nickcal's stats
- Review count352
- Helpfulness votes1,336
- First reviewFebruary 22, 2014
- Last reviewMay 25, 2026
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count4
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- First answerMay 23, 2016
- Last answerSeptember 7, 2020
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soundcore Liberty 5 by Anker, Noise-Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 2x Stronger Voice Reduction, Real-Time Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Fast Charging, Dolby Audio, 6-Mic AI Clear Calls, Long Battery Life
Customer Rating
5
Personalized Sound, Impressive Depth, and Everyday
on February 15, 2026
Posted by: nickcal
Earbuds come in all shapes and sizes, and since I have had good experiences with Soundcore in the past, I wanted to try these. The design mirrors many premium models, with the microphone positioned at the end of the stem. They include a charging case and a companion app that allows for deeper customization.
The charging case feels solid and opens smoothly, and placing the earbuds in or taking them out is effortless. Pairing was fast and straightforward, so setup only took a few moments. The app is well organized and useful for firmware updates, adjusting touch controls, and personalizing audio settings. The Preference Sound feature stands out because it creates a sound profile based on a short listening test, tailoring playback to individual hearing preferences.
Comfort is another strong point. They are lightweight and sit securely without drawing attention to themselves once inserted. Transparency mode is available, though with a proper seal there is already noticeable passive isolation. While I did not hear much environmental noise even in transparency mode, I could clearly tell when it was active because my own voice sounded more natural when speaking.
There are a few areas that could be improved. When I moved my head, the microphone stem occasionally brushed against my shoulder, creating a faint crinkling sound that was more noticeable in transparency mode. The physical control button can also be tricky to find by feel, and it requires a firm press to activate, which makes it seem slightly stiff. Additionally, removing the earbuds pauses playback but does not automatically shift audio back to the connected device’s speaker.
Sound quality is where these earbuds really stand out. Across genres, the presentation is rich and balanced. Bass delivers impact without overwhelming the mids, vocals remain clear and forward, and highs are crisp without becoming sharp. The overall tuning allows for extended listening without fatigue.
Enabling Dolby Sound in Music Mode while streaming through Apple Music expanded the presentation even further. The audio felt more spacious, with improved instrument placement and clearer separation between layers. Subtle details emerged more distinctly, giving tracks a greater sense of depth without sounding artificial.
The personalized sound profile enhanced this even more by subtly refining tonal balance to better match my hearing. The preset EQ options were also useful when I wanted a slightly different emphasis for certain styles of music, offering quick adjustments without manual tweaking.
When watching movies on Disney+, Dolby content translated well. Dialogue stayed focused and intelligible, while effects and background elements remained clearly defined. Action scenes carried weight, yet voices were never overshadowed. Whether listening to music or watching films, the clarity, separation, and dimensional quality consistently impressed me.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly premium listening experience, these earbuds are worth looking at.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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GALLEON 100 SD fuses iconic Stream Deck technology into a high-performance mechanical keyboard, giving you precise, real-time command of your entire gaming setup all from one device. Customizable shortcut keys and dials help you react faster without breaking focus, whether you're executing complex in-game combos or controlling apps like Discord and Spotify. Keep tabs on everything from hardware stats to your favorite Twitch channels on a fullcolor 5" LCD screen. The keyboard also delivers serious gaming performance with lightning-fast 8,000Hz hyperpolling, FlashTap SOCD, and smooth MLX Pulse switches. It~s more than just a keyboard~it~s a new era of input.
Customer Rating
5
A Solid Combo for Creators
on February 9, 2026
Posted by: nickcal
I’m a big fan of mechanical keyboards and I really like the Elgato programmable hardware. So, when Corsair released this amazing keyboard mash-up with the Stream Deck, I couldn’t wait to try it out. First of all, the keyboard comes in a very nice, premium retail box. There are two USB cables included and the keyboard is wrapped in a cloth cover for shipping/storage. A keycap puller is also included and a magnetic, plush wrist rest.
I set it up with my MacBook Pro, downloaded the Elgato Stream Deck software, and immediately began customizing it. The keyboard feels great when you type and I really like the wrist rest cushion. It feels great to use alongside the keyboard. The fact that it’s magnetic is great because I don’t have to worry about it sliding while I’m using it.
The Galleon 100 has a classic mechanical keyboard feel and is very easy to type on for long sessions. I normally average around 73 WPM, and after doing a typing test on this keyboard I reached 78 WPM with 97 percent accuracy. It just feels fast and responsive. Even though it is a full-size keyboard, it does not feel bulky at all.
The design is one of my favorite parts. The number pad area has been replaced with the integrated Stream Deck, which also works as a multifunction area. When the Elgato Stream Deck software is not running, those keys can still function as a standard number pad or utility buttons. I think this is a really smart use of space. The display looks great and the RGB lighting is excellent without being distracting.
Performance has been solid. I ran a polling test and saw a maximum polling rate of 1000Hz, which is more than enough for typing and gaming. One thing to note is that if you want to use the built-in USB passthrough port, the keyboard requires two cables. One cable runs the keyboard and Stream Deck features, and the second cable powers the passthrough port.
This is not a wireless keyboard, which makes sense considering the display, RGB lighting, Stream Deck features, and power requirements. The biggest downside is the price. The investment you make when you purchase the Galleon makes sense when you consider that it combines a premium mechanical keyboard and a Stream Deck into one device.
If you are a streamer, content creator, or power user who wants everything built into one keyboard, this is a very well-designed option.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Theragun Prime (6th Generation) delivers scientifically proven powerful percussive therapy in our most durable design yet ~ built to withstand intense training, outdoor adventures and everyday wear and tear. Its impact-resistant rubber exterior and reinforced corners protect against drops up to 10 feet, making it ideal for the most demanding lifestyles. Simple one-button controls let you adjust massage intensity across 5 speeds, while the patented triangle grip - now with a wider opening for easier handling - ensures a secure, comfortable hold and better leverage to reach every muscle. Real-time LED indicators show how much pressure you're applying, and the quiet, adaptive motor maintains speed and power under pressure to prevent stalling. Apply up to 35 lbs. of force to work through deep knots and tight muscles, helping relieve pain, improve flexibility and accelerate recovery. With a 2-hour battery life and 2 versatile attachments for full-body recovery, Theragun Prime keeps pace with your toughest days. Bluetooth connectivity unlocks app control via the Therabody app, where you can adjust settings, monitor pressure levels and follow guided routines. Plus, Coach by Therabody - included free in the app ~ creates personalized recovery plans based on our goals and activity data, helping you stay consistent with your recovery.
Customer Rating
4
Powerful Relief When Muscle Tension Is the Problem
on February 3, 2026
Posted by: nickcal
For more than half my life, I’ve suffered from chronic leg pain. I’ve dealt with it through a myriad of medications, doctor’s visits, surgeries, and medical devices like the Theragun. I’ve had minimal results in those areas, but I’ve found out recently that this may have to do with the type of ailments I have and not the failing of the treatments.
It’s important to match the tool to the ailment properly otherwise, you won’t see results. With a percussive therapy device like the Theragun Prime, people who will benefit the most are active individuals, fitness enthusiasts, and everyday users who deal with muscle tightness, soreness, or stiffness and want an easy way to speed up recovery, improve mobility, and manage muscle tension at home.
I will say that most recently I’ve been plagued with a neck strain/nerve issue. I’ve been going to physical therapy for it and my therapist suggested using a percussion device on it occasionally to loosen the tension. That is where I used the Theragun. I’ve used a Theragun and other brands of percussive devices before and I was impressed with the power of the Theragun Prime 6th Gen. There are a few things I would love to see done differently.
First of all, while it’s not difficult to use, I stumbled a bit the first time I used it. The box makes it seem as though you have to download the app in order to use it. There is a quick start guide printed on the inside of the box’s lid, but I missed it at first because I flipped through the paperwork that came with it thinking based of it was the manual. Then, I got frustrated because the app only took me through coaching options. I finally figured it out on my own, but I think it would have been less confusing if a manual was included with all the coaching pamphlets in the box.
Second, the display is simply the LED around the power button. When I first turned on the unit, I thought that was the battery indicator. It turns out that the backlight of the power button is the battery indicator. It changes colors as the battery is used up and while that isn’t unusual, I had to go through several steps to find that answer.
Overall, I think the Theragun Prime performs well when used for its intended purpose. Once I got past the initial learning curve, it delivered the kind of power and consistency I expect from a device in this category. The motor is strong without feeling out of control, and it does an effective job of loosening muscle tension when used thoughtfully and in moderation. For my neck strain, it helped relax the surrounding muscles enough to make stretching and physical therapy exercises more productive.
That said, the experience could be improved with clearer onboarding and more intuitive indicators. These are not dealbreakers, but they do add friction during those first few uses. After spending more time with the device, those issues became less noticeable, and the focus shifted back to performance.
At the end of the day, the Theragun Prime is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it should not be treated as one. When matched to the right type of discomfort, especially muscle tightness and soreness, it can be a genuinely helpful recovery tool. Used with realistic expectations and alongside other treatments when necessary, it earns its place as a reliable option for at-home muscle care.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The APC Back-UPS Pro BN1050M mini-tower model is designed to power your critical electronics during blackouts and protect them from the dangers of surges, spikes, lightning, and power outages. By powering your critical electronics during blackouts, you ensure personal and professional connectivity when it matters most. Improvements in size and surge protection come at an affordable price, making the Back-UPS ProBN1050M mini-tower model a perfect solution for your power protection needs.
Customer Rating
5
Reliable Backup Power for Everyday Home Use
on January 30, 2026
Posted by: nickcal
I’ve been using UPS backups for many years to make sure my major systems keep power if there is an outage. This APC battery backup is a very easy one to use. It is very heavy, but that’s pretty normal for a battery backup. There are several power outlets (8 to be exact) and four of them that will be backed up when power is out.
To get started, you first need to connect the internal battery and make sure it’s being charged before it can be guaranteed that you will have a backup that works. There is a battery door on the bottom of the unit that slides open to reveal the internal battery. There is a red cable connector that you slide onto the contact and then you plug the backup into a power source. If you don’t connect the internal battery, the unit’s alarm will sound and the battery level on the front of the unit will blink.
I really like the display on the front because it gives you a clear picture of what the battery level is. In addition to the onboard display, you do have the option of connecting the backup to a PC and monitoring/managing the power through a third-party app.
After setup, I tested the unit by disconnecting it from wall power to simulate an outage. The transition to battery power was instant, with no interruption to the connected devices. During testing, the display updated to show the estimated remaining runtime, which changed depending on how many devices were plugged in and drawing power. With fewer devices connected, the projected runtime increased, making it easy to understand how your setup impacts backup time. This gave me confidence that the unit would perform reliably in an actual power outage.
I think this is a very user-friendly UPS and it definitely gets the job done.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Experience clear visibility and zero blind spots with the eufyCam S4 outdoor camera kit. Combining a 4K bullet lens camera for focused views with 2K dual-lens PTZ camera for 360~ coverage, you can see more, instantly track people, and zoom in on them up to 164 ft. The solar-powered wireless camera features SolarPlus~ 2.0 for year-round charging with just an hour of sunlight a day. Smarter AI, expandable on-device storage**, and built-in lights with siren stop threats in their tracks~no fees, no compromises.
Customer Rating
5
Clear Coverage, Smart Tracking, and Subscription-F
on December 17, 2025
Posted by: nickcal
I’ve had security cameras around my house for more than 10 years now. I’ve used various brands, but I’ve always stuck with wireless options because even though they can be more reliable, the wires are problematic especially in the house. eufy cameras have been reliable and easy to set up and use. So, adding the eufyCam S4 Triple Lens Wireless Solar Security Camera to our ecosystem was a no-brainer.
Installation was easy once I figured out where I wanted to place it. The tricky part was finding a good place that provided the coverage I wanted, but was also getting a good signal to our WiFi network. The camera only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which can be limiting if you prefer dual-band or faster network options.
I found the eufyCam S4 to be especially strong when it comes to video quality and motion tracking. The 4K footage is sharp, and the auto-tracking does a great job following people or vehicles while zooming in for clearer detail. I also like the combination of wide coverage and focused tracking, which helps reduce blind spots. The built-in solar panel keeps the battery topped off outdoors, so there’s very little maintenance, and the lack of any monthly subscription fees is a big plus. Setup feels straightforward, and overall reliability and connection stability stand out as strengths.
Overall, this camera does an excellent job delivering clear video, reliable solar power, and smart tracking without ongoing costs, with only minor networking limitations holding it back.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Juice Pack by Mophie wraps power and protection into one incredible bundle with this slim, protective, charging case. Juice Pack can provide your iPhone with up to an extra 50% battery life. So, at the end of a long day, you never have to worry about low battery when you~re sending a text, ordering a ride, or finding out where everybody~s meeting. Stay powerful with Juice Pack~s 2,400-3,600mAh rechargeable battery.
Customer Rating
5
An essential accessory for iPhone Users
on December 17, 2025
Posted by: nickcal
I was an early adopter of the mophie Juice Pack when it was originally released for the iPhone 3G and I’ve gotten one for nearly every other iPhone I’ve had. The Juice Pack is the ideal case for me because I usually only like to use a case when it serves multiple purposes. The Juice Pack protects and charges, which checks those case requirements off for me.
Out of the box, the case had a 50% charge. I was surprised that mophie didn’t include a charging cable for it. I was expecting at least a short one, but there was nothing in the box except for the Juice Pack and its Quick Start Guide. So, I grabbed a USB-C cable and plugged it in before I installed my phone into it.
To insert your phone, you have to slide the top section of the case off and then slide your iPhone in so that it connects with the USB-C plug that is built into the Juice Pack. Once the phone was secured into the bottom section of the case, I started sliding the top over the phone. It was a little tricky getting it over the camera bump, but once I did, the case snapped together and I was ready to use it.
I found a long time ago that the best way to use accessories like the Juice Pack is to connect the case to your phone, run down the battery in the Juice Pack and then use the phone’s battery. It is generally better to use the Juice Pack as the power source first. Letting the case drain before your phone’s battery helps reduce wear on the internal battery and makes long term replacement easier if capacity degrades.
The Juice Pack is a great backup battery or battery add-on for the iPhone. I wouldn’t leave the house without it.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enjoy crystal-clear stereo sound with this easy-to-use 2.0 channel soundbar. Amplified audio in a clean and stylish package that you can customize to fit your listening needs.
Customer Rating
5
Basic soundbar improves built-in TV sound
on December 4, 2025
Posted by: nickcal
I have been wanting an audio boost for the TV in our bedroom for a while. We’ve tried shelf speakers, but they just aren’t practical for our wall-mounted TV setup in that room. So, we decided to add this practical soundbar. It was in our price range and was just a basic add-on, which was all I wanted.
So far, it has been a big upgrade over what the TV’s built-in speakers offer. It’s been great for dialogue, which I have trouble hearing without extra amplification. The setup was easy since our TV has an ARC input. The only downside I’ve really noticed with this soundbar is having to use yet another remote. It does have a bit of a bass depth limit, but it’s still a big improvement over the built-in speakers. Getting it setup is easy. We got a small shelf for it so it sites right below our TV and hiding the cables to it has been pretty simple, too.
If you are trying to achieve a home theater feel, this isn’t the soundbar for you. But if you want amplified sound beyond basic speakers, check this one out.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Designed for an uncompromising clean, the Roomba Max 705 Combo Robot + AutoWash Dock delivers heated mopping with a self-cleaning, extending roller mop and first-of-it-kind cover that protects carpets from wet messes. Dual Edge-Sweeping Brushes, Dual Rubber Brushes and Carpet Boost eliminate deep-down debris, wall-to-wall. Advanced 3D mapping ensures smooth navigation throughout your bustling home. Your robot identifies and adapts to clean around objects, auto-adjusting to activate just the right settings for the task. The powerhouse dock auto-empties debris, heat washes and dries the roller mop, and refills cleaning liquid to keep floor-cleaning forever fresh.
Customer Rating
4
Worthwhile Upgrade With Room to Grow
on December 4, 2025
Posted by: nickcal
I’ve been fortunate to be able to use a few different types of robot vacuums and the ones that can mop and vacuum are my favorite. They do come with some limitations, but it’s nice to have that option. This Roomba has a lot going for it, but does have some drawbacks — especially for its price point.
WHAT IT DOES WELL
The Roomba 705 does a good job with general cleaning/sweeping. When I ran it, the robot did leave the floors cleaner than they were. I love that this unit has the option for self-emptying and auto-washing of the mop head. That is one of my biggest pet peeves with robot vacuums. The startup process was fairly smooth and it’s been low maintenance since that point.
WHERE IT COULD IMPROVE
Even though the vacuum picks up most debris, it does leave behind smaller dirt particles. I wasn’t impressed by that since I had to use a different vacuum to clean up after the vacuum. In comparison to other robot vacuums, the Roomba 705 is a bit loud especially when it is on hard floors and finding a place for the base station is a bit problematic due to its size. The app needs some work though. It’s a little limited in the functionality and for this level of robot vacuum, I expected more advanced controls/features.
Even though there is room for improvement, I think it’s still worth getting if you only have a basic robot vacuum. It is a sizable investment, but it will last for a long time.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Dominate the game with the 34~ UltraGear WQHD (3340x1440) Gaming Monitor, built for speed, precision, and pure visual impact. The 21:9 UltraGear display gives you more room to play and multitask, with a virtually borderless design that keeps you locked into the action. React instantly with a blistering 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time~perfect for competitive gamers who live in the milliseconds. Vivid color pops with HDR10, DisplayHDR 400, and up to 95% DCI-P3 color gamut, while AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility ensure buttery-smooth, tear-free visuals across PC and next-gen consoles. Split your screen with Picture-by-Picture mode, plug in with USB-C, HDMI (x2), DisplayPort, and USB-A (x2), and hear every detail with built-in speakers. Designed for battle and built for comfort~with a slim, adjustable stand that keeps your setup clean and dialed in.
Customer Rating
5
A Smooth Upgrade for Everyday Productivity
on December 4, 2025
Posted by: nickcal
I’ve had a 34-inch ultra wide monitor for a long time. It’s primarily used for standard productivity and creative work for everyday use. It has served its purpose well and still works, but I was ready for an upgrade. I knew that I wanted the same size and close to the same curve rating. Plus, since I don’t use this particular monitor for gaming, I didn’t feel as though I needed more than the UWQHD resolution, I thought this LG would be a great step up without breaking the bank.
It was easy to set up and out of the box it was calibrated beautifully. The previous monitor I had only had a 100Hz refresh rate and the LG’s 240Hz refresh rate makes everything look and feel smoother. And even though my old monitor was slightly brighter at 400cd/m, the LG has HDR, which boosts highlights and improves the overall contracts. All visuals appear to be a little more crisp than my older monitor and my eyes feel less tired than they do using the older monitor.
I opted to mount the monitor to a monitor arm rather than use the stand and it’s been great to use that way. It was easy to install on the arm and the placement of the power button/toggle is very easy to reach. I’ve always been impressed with LG’s menu system so I knew this would be a great monitor for me.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Protect your home and family with a powerful outdoor camera wireless solution that delivers crystal-clear 2K resolution, keeping a watchful eye on people, vehicles, and packages around the clock. Get instant alerts the moment motion is detected and watch live video directly on your phone, with Dual-Band WiFi ensuring a stronger, more reliable connection at all times. A 1-Month Arlo Secure Early Warning System Plan trial is included, providing 60-day video history so you can review past footage at any time, Smart Detections covering Person and Vehicle Recognition and Package and Animal Detection, and can act as a reliable pet camera for monitoring your animals around the property, and Interactive Notifications on your phone's lock screen with Emergency Response and Call a Friend so help is always within reach. The Essential 3rd Gen is one of the most dependable wireless cameras for home security, setup is simple and wire-free for total flexibility, and the camera mounts and removes easily whenever it is time to recharge, while Color Night Vision lets you see shirt color, car color, and facial features even after dark for reliable day and night surveillance. Hear and speak clearly with visitors using noise-canceling 2-Way Audio, quickly deter threats with the Integrated Siren, and extend battery life with Low Power Mode for all-day monitoring. Whether you need reliable cameras for home security or a complete set of security cameras wireless outdoor, the Arlo Essential Battery Camera works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT, and Google Home to deliver dependable protection at every corner of your home.
Customer Rating
5
Great Wireless Camera
on November 10, 2025
Posted by: nickcal
I’ve used Arlo cameras around my house for years and I’ve been very happy with the basic functions of the camera. The video is clear and 2K is better than the 1080p that a lot of budget-brand cameras get you. The apps is easy to use, but it does incorporate at lot of in-app ads, which get annoying since they are for Arlo products. The Essential 2K Camera (3rd Gen) connects quickly to my WiFi and the app is able to tell me when there is motion detected.
If you want more than the basic functions (viewing live video feed, receiving motion alerts, and two-way audio), then you will either need to get an Arlo SmartHub or subscribe to an Arlo Secure plan. The SmartHub gives users the option to record locally to a hard drive, while the Arlo Secure plan give users cloud recording and AI detection features. I’ve used both and can say that while the Arlo Secure advanced options are nice, the only thing I really want is the ability to review or save recordings. So, I added this camera to my existing smart hub.
Setting up the camera is easy and it’s great especially if you just want a simple wireless camera to keep an eye on people coming and going from your house. This is perfect as a door/porch camera.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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nickcal's Answers
Life~s extraordinary moments deserve to be captured with smooth video. DJI OM 4 is a magnetic gimbal designed to complement your smartphone, allowing you to start recording right away. Ultra-compact, easy to use, and bursting with intelligent features, OM 4 is the ultimate solution for capturing and sharing your world.
Does the magnetic sticker phone attachment interfere with wireless phone charging?
Ensure meals are cooked evenly with this Breville the Combi Wave 3-in-1e microwave. The grill, convection oven and microwave functions provide a variety of cooking options, while the Element IQ technology precisely delivers the right cooking temperature for optimal results. This Breville the Combi Wave 3-in-1 microwave features a Power Smoothing inverter for automatic adjustment of power to enable even heat distribution.
Is this an air fryer, microwave and convection oven
Simplify your everyday life with the Google Home, a voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant. Use voice commands to enjoy music, get answers from Google and manage everyday tasks. Google Home is compatible with Android and iOS operating systems, and can control compatible smart devices such as Chromecast or Nest."
Will Google Home work with ECOBEE Thermostat?
No. Unfortunately, Google has limited functionality to only the Nest thermostat. At this time, I don't see them opening up support for third parties as they are probably trying to push it with their own hardware, but that could always change.
9 years, 7 months ago
by
nickcal
Enjoy a compact tablet that fits neatly in your pocket with this Acer Iconia One 8-inch tablet. It includes a quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM that deliver powerful processing to play all your games and apps, and the 16GB of flash memory ensure this Acer Iconia One 8-inch tablet and store your files.
can i download skype
Depends on the Google Play store. If Microsoft has a version of Skype for Android then yes.
10 years ago
by
nickcal