TechFan's stats
- Review count247
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- First reviewMarch 14, 2014
- Last reviewApril 25, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.3
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- Answer count9
- Helpfulness votes35
- First answerMarch 14, 2014
- Last answerSeptember 8, 2021
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HP OMEN by HP Desktop: Power your productivity with this HP computer. The Intel Core i5 processor ensures applications launch and run as expected for frustration-free performance, and the 8GB of RAM supports business and personal multitasking. This HP computer includes a 1TB hard drive, letting you store hundreds of documents, pictures and application files.
Customer Rating
4
Good entry level gaming PC
on April 19, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
The HP Omen gaming desktop is a pretty good entry level gaming rig. The desktop is pretty elegant to look at with the aluminum finish and variable lighting on it. It is packed with features like a 3GB NVIDIA GTX 1060 graphics card, Bluetooth 4.2, built-in wireless networking, 3 HDMI inputs, DisplayPort and 9 USB ports, 5 of which are USB 3.0.
After unpacking and connecting the components, the first thing I did was download all of the updates. There were updates to the graphics card and some critical Microsoft Visual updates and Windows updates. After trying to download them for several hours and having them fail to install, I reset my PC twice and the updates finally installed. This was frustrating, but seems to be common for me when updating Window's based computers. Not a big deal since they ultimately installed. I also noted that there wasn't as much bloatware as usual with this PC. Most apps can be uninstalled with the exception of a few to include the Xbox and Twitter apps.
The main complaint I have is that it didn't come with an SSD drive. Although the 1TB 7200 rpm drive is faster than the standard 5400 rpm drive, it is still no comparison to the speed and boot time of an SSD drive. I am considering upgrading mine and using the 7200 rpm drive to backup the SSD hard drive and to store movies and photos on it. The boot time was roughly 30-35 seconds from a hard power off. That is pretty slow when you want to log on to check something really quick.
I am using an HDMI cable to connect the PC to my monitor and I learned the hard way that with the three HDMI inputs, the two located on the bottom are not for the monitor. There is a third HDMI input on the video card that you use for the monitor. I went out and bought a new monitor and then ultimately returned it, thinking it was faulty and bought a different model. Only after searching Google, did I realize that I was using the wrong input. The monitor makes a difference in the gaming experience. My BestBuy didn't have the model I wanted in stock (ASUS VG24H) so I ended up buying an HP 23ES with HDMI input. Admittedly, its not a gaming monitor, but I will pick up the ASUA once its back in stock. Ideally for a gaming monitor, you want something with a response rate under 5ms and with a displayport connection as well as a high refresh rate.
While you are out upgrading your monitor, I would recommend upgrading your keyboard and mouse as well. The mouse worked well enough, but I prefer a wireless setup. The keyboard however seems really small and awkward for a keyboard with number pad.
All in all, this is a good entry level rig that has some room to be upgraded as you want or need to. This PC may not be ideal for the hardcore gamer, but those just starting out or on a budget but wants the option of upgrading later will appreciate the Omen.
My Best Buy number: 0411188797
I would recommend this to a friend!
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HP OMEN by HP Desktop: Power your productivity with this HP computer. The Intel Core i5 processor ensures applications launch and run as expected for frustration-free performance, and the 8GB of RAM supports business and personal multitasking. This HP computer includes a 1TB hard drive, letting you store hundreds of documents, pictures and application files.
Customer Rating
4
Pretty good entry level gaming rig
on April 17, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
The HP Omen gaming desktop is a pretty good entry level gaming rig. The desktop is pretty elegant to look at with the aluminum finish and variable lighting on it. It is packed with features like a 3GB NVIDIA GTX 1060 graphics card, Bluetooth 4.2, built-in wireless networking, 3 HDMI inputs, DisplayPort and 9 USB ports, 5 of which are USB 3.0.
After unpacking and connecting the components, the first thing I did was download all of the updates. There were updates to the graphics card and some critical Microsoft Visual updates and Windows updates. After trying to download them for several hours and having them fail to install, I reset my PC twice and the updates finally installed. This was frustrating, but seems to be common for me when updating Window's based computers. Not a big deal since they ultimately installed. I also noted that there wasn't as much bloatware as usual with this PC. Most apps can be uninstalled with the exception of a few to include the Xbox and Twitter apps.
The main complaint I have is that it didn't come with an SSD drive. Although the 1TB 7200 rpm drive is faster than the standard 5400 rpm drive, it is still no comparison to the speed and boot time of an SSD drive. I am considering upgrading mine and using the 7200 rpm drive to backup the SSD hard drive and to store movies and photos on it. The boot time was roughly 30-35 seconds from a hard power off. That is pretty slow when you want to log on to check something really quick.
I am using an HDMI cable to connect the PC to my monitor and I learned the hard way that with the three HDMI inputs, the two located on the bottom are not for the monitor. There is a third HDMI input on the video card that you use for the monitor. I went out and bought a new monitor and then ultimately returned it, thinking it was faulty and bought a different model. Only after searching Google, did I realize that I was using the wrong input. The monitor makes a difference in the gaming experience. My BestBuy didn't have the model I wanted in stock (ASUS VG24H) so I ended up buying an HP 23ES with HDMI input. Admittedly, its not a gaming monitor, but I will pick up the ASUA once its back in stock. Ideally for a gaming monitor, you want something with a response rate under 5ms and with a displayport connection as well as a high refresh rate.
While you are out upgrading your monitor, I would recommend upgrading your keyboard and mouse as well. The mouse worked well enough, but I prefer a wireless setup. The keyboard however seems really small and awkward for a keyboard with number pad.
All in all, this is a good entry level rig that has some room to be upgraded as you want or need to. This PC may not be ideal for the hardcore gamer, but those just starting out or on a budget but wants the option of upgrading later will appreciate the Omen.
I would recommend this as it is performs well, has plenty of inputs and can be upgraded down the road. Would definitely upgrade to an SSD drive though.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+32points
41of 50voted this as helpful.
Keep floors clean effortlessly with this Dyson cordless vacuum cleaner. Its powerful cleaner head removes ground-in dirt from carpets. The built-in HEPA filter in this Dyson cordless vacuum cleaner removes allergens from your living environment, and the vacuum transforms to a hand-held for spot cleaning.
Customer Rating
3
Nice portable stick vac
on March 19, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
This is a nice portable vacuum. It's nice not to have to lug around a big vacuum to clean steps, vents and cobwebs in my house. It comes with several handy attachments and is pretty easy to setup and use. I opened the package and was happy to see that it was partially charged, so I could play with it right out of the package.
I used it initially to clean my carpeted steps and found that the max suction switch was much better to use for vacuuming the carpet. The normal suction just didn't clean as well. With the switch on max suction, you do lose some battery time, but I was able to clean about two dozen steps, the landing and switched it back to normal to clean the cobwebs in some corners.
I also used it to vacuum up some crumbs my kids dropped on the tile floor and while it worked, the broom was still the better option. I'm not sure if it was intended to be used on tile, but I figured I would try it nonetheless.
This is my first time using a stick vac, so maybe my opinion will change after more use. I plan to use it to vacuum out our vehicles instead of using my wall mounted shop vac in the garage and I'm sure I will appreciate the portability of this vacuum.
For the price, I'm not sure it would be worth it for a maximum of approximately 40 minutes of use, but I do like my gadgets. I wouldn't pay $600 for what I get out of it though. All in all, its not a bad vacuum, but I would probably stick with my broom and dustpan for this price.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Work, play and communicate with this Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 featuring a 2.15 GHz + 1.6 GHz quad core processor. This versatile tablet has an ultra-clear Super AMOLED display, so you can watch HD movies on the go. Capture and share your world with the 13MP camera in this Samsung Galaxy Tab S3’s, which features an integrated flash for great results in low light.
Customer Rating
4
Not a bad tablet at all.....apps is another story
on March 17, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
Overall, I like this tablet. Its powerful, great sound and is pretty fast. I am an iPad guy, so its pretty difficult to convince me that short of maybe the Microsoft Surface Pro, nothing suits my needs better. I did put down my iPad for several days while trying this out and I was pleasantly surprised. My plan was to download the apps that I use for my iPad Pro, but unfortunately the app store is rather lacking.
Instead, I downloaded some movies and music to it and the resolution and sound is quite impressive. I also downloaded some apps that would allow me to try out the included pen including some coloring books and writing apps and found the pen to be useful and very responsive. I let my kids (5 and 6) play with the pen on some coloring apps and practicing writing their letters and numbers and they enjoyed it. Mine tablet also included a keyboard case and I found it be slightly better than my iPad Pro. It is a little bit heavier than my iPad, but not so much that it was uncomfortable to carry around.
My major complaints would be the weak app store and the fact that the keyboard case doesn't shut off the screen like my iPad. I also found the case to be less secure than I would prefer, but it held up reasonably well. For this price point and the fact that the pen is included, I think it is a worthy tablet and I will certainly keep my eye on their app store to see if it improves. Overall, I would recommend this tablet for the fast charging, speedy processor, great video and audio and the included S pen.
My Best Buy number: 0411797988
I would recommend this to a friend!
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-2points
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Take control of dynamic visual aids with this Logitech Spotlight presentation remote. Its intuitive three-button interface is ideal for pointing and navigating, and it provides versatile programmable functions via the Logitech Presentation app. This Logitech Spotlight presentation remote has a wireless range up to 100 ft. with Bluetooth Smart connectivity and USB receiver compatibility.
Customer Rating
5
Great presentation tool
on March 14, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I got this just in time for a presentation that I was giving and i must say that i am pretty impressed with it. My favorite feature is the highlight option on it. I was able to create a shadow around the items i wanted to identify during my presentation. I used a MacBook Pro for the presentation and it went off very well. My office is now looking into purchasing several of these to use.
Software installation was simple and straightforward and the learning curve was very easy. Simple tool, great features. Would definitely recommend this for anyone from college students to professionals.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Make your home an internet haven with this versatile Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system. Three identical tri-band dual-stream AC2200 routers, each equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor, deliver lightning-fast internet. Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0/LE, this Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system is simple to set up and pairs easily with computers, tablets and smart devices.
Customer Rating
3
Ok, but needs some improvements
on January 18, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
I've used the Velop for about a week now and so far, I think I'm going to stick with my Orbi setup. My home is approximately 3300 square feet, not including my finished basement area. We have upwards of 4 laptops, 4 tablets, 3 Apple TV's, 1 Smart TV and a smart home starter set including Ecobee thermostat, Garage Door Opener, Wireless Security Cameras and WeMo outlets. I say that because I think its important to know what all is connected to the system to accurately depict how well it works.
First, I will talk about what I like about the Velop. It's a relatively small footprint compared to other wireless systems available, definitely has the ability to provide coverage on all three floors of my home and although not the fastest setup, it was pretty simple. I liked how I was able to rename each location right from my iPhone and setup a name and password for the guest network. I also like that even though it broadcasts on 2.4 and 5.0ghz frequencies, I don't have to name each one separately.
What I don't like about the Velop is that it only has two Ethernet ports on each tube (which probably accounts for how small it is), no USB input, the app is not nearly as useful as the Netgear app for the Orbi, several features including the Speed Test and Device Prioritization never worked for me. I also noticed that even though I am connected to the Velop, it always shows several devices as being offline (See attached photos). Just for reference, I have 50mb internet speeds which is the fastest available in my area. When I ran the speed test on my phone using the app outside of Linksys, I was able to test my speeds.
I did get an app update a few days ago and I still had the same problems. All in all, I wouldn't recommend this unit. I will be sticking with my two unit Orbi setup. The app works much better, each Orb has four Ethernet ports and is easy to setup. It does take up more real estate, but I haven't had any problems with it.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Remove dirt and debris from carpet with this Shark Navigator upright vacuum. A detachable canister lets you empty the vacuum easily, and the included tools make cleaning upholstery or inside crevices easy. This Shark Navigator upright vacuum uses a HEPA filter to remove harmful allergens and micro particles for healthier air.
Customer Rating
4
Great little Vac
on January 18, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
This is a great lightweight vacuum cleaner. I have a Dyson Animal that I normally use, but its a beast using it on the stairs and smaller areas. This Shark vacuum solves that problem. Its easy to assemble and should take no more than a couple of minutes. The vacuum is pretty powerful for its size and when you turn the brush roll on, the vacuum pulls you forward. That is how much power it has.
Using it on the stairs is as simple as pushing a button and the canister comes off. It is light and still pretty powerful. My only two complaints about this vacuum are (1) I wish the cord was longer and (2) It comes with three attachments but you can only connect two of them to the vac. You have no choice but to attach the pet brush, but then you have to choose between the crevice tool or the hard floor attachment. I like how lightweight it is, functional, powerful and the LED lights add a nice touch.
If I had this before my Dyson, I would have saved a few hundred bucks. I'm not knocking the Dyson, but for the price, the Shark would have more than fit my needs.
I gave the Shark four stars because of the short cord and the inability to store all of the attachments on it. I would definitely recommend this.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enjoy nonstop music while charging your iPhone with this Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge RockStar adapter. It keeps your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus fully functional while plugged in, and it's compatible with Apple MFi-certified cables and headphones. The 12W power pass-through of this Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge RockStar adapter provides optimal charging speed for compatible devices.
Customer Rating
5
Perfect for Non-Bluetoother's
on January 11, 2017
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
This is the perfect accessory for my audio jackless iPhone 7+. I am a big fan of Bluetooth headphones and that is generally my preference for listening to music/movies on my iPhone, but there are times when the batteries are dead and I am forced to use corded headphones. This adapter solves the problem of charge vs. use.
I like that both inputs work for either charging or listening. You don't have to worry about inserting your lightning cable into the wrong slot. The only thing I will mention is that this adapter cannot be used for syncing your iPhone to your laptop. Not a big deal for me or a deal breaker, but something I thought needed to be mentioned. All in all, I like this adapter and would recommend it.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Revive your Apple Watch conveniently with this Belkin Valet Charger power pack. A single charge of its 6700 mAh battery refuels a watch up to eight times, and an embedded smart chip detects connected devices for automatic wireless charging. This Belkin Valet Charger power pack includes a USB port for simultaneously charging additional devices.
Customer Rating
3
Slow but portable
on December 22, 2016
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
This portable charger had the right idea as far as an easy way to charge an apple watch and additional device at the same time. 6700mh is very good for something this small, but the only major (from my perspective at least) is that it charges pretty slowly. The charger puts out 1.0 volt for the watch and the usb port. This is pretty slow for me.
This should be fine for anyone who doesn't want to carry around a larger battery like a Mophie to recharge their devices and if you are pretty good about recharging the battery when it becomes low. I already bought a spare watch charger cable when I bought my watch, so I either use the plug for my iPhone to recharge it or use a Mophie 8x battery. I actually came out cheaper with the 8x (15,000mah battery) and the spare cable than the cost of this unit by itself and I get twice the capacity and faster charge times. I do realize that Apple products do not support fast charging, but the Belkin it definitely slower.
I would recommend this if you want something small to use for recharging on the go, otherwise I would go with some other options.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
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Energize your workout routine with these Sony wireless sports headphones. Their built-in LDAC enhanced codec support and Bluetooth connectivity let you stream high-quality audio content for an enhanced listening experience while you’re on the move. The included cable adjuster and clip help ensure these Sony wireless sports headphones stay in place.
Customer Rating
4
Good, but not great
on November 28, 2016
Posted by: TechFan
from Ohio
Overall, these are a decent pair of headphones from Sony. As advertised, the bass is loud and the sound quality is decent. They fit securely in my ears and are quite comfortable. My main complaint is changing tracks with the earphones while listening to music. I tried several times to change the song I was listening to on the earphones and it was quite tedious and difficult. You have to push the button pretty hard, often causing the earphones to fall free from my ear. Overall, I would recommend them for working out as they are stable and sound good, but at $74.99, I would pay a bit more and get a different pair.
My Best Buy number: 0411887979
I would recommend this to a friend!
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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
3 years, 10 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.
3 years, 10 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.
5 years, 11 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, 5 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, 6 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, 2 months ago
by
TechFan
Ohio