Grouticus's stats
- Review count146
- Helpfulness votes409
- First reviewApril 22, 2016
- Last reviewApril 10, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count12
- Helpfulness votes30
- First answerJanuary 25, 2017
- Last answerNovember 14, 2021
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Game like a pro on Windows 11 with this ROG Zephyrus G14. Double up on AMD firepower with Ryzen 9 6900HS CPU and Radeon RX 6800S 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 120Hz Display. Leap into the next generation of memory and storage with 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and 1TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage.
Customer Rating
5
Great specs, beautiful chassis in a small package
on November 8, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
Regarding technology, in general, my personal history would show I’ve typically gone larger in the size arena because it usually equated to "better" in my book. Larger screen size, more cameras, beefier peripherals and just more usable space in general. Regarding laptops, a decade ago I was gaming on 17.3” laptops eventually migrating to 15.6” laptops for the past several ones I've owned. I have gone through several different laptop manufacturers a wide variety of internal hardware specs and, for a variety of reasons, continue to return to ASUS as my go-to because of their overall performance, durability, less pre-installed bloatware as well as many other aspects. I was excited to give the new ASUS G14 ROG Zephyrus a shot as my first 14” laptop to see if the durability and performance would hold up compared to the larger laptops I have owned in the past.
This 14” ASUS ROG Zephyrus WQXGA is by far the prettiest laptop I have ever owned with its matte white finish, or Moonlight White as they call it, injected with some sparkly glitter when the light hits it just right and RGB lighting. The white really makes it stand out compared to other laptops, does not show fingerprints, dust or dirt like black laptops and has a very clean appearance overall. The keypad feels very comfortable with good spacing considering the smaller chassis. The touchpad appears oversized in comparison to the chassis and I was surprised it didn’t get in the way of me typing. I love the feel of this touchpad more than any other one I have used in the past as it has a smooth buffed glass feel where your fingers can glide smoothly across it. There are two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port and a micro-SD port on the right side of the chassis and a HDMI port, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, auxiliary audio out and charging port on the left side of the chassis. There are no ports on the front or back of the chassis. The ultra-bright 14” ROG Nebula Display with 2560x1600 resolution 120 Hz screen, although smaller than what I’ve been used to, is crystal clear and absolutely stunning. After playing several AAA title games, I have not noticed any screen drag and the picture, color and contrast are amazing.
Under the hood, this ROG Zephyrus is rocking some of the latest high-end PC specs including the AMD Ryzen 9 6900HS processor with 8 cores and 16 threads for uber fast multitasking, an AMD Radeon RX 6800S 8GB GDDR6 graphics card, 16GB of dual-channel 4800MHz DDR5 memory and a 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD. The benchmarks I ran on the laptop came out a little above average compared to gaming PCs however I wasn’t didn’t overclock anything to run at peak performance and it ran all the AAA games I play great with no issues. There was barely any fan noise pumping all that heat out of the chassis which was a welcome surprise compared to previous models. The four-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos surprised me with great sound quality.
All of this combines beautifully to provide an amazing laptop and gaming experience and, somehow, it’s all packed into a smaller laptop that weighs less than four pounds. The size and weight were definitely some of my favorite features after working and gaming on laptops over the years weighing almost twice that size. I definitely don’t regret going smaller, for once, and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this model to anyone in the market for an amazing gaming laptop.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Norton - 360 Deluxe (3 Device) with LifeLock Identity Advisor (1 Adult) Internet Security Software + VPN (1 Year subscription) - Android, Apple iOS, Mac OS, Windows [Digital]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/6508/6508583_sd.jpg)
Norton 360 Deluxe provides real-time protection for up to 3 PCs, Mac, smartphones or tablets against ransomware, viruses, spyware, malware and other online threats. Help protect your private and financial information when you post, bank, and shop online. LifeLock Identity Advisor offers US-based Identity Restoration Specialists to help you each step of the way, should you discover you’re a victim of identity theft.
Customer Rating
5
A must have for life and all your devices
on November 1, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
Having relied on Norton antivirus and PC tune up software products for more than a decade, my systems, including PCs, laptops, tablets and smart phones, have never been compromised by any viruses or malware. The Norton software is consistently fighting the malware battle in the background leaving me with more time for gaming, business, social media, etc. without a thought in the world. Years ago, before I had invested in Norton software, and the continuous updates to ensure the latest and best protection is being offered, I dealt with viruses at least yearly which has crashed my system on several occasions making it completely inoperable and/or recoverable.
Considering technology, and those continually attempting to hack into about every aspect of one’s personal and/or business life, has grown exponentially, I would not hesitate a second to make this minor invest in the protection and utilities Norton offers in this software. I also wouldn’t risk thinking for one second that something like a virus would not happen to me or someone in my household, especially considering I have no idea what others in my household are using their devices for, downloading sketchy files, clicking on click bait, etc.. Or, in an even worse case scenario, imagine some criminal gaining access to all your account information, passwords, personal identification information, etc. and draining your bank accounts, selling your property without you knowing it, creating fake IDs with your information, etc. With Norton Life Lock, you can ensure your identity and any personal information used by you such as your driver’s license number, social security number, home address, phone number, etc. aren’t being used by someone on the dark web. Norton is constantly monitoring the dark web, criminal scammers, hackers, etc. for your information once you enter it into their database. On top of that, it will notify you in real time when a potential breach may have occurred in an effort to catch it and allow you to change a password, freeze a bank account, notify creditors or law enforcement, etc.
A few other great features they offer are password management, cloud back up storage, a secure virtual private network (VPN), parental controls, etc. The advanced utilities also include a ton of useful PC tune up software such as disk repair, disk defragmenter software, registry cleaner, uninstaller, etc. You could potentially pay hundreds of dollars to purchase all this software separately and Norton offers all of this in one package along with their amazing antivirus software that they’re known for.
I have tried other similar products from other companies in the past and, in my opinion, they just don’t compare to everything you will get with Norton Utilities Ultimate. It’s well worth every penny to protect those expensive devices and keep them running great.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enjoy an immersive, big screen home theater experience with the Home Cinema 2350 Smart Streaming Projector. Featuring Epson’s innovative 4K PRO-UHD®1 technology and phenomenal HDR102 brilliance—the Home Cinema 2350 delivers a truly epic 4K experience.. True 3-chip 3LCD technology offers outstanding brightness and color accuracy without disturbing the overall contrast, ensuring deep blacks and remarkably vivid colors. And with Android TV®3 included, the Home Cinema 2350 Smart Streaming Projector also makes it easy to stream your favorite Twitch and YouTube™ channels—or watch the latest movies and TV shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max™ and more4. Allowing for multiple audio options, the Home Cinema 2350 features an integrated 10 W bass-reflex speaker, plus Bluetooth® wireless audio device support5 for connecting soundbars or headphones. And, with a sleek, compact design and vertical lens shift, you can place the projector nearly anywhere—including tables and bookshelves—for flexible setup and easy viewing.
Customer Rating
5
Incredible picture on an affordable budget
on October 28, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
It was just a year or two ago that a projector of this caliber with these specs would run someone around the $2-3k range. Is now the time to pull the trigger for those who have been waiting for a more affordable option to perhaps increase their movie viewing experience and screen size? My answer is a definite YES after using a high-end EPSON projector in our movie room for movies and shows, but mainly for gaming on a 120” screen, over the past 3-4 years. With the new EPSON Home Cinema 2350 4K Pro-UHD Smart Gaming Projector, I can now get an even better picture, performance, with built in apps for less than half of what I paid for my last projector.
Out of the box, the projector was about half the size of my last projector and very simple to set up. The new 2350 looks similar to most of EPSON’s previous models with it’s typical matte white finish which usually blends well with most ceiling or wall mounts, two HDMI inputs, a USB-A port and Aux Out on the back, projector lens on the front and buttons on the top. Strangely the projector comes with two remote controls; one for the projector itself and the other for the included streaming stick that it occupying both the HDMI 2 input and USB-A port upon delivery. This can be removed and replaced with any other streaming device or HDMI device by removing the cover on the back of the projector. You are able to use the projector remote to control the streaming stick so I haven't found a need yet for the second remote.
Once you decide where and how you are going to be installing the projector, whether it be a permanent mount or simply setting it on a surface, you will want to adjust the focus and size of the screen. You can then use the settings to tweak on any other video or audio settings which you will more than likely have to do to ensure the picture is displayed correctly. The projector conveniently does have Bluetooth for external audio devices which is convenient if you prefer not to run wires for any external audio equipment; definitely a welcome addition for me compared to my last projector that did not have Bluetooth. Upon installation and initial set up of the projector, you can connect it to a local Wi-Fi for streaming services and updates and also log into any of the streaming services such as Google, Amazon, Netflix, HULU, Disney +, etc.
After streaming several shows and movies and hooking my gaming systems up to the projector, the 4K UHD picture looks amazing and the 2800 lumens definitely have enough light for most dark area set ups even with some light sources around. Being that I use mine 95% of the time for gaming, the 120 Hz refresh rate and low latency mode are definite must haves as you’ll notice less screen drag immediately. There is a 10 watt speaker built into the projector but I would suggest at least using a Bluetooth speaker, headphones or using the Auxiliary output on the rear of the projector for better sound.
Overall, you really can’t ask for a better option from a very reputable company that has a vested interest in projectors at this price point. I would recommend it to anyone in the market for a projector with these incredible specs in a relatively small and affordable option.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Extend your wireless network coverage with this NETGEAR Nighthawk AXE7300 Wi-Fi router. A quad-core processor delivers reliable performance, while five Gigabit Ethernet ports let you set up an ultrafast LAN configuration. This NETGEAR Nighthawk AXE7300 Wi-Fi router supports speeds of up to 7.3 Gbps for fast streaming and downloads of large 4K videos.
Customer Rating
5
Blazing fast Wi-Fi thanks to the latest 6E tech
on October 24, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
If you are in the market for a router with the latest and best technology to handle and manage all your tech toys, look no further than the new NETGEAR Nighthawk AXE7300 Tri-Band 6E router with the latest 6GHz technology able to handle speeds of up to 7.3Gbps which is insanely over five times faster than previous technology. I previously had a mesh system installed in our 3400 square foot two-story house which handled that size space like a champ however peaked at 5GHz. Needless to say, I was excited to try out the latest 6E technology with all my latest devices after hearing from others who recently made the upgrade and switch.
Out of the box, the Nighthawk was very easy to set up, basically plug-and-play, once you plug everything in and connect it through the Nighthawk app. Of course, the first thing I did was to run a Wi-Fi speed test via the app which reported some of the highest speeds I’ve recorded. We have high-speed gigabit internet through our internet service provider and it reported every bit of those speeds which typically is not the case and was a welcome surprise. After changing most of the Wi-Fi settings on our most used devices in our house including our streaming devices and gaming systems, I was even more curious of what the new Nighthawk could handle using the six built-in high-performance antennas going up against near the middle of the house on both stories, mostly not near the outer walls, so going from a mesh network to just one router so far doesn’t seem to adversely affect the performance of any of our devices. However, I will say, the range does not go as far as having the mesh network scattered throughout the house where I could walk around the outside of our house down to the sidewalk and still be able to tap into our Wi-Fi so you’ll have to make that decision depending on your setup.
In regards to the appearance of the router, the Nighthawk literally looks like it could start flapping its wings and take off. It is also quite large and awkwardly wide shaped because of the “wings” which have the antennas inside them. It was somewhat difficult to find a spot that could hide the router while also allowing it breathing room as to not affect the range of its signal. On the front of the router there are two subtle buttons and lights showing the power and signal. There are two yellow internet ports on the back of the router; one for 1G and the other for the higher speed 2.5G multi-gig LAN. Between the two internet ports, there are four 1G ethernet LAN ports to hardline your connection allowing for even better speeds not depending on Wi-Fi. There is a power button, reset button and one USB-C 3.0 port as well.
Having upgraded modems at least once every year or two over the past decade, I have to say this leap from Wi-Fi 5/6 to Wi-Fi 6E was a huge jump in performance and NETGEAR has always set the bar with their high-end Nighthawk routers. You really can’t go wrong with their products and would recommend this one to anyone in the market for a router with the latest technology and highest performance to date.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Dominate in style with the powerful 1TB WD_BLACK P40 Game Drive SSD. The downloadable WD_BLACK dashboard gives you full control over the LED light display for a personalized experience every time you play (Windows® only). This high-performance SSD storage features blazing speeds in a compact and shock-resistant design, making it easy to take with you anywhere.
Customer Rating
5
Great option for portable high-speed storage
on October 23, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
The new Western Digital Black 1TB P40 NVMe Solid State Game drive is a great all-around option for gamers on the go as well as a lightweight portable option for storing any other files you wish to back up. I love the military-style look and feel of the drive itself with the forged aluminum matte black finish combined with the picatinny rail look that looks like it could be mounted on your favorite piece when not in use on with any of your gaming consoles or rigs. One of the best things about this portable SSD is that it is compatible with your Sony PlayStation 4/5, Microsoft Xbox and PC. Although it won’t work to run PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X games on it, you can still store game saves on the drive and store and play PlayStation 4 or Xbox One games on it. I ran benchmarks on the SSD and it performed very well in comparison to other drives I have used in the past with speeds near 2000 mb/s. It also comes pre-loaded with the WD_Black Dashboard to control and review the performance of the drive as well as other tools and settings to tweak with including the customizable RGB lighting which gives the drive even more curb appeal. The SSD comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-C to USB-A adapter. In my opinion, 1 TB of game storage is plenty of drive to keep your favorite games, game saves and files in a portable, compact design.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Explore the art of espresso made right, effortlessly, with the refined features of La Specialista Arte from De'Longhi. Created for the hands-on home barista, this compact and stylishly designed machine empowers you to craft custom espresso drinks with ease and precision. From start to finish, unlock all the aromatic flavors of the beans for results that perfectly match your palette. Full control is at your fingertips with exclusive features like a conical burr grinder boasting 8 precise settings developed to expertly grind all bean varieties in a single or double dose. Use the complete barista kit, including a tamper, dosing funnel, and more, to prepare your fresh grounds in either a single or double dose in the single wall filter basket. Next, 3 active infusion water temperature levels adapt to your beans and roasting level for optimal flavor extraction. Finally, My LatteArt wand’s powerful steam produces the perfectly silky milk microfoam ideal for latte art creations. Save time with three beverage presets—espresso, Americano and hot water—for those on-the-go mornings. With La Specialista Arte, an authentic, hand-crafted coffee experience is within your reach. Indulge in the creativity of coffee-making as you get the best out of every bean and enjoy experimenting with foam art as a home barista.
Customer Rating
5
Coffee shop espresso in the comfort of your home
on October 9, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
The new De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Espresso Machine delivers coffee shop espresso in the comfort of your home in a beautifully designed, compact, easy to use, package. Being that this is our third De’Longhi espresso machine over the past decade, the latest La Specialista model was very familiar to us and easy to set up with minimal reliance on the instructions. Even if you are unfamiliar with their machines, or any espresso machine, I would consider it easy to use. The instructions are easy to follow and the buttons, knobs and center pressure gauge on the front of the machine are easy to understand and figure out.
Regarding set up, you will add whole espresso beans in the top container, add water to the water tank in the back of the machine and run a few priming cycles through the machine to prep it for first time use. Once set up is complete and the first water in the machine has been primed and tested using the included water hardness test strip, you’re ready for your journey to become an at home barista. You will want to adjust the grind hopper for the coarseness of the grind which I recommend starting around the middle, or “5”, grind setting and the dosing setting the same in the middle and adjust from there depending on what taste you prefer. Using the double espresso filter basket in the portafilter and selecting the x2 button on the front of the machine, connect the Dosing Funnel (which was new to me on this model) to the portafilter and insert it into the coffee grinder outlet pushing back firmly to initiate the automatic grind. Once the espresso beans are ground, remove the portafilter and place it on the included taping mat gently taping the sides to evenly distribute the ground coffee into the filter. Use the included tamper to tamp the ground coffee and remove the dosing funnel. Insert the portafilter into the brewing outlet on the right side turning it firmly to seat it in the machine before brewing. Use the knob to select whether you are brewing an espresso shot or an Americano. Using the other button, select what temperature you prefer your brew at, place either espresso cups or a coffee cup onto the grill under the brew output and press OK to start brewing. There is a steam wand on the right side of the machine which you can use to steam and froth milk for your coffee drinks which works great and is easy to clean just like the rest of the machine.
I have used several other espresso machines over the years and prefer the De’Longhi machines over all other models I have used. In my opinion, they make a statement aesthetically in any kitchen, feel more durable and, most importantly, make a better shot of espresso and an amazing Americano. I have always recommended De’Longhi machines to anyone in the market for small kitchen appliances and especially their espresso machines.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take on the competition and explore open worlds in comfort with the HP X32 31.5" 16:9 FreeSync 165 Hz QHD IPS Gaming Monitor. This 2560 x 1440 QHD monitor supports a 165 Hz overclocked refresh rate, which works with the 1 ms response time to reduce motion blur and to deliver liquid-smooth gaming experiences. At the same time, AMD FreeSync Premium technology helps to reduce stuttering and screen tearing when connected to a compatible graphics card.
Customer Rating
5
Incredible picture quality for any occasion
on September 5, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
Whether you’re in the market for a high tech, large gaming monitor or just a simple computer monitor, the new HP X32 IPS QHD AMD FreeSync monitor might just be the right go between. For the hardcore or amateur gamers, the large 31.5” diagonal 16:9 QHD (2560 x 1440) monitor packs plenty of high-end features including up to a 165 Hz refresh rate, a 1 millisecond response time using Overdrive, 1000:1 contrast ratio and AMD’s FreeSync Premium technology. For those not into gaming and just looking for a better-quality monitor for personal or business use, there are several features for that as well including HP’s Eye Ease technology, low blue light mode and anti-glare which all reduces eye strain while sitting in front of the screen for extended periods of time.
To first address some of the specifics of the monitor, it has two video inputs including a HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 connections. The monitor stand is 100 mm height adjustable and you can adjust the tilt as well. There are no speakers on the monitor but you can plug your speakers into the monitor to transfer audio from the inputs using the 3.5 mm audio jack. The 3-sided micro-edge bezel around the monitor is small and barely noticeable although not the smallest I’ve used.
Regarding gaming, the picture on the X32 is crystal clear due to its high refresh rate, fast response time and 3.7 million pixels crammed into the QHD screen. The colors appear to pop out of the screen using the HDR 400 technology. In my gaming experiences, I haven’t noticed any motion blur whatsoever and the screen moves very fluidly while moving rapidly in high end AAA games. Because of the amount of time many of us spend every day either working or gaming on a screen, I truly feel one must invest in the anti-fatigue and low blue light technology and HP’s built-in technology does a great job preventing the headaches I used to get staring at a screen.
I have always used my monitor(s) for all the reasons I listed so this monitor was the perfect fit in my situation. Not only does it function great for everything you can throw at it including hooking it up to high end gaming consoles, it’s also large enough to replace using multiple smaller monitors as I did. Overall, HPs X32 gaming monitor does not disappoint and I would recommend it to anyone in the market for a high-end monitor for any occasion.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The G715 Logitech Wireless Gaming Keyboard from the Aurora Collection delivers low-key style with high-key performance so you can express yourself and play your way. Float away with its dreamy white design and comfy, cloud-shaped keyboard palm rest. With a tenkeyless layout and adjustable height, this is an ideal compact mechanical keyboard for gaming that gives you that good game feeling, all-day long. Pack it up, place it anywhere, and play your best with G715’s rechargeable 30 gaming-hr battery life (with full lighting), Logitech LIGHTSPEED wireless, and Bluetooth connectivity. Use the USB-C to USB-A cable (included) for quick and streamlined recharging. Logitech LIGHTSYNC brings your gaming to life with four responsive Play Moods that reflect your state of play in 16.8M programmable RGB colors. Get your creative juices flowing, show off your style, and even create your custom animation effects on your wireless TKL keyboard with free G HUB software.
Customer Rating
5
Comfortable and loaded gaming keyboard
on September 1, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
While I’m typing this review, I am imagining resting comfortably on a cloud while pwning other gamers without a care in the world… well, maybe that’s a little too far. At least that’s what I imagine Logitech was thinking when developing the new Logitech G715 wireless gaming keyboard. Allow me to explain.
First off, Logitech went full spec with the cloud concept as everything they used, including the packaging, is in a blissful white color. In an effort to add to this cloud theme, I opted for the tactile keys instead of the other two options (clicky or linear) as, in my opinion, it feels better to the touch and isn’t as loud and sometimes annoying as the full on clicky keys. I love both wireless features using the lightspeed dongle which was very responsive as well as the Bluetooth option if you are looking to link the keyboard to your tablet or smartphone. Another reason I prefer wireless keyboards now that they are up to speed with the latest technology is it’s very useful for some folks, like myself, who may want to kick back on the couch with my laptop connected to a larger TV or monitor from afar without a wire stretching across the room.
Something that just about every gaming peripheral manufacturer is doing now is throwing RGB lighting effects in their devices that you’re able to sync together creating cool customizable effects. The RGB lighting is a fun and useful feature to identify your main keys for gaming (ie. wasd) as you can customize every key on the keyboard using the Logitech GHUB software available for download via their website. After spending way too much time tinkering with the customizable lighting features, I ultimately ended up sticking with the default lighting selection, the signature lighting for the Aurora Collection, as I felt it was very Zen in hopes to not be so stressed out while I’m being hunted by other gamers.
The keyboard is rechargeable using the provided USB-C charging cable so there’s no need to worry about changing batteries unless, of course, you wear out the built-in lithium-ion battery which can eventually be replaced as well. The battery does last long enough for plenty of gaming, around 25 hours with full lighting, however you can also hardware the keyboard to your rig as well.
Probably one of my favorite features is, of course, the cloud shaped palm rest included with the keyboard. It honestly is the most comfortable palm rest I have used; it’s like resting my palms on their own little cloud pillow. You’re welcome, palms.
Overall, I absolutely love the way Logitech designed this new wireless gaming keyboard. From the aesthetically pleasing looks to the comfort overkill and tons of features, there’s not much more I could ask for in a gaming keyboard unless you absolutely need a ten key feature. Well, maybe a built-in massager and fan for sweaty fingers but perhaps I’m asking too much.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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When you combine Avata with the goggles and motion controller, flight becomes accessible to all. Experience the thrill of total immersion with unrivaled safety and control. Embrace your spontaneity and capture the world around you. Some of us were Born to Fly.
Customer Rating
5
Fly like an eagle, literally
on August 29, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
Being an avid, yet somewhat amateur, drone pilot over the past few years, I always thought there has to be a better and more responsive way to bring the thrill of flight firsthand to drone users while also expanding that all to a wider audience of curious customers. The new DJI Avata FPV drone combined with the new DJI Goggles 2 and motion controller does just that and in spectacular form. In my recent experience, FPV drones are the wave of the future as it allows you to see exactly where you’re flying in real time and can make much quicker split decisions to avoid crashes and capture everything right in front of your eyes.
After unpacking everything, I was surprised as to how small the Avata drone was compared to the larger drones I was used to flying; the Avata can fit in the palm of your hand and is somehow still packed with technology, an incredible 4K camera and 20GB of internal storage. Setting up the equipment after the initial battery charging was relatively simple following the instructions on line, downloading the DJI Fly application on your smart device and syncing the equipment to your DJI account. Once you power up and put on the Goggles 2, you’ll want to adjust the view using the knobs on the bottom of the headset for your eye spacing and to make sure you can focus on the image. The Goggles display a 1440x810 screen resolution at 144 Hz and are powered by an external 1800 mAh battery linked by a cable which is kind of funky however cuts down on the bulkiness of the headset. The battery size is expected to run the Goggles 2 for approximately 110 minutes. The on-screen DJI Fly software walks you through using the Goggles 2 and the controls using the side touch pad by swiping and tapping. There is a Micro SD card slot on the Goggles for storing your drone video and pictures. You sync the drone and controller using the Goggles and the DJI Fly application and there are updates out of the box, as expected from any recent technology. My only gripe thus far from the headset is that it is not a true VR viewing area and more of just viewing a square screen/monitor in the headset. Eventually I would like to see an upgrade to this using multiple cameras for a more immersive VR flying experience.
I set up the inaugural flight in my living room just to get a feel for the controls and fit for the Goggles. With the double tap of a button on the motion controller, the Avata drone zipped into launch with a high-pitched sound immediately getting the attention of everyone in the house. Tilting the controller left and right allowed me to look around the room in a stationary hovering position. Feathering the trigger button on the controller allowed me to gently move forwards and backwards depending on the Goggle’s and controller’s orientation which was easy to understand being experienced in drone flight and similar to flying in video games. You can invert the flight controls in the settings as well. It was somewhat difficult to toggle with the settings on the Goggles 2 while holding the controller but I was still able to manage. I’m sure there is a learning curve and will get more used to the controls with more use. I was able to maneuver around my house with ease without running into anything and everything and fly it out the back door outside. Once outside, I was able to let loose and relax a little more with less obstacles. I immediately zipped up into the air in a split second in “Normal” flight mode when I remembered there was also a “Sport” mode which I paused to switch to on the controller. It was in that moment that I realized what the Avata was capable of. I gave it everything I had shooting up and down the neighborhood hitting speeds of around 60 mph and whipping around with ease like a sports car drifting around tight corners. I flew around for about 15 minutes before the 2420 mAh battery began to run low and an on-screen notification advised me it was time to return home. Since I launched inside the house, I had to manually land it in a safe area because of the obstacles and GPS not tracking indoors. If you launch outside in a GPS tracked area, the Avata will automatically return home before the battery runs out. If you are new to drone flight or hesitant on flying drones, there is a DJI Virtual Flight app you can practice flying with.
Perhaps one of the best Avata drone features is the protection built around the propellers to prevent damage. That, coupled with a well-designed casing for the entire drone and 4K camera, should give users piece of mind. Thank DJI for all that protection because I already took a 20 foot fall coming out of a second story window hitting and rolling down scaffolding eventually landing on a rock surface. Upon retrieving the drone, I was amazed to see there was barely a scratch on it and no damage to the propellers or camera at all. Upon crashing, the Goggles 2 displayed a notification that an impact occurred, and the drone flipped over (as if I didn’t already know as my FPV screen was spinning out of control). I set the drone back up after inspection for a subsequent flight and had no issues (phew, sigh of relief). There is something called the “Turtle Mode” you can activate after a crash if your drone falls on its top that will flip the drone back upright making it ready for flight which is pretty cool to see. Another protection feature is the downward obstacle sensors which allow it to sense what’s below it and capable of flying at high speeds only inches from the ground without manually adjusting the height. I also want to add that during all the flight that I have taken with the Avata and Goggles 2, I have not once had a transmission issue which is because of DJI’s flagship O3+ and 2T2R omnidirectional antennas. This proved true as I was sitting on the couch in my living room on the opposite side of our two story house while flying the drone outside around our neighborhood.
The video and pictures I have taken while flying was very clear with the Avata’s 4K@50/60fps camera which is also capable of lower quality 2.7K@50/60/100fps and 1080p@50/60/100/120 fps video. The video transmission to the headset is up to 1080p giving it clear imaging while flying. DJI’s RockSteady 2.0 and HorizonSteady software allows the Avata’s camera to capture 155 degrees of super-wide FOV smooth footage for stunning videos similar to what the natural eye would see. The drone has 20GB of internal storage while the Goggles 2 has an expandable Micro-SD slot for additional storage.
I have been flying larger, more expensive drones for a few years now and I can imagine they have scared off potential first time drone users in the past because of their bulkiness, price point and perhaps fear of crashing or losing them. Fear not, DJI has options in the event crashes or losses occur including GPS tracking as well as reasonably priced insurance you can buy to protect your investment. Overall, this may be one of the best and safest bets as a new or amateur drone pilot as well as for a more advanced user that may be new to FPV drones. In either case, it’s an amazing drone set up that allows the user to somewhat experience what it’s like to fly in real time without experiencing an upset stomach from the ups and downs of true flight and losing your cookies.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Lockly Vision Elite Deadbolt Edition (PGD798NV) with integrated video doorbell and smart lock is the ultimate smart home upgrade for all homeowners. Multiple ways to lock / unlock including 3D biometric fingerprint access, patented heck proof PIN Genie keypad, app control, Scan-to-Open, Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant, Offline access codes or Physical key. Real-time door status monitoring from anywhere, and video camera with motion detection and 2-way communication. Best for homeowners, Airbnb rentals and offices. Solar charging to ensure your lock never out of battery again. Universal fit for easy DIY installation with complimentary white-glove onboarding included.
Customer Rating
5
All-in-one door lock, camera and security
on July 15, 2022
Posted by: Grouticus
The new Lockly Vision Elite deadbolt edition is the creme de la creme of hardware for your door deadbolt. I honestly could never have imagined cramming so many features into a deadbolt lock but somehow they managed to do it and in incredible style. To start off, the DIY installation was fairly simple as they not only provide a user-friendly installation guide but also videos you can access via their app or on YouTube to walk you through the simple steps. You do have to plug in a router type device to your modem or router via an ethernet cable so keep that in mind where you might need to put one that’s close to the door you’re installing the lock on. I only ran into some issues at the end of the installation with having to reset the motion of the lock because I had it in the wrong position. Once it was installed, I downloaded the smartphone app and I created a user account, I was able to set up my personal PIN number, link my Amazon Alexa account and tinker with all the other features and options provided in the settings. In the access function of the app, you can add the fingerprints you would like to grant entry access to.
The Vision Elite Lock allows multiple types of entry to your home or office including a digital randomized numeric keypad, a biometric sensor on the side for up to 99 stored fingerprints, access from the Lockly app, invitations you can send to others for access whether permanent or temporary and even allows you to schedule certain times the lock can be left open or locked and the amount of time it can remain unlocked. It can send you a push notification whenever the door is open or closed, locked or unlocked, motion at your door and even if someone is attempting to tamper with the lock by entering a wrong code or the fingerprint reader is attempting to be used by someone who is not saved in the user’s system. Oh, I almost forgot one… yes, there’s even a super old school set of keys it comes with because you just never know when you’re trying to explain to grandma how to unlock the door.
The “Vision” portion of the lock replaced our beloved video doorbell and the great part about it is the camera faces forward right on your door instead of side mounted how some doorbells are mounted on homes. The built-in high-definition camera sports night vision and has a rain sensor that will turn off the keypad until you re-access it via the app or simply press the doorbell on the lock. It has a speaker on the inside of the door that acts as a doorbell so there’s no need for a separate chime peripheral and acts as a two-way speaker between the inside and outside of the house. The lock has built in digital storage that will save videos of movement and someone ringing your doorbell.
The lock comes with two batteries so you can keep one charged when the one being used runs low on power and simply swap them out to charge the dead battery using the provided USB-C cable which was very thoughtful and convenient compared to other doorbell manufacturers that only provide one battery.
There’s really not much more you can ask for from a deadbolt lock in today’s technology and at this price you can’t go wrong considering how many devices you could potentially be replacing with just the Lockly Vision Elite. If I were Batman, and I’m neither confirming nor denying that I am, this would definitely be the lock for my bat cave.
The Vision Elite Lock allows multiple types of entry to your home or office including a digital randomized numeric keypad, a biometric sensor on the side for up to 99 stored fingerprints, access from the Lockly app, invitations you can send to others for access whether permanent or temporary and even allows you to schedule certain times the lock can be left open or locked and the amount of time it can remain unlocked. It can send you a push notification whenever the door is open or closed, locked or unlocked, motion at your door and even if someone is attempting to tamper with the lock by entering a wrong code or the fingerprint reader is attempting to be used by someone who is not saved in the user’s system. Oh, I almost forgot one… yes, there’s even a super old school set of keys it comes with because you just never know when you’re trying to explain to grandma how to unlock the door.
The “Vision” portion of the lock replaced our beloved video doorbell and the great part about it is the camera faces forward right on your door instead of side mounted how some doorbells are mounted on homes. The built-in high-definition camera sports night vision and has a rain sensor that will turn off the keypad until you re-access it via the app or simply press the doorbell on the lock. It has a speaker on the inside of the door that acts as a doorbell so there’s no need for a separate chime peripheral and acts as a two-way speaker between the inside and outside of the house. The lock has built in digital storage that will save videos of movement and someone ringing your doorbell.
The lock comes with two batteries so you can keep one charged when the one being used runs low on power and simply swap them out to charge the dead battery using the provided USB-C cable which was very thoughtful and convenient compared to other doorbell manufacturers that only provide one battery.
There’s really not much more you can ask for from a deadbolt lock in today’s technology and at this price you can’t go wrong considering how many devices you could potentially be replacing with just the Lockly Vision Elite. If I were Batman, and I’m neither confirming nor denying that I am, this would definitely be the lock for my bat cave.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Capture stunning imagery with the legendary Hasselblad camera and enjoy a smooth flight with omnidirectional obstacle sensing. Every improvement on Mavic 3 sets a higher standard for aerial photography. Fly with Mavic 3 and discover imaging above everything.
WHAT CARD READER DOES THIS TAKE?
You can install a high speed micro SD in the drone right above the battery to increase the onboard storage capacity.
2 years, 5 months ago
by
Grouticus
The expandable Swann 8 channel 1080p Enforcer™ series is armed with the latest in Home Security, such as Police-Style flashing lights, Night2Day™ color night vision, TrueDetect™ Heat & Motion Detection, Google & Alexa compatibility, Cloud back up, and much more.
Does this system record audio or just video?
It records audio and video and you can use the smart phone app to talk through the cameras. We use them in our kids' rooms and for our outdoor security system
3 years, 5 months ago
by
Grouticus
The expandable Swann 8 channel 1080p Enforcer™ series is armed with the latest in Home Security, such as Police-Style flashing lights, Night2Day™ color night vision, TrueDetect™ Heat & Motion Detection, Google & Alexa compatibility, Cloud back up, and much more.
Does this system record audio or just video?
It records audio and video and you can use the smart phone app to talk through the cameras.
3 years, 5 months ago
by
Grouticus
The Samsung Jet™ 75 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum features a lightweight and maneuverable design and a removable battery that can be easily swapped* for extended cleaning time up to 60 minutes. Compatible with Samsung Clean Station™ for mess-free, automatic emptying of the hygienic dust bin. *Second battery sold separately.
Is the unit able to stand upright on its own?
Take panoramic footage with this GoPro MAX digital camera. The 16.6MP sensor captures detailed footage and 360-degree views, and the six built-in microphones record immersive audio. This GoPro MAX digital camera has a touch display that lets you switch between standard and 360-degree video modes and choose from multiple digital lenses to customize your footage.
Can the camera be controlled remotely?
Yes, by your smart phone through the GoPro app or with one of GoPro's optional devices
4 years, 6 months ago
by
Grouticus
Keep an eye on your home or business day and night with Arlo Pro 3. With no wires, you can install Pro 3 in minutes and view video directly from your phone. Spot unique details with color night vision, and see more in dark areas with the integrated spotlight. The advanced lens provides superior image quality, a wider field of view, and allows you to auto track and zoom on moving objects with clarity. Receive notifications when your camera spots people, vehicles, animals, or packages, and view live video or recorded clips directly from your phone, with 3 months of included Arlo Smart.* Hear and speak to visitors clearly with two-way audio.
Does this come with free 7days of recording? Or is it like the 4k model where you have to pay for cloud after one year?
This two camera Arlo Pro 3 kit comes with three free months of the new Arlo Smart Plan which does 30 days of 2K cloud recording. However, you can also simply plug a USB drive in the hub to record locally. I would check the Arlo website for more details on the new plans they offer.
4 years, 6 months ago
by
Grouticus
When spills happen, the Braava jet m6 robot is always on call—ready to head to the spot and take them on. Just say to Google Assistant or Alexa, “Have Braava mop in front of the kitchen counter”, and it heads out and gets to work. Always learning your home and your cleaning habits, it can offer customized schedules that work around your life—even suggesting extra cleanings during pollen season. Using Precision Jet Spray, it loosens dirt and sticky messes without spraying furniture, rugs, or walls—all without any effort from you, making your mopping tasks a thing of the past. *(Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates. Google is a trademark of Google LLC)
How do you keep it from going on your carpets from a tile floor?
It should sense that it's no longer on a hard floor and go in reverse. I would suggest picking up any rugs before you set it to clean so it cleans under the rugs.
4 years, 10 months ago
by
Grouticus
Step into virtual reality with this Oculus Rift S PC-powered headset. The advanced optics produce a sharp display with bright, vivid colors, and Oculus Insight tracking removes the need for external sensors to convert movements into virtual reality. This Oculus Rift S PC-powered headset has a fit wheel that secures the headset with a quick twist.
I am setting up the oculus, but I can’t move the software into the other drive, and the thing it shows me to switch it does not work. Please help me.
This worked for me:
https://support.oculus.com/1142129705828091/
When you install the Oculus app on your PC computer, it'll install on the C: drive. If you want to install the app on a different system drive, make sure the new system drive has at least 4GB of free disk space and is formatted to use the NTFS file system.
To install the Oculus app on a different system drive:
Press the Windows key + R to open the Run command
Enter the following path: [drive]:\Downloads\OculusSetup /drive=[new system drive]
- Replace [drive] with the letter of the drive where Oculus was downloaded to
- Replace [new system drive] with the letter of the new drive you'd like to install Oculus to
Ex: C:\Downloads\OculusSetup /drive=D or C:\Downloads\OculusSetup /drive:D
Click OK
The Oculus app will then open and attempt to install the app on the new drive you've chosen.
https://support.oculus.com/1142129705828091/
When you install the Oculus app on your PC computer, it'll install on the C: drive. If you want to install the app on a different system drive, make sure the new system drive has at least 4GB of free disk space and is formatted to use the NTFS file system.
To install the Oculus app on a different system drive:
Press the Windows key + R to open the Run command
Enter the following path: [drive]:\Downloads\OculusSetup /drive=[new system drive]
- Replace [drive] with the letter of the drive where Oculus was downloaded to
- Replace [new system drive] with the letter of the new drive you'd like to install Oculus to
Ex: C:\Downloads\OculusSetup /drive=D or C:\Downloads\OculusSetup /drive:D
Click OK
The Oculus app will then open and attempt to install the app on the new drive you've chosen.
4 years, 10 months ago
by
Grouticus
Call across the room to hear your favorite song with Echo Spot. This voice-activated device is compatible with Alexa and lets you check the weather, watch video clips and even answer your connected phone. The small footprint of Echo Spot slides in easily without taking up space and works with all connected devices and speakers.
Can this work wirelessly??
No, it needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet.
5 years, 5 months ago
by
Grouticus
Keep your head in the game with this Logitech G Pro headset. Its leatherette ear pads isolate surrounding noises to keep you focused, and its featherlight construction minimizes pressure for longer wear. This Logitech G Pro headset's microphone has a wide frequency response and low signal-to-noise ratio for improved communication with teammates and opponents.
Do I have to get a splitter for this or no?
No, they come with an auxiliary splitter if you have a separate mic auxiliary out on your rig.
5 years, 8 months ago
by
Grouticus