LouRevue's stats
- Review count326
- Helpfulness votes832
- First reviewMay 20, 2011
- Last reviewDecember 3, 2025
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.3
- Review comment count1
- Helpfulness votes1
- First review commentJanuary 17, 2017
- Last review commentJanuary 17, 2017
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
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- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count2
- Helpfulness votes5
- First answerDecember 10, 2017
- Last answerJune 12, 2018
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- Best answers1
Designed to optimize privacy at every level, UP Phone integrates proprietary hardware and software like no other smartphone to protect customer privacy. With an on-device Firewall, multi-layered privacy protections, and an all-new user experience, UP Phone sets an entirely new standard for privacy with a device that is easy to use out of the box.
Posted by: LouRevue
With all the security issues and data concerns surrounding your mobile devices, makes one wonder when someone would build a phone that's more security oriented instead of flashy colors or huge MP cameras?
The UP phone looks to take aim at providing a more secure phone to limit too many peeping Tom's and looky loos from trying to gain access to your phone. Pretty tall task if you ask me but interesting attempt for sure.
From a purely phone perspective, it's running an older cut down version of Android 14 with their proprietary shell on top. 256GB storage and expandable up to 1TB, 108MP camera, decent sized battery and 6" screen. It's also compatible on 2G-5G networks and takes all SIM types so it'll work on any carrier. Phone also has a decent bit of weight to it so it feels pretty substantial and not cheap or plastic-y. Decent phone from a spec perspective.
The big thing here is the added software included on the phone. Big thing are the firewall and VPN blocker. True, you could download apps like this on your normal Android/iOS device but being geared specifically with/for them allow this phone to better optimize their affect on your phone. The mobile dashboard on the phone can even show you when/if your phone is blocking tracking attempts. The VPN app also allows you to "hide" your own footprint when browsing.
Another security feature on this phone is the battery disconnect switch that actually detaches your battery from your phone so that it is actually off. Seems like more companies should have something like this on their phones.
Does it all work? I'm sure it does but not phone/system/platform is hacker proof. We all know this. I think this phone does a decent job at mitigating a lot of security vulnerabilities that most users will encounter but definitely not something you'll be seeing used in the next James Bond movie.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Customer Rating
5
Solid RAM for any PC type
on December 3, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
I've used Crucial PC RAM in the last couple builds I did and have been thoroughly pleased with them through and through.
Considering today's RAM economy, kinda hard finding any RAM really but finding decent RAM at any retailer is quite the undertaking at the moment. Fortunately, seems like quite a few people sleep on this RAM in particular and I say it's their loss.
Sure, it may not win any beauty pageants or be featured RAM in some sick build OR not have any of that fancy RGB but, this RAM has it where it's needed. Availability seems to be OK (at least in my area) and the price isn't too jacked up which is nice. The previous build I had was using a Ryzen 7800X3D/XTX7900 combo. Those specs with the RAM, never had a single hiccup or issue with the hardware in my time. This being both AMD EXPO/INTEL XMP ready, no need to worry if you got the right RAM for your mobo since this can handle both. Temps were pretty solid as well IIRC and no issues with overhearing. Granted, I did not OC that RAM since it was a customer build but it did run whatever I had thrown at it.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Designed for an uncompromising clean, the Roomba Max 705 Combo Robot + AutoWash Dock delivers heated mopping with a self-cleaning, extending roller mop and first-of-it-kind cover that protects carpets from wet messes. Dual Edge-Sweeping Brushes, Dual Rubber Brushes and Carpet Boost eliminate deep-down debris, wall-to-wall. Advanced 3D mapping ensures smooth navigation throughout your bustling home. Your robot identifies and adapts to clean around objects, auto-adjusting to activate just the right settings for the task. The powerhouse dock auto-empties debris, heat washes and dries the roller mop, and refills cleaning liquid to keep floor-cleaning forever fresh.
Customer Rating
5
Great, do-all cleaning Roomba
on November 29, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
I've had a couple different robot vacuums and each have been OK but usually lacked one feature or something. It was usually a feature that just didn't quite make the vac as useful as it could've been. However, with this one, I think it's a winner both in terms of functionality and feature packed.
My other robot vacs have all been just vacuum bots. For my place, it works really well since I have a decent mix of hardwood/carpet. These are great in general just for keeping everything clean and dust free without the need for me to get up and manually vacuum every week or so. The older robot vacs I had did a decent job at vacuuming for the most part. A couple were a bit underpowered and the others were just slow for some reason. At the end of the day though, they did their job and cleaned my place without too much issue.
However, with this vac, I now have vacuum and mop functionality which is a pretty huge step up in the functionality department. My two bedrooms are the only rooms I have carpeting so now I have the "luxury" of getting the rest of my place mopped each week as well which is pretty cool. Needless to say, the extra spin cycle does add some time to the cleaning routine but I think it's well worth it now.
One of the nicer things I noticed about this robot in particular was how quickly it was able to create a 3D map. Took maybe half an hour or so whereas some my older robot vacs would take an hour or more for this same task.
Everything is controlled through the smartphone app which makes using the robot vac a breeze. It also allows you to creatine routines, manage the voc as well as order new supplies for it when needed.
As far as a robot vac, I think this is the one I'll be sticking with for awhile.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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TUF Gaming VG32VQM5B is a 31.5-inch Full HD(1920 x 1080) 1500R curved gaming monitor with overclock to 250 Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time (minimum) for extremely immersive gameplay. It features exclusive Extreme Low Motion Blur technology and AMD FreeSync Premium~ to eliminate ghosting and tearing. In addition, it also covering 120% sRGB color gamut for great contrast and lifelike colors.
Customer Rating
4
High quality monitor without the $$$
on November 24, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
One of the bigger purchases you'll need to make with your custom PC is the monitor. With oodles of pretty and shiny ones out there, pretty daunting task if you're a newbie. Fortunately, this TUF lineup of monitors deliver outstanding performance without breaking the bank.
Considering the size and brand of this monitor, I'd put this right in the middle class of monitors. Yeah, it's 1080p but it's a decent brand monitor and the 32" screen size makes up for some display quality. I personally prefer the larger screen size over a 24/27" but that's just me.
You get 2 HDMI slots and a Displayport so you can connect whatever you got to this and be good. The curve is slight understated so if you've never used a curved monitor before, this one isn't bad or so curved that it messes with your vision or anything like that. Good subtle curve and great clarity in the monitor. Standard VESA mount on the back as well.
There is no side to side adjustments on this which is probably my only complaint really. Monitor height is OK but you may need a riser depending on how high you like your monitor to sit on your desk.
Overall, for a reasonably priced, large sized monitor, this is a really nice one to pick up.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Welcome to the PowerShot V1, a powerful video-first camera with all the features you are looking for content creation, in an all-in-one design. This new sleek design features an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens, advanced autofocus, a built-in cooling fan, and impressive stabilization. The PowerShot V1 will let you focus on your creativity without worrying about time limits getting in the way of your videos.
Customer Rating
4
4k recording in the palm of your hand
on November 22, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
With mobile phones capabilities these days, you have 4k recording in some cases already. However, some purists, nothing quite feels like holding a camera in your hands.
I've got an iPhone 17 Pro Max, a couple 4k capable GoPro as well as another 4k camera on hand that app perform adequately, but being an older Canon SLR user, these Powershots just are really something nice to have an utilize.
This being an Canon point and shoot, and being 24 MP, this is no slouch when it comes to taking still photos either. However, this model is specifically for 4k recording and it does a great job in such a small package. The other 4k camera I have is a tad larger so this Powershot is great for both its size/weight and portability. It's a little chunkier than more Powershots you may have used before but still and very compact size.
With the companion smartphone app, you can control the camera remotely as well as make any photo edits to your shots/movies. I've been finding this setup quite useful while using a gimbal,. Allows me better handling of the camera and getting this shots lined up.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Mini 2K+ is our most powerful, compact plug-in security camera yet, delivering stunning 2K video resolution, a 138~ field of view, and 4x zoom for detailed footage day or night. With AI smart detection (Blink Subscription Plan required), it can identify people or vehicles and help deter unwanted activity using a built-in security siren. Plus, you~ll get crisp two-way audio, color night vision with the spotlight, and seamless control from the Blink app.
Customer Rating
4
Great addition to your home security setup
on November 22, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
I've been setting up my home security system using mostly Blink products. This last little piece was the remaining camera I was looking to add.
In addition to a doorcam and a secondary wall camera, this mini 2k serves as the main camera in my place at the moment, this one looks out onto the living room as well as the front door.
This thing is very small and lightweight yet provide really high quality images. This is the main reason I went with this one as the primary home security camera in my place. Works great and can be mounted pretty much anywhere with the included hardware.
Whether in day or night time, this camera gives off really great image quality. Considering this is the main camera in my system, makes sense to have the best looking camera serve this function. Haven't encountered any issues with this camera once installation was completed. Works perfectly and is relatively out of place due to its white color and small size.
Great addition to the camera suite at my place.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Sennheiser HDB 630 Wireless Audiophile Headphones - High-Res Sound with Parametric EQ and Crossfeed, Bluetooth Headset with ANC and 60h Battery Life, Lightweight Design, Clear Calls - includes BTD 700. Flawless sound, no wires, and a battery that lasts for up to 60 hours. The Sennheiser HDB 630 lets outaketrueaudiophilesoundanywhere you go. Precision engineering brings out breathtaking clarity, a neutral tone, detailed mids, and a wide soundstage. Use aptX HD and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth~ codecs from a high-resolution source such as Sennheiser~s BTD 700 Bluetooth~ adapter or plug in via USBC for pure fidelity. The advanced parametric EQ lets you define frequency bands and filters as you please. Cross Fade balances classic tracks for better headphone listening while Active Noise Cancellation eliminates background noise while maintaining high-end audio quality.
Customer Rating
5
I can't stop listening to these.
on November 19, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
I've had some pretty nice headphones in my time and thought they were "good enough" for just about anything...and they were. But after listening to these for the past couple days, I think I've found my new daily drivers.
I've previously used Bose QC 35, Comfort, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, SONY WH1000XM3 as well as few other nice over-the-ear headphones. The QuietComfort Ultra have been my favorite thus far but these HDB630 seems to pick up so much more and sound clearer than the Bose ones ever did.
From the get go, the sound from these right after pairing them is just great. You obviously have the option to tinker around with EQ settings, bass boost and such through the companion app and that just adds to the overall sound quality. The highs and mids I get on these headset just sound so much better than any other headphone I've used before and I think that's saying quite a bit. Bass is also near perfect where it's not too boomy or too loud. Really impressive headphones for sure.
The fit of these is quite nice as well. I find it a smidge too tight around the top but nothing too uncomfortable. The earpads are quite comfy and soft however, if you're a heavy sweater, than they might not last too long around you.
Overall fit and finish to these is splendid. The added carrying case and cables/connectors to connect the headphones is icing on the cake with these headphones.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Stay light years ahead of the competition with the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition 8K PC. Supercharged with native 8000 Hz polling, blitz through every opponent with speed, control, and precision that~s second to none.
Customer Rating
4
Very nice aftermarket controller
on November 19, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
I've been a controller user for quite some time now so it's always nice to come across another well thought out controller. While the default controller is usually an XBOX/PS5 controller, I usually prefer aftermarket ones since they're a little more customizable and just feel better overall than the normal OEM controllers. This one is no different.
With the controllers I've used in my time, I can't recall one that fit in the hand as well as this one does. Usually the controller is a smidge too long or the paddle buttons are just awkwardly placed or something else that just detracts from the controller. Not this one. For my hand size, this thing fits perfectly and every button/paddle is exactly where you expect it to be. Now this is purely for me but I'm sure other users will experience the same thing here.
Also, the controller is muted without all the zany RGB or lights like other controllers usually have which I like. The overall performance of this controller is what you'd expect. Responsive buttons with audible clicks and just a great feeling overall.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Don't let anything slow you down. Force Case by CASETiFY is built to handle everyday drops and bumps with a rugged new design that delivers 6.6 ft drop protection and 3x Military Garde toughness.
Customer Rating
3
Basic but gets the job done. Pricey too
on November 11, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
Time of the year to try out oodles of cases for my new iPhone. Have tried out a few, like this one, but still on the search for the daily driver. This case is pretty basic in terms of looks/features. There aren't any fancy windows or specialized buttons on here. It's just a case.
The case is hard plastic and a bit slick to the touch. Magsafe ring on the back. The buttons are covered to a certain extent however there are parts of the buttons beneath that are still exposed to the elements/debris/etc. There is no camera button cover on this case. Instead, it's just the normal camera cutout for the button beneath. A bit disappointing to be honest considering most other case manufacturers have some sort of cover for this button. AND considering the price of this case, you'd expect this little extra to be added into the case somehow.
Overall, decent case but again, very basic. For the price of this case, I either would've expected Magsafe ring, covered camera plateau, increased shock absorption or something. As is, this just really looks like an overpriced case you'd find in a clearance bin somewhere.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Rainier is extreme protection with a kickstand and magnetic ring compatible with wireless chargers and magnetic accessories. Protect your new iPhone from drops up to 22 feet. The 2-piece design has got you covered with a snap-on frame. Now you~re ready for anything.
Customer Rating
5
Good, beefy case if that's what you're looking for
on November 7, 2025
Posted by: LouRevue
With my new 17 Pro Max, I wanted a beefy case that would hold up to some abuse/drops. Usually, I'm an Otterbox guy but their cases just didn't cut it for me for some reason. I previously had the Defender XT series case but the camera button cutout they had was pretty poorly executed for a second year now. I came across this ZAGG case and it seemed like it checked all the boxes for my new case.
The case is beefy as I mentioned. It's about the size of the Defender case from Otterbox so there is both heft and size to this case. But for those of you looking for that in a case, shouldn't be anything out of the ordinary. All the buttons are prominent and very tactile. The camera button cover also is nice as well. While it's not raised like I would've hoped, it works well enough and I don't have the issue where I'm accidentally pressing it like with a lot of other cases I've used.
The power plug cover snaps into place nicely however I find that, every once in awhile, it's a bit stubborn to open up for whatever reason. Not a huge thing but just something I noticed.
Case has a good texture to it. Not too rubbery and not too slick. Holds well in the hand and fits nice as beefy a case like this can. I don't use the kickstand that much but it's nice that it's there. And the Magsafe provides a strong hold to all my existing Magsafe holders/chargers too.
Overall, very nice beefy case. I don't have any hesitation with this case not protecting it should I drop the phone. Has the usual features I wanted and it looks pretty good too.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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LouRevue's Review Comments
Only at Best Buy Acer Aspire R 15 Convertible 2-in-1 Laptop: Combine performance and versatility with this Acer Aspire laptop. It has a huge 1TB hard drive to meet your storage needs, and the Intel Core i5 processor makes light work of multitasking. This Acer Aspire laptop has a 15.6-inch display for a great viewing experience, and the 360-degree hinged screen provide flexibility for work and play.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5Excellent laptop for everyday use
By LouRevue
from Washington, DC
Having had the chance to use this laptop, I must say it’s quite an impressive model for almostn any use. With an abundance of features housed in a sleek, stylish body, it’s a solid laptop for anyone in the market for a new/replacement laptop.
Using a 7th gen i5 dual core processor, the laptop functions on par with just about any laptop in its price range. With 8GB of RAM (12GB max) and a 1TB hard drive, it offers plenty of speed and room for all your files and enough power/speed to perform almost any task.
As far as the aesthetics go, this is an impressive looking laptop with clean lines, brushed aluminum cover and beveled edges. It’s a very nice looking laptop no doubt and the design, overall, is quite appealing. It comes with a full size keyboard as well as backlit keys which is a nice touch. Only gripe with the keyboard are the arrow buttons as the Up/Down buttons are smaller due to keyboard layout. The power button is on the right side of the laptop which is a bit unique as well as a dedicated volume button. There are 2 USB 3.0 ports as well as 1 USB 2.0 port, HDMI, SD Card and USB-C port. There is no CD drive for anyone wondering. The laptop (closed) is only about ¾ inch tall however it’s a bit wider than most due to the full size keyboard.
Power/performance. Using a dual-core processor I was under the impression this would be relatively slow and have choppy performance when opening multiple programs. Being this is the latest gen processor from Intel, this is not the case. Opening 2-3 programs at once was done with relative ease and switching between them was pretty flawless. The 8GB RAM comes in quite handy here and even with a 5400 RPM HDD, this laptop was able to perform tasks with very good speed. Battery life is pretty good. Using it “normally” and leaving it on for about 5-6 hours, there was about 50% battery left. Also, one very noteworthy benefit to this laptop, it doesn’t get that hot when left on for long periods of time which is VERY nice.
The display is probably the most impressive feature on here. A full 1080p display is quite vibrant and displays bright and dark colors extremely well. Those wanting to watch Netflix/Hulu will have no issues with the display. In addition to visuals, the sound from this laptop is equally impressive. For watching movies or just playing music, the speakers on this laptop deliver quite nicely without too much reverberation or distorted sound.
One of my initial thoughts of this being a 2-in-1 was that the tablet was an afterthought/gimmick. Having used previous 2-in-1 laptops, I was expecting the tablet functionality to be quite lackluster. Again, this was not the case. In this unit, you have, both, a well built laptop as well as tablet on-the-go device. Once in tablet mode, the screen orients itself to that of a normal tablet using Windows Tiles. Touch sensitivity is surprisingly smooth and using paint programs worked well without any lag or drops in sensitivity. Using the tablet form works really well when you want to sit back and watch videos or movies. Very nice.
A couple concerns with this laptop were;
The hard drive. While it’s a large 1TB drive, I would’ve expected something, at least, in the 7200 RPM range. Being fast enough for normal business related tasks, anyone wanting to use this laptop for video editing or other processor intensive jobs might find it to be a bit slow. This can easily be remedied by replacing the HD for a faster spindle drive or a SSD. However it would’ve been nice to have a tad faster hard drive here.
The keyboard, for me, took a bit getting used to since I have previously used standard laptop keyboards without the number pad. This is a personal preference so nothing against the design. Just noting that those of you used to that type of laptop keyboard, there will be a bit of learning curve involved however I think the addition of the number pad is great thing and should be standard on all laptops.
While the brushed aluminum case is aesthetically appealing, I’m a little concerned about it getting scratched/dinged from normal use or if when you’re changing it to be used as a tablet. This is the case with some laptops that use this metal casing so just something to be aware of.
The keyboard, for me, took a bit getting used to since I have previously used standard laptop keyboards without the number pad. This is a personal preference so nothing against the design. Just noting that those of you used to that type of laptop keyboard, there will be a bit of learning curve involved however I think the addition of the number pad is great thing and should be standard on all laptops.
While the brushed aluminum case is aesthetically appealing, I’m a little concerned about it getting scratched/dinged from normal use or if when you’re changing it to be used as a tablet. This is the case with some laptops that use this metal casing so just something to be aware of.
Overall, this is an impressive laptop, reasonably priced with enough up-to-date technology that will last you for several years to come. Being that it’s a 2-in-1, it’s an added bonus which allows you to use this device in ways you should be able to do and with relative ease.There is some bloatware included (this should be no surprise) so make sure to uninstall/delete the stuff you don’t need. Aside from a somewhat slow hard drive, the other features on this laptop more than make up for it. Very nice buy for a new work laptop or student.
LouRevue
Washington, DC
Bloatware?
January 17, 2017
It took a bit of time to setup my laptop as well. Have you tried uninstalling the bloatware on this laptop? I did and I don't have any issues with boot speed or anything else on my laptop.
+1point
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LouRevue's Questions
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LouRevue's Answers
Only @ Best BuyListen to music with this sweat- and dust-resistant wireless Jabra Elite headset. It connects via USB, mini-jack or Bluetooth, and a powerful microphone lets you use voice commands with your mobile device. This Jabra Elite headset reduces background noise and has a built-in motion sensor that lets you track fitness efforts.
Can an owner of the original non active 65t comment on the fit and stability difference with the active version? Curious if that and the extra IP rating is worth a look, or negligible.
I own both the active and regular 65T's and I don't see any noticeable difference between them. Aside from the IP rating, there's really not much difference. Both fit exactly the same and fit pretty snugly in the ear.
7 years, 5 months ago
by
LouRevue
Brighten your day and night with this Philips Being Hue ceiling light. The dimming function lets you set an ambience for different moods, and it works with the Philips Hue dimmer switch and mobile app for versatile control. The ZigBee technology of this 32W Philips Being Hue ceiling lamp provides smooth, efficient interoperability with multiple Hue lighting units.
Can this light be controlled by a existing wired wall switch? I plan to replace the light that is already there with this one, but I would prefer to use the wired switch.
Yes you can...that's what I did. One thing to note is that the light won't come on immediately like your current light fixture does. There's a second or two delay after you flip the switch. I'm planning on replacing the switch with a dimmer switch so maybe that will correct the delay.
7 years, 11 months ago
by
LouRevue