cinsteadofak's stats
- Review count140
- Helpfulness votes274
- First reviewAugust 11, 2014
- Last reviewApril 17, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.5
Reviews comments
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- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentNone
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- Featured review comments0
Questions
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- Answer count28
- Helpfulness votes34
- First answerMay 12, 2016
- Last answerJanuary 21, 2022
- Featured answers0
- Best answers4
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
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
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
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!
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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
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.
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
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
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!
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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
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
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
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!
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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
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
Extends a home Wifi signal without dropping connection
No loss of speed or connectivity
Cons
Spot finder located in browser window
Front outlet omitted
Spot finder located in browser window
Front outlet omitted
My Best Buy number: 2921871066
I would recommend this to a friend!
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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
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
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
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.
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!
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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
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)
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).
-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!
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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
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.
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!
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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
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!
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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
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
Performance
5
Capacity
5
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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
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
Performance
5
Capacity
5
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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.
Can you control this by an app on your phone?
You can control this thermostat by using the touch screen, app, the website, or Alexa/Google Home. This unit is awesome.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
The Shark ION Robot is designed with a Tri-Brush System, combining side brushes, channel brushes, and a multi-surface brushroll to handle debris on all surfaces, corners, and edges. Use the SharkClean app or voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant to start cleaning from anywhere Shark ION Robot.
We have thick pads under our area rugs, will the ION-Robot be able to get over the height of the area rugs? We have several of them throughout the house. We bought a RUMBA and it was not able to get over them.
It really depends on the height it must climb. I have rugs over a half inch thick and mine made it over with no problem.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
Complete your cleaning routine with this Shark IONFLEX vacuum. Its 2x ION power pack system includes two LiIon batteries to provide backup power and longer run time, and it bends to reach floors under low-lying furniture thanks to its MultiFLEX technology. Convert this Shark IONFLEX vacuum into a handheld vac to clean ceilings and small corners.
How do you clean the roller?
Remove the soft roller from the vacuum using the pull tab and clean only with plain water. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours before reinstalling.
6 years, 7 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
Improve your audio experience with this Samsung three-channel soundbar. This unit, which has a built-in subwoofer, channels high-resolution full-spectrum sound and eliminates the need for an extra bass speaker. Use 4K pass-through to connect your Blu-ray player or other UHD device to the Samsung three-channel soundbar for stunning multi-channel audio and a clear picture.
Regardless of the fact that it has one built in, will this wirelessly pair with a Samsung wireless subwoofer?
You can add wireless speakers and a sub-woofer using the Samsung Multiroom app to create a surround sound experience. I cannot say if the Samsung wireless sub-woofer you currently own is compatible, but I would be surprised if is not.
6 years, 10 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
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.
Why advertise it as only available for VERIZON if it is unlocked and can be used on other networks? Sounds like poor advertising by Best Buy, buyers will just go directly to google since they don't make it confusing. Just my thoughts.
Google decided to allow Verizon to lock some of their phones on their network. Best Buy is currently only allowed to sell phones locked on Verizon networks. If you want to be able to purchase an unlocked phone to use on any other network, then you must purchase directly from Google. Maybe Google will allow Best Buy to sell unlocked phones later, but I don't know.
7 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
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.
so i wanna get the pixel but with out getting a verizon contract how would i do so?
If you want to buy it unlocked, you will have to purchase directly from google or maybe BestBuy has that option too. If you want to buy it without a contract, you can do that through BestBuy or any vendor. Even Verizon's website allows you to purchase the phone without a contract.
7 years, 6 months ago
by
cinsteadofak
Only at Best BuyEasily charge and sync your compatible Apple® iPhone®, iPad® or iPod® with this 3' Modal MD-LA5SCP Lightning cable that features flashing blue lights that indicate the charge status.
Does this work with an iphone 6s?
My wife has the iPhone 6s and it charges her phone without a problem.
8 years ago
by
cinsteadofak
Only at Best BuyEasily charge and sync your compatible Apple® iPhone®, iPad® or iPod® with this 3' Modal MD-LA5SCP Lightning cable that features flashing blue lights that indicate the charge status.
Does it charge as fast as the apple lightning cable?
I have not noticed a difference when charging my wife's iPhone with the OEM lightning cable vs the cable which came with this charger.
8 years ago
by
cinsteadofak