As a child of the ’80s, one of my favorite board games was “Crossbows and Catapults.” It was a fun battle game where players built a castle with lego-like blocks and then fired plastic pucks back and forth to knock down the opponent’s castle. The game included rubber-band powered crossbows and catapults to fire off the pucks.
For some reason the game popped in my head the other day and upon searching I happened on the rebooted version that was just released this week at retail! You can see it in action in my latest video.
The new version of “Crossbows and Catapults,” priced at $34.99 (affiliate link), comes with a variety of pieces designed to capture the essence of the original game but in far fewer quantities than the original. Part of the appeal of the original game was having enough wall bricks to come up with some unique and creative build strategies. In this new version players are mostly restricted to a singular castle design.
The new spring-loaded catapult feels close in power to the rubber-band powered original with the added bonus of an angle adjustment that was lacking before. But the new crossbow is a serious miss. It fires by squeezing it together (like a pair of tweezers) to force the puck out. The pucks don’t have much velocity out of the crossbow and I found it was hard for my 8 year old to operate.
They likely moved away from rubber bands due to how easy it was to “hack” the original weapons to be significantly more powerful (and dangerous) by adding more bands. That of course made the game even more fun !
Gameplay itself is straightforward and reminiscent of the original. Players take turns launching pucks at each other’s castles, aiming to knock down their opponent’s structures and soldiers. I did find this new version sturdier than the original (perhaps due to the reduced velocity of the weapons) so each game took much longer to play.
Overall, the new iteration of “Crossbows and Catapults” is a mixed bag. It makes an attempt at bringing back a beloved classic, but falls short due to the lack of creative build options and significantly weakened crossbow weapon. The game would have benefited from being reissued vs. reimagined.
As someone who was impressed by the keyboard, I was eager to see how this new addition would perform, especially since it addresses the only major shortcoming of the original keyboard—the lack of a number pad.
The Retro 18 maintains the same aesthetic and feel as the keyboard. It connects independently to your computer, using either a Bluetooth connection, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or a USB Type-C connection. But that means if you have the keyboard already connected via USB directly or with the 2.4ghz dongle, you’ll need to dedicate another USB port to the Retro 18. Bluetooth is also supported which is likely the best solution.
Like the keyboard, the Retro 18 comes in four color schemes: the NES version, which matches my NES-style keyboard, as well as schemes inspired by the Japanese Famicom, Commodore 64, and IBM keyboards. This allows users to maintain a cohesive retro look across their devices. My Retro 18 matched up perfectly with the NES style keyboard I already have.
Priced at around $45, the number pad is equipped with Kailh Box White V2 switches, known for their satisfying click and smooth travel. The key switches are hot-swappable, allowing for easy customization, though it’s worth noting that the number pad, like the keyboard, is not backlit. This might be a drawback for those who need to see the keys in low light, but as a touch typist, I didn’t find it to be a significant issue.
Operating the number pad is straightforward. It has an internal battery with a long lifespan between charges, and the display shows the battery level and power input when charging. One of the standout features is its ability to function as a standalone calculator. By pressing the “calc” button, the number pad switches to calculator mode, disabling input to the host device.
For Windows users, there’s a dedicated button to launch the calculator app, though this feature did not work on my Mac. Unfortunately, the number pad doesn’t offer the same level of key customization as the keyboard, which is a missed opportunity for those who like to tailor their setups.
Despite these minor limitations, the 8bitdo Retro 18 is a solid companion to the retro mechanical keyboard. It feels sturdy, has a satisfying typing experience, and includes the bonus of a built-in calculator. For users who need a reliable and aesthetically pleasing number pad, it’s a worthwhile investment.
My latest video is a review of the budget friendly Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim. This is a low cost laptop from a major manufacturer that costs about the same as some of the more generic cheap laptops you might encounter.
The model I reviewed has an Intel i3-N305 processor, a low-end but capable Alder Lake-N chipset typically found in inexpensive mini PCs. It has 8 GB of DDR5 RAM and 128 GB of slow UFS storage, making this one very similar to an HP Chromebook Plus I looked at a few weeks ago. But this one runs Windows and not ChromeOS.
The storage, however, can be expanded by installing an NVMe hard drive, which is a straightforward process. It was not difficult to pop the bottom panel off the computer to access the components beneath.
The 15.6-inch display, an IPS panel with a 1080p resolution, delivers satisfactory viewing angles and color, but is not suited for professional creative work. It looks to me that it’s likely around 300 nits of overall brightness (Acer did not list the display specifications in their product materials). Though not a touchscreen, the display is quite functional for its price range. The integrated webcam, a modest 720p at 30 frames per second, is just adequate for video calls, with a peculiar filter effect.
Weighing in at 3.75 pounds and constructed entirely out of plastic, the laptop feels reasonably durable despite some flex under pressure. The keyboard and trackpad provide a decent user experience, though the keys could be larger. The inclusion of a small number pad might appeal to some users, despite the cramped layout of certain keys. It does not have a keyboard backlight or fingerprint reader.
Port-wise, the Aspire Go 15 Slim offers a full-service USB Type-C port supporting video output and power delivery. Additionally it has a HDMI output (allowing for two simultaneously display outputs), two USB-A ports, and a headphone/microphone jack.
The downward-firing speakers fall short in audio quality, making external headphones or speakers a necessary accessory for music consumption.
In terms of performance, the laptop handles Microsoft Word and web browsing with ease, though playing back 1080p60 YouTube video revealed some dropped frames, likely an issue that could be fixed with future driver updates. The Speedometer benchmark placed it on par with similarly specced Chromebooks, making it a competent performer for basic tasks.
Battery life spans about 7 to 8 hours under typical usage, though more demanding activities will drain it faster. Gaming tests with older titles like GTA V and PS2 emulations showed acceptable performance at low settings, indicating that while newer games will struggle, there’s plenty of opportunity for older games to run well.
Benchmarks on 3DMark Time Spy revealed performance levels consistent with budget devices, outpaced by older Ryzen processors but still sufficient for less demanding tasks. The fan noise, though constant, remains relatively unobtrusive, helping keep the device cool.
A test with the latest Ubuntu version indicated partial Linux compatibility, with the Mediatek Wi-Fi and Bluetooth card drivers not yet supported.
Overall, the Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim presents a solid option for those looking for a reliable, budget-friendly laptop with better options support versus lesser-known brands.
The Sandisk Pro G40 portable SSD is marketed towards creative professionals and stands out thanks to its Thunderbolt & USB 4.0 compatibility, promising multiple gigabytes per second of transfer rates. But it also is (mostly) backwards compatible to slower USB devices that lack Thunderbolt technology.
Because it’s a “professional” product this drive comes it at a higher price point, about $174 for the 1TB version (compensated affiliate link).
The drive’s build quality is impressive, featuring a solid, rubberized metal design with a grippy bottom, common in other SanDisk drives. It is IP68 weatherproof, making it resistant to splashes, though users should avoid exposing it to harsh weather when plugged in.
It comes with a short Thunderbolt 3 cable USB-C cable which will also work on computers not equipped with USB-C. Other cables, like USB-C to USB-A cables will work as well but those will need to be purchased separately.
Performance tests on a Thunderbolt-equipped Windows computer showed it achieving over 2.4 gigabytes per second in read and write speeds, maintaining this without thermal drop-offs or cache issues. For optimal performance, it’s crucial to connect to the correct port, identified by the Thunderbolt or USB 4.0 icon, as using a standard USB port significantly reduces speeds.
The CrystalDiskMark benchmark further highlighted its strengths in sequential and random reads and writes, suggesting potential for PC gaming. Comparisons with other USB-C-based drives such as the SanDisk Extreme Pro and Samsung T9 showed the Pro G40’s superior performance in Thunderbolt mode. Speeds were comparable to competitors when not connected to the Thunderbolt, however.
The SanDisk Pro G40 SSD contains an off-the-shelf WD Black SN850 NVMe (compensated affiliate link) drive inside its enclosure.
Notably, the Pro G40 does not work with iPhones, which limits its utility despite its potential for high bitrate, lossless video formats. Attempts to use it with other phones also failed, possibly due to power draw issues, making it suitable primarily for computers.
For Windows users, achieving full performance requires enabling write caching in the drive’s settings. I outlined those steps at the 6:12 mark in the video review. This extra step is unnecessary for Mac users, where the drive works at full speed out of the box.
While the Pro G40 is compatible with game consoles, its high performance can’t be utilized, making it an impractical choice for that purpose. However, for PC gaming and professional creative work, it offers excellent performance akin to internal drives. Despite its limitations with mobile devices, the Pro G40 is a compelling option for those needing a fast, reliable external drive.
My quest for the perfect wireless subscription-free doorbell has been a long one.. I’ve looked at Blink, Wyze, Google Nest and a few others but the Eufy e340 is one that I think is the best of the bunch. You can see my full review here.
It currently is selling at its Prime Day sales price at $119 (compensated affiliate link) but is normally $179. An indoor chime costs an additional $39.
One of the standout features of the Eufy E340 is its dual-camera setup. It includes a front-facing camera and a second camera aimed downward to monitor packages left at the doorstep. This design is particularly useful for keeping an eye on deliveries, ensuring that packages are not missed or stolen.
The doorbell stores footage locally, boasting 8GB of internal storage. If more space is needed, users can opt for the chime accessory, which includes an SD card slot for additional storage. There is also compatibility with Eufy’s hub for broader integration with other security devices.
The doorbell’s installation is straightforward, and it includes a secure mounting mechanism to deter theft. Users can also angle the doorbell using an included bracket for optimal coverage. The device operates efficiently in various lighting conditions, featuring both infrared and color night vision modes. The infrared mode uses invisible light to illuminate the scene, while the color mode employs visible lights for a clearer picture at night. You can see examples of both modes in the video above.
Audio quality is another strong point. The doorbell includes a microphone for clear audio recordings and a speaker for two-way communication. This setup allows users to interact with visitors or delivery personnel directly through their smartphones, providing real-time communication without the need for a walkie-talkie style exchange.
Battery life is impressive, lasting several months under low to moderate usage. The device also supports direct power connections if existing doorbell wiring is available, which helps maintain the battery charge indefinitely.
The Eufy app, available on both Android and iOS, provides a comprehensive interface for managing the doorbell. Users can view live footage, review recorded events, and adjust settings directly from the app. The app’s AI offer reliable human detection while ignoring non-essential movements or trees blowing in the wind or animals. This reduces false alerts and enhances the overall user experience.
One of the advanced features is the “Delivery Guard,” which tracks packages left at the door and can also activate a deterrent alert when a package is detected and someone walks up to the door. Users can also receive alerts if a package remains unattended for too long. The familiar faces feature allows users to upload photos of known individuals, enabling the doorbell to recognize and log visits from these people.
All in, the Eufy E340 Dual Camera Wireless Doorbell is a well-rounded, high-performing device that excels in key areas such as video quality, audio clarity, battery life, and smart features. Its dual-camera design and robust app integration make it a versatile choice for anyone seeking a reliable, subscription-free doorbell solution. For those in search of a dependable and cost-effective security addition to their home, this doorbell is worth serious consideration.
Disclosure: I paid for the doorbell with my own funds.
While Amazon does regularly update their Echo devices, it’s often hard to discern one version from the next these days as most are more revisions versus something totally new. But the other day Amazon released their latest Echo Spot that looks and operates a little differently than the others. You can see more in my latest review.
Unlike the more versatile Echo Show, the Echo Spot is being marketed primarily as a smart alarm clock. This device lacks a camera and has a more limited display functionality, but at the same time it’s not displaying ads to the user as a means of subsidizing its cost.
The design is reminiscent of other Echo devices, with a cut-off sphere look. It comes with a low resolution display that is mostly dedicated to showing the time and weather conditions. Unlike the Echo Show, it cannot display video footage from security cameras or provide the same depth of visual information. However, it will provide basic visual responses to certain queries, such as showing the weather or the current music track playing.
While it is capable of performing many of the same tasks as other Echo devices, the limited display means it might not be as suitable for tasks that require more visual information, like kitchen timers. The Echo Spot can also handle multiple countdown timers, although the small display makes it challenging to manage several at once.
Amazon offers some limited customization of the clock face, including choosing from a few different layouts for the clock display along with the base color it uses. The clock faces can be adjusted using the touch functionality of the display but it’s much easier to do it via the Alexa app.
Amazon also built in a night mode that dims the display and switches to a red color for the clock to avoid disrupting sleep. Night hours can be set within the app. The alarm clock functionality is also intuitive; you can set alarms by voice and snooze them with a simple tap on the top of the device. There are different alarm tones available, including some celebrity voices, which can add a fun element to waking up.
In terms of audio, the speaker on the Echo Spot is decent, offering a richer sound than the entry-level Echo Dot but not quite at the level of higher-end audio devices. It’s suitable for background music or podcasts, especially when getting ready in the morning.
The physical controls on the top include a mute button for the microphone and volume buttons. The Echo Spot’s microphones are quite sensitive and can pick up commands from across a room, making it a convenient addition to a bedroom or office.
Overall, the Amazon Echo Spot serves well as a smart alarm clock, offering basic smart assistant functionalities without the added complexity or privacy concerns of a camera. It integrates smoothly into Amazon’s ecosystem and provides a balance of features for those looking for a simple, voice-controlled device for their bedside table.
The G5 is priced at $149 for the 256GB storage version (compensated affiliate link) and $200 for the 512GB variant. Unlike some of the larger mini PCs with two storage bays, this model offers only one. But both the M.2 2242 storage and bluetooth / wifi card are replaceable and upgradeable.
In terms of ports, the G5 is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports, a USB Type-C for power only, a gigabit Ethernet port, and two HDMI outputs that support 4K at 60Hz. Although it has fewer ports than other mini PCs, it remains practical for basic tasks.
Performance-wise, the G5 handles web browsing and video playback smoothly, even at 4K. It managed to play back a 4K YouTube video without drop frames after initial buffering. The device’s fan is noticeable during intensive tasks, yet it maintains a manageable noise level.
For office tasks, the G5 is more than adequate, running Microsoft Word at 4K without lag. However, it lacked a VESA mount plate in the box, limiting its mounting options. Despite this, its small footprint makes it a convenient desktop addition.
Gaming on the G5 proved impressive for its size. Running a remastered version of “Dark Forces” at 1080p maintained 60fps. GTA V at 720p at its lowest settings hovered around 40 fps, showcasing its capability with older, resource-intensive games. Emulating PS2 games via PCSX2 delivered a consistent 60fps running at the default settings and the games’ native resolution.
Benchmarking on 3DMark TimeSpy resulted in a score of 487, surpassing similar mini PCs with the N100 processor. While it may not match Ryzen or Intel Core Ultra machines, its performance remains commendable for the price. On the 3DMark stress test, it achieved a passing grade of 97.9%, indicating stable performance under load despite its smaller fan having to work harder.
The G5, like many of the Mini PCs we’ve looked at recently comes with what appears to be a legitimately licensed and activated copy of Windows 11 Pro. No malware was detected during testing, but it allowed local account creation without needing a Microsoft account. I suspect that they are buying up bulk OEM Pro licenses and assigning them to these PCs.
Linux performance on the G5 was seamless, with all hardware components functioning properly on the latest version of Ubuntu. As we saw recently with the N100 processor, the G5 has great potential for Plex serving with its slightly faster N97 chip. It is of course limited by its internal storage capacity, necessitating USB drives for expansion.
Overall, the GMKTec Nucbox G5 is a versatile mini PC, suitable for office tasks, light gaming, and media serving. Its compact size and decent performance make it an excellent secondary computer for various uses. But I still prefer the N100 based G3 as it offers more expandability.
Disclosure: The G5 was provided to the channel free of charge for this review. No other compensation was received, nor did anyone review or approve the review before it was uploaded.All opinions are my own.
I recently had the opportunity to review the HP LaserJet M209dw, a budget-friendly laser printer ideal for those who don’t print frequently and are looking for an economical option. The printer, priced at around $120 (compensated affilate link), features a low cost per print and replacement cartridges at $54 for 1100 pages and $88 for 2400 pages. Interestingly, HP also offers an Instant Ink subscription, although for this model, purchasing high-capacity cartridges outright proves more economical. You can see it in action in my latest review.
One of the standout features of laser printers like the M209dw is their reliability for infrequent printing – even if it’s left idle for months. Unlike inkjet printers that often require nozzle cleaning after prolonged inactivity, laser printers remain functional without the need for such maintenance. This makes them particularly suitable for environments where printing needs are sporadic.
In terms of performance, the M209dw boasts a print speed of 30 pages per minute, which is quite impressive for its price range. During my tests, the printer handled a variety of print jobs over a Wi-Fi network efficiently. Despite being a bit noisier than some other laser printers, the speed and quality of the output were commendable. The standard print mode delivers sharp text and decent B&W photos at 600 DPI, which is sufficient for most black-and-white printing needs.
Setting up the printer was straightforward, thanks to the HP smartphone app, which facilitated wireless connection. Additionally, the printer can connect over USB or ethernet. Once connected, it was effortlessly recognized by various devices, including Macs, Windows PCs, iPads, iPhones, Android phones, and even Chromebooks.
Another notable feature is the duplex printing capability, which allows automatic double-sided printing. This function works smoothly, albeit a bit slower than single-sided printing as it has to pull the paper back in to flip it over.
The M209dw’s paper handling capabilities include a 150-sheet tray and a 100-sheet output tray. While it can handle standard paper sizes efficiently, its design may not be ideal for printing on smaller items like index cards or envelopes, as there is no manual feeder for straight-through printing.
One important consideration for potential buyers is HP’s aggressive stance on generic cartridges. The company employs dynamic security measures to prevent the use of third-party cartridges, frequently updating firmware to enforce this policy. This could be a drawback for those who prefer using cheaper, non-HP cartridges. Additionally, the persistent promotion of the Instant Ink subscription inside the app, along with a hard-to-remove promotional sticker on the printer itself, might be an annoyance.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the HP LaserJet M209dw stands out as a cost-effective, reliable option for users with occasional printing needs. Its speed, print quality, and ease of setup make it a compelling choice in the budget laser printer category.
Disclosure: This item came in free of charge from the online retailer Flip. However Flip nor HP reviewed or approved this review before it was uploaded, no other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.
The new ARM-based CoPilot+ PCs (compensated affilate link) have generated a lot of buzz, but the reality of their exclusive AI features is far less impressive that marketed. HP loaned me their Omnibook X 14 for my recent review and I put Microsoft’s heavily marketed AI features to the test. The verdict? Meh.. See more in this video.
Starting with the Paint application, the “Co-create” feature allows users to enhance their drawings with AI with images generated on-device using the new Snapdragon Elite X processor. The feature will generate artwork in a number of different styles based on the user’s original drawing but it also requires a text prompt.
Because the image generation happens on device, the Snapdragon isn’t capable of generating the types of beautiful images found on cloud-based solutions like OpenAI’s Dall-E. Still the images generate quickly and without the complex UI of some of the open source on-device solutions I’ve played with. In short, it’s a gee-whiz feature that sorta works but is not very useful.
My big gripe is that although this AI does its work on-device, it still requires an Internet connection to execute. The reason? Microsoft’s servers review each request to make sure users aren’t doing something the company finds inappropriate.
In the Photos app, the AI enhancement feature can add fun background elements to portraits but struggles with more complex tasks. Like the Cocreate feature, it will require a prompt (and server approval) but will do its work on an existing photo. But the results are lackluster at best. Images without people get mangled up pretty decently. When people are present the AI will only add background effects as safety policies will not allow the user to do any manipulation of images with human faces.
Live Captions, another CoPilot+ feature, offers real-time translation of video and audio content. This feature stands out as genuinely useful, accurately translating spoken language during video playback and calls. However, it only translates into English and does not support two-way translation just yet.
Copilot+ adds a few more webcam Studio Effects like eye contact adjustment, making it appear as though the user is looking at the camera even when they’re not. This subtle feature, along with improved background blur and creative filters, enhances video call experiences but remains a minor improvement of a feature already found in recent Intel and AMD based devices.
Notably absent from these devices is what was supposed to be the flagship AI feature called Recall. This feature takes screenshots of the user’s activity along with associated documents and applications open at the time and allows the user to search through their history using plain language prompts. If, for example, a user was planning a trip and lost track of a website they had visited a simple text query could pull it out of the usage history.
Recall is a great task for the limited capacity of the on-board NPU but it raised a number of privacy and security concerns that forced Microsoft to pause the feature’s release. Without Recall the AI functionality Microsoft built their Copilot+ PC marketing campaign around falls way short in this reviewer’s opinion.
Overall, while the AI features on CoPilot+ PCs are interesting, they are not compelling enough to justify choosing these devices over traditional Intel or AMD-based machines. The promise of superior battery life and performance improvements will be the real test for these ARM machines. You can check out my review of the HP Omnibook X here to see how well it does in those key areas.
I recently had the chance to test out the new HP Omnibook X14, one of the first set of PCs marketed under Microsoft’s Copilot+ line. This model is powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor, an ARM-based chip similar to those found in smartphones and MacBooks. Historically, Windows on ARM has struggled with performance and compatibility issues, but this new chip aims to bridge that gap.
The Omnibook X14 is priced at around $1,149 (compensated affiliate link), placing it in the mid-range of the laptop market. It boasts several AI features, although these seem underwhelming and not a significant reason to choose this model over Intel or AMD alternatives. I demoed those features in my previous video. My focus for this review is on its performance as a standard laptop.
In terms of hardware, it comes with 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a 512 GB NVMe solid-state drive. The 14-inch display runs at a 2.2k resolution and is a touch panel, although it doesn’t support full 360-degree rotation. The build quality is solid, with an aluminum body and a weight just under 3 pounds. However, the keyboard tends to lift with the display, a minor inconvenience not seen in more premium laptops.
The Omnibook features a decent 1440p webcam with a manual shutter, suitable for video calls. The speakers are adequate for conference calls but not impressive for music. The keyboard is comfortable, with good key spacing and travel, and the trackpad works well once tap-to-click is disabled. It supports facial recognition for quick logins but lacks a fingerprint reader. In terms of ports, it includes a 10 gigabit USB-C port and a faster 40 gigabit USB 4.0 port, although compatibility with Thunderbolt devices is hit-or-miss in my testing on the USB 4.
Performance-wise, the Omnibook X14 handles productivity tasks well. Running Microsoft Word and browsing with the Brave browser was smooth and responsive, comparable to mid-range Intel or AMD laptops that cost about the same. This is a major improvement over prior ARM windows PCs I’ve tested where performance was well below comparably priced PCs.
Battery life is the standout feature here, with reports suggesting up to 24 hours on a single charge. In my experience, it easily handled a full day of work without needing a recharge, aligning it with the longevity seen in MacBook Air models. I have yet to hit a batter warning even with leaving it unplugged throughout the day.
For more demanding tasks, such as video editing, the laptop performed admirably with DaVinci Resolve when using the ARM-optimized version of the software. This marks a significant improvement over previous ARM-based machines, although the availability of optimized applications like this one remains a limiting factor.
Windows is doing a much better job of emulating Intel & AMD x86/x64 code on ARM processors – applications run without much fuss provided they’re relatively simple applications. But as before gaming remains a weak point. Popular titles like No Man’s Sky and Red Dead Redemption 2 failed to run properly due to compatibility issues. Doom Eternal did boot up but experienced significant glitches and inconsistent performance. All three games run at surprisingly good framerates on similarly priced Intel and AMD hardware.
Benchmark tests, such as 3DMark Wildlife, suggest there is potential for great performance once games are optimized for the chipset. But, like the video editing example above, developers have to make some effort to port their games over to the new platform to realize the performance potential. The Windows emulation layer simply doesn’t cut it.
I also attempted to run Linux on the Omnibook but was unsuccessful. The ARM version of Ubuntu did not fully boot, though it reached the GRUB screen. The Omnibook does run with a standard UEFI bios so it should be possible to get Linux up and running in the very near future.
The HP Omnibook X and the other Snapdragon Elite X PCs released this week represent a step forward for Windows running on ARM processors. Previous iterations sacrificed both performance and compatibility for battery life, but these new machines only struggle with compatibility.
For now, if your needs are basic productivity applications and super long battery life, the Omnibook X is a solid choice. However, if gaming or specialized software is a priority, you’ll want to stick with more traditional hardware unless there’s a specific ARM port of the application. By comparison, Intel and AMD battery life is much better than it was a few years ago (although not as good as the new Copilot+ line), and the latest iteration of x64 processors also have NPU hardware acceleration for AI applications.
I’ve been exploring a new shopping platform called Flip (compensated affiliate link), which blends social media dynamics with e-commerce. At first glance, Flip resembles TikTok, but it operates within its own app, emphasizing video reviews and social interaction. The platform rewards video reviews of products with discounts, monetization and free products. You can see how it works and some of the stuff I’ve acquired so far in my latest review.
In full disclosure, Flip approached me, providing about $150 in seed money to explore their platform along with a small bonus for posting some video reviews. I later purchased $150 worth of items with my own funds to see how the free product offer works. More on that below.
Originally targeting the health and beauty sector, Flip has now expanded into gadgets. Users purchase items, review them, and earn monetization for their video reviews. This revenue stream lasts for 30 days, during which viewers’ engagement generates income. Additionally, users receive sales commissions for purchases made through their review videos.
After the initial purchase and review, users can obtain free items on subsequent orders, provided they continue reviewing products. This generous policy may not be sustainable long-term, but it currently offers significant benefits to consumers.
Flip’s interface presents reviews from other customers prominently. Each view increments a discount amount that can be applied to future purchases, potentially reaching up to 30% off. While Flip’s prices can sometimes exceed those on Amazon, the accumulated discounts will often keep Flip competitive. However, it’s essential to remain an educated consumer and ensure the discounted prices are genuinely a better deal.
Navigating Flip involves both browsing and searching, though the inventory is less extensive than other retailers. Categories and brand filters aid in locating specific items, but the platform’s design leans heavily toward browsing. When selecting items, users can see who else has purchased them and even message those users for insights.
A potential privacy concern arises from the open nature of the platform as users’ purchases are visible to others. While profiles can be made private, this limits the platform’s social benefits.
My third item, an HP monitor with a built in webcam, was out of stock. Flip canceled that free order and did not give me an option to select an alternative through the app. I have contacted customer service and they are working on manually sending me the additional item I was entitled to. Your mileage will vary.
To hit the $150 I purchased a “Big Sur” Polaroid instant camera and a ProtoArc Hub Mouse. The Polaroid camera, a collaboration between The Parks Project and Retrospekt, is a refurbished vintage Polaroid 600 Instant Camera. Flip didn’t sell the film so I had to pick up a pack on Amazon. But this is an actual vintage 80’s era Polaroid camera that was refurbished into a product that feels brand new.
The ProtoArc Hub Mouse looks like a standard desktop mouse but it has a little USB-C hub tucked in its rear end. The hub sports an HDMI output, a USB-A port, and a USB-C power passthrough.
From my initial subsidized order, I received a solar power bank, a Movo smartphone cage and a boom mic enclosure. You can see them all in the video linked above.
Flip’s social shopping extends to the Desire Wishlist feature, allowing users to gift items to each other. They have some fun games as part of this where users can guess who sent them the item or be completely anonymous in handing out their gifts.
It remains to be seen if Flip’s business model is sustainable in the tech space. Many other platforms have found that beauty and household products do better than tech which is more expensive and less prone to browsing. But in the meantime you may as well take advantage of the freebies while they last!
I recently had the opportunity to review the Google Pixel 8a smartphone, a device that promises to deliver flagship-level performance at a more affordable price point. Every year, I try to examine one of these mid-range phones to see how they measure up, and this year, Google has produced a phone that feels remarkably similar to its higher-end counterparts. You can see my full review here.
The Pixel 8a is priced at $499 for the 128GB model and $559 for the 256GB version. It features the Google Tensor G3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The display supports HDR and can reach a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, making it bright and clear in various lighting conditions. The phone is equipped with a fingerprint sensor under the display and facial recognition for secure access.
These specifications line up almost identically to the more expensive Pixel 8 that came out last year. They did not dial back the performance of the processor vs. their more expensive models.
The only area where Google has made some compromises with the 8a is in the build build quality. Unlike the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which feature glass backs, the Pixel 8a has a plastic back. However, it still supports wireless charging, albeit at a slower rate than its more expensive siblings. The front of the phone is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, and it has an aluminum band around the edges, giving it a sturdy feel despite its lower price.
The phone is weatherproof with an IP67 rating, meaning it can handle dust and brief immersions in water. The battery life is comparable to other smartphones in this price range, and in my testing, it lasted a full day even in areas with poor cell coverage.
In terms of connectivity, the Pixel 8a includes a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, but it lacks a headphone jack and SD card slot. Users will need to rely on Bluetooth or USB-C headphones for audio and Google’s cloud storage for additional space.
The camera system on the Pixel 8a is impressive. It has a 64-megapixel main camera with a 26mm wide-angle lens and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, providing detailed and vibrant images. The ultra-wide lens is useful for capturing more of a scene, although it struggles in low light due to its smaller aperture.
Video capabilities are strong, with the main camera supporting 4K recording at 60 frames per second. The ultra-wide lens can only manage 30 frames per second at 4K, but overall, the video quality is good, with effective stabilization for smooth footage.
One of the standout features of the Pixel 8a is its AI-driven photo editing tools. Users can use the “best take” feature to combine the best facial expressions from multiple shots into one image. There’s also an AI-powered eraser tool that can remove unwanted objects from photos and fill in the background seamlessly, though the results can sometimes be less than perfect.
In gaming, the Pixel 8a performs well, handling games like Roblox and emulators like the Dolphin Gamecube emulator without issues. Benchmarks show that its performance is on par with the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro, making it a capable device for both casual and more demanding users. Just note that Google’s Tensor 3 chip lags behind the processors found in Apple’s phones—all of the Pixel 8 phones perform about the same as the iPhone 12, which came out in 2020.
Google promises seven years of software support for the Pixel 8a until 2031. The support expiration clock starts ticking in 2024, so users purchasing the phone a few years from now will have the same expiration date.
Overall, the Google Pixel 8a offers a compelling package for those looking for a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank. Its combination of a high-refresh-rate display, strong camera system, and robust performance makes it a standout in the mid-range market. While it may not have the premium build quality of more expensive phones, it delivers excellent value and is a great option for budget-conscious consumers.
Disclosure: Google provided the phone to the channel free of charge. No other compensation was received nor did they did not review or approve this review before it was uploaded.
I’ve been reviewing a lot of mini PCs lately, and I’ve got another one in from GMKtec that stands out due to its Intel Core Ultra 5. You can see what it’s all about in my latest review.
The price point on this will vary quite a bit. In most cases you’ll see a coupon code on Amazon that will dramatically reduce its price so be sure to click that before checking out.
The GMKtec Nucbox K9 features an Intel Core Ultra 125H running at a 65-watt TDP. It comes with 32 GB of DDR5 5600 MHz RAM, which is upgradeable to 64 GB, and two NVMe SSD slots. The unit includes a 1 TB NVMe SSD from Mason Semi, and you can add or swap out SSDs as needed.
In terms of ports, the Nucbox K9 is well-equipped. There’s an audio input/output, a full-service USB 4.0 port running at 40 Gbps, capable of video output and powering the computer up to 100 watts. However, the included 120-watt power supply is recommended for regular use. I tested the USB 4 port with a Thunderbolt SSD, confirming it delivers the full bandwidth. There are also two USB 3 ports on the front, two USB-A ports, a DisplayPort out, an HDMI out for three simultaneous 4K displays, and two 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, both performing at full bandwidth. The Ethernet chipset is from Realtek.
The Nucbox K9 runs Windows 11 Pro, though the onboarding process uses a local account instead of connecting to a Microsoft account. However, a scan for malware and viruses came up clean. Web performance is excellent, and it handles 4K 60 FPS video on YouTube without drop frames.
For video editing, I tested DaVinci Resolve with a 4K 60 FPS project. It handled transitions effortlessly without needing an external GPU, suitable for simple editing tasks.
Gaming performance is also notable. Running No Man’s Sky at 1080p on standard settings achieved just under 60 FPS. Red Dead Redemption 2 at 1080p on the lowest settings performed well, between 40 and 50 FPS. Grand Theft Auto 5 at 1080p on high settings stayed mostly above 60 FPS.
Linux performance was decent, with most hardware detected except for audio. Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and video worked well.
Overall, the GMKtec Nucbox K9 offers a lot of hardware for its price, including ample RAM, storage, and a high-performing processor. It’s a good option if you’re comfortable with potential support issues from an overseas company. Despite the higher cost compared to previous models, it delivers impressive performance and is a solid choice for those willing to take a slight risk on long-term support.
Disclosure: GMKTech provided the Mini PC free of charge. No other compensation was received nor did they did not review or approve this review before it was uploaded.
Walmart quietly released a “pro” version of their Onn TV streaming box. Many of you were eager for me to take a look at this one. You can see my full review here.
The Onn 4K Pro, retailing for around $50 (compensated affiliate link), competes with the Roku and Amazon in the low-cost streaming box space. What’s nice about these Walmart devices is that they provide a pure Google TV experience which isn’t much different from Google’s own streaming players.
Inside the box, you’ll find all the essentials: the streaming box itself, a power cord, an HDMI cable, and a remote control. Interestingly, my package included a more basic version of the remote compared to a backlit version that some other buyers received.
What sets the “pro” device apart is that it functions not only as a streaming box but also as a Google Assistant speaker when the TV is off. In my testing it worked very similar to Google’s speaker offerings but it was unable to play music through its speaker, only through the television.
The box boasts an intuitive setup, connecting easily to Wi-Fi or via an Ethernet cable. However, it only supports 100 megabits of bandwidth for Ethernet, not gigabit, which might be a limitation for some. I also found its Wifi performance, while adequate for streaming applications, did not fare much better than the Ethernet. It’s compatible with Dolby Vision and HDR on TVs that support these features along with Atmos audio for streaming apps that offer spatial audio.
For general consumers, the Onn 4K Pro presents a value proposition with its dual functionality and the flexibility of Google TV’s operating system, allowing access to a wide range of apps and services. Its performance is robust enough for most streaming needs, and the inclusion of a voice-activated assistant is a nice feature.
Despite its “Pro” designation, the Onn 4K Pro may not satisfy the demands of avid tech enthusiasts, particularly those focused on gaming or high-end home theater setups. It performs adequately for streaming and basic tasks but falls short in handling more intensive applications like advanced gaming or lossless audio playback in Plex, which does not support DTS:X or Dolby TrueHD Atmos.
In benchmark testing, the Onn 4K Pro Google TV Streaming Box scored 579 on the 3DMark Slingshot test, indicating performance on par with the lower cost Onn streaming box I looked at last year, along with similar Android 4K boxes like the Chromecast with Google TV. However, it falls short compared to the more powerful Fire TV Cube Gen 3.
All that said I would definitely recommend the Pro version of the box over their lower cost offering for the streaming media use cases that it’s mostly designed for. It’s not that expensive and works well as a Google assistant even when the TV is off.
When you’re looking for an external hard drive, the typical choice often lies between opting for performance or capacity. In my latest video I took a look at a new product from SanDisk—the Desk Drive SSD—that delivers up to 8 terabytes of storage at SSD speeds. You can see my review here.
You can find one here (compensated affiliate link) This pricing is indeed higher than what you would expect from mechanical drives, but the SSD promises superior performance and completely silent operation, which might justify the cost for many.
The SSD comes preformatted with exFAT, ensuring compatibility across Windows, Mac, and many Linux systems right out of the box. It of course can easily be reformatted for other file systems. It also includes a single Gen 2 USB type-C port, supporting speeds up to 10 Gbps, though it does require external power to operate. Additionally, a Kensington lock slot adds a layer of security against theft.
When connected to a modestly equipped ThinkPad, the drive achieved around 850 megabytes per second in both read and write speeds during a Blackmagic disk speed test. These speeds were even higher when connected to a desktop equipped with a superior USB controller, just under a gigabyte per second. Its scores on the CrystalDiskMark test also showed decent random read and write performance making the drive suitable for more than just backups and long term data storage.
It also comes with a license for Acronis True Image on both Mac and Windows. True Image offers a number of useful functions like backing up the entire PC, individual folders, and even disk cloning. This software only works with SanDisk or Western Digital drives unless you pay for a separate license.
While there is a premium to pay for the silence and performance of the Desk Drive SSD, the benefits—especially in a professional setting where speed and reliability are paramount—could well be worth the investment.
Disclosure: Sandisk provided the drive to the channel free of charge for this review. However no other compensation was received and they did not review or approve my video or this post before it was uploaded. All opinions are my own.
This camera differs from other Wyze cameras in that it must be more judicious about its power usage. While it is capable of continuously recording onto an SD card it will quickly run out of battery power to do it. As such it’s better suited as a “notification camera” vs. a surveillance device in that the camera will only record and notify on events triggered by motion.
Unlike the previous generation outdoor camera it does not require a base station and will connect directly to WiFi.
The big standout feature of this camera is that it has swappable batteries – a rarity among consumer electronics. The battery packs have a built-in USB-C port for charging so no other charging hardware is required. Wyze does sell a desktop charger that might be more convenient for those with multiple cameras.
Battery life will vary based on how active the scene is in front of the camera and how often the camera is accessed for live streaming. In my case I get about two to three months before I need to do a battery swap. The camera is also compatible with Wyze’s solar panel which can eliminate the need for battery swaps if the panel can get enough sunlight.
I have found the camera to be quite robust, having endured several months outdoors through various weather conditions without any signs of wear or internal damage.
In use, the camera provided clear video quality with 1440p resolution, and its night vision capabilities were enhanced by an integrated spotlight that illuminated the scene effectively, offering clarity in color even in the dark. The camera also has a traditional infrared night vision mode along with an infrared illuminator. You can choose how it handles nighttime in the Wyze app.
One of the strengths of this new camera is that it rarely has a “false positive” motion event. Wyze added a low powered radar system that gives the camera an additional sensor layer for determining when something really is in front of the camera. As such imagery like branches blowing in the wind are far less likely to trigger an event. The distance this radar looks can be adjusted to narrow down the trigger zone inside the Wyze app. Wyze also allows users to narrow down the visual area the camera should be looking for motion.
Unfortunately Wyze encourages a subscription for optimal functionality. This subscription includes additional features like cloud storage and smart alerts capable of distinguishing between different moving objects such as people, vehicles, and pets.
It is possible to use the camera without a subscription by recording motion events to a SD card. Accessing recordings off the SD card does consume more battery as the camera needs to stream the playback to the Internet. I also found that accessing SD card footage can be a hit-or-miss endeavor sometimes requiring multiple attempts to access footage.
Overall I am pleased with the performance of this camera. It’s a major improvement over their prior offering but I still have issues with products that require a subscription to access the full feature set.
Disclosure: Wyze sent the camera to the channel free of charge for my review. They did not review or approve my review before it was published and no other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.
We haven’t looked at a Chromebox in awhile so I was excited to see Lenovo has something new in this product category with their Chromebox Micro. This is a fanless mini PC powered by an older Intel N4500 processor along with 8GB of RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage. You can see the full review here.
In the review I mention its high price of $379 – but as it turns out that’s the price with a Google Management Console license included. Without that license the price is $249 (compensated affiliate link) – still a little steep for the hardware configuration but more reasonable. It does not come with a keyboard, mouse or display.
Surprisingly the Chromebox Micro can output to three displays simultaneously – one via its HDMI port, and two additional outputs using its USB-C ports. It also ingests power via USB-C. It worked fine with a USB-C docking station adding some additional connectivity opportunities. In addition to the HDMI and USB-C ports it has two USB-A ports, a headphone/microphone jack, and gigabit ethernet.
Performance-wise, the Chromebox Micro handles basic tasks efficiently. Browsing websites like NASA.gov and Google Apps showed quick loading and smooth performance. The device also manages 1080p media playback well although its HDMI port is limited to only 30 fps at 4k. Its Wifi performance was adequate thanks to the Wifi 6 radio on board. Gaming is limited to less demanding Android games or cloud-based services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce Now.
Like other ChromeOS devices this Chromebox supports both Android apps and Linux applications, the latter once enabled in settings.
Despite its compact and silent profile, the price point remains a hurdle especially when compared to better performing MiniPCs available on Amazon we’ve looked at recently. A $199 price-point would be more attractive here.
Disclosure: This Mini PC was provided on loan by Lenovo. They did not review or approve the content prior to uploading/posting and all opinions are my own.
I recently had the opportunity to review the Asus Zenbook 14 OLED, a model equipped with a Ryzen processor. Walmart is currently selling this machine for $799 (compensated affiliate link) – a really good value.
This Asus Zenbook 14 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor and comes with 16GB of DDR5X RAM. This configuration is quite robust, allowing for tasks like gaming and video editing without significant slowdowns. It also includes 512GB of NVMe SSD storage.
One of the standout features of this laptop is its 14-inch 1920×1200 60hz OLED touch display. OLEDs are not common at this price point and the display has a great million-to-one contrast ratio and 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Although it’s effectively just a 1080p resolution at 14 inches the screen looks great.
In terms of battery life, the Zenbook 14 excels, offering between 15 to 18 hours of usage on a single charge under typical work conditions. This makes it ideal for long commutes or travel, ensuring productivity remains uninterrupted.
The build quality of the Zenbook 14 is impressive with an all-metal design and a total weight of just 2.82 pounds, making it both durable and portable. However, the device features a non-convertible design but the display can sit flat on the desk for using a stylus.
As far as ports are concerned, the Zenbook 14 features a full size USB-A port, two USB-C ports (one of which supports Thunderbolt via USB4), a full size HDMI output, and a headphone/microphone jack. However, it lacks an integrated card reader, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.
The keyboard of the Zenbook 14 is comfortable to use, with decent key travel and backlighting. It also includes a unique feature—a ‘co-pilot’ key linked to Microsoft Bing and OpenAI, although its functionality is currently limited.
The laptop’s performance in web browsing and basic tasks is flawless, and it handles video editing and gaming decently for its configuration. The integrated 1080p webcam supports Windows Hello for facial recognition, enhancing security and convenience.
I also tested the laptop’s compatibility with Linux. Most hardware components were detected and functioned correctly except for the speakers, which did not work despite being recognized by the system. This is likely a minor issue that could be resolved with future driver updates.
Overall, the Asus Zenbook 14 OLED with Ryzen provides significant value for its price, making it an excellent alternative to more expensive models like the MacBook Air, especially for users who prioritize battery life and display quality.
Disclosure: This laptop was provided on loan from Asus and they did not provide any compensation. They did not review or approve my video and post before it was uploaded and all opinions are my own.
My latest review is of the BenQ LH730 Projector. While primarily marketed for its capabilities in office and education environments, I wanted to see if the LH730 could also serve as a viable option for consumers.
First, some background: the BenQ LH730 is an LED projector, touting 4,000 lumens of brightness and removing the need for frequent bulb changes. BenQ says the LED lamp can run for approximately 20,000 hours at full brightness and 30,000 in its dimmer “eco mode.”
Priced at around $1300, it supports a 1080p maximum resolution with a refresh rate of up to 60hz, using DLP for its projection system. While it supports HDR10 and HLG, you won’t find Dolby Vision compatibility here. Also, there aren’t any built-in apps; you’ll be relying on streaming devices or an attached computer for content.
It has two HDMI inputs (both HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2 support) along with a 3.5mm audio output jack. There is a built in speaker but it’s passable at best. As visible in the review all of the ports appear to be upside down – that’s because the projector is designed to be hung from the ceiling vs. placed on a table. It will work fine on a table (and its automatic keystoning feature produces proper ratio images) but you will need to dig through the settings to flip the output around.
For my testing, I placed the projector approximately 10 feet from the wall, getting a screen size comfortably within the 75 – 80-inch range. Even when downscaling 4K content to the native 1080p, the image quality remained quite good. Images were clear, with the projector handling some ambient room light without the picture washing out.
I also connected an Xbox Series S and was pleased with its gaming performance and image quality, although it does introduce some input lag that might limit its utility with some games. In fairness the lag here is on par with consumer oriented projectors I’ve reviewed recently.
There is a manual zoom and focus control attached to the lens for fine tuning the image. Its zoom ratio is limited at 1.2, and sadly, there’s no autofocus feature. You do get manual controls on the projector along with a remote for adjustments.
Despite having an LED lamp on board, the projector consistently averaged around 300 watts of power consumption. But it generates far less heat vs. the traditional halogen bulb projectors I’ve reviewed in the past.
Overall the BenQ LH730 could be compelling for institutions. Its brightness, low maintenance needs, and solid image quality make it a sensible choice.
Disclosure: BenQ sent the projector to the channel on loan. They did not review or approve this post or my video before it was uploaded and all opinions are my own.
It may surprise some of you to learn that I’ve never owned or used a robotic vacuum cleaner – up until now that is. I recently received a “Roomba Combo Essential” through the Amazon Vine program. You can find it on Amazon here (compensated affiliate link).
This device, a hybrid of a vacuum and a mop, is marketed as a budget-friendly option in iRobot’s lineup, catering to those who need straightforward functionality without the bells and whistles associated with higher-end models. You can see my full video review here.
With few features offered, the Combo Essential is fairly simple to operate. It navigates autonomously around the house, and will return to its charging station with either a push of a button or when it needs to recharge. However, during its journey, it tends to pick up a few battle scars—evident from scratches and scuffs on its body—which illustrates its somewhat blind navigation akin to a vision impaired dog bumping into obstacles until it learns its path.
The vacuum performance is commendable for its price range, effectively cleaning every reachable area thanks to its rotating brush that catches dirt and draws it into the vacuum input.
The mopping feature, however, leaves much to be desired. The device utilizes a microfiber cloth that passively mops using a water drip, but without the use of detergents, which iRobot advises against to prevent damage to the machine. This limitation means the mopping is essentially just pushing water around rather than cleaning. Its dustbin and water tank combo, while innovative, offers limited capacity, which might not suit homes with heavy shedding pets like my Siberian Husky.
When in mopping mode the Roomba lacks the ability to differentiate flooring vs. carpets. So it’ll drive up on the rug and mop that too. iRobot recommends the inconvenient step of rolling up rugs before having it mop.
During my review, I also explored the accompanying app, which provides basic controls and scheduling options. The app allows for real-time monitoring and control, which is convenient, though it lacks advanced features found in more premium models. The noise level of the Roomba is relatively low, comparable to a fan running on high, which should be suitable for most home environments without disturbing the peace.
In sum, the Roomba Combo Essential serves well as a supplementary cleaning tool, particularly in smaller, less cluttered spaces. It effectively picks up dirt and dust as a vacuum but falls short as a mop.
