insomniak1's stats
- Review count154
- Helpfulness votes525
- First reviewJuly 29, 2015
- Last reviewMay 11, 2024
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- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count42
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- First answerAugust 9, 2016
- Last answerJanuary 7, 2022
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The V-MODA BassFit Wireless sport headphones have the juice to power you through the most demanding work outs. With over 11 hours of playback time, these lightweight, wireless headphones deliver heart‑pumping bass and unparalleled clarity in a featherweight, sweat-proof package. The patent-pending TriFit design gives you the choice of 3 different fits, using sport fins, ear hooks or a combination of both to create the perfect fit for you and your active routine.
Customer Rating
5
Took a little getting used to but…
on January 25, 2019
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
To add context, I own and have tried several wireless headphones. These V-MOMAS seem to have some features that I am certainly interested so I wanted to give them a try. So, these sets come in a very nice box (as V-MODA usually do) displaying the headsets. There are several fitting sizes (4), 3 pairs of ear fins and 1 pair of memory metal ear hooks. It also comes with a micro-USB cable (no charger) and a very nice carrying mesh pouch (thank you V-MOVA!). Putting them on can be a little bit frustrating at first. Finding which gummy fitting works best is always a chore, but I found the size that worked best for me. These headsets are not heavy (17g). The ear hooks are stiff and must be put in in a certain way or they can poke your head or back of the ears. I tried them on this way first and I definitely was aware of them for a while. It was not painful but a bit annoying. After a while, it became fine and putting them on or taking them off became much easier. Next, I tried the fins by themselves. They were much more comfortable. However, they were not as secure while working out. Then I tried the “trifit” design and to my surprise, it actually worked really well! The buds were secure and, once you get used to them, became virtually unnoticeable. By the way, the cable is not too obtrusive, and you can always use the cable manager that’s included. These are supposed to be sweat and weather resistant, but I didn’t get a chance to try that. Now for the most important fact (at least to me): sound quality. Being that these are Bluetooth, I was not expecting great things, even if the technology has come a long way. These have a nice balance between the high, mid and low frequencies with a bit of emphasis on the bass. I found they are rather enjoyable. While listening to podcasts and movies, voices came in nice and clear. During classical music, I can hear (although not as clear and detailed as high-end sets) all instruments and for pop music, the sound was rich and full. In the end, once I got used to putting them on and the way they feel, they became my daily drivers. I certainly enjoy them while doing gymnastic-like movement-based workouts. I highly recommend them -even at their current price.
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Whip up a smoothies, dips or side dishes with this Ninja blender. The FreshVac pump reduces oxygen to preserve flavor and nutrients, and the 20-oz. cup or 72-oz. pitcher makes it easy to create single or multiple servings. This powerful Ninja blender has crushing blades that power through ice cubes effortlessly.
Customer Rating
5
Making smoothies interesting!
on November 28, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
I have a traditional blender which has not motivated me in making smoothies for the most part. I love technology, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to see if using the Ninja - FreshVac Smart Screen Blender DUO would actually help me reach my health goals easier by making it “techy”.
It comes with two 20oz cups with sip lids, one 62oz pitcher, a vacuum FreshVac (powered by included batteries) and a recipe book. The base is very cool-looking. I like the black finish base and the black accents on the pitcher. It does feel like it’s good quality. I would have liked to see glass containers instead of plastic ones, though. The base lights up nicely showing the options on the smooth screen. The “buttons” are touch-sensitive, so that gives it a sci-fi feel to it.
Setting it up is rather easy and intuitive. The first thing I wanted to do, ironically, was to make a not-so-healthy smoothie with strawberries, bananas, coconut milk, and vanilla ice cream. I used the 20oz cup. I decided to do one serving without using the FreshVac and then do another with it to see if there was really any difference. Placing the cup in the base is easy and locks well. I selected "smoothie" and it begins an automatic process with a timer countdown. Next, I used the FreshVac on the next container. It is pretty cool, albeit a bit cumbersome, since you are adding extra steps. You simply turn over the 20oz container, open the lid and place the FreshVac on it. Press the power button on top and it will suck all the air out and a green light will tell you when it’s ready. Press the release button and voila. Place it on the blender and hit “smoothie”.
From this test, I can certainly say that the difference is very noticeable. The “oxygenated” smoothie was a bit thicker, foamy, and lighter in color. The FreshVac one was more settled and darker. Any differences in taste were a bit more difficult to detect. I think the FreshVac smoothie felt more satisfying to drink as it went down. I can certainly feel the “air” or foam more with the non-FreshVac one. So, I guess it’s more about the look and feel rather than taste.
Another feature of the FreshVac is that it is supposed to make the blends last longer in the fridge since there is less oxygen in the mix. I must admit that no shake made it past a point where I can say that this is true (although it does make sense). It is also supposed to “trap” in more nutrients.
All in all, I think this is a great tool for the kitchen. I will admit that it is a bit on the pricey side and the FreshVac may seem a little gimmicky (since the taste wasn’t all that enhanced) and adds extra work (some might actually like this), but in the end, it all depends on how much you will be using it. I would recommend it to health enthusiasts and shake/smoothie lovers everywhere.
It comes with two 20oz cups with sip lids, one 62oz pitcher, a vacuum FreshVac (powered by included batteries) and a recipe book. The base is very cool-looking. I like the black finish base and the black accents on the pitcher. It does feel like it’s good quality. I would have liked to see glass containers instead of plastic ones, though. The base lights up nicely showing the options on the smooth screen. The “buttons” are touch-sensitive, so that gives it a sci-fi feel to it.
Setting it up is rather easy and intuitive. The first thing I wanted to do, ironically, was to make a not-so-healthy smoothie with strawberries, bananas, coconut milk, and vanilla ice cream. I used the 20oz cup. I decided to do one serving without using the FreshVac and then do another with it to see if there was really any difference. Placing the cup in the base is easy and locks well. I selected "smoothie" and it begins an automatic process with a timer countdown. Next, I used the FreshVac on the next container. It is pretty cool, albeit a bit cumbersome, since you are adding extra steps. You simply turn over the 20oz container, open the lid and place the FreshVac on it. Press the power button on top and it will suck all the air out and a green light will tell you when it’s ready. Press the release button and voila. Place it on the blender and hit “smoothie”.
From this test, I can certainly say that the difference is very noticeable. The “oxygenated” smoothie was a bit thicker, foamy, and lighter in color. The FreshVac one was more settled and darker. Any differences in taste were a bit more difficult to detect. I think the FreshVac smoothie felt more satisfying to drink as it went down. I can certainly feel the “air” or foam more with the non-FreshVac one. So, I guess it’s more about the look and feel rather than taste.
Another feature of the FreshVac is that it is supposed to make the blends last longer in the fridge since there is less oxygen in the mix. I must admit that no shake made it past a point where I can say that this is true (although it does make sense). It is also supposed to “trap” in more nutrients.
All in all, I think this is a great tool for the kitchen. I will admit that it is a bit on the pricey side and the FreshVac may seem a little gimmicky (since the taste wasn’t all that enhanced) and adds extra work (some might actually like this), but in the end, it all depends on how much you will be using it. I would recommend it to health enthusiasts and shake/smoothie lovers everywhere.
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Grow your collection of 4K games on this WD External USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive for PS4. The gaming drive's large capacity provides enough room for all your favorite PS4 games, DLC and patches. An included USB 3.0 cable allows you to connect directly to a PlayStation 4/4 Pro console. The sleek, portable design of the drive lets you share your games with friends.
Customer Rating
5
Exactly what my PS4 gaming needed!
on November 20, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
I download a lot of games. A lot. Problem is, I also take forever to finish these games. Not only that, but I like to play multiplayer games and those demand massive amounts of space. So, I keep having to make space for new games and having to go through the agonizing act of deciding which ones have to go. Well, the WD 2TB gaming hard drive has resolved this issue quite nicely. Adding the extra space involves reformatting the hard drive and a bit of tinkering with the PS4 settings and transferring games but in the end, it is quite easy and worth it. Now, I install all my games on the portable HDD and I do not have to worry (as much) about shuffling around games which I may take too long to finish (if ever). I really recommend it, especially if you play multiplayer and like to try every game out there.
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The Bose Smart Speaker 500 delivers wall-to-wall stereo sound from a single wireless smart speaker. Built-in voice control from Amazon Alexa puts songs, playlists, and more at the tip of your tongue. And you have the freedom to control the music your way - with your voice, with a tap on the top controls, or with the Bose Music app.
Customer Rating
4
Great sound, but needs work.
on November 9, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
Well, this has been a rather difficult review for me. I was looking to see if the Bose® - Home Speaker 500 Wireless with Built-In Amazon Alexa Voice Control would replace my (first gen) Alexa smart speaker. While there are many good points, there are also some features that missed the mark in my opinion, but I will get into that in a bit. First things first: I appreciated that the speaker was packaged in a rather minimalistic fashion. Perhaps it is because only the speaker, papers and power cord come in the box and nothing else. The speaker is rather pleasing to the eye and feels like a luxury item. It is heavy coming in over 4.5 lbs. Although setting up requires downloading an app on your smartphone, this was a simple task. From this Bose Music App, you can set up the Wi-Fi, activate Alexa as well as other music/sound platforms. You can also use this speaker with the usual Bluetooth connectivity and even through an auxiliary input.
I tried Bluetooth first. It was easy to pair. I will talk about the sound quality in a bit. Then I tried the AUX with my PC and it worked just as expected.
Then, I tried the main feature: Alexa. The speaker does pick up my voice from over 15 ft. and I do not have to repeat myself too much. The “smart” Alexa capabilities were there such as weather, traffic, trivia, alarms, etc. However, one thing that really disappointed me was that Alexa does not play any other sound platform except Amazon Prime Music by command, as with the original, which limits this feature tremendously. In order to access Spotify, iHeart, Pandora and other sound platforms, I had to go to the app. Even more disappointing was that, in order to listen to my podcasts and even audiobooks through Audible (an Amazon platform!), I had to listen via Bluetooth or AUX; defeating the voice commands capability completely.
The LCD screen, while being neat, is small with a low resolution and blurry making it useless at a few feet. The speaker has hepatic buttons on top that let you control volume, microphone, tracks, Bluetooth and custom presets (that can only be set through the app).
Now let’s talk about sound. This speaker is many times better than the original speaker I had. While it will not satisfy some audiophiles out there, the sound is rather rich and clear. Now, instead of having a 360° speaker system, BOSE went with a stereo system (left/right speakers) which gives a nice separation from left to right channels and gives the sound much more depth. The volume can get rather high quickly, although going over 60% the sound became a bit distorted at times, with certain music. I ended up enjoying it immensely at about 20%. The sound alone may be the reason why someone would choose this product. However, I do have to say that I have a Bluetooth speaker box from another company that sounds much better in comparison and that is half the price with a Dot hooked up to it.
So, taking in consideration its value and at this range, it makes it very difficult for me to truly reconcile between the price tag, the great sound and what feels like features and software that are a “work in progress”. At this point, the BOSE 500 might as well be a very expensive Bluetooth speaker with some Alexa capabilities -not exactly a “smart” device. All I am saying is that there may be options out there that give the same or better sound quality through Bluetooth (or with a Dot). I really do hope that the features get updated and expanded in the future (Airplay may be coming soon) to make this a truly compelling “smart” device. I'd still recommend it if you love Bose's quality, have Amazon Prime Music and do not mind using your phone for other options/features (3.5 stars).
I tried Bluetooth first. It was easy to pair. I will talk about the sound quality in a bit. Then I tried the AUX with my PC and it worked just as expected.
Then, I tried the main feature: Alexa. The speaker does pick up my voice from over 15 ft. and I do not have to repeat myself too much. The “smart” Alexa capabilities were there such as weather, traffic, trivia, alarms, etc. However, one thing that really disappointed me was that Alexa does not play any other sound platform except Amazon Prime Music by command, as with the original, which limits this feature tremendously. In order to access Spotify, iHeart, Pandora and other sound platforms, I had to go to the app. Even more disappointing was that, in order to listen to my podcasts and even audiobooks through Audible (an Amazon platform!), I had to listen via Bluetooth or AUX; defeating the voice commands capability completely.
The LCD screen, while being neat, is small with a low resolution and blurry making it useless at a few feet. The speaker has hepatic buttons on top that let you control volume, microphone, tracks, Bluetooth and custom presets (that can only be set through the app).
Now let’s talk about sound. This speaker is many times better than the original speaker I had. While it will not satisfy some audiophiles out there, the sound is rather rich and clear. Now, instead of having a 360° speaker system, BOSE went with a stereo system (left/right speakers) which gives a nice separation from left to right channels and gives the sound much more depth. The volume can get rather high quickly, although going over 60% the sound became a bit distorted at times, with certain music. I ended up enjoying it immensely at about 20%. The sound alone may be the reason why someone would choose this product. However, I do have to say that I have a Bluetooth speaker box from another company that sounds much better in comparison and that is half the price with a Dot hooked up to it.
So, taking in consideration its value and at this range, it makes it very difficult for me to truly reconcile between the price tag, the great sound and what feels like features and software that are a “work in progress”. At this point, the BOSE 500 might as well be a very expensive Bluetooth speaker with some Alexa capabilities -not exactly a “smart” device. All I am saying is that there may be options out there that give the same or better sound quality through Bluetooth (or with a Dot). I really do hope that the features get updated and expanded in the future (Airplay may be coming soon) to make this a truly compelling “smart” device. I'd still recommend it if you love Bose's quality, have Amazon Prime Music and do not mind using your phone for other options/features (3.5 stars).
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The Shark Rocket Self-Cleaning Brushroll Corded Stick VacuumShark has created a self-cleaning brushroll that delivers nonstop hair removal. Add that to an ultra-lightweight vacuum with floor-to-ceiling versatility and an XL dust cup, and you�ve got the Shark Rocket Self-Cleaning Brushroll Corded Stick Vacuum.
Customer Rating
5
Sad to say goodbye to the good ol' broom...
on October 30, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
To be frank, I have only used a dust buster and broom in my home until now. So, my opinion comes from someone that really has not had much experience in using vacuums (the dust buster does not really count, in my opinion). Upon opening the box, my first impression is that there were many parts to be put together. I generally dislike figuring things out and having to follow long or complicated instructions. However, to my surprise, it turns out that I did not even need the instructions. The parts were easy to identify and made sense when finding out what went into what. All parts fit nicely and cleanly, with a satisfying click or tightness. Well, I began using the long tube and slim head first to get to some places and crevices that have always been a problem for me. The vacuum itself is not heavy at all so carrying and maneuvering around on one hand, was not an issue. The suction is rather strong and consistent. Next, I tried the pet-brush tool on an old couch that my chihuahua uses a lot and I had pretty good results. I only struggled a bit on deep corners, but the vacuum took care of all visible hair (my pup is white, and the couch is dark brown). Then, I used the long neck tool and cleaned under the TV stand, couches and dressers. While one may still have to duck and sometimes get on all fours, cleaning was so much easier than using the good ol’ broom. That’s a big plus. Using it in the traditional vacuum mode, it works very well. It picks up everything and sure beats kicking dust around. It has pretty good mobility and worked well on my area rugs. Lastly, I even used the pet-brush to clean the top-side of the ceiling fans and my desktop PC’s fans! Cleaning and emptying the dust reservoir and system is very simple and does not really create any mess. Overall, although I will miss the movement of a regular broom and dustpan, it looks like they will be replaced by the SHARK - Rocket Zero-M ZS352 Bagless Pet Handheld/Stick Vacuum. This is definitely an easy recommendation for me.
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Experience the future of audio with this Samsung Atmos sound bar. The 13 speakers, 5.1.2-channel surround sound and Dolby Atmos technology provide a next-generation audio experience that you have to hear to believe. The included remote and compatibility with Amazon Alexa offer multiple options for controlling this Samsung Atmos sound bar.
Customer Rating
4
An awesome experience! -at a price. 4.5 Stars!
on October 15, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
Having had a bit of experience with soundbars -I have one for every TV and even one for my PC, this is my first experience with one featuring Dolby ATMOS and DTX:X sound. Upon opening the rather large box it came in, I realized this thing is huge! It measures 48.27" x 3.27" x 5.35". It is also very heavy coming in at a whopping 20lbs! The build is typical of most Samsung devices; it radiates high quality. It features a dark metal grill chassis that is nice to the touch. It comes with a wireless subwoofer that is also large. It measures 8.01" x 15.75" x 16.36" and it weighs over 21 lbs. I was a bit worried about how it would sit in front of my TV, which is a meager 50” class. Well, I was not wrong. It certainly stands out quite a bit and goes beyond the width dimensions of my TV, but thankfully not beyond my stand. Visually, it bugged me at first. I could not sit or lay on the floor (which I do a lot) and watch TV because the soundbar would obstruct the view a little bit. Also, it makes me think that I probably need a bigger TV (which I do not). This soundbar comes with mounting gear but since I rent, I cannot mount anything on the walls except frames.
Setting it up was a breeze. I easily connected it to my XBOX ONE X and my PS4PRO going through the ARC connection to my 4KHDR TV. They all work well except my PS4PRO, which I haven’t figured out how to make the HDR be recognized, which is a bummer. The remote is nice and it makes it easy to navigate between settings. Once I got past this I decided to concentrate on the most important aspect: Sound.
I first tried using my smart TV’s feed, which is connected through the optical digital connection. The sound was outstanding! It came in very clear and loud; too loud in fact. I had it at 10% and it was way more than needed. Every sound was very distinctive, and the sound separation was easily noticeable (left-right-center). I played with several settings but ended up on SMART. Some soundbars drown vocals but not this one. The subwoofer, which I placed on the other side of the room, underneath a bench, gave a booming, powerful fulfilling bass that was not overwhelming and pristine.
Next, I paired it with my Samsung NOTE 8 and played music. I thoroughly enjoyed the outcome. All frequencies -low, high and mids, were clear and did not drown or blurred each other. Every beat was punchy no matter the genre. Vocals and classical music were exceptional.
Then I decided to test the selling point: ATMOS. I set up my XBOX ONE X for ATMOS output and the bar recognized it right away. To test it, I played a couple of titles from Netflix that feature ATMOS (unfortunately not many are available). At first play, I was immediately enthralled. The sound was AMAZING. Sound really seemed to come alive and excitingly from all sides. However, during extended listening and paying attention, I did notice that the ATMOS directional sound from the top was missing or barely noticeable. I raised the levels for the front up-firing speakers and it still was a bit hard to recognize. My living room is rather small and seemed like the perfect environment for directional-sound reproductions, so I was a bit underwhelmed. So I put in Ready Player One in 4KHDR which is one of the most recommended films for experiencing ATMOS. This time around, the over-head sound was much more noticeable -not as much as Samsung claims, but noticeable none the less. You almost feel like you are in the theater. I also played Gears of War 4, which features ATMOS and the direction of the sound was very well done. There were a couple of moments when the sound did make me turn around. My take is that ATMOS is highly dependent on the source material -some are better coded than others which can be hit-or-miss.
One more thing, I bought the Samsung wireless rear speakers SWA-9000S which I did not factor in this review. I simply recommend them if you want a more complete experience -however, you must be willing to fork up another $100. In the end, I am very happy with the overall sound. Seems that Samsung made a great decision in pairing up with Harman/Kardon. Although the bar may be too big and ATMOS may not yet be ready technologically, this soundbar does provide a very unique experience -at a price. Not perfect so I'd give it a sure 4.5 if I could.
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Revolutionize your cooking with this Sharp Superheated steam countertop oven. Combining the power of super-heated steam and traditional radiant heating, it crisps and browns the outside of your food while leaving the inside moist and cooked to perfection. This 1750W design requires no preheating or defrosting either. This Sharp Superheated steam countertop oven includes a broiler pan and crisper tray for easy convenience.
Customer Rating
4
Very versatile and easy to use!
on October 8, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
So, it’s been a while since I received the Sharp SuperSteam Toaster/Pizza Oven and I’ve had a chance to use in several ways. At first glance, I must say that this oven is very good looking. It features a stainless-steel body with chrome accents. It does not have a lot of buttons or dials -just a selector knob, a digital clock/timer display and a tab for the water reservoir (more of that later) and of course a door handle. It goes well with my stainless-steel stove, dishwasher, and fridge. This finish is a fingerprint magnet though and must be cleaned often. It is big (19.7x18.9x9.3) and it takes a big portion of the counter (where the old toaster used to be). Also, it is heavy (almost 25lbs.). It comes with a broil and a grill pan. The oven can accommodate a 12” pizza so it does have some room when it comes to width. However, its height may be on the short side, and that can affect some recipes (baking a loaf of bread?). This oven is super easy to use per the included instructions. While it is versatile, it does not have too many options, which I appreciate. All you need to do is add water to the reservoir before using it, select the tray that’s needed, select the option (bake/reheat, broil/grill, pizza, toast and warm), time (if needed) and temperature (again, if needed). No need to warm up -it’s instant! All options are easily selectable by using the dial knob, select button, and start button. But how does it actually perform? Well, to be honest, I had mostly good results along with some mixed ones as well (no bad ones). Following their included recipe book, I started with the easiest of things: quesadillas. The time calls for 8 minutes, however, I had to readjust the time as the cheese did melt immediately, leaving the tortilla too soft (I like them a bit crispy). This is when I noticed a pretty big issue. To check the food (the window is small, by the way), one must take the entire tray out. That’s right; one cannot take the tray halfway without holding it with one oven mitten and this can make it awkward (and potentially unsafe) to handle. I had to transfer the pan to the stove, flip the quesadillas and return it to the oven. In the end, they came out well -although it did take much longer than anticipated. Next, I tried the toast feature. Dealing with regular toast, it did a decent job (although my toaster does a bit of a better job). However, when I tried baking biscuits, the result was amazing. The outside part was crunchy and the inside very moist and soft. Then, I tried some chicken with veggies. I also loved the results as the meat was not dry and the veggies came out nicely broiled and moist. Again, one thing to consider is that you must get used to the timing as it differs greatly from what’s recommended in the cooking book. You must check on it constantly. The last thing I been using it for is reheating my food. It is just as good as a microwave (albeit not as fast) without the electronic radiation (if that’s your concern). It warms things up evenly. I did reheat regular white rice with some sprinkled water and it did a very decent job, almost making it seem as if the rice was recently cooked. Another thing to remember is to clean the drip pan that is located on the bottom after every use. And never, ever forget to add water to the reservoir before use -every time! Cleaning it is a breeze. In the end, this is a very versatile oven. It does well what it is designed to do with some getting used to. Although I’m very concerned about the issue with handling the pans when checking the food, I hope that the next generation will fix this with a way to rest the pan and allowing for both hands to be used. Overall, I would still recommend it -especially if you are looking for an alternative to microwaving and having a dedicated toaster as well as its ease of use.
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Pair this Fnatic miniStreak Professional e-sports keyboard with your gaming setup for quick response in fast-paced games. Ideal for FPS and multiplayer gaming, this tenkeyless mechanical keyboard makes the most of your space, while Cherry Brown MXRGB switches provide tactile reaction and satisfying speed. Complete with a detachable leather wrist rest, this Fnatic miniStreak Professional e-sports keyboard is ideal for tournament play.
Customer Rating
4
Very good minimalist gaming TKL option!
on September 2, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
While I am not a professional gamer, I have been playing casual and competitive multiplayer games for over 20 years. I can certainly tell you that using the right keyboard can give or take away your competitive edge. With that in mind, let me tell you about the newest mechanical gaming keyboard designed for and by one of the most popular esports team Fnatics (which I follow). Now, I am not new to tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards because I have a PC station with very little desk space. So, I decided to try the Mini Streak instead of the full version. It has a pretty small footprint measuring a mere 14”W x 5.5”H and about 1” tall (approximately). It is a bit high because of the exposed keys but that’s the nature of most mechanical keyboards. It features a black matte finish with a metal top and plastic lower case. The USB cable is detachable and hides nicely underneath the keyboard. The keys are well displaced and feel pretty good to touch. It has RGB (lights) accents that can be controlled by software (available at their website). The keys can easily be taken off, cleaned or replaced. The layout is what you would expect from a TKL keyboard with good travel from left to right. It has a dedicated FN lock button on the left and separate mute, mic mute and a “gamer” button that disables certain keys that one would not want to hit by mistake while gaming such as the windows key. The only thing I don’t like is the spacebar, mainly because it seems to be a bit on the slick side, making it feel different than the other keys. Now, this particular keyboard offers cherry MX brown switches, which I had to get used to because I am used to blue switches which are very clicky (I like to know when I hit keys). But overall the keys’ travel is pretty good, and they are springy and responsive. Of course, this keyboard can get pretty noisy, so keep that in mind when playing at night, or if you are sharing office (or gaming room) space. You can always get some silicone O-rings to offset that, but it may change the feel or reactiveness of the keypresses. It comes with a faux leather wrist rest that can be adjusted for long hands. It’s not great, but it does the job if you do not have one. I highly recommend downloading Fnatic’s OP software so that you can change the light patterns, specific key lighting and key bindings. One last thing, I do find it strange that it does not offer USB connectivity for a mouse (Fnatic’s Clutch2?), but that’s a minor complain. In conclusion, I think the Fnatic Mini Streak is a very well-thought-out, compact TKL mechanical keyboard that is not terribly expensive. While it does not automatically make me a better gamer, it does make for pleasurable sessions. It is undeniably a step up from a lot of gaming keyboards for sure.
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Get ready to game with this Fnatic Clutch 2 gaming mouse. It's specifically designed for e-sports so that you have an edge on the competition, and because it is full-size, this ergonomic mouse fits neatly in the palm of your hand. This Fnatic Clutch 2 gaming mouse features highly accurate sensor technology to ensure every movement is delivered on screen.
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
I have been skeptical of big-name branded gaming gear for a while now. The quality and performance have been inconsistent up to this point. Full disclosure: I follow e-sports and Team Fnatic is among my favorites. However, this does not affect my opinion on this mouse. So, having said that, I do like the look of the mouse. It has a matte plastic shell with orange accents that do not attract a lot of fingerprints or smudging. The RGB lighting is phenomenal. The colors do pop and the Fnatic symbol looks great. But that’s just looks. As far as comfortability, I have medium size hands. The mouse fits comfortably overall and it is on the light side, which I appreciate. I use a light paw grip style and my fingers reach the main buttons just fine. Clicking is satisfying and responsive. The cable is a bit stiff and can affect precision. The cable may pull a bit changing pointer placement, even when using a flexible mouse bungee cord, I still was not able to keep it from snapping back in position. So that means that your hand must always hold or rest on the mouse. It’s a small thing, but it’s there. The mouse wheel feels grippy and responsive. One thing that annoyed me a bit was that the side buttons are placed too close to where my thumb sits, and I click the back button by mistake occasionally. This can change how I grip the mouse therefore affecting the ergonomics, undermining the design. There is a DPI button that can switch between 3 settings while using the mouse on the fly. However, if you do get this mouse, you must absolutely get the OP software from Fnatic to fine tune the performance and RGB lights. This app alone pushed the score by half a star. Although not perfect, I’d still recommend it for the price and even more if you’re a die-hard Fnatic fan.
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I would recommend this to a friend!
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Experience lag-free, immersive audio with this wireless Plantronics gaming headset. It has support for lifelike Dolby Atmos sound, and the sound-isolating ear cups and noise-canceling microphone keep your focus on the game. This lightweight Plantronics gaming headset has a 24-hour battery life and convenient analog adjustments for custom game audio settings.
Customer Rating
5
Best wireless gaming headset yet?
on August 5, 2018
Posted by: insomniak1
from Chicago, IL, USA
I have had less-than-stellar experiences with wireless headsets lately. So, I was a bit skeptical when I received these Plantronics RIG 800HD gaming headsets featuring ATMOS Surround. First, Let’s talk about looks. They are very gamey and kind of chunky; Plantronics was certainly not going for classy or minimalistic. They are big and have a sizable footprint on the head. However, they are rather light and surprisingly comfortable since they are made of plastic. They fit kind of loose but do not fall off when I shake my head. So, unless you are a headbanger, this will not be an issue. The earcups are made of a breathable mesh cloth and are very soft. The earcups are around-the-ear, and with light clamping, wearing glasses is not a problem. This makes them extremely comfortable for long sessions (I used them for about 4 hours at a time). Whether you have a small or big head, they can easily be adjusted. There are several controls on the left earcup. There is an on/off switch, a rocking mechanism for volume control which raises or lowers the volume (on the PC -not the headset), and a mic/game volume control. There is also the micro-USB port for charging. The battery lasts for hours before they need recharging. Hooking them up is as easy as plugging the included dongle to a USB port on the computer or through an optical cable from a console or TV (sadly the optical cable was not included). The wireless range can reach far, and I did not experience sound lag or cutting off, even when I walked around the house (even through walls!). The right cup features a preset sound equalizer button, which brings me to the most important aspect of any headset -the sound quality. Although not as great as certain wired sets, these impressed me quite a bit. There is a sound clarity that I was not expecting at all. I was able to pick up many sounds that I had not paid attention to before. In RPG’s and adventure games, ambient sounds such as forest noise, city chatter, and distant conversations became very discernible. In multiplayer games, shooting, screams and explosions seemed to come from the proper distances and direction. I actually heard footsteps near me and that made all the difference! These come with a Dolby ATMOS key which should immediately be downloaded to your PC or XBOX One. This software makes watching movies and shows a definite pleasure. The simulated Surround sound is very clearly and, if the content supports it, ATMOS will give you an all-encompassing experience of 360° sound around and above you (of course this does not compare to true ATMOS speaker setups). Music is OK, but it is hard to expect good fidelity from these as it is extremely difficult to replicate all frequencies over wireless. The equalizer button is good, but it simply adds/removes bass as needed. I find the second setting the best. One thing to point out is that these are not sound proof or noise cancelling. You will hear what’s going on around you. For me, this gives a natural sound and provides a bigger soundstage. As far as the mic is concerned, it is average, but does the job. While communications are clear, it can sound a bit tiny and thin; like speaking from far away, but no one really complained. If you want better quality, I recommend getting a dedicated mic. You can mute the mic by placing it in the upright position. Overall, I cannot say enough good things about these cans. The looks might not be for everyone but the performance and comfort they bring more than makes up for that and make it very easy for me to recommend them.
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This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
I was wondering how this would run with my xbox series s? I plan to buy a monitor for my xbox and I was wondering if this is a good option. :)
I am loving it with my Series S. I can run games that support 2K @ 120Hz.
2 years, 4 months ago
by
insomniak1
This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
Does it have a hdmi?
This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
Is this monitor good for an Xbox one s gaming? I'm new to monitors and this one would be my first one
I am loving playing my Series S on this monitor. I even get 1440p @ 120Hz!
2 years, 4 months ago
by
insomniak1
This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
Does it have integrated speakers?
Yes, it does. Still, I'd recommend getting some desktop speakers!
2 years, 4 months ago
by
insomniak1
Introducing G303 Shroud Edition—the remaster of our iconic mouse. Featuring LIGHTSPEED, it delivers ultra-low latency and reliable performance. Helping Shroud and you take aim. With HERO 25K Sensor, Shroud’s G303 is built for precision and speed, without sacrificing energy. G303 Shroud Edition weighs 75 grams, made for low-sensitivity DPI and faster aiming. Designed in collaboration with Shroud, the new G303 perfectly matches his specs and includes our latest pro-grade technology.
Will shroud possess my body if I use this.
One can only hope so! My K/D ratio needs help!
2 years, 5 months ago
by
insomniak1
Introducing G303 Shroud Edition—the remaster of our iconic mouse. Featuring LIGHTSPEED, it delivers ultra-low latency and reliable performance. Helping Shroud and you take aim. With HERO 25K Sensor, Shroud’s G303 is built for precision and speed, without sacrificing energy. G303 Shroud Edition weighs 75 grams, made for low-sensitivity DPI and faster aiming. Designed in collaboration with Shroud, the new G303 perfectly matches his specs and includes our latest pro-grade technology.
Does this mouse have a battery included? Is the battery replaceable?
The mouse is rechargeable with a USB-C to USB-A cable, which is included. I don't think the battery is replaceable. Hope that helps!
2 years, 5 months ago
by
insomniak1
Rich, radiant sound meets exceptional battery life in the SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds. Custom drivers activate deep bass while maintaining clear mids and highs. Our advanced clear-call technology and dual microphones ensure remarkable call quality. There’s up to 8 hours of non-stop playtime, plus another 28 in the charging case. As one of the first third-party accessories to work with the Apple Find My network you can track and locate the charging case using the Apple Find My app.
1. I have an Android Motorola G Stylus unlocked phone. Will it work with it? 2. Also, I have an HP Elite laptop. Will it work with the laptop?
It should. It works with any device that has Bluetooth,
2 years, 5 months ago
by
insomniak1
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Does this laptop have wifi5 or wifi6?
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Does this model have a second ssd slot?
Soundcore Life Tune XR are active noise cancelling headphones with Hi-Res Certified sound. The Multi-Mode noise cancellation technology detects and cancels out exterior noise. Use for calls with the dual microphones and have long, 60 hour listening sessions due to the long battery life and comfortable earcups.
Would this work well for mowing the yard? I listen to books and music while on the mower. If so, what setting would you recommend?
They do a decent job in ANC. My neighbor had the mower going and they did OK. I could still hear it but I was still able to appreciate the podcast. They may not be the best, but then again, we can't compare to headsets that are 4 times more expensive. Hope that helps!
3 years, 1 month ago
by
insomniak1