Wraith's stats
- Review count186
- Helpfulness votes1,925
- First reviewAugust 18, 2014
- Last reviewMay 14, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.6
- Review comment count1
- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentSeptember 25, 2016
- Last review commentSeptember 25, 2016
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
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- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count27
- Helpfulness votes26
- First answerAugust 18, 2014
- Last answerDecember 13, 2021
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- Best answers3
The Shark Genius Steam Pocket Mop System is our most advanced floor cleaning system ever. Featuring both a Steam Mop and a Spray Pocket mop, the Genius system is the right solution for all your cleaning needs. Harness the power of steam to sanitize 99.9% of household bacteria*. (Sanitization studies were conducted under controlled test conditions. Household conditions and results may vary.)
Customer Rating
4
Some Great Features, Some Not-So-Great
on December 21, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
Just to put this on the table from the get-go, I'm a neat freak. Very few things give me more pleasure than perfect vacuum lines in a carpet, and spotless tile floors. I am always on the lookout for way to make my job easier or to get things cleaner. I had very high hopes for the Shark Genius and while it is a top notch steam mop, it will not be replacing my Bissell PowerFresh steam mop.
Both mops pump steam through a reusable cloth cover and hopefully picks up all the junk the vacuum and swiffer didn't (yes I use all three on my tile floors, a nun could eat off of them). After doing some A-B testing which is actually pretty easy when you have tile floors. I did one half of my kitchen with the Shark, the other half with the Bissell. The results were that while both cleaned, the Bissell left less dirt behind and the Shark did not make things really any easier for me. I'll do a breakdown of the pros and cons below:
Pros:
- Easy to use. Light and swivels easily around the floors.
- Don't have to touch the cleaning cloth. I really didn't care about this but it would be important to many people.
- Wide/double sided mop head keeps you from having to replace it during a mopping session, it can take care of a whole floor of tile.
- Comes with an included spray mop handle that lets you turn the mop into more of an old school mop, just with a replaceable cover. I didn't use this mop because I kind of got a steam mop for a reason, and that was to not just use a regular mop again!
- I did like the directed steam blast to get off hard to clean dirt (which I don't really have since I clean things up as they go but I also don't have kids).
- Easy to use. Light and swivels easily around the floors.
- Don't have to touch the cleaning cloth. I really didn't care about this but it would be important to many people.
- Wide/double sided mop head keeps you from having to replace it during a mopping session, it can take care of a whole floor of tile.
- Comes with an included spray mop handle that lets you turn the mop into more of an old school mop, just with a replaceable cover. I didn't use this mop because I kind of got a steam mop for a reason, and that was to not just use a regular mop again!
- I did like the directed steam blast to get off hard to clean dirt (which I don't really have since I clean things up as they go but I also don't have kids).
Cons:
- While mop head is large, you actually do not get the full area of effect when cleaning. The dirt was obvious in a semicircle around the pivot point where I was able to keep the mop head in constant contact with the floor. This also may be an issue of the mop sides not being wet enough (more on this in a minute).
- Only one level of steam. The instructions say that this mop has 'intelligent' steam levels, but only if 'intelligent' means not enough in some other language. My Bissell has three setting to let me choose how much steam I want. To be fair, there is a higher level of Shark Genius mop that supposedly lets you select your steam level as well, but this one is not it.
- Not enough steam actually seems to be hitting the floor. The steam nozzle seems to just fill the mop head with steam not all of it is directed down at the floor. Now this kind of has to be the case to allow both sides of the mop to be used but I need to use both sides because the first side didn't quite do the job. My Bissell has all the jets pointing at the floor and while I often have to change the mop covers, that is because the steam is so intense that it gets a ton of dirt up off the floor in the first go through.
- While mop head is large, you actually do not get the full area of effect when cleaning. The dirt was obvious in a semicircle around the pivot point where I was able to keep the mop head in constant contact with the floor. This also may be an issue of the mop sides not being wet enough (more on this in a minute).
- Only one level of steam. The instructions say that this mop has 'intelligent' steam levels, but only if 'intelligent' means not enough in some other language. My Bissell has three setting to let me choose how much steam I want. To be fair, there is a higher level of Shark Genius mop that supposedly lets you select your steam level as well, but this one is not it.
- Not enough steam actually seems to be hitting the floor. The steam nozzle seems to just fill the mop head with steam not all of it is directed down at the floor. Now this kind of has to be the case to allow both sides of the mop to be used but I need to use both sides because the first side didn't quite do the job. My Bissell has all the jets pointing at the floor and while I often have to change the mop covers, that is because the steam is so intense that it gets a ton of dirt up off the floor in the first go through.
If I were to receive this as a gift and did not have my Bissell, I would be pretty happy with it but having a great steam mop already and with the Shark not really beating it on any measure, I think I would always prefer my Bissell. The Shark is good, the Bissell is great (oh, and a lot cheaper as well).
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Create gorgeous hairstyles quickly with this high-velocity Dyson Supersonic hair dryer. The rapid air flow and a temperature gauge that monitors the heat level 20 times per second ensure efficient drying without overheating tresses. The motor of this Dyson Supersonic hair dryer is in the handle for better balance and reduced arm fatigue during use.
Customer Rating
5
Pricey but Soooooo COOL!
on November 30, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
Ok, first off, got this for the wife due to the fact that I don't have enough hair to bother using a hair dryer on. Most of this review is from her point of view, though I'm guessing that she matches the primary demographic for this device anyway.
I am truly amazed at the work Dyson does on appliances. Do the alternates that have been around forever work almost as good, sure but Dyson always seems to up that game in style, usability, and function. I haven't been let down by any of the multitude of products I have from them that are all still running just as well as the day I purchased them. That being said, I was a tad skeptical on how much you could really do to a hair dryer, I must say though that Dyson being Dyson has done it again and made a stellar product.
For its primary duty as a hair dryer it is awesome and does the job just as well as my wife previous dryer. Doesn't seem to do it faster or slower and her hair doesn't look any different. What it does do better is give a heck of a lot better control over her hair drying and best of all for me, it does so in a much quieter fashion. Now on those rare days when I get to sleep in past her, I can actually sleep and not be woken up by a screaming hair dryer! If for no other reason, it was worth it for me. That and the fact that I'm sure that this dryer will last forever which is great because my wife has gone through three dryers in the last two years. Eventually this thing is going to pay for itself.
My wife had only one quibble with the Supersonic and it has to do with one of Dyson's main selling points for this thing. The balance that she is used to when drying her hair is completely thrown off by having the guts moved to the handle instead of in the head of the device. Now I'm sure she is going to get used to it the same way she initially got used to using a hair dryer in the first place but for right now she says her arms are sore from working different muscles. So maybe this isn't a bad thing, perhaps Dyson should also list as one of the benefits of the Supersonic that it is also a workout device!
Bottom line: Can you get something that does exactly what this does for a whole lot less money? Yes of course but that can be said of any Dyson product and hasn't stopped them from winning legions of fans (including me). To me, this was worth the price because I see my wife using this for the rest of her life. Considering I have spent over $100 in the last two years on other dryers I figure even if it only lasts a decade, I will have still saved money! Also, if you are a tech geek like me and are trying to pull your luddite wife into the 21st century, there probably isn't a better way to do it than the Dyson Supersonic!
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep unwanted hair to a minimum with this Philips grooming tool. The waterproof design lets you use it in the shower, and eight attachments make this trimmer perfect for grooming different sections of the face. This Philips grooming tool has a turbo setting to increase cutting speed, and it charges in just one hour to reduce wait time.
Customer Rating
5
Outstanding Shaver For A Lot Of Different Needs
on November 15, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
I've gotten to the age where all the places I don't want have not have hair, and where I want it, it's gone. With that being said, this Philips/Norelco Multigroom razor is just what I needed to at least make myself a bit more presentable. If it would only help me regrow hair on top of my head, it would be perfect!
I'm not going to go through all the attachments, because they all do exactly what they say they will do. My only complaint with them is that I wish there were either additional pieces or the ability to adjust the pieces. What I will talk about is the shaver itself, which is really the important part. The 7400 has a great feel in the hand, is easy to hold, and easy to maneuver wherever you need it to go as long as you are limber enough. The battery life is top notch, I easily got more than 60 minutes of run time out of it which all it is rated for. If it takes you more than an hour to 'manscape', you have other problems and you are asking too much of this shaver!
I have not tried the shaver in the shower, mostly because I live in California and we have a drought so I'm not going to hang out in the shower any longer than I have to. I have rinsed the shaver off in the sink which makes clean up quick and hassle-free.
Bottom-line, if you are looking for a great all around device for getting rid of all kinds of hair, this is the shaver for you. If your body hair runs a little more towards the neolithic/caveman sort you may want two for when the first runs out of batteries!
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enhance footage and create professional-looking video montages with Adobe Premiere Elements 15. Access the software’s de-haze feature on your traditional computer or touchscreen device to reduce mist and fog for a bright, clear result. Features like enhanced search, which help you sort and label videos appropriately, make Adobe Premiere Elements 15 an essential for any budding videographer.
Customer Rating
3
Better options out there for photos
on November 11, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
As a stand-alone photo program, photographers can do better than Photoshop Elements, namely Lightroom. Though if you are familiar with Photoshop but don't want to pay the exorbitant price of Photoshop (or need the full suite of tools in the full version), this could work well for you, though I still think that Lightroom is a better option for all photographers.
If you already have Premier Elements and just need a good photo editor that seamlessly integrates with that video editor, that would be another place where I could see this program being valuable.
Final word on this though would be that if you are even slightly serious about your photography, you owe it to yourself to try out Lightroom first. It was intended for and built by photographers and uses all the same lingo as photographers use so you are always talking the same language and it is a language you should stay in since it will help you do a better job creating, managing, and editing your photography.
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Take photo editing to the next level with Photoshop and Premiere Elements 15. Install Photoshop Elements on your tablet to take advantage of touchscreen editing features, or create photo and video collages easily with Premiere Elements. Save money and enjoy professional results when you use Photoshop and Premiere Elements 15 to batch-edit photographs and footage after your next special event.
Customer Rating
4
Great programs for novice photo/videographers
on November 11, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
I needed something better than the stock photo and video apps out there for Windows 10 (which is my work computer) and since I use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop on my Mac, I thought I would give Adobe Elements a try since I don't need the power of full Photoshop or Lightroom and Windows 10 does not have a movie maker program baked in any longer (you can get Movie Maker as part of the old Essentials suite but Microsoft ends support of that on Jan 10 2017).
My summary says that these are great programs for the novice. That is not a slam on the product or novice photographers/videographers. What it is is highlighting the fact that if you consider yourself any higher than a novice, you should probably get Adobe's higher level programs. The Quick and Guided options for each program is probably exactly what many novices will need, and the quick version is exactly what I needed for my work computer. The Expert level may be good for the prosumer level but to me it doesn't have quite the ease of use that I'm used to with Lightroom or iMovie on my Mac (though Premier Elements and iMovie are equal level programs, I just have more familiarity with iMovie so it is easier).
If you need some great low to mid-level photo/video editing software for a great price and with great support, you really can't go wrong with this suite of programs.
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Add high-end performance to your everyday life with the Google Pixel XL. A quad-core processor, a 5.5-inch LED screen and 32GB of memory ensure this phone is able to handle daily life, and Corning Gorilla Glass 4 protects the screen. Easy cloud storage ensures you never run out of space on the Google Pixel XL.
Customer Rating
4
Very Good Android Phone, But Not An iPhone Killer
on October 21, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
OK, I ran this phone through its paces over the last 24 hours doing everything I would normally do with my iPhone, and while I'm impressed with it as an Android phone it is not better than the iPhone 6 that it replaced and certainly not better than the 6S or the new iPhone 7.
I'm going to walk that statement back for one thing. Speed. This phone is incredibly fast. Apps open in a blink of an eye and close down just as fast. I was quite impressed with that feature.
Google is touting this a a great photo device but after doing some pixel-peeping (see what I did there) and some A-B comparisons of shots taken with the Pixel and the iPhone 6, the iPhones still produce a nicer shot. The color in the iPhone shots is brighter and they just have more pop! That being said I have not played with any of the shots in a photo editor because I wanted to see what they would be like right off the sensor. Speaking of editors though, I will say that the editing tools that Google baked right into their Photo app are really very good and I could have probably made the photos looks as good as the iPhone ones but again, the iPhone shots were really pretty good as they were.
In the pictures below you can see the phone and all of its accessories as they were right when I opened the box. On the left you have the guidebooks and the phone in its wrapping. On the rights was a disconcerting array of cables and adaptors. On the top right you have the charging brick which only accepts a USB-C plug (ugh, now I need Lightning, micro-USB, and USB-C cables? Seriously?!). Below that is the USB-C to USB-C cable for use with the aforementioned brick. In the area to the left under where the phone was is a USB to USB-C cable to plug your phone into a normal brick, charging station, or computer. Above that in the little cubby above is a USB to USB-C adaptor primarily to be used to transfer data from an iPhone to the Pixel. I appreciate that Google is trying to take market share from Apple and to make it a bit easier to get your data from one device to another (heck Apple has been doing that for years with their computers to great effect), but it did not work out as nice as I would have liked. After connecting the two devices together, I had to log in to a website on the iPhone's browser and select the info to transfer. In the interest of time I just did the basics and did not try to move my huge photo or music libraries but stuck with the basic data to make the phone usable. While much of that data come over without a problem, some data came over weird and jumbled. The data that did come over easily is all of my Gmail and other Google app data which I kind of expected since Google does a nice job within their own ecosystem.
I do have to say another couple of things that I like about the Pixel. The screen is big, beautiful, and bright and may even edge out the iPhone though I would have to put them at the same brightness settings a such to make a true comparison. Also, I like the fingerprint sensor on the back of the phone and how it immediately opens up the phone without a press. Just being able to rest my index finger where it would normally land anyway and having the phone pop on is nice and definitely helps this phone feel a bit more 'snappy' in its usage.
OK, almost done with this review but I can't end without saying something about the battery and the call quality... wait, this is a phone and I'm actually going to have to talk to someone on it? The battery life is very good and gave me a full days worth of pretty heavy usage though I did not do any streaming of video or music since I never really do that anyway. Mostly, it was heavy internet surfing, photo use, and calling. Speaking of calling, I don't know what it is but the calls didn't sound as clear as they do on my iPhone. I'm using the Pixel in all the same places that I used my iPhone and even swapped the SIM card back into my iPhone to check and the Pixel sounded a bit hollow and distant. Not sure what that is about. I could still hear the other person but they sounded like they were talking into their phone from a distance unlike when I talked to them with my iPhone.
So, final word. If you are deep in the Android ecosystem, then this is a great phone for you. It is fast and will do everything that you are used to doing very well. If you are in the Apple ecosystem, get an iPhone 7 or heck, even a 6S if you want to save some money. This is not the iPhone killer Google wanted but it is a solid phone and it will do a very good job for you no matter your OS allegiance.
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep your home dust-free with this Bissell AirRAM cordless vacuum. Its high-performance F.U.E.L. cell provides up to 30 minutes of run time, while the advanced compression technology lets it store as much dirt as typical bagless vacuums. This Bissell AirRAM cordless vacuum has a low profile for easy maneuvering around furniture.
Customer Rating
5
This Thing SUCKS (In a Good Way)!
on October 21, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
from Rochester Hills, MI
I am a self-confessed neat freak. I own multiple floor cleaning devices (two Dysons, a steam mop, lightweight vacuums) and while this is by no means a replacement for my Dysons (it's not even trying to play in that league), it is going to replace my other lightweight vacuums that I use for my tile floors.
Most of the 1st floor of my house is tile with grout and so it can be challenging to get it clean with the dust and tracked in dirt. My primary vacuum for those floors (wow, that sounds really bad when I see it typed out) is my Electrolux Ergorapido which has done a fine job. It is light, easily maneuverable, and cleans pretty well. This new Bissell AirRam blows it out of the water. The vacuum sits a lot lower to the ground and actually creates more suction and does a fabulous job of getting dirt out of even the grout lines, which the Electrolux could only manage now and then.
Even though the Bissell cleaning unit is bigger than the Electrolux, it still fits under the cabinets and all my furniture to easily clean in those hard to reach places. The light on this thing is also fantastic and really helps you to find the dirt to suck it up.
I also like that the Bissell is also a Transformer. Gone are the days of Transformers as cool cars and vehicles, now they are vacuums. The handle on this does a nice collapse that helps it store away easily in a closet. I think AirRam Prime would be a good name for this one. Wow, I really am a nerd.
Finally, I also like the battery system for the AirRam. The battery pops out of the side and recharges with a nice and small plug (no need to have a big charging base station like the Electrolux) and it has a great LED indicator on top to let you know how much charge is available.
Bissell has really created a winner here. If you are looking for a great vacuum for cleaning up everyday dirt and debris, this should be at the top of your list. I already called my friend who quite possibly is a bigger neat freak than me and told her about this. I think I heard a bit of a school-girl squeal out of her at the thought of a new vacuum.
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Orbi Whole Home WiFi System delivers up to 3.0Gbps high-performance WiFi. Sleek, modern design with high-gain internal antennas for up to 5,000 square feet of coverage. FastLane3 Technology creates a dedicated Tri-Band WiFi for seamless 4K streaming and gaming everywhere in your home. Keep a single WiFi name for uninterrupted connections as you move from room-to-room. Circle Smart Parental Controls runs on Orbi Routers for a smart way for families to manage content and time online, on any connected device. Provide internet access to guests without sharing your personal network password. Orbi is ready right out of the box and compatible with your ISP. Just use the Orbi app to get started with better WiFi, everywhere in minutes.
Customer Rating
5
Best Wireless Router I've Ever Used
on September 25, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
I had my doubts about the Orbi system. My new house might as well be a Faraday cage for how hard it is to push wi-fi through it. I should perhaps be happy about this because I assume that means that it is well built and not just flimsy walls. The latest gen modem/router from Fios could not get a signal to the front of my house from the back of it where my office and the router are located (the upstairs was even worse except for right above the office). We got by for a few months like that but eventually we got sick of it. I got the new Linksys Max Stream router with the eight antenna array that looks like a spaceship and it did quite a bit better but we still had some dead spots.
This new Orbi system with the main router and the satellite took care of all our dead spots. It was the easiest router I have ever set up and I have been doing this for years. I plugged in the base station, went upstairs and plugged in the satellite and the hit the sync button. After both flashed white for about thirty seconds and then the satellite went magenta for maybe twenty seconds, they both lit up solid blue which means a good connection. I then logged on with my iPad which immediately took me to the set up screen where I could set the admin password and such, and once that was done they both updated to the latest firmware and that was it. I had beautiful wi-fi all around the house with nary a dead spot in sight. When I go the front of the house I see the bars drop from three to two but then it immediately picks up on the satellite router and bumps back up to three bars again.
I only have one quibble with the Orbi system and that is that it lacks the WPS quick sync button that most new routers have but I only really needed that for my wireless printer but I had that on the Orbi system within minutes. Again, this was the most painless wireless router set-up I have ever had the pleasure to do.
I am very happy with this system and I can't think of anyone that wouldn't be well-served by the Orbi router system. Get this system!
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Make driving routines more enjoyable with this OverDryve car system. Its voice assistant capabilities let you read and send text messages by command and also play music in your car without taking your hands off the wheel. The built-in dash cam of this OverDryve car system lets you record trips and capture every moment on the road.
Customer Rating
5
No-Brainer If You Want A Great All-In-One System
on September 16, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
I wondered about creating a GPS system nowadays with so many people having their smartphones with their own GPS functionality or with most cars coming with some kind of infotainment system, but after using the OverDryve 7 for the last two weeks, I think it is a great system and is a no-brainer for anyone looking to add GPS functionality to their car.
First off, my favorite thing about this device is the mounting bracket. I kid you not. One of the things I always hated about car GPS systems was having to lock it in place and reconnect the power and such. In the process of doing that I would invariably mess with my carefully set up positioning and would have to do it all over again. The Overdryve has an awesome bracket that you keep set up in your car and plugged in to everything and the Overdryve unit itself links via magnets and the connections are made through little contacts on the back. Easy-peasy. On top of that, the basestation also has an additional GPS antenna to improve location accuracy. Now I have rarely had problems with previous GPS devices and but the additional antenna could probably help when you are in the 'canyons' of the city, though I haven't gone downtown to try it yet.
The GPS system is great. While my car has one built in, it acts a bit too much like my mother and won't let me input anything if I am not at a complete stop. My wife can't even do it from the passenger seat because if we are moving at all it completely locks out the GPS controls. I understand why, but it would be nice for some kind of override. With the Overdryve, we don't have to worry about that. She just plucks the device from the mount, types in the destination and clicks it back into place. The guidance voice is kind of grating but so is my wife yelling directions at me from her phone!
I played around with the handsfree and entertainment applications and they are fine, but my car handles that pretty seamlessly, so I don't think I will be using that function of the Overdryve. The voice commands are much more responsive than those for my car system so I will give it that. The other thing I don't have to worry about is the backup camera or tire pressure monitor, because my car already has that, but if your car doesn't, this is a really cool feature. While each of those systems is an add-on, they are both only about $150 each and I guarantee I paid more for that functionality from the auto maker.
As for the Overdryve also being an Android tablet, and can be used off the mount like any other tablet, it is true that it can do so, but it is a little bulky for that and it is an Android tablet with all that entails. Sorry, I have an iPad and I can't really see myself ever using this as just a regular tablet, but perhaps if you forgot yours and you have a fussy kid in the back and want to send it to the back seat to quiet them down, this could be a lifesaver.
Now for my few quibbles with the device. I had a little trouble syncing it to my phone for the first few tries but after I did a phone restart I didn't have a problem and it had maintained the sync no problem, so it could have been my phone and not the Overdryve. My only other problem is the name. Seriously, Overdryve?! I realize that Overdrive was probably taken but I kind of feel like some hipster should be on TV telling me how 'swaggy' this thing is. Every time I have had to type Overdryve into this review, I have had to roll my eyes and they are getting tired.
In summary, if you want a great functioning GPS system, and that is all, this is a phenomenal GPS and it costs about the same as other 7-inch GPS systems. If you need the functionality of an infotainment system, and want the ability to add safety features like a back-up camera and tire pressure monitoring, this is a no-brainer because you get all of that for the price of a basic 7" GPS. On top of all that, you get a fully functional Android tablet! I really can't see why anyone would buy any other standalone car GPS system now that this is out. Even if you don't need the other functions, they are nice to have and Rand McNally has created the best GPS device I have ever used, for the same price as other systems. Seriously, this is the unit to get.
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Only at Best BuyChoose this HP Spectre 13 notebook for its crisp 1080p display and 13.3-inch screen. It comes with a sixth-generation Intel processor and 8GB of onboard RAM for efficient multitasking, and its solid state drive ensure that programs load quickly. The slim design on this HP Spectre 13 notebook provide enhanced versatility.
Customer Rating
5
Spectre - Sexy Powerful Eye-Catching Thin REliable
on June 6, 2016
Posted by: Wraith
I have to admit, I was floored by the new HP Spectre. I used to be a Windows power user in the past but for the last 7 years I've been a Mac guy. I had to Windows computer though because the software I need for work has to be on Windows and I have to have Internet Explorer (yes, I know that I can run Windows on a Mac but somehow that seems dirty and weird, don't get me started on having to use IE).
A co-worker of mine purchased the last version of the Spectre and she did well with it for a while but did eventually run into some problems. Though to be fair to HP, they were probably her fault and not the computer but I can't verify that. So I had a little concern about this new version but I could not resist how cool this thing looked and the impressive specs under the hood.
For the last two weeks I have put this thing through some paces that would bring a MacBook to it's knees (if it had them) and the Spectre ate it all up and asked for more! Speed that I used to only associate with Macs is now to be had with a Windows machine. The new cooling set-up on the Spectre doesn't just blow out hot air, it actively draws in cool air over the processor so that it can run faster and hotter. I thought this was some creative ad guys coming up with some cool sounding feature but no, it really does work.
Another thing, hats off to HP for not putting bloatware on this thing. After powering it up and getting everything set up, I could not find a single piece of junk on this thing. Sure there are some programs that came with Windows that I turned off but no other junk hiding there. Getting the computer set up was also a breeze. HP provides a USB-C to USB adaptor in the box (thank you) and within minutes I was able to transfer almost a hundred gigabytes of data over.
I may have already mentioned that this thing is sexy as all get out but it deserves repeating. HP was supposedly trying to make the machine more like a woman's designer bag or jewelry but it is just as awesome for a guy. The black and gold looks slick and I haven't had a single person who has not commented on how good it looks when they see it.
Brains and good looks? This one is a keeper!
I have only two quibbles for this machine:
1. This thing holds on to fingerprints like nobody's business! It is a shame that after just a bit of hand-holding with this sexy beast, it looks so disheveled. That goes for the matte black portions and doubly so for gold parts. I had to scrub hard with a polishing cloth to get the fingerprints off for the pictures.
2. USB-C. I know it is the future and it helps make this thing incredibly thin, but considering that you need adaptors or specialized gear to really make it work, it is kind of a pain. Plus needing an adaptor for anything like HDMI/VGA.DVI out or an SD Card kind of stinks. Soon all of the accessories will be coming but right now I still feel like I'm on the bleeding edge without any support.
1. This thing holds on to fingerprints like nobody's business! It is a shame that after just a bit of hand-holding with this sexy beast, it looks so disheveled. That goes for the matte black portions and doubly so for gold parts. I had to scrub hard with a polishing cloth to get the fingerprints off for the pictures.
2. USB-C. I know it is the future and it helps make this thing incredibly thin, but considering that you need adaptors or specialized gear to really make it work, it is kind of a pain. Plus needing an adaptor for anything like HDMI/VGA.DVI out or an SD Card kind of stinks. Soon all of the accessories will be coming but right now I still feel like I'm on the bleeding edge without any support.
Can't say enough about this machine! This is the first Windows machine that has not made me wish that I was on a Mac and in fact, has me thinking about replacing my Macs! Now that is saying something!
Don't think. Just go get your sexy PhD of a computer and put a ring on it!
My Best Buy number: 0215184540
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Wraith's Review Comments
Make driving routines more enjoyable with this OverDryve car system. Its voice assistant capabilities let you read and send text messages by command and also play music in your car without taking your hands off the wheel. The built-in dash cam of this OverDryve car system lets you record trips and capture every moment on the road.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5No-Brainer If You Want A Great All-In-One System
By Wraith
I wondered about creating a GPS system nowadays with so many people having their smartphones with their own GPS functionality or with most cars coming with some kind of infotainment system, but after using the OverDryve 7 for the last two weeks, I think it is a great system and is a no-brainer for anyone looking to add GPS functionality to their car.
First off, my favorite thing about this device is the mounting bracket. I kid you not. One of the things I always hated about car GPS systems was having to lock it in place and reconnect the power and such. In the process of doing that I would invariably mess with my carefully set up positioning and would have to do it all over again. The Overdryve has an awesome bracket that you keep set up in your car and plugged in to everything and the Overdryve unit itself links via magnets and the connections are made through little contacts on the back. Easy-peasy. On top of that, the basestation also has an additional GPS antenna to improve location accuracy. Now I have rarely had problems with previous GPS devices and but the additional antenna could probably help when you are in the 'canyons' of the city, though I haven't gone downtown to try it yet.
The GPS system is great. While my car has one built in, it acts a bit too much like my mother and won't let me input anything if I am not at a complete stop. My wife can't even do it from the passenger seat because if we are moving at all it completely locks out the GPS controls. I understand why, but it would be nice for some kind of override. With the Overdryve, we don't have to worry about that. She just plucks the device from the mount, types in the destination and clicks it back into place. The guidance voice is kind of grating but so is my wife yelling directions at me from her phone!
I played around with the handsfree and entertainment applications and they are fine, but my car handles that pretty seamlessly, so I don't think I will be using that function of the Overdryve. The voice commands are much more responsive than those for my car system so I will give it that. The other thing I don't have to worry about is the backup camera or tire pressure monitor, because my car already has that, but if your car doesn't, this is a really cool feature. While each of those systems is an add-on, they are both only about $150 each and I guarantee I paid more for that functionality from the auto maker.
As for the Overdryve also being an Android tablet, and can be used off the mount like any other tablet, it is true that it can do so, but it is a little bulky for that and it is an Android tablet with all that entails. Sorry, I have an iPad and I can't really see myself ever using this as just a regular tablet, but perhaps if you forgot yours and you have a fussy kid in the back and want to send it to the back seat to quiet them down, this could be a lifesaver.
Now for my few quibbles with the device. I had a little trouble syncing it to my phone for the first few tries but after I did a phone restart I didn't have a problem and it had maintained the sync no problem, so it could have been my phone and not the Overdryve. My only other problem is the name. Seriously, Overdryve?! I realize that Overdrive was probably taken but I kind of feel like some hipster should be on TV telling me how 'swaggy' this thing is. Every time I have had to type Overdryve into this review, I have had to roll my eyes and they are getting tired.
In summary, if you want a great functioning GPS system, and that is all, this is a phenomenal GPS and it costs about the same as other 7-inch GPS systems. If you need the functionality of an infotainment system, and want the ability to add safety features like a back-up camera and tire pressure monitoring, this is a no-brainer because you get all of that for the price of a basic 7" GPS. On top of all that, you get a fully functional Android tablet! I really can't see why anyone would buy any other standalone car GPS system now that this is out. Even if you don't need the other functions, they are nice to have and Rand McNally has created the best GPS device I have ever used, for the same price as other systems. Seriously, this is the unit to get.
Wraith
Rochester Hills, MI
Dash Cam!
September 25, 2016
I totally forgot about the dash cam function of this. Yet another feature that makes this a no-brainer. I have not had much experience with dash cams but this one works well. Now let's just hope I don't end up on one of those dash cam compilation videos on YouTube!
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Wraith's Questions
Wraith has not submitted any questions.
Cleaning up after pets has never been easier than with CrossWave X7 Cordless Pet Pro, our BEST CrossWave multi-surface cleaner for homes with pets. It vacuums and washes at the same time, across sealed hard floors and area rugs, combining cleaning steps and saving you time. It’s perfect for grab and go cleaning of frequent pet messes with up to 30 minutes* of hassle-free, cordless run time and it weighs just over 10.5 lbs. Our pet parent engineers incorporated three different cleaning modes: Hard Floor Mode, Area Rug Mode and TURBO PET Mode to boost cleaning performance, especially for pet and everyday stuck-on messes. CrossWave X7 Cordless Pet Pro multi-surface cleaner also has LED headlights to illuminate pet hair, dirt and debris while cleaning along baseboards and in corners. And unlike when you use a mop and bucket, there’s no need to worry about putting dirty water on the floor while you clean, since our Two-Tank Technology keeps the clean and dirty water separate. When you’re done cleaning, CrossWave X7 Cordless Pet Pro cleans itself! It has a self-cleaning cycle that rinses the brush roll and inside of the CrossWave with clean water, so there’s less clean-up after cleaning. Plus, it comes with two trial-size bottles of our PET Clean + Natural formula and two PET Multi-Surface Brush Rolls. And this machine doesn’t just clean up after pets, it helps save them! BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets. When you buy a BISSELL product, you help save pets, too. We’re proud to design products that help make pet messes, odors and pet homelessness disappear.
Does this machine clean up both hard and soft puppy poops? We are elderly and have three Chihuahuas & a Chiweenie. Two dogs are elderly and have been pad trained because we do not have a fenced yard & area predator threats. The pups likely too.
I would not use this for either. This is for dirt, mud, dust, hair, litter, and small food bits. If it were a liquid mess (vomit/diarrhea) it might do OK, but nothing bigger or more substantial than that.
2 years, 5 months ago
by
Wraith
Cleaning up after pets has never been easier than with CrossWave X7 Cordless Pet Pro, our BEST CrossWave multi-surface cleaner for homes with pets. It vacuums and washes at the same time, across sealed hard floors and area rugs, combining cleaning steps and saving you time. It’s perfect for grab and go cleaning of frequent pet messes with up to 30 minutes* of hassle-free, cordless run time and it weighs just over 10.5 lbs. Our pet parent engineers incorporated three different cleaning modes: Hard Floor Mode, Area Rug Mode and TURBO PET Mode to boost cleaning performance, especially for pet and everyday stuck-on messes. CrossWave X7 Cordless Pet Pro multi-surface cleaner also has LED headlights to illuminate pet hair, dirt and debris while cleaning along baseboards and in corners. And unlike when you use a mop and bucket, there’s no need to worry about putting dirty water on the floor while you clean, since our Two-Tank Technology keeps the clean and dirty water separate. When you’re done cleaning, CrossWave X7 Cordless Pet Pro cleans itself! It has a self-cleaning cycle that rinses the brush roll and inside of the CrossWave with clean water, so there’s less clean-up after cleaning. Plus, it comes with two trial-size bottles of our PET Clean + Natural formula and two PET Multi-Surface Brush Rolls. And this machine doesn’t just clean up after pets, it helps save them! BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets. When you buy a BISSELL product, you help save pets, too. We’re proud to design products that help make pet messes, odors and pet homelessness disappear.
Does this come with any attachments?
No. There really isn't any need for them since there isn't a wand/hose to use elsewhere. It does have the charging/drying base as well as an extra mopping roller head.
2 years, 5 months ago
by
Wraith
The best bedroom Smart Clock just got even better. The Lenovo Smart Clock Gen 2 with Wireless Charging Dock keeps your nightstand clutter free. Charge up to two additional devices at once: your phone (using the wireless dock) and another accessory, like a smart watch (using the USB port). The 4“ color touchscreen showcases the time, weather and your family photos with a choice of customizable clock faces or check in on your smart cameras feeds before bed. Enhanced with a built-in nightlight when docked, the light is just bright enough to illuminate your way without waking your partner. With multiroom audio, you can add your Lenovo Smart Clock Gen 2 to a speaker group and play media across multiple devices and rooms.
Would the alarm function still work if the internet goes out?
Yes, because it can be set directly on the device as well as through the Google Home app. Doesn't need internet for anything but data it would have to pull from the internet like music/weather and such.
2 years, 8 months ago
by
Wraith
Does this specific purifier release ozone?
No, it helps filter it out of the air since it is considered to be a toxic gas.
3 years, 3 months ago
by
Wraith
Ensure ample storage for your high-resolution photos and videos with this 1TB WD SanDisk Extreme portable SSD. Up to 3 meter drop protection, with IP65 water and dust resistant, and a five year limited warranty give you the peace of mind to take it with you on travels near and far.Rread speeds of up to 1,050MB/s allow for fast file transfer. This WD SanDisk Extreme portable SSD features a compact design for easy handling and enhanced portability, and includes a USB Type-C to USB Type-A adapter for compatibility with most PCs and Macs.
Will this work with the new Xbox Series X gaming console? Thanks
Sort of. From what I understand from Microsoft, the only games you can have on an External USB drive are for the Xbox/Xbox 360/Xbox One. I think you can also have whatever photo/video files on it as well. Series X games have to go on the internal drive or on the new Seagate expansion drive to support the speed required.
3 years, 5 months ago
by
Wraith
Bose Sleepbuds II deliver relaxing sounds that help you fall asleep, and use Bose noise-masking technology so you stay asleep. Tiny, wireless Sleepbuds II are designed for comfort with sleep technology clinically proven to help you fall asleep faster. Sleepbuds II play content only from the Bose Sleep app, which gives you full control of the Sound Library and helps you personalize features. Discover tranquil tones and soothing sounds from nature. Or, use Bose noise-masking sounds to cover unwanted nighttime noise. Download your favorite sounds directly to Sleepbuds II, control volume, and set a personal wake-up alarm. Sleepbuds II feature proprietary eartips made of soft silicone for a comfortable, secure fit. Sleep on your back or side, or rollover during the night, they’ll stay put. Get up to ten hours of battery life from a single charge, enough for a full night’s sleep — and three additional charges from the portable case.
Can they play the music on your phone
No they can not. They can only play sounds from a selection of 40 sounds that come with the Sleep App. You can have up to 10 of them loaded onto the Sleepbuds at a time.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
Wraith
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 is the next level of premium wireless performance compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, featuring Xbox Wireless and Windows Sonic surround sound. Take mobile calls or listen to your own music simultaneously while gaming through Bluetooth technology. An all-new metal-reinforced headband and strengthened hinge design deliver significant advancements in durability, and re-shaped Aerofit cooling gel-infused memory foam ear cushions provide premium comfort. The upgraded rechargeable battery provides up to 20-hours of wireless gaming. A larger, high-sensitivity mic improves chat clarity and conceals in the housing when muted, while 50mm Nanoclear speakers provide crisp, accurate sound for the ultimate gaming experience.
Are the rechargeable batteries replaceable by the end user? Batteries dont last forever, it would be a shame(and waste of money) to have to trash a 150$ headset because you cant swap a battery.
Not without busting them open. Yes, that it a big problem with a lot of devices nowadays. There might be a place where you can have someone open them up, but having the battery available is probably not going to happen. When these no longer hold a charge, they are going to need to be replaced. Wish it wasn't so.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
Wraith
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 is the next level of premium wireless performance compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, featuring Xbox Wireless and Windows Sonic surround sound. Take mobile calls or listen to your own music simultaneously while gaming through Bluetooth technology. An all-new metal-reinforced headband and strengthened hinge design deliver significant advancements in durability, and re-shaped Aerofit cooling gel-infused memory foam ear cushions provide premium comfort. The upgraded rechargeable battery provides up to 20-hours of wireless gaming. A larger, high-sensitivity mic improves chat clarity and conceals in the housing when muted, while 50mm Nanoclear speakers provide crisp, accurate sound for the ultimate gaming experience.
Is the headset able to be adjusted via the app while connected to the xbox or do you have to adjust it separately?
I can change the settings through the app on my phone while playing. The app connects through bluetooth so I don't think they interfere with each other.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
Wraith
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 is the next level of premium wireless performance compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, featuring Xbox Wireless and Windows Sonic surround sound. Take mobile calls or listen to your own music simultaneously while gaming through Bluetooth technology. An all-new metal-reinforced headband and strengthened hinge design deliver significant advancements in durability, and re-shaped Aerofit cooling gel-infused memory foam ear cushions provide premium comfort. The upgraded rechargeable battery provides up to 20-hours of wireless gaming. A larger, high-sensitivity mic improves chat clarity and conceals in the housing when muted, while 50mm Nanoclear speakers provide crisp, accurate sound for the ultimate gaming experience.
Does this fully support Dolby Atmos on Xbox one and Xbox Series x, through the Dolby Atmos App and and games that support Atmos?
I don't think so. When I set them up on my Xbox One X, the setting for these to work is Windows Sonic for Headphones. I have a Dolby Atmos license for another set but I can't select it with these because it says my license does not support these headphones. That being said, they sound great using Windows Sonic. Hope that helps.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
Wraith
Produce clear pictures and sound with this Miroir Full HD pico projector. The 7000 mAh lithium-polymer battery offers up to 2 hours of viewing time, while the pair of 2W speakers deliver high-quality sound for an all-around multimedia experience. This Miroir Full HD pico projector has HDMI and USB Type-C ports for secure connection to a variety of input devices.
What speakers go well with this??
Anything with a simple 3.5 mm (headphone style plug) would work, though the built in 2W speakers are pretty good for a small space. The projector can even power the speakers if they can be powered via USB.
4 years, 4 months ago
by
Wraith