GadgetGuy1981's stats
- Review count191
- Helpfulness votes390
- First reviewJune 23, 2016
- Last reviewJune 14, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
Reviews comments
- Review comment count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentNone
- Last review commentNone
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count83
- Helpfulness votes240
- First answerJanuary 15, 2011
- Last answerOctober 15, 2021
- Featured answers0
- Best answers18
Clean your carpets efficiently with this iRobot Roomba vacuum. It lets you set a schedule for automated vacuuming, and the sensors help it navigate under furniture and around objects on the floor for a more thorough cleaning job. This iRobot Roomba vacuum has internal brushes, agitators and suction to handle debris and pet hair.
Customer Rating
3
Louder and less power than higher models
on August 2, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Cincinnati, OH
The 690 is a good Roomba for a small apartment or single room. Coming from a higher 900 series device my opinion might be a bit skewed but the new 600-series does have all of the improved optics and cleaning accuracy that come with the higher end units but seems to be better suited to carpet than hard floors. Again, if you're looking for multi-room, multi-floor capabilities, seek out an 800 or 900 series Roomba.
On carpets, in a single room, the 690 has become a keeper in our carpeted master bedroom. It's about the same noise level as comparable robot vacs, but only has one suction level, and is quiet enough to still enjoy TV or
Music in nearby rooms when it's running.
Music in nearby rooms when it's running.
The battery life is MUCH improved over previous 6XX models I've used, and this one has adopted the accessories and body style of the last-gen higher end units. All in all Roomba seems like a more aligned product line. The line and area sensors work well to keep the vac out of a room or space, or away from the Christmas Tree/dog bowls/other unvaccumables. Definitely a well-made, easy to maintain product that takes away one more chore!!
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
1of 2voted this as helpful.
Listen to music all day with these JLab JBuds Pro earbuds. The adjustable tip placement provided by the three gel tip sizes delivers comfortable wear, while the two Cush Fins offer a deeper sound-sealing fit. The 10mm titanium drivers of these JLab JBuds Pro earbuds produce high-quality audio for a dynamic listening experience.
Customer Rating
3
Value-oriented BT buds... Audio Quality is OK...
on July 15, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Cincinnati, OH
These buds prove that JLAB is trying to get their hat in a VERY crowded ring... There must be dozens of BT headphones to choose from on my every visit to Best Buy - A few new every time. These are certainly aiming for the entry of this market at their price point, and for the entry level, they're not bad.
They are light, seem to be well made (enough). but the audio quality is EXTREMELY tinny... No bass to speak of, despite the appearance of large drivers that MIGHT just be industrial design cues rather than actual engineered drivers for full sound. The cables are also very THIN which makes for light, un-noticeable use (which most users prefer) but the cords being so soft and thin also lead to easy crimping - Just pulling the ties off of them when opening from new put a permanent crimp in one part of the cable.
Battery life is VERY good, as I was able to charge these once and user them for an entire weekend of listening for a few hours a day and a few miles of walking in addition. These were extremely comfortable and light during my brisk walk, and should work well for running or gym workouts also.
All in all, if you're looking for sub-$50 wireless buds, these are a good choice, but investing more WILL get you much more from the competition. These will NOT compete with the likes of Jabra, Plantronics, Beats, or JBL on audio quality but you pay MUCH more for this portability and if deep music isn't your taste, these will satisfy you with good battery life and easy storage/ comfortable use.
JLAB seems to be finding their place as a value-oriented "good enough" producer of audio accessories. I've had very BAD products from them and VERY GOOD ones. These are closer to the GOOD side for me!
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+32points
34of 36voted this as helpful.
Toss this waterproof LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker in the pool and watch it float. The crisp audio doesn't stop for snow, dirt or ice, and this Bluetooth-enabled speaker can withstand a drop from 1.2m. The battery of this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker keeps going for 15 hours, and it charges your phone while it's playing.
Customer Rating
5
Rugged, Great sound, Excellent Design
on June 26, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Cincinnati, OH
I knew when I got my AQ11 that it was going to be a great device. Immediately when opening the package I could tell this was a cool design and not just because of the Lifeproof-usual material and ruggedness, but also for the fact that this thing is a cool design - Handle/Grips on four corners, and its the perfect "boom box" size.
This thing has a GREAT compartment for USB or Stereo AUX cable and phone storage that's WATERPROOF... This thing will ROCK at the beach or the pool - And keep your phone or iPod safe...
The speaker also features audio controls that use AVRCP over Bluetooth and work when hard wired. All of the controls are rubber-coated and sealed. The ports on the device for charging or AUX-IN that aren't part of the sealed phone compartment have their own sealed door that keeps water out.
This speaker even tolerated my "throw around the backyard" test of rugged devices and didn't even scratch! It hit the concrete and dug into the dirt and wiped clean!
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Listen to music hands-free with this LG wireless headset. It lets you answer or ignore a call with voice commands, and the wireless earbuds charge when they're resting inside the neckband, ensuring they're ready for use. The neckband of this LG wireless headset provides vibration alerts for incoming calls and texts, so you'll never miss a message.
Customer Rating
5
The TONE series comes into the 21st century!
on June 14, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
I've been an avid collector of bluetooth audio devices since the first A2DP devices came onto the market over 10 years ago. I've had the best, and the cheap disposable stuff. One thing that I never jumped on due to general unimpressed feedback from friends and my own tinkering with their own units, was LG's TONE series. I just didn't get how someone could comfortably wear that neckband and dangle those little buds by little cables and comfortably do anything (or be seen in public wearing such a thing).
But NOW with the opportunity to examine the TONE Free model, I'm a convert! The band fits nicely into my shirt collar discreetly (I have a pretty large neck) and the buds, which are now independently wireless and charge inside the neckband, pop out easily and are easily returned to the neckband when no longer needed.
The wireless buds themselves are a bit of a new design. I like the way they snap-in to the neckband, but they have a SLIGHTLY awkward shape for my particular ear. They're expected to be sort of "twisted" into your ear canal and outer ear space for a snug fit. I got a good seal and a snug fit, despite my discomfort at first with doing this, and despite the small appearance of the ear plugs, where I usually demand a much larger style. These had no problems with seal and experienced audio quality based on a good seal.
On to audio quality itself - When I first paired the unit(s) I struggled with the Master vs others scenario where you can separately pair each earbud to different audio sources for monaural use. As a result, I got choppy, disconnected audio from both sides once I tried sending a stereo signal to both. Starting over and pairing the Master bluetooth LE identity cleared this up, Ive since been impressed with both spoken word and musical quality, though those that prefer hard bass may not find these satisfying like PowerBeats or the like... I would describe the audio as more "real" than "deep"... Still plenty of bass to make rock sound full and voices to sound live... Very good tuning just not for everyone as is the case with most in-ear solutions... Excellent volume even on airplanes and in loud public areas, again likely due to the excellent seal of the devices.
Overall these are my first TONEs but not my last if this quality level and industrial design continues to evolve. My friends are now jealous that they didn't wait for the fully wireless versions and I can finally take these anywhere with all day access under my collar for a quick call or a discreet musical escape!
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Replace the keyboard of your Microsoft Surface Pro 7, 6, 5 or 4 with this silver Brydge keyboard. It conveniently lets you open the screen at your preferred viewing angle without a kickstand, and its backlit keys increase visibility in low light working environments. This Brydge keyboard is lightweight, so it doesn't add extra bulk to your device.
Customer Rating
4
Good keyboard option - Less interesting than OEM
on June 14, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
This keyboard does what it intends to do well. Its got good key travel and a decent touchpad, but for its size and relative bulk, I just wish it did something else! If you're looking for a way to extend the functionality of your Surface Pro tablet into a lap-capable laptop, this thing works great. Its capable of supporting the Surface Pro 3, Surface Pro 4, AND the newly announced 2017 Surface Pro tablets... It has great backlighting and excellent battery life.
The keyboard, as mentioned, does add significant bulk to the tablet and honestly, without it augmenting power or adding LTE or storage to the device, I don't see the benefit (besides lap-ability) vs the native Microsoft offering. If this thing was a hotspot too and an extended battery for the Surface Pro that would be amazing!
Even so, its a good product for what it claims to do. Simple and well designed with premium materials. Not much more you could ask for, but if you want to eschew the bulk of it, Microsoft's own type cover with fingerprint reader adds a security feature and will seem more like a tablet cover for tabletop typing use cases.
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
-1point
0of 1voted this as helpful.
Keep your SoundLink Revolve or Revolve+ Bluetooth speaker charged and ready to go, with the SoundLink Revolve charging dock. It’s a convenient home base for your speaker, and you can play your music while it charges. Just plug the wall charger included with your speaker into the cradle. Available in Black.
Customer Rating
4
Hefty portable speaker with Bose quality sound!
on April 25, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
The BOSE charging cradle for the Soundlink Revolve is a must-have to truly enjoy the unit. Sturdy, slightly rubberized material feel with enough heft to hold the speaker it charges steady, while also being designed with the right cable routing to hide the plug and cord providing the juice.
In my SoundLink Revolve review, I note that one of the ONLY critical flaws of the Revolve is the presence of MicroUSB-Type B connections which are hard to keep readily available on my desk where I have run many a Type-C connector. Having a charging cradle that bonds with the device as well as this one means that when the speaker and I return from our adventures, we just dock it and forget it. While the dock's connector is still MicroUSB-B, its permanence on my desk means that I can treat it like any other AC-connected device without the cable wrestling!.
All in all solid, functionally superb with the docking connector that only allows special -footed Bose speakers t attached and charge at 1A as far as I can ascertain. A more powerful USB charger might help, but we're still limited by Type B 2.0 charging specs here.
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Deep. Loud. And immersive, too. The SoundLink Revolve Portable Bluetooth speaker delivers true 360° sound for consistent, uniform coverage. Place it in the center of the room to give everyone the same experience. Or set it near a wall so sound radiates and reflects. This wireless speaker is durable, water-resistant and easy to grab and go - with a rechargeable battery that plays up to 12 hours.
Customer Rating
4
Hefty portable speaker with Bose quality sound!
on April 25, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
The new Soundlink Revolve was worth every minute of the wait! This little guy is very compact, with a slightly conical, beer can shape, and while small in stature, can fill a room as well as its larger Soundlink 3 brethren. I'm coming from a Jabra Solemate and several smaller waterproof Anker and iHome speakers, and this is definitely the best sounding of my bunch as it relates to clear, rich, LOUD sound!
This thing is also made with some premium body materials. The Revolve seems to be constructed from some type of Magnesium/Aluminum core body with a top-cap control panel that is rubberized and seems quite durable. Some very durable and textured polycarbonates bring up the base, making this a seemingly rugged device, yet upscale enough in appearance that I'd wished they included a carry bag/protector case of some kind. Knowing BOSE that will come along as a pricey accessory just in time for back-to-school or the holiday shopping season!
The volume range is excellent. I took some time to get this review in so that I could try the speaker as the sole background music provider at a few spring family functions, including a kids party where princess movie soundtracks easily filled our party of 100 and lasted way longer than the 4 hour party.People could even hear the songs clearly over the chatter of our party room.
I really don't have any complaints, other than the lack of protective gear and the relative sensitivity to scratches and dings the body seems to have due to the premium materials, and one other thing that we shouldn't even be talking about in 2017 when it comes to premium brands - The USB connector!
Why, BOSE, why! Why did you put MicroUSB on this new flagship portable device instead of the now-almost-standard USB Type C! This device isn't particularly thin or small where the Type C port would cost you form over function, and these kinds of new portable devices should ALL be standardizing on the new connector, particularly those that were developed so recently and are being released as a new form factor and new model in 2017. If this had Type-C connectivity for charging/updates/etc. It would be an easy 5-star device. Since a charging cradle is offered this is a lesser issue, but it still bothers me to see those tiny, one-way, fault-ridden ports on modern, premium devices such as this.
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Clean carpets, couches and stairs easily with this adaptable Dyson Ball Animal vacuum. Various attachments, including a tangle-free turbine tool, a multi-angle brush and a stair tool make pet hair removal quick and simple. The Dyson Ball Animal vacuum comes with a generous 35-foot cord, making it ideal for larger homes.
Customer Rating
4
Typical Gen-jump for Dyson. Small Improvements.
on March 20, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
The 2017 Dyson Ball "Animal 2" model boasts a few small improvements for this year - Namely a newer color scheme to align it with the latest in Dyson design language (more use of the "pewter/dark metal" finish) and small functionality improvements.
I am upgrading from a DC40/AllFloors model and this new unit has a much more robust beater bar and floor head, but assembles and functions EXACTLY the same way. Even cleaning/disassembly is the exact same process with the exact same construction quality. There are a few areas of all the Dyson uprights that concern me, and this new Animal 2 unit is no different:
- The change from upright/storage/beater disengaged mode to lowered and operating on floors is still a rough transition that is evoked manually by pulling down on the handle "tipping" the upright arm backward, releasing a clack latch mechanism and allowing a rocking valve to engage with the main brush head. On our DC40, which was purchased refurbished, we always chocked this up to a defect/small annoyance in that model's design, but with this brand new vacuum exhibiting the same we have come to realize its a "feature" not a "fault" for the Dyson. NOTE: This is not something that gets worse over time - In 2 years of other Dyson ownership, its never gotten worse or caused a functional problem with the vacuum.
Under the capture tank, there is a service door where clogs/jams can be cleared - Its a small hinged clear door (allowing any jams/clogs to be seen before opening) - The door has the weakest hinge I've ever seen on a product in this price range! I've broken and re-purchased the part for my older Dyson many times, and this new one has the EXACT SAME FLIMSY PART!! Ugh!
On that note, its important to understand that there were SOME improvements this year:
- The tube connection to the tank/cylinder is much improved and seems to provide a better seal than before.
- The tube connection to the tank/cylinder is much improved and seems to provide a better seal than before.
- The upper wand is color-matched to the upper handle of the vacuum, giving a more integrated appearance - The old wand was colored RED which didn't match anything on the vacuum.
Dyson's overall quality, despite my gripes above and a general creaky-ness to the body due to the use of hard, shiny plastics and unusual mechanisms to facilitate movement of parts, is good. While these devices feel creaky and somewhat cheap, most of this is done to make these vacuums extremely lightweight which they are for their size, and there are some very ingenious mechanical innovations.
This new vacuum also seems to have a stronger suction and quieter operation - Since I'm coming from a 40-series device to a 60-series, some of these differences might be related to the model nuances.
Let me be clear. This is a premium vacuum cleaner with great accessories and powerful cleaning capabilities. If Dyson can fortify the little things we would have an obvious choice on the market... Its already in a class by itself for power, weight, serviceability (both operational AND repair), I would still highly recommend but the older models will do just as well if you don't mind the older color styling.
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
1of 2voted this as helpful.
Introducing wireless AirPods. Just take them out and they're ready to use with all your Apple devices¹. Put them in your ears and they connect instantly. Speak into them and your voice sounds clear. Simplicity and technology, together like never before. The result is completely magical.
Customer Rating
5
Finally - Fully wireless earbuds that work!
on February 19, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Cincinnati, OH
Leave it to Apple to be the ones to crack the formula for getting fully-wireless earbuds just right.
These AirPods are the perfect size and the charging/storage case is a brilliant, compact, sturdy design that THANKFULLY uses Lightning instead of MicroUSB to change itself. This makes its obvious integration into my Apple portfolio of devices that much easier and I'm annoyed that the latest BEATS phones don't align to this Apple standard (Not even the new 3rd generation devices with the W1 chip they share in common with the AirPods here).
Besides storing and charging these have the EXACT same comfort profile of the EarPods that have come with every iPhone since the iPhone 4s (I think) - Great fit for most ears, and good/fair isolation, with EXCELLENT tonal range for their size and price.
The battery life is also excellent, both for single-session and for entire multi-day business trips using one fully charged case. I struggle to find a way to get these to disconnect or cut out until their battery reaches critical state.
One of the intrinsic values for me (as a business person) is the ability to just use one of the Pods for bluetooth calling and conferencing using Skype for Business and/or other UCS solutions that I work with frequently. I was able to successfully and consistently use all major services (including redirected calls from an iPhone to a Mac, and native iPhone telephony calls) without issue.
These are one of the few products that I would fully reccomend with no insight as to an improvement or change I'd like to make. Apple nailsd this one.
My Best Buy number: 0421288117
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Make your home an internet haven with this versatile Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system. Three identical tri-band dual-stream AC2200 routers, each equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor, deliver lightning-fast internet. Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0/LE, this Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system is simple to set up and pairs easily with computers, tablets and smart devices.
Customer Rating
5
Joins the 3-node party at par - Outshoots others!
on January 12, 2017
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
This WiFi system is very much like my previous reviews of Google WiFi and other such node-based systems.
Great unboxing, simple packaging with everything you need to connect to an upstream modem over Ethernet, and the three power cords and the three small towers that act as the hubs.
As with competing systems, the Velop comes in a 3-pack and features power and uplink/downlink Ethernet connections. One of the cool things about the Linksys set was that there were reset and power switches on each node device. I did notice that these use proprietary Linksys AC Adapter plugs instead of the much more welcome USB Type C of some competitors.
All in all I noticed excellent coverage of my newer home of approx. 2500 sqft. Where the complexity of the home's layout and the far end location of the office and modem make this house too much for any single router configuration. This was the first of the node systems where I saw consistently high speeds at every far corner of the home regardless of distance from, or which, node I was connecting with.
I also liked the fact that with Linksys, device priority (the only thing closely resembling QoS in the admin interface) could be assigned to up to 3 devices instead of the usual 1. This allows for all of my work devices to be a priority by day, or maybe our XBox or AppleTV to be a singular priority when needed by the family at night while other downloads and activity occurs.
The only downside I found which isn't specific to this attempt at the app-enabled, IoT inspired, multi-node WiFi game is the mobile app's lack of options or customizations. With Linksys, you don't get to give custom names to your nodes, nor can you do things like specify the internal network subnet. It's 192.168.1.xxx for everyone, which while not a big deal, is a security risk if someone gets on your network and wants to find key end points. My guess is the default IP range they'll try is the one you get here.
The only other complaint and this one is common to the format also is the lack of Ethernet ports to build out a local network in the primary room of the modem and initial hub. I almost wish these systems came with a traditional 4-5 port router with these nodes as extenders instead of all the devices looking alike, which, if you need more ports, now requires a third device in a 5-port switch or the like.
I'm not knocking the core functionality here. Simple. Strong. Fast. Elegant in the home. Just about perfect. I'll go online and begin researching the nerd stuff.
My Best Buy number: 421288117
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
GadgetGuy1981's Review Comments
GadgetGuy1981 has not submitted comments on any reviews.
GadgetGuy1981's Questions
GadgetGuy1981 has not submitted any questions.
Turn your tablet into a laptop with this Logitech Smart Connect keyboard for iPad Pro. Skip the Bluetooth pairing, and simply set your iPad Pro in typing position to set up instant pairing with the keyboard. Backlit for easy viewing, this Logitech Smart Connect keyboard offers a full 9-inch QWERTY setup, so you can work or correspond wherever you are.
Can the keyboard be removed from the case and does logi make a replacement case. My case cracked and needs to be replaced but keyboard is still in good working order
They are only sold as a single unit. I believe if the case breaks then the entire unit needs to be replaced. Its NOT a modular or user-serviceable item.
7 years ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Create a reliable internet connection throughout your home with this Google Wi-Fi system. The convenient package of three connectivity points effortlessly covers even large homes up to 4,500 square feet. This Google Wi-Fi system eliminates uneven bandwidth usage among multiple devices, including cellphones and tablets, for an unimpeded connection that doesn't lag behind.
Have Netgear N900 modem-router-wifi device. What do I have to do to connect Google Wifi network? Will Genie still provide a network map?
Disable WiFi on the Netgear. Genie will still show a map of devices including the mesh APs, but will not necessarily show them by node. The Google App however will.
7 years, 6 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Create a reliable internet connection throughout your home with this Google Wi-Fi system. The convenient package of three connectivity points effortlessly covers even large homes up to 4,500 square feet. This Google Wi-Fi system eliminates uneven bandwidth usage among multiple devices, including cellphones and tablets, for an unimpeded connection that doesn't lag behind.
I have my own "Router" firewall device that I don't want to change. Can I use the Google Wifi as simply as a smart Wifi grid behind my security device?
Yes! Simply use your router without WiFi turned on and make sure that a single Ethernet connection passes through the router on its way to the Google setup as the only connection to any wireless hotspots.
You may want to put the whole system in Bridge mode when doing it this way but in doing so you'll lose priority device mode and some of the parental controls.
You may want to put the whole system in Bridge mode when doing it this way but in doing so you'll lose priority device mode and some of the parental controls.
7 years, 6 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Create a reliable internet connection throughout your home with this Google Wi-Fi system. The convenient package of three connectivity points effortlessly covers even large homes up to 4,500 square feet. This Google Wi-Fi system eliminates uneven bandwidth usage among multiple devices, including cellphones and tablets, for an unimpeded connection that doesn't lag behind.
Is this compatible with FiOS?
As long as the FiOS modem isn't also a wifi router, or you can disable wifi and just have the modem output via Ethernet you'll be good.
7 years, 6 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
What speakers are available for my Dell desktop Optiplex 380?
Your OptiPlex 380 has both 2.5mm audio jack and USB ports so just about any standard speaker set would work and even some advanced USB speakers would if you have a free USB port.
To see if your computer can support 2.1 or 5.1 audio natively, check to see if you have blue, green, and tan audio jacks in the back. If you do, you've got enough ports to install 5.1 surround. If only 1 audio out is back there (usually green or black colored) then you'll want to get a 2-speaker or 2.1 (two speaker and integrated wired subwoofer) system.
My advice for a simple desk setup would be to get something like these Logitech sets and just run the two speakers unless you demand floor-shaking bass.
To see if your computer can support 2.1 or 5.1 audio natively, check to see if you have blue, green, and tan audio jacks in the back. If you do, you've got enough ports to install 5.1 surround. If only 1 audio out is back there (usually green or black colored) then you'll want to get a 2-speaker or 2.1 (two speaker and integrated wired subwoofer) system.
My advice for a simple desk setup would be to get something like these Logitech sets and just run the two speakers unless you demand floor-shaking bass.
8 years ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Subwoofer? Compatible Speakers
I have an older subwoofer I had with a previous computer. The speakers I have on my new one don't have a place to plug the subwoofer in. What kind of speakers should I get to be able to use this?
Only a set designed for a "2.1" or higher channels will support your sub. Most 2.1/5.1/7.1 systems will come with their own, newer subwoofer.
8 years ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Connect with family and friends on this Dell Inspiron laptop computer, and clearly connect with the wide 13.3-inch screen and integrated webcam. Touchscreen capabilities provide the function of a tablet, while a full backlit keyboard lets you type all day and night. This Dell Inspiron laptop features Windows 10 Home for easy loading and running of software and apps.
Does something similar come in 15.6? Why do no Dell's have DVD/CD drives? What are my options if I need it?
There is a similar "flip hinged" 15" model available (I believe it's called the Inspiron 15 7000 Series 2-in-1, but I'm unsure of the specific model/SKU).
Most PCs are forgoing optical/CD/DVD drives in contemporary years as the demand for these drives has reduced greatly. While many desktop PCs (who have also seen a demand decline) still include them, removing them from laptops was a key element in getting these devices to be thinner/lighter, longer lasting on a single charge, etc. If you think about it, when is the last time you burned a CD or DVD and transferred files that way. With today's cloud storage and send services and with the low cost of thumb drives, home made DVDs/CDs quickly obsoleted.
As far as commercial discs, music has for a long time been more about streaming and online purchases from iTunes/Google Play/Spotify/Pandora/etc... Movies have largely gone the same way with Google Play/iTunes Movies/Netflix/Hulu.
I'm not saying that we don't all have discs we need to play/copy/install here and there, but for the most part, they aren't a primary medium anymore so the trade off for space and battery capacity drove them out of mobile devices.
You might be saying: "I don't care where the lemmings are going! I want my MTV, DVD and CD! I'm still angry about losing the tape deck in my new car!" For you my friend, I recommend one of the offered external USB DVD/Blu-Ray drives available at BestBuy which would allow you access to your optical collection without having to keep a drive attached for the 90% of the times you don't need one.
Most PCs are forgoing optical/CD/DVD drives in contemporary years as the demand for these drives has reduced greatly. While many desktop PCs (who have also seen a demand decline) still include them, removing them from laptops was a key element in getting these devices to be thinner/lighter, longer lasting on a single charge, etc. If you think about it, when is the last time you burned a CD or DVD and transferred files that way. With today's cloud storage and send services and with the low cost of thumb drives, home made DVDs/CDs quickly obsoleted.
As far as commercial discs, music has for a long time been more about streaming and online purchases from iTunes/Google Play/Spotify/Pandora/etc... Movies have largely gone the same way with Google Play/iTunes Movies/Netflix/Hulu.
I'm not saying that we don't all have discs we need to play/copy/install here and there, but for the most part, they aren't a primary medium anymore so the trade off for space and battery capacity drove them out of mobile devices.
You might be saying: "I don't care where the lemmings are going! I want my MTV, DVD and CD! I'm still angry about losing the tape deck in my new car!" For you my friend, I recommend one of the offered external USB DVD/Blu-Ray drives available at BestBuy which would allow you access to your optical collection without having to keep a drive attached for the 90% of the times you don't need one.
8 years ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Acer Chromebook: Stay connected when on the go with this 14-inch Acer Chromebook. Dual-band MIMO technology provides ultrafast wireless speeds ideal for streaming or downloading, and an HDR webcam lets you video chat effortlessly. This Acer Chromebook has an antiglare screen and Full HD resolution for optimal viewing, and its 12-hour battery life increases productivity.
Can you download Microsoft office onto this? I want to use this for school so I need to be able to use word and PowerPoint.
You cannot install typical Microsoft Office apps on this device, as it runs ChromeOS. You can however edit Word, Excel and PowerPoint files using the included Google Apps (Docs,Sheets,Slides) that are FREE apps on the Chrome Web Store and are compatible with most/all files from Office proper...
Also, Microsoft makes web-based versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint that are also in the Chrome Web Store and these would better support existing files but these have some limits to their functionality, and I believe full usage requires an active Office365 account/subscription.
I hope this helps! Sorry it's not a yes/no answer. YOU HAVE OPTIONS!
Also, Microsoft makes web-based versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint that are also in the Chrome Web Store and these would better support existing files but these have some limits to their functionality, and I believe full usage requires an active Office365 account/subscription.
I hope this helps! Sorry it's not a yes/no answer. YOU HAVE OPTIONS!
8 years ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
I need advice on what camera to buy her
My wife is a very fine artist I would like to buy a digital camera for her she does most of her paintingon location. She says she needs a digital camera with a zoom lens plus one that would take portraits and the best quality pictures for her work ,she speaks of a Digital SLR with at least
a 12.o pixel ? what do you recommend I buy her. I have a limited budget of between $ 750.00
and a $1000.00 dollars and I need some professional advice.
Thank you
Wm Bertsche
.
a 12.o pixel ? what do you recommend I buy her. I have a limited budget of between $ 750.00
and a $1000.00 dollars and I need some professional advice.
Thank you
Wm Bertsche
.
I have photographed many paintings for customers that needed a digital gallery with my Sony Alpha A33 DSLR/SLT.
14.2 megapixels, great zoom lens options, and noise reduction and light sensitivity settings that allow for accurate color capture in gallery light settings.
You're looking at 799-999 for a decent package with at least one zoom lens, but I would recommend the 18-55 kit lens with the body, and the additional 55-200 lens that Best Buy carries for longer zoom. Also, for portraits, I recommend a "brighter aperture" lens, such as the SAL50F18 50mm F1.8 portrait lens, which gives fantastic low-light performance at low ISOs, for maximum detail and clarity.
For the body and all three lenses, you're likely looking at 900-1100... Shop around, but Best Buy carries all of it and their photo guys do great bundles with warranties.
14.2 megapixels, great zoom lens options, and noise reduction and light sensitivity settings that allow for accurate color capture in gallery light settings.
You're looking at 799-999 for a decent package with at least one zoom lens, but I would recommend the 18-55 kit lens with the body, and the additional 55-200 lens that Best Buy carries for longer zoom. Also, for portraits, I recommend a "brighter aperture" lens, such as the SAL50F18 50mm F1.8 portrait lens, which gives fantastic low-light performance at low ISOs, for maximum detail and clarity.
For the body and all three lenses, you're likely looking at 900-1100... Shop around, but Best Buy carries all of it and their photo guys do great bundles with warranties.
13 years, 5 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Cincinnati, OH
Can a 35mm film camera lens be used on a digital SLR camera
I have a Cannon EOS Rebel and would like to purchase an SLR camera. If the lenses I have for the EOS Rebel will work on a SLR I would like to purchase that camera
The Canon EOS Digital Rebels will use the EOS lenses, with few exceptions, if i recall.
The difference is, that the EOS Digital Rebel's like the XS, or XSi, have smaller APS-sized sensors, vs. the focal design of the 35MM film counterparts.
This will mean a different focal range for the digital camera using the lens. It may also mean varying aperture performance, considering that less exposed area is resulting in an exposure on the sensor, than what was being exposed to the film, and the depth dimension of the digital camera will be different than it's film predecessor.
It may just take some experimentation to determine which lenses work best for digital. Its best to get Digital EOS lenses for work with Digital cameras, but many pro photographers interchange lenses to this day between their 35mm film and digital cameras. Your mileage may vary.
The difference is, that the EOS Digital Rebel's like the XS, or XSi, have smaller APS-sized sensors, vs. the focal design of the 35MM film counterparts.
This will mean a different focal range for the digital camera using the lens. It may also mean varying aperture performance, considering that less exposed area is resulting in an exposure on the sensor, than what was being exposed to the film, and the depth dimension of the digital camera will be different than it's film predecessor.
It may just take some experimentation to determine which lenses work best for digital. Its best to get Digital EOS lenses for work with Digital cameras, but many pro photographers interchange lenses to this day between their 35mm film and digital cameras. Your mileage may vary.
13 years, 5 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Cincinnati, OH