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    September 18, 2007
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    November 22, 2016
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Sixshot's Reviews
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Introducing Pixel 8 Pro, the all-pro phone engineered by Google. It’s sleek, sophisticated, powerful, and secure. With Google AI, you can do more, even faster. [1] The triple camera system includes a dedicated 5x telephoto lens, improved autofocus, and full-resolution photography with Pro controls. And the all-day battery charges faster than ever. [2] [3]
 
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Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Improvements in Iterations
on October 24, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
With a chance to review the Google Pixel 8 Pro, I jumped on this to see if what’s been rumored and what’s been talked about is true.
The setup process is easy and straightforward. Provided are USB-C cable for charging and data transfer, a USB-A to USB-C adapter, and a SIM ejection tool. Right off the bat, I see a difference between the Pixel 8 Pro and the fruity competitor: it still can use a physical SIM card. While you can use an eSIM for it, a physical SIM card is simpler, easier, and more straightforward.
People who have used Android phones can easily bring your apps and data over to the new phone. And while you can also bring your old photos and videos to the new phone, the additional data transfer will slow down the overall setup process. This is especially true if you have a lot of apps installed. I have opted to forego the photos and videos in order to start using the phone sooner. Once the app side is done, I power down the phone, and pop the SIM from the previous phone in. Once the phone is back on, it readily connects to the cell network. A quick text and call helped verify that it is working.
Time to check out the build. The design theme that started on the Pixel 6 continues on in the Pixel 8. Hopefully this will continue on since this is starting to look like the Pixel’s identity. And finally, the Pixel 8 Pro now sports a flat screen. For the longest time I have hated curved screens because it makes finding quality tempered glass screen protectors difficult. Now that the screen is (mostly) flat, I can find a decent screen protector that won’t have potential design defects. Here’s to hoping that the next iteration will feature a flat glass all the way across. I’m still not much of a fan of rounded edges. But that’s easily fixed with a case. Also of note, the screen can get pretty bright. Comparing it to the previous generation is difficult and I can barely see the difference in brightness.
Wireless charging is capped at 12w using any Qi compatible charger but can support 23w charging using Google’s proprietary Pixel Stand 2. I’m against this idea of having a two-tiered wireless charging speed. I do not mind certain features that are available only with Google’s proprietary wireless charger. Some may find it useful while others will just use a standard 3rd-party Qi charger. But charging speed should not be split into tiers.
The phone performs well under load. As a Genshin Impact player, I loaded the game to check out its performance. And while it does not have the fastest or most powerful graphics hardware on the market, it is enough to handle the game for casual play. Outside of playing games, the P8Pro handles everything without much fuss. Everything feels snappy and smooth, thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate it is capable of.
One of the big elephants in the room for any Android phone is software updates. For a long time, Android has had software updates that come up short behind a certain fruity competitor. Now, for the first time, Google has committed to supporting the Pixel 8 series (and hopefully future Pixels) for 7 years. And it’s not limited to security updates like before. That means being able to run (a potential) “Android 21” by the time support ends in 2030. The length of Android software support has definitely improved over time. And now, Google has finally made it possible to go toe to toe against the big fruity competitor in the update category. Whether Google will honor that remains to be seen, as 7 years is a long time for the life of any smartphone.
Okay, so we have all that. But is it worth it? At MSRP, it’s asking a lot, especially since synthetic benchmark numbers put it behind the latest chips in other Android phones. But what you get out of it are some Pixel-specific features, no additional duplicate apps that a certain Korean company tends to tack on, one of the best cameras out there, and some “pro” features for the cameras. Its high price isn’t helping its case when compared to its smaller and less expensive sibling. But while the price is indeed higher than its previous generation, there are always trade-in options as well as carrier offers that help spread the cost of the phone over time. It’s a definite buy if your phone is past year 3. And it’s recommended if it’s just past year 2.
The Good: get the latest Android release, Pixel-exclusive feature like call screening, best-in-class cameras, 7 years of Android updates
The Bad: proprietary fast wireless charging, no fast wired or wireless charging
The Ugly: the thought of your phone having enough AI power to become sentient
Verdict: Buy
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+3points
3of 3voted this as helpful.
 
Expand your world with Meta Quest 3, a mixed reality headset that lets you jump into full immersion or blend physical and virtual worlds to transform your home into an exciting new playground. It’s the most powerful Quest yet, reimagined from the inside out with breakthrough technology. Extraordinary experiences come to life with lightning fast performance and dazzling details. And with the world's best library of 500+ immersive apps, there’s something for everyone to discover. Unlock access to the best immersive experiences with a 6-month subscription2 to Meta Quest+ and embark on a journey to save all of reality with the marquee VR action RPG Asgard’s Wrath 21. Included with purchase for a limited time. See child safety guidance online; Accounts for 10+. *Based on the graphic performance of the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 vs Meta Quest 2. 1Asgard’s Wrath 2 is intended for mature audiences. Offer ends 3/30/24; terms apply. 2Eligibility and auto-renewal terms apply for trial subscriptions. See full terms.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Real Life, Fantasy, and...
on October 17, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
As my first full VR headset, I do not know what to expect. Adjusting the strap is straightforward and I managed to get a snug fit. However, as I wear glasses for a clearer view of the display, fitting the headset with glasses on becomes a hit-or-miss endeavor. Thankfully I have an old pair on hand that can fit with it. The headset can be adjusted to accommodate glasses and it’s a nice touch this is included. Software setup is straightforward and guides you easily through the process.
The VR and MR (Mixed Reality) experiences are interesting and new to me. The virtual visuals are clear and the audio is acceptable. The experience is quite wild and immersive. And while it is entertaining and fun to tinker in either mode, trying to find something new is a bit of a challenge. VR in general is such a niche market and trying to find new apps/games that are not trial-based is difficult. In the end, I tried out Moss and Puzzling Places. I also installed Supernatural which is an exercise-type app but it pestered me to enter payment info, which I am not going to do during a review run.
Playing Moss in VR is a lot of fun with the limited time I had. The visuals are beautiful and the character design is very cute. I’m willing to say that this game is a must-have to really enjoy VR in general. For Puzzling Places, I find that it’s an excellent 3D puzzle game and is a good example of using the controller to manipulate the piece. In fact, I ran out of time on the trial since I enjoy taking my time to figure out puzzles.
Interacting with the user interface is straightforward with the controller. Using hand tracking is a nice feature for when you need simple controls, especially when the controller is either not in reach or is out of battery power. In MR mode, the interface is superimposed over the reality captured from the camera. The visual captured by the camera didn’t look all that good to me. I do not know if this is normal or if this is due to lack of lighting. But it is passable in order to see your surroundings if you need to walk around the room.
In the end, I’m satisfied with what the Quest 3 has to offer. I’m unsure about committing to buying some of the titles that caught my interest. And the price can surely put some people off who want to try out VR. If you know someone who has a stand-alone VR headset, you can try that out before committing. Otherwise, I still feel VR is a niche market for those who can afford it. The lack of totally free games or apps (or perhaps the lack of finding one) also does not help its case. If you can afford it and have experienced VR in the past, I say it’s a good purchase. But if you’re new and considering getting into VR, I suggest holding off until you give it a trial run via a friend or a demo station (if there is one around at all).
The Good: immersive, clear graphics, mixed reality to see your surroundings, no tethered cables
The Bad: stand-alone VR equates to limited computing/graphics power
The Ugly: accidents waiting to happen when someone walks into the room while you’re in VR mode
Verdict: Buy if you can afford it and you know what you’re getting into, otherwise skip
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Play in comfort with this adjustable, ergonomic head strap that fits most head sizes with the quick turn of a dial. This Elite Strap upgrades your fit by taking pressure off your face for increased comfort and weight distribution. The soft and flexible silicone support cradles the back of your head, reducing fatigue. This genuine Meta Quest accessory easily installs on your Meta Quest 3 for a perfect and secure fit every time you play, create, and explore in VR.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Just nice to have
on October 17, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
The Elite Strap is partly a plastic mechanical strap that opens and closes using a rotating knob at the back. Installation was tricky and the included instruction wasn’t all that helpful and scary at the same time. The instruction states to twist the strap covering to dislodge it from the headset. That scares me as it is an expensive piece of electronics that I do not want to break. Instead, I found that carefully “lifting” (or prying?) the strap off is better, as it is held by soft tabs. Once installation is done, all that’s left is to fit the headset to your head and adjust the top strap accordingly. I find that as soon as I got a good fit for the top strap, I can leave it as is. By the time the next session comes around, you only need to turn the knob to get it fitted in again. The back head support is gentle enough to be comfortable. And I find that it improves the overall comfortability, but only by a small amount. I personally do not feel it is necessary or required to get it. It’s a small upgrade for the sake of comfortability. I guess that’s why they call it an “Elite Strap.” So is it worth it? In all honesty, I don’t know. Would I recommend it? I’m going to err on the side of caution and say no. It’s just a nice thing to have and isn’t really required or necessary unless you want your Quest 3 completely decked out.
Verdict: Pass
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Take your headset and accessories on the go with style and protection. Designed to fit your headset, Touch Plus Controllers, charging cable, adapter, headstrap (standard or Elite), and Active Straps, this case features an outer felt shell and contoured inner compartments to keep your gear organized and secure. With its lightweight construction, soft hand strap, zipper opening, and rounded profile, the case makes it easy to carry and access your Meta Quest 3 and accessories on the go. This genuine Meta Quest accessory ensures a perfect fit, durability and convenience for your VR setup.
 
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Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great for storage too
on October 17, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
Despite it being called a carrying case, it doubles as a way to store your Quest 3. It’s a simple zipper clamshell design to house the Quest 3 and the absolute minimum necessities. The slot to store your controller is molded to fit right in but it’s a bit confusing on how it should be oriented. Still, as long as it fits and zips closed, that’s all that really matters. There’s a small compartment that can house the charger and cable that came included with the Quest 3. Including that compartment is a nice touch so you don’t have to fumble around looking for the charging brick and cable. Also, the case doubles as a storage case so you can protect the headset from collecting any dust. The case does what it’s designed to do. There’s nothing much else to say. I recommend getting it so that you have something to store the Quest 3 in. It's better than leaving it in some random spot around home to collect dust, which could make cleaning and dusting a chore. Also, there’s a little loop strap that can be used to hang off a hook so it doesn’t occupy shelf space.
Verdict: recommended buy
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
PRO X TKL is the next generation of the Logitech G PRO keyboard. It was designed in collaboration with the world’s best esports players—and engineered to win. PRO X TKL helps players eliminate every barrier between them and the win with the speed and reliability of LIGHTSPEED wireless technology and a sleek, tenkeyless design. It’s been battle-tested, pro-approved, and built to win championships at the highest levels of competition.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
A New Typing Experience For Me
on September 17, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
The PRO X TKL is a refresh from the first generation of PRO keyboards. It uses mechanical key switches made by Kaihl despite Logitech calling it their GX Brown switches. The color connotation is similar or same as Kaihl and CherryMX. The “Brown” switches feature a tactile bump as you press down on the switch.
The overall design is solid. It is oddly heavy as a keyboard. I do not know if that’s due to the extra materials used in the overall design or just the base materials for the keyboard itself. Like in the product name, this keyboard is a TKL (ten-key-less) design. This means that the keys that would feature the number pad on the right side are not there. On one hand, this makes the keyboard portable. But on the other hand, you miss out on using that number pad for things like additional keybinds or fast number input. I personally find the number pad to be useful when typing in numbers. But for gamers, this is probably something they won’t miss. The usual media keys are present, situated above the F9 to F12 keys and volume control is at the top right corner. Above the F1 to F4 are system buttons for connecting the keyboard to the Lightspeed receiver, Bluetooth mode, Game mode, and RGB brightness toggle.
The sound profile for the PRO X TKL is a surprise for me. I have viewed some videos where people took their mechanical keyboards and added extra modifications to make the keyboard less clacky to type on. The end result sounds similar to how this keyboard sounds. I do like how it feels and sounds. Previous mechanical keyboards I’ve used have that distinct clacky noise that stems from either sup-par stabilizers or no gasket.
The PRO X TKL has 12 macro keys which doubles as the Function keys. Thus in order to use these keys, you need to toggle between the two using the “Fn” key. I have mixed feelings about this. Some games allow or utilize the Function keys for certain actions and that can get in the way of using these keys to the fullest. I welcome being able to have macro keys in the first place. It is at least there for people to use should one need a macro mapped to a key.
The RGB lighting for the keyboard is what you’d expect. Customizing it via the GHub software allows for some interesting and unique RGB lighting style that can suit your personal preference. While there are quite a number of customizations one can do with it, I use a more simplified lighting theme (rainbow wave as hardware default, ripple in Windows). I do miss being able to do zoned animations or layered RGB effects that a competitor does with their keyboard. But I can live with this for now until I really dive into customizing the lighting effects.
As a wireless keyboard, one has to be aware of how much battery life is left on the keyboard before needing to recharge it. I managed to get about a week’s worth of usage before needing to recharge, which is acceptable for now and I do not see a problem with it. Charging is done using USB-C and you can potentially get additional usage time by turning the keyboard off as you turn off the computer.
Using the Logitech GHub software is mostly straightforward. There are tabs for lighting effects, macro key assignments, and game mode for preferences. While there are some presets to choose from for a simplified approach, the freestyle and animation will take up much of your time to fine tune how you want your RGB to be. Between using the keyboard and limited time over the weekend, I am unable to truly dive into how much I can learn out of customizing the RGB effect. But other functions, like the macro key assignments and macro creations are straightforward and should take no time to figure out.
Overall, I’m liking this keyboard a lot. It’s got a smooth and quiet feel to it and I’m not even using rubber o-rings yet on the keys, which I had done on previous mechanical keyboards. As for the price, that’s a bit of a tricky matter. A small company that got its start from crowdfunding recently released a gaming keyboard under a new gaming brand. That keyboard cost just a bit higher but has potential to offer a lot more in customizing in general. Included is being able to use any compatible switch on the market, even if it means using one switch brand for certain keys but something else for other keys. If having to choose between this and the other, I’d lean on that competitor as a choice because of those additional customization options.
The Good: solidly built, quiet
The Bad: no number pad, price a bit high, switch not swappable
The Ugly: trying to utilize the macro key in an intense action game while keeping the function keys available
Verdict: buy if you already have other Logitech products connected, otherwise pass
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
The WF-1000XM5 features cutting-edge technology to deliver premium sound quality and the best truly wireless noise-cancelling performance on the market1. With a specially designed driver unit, for wide frequency production, deep bass and clear vocals, these headphones are designed to immerse you in a sound so good, it feels like you’re in the studio with your favorite artists.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Almost the best. Almost.
on July 30, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
Excited to try out the earbuds this time around. Sony’s been good at making good ANC headphones and earbuds over the past years. So I’m hoping this will continue on. For future references, I’ll be referring to these earbuds as the XM5 rather than its full model name WF-1000XM5.
I previously owned the XM3 earbuds. Comparatively large in physical size when compared to the XM5. Unfortunately I cannot truly compare the two now because I lost the charging case for the XM3. However, I do distinctly remember the physical size differences between the two. And the XM5 is definitely smaller this time around. The charging case has a USB-C port and pairing reset button at the back. Wireless charging is also available by setting the case upright on top of a wireless charger. The included USB-C cable, the most irritating and frustrating part of owning a Sony audio wear product, is once again short, coming in at over 6 inches in length. For the price you’re paying, it’s an insult to include a USB-C charging cable of this length. Sony continues the tradition of botching this up every time. Ensure you have a USB-C cable of preferred length around if you need to charge it using this method.
There are 4 extra foam tips should the pre-installed size (Medium) don’t fit your ears. They’re SS, S, and L. For my ears, I ended up using SS. I have no problem replacing them and I did a fitting try after each size to check what works for my ears. At the moment, the earbuds are staying in my ears after some random head shaking. So that’s good news.
One of the reviews I glanced over while waiting for the XM5 to be sent out mentioned a change in surface feel – to a gloss finish instead of matte. That person also says the change makes taking out the earbuds harder because of the smooth gloss finish. In this respect, I wholeheartedly agree with this. The gloss finish for the earbuds makes taking them out of the case harder. A matte finish would have made gripping them easier for removal from either the case or ears. This is a design flaw and decision that should not have made it through to manufacturing. If you intend on getting the XM5, I recommend being extremely careful when taking them out of the case or off your ears. There’s always that possibility of having butterfingers and an earbud slipping off, falling down to an unreachable crevice or spot. It’s the worst case scenario but it’s something you’ll need to keep in mind.
Sound quality is as good as it gets for earbuds. It has decent highs and seems to have good lows. The tuning seems balanced and I have no issue with how it sounds after almost two hours with my audio testing playlist. Additional listening was done on a different playlist with a different set of songs. Active noise cancellation is on at maximum level and I heard no external noise while listening and with no audio playback on. ANC is excellent as expected from Sony and it reduces every sound around me down to nearly nothing.
The microphone is probably the one area that these earbuds are weak on. A short test was run using the Recorder app on my Google Pixel phone and then listening to it. While it is acceptable in audio quality, it’s certainly not the best.
To make the most out of these earbuds, the Sony Headphones Connect app is available for iOS and Android devices. Sadly there’s no version for Windows so expect basic functionality when pairing with a laptop or any other Bluetooth enabled devices. Similar to other Sony audio wear with ANC, there are 3 basic levels of noise cancellation – full, “Ambient Sound,” and off. For Ambient Sound, there are 20 levels of adjustments to customize how much noise to cancel out or let in. For my use case, I kept this at full noise cancellation. Adjusting the noise cancellation level is greatly useful for when you need some audio awareness while using the earbuds.
As for the other features these earbuds and app offers, I did not test Spatial Audio or 360 Reality Audio, as neither would be of any use in my use case. Even if I wanted to try either of the two, the latter requires an additional install which I opted not to bother and the former has no additional detail on what can utilize this feature.
So, is the asking price worth it? The next best competitor other than the one from the fruity company can be had for less. The fruity competitor is priced the same as that competitor as well. This makes recommending a difficult choice as there are other options that could offer similar ANC performance as the XM5. The price increase over the previous generation only makes it harder to recommend from a value standpoint. Yet at the same time, people had concerns over battery life/drain on the previous generation. Would I pay the MSRP for the XM5? Honestly, no. There are other options and I feel that those offer potential better value with similar or same ANC performance. Now if the XM5 were priced the same as the previous generation, then I may lean to yes.
The Good: Excellent ANC, good sound profile, compact
The Bad: gloss finish makes removing earbuds from case tricky/hard, short USB-C cable, higher MSRP than previous gen
The Ugly: the possibility of an earbud slipping out of your finger only for it to fall down to an unreachable crevice/spot… all because Sony decides on a GLOSS finish instead of a matte finish.
Verdict: If discounted, yes. Otherwise, pass.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
+4points
5of 6voted this as helpful.
 
The Pixel Tablet is engineered by Google to be more helpful at home – and in your hand. Place it on the Charging Speaker Dock for great-sounding music and video streaming.[1] Control your smart home, and say “Hey Google” for hands-free help.[2] It’s all powered by the Google Tensor G2 chip, and it’s the perfect companion to your Pixel phone.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Google Tablet Experience: Part ???
on June 24, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
Google has an odd history with tablets. When the Nexus 7 tablet came out, it was a smash hit for its affordability and its perfect size. However, even though they set the bar for what a tablet can be, it never became what a tablet should be as envisioned by Google. The previous Pixel line of tablets never took off, due to its high price and questionable design choice. And because of so many failed attempts at defining what a tablet should be, Google just gave up, leaving only one major company to design and define the Android tablet. I was personally relieved that Google is returning to the tablet space under the Pixel series. I have some concerns about the tablet itself but I reserve that until I actually use it myself.
Setting up the tablet (which is the first step) was straightforward. Connect to the Google account, set up the device as new or copy data from another, and so forth. Connecting to WiFi was surprisingly different, as it allowed me to scan a QR code. So I open up my Pixel 7 Pro phone, share the WiFi via QR code, and the tablet connects right away. Once the tablet side is done, it’s placing the tablet onto the dock and setting that part up. The whole process was straightforward and I never had any problem getting it up and running.
The stock Android experience is one that I always prefer over anything else. And being able to finally run a tablet with that is a breath of fresh air. Users of Android phones or Pixel phones will find the experience to be very similar, just on a bigger screen. That bigger screen also comes with the ability to run two apps via split screen. This is quite useful when you need to have two apps open for various tasks. The only bad part is that not a lot of apps are optimized for tablets in landscape orientation. This isn’t the fault of Google but rather the laziness of many developers not bothering with tuning and optimizing the apps for use in large screens and landscape format.
Using the tablet docked in hub mode is a bit of a mixed bag. Having a larger screen makes it easier to see at a distance while also providing a bigger touch target when interacting with it. At the same time, it’s a bit jarring not having the usual hub interface seen in other smart displays. And whether or not it’s due to the dual purpose of the tablet, I have difficulties in running a routine I had set up previously. I had to tweak the routine to make it mostly work. Still, it wasn’t fully set up the way I wanted it to. But for now, I’ll have to deal with that small quirk.
The hardware featured in the tablet is what I have come to expect from Google nowadays. There’s no headphone jack for the tablet. Audio output will be done via internal speakers or from the charging dock (if docked). There’s Bluetooth available so one could pair your own headphone/earbuds to it for a better listening experience. The power button doubles as a fingerprint reader and has not given me any problem so far. The display is high density at 2560x1600 but sadly it’s not OLED and is stuck at 60Hz refresh rate. While 60Hz is something I can tolerate to keep costs down, not having an OLED for display is a missed opportunity. One can easily extend the battery life without having to dock it by using OLED to drive only the pixels it needs to light up. Would that make the tablet unbearably more expensive? Honestly, I don’t know for sure.
Powering the tablet is Google’s Tensor G2 processor, which is the same chip found in the Pixel 7 [Pro] phones. With that you get all the bells and whistles that come with utilizing the G2 chip to its fullest. However, the only part that will not get much love is the image processing, as the two cameras on the front and back are 8 megapixels with f/2.0 aperture. You won’t get a lot of details and good image quality out of the cameras but it is sufficient enough for video calls.
In the end, I’m glad Google has returned to the tablet market with the Pixel Tablet. The Android tablet market is so boring and uninteresting due to a certain South Korean company having total control over it. And because tablets in general are such a niche market, it’s hard for any other company to step up and make a good tablet that can actually challenge it. I’ve been waiting for so long for a tablet that is as Google envisioned or designed. And I was on the fence on whether to buy a certain fruity competitor’s high end tablet. Thankfully and finally, I don’t have to look into it. Is it a recommended product? There’s a big IF for that. If you have several products that integrate nicely into Google’s Home ecosystem, then getting the tablet is highly recommended. The dual function of a tablet and a smart display makes it almost indispensable for a smart home. However, what about those who do not have any of that? I lean more on recommending it despite the high cost. Aside from the obvious smart display function, you can also look at it as a photo frame to display your preferred photos while docked.
The Good: a Google tablet finally, big screen, comes with charger, pure stock Android experience
The Bad: both camera hardware are low-spec, Google Home routines need improvement, not OLED display
The Ugly: the possible/future designs of tablet cases that also supports docking
Verdict: recommended buy
I would recommend this to a friend!
+3points
3of 3voted this as helpful.
 
The new Alienware m16 is 16-inch high-performance gaming laptop with the latest CPU and GPU offerings and thermals that harness its power for smooth and stable performance. Get innovative and powerful performance with the latest 13th generation Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series graphics cards.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Decent Gaming Laptop But...
on June 20, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
The Alienware m16 is one of those laptops that try to strike a balance between size and portability. Although frankly, I doubt this laptop is intended to be portable. So I will treat it as more of a decent gaming laptop that happens to be portable.
Much of the specifications are already published so I will not dive into the details here. However, there are a couple of hardware pieces that are worth mentioning either because it’s not the norm or is worth noting. The first is the GPU, which is powered by the nvidia RTX 4070 Laptop. Its architecture design belongs to the desktop RTX 4060Ti yet its CUDA count sits between the 4060Ti and the 4070. The networking hardware is powered by Killer, which is a bit of a downer since I believe it’s unnecessary. Network performance will be mostly the same regardless of what networking hardware is used. The only difference is that one can prioritize network traffic on Killer hardware. But I question who actually utilizes this feature nowadays.
As a power user, I went through the first time Windows setup in a different route – I set up a local account instead of using a Microsoft account. There are guides on how to do this so a bit of searching will net you some links and pointers. Otherwise, the standard setup procedure is easy, simple, and straightforward enough to guide you through without much trouble. Also of note, Windows 11 Pro comes installed for this model. This is a bit of a surprise since the majority of all laptops come with Windows 11 Home, including a lot of laptops classified as gaming laptops.
The laptop comes with 16GB which is configured as two SODIMM memory. This opens up the possibility of upgrading the laptop up to (according to Intel’s documentation and specification) 128GB. There are two M.2 slots, with one being occupied by a 1TB SK Hynix SSD. The SSD part number is HFS001TEJ9X101N should one want to know for reference. The left side has the microphone/headphone combo jack, an Ethernet networking port, and USB port. The back of the laptop has two thunderbolt ports, USB, HDMI, mini-DisplayPort, and a SD card reader. I’m always appreciative and welcoming of having the HDMI port at the back of the laptop, which makes connecting the laptop to an external display easier. It also keeps the laptop usable without having an annoying cable sticking out on the side and possibly restricting space on either side.
For a short performance test, I installed Death Stranding Director’s Cut via Epic Games Launcher. To gather its performance as well as thermal readings, I installed MSI Afterburner 4.6.5 and OCCT. I went through the new game introduction sequence up to after the cave sheltering. From there, I exited the game and evaluated the numbers. As for framerate, the 4070 Laptop kept up fairly well, never letting the game dip below 100fps. This is also at its native resolution of 2560x1600 with stock detail setting and no upscaling. This is pretty impressive yet at the same time a bit of a letdown. I have not yet found a game that I could potentially push the GPU in my library. But with the performance seen in this one game, I came away surprised and impressed. Perhaps this is only due to how well coded the game was. As for the Intel CPU, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it handles workloads easily. But with Death Stranding playing, I also worry about thermals. OCCT reported a max temperature of 100°C on all of the performance cores. The fans did spin up to reasonably keep the system cooled but I never adjusted the fan profiles. I also worry about fan noise if I were to adjust it.
Networking was not tested as I do not have a wireless access point capable of 6E and my networking equipment cannot do 2.5Gbit. But it handles well enough that it is satisfactory. I’m sure wired networking will be flawless so there’s little need to check that. Sound seems okay but I didn’t run through my audio testing gauntlet to check. The speakers are downward firing so I do not expect good sound from it. I may be wrong on it though. Lastly, the webcam is perhaps the biggest disappointment for the laptop. Its 720p resolution is unacceptable in today’s day and age no matter what your target market is. Dell/Alienware should have done better to make 1080p webcam standard across every laptop. There are also no infrared sensors for facial recognition and no fingerprint reader for biometric authentication. This means having to type your password or PIN every time you log into the laptop.
Servicing or upgrading the laptop is mostly straightforward. With the lid opening facing towards you, there are two capped screws on the bottom corners. The rest can be removed and it’s just a matter of carefully prying the back cover off. The bottom screws are all angled differently so I suggest being careful on how you orient your screwdriver. The back cover also covers the sides so extra caution is needed to carefully separate it from the laptop. Once it’s off, you have access to the internals. The M.2 slots are towards the right. I find it strange that there’s a heat spreader for the installed M.2 SSD but no spare for the empty slot. The two SODIMM slots are towards the center and are occupied by two SK hynix 8GB DDR5 RAM with part number HMCG66MEBSA095N for both. Both are rated for 4800MT speed, the maximum the Intel processor can handle.
Overall, I’m a bit conflicted. The performance is definitely there and I cannot deny that it’s a decent laptop. But there are some glaring points that I just cannot ignore for a laptop at this price. The lack of biometric authentication is inconvenient. The low 720p webcam resolution is reminiscent of the same problem many people complained about on fruity competitor laptops. In today’s day and age of Zoom meetings and video conferencing, 720p isn’t going to cut it. I also have concerns of thermals and this is mirrored on Intel’s desktop counterparts. While it isn’t a problem at all, I find it strange that they did not include a spare heat spreader for the second M.2 slot. Those SSD get quite hot and it can lead to thermal throttling if not sufficiently cooled. Yet despite all the glaring flaws, is this laptop worth recommending? That’s difficult to determine. I personally think that there are probably better options out there that will provide similar performance but without the issues noted earlier. Unfortunately, this laptop isn’t a slam dunk.
The Good: smooth performance, handles most games easily
The Bad: 720p webcam & no infrared sensor, no fingerprint reader, no spare heat spreader for second M.2 slot
The Ugly: 720p webcam
Verdict: Shop first to compare, definitely not a first choice laptop
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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+6points
9of 12voted this as helpful.
 
The PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED Gaming Headset was designed with the world’s best pro players to remove any barrier between you and the win. Engineered for comfort and confidence with award-winning PRO design, 50mm Graphene drivers for advanced sound quality, LIGHTSPEED wireless with up to 50-hour on a single charge, multiple connection options, clear communications with a 6mm cardioid microphone on a detachable boom arm, DTS Headphone:X 2.0 Surround Sound, improved comfortable design, and durable aluminum and steel frame.
 
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Better than before? Yes, please.
on May 30, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
Terminology References: Logitech G PRO X = PX; Logitech G PRO X 2 = PX2
Having used the first generation of their PRO X headset, I’m curious to see what improvements they made in the PRO X 2. I expected more of the same but came away impressed by what some people have said about it. So let’s dive in and hear what the PX2 has to offer.
Taking the headset out of the box, the first thing I noticed is that the cans can now rotate so the headset can rest around your neck more easily and comfortably. This is in stark contrast to the PX which doesn’t swivel. In all honesty, I did not miss this detail as I don’t set it around my neck. Perhaps I may do this often with the PX2. Preinstalled are leatherette ear pads and Logitech, like before, bundles velour (cloth) pads. There is nothing wrong with the leatherette pads. They provide better sound isolation outside noise reduction. But at the same time, it also creates a better seal around your ears. And that traps moisture which can build up in long sessions. Velour pads add a bit of breathability to your ears but sacrifices noise reduction. I personally prefer velour pads because they’re just a tad more comfortable for long gaming and music listening runs. Also included are the usual necessities to get the headset up and running: a USB-A transceiver, USB-A to USB-C cable for charging the headphone, the microphone to attach to the headphone, and a 3.5mm cable. Yes, there’s a 3.5mm cable included to connect the headphone to a 3.5mm audio jack, like (gasp) a phone!
Logitech advertises longer battery life over its predecessor. I do not have enough time to truly check or confirm this. But longer battery life is always welcome so there’s no complaining from me. As mentioned, there’s a 3.5mm port on the headphone. While there’s also a 3.5mm jack on the transceiver, it’s used as an audio input source. I’m a bit confused on that feature but I suppose it’s if you need another audio source to funnel through. Anyway, the 3.5mm jack allows you to use the headphone beyond the computer or if the headphone has no more power left. But if absolute wireless is your thing, it also supports Bluetooth connection.
There are two big requirements for using headphones – comfort and sound. For comfort, it has to be lightweight and/or comfortable to wear. Like the PX before it, it is comfortable to wear for long sessions. For its weight, it is noticeably lighter than before, much to my surprise. The top headband cushion is the same as before, which is okay. The headphone isn’t tight which helps with the comfort level. It has just enough to keep it on the head without weighing itself down. The lighter weight overall of the headphone also helps with that.
The other biggest requirement for continued use of a headphone is its tuning. I personally prefer a flat sound over anything else. I don’t need additional bass or highs. That can always be set in the EQ. In the music listening session, it is about as flat as I can hear it. I do not have an audiophile’s ear so I am no expert on this. But it sounds nice and neutral to make listening to a variety of music genres easy and enjoyable. The lows don't have much of a punch but perhaps it’s too early to judge. The gaming side of things is no different. It all sounds good and I didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary. Since Bluetooth is available for the headphone, I connected it to my phone and played through some of my audio testing playlist. In the short time of listening through it, I cannot hear any discernible difference. Lastly and unfortunately, I am unable to test wired connection at this time due to another mobile device having no power right now.
The G Hub software allows you to set your audio preferences in how it sounds. You can adjust the EQ, turn on the virtual surround sound, and set up audio processing for your microphone. There’s even a sampler soundboard for various audio effects to be played, such as while streaming. I didn’t find anything useful for microphone audio processing. There are some effects one could apply to your voice but that’s only for fun and could be useful for people who actively stream or record audio often. The virtual surround sound does add something to the overall audio but messes up the general audio profile in how things sound. It also messes up how I hear things when trying to figure out if there’s any difference. Akin to tasting things and having to rinse your mouth to reset your taste palette, it kinda also applies to me here. I left the surround sound option off since there’s only so much you can do with two active speakers.
Overall, the PX2 improves upon the first generation by adding in what was missing the first time around. I like being able to connect to a mobile device via Bluetooth or 3.5mm and it allows the PX2 to be usable outside the computer. While the higher cost is questionable and debatable compared to its predecessor, it’s still a very good headphone to use for your gaming needs. The sound is nice and flat and you can tune it via EQ to suit your preference. Is it worth the asking price? That’s hard to say. The addition of Bluetooth and wired connectivity does add value and some versatility. And having the first generation Pro X does leave me a bit biased towards recommending it anyway.
The Good: Lightweight, good sound, multiple ways to connect the headphone, choice of leatherette or velour ear pads
The Bad: Slightly more expensive than its first gen
The Ugly: Using the headphone in Bluetooth mode without the mic attached
Verdict: Buy
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Game like a pro on Windows 11 with this ROG Zephyrus G14. Double up on AMD firepower with Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU and RTX 4060 GPU featuring exclusive AMD SmartShift and Smart Access Memory technology that dynamically boosts performance for any task. Be confident in screen quality with an ROG Nebula 165Hz Display. Leap into the next generation of memory and storage with 8GB of DDR5 RAM, and 512GB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage.
 
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Fast & Portable Gaming Laptop
on May 8, 2023
Posted by: Sixshot
The model reviewed is GA402XV-G14.R94060, which can possibly be found at other retailers. The Zephyrus G14 series focuses on portability while packing as much powerful hardware as possible. It’s a great laptop that is easy to take around yet still has enough power to play some big games today. While it can technically play games, one will have to find a balance on how much detail to turn on.
Within the Zephyrus G14 lineup are several models of varying hardware specs. The two main hardware specs in this laptop that will be different from others are the AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS and nVidia's RTX 4060. The latter will be different from one submodel to the next. Everything else about the hardware inside the laptop appears to remain the same. (At least, this is according to ASUS’s website.)
Setting up Windows is as easy as can be. As a power user, I have opted to side-step Microsoft’s account requirement and created a local account instead. Normal Windows setup have remained consistent and easy to follow. So there is little to critique here. If one does want to bypass the Microsoft Account requirement, there are guides out there that will provide you with instructions.
For gaming performance, I installed 3 games to give it a quick run. None are going to really stress the hardware and I do not have enough time to thoroughly put it through more tests using other games in my library. The games are Guild Wars 2, Genshin Impact, and Obduction. The first two are my most played games while the last was a random game thrown in to check if it runs and performs well (which it did). I used MSI Afterburner and RivaTuner Statistic Server to monitor and display framerate and GPU usage. In Guild Wars 2, with a densely populated area, framerate hovered around 40fps. This isn’t bad and the sub-60fps can be attributed to the CPU being power/thermal limited. Granted, this is consistent across both “Silent” and “Performance” profiles as set in Armory Crate. From what I’ve gathered, GPU performance will be limited due to the power constraint of running off of battery power. Once the AC adapter is plugged in, that will change.
In the networking department, the Zephyrus G14 only comes with WiFi 6E for connectivity. There is no ethernet port to connect directly to a router. This is a bit of a letdown as there may be times you’ll need to transfer large quantities of data across the network. While having WiFi 6E does alleviate the issue a bit, it’s still dependent on wireless signals, which has a few elements that factor in the overall networking speed. I know that the focus of the laptop’s overall design is portability. Still, it’d be more convenient at times to simply have a network cable to directly connect to the network.
The laptop comes with a 1080p webcam with IR sensors. This allows for use of Windows Hello biometric login (AKA: facial recognition). One can debate between using a fingerprint or using facial recognition. But for my use case (and my work environment), I find using facial recognition to be much better for biometric login. Webcam image quality appears to be good enough and at least it is 1080p in resolution. So no complaints from me here.
For hardware upgrades or servicing the laptop, it is easy except for one thing. There are 3 hidden screws that are covered by a small rubber piece for no reason. You’ll need a flathead screwdriver that is as thin and small as possible to pry the rubber coverings off (tweezers can work too, maybe?). I would never know about this if I did not double check ASUS’s service manual to confirm any screws that I did not remove. One of the screws at the corner is captive and cannot be removed, which helps in prying off the cover. Once the back cover is finally removed, you can access the M.2 SSD and the SODIMM slot. There is only 1 of each with the SODIMM slot being empty. This leads me to believe 16GB is soldered onto the motherboard and is not upgradable. This is a shame since I am curious if using a faster DDR5 memory could help the performance in any way. The M.2 drive is a Western Digital SN740 512GB and will suffice at the start. If one wants to upgrade to higher capacity, you’ll need to make a backup first and have a Windows 11 installation thumb drive ready.
Thermal performance is a bit of a tricky topic. But I felt I should say something about it for this laptop. While I have no issue with heat, or the fans themselves, I do want to point out that you’ll have warm spots when you try to get as much performance as possible out of the laptop. It’s just the way it works when trying to squeeze in high performance parts onto a tiny space. Some people may feel uncomfortable having a laptop that generates a lot of heat while in use. But that’s why we have power/performance profiles. And while you can technically game on the laptop, expect to not have long battery life and warmer spots on the laptop as you do so.
The display is a topic I won’t critique much on. The high resolution of 2560x1600 is welcome but the high refresh rate is subjectively questionable. I personally don’t need something as high as 165Hz and I feel 120Hz is plenty enough for a high refresh rate. Oddly enough, some games are limited to 60fps, making having a high refresh rate questionable. Still, having a high refresh display is welcome nonetheless and is there when you can run something that fast.
Overall, I’m a fan of the Zephyrus G14 line of laptops. It’s small and portable and can handle some gaming while on the road. Even nice is that ASUS modified the design just slightly to allow the status LED lights to be viewable when the lid is closed. The 2021 model I have used previously did not have these LEDs viewable. The keyboard feels to be the same as before, with decent key travel and I prefer this over any other laptop keyboards out there. I’m a bit confused on why ASUS paired the 7940HS with a RTX 4060, as well as why they decided to send out this particular model to TIN members. I would prefer if they sent out either the RTX 4070 or RTX 4080 units instead. But that’s a different matter altogether.
The Good: portable, powerful, high refresh rate
The Bad: choice in GPU chip is questionable when paired with the selected CPU, no ethernet port
The Ugly: soldered/built-in RAM will limit RAM upgrade to the slowest speed
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+5points
7of 9voted this as helpful.
 
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Linksys Atlas Pro 6 with Velop Intelligent Mesh is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router that delivers next-level streaming and gaming to more than 30 devices per node. Access to 160 MHz unleashes the true power of Wi-Fi 6 technology—these are the least congested channels available on the 5GHz band and offer incredibly fast connectivity. Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) provides access to more channels, reducing interference from neighboring networks. Velop Intelligent Mesh technology offers whole home mesh Wi-Fi coverage that’s easily expandable by adding additional nodes. With easy setup, advanced security and parental controls, Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is an essential upgrade to any home.
 

What is the difference between the MX55EC3 and MX5503?

$50,speed rating of AX5400 and 5300, but seemingly otherwise identical. I just finished posting a review and I do not recommend the MX55EC3 at all. Not only does it have a slightly lower speed rating of AX5300, it also has a higher MSRP. If you're considering the Atlas Pro 6, get the MX5503 and avoid the former at all cost. The former is pretty much a "dead on arrival" product and the price makes absolutely no sense.
2 years, 6 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Strike a perfect balance between study time and play time with Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE, the tablet designed to bring your projects to life.
 

Does this have a USB port? If so, is it type C, A, or what? And what version, 2.0, 3.1 Gen 1, 3.1 Gen 2, or what?

Physically, it's USB Type-C. As for what revision, GSMArena says it's 3.2.
2 years, 6 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Experience legendary performance and sound of ASTRO Audio V2, with the convenience and freedom that comes without wires. The A50 Wireless + Base Station for PS5 /PS4 / PC delivers top-of-the-line acoustics, ergonomics, comfort and durability that gamers demand. The all-new Base Station provides clear, low-latency voice communication, while making headset pairing and charging simple. The ASTRO Command Center software allows gamers and streamers to tune every input and output parameter of the A50 precisely for their specific setup. Experience absolute audio immersion with the A50 Wireless + Base Station.
 

Does this astros come with bluetooth?

The A50 does not have Bluetooth connectivity.
4 years, 8 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Experience legendary performance and sound of ASTRO Audio V2, with the convenience and freedom that comes without wires. The A50 Wireless + Base Station for PS5 /PS4 / PC delivers top-of-the-line acoustics, ergonomics, comfort and durability that gamers demand. The all-new Base Station provides clear, low-latency voice communication, while making headset pairing and charging simple. The ASTRO Command Center software allows gamers and streamers to tune every input and output parameter of the A50 precisely for their specific setup. Experience absolute audio immersion with the A50 Wireless + Base Station.
 

How do some of you already have these headphones in possession to review?

There's a program with Best Buy called "Tech Insider Network" that allows its members to review products. Some of those products are offered to members prior to its general release while others are either close to release or is already released. TIN membership is through an invite process and is handed out via Best Buy themselves at their own discretion. As members, we have no control who can be invited.
4 years, 8 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Polished, professional Full HD video calls. The C920S HD Webcam delivers remarkably crisp, clear and detailed images in vibrant colors. HD autofocus and light correction adjust to provide consistently high definition, and the dual mics on either side of the lens capture natural sound. The privacy shutter puts you in control of what you show.
 

Can I use an external microphone with this camera? If so can you tell me how?

This depends on the software you're using. Under Skype, this is possible as you can select the audio input line for your mic. I suggest that you check with the software you're using and view the settings available. I assume that most software will allow you to pick a different audio input line for your preferred microphone.
4 years, 11 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Take your playlist with you by using these noise-cancelling Sony headphones. Their 40mm drivers with liquid crystal polymer diaphragms fill your ears with booming audio to immerse you in songs, and they're ergonomically designed to provide comfort during extended listening sessions. These Sony headphones have a proprietary noise-cancelling processor, so you can immerse yourself in the music.Industry Leading Noise Cancellation. *As of August 30, 2018. According to research by Sony Corporation measured using JEITA-compliant guidelines. In headband-style of wireless noise-canceling headphones market.
 

How many watts does the adapter need to be to allow for quick charging?

There's no quick charging per se. However, going by typical 5v lines, Sony recommends a minimum of 1.5a. So if your charger can output 5v at 2 to 3 amp, then you may be fine. I wish Sony would publish their electrical input limit, or whether or not the headphone could handle a USB-PD source.
5 years, 6 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Experience lag-free, immersive audio with this wireless Plantronics gaming headset. It has support for lifelike Dolby Atmos sound, and the sound-isolating ear cups and noise-canceling microphone keep your focus on the game. This lightweight Plantronics gaming headset has a 24-hour battery life and convenient analog adjustments for custom game audio settings.
 

This wireless headphones, cam I use it on a laptop and do the laptop need to be bluetooth or is there a adapter that I can plug to my laptop to make it wireless? Can you please let me know. Thanks

The headset does not use Bluetooth. Its connection is through a USB transmitter that you plug into the computer. By estimation, that transmitter is a small 3x3x1in block. As for whether it'll work on your laptop, it should. However, at last check, there is nothing with regards to additional drivers in the case of older versions of Windows. On Windows 10, it works out of the box.
5 years, 7 months ago
by
Sixshot
 
Enjoy superior sound and voice quality with these Jabra Elite wireless headphones. Integrated controls let you answer calls, adjust the volume or pause music with the touch of a button, while the included carrying case doubles as a charging station. External ambient noise keeps you aware of your surroundings, while a background noise filter delivers crisp, clear voice calls. With Bluetooth connectivity, these Jabra Elite wireless headphones are easy to pair to a mobile device.
 

Does anyone know what Bluetooth codec they will be implementing? Like AAC, or Aptx?

According to my Bluetooth setting on Android 8.1, it's using AAC for codec. I don't know if it uses anything else or if it's capable of anything else. But that's as much as I can tell at first glance.
6 years, 1 month ago
by
Sixshot
 
Take your gaming to the next level with the exclusive content and exciting downloads of PlayStation Plus. This subscription card puts 12 months' worth of full-game trials, exclusive offers, free games, early demos and betas and much more right at your fingertips — and right through your PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4 and PS Vita — for the incredible gaming experience you've always wanted.Get ready to enjoy an array of thrilling features that are available exclusively to PlayStation Plus members. Access exciting new titles each month that are added to the Instant Game Collection. Save up to 3GB of your gaming data with the online game save storage, save time with automatic game updates and enjoy early access to select betas and game demos. Get ready for premium features, thrilling games and amazing discounts as a PlayStation Plus member.
 

What is the difference from this psn card and the regular one without the GTA graphics on it?

There is no difference. It's just promotional graphics on the card. It's also a completely different SKU from each other. So whenever Best Buy puts a promo offer on this, the regular cards will not get any discount. Yes, they work exactly the same. I tried that argument at my local Best Buy but they won't budge at all. The next time they offer a promo/discount on this, make sure you ask a staffer to find it because they didn't put these where I can easily find 'em.
7 years, 4 months ago
by
Sixshot