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- Review count22
- Helpfulness votes109
- First reviewSeptember 21, 2016
- Last reviewNovember 14, 2023
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4
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- First answerSeptember 21, 2016
- Last answerSeptember 21, 2016
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Light up any room with the SmartThings smart bulb that's easy to control from your smartphone or tablet. Turn on the living room lamps as you're heading home, dim the lights from movie night, or schedule them to turn off before bed. It's a smarter way to light your house while saving money on energy costs.
Posted by: joshspfld
from Chatham, IL
This was part of my first foray into the Smartthings world.
I currently own and use several smart home products, all of which are hub-less and run over WiFi.
Smartthings is different, you must have their hub to control and connect their devices.
Overall, the bulb works. It replaces a standard bulb and can be controlled with the app. However, I find it all to be a little silly. Why would I get out my phone when I could flip a switch? To me the value in smart tech is to do things automatically. For instance, with Belkin’s Wemo line you can create rules to do things like scheduling lights to turn on and off. With Smartthings, that’s not a feature.
With every smart bulb, you MUST keep power running to the fixture at all times, so if the bulb is on a switch, the switch must stay on. Think about this, the switch is on, but the bulb isn’t. An uninformed person, might think, the bulb is broken; but alas it’s not broken, it’s just over techinified (I made that word up, but it makes sense).
This bulb is just like all those others in that sense, where it differs is some other functions. Unlike the Hue bulbs, you can’t change the color (or the color temp). You can adjust the brightness, which is a handy feature in a low cost build.
And you can also control it with your voice using Amazon’s Echo or any other smart speaker.
So in conclusion, my low rating on this is less about the bulb and more about its functions. The bulb (like every smart bulb) doesn’t work like a normal one on a switch. Yes, they did add a dummy function that turns the bulb on if the switch gets flipped, but overall the functions of this bulb within smartthings are kinda weak. If it at least had scheduling, it would be a 4 star product.
I ended up installing this bulb on my back porch—where I rarely ever turn on the light. Now, I can ask the echo to turn it on.
I currently own and use several smart home products, all of which are hub-less and run over WiFi.
Smartthings is different, you must have their hub to control and connect their devices.
Overall, the bulb works. It replaces a standard bulb and can be controlled with the app. However, I find it all to be a little silly. Why would I get out my phone when I could flip a switch? To me the value in smart tech is to do things automatically. For instance, with Belkin’s Wemo line you can create rules to do things like scheduling lights to turn on and off. With Smartthings, that’s not a feature.
With every smart bulb, you MUST keep power running to the fixture at all times, so if the bulb is on a switch, the switch must stay on. Think about this, the switch is on, but the bulb isn’t. An uninformed person, might think, the bulb is broken; but alas it’s not broken, it’s just over techinified (I made that word up, but it makes sense).
This bulb is just like all those others in that sense, where it differs is some other functions. Unlike the Hue bulbs, you can’t change the color (or the color temp). You can adjust the brightness, which is a handy feature in a low cost build.
And you can also control it with your voice using Amazon’s Echo or any other smart speaker.
So in conclusion, my low rating on this is less about the bulb and more about its functions. The bulb (like every smart bulb) doesn’t work like a normal one on a switch. Yes, they did add a dummy function that turns the bulb on if the switch gets flipped, but overall the functions of this bulb within smartthings are kinda weak. If it at least had scheduling, it would be a 4 star product.
I ended up installing this bulb on my back porch—where I rarely ever turn on the light. Now, I can ask the echo to turn it on.
Mobile Submission: True
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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-11points
1of 13voted this as helpful.
Logitech G432 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset is enhanced with advanced soundscape technology. Hear more of the game with huge 50 mm drivers that deliver a big sound. For maximum immersion, DTS Headphone:X 2.0 surround sound creates precise in-game positional awareness. Hear enemies sneaking up behind you, sense air attacks or special-ability cues, and enjoy the full cinematic experience of your favorite games. Its slim and lightweight, with rotating sports-performance ear cups, a large 6 mm, flip-to-mute mic, and convenient multi-platform compatibility.
Posted by: joshspfld
from Chatham, IL
These only have 2 drivers and a stereo connection (3.5mm). This isn’t true 7.1.
If you’re using a Nintendo switch, that’s only capable of 5.1 over HDMI.
While this headset works well, it’s not a true surround sound experience.
While playing games like Fortnite, I couldn’t tell where people were any better on these than I could on a lower priced stereo headset.
If you’re using a Nintendo switch, that’s only capable of 5.1 over HDMI.
While this headset works well, it’s not a true surround sound experience.
While playing games like Fortnite, I couldn’t tell where people were any better on these than I could on a lower priced stereo headset.
Mobile Submission: True
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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-1point
0of 1voted this as helpful.
Back up all of your important files with this My Cloud Home personal storage device. It has 2TB of space and plugs directly into your Wi-Fi router to provide a central location for all your digital content. The apps included with this My Cloud Home personal storage device let you access files from anywhere.
Customer Rating
3
old name for a totally new product
on September 17, 2017
Posted by: joshspfld
from Chatham, IL
Back when they released the first mycloud, I bought one. A home based cloud system to back up everything--yes, please! But in getting the new version, I've come to realize this isn't an updated mycloud, it's a whole new product.
The apps are all new. You have a completely new management product both on the computer and the mobile device. I kind of disliked the old app, so maybe this is a welcomed upgrade, but it was certainly an unexpected change.
I wonder why WD decided to keep the myCloud name, when the product is now completely different. Either way, set up is now more than just adding a device, but it's now setting up a whole new set of applications, with their own usernames and passwords.
If you don't have a mycloud, it's a device worth getting. If you already have one, it might not be as simple to "upgrade" to this new device.
The apps are all new. You have a completely new management product both on the computer and the mobile device. I kind of disliked the old app, so maybe this is a welcomed upgrade, but it was certainly an unexpected change.
I wonder why WD decided to keep the myCloud name, when the product is now completely different. Either way, set up is now more than just adding a device, but it's now setting up a whole new set of applications, with their own usernames and passwords.
If you don't have a mycloud, it's a device worth getting. If you already have one, it might not be as simple to "upgrade" to this new device.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Expand computer storage with this SanDisk solid state drive. Its 120GB of space is ideal for those who need to store multiple video files, and the shock-resistant construction withstands accidental drops. This SanDisk solid state drive has read speeds of up to 520 Mbps and write speeds of up to 180 Mbps for fast response times and quicker updating.
Customer Rating
5
new life for older devices
on March 19, 2017
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
If you've got plenty of memory, your laptop might still run slow. Very often, it's the ability to move data around that slows things down. Swap out your hard drive for one of these and get a few more years out of that older laptop.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Explore the world of virtual reality using your smartphone and the Merge 360 virtual reality headset. This fun headset is compatible with both Android and iOS devices to deliver an immersive experience. The Merge 360 virtual reality headset is crafted from soft, durable foam for comfort and works with the corresponding Merge Start virtual reality app.
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
With all the VR hype out there, I wanted to give it a shot.
After some comparisons, I settled on the merge VR goggles to pair up with my iPhone 7+.
A couple minutes of use left me wondering why I just wasted money on this. Here's what I liked and what I didn't like.
Like: light weight. Comfortable design. Works with all the google cardboard VR apps.
Dislikes: the foam material, while light and comfortable, didn't allow for easy loading in of my phone. Yes it fit, but it was tight to the point that I thought it was going to tear the goggles. And if I had my case on the phone, forget about it!
Also VR still doesn't feel ready for prime time. Most apps support a single click interface--which these goggles do, but it's a little silly.
Many apps require a click to load, which doesn't pair up with the click interface on the goggles. You need a headset that allows you to QUICKLY load in a device and for iPhone Plus users, this isn't it.
One last note on the apps, I never found one that made me feel wowed. The YouTube stuff is cool, but video quality isn't great on most of the content out there.
Many apps require a click to load, which doesn't pair up with the click interface on the goggles. You need a headset that allows you to QUICKLY load in a device and for iPhone Plus users, this isn't it.
One last note on the apps, I never found one that made me feel wowed. The YouTube stuff is cool, but video quality isn't great on most of the content out there.
In the end, I returned this product, because I knew after trying it, that I wasn't going to use it much.
If I were to advise ppl on trying VR, I'd suggest a google cardboard. Yes, you have to hold it in your hand, but it'll let you know what to expect without spending a lot of money.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
Mobile Submission: True
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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+3points
3of 3voted this as helpful.
The thinnest iPad ever is also the most capable. It's loaded with advanced technologies, including the Touch ID fingerprint sensor.
Customer Rating
4
Same old ipad
on September 28, 2016
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
Let's face it, ipad innovation has been incremental for a number of years. If you're considering this to replace an older ipad, it might not be worth doing. I have a 4th gen and this isn't that much better. Sure it's slimmer, and smaller, it has touch ID too. But compared to the 4th gen, it doesn't "feel" so new. Now that's not an indictment, it's that apple has built such a great product to begin with. There's not a lot of room to make it better.
If you need to replace an ipad 2nd-4th gen, this is a worthy device. If you want your first ipad, this is the one to buy. So far, apple's lifecycles for ipads has been long. Until recently, you could still do iOS updates on an ipad 2 and 3. That tells me that buying an Air 2 is a solid purchase that should last for quite a few years.
If you need to replace an ipad 2nd-4th gen, this is a worthy device. If you want your first ipad, this is the one to buy. So far, apple's lifecycles for ipads has been long. Until recently, you could still do iOS updates on an ipad 2 and 3. That tells me that buying an Air 2 is a solid purchase that should last for quite a few years.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+78points
93of 108voted this as helpful.
MacBook Pro features Intel's latest quad core processor, the core i5 processor, for a boost in processor and memory speeds. New next-generation graphics deliver performance levels that are up to 60 percent faster than before. And high-speed Thunderbolt I/O lets you transfer data at rates up to 10 GBps. The MacBook Pro is a great computer that just got even greater.
Customer Rating
5
Get them while you can
on September 21, 2016
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
It's not hard to predict that this model will soon go away. Apple has moved into the retina age for the MacBook Pros, so these are still just hanging out somewhere between a Macbook and a MBP Retina.
That doesn't mean that these aren't worth buying. For $1100 you can get one with an i5 and 4GB of RAM, toss a solid state drive in it for $150 and some more RAM for $100 and you've got a machine that is super capable of handing whatever your needs are.
Right out of the box, they're okay, but if you invest just a little in them, they totally rock!
That doesn't mean that these aren't worth buying. For $1100 you can get one with an i5 and 4GB of RAM, toss a solid state drive in it for $150 and some more RAM for $100 and you've got a machine that is super capable of handing whatever your needs are.
Right out of the box, they're okay, but if you invest just a little in them, they totally rock!
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
2of 3voted this as helpful.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A: Entertain your family with this Samsung Galaxy tablet. A kid mode lets you keep track of what your children view, and the tablet’s multi-window display option lets you multitask by viewing two apps simultaneously on a split screen. With personalization options for the whole family, everyone can access this Samsung Galaxy tablet while keeping app data and files separate.
Customer Rating
4
not for gaming
on September 21, 2016
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
if you're using these for just browsing the web and answering email, you're going to love them. They're not high performance devices, they don't have lots of storage. They are a ROCK SOLID alternative to buying a $50 no name tablet. We use them at work to show guests information and register for events on our website and for that job, they work perfectly.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Showcase ideas with this Epson VS240 projector, which displays presentations in 800 x 600 resolution and offers 3000 lumens of white and color brightness for enhanced visibility and vibrancy. USB Plug 'n Play instant setup lets you get started quickly.Not sure what size projector or screen you need? Learn more.
Customer Rating
5
while not full HD it scales well
on September 21, 2016
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
I bought this to play around with. I am a big fan. I've had full HD projectors before, like the optoma HD33, and while this unit isn't in the same league--it does a good job.
The picture is bright and crisp. I actually like it better than my old optoma because I was able to see the colorwheel effect on DLPs in large scale projection (which drove me crazy).
I'm not going to be installing this for everyday home theater use, but will use it for occasional movie nights, particularly outdoors. It makes a nice bright image up to 300 inches.
The built in sound is lacking, but you kind of expect that on a built in speaker. It's there more for utility than use.
The picture is bright and crisp. I actually like it better than my old optoma because I was able to see the colorwheel effect on DLPs in large scale projection (which drove me crazy).
I'm not going to be installing this for everyday home theater use, but will use it for occasional movie nights, particularly outdoors. It makes a nice bright image up to 300 inches.
The built in sound is lacking, but you kind of expect that on a built in speaker. It's there more for utility than use.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+5points
5of 5voted this as helpful.
Surface Pro Type Cover: Type comfortably and navigate the Web with ease using your Microsoft Surface Pro. Well-spaced, backlit keys and a 2-button trackpad make it simple to input data or type up notes, even in dim lighting.
Customer Rating
5
better than the old model
on September 21, 2016
Posted by: joshspfld
Verified Purchase:Yes
2 features make this a great choice for a surface.
1. function lock toggle --no more keyboard athletics to use a shortcut like alt+f4.
2. Chiclet style keys -- more spacing between the keys just feels nicer. also less chance of getting something stuck under a key.
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
My Best Buy number: 0067783267
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
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joshspfld's Answers
Showcase ideas with this Epson VS240 projector, which displays presentations in 800 x 600 resolution and offers 3000 lumens of white and color brightness for enhanced visibility and vibrancy. USB Plug 'n Play instant setup lets you get started quickly.Not sure what size projector or screen you need? Learn more.
If i bought this projector, would i be able to position it toward a wall and see the image on my wall? Second question, can this projector project PS4 gameplay like can i hook my ps4 to it and play video games? Thanks for feedback.
Yes, but keep in mind the wall color will effect the image color that you see. This unit is very bright, so ideally you'd want to shine onto a flat finish white or light grey wall. PS4 won't be a problem. It won't be full HD, but will scale and still look nice for the price.
If you're really into your gaming, you're going to want a high end projector in the $1000+ price point. Something that can handle higher resolutions (at least 1080p)--this one will be showing 480 (I can't remember if it's progressive scan or not). So your PS4 will be capable of giving more than this can handle, but the processor in it will scale it down to give you a nice enough image to use and feel like your $300 was a good investment to start off with.
If you're really into your gaming, you're going to want a high end projector in the $1000+ price point. Something that can handle higher resolutions (at least 1080p)--this one will be showing 480 (I can't remember if it's progressive scan or not). So your PS4 will be capable of giving more than this can handle, but the processor in it will scale it down to give you a nice enough image to use and feel like your $300 was a good investment to start off with.
7 years, 7 months ago
by
joshspfld
Showcase ideas with this Epson VS240 projector, which displays presentations in 800 x 600 resolution and offers 3000 lumens of white and color brightness for enhanced visibility and vibrancy. USB Plug 'n Play instant setup lets you get started quickly.Not sure what size projector or screen you need? Learn more.
Is this the kind of projectors that you can hook up outside and watch a movie from a laptop?
Yes! If you can go with an HDMI connection in particular, it will look great.
7 years, 7 months ago
by
joshspfld