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- First reviewDecember 19, 2014
- Last reviewMarch 25, 2024
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- First answerAugust 12, 2016
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The JAXJOX Dumbbell is a digital dumbbell set offering two adjustable dumbbells ranging from 8-50 pounds each. Select your weight with a touch of a button.
Customer Rating
4
Well built, but app is terrible
on January 21, 2021
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
Years ago I bought a set of iron weights along with a pair of star-lock dumbbell handles. I thought it would be great to do dumbbell exercises with a variety of weights. Changing out the weights turned out to be annoying, and the star-locks would loosen while I used the dumbbells, making the plates clang together. Eventually my usage of them diminished to zero.
Fast-forward to today, and the JaxJox Dumbbell Connect. This is a set of dumbbells with plastic-coated plates that can be adjusted at the push of a button. Each dumbbell sits in its own plastic tray, keeping the weights nice and neat. The tray contains a rechargeable battery and a small LCD display showing how much weight is on each dumbbell. There are also 2 buttons, which you use to increase or decrease the amount of weight on each dumbbell.
The set is well-constructed, with a knurled steel handle that connects to the weight plates. With no extra plates attached, the handles weigh 8 pounds, and you can increase the weight in 6 pound increments. Changing weights couldn’t be easier: just place the handle back in the base and select the amount you want with the buttons. Within a few seconds, each dumbbell will beep to tell you that the change is complete. The increments roll over, so that if you press too many times, just keep pressing and you’ll go back around from the beginning. This is actually a nice touch.
Using the weights feels very natural. They attach to the handle securely, and don’t clang while in use. Some reviews have stated that it’s too difficult to place the handles back in the base properly so that the weights are straight up and down. It’s true that this does happen on occasion, meaning that the weights won’t adjust properly, but it’s easy enough just to be careful to ensure that this doesn’t happen. One thing I really like about this set is the clean look it has. I’ve seen other dumbbells similar to this that only look good at their highest weight setting. Anything less and it looks like you’re picking up some sort of black fishbone. The JaxJox Dumbbell Connect looks symmetrical and balanced at any weight setting. You can see this in my pictures. You can also see how neat and compact these are in their bases. Anyone who has tried to keep a set of iron plates stacked neatly knows how difficult this can be. The Dumbbell Connect packs 15 dumbbells into the space of 2, and that is a major advantage.
The mechanism for changing the weights is motorized, so the connection between the handle and the base is critical for its operation. While it’s too early to tell, this has the potential to be the Achilles Heel for the set. Should the connection fail, or if the battery won’t take a charge, I won’t be able to change the amount of weight on the handle, and it’ll be a giant paper weight. Hopefully these will last a very long time, but it is something to consider as you compare to other alternatives. Speaking of batteries, the batteries in the base can be charged using the included USB-C charging cable. Unfortunately, JaxJox did not include a charger for the cable to plug into, so you’ll have to supply your own.
While the handles and weights themselves are very well-built, I can’t say the same for the app. The app promises exercise tracking, goal-setting and on-demand classes, but it delivers very little. You are required to set up an account to get started, which some may find off-putting. I was excited to try out the on-demand classes, but I was disappointed to find that none of them were available without first signing up for a premium membership at $12.99 per month. I expected to at least find a few classes that I could try before paying even more money. There’s also a “programs” section in the app, but there are no programs available for the dumbbells. I checked out what’s available for the kettlebell, and did find what looked to be a pretty good set of workouts put together into a program, but when I tried to preview it, the app locked up. When this app locks up, it REALLY locks up, so much so that my phone is inoperable. In fact, no other app that I’ve ever used has been able to lock up my phone so tightly. Once this happens, you can do nothing but wait for it to clear up enough so that you can kill the app. The app will also lock up if a request to load a class fails. On the positive side, the app does include access to some “skills” videos that show some ways to use the dumbbells for various exercises. Other sections, such as “For You” and “Fitness IQ” are nothing but more ads for going premium.
Beyond the video training aspect of the app, I was excited at the prospect of having it keep track of my workouts and progress toward my goals. Unfortunately, the app failed completely at doing that. It registered wildly inaccurate counts for sets and reps, and couldn’t figure out which day of the week on which to place them. I did a set of 8 reps and the app told me I had done 3 sets of 2, 2 and 3 reps each. Trying to use this for tracking toward a goal is just an exercise in frustration. Given that the app features a lot video content (if you pay for it), I thought it would be better to use on the bigger screen of an iPad. Alas, it’s not really a universal app that scales properly for an iPad. Instead, it stays in the phone aspect ratio and cannot be rotated. Overall, the app is a complete waste of time and ruins an otherwise stellar package that is more reasonably priced than its competition. Thankfully, the app is not required to use and enjoy the JaxJox Dumbbell Connect. I’m hoping they’ll be able to work out the kinks in this app in the future. If I thought the app was absolutely critical, I'd give this review 3.5 stars.
I really like the Dumbbell Connect, and hope that it will provide many years of service. I’ve seen other reviewers report inoperable sets, so I’m going to keep an eye on this issue. I haven’t experienced anything like that so far. I’m enjoying this set very much, as long as I don’t try to use the app. I recommend it!
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Inspired by athletes, designed for everyone. Shokz OpenMove Bone Conduction Lifestyle/Sport Headphones were made to move you. For the past 10 years, Shokz has been dedicated to providing safety and situational awareness through bone conduction technology. Unlike traditional in-ear headphones, OpenMove features the signature Shokz open-ear design to keep you tuned in to your music and your moments. The lightweight, titanium fit makes it easy to move through your day with versatility.
Customer Rating
4
Best headphones for running!
on January 15, 2021
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
In my continuing quest to find the perfect wireless headphones, I’ve come to understand the pros and cons of many different styles. They each have their pros and cons, and to date I haven’t found one style that checks absolutely every box. So, where do these Aftershokz Openmove headphones fit in?
The Openmove is the latest offering by Aftershokz, and for me they’re my third set of bone conduction headphones, following the Aftershokz Titanium and Air. If you haven’t tried bone conduction headphones, it’s important to understand how they differ from other styles. Unlike earbuds, on-ear headphones or over-ear headphones, bone conduction headphones do not work by projecting sound into the ear canal. Instead, the vibrations produced by the sound are transmitted into the cheekbones and ultimately the bones inside your ear. This creates some possibilities that aren’t possible with other styles.
The primary use case for bone conduction headphones is in sports such as running or biking. The reason for that is that they do not cover or block the ear canals, letting you be aware of your surroundings while still being able to hear your music or podcast. Earbuds fill the ear canal, blocking a significant amount of sound, even if you’re using a type of “hear through” technology. This is what makes them less than ideal for times when you need to be able to hear the sound of an approaching car. I wouldn’t ride a bike while wearing earbuds, but bone conduction headphones are a good option for safety-conscious riders.
The other reason the Openmove headphones work so well while running or cycling is that they are very comfortable. I’ve had the Aftershokz Air for more than a year, and I can wear them for hours without really even noticing them. The Openmove is just a bit lighter than the Air, and the profile of the headband is almost identical to that of the Air. What’s interesting is the curvature of the part that goes around your ear. I’m not sure why they did it, but it is a “flatter” curve than the one used on the Air. Does that matter? I think the answer depends upon the shape of your ears. For me, I didn’t notice much of a difference, but there were times when I had to shift the headphones a bit to relieve pressure created by them rubbing up against my ear. I don’t think I’ve ever had that happen with the Air. Even so, the Openmove was very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. We’ll see what happens as time goes on.
Although the Openmove is priced at the entry level, it offers the newer transducer technology first seen in the high-end Aeropex model. This means that the shape of the part that rests on your cheekbones is different than what it is on the Air or the Titanium before that. Along with updated technology inside, this reduces the amount of “buzz” that you’ll feel on your cheek when the volume is turned up. This is a classic downside of bone conduction, but it is largely reduced on the Openmove. While I didn’t really notice much difference in sound quality between the Air and Openmove, I would give the edge to the Openmove. The Openmove introduces a new EQ setting that emphasizes the spoken word, and I do think that provides a slight sound quality improvement when listening to podcasts. Voices sound brighter and clearer using this setting.
Aftershokz always includes a set of ear plugs if you want to use the bone conduction headphones but want to block out any ambient noise. I suppose this would be a good thing for listening to music at home, but I’m not sure anyone buys bone conduction headphones because of the sound quality. Sound quality is impressive, but it still doesn’t rival what you’ll get from a high-end set of earbuds, and definitely not from a good pair of over the ear headphones. Nevertheless, the reasons for buying bone conduction headphones are not the same reasons for buying other styles, and think those reasons are actually more important than sound quality. The Openmove is also great for listening to music at low volume in an office environment (remember that?) when you want to be able to hear someone who approaches your desk. These also work well as hands-free headsets for your phone, and even in the car. Since they don’t cover your ears, they may not violate the regulations in your state (you should check for yourself).
The Openmove offers a great new option at a significant savings over the flagship Aeropex. There are relatively few compromises in exchange for a great price, but if you’re concerned about the change of shape impacting the comfort for you, the Air can be had for only $20 more, or even for the same price as the Openmove in some places. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with either model.
Some random thoughts:
• The earpieces are equipped with magnets, which will cause them to snap together around your neck if you have a small neck. Whether this is a positive thing will be left up to you. My neck is not small enough for that, so I did not encounter this. You may find a use case for the magnets, but I’m not sure what it is.
• The Openmove feature a more streamlined design than earlier models, and this means that the single button featured on all the Aftershokz models is smaller and hides within the design scheme of the earpieces. I didn’t find this to be a problem, and the button worked as well as the older design.
• The Openmove charges via USB-C, which is a welcome upgrade.
• The package includes the headphones (fully charged), the charging cable, instructions, and a drawstring bag to keep them in.
• IP55 water resistance means they’ll do just fine on a sweaty run, but don’t submerge them.
• Battery life is rated at 8 hours, and although I didn’t actually track that, my experience indicates that to be pretty accurate.
• Multipoint pairing is supported.
• The earpieces are equipped with magnets, which will cause them to snap together around your neck if you have a small neck. Whether this is a positive thing will be left up to you. My neck is not small enough for that, so I did not encounter this. You may find a use case for the magnets, but I’m not sure what it is.
• The Openmove feature a more streamlined design than earlier models, and this means that the single button featured on all the Aftershokz models is smaller and hides within the design scheme of the earpieces. I didn’t find this to be a problem, and the button worked as well as the older design.
• The Openmove charges via USB-C, which is a welcome upgrade.
• The package includes the headphones (fully charged), the charging cable, instructions, and a drawstring bag to keep them in.
• IP55 water resistance means they’ll do just fine on a sweaty run, but don’t submerge them.
• Battery life is rated at 8 hours, and although I didn’t actually track that, my experience indicates that to be pretty accurate.
• Multipoint pairing is supported.
If you fit into any of the categories I’ve mentioned, you’ll love the Openmove headphones. If you don’t but you just can’t stand having something in your ears, then these may be the answer for you. Although I can’t test this myself, I am intrigued by the idea that people with hearing issues may be able to benefit from bone conduction technology. Obviously, that would depend on what sort of hearing problem you have, but it would be worth looking into.
I’m sold on bone conduction headphones because of the special needs they meet, and how well they meet them. I don’t think there’s a better option for running available today. The Openmove makes getting a quality set of bone conduction headphones more affordable than ever.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The PureTV Pro 60 is the only antenna with an actual signal meter integrated into the antenna to provide the best possible customer experience when installing. The PureTV Pro 60 has a dual-band, optimized antenna element that captures signals up to 60 miles away, while the antenna’s Clear Circuit Technology boosts the available signal, cuts dropout, and clears pixelation. The integrated, Bluetooth technology signal meter makes you the pro at installation. The PureTV Pro 60 uses a built-in tuner to get real-time signal data. Pair with the Winegard Connected app for no-fuss antenna positioning. Available for iOS and Android phones, the free, user-friendly Winegard Connected app quickly pairs with the PureTV Pro 60. Using both visual and audio indicators, you’ll get real-time feedback on the optimal antenna position for the best signal possible. The app shows a summary of available channels, and you can even fine-tune individual channels for maximum reception. Once you’re done, run a channel scan on TV, and start watching FREE TV.
Customer Rating
4
Strong antenna, weak app
on December 16, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
I’ve been using indoor HDTV antennae for years now, but I’m always on the lookout for an antenna that raises the performance bar. The Winegard PureTV Pro 60 antenna adds a new spin by including an integrated tuner that aids in finding the optimal placement for the best reception.
Finding the best placement involves the use of a Bluetooth app that pairs with the antenna. As you move the antenna from place to place, the app shows how many channels it’s picking up, and whether they’re str ong, medium strength or weak. This does provide a little more certainty, and it’s much faster than moving and checking channels repeatedly.
With respect to performance, I do think the Winegard PureTV Pro 60 outperforms the antennae that I’ve used over the years. I currently own and use 3 antennae of the same type, and the Winegard consistently provided a better signal across the whole spectrum of channels available in my area. I was able to pick up 32 channels over the air, and I was happy that they were strong and clear, even as weather changes that would affect my other antennae didn’t affect the Winegard. Best of all, I had no need to move the antenna just to view a different channel.
The Winegard PureTV Pro 60 includes a generous length of cable, and the second tuner/signal booster can be powered by a USB port on the TV or with the included wall power adapter. Thoughtfully, the manufacturer also included a couple 3M Command Strips for attaching the antenna to its perch. For its main purpose of pulling in TV signals, the Winegard does a fine job, and isn’t so large as to be obnoxious wherever you place it, such as in a nearby window.
While I loved the idea of using an app to streamline the placement of the antenna, the whole app experience left a lot to be desired. First, using the app requires you to set up an account with Winegard. These days, I have way too many accounts with passwords, and setting up another just so I can position my antenna seems like overkill. In addition, the app does not dependably work, and repeatedly locked up while I was trying to use it. When it did work, I liked the ability to see a list of available channels. Supposedly, I could have fine tuned the channels, but I gave up trying to get the app to work. This was a great idea in theory, but in practice it wasn’t all that great and the information I had to hand over wasn’t worth it.
As an antenna, the Winegard is a worthy competitor to the leading company, Mohu. In fact, I plan to replace my current Mohu model and continue using the Winegard. The sub-par app experience results in the loss of a star. Technically, you wouldn’t have to even use the app, if you’re willing to go back to the old-fashioned, time-consuming way of finding the right position. I was fortunate that the app worked during initial setup, so at least I got the benefit of that functionality. The Winegard is a little more expensive than its competitors. The app alone is not worth the extra cost, but it does perform better than others, and in the end, that’s what really counts. Hopefully it’ll continue performing this well when the leaves are back on the trees.
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Keep your devices powered on the go with the Belkin BOOSTCHARGE 24W Dual USB-A Port Car Charger. It boasts two 12W USB A Ports, both of which support simultaneous fast charging for all devices that charge using a USB-A cable. This 24 watt car charger is capable of charging up to two devices 1.5x faster than a standard 5 watt charger, with each port offering up to 12 watts of power. The BOOSTCHARGE 24w Dual Port Car Charger features an LED light, indicating whether or not your charger is connected to a power source. Optimized to charge all USB-A compatible devices faster than a standard 5w Charger. Compatible with Apple iPhone 14, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone XR, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XS, iPhone X, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 8, HTC U12+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S10+, Galaxy S10, Google Pixel 3 XL, Google Pixel 3, iPad Pro (12.9") 2nd Gen, iPad Pro (10.5"), Huawei Mate 20, Huawei Mate 20 Pro, Huawei P30/P30 Pro, Sony Xperia XZ2
Customer Rating
5
Higher power means faster charging
on November 12, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
My 2019 truck has a built-in USB-A port, but unfortunately it's of the lower-power variety. How can this be true in 2019/20? Because of that, I picked up this Belkin charger.
The Belkin charger features two USB-A ports, both of which deliver 12W of power to charge devices. Belkin also makes a charger with USB-C ports, but I have both Android and Apple devices, so sticking with USB-A provides more versatility for me. The downside is that this charger does not provide as much power as the USB-C version, but you'll need to weigh this against your needs.
My devices charge faster using this charger than the built-in one, and the ability to charge 2 devices at the same time is very convenient. I appreciate that Belkin also included a USB-A to USB-C cable, as that allows me to leave it in the truck , where I'm now always ready when my wife rides with me and brings her Android phone, which uses USB-C.
This charger is well-built and feels like it's higher quality that those cheap freebies you can find anywhere. If you're looking for more power in a charger, but need to stay with USB-A, this is the one you're looking for!
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Jabra Elite 85t true wireless earbuds have been engineered for a calls and music experience like never before, with fully adjustable Jabra advanced Active Noise Cancellation™, 12mm speakers for big sound, up to 25 hours of battery (ANC on), and 6-mic technology with wind protection for amazing calls. And because it’s Jabra tech, it’s all crammed into a really tiny body. Because ANC doesn’t only stand for Active Noise Cancellation… Jabra Elite 85t: Accept No Compromise.
Customer Rating
5
Finally, comfort and sound quality together!
on November 12, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
If you’ve seen any of my other reviews for wireless earbuds, you may wonder why I have so many. It’s because I have a problem—I love these things and I’ve been in search of the perfect set of true wireless earbuds. Getting so many different types has allowed me to really figure out what I like and what I don’t. I’ve always thought of Jabra’s offerings as being at or near the top of the charts, so when I heard they were coming out with new earbuds, I jumped at the chance to get a pair.
I’ve never had a pair of Jabra’s earbuds before, so I didn’t get to experience the 75Ts. The newer version, the 85T, improves on the previous model by adding active noise cancellation (ANC). At the same time, Jabra has complicated matters by releasing a firmware update for the 75T that adds ANC to that model as well. The difference is that the 85T has a dedicated chip to handle the ANC duties, as well as some extra microphones to make it more effective.
Everybody has certain criteria that they use to evaluate wireless earbuds. We’re all evaluating the same features, but we may have them in different order. For me, the top 4 things I look for are fit/comfort, sound quality, connection stability and functionality. Battery life follows right behind these, but my typical use is generally satisfied by the battery life offered by most all major brands, so I didn’t include battery life in my top 4. Let’s get into some details.
Fit:
I didn’t realize how important fit and comfort would be for me, but I think it’s become such a big deal because true wireless earbuds have to pack so much circuitry into a small space, and not every company does a good job with that. It’s important that the earbuds be balanced and not sticking way out of my ears. Several manufacturers add “wings” or “fins” that go into the outer part of your ear, helping to keep them from falling out. I hate those things, and I have yet to find any of those designs that are comfortable to wear for extended periods without needing constant adjusting. Thankfully, the Jabra 85Ts do not need any sort of fin to make them fit. They’re small and light, and I couldn’t believe how easy they were to insert into my ear.
I didn’t realize how important fit and comfort would be for me, but I think it’s become such a big deal because true wireless earbuds have to pack so much circuitry into a small space, and not every company does a good job with that. It’s important that the earbuds be balanced and not sticking way out of my ears. Several manufacturers add “wings” or “fins” that go into the outer part of your ear, helping to keep them from falling out. I hate those things, and I have yet to find any of those designs that are comfortable to wear for extended periods without needing constant adjusting. Thankfully, the Jabra 85Ts do not need any sort of fin to make them fit. They’re small and light, and I couldn’t believe how easy they were to insert into my ear.
Jabra tried something different with the 85T. Instead of using the typical circular-shaped ear tips, they went with an oval shape to provide a semi-open design. With ANC turned off, you can definitely hear more of the sounds around you than if they were completely sealed inside the ear canal. This will perhaps be one of those things that you either love or hate. To be honest, I didn’t know about this when I ordered mine, so I wasn’t sure how I would like it when they finally arrived, but I was pleasantly surprised at just how comfortable they were. My ears didn’t feel like they were stuffed with something, and that allowed me to wear them for hours with no discomfort at all! It’s true that a good seal does help with the bass, but I feel like this is a worthy trade-off. The Jabra 85Ts are so light and slip in the ear so easily, I often had to check to make sure they were still in place. I never once found them to have come loose, nor did they fall out even if I deliberately shook my head. I think I’ve been trained by other brands to have to adjust them constantly, but that is definitely not a problem with these. I am thrilled by the comfort level of these buds.
Sound quality:
Sound quality is pretty subjective, so your mileage may vary, but in my opinion, the Jabra 85Ts have very good sound quality. Until I got these, I thought the Sony WF-SP800N earbuds were my favorites in terms of good sound quality. In a direct comparison, the Sonys were a bit louder, and maybe a bit brighter, but the Jabras feature a much fuller, richer sound. The SP800Ns have more bass and crisper highs, but I think the overall sound of the Jabras is preferable, with the overall sound stage feeling a bit more open to me. The Jabra app is very good at providing options for adjusting the sound. You can choose a preset EQ option or tailor it yourself using a 5-band graphic equalizer. The settings are saved to the buds and carry over, no matter which app you use for listening.
Sound quality is pretty subjective, so your mileage may vary, but in my opinion, the Jabra 85Ts have very good sound quality. Until I got these, I thought the Sony WF-SP800N earbuds were my favorites in terms of good sound quality. In a direct comparison, the Sonys were a bit louder, and maybe a bit brighter, but the Jabras feature a much fuller, richer sound. The SP800Ns have more bass and crisper highs, but I think the overall sound of the Jabras is preferable, with the overall sound stage feeling a bit more open to me. The Jabra app is very good at providing options for adjusting the sound. You can choose a preset EQ option or tailor it yourself using a 5-band graphic equalizer. The settings are saved to the buds and carry over, no matter which app you use for listening.
The active noise cancellation is pretty impressive. Jabra has also included a “hear through” mode that turns off ANC for times when you need to hear what’s going on around you. Hear through uses the microphones to let you hear the sounds around you. This isn’t unique to Jabra, but what is unique is that the Jabras allow you to switch back and forth between hear through and ANC with a single press of a button. Others force you to cycle through various levels of noise cancellation, but Jabra’s approach is much more convenient for when you just need to check in on your surroundings and then want to get back to your music.
The more I listened to these, the better I thought they sounded. Together with a comfortable fit, that made them a winner in my book!
Connection stability:
This is another one of those things that I didn’t think would be so important, but you quickly realize how important it is when you’re constantly interrupted by a drop in the signal between your buds and the phone. Even if it’s just a second, it’s very disconcerting and annoying. While I’ve only had the Jabras for a few days, I’m happy to report that I haven’t had the connection drop even once yet. Walking around my house never posed a problem either. Jabra is still using the master/slave architecture for these buds, and I find that to be a little less robust than having each bud connect independently, but so far I haven’t had any problems whatsoever. Some reviewers have complained about being forced to use the right bud if they only want to use one, but I have no need to use only one, so that was not an issue for me. The 85Ts connect to my phone in the time it takes to pick up one earbud and put it in my ear, so speed is not a problem.
This is another one of those things that I didn’t think would be so important, but you quickly realize how important it is when you’re constantly interrupted by a drop in the signal between your buds and the phone. Even if it’s just a second, it’s very disconcerting and annoying. While I’ve only had the Jabras for a few days, I’m happy to report that I haven’t had the connection drop even once yet. Walking around my house never posed a problem either. Jabra is still using the master/slave architecture for these buds, and I find that to be a little less robust than having each bud connect independently, but so far I haven’t had any problems whatsoever. Some reviewers have complained about being forced to use the right bud if they only want to use one, but I have no need to use only one, so that was not an issue for me. The 85Ts connect to my phone in the time it takes to pick up one earbud and put it in my ear, so speed is not a problem.
Functionality:
I was a little leery when I found out that Jabra still uses a physical button on these earbuds. I’ve had other brands where the button was so hard to press that I ended up shoving the earbud too deeply into my ear every time I used the button. Thankfully, that is not the case for the 85Ts. In fact, Jabra’s implementation of the buttons works so well that I’ve come to like it better than touch-sensitive controls. The physical button is easy to depress and works every time—I don’t have to find the “sweet spot” in order for it to work. The buttons are completely customizable, so you can tailor their features to your liking, and Jabra includes a wide range of functions that the buttons can do, including answering/rejecting calls, volume up/down, track skipping and play/pause.
I was a little leery when I found out that Jabra still uses a physical button on these earbuds. I’ve had other brands where the button was so hard to press that I ended up shoving the earbud too deeply into my ear every time I used the button. Thankfully, that is not the case for the 85Ts. In fact, Jabra’s implementation of the buttons works so well that I’ve come to like it better than touch-sensitive controls. The physical button is easy to depress and works every time—I don’t have to find the “sweet spot” in order for it to work. The buttons are completely customizable, so you can tailor their features to your liking, and Jabra includes a wide range of functions that the buttons can do, including answering/rejecting calls, volume up/down, track skipping and play/pause.
Using the 85Ts for phone calls works very well. I got no complaints about my voice, and being able to use both earbuds for calls meant that I could hear the person on the other end very well. Long conference calls is where the comfort really comes into play.
These earbuds also feature the ability to stop the music when you remove one from your ear. This is a nice feature and works well, with one caveat. Removing the right earbud will cause the left to emanate a loud “pop” in your ear. It’s not a big deal, but it’s annoying, and hopefully something that can be corrected in a future firmware update.
The case is a great size, small enough to fit in your pocket, but big enough to include a reasonably sized battery. It can be charged with the included USB-C cable, or wirelessly using a Qi charger, if you prefer. It’s nice to have the flexibility to charge either way.
The Jabra Sound+ app is very nice and well designed. You can go through a hearing test to tweak the sound to your individual hearing. I did this, but I’m not sure how to tell whether it made a difference. As I mentioned before, you can save EQ settings, as well as controlling how much or how little ANC you want to use. The app even includes some white noise, such as ocean waves, for when you just want to shut the world out. I thought this was a very nice touch.
I’ve used a lot of different earbuds, and there are a lot of good ones out there, but these Jabra 85Ts have now moved to the top of my list. Their combination of good sound quality and excellent comfort make them my new go-to earbuds. I do think they’re too expensive, but hopefully discounts will become common soon. Because of the big price difference over the 75T, the 85T is not quite as good of a value, but it may be worth it because of the better ANC and comfort.
I’m sure I’ll still be tempted by other brands and models, but now they have a new king of the hill with which to compete!
I’m sure I’ll still be tempted by other brands and models, but now they have a new king of the hill with which to compete!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+4points
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The Samsung Jet™ 70 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum features a lightweight and maneuverable design plus a removable battery that can be easily swapped* for a spare extended cleaning time up to 40 minutes. Compatible with Samsung Clean Station™ for mess-free, automatic emptying of the hygienic dust bin.
Customer Rating
4
Solid performance at a reasonable price
on November 6, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
The market for “stick” vacuums is growing, and Samsung has several entries that are quite good. I got the Jet 70 Pet Stick, which is their most reasonably priced model. I’ve been using a Dyson for the last year, so when I needed an additional vacuum, I decided to give the Samsung a try. It’s significantly cheaper than the Dyson, but I wanted to see if there were too many tradeoffs to make it worth it.
The first thing I noticed was that the Samsung uses an electronic on/off switch rather than a trigger. The Dyson uses a trigger, but it doesn’t lock, so you have to keep it depressed the entire time you’re using it. That made the switch on the Samsung seem like a breath of fresh air. It also has an easy-to-use power adjustment switch that can be used on the fly, which is another plus.
Battery life is rated at 40 minutes on the lowest power setting, while the Dyson is rated at 60 minutes. In real-life usage, you won’t get anywhere near that using higher power settings. On the highest suction power, I didn’t get 10 minutes, but the medium power level provided about 15 minutes or maybe a little more. If there’s one area that could be improved, it’s battery life. You’re not going to use this for a continuous whole-house vacuuming session, but doing a few rooms at a time or a quick pick-up is no problem. One feature of the Jet 70 that I really appreciate is the removable battery. Samsung provides a wall-mounted charger that can hang the vacuum while charging, but the battery can also be placed in the charger by itself, if you’d prefer not to dedicate wall space to the charger.
The dust bin on the Jet 70 is small, but adequate for most rooms. Emptying it involves removing the bin, then removing the filter and “cyclone” center. While this is admittedly more of a hassle than the Dyson, it’s not too bad, and does make it easier to access all the parts. It’s not exactly “touch free”, but you really don’t come in contact with the dirt.
The dust bin on the Jet 70 is small, but adequate for most rooms. Emptying it involves removing the bin, then removing the filter and “cyclone” center. While this is admittedly more of a hassle than the Dyson, it’s not too bad, and does make it easier to access all the parts. It’s not exactly “touch free”, but you really don’t come in contact with the dirt.
The Jet 70 is very well constructed and feels solid. The motorized brush head is also easy to disassemble, which makes it easy to clean up if you get fibers wrapped around it. There’s an additional smaller head for things like stairs and cleaning your car. Interestingly, it does not have brushes, but rather a protruding rubber strip. This works well enough, but I think brushes work better. It comes with the usual compliment of accessories, and the crevice tool features a unique telescoping feature to help you really get into those hard to reach spots. In a head to head comparison with the Dyson, both vacuums fared equally at picking up lines of salt on a hardwood floor.
So, is the Jet 70 a winner? I think it is, given the lower price. The Dyson may have been slightly more powerful, but I’m not sure it’s worth hundreds more. The real question I have is longevity, but only time will tell (see what I did there?). My Dyson is still going strong almost 18 months in, and I hope that the Samsung Jet 70 will do just as well. If you’re looking for a well-built mid-range stick vacuum, take a look at the Jet 70.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+7points
12of 17voted this as helpful.
Make the most of your tablet with the ZAGG Pro Stylus. Take notes, sketch, mark-up documents, swipe through pages, and just do more. With a eight-hour battery life, palm-rejection technology, and compatibility with apps that support Apple Pencil, you’re ready for anything. Compatible with Apple iPad Pro 12.9" 6th Generation (2022) 5th Generation (2021), 4th Generation (2020), 3rd Generation (2018); iPad Pro 11" 4th Generation (2022), 3rd Generation (2021), 2nd Generation (2020), 1st Generation (2018); iPad Air 10.9" 5th Generation (2022), 4th Generation (2020); iPad 10.2" 9th Generation (2021), 8th Generation (2020), 7th Generation (2019); iPad 9.7" 6th Generation (2018); and iPad mini 6th Generation (2021), 5th Generation (2019).
Customer Rating
5
Better than the Apple Pencil
on October 8, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
As a user of the Apple Pencil for the last couple years, I’ve been very happy with it. With only a few things I didn’t like, I was curious as to whether the new Zagg Pro Stylus could meet and even exceed the value and performance of the Apple Pencil. At $70, it’s a $30 savings over the Apple Pencil, so it starts with an advantage right out of the gate.
One of the things that annoys me about the Pencil is that it is perfectly round, which makes it easier to roll off the table. Yes, I know that Apple made it unbalanced so that it shouldn’t just roll away, but that doesn’t really work in practice. The Zagg Pro Stylus has one flat side, which makes it easier to stay put. In addition, it’s magnetized, so it’ll stick to the iPad, or even better to the smart cover. It’s a pretty strong magnetic connection, but I’m not sure I’d trust it while carrying the iPad around. It is, however a great option to have while using it in your home or office, much better than just lying around separately from the iPad.
The Zagg Pro has a single button, which is the power button. I wondered why they included such a thing, but I’ve come to believe that this is a good idea. After a period of inactivity, the stylus will go to sleep, preserving battery power. And speaking of power, it charges via USB-C using a port that is cleverly hidden under the cap. No more awkwardly charging while sticking out of the lightning port or using the easy to lose male-to-female adapter to use with your charging cable. The cap does not come off, so you don’t have to worry about losing it, nor do you need to buy any third-party solutions to keep it connected to the stylus. This is definitely an improvement over the Apple Pencil. The last improvement with the cap is that there is a soft capacitive tip on the cap that can be used to scroll pages or for any other touch gesture that you might do with a finger. This is one of those little things that isn’t a big deal, but it’s a nice touch.
How about performance? I did not find any scenario in which the Zagg Pro did not perform just as well as the Apple Pencil. It has great palm rejection, and recognizes tilt and pressure. I’m not an artist, but I did try it in a drawing program, and it worked flawlessly. Pairing isn’t necessary, it just works right out of the box—it couldn’t be easier! Especially since the Apple Pencil 2 doesn’t work with the iPad (only the Air and Pro), those who still use Apple’s entry-level iPads will be happy to have another option. At a 30% savings, there’s really no reason to consider anything else.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Wirelessly display content from a phone, tablet, or laptop onto a bigger screen with the ScreenCast Wireless Display Adapter. With its support of multiple wireless display standards (Miracast, AirPlay, and Chromecast), this wireless display adapter is compatible with devices and TVs you already own, including Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and Android operating systems. Perfect for home, travel, office, and more. The ScreenCast works with a wide variety of apps. Just connect and share!
Customer Rating
3
Great idea, but some issues ruin the experience
on September 23, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
My interest in the j5 Screencast device is as a teacher. With the widespread availability of big flat-screen TVs, it makes sense to make use of them to display a slideshow or graphical content while conducting a lecture. The problem is that it’s often inconvenient to use a long HDMI cable to do so. Enter the j5 Screencast.
The Screencast is a small device with a USB connector at one end (for providing power), and an HDMI connection at the other end. Most modern TVs have both USB and HDMI ports not too far apart, and that’s the perfect setup for the Screencast. To get started, all you have to do is plug it in. j5create even includes a USB extension cable in case your USB port is too far away from the HDMI port to use the device as is.
The way the Screencast works is that it creates its own little wifi network. You join the Screencast’s network by selecting its SSID from your wifi setup page and then entering the password. Here’s where I first ran into trouble: the device wouldn’t accept the wifi password that is on the screen and in the documentation! After trying to figure it out on my own, I called tech support, who suggested that I perform a factory reset. Fortunately, this worked and I was able to use the default password. I wasn’t impressed that I had to do a reset out of the box, but I was glad that it worked.
When I realized that I had to join a different wifi network than what I normally use at home, I wondered how the device would support mirroring internet content from my phone to the TV. The answer is that you let the device join your home network, then that signal is provided to your phone when you join the device’s network. Once I was properly connected, it was time to give it a try.
On my Apple iPhone, I swiped up from the bottom and chose “screen mirroring”. It listed the Screencast device as a viable option for casting, but that’s where the fun ended. My iPhone 8 using iOS 13.6 failed to connect to the Screencast. It’s possible that there is some sort of security policy on my corporate phone that is preventing that, but I could not find any documentation to help me with that, so using the iPhone was a no-go for me.
To make sure that this wasn’t just a problem with iOS devices, I tried it with my iPad, and it worked fine, with the exception that I couldn’t cast HD content from Amazon Prime, and it wouldn’t work with Sling TV. It did, however, work with Hulu. I also dusted off an ancient iPod Touch, and screen mirroring worked just fine on that as well. Lastly, I tested it with an Android phone and had no problems.
While watching video in an app on my iPad, I thought it would be good to see it on a larger screen. The devices were able to “talk” to each other, but only the audio from the app was cast to the TV. It seems that there are too many restrictions and/or glitches to reliably cast videos using this device. I am aware that some video services, such as Amazon Prime, protect their content with HCDP, but it’s still disappointing and limiting to run into this.
For my original purpose of sharing slideshows in class, this device works just fine. I’m not sure I’d want to pay the full $55 just for that purpose, however. Chromecast serves the same purpose for less.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Cook & Carry Slow Cooker is the perfect programmable slow cooker for those with a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. Its large capacity ensures that everyone gets enough to eat, and its portability makes it a great choice for travel. The secure-fitting lid and locking system create a tight seal between the stoneware and lid.
Customer Rating
5
Does one thing and does it well
on September 18, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
It’s been a long time since we’ve updated our Crockpot. This one provides the right mix of easy to use features combined with the tried and true Crockpot formula. The removable stoneware insert has plenty of room for preparing family-sized meals, and we loved the locking glass lid. My family loves to laugh about “the beanie w**nie debacle” when a Crockpot turned over in my car, so I’m thrilled to have a locking lid that should reduce the chance of such a disaster happening.
Perhaps the thing that excited me the most about this new Crockpot is the ability to program a time setting. It’s even better because they made it so simple to use. You simply choose high or low temperature and either 4 or 6 hours (High) or 8 or 10 hours (Low). That’s it. After the specified period of time it switches to “keep warm” and you come home to a nice warm, not burnt dinner! It really couldn’t be any simpler.
The locking lid kept the steam locked in and cooked our food just right. Cleanup is easy, and we were even happy about the addition of rubber coated feet on the bottom of the base. Maybe that shows how old our previous model was!
You can’t go wrong with a Crockpot, and I think every home should have one. This is the perfect replacement for our old version, and if this works as well as that one did, it’ll be many more years before we need another!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Calls. Conferences. ON-the-GO. Air never looked so epic. Offering the ultimate true-wireless experience for any professional or audiophile, JLab Epic Air ANC offers customized sound and active noise canceling plus industry-leading 48+ hours playtime. Transition from music to calls, work to home effortlessly with features like wear-detect, movie mode, wireless charging and more.
Customer Rating
4
Super comfortable and packed with features
on September 17, 2020
Posted by: BobinVA
from Forest
I’m a sucker for wireless earbuds, so when JLAB came out with their Epic Air ANC true wireless earbuds, I jumped at the chance to get them. I’ve tried many different styles of wireless earbuds, but never the kind with a stem, like these (no, I’ve never had ear pods).
This is my fifth pair of JLAB earphones, so I do really like their products. They provide much better value than the other major players, with lots of features for the money. While I have many earbuds from different manufacturers, JLAB’s products consistently provide a more comfortable fit, and these Epic Air ANC earbuds are no exception. As I’ve used Bluetooth earbuds more and more, I’ve found that fit and comfort are extremely important. I have some that sound great, but they’re so annoying to wear that I don’t want to use them. On that score, the Epic Air ANCs get top marks! They’re light, comfortable, and don’t move in my ears at all, no matter how much I move. I found that the cloud foam worked best for me, and provided a good seal in the ear canal, which helps the sound quality. I found that I could wear these for extended periods of time with no discomfort, and I didn’t have to constantly adjust them in my ears. Compared to so many others, that’s a big win!
The other thing that really matters to me is sound quality. On that score, the Epic Air ANCs are good but not great. JLAB isn’t trying to have the best sound quality, but it is very good for the price. I thought the sound stage was a little shallow, and the low end notes were a bit muddy. Highs are fine, but not as crisp as I would like. Overall, you won’t be disappointed until you compare them to models costing twice as much or more. They do not support either AptX or AAC—I wonder if that would help the overall sound quality.
I did experience more Bluetooth dropouts than I would have liked, but it wasn’t overly annoying. According to JLAB, both earbuds connect independently, but I’m not sure about that. When I paired them with my phone, only one earbud showed the blinking blue light for Bluetooth pairing, and when that one paired, they both worked. When they lose connection for a split second, it always seems to be the left earbud, which is another thing that makes me think that it’s the right earbud that connects to the phone, and then the left connects to the right. I’m not sure about that, but it’s consistent with the behavior of other TWS earbuds that use this setup. I’ll admit that I was disappointed that this happened as often as it did. It only lasts for a second, but it is annoying.
Call quality is okay. I can clearly be heard, but there are aural artifacts in the sound that really shouldn’t be there. This is fine for the short occasional call, but I wouldn’t want to subject someone to that for an extended period of time. To compare, I also have the JLAB Epic ANC neckband earbuds, which sound basically identical, but they do not exhibit this problem on calls. Definitely not a deal-breaker, but it could be better.
Similar to other JLAB ANC models, I’m impressed by how good the active noise cancelling is on these. For a lot less money than others, JLAB provides very capable noise cancellation that works very well. In addition, they’ve included a feature called “Be aware” which amplifies outside sounds. This is a great feature not usually found in ear buds under $100. They also feature a wear detect sensor, which will stop your music if you remove one of the earbuds. The touch controls are a big improvement over the physical buttons that were on the JBuds Air. It takes some getting used to the touch controls, but they work pretty well. Lastly, the case features a built-in charging cable, or you can charge the case wirelessly. This full set of features is what really sets these apart from the competition.
I’m very glad that JLAB now has an app. It’s great to be able to change settings, especially EQ, in an app. My only complaint is that the app was sometimes buggy, undoing my changes right before my eyes. Hopefully the app will only get better over time.
I’ve never had the Executive TWS earbuds, but these seem to be those with the addition of active noise cancelling. So, the question is whether the addition of this feature is worth an additional $30. Like their other offerings, the Epic Air ANC earbuds offer a long list of features not usually found until you spend a lot more. The sound quality will satisfy all but the audiophiles, but you might just overlook that to get a comfortable fit, long battery life, and tons of features.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Logitech Wireless Mouse M185. A simple, reliable mouse with plug-and-play wireless. You get the reliability of a cord with wireless convenience and freedom—fast data transmission and virtually no delays or dropouts. You’ll enjoy the high quality and reliability that have made Logitech the global leader for mice—plus a three-year limited hardware warranty. The tiny nano receiver works right away without software and is small enough to leave in your USB port so you won’t lose it. And on top of that, this comfy, contoured mouse treats your hand right.
Will this mouse work with a Lenovo Think Pad?
It should work, either using the Logi Bolt receiver that is included, or via Bluetooth.
2 years, 3 months ago
by
BobinVA
Free your travel with the LG TONE Free FP9. Connect to in-flight entertainment systems even without Bluetooth capabilities. Get peace of mind with a UVnano charging case that kills 99% of bacteria on the speaker mesh¹ and medical grade ear gels.² Plus, get better clarity for calls on the go.
How do I connect using the wire? I tried it on my computer using the manufacturer provided connection and it did not work. What do I do?
Make sure you move the switch on the charging case that enables wired mode to work. You may not have noticed that switch. Good luck!
2 years, 4 months ago
by
BobinVA
Serious protection. Subtle styling. Built sustainably. WĀKE for Apple iPad (7th generation, 8th generation, and 9th generation) is a sea-change in case construction, using mostly ocean-based recycled plastic without sacrificing performance. Molded with a mellow wave pattern, the look is contemporary to the core. And after purchase, you get to donate a dollar to one of LifeProof’s water-conscious nonprofit partners — for free.
Does the screen protector come with the case?
![Adobe - Photoshop Elements 2022 - Windows [Digital]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/6475/6475048_sd.jpg)
Bring out your creativity to share your life stories. Adobe Sensei AI technology* and automated options do the heavy lifting so you can instantly turn photos into art, warp photos to fit any shape, and more. Add moving overlays or 3D camera motion to take your photos to a whole new level, and save them as MP4s for easy sharing on social. Grow your skills with 60 Guided Edits that step you through how to create perfect pet pics; extend, remove, or replace photo backgrounds; and more. Effortlessly organize your photos, and craft personalized creations like dynamic photo and video slideshows with all-new styles and inspirational quote graphics. Transform your favorite photos into gallery-quality wall art, beautiful prints, and unique keepsakes with the built-in prints and gifts service. †And enjoy an updated look that makes the software even easier to use and navigate. *Adobe Sensei is the technology that powers intelligent features across all Adobe products to dramatically improve the design and delivery of digital experiences, using artificial intelligence and machine learning in a common framework.†FUJIFILM Prints & Gifts service is available in the U.S. only.
Gee - I don't want to pay monthly. So is it a lifetime license where you never have to pay again?
Yes, this is a perpetual license. Unless you can get enough value out of a subscription, it's not worth it. Since I don't edit photos enough to pay for a subscription, this is perfect for me.
2 years, 6 months ago
by
BobinVA
eufy Security Floodlight Cam 2 Pro provides 360° pan and tilt camera coverage in 2K HD resolution. It boasts smart lighting, real time communication via 2-way audio, all with zero monthly fees. You don't even need a eufy Security HomeBase. This eufy Security Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is compatible with most smart devices and can be easily controlled through the eufy Security App. The floodlight can be installed either on the wall or on the ceiling. (Existing outdoor wiring and weatherproof junction box required.)
Can you turn on the light with an external switch?
No, the light switch needs to stay on at all times so that the unit has power, but you can manually control the light through the app.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
BobinVA
Inspired by athletes, designed for everyone. The AfterShokz OpenMove Open-Ear Lifestyle Headphones in Slate grey were created with versatility in mind. OpenMove by AfterShokz brings you bone conduction technology with a lightweight, titanium fit taht ensures all-day wear.
I’m cyclist and occasionally get caught in rain, can it survive?
Yes they can survive a downpour, just don't submerge them.
3 years, 4 months ago
by
BobinVA
Wirelessly display content from a phone, tablet, or laptop onto a bigger screen with the ScreenCast Wireless Display Adapter. With its support of multiple wireless display standards (Miracast, AirPlay, and Chromecast), this wireless display adapter is compatible with devices and TVs you already own, including Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and Android operating systems. Perfect for home, travel, office, and more. The ScreenCast works with a wide variety of apps. Just connect and share!
Can this be used to stream Netflix/Amazon from MacBook Pro to Samsun smart tv?
Yes, it should work with any device that can join the wifi network created by the device. Keep in mind that not all video content is supported for screen casting.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
BobinVA
Meet the Logitech Pebble i345. It takes your iPad to higher places with a level of precision and control you can’t get with a tablet alone. Use it to click, scroll, and control your workflow like never before. It’s small, portable, and comfortable—so you can keep exploring, wherever you go.
I would just like to ask if I can use this mouse for an ipad air with an ios of 12.4?
It's just a bluetooth mouse, so I believe it will work on any device that supports bluetooth connectivity.
4 years ago
by
BobinVA
GE Appliances is dedicated to providing the right solutions for rooms of any size. Our window air conditioners are designed to offer exceptional comfort while remaining quiet, and our latest connected technology makes these products versatile and easy to use.This 8,000 BTU smart window air conditioner cools medium rooms up to 350 square feet. Energy efficient cooling with 3 cooling and 3 fan speeds provide flexible and optimal home comfort. Integration with the SmartHQ app allows you to monitor, schedule, and control your connected air conditioner from anywhere, or use the electronic controls with included remote to easily to adjust and manage your settings. This AC installs easily in a double hung window with included EZ Mount window kit and fixed chassis. Additional features like eco mode, power interruption restart, 24-hour on/off timer, and removable filter offer ease of use and maintenance.
Does this ait conditioner work with alexa?
Obtain high-quality color prints with this Canon PIXMA wireless inkjet all-in-one printer. The 4.3-inch LCD touch-screen panel simplifies operation, while dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity and voice-activated printing provide enhanced efficiency and support a smooth workflow. This Canon PIXMA wireless inkjet all-in-one printer utilizes a six-ink system with a photo blue ink tank for brilliant results.Prints up to 15 ISO ipm* in black, up to 10 ipm* in color