TechFan's stats
- Review count255
- Helpfulness votes422
- First reviewMarch 14, 2014
- Last reviewSeptember 23, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.3
Reviews comments
- Review comment count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentNone
- Last review commentNone
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count9
- Helpfulness votes35
- First answerMarch 14, 2014
- Last answerSeptember 8, 2021
- Featured answers0
- Best answers2
Safeguard your home with this Arlo security camera system. Its 4K resolution provides maximum clarity so you don't miss a single detail, and a siren is integrated so you can fend off intruders either remotely or while at home. This Arlo security camera system is weather-resistant, so it's functional rain or shine.
Customer Rating
4
Great camera, App needs work
on April 8, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I first read about these being released sometime last year and two things I knew for certain. First, I wanted one and second, I knew it wasn't going to be cheap. I wish I was wrong on the second part, but it’s definitely on the higher end of cameras, but you do get the added benefit of not having to run wires throughout your entire house or wire outlets close to where you want to mount them. This fact should not be discounted. I have another system that required me to climb into my roof space and above my garage to run the wires and I didn't enjoy it in the least.
This camera is 4k, provides great two way audio and can be mounted wire-free outdoors. I haven't mounted mine in its permanent location yet primarily because I'm trying to decide on one of two locations. Most likely, I will hardwire this above my garage door and run a new electrical outlet to where the short cord can be in or after checking Best Buy's website, they will soon release a 25' foot outdoor cable that will save me the hassle of running the new box, but cost me a few more bucks. I also hope they release a mount that screws into the back of the camera. Although the magnet is very strong, we have had some strong winds pass through here over the last several months and I'm not completely sure if it will hold up. A silicone sleeve would also be another great option, but I haven't seen one made for this new model yet.
The app is what is most disappointing to me. On the main page, there should be a live view of the camera instead of having to tap on the settings menu, then going into the video settings to see the live view. You also cannot use the Auto Zoom & Tracking feature while having Live Streaming turned on. I'm not sure exactly why that is the case, but that is probably something that can be fixed with an update. The audio is crystal clear and has settings for reducing wind noise and you can increase or decrease the speaker volume. Mine is currently set to 35% and its more than enough volume for a two way conversation.
You can also set up Activity Zones which is a great feature because you don’t want to get alerts every time a car drives by in full view of the camera because that is annoying and drains your cellphone battery. The light on the camera gives excellent illumination at night and is great as a motion sensor. The Hub has a feature that allows you to arm, disarm, schedule or use geo-fencing. Initially I didn’t see the purpose of this, but I think with the last update it provides a description of each underneath which clarified things for me. Armed, turns motion and audio detection on. Disarmed turns both off. Schedule allows audio and motion on during a certain time which is handy when you have kids playing in the driveway, it turns off notifications. I haven’t used the geo-fencing yet, so I cant speak to the usefulness of that.
The other great thing about this camera is that it comes with one year of Arlo Smart Premier. This package covers up to 10 cameras, 30 day playback, e911 and person/package detection. This normally costs $10/month.
All in all, this is a great high end camera if you can afford it. I would like to get rid of my current security/video provider but the $300 cost for each additional 4k camera might be a deal breaker for now. I would need at least four cameras so my wife might have a problem with that expenditure. Cost aside, this is a great camera that could be excellent if they tweak the app a bit.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Accompany your workouts with streaming tunes from these JBL Endurance PEAK Bluetooth headphones. PowerHook technology switches them on when worn, and the TwistLock and FlexSoft features ensure a lightweight, ergonomic fit for comfortable, all-day use. Manage music playback effortlessly on these wireless JBL Endurance PEAK Bluetooth headphones via touch-enabled controls.
Customer Rating
4
Great earphones for extended use
on April 3, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I’ve had these for about a day now and overall these are a pretty good pair of wireless earbuds. They were delivered with pretty much a full charge. They paired with multiple devices very easily and the sound quality is good. They could benefit from an app that allows the user to configure their own preferred settings and the instruction manual wasn’t the greatest. It’s a good thing they had pictures for each section because otherwise they would have been horrible. If you are looking for some deep or even decent bass, these probably aren’t going to do the trick for you, but then again, most earbuds of this size won’t reproduce a lot of the low end sound that well. Bass isn’t that important to me with these types of earbuds, but I thought it was worth mentioning.
I listen primarily to jazz, hip-hop, R&B, audiobooks and talk radio. I prefer to test out new audio devices while listening to jazz for the clarity of the instruments and hip-hop for the thump and R&B for the vocals. I was not disappointed with these earbuds while listening to either genre. Jazz and R&B sounded awesome and hip-hop didn’t have as much punch, they sounded good overall. It did seem like the volume levels are a bit lower some of the other earbuds I’ve used though.
These are really comfortable. I mean really comfortable and they stayed in my ears with a good seal each time I used them. The addition of the ear hook probably accounts for most of the reason that fit so securely, but the Enhancers also help quite a bit. I would put these among the top as far as comfort goes for wireless earbuds. The controls are all located on the right ear and are very simple to use. One, two or three taps controls the pause/play, skip to next track or previous track. To control the volume, you just slide your finger up or down on the right earbud.
I did find the charging case to be much more bulky than some of the others I’ve used and I didn’t like the slippery plastic its made of. I would have preferred something with more grip and maybe a rubbery texture to it that would help with both grip and provide a little protection in the event its ever dropped. The one main complaint I had about these earbuds is that while they can be played in mono mode (use only one earbud, instead of two), only the right earbud can be used in this mode and not the left. I take road trips with the family all of the time and I prefer to use one earbud while im driving to listen to my music while the kids watch DVD’s. I’m obviously not going to drive with headphones on, so I normally use one while the other charges. That isn’t possible with these earbuds. I do like how the ear hook powers on and off each earbud. It has a magnetic click to it and they charge in the case that way.
All in all, these are a good set of earbuds, but have room for improvement. In summary:
Pros: Easy to pair to multiple devices, really comfortable and stays fit, controls are simple to use
Cons: Instruction manual is confusing, charging case is bulky and slippery, can only use mono mode with right earbud and they need and app to customize your listening experience.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+1point
2of 3voted this as helpful.
Delight in effortless connectivity for your mobile devices with this Belkin DuraTek Plus Lightning to USB-A cable. A double-braided nylon forms a flexible, durable cable jacket, while the 4-foot length provides convenience when charging. This Belkin DuraTek Plus Lightning to USB-A cable features an aluminum casing that protects the circuit board within the connector.
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I must have gone through several dozen lightning cables that I’ve used at home, work and while repairing my rental properties and none have lasted longer than 4-6 months. They get twisted and pulled and eventually they stop working.
This cable seems to be the exception so far. I’ve purposely pulled on it, twisted the lightning end around and have just been pretty rough with it and so far, I’ve had no problems. Sometimes it’s better to spend a little bit more on a cable that is durable and will potentially last, versus buying the lesser expensive versions that burn out in a short period of time. This has been a great cable thus far and I anticipate it lasting longer than my previous cables.
You can see from the pictures how much thicker the Belkin cable is compared to a brand new Apple lightning cable. It’s heavily jacketed and strong compared to the thinner Apple cable. I would definitely recommend this if you are looking for a durable cable.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
The Nanit Plus Camera & Floor Stand gives an unbeatable birds-eye view of your baby with HD video & audio from anywhere–no mounting needed. Plus, with personalized sleep guidance included in your app, you and the baby can sleep more soundly.
Customer Rating
4
Great device but has a large footprint
on March 11, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
Ive used this for about a week now and Im mostly impressed with it. The camera is much better than i thought it would be and the app is about the best I've used for a camera and I have plenty of them.
The app can be customized in many ways including alerts (audio, visual, temperature and humidity), you can adjust the camera viewing angle as well as speak. The camera projects a very clear imagine which was much better than i thought it would be. At night, the quality isnt as good as other brands, but the intuitiveness of the app makes it worthwhile though. I did experience some infrequent connection issues with the app. Im not sure if its my internet connection at home or issues with the app. I do have alot of devices connected to my network so it could be that.
I was pleased to find that 1 year of Nanit Insights is included with this model, but costs $5 - $30/month for thereafter. You have the option of $5/mth for 7 days of history, $10 for 30 days and $30 for unlimited.
Other than the intermittent internet connection problems, my only other minor complaint is the footprint of this thing. It's huge. It's designed to fit underneath your baby's crib and it has an adjustable camera head, but it does seem to be unnecessarily large. Others may not find this a big deal however.
I would definitely recommend this. If i had this when my first child was born, it would have saved me those unnecessary trips to the baby's room to see what was going on when all she did was move. First time parents will definitely appreciate this.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
A revolutionary smart printer that works the way you need. Help save time with Smart Tasks shortcuts, and get automatic two-sided scanning. Count on easy mobile printing, Borderless print, seamless connections, and enhanced security. Save up to 50% on ink with HP Instant Ink. Prints up to 22 ISO ppm*, up to 18 ppm* in color.
Customer Rating
5
All in One unit is a small size
on March 5, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I go this unit to replace one from another brand that I'd had for a few years. That unit was enormous. It had pretty much all of the same functions as this HP, but in a much larger frame.
I've used it for a little over a week now and I am very pleased with this. The app works great for printing from mobile devices and my Windows based PC's have an app that works with it too. It even plays nicely with my Apple devices.
For a while I had stayed away from HP products because they were complicate to setup, I had problems using them with my Apple devices and the ink was so expensive. All of those problems seemed to be resolved with their newer products. The Instant Ink program saves 50% off the price of ink and its monitored and ordered automatically after setting it up.
The printing is fast and clean and the scanning is great with selectable options within the setup menu. The one thing I had a problem with is when the device is inactive for a period of time, and then I wanted to print something, the printer would be shown as offline. I did a Google search and changed some of the settings and it now wakes up to print.
This is a great machine that has a small footprint and is ideal for home offices or college students alike. I would definitely recommend this.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Prepare delicious espresso drinks with this Brim 19 bar espresso maker. Die-cast construction delivers enduring quality along with a sleek look, and the thermal coil system provides reliable temperatures when preparing beverages. A hot water dispenser lets you prepare tea and hot cocoa for added versatility. Boasting a commercial-style steam wand, this Brim 19 bar espresso maker creates a perfect layer of foam for barista-style espresso creations.
Customer Rating
4
Great machine, but Starbucks has no worries
on January 29, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I will start by saying this is a beautiful machine. The stainless steel body and top level accessories that come with it, make it look like a commercial grade appliance. I got the machine because my wife has always wanted one and I thought it would curb her enthusiasm for Starbucks. It didn't.
I had hoped that I could add the title of Barista to my growing list of accolades, but after using this for a couple of weeks now, I know that title is not to be. There are over a dozen steps to follow when using this machine from making the espresso to steaming the milk and I was a bit frustrated with the process. I couldn't quite get the hang of it. Making the espresso was easy enough. I do think the height from the brewer to the plate should be higher so I could use something a bit larger than a tea cup.
The hardest part for me with this machine is using the steam wand. I have yet to master the art of the microfoam. In theory, I thought it would be simple, but in actuality I don't know what I'm doing wrong. I looked online for some videos and although there were none on Brim's website, I did find some on YouTube. I think I just need more practice to master this machine, but I'm really going to have to think about charging my friends and family for coffee in order to make it worth my time while I learn. Lol.
I did give this 4 stars because I think most of the problems are user error and nothing to do with the machine. The machine is beautiful, looks like a professional espresso maker and currently looks good sitting on my kitchen counter. The included accessories are top notch and look great. The steam heats up quickly and has a warmer on top of the espresso maker to keep your glasses warm.
Pros: Beautiful machine, great accessories, glass warmer on top
Cons: Only small glasses can be used, no videos on Brim's website for using this, definite learning curve
If you have the patience to learn to use this or have experience with this type of machine, then this is perfect for you. If you don't, then you might want to add some money to your Starbucks card and hit the drive thru.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Microwaving has evolved! When it comes to everything you expect in a microwave, nothing compares with the defrosting, cooking, and reheating capability of the new Cyclonic Wave. At every temperature level, Cyclonic Wave circulates heat in precision, ultra-efficient 3D waves for easier, more versatile food preparation, even with denser, more complex food textures. This exceptional microwave also includes patented Inverter Technology. Unlike traditional microwaves that rely on pulse-on, pulse-off power at lower temperatures, Inverter Technology delivers a constant stream of cooking power at every temperature. The result? More evenly cooked meals — edges to centers — every time. Put together, Cyclonic Wave with Inverter Technology provides the fastest, most efficient way to enjoy perfectly prepared snacks, sides, and meals across a broader range of cooking techniques, while also maintaining more of the natural nutrients and flavor you want. It's the ultimate combination by Panasonic!
Customer Rating
5
Who knew a microwave cook look artful
on January 28, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I've had this microwave for a couple of weeks now and i must admit that initially it was a little intimidating for a small appliance. There are lots of LED lights, buttons and there is all of that shiny stainless steel. I havent used all of the features yet but it is a great addition to my man cave.
It looks much heavier than it is and the cooking options are great. I popped some popcorn, defrosted some frozen wings and heated up some things for my football party. Everything worked great and the interior was easy to clean. I have to play around with it a bit more to really learn all of the features, but it is a great microwave, which it should be since it costs quite a bit more than your standard microwaves, but I think it is worth it so far.
I would definitely recommend this.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
-1point
0of 1voted this as helpful.
Take this pocket-sized DarioHealth LC WK kit on the go easily. Made to automatically record blood glucose measurements, this kit makes it simple to track important metrics for diabetes, such as carb counting, medication intake and physical activity. This DarioHealth LC WK kit only requires a tiny drop of blood and offers accurate, speedy measurements.
Customer Rating
5
Great gadget to keep track of your readings
on January 3, 2019
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I got this for my father-in-law who has Type I diabetes. For a 65+ year old, he is pretty tech savvy and when I gave it to him, he didn't need a lot of help setting it up given the detailed instructions. This was great because I assumed that i would need to set it up for him. I did end up helping him set up his account and adjust the settings, but for the most part he did it all himself.
He set up the device and took his first reading and it was quick and relatively painless. He liked how portable it is and how easy it is to just leave in his wife's purse and take it out when needed. He is also checking with his insurance to see if the supplies are covered by his insurance provider. So far his readings have been in line with his normal readings using his existing meter, so it seems to be accurate.
He is very happy with this meter and the only complaint he mentioned was that it will not work with his OtterBox Defender case. The case is a bit bulky so I went out and bought him a thinner case, although its not as protective against drops. So be wary of that when purchasing this, but all in all, it has been a good device for him.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Augment your vehicle's Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or Bluetooth system with this two-port ROAV VIVA Pro smart car charger. Two built-in Amazon Alexa-supported microphones let you ask questions and driving directions, take hands-free calls and perform other smartphone-enabled tasks by voice. Tap the mute button of this Anker PowerIQ-driven ROAV VIVA Pro smart car charger to stop Alexa from listening.
Customer Rating
3
Ok, but needs some work
on December 28, 2018
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I've had this for a coupe of weeks now and I really wanted to love it, but its just ok for my use. It's not the easiest charger to use and actually has alot of steps before you can get up and using the features. Its certainly not a plug and play.
I had to download the Anker app, download Alexa, pair the phone to the Anker charger, etc etc. I also would have preferred to have at least one input be a USB-C, but i think they have other devices that include that input. You do have multiple options for use including, USB, Bluetooth, FM Transmitter and Aux cable. So this should work for pretty much any vehicle, old or newer.
I havent really used Alexa, so i had to download the app, create an account and then use it with the Anker app. Ultimately, my plan for using this charger was to play my Audible books through it since im waiting on the dealer to replace the radio/navigation in my truck, but since the bluetooth is part of my problem, i could only connect this via FM transmitter. Not the best method of connection because you get interference as you drive to different areas where the stations change.
I didnt notice any differences in charging while using my old charger via USB-A, but it is definitely slower using USB-C. All in all this is a decent charger with some good features. Im just used to doing everything through my truck's radio and not having to push the voice assistant button on the charger. Particularly since the charger sits in the center console of my truck its not exactly easy to push while driving.
I would recommend this ideally for those without a hands-free setup currently in their vehicles and for those familiar with Alexa. If you have a system such as UConnect or Sync, you are probably better off passing on this.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Complete your financial reports with this Epson WorkForce Accounting Edition scanner. The included Nuance OCR software lets you create searchable, editable versions of hard-copy documents, and USB connectivity eliminates the need for batteries or external power. This Epson WorkForce Accounting Edition scanner extracts receipt and invoice data for further analysis with Excel or QuickBooks Online.
Customer Rating
5
Amazing scanner and portable too
on December 19, 2018
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I've used several scanners made by other brands recently including one that is portable. I must say this one beats all of the models I've used hands down. This thing is ultra-portable, lightweight and scans extremely fast.
This fits in my backpack or briefcase and only needs a micro-usb cord to operate it. The other thing I really like about this scanner is the software. I used to have a Neat portable scanner and ever since they went to a subscription service for the software, I've been trying to find some software that works as well as it did. The Nuance accounting software that lets you categorize and identify the receipts. This is great for me as my wife and I have a small business and this is so much easier than saving receipts in an envelope.
It is a bit expensive, but if you need something functional, portable, scans fast as had great software, this is the one to get. I would definitely recommend this.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
TechFan's Review Comments
TechFan has not submitted comments on any reviews.
TechFan's Questions
TechFan has not submitted any questions.
TechFan's Answers
MEET INNER SOUND: Sound is music we love, noise we wish to avoid, and voices we do not want to miss.Introducing Devialet Gemini True Wireless earbuds: giving you the best of sound, in all its dimensions. Transforming 15 years of acoustics R&D and engineering into a portable design you can enjoy on the move.
Can you use one Earbud at a time while one is charging?
Protect and boost the functionality of your 7th, 8th, and 9th Gen iPad with this graphite Logitech Combo Touch keyboard case. The precision trackpad allows for easy navigation, while the well-spaced backlit keys ensure effortless typing, even in dark environments. This Logitech Combo Touch keyboard case has a smooth texture for easy handling, and the adjustable kickstand provides comfortable viewing angles.
Does this need to be charged, or is it like the apple one which is just magnetic without a charger?
It is similar to the Apple case in that it uses the Smart Connector. No other chargers or cables are needed
4 years, 3 months ago
by
TechFan
Protect and boost the functionality of your 7th, 8th, and 9th Gen iPad with this graphite Logitech Combo Touch keyboard case. The precision trackpad allows for easy navigation, while the well-spaced backlit keys ensure effortless typing, even in dark environments. This Logitech Combo Touch keyboard case has a smooth texture for easy handling, and the adjustable kickstand provides comfortable viewing angles.
Is this compatible with the iPad 4? 9.7 inch?
Protect and boost the functionality of your 7th, 8th, and 9th Gen iPad with this graphite Logitech Combo Touch keyboard case. The precision trackpad allows for easy navigation, while the well-spaced backlit keys ensure effortless typing, even in dark environments. This Logitech Combo Touch keyboard case has a smooth texture for easy handling, and the adjustable kickstand provides comfortable viewing angles.
Does this need to be charged, or is it like the apple one which is just magnetic without a charger?
This case uses Apple's proprietary Smart Connector thus eliminating the need for another charger or cable. One of the best features of this case in my opinion.
4 years, 3 months ago
by
TechFan
Only @ Best BuyListen to music with this sweat- and dust-resistant wireless Jabra Elite headset. It connects via USB, mini-jack or Bluetooth, and a powerful microphone lets you use voice commands with your mobile device. This Jabra Elite headset reduces background noise and has a built-in motion sensor that lets you track fitness efforts.
Do these stay in your ear better while sweating? The original 65t kept falling out when I was running
Ive run about 6 miles using these and I never had any issues with them falling out. Best earphones I've used for running.
6 years, 3 months ago
by
TechFan
Brighten your day and night with this Philips Being Hue ceiling light. The dimming function lets you set an ambience for different moods, and it works with the Philips Hue dimmer switch and mobile app for versatile control. The ZigBee technology of this 32W Philips Being Hue ceiling lamp provides smooth, efficient interoperability with multiple Hue lighting units.
how bright is this?
The brightness is adjustable. It can give off light equivalent to a standard 60 watt bulb (default) but with the app, you can make the light brighter. If I remember correctly, its about 2400 lumens. For example, a 60 watt bulb is about 750-850 lumens.
6 years, 9 months ago
by
TechFan
Completely customize your Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat to match your lifestyle and decor. The ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat lets you choose the temperature, schedule, display color and the devices you use to control it all.
will this work with iPhone?
Completely customize your Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat to match your lifestyle and decor. The ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat lets you choose the temperature, schedule, display color and the devices you use to control it all.
What are installation instructions & wiring requirements?
You will need to have a "C" wire in order to use this. If you do not have one, there are additional instructions on how to wire it and it includes the wire you can use to jump it in your thermostat. If you have minor DIY skills, you should have no problem with the installation.
6 years, 10 months ago
by
TechFan
Compatible with Apple iPhone SE, 5s and 5, this LifeProof nüüd 2105-01 case features screenless technology that allows interaction with your phone's touch screen and withstands drops from heights of up to 6.6' for rugged protection.
When I call someone they cannot hear me on the other end how do I fix this
I had that problem too initially, but I took the phone out and re-installed the phone into the case paying careful attention to making sure that the volume/vibrate button was installed correctly in the slot. Once i did that, the mic must have lined up the way it was supposed to and I havent had any problems since. Hope that helps.
10 years, 6 months ago
by
TechFan
Ohio