DavidJr's stats
- Review count289
- Helpfulness votes2,335
- First reviewDecember 8, 2015
- Last reviewJune 21, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
- Review comment count3
- Helpfulness votes2
- First review commentJune 3, 2016
- Last review commentJune 3, 2016
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count104
- Helpfulness votes219
- First answerDecember 9, 2015
- Last answerDecember 23, 2021
- Featured answers0
- Best answers34
The Gear S3 has the esthetics of a truly premium watch with advanced features built right into the watch design. That's why it's so easy and effortless to use the Gear S3. It's also built for you to go days without needing your phone or to recharge. You get to feel free with the Gear S3.
Customer Rating
5
So many functions in such a little space
on February 17, 2017
Posted by: DavidJr
The Samsung Gear S3 is by far one of the most advanced and classy looking smart watches out there. This smart watch pretty much has everything and with an option for 4G LTE I can’t imagine much more being offered. I have had the Samsung Gear S2 Classic and the Samsung Gear Fit2. I really like the “normal” watch style of the S line, but both watches just didn’t meet my expectations. Now that I have the Gear S3 Frontier, I can say that they have finally hit everything I was looking for.
Just starting off as a watch, it is a bit big and may be for some, but looks like a typical rugged style watch. The watch faces on it are amazing and some go as far as to mimic the light reflection as if they had a real reflective background. The clarity and finite details even give some of them a 3D appearance. From analog to digital with individual stylizations, there are so many watch face styles that you could have a different one every day if you choose to. There is also an “always on” feature that prevents you from having to flick your wrist to see the time, a complaint I had with the S2, however, it reduces time between charges significantly. With the band being interchangeable with any 22-mm band, the design choices are limitless.
As a fitness tracker, the Gear S3 has everything you expect, plus more. It tracks steps, floors climbed and automatic heart rate tracking with decent accuracy. It will pick up exercise events automatically if continued for at least 10 minutes, however, if you want full GPS tracking you will need to manually start the exercise event. When manually started and using S-Health you get added results, such as highest and lowest elevation for total ascent/descent using the included altimeter, and average/max heart rate. You also get a Google map display of your event which can be exported to a GPX file. The Gear S3 can keep track of all of this information without the phone being present during the workout. As an added bonus, the watch has internal storage so you can play music directly from the watch, through the built in speaker or Bluetooth headphones, or control the music on your phone.
For smart watch capability you get the typical notifications and alerts from your phone, which you can change in the Samsung Gear app. You can reply and send text messages by using standard preset short replies, emoticons, by writing text by hand, using an old style alphanumeric keypad, or use the microphone to record a message or use speech-to-text. Don’t want to text? You can answer and place calls directly from the watch, with surprising clarity. You can use your contacts or a keypad to enter a fresh number without ever pulling out your phone.
As for controlling the watch, I still love the rotating bezel compared to some other smart watches using the small crown. My fingers feel like I’m trying to use two sausages to pick up a pin when messing with small dials and such. Sometimes even using the screen is cumbersome as my finger can cover half the screen or a slight bump leads to clicking on a wrong reply.
My favorite feature with the watch has been the amazement that I get from people when I use my watch with Samsung Pay to make a payment. It typically starts out with their hand out awaiting a credit card. Then I tell them I’m going to pay using my watch and their response is usually “Oh our system is old, we don’t do that yet” as they hear the beep of the transaction being completed. That is when the questions start to kick in, even from people behind me in line. Besides ATM machines and gas pumps, it has worked on pretty much everything else. If at first it does not succeed, have them change the transaction from credit to debit or vice versa. You can even make up to four transactions without your phone being nearby, making this even better when out on a workout.
To wrap up with a few odds and ends, I like how the bezel is above the glass. I have only had mine a few weeks and already bumped it against several hard objects. There are marks on the bezel, but nothing with the glass. I just bought some lens covers to be sure that this will not be an issue. The default watch band is rubber, therefore it stretches and at times feels like it is pinching my arm, as a rubber band would. If I loosen it too much, because I use Samsung Pay, the screen will lock and requires a 4 digit pin to be entered. A feature I am grateful for, but a bit of an annoyance when I find it locked when a notification comes in, so I keep the watch tight. The battery life has lasted on average 3 days, with the “Always On” feature turned off. I like to wear mine at night as well, to provide sleep tracking, so I charge it during times of inactivity, like at my work desk or in the evening while watching TV, and it is fully charged in about 2 and a half hours. The altimeter and barometer are an interesting feature, and I am sure for some it will prove useful, but so far all I have noticed is that I have to recalibrate the altimeter every few days as it has been over 600ft off after a few days and the weather has not been severe enough to really change the barometer reading.
In conclusion, I have thoroughly enjoyed my Samsung Gear S3 Frontier and look forward to using it more as the season of outdoor activities starts to roll in. With so much to offer in a typical elegant looking watch, it is hard to believe what they will improve on it anytime soon. If you are looking to take the step into the world of using a smart watch, but don’t want a device that looks like a small phone on your wrist, and provides more features than any other watch, this is the one for you. If you are looking for an upgrade from any other smart watch, you don’t have to look any further.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+28points
30of 32voted this as helpful.
Create a soothing state of mind with this LectroFan white noise machine. Its 20 distinct digital sounds, which includes 10 different fan sounds and 10 types of pure white noise, let you mask environmental noise. Use the pinpoint volume controls on this LectroFan white noise machine to customize the experience.
Customer Rating
5
Better night's sleep, drowning everything else out
on January 18, 2017
Posted by: DavidJr
I have always needed some sort of steady noise in the background to help me sleep. Typically I have a box fan, ceiling fan, or circular fan running in my bedroom, but when on the road it is not the most convenient thing to travel with. I have tried using apps on my phone which usually lead to hearing the loop sound or other interrupting sounds that end up disrupting my sleep. Nothing like a notification coming through when you can't mute the phone as you need the sound. Also, the AC in a hotel usually has a mind of its own, cutting on and off at random times. However, the LectroFan is small enough to pack away and provides a perfect, non-stop sound that sounds very realistic. So realistic that I could have sworn that there was air coming from the direction of the sound. It also has some weight to it that helps keep it in place on your nightstand.
There are 20 different sounds that can help meet anyone's desires, as listed in the picture. These sounds range from the sound of leaving an old TV on to large industrial fan, like you're sleeping in a warehouse. After listening to all of them I almost wished they had a diesel generator sound to remind me of my times out in the field during training exercises.
The buttons are far enough apart and simple enough that it is easy to make changes in a dark room. There is a 60 minute timer that can be increased per 60 minutes to 120 and 180 that I do not use, because when the sound stops, that is when I wake.
The other thing that this device can be used for is drowning out noises while you are awake. When used in an office or waiting area, the volume can be increased to a point that you can barely hear yourself talk over it. Yet, at the right level and setting it can prevent anyone else in the area overhearing a conversation in the other room. However, set the volume too high and the sounds start to crackle.
Though the design is simple it looks a bit dated. With the heptagon shape, very sharp edges, large grey buttons, and only available in white and black may limit where you want to put this. But, at the same time, it is really a type of device that is meant to be heard and not necessarily seen. Also, the power that the LectroFan uses is standard USB 0.5 amp, 1watt. So, if you happen to be short on plugs, or forgot an adapter, any powered USB port will essentially work. So, use that one outlet for your laptop and plug the LectoFan into the computer and drown out those distracting random sounds.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+16points
16of 16voted this as helpful.
Enjoy nonstop music while charging your iPhone with this Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge RockStar adapter. It keeps your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus fully functional while plugged in, and it's compatible with Apple MFi-certified cables and headphones. The 12W power pass-through of this Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge RockStar adapter provides optimal charging speed for compatible devices.
Customer Rating
3
Works as designed
on January 12, 2017
Posted by: DavidJr
The Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge RockStar adapter does exactly as it is designed to do, provide two lightning ports so that you can charge your phone and use lightning headphones at the same time. However, this thing is 4.5 inches long and seems a bit bigger than it needs to be for a simple function. It works perfectly with lightning headphones and a charger if you don’t plan on moving much while it charges as it essentially makes your phone about 4 inches longer with its stiff cable. However, there is much risk of a cable like this easily wearing down, just like regular charge cables, so I understand why.
Though not advertised much, this will work with any device that is on iOS 10 with a lightning port. Though there is not much purpose, since older devices have a 3.5mm port for headphones, if you desire to use your lightning headphones and charge at the same time on your iPhone 6S Plus, you can, so long as you are on iOS 10 or higher.
In testing with the 3.5mm adapter and various styles of headphones, I discovered a slight problem with headphones that have volume/play controls on them that are not Apple branded. With these specific 3.5mm headphones the audio would intermittently cut in and out. After bumping the volume button a few times the volume control would then work properly and the sound would correct itself. It would seem that using the 3.5mm adapter in this Belkin adapter into the lightning port does not smoothly identify the switched pins of ground and control as there are varying standards. However, after using the control buttons it made the distinction.
Overall, for the price I don’t feel like it is worth the function it provides. It would probably be better just to spend the money for a set of Bluetooth headphones and use the lightning port for charging. However, not all Bluetooth headphones are good for watching videos and there are times you would prefer to use wired headphones while keeping a charge and this is the only certified product to do so.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Share this review:
+4points
4of 4voted 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
4
Simple setup, modern design
on January 12, 2017
Posted by: DavidJr
This system is specifically designed for someone that wants to supply Wi-Fi throughout their house without having a gaudy looking, “alien like” router being the center piece of it. The design of each node is like a small vase or one of those Glade automatic air fresheners, with wires easily guided behind it and hidden underneath, too include a very “modern looking” power adapter. The Linksys Velop is directly aimed at someone that wants a simple method to set it up and a simple way to manage it. With the Linksys app it walks you through the process step by step and works its “magic” as it displays during setup. Managing the system is simple and straight forward through the app which is only available on iOS (8.0 or later) and Android (4.0.3 or later). The app allows you to control each devices access, enable/disable guest networks, and manage other technical aspects of the network. Using three nodes you can seamlessly cover a large area without ever needing to understand how it works. With the two Ethernet ports on each node you can also provide wired Ethernet connections to remote devices while wirelessly connected back to the internet. In my case my son’s room has always been a weak Wi-Fi spot and his old computer has just remained off the internet for years now. With this system he now has excellent Wi-Fi coverage and his old computer is connected via Ethernet cable to a wireless network. The Linksys Velop is an easy, simple and elegant way to provide a single hi-speed Wi-Fi network throughout a large area.
On the flip side though, I am a tech nerd and I like to have much more control over my devices. For instance, you cannot control these network devices with a computer. Unlike other Linksys devices that you can use the Linksys app for, you can usually use the computer to get even more refined details, such as separating the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands into separate networks or setting times to restrict access for parental controls. With the Linksys Velop you must use the app, even after the network is set up. If you attempt to log into the main node via IP, it will remind you that you must use the app. The other side effect to the app is that it is only available on iOS and Android devices that must already have an internet connection, because you have to download the app before you even start setup. So, if you only have an old device (earlier than iOS 8 and Android 4.0.3), or a Windows based phone, and don’t already have Wi-Fi or data services on your device, you will not be able to set this system up.
During the set-up process, though simple and guided, there were several times that I was on a waiting screen with no feedback other than a pinging blue circle or a rotating blue ring and the statement telling me it will take some time or please wait. After waiting over 15 minutes, two separate times, I restarted everything and it only took about 5 minutes to complete setup of the first node. The second node was even quicker and the third node required a hard reset of holding the reset button for 10 seconds, as directed by the app, though it installed after that with no issues. I just feel that the app should realize that after about 5 minutes of being on a single screen that something may be wrong and suggest restarting.
The Wi-Fi connection is truly seamless. Going from node to node is not noticeable unless you are looking for it and that is where I noticed that it only changes nodes over when it is at near loss of the previously connected node. For instance if connected to node 3 and you walk to node 2, you will not switch over to a stronger signal unless the other signal is so weak that you may lose connection anyways. Due to the size of my house, my devices only switch once I was at node 1, which was in my basement. This is a good thing, as it prevented actual loss of connection, but to me did not seem like the best option as the signal is stronger and most likely faster if I am a few feet from node 2 as opposed to 20 feet from node 3 or 1. The speed of this connection also ran between 80 and 100Mbps, which is good enough for my internet connection, but not the fastest local network speed.
Overall, Linksys Velop is a great looking system and works as intended. If you are looking for a simple and kind of discreet way to provide Wi-Fi throughout your house, this is the way to go. If you are like me and want more control over your home Wi-Fi, you might want to consider something like the Linksys WRT3200ACM.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+11points
16of 21voted this as helpful.
Immerse yourself in virtual reality fun with your Galaxy device and these Samsung Gear VR goggles. Whether you want to experience movies on the big screen or enter your favorite gaming world, simply snap in a smartphone to make it possible. These Samsung Gear VR goggles are also lightweight and padded for comfort.
Customer Rating
4
Minor changes from previous model
on December 27, 2016
Posted by: DavidJr
My review on the original Gear VR, SM-R322 (White) still holds true and is mostly written below. However, the differences between the two are minimal and if you want to “future proof” yourself for a possible phone upgrade, the fact that the SM-R323 (Black) has an interchangeable connection for Micro-USB and USB-C ensures that whatever format comes for the next Samsung Galaxy phone you should be good to go.
The new model has a better, thicker headband that allows you to remove the top portion if you choose to. The feel on the face is about the same, but the fabric looks a little better constructed. The control panel on the side is flat, missing the directional feel, but functions the same and somewhat felt easier to control since I wasn’t looking for the indentions. The black color already felt like a benefit to me, to help reduce external light, and less noticeable is that they added a few additional holes inside to help reduce fog on the lenses.
The one problem I have with the new one is that I feel like I am missing about 10 degrees from the field of view. The lenses inside are bigger, closer together, but the image feels closer and when looking straight on it is noticeable the amount of peripheral vision that is missing when comparing the two. A first time user of any Gear VR might not notice it, but when you have used the white version for a bit, it is really noticeable. I even used a 360 photo that shows the degrees and confirmed that it is about 10 degrees less than the white version.
From my previous review of the White model:
If you already have a Samsung Galaxy S6, S7, or Note 5, this is well worth the purchase. It is a great and easy way to be introduced to virtual reality. VR is making huge advances compared to what it used to be and as more applications come out it shows even more what it is capable of. It is amazing how VR can pull you in and create feelings that you would figure were impossible unless you were actually moving. However, there are a lot of issues that still need to be addressed. First thing, as many others have stated, is the overheating. There is nothing more fun spoiling than to be 10 minutes into a game to get the pop-up about it overheating. If you choose to continue and ignore it, the game becomes unplayable with a 1-4 frames per second refresh. There are methods to reducing the heat, but most require a third party purchase.
Visually the screen door effect is very obvious and makes the screen look blurry, no matter how much you try to focus. However, once you get engrossed in a game or movie, the effect seems to fade away. This will surely get better as screens increase in their resolution and pixels per inch and you have to remember that you are looking at your phone really really close. Game prices are rather steep compared to other phone related games. I understand that they are more involved that your typical phone based game. However, I hate to pay $5.99 for an app only to find out that it is about 10 minutes worth of entertainment with no replay value. I do like how some of them have gone “free” with in-game purchases to get the full version if you find it worthy. It is hard to enjoy VR with others. Using Chromecast to mirror the screen to a TV looked very promising, until I found out that it cast the sound to the TV and not the headphones. Then, after about 5 seconds in the game, the video would freeze for external viewers but continue for the player. No matter the setting I tried, Chromecast would not work for me and my Note 5. I ended up purchasing MirrorOp, which is pricy app, but has made screen mirroring run really smooth, keep the sound in the headphones for the player, and really allowed the external viewers to enjoy the show and “mess” with the player.
Having a Bluetooth controller is only required for a few games. Most of them can be controlled with the side touchpad, which once you get used to how touchy it is, works well. However, keeping my arm bent beside my head gets tiring quickly. If you already play controller based video games, having a Bluetooth controller is only natural. The button placement on most of them is very similar to what you would already be used to so they are familiar and easy to use. Having a controller also unlocks some features in apps that you don’t “need” a controller for, such as moving seats in the theater.
Sitting in a swivel chair is the easiest way to play. Standing is always an option, but ensure the environment is clear around you and you are able to control vertigo. Some applications allow you to re-center the image, but most lock in the moment you activate the proximity sensor, which could happen from thumb placement or the head strap getting too close. Most of the time, taking it off and then putting it back on in the direction you want to face will re-center it as well. I do wish that some applications would let you force the center so that you could sit back and relax while playing and not forced to sit upright the entire time.
There is a fair amount of material out there under the Samsung/Gear VR store, however, Google Cardboard already has so much material available. The Gear VR will not let you play that material by default, however, there is an app that can help with that as well. That app essentially helps unlock more potential for the device. Some of it does not play as smoothly as the material made to run with Oculus, but still gives more options. Overall I feel it was well worth it. I have almost contemplated buying myself a new phone so that I could leave my Note 5 as a dedicated VR screen, but then I realize that I don’t use it that much, especially since the novelty of it has worn down a bit. If only Samsung incorporated a cooling method for the phone I would have rated this higher.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Samsung Gear Fit2 Fitness Watch + Heart Rate: This fitness watch measures your heart rate, calories burned, distance traveled, steps taken and speed and features a Bluetooth 4.2 interface that lets you sync results with your compatible Samsung phone or tablet. Its smart notifications let you receive alerts and respond to calls from compatible Android and iOS smartphones¹ and a curved display makes it easy to view activity progress.
Customer Rating
4
Great fitness watch, but short in a few areas.
on December 21, 2016
Posted by: DavidJr
Overall the Samsung Gear Fit 2 is a great fitness watch. It has all the basics you expect from a fitness band, such as heart rate, step count, and calories burned. It also provides the features of a smart watch, such as notifications, easy reply to text, customized watch faces, and other watch functions.
For activity tracking you can manually select from Running, Walking, Cycling, Hiking, Elliptical trainer, Exercise bike, Step machine, Treadmill, Lunges, Crunches, Squats, Star jumps, Pilates, Yoga, Rowing Machine, and Other workout. You can set your target for Duration, Distance, Calories, or Basic workout. You can enable tracking, which was not on by default, enable auto pause, so that it only tracks while you are only active and set guide intervals for distance or time. The Gear Fit2 will start tracking an exercise event on its own, provided you do that activity for 10 minutes or more. Anything less than that, unless manually started, doesn’t always show up as an activity. The other disadvantage to the Gear Fit2 automatically recognizing the activity is that the actual location is not recorded via GPS, the GPS tracking appears to only work if manually started. However, a “Dynamic Workout” can pop up at any time, such as working on your car for 30 minutes straight, which shows up as “Other Workout” when recorded. The Gear Fit2 also tracks floors, however, this is hit or miss. I live in a 3 story house, yet rarely does it count a floor. I work in a 3 story building that is as tall as 5, but after 9 flights of stairs it may show 2 floors climbed. It also really depends on what you are doing with your watch hand. If holding the rail or securing something with your arm, it may not count any floors.
The battery life will vary depending on what you have enabled. I found that disabling the Wi-Fi and leaving location off really extends the time to 3+ days. However, with those services on, plenty of activity and checking the watch with a high brightness setting, it can be as little as a day and a half. I’m not a very active person, but on average use, even wearing it to sleep, it lasted around 3 days.
One of the features I had been looking forward to was sleep tracking. I have seen some reviews complain about the watching keeping them awake, however, if you turn the brightness down and turn on the “Do not disturb” setting, the watch will only show its face when a button is pushed or an alarm goes off. It has been interesting to see my sleep activity as I never realized how active I was at night, to include a few minutes of what the watch considered “light activity.” Using the S Health app you can see exact times of sleep to include motionless, light, and restless movement. Plus, in the morning, when your phone alarm goes off the watch vibrates and offers a snooze or disable. I feel it has helped me get up in the morning as it is a little harder to ignore the vibration.
To get the most out of the watch, you must have an Android based phone that can run the Samsung Gear app and highly recommended for a Galaxy phone. Other phones can see the watch on Bluetooth but the watch will not complete set up and will continue to ask for Samsung Gear App to complete. However, the watch will function on its own without the ability to sync to a phone.
Due to the shape of the watch, the center of the glass seems like a hazardous area. Just the slightest bump and you are hitting the glass face against something. However, I have accidently bumped against a variety of objects, from walking close to a wall to working on my car and there is still no visible damage. Though I have not purposely tried to hit it, I have bumped it pretty hard on a rough concrete wall with the same results. The other thing I don’t necessarily like is the latching mechanics for the band. I have had it come loose without knowing how, but have noticed it when it does. It is also a little difficult at times to get that next hole to keep it tight without fighting the opposite direction.
If you already use an Android based phone and want to get the most out of the S Health app or other like apps, this is certainly a watch to get.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+3points
3of 3voted this as helpful.
Keep unwanted hair to a minimum with this Philips grooming tool. The waterproof design lets you use it in the shower, and eight attachments make this trimmer perfect for grooming different sections of the face. This Philips grooming tool has a turbo setting to increase cutting speed, and it charges in just one hour to reduce wait time.
Customer Rating
5
Shave and Shower at the same time.
on November 24, 2016
Posted by: DavidJr
I’m a hairy guy and the thing I hate most about shaving are the clippings that will find their way into everything. Now with the Philips Norelco - Multigroom Series 7400 Wet/dry Trimmer I can shave and shower at the same time, washing the clippings away before they have the chance to get into anything. With the multiple attachments I can get pretty much groom any hair on my body, from shaved head and cleared nose to more private areas, all being cleaned off easily with water. With a full charge it has lasted for several shavings without needing another charge. The bag that it comes with is larger than needed, but leaves room to put other items if need be.
The only thing I don’t like about it is the bodygroom shaver has a detail trimmer on each side. This limits the ability to use this head to get a close shave near anywhere you want to keep longer hair, such as under my neck next to my beard. If using it to get the stubble on the neck it will cut into the beard that I don’t want to cut. Maybe if the edger was only one side, but I can see that the angle of the head might leave one edger inconvenienced compared to the other.
Regardless, this Philips Norelco wet/dry trimmer keeps me from looking like a wild animal.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+4points
4of 4voted this as helpful.
Enjoy multiple benefits when wearing these Samsung IconX headphones. They double as a fitness tracker to record distance, speed and calories burned, and 4GB of memory lets you store up to 1,000 songs directly on these ear pieces. These Samsung IconX headphones come without wires for ultimate mobility during your workout.
Customer Rating
3
Truly Wireless but short lived battery.
on November 15, 2016
Posted by: DavidJr
I absolutely love the concept of being fully wireless with the Samsung Gear Icon X. I feel like I am starting to become a cyborg with these in, listening to music, hearing the sound around me and reading vital signs. However, it is short lived as battery life is less than 2 hours if streaming music.
They fit snug and I haven’t worried about them falling out yet. However, you have to really get them into your ear to get the best sound of them and it can be a little uncomfortable. Otherwise there isn’t much bass and sound is high pitched sounding. It may take some variations of the different sized rubber pieces to get the perfect fit.
Touch controls are simple and voice prompts are soft with 15 different language options. However, they can be touchy, like starting and ending exercise events when you are simply trying to make an adjustment. I have found myself ending calls when all I was trying to do is adjust the ear bud or increase volume.
The charging case is a great place to keep each individual ear bud safe and clean. However, the case is not very rugged and can be easily bumped open in a pocket, preventing charge or causing damage. They charge to full in 30-45 minutes. However, as mentioned above they are not meant to be headphone replacements for extended time as they died in 1 hour 45 minutes just streaming music. However, if you store music on the 4GB internal storage, they can last up to 3 hours. I have extended the play time with them by using one ear bud at a time, though you have to switch the primary over to R or L before the battery dies, which timed out on me several times. An interesting thing though, as a straight MP3 player you can use either ear bud, so long as you stored music on them, simply by putting one in and tapping play. However, if you did not set them to shuffle with the Gear App, your playlist will start over, sorted by filename.
Sound quality is good enough to listen to music, but on the low end, especially when in a call. This is due to the Bluetooth codec used and not the more current Apt-X. They can get loud enough to drown out noise around you, but if you can’t get the perfect fit you won’t hear any bass. Also, if you are only using one, it can be really hard to hear a phone call. I found myself cupping my ear with one in, to hear better, only to end the call by accident.
Overall, I like the Samsung Gear Icon X but don’t think they are at their full potential yet. They are not headphone replacements, but decent short term, multi-function, fully wireless ear buds. Maybe the next generation will be better with battery life and clarity.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+4points
4of 4voted this as helpful.
Connect your external wireless devices to the internet with this Linksys dual-band router. Two 5Ghz bands support both high-end gaming and low-end applications without compromising speed, and remote management lets you make adjustments from any location. This Linksys dual-band router has a sleek design that integrates easily into most workspaces.
Customer Rating
5
Simple setup and open source read
on October 21, 2016
Posted by: DavidJr
The Linksys WRT AC3200 is extremely easy to set up. It comes with an Ethernet cord and a preset Wi-Fi network so that you can set up the router straight out of the box with any device you have. The paper directions are very limited, but enough to get you connected and once connected the direction on the device are easy to follow. It does come with a CD with PDF directions, but those are very brief as well.
The default login screen for the router leads you to believe you must have a Linksys Smart Wi-Fi account, however, there is one line below the login that says “For local access, click here.” The Smart Wi-Fi account does however allow you to access your router from anywhere once you have the account associated with your router.
Of the routers I have used, the layout of the dashboard for this one is one of the simplest yet effective ones I have seen. It is customizable so that you can change what you want to see, or not see, at a glance. Such in my case, I do not use the Guest Access, so therefore I do not need to see it. I also like how it summarizes the online devices, showing that I have a certain number of Local devices and how many of each are using which band of the Wi-Fi. If you click on the number you can see a network map, in which you can modify each device, such as name, parental controls, and reserve the DHCP address. From here you can also see the current internet usage of these devices so that you can see who is hogging your bandwidth.
While speaking of Parental controls, the controls on here are straight forward and simple. You can block all access, during specific times, or specific sites. However, in order to set sites and times you must use a PC or tablet, the phone app only allows a manual all block or allows you to remove devices from the controls. Also, the specific times are in 30 minute blocks through a block chart. It is simple, just not as specific as setting the time per minute yourself. However, it lets me ensure that my children are not trying to watch videos or something during bedtime hours.
As far as speed, I have not had any issues with it. It has been completely comparable to another brand AC3200 router and I don’t have equipment really capable of pushing the device to its limits to find out. However, I have noticed when logged into the device that it responds quicker than other models and that may be due to the faster processor. The Speed Test under Smart Wi-Fi Tools seems to be inconsistent with its results. It uses a popular speed test website, however, it randomly selects a server that is not nearby and tends to show numbers about half that of the test ran from my computer.
Along the subject of speed, this router has a prioritization mode that I first tested while configuring through the phone app. There it allows you to add and remove devices to the priority list, however, it reduced my speed to 21Mbps. At first I figured this is a horrible priority, as nothing else was running at the time. However, come to find out, there are additional setting that can only be viewed when configuring from a PC or web browser. In the settings of Media Prioritization it allows you to set the Downstream Bandwidth and this is essentially what you are giving the priority device to use while everything else just uses whatever it left over.
The Linksys WRT AC3200 router has a USB 3.0 and an eSATA connection that can also be used as a USB 2.0 port. I haven’t used this feature as I have network storage, however, the settings in the router allow you to limit folder access, provide an FTP server or act as a media server. With a simple external hard drive you can easily add network attached storage.
Out of the box this router has loads of features to include advanced features for some of the most unique networks. From configuring ports and vlans to functioning as an OpenVPN Server. However, the thing about the WRT series is having open source choices which allow tons more advanced features.
Certainly a great router for someone that wants to simply get a home network up, maybe run a small business or just want to have extra control with open source capability.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+6points
6of 6voted this as helpful.
Connect your external wireless devices to the internet with this Linksys dual-band router. Two 5Ghz bands support both high-end gaming and low-end applications without compromising speed, and remote management lets you make adjustments from any location. This Linksys dual-band router has a sleek design that integrates easily into most workspaces.
Customer Rating
5
Easy to Use, Plenty of Features, Customizable
on October 21, 2016
Posted by: DavidJr
The Linksys WRT AC3200 is extremely easy to set up. It comes with an Ethernet cord and a preset Wi-Fi network so that you can set up the router straight out of the box with any device you have. The paper directions are very limited, but enough to get you connected and once connected the direction on the device are easy to follow. It does come with a CD with PDF directions, but those are very brief as well.
The default login screen for the router leads you to believe you must have a Linksys Smart Wi-Fi account, however, there is one line below the login that says “For local access, click here.” The Smart Wi-Fi account does however allow you to access your router from anywhere once you have the account associated with your router.
Of the routers I have used, the layout of the dashboard for this one is one of the simplest yet effective ones I have seen. It is customizable so that you can change what you want to see, or not see, at a glance. Such in my case, I do not use the Guest Access, so therefore I do not need to see it. I also like how it summarizes the online devices, showing that I have a certain number of Local devices and how many of each are using which band of the Wi-Fi. If you click on the number you can see a network map, in which you can modify each device, such as name, parental controls, and reserve the DHCP address. From here you can also see the current internet usage of these devices so that you can see who is hogging your bandwidth.
While speaking of Parental controls, the controls on here are straight forward and simple. You can block all access, during specific times, or specific sites. However, in order to set sites and times you must use a PC or tablet, the phone app only allows a manual all block or allows you to remove devices from the controls. Also, the specific times are in 30 minute blocks through a block chart. It is simple, just not as specific as setting the time per minute yourself. However, it lets me ensure that my children are not trying to watch videos or something during bedtime hours.
As far as speed, I have not had any issues with it. It has been completely comparable to another brand AC3200 router and I don’t have equipment really capable of pushing the device to its limits to find out. However, I have noticed when logged into the device that it responds quicker than other models and that may be due to the faster processor. The Speed Test under Smart Wi-Fi tools seems to be inconsistent with its results. It uses Ookla, just as the popular speed test website, however, it randomly selects a server that is not nearby and tends to show numbers about half that of the test ran from my computer.
Along the subject of speed, this router has a prioritization mode that I first tested while configuring through the phone app. There it allows you to add and remove devices to the priority list, however, it reduced my speed to 21Mbps. At first I figured this is a horrible priority, as nothing else was running at the time. However, come to find out, there are additional setting that can only be viewed when configuring from a PC or web browser. In the settings of Media Prioritization it allows you to set the Downstream Bandwidth and this is essentially what you are giving the priority device to use while everything else just uses whatever it left over.
The Linksys WRT AC3200 router has a USB 3.0 and an eSATA connection that can also be used as a USB 2.0 port. I haven’t used this feature as I have network storage, however, the settings in the router allow you to limit folder access, provide an FTP server or act as a media server. With a simple external hard drive you can easily add network attached storage.
Out of the box this router has loads of features to include advanced features for some of the most unique networks. From configuring ports and vlans to functioning as an OpenVPN Server. However, the thing about the WRT series is having open source choices like DD-WRT and OpenWRT which allow tons more advanced features.
Certainly a great router for someone that wants to simply get a home network up, maybe run a small business or just want to have extra control with open source capability.
My Best Buy number: 2182552841
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
DavidJr's Review Comments
Samsung Gear VR for Select Samsung Cell Phones: Mobile virtual reality is finally here. Watch movies in your own private cinema, be at the center of your favorite games, and socialize with friends in a virtual world all your own. The lightweight design and intuitive touchpad drop you right in the action and allow for hours of immersive entertainment.
Overall
1 out of 5
1 out of 5Very unhappy about not getting the GearVR programs
By Sunshower
I tried many different ways to find out how to download the Gear VR programs by going to Samsung and Oculus online. All unsuccessful!!
DavidJr
June 3, 2016
Once you connect the Gear VR to the phone it starts a download for the software. There appears to be no other way to initiate the install. Once the Oculus software is installed, games and applications can be purchased through the application or from inside the store while wearing the device.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
Samsung Gear VR for Select Samsung Cell Phones: Mobile virtual reality is finally here. Watch movies in your own private cinema, be at the center of your favorite games, and socialize with friends in a virtual world all your own. The lightweight design and intuitive touchpad drop you right in the action and allow for hours of immersive entertainment.
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Need certain phones to use this.
By Donna
Wasn't told at time of purchase that certain phones were required to use this device. After purchase was when this was discovered. During this time we purchased a new home and was moving. After the move, tried to return the item because I didn't want to purchase a new phone. The only way the store would accept this return was to give me a gift card. I didn't want a gift card that I would most likely not use. Not happy with this policy at all. Also have made posts to FB in regards to your policy. I will not EVER enter your store again or make another purchase from you online. This is NOT how you treat a customer and expect more business from them.
DavidJr
It is labeled on the box and the site details
June 3, 2016
It says on the front and back of the box, "Compatible with Note5/S6 edge+/S6/S6 edge" and anywhere you look online it says it as well.
+2points
2of 2voted this comment as helpful.
Samsung Gear VR for Select Samsung Cell Phones: Mobile virtual reality is finally here. Watch movies in your own private cinema, be at the center of your favorite games, and socialize with friends in a virtual world all your own. The lightweight design and intuitive touchpad drop you right in the action and allow for hours of immersive entertainment.
Overall
2 out of 5
2 out of 5I have problems getting my phone to sync with this
By Drestyle
When I put my phone in the unit it doesn't seem it. I keep having to pull it out and try again.
DavidJr
June 3, 2016
What phone are you using and is it up to date? The Samsung Gear VR is only compatible with Galaxy S7, Galaxy S7 edge, Galaxy Note5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and a software update from your carrier is required for S6 edge+ and Note 5.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
DavidJr's Questions
DavidJr has not submitted any questions.
Enjoy everyday gaming with this ASUS notebook PC. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS processor and 16GB of memory deliver fast and smooth performance during intensive gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card renders high-quality videos for enhanced videos and games. This 14-inch IPS Level Full HD ASUS notebook PC has a 512GB SSD that provides storage for all types of files.
Does it have a display port?
This has an HDMI 2.0b port and a USB-C beside it that will support Display Port adapters. There is not a dedicated Display Port.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
DavidJr
Enjoy everyday gaming with this ASUS notebook PC. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS processor and 16GB of memory deliver fast and smooth performance during intensive gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card renders high-quality videos for enhanced videos and games. This 14-inch IPS Level Full HD ASUS notebook PC has a 512GB SSD that provides storage for all types of files.
Is the RAM and SSD upgradable on this computer?
Yes, both the SSD and 1 module of RAM can be upgraded on this laptop. However, there is only one M.2 and one RAM slot, so the current devices will have to be removed. Max RAM is 24GB meaning a 16GB chip can replace the current 8GB as 8GB is on board.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
DavidJr
Enjoy everyday gaming with this ASUS notebook PC. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS processor and 16GB of memory deliver fast and smooth performance during intensive gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card renders high-quality videos for enhanced videos and games. This 14-inch IPS Level Full HD ASUS notebook PC has a 512GB SSD that provides storage for all types of files.
Standard gtx 1650? And is it gddr5 or gddr6?
Standard NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GDDR6 @ 4GB (128 bit)
2 years, 9 months ago
by
DavidJr
Enjoy everyday gaming with this ASUS notebook PC. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS processor and 16GB of memory deliver fast and smooth performance during intensive gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card renders high-quality videos for enhanced videos and games. This 14-inch IPS Level Full HD ASUS notebook PC has a 512GB SSD that provides storage for all types of files.
Can the ram be upgraded? (To ASUS: There are currently two different answers given by you on this questionboard!)
The RAM can be upgraded. There is only 1 RAM slot though, with 8GB on board and 8GB that is user replaceable. This can be upgraded to 24GB total, so a 16GB PC4-3200 chip can be installed in place of the current 8GB.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
DavidJr
Enjoy everyday gaming with this ASUS notebook PC. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS processor and 16GB of memory deliver fast and smooth performance during intensive gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card renders high-quality videos for enhanced videos and games. This 14-inch IPS Level Full HD ASUS notebook PC has a 512GB SSD that provides storage for all types of files.
Can I upgrade the 512GB SSD to a 1TB SSD?
The installed M.2 NVMe drive can be user replaced with a larger version. An upgrade guide is available on the ASUS support site.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
DavidJr
Enjoy everyday gaming with this ASUS notebook PC. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS processor and 16GB of memory deliver fast and smooth performance during intensive gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card renders high-quality videos for enhanced videos and games. This 14-inch IPS Level Full HD ASUS notebook PC has a 512GB SSD that provides storage for all types of files.
Is it possible to upgrade or change the AMD RYZEN 7 to a higher model And is it possible to change the GeForce GTX 1650 to RTX 2060 or higher?
On this specific model, no. There are other models that can be more customized on the ASUS site.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
DavidJr
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Whoever bought it (I never saw it out of "coming soon", it went straight to "sold out") please let us know: Is it 3050ti or 3060ti? Thnk u
It is a Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti Laptop installed as seen from the System Information here.
2 years, 10 months ago
by
DavidJr
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Will this laptop support Xbox?
It is a Windows 10 computer and supports Xbox in the way that any other Windows 10 computer does. It does come with a month free of Xbox Game Pass which gives you access to PC Game Pass games. It does not play Xbox games that are not already in the Microsoft store for PC if that is what you are asking. You still need an Xbox if you want to play the game streamed to this computer.
2 years, 10 months ago
by
DavidJr
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Does it support controller use? (Xbox one, PS4, or custom versions of them)?
Any controller you can use with Windows 10 will work with this computer as is. Wirelessly some PlayStation controllers use Bluetooth and Xbox controllers usually need an adapter.
2 years, 10 months ago
by
DavidJr
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Is it a 48wh or 90wh battery and does it come with HDD caddy with a connector?
This comes with a 48Wh battery and there is no room or connections for an internal HDD. There is a spare M2 slot for an additional NVMe SSD.
2 years, 10 months ago
by
DavidJr