Category: video

Lenovo Ideacentre Mini PC Review (2023 / 2024 version)

In my latest review, I explored the Lenovo Ideacentre Mini, a new offering in the realm of mini PCs. This compact yet powerful device is reminiscent of the Mac Mini but runs on Windows and offers a more budget-friendly price point. You can find it at Best Buy and directly at Lenovo (compensated affiliate links).

The Ideacentre Mini I reviewed came with an Intel i7-13700H processor, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of NVMe storage. Its design facilitates easy upgrades; the RAM is expandable, and there are two NVMe slots with one empty for additional storage. A noteworthy feature is the integrated power supply, eliminating the need for a separate power brick.

Physically, the Mini offers a versatile setup. It can stand vertically or lie horizontally, though it lacks a VESA mount. The front hosts a USB 3 port with a USB-A connector, a USB-C port (non-Thunderbolt), and a headphone/microphone jack. The rear panel is more generous, offering a Thunderbolt port (ideal for external GPUs), two USB 3 ports, a USB 2 port, HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet jack. The Ideacentre can output to multiple 4K output 60 Hz displays.

In terms of performance, it excels at basic tasks and web browsing, thanks to its robust Intel processor. Video playback on platforms like Netflix and YouTube runs smoothly, although I noticed a few dropped frames in 4K 60fps content.

I also tested the Ideacentre Mini for video editing with DaVinci Resolve, doing some basic 4K 60fps edits without noticeable lag or stuttering. It will struggle with more advanced tasks like color grading and other more strenuous editing tasks unless paired with an external GPU.

Gaming performance is respectable for a mini PC and on par with what we’ve seen from other current-gen Intel-based PCs that lack a separate GPU. Running Red Dead Redemption 2 and Doom Eternal at 720p on low settings, the device managed playable frame rates. However, for more intensive gaming, a mini PC with an AMD Ryzen processor might be a better choice.

One notable downside is the fan noise. While idle, the device is quiet, but under load, the fan becomes noticeably louder. It’s not excessively disruptive but could be an issue for those preferring a silent work environment.

For those interested in running Linux, the Ideacentre Mini supports alternative operating systems. I tested it with the latest version of Ubuntu and found all major functions like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and audio working correctly. The dual NVMe slots also make it convenient for dual-boot setups with Windows and Linux.

The Lenovo Ideacentre Mini is a solid, affordable option in the mini PC market. It offers good performance, upgradeability, and support from a renowned brand like Lenovo. The only compromise is the fan noise under load, but otherwise, it stands as a competent and versatile choice for both professional and personal use.

CES Recap : How to get your startup covered at the CES show

CES, the largest consumer electronics trade event, showcases the latest in technology and innovation every January. In my latest video I recapped the show and offered some tips for startups looking to get covered at future events.

If you missed my CES 2024 coverage you can catch up on all of it here!

One of the key areas of coverage for me are attending media showcase events. These events gather up anywhere from dozens to hundreds of companies together in one place. In many cases these companies aren’t exhibiting on the floor so it gives me a great opportunity as a small outlet to get access to them. Only media are invited to attend these events so if you are looking for coverage as a small company a showcase event is a great way to get noticed.

My go-to show case events are:

CES Unveiled, held the Sunday before the official start of CES, gathers over a hundred companies, many of them small startups. Pepcom, hosts high-quality companies, some not present on the show floor. Show Stoppers, similar to the other events but with fewer exhibiting companies, provides an opportunity to stand-out a long running event popular with media organizations.

A crucial tip for startups and exhibitors aiming for media attention: press releases are key. Early press releases significantly impact my planning ahead of the show. I read all of them! A well-organized press release, like this one I received from a French PR agency, can lead to efficient coverage of multiple products. Even if you don’t get a response, know that your information is being considered and can influence coverage decisions.

I say this because wandering the show floor at CES has become increasingly challenging. The excitement of discovering new and innovative products has diminished over the years mostly because there’s less interesting things to find. The CES official maps and apps offer little help in navigating the sea of exhibits, often lacking detailed information about the exhibitors.

Reflecting on my coverage, I feel there was more to be explored and reported. The overall buzz around CES has not reached its pre-pandemic heights, impacting both the content available and viewer interest. The logistics of covering the event in Las Vegas are daunting, with time constraints and transportation challenges. Despite these obstacles, the response from viewers has been encouraging, showing a clear appetite for more detailed and expansive coverage.

CES remains a pivotal event for technology media, but certainly things are changing as this market continues to change and evolve. Your feedback and suggestions are always welcome as we look forward to future events.

Blockbuster Mini VHS Game Case Review

I am an easy mark when it comes to weird retro stuff.. A few weeks ago I learned of the Retro Fighters Blockbuster VHS Mini Game Case, a case for Nintendo Switch games that looks like a Blockbuster rental complete with a replica VHS tape inside. This is the subject of my latest review.

The case, an officially licensed Blockbuster replica, is designed to hold Nintendo Switch games, capturing the essence of a bygone era of home video rental. Purchased from Stone Age Gamer (compensated affiliate link), this $20 item is likely going to be in short supply given its very niche appeal. It is manufactured by Retro Fighters, known for their retro gaming accessories and controllers.

Unboxing the product, the first component that caught my eye was the miniature Blockbuster case. Although smaller than the VHS cases many of us picked up from Blockbuster on a Friday night, the detailing is impressively accurate, complete with a generic label and a barcode, mimicking the original Blockbuster aesthetic. The case even includes an address for a fictional Blockbuster location.

The next component, central to the product’s function, is a faux VHS tape, which houses the Nintendo Switch games. This miniaturized tape, while not functional in the traditional sense, features movable wheels and a decent weight, contributing to its realistic feel. The tape opens up to reveal storage for 12 Switch games and four microSD cards. The design ensures games are securely held, with a slightly rubbery surface inside for added grip.

Assembling the case with the tape inside completes the nostalgic experience. It’s a creative and playful way to store and transport Nintendo Switch games, merging modern gaming with a touch of retro flair.

With all of the chatter about the end of physical media, this product makes a bit of statement. It pays homage to a dead physical media distribution while housing modern physical games!

Hallmark Keepsake NES Zelda Cartridge Mini Review

As someone who has never been particularly drawn to Christmas ornaments, I found myself intrigued by Hallmark’s Keepsake ornaments, especially those that resonate with my passion for retro video games. The latest addition to my collection is the NES Zelda cartridge ornament, which not only appeals to my gaming nostalgia but also stands out for its solid metal construction. Check out my short review here.

The ornament is a diecast metal version of the original Nintendo Zelda cartridge, known for its distinctive gold color—a vivid memory from when I first purchased it years ago. It’s much heavier than expected, requiring a sturdy branch for display.

What sets this Zelda ornament apart from others in my collection, like the Sega Genesis, Nintendo Entertainment System, and Dreamcast, is the absence of electronics. Unlike its counterparts that play sounds from their respective games, this ornament is purely a visual representation. It’s a smaller yet faithful reproduction of the original cartridge’s appearance.

Upon a closer look, the ornament does require a bit of polishing, possibly due to some condensation build-up, a natural occurrence given its metallic nature and my current cold environment. Its design is very close to the original cartridge that was released in 1987 in North America. You can see the two side-by-side in the video.

Does the Snap 4 Luxe Phone Grip Live Up to Its Advertised Claims?

You’ve probably been inundated recently with social media advertisements for the Snap 4 Luxe phone grip – an alternative to the popular pop socket. The device sells for $39 at Best Buy (compensated affiliate link).

The makers of the Snap 4, OhSnap, were exhibiting at CES this year and were giving out free samples to the media. I picked one up at their booth and have been using it attached to my phone for the last week. My latest review sums up my experiences and whether or not the product lives up to the advertised claims.

The Snap 4 promises compatibility with both iPhone and Android devices, even adding MagSafe compatibility to the latter. I tested it on my iPhone 15 Pro Max and an Android Pixel 8 Pro in my review.

The Snap 4 Luxe, priced at around $39, comes in various colors and boasts a sleek design that’s thinner than a standard camera bump. Its most notable feature is the center disc that extends out, allowing you to slip your fingers underneath for a secure grip, much like a pop socket but also allowing the user to slip their fingers through the center of the disc for a more secure grip. Additionally, it also works as a stand for your phone, a handy feature for watching videos. It was surprisingly sturdy and so far it has endured my rigorous daily use without any signs of wear or detachment.

One of the Snap 4 Luxe’s standout features is its magnets. This not only aligns it perfectly on a Magsafe equipped iPhone but also allows the Snap 4 Luxe to attach to metal surfaces. When attached to an Android phone the magnets allow for Apple Magsafe power adapters to work which is a nice bonus. The only complexity is having to manually align the Snap 4 over the Android phone’s charging coil.

The grip’s adhesive, designed to be reusable and residue-free, allowed for easy removal yet hung on tight enough to prevent the grip from falling off. While it’s convenient for easy attachment and removal, frequent reattachments may require regular cleaning to maintain its stickiness. Ohsnap says applying some water and letting it dry will restore the adhesive’s stickiness. I’ve seen similar adhesives in other products and this appears to work in the same way.

The only aspect of the product that did not fully work as advertised is wireless charging on non-Magsafe chargers. Most of my standard Qi chargers had trouble maintaining a connection – this despite claims in the ad that “you can charge straight through it.” In fairness ohSnap’s website does provide a disclaimer about non-magnetic charger compatibility but the social media ad does not.

Overall the Snap 4 Luxe Phone Grip mostly delivers on its promises. It offers a reliable grip, versatile use as a stand, and enhances the functionality of Android phones with MagSafe compatibility. However, its claim of universal wireless charging compatibility falls short, especially for non-MagSafe chargers. Despite this, the Snap 4 Luxe stands as a strong contender in the phone accessory market, especially for users who prioritize convenience and versatility in a sleek package.

Disclosure: ohSnap provided the Snap 4 to the channel free of charge. However they did not sponsor, review or approve the content before it was uploaded. All opinions are my own.

GT Media HDTV Mate – The most affordable ATSC 3 Tuner So Far

In my latest video I take a look at the GT Media HDTV Mate, a portable USB over the air TV tuner that currently only works with Android devices like Android TV boxes, TVs and smartphones. Currently it’s the least expensive ATSC 3.0 compatible tuner but unfortunately it doesn’t support the DRM encryption that broadcasters are using to lock down their signals. It can also tune into ATSC 1.0 broadcasts.

The hardware has a USB plug on one side (for attaching it to the host device) along with a coax connector on the other end for an antenna. Also in the box is a USB-A to USB-C cable for smartphone connection, and an extension cable for smart TVs or TV boxes. For devices with a single USB port, like the Onn box I used for testing, an additional adapter like this Smays hub will be needed. The device also features an SD card slot for rudimentary DVR capabilities, although I couldn’t get this feature to work in my tests.

The setup process involves scanning for channels, which took about five minutes in my case. The channel guide, while functional, lacks a polished interface. Channel tuning speed varies based on the device used, but overall, it was reasonably quick. ATSC 3 channels took slightly longer to load than ATSC 1 channels. On both my Onn Box and Pixel 8 Pro smartphone, playback was smooth, although a 1080i ATSC 1 channel exhibited interlacing issues.

The device worked well with my Pixel 8 Pro, offering a similar app experience as on the TV. The concept of a portable tuner like this is appealing, especially for situations like emergency response where cell networks might be down. No Internet is required to tune into unecrypted broadcast TV (at the moment anyway..).

The GT Media HDTV Mate is not something I’d recommend for a primary tuning device but it does offera viable portable solution for ATSC 3 and ATSC 1 channels on Android devices. While it has its rough edges, it demonstrates the potential affordability of ATSC 3 tuners. However, the future of such innovative products seems uncertain with the looming encryption and DRM requirements broadcasters wish to impose on consumers.

CES 2024 Coverage is Complete & Thoughts on the Future of CES..

I flew out to Las Vegas once again this year for the annual CES show! CES is of course the biggest consumer electronics show of the year with over 135,000 attendees from all over the world.

As usual we produced a number of dispatch videos (four of them!) along with a special dispatch covering some enterprise products from our sponsor, SK. While it’s always fun to attend these shows the energy of CES pre-pandemic has yet to return in the post-pandemic era.

Organizers canceled the 2021 show due to health concerns and after so many 2020 attendees fell ill with what was likely early COVID. Many exhibitors canceled their plans at the last minute in 2022 due to the virus. The 2023 show was a bit of a return to normalcy but with a reduced footprint. This year felt a lot like last year. Yes, there were a few of the larger exhibitions but the show didn’t have the same buzz and energy as the pre-pandemic years.

Part of the problem is that a lot of focus is now on artificial intelligence and less on new hardware ideas. So many of the exhibits we walked past in the “Eureka Park” startup exhibition area were just screens demoing some AI app vs. something more tangible.

As a “commodity” YouTuber my videos largely succeed or fail based on what general awareness and interest audiences have about an event or product. The 2019 and 2020 shows were the most exciting ones I attended and that was reflected in the view counts we saw on my reporting.

The lack of pizzazz this year carried over to the performance of the videos I uploaded. My first dispatch did the best as we uploaded it the night before the show officially opened. But the buzz among audiences dropped quickly after that with the second dispatch only garnering a third of the views of the first. The third dispatch only received half the views of the second. The fourth one has just published but so far it looks like audiences have moved on and this one will be the poorest performer of the bunch.

So will I return next year? Most likely yes if we can find a sponsor. But sadly unless the CES organizers and exhibitors make a major push to revitalize the energy of past shows I fear we may be seeing a decline. Perhaps major trade shows like this are becoming a thing of the past?

CES 2024 Dispatch 1 & 2 Are up with 3 & 4 Coming Soon! #ces2024

Producer Jake and I are on our way back from the annual CES show in Las Vegas. We had a very productive week out here and have enough footage collected for 4 dispatch videos this year!

Dispatch 3 is being edited as I type this but you can watch the first two plus a sponsored dispatch from our sponsor SK. All of my CES content will be in this playlist on YouTube.

More to come! I’ve been reading your comments and enjoy bringing this style of coverage to you.

My 2024 Printer Buying Guide

Printers are one of those devices that are incredibly aggravating and expensive.. But we all need one at one time or another. In my latest video I run through the current choices in the market to help you better understand what might meet your needs!

Personally, I’ve found laser printers to be more economical for my infrequent printing needs. They are reliable, even after sitting idle for months, as they don’t suffer from the clogging issues common in inkjet printers. Although color laser printers often carry a steeper cost per page vs. ink jet printers, they are more efficient and usually cost less on a per page basis.

However, for those who print color photos or other documents frequently, inkjet printers, especially the newer tank models, might be more appealing. These tank printers, while more expensive on the hardware side vs. a cartridge printer, offer a lower cost of ownership in the long run, particularly for high-volume printing. The ink for these printers is significantly cheaper, but it’s important to be aware of some hidden maintenance costs, like replacing ink-absorbing sponges or print heads.

I also explored ink and toner subscriptions, where manufacturers like HP, Canon, and Brother offer plans that deliver ink as needed for a monthly fee on a per-page basis. These plans are particularly cost-effective for low-volume printing, as they offer a lower per-page cost compared to buying cartridges individually. However, it’s important to remember that these printers need a constant internet connection, and the cartridges stop working if the subscription is canceled.

I also spoke about my experiences with generic ink and toner replacements. While they can be cost-effective, printer manufacturers often try to prevent their use through authenticity checks. I’ve personally used a generic toner cartridge in my Lexmark printer with success, but it’s a gamble. Consumer Reports suggests caution, as the quality and reliability of generic cartridges can vary greatly. It’s important to carefully research the cartridge manufacturer before buying.

The good news with all of the choices we have today is that it costs a lot less to print now than it did a few years ago. Tanks and subscriptions give users more options to save money and the price of laser printers are now pretty close to what you’d pay for an ink jet model.

What’s Ahead for Lon.TV in 2024?

I always like to start off the New Year with a look-back on how the prior year did and look at what changes need to be made for the upcoming one! This analysis is the subject of my latest video.

Reflecting on 2023, I’m happy to say that the channel has experienced its usual slow & steady growth despite some significant headwinds from the current economic situation and platform algorithmic changes. We surpassed 350,000 subscribers about a week ago and garnered over 8 million views.

The year 2023 was interesting in many ways. The top videos on my channel ranged from a guide on opting out of a Facebook class action privacy settlement to a personal story about how I reduced my Mom’s cable bill. Unlike prior years topics & analysis drove far more viewer interest than product reviews. The only product reviews that made the top 10 list were devices used for cord cutting.

Diving into the revenue breakdown, it’s been a mix of sources. YouTube and Amazon have been major contributors, supplemented by sponsorships, viewer support, and affiliate marketing. This diversification is crucial in an ever-changing market, ensuring the channel’s sustainability.

Looking ahead to 2024, I plan to shift my focus slightly more towards analysis pieces. These have recently outperformed product reviews in terms of viewer engagement. My goal is to provide more than just news; I want to offer insightful commentary on tech topics that will hopefully add a little more value to the discussion. I’m also exploring the potential of TikTok for longer videos, although the platform’s current lack of monetization options makes it a less attractive option for now.

The upcoming CES show in Las Vegas is a significant event for me. Producer Jake and I plan to cover the event extensively, producing dispatch videos to showcase the latest in tech. We aim to capture the essence of the show by attending pre-show events and exploring the show floor for interesting finds. You can see my prior coverage of this event here.

In summary, 2023 was a year of learning, adapting, and growing. As I look forward to the developments and insights that 2024 will bring, I remain committed to providing valuable, diverse content and adapting to the changing landscape of technology and media consumption. Hopefully we survive another year! 🙂

Plex Updates Search (sponsored post)

In my latest sponsored Plex video, I explore the latest updates to Plex’s search feature, changes that significantly enhance the user experience for those navigating through their extensive media libraries. You can watch the video here!

The primary change in Plex’s search functionality the ability to customize what is being searched. Users can now filter their searches to specific servers, excluding content from other sources if desired. For example, a search for “Ghostbusters” will yield results from the user’s server, Plex’s on-demand features, and external sources. However, with the new search filters, users can narrow down these results to display only the movies available on their server if they choose.

Another notable improvement is the ability to search for content based on specific actors. Typing an actor’s name, like Mark Hamill, brings up a detailed list of their work available in the user’s media libraries and on Plex if desired. This feature extends to genre searches as well, allowing users to explore categories like sci-fi across their own libraries and Plex’s on-demand offerings.

Plex has also integrated the watchlist feature into search, which allows users to add content right from the search results. Additionally, because Plex now indexes content from various other services, users can also search and add content to the watchlist that’s on streaming services they may be subscribed to.

The search settings are remembered on each client, meaning if a user sets their preferences on one device, these preferences will be retained the next time they log into Plex on that device. These new search features are now live on the web along with TV and mobile apps.

Are They Listening? Cox Media Group says they can eavesdrop on private communications..

Just after Thanksgiving the Cox Media Group (CMG) began marketing an advertising product that they say targets consumers based on private conversations heard by smart devices. This bold claim generated a good amount of media scrutiny, with most outlets saying Cox’s claimed capabilities were exaggerated. CMG has since taken their “active listening” marketing page down.

In my latest video I demonstrate how it’s possible to listen in on private conversations without ever having to upload audio data – just transcriptions generated by on-device AI. Smartphone processors have had enough horsepower to do this since at least 2017 if not earlier.

I conducted an experiment to test these capabilities. Using a piece of software called MacWhisper, which utilizes OpenAI’s models for on-device transcription, I transcribed a conversation from my home. The software efficiently converted the audio into text, which was then uploaded and summarized using ChatGPT. The results were surprisingly accurate and detailed, capturing various topics from health concerns to shopping plans.

The resulting transcript uploaded to ChatGPT was only 3k in size – a file small enough to be transmitted in just a few seconds using a 1980’s 1200 baud modem and mere milliseconds on a modern broadband connection. If anyone was monitoring the network traffic coming out of a smart television a transmission that small would likely be dismissed as just some random telemetry.

And you don’t even need a powerful computer to transcribe text on device. Google Pixel phones since the Pixel 4 could do it and Apple has had this capability since the iPhone X’s release. Conceivably every TV, phone, tablet, smart speaker and just about any other device made in the last five years is fully capable of on-device transcription.

In a statement, CMG denied they were listening to conversations but did not deny somebody else might be:

“CMG businesses do not listen to any conversations or have access to anything beyond a third-party aggregated, anonymized and fully encrypted data set that can be used for ad placement.“

So it’s entirely possible they’re working with a third party vendor that is conducting this activity through apps running on smart devices. CMG could just be buying the “output” of this transcription and AI processing. As of this posting CMG did not respond to my follow-up question asking if they were doing just that.

Is it legal? Cox Media Group thinks so. From their now deleted marketing page:

While the Cox Media Group’s claim about their advertising product could have been exaggerated, I demonstrated that it is now entirely plausible to listen in on private conversations, transcribe the audio to text in real time on-device, and transmit back very small blobs of text that can be interpreted by AI for advertising targeting.

I’d like to believe that CMG’s claims were exaggerated but it’s entirely possible advertisers have found a new way to invade our privacy for profit.

MINISFORUM EliteMini UTM780 XTX Mini PC Review

I recently had the opportunity to delve into the MINISFORUM EliteMini UM780 XTX Mini PC, a high-performance Mini PC. You can see my full review here.

Priced at around $623, the EliteMini UM780 is equipped with an 8 core Ryzen 7840HS processor, 32 GB of DDR5 RAM (upgradeable to 64GB) along with a 1TB SSD. It has an empty NVME/PCIe 4.0 slot for additional storage or an included Oculink riser board.

Oculink allows for connecting external devices (like a GPU) directly to the PCI Express Bus. Some testing I’ve seen shows that the Oculink connection can provide better performance than a Thunderbolt GPU as there’s less overhead. This might be something we explore in the future.

The device’s rear ports include two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, DisplayPort & HDMI, dual 2.5 Gbit ethernet, and a space for the Oculink card’s port. The ethernet ports deliver impressive performance, but the Wi-Fi capabilities fall short, especially when compared to other Wi-Fi 6 devices.

The device’s USB 4 ports don’t quite deliver the expected performance, particularly when tested with external drives like the Thunderbolt Samsung X5 which is compatible with USB 4.0. The Samsung drive performed at full performance on the Beelink SER7 we looked at recently.

The front of the device features additional USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a USB 4 port, and audio jacks.

The EliteMini UM780 requires a separate 120-watt power supply and offers a TDP of 65 watts, which can be increased to 70 watts for enhanced processor performance.

Aesthetically, the Mini PC includes a customizable LED light on the top, adding a touch of personalization. It also comes with VESA mount and desktop stand options for versatile placement.

In terms of general performance, the EliteMini UM780 excels in basic business tasks and web browsing. It handles 4K video streaming and basic video editing efficiently. Gaming performance is also commendable, with games like Red Dead Redemption 2, Doom Eternal, and No Man’s Sky running smoothly at lower settings.

Benchmark tests place the Mini PC in line with other high-performing devices, and its cooling system effectively manages thermals without excessive noise. The device also offers a solid Linux experience, recognizing all essential hardware components.

In summary, the MINISFORUM EliteMini UM780 XTX Mini PC is a versatile and powerful device that excels in gaming and general performance. While it has areas for improvement, particularly in Wi-Fi and USB 4 port performance, its strengths in processing power, storage speed, and gaming capabilities make it a noteworthy option in the mini PC market.

But at this moment I do think the Beelink SER7 is the superior device.

Disclosure: Minisforum sent the computer to the channel free of charge however this is not a sponsored review nor they did not review or approve this content before it was uploaded. 

Samsung T9 Portable SSD Review

I have been reviewing Samsung’s line of portable SSDs since their original “T1” released way back in 2015. In my latest video, I take a look at the new Samsung T9 – their newest portable SSD.

I purchased the 2 TB version for my review which is the sweet spot when it comes to price per gigabyte. It currently sells for $179 (compensated affiliate link) but prices will vary depending on market conditions, promotions, and capacity.

The Samsung T9 supports the obscure USB 3.2 2×2 standard, promising speeds up to 2000 megabytes per second. However, this performance peak is only achievable if your computer supports the 2×2 standard, which, as I found, is rare. Most PCs, including Macs and Windows PCs with Thunderbolt and USB 4 support, do not support USB 3.2×2, resulting in halved performance for the majority of users. This limitation isn’t unique to Samsung; other brands like Seagate, SanDisk, WD, and Crucial all made the choice to support this format.

In my tests using a MacBook Air M2 and a gaming PC, the T9’s performance was good but not exceptional. It excelled in sequential read and write tests but fell short in random reads and writes compared to competitors. This might affect users engaged in gaming or operating system boot-ups, where random read and write speeds are important. But these speed disparities will likely not be noticeable by most consumers.

Samsung’s Magician software works with the T9 (along with their other SSDs) which is a useful tool for monitoring the drive’s health and updating firmware. The drive also features hardware encryption capabilities, requiring a password for access, which works on Windows, Mac, and Android, but not on Linux or iOS devices.

Compatibility-wise, the T9 worked well with various devices, including iPhones, iPads, Android phones, and gaming consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. However, it’s worth noting that newer AAA games on the PS5 and Xbox Series S/X require faster storage than what USB can provide.

Overall I found the Samsung T9 is a reliable choice for typical tasks like backups, data transfers, and video capturing. Its performance in these areas is solid, and Samsung’s reputation for reliable storage stands. However, when it comes to random read and write performance, it doesn’t quite match up to its competitors, especially considering its price point.

For those seeking a portable SSD, the T9 is a viable option, but it’s important to weigh its performance against its competitors, especially if your usage involves intensive random read and write operations.

Facebook is a Cesspool of Fraud, Fake Accounts, and Scammers..

In my latest video I take a deep dive into the troubling world of Facebook’s rampant fraud, fake accounts and scams. Most of what I investigated here are based on my own experiences and observations.

What prompted this investigation was an incident involving a friend whose car was stolen. After she posted about it on Facebook, her post was swarmed by scammers, a clear indication of how these predators prey on vulnerable individuals. Here’s what a few of the comments looked like:

This incident prompted me to conduct an experiment: I created a “honeypot” post on my Facebook page, pretending to seek help for a hacked account. The response was overwhelming and immediate, with over two dozen scammers flocking to offer ‘help,’ all from fake accounts. If these scammers are contacted they almost will certainly demand money from their victims and then disappear.

This experiment highlighted two critical issues with Facebook: the lack of adequate support for users with account problems and the platform’s failure to enforce its own rules against fraudulent activities.

When I reported a scam comment from a “Daniel Sarvela” to Facebook they did nothing about it, even after an appeal. This inaction allows fake accounts to proliferate, scamming more people without consequence.

And that “Daniel Sarvela” I reported? It turns out the fake account was made from images posted by an unsuspecting father and community volunteer from Australia. Facebook’s systems could very easily detect that photos from the victim were being stolen for a fake account yet they do nothing about it. Meanwhile this man’s likeness is being used to steal from vulnerable Facebook users.

But that’s not all.. In checking my recent friend requests, 7 of the 8 top requests on my profile are all cloned accounts of friends of mine. One of them cloned my uncle’s account and tricked my wife into accepting his friend request. The scammer then began a chat with her where he was about to ask for money before she got wise to the scheme.

The problem extends beyond simple scams. I discussed the disturbing trend of pig butchering schemes where lonely individuals lose hundreds of thousands of dollars to fake crypto investment schemes and the human trafficking linked to these scams.

With Facebook apparently doing nothing to combat these scams, I believe education and awareness are key. Resources like the AARP’s Fraud Watch Network and the podcast “The Perfect Scam” are invaluable for understanding and avoiding scams. The YouTube channel “Catfished” by SocialCatfish.com is another excellent resource, particularly for understanding romance scams.

Despite being the largest social media network with the largest number of vulnerable users, Facebook’s efforts to address these problems is completely insufficient. This situation underscores the importance of staying vigilant and informed to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones in the digital world.

Amazon Tech Haul 4!

Earlier this year I was re-admitted into the Amazon Vine program which has resulted in me discovering a lot of weird random tech sold on the platform. A lot of this stuff is junk, but some of it actually is pretty useful. In my latest video I run down the latest batch of tech I acquired.

This time we take a look at cool Steam Deck dock, a neat party favor idea for video game themed parties, some other useful stuff and of course a dud of an Android gaming tablet.

You can see my prior haul videos here!

HP Envy Move Review – A Versatile All-In-One Desktop

I recently had the opportunity to review the HP Envy Move, a unique all-in-one PC that stands out from others in this market segment. This device is not just a Windows PC; it’s also a portable display with a built-in battery, making it versatile for various settings, such as educational environments or for those who need a computer on the go. You can see it in action in my latest review.

Pricing varies based on configuration and retailer promotions, but a decently equipped one will run $900. You can find and customize one here at HP (compensated affilate link). My review loaner featured an i5-1335U processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a terabyte of storage. The base model starts at under $800, offering lower specifications. One key aspect to note is that while the storage is upgradable, the RAM is not.

Its portability is a significant differentiation from other all-in-one PCs, weighing in at 4.1 kg (or 9 lbs). The bottom foot stands automatically flip out when placed on a surface and retract when picked up. The handle is magnetic, attaching to the back when not in use, and there’s a pouch for storing the included trackpad and keyboard.

The Envy Move boasts a 23.8-inch Quad HD 1440p touch display with 300 nits of brightness. The touch functions only work when the PC is active device and will not work with other devices.

The keyboard is comfortable to type on, resembling HP’s laptop keyboards. The integrated trackpad is accurate and feels similar to those on HP laptops too. But, it’s powered by AAA batteries, so keeping spares or opting for rechargeables might be wise.

The 1440p webcam at the top supports Windows facial recognition and can detect your presence, locking the screen or putting the PC to sleep when you walk away. However, the fixed position of the webcam and the height of the display vs. a laptop means you can’t adjust the camera angle, which could be a drawback for some users.

It features only two USB ports on the left hand side of the unit: a larger USB-A port and a USB Type-C port that supports external displays. On the right hand side there’s an HDMI port that is input-only, meaning it can’t be used for video capture or as an output.

Performance-wise, the HP Envy Move does well with the types of tasks it was designed for. Web browsing is smooth, and it handles basic tasks like word processing efficiently. For video editing, it manages well with basic projects but might struggle with more demanding tasks.

Gaming on the HP Envy Move is possible, but it’s not its primary function. You can play less demanding games at lower settings, but don’t expect a high-end gaming experience. I was able to get Red Dead Redemption 2 to play but I had to adjust the resolution down to 720p at the lowest settings.

One downside I encountered was the inability to run Linux on this device, which might be a deal-breaker for some users. Hopefully, a future BIOS update might address this issue as I couldn’t get it to boot off an external drive even after disabling secure boot.

Overall, the HP Envy Move is an innovative and versatile all-in-one PC. Its portability, combined with the functionality of a PC and a monitor, makes it a unique offering in the market.

Disclosure: This was not a sponsored review. HP provided the PC on loan for the purposes of this review. HP did not review or approve my review before it was uploaded.

Lenovo Legion Glasses Review

Recently we’ve seen a bunch of new “wearable display” products that project a virtual large display inside of a pair of glasses. They have none of the bells and whistles of VR and AR headsets but for those looking for a private large display for plane trips they’re worth checking out.

In my latest video I take a look at Lenovo’s take on this product category with their new Legion Glasses. They released these alongside their new handheld PC gaming device a few weeks ago.

The Legion Glasses are priced at around $329 (compensated affiliate link), making them competitive with other wearable display options in the market.

The Legion Glasses project a virtual 86″ 1080p OLED display right in front of your eyes. While they lack the AR features of some competitors, like the Nreal Air glasses, the Legion Glasses’ image quality is notably superior. Weighing in at 96 grams, the Legion Glasses are lighter than a VR headset but heavier than a typical pair of glasses.

They work well with most modern computers that support USB-C alt mode along with many modern smartphones like the iPhone 15 Pro, which supports video output over USB Type-C. The glasses do not have a built-in battery and draw power from the host device.

I found in my testing that gaming and content consumption are the best use cases here. The image quality is crisp and detailed for games and movies but the display falls short for images with text likely due to the small size of the displays.

Adjusting the glasses to fit individual faces and eye configurations can be challenging and unfortunately the Legion Glasses don’t make things easier versus their competitors. They do not play well with eyeglasses and require the user to have a local optician make custom prescription lenses that slide into an included bracket. There is also no way to adjust the display inside the headset and instead require the user to try one of three different adjustable nose pieces to get the glasses positioned for optimal viewing.

Once adjusted correctly, the display is mostly centered straight ahead inside making viewing very comfortable. They don’t completely block out ambient light, allowing for some situational awareness without degrading the screen’s visibility. I also liked that I was able to look down without having to take the glasses off to see items on my desk or to look at my phone.

The glasses have built-in stereo speakers, but the sound quality is basic. For a better audio experience, especially in noisy environments like airplanes, using noise-cancelling headphones is advisable.

In terms of compatibility, the Legion Glasses work well with a range of devices, including Macs, Windows computers, Lenovo’s Legion Go, and the Steam Deck. They offer a large, personal display experience, ideal for gaming or enjoying media privately.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored video but the Legion Glasses were provided free of charge by Lenovo. They did not review or approve my video before it was uploaded.

My Top Tech Picks of 2023

Every year I take a look back at all of the stuff I reviewed and come up with a “best of” list of products that stood out from the rest. I’ve been reviewing products on YouTube for over ten years and sadly most of what I see these days are iterative – rather than innovative – products. You can see the full list in my latest video.

But I still managed to find about a dozen things that stood out from the rest of the pack including a powerful mini PC, some really cool retro game compilations and more.

In addition to the video I put together a playlist of all of the product reviews I did of these products too which totals almost two hours in length!

Walmart’s $15 New Onn Streaming Stick Reviewed

My latest video takes a look at Walmart’s newly released Onn Streaming stick,. Retailing at a modest $15 (compensated affiliate link), this device is exclusive to Walmart and primarily targets users with older televisions that support 1080p resolution.

The Onn Streaming Stick, devoid of the high-end features found in more expensive counterparts, still manages to hold its ground in terms of value. It’s particularly appealing for those who have older television sets that are no longer updated, along with those who travel frequently, offering a convenient way to access streaming shows on the go. The device connects via its built in HDMI plug and includes an extension cable for easier placement behind a television.

The Onn streaming stick has only a single micro USB port for powering the device. An interesting aspect is its compatibility with the Smays ethernet adapter, which also provides additional USB ports.

At its core, the stick is powered by an AM logic S805X2 processor, similar to Google’s HD-only Chromecast, but at half the price. It comes with 1.5 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage, sufficient for streaming applications but limited for storing games or other large files.

The included remote features full voice capabilities integrated with Google Assistant. This allows for easy voice searches and control of home automation devices. Performance-wise, the stick handles most streaming services efficiently.

The Onn Streaming stick runs a “pure” version of the Google TV OS which allows for personalizing content recommendations for multiple family members. Google TV recently added a great new free live channel interface that brings in a lot of ad supported content from a number of providers. And because the underlying operating system is based on Android it has a deep app library along with the ability to sideload apps.

It also supports Chromecasting, enabling content from a phone running a supporting streaming app seamlessly transfer content to the TV. The universal search function, accessible via voice command, is sufficient, although it is still limited by not offering a truly universal search and watchlist functionality.

While the device supports game streaming services like Nvidia’s GeForce Now, native gaming experiences are less impressive due to hardware limitations. In terms of updates, Walmart has been reasonably consistent in providing security updates for their devices, though they haven’t explicitly stated their update policy.

The Walmart Onn Streaming Stick is a good option for those with older TVs or for travelers seeking a portable streaming solution. While it may not excel in gaming, it performs well enough in its primary role as a streaming device, offering good value for its price.