Tag: review

The GMKtec G3 Mini PC Delivers a Lot for a Low Price

My latest review, I dive into the GMKTec G3, a budget-friendly Mini PC equipped with an Intel N100 processor.

The model reviewed came with 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB NVMe SSD. The base model with the same processor but 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD starts at around $140 on Amazon after discounts. The device offers easy upgrades, with two drive slots and replaceable single-channel DDR4 RAM. Despite the plastic build, the Mini PC manages heat well and includes sufficient ports for basic connectivity, though it lacks USB Type-C.

Upon setup, the Windows 11 Pro installation process was straightforward, adhering to Microsoft’s standard onboarding procedure. The device includes Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, though speeds were slightly below what I would expect. The 2.5 gigabit Ethernet, powered by an Intel chipset, performed well.

Performance tests showed the GMKTec G3 handling 4K video smoothly, even on high-resolution displays, with no frame drops. The integrated Intel graphics managed to run GTA 5 at a playable 30 frames per second at 720p with low settings and it was able to handle PS2 emulation effectively. While it won’t run many modern AAA titles it does make for a decent emulation station that can run games from the mid 2000’s back.

The Mini PC’s cooling system is relatively quiet and usually silent when the machine isn’t placed under heavy load. My testing did not reveal any significant thermal throttling when placed under load.

Linux is also a good use case for this machine with the latest version of Ubuntu booting up without issue and performing just as well as Windows did in my testing.

In summation, the GMKTec G3 is a great alternative to a Raspberry Pi for small server applications, general computing and gaming. You’ll spend about the same getting everything needed for a Pi 5 to do the same things but here you’ll get better performance and Windows compatibility.

Be sure to check out my other Mini PC reviews!

Disclosure: GMKTec provided this to the channel for my review but no other compensation was received. They did not review or approve my video or this post before it was uploaded.

Sandisk Professional G-Drive Project Review

My latest review is of the Sandisk Professional G-DRIVE Project, a new external hard drive that caters to the needs of professionals. It has an enterprise-grade mechanical hard drive along with a built in slot for Sandisk’s Pro-Blade system.

The G-Drive Project distinguishes itself with its exceptional build quality. While it certianly feels rugged, the mechanical drive inside is not so it’s best to use the drive only when it’s safely sitting on a desk or table. Inside, it features an Ultrastar Enterprise hard drive from WD, a mechanism that is typically found on datacenter servers. My review unit had a 6TB drive inside, and there are versions that offer up to 24TB of storage.

The drive offers a Thunderbolt interface that supports daisy chaining other devices when it’s connected to a Thunderbolt or USB 4.0 port. The design of the exterior casing makes it suitable for stacking multiple drives on top of each other. It will also work with USB 3.0 devices but the daisy chaining features will not work on those older interfaces. The drive is externally powered through its included 65 watt power supply, and there’s enough power budget to charge smaller ultrabooks like my M2 Macbook Air.

Performance-wise, while it may not match the speeds of SSDs, it delivers respectable transfer rates for a mechanical drive, making it suitable for backups and large file storage rather than rapid data transfer. I measured roughly 250 megabytes per second in both reads and writes in my testing.

However, I found the Pro-Blade slot to be less impressive. Despite supporting the high-speed NVMe Pro blades, the Pro-Blade reader operates over a built-in USB 3.0 hub, limiting the potential speed of these blades to about a third of their potential performance.

Despite these limitations, the G-DRIVE Project is a reliable choice for professionals who need a durable and flexible storage solution. It supports hot-swapping of Pro blades, adding convenience for those in the field or in a studio setting. While it may not offer the fastest transfer speeds, its capacity and build quality make it a useful tool for content creators.

Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD Webcam Review

My latest review is of the Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K Webcam. Having been a long-standing fan of Logitech’s cameras, my expectations were high, especially with my trusted C910 still in use after 14 years.

The MX Brio, priced at $199 (compensated affiliate link), is undeniably a premium offering. For the price you get a nice heavy metal design and glass lens.

The camera attaches to its mounting bracket magnetically. When detached you’ll find a tripod mount on the bottom of the camera. To secure the heavy camera on the back of a laptop, the mounting bracket features a micro-suction adhesive that helps keep it in place. The adhesive does not leave a residue and can be easily swapped from one display to the other. If it gets dirty a little water will refresh it.

Connectivity is seamless for computers with a USB Type-C port, and the included cable matches the camera’s level of build quality. But there is no USB-A adapter, so you’ll need to get a USB-C to USB-A cable or use an adapter.

Upon setup, the MX Brio’s image quality immediately stands out, delivering a maximum of 4k at 30 frames per second. 60 frames per second can be reached with a 1080p resolution. However, I encountered a challenge with LED lighting. Despite efforts to minimize flicker, banding was noticeable under my LED household lights. Turning off the camera’s HDR setting improved the situation but reduced the overall image quality.

Banding from LED lights

Particularly intriguing is the “show mode” for overhead demonstrations, an innovative feature for educators and presenters. When the camera is tilted down it flips the image to work as an overhead camera.

The microphones impress with crisp, clear audio that also have some noise reduction features. You can hear a demo of the microphones in my video above.

The Logitech Options and G Hub apps revealed a number of settings to fine-tune the webcam experience including exposure levels, white balance enhancement toggles and focus.

Despite its strengths, the MX Brio’s LED banding issue is a significant drawback for those in production. Yet, for Zoom meetings or casual use, it performs nicely, adjusting well to various lighting conditions. Logitech’s history of updates gives me hope for a firmware solution to the banding issue soon.

GMKTech K8 Nucbox Mini PC Revew – With Ryzen 8845HS Processor

My latest review is of the GMKtec K8 “NucBox” Mini PC, featuring a Ryzen 8845HS processor. Find it on Amazon here (compensated affiliate link). This mini PC merges notable performance with a compact form factor. But it has some shortcomings in networking and USB 4.0 performance.

Upon unboxing, I found the K8 to lack the metal design of some of the other Mini PC’s we’ve looked at lately. However, the real appeal of this device lies beneath its modest exterior. Equipped with that Ryzen processor, 32 GB of DDR5 5600 RAM, upgradable to 64 GB, and a 1 TB NVMe SSD with room for expansion, the K8 provides great performance for its price point.

Connectivity options on the K8 are similar to other Mini PCs, with a mix of USB 4.0, USB 3, and USB 2 ports, alongside dual 2.5 Gb Ethernet ports and multiple video output choices. However, during my testing, I encountered issues in the performance disparities between the Ethernet ports and found the USB 4.0 port’s throughput to fall short of its advertised 40 Gb/s capability.

The K8 comes with an activated copy of Windows 11 Pro. Like many PC makers, GMKTec found a loophole in the Microsoft licensing process which means that you will only be allowed to create a local account when first booting up.

The K8 proved itself as a capable for video editing, handling a simple 4K 60fps project effectively without any hiccups or lag running DaVinci Resolve.

Gaming on the K8 was a pleasant surprise; titles like Red Dead Redemption 2 and No Man’s Sky ran well at 1080p, showcasing the integrated GPU’s capabilities. While we couldn’t hit consistent 60 FPS rates, most games are comfortably over 30. Emulation performance was equally impressive, with the Dolphin Emulator running demanding titles at full frame rates.

Benchmarking further validated the K8’s performance credentials, positioning it alongside more expensive systems from just a few years ago equipped with dedicated GPUs. The stress test results showed minimal thermal throttling under load, though fan noise became noticeable during intensive tasks.

The K8’s versatility extends to Linux compatibility, with my tests on Ubuntu showing excellent hardware support out of the box. This adaptability makes the K8 a suitable candidate for a range of applications including home labs.

While the K8 may not be the perfect fit for users with high throughput demands for external storage and networking, its performance, upgradability, and competitive pricing make it a decent option for a variety of users. As with any purchase in this category, prospective buyers should weigh the balance of performance, price, and potential compromises to determine if the K8 meets their specific needs and expectations.

Disclaimer: GMKTec provided the Mini PC to the channel free of charge. However they did not review or approve the review before it was uploaded nor was any additional compenstation received.

Wyze Cam V4 Review

Last week Wyze released the latest iteration of their low cost camera, which they call the “The Wyze Cam V4.” I checked it out in a recent review.

Find them over at Amazon (compensated affiliate link). The purchase price used to get a lot more bang for the buck, including cloud storage and AI features but those added functions now cost extra.

The Wyze subscription is priced at $3 per camera per month or via an unlimited subscription at $99 a year. In fairness the subscription isn’t all that expensive, but many original Wyze customers are put-off by once free features that are now locked behind a paywall. Wyze still gives customers the option to use an SD card for continuous or event-only recording to avoid the subscription fee.

The camera’s design maintains its plastic weatherproof design, allowing it to withstand outdoor conditions. It operates through USB power, with the package including a sufficiently long cable, though longer options are available for outdoor setups. A notable upgrade in this model is the visual quality, transitioning to 1440p resolution from the previous 1080p, enhancing both daytime and nighttime surveillance capabilities. It also now has an LED spotlight that can help its color night vision features extract more visual information.

Through the accompanying Wyze app, users can control the camera and review footage easily. Wyze subscribers can review footage in a single tap, but SD card footage review takes a few more taps and requires a connection to the camera be established. In addition to the lack of off-site cloud storage, non-subscribers also do not get the very useful AI detection feature for persons, pets, and vehicles.

I found the image quality to be a nice step-up from the previous iterations of the cameras. They are so inexpensive that it doesn’t take much of an investment to cover an entire property or add more to existing infrastructure. They’re also compatible with IFTTT, Amazon and Google so they can be integrated with other equipment too.

We’ll have some more Wyze related product reviews coming soon. Stay tuned to this playlist!

Disclosure: Wyze sent these cameras to the channel free of charge. However they did not review or approve this video before it was uploaded, and no other compensation was received.

Hagibis Magsafe NVME SSD Hard Drive Enclosure Review

I recently had the chance to review the Hagibis external solid state drive enclosure, a device that magnetically attaches to the back of an iPhone—or an Android phone with an adapter—allowing for video recording directly onto an external drive. You can see my full video review here.

The enclosure is designed to house a 2230 NVMe SSD which is not included. The choice of NVME SSD is important as the iPhone as very strict power requirements for externally attached drives. Hagibis put together a helpful video with a number of popular SSDs to see which ones work best. The enclosure itself is equipped with a sizable capacitor to mitigate potential power issues.

In my research, I learned that not all NVMe drives are created equal in terms of power consumption. A Kingston drive I initially considered was too power-hungry for the iPhone’s restrictions. But I did find a Lexar drive (compensated affiliate link) that, despite not advertising its power consumption, performed admirably within the setup.

The Hagibis enclosure also offers external power input through an additional USB-C port, a feature that ensures recording isn’t interrupted by power issues. This provides the option to mount additional accessories, like a battery pack, to provide the drive adequate power and charge the phone while recording.

But that power port doesn’t work for data transfer, so users looking to connect external microphones or other peripherals will need to explore alternative solutions like a USB-C hub.

Recording video directly to the SSD is an easy process now on compatible iPhones. Enabling Apple ProRes in the camera settings allows for external recording to automatically occur when the drive is attached, although the size of these files are enormous. During my tests, the Lexar drive and enclosure combo maintained its performance without any noticeable hiccups or frame drops, even during extended recording sessions.

Blackmagic’s awesome new (and free) camera app also supports recording externally with the drive. In addition to providing additional manual controls the Blackmagic app also allows for compressed video formats to be recorded vs. just ProRes on the native Apple app.

Testing the enclosure with Android devices revealed similar flexibility and functionality. Open Camera, an app I used on a Pixel 8 Pro, supported external video recording to the SSD. I’m sure there are other apps available too.

The Hagibis enclosure is a promising tool for video enthusiasts looking to expand their recording capabilities without being tethered to the limited storage of their smartphones. Its magnetic design, combined with the practicality of external SSD storage, brings a lot of convenience and efficiency to mobile video production.

Fanless Mini PC Review: The Minix Z100-0db

My latest mini PC review takes a look at the Minix Z100-0db, a fanless Mini PC powered by an Intel N100 Alder Lake processor.

Minix’s new offering stands out for its silent operation, courtesy of its robust heat sink that radiates out to the top of the case. The PC feels like a solid block of metal weighing in at over 2 pounds or 900+grams.

It performs surprisingly well given its price point thanks to the N100 inside. Our review unit came with 16GB of DDR4 RAM on a single stick along with a 512GB NVME. RAM, storage, and the WiFi card can be upgraded. It comes equipped with an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 card.

Port selection on the Z100-0db is adequate, featuring a data only USB-C port along with two USB-A ports running at USB 3 Gen 2 speeds, another pair at USB 2.0 speeds, a microSD card reader, dual HDMI outputs for 4K 60hz displays, and a single 2.5 gigabit ethernet port. The ethernet port worked at the full 2.5 gig bandwidth but the WiFi was running about 300 megabits per second below what was expected on the downstream. Upstream Wifi speeds were fine.

Windows 11 Pro comes pre-installed, providing a clean, bloatware-free experience right out of the box. Given some security issues we’ve seen with other MiniPCs I ran a few full malware and virus scans and everything came up clean here.

The Mini PC handles web browsing and office tasks with ease, demonstrating the capability of the Intel N100 processor to manage day-to-day activities efficiently.

Gaming and emulation tests were also good. This isn’t a gaming powerhouse by any means, it handles older games and emulation remarkably well, running titles like Half-Life 2 and PlayStation 2 games smoothly. Its performance in benchmarks and stress tests further underscores its stability and efficiency under load with no thermal throttling detected.

The Z100-0db also excels in running Linux, with Ubuntu detecting all hardware out of the box and providing a seamless experience for users interested in a dual-boot setup or dedicated Linux machine.

I’ve been looking at Mini PCs for the better part of a decade now. It’s great to see not only performance increasing year over year but also how it’s still possible to get great performance out of a completely silent fanless PC.

See more mini PC reviews here!

Disclosure: The Z100 was provided to the channel free of charge by Minix. However they did not review or approve this video before it was uploaded, nor was any additional compensation received. All opinions are my own.

Backbone One 2nd Generation Smartphone Controller Review

My favorite smartphone game controller was the original Backbone One that I first reviewed back in 2021. The controller was the first product for Backbone and I was impressed with its design and overall quality. But it was designed to only work with iPhones that were available at the time of its release and the company had to rush to produce adapters for newer phones. I had to 3D print my own adapter to get it to work with the iPhone 13 Pro!

To address these issues, and expand compatibility to non-Apple phones, Backbone recently introduced their 2nd generation controller which is the subject of my latest review. The hardware is as good as ever, but unfortunately Backbone is holding back features from users who don’t subscribe to their ongoing Backbone+ service.

The Backbone One 2nd Gen comes with a price tag of $99, although they do go on sale from time to time – for example right now it’s selling for $79 at Best Buy (compensated affiliate link).

The 2nd generation controller is available in a USB-C variant for the iPhone 15 and up and Android phones along with a lightning variant for older iPhones. Its design closely mirrors that of its predecessor, which I found quite satisfactory. This new version, however, extends support to a broader range of phone sizes, especially those encased in protective covers, addressing one of the original model’s significant limitations.

Like before the build quality rivals the Nintendo Switch in terms of thumbstick feel and button responsiveness. The thumbsticks don’t have much travel but they also don’t have much of a deadzone either. I like the D-pad quite a bit and found it to be accurate, responsive and lacking any errant diagonals. I tested it on both iOS and Android and the experience was a seamless one on both platforms. The controller fit very comfortably in my hand too.

The controller has a male USB-C connector that connects to the smartphone, along with a second female charge-only USB-C connector on the bottom of the controller to allow for pass-through charging. There is also a 3.5mm headphone jack on the other side of the controller.

As for smartphone fit, Backbone includes two pairs of magnetically attachable spacers to accommodate various phone sizes. Phones with thicker cases work best with no spacers installed.

But as great as the hardware is, Backbone is locking some of its feature set behind an expensive paywall called the Backbone+ subscription. This subscription, priced variably by region but estimated at around $30 to $50 annually, locks away features such as compatibility with PCs, Macs, and iPads, higher frame rate video capture, cloud video storage and social chat features that were once free on the prior version.

Backbone did grandfather in owners of their original controllers who set up an account with them, but everyone else will have to pay up. While I can understand paywalling cloud video storage, locking out a key hardware feature like tablet and computer compatibility is not a good look for a company trying to establish itself in the gaming market.

Because I was the owner of the previous Backbone controller I was able to get it to work with my PC without having to pay for a subscription. There is a setting to enable that compatibility in the Backbone app on the phone, and the controller then works on the PC when it’s connected through its USB-C port on the base. Once connected it appears as a standard x-input device.

Overall I found the 2nd gen Backbone One controller to be excellent from a hardware standpoint, but I’m very disappointed that the company is locking away functionality behind a subscription paywall. Gamers are some of the most discerning consumers in the marketplace, and this is something that will end up costing them more revenue than they’ll ever gain through a recurring fee.

Asus Zenbook 14 OLED Review Q415MA / Q425MA

My latest video takes a look at a pretty affordable 14″ Asus laptop that comes equipped with an OLED display and starts at $799 (compensated affiliate link).

The review loaner I received came equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 5 125h processor, 8GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB NVME SSD. Given what these new Intel chips are capable of, I would recommend the 16 GB variant that will make the most of the processor’s capabilities. For light duty work this model is fine, but if you’re looking to do casual gaming and moderate video editing the $1049 (affiliate link) version is going to perform better.

The laptop’s OLED display, a highlight of the device, didn’t disappoint. Like most OLEDs it has a great contrast ratio and vivid colors along with meeting 100% of the DCI-P3 color space for creative work. It’s running with a 1080p equivalent resolution at 1920 by 1200 pixels at 60hz.

While the display’s brightness peaks at 380 nits it has a peak brightness of 500 nits in HDR mode. ASUS implemented several features to mitigate the OLED’s inherent burn-in risk which I detail in the video review.

Weighing in at a comfortable 2.82 lbs and constructed from aluminum, the Zenbook 14 OLED feels both lightweight and durable. The laptop’s design facilitates easy opening with one hand which is a nice bonus. The onboard 1080p webcam, with its privacy shutter, delivers clear imagery, while the speakers offer surprisingly rich sound quality.

The keyboard and trackpad are decent providing a comfortable and responsive input experience. Port selection on the Zenbook is adequate, featuring two full service Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI output, and a USB-A port.

Performance-wise, the Zenbook 14 OLED navigates everyday tasks quite well, from web browsing to streaming video, thanks to its Core Ultra processor and Wi-Fi 6E radio. While the 8GB RAM model manages basic video editing and playing older games, those seeking to push the device’s limits should consider the 16GB variant, especially for more demanding games and creative work. In addition to the extra RAM capacity the 16GB version’s RAM also runs at a faster clock speed.

Battery life is good, with the laptop handling 8 to 10 hours on a single charge for standard use.

The Zenbook 14 OLED got a failing grade on the 3DMark Stress Test at 93%, which means that under heavy sustained load it’ll lose about 7% of its overall performance. The fan though isn’t too noisy and under most standard use cases it is not even audible.

Linux enthusiasts might face challenges with the latest version of Ubuntu failing to detect most of the hardware. This will likely improve with bios and driver updates in the future. .

In wrapping up, the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED emerges as a compelling option for those in search of a mid-range laptop that doesn’t compromise on display quality or build. While the base model serves well for general use, investing in the variant with enhanced RAM and processing power unlocks the full potential of this versatile device.

Disclosure: the laptop was provided to the channel on loan from Asus. They did not sponsor the video nor did they review or approve the review before it was uploaded.

Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 16″ Gaming Laptop Review

We haven’t looked at gaming laptop in awhile! I’ve been meaning to get to this Lenovo Legion Pro 5i laptop that’s been on my to-do list for awhile. You can see it in action in this video review.

Lenovo positions their Legion 5 series of laptops in the mid-range market, leaving out features like Thunderbolt ports and more premium build materials. Their higher end Legion 7 devices bring those features. But much like the automobile market if raw horsepower is all you’re looking for, a Camero can often bring the performance at a price lower than that of a Corvette.

These start at around $1,200 for the base Intel i5 configuration and often go on sale especially as we get closer to the fall. Check out the latest pricing at Best Buy and direct from Lenovo (compensated affiliate links).

Our review loaner is a slight step up from the base model, featuring an i7-13700 HX processor but the same Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU. The loaner had 16GB of dual-channel memory and a 512GB NVMe SSD.

Like prior models the Legion Pro 5i prioritizes upgradeability and ease of maintenance. It’s not hard to get inside and once there you’ll find an additional NVMe slot for storage expansion and user-replaceable DDR5 RAM.

Its 16-inch 2560×1600 IPS display, with a 165Hz refresh rate and Nvidia GSync support, offers vibrant colors and smooth gaming experiences, although its brightness peaks at 300 nits, which is adequate but not exceptional. Lenovo’s higher end models will have better display options, but for the price point this is a nice compromise.

Weighing in at 5.1 pounds, the laptop is not the lightest on the market, but it is to be expected for a device packing this level of hardware. The build quality is solid, predominantly plastic but sturdy, with minimal flex. The keyboard and trackpad are responsive and comfortable, with the keyboard featuring a pleasant amount of key travel and a customizable zoned backlight.

Port selection on the Legion Pro 5i is generous, with most ports located at the rear for a cleaner setup. It includes a full-service USB Type-C port that supports DisplayPort 1.4 and power delivery, although it’s not Thunderbolt or USB 4 compatible. Battery life varies significantly with use, but in more power-efficient modes, it can last through a workday on lighter tasks.

Gaming performance is where this laptop shines, handling demanding titles like Starfield and Red Dead Redemption 2 with ease at its native resolution. The cooling system is effective, keeping performance steady under load, albeit at the cost of noticeable fan noise.

One aspect that caught my attention was its Linux compatibility, which was mostly seamless except for some fan control issues that kept the fan running loudly even under light loads. This is a minor hiccup in what is otherwise a versatile and capable machine.

Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 might not have the bells and whistles of its higher-end counterparts, but it delivers where it counts, making it a solid choice for gamers and professionals alike who need performance at a reasonable price.

Disclaimer: This laptop was provided on loan from Lenovo. They did not review or approve this video before it was uploaded. This is not a sponsored post.

Exploring Inexpensive Generic AirTag Alternatives

Apple’s AirTag tracker has turned into a major hit due to its low cost (for an Apple product anyway) and the fact that it can operate for months accurately reporting its position without needing a monthly fee or a nightly battery recharge.

In my latest video I take a look at some licensed generic alternatives to Apple’s AirTag that work mostly the same way but can sometimes be found for half the price.

These low cost tags can be found on Amazon by searching for “Find My” trackers. Here’s an Amazon idea list of a few that I featured in my review (affiliate link).

Most of the trackers you’ll encounter are similar in form factor to Apple’s offering, although many come with an accessory like a keyring, dog collar, etc. for less than what you’d pay for an Apple AirTag and accessory combined. Additional savings can be had by seeking out bulk packs of these trackers that are also available on site.

There’s other form factors available too. One device in my video is the same size and shape as a stack of three credit cards and is designed to track the location of your wallet. Another called the Pincard is completely sealed and weatherproof but can recharge using any Qi wireless charger.

While these third party devices share many features with Apple’s AirTag, including utilizing the Find My network for tracking, they lack the Ultra-Wideband technology present on the official device. This means the precision in locating the devices, especially in the critical last few feet, isn’t as refined. Despite this, the presence of audible alerts on most third-party trackers somewhat mitigates this limitation.

None of these products rival the quality of Apple’s offering but they all seem to perform quite well. If you have a number of things to keep track of you can dramatically grow the size of your tracked item list while saving some money in the process.

Disclaimer: the tags in the video came in free of charge through the Amazon Vine program. This video was not sponsored nor did anyone approve or review the video before it was uploaded.

Synology BeeStation Review: A General Consumer Focused Self Hosted Cloud Storage Device

I recently had the opportunity to review the Synology BeeStation, a simplified network-attached storage (NAS) device aimed at the general consumer. Diverging from Synology’s typical complex offerings for tech enthusiasts and enterprises, the BeeStation offers a narrow feature set that is mostly turnkey.

Check it out in my latest video.

Retailing at around $199 (compensated affiliate link) with no ongoing subscription fees, the BeeStation offers 4 terabytes of storage, packaged in a design that prioritizes simplicity. Setting it up is super simple; just plug it in, scan a QR code, and create an account with Synology. A direct ethernet connection is necessary, but it supports both wired and wireless connections once it’s on your network.

The BeeStation comes with dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. The Windows desktop app, for instance, creates a syncing folder on your computer that mirrors the storage on your BeeStation similar to how Dropbox, OneDrive and iCloud work.

There are two BeeStation mobile apps: BeeFiles and BeePhotos. BeeFiles allows users to browse the synced folder and upload new files. On Android users can edit files and have them save back to the BeeDrive but on iOS it’s view and download only. The mobile app also allows for some administrative functions like initiating backups, etc.

The BeePhotos app supports live photos, on-device AI facial and object recognition, and even raw files, offering a local alternative to cloud-based photo services. While not as feature rich as Apple Photos or Google Photos, the core functionality of those services is present.

The web interface of the BeeStation is equally intuitive, offering access to both files and photos. It provides additional functionalities like file versioning, backups, and the ability to sync or backup to cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive. The USB backup feature is particularly important for safeguarding your data on the BeeStation against drive failures. USB drives can also be backed up TO the BeeStation.

I had no issues connecting to the BeeStation from outside of my network. This is even with a locked down router with UPnP disabled. It uses Synology’s QuickConnect technology for outside access through firewalls.

From an administration standpoint, the BeeStation supports up to eight users plus an administrator, which is fine for family use.

One important note is that the BeeStation largely depends on an active Internet connection to work. They do have a “local account” option which allows for accessing the drive on the local network without an Internet connection but does not allow the other users on the drive to access their files. There’s also an option to enable the SMB service for more traditional network access to the device, although with certain limitations compared to Synology’s more robust models.

There have been many attempts by many hardware makers over the years to come up with a simple self-hosted cloud solution. Synology’s effort here is one of the better ones I encountered. Under the hood it’s running the same software as their more robust product offerings but they’ve stripped all of the complexity away for every day users. I still recommend their other NAS devices for techies like me, but for the rest of the world this is a good solution that’ll save money on cloud storage subscription fees.

See my prior Synology videos here to get a feel for what their other products can do.

Disclosure: Synology sent me the product free of charge for this review ahead of its release. Synology is also an occasional sponsor on the channel (I have produced tutorial videos for them) but they did not sponsor this video nor did they review or approve my video before it was uploaded.

The Lovebox Review

Back at CES 2021, producer Jake encountered a weird device called the “Lovebox” which is now widely available. This product, at first glance, appears to be a simple wooden box, but it harbors a secret inside: a small screen that allows photos and other messages to be sent from to it from anywhere in the world. You can see how it works in my latest review.

Price around $170, the Lovebox is pricey for its limited functionality. But it does have some charm – it’ll be up to you to decide if that charm is worth the price premium. The device works by connecting to WiFi at the recipient’s location. Once set up, you can send messages from anywhere in the world using its smartphone app. When a message is received, the heart on the box twirls, signaling the recipient to lift the lid and view the message.

Setting up the Lovebox requires some effort, as it needs to be connected to the WiFi network where it will be used. This means if you’re gifting it, you’d ideally do it in person to ensure a smooth setup. The accompanying app is straightforward, allowing you to send messages or photos. If the $170 price point isn’t enough, the Lovebox offers a subscription plan for $5 a month, providing additional message templates and of course some AI features. The subscription is not required though.

The only other feature is the ability to twirl the heart on the box, sending virtual hearts back to the sender. This interaction adds a tactile, engaging aspect to the experience. The Lovebox, however, is not without limitations. It lacks interactive capabilities like a touch display, and you cannot revisit old messages on the box itself (though they are accessible via the phone app). Without the subscription the messages are deleted after 30 days.

You can send personalized messages or photos with drawings, text and emoji stickers. even draw or add emojis. When multiple messages are sent, the Lovebox queues them up, displaying each one as the lid is opened and closed.

I tend to be more forgiving with these gift items especially when they work as advertised. Lovebox is not promising any more than they are delivering here so consumers are getting what they paid for. It’s up to you to decide whether or not it’s worth paying that much for the experience!

Disclosure: this product came in free of charge through the Amazon Vine program. I had no contact with the manufacturer, no one reviewed or approved this video before uploading, and no other compensation was received.

Infrared Remote Extenders Allow Your Remotes to Work Anywhere

Over the last couple of weeks reviewing ATSC 3.0 TV tuners, I encountered a challenge. While creating content, I prefer to have the products on the table with me for a hands-on demonstration while I record or livestream. However, my TV antenna’s location upstairs and my recording setup in the basement made it impossible to control these TV tuners directly during a shoot. I had to narrate and run b-roll which is not my usual workflow.

In my latest video, I checked out an IR extender from BAFX that takes any remote control’s commands and transmits them through a wireless RF signal to another location in the home. I purchased it with my own funds from Amazon.

This device, while not groundbreaking in its concept, offers a simple yet effective solution to my problem.

The BAFX extender kit includes a transmitter and a receiver along with infrared transmitters and receivers that plug into the unit. The setup is straightforward, with no programming needed. Once powered up, the infrared receiver module captures signals from a remote control, which are then transmitted wirelessly to the receiver unit. This unit, in turn, emits the signal through one of its four emitter modules to the intended device.

The extender works with devices controlled by infrared signals, which is perfect for my TV tuners. However, it is not compatible with devices that use Bluetooth for their remote controls.

In practice, the BAFX extender performed exactly as I hoped. I set up the receiving unit upstairs with one of the emitters attached to a TV tuner. Despite the physical barriers of my home, the remote control functioned as if the tuner was right beside me in the basement. Every button worked seamlessly, demonstrating the extender’s capability to transmit any remote signal effectively.

The range varies between 50 to 300 feet, depending on the construction materials of the building. In my case, with mostly sheetrock walls and wooden floors, the distance of approximately 50 to 75 feet was bridged without any issues.

However, it’s worth noting that these extenders all operate on the same frequency and they don’t discriminate about what signals the transmitters repeat to the receiving units. So if you had multiple kits throughout the home with the same brand of electronics in separate rooms, a single button push would operate all of the same brand devices. For those scenarios a more robust solution would be necessary.

The BAFX Wireless Infrared Extender has been a practical solution to my specific need, allowing me to conduct reviews and demonstrations with the original remotes of the products in real-time as I produce my content. Its simplicity, ease of setup, and effectiveness in solving my problem without the need for complex programming or additional equipment make it a valuable tool in my workflow for these products.

The Zinwell Nextgen TV Box Requires an Internet Connection – Despite Claims to the Contrary

Zinwell’s new ATSC 3 Nextgen TV Box is the subject of my latest review. This device was eagerly anticipated by the cord cutting community as it was promised to tune DRM protected channels without the need for an Internet connection. Unfortunately those claims proved to be false.

The Zinwell Nextgen TV Box, retailing for $149, is designed for TVs without a built-in ATSC3 tuner. It’s a straightforward device – plug in your antenna, connect it to your TV, and you’re set to receive both ATSC 3.0 and the older 1.0 signals. The setup process is impressively quick, and the interface, while minimalistic, is user-friendly.

However, the device’s limitations soon became apparent. Despite its claims, the Zinwell box requires an Internet connection to decrypt ATSC 3.0 DRM channels, at least initially.

This contradicts the product description and the industry’s assurances. Just a few days ago broadcast industry association Pearl TV congratulated Zinwell on the product release claiming the new box is “A3SA security verified to operate without needing an internet connection for tuning to channels with protected broadcast content.” That clearly is not the case as the first thing the “quick start guide” urges consumers to do is connect to the Internet in order to watch encrypted channels.

After connecting to the internet and tuning into an encrypted channel, you can disconnect the Internet and still view it. But this process must be repeated for each encrypted channel. The duration these channels remain viewable without internet re-connection is unclear. I’ll be leaving my box off the Internet for the foreseeable future and will report back if the security credential expires.

Another downside is the box’s outdated security. Running on Android 11 with its last security update from August 2021, it’s significantly behind in terms of security patches. This is concerning, especially given the need for an internet connection to access certain features.

The update process is another area of frustration. It’s complex and not user-friendly, requiring the user to manually launch and sideload updates from deep within its Android operating system.

All of this is incredibly unfortunate given just how good the ATSC 3.0 standard is proving to be in my area when channels are not locked down. The quality of the over-the-air television signal is remarkable and the reception is notably improved. Unfortunately the actions the broadcast industry is taking regarding is likely going to hinder adoption.

See more of my ATSC 3.0 coverage here.

Intel Core Ultra is a Big Improvement! HP Spectre x360 14 Review -14t-eu000

My latest video explores the HP Spectre x360 14, featuring Intel’s new Core Ultra processor. This device and its new processor has impressed me with its performance leap, especially in graphical capabilities.

The Spectre x360 14, a two-in-one device, starts at a price of $1,449 (compensated affiliate link). The unit I reviewed has a new Intel Ultra 7 155h processor with an integrated Arc GPU. The new processor has 16 cores – 6 designated for high performance activites, 8 for power efficient tasks, and another 2 “NPU” cores designed for machine learning activities.

The Spectre x360 line sports a 14-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2880 by 1800. The display’s brightness peaks at 500 nits in HDR mode and supports a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz, making it useful for a range of tasks from document editing to media consumption.

Weighing in at 3.19 pounds, the laptop feels premium with its all-aluminum build. Unique to HP Spectres, a Thunderbolt 4 port and a headphone jack are placed on the corners. Other ports include a compact USB-A port, and an addition Thunderbolt 4 ports. HP also includes a small dock in the box with additional ports.

The keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with well-spaced, backlit keys and decent key travel. The haptic trackpad, while innovative, does present some responsiveness issues, often misinterpreting gestures or clicks. This is an area that could benefit from software refinement.

Equipped with a high-resolution webcam, the Spectre x360 delivers clear video quality, enhanced by Intel AI features for background blurring and other image effects. The webcam has a physical lens cover, operable via a keyboard shortcut.

Audio quality from the built-in speakers is satisfactory, though best experienced in the laptop mode due to some muffling when in display orientation.

Performance-wise, the HP Spectre x360 excels in everyday tasks like web browsing, and media streaming. Its Wi-Fi 7 capability should deliver solid wireless performance in most environments. The included pen provides a responsive and pressure-sensitive drawing experience, though the smooth screen might feel a bit slippery to some users.

Battery life has seen improvement with the new Intel chips. Under normal use, the laptop can last 9-10 hours in my testing, a notable increase from previous models.

In terms of heavier tasks like video editing and gaming, the Spectre x360 14 holds up remarkably well. Editing 4K videos at 60fps was smooth and efficient, thanks to the new Intel chip. Gaming performance showed significant improvement, running games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Doom Eternal at significantly better framerates than the prior generation of Intel chips running on integrated graphics.

The laptop remained cool and quiet throughout my testing, demonstrating the balance between power and efficiency in this new generation of Intel processors.

However, I did encounter some limitations with Linux compatibility, suggesting this model is best suited for Windows users.

The Spectre x360 14 is a promising indication of what’s to come in the laptop market. Intel really upped the game here so it’ll be fun to see what AMD cooks up to respond.

Are Portable Carplay / Android Auto Displays Worth It?

In my latest video I explore the growing trend of portable Carplay and Android Auto displays among generic Chinese manufacturers. You can find these all over Amazon in many different sizes and configurations.

These devices, like the one I examined in the video, are essentially “dumb terminals” that, when connected to your Android phone or iPhone, activate the in-vehicle features of your smartphone. Displays like this offer an intriguing solution for those who own cars without built-in Carplay or Android Auto capabilities.

Priced under $150, with some models like this one around $70, are very easy to integrate into most vehicles.

The particular model I reviewed features a 7-inch screen but is relatively heavy, suggesting it’s not suited for suction cup mounting. It was designed to be attached directly to the dashboard, though I did have concerns about the potential of its adhesive damaging the dashboard upon removal.

Setting up the device is straightforward. It connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, and once paired, it boots up quickly into the Carplay or Android Auto interface. The user experience mirrors what you would expect in a car with built-in capabilities.

The device comes with several ports, including a USB-A for storage, an SD card slot, and an auxiliary output. The latter is crucial since the device doesn’t transmit audio to the car’s Bluetooth system, necessitating a hardwired connection for audio output. Alternatively it does have a built in FM transmitter for sending audio to the car’s radio via RF. It’s also equipped with built-in speakers which sound pretty bad. There are apparently some other devices like this that will interface with a car’s bluetooth audio system.

These devices have a microphone built in for phone calls and assistant commands. I was able to trigger both Siri and the Google Assistant by shouting out their wake words. Phone call audio will route through the display and not through the phone.

These portable Carplay and Android Auto displays are a great way to get Android Auto or Carplay support to an older vehicle. This particular model works best for cars that have an aux input for a hard wired connection but the FM transmitter should be a sufficient alternative. I would like to see a version that’s lighter and more portable for using in rental cars, etc. to avoid having to pair your phone and your personal data to a car that will later be used by others.

But given how many different versions of these things exist out there I’m sure you can find one that meets your particular needs on Amazon. You’ll also find full on dashboard display replacement models for popular vehicles.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored video and this product came in free of charge through the Amazon Vine program. I did not have any communication with its manufacturer, nor did anyone review or approve this video before it was uploaded.

A Foldable Windows PC! Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Review

In my latest video I take a look at the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16, a foldable PC that presents a new concept in computing. This device can be used both as a small 12″ equivalent laptop but can then have its display unfold into a much larger 16.3″ experience.

The ThinkPad X1 Fold 16, priced at approximately $3200 as configured (compensated affiliate link), is equipped with an Intel i5-1260u processor, 16 GB of DDR5 soldered RAM, and a 512 GB SSD. The standout feature is its 16.3-inch foldable OLED display, offering a 4:3 aspect ratio and 100% DCI P3 color coverage, making it useful for creative work.

Unlike the Pixel Fold smartphone I reviewed recently, the X1 Fold’s display crease is hardly visible. But it can be felt when using the pen accessory. This might make it difficult for doing artwork especially if drawing in the center of the display is necessary. But for simpler drawings or note taking it’s fine.

The X1 Fold weighs about 2.38 lbs, making it slightly heavy for one-handed use but manageable. The keyboard/trackpad and stand add about another pound to the mix when transporting. Unfortunately the keyboard and stand need to be separated when not in use although they’ll loosely attach magnetically to the folded display for transporting.

The included stand was the weakest component of an otherwise elegant design. It has a habit of collapsing if it’s at too steep of an angle and I had a hard time getting it to stay settled when rotating the display into a portrait configuration without folding the upper half of the display slightly.

Placing the keyboard/trackpad combo on top of the screen will automatically reorient the display to make the Fold function like a small laptop. The stand is not needed when operating in this mode. Detaching the keyboard restores the full image to the display.

The X1 fold has three USB-C ports located on separate sides of the unit. Two of them are Thunderbolt 4 with the third offering USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds. All of the ports are full service allowing for power in, video out and data device connectivity. Battery life ranges from 9 to 10 hours when running low impact tasks along with the optional second battery installed. Without the extra battery expect about 4-6 hours.

The webcam offers a high-quality 1440p resolution. I was pleased with its output and the detail it picks up. The device’s speaker system, while not outstanding, delivers adequate sound quality for its size.

In terms of performance, the X1 Fold 16 handles web browsing, video streaming, and basic productivity tasks smoothly. Gaming and more intensive tasks are possible but limited due to the hardware specifications and the fanless design, which can lead to thermal throttling under heavy load. I did find basic video editing to run well on the device but more advanced tasks that strain the processor more will likely not be ideal.

I also tested it with the latest version of Ubuntu. As expected some of the advanced features like detecting the placement of the keyboard on top of the display did not work. But most of the hardware was detecting including the touch panel, wifi and bluetooth. Unfortunately audio did not work.

The X1 Fold is a forward-looking device that could evolve into a new PC product category. The high price point will be a deterrent for many, but for those looking for a more flexible laptop this will certainly deliver.

This TV Tuner / DVR Stick Works Without the Internet

My latest review takes a look at my latest Amazon gadget find: a super portable standalone ATSC 1.0 television tuner from an unknown brand called DCOLOR that is USB powered and works without an active Internet connection.

This TV tuner stands out for its ability to function without an Internet connection, tapping into the ATSC 1.0 standard for standard and high-definition content. While most televisions made over the last 10-15 years or so have a built in ATSC 1.0 tuner, this device adds DVR capability, enabling users to record directly onto a USB storage device. It’s also useful for computer monitors that lack a built-in TV tuner.

The tuner’s design is straightforward: a coax connector for the antenna, a USB power cord, and an HDMI port capable of 1080p, 720p, and 480 resolutions. There’s a second USB connector that attaches to the built-in infrared receiver for the included remote control.

In operation, the tuner is user-friendly. The infrared receiver, although a bit dated in design, displays the current channel and it can’t be turned off. The channel flipping is surprisingly swift, even for high-definition channels. A unique aspect is its old-school VCR-like recording capability – push the record button and it starts recording whatever is on screen until you stop it.

The electronic program guide, pulled over the air, offers a basic, non-grid view of upcoming programs. The device supports scheduled and manual recordings, adding to its utility. Playback quality is an exact copy of what it received over the air with support for closed captioning. Interestingly, this device also doubles as a rudimentary media player, allowing playback of videos and music files stored on a USB device.

However, the device isn’t without its limitations. The firmware update process is unclear – in fact all they give you is a gmail address for support. The interface, though functional, is far from cutting-edge. It’s a product that doesn’t promise extravagance but delivers on its basic premise – a simple, effective way to watch and record TV without internet dependency.

For those seeking a basic, no-frills approach to TV tuning and recording, especially in contexts like boats or RVs, this device could be useful.

$449 Dell Inspiron 7435 Review

In my latest review, I took a closer look at the Dell Inspiron 7435 2-in-1 laptop, currently priced at $449 (compensated affiliate link). This device is a solid one thanks to its versatility, functioning both as a laptop and a tablet. It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen 7530U processor. It’s well suited for casual computing and even some light gaming.

The loaner unit I reviewed was the entry-level model. It came equipped with 8GB of dual channel DDR4 RAM, and 512GB of NVME storage. One note is that the RAM is soldered onto the motherboard, limiting upgrade possibilities. However, Dell does offer a 16GB variant for those needing more memory. The laptop also features a MediaTek Wi-Fi 6E radio, enhancing its connectivity options.

Its 14-inch IPS display, with a resolution of 1920×1200, is satisfactory for everyday use. The screen offers touch functionality, essential when using the device in tablet mode, but isn’t all that bright at 250 nits. I was particularly impressed with the 1080p webcam – its quality is a significant plus for video calls and remote work.

Despite its weight of 3.48 lbs and plastic construction, the Inspiron 7435 doesn’t feel cheap. The backlit keyboard has nice well spaced keys but has a bit of a shallow key depth. The trackpad’s responsiveness met my expectations, consistent with other Dell models I’ve tested. The 7435 also has a fingerprint reader attached to its power button for quick access.

In terms of ports, the Inspiron 7435 has two full service USB-C ports, a full-size SD card reader, a USB-A port, and a headphone/microphone jack. It also has an HDMI port but it’s only meeting the 1.4 specification – this means it will only output 30hz at 4k. The USB-C ports do support DisplayPort output for greater video options, however. The speakers, while not exceptionally loud, deliver clear audio quality, especially in laptop mode.

Battery life should come in around 10 to 11 hours of usage for basic tasks. However, this duration shortens with more intensive activities like gaming or heavy processing.

Performance-wise, the laptop handles basic tasks like web browsing and document editing nicely. It supports Dell’s pen input but is not compatible with the USI standard. While it can handle basic video editing, it’s not cut out for more complex tasks due to its limited RAM.

Gaming performance on the Inspiron 7435 is modest but adequate for casual gaming. Titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, Fortnite, and GTA V run smoothly at around 30 fps at 1280×800 at low settings.

I also tested the laptop’s compatibility with Linux, specifically the latest version of Ubuntu. Everything worked seamlessly, from audio to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it an affordable choice for those who prefer alternative operating systems.

Overall, my experience with the Dell Inspiron 7435 2-in-1 laptop was positive. It’s a well-rounded device that offers good value for its price point. While it’s not a high-end laptop, it provides satisfactory performance and quality for everyday users and casual gamers.