AlanInHouston's stats
- Review count41
- Helpfulness votes571
- First reviewMarch 21, 2014
- Last reviewAugust 11, 2017
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- Average rating3.8
- Review comment count27
- Helpfulness votes48
- First review commentFebruary 2, 2015
- Last review commentAugust 7, 2017
- Featured review comments0
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- Answer count21
- Helpfulness votes16
- First answerSeptember 22, 2014
- Last answerJuly 16, 2017
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Listen in comfort with these JVC FLATS HAS160R over-the-ear headphones, which feature a slim stainless-steel headband and soft ear pads. Pivoting earcups allow the headphones to lie flat, so they can be packed away with ease while traveling.
Customer Rating
4
Great Portable Headphones At Great Price
on April 29, 2016
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
The JVC Flats are designed to travel with you. They are small and fold flat so they fit in a small pocket on a bookbag, laptop case, or backpack. They are very light, so you don't notice their weight.
Comfort varies person to person, but the Flats are very comfortable on my average size head. When they were new, I flexed the headband to a wide position to get a bit looser fit. I wear glasses, and most headphones press the eyeglass frames against my ears. The Flats are comfortable with my glasses on.
Many headphones sold for younger people have boosted bass, because loud bass is how many young folks judge headphones. The Flats have very natural sound, and do not boost the bass. They sound great with female voices, but lack a bit of weight on deep male voices. They are very good for classical music and jazz where lack of deep bass is not a problem.
I have headphones that cost five times as much and weigh three times as much. The Flats match the quality of my expensive headphones for overall sound quality, except for their lack of deep bass. My expensive headphones are too bulky and too heavy to take with me out of the house, so the Flats are my "go to" everyday headphones.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Dell Inspiron Laptop: Report, work and play with this Dell Inspiron desktop computer. It comes with a basic Intel® Celeron® processor that delivers just the power you need to keep your workflow moving, and a 32GB eMMC Flash Memory lets you store everything on it. The space-saving design of this Dell Inspiron desktop computer lets you tuck it away under your desk.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
This COULD have been a very good compact laptop, but Dell cut some essentials. You will need to spend about $50 to upgrade RAM memory and storage to make it a useful computer. Dell could have made those upgrades at the factory for less than $25.
First, the 32gb solid state storage drive is far too small. After a few months of updates to Windows 10 and to Microsoft Office, you will have less than 6gb of open storage space for your programs, apps, photos, videos and music.
The solution is to buy a 32gb or 64gb fast Class 10 U3 MicroSD card, which will be as fast as the Dell hard drive. In a standard SD card adapter, it will stick out half an inch and may get damaged. You can Google to find "mini" MicroSD adapters designed for Apple laptops. With an Apple adapter, the card will seat flush with the side panel of the Dell and provide permanent storage for your music, photos, and videos.
Second, 2gb of RAM is not enough for Windows 10. When you have two or three apps running, the Dell will slow down or freeze up.
The Dell web store sells a 4gb RAM module for around $20. Just pop off the door on the bottom front of the laptop. Release the two clips on the old module and slide in the new 4gb module until the clips lock. YouTube has a video to show you how to do this in under ten minutes.
With the 4gb RAM module, the Dell will run smoothly.
Frankly, this may be more trouble than it worth. Best Buy sells laptops in the same price range that have 4gb of RAM and 500gb hard drives. The Inspiron is two pounds lighter than those models, which is the only good reason to put up with its limitations.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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+10points
11of 12voted this as helpful.
This Hoya Alpha C-ALP52UV multicoated lens filter attaches to a lens with a 52mm front filter thread to protect against dirt and scratches while blocking out ultraviolet light, so you can easily shoot footage outdoors.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
Hoya has long been a leader in camera lens filters. The Alpha multi-coated filters provide 90% of the performance of the Hoya Pro level filters for half the price.
A filter that costs less than an Alpha is likely to have flare and reduced contrast and color saturation when your camera is aimed toward the sun or a bright light source.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Nikon D3300 DSLR Camera with 18–55mm VR lens: Capture photographs with true-to-life details using this DSLR camera, which features a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and comes with an AF-S DX NIKKOR VR II lens, so you can snap clear shots whether you're a professional or just in it for the memories. A variety of scene modes and special effects allow you to customize the settings depending on the situation. The cold- and shock-resistant design shields the camera against accidental drops and the elements.Memory card sold separately.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
Ken Rockwell, a noted pro photographer, writes on his website that the Nikon D3300 can take photos that equal photos from pro cameras selling for five times its price. And, it is one of the lightest DSLR cameras so it is easy to carry with you. Yes, it is twice the size and weight of a "Mini Zoom" camera, but half the weight of a pro DSLR. Carrying just 24 ounces feels much better than 48 ounces after an hour or two.
The D3300 takes good photos in auto mode but you can take even better photos after studying Ken Rockwell's online manual for the D3300 which shows how to dial in the best brightness level, color balance, contrast and saturation.
The zoom lens cover the range from a wide angle 28mm to include the whole family around the birthday cake and then zoom in to 85mm which is ideal for a head and shoulders portrait.
The VR vibration reduction feature enables my old and rather shaky hands to get sharp photos indoors without needing the flash.
The 24 megapixel sensor enables you to make a nice 8 x 10 print using just 20% of the original image. You can take a photo that shows both the pitcher and the batter and crop it to show only the pitcher. The ability to crop and enlarge a small portion of the image enables you to take closeups with the 85mm range of the zoom that provide a final image similar to a 300mm zoom lens.
The associate at Best Buy was helpful in selecting the right SDHC memory card, a UV filter to protect the lens and a light weight compact case.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+5points
5of 5voted this as helpful.
Dell Inspiron Laptop: Get the efficiency you need in a portable design with this 14" laptop. You can wirelessly link with other devices using the Bluetooth 4.0 interface and connect to the Web with built-in Wi-Fi. Plus, view content on your HDTV by plugging into the HDMI output.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
I was surprised to find a Dell Windows 10 laptop at the very low price of the Inspiron 14. Even more surprised to discover that its low price included a free one year subscription to Windows 365 with Microsoft Office, including Microsoft Word. This laptop, with Microsoft Office, provides a college student and most home users with everything they need in a "light duty" laptop computer.
This version of the Inspiron 14 has just a tiny 2gb of RAM and solid state storage of 32gb of which 8gb is available to store your apps, games, videos, music and photos. This is the bare minimum amount of memory needed to run Windows 10 and Microsoft Office. There is a slot to add a full size SD card, so you can add a 32gb Class 10 SD card for about $20 which will expand your available memory to about 40gb, enough for your Spotify music collection and a few movies.
The Inspiron 14 has a 14 inch screen with good color and contrast. The 14 inch screen is a good size both for typing a document and for watching a movie. Netflix movies sound okay through the dual front speakers and sound great with good headphones or with a bluetooth speaker.
The body is compact, with an outer shell that screams "cheap". However, the build quality is terrific. The hinges hold the screen at your chosen angle, the battery snaps securely in place, and the keyboard is has a crisp, precise feels.
The Inspiron is very light, weighing only about four pounds, including the power pack and cord. Its compact size and light weight makes it ideal for lugging around campus.
Battery life is impressive. If a student is taking notes, with wifi and bluetooth OFF, the Inspiron will provide six or seven hours at a bright screen setting and eight or nine hours at a medium setting. Streaming Netflix movies over wifi with a bright screen setting provides four or five hours of battery life. It recharges from zero to 100% in about two hours.
My Inspiron included a free one year subscription to Windows 365 with Microsoft Office, including Microsoft Word, a $70 savings compared with other laptops.
The first Inspiron that I took home had a defective trackpad. A Best Buy associate suggested I exchange it for a second unit. My second Inspiron has been terrific. It took about two days connected to wifi to download and install an endless series of updates to Windows 10. The Inspiron worked very slowly and froze up at times during that updates process. After the updates were complete, the Inspiron worked very smoothly.
I am still learning Windows 10. The trackpad moves the cursor around the screen when using one finger and two fingers scrolls the page up and down, or zooms in or zooms out on text. It takes practice to learn those gestures.
This is a LIGHT DUTY laptop for taking notes in class, sending email and watching a movie on Netflix. It lacks both the memory and the muscle to play demanding games, run three or four apps at a time, or use Photo Shop to edit photos and videos. The Edge browser slows down if you have more than two or three tabs open at a time.
If you need a Windows 10 laptop with Microsoft Office for light duty use, you will not find a better value than the Inspiron 14 from Best Buy.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+96points
105of 114voted this as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
The Lumia 640 outshines every smartphone under $100 and for people who use their phone for phone calls and texts, not games and apps, it provides 90% of the performance of the Galaxy S6 and Apple iPhone 6 for a tiny fraction of their price.
I merely inserted my Cricket Wireless SIM and entered my Gmail address and all of my phone contacts and email instantly loaded. I downloaded my state's map which enables GPS navigation without using data or needing to be near cell towers.
Voice calls are loud and clear on both ends, close to landline quality. The five inch screen is sharp and you can set the color balance and saturation to your preference. Music is loud and clear through the rear speaker but with weak bass. Music and Netflix movies sound fine with good headphones or Bluetooth speakers.
The matte black case feels good in your hand and looks more expensive than the glossy blue or white backs on other versions of the 640.
The combination of a sharp five inch screen and black case gives the 640 the appearance of a phone that costs four times its price. It is nicer looking than the iPhone 5c.
Two drawbacks. First, there is just 3gb of memory for apps, games and maps. You can add a 32gb, 64gb, or even 128gb microSD card, but most apps and games and all maps must be stored in the 3gb of internal memory.
The second drawback is that many popular apps and games are missing from the windows' store or the app has fewer features than on an Android phone.
As a plus, Microsoft Office apps are installed so you can review and revise documents on your phone. The Windows 10 update expected in November will mean the phone will function as a twin to your Windows 10 computer and sharing files and tasks will be easy.
For phone calls, texts, emails and Microsoft Office tasks, the Lumia 640 is an ideal phone. For games and entertainment, Android and Apple are still the leaders.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+59points
60of 61voted this as helpful.
LG G Stylo Prepaid Cell Phone for Boost Mobile: Check your e-mail, access social media and visit your favorite Web sites, whether you're at home or on the go, with 4G LTE speed and built-in Wi-Fi. A large 5.7" touch screen simplifies content navigation.See coverage maps to determine whether service is available in your area.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
The Boost Stylo offers a large 5.7 inch screen like the Samsung Note 4 at a bargain price. And, the Stylo combines the big screen of the Note 4 with the style and rear controls of the wonderful LG G3 and G4 phones....but it does not offer their performance.
Most people will be VERY unhappy with the Boost Stylo. It has only 3gb of available memory for apps and games and most apps can NOT be moved to the sd memory card. Load just a few major apps and games and the memory will be full.
The second big problem is the Boost Stylo has just 1gb of RAM memory, of which 70% is used just by turning on the phone. If two big apps are running at the same time, the phone will run slowly or freeze up.
In contrast, the much superior T-Moble and MetroPcs LG Stylo have 10gb of memory for apps and games and provide 2gb of RAM so that all apps and games will run at full speed.
Bottom line: after their Boost Stylo runs out of memory, Boost customers will want their money back.
Mobile Submission: True
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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+14points
21of 28voted this as helpful.
This Sony DSC-W800 digital camera's 20.1-megapixel, 1/2.3" Super HAD CCD sensor enables you to shoot stunning photographs and 720p video footage. The 2.7" Clear Photo LCD lets you view stored content. ..
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
Folks with an Apple iPhone or a Samsung Galaxy 5 have a good camera in their pockets. For those of us whose phone has a crummy camera, the W800 provides a pocket sized camera at a very low price.
The W800 has three auto modes but takes its best photos in program mode with the ISO locked to 200. That mode enables you to adjust exposure to make a photo brighter or darker and boost ISO to 400 for flash photos and get faster shutter speeds for photos of sports, kids, pets and other fast moving subjects.
Sony uses a two stage shutter button. Press it slightly to focus. A steady green light shows focus is locked. Then press further to release the shutter.
The folks who complain about blurred photos should practice the two step shutter release and practice holding the camera rock steady when pressing the shutter.
Outdoor photos in bright sunlight are excellent and photos in deep shade are adequate. You can take good closeups of flowers outdoors from a foot away but you need to set ISO at 200 and use a tripod or support to keep the camera very still for sharp results.
The optical zoom lets you use a wide angle view to cover a large area and then zoom in for a much closer view.
The one page of instructions gets you started. Press on the menu button and then practice the dozens of special modes and settings until you fully understand all of the options the W800 offers.
The W800 is the smallest and lightest camera with an optical zoom lens in its price range. It matches the quality of the iPhone camera at a much lower price.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+61points
68of 75voted this as helpful.
Remain entertained on the go with this Amazon Fire HD B00KC6I06S, which features a touch screen that displays media in high-definition and simplifies content navigation. Front and rear cameras let you capture special moments in 1080p.
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
Many folks look for affordable tablets for their kids, or to throw in their bag and not worry about it getting lost or broken. But, virtually all tablets selling for less than $125 turn out to have serious flaws, or stop working after a few months. In short, most are junk.
The Amazon Fire HD 6 is the exception: it is an affordable small tablet that is well built and works as swiftly and smoothly as tablets selling for twice its price. It has a small six inch screen that is bright and sharp, and its small size makes it easy to carry in a large pocket, or any bag.
Many people who have full size nine inch or ten inch tablets will find that they prefer the Fire 6 for reading. It is the perfect size for most hands, and its ten ounce weight is less than a hardcover book.
Unlike a hardcover book, the Fire 6 can stream your favorite music from Pandora or Spotify while you read. Tired of reading? Watch a movie on Netflix.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Samsung Galaxy Avant No-Contract Cell Phone for T-Mobile: A soft, leather-like back makes this phone easy-to-grip during long phone calls. Simplify phone operation by using voice commands to answer calls or send text messages, and streamline your home screen with Easy Mode that enlarges icons.
Customer Rating
4
A Very Nice 4G LTE Phone For T-Mobile Customers
on January 31, 2015
Posted by: AlanInHouston
from Houston, Tx
The Samsung Avant is a very nice 4g LTE phone for people on a monthly plan with T-Mobile. There is a slightly different version for MetroPcs customers, so be sure to buy the correct model that matches your provider. Both T-Mobile and MetroPcs have promotions when they sell the Avant for half off list price, making it a "Best Buy".
The Avant is almost the same size as the smaller version of the new Apple iPhone 6, which makes the Avant much smaller than the Samsung Galaxy S5. The Avant fits nicely into smaller hands, even though it has a large 4.5 inch screen.
The Avant does a good job with phone calls, with your callers sounding clear to you and your voice will sound clear to them. The Avant lets you select options to reduce background noise, and boost both the volume and clarity of your voice and has speaker boost for people with hearing aids.
However, even at maximum volume, voices are not as loud through the Avant's front or rear speakers as with the average phone. The lower than average volume makes it difficult to hear when you are in a noisy environment.
Music sounds great through good headphones or bluetooth speakers. Netflix movies look good on the big 4.5 inch screen.
The rear camera takes good photos outdoors in bright sunlight if you use the manual focus and hold steady for the two seconds it takes for the focus to lock. The front Skype/Selfie camera takes poor photos even in bright light.
Samsung loaded up the Avant with most of the software on the Galaxy S5. I replaced the Samsung keyboard and Samsung texting app with the Google keyboard and the Textra app.
The battery will last 12 to 14 hours on a charge with moderate use and up to 24 hours with light use. However, GPS navigation or streaming a Netflix movie over 4g LTE will drain the battery in just 3 or 4 hours, so keep a charger handy. You can turn on a "SuperSaver" mode when the battery gets down to around 10% that will give you an extra 12 hours of use for very short phone calls and texting.
The Samsung Avant provides 90% of the features and power of the Samsung Galaxy S5 in a smaller package for a MUCH smaller price. It is the best T-Mobile phone in its price range.
The folks at Best Buy can activate it for you and answer questions that you may have.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+33points
33of 33voted this as helpful.
Samsung Galaxy Avant No-Contract Cell Phone: A soft, leather-like back makes this phone easy-to-grip during long phone calls. Simplify phone operation by using voice commands to answer calls or send text messages, and streamline your home screen with Easy Mode that enlarges icons.
Overall
1 out of 5
1 out of 5Don't be fooled: This is NOT an Unlocked Phone
By gfinnov
I learned about this phone from another seller, but BestBuy.com's price for it was so much better that I bought it here. I have a pay-as-you-go plan from T-Mobile, and this seemed like the perfect device for someone who would like to have smartphone capability, but doesn't make or receive many cellphone calls. After installing my T-Mobile sim card, this phone asked for an Unlock key. It turns out that this phone is locked (owned?) by MetroPCS, and they will not provide an unlock key for it--unless you buy MetroPCS service, of course. The service rep at my local Best Buy made a valiant attempt to get this to work, but MetroPCS was unyielding. How bestbuy.com can promote this as an "unlocked" phone when it is not is beyond me. (Apparently you can buy a truly unlocked version of this phone from other vendors, but at $70 above bestbuy.com's locked phone price.)
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Bestbuy Correctly Labels As Locked to Provider
February 2, 2015
Bestbuy's website makes clear that the Avant is sold in two versions, one locked to T-Mobile and one locked to MetroPcs. If you buy the incorrect version, Bestbuy staff will be happy to exchange it or to refund your money.
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5Good, not great, budget phone
By LovinTech
I needed a quick, low cost replacement for my old phone and this one fit the bill, albeit only just. It is a great looking device and feels high quality in the hand despite the plastic case, has a decent display, and is reasonably speedy for most tasks. The big downer is the paltry 8gb of onboard memory, which at the time of purchase I thought would be plenty with the 64gb SD card I added. Unfortunately, I cannot port app install to the SD card, meaning the internal storage is used up fairly quickly. Not a big deal most days because I am not a mindless app junkie, but when a large OS update comes through it is necessary to uninstall a number of apps. It's a pain that I am willing to live with given the low cost of entry. With 16gb I would have given it a 5 star rating.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Move Apps To SD Card
October 22, 2015
Install a MicroSD card and select "store apps, music, photos, videos" on SD card. Delete any app you think requires a large amount of storage. Then reinstall the app and it will go to the SD card. I have about 50 apps and still have 2.8gb of open internal memory.
Windows 10 will let me move my maps to the SD card, boosting my open internal memory to 3.2 GB.
+7points
7of 7voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5Good choice, good price
By OnAbudget
Fast, clean interface, overall functionality is excellent. The only drawback is that the app store is barren, and the only web browser is Internet Explorer.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Browser Choices
October 22, 2015
There are a variety of browser choices in the Windows sore, including Opera. Due to Google's ongoing war against Microsoft, most Google apps are not in the Windows store. But, Microsoft maps, unlike Google maps, enables you to use GPS navigation even when you are not near a cell tower, a life saving feature.
I have downloaded about 50 apps, including Netflix, Pandora, and the New York Times. If your bank lacks a Windows app, just pin their internet sign in page to your start page.
On both T-Mobile and AT&T, the 640 has provided better phone call voice clarity than any android phone I have owned, as well as fast and reliable texting and email. Android may have better games selection. Windows provides a premium quality experience for business use.
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall
5 out of 5
5 out of 5Excellent windows phone
By smartphonelover
This is an excellent phone with all the features that you are looking for in a smartphone. The screen is 5 inches with 720p display. It has 1 GB memory and 8 GB storage and can be extended to 128 GB with an SD card. It has 8 MP rear camera with flash and 1 MP front camera. The rear camera takes more than enough quality pics in the day light and reasonably good in low light conditions. The touch is smooth and the performance is seamless, although it has 1 GB RAMl. And coming to the apps on windows, we all know there are a fewer apps compared to android and apple stores, but you can find most of the useful apps on windows store, too.
AT&T can unlock the phone for free even if you are non AT&T customer. Follow the link below and select "Non-ATT customer" and submit the form.
https://www.att.com/deviceunlock/?partner=LinkShare&siteId=lw9MynSeamY-27Cz9Cgob5cKAapkeNF7Bw?partner=LinkShare&siteId=lw9MynSeamY-JmYnh6m0nmMTxxW1su5HNg#/
AT&T can unlock the phone for free even if you are non AT&T customer. Follow the link below and select "Non-ATT customer" and submit the form.
https://www.att.com/deviceunlock/?partner=LinkShare&siteId=lw9MynSeamY-27Cz9Cgob5cKAapkeNF7Bw?partner=LinkShare&siteId=lw9MynSeamY-JmYnh6m0nmMTxxW1su5HNg#/
Once you unlock, it can be used on any GSM network that takes a SIM in the world since it is a quad band phone. But, it may not have LTE speeds for all the networks.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Unlocking Lumia 640 LTE
October 28, 2015
Yes, AT&T will email you the unlock code for the Lumia 640 GoPhone IF you do NOT activate the phone before unlocking it. However, the LTE bands of the GoPhone are matched to AT&T and the GoPhone lacks the Band 12 LTE required by T-Mobile and MetroPcs, so they will NOT activate an unlocked GoPhone. T-Mobile and MetroPcs customers should buy the version of the Lumia 640 sold at MetroPcs stores with Band 12.
Likewise, people who unlock the GoPhone to use it in South America or Europe may find that they can make phone calls and send text messages, but they can not connect to their local 4G LTE network. The GoPhone is designed ONLY for the AT&T LTE network.
I am using a GoPhone on the AT&T network and I also am using the T-Mobile version on the MetroPcs network. Both are terrific phones, but the T-Mobile version seems to have slightly better phone call quality, perhaps due to the use of Band 12 LTE.
+3points
3of 3voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall
3 out of 5
3 out of 5Have had issues with this product
By polknbeans
Does not provide good directions to fix problems you have.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Download The Owner's Manual
October 28, 2015
You can download a massive and detailed owner's manual for the 640. Just Google for "free download pdf manual Lumia 640". Work your way through the manual page by page with the phone in your hands so you can try out each feature that is explained in the manual.
It is very difficult to hurt your 640 by experimenting with settings. You can go into the settings menu and start at the top and work your way through the settings item by item. I discovered that I could customize the look of my lock screen (including having the current weather on the lockscreen) and the look of my start page. I was able to make the text of menus larger and the default screen brightness even brighter.
I have a friend who is age 96 and who finds cell phones confusing. I was able to customize her 640 so that the ONLY thing on her start page is a large "PHONE" symbol. When she presses on the phone symbol the phone speed dial opens up with the list of her five essential phone numbers with the names and numbers in a VERY large font. She just presses on the name of the person she is calling.
In contrast, I have put all of my favorite apps and internet links on my start page. It looks like a jig saw puzzle, but it lets me do anything I need to do with a single tap.
After you spend a few hours "playing" with settings, you will be able to customize your 640 to be as simple or as complicated as you want. It is BY FAR the easiest phone to adjust to your personal needs.
+3points
3of 3voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Need To Give Full Info
By Careful
This phone is great but what this ad doesn't mention is, if you buy it here, it can only be used with AT&T. It would be nice if this was stated in the ad.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Yes, the GoPhone Is For AT&T
October 28, 2015
Yes, the GoPhone is for AT&T only. The ad could be more clear. Best Buy has always exchanged phones for me, no questions asked, for a 14 day period. Just return the phone and all of the contents of the box in "like new" condition.
If you have NOT yet activated the phone, AT&T will send you an unlock code that lets you use it on other carriers. I was unable to activate an unlocked GoPhone with T-Mobile or MetroPcs as the GoPhone lacks Band 12 LTE, required by T-Mobile. It works fine on Cricket wireless where I currently use a 640 on a $25 per month plan with unlimited phone calls, unlimited long distance, and unlimited texting. Heck of a deal, a $59 phone with unlimited phone calls for just $25 per month.
+6points
7of 8voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5Best value for money
By LenJon
You get lot more than what you pay for, if you like windows phone. Decent perfrormance
Cons:
Display not as contrast as the LED versions like lumia 925)
Feels very light in hands like a toy phone and the plasticky back is not very impressive
Cons:
Display not as contrast as the LED versions like lumia 925)
Feels very light in hands like a toy phone and the plasticky back is not very impressive
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Screen's Contrast, Color & Brightness Are Adjustab
November 3, 2015
If you dig down through the settings menu you will find a menu to "fine tune" the screen by adjusting color, contrast, saturation and brightness. I think the default colors are exceptional for a $60 phone, but I used the menu to slightly boost brightness and saturation to enhance Netflix movies.
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall
2 out of 5
2 out of 5It don't let you get apps
By Shay
I don't like this phone because it want let me download apps.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Windows Store Has A Zillion Apps
November 9, 2015
The Windows Store has a zillion apps, and many of the best apps are free. Just set up a Microsoft account for your phone and sign into the store. Because some apps use a huge amount of data to download, your phone may be set to download apps only when you are connected to wifi.
I enjoy the Here navigation app, MSN News, MSN Weather, MSN Sports, Spotify, Pandora and Netflix. All of them free.
+2points
2of 2voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft 640 Prepaid Cell Phone for AT&T Prepaid: Stay connected and productive wherever you are with this Prepaid cell phone, which features 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi for flexible Internet connection options. Easily browse Web sites and flip through features using the 5" touch screen, and snap photos with the 8.0MP rear-facing camera.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5Windows is awesome!
By fighted
from Miami, FL
I bought this phone wanting to mess with the Windows phone OS. It was a great experience. The BOOST mobile service has issues with the phone but overall it is easy to use and will recommend over any iPhone.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Which Phone Are You Reviewing
November 13, 2015
I am unsure which phone you are reviewing. This page is for the Lumia 640 LTE on AT&T. Your review mentions Boost Mobile and implies you are unhappy with Boost Mobile. THIS PHONE does not work on Boost Mobile. And, Boost Mobile does not sell the Lumia 640 LTE. If you are on Boost Mobile, you have some other phone.
+2points
2of 2voted this comment as helpful.
Dell Inspiron Laptop: Get the efficiency you need in a portable design with this 14" laptop. You can wirelessly link with other devices using the Bluetooth 4.0 interface and connect to the Web with built-in Wi-Fi. Plus, view content on your HDTV by plugging into the HDMI output.
Overall2 out of 5
2 out of 5Patience must be your virtue.
By Shana
I purchased this device while my other computer was being fixed. I only needed SKYPE and access to my email. I did not fully comprehend the limitations of the very slow computer. Perhaps this computer is fine if you do not have any sense of urgency for e-mail or internet. If you have the patience to cope with slow...........this is your product. If so, it is a great deal for the amount of money.
AlanInHouston
Houston, Tx
Speedy After Windows 10 Update
November 15, 2015
The first three days that I had the Inspiron 14 it was plugged in to wall power and connected to the internet for five or six hours each day. Things ran slowly because the computer was downloading and installing a long series of Windows 10 and software updates. After that, it ran swiftly and smoothly.
This week, a HUGE Windows 10 update came out and the Inspiron seems to be struggling again as the update process disrupts other computer functions. I expect that after this update is completed, it will run smoothly again.
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
AlanInHouston's Questions
AlanInHouston has not submitted any questions.
Samsung 3 Chromebook: Get compact power with this Samsung Chromebook laptop. Its 11.6-inch HD display provides clear graphics with anti-reflective technology, and its 4GB of RAM and Intel Celeron processor keep multitasking operations moving smoothly. This Samsung Chromebook laptop includes a 720-pixel camera and a 32GB flash drive to store documents, photos and programs.
Can you do videos Skypes on this chromebook?
Yes, but the camera is not the sharpest. It blurs away fine details so I look about fifty, instead of about seventy. I'm okay with that. The speakers are not very loud so headphones or plugging in a speaker such as the JBL Flip would be a good idea.
6 years, 9 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Samsung 3 Chromebook: Get compact power with this Samsung Chromebook laptop. Its 11.6-inch HD display provides clear graphics with anti-reflective technology, and its 4GB of RAM and Intel Celeron processor keep multitasking operations moving smoothly. This Samsung Chromebook laptop includes a 720-pixel camera and a 32GB flash drive to store documents, photos and programs.
Can you have the google play store and use it to download apps on this laptop?
No. Chromebooks currently use a special Chromebook store for apps, with apps designed specifically for Chromebooks. The Chromebook world is notable for a lack of malware and virus infections and the tightly controlled Chromebook app store is a primary defense against such problems.
6 years, 9 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Samsung 3 Chromebook: Get compact power with this Samsung Chromebook laptop. Its 11.6-inch HD display provides clear graphics with anti-reflective technology, and its 4GB of RAM and Intel Celeron processor keep multitasking operations moving smoothly. This Samsung Chromebook laptop includes a 720-pixel camera and a 32GB flash drive to store documents, photos and programs.
I need to have microsoft office on my computer for school. I am taking graduate courses and my papers have to be submitted using word not on the google drive. Is it possible to download Microsoft products like Word on this laptop?
Chromebooks use Google Docs to create and edit documents. Google Docs now has the ability to save a document in Microsoft Word format and to edit a document that was created in Microsoft Word format. In addition, Microsoft provides a free online version of Microsoft Word so a Chromebook connected to the internet can use the online Micosoft Word to edit documents. It is my impression that all of these alternatives to the FULL version of Microsoft Word have very simplified formatting options. So, the simple versions are fine for note taking or writing a letter, but they are not designed for a complex document such as a legal brief or a document with footnotes.
It is NOT possible to install the full version of Microsoft Word on a Chromebook. There are $200 Windows 10 laptops from Lenovo that can handle the full version of Microsoft Office and some of them are sold with a free one year license to Microsoft Office, a license worth $70, reducing the net cost of the laptop to about $130.
It is NOT possible to install the full version of Microsoft Word on a Chromebook. There are $200 Windows 10 laptops from Lenovo that can handle the full version of Microsoft Office and some of them are sold with a free one year license to Microsoft Office, a license worth $70, reducing the net cost of the laptop to about $130.
6 years, 9 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Only at Best BuyLenovo Ideapad 100s Laptop: This laptop features a compact design and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the Internet, stream videos, type up notes or view photos wherever you go. USB ports let you connect a variety of accessories.
I'm am wondering if I can run outlook on this? I would be using this for real estate and need this running smoothly.
I have not used Outlook, but the Lenovo has worked well with any ONE app that I have tried, such as LibreOffice, a heavy duty Office replacement. When you have two or three apps running and five or six tabs open on the Edge browser, the computer will slow down or freeze up. The solution is: use only ONE or two apps at a time, and things run smoothly.
The exception would be graphics heavy programs and games. The 2gb of RAM memory and basic graphics chip are a poor match for Photoshop, a video editor, or fast action games with complex graphics.
The exception would be graphics heavy programs and games. The 2gb of RAM memory and basic graphics chip are a poor match for Photoshop, a video editor, or fast action games with complex graphics.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Only at Best BuyLenovo Ideapad 100s Laptop: This laptop features a compact design and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the Internet, stream videos, type up notes or view photos wherever you go. USB ports let you connect a variety of accessories.
This laptop will be used to connect with my 94 year old mother via skipe and others. Will be a fast connection with good quality picture/video? what mouse can be added
Skype works well if your home has a strong wifi signal. The camera on the Lenovo requires VERY bright light to produce a good image, and the image is a bit soft. That means your 94 year old mom will look 30 years younger, as the softer image makes everyone look wrinkle free.
You can add a wireless usb mouse if you prefer. The trackpad on the Ideapad is easy to use so most folks will not miss having a mouse.
You can add a wireless usb mouse if you prefer. The trackpad on the Ideapad is easy to use so most folks will not miss having a mouse.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Only at Best BuyLenovo Ideapad 100s Laptop: This laptop features a compact design and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the Internet, stream videos, type up notes or view photos wherever you go. USB ports let you connect a variety of accessories.
Can it be fixed easily here in the US
Yes. You would contact Lenovo, get a return authorization number, send it to a USA service station, and then they would return it to you after it is repaired. Lenovo has on line web "chat" so that a tech can help you solve problems at home and also has a toll free number so you can talk with a tech.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Only at Best BuyLenovo Ideapad 100s Laptop: This laptop features a compact design and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the Internet, stream videos, type up notes or view photos wherever you go. USB ports let you connect a variety of accessories.
does this computer have a warrenty on it if so how long
One year parts and labor, with mail in to Lenovo. You can purchase extended service contracts from either Best Buy or Lenovo.
In my experience, if a computer has a problem, it will show up during the first week of regular use. When I get a new computer, I leave it plugged in and running 24 hours a day for the first week, and I use it every day. If a problem occurs the first week, Best Buy will exchange it or give you a refund.
In my experience, if a computer has a problem, it will show up during the first week of regular use. When I get a new computer, I leave it plugged in and running 24 hours a day for the first week, and I use it every day. If a problem occurs the first week, Best Buy will exchange it or give you a refund.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Only at Best BuyLenovo Ideapad 100s Laptop: This laptop features a compact design and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the Internet, stream videos, type up notes or view photos wherever you go. USB ports let you connect a variety of accessories.
Is this package new or refurbished and what accessories are included in the package? (Cord, charger, manuel, etc...)
Best Buy offers computers as both a NEW computer and as an "open box" computer, which has a lower price. If the "open box" computer is missing any component, that is noted on a label on the box.
The new Lenovo Ideapad 100s includes the computer, its enclosed battery, the charger with attached charging cord, and a sheet of information on how to start up the computer. After you start up the computer, you find that a highly detailed owner's manual is included on the computer itself as a document you can open and read. There are also links to Lenovo websites with answers to standard questions and you have the ability to open a "chat" with a Lenovo technician if you have questions.
The new Lenovo Ideapad 100s includes the computer, its enclosed battery, the charger with attached charging cord, and a sheet of information on how to start up the computer. After you start up the computer, you find that a highly detailed owner's manual is included on the computer itself as a document you can open and read. There are also links to Lenovo websites with answers to standard questions and you have the ability to open a "chat" with a Lenovo technician if you have questions.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Only at Best BuyLenovo Ideapad 100s Laptop: This laptop features a compact design and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the Internet, stream videos, type up notes or view photos wherever you go. USB ports let you connect a variety of accessories.
On the box says "this product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm" SHOULD I BUY THIS LAPTOP? what does this mean Explain.
ALL computers contain dangerous chemicals and materials. Those materials are INSIDE the computer and inside the battery, so there is ZERO risk when you use a computer in a normal way. However, the folks who recycle batteries and computers must be carefully trained so that they do not harm themselves when removing components and they must avoid putting those components into landfills where rain runoff could take chemicals into the local water supply.
Some people let kids play with/take apart broken computers to learn how they are made. Bad idea. In particular, misuse or abuse of a laptop battery could expose the child to chemicals or even the risk of fire or explosions.
Some people let kids play with/take apart broken computers to learn how they are made. Bad idea. In particular, misuse or abuse of a laptop battery could expose the child to chemicals or even the risk of fire or explosions.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
AlanInHouston
Dell Inspiron Laptop: Get the efficiency you need in a portable design with this 14" laptop. You can wirelessly link with other devices using the Bluetooth 4.0 interface and connect to the Web with built-in Wi-Fi. Plus, view content on your HDTV by plugging into the HDMI output.
Can this computer run Rosetta Stone?
Does this computer meet the requirements to run Rosetta Stone?
Yes. It will run fine. You may need to add a 32gb MicroSD card to avoid using the tiny 8gb of open memory in the Inspiron.
8 years ago
by
AlanInHouston