by: cinsteadofak
from Minneapolis, MN
Verified Purchase:Yes
I was having a hard time looking for a laptop which met my needs. I wanted a laptop built from metal, not plastic, at least a 1080p display, and dedicated video card for gaming. In order to get the specs of this computer in an Apple laptop, I would have spent more than $2500, so this is a steal in comparison.
However, it does have its downsides. I have noticed this laptop sometimes wakes up from the sleep state with the lid closed. I have also had error alerts from both the internal and dedicated video card while searching the web.
The problem must have been fixed about the green/blue screen color, since I have not experienced this issue.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
+2points
6of 10voted this as helpful.
 
Samsung UN40H6203AFXZA LED HDTV: This Samsung TV features a 1080p display, so you can enjoy your favorite shows, movies, games and sports with clear, crisp details, and 2 USB ports so you can connect your camera and more. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you wirelessly stream music, movies and TV shows.
 
Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Great picture quality, but "smart" features slow
on November 16, 2014
Posted by: cinsteadofak
from Minneapolis, MN
Verified Purchase:Yes
The picture quality is amazing. Even with fast movements in movies there is no blurring. My only complaint would be that amazon prime/netflix takes about 5 minutes to "prepare the TV' after turning the TV on. I have had amazon prime take more than 10 minutes to load after waiting 5 minutes for the TV to get "prepared" and end up having to restart the TV due to it locking up. If this review was only about a basic TV then I would give it 5 stars, but the smart part of the TV only gets 1 to 2 stars.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
+20points
20of 20voted this as helpful.
 
Take a variety of digital files with you on the go with this SanDisk Cruzer SDCZ60-008G-A46 USB 2.0 flash drive, which offers an 8GB capacity for ample storage space. The USB connector retracts to help protect it from damage, helping to keep your data safe.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Fast flash drive but feels cheap
on August 11, 2014
Posted by: cinsteadofak
from Minneapolis, MN
Verified Purchase:Yes
Like all companies, Sandisk is always looking for ways to drop their production costs. In premium lines like this, I would expect the flash drive to be made of metal, but instead the build quality is the same as the lower end models. However, I do believe Sandisk has the edge when it comes to reliability and speed. I am just disappointed when a company doesn't spend a few more cents to make a product stand out.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
What's great about it: Fast transfer rates
What's not so great: All plastic parts
I would recommend this to a friend!
Ease of Use
5 out of 5
5
Performance
5 out of 5
5
Capacity
5 out of 5
5
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Step up to high-speed USB 3.0 and transfer your videos, photos and files up to ten times faster than standard USB 2.0 drives. SanDisk Ultra® USB 3.0 Flash Drive takes the wait out of moving, sharing or backing up big files—now you can transfer a full-length movie from your laptop to your flash drive in less than a minute. Password protection lets you keep your private files private, while still being able to share generously with family and friends. And, with a sleek, sturdy SanDisk Ultra USB 3.0 Flash Drive in your pocket, you won’t need an internet connection to access those photos and videos any place or any time you want. For more than 25 years, SanDisk has been known for quality and reliability all around the world.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great flash drive for the price
on August 11, 2014
Posted by: cinsteadofak
from Minneapolis, MN
Verified Purchase:Yes
I remember my first flash drive by Sandisk. It was a titanium series 512mg flash drive made of metal and well built. Sandisk still has a great product, but the build quality has really declined.
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
What's great about it: Fast transfer speeds
What's not so great: Made of plastic
I would recommend this to a friend!
Ease of Use
5 out of 5
5
Performance
5 out of 5
5
Capacity
5 out of 5
5
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
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cinsteadofak's Answers
<< 1 2 3 >>
 
Automate your home lighting with this Peace by Hampton smart color LED light bulb. A full spectrum of colors and shades of white deliver custom ambiance. The Peace By Hampton app lets you control, dim, create scenes and automations from anywhere. Use vacation mode for security when you’re away. You can even use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistants to control the lights with your voice.
 

Can i use this in a covered outdoor fixture? Thanks.

These bulbs state: "Suitable for damp locations. Not for use in totally enclosed luminaries." They are also not to be used on dimmer switches.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Dell Inspiron Convertible 2-in-1 Laptop: Smart meets sleek in this compact 2-in-1. 15" laptop with a heat dissipating hinge design, full-size Dell Premium Active Pen, adaptive thermals, 4k UHD screen and full number pad. Work efficiently while on the go with this Dell Inspiron two-in-one notebook. The 15.6-inch Ultra HD touch screen with Active Pen support lets you create sketches with precise detail, and 16GB of RAM handle seamless multitasking. This Dell Inspiron two-in-one notebook features a 512GB SSD for prompt data access, and the Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce MX250 graphics card enable intensive photo and video editing.
 

Is Microsoft 10 installed?

Yes, Window 10 Home is installed.
4 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Always know what’s happening at your door with the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro. Its crystal-clear 1080p HD video and 162° field of view give you a clear shot of your property 24/7. Two-way audio lets you hear and speak to unwanted guests (and welcomed ones too) - even when you're not home. Have the SimpliSafe App? The Video Doorbell Pro will send instant alerts whenever someone approaches. And with Smart Person Detection, it can tell the difference between people, vehicles and animals. That means you only get the alerts that matter. Plus, when backed by 24/7 professional monitoring, you’ll have experts who are ready to request emergency dispatch when you need it most. This camera is designed for all weather extremes—so you're still protected in rain and snow. (Compatible with the SimpliSafe Gen 3 security system. Requires Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) and existing wired doorbell setup with mechanical chime and a transformer with 8-24 VAC, 30VA max. Not compatible with digital chimes.)
 

What are the exact dimensions (height, width and depth) of the actual doorbell unit.

Product Width 2.91 inches
Product Height 6.65 inches
Product Depth 4.48 inches
Product Weight 0.7 pounds
5 years, 5 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Always know what’s happening at your door with the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro. Its crystal-clear 1080p HD video and 162° field of view give you a clear shot of your property 24/7. Two-way audio lets you hear and speak to unwanted guests (and welcomed ones too) - even when you're not home. Have the SimpliSafe App? The Video Doorbell Pro will send instant alerts whenever someone approaches. And with Smart Person Detection, it can tell the difference between people, vehicles and animals. That means you only get the alerts that matter. Plus, when backed by 24/7 professional monitoring, you’ll have experts who are ready to request emergency dispatch when you need it most. This camera is designed for all weather extremes—so you're still protected in rain and snow. (Compatible with the SimpliSafe Gen 3 security system. Requires Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) and existing wired doorbell setup with mechanical chime and a transformer with 8-24 VAC, 30VA max. Not compatible with digital chimes.)
 

Does this camera link to existing SimpliSafe alarm system.

This doorbell uses the same app as the alarm system. There is an option to add addition equipment, including this doorbell.
5 years, 5 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Create delectable drinks and meals using this Blendtec Classic 575 5-Speed blender, which features preprogrammed cycles for smoothies, cleaning and 60- and 90-second blending for simple operation. The LCD timer shows the blend time remaining at a glance.
 

Can this blender grind nuts, and seeds, like chia and flax seeds into a smooth powder?

I had no problem blending any nuts into powder, but I had a hard time turning almonds into almond butter after the powder phase. The lack of a tamper left the mixture not as well mixed as my Vitamix.
6 years, 5 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Create delectable drinks and meals using this Blendtec Classic 575 5-Speed blender, which features preprogrammed cycles for smoothies, cleaning and 60- and 90-second blending for simple operation. The LCD timer shows the blend time remaining at a glance.
 

Does this blender include the wide side jar?

Mine included the 32 ounce / 1000ml Wildside+ jar.
6 years, 5 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Completely customize your Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat to match your lifestyle and decor. The ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat lets you choose the temperature, schedule, display color and the devices you use to control it all.
 

How do I know if I have a C-wire in the wall where my old Honeywell thermostat was? Is there a way to make this work if I do not have a c-wire?

You require a common wire (C wire - usually blue) to power on the unit since it does not take batteries. I think there is a workaround, but you need to call Honeywell support to make sure.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Completely customize your Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat to match your lifestyle and decor. The ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat lets you choose the temperature, schedule, display color and the devices you use to control it all.
 

How can I determine if I have the "C" wire? Do I have to remove the existing thermostat?

Easiest way to check is pull any batteries out of the old thermostat and look for a wire (normally blue) is connected to the C spot. If the old unit supports being powered by the common wire, then the unit will turn on without batteries. This will not work if the old thermostat requires batteries and a connection to the C spot.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Completely customize your Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat to match your lifestyle and decor. The ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat lets you choose the temperature, schedule, display color and the devices you use to control it all.
 

Does this support the same wiring configurations as the Nest 3rd gen? I live in an apartment and cannot run extra wiring for the HVAC system.

User submitted photo
Yes this unit uses the same wire configuration as the Nest 3rd gen. Since I only have one zone/stage and use forced air for heating and cooling, all I needed to use was the Y, G, W, C, and R spots. The ports on the back of the Nest 3rd gen look identical to this unit, but in a circle formation.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
 
Completely customize your Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat to match your lifestyle and decor. The ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat lets you choose the temperature, schedule, display color and the devices you use to control it all.
 

Only have 2 wires on thermostat where do I put them on new one if I run 2 new wires from a 24 volt transformer where do I put them on what terminals help??

I would call Honeywell support. It sounds as if your setup will not work with this unit, but would need more information to make sure.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak