NAMO's stats
- Review count210
- Helpfulness votes1,248
- First reviewJanuary 28, 2017
- Last reviewJuly 4, 2025
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- Average rating4.1
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- Answer count16
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- First answerJune 2, 2017
- Last answerDecember 9, 2021
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Diagnose automobile mechanical issues with this AT&T Harman Spark smart car device. Compatibility with Android and iOS mobile devices offers convenient control and monitoring, while a 4G LTE receiver brings Wi-Fi to your ride. This AT&T Harman Spark smart car device features an accelerometer and gyroscope sensors for vehicle tracking.
Customer Rating
2
Nothing a cellphone & free app can't provide
on May 10, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
Key Features
GPS Tracking
Vehicle Diagnostics
Wi-Fi Mobile Hotspot
Gas Buddy Fuel Station Finder
GPS Tracking
Vehicle Diagnostics
Wi-Fi Mobile Hotspot
Gas Buddy Fuel Station Finder
INITIAL SET-UP
The Harman Spark promises a convenient way to communicate with your vehicle and understand what is going on in an easy-to-use mobile phone-based app. The theory behind the Harman Spark is solid and ambitious, but the actual execution falls short, as the degree of usefulness really depends upon the age of your vehicle. The Spark combines several features into one device, that tries to make vehicle ownership and maintenance much more convenient. The Spark has a lot of features packed into its relatively small package, including: 4G LTE Connectivity & Mobile Hotspot, GPS, WiFi, etc.
The Harman Spark promises a convenient way to communicate with your vehicle and understand what is going on in an easy-to-use mobile phone-based app. The theory behind the Harman Spark is solid and ambitious, but the actual execution falls short, as the degree of usefulness really depends upon the age of your vehicle. The Spark combines several features into one device, that tries to make vehicle ownership and maintenance much more convenient. The Spark has a lot of features packed into its relatively small package, including: 4G LTE Connectivity & Mobile Hotspot, GPS, WiFi, etc.
The Spark is designed to work with vehicles, 1996 and newer that have an OBD-II diagnostics port under the dash. Once you download the Harman Spark app to your phone of choice, you plug the Spark into the diagnostics port of your vehicle. The Spark draws power from the constant 12V pin that is in all OBD-II ports. Once, plugged in and that app opened, you turn your car on and the Spark begins its communications with the vehicles computer system.
I tried the Spark on several different vehicles and it never failed to accurately identify my vehicle, not only by make and model, but also by VIN. Initial switching of my vehicles seemed to trip up the device, but come to find out, it appears the device takes a few minutes to successfully communicate with the vehicle, phone home, and then download the data it needs to communicate successfully with the car.
USE
Other than plugging the Spark into your car’s OBD-II port, there is not anything else mechanically to do. Everything else is handled via the Spark app. That is great feature, as it makes this an easy mission for even the most technically challenged individuals.
Other than plugging the Spark into your car’s OBD-II port, there is not anything else mechanically to do. Everything else is handled via the Spark app. That is great feature, as it makes this an easy mission for even the most technically challenged individuals.
The Spark app is really a driving nanny & potentially a tattle tale that has a bunch of nice features. Not only will the Spark serve as a mobile vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot, but it also has many other practical uses too. The app will send you notifications if the device is removed from the car’s diagnostics port, if you are running low on fuel, if it detects that the vehicle is being towed, or if there is some sort of measured disturbance (usually a door opening or jostling of the vehicle) to name a few. Those are great features.
In addition to the instant notifications, the Spark can be set to notify you if your car enters or leaves a preset boundary (great if your teenager does not let you know they are “borrowing” the car). The app can be set to notify you if it is operated outside of user defined curfew hours (again awesome with teen drivers). It will log all trips and if the Spark detects an impact, the app and device can be configured to automatically notify your user defined emergency contacts. AWESOME!!
NEGATIVES
I have also observed several noteworthy negatives about this unit while I’ve been testing it.
I have also observed several noteworthy negatives about this unit while I’ve been testing it.
First. The most obvious negative, is that this cannot be considered a real theft deterrent device. Any thief with an ounce of sense would check the OBD-II port and given the size of this device, it is easily visible in all my vehicles. So, it isn’t like installing it will make it a hidden gem for car owners or parents. While you would get a notification the device was detached, that last spot would be the last spot you would see on the app.
Second. The parameters that the Spark and Spark app record are not configurable. For example, if you make a turn, the Spark determines if you made a hard turn or a good turn. The Spark determines if you make a hard stop or hard acceleration. These parameters are not configurable, nor is the low fuel notification. Add to that, the level of fuel reported by the spark app was inconsistent as to what was displayed on the fuel gauge of my vehicles. The worst part is the disturbances feature. There is no way to adjust the sensitivity of this. I got several disturbances detected false alarms while my Tundra was parked in the garage and no one else was home. Hmmmmm…
Third. For this device to function as intended, you must buy a mobile data plan. This unit came with an AT&T sim that always worked excellently in our urban environment. But, this tech also significantly increases the overall cost of ownership, as you are basically buying an additional cellular plan for the device. That can be quite expensive, as most plans are at least $30/month, especially if you want unlimited hotspot data.
The last and most significant negative of this unit is that it flat out does not work correctly with every vehicle manufactured after 1996. This unit worked as advertised on a 2000 era Jeep and on a 2014 Tundra. It added features to the vehicles that were not available when they were produced. However, on my new Acura, it was a different story. This device literally locked me out of my vehicle and if it wasn’t for the backup key inside the fob, would have rendered me stranded. My keyfob failed to work with my car and my touch sensitive door handles failed to unlock my door. I could not get in the vehicle. Luckily, Acura gives you a backup key and I was able to get in and unplug the Spark. I know the first thing Harman is going to do is blame the driver or vehicle. But this was not a one-time occurrence. I was able to repeat these same traits a couple of weeks later. This device interrupts communications with my car. It rendered many systems inoperable. This was indeed vehicle specific, as the Jeep and Tundra didn’t have any issues, but it totally interrupts vehicle communications on my Acura. This was proven in at least 3 separate instances and 3 separate times, even with the most recent firmware installed on the device.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on my experience with this device, your level of success will largely depend upon the year of your vehicle. From what I can tell, owners of vehicles manufactured between 1996 and 2015 will likely see the biggest benefits of the device, as it brings technology that wasn’t readily available to those vehicles.
Based on my experience with this device, your level of success will largely depend upon the year of your vehicle. From what I can tell, owners of vehicles manufactured between 1996 and 2015 will likely see the biggest benefits of the device, as it brings technology that wasn’t readily available to those vehicles.
However, many, if not all, the features that the Spark offers are currently available in cars today. Most new cars have hotspots built-in, impact detection and emergency services notifications, etc. If not, most cell phones have this built-in and if they don’t, these features can be added with a free app, or an app provided by your insurance company. Why spend the extra money for a data plan for the Spark?
Lastly, based on the issues this device causes with my newest vehicle, I can’t recommend it. Many manufacturers don’t include the spare key like Acura does. If not, I’m not sure what would have happened. Shame on me for not testing the device more thoroughly before installing it and driving to test it, but I won’t be keeping it around after the evaluation period. If I want the features this device offers, I’ll download a free app for my phone and use its unlimited data plan. The same goes for my new vehicle, I’ll either use a free phone app & its unlimited data tethering or use the vehicle’s fully integrated and factory installed technology that works 100% of the time every time. Plus, I will still be able to actually get in my car and drive. What a concept.
Not recommended.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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For on-the-GO peace of mind. Use UV light with or without a vacuum function so you can safely clean your phone, car and plane seat, hotel room, luggage and more.
Customer Rating
1
Hospital Grade UV Sanitation in a DustBuster
on April 25, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
INITIAL SET-UP
The Raycop comes neatly and securely packed in a hard plastic travel case. Each of the 5 pieces fit snugly in their pre-molded slots and are securely held in place by a lid that snaps locked on opposite ends. Assembly could not be better thought out. Under each of the vacuum’s parts is a number. You literally connect pieces 1 – 5. Simple and easy.
The Raycop comes neatly and securely packed in a hard plastic travel case. Each of the 5 pieces fit snugly in their pre-molded slots and are securely held in place by a lid that snaps locked on opposite ends. Assembly could not be better thought out. Under each of the vacuum’s parts is a number. You literally connect pieces 1 – 5. Simple and easy.
Initial charge of the lithium-ion battery can take up to 3 hours from a full discharge. The batteries are built into the vac’s handle and the power button glows amber when charging. Once fully charged, the power button turns to a green glow indicating the unit is ready for use.
USE
The vac has 3 operating modes. Mode 1 is UV light only. Mode 2 is the UV light with low power suction. Mode 3 is the UV light and higher-powered suction.
The vac has 3 operating modes. Mode 1 is UV light only. Mode 2 is the UV light with low power suction. Mode 3 is the UV light and higher-powered suction.
According to the Raycop website, the vac will eliminate 99.99% of bacteria and viruses, 99.3% of dust mites, and 99.7% of airborne allergens. Those specs are quite impressive.
Once powered up the Raycop functions like a germ-killing dust buster. The head pivots to help maintain constant contact with the surface to be cleaned and you use it just like you would any handheld vac, except this one sanitizes while in use.
The filters are easily accessible during assembly or disassembly for cleaning. Note that the dust bin is quite small, so the total amount of material that can be swept up is minimal compared to other handheld vacuums. Not that this is a negative, but if you are expecting a dust collector the size of a Dyson, you will be sorely disappointed, as this is only about 1/10th the capacity.
CONCLUSIONS
I usually expand further upon an item’s unique attributes and shortcomings, but with this review, I am going to skip right to the conclusion.
I usually expand further upon an item’s unique attributes and shortcomings, but with this review, I am going to skip right to the conclusion.
I sincerely do not get the point and purpose of this product. This feels like a product that was brought to market to capitalize on us germophobes’ paranoia with Covid and cleanliness.
The UV light may be “hospital grade”, but I did not see any information on how much time the light needs to be directed at a surface to kill viruses and bacteria. In addition to this lack of helpful information, the vacuum portion of this unit is weak, at best. I referenced this to a dust buster earlier in this review & it honestly feels as cheap as those 1980’s masterpieces. The suction power is about as poor as those were too, back in the day.
Lastly, is the overall size of the item itself. Raycop did a great job in designing the unit for easy assembly and disassembly. It really could not be much easier. However, there is only so much you break the unit down. Add to that, a hard plastic case to protect the unit during travel and you no longer have an “ultra-portable” product. Far from it. It is too big and would be too cumbersome to carry on a plane, as Raycop likes to brag you can do. It is also too big to pack in luggage. So big, in fact, that if I were to pack this while travelling, I would have to go from a carry on to checked baggage. That is how much room in a smaller suitcase this would take up. Who wants to check luggage if they do not have to?
At the end of the day there is not much more this product can do, aside from sweeping hotel bed sheets or couch, that you can not do with a small, travel-sized package of Clorox or Purell wipes will not do just as good. Plus, a package of travel wipes take up 1/100th the space requirement and are less than 1/100th the cost. I can buy a bunch of 99 cent travel wipes that do 99% of what this product can do, without the inherent burdens or hassles. I recommend looking for a better solution.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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The Roomba 600 series robot vacuum is a great way to begin cleaning your home smarter. It learns your cleaning habits and then offers up custom cleaning schedules—taking on daily dirt, dust, and debris from carpets and hard floors. It even has an edge-sweeping brush to get into corners and along edges. Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility let you start a cleaning session with just your voice, or simply use the iRobot Home App. When your area’s pollen count is high or during pet shedding season, the Roomba 600 series robot vacuum can even suggest extra cleanings —to help keep your floors clean every day of the year. *(Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates. Google is a trademark of Google LLC)
Customer Rating
4
More Economical Entry into Roomba Ecosystem
on March 31, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS & SET-UP
Having always heard that the Roomba vacs were the standard to which all others were compared to, I was looking forward to getting an iRobot. Family and friends have always talked positively of their Roomba’s, but quite honestly, the cost has always been an issue with me. With models costing upwards of $500 or more, I could not see spending that kind of cash for a robotic vacuum. With the introduction of the 694, Roomba has addressed my biggest complaint of the robotic vacuums and made a model more obtainable to many more folks. I was eager to give it a go.
Having always heard that the Roomba vacs were the standard to which all others were compared to, I was looking forward to getting an iRobot. Family and friends have always talked positively of their Roomba’s, but quite honestly, the cost has always been an issue with me. With models costing upwards of $500 or more, I could not see spending that kind of cash for a robotic vacuum. With the introduction of the 694, Roomba has addressed my biggest complaint of the robotic vacuums and made a model more obtainable to many more folks. I was eager to give it a go.
In a cost saving effort, Roomba has stripped this model of some very cleaver features that are on their higher end models. This model lacks the room mapping feature, it does not do boundaries, and there is no fancy dust collection built into its charging base, like their top-of-the-line model. The real question is: Are there too many features stripped out to have any good left in it?
USE
Initial set-up with the iRobot app and my Galaxy smartphone was not without issue. The app refused to connect to the vacuum without several attempts. With wi-fi, without wi-fi, the app would not connect to the vacuum. After a great deal of frustration and 5 or more attempts, somehow the app and robot figured each other out and it finally connected. Whew!
Initial set-up with the iRobot app and my Galaxy smartphone was not without issue. The app refused to connect to the vacuum without several attempts. With wi-fi, without wi-fi, the app would not connect to the vacuum. After a great deal of frustration and 5 or more attempts, somehow the app and robot figured each other out and it finally connected. Whew!
The vacuum required a mandatory firmware update, and that update did seem to improve the functionality of the vacuum with the app. From there on out, the app and vacuum got along better and I was able to fully set up the Roomba and get it charging. The initial charge took about 2 hours to complete and then it was off.
Like others and I have stated, this model doesn’t have any mapping features built-in. It really does aimlessly wonder around and clean your house. It is not a huge deal, but unlike competitors’ vacuums, you can’t really keep the Roomba from going where you don’t want it. It knows no boundaries. On the plus side, though, the vacuum does a much better job at finding its way around my house and furniture than my other robot vacuum from Shark. The Shark must be the dumbest smart vacuum I’ve seen. It has no finesse and no sense of direction. It wanders about, bumping and colliding into stuff the whole time. Granted, the Roomba will do the same, but it does figure out where things are at eventually. While it doesn’t seem too have many sensors on its left side, its right side (the side with the revolving brush) has numerous sensors. The Roomba will slow down as it approaches an obstacle and barely nudge it. Is the Roomba at the wall? No sweat. It will sense the wall and work its way along it. When it comes to a corner, it will magically guide itself around the corner and continue cleaning along the edge. Cool. Take note Shark.
NEGATIVES
My biggest complaint of this vacuum is its inability to clean floors with different materials. A majority of my house is hardwood, but there are several area rugs and rugs at each entry. The Roomba has no issues with the short nap rugs at the doorways, but it refuses to climb up on the heavier pile rugs. It senses an obstruction and turns away. This is not a behavior that my Shark robot vacuum exhibits. It has no issues cleaning different floor surfaces and will climb any of my rugs or carpet without issue.
My biggest complaint of this vacuum is its inability to clean floors with different materials. A majority of my house is hardwood, but there are several area rugs and rugs at each entry. The Roomba has no issues with the short nap rugs at the doorways, but it refuses to climb up on the heavier pile rugs. It senses an obstruction and turns away. This is not a behavior that my Shark robot vacuum exhibits. It has no issues cleaning different floor surfaces and will climb any of my rugs or carpet without issue.
My second issue with the Roomba is that it only has one cleaning brush on its right side. My Shark has 2 rotating brushes, one on each side. Each pass of the Shark ultimately cleans about 50% more floor than the Roomba just because of the additional brush sweeping dirt into the middle of the vacuum. This is a far more efficient use of time.
Lastly, the fact there is no real way to set boundaries is frustrating. I must keep and eye on the Roomba if I want it to clean my main living areas. If not, the robot will run off and keep going to all parts of the house without thinking otherwise. Don’t get me wrong, my Shark isn’t much smarter, but Shark includes some self-adhesive, magnetic tape you can put down on the floor to limit the travel and cleaning area of its vacuum. The only issue there is the fact that you would have to have ugly, black magnetic tape stuck to your floors all the time to limit travel while using. I don’t consider that a viable option either.
CONCLUSIONS
Roomba should be commended for bringing the iRobot line of vacuums down to a lower price point for the masses. The vacuum does a good job at cleaning and did not fail to remove any dirt or debris that has been on the floor while it has been running.
Roomba should be commended for bringing the iRobot line of vacuums down to a lower price point for the masses. The vacuum does a good job at cleaning and did not fail to remove any dirt or debris that has been on the floor while it has been running.
I feel my complaints with the unit could easily be addressed by a firmware and app update. I could be wrong, but I think it is do-able. Roomba really needs to polish their Android app. It just doesn’t play nicely with the vacuum. While I’ve been able to get my vacuum set-up and updated, I still get constant communication errors with the vacuum. I get “Unable to Communicate with the vacuum at this time, please reboot to attempt to fix the issue”. The vacuum will reboot, but the same error still comes back. I also receive errors every single time I manually check for a firmware update.
While there are issues with this vac and app, it is a better product than my Shark. Other family members disagree, as the Roomba refuses to clean the rugs, where the Shark does not. But, the overall operation of the vacuum itself is much more polished than my Shark. The Roomba will sense objects and slow down to mitigate the amount of force it contacts items with, and can clean its way around walls and corners. This is something my Shark vacuum only wishes it could do. I would rate the overall satisfaction a 3, but because the Roomba cleans with so much more finesse than its comparably priced competitor, I will give it a 4 star rating.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The new Dell 24" Curved Gaming Monitor is equipped with a 4ms Response Time - 165Hz - AMD FreeSync™ Premium Technology featuring Vertical Alignment, Anti-glare with 3H hardness, and 1500R Curvature. Adjustable height and LED screen, this 24" monitor is equipped for ultimate game play.
Customer Rating
5
Inexpensive and Very Accurate Color Reproduction
on March 29, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
Key Features
165Hz Refresh Rate
1920 x 1080 Full HD Resolution
AMD FreeSync Compatible
2 HDMI 2.0 Inputs
1 Full-Size DisplayPort 1.2 Input
1ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time)
165Hz Refresh Rate
1920 x 1080 Full HD Resolution
AMD FreeSync Compatible
2 HDMI 2.0 Inputs
1 Full-Size DisplayPort 1.2 Input
1ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time)
SET-UP
The monitor comes well packaged and protected. Anyone with a Dell monitor will instantly recognize the steps necessary to get it attached to the stand and set-up for use. This is the same mounting solution Dell has used for years (even my 2012 model Dell UltraSharps use the same mounting system). If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Dell even made the assembly a tool-free, issue-free affair. Excellent!
The monitor comes well packaged and protected. Anyone with a Dell monitor will instantly recognize the steps necessary to get it attached to the stand and set-up for use. This is the same mounting solution Dell has used for years (even my 2012 model Dell UltraSharps use the same mounting system). If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Dell even made the assembly a tool-free, issue-free affair. Excellent!
As notated above the monitor includes what I would consider the basic assortment of available connections. But, it should be just enough to satisfy a vast majority of consumers. There are 3 input connections, 2 HDMI 2.0 inputs, and 1 full-size DisplayPort 1.2 input. Note, there are no analog video inputs. Next to those inputs, is the monitor’s sole output, a 3.5mm headphone jack. There is not a lot of extras built-in, but at this price point, the selections are sufficient, and I think does the job at covering the bases for what the average consumer would need in a quality 1080p monitor.
There are 4 buttons, and a joystick multi-selector on the back of the monitor to adjust the settings and parameters of the monitor. I found the buttons a little clunky and somewhat hard to decipher when initially setting it up. It became more familiar after a few adjustments, but still clunky to me. Thankfully, Dell has developed its excellent: Dell Display Manager Application. A small download allows the user to control and adjust the functions of the monitor with simple clicks of the mouse. The program enables a 2-way communication with the monitor, and it works great!!! You no longer must reach behind the monitor and guess at which button does what. It is a well-executed and implemented program. Dell should be commended on its functionality.
USE
I was all set to hate on this monitor after getting it connected and turned on for the first time. I am an IPS panel snob and when the screen turned on and I could see the hot spots from the edge lit LED’s I had made my mind up that this was going to be an average monitor at best. I was right. The monitor was OK, it had decent color and imaging. I used it for a few hours and it served its purpose well enough. Text was clear. I was able to write up a couple of long overdue Word documents. Web browsing was equally fair. The monitor had a decent picture and didn’t do anything necessarily wrong, but I wasn’t wow’d in any way. So, I decided to hook up my colorimeter and do a calibration now that the new monitor had several hours of break in.
I was all set to hate on this monitor after getting it connected and turned on for the first time. I am an IPS panel snob and when the screen turned on and I could see the hot spots from the edge lit LED’s I had made my mind up that this was going to be an average monitor at best. I was right. The monitor was OK, it had decent color and imaging. I used it for a few hours and it served its purpose well enough. Text was clear. I was able to write up a couple of long overdue Word documents. Web browsing was equally fair. The monitor had a decent picture and didn’t do anything necessarily wrong, but I wasn’t wow’d in any way. So, I decided to hook up my colorimeter and do a calibration now that the new monitor had several hours of break in.
My initial indifference was immediately removed after calibration. The monitor looked vibrant, and colors were much more accurate. The shortcomings and my lack of enthusiasm were gone. The monitor really did have a great image in it after all. I posted pictures of the results of the calibration. This monitor returned a near perfect image and an almost equally perfect D65 color. WOW!!!! This is something that my expensive UltraSharps aren’t able to achieve, nor can my HP Omen gaming monitor. This is one of the most accurate monitors I’ve used to date.
NEGATIVES
There are only two potential negatives that I can think of:
There are only two potential negatives that I can think of:
1. The monitor is only compatible with AMD FreeSync. So, owners of gaming rigs containing nVidia graphics cards will not be able to take advantage of the screen matching refresh rate that nVidia uses (GSync).
2. I’m not sure that a 24” monitor is really wide enough to need to be curved. I will admit that it could just be that I am not totally comfortable with the curved monitor yet, but I just don’t know if there is any really real benefit of the curve at this screen size. Both my Dell UltraSharps are 24” and neither one is curved and I don’t see a need.
CONCLUSIONS
I am incredibly pleased with the performance of this monitor. It has an accurate color reproduction, that covers 99% of the available sRGB color spectrum and a near instantaneous response time, rivaling even the best IPS panels. Text in spreadsheets and documents are clear and images are authentic and natural looking. Games played smoothly with no perceivable lag or stuttering. Even fast paced games like Call of Duty and Forza played cleanly and smoothly with no perceivable lag or tearing.
I am incredibly pleased with the performance of this monitor. It has an accurate color reproduction, that covers 99% of the available sRGB color spectrum and a near instantaneous response time, rivaling even the best IPS panels. Text in spreadsheets and documents are clear and images are authentic and natural looking. Games played smoothly with no perceivable lag or stuttering. Even fast paced games like Call of Duty and Forza played cleanly and smoothly with no perceivable lag or tearing.
While I was fully prepared to give this monitor a mediocre rating after first turning it on, it has completely won me over. I give this a full 5 star rating for its crisp, clear text and extremely accurate color reproduction that rivals or exceeds much more expensive IPS monitors.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Ninja Foodi Power Blender & Processor has Variable Speed Control with smartTORQUE that blends and powers through at any speed and never stalls. The Power Blender & Processor Pitcher has the versatility of a blender, food processor, and dough mixer in one. 6 preset Auto-iQ programs for one-touch smoothies, bowls, chopping and dough, as well as make frozen drinks and spreads. 1400-peak-watt power-dense motor.
Customer Rating
5
Raising the Blender to a New Level
on March 7, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
UNBOXING AND INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
Initial impressions after unboxing are that Ninja has taken the average kitchen blender to a whole new level. The machine is very sleek and modern looking and has all digital controls. From the overall aesthetics to the components included in the kit, everything has a very upscale and premium look and feel. Quite honestly, it seems that Ninja studied someone as culinarily challenged as me and gave them a machine they could not screw up with.
Initial impressions after unboxing are that Ninja has taken the average kitchen blender to a whole new level. The machine is very sleek and modern looking and has all digital controls. From the overall aesthetics to the components included in the kit, everything has a very upscale and premium look and feel. Quite honestly, it seems that Ninja studied someone as culinarily challenged as me and gave them a machine they could not screw up with.
I often find cooking a frozen pizza challenging. You give me the best of kitchen appliances, and I’ll find some way to screw up a recipe. I have been a Ninja fan ever since I received their air fryer. What they accomplished with their air fryer is something special – they made a kitchen appliance that even I can figure out how to use and prepare a decent recipe with. Wow!!! That is no easy feat. So, I was eager to see if they were able to pull it off with a blender.
USE
Long story short, Ninja did their homework and created yet another appliance that even the most challenged novices like me can easily operate without issue.
Long story short, Ninja did their homework and created yet another appliance that even the most challenged novices like me can easily operate without issue.
Overall thoughtful items are baked everywhere into this product. The blender includes a 1400W motor. That is the most powerful motor I have ever seen in a kitchen appliance. It has a lot of torque. No matter what I tried to make in the blender, the motor did not stall. From seriously thick smoothies to cookie dough, the blender handled it like a champ.
The most impressive feature of the package is the integrated suction cups on the bottom of the machine. Yes, I know, a product with all these cool features and the most impressive thing is the suction cups? Those suction cups are amazing! They saved my hide from a disastrous mess more than once. They hold the blender with enough force to keep it from flying out of control without me holding it down. The very first time I had it loaded it full of frozen fruits and ice, I was messing around with the controls. The smart thing would have been to familiarize myself with the blender before using it. But, why do it the smart way? I hit a couple of buttons and just I was getting ready to hold down the machine, it roared to life. Full power. Those suction cups held strong. They didn’t break loose and the machine churned through the frozen bits without effort. Whew! Awesome!
The controls are super simple and very intuitive. Maybe a professional will find them too simplistic. But, for someone like me, they are a welcome addition. The Auto IQ really does work. Pick your recipe on the display and hit the “Enter” button. The machine does the rest. Its programming is super smart and never failed to make a near perfect result. You can tell the machine was made for the non-chefs and it pays off. However, the machine is also so powerful and capable, that I think even the best of home cooks would find that this blender does anything and everything they could want and then some.
CONCLUSION
I honestly can’t really find anything negative to say about the blender. It is powerful. It’s preprogrammed “recipes” makes it less intimidating for the novices, while still offering the power and performance that an experienced home cook or professional chef would need. It’s safety features are well thought out and nicely incorporated in the design. This is one of the few products that I’ve tried that I’m at a loss for words when trying to find a negative. That is a rare accomplishment. An easy 5 stars!!
I honestly can’t really find anything negative to say about the blender. It is powerful. It’s preprogrammed “recipes” makes it less intimidating for the novices, while still offering the power and performance that an experienced home cook or professional chef would need. It’s safety features are well thought out and nicely incorporated in the design. This is one of the few products that I’ve tried that I’m at a loss for words when trying to find a negative. That is a rare accomplishment. An easy 5 stars!!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Sonance Mag Series 2.1-channel outdoor rock speaker system is a $1,300 value.¹ Bundle includes (2) MAGMR6 satellite rock speakers and (1) MAGMR10W rock woofer. – Elevate your outdoor soundscape with the Sonance MAGROCKS2.1 Outdoor Rock Speaker System, a premium 2.1-channel setup designed to disappear into natural surroundings while delivering crystal-clear audio. This weather-resistant outdoor speaker system includes two 6.5" satellite rock speakers and a powerful 10" rock woofer, offering high-fidelity performance across patios, gardens, and open-air spaces. With its rugged fiberglass-reinforced enclosures and realistic stone-like finish, the MAGROCKS2.1 system blends seamlessly into landscaping while withstanding UV rays, heat, rain, snow, and poolside splashes. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening outside, this discreet outdoor sound system fills your space with rich, dynamic sound, featuring clear highs, smooth mids, and immersive low frequencies. Built for seamless compatibility with leading platforms like Sonos®, Bluesound®, and Denon HEOS®, the MAGROCKS2.1 is simple to install and scales effortlessly with your outdoor audio system. From casual backyard listening to rich, all-encompassing outdoor audio, Sonance delivers performance you can hear but not see.
Customer Rating
3
Concept is better on paper than in execution
on March 6, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
UNBOXING and INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
The Magrocks arrive in an extremely large shipping box weighing almost 80 pounds. My initial thoughts were there had to be a ton of padding and fluff to protect the speakers. Not so. While neatly packaged, the shipping weight is really from the speakers and not a ton of packing material. So far so good. Heavily weighted speakers are a must for outdoor use to keep planted during wind and storms.
The Magrocks arrive in an extremely large shipping box weighing almost 80 pounds. My initial thoughts were there had to be a ton of padding and fluff to protect the speakers. Not so. While neatly packaged, the shipping weight is really from the speakers and not a ton of packing material. So far so good. Heavily weighted speakers are a must for outdoor use to keep planted during wind and storms.
The product itself has an attractive design with a pleasing gray color. Sonance took a great deal of effort in designing the overall shape, texture, and coloring of their product and it shows. Like other reviewers have stated, the only area that visually falls short of a quality product is the application of the clear silicone on the underside. While it is great to have them sealed on the bottom from the elements, the random application of silicone is less than pleasing aesthetically and does detract from an overall well designed and executed appearance.
Installation is quite simple. These are “unpowered” speakers, in that they rely solely on the power supplied to them from your source component. Sonance included a recommended wiring gauge chart in the instructions to help you pick the proper size wire for optimal performance. Like always, bigger is better, and I chose to use 14awg, 4 conductor wiring to power the speaker set. This single 4 conductor wire goes directly to the main 10” subwoofer. Inside the subwoofer is a high pass filter, fixed at 150Hz. Frequencies below 150Hz get routed to the sub, frequencies above get routed to the satellite speakers. Each satellite speaker includes approximately 6 feet of speaker wire and those wires go back and also hook up to the subwoofer.
That completes all the steps necessary for installation, aside from hooking your speaker wires to a source component. In my case, it was a spare home theater receiver that I was not using. Power ratings for the amps in the receiver are 120W x7 @ 20Hz to 20kHz, all channels driven. Those specs are important as my experience with the speakers is detailed below.
USE
After programming the receiver to power only the 2 stereo speakers and setting the speaker size to large, I was ready for some outdoor tunes!!!! I turned the volume way down and fired up my source components. I could not hear much. So, I slowly turned the receiver louder and louder, much louder than I usually need to operate it at and I finally got decent volume. Bass response was meh, at best and not worth writing home about. Hmmm, something seemed amiss.
After programming the receiver to power only the 2 stereo speakers and setting the speaker size to large, I was ready for some outdoor tunes!!!! I turned the volume way down and fired up my source components. I could not hear much. So, I slowly turned the receiver louder and louder, much louder than I usually need to operate it at and I finally got decent volume. Bass response was meh, at best and not worth writing home about. Hmmm, something seemed amiss.
Thinking my selection of wire size was limiting current flow, I pulled the speakers back in the house and tried a different set of speaker wires. This time, I used two 30-inch pieces of 12awg speaker wire. The results were the same. Bass response was blah and the speakers sounded harsh and unappealing.
Thankfully, I was able to mess with the Treble and Bass controls and it improved the sound considerably. Lowering the Treble setting down from 0 to negative 2, improved the high frequency response from the speakers. It eliminated the overly bright, harsh, and tinny sound from the speakers. With a little more time committed to EQ adjustments, the speakers now sound quite nice. The mid and high frequency drivers complement each other well. Sonance has nailed the crossover network inside the small speakers and transition between the drivers is smooth without feeling shallow or hollow. Excellent work.
One thing I was never able improve upon is the poor bass performance and overall lack of sensitivity of the entire system. The system is rated at an overall sensitivity of 89dB, which usually isn’t too horrible, but it kills this system. The system’s efficiency is not high enough to effectively utilize the power being supplied to it. After trying a couple different options, the best performance I got out of the system was with my older home theater receiver. It has 7 individual, Monoblock, high current amps, and a huge toroidal transformer. Even with all that power in reserve it does not provide enough current to wake up the subwoofer. Maybe I’m wrong and maybe the subwoofer just doesn’t have enough excursion to produce deep bass. I don’t know. But, what I do know, is this system leaves me wanting for more low end.
CONCLUSIONS
The product is attractively made and decorated. The speakers have a nice heft that will surely keep them planted during the roughest of days and weather. While someone seems to get paid by the amount of silicone they apply to the bottoms of the speakers, it does not detract from the overall aesthetics of the speakers, as the goop is hidden on the bottom.
The product is attractively made and decorated. The speakers have a nice heft that will surely keep them planted during the roughest of days and weather. While someone seems to get paid by the amount of silicone they apply to the bottoms of the speakers, it does not detract from the overall aesthetics of the speakers, as the goop is hidden on the bottom.
With a little time and effort, I was able to coax a very pleasing sound from the smaller satellites. The satellite speakers have good clarity and offer a smooth transition between the drivers. Sonance did an excellent job on the satellite speaker array.
I wish the same could be said for the subwoofer. It just is not efficient enough to offer any real improvement to the overall package. Maybe I was just hoping for a fuller lower frequency sound stage and I set my initial expectations too high. That could very well be. I find the low frequency lacking and not nearly sufficient to do the satellite speakers justice, as they are the stars of this show.
I would look to a system that utilizes more efficient drivers or offers some sort of powered subwoofer option over this product. While the inclusion of a subwoofer sounds like a great idea, I do not feel it offers enough benefit to the overall package. It reminds me of the old saying: “It looks good on paper.”
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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By installing eufy Security Smart Lock Touch & Wi-Fi, you will never have to worry about losing your key again and always have secure access to your home. The Smart Lock is powered by a Mabuchi motor that allows you to unlock your front door in less than a second. With a sensor area that is two times larger than on a smartphone, the Smart Lock is less likely to miss your fingerprint. Every time you unlock Smart Lock, the recognition rate improves because of the self-learning AI chip. This Smart Lock is weatherproof with an IP65 rating, so you can rest assured that your home is always secure. The Smart Lock is tested to last for 250,000 unlocks and is designed to still function after 30 years of use.
Customer Rating
5
Excellent Alternative to Big Names
on March 5, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
INSTALLATION
This Eufy Smart Lock is replacing my existing smart door lock from Schlage. Like my Schlage, installation was simple and well thought out. I had zero issues and total installation time was about 30 minutes. It could have easily been accomplished quicker, but I tried to follow the instructions and accompanying document step-by-step to see just how thorough Anker (Eufy is a product of Anker) was. Anker was impressively thorough. A person with nothing more than a couple of screwdrivers can easily change out their existing door lock for the Eufy. Instructions are methodical and well organized. A super nice feature is that Anker has included parts in several boxes, all with numbers. The intention is that the homeowner starts at box 1 and works their way through to the last one. Each box includes the parts necessary to complete the next step in lock installation. While I didn’t need to use parts from every single box, I must give major kudos for this approach. It is an excellent presentation and execution. Other manufacturers should take note. Well done!
This Eufy Smart Lock is replacing my existing smart door lock from Schlage. Like my Schlage, installation was simple and well thought out. I had zero issues and total installation time was about 30 minutes. It could have easily been accomplished quicker, but I tried to follow the instructions and accompanying document step-by-step to see just how thorough Anker (Eufy is a product of Anker) was. Anker was impressively thorough. A person with nothing more than a couple of screwdrivers can easily change out their existing door lock for the Eufy. Instructions are methodical and well organized. A super nice feature is that Anker has included parts in several boxes, all with numbers. The intention is that the homeowner starts at box 1 and works their way through to the last one. Each box includes the parts necessary to complete the next step in lock installation. While I didn’t need to use parts from every single box, I must give major kudos for this approach. It is an excellent presentation and execution. Other manufacturers should take note. Well done!
This lock has been updated to include wi-fi versus just Bluetooth like its predecessor. The lock will switch seamlessly between the 2 communications protocols during installation and during operation. I had some issues during a firmware update and wi-fi dropped. Without issue, my phone automatically switched over to Bluetooth allowing me to continue using the lock and its features. Sweet! The lock will require a wi-fi connection in order to send notifications and use its remote features when the user is outside the home. This is one of the first smart products that I’ve installed that picked up my wi-fi and connected without issues. What a welcome breath of fresh air!!! Even though my home network broadcasts the 2.4G and 5G bands with the same SSID, it proved to be a non-issue for my Eufy. This is something that I cannot say about my Schlage, which put up a tremendous fight.
I also appreciate the fact Anker chose to use a rechargeable battery with their Eufy Smart Lock. My old lock used 4 AA batteries for power. Those batteries lasted approximately 3 months with moderate use. Anker claims an estimated battery life of 1 year if you connect their Smart Lock to wi-fi. Wow! If so, that will drastically lower the overall cost of ownership. Granted 4 AA batteries installed 4 times a year isn’t a fortune, but it is an additional and reoccurring expense. The fact that the Eufy’s batteries are rechargeable and have to the potential to last 4x longer is great. I don’t feel the need to have to check the lock every few weeks to make sure there is enough reserve left to keep the lock going for family members.
EUFY APP
The Eufy Smart Lock uses the same Eufy Security app that Anker’s other products use. The Eufy Security app is clean and decently designed. During testing, I always try to use both the iOS and Android versions of the vendor’s app to see how they compare and most importantly, see if the company is committed to providing the same great user experience on one platform as the other. In this regard, Anker excels. Both apps function consistently and reliably on both platforms. Notifications are quick and general navigation and settings are usually intuitive and easy to find.
The Eufy Smart Lock uses the same Eufy Security app that Anker’s other products use. The Eufy Security app is clean and decently designed. During testing, I always try to use both the iOS and Android versions of the vendor’s app to see how they compare and most importantly, see if the company is committed to providing the same great user experience on one platform as the other. In this regard, Anker excels. Both apps function consistently and reliably on both platforms. Notifications are quick and general navigation and settings are usually intuitive and easy to find.
My favorite feature of the Eufy app is the notifications. Like I stated earlier, notifications to my Galaxy smartphone or iPad are nearly instant, where, at times, my Schlage would lag in its notifications. Whether the Eufy is locked or unlocked with a fingerprint or a preassigned 4 – 8 digit numeric code, the app not only tells you the lock was locked or unlocked, but also by which user. The notification system has functioned flawlessly.
PERFORMANCE
This is my first Eufy Smart Lock and to date, it has performed impressively. While it has some quirks compared to my Schlage, it is not any form of a deal breaker. To be fair to Anker, the same could be said about my Schlage. It has some quirks compared to my Eufy.
This is my first Eufy Smart Lock and to date, it has performed impressively. While it has some quirks compared to my Schlage, it is not any form of a deal breaker. To be fair to Anker, the same could be said about my Schlage. It has some quirks compared to my Eufy.
The absolute best feature of this lock is the fingerprint scanner. Eufy stores fingerprints on an encrypted chip in the lock itself. Anyone that uses the Apple fingerprint scanner on their iPhone or iPad will instantly feel at home with this scanner. Fingerprint enrollment takes 8 separate scans and saves them to the lock. However, unlike my iPhone and iPad that take about a second or so to read my print, the Eufy is nearly instantaneous. The lock reads and responds so quickly, I honestly thought at first it was defective. So I tried to different finger than what I had enrolled and sure enough, it didn’t open. My print was unrecognized. The speed at which this lock can read and respond to prints is excellent!!
ISSUES
There are only 2 issues with this lock that I can think of:
There are only 2 issues with this lock that I can think of:
The first, and most significant issue is the poorly functioning firmware update process. Upon installation, the Eufy Smart Lock required 2 immediate firmware updates. During both updates, the smart lock stopped responding and updating at 99% completion. After letting the app remain open and running for at least 5 minutes, I finally had to pull the battery each time to manually reboot the lock. Each time, the lock retained the stored users’ information, but lost its connectivity to my wi-fi network. I had to go in and manually reprogram the device. Eventually, the firmware update did show successful, but not without a couple of moments of anxiety wondering if the unit had bricked itself during the update process.
The second complaint is just really me being picky. I don’t like the size of the lock on the inside of the door. Admittedly, I like that the Eufy is very slender. My Schlage was much thicker, but because of this, the Schlage was almost half the size of the Eufy in length. The Schlage looked sleeker and much less pronounced than the Eufy because of its smaller size. The issue involves the decision by each manufacturer on where to place the batteries. Schlage put their batteries behind the locking mechanism, making the unit smaller overall. Anker chose to put their removable battery pack directly on top of the locking mechanism, make the unit not as thick, but increasing the overall length of the Eufy substantially.
CONCLUSIONS
This is an excellent product. In my opinion, Anker has yet another innovative and well-designed product offering. Simple and thoughtful touches abound. Small things like numbering the boxes in order of installation, to providing a back-up micro USB slot to provide power to the unit should the rechargeable battery die (an old school key is also included should worst come to worst) make this truly appealing to the end user. I can say with first hand experience that this is something my equally priced Schlage smart lock did not include. If its AA batteries died, it died. The many thoughtful features, ease of installation, well thought out app, and overall performance of this product easily earn this a 5 star rating with me.
This is an excellent product. In my opinion, Anker has yet another innovative and well-designed product offering. Simple and thoughtful touches abound. Small things like numbering the boxes in order of installation, to providing a back-up micro USB slot to provide power to the unit should the rechargeable battery die (an old school key is also included should worst come to worst) make this truly appealing to the end user. I can say with first hand experience that this is something my equally priced Schlage smart lock did not include. If its AA batteries died, it died. The many thoughtful features, ease of installation, well thought out app, and overall performance of this product easily earn this a 5 star rating with me.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Get organized — quickly and easily — with the WorkForce ES-580W wireless duplex desktop document scanner. This reliable performer makes it easy to scan to your smartphone, tablet or online storage account1 from your desktop or your mobile device. You can even scan directly to a USB memory drive without using a computer. A 4.3" touchscreen enables quick, effortless navigation, while a 100-sheet Auto Document Feeder allows you to breeze through stacks of documents. Scan pages at up to 35 ppm/70 ipm2, capturing both sides in one pass. Intuitive Epson ScanSmart Software1 means you can easily preview, email and upload your scans. The included TWAIN driver ensures compatibility with most document management software. Wirelessly scan to cloud storage accounts1, create searchable PDFs, and get remarkable image quality with Epson Image Processing Technology.
Customer Rating
4
Hi-Speed and Versatile
on January 28, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
Touchscreen Interface
Up to 35 Pages per Minute Scanning
Duplex Scanning in One Pass
Up to 35 Pages per Minute Scanning
Duplex Scanning in One Pass
SET-UP
Initial product configure was simple, but not without issues. With the built-in touchscreen, initial product set-up can be accomplished without a tablet, phone, or PC. Unfortunately, I encountered a nasty firmware bug upon receipt that would not let the unit communicate via Wi-Fi correctly. Not only did the unit display multiple instances of my SSID (my 2.4 and 5GHz channels transmit with the same SSID, leaving frequency negotiation up to my router). There is still only 1 SSID and at one point in time, the Epson listed my SSID three different times. Once I was able to successfully connect to my Wi-Fi, the Epson was still unable to contact the Epson support portal for registration and firmware retrieval.
Initial product configure was simple, but not without issues. With the built-in touchscreen, initial product set-up can be accomplished without a tablet, phone, or PC. Unfortunately, I encountered a nasty firmware bug upon receipt that would not let the unit communicate via Wi-Fi correctly. Not only did the unit display multiple instances of my SSID (my 2.4 and 5GHz channels transmit with the same SSID, leaving frequency negotiation up to my router). There is still only 1 SSID and at one point in time, the Epson listed my SSID three different times. Once I was able to successfully connect to my Wi-Fi, the Epson was still unable to contact the Epson support portal for registration and firmware retrieval.
Fortunately, I was able to use my desktop PC and using the Epson website, download the necessary drivers and software for the scanner. Upon installation, the Epson scanning software flawlessly detected the scanner, as well as notify me of a necessary firmware update. The Epson software for Windows updated the firmware, the scanner rebooted and from then on, I have encountered no further issues whether it be using the scanner via USB or via Wi-Fi.
USE
The scanner is easy to use and has a ton of features built into it. The scanner gives you the ability to scan to a PC, scan from a tablet or phone, scan to a service like OneDrive or DropBox, even scan as a PDF, or a PDF with encryption, just to name a few. There are numerous scanning options and services, a majority of which are accessible without the need for a computer. It is an excellent software suite. Far more than what my multi-function printer/scanner offers from a leading competitor.
The scanner is easy to use and has a ton of features built into it. The scanner gives you the ability to scan to a PC, scan from a tablet or phone, scan to a service like OneDrive or DropBox, even scan as a PDF, or a PDF with encryption, just to name a few. There are numerous scanning options and services, a majority of which are accessible without the need for a computer. It is an excellent software suite. Far more than what my multi-function printer/scanner offers from a leading competitor.
Scanning resolutions include 200, 300, and 600 dpi. Maximum document width is standard 8.5 inches and Epson claims you scan a document up to 240 inches long. I haven’t been able to try it yet, but I want to. Scans are crisp and clear. The unit features ultrasonic double feed detection, along with the ability to scan up to 100 pages at a time from the document feeder. Scans are consistently quick, clear, and most importantly straight. My current scanner often scans documents a little off axis, the Epson will occasionally get one a little off, but way, way less than any other multi-function I’ve owned.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This is an excellent product. The addition of the 4.3 inch touchscreen increases the versatility of the device by not needing a dedicated computer to run software. The scanner can communicate by USB, Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi Direct. It handles documents quickly, crisply, and with minimal fuss or intervention. Scans are straight nearly all the time and are always clean and clear.
This is an excellent product. The addition of the 4.3 inch touchscreen increases the versatility of the device by not needing a dedicated computer to run software. The scanner can communicate by USB, Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi Direct. It handles documents quickly, crisply, and with minimal fuss or intervention. Scans are straight nearly all the time and are always clean and clear.
The major issue with this device is the cost. An excellent multi-function printer, copier, scanner can be purchased for the same or less than this product, that is just a scanner alone. While other multi-functions don’t offer the feature-rich, business-oriented software suite this does, some do. While I think this is an excellent device, I am torn at what to give it overall. As just a business-oriented and quality product, I would give it a 5. But, based on its single-focused mission, I would have to rate it a 3, as most people would be better served by a comparably priced multi-function device. I will give it an overall rating of 4.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Protect provides 24/7 protection against viruses and bacteria.¹ Designed for maximum performance, quiet, clean air delivery, energy efficiency, and smart features. Independently tested and AHAM verifide for a Clean Air Delivery Rate of 270 CFM smoke, 280 CFM pollen, and 275 CFM dust. Best for medium rooms, master bedrooms, and living rooms. Completely filters room air about every 12.5 minutes (approx. 4.8x an hour at 418 ft²) on high. HEPASilent Ultra technology filters 99.97% airborne particles, like viruses and bacteria;² dust, pollen, dander, and mold³, then kills 99%⁴ of the germs caught in the filter.⁵ An activated carbon layer removes gases and odors. GermShield technology proactively monitors conditions and activates to kill germs and prevent growth on the filter.⁵ Quieter than a whisper on low (22 dB) and up to 45 dB on high, and ENERGY STAR rated using less energy than an incandescent lightbulb (up to 47 W) even at high speed. Advanced sensors track airborne particles, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), temperature, humidity, and filter usage and display on the premium LCD interface. Adjust settings like Auto mode remotely from the app. ¹24/7 protection refers to the key function of GermShield technology, activated when the unit is in standby mode. Tested on Staphylococcus Albus & MS2 bacteriophage. This air purifier is not tested against Coronavirus & Blueair does not claim to capture, remove, or kill SARS-CoV-2. ²Third-party tests of airborne viruses & bacteria (H1N1, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli) using GB/T18801-2015 standards. ³Based on third-party testing of removal rate of fine particles according to GB/T18801-2015 standard and pollen removal rate according to AHAM AC/1-2019 standard. ⁴Deactivation of bacteria (Staphylococcus Albus) & virus (MS2 bacteriophage). ⁵Tested on natural flora (bacteria only - excluding viruses) on filter media under normal temperature & humidity conditions
Customer Rating
5
Nearly Silent with Germ Killing Tech
on January 13, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
Key Features
Nearly Silent Operation
Germ Shield Technology
App Connected for Monitoring (Wi-Fi)
Auto Controls
Nearly Silent Operation
Germ Shield Technology
App Connected for Monitoring (Wi-Fi)
Auto Controls
INITIAL SET-UP
Unboxing and initial set-up went mostly without issue. The BlueAir has several thoughtful features built in that many competitors do not. I really appreciated the built-in wheels and hidden cord storage on this unit. I had never really thought about those 2 items until I received this unit. Weighing in at 27ish pounds, the BlueAir is not unwieldly, but having those 2 wheels on the bottom is a game changer. All my other HEPA filters were just boxes that needed carried. I never realized how much better something so simple made the initial user experience. Along with that, having the hidden cord storage under the unit is a fantastic design idea. My other air cleaners from different manufactures have always just had their cords dangling behind the machines, often making for tripping hazards. BlueAir has eliminated this issue with its clever, hidden cord management channel at the bottom of the machine. Again, a simple solution, but improved the initial user experience a great deal. I hope others follow suit.
Unboxing and initial set-up went mostly without issue. The BlueAir has several thoughtful features built in that many competitors do not. I really appreciated the built-in wheels and hidden cord storage on this unit. I had never really thought about those 2 items until I received this unit. Weighing in at 27ish pounds, the BlueAir is not unwieldly, but having those 2 wheels on the bottom is a game changer. All my other HEPA filters were just boxes that needed carried. I never realized how much better something so simple made the initial user experience. Along with that, having the hidden cord storage under the unit is a fantastic design idea. My other air cleaners from different manufactures have always just had their cords dangling behind the machines, often making for tripping hazards. BlueAir has eliminated this issue with its clever, hidden cord management channel at the bottom of the machine. Again, a simple solution, but improved the initial user experience a great deal. I hope others follow suit.
This is one of the first air cleaners I’ve used that actually has to “boot up”. It is loaded with a great deal of tech. Fortunately, initial set-up can be completed without any apps or technical expertise, if so desired. The unit can be unboxed and used as a standalone device. To get the most out of the user experience, BlueAir includes a companion app available for iOS or Android. I downloaded and installed the app on my Android 11 based smartphone. Others have stated that they experienced connection issues with the device. I have not experienced any such issue since set-up and installation of the app. While the app did not behave perfectly during the initial set-up and account creation, it did finally complete with only 1 force closing of the app and a restart. Since the initial hiccup, I have had no further issues and the app and air cleaner has worked consistently since.
USE
As I stated earlier, this is not my first large sized air cleaner. I have purchased others from various manufacturers throughout the years. What I can say is that this is by far, the quietest air cleaner I have in my home. I have another new unit from a competitor that is roughly the same size and this BlueAir is less than ½ as loud as BlueAir’s leading competitors’ models. This is the first air cleaner that I have owned that I can put in the family room and not have it distract from normal activities like watching TV. It is quieter than any other models I have tried and used. BlueAir rates the minimum sound level at 22dB. I think they are close. It is barely louder than a whisper on low.
As I stated earlier, this is not my first large sized air cleaner. I have purchased others from various manufacturers throughout the years. What I can say is that this is by far, the quietest air cleaner I have in my home. I have another new unit from a competitor that is roughly the same size and this BlueAir is less than ½ as loud as BlueAir’s leading competitors’ models. This is the first air cleaner that I have owned that I can put in the family room and not have it distract from normal activities like watching TV. It is quieter than any other models I have tried and used. BlueAir rates the minimum sound level at 22dB. I think they are close. It is barely louder than a whisper on low.
BlueAir’s decision to make the unit usable without the companion app is a great idea. All the information you need to monitor your indoor air quality and/or condition of the machine and filters are readily available on the top panel display, as well as in the app. An easily visible status light on the top shows your current air quality. Blue being best, green, yellow, orange, and red. On Auto mode, the BlueAir uses its onboard air quality sensors to dynamically monitor and control fan speed to ensure optimum air quality with minimal fan noise. It is a combination that has worked great so far. The fact that I can get any information I want on the status of my air quality from either the device or the app is a great touch. I appreciate the fact that BlueAir reports back the status of VOC’s and particles in PPM vs just a basic status light.
The most impressive feature of this unit is the active Germ Shield Technology. According to BlueAir, this tech proactively monitors your filters. If bacteria or a virus is detected in the air, the machine will active the Germ Shield Tech when it enters standby mode and actively kill bacteria and viruses that may be trapped in the filter media. Awesome!!! In this day and age, what a fantastic feature. It must be noted, that BlueAir specifically states that this technology has not been tested against the Covid-19 virus.
NEGATIVES
The first negative is the point I just covered. I would like to see BlueAir certify its tech to kill the Covid-19 virus. It would also be great to see the Germ Shield work actively while the machine is in use, not just during times of standby mode.
The first negative is the point I just covered. I would like to see BlueAir certify its tech to kill the Covid-19 virus. It would also be great to see the Germ Shield work actively while the machine is in use, not just during times of standby mode.
The second negative is the brightness of the LED status lights and control panel. While they are a great and easy visual reference of the status of the machine and the indoor air quality, those lights are bright! I like the unit by my bedrooms, but as it stands, the lights are too bright at night. Even using the BlueAir app to dim the display, they are still way too bright for a bedroom. They can be turned off, but a greater range of brightness adjustment would be appreciated.
CONCLUSIONS
There really isn’t anything not to like about this unit. BlueAir has incorporated a lot of thoughtful features into the device. Little things like built-in casters and hidden cord storage are features I never considered or given any thought to, until now. I look at my other devices and think, why didn’t those folks think of this?
There really isn’t anything not to like about this unit. BlueAir has incorporated a lot of thoughtful features into the device. Little things like built-in casters and hidden cord storage are features I never considered or given any thought to, until now. I look at my other devices and think, why didn’t those folks think of this?
I am also impressed with the amount of information BlueAir gives its users. It is a refreshing change to see something that reports what it sees and is doing, versus a status light where you don’t know for sure what is causing the changes in the machine. The display gives you the current humidity levels (an awesome feature for dry winter months), current temperature, parts per million of contaminants, filter life, Germ Shield status, etc. I find myself thumbing through the status reports probably way more than I should.
Add to all this, a machine that will kill germs and bacteria from the inside of itself. What an outstanding feature living in the world we live in today. This is one air cleaner that checks all my boxes and I am happy to give it a full 5 stars. An excellent product.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Customer Rating
5
Fast, Tough, Well-Designed
on January 3, 2021
Posted by: NAMO
Spoiler Alert – This is one of the best laptops I’ve ever had the privilege to test or use.
HIGHLIGHTS
MIL-STD 810G Mil Spec Tested
Good Selection of Ports
1920 x 1080 Touch Screen Display with 100% sRGB Color Gamut Support
Intel Iris Xe built-in graphics with additional nVidia GTX 1650 Graphics Card
Can be used as a Laptop or in a Tablet Configuration
Aluminum Construction with Hinges Rated for 20,000 Duty Cycles
500GB SSD with Optane, Bluetooth 5.0, and 802.11AX Wi-Fi
MIL-STD 810G Mil Spec Tested
Good Selection of Ports
1920 x 1080 Touch Screen Display with 100% sRGB Color Gamut Support
Intel Iris Xe built-in graphics with additional nVidia GTX 1650 Graphics Card
Can be used as a Laptop or in a Tablet Configuration
Aluminum Construction with Hinges Rated for 20,000 Duty Cycles
500GB SSD with Optane, Bluetooth 5.0, and 802.11AX Wi-Fi
SET-UP
Initial set-up is typical Microsoft with minimal Asus interference of bloatware. All programs and finalization of set-up took place without issue. This was one of the few PC’s I’ve seen that didn’t have some sort of hiccup on initial set-up prior to Windows being fully updated. Good job Asus.
Initial set-up is typical Microsoft with minimal Asus interference of bloatware. All programs and finalization of set-up took place without issue. This was one of the few PC’s I’ve seen that didn’t have some sort of hiccup on initial set-up prior to Windows being fully updated. Good job Asus.
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
Build quality appears to be VERY good. The laptop is fairly light for all the tech built in, but still feels well-built and very sturdy. I have a one-year-old gaming laptop from another manufacturer with similar specs to this and that laptop feels nowhere near as well-built as this computer. Unlike my other plastic fantastic laptop from a competitor, this laptop just gives the impression of a well-engineered item. The lid opens smoothly, the backlit keyboard functions perfectly with keys having just the right amount of spacing, travel, and feedback. The mousepad is larger than most laptops’ pads and works buttery smooth. Again, compared to my other laptop with similar specs and at a nearly identical price point, this product’s fit and finish is far superior.
Build quality appears to be VERY good. The laptop is fairly light for all the tech built in, but still feels well-built and very sturdy. I have a one-year-old gaming laptop from another manufacturer with similar specs to this and that laptop feels nowhere near as well-built as this computer. Unlike my other plastic fantastic laptop from a competitor, this laptop just gives the impression of a well-engineered item. The lid opens smoothly, the backlit keyboard functions perfectly with keys having just the right amount of spacing, travel, and feedback. The mousepad is larger than most laptops’ pads and works buttery smooth. Again, compared to my other laptop with similar specs and at a nearly identical price point, this product’s fit and finish is far superior.
PERFORMANCE
The laptop has an impressive spec sheet. The computer has an 11th generation Core i7 (4C/8T) processor, 512GB Intel H10 NVMe SSD (PCIe 3.0 x4 with 32GB of Optane Memory), 16GB of DDR4 RAM, 802.11AX Wi-Fi supporting 160MHz bandwidth, Bluetooth 5.0, 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, and an nVidia GTX 1650 graphics card for discreet graphics. There are many more items that can be listed, but if specs are important, the Best Buy or Asus website does a better job at laying them all out than I can.
The laptop has an impressive spec sheet. The computer has an 11th generation Core i7 (4C/8T) processor, 512GB Intel H10 NVMe SSD (PCIe 3.0 x4 with 32GB of Optane Memory), 16GB of DDR4 RAM, 802.11AX Wi-Fi supporting 160MHz bandwidth, Bluetooth 5.0, 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, and an nVidia GTX 1650 graphics card for discreet graphics. There are many more items that can be listed, but if specs are important, the Best Buy or Asus website does a better job at laying them all out than I can.
The fans and cooling solution is excellent. My other computers sound like F-15’s spinning up on the runway when they are being used hard. Just starting a gaming session causes the fans to spin at full speed and my other computers sound like they are about to launch into orbit. The Asus thermal solution is much more refined. While the fans are audible, they are not obnoxious. By far the quietest fans I’ve had in a laptop with a dedicated graphics card yet.
Suffice it to say, the laptop performs admirably at all tasks I have asked it to do. Every task I have asked of the computer since receipt has not failed to impress. I have spent dozens of hours writing documents, web surfing, playing videos, playing XBOX games, etc. The computer has not disappointed. XBOX Game Pass games have played smoothly on either the built-in Intel Iris graphics or on the dedicated nVidia card hooked to an external display.
While the display is not the latest and greatest 4k UHD HDR displays in other computers, it also does not leave one wanting more. Text is crystal clear even without using the built-in Windows text tool. Text and images are cleaner and clearer than any other computer I have ever owned. Along with super clear text is beautiful and accurate color reproduction. This display can reproduce 100% of the RGB color gamut and is Pantone certified. It is by far, the most natural looking and accurate display I have had the opportunity to use. This is also the first computer I’ve owned that I have not had to adjust the display properties with a colorimeter to get accurate color reproduction. Truly exceptional.
PORTS AND UPGRADEABILITY
The computer has several ports considering how thin and lightweight it is. Included are 2 Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, a USB Gen 3.2 port, a full-size HDMI port, 3.5mm audio jack port, and an SD card reader.
The computer has several ports considering how thin and lightweight it is. Included are 2 Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, a USB Gen 3.2 port, a full-size HDMI port, 3.5mm audio jack port, and an SD card reader.
The SSD is replaceable. The SSD slot takes a standard 2280 NVMe drive should you need more storage later. Like others have stated, one thing that does not appear to be upgradeable or replaceable is the RAM. I have looked, but can’t tell for sure without intrusive disassembly.
NEGATIVES
There are only a few negatives that I can think of:
1. The RAM does not appear to be replaceable or upgradeable.
2. No 4k UHD screen with HDR support on this model.
3. The laptop does not come with a laptop sleeve or protector to store it in while not in use.
There are only a few negatives that I can think of:
1. The RAM does not appear to be replaceable or upgradeable.
2. No 4k UHD screen with HDR support on this model.
3. The laptop does not come with a laptop sleeve or protector to store it in while not in use.
CONCLUSIONS
As I stated in my first sentence, this laptop is great. It appears to be well made and has all the latest and greatest features available today. I honestly don’t know if you could find a better computer than this without going to the overpriced boutique brands. Excellent job Asus. Excellent Product! 5 STARS.
As I stated in my first sentence, this laptop is great. It appears to be well made and has all the latest and greatest features available today. I honestly don’t know if you could find a better computer than this without going to the overpriced boutique brands. Excellent job Asus. Excellent Product! 5 STARS.
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I would recommend this to a friend!
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NAMO
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Thanks. Hope this helps.
Thanks. Hope this helps.
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8 years, 1 month ago
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NAMO