Sunday, September 30, 2018

Best Knife Brands

Are you finding yourself a bit flustered by all the different knife brands out there? Not sure which are the real deal on Amazon and what’s just junky stamped out steel? Read on in our guide to the best knife brands to find out everything you need to know the next time you buy a knife for your kitchen or your professional knife kit!

Best Knife Brands

 #1  MAC

Pros
  • Best quality knives in the business
  • 25-year warranty
  • 70% discount knife replacement program
  • Made in Japan
Cons
  • Prices can be rigidly high
Ask any professional chef which knife brand they trust the most, and you’ll probably get the same answer from the entire lot: MAC Knives. MAC has one of the longest track records in the industry for producing solid knives that are simultaneously some of the lightest and nimble daily drivers, while also being one of most dependable and durable knives they’ve ever owned. What really helped MAC eke out the top spot in our eyes however was the company’s unique accidental damage replacement program, a first in this industry as far as we could tell. Essentially this means that if your knife chips, the handle breaks, or takes on any damage that renders the knife useless MAC will let you send the knife in and buy your next at a whopping 70% discount. While some brands may offer lifetime warranties or free sharpening services (like our next choice), this program makes MAC the obvious choice for anyone who plans to use their kitchen knives to their fullest extent possible. Read Next: The Top Chef Knife

 #2  Shun

Pros
  • Handcrafted forging on all knives
  • Free sharpening service
  • Lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects
Cons
  • Might be too heavy in the hand for some buyers
Although Shun may get a bad rap among the chef knife purists for being the “sellout” brand (you can find one in just about every Williams Sonoma around the globe); they got to that top spot for a reason. As a producer of knives that fit every hand, Shun knives are sort of the Honda Civic of chef’s knives: dependable, easy to maintain as a daily driver, and designed to last a lifetime. Shun knives are exceptionally well-balanced in almost anyone’s hand, and that goes for both the right-handed and left-handed variants of their most popular models. Sure they might be a bit cliche if you’re asking a chef, but they got to that top spot by offering solid warranties, free sharpening services, and a set of knives that can handle almost any produce or proteins you throw their way.

 #3  Victorinox

Pros
  • World-class durability-to-price ratio
  • High Amazon ratings for all available knives
  • Lifetime warranty (except for normal wear-and-tear)
Cons
  • Not the best pick for more expensive knives
  • Knives can feel flimsy, even though they’re not
If you’re on the hunt for a nearly-indestructible knife that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, almost any and all knives made by Victorinox are the way to go. Although primarily known for their Swiss Army knives outside of chef circles, this company is one of the best-kept secrets in the chef world, producing ridiculously durable knives at a fraction of the cost of other brands. Victorinox achieves this balances by utilizing cheaper production methods and materials (stamped vs. forged, plastic handles vs. wood), but as we’ve already mentioned this barely leaves a dent in the actual quality and durability of the knives they sell. If you want a knife that won’t go over $30 but will still be in your kitchen 10, 20, even 50 years from now, Victorinox is the way to go.

 #4  Wusthof

Pros
  • Solid reputation among professional chefs
  • Great durability
  • Lifetime warranty
Cons:
  • Primarily known for German-style knives only
Wusthof is one of the only manufacturers on this list which produces German-style knives almost exclusively, so if that’s not your cup of tea this may not be the brand for you. That said, they produce what could easily be considered some of the best German knives on the market, which is what earned them the #4 spot in this roundup. Wusthof also has the distinction of being the oldest brand on this list, producing knives out of Germany all the way back to 1814. No company stays in business that long without building up a serious amount of expertise and tradecraft to fall back on, which is just one of many reasons why it’s one of the best knife brands still operating in 2018!

 #5  Dalstrong

Pros
  • Great price-to-quality ratio
  • Wide diversity of knife types
  • Solid handles for long-lasting durability
Cons
  • New to the scene (unknown long-term durability)
  • No replacement programs
Dalstrong may not have the same track record as many of the other brand picks on this list, but what they lack in history the company more than makes up for in providing a wide range of knives for every type of consumer at a price that won’t break the bank. Dalstrong themselves even admit to being the “new kids on the block” in their own company description, but even though they’ve only been around for a short time they’ve quickly rocketed to the top of every professional and home chef’s wish lists. The company has become synonymous with quality knives on the cheap, taking elements from many of the top brands and fusing them together for an altogether unique approach that hasn’t been seen thus far in the world of knife production.

Best Knife Brands Read more on: www.gadgetreview.com/


Best Knife Brands published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Best Knife Brands published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Best Running Shoe Brands

Although the winner of the best running shoes for any given year might always come down to subjective opinion, what’s a bit easier to determine is which company in the game continues to shine as one of the top producers of quality shoes year in and year out.

Best Running Shoe Brands

#1  Brooks

Pros:
  • Stellar ratings across dozens of domains
  • 90-day full refund guarantee
  • Community-focused
  • Sustainable shoe production
  • 365-day new condition return policy
Cons:
  • Shoes might be on the heavier side for some
During our research, we found that across the board, Brooks Running holds more top spots in the best running shoes of 2018 lists than any other contender. This is mainly due to the fact that the company produces amazing running shoes for almost every type of foot you can imagine, but as a company also they’re dedicated to giving back to the community through efforts like their Running Responsibly program and their Run B'Cause community grants. Similarly, the company has a great program called the Brooks True Blue Guarantee, which lets you try out any of their shoes for up to 90-days and return them with a 100% refund if they’re not the right choice for you. This is especially good if you’re buying online, because even reading all the reviews in the world (posted other runners that don’t have your specific feet) may not always net you the best result. With this program you can try as many pairs as you like before you land on the right fit.

#2  Saucony

Pros:
  • Run For Good donation campaign
  • Strong results across dozens of lists
  • Unlimited time return policy (free of defects)
Cons:
  • No exchange program
Saucony is the oldest brand in this roundup, dating all the way back to 1898, just two years after the first Olympic marathon was held in Athens, Greece. And if their results on the many roundup lists posted this year are any indication, that long-standing (no pun intended) dedication to all things running shoes continues to pay off even to this day. The company has a strong sustainability record as well as a great community donation program, but what really sets them apart from the pack are the dozens of shoe lines that have topped professional runner’s must-have wish lists year in and year out. The Saucony brand ranks tip-top among amateur and professional runners in the sport, which is why we gave this company the #2 slot on our list.

#3  ASICS

Pros:
  • 60-day return policy
  • Girls on the Run donation program
  • Solid results in annual roundup lists
Cons:
  • Returns only allowed in new condition
ASICS is one of the oldest companies on this list, and that heritage shows in their stellar placements on dozens of the best running shoe lists for 2018. Both Amazon customers and professional runners alike seem to be more than satisfied with the quality of product that ASICS is producing year in and year out, and the brand continues to innovate in the space unlike any other company in the space (except for Nike maybe, but more on that later). ASICS is also dedicated to sustainability and giving back to their community through programs like Girls on the Run. Girls on the Run has donated over 50,000 pairs of shoes to local charities since 2016 to encourage underprivileged girls to find confidence and motivation through the sport of running. Add this to a solid sustainability track record and you’ve got one of the best running shoe brands operating in the space today.

#4  Salomon

Pros:
  • 30-day no questions asked return policy
  • 3-year defect warranty
  • Strong ratings on most running-centric lists
  • Strong focus on sustainability
Cons:
  • Shoes didn’t always hit the top of every list we considered
Aside from producing some of the best running shoes in the business, Salomon is also one of the most committed companies we found when it came to reducing their carbon footprint by the year 2025 (again, no pun intended). The company has a whole list of goals to become of the most sustainable shoe producers in the world in around seven years time, and many of their achievements have already set them well and above the curve in this department when compared to competing brands.

#5  Nike

Pros:
  • Still one of the best running shoe producers, period
  • Different options available for every segment of the market
Cons:
  • No refunds or exchanges due to fit problems
  • No community programs
Nike doesn’t necessarily qualify on this list for their great (actually non-existent) return program or their dedication to giving back to their local communities. But what they lack in any sort of commitment to being a better company on those metrics, they make up for in pure production quality across the board. Nike has always been (and continues to be) one of the top shoemakers in the world, and according to dozens of annual roundup lists  – as well as thousands of positive Amazon reviews – the company looks to be firing on all cylinders when it comes to their running shoe division. The Flyknit line, in particular, has proven to be a massive hit among serious runners, providing the cushioning and firmness that runners crave while simultaneously weighing out to being one of the lightest shoes ever produced in the history of the sport. Nike may not ever go down as the friendliest company in the history books, but their contributions to innovation and design in running shoes simply can’t be ignored.

Other Running Shoe Brands to Consider

  • Adidas: Adidas has both the history and the pedigree to make this list, though during our research we found that on the “bang for your buck” scale they measured up just short of the mark we set for our top 5. Adidas is better known for its women’s running shoes as of late, so if you’re looking to fill out your socks on that side of the market they would still be a decent pick regardless of rankings here.
  • Inov-8: Inov-8 is a more recent entry into the running shoe game, but what the brand lacks in pedigree it more than makes up for in, wait for it…innovation. That’s right, the company lives up to its brand name by producing some of the most interesting and innovative running shoes we’ve seen in the past few decades, combining aggressive design elements with new research and development that continue to push the running shoe community forward with every annual release.
  • Tesla: Like Inov-8, Tesla (no, not that Tesla) is a relatively new competitor in the race to the top of the running shoe heap. The brand is known for producing budget running shoes for your every day runner, and scores consistently high reviews on Amazon with thousands of satisfied buyers. The cost of most of Tesla’s shoes are almost suspiciously low, but according to a lot of runners with first-hand experience they seem to provide the same level of cushion you’d get from shoes twice or even three times the cost, and don’t fall apart even after hundreds of miles are logged.

Running Shoe Brands to Avoid and the Worst Running Shoe Brands

  • New Balance: Although there’s not much necessarily wrong with New Balance shoes, overall there are just better options available for the same price. If you’re shopping on a budget (a part of the market New Balance is known for), Tesla can fulfill your needs there, while the higher end of the New Balance line is outpaced by the likes of Nike and Brooks.

Best Running Shoes Buying Guide

Feel free to shop around for shoes before you make up your mind. But in the process, don’t forget to focus on the most important features for you. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
  • Shoe Quality
    • Of course the #1 reason any brand even made it near this list is the quality of the shoes they produce.
    • We determined this metric through hundreds of reviews by professionals and amateurs alike, as well as aggregating the general consensus through verified buyers on Amazon.
  • Warranty/Return Policy
    • Almost as important as the quality of a shoe is the fit, and finding the right fit while shopping online can be an admittedly frustrating process.
    • In general we would recommend that you hit your local mall or shoe store to ultimately find the shoe that fits perfectly for you, but if that’s not a viable option than the only other choice is to buy online and hope for the best when the shoes finally arrive.
    • That’s why it’s vital that a running shoe company offers at least some kind of return policy, so even if you only try on the shoes once and give them a walk around your home, you can know pretty close to immediately whether they’ll need to be returned or not.
    • Almost all the companies on this list offer some kind of return program, with Brooks beating out the rest thanks to their no-questions-asked 90-day “if it doesn’t work out just send ‘em back” policy. Salomon also has a similar 30-day policy in the same vein.
  • Best List Placements/Amazon Reviews
    • As non-experts ourselves, we deferred most of the heavy lifting to about a dozen other annual roundups of the best running shoes of the year, as determined by experts in their relevant fields.
    • Amazon was also a great resource in this regard, because although the people adding reviews to that site may not necessarily be experts, the sheer number of purchases and the aggregate scoring gave us a great baseline on which to go off of when deciding which brands had the most purchases by amateur runners, which had the best scores from those runners, and which lasted the longest thanks to updated reviews posted long after the initial purchase.
  • Community Donation Programs/Sustainability Efforts
    • Finally, we took a deep dive into many of these company’s policies on sustainability as well as how much they give back to their communities or donate to programs designed to get children and adults alike involved in the growing sport of running.
    • Almost every company we reviewed (aside from the biggest of them all, Nike), had pages which outlined community programs they were involved in or sustainability efforts they were actively participating in.
    • The more they donated or the bigger their promises on sustainability, the higher of a score they achieved on our list!

The post Best Running Shoe Brands was first published on News from Gadget Review


Best Running Shoe Brands published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Best Running Shoe Brands published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Landline vs VoIP: Which Works Better for Your Business and Why

If you can’t reach out to potential customers, and if they can’t reach out to you, how can you expect to grow? Communicating with customers and coworkers is one of the most important aspects of running a successful business. When it comes to the way you communicate, you’ll need to decide between landline vs VoIP. While there are a variety of different ways to deliver information to external parties, real-time communication is typically available in either a landline phone service or a VoIP service. Both of these technologies are prevalent in today’s business world, but which one is better for you? Maybe you have a landline and you want to switch to VoIP, or vice versa. Maybe you’re just starting your business and you want to know which option is better for companies in their infancy. Whatever the case, it’s important that you know the differences between these two options. That way, you can make the best decision for your company, employees and customers.

What is a Landline?

When you think about a traditional phone system, what you’re seeing in your head is more likely than not a landline. This technology hasn’t changed much since the 19th Century, when it was first introduced. Landline phones use a hardwired setup, which involves a copper wire plugged into a wall jack that eventually connects directly to a physical switchboard. That switchboard then connects two different phones to initiate the phone call. Sounds ancient, right? As you might imagine, landlines are quickly going obsolete when compared to digital and mobile phone technology. However, that’s not to say that they don’t have their benefits

What is VoIP?

VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. VoIP was first introduced in the late 80s and early 90s, and while that sounds old, it continues to evolve just as the internet does. Instead of connecting two phones physically through copper wires and switchboards, VoIP phones use the internet to initiate the connection. These phones are connected directly to computers or modems. As such, the success of any VoIP system relies solely on the quality of the internet service you have in your business. Read Next: RingCentral Review - The Good and the Bad This reliance on good internet can bring on its own host of problems, but it gets rid of complicated phone closets and physical exchanges that were once so prevalent.

Landline vs VoIP: VoIP Wins (almost) Every Time

So, can landlines even compete against VoIP phones? Does the new technology outpace the old, or does the reliability of hardwired systems trump virtual connections? Many businesses still use traditional landline setups while even more are starting to use VoIP services. Let’s take a look at some of the major considerations and how each type of phone system stacks up:

Cost

Cost is always a deciding factor when it comes to choosing between two different sections. And while providers in both technologies vary widely in the types of plans they offer, VoIP services are cheaper than landlines on average. Cost savings come into the picture for one main reason. Because landlines are hardwired, businesses are required to install and maintain a central hub that manages all the phone lines, called a Private Branch Exchange (PBX). These PBXs often cost upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the number of phones you need. VoIP services run off a virtual PBX, without the need for any kind of extra hardware. Both services require you to purchase actual phones, and there’s usually no difference between the two there.

Reliability

Reliability is one area where landlines still have somewhat of an edge over VoIP services. Because landlines are hardwired, and because of the way the system as a whole is set up, it’s very rare that landlines go down. As mentioned above, VoIP phones rely on a stable internet connection to work well. If your internet goes out or if your ISP is having troubles, you’ll likely be without phone service. However, as internet technology continues to evolve, VoIP services will soon surpass landline phones in reliability.

Versatility and Customization

When it comes to flexibility, versatility and customization, VoIP phones win hands down. Due to limitations in technology and hardware, landlines are simple but lack any kind of extra functionality. With VoIP services, you have the option of adding almost limitless features to your plan, ranging from virtual receptionists to comprehensive call monitoring and reporting functionality. If you want customization, the only option is to purchase VoIP. Read Next: RingCentral vs Vonage: RingCentral

Landline vs VoIP: Which Works Better for Your Business and Why See more on: the gadgetreview blog


Landline vs VoIP: Which Works Better for Your Business and Why published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Landline vs VoIP: Which Works Better for Your Business and Why published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Zoom vs Skype: Zoom Wins in Video Conferencing

Having a reliable and versatile means of communication is vital in today’s world, in both the consumer and business sides. For businesses, there are many battles between different software, and one of those is Zoom vs Skype. Read Next: Best Business VoIP Services to Consider These two communication tools are immensely popular and widely used by businesses all over the world. Zoom was founded in 2011 and aims to bring “teams together in a frictionless environment to get more done.” Skype has been around a little longer—since 2003—and aims to “enable the world’s conversations.” So, what are the differences between the two, and which one is better for your business? We’ve identified several key factors you should consider when deciding between the two when making your purchasing decision.

Cost: Skype Offers Better Pricing

Zoom - Zoom offers a wide variety of different plans and price points. If you want to keep things on a budget, you can sign up for Zoom’s free plan, which allows you to host up to 100 participants in a video call, along with other basic communication features. The next tier up costs $14.99 per user per month. This tier allows you to host up to 100 participants and includes m0re administrative features to manage user settings and reporting. The highest tier costs $19.99 per user per month. Like the other tiers, it allows you to host up to 100 participants and it includes all the features in lower tiers. It also provides many more customization options and recording functionality. Skype - You can download two different versions of Skype: the free version and Skype for Business. The free version of Skype is incredibly comprehensive for a free product, but if you want more control over your video conferencing solution, you’ll definitely want to purchase Skype for Business. Skype for Business costs either $2 per user per month with the Online Plan 1 or $5.50 per user per month with the Online Plan 2. The Online Plan 1 focuses on the basics, while the Online Plan 2 focuses on more advanced features like HD video conferencing and desktop sharing. Jive Review: Read Before You Invest The good news is that if you already pay for Microsoft Office 365, you already have a subscription to Skype for Business.

Ease of Use: Both Are Easy to Use

When it comes to using the software, both Zoom and Skype are simple and user-friendly. Setting up calls, creating new contacts, and getting set up are all easy to do. The user interfaces for both solutions are crisp and clean, making it easy on the eyes. They’re also not frustrating for the users who interact with the software on a daily basis.

Feature Availability: Both Excel in Different Applications

While both Zoom and Skype offer the same basic communication features, they vary greatly in the details. Zoom focuses more on providing a comprehensive video conferencing solution. Skype focuses more on creating a more versatile communication and collaboration software. Zoom - If you’re looking for a fully functional and in-depth video conference tool, Zoom beats Skype every time. With features like breakout sessions and individual meeting URLs, you can truly customize your video conference experience. Zoom also allows you to create more interaction between presenter and participants through features like virtual hand raising. Read Next: www.gadgetreview.com/benefits-voip-system Skype - If you’re looking for a solution that meets the daily communication needs of your employees, look no further than Skype. With simple file sharing and great one-on-one video chatting and IM, Skype is effective and hard to beat.

Customer Support: Zoom Offers More Personalized Support

Both Zoom and Skype offer excellent support teams. However, since Skype is officially part of Microsoft, you might find more power behind its support team, but longer wait times. Zoom - You can get support from Zoom’s team through a variety of different means. The company provides a comprehensive online support page that includes video tutorials, FAQs and comprehensive help articles. If you prefer live help, you can call the support team directly, initiate a live online chat or submit a ticket online. Zoom vs GoToMeeting: Zoom Offers More Bang for Your Buck Skype - Skype offers a searchable online help system that allows you to find answers on your own. There is also a robust community behind all Microsoft products, and you can get support from a number of community experts through online forums. If you want live support for Skype, you can go as far as using their AI bot (which is still “in training”). You can also reach out via live chat. Unfortunately, you won’t receive any kind of live phone support with Skype.

Zoom vs Skype: Zoom Wins in Video Conferencing Read more on: GadgetReview on Tech


Zoom vs Skype: Zoom Wins in Video Conferencing published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Zoom vs Skype: Zoom Wins in Video Conferencing published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Friday, September 28, 2018

RingCentral vs 8×8: RingCentral Offers More Features For Less

In an industry that’s quickly getting inundated with new offerings, it’s important to consider the big hitters of the business VoIP providers. Two of the biggest competitors are RingCentral vs 8x8. Instead of making you go out and do all the research, we’ve researched both systems so you know what you’re buying before you actually commit to a new virtual PBX system. Check out the review below to learn which of these two VoIP solutions will give you the best tools for your business.

RingCentral vs 8x8 Costs: RingCentral Gives You More Choices

RingCentral - RingCentral offers four separate plans from which to choose. These plans follow a monthly price-per-user model. Read Next: RingCentral Review The first plan, called Essentials, costs $19.99 per user monthly. The Essentials plan includes standard features like unlimited calling in the US and Canada, 100 toll-free minutes, mobile apps and HD voice. The Essentials plan also gives you the ability to host video conferencing calls with up to four people. The next plan, called Standard, costs $24.99 per user monthly and includes the features from the Essentials plan, plus some more. In this plan, you get 1,000 toll-free minutes, internet fax capability and call log reports. The most popular plan, called Premium, costs $34.99 per user monthly. If you purchase this plan, you can host up to 100 people on a video conferencing call and bump your toll-free minutes up to 2,500 per month. The Premium plan also includes more advanced management features like custom app development, single sign-on capability and a wider range of external integrations. The most expensive plan, called Ultimate, costs $49.99 per user monthly and increase your monthly toll-free minutes to 10,000. You’re also able to host up to 200 people during your video conferencing calls. 8x8 - 8x8 offers three different VoIP plans from which to choose. Like RingCentral, these plans charge on a monthly, per-user basis. 8x8’s first plan is called the X2 edition, and it costs $25 per user monthly. This plan includes all your standard VoIP features, plus the added features of video conferencing for up to five people and integration of external software like Salesforce and Zendesk. The next plan, called the X5 edition, costs $35 per user monthly. The X5 edition includes all the features from the previous tier. It also gives you the ability to video conference with up to 25 different people simultaneously and gives you call recording functionality and an operator switchboard. 8x8’s most expensive plan, called the X8 edition, costs $55 per user monthly. This plan bumps up the number of participants on video conferencing to 50, and gives you full contact center functionality. This includes a contact center IVR, contact center minutes and in-depth reporting and analytics.

Ease of Use: Both Are Clean and Simple

If you can’t easily use your VoIP provider’s interface, then you’ll likely have troubles using the service to its full potential. This is especially true for new employees and those who are unfamiliar with the software. During testing, we found that both 8x8 and RingCentral’s user interfaces were clean, simple and easy to use. While it may seem inconsequential, the use of flat icons and a simple color scheme make the dashboards and interfaces easy to navigate. In previous days, 8x8’s user interface was clunky and outdated. Due to recent updates, their software is now up to par with RingCentral’s.

Feature Availability: Both Solutions Offer Similar Features

Both RingCentral and 8x8 offer all the standard features and functionality of any business VoIP solution worth its salt. These features usually include things like auto attendant, call forwarding and call waiting, along with unlimited calling and texting within the US and Canada. When it comes to advanced features and configuration options, both companies still provide similar offerings. However, the differences lies in how these advanced features are offered. RingCentral tends to include more advanced features overall in their base packages while 8x8 typically requires more upgrading to access those same features.

Customer Support: 8x8 Offers More Unique Support

RingCentral and 8x8 have both created comprehensive and incredibly helpful customer support solutions. They also both excel in different areas. Read Next: Vonage Review RingCentral offers 24/7 live phone and chat support for their customers. They also provide a full online support knowledge base that you can search and find your answer. 8x8 offers live support as well, but perform better than RingCentral when it comes to the resources they provide online. Along with their company-created resources, 8x8 also gives you the option of reaching out to the community of 8x8 users for answers. This is sometimes more helpful because these are people using the system on a daily basis.

The following post RingCentral vs 8×8: RingCentral Offers More Features For Less is republished from GadgetReview partner Christen da Costa


RingCentral vs 8×8: RingCentral Offers More Features For Less published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
RingCentral vs 8×8: RingCentral Offers More Features For Less published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Smart Coach Radar Sports and Traffic Radar

You might think that radar detectors are just for cars, helping you to avoid speed traps and police cars that want to run their fancy sirens and write you an expensive ticket. But you can use this technology for more than just avoiding the police. The Smart Coach Radar Sports and Traffic Radar uses this technology in a different way.

A Radar gadget That Improves Your Game

This little gadget has a wide range of applications. Pocket Radar Inc. designs, engineers and manufactures tracking technology and their latest is the Smart Coach Radar Sports and Traffic Radar. It provides accurate speed for sports and is easy enough for anyone to use it. It can train athletes by providing immediate feedback. Everyone from MLB coaches to youth sports athletes can use it to improve their game. This is much more useful than using a radar detector to evade the fuzz because you were speeding, right? Whether it is measuring the speed of a baseball pitch, a football throw or a running human, the Smart Coach radar clues you in on the speed so that your training can be adjusted accordingly. Let’s look at what it can do for Baseball. It can help you dial in different pitch speeds, improve fielding arm strength and increase hitting power by measuring Ball Exit Velocity. For hitters, it will help you beat the Defense Reaction Time with hard-hit line drives, while pitchers can be helped with off-speed pitches to disrupt a hitter’s timing. Catchers can improve Pop-Time so base-runners won’t steal so easily. Plus a lot more.

It Also Measures Traffic

This device will also measure traffic speeds and the acceleration and deceleration of cars, vehicles, and bikes. This feature is aimed at citizens who want to make sure that their neighborhoods remain safe from speeding cars that could easily hit children. Between being able to train athletes and being able to capture the speeds of vehicles, this is a pretty well-rounded radar gadget. Athletes will probably get the most use out of it. So this isn’t your standard radar detector, but it will improve your game so that maybe you win the season.

Smart Coach Radar Sports and Traffic Radar is courtesy of Reviews by GadgetReview


Smart Coach Radar Sports and Traffic Radar published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Smart Coach Radar Sports and Traffic Radar published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

New Jetson Hoverboards At Target

If you thought that the hoverboard craze was over, think again. In a lot of ways, it is just beginning. You’ll find hoverboards on many children’s wish lists this holiday season. Jetson, maker of all kinds of personal mobility devices like electric bikes, scooters, hoverboards, and electric skateboards has some big news.

These Hoverboards Have Style

The company has two new hoverboards that are being offered exclusively at Target. You can get them right now since they showed up on September 23rd. These hoverboards are the X10 and The Rogue. As you can see from the images, these are sleek, eye-catching, models and of course also fast! They have a great futuristic look. The X10 has 3 speed modes, cosmic light-Up wheels and front LED lights that naturally sync to the beats, because what good would they be if they didn’t? The Rogue features a sleek matte black finish and you can choose from more colors to this fall too. This model has one unique feature that kids will love and that’s the front LED Galaxy lights that make it look like you’re hovering in space. You have to hand it to Jetson, both are pretty unique in style and design. It seems like a sure thing that these are going to be hot sellers at your local Target. But there’s one more Jetson item that will be in-store with these hoverboards and also available online at several retailers. The perfect accessory: The JetKart 1.

The JetKart 1 Compliments Both

The JetKart 1 instantly turns any hoverboard into a go-kart with the following features: It sports an adjustable backrest so all members of the family can enjoy the kart no matter how short or tall they are. There’s also an LED light-up wheel that adds some flash to your ride, as well as foam grips and grooves and a soft cushion seat. If your kid hasn’t asked for these yet, he or she soon will. All of the kids still want hoverboards.

The following article New Jetson Hoverboards At Target Find more on: http://gadgetreview.com/


New Jetson Hoverboards At Target published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
New Jetson Hoverboards At Target published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

GoBe2 Smartband Watch Will Help You Count Calories

It doesn’t matter if you simply want to drop a few pounds or lose 40, calories are hard to keep track of. Well, maybe it’s more accurate to say that calories are hard to resist. They just taste so good. I want to eat them, not count them. But that isn’t how you get fit. Anyway, the GoBe2 Smartband can help.

It’s a Weight Loss Coach On Your Wrist

It is hailed as a complete smart-life band and will help you with calorie intake tracking, let you monitor your emotional state in real time and help you manage your water balance. You won’t overeat if you pay attention to exactly how much energy your body needs. And if you are aware of your water intake you can stay balanced and hydrated. Proper hydration is good for heart health, keeps your muscles and joints working great, is great for your skin and much more. So right down to the water that you drink, GoBe2 is the ultimate coach. Always there to remind you where your body is at and what you need. With this device and a good exercise program, you got this! GoBe2 works with most health apps like Apple Health, Google Fit, Withings App, InKin and more. It will track calorie intake, calories burned, energy balance and your emotional state. These are the core factors to any good weight loss program. You also need to get quality sleep every night to be healthy. GoBe Smartband Watch Will Help You Count Calories

It Even Helps With Sleep

So GoBe2 goes a step further compared to other solutions and can wake up you up at the perfect time, making sure that you start your day smooth, and keep the rest of your it productive and energetic. When you don’t get proper sleep it affects your whole day. This device also packs in a heart rate monitor. A smartwatch that makes you healthier is exactly the right kind of fitness gadget to wear if you ask me.

GoBe2 Smartband Watch Will Help You Count Calories Find more on: Gadget Review


GoBe2 Smartband Watch Will Help You Count Calories published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
GoBe2 Smartband Watch Will Help You Count Calories published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

RingCentral vs Vonage: RingCentral is Better for Business

Making the choice to convert over to a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone system is easy, but finding the right provider gets a little more difficult. One of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make in this space is RingCentral vs Vonage. These two major VoIP business services are highly reviewed and rated, but which one will serve your needs best? As you know, what works for one company may not work for yours. RingCentral, founded in 2000, wants to “create a world where everyone is free to work together effortlessly.” Vonage, founded in 2001, aims to “transform how people connect.” So, how do RingCentral and Vonage differ from one another? And what features should you consider most important? We’ve researched both companies in depth and have compiled the information you need to know.

RingCentral vs Vonage Costs: RingCentral Offers More Flexibility

RingCentral - RingCentral offers four different tiers when it comes to pricing and plans. Like most other VoIP providers, this company follows a price-per-user model and offers more advanced features on the higher tiers. The first price point starts at $19.99 per user per month and gives you all the standard features you should expect from a VoIP service, including unlimited calling in the US and Canada, 100 toll-free minutes, mobile apps and HD voice. With this plan, you can also host up to 4 people in a video conference meeting. Read Next: What is Fixed vs Non-Fixed VoIP The next tier costs $24.99 per user per month and includes all the features from the previous tier, as well as some more advanced features. You get 1,000 toll-free minutes, internet fax capability and call log reports. The most popular tier costs $34.99 per user per month and allows you to host up to 100 people in a video conference meeting. It also bumps your toll-free minutes up to 2,500 and includes more advanced management features like single sign-on, external integrations and custom app development. The highest plan costs $49.99 per user per month and gives you 10,000 toll-free minutes and the ability to host up to 200 people in a video conference meeting. Vonage - Vonage offers three different price plans from which to choose. Pricing starts at $19.99 per user per month. This plan is mobile-centric, and doesn’t require the use of desktop phones. You get unlimited calling and messaging in the US and Canada, but don’t get any video conferencing functionality. The next plan is $29.99 per user per month and offers everything from the previous plan, along with video conferencing functionality for up to 100 people, along with CRM integration. The highest plan is $39.99 per user per month and gives you the added benefits of on-demand call recording (15 hours per month), visual voicemail and call group, which forwards a single call to multiple extensions at the same time.

Ease of Use: Both Are Simple and Easy to Use

When you implement a new software for your employees, it’s important to consider how easy it is to use. If there’s too big a learning curve, employees will have a hard time adopting the new tool. This is especially true for VoIP systems that they will use every day. Vonage and RingCentral both excel in configuration and setup. They both offer great initial support when you start to implement the product. Each company treats setup differently, but their tools make customization easy. When it comes to ease of use, these two companies are neck and neck. Customers of both companies rave about how easy their software is to learn and use. The interfaces on both systems are clean and simple, without all the added clutter that seems so common in modern software.

Feature Availability: RingCentral Offers More Overall

When it comes to features, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your business. The features available with one company may not fit your needs, so there isn’t a uniform “best” solution out there for every single business. However, VoIP services that offer more features are more likely to fill your needs over those that offer only a fraction of the same features. Both RingCentral and Vonage offer a standard set of features you should expect from a business VoIP solution, like call forwarding, hold music, auto attendant and so on. However, the difference lies in how those features are offered. RingCentral offers the bulk of these standard features in all of their plans. Vonage offers many of these in an a la carte style. Ultimately, RingCentral includes more features as a standard option in its plans than Vonage. The features RingCentral offers are also more focused on medium- to large-sized businesses, where Vonage offers features more focused on freelancers and solo operations.

Customer Support: RingCentral Support is More Available

Both RingCentral and Vonage offer great customer support. You can reach customer support representatives from both companies through the standard means of communication, including phones, email and online chat. Both companies also have robust support websites. The difference in customer support between these two companies comes into play when considering the availability of support representatives. RingCentral offers 24/7 phone support, while Vonage’s support lines are only available 9am to 9pm on weekdays.

The blog post RingCentral vs Vonage: RingCentral is Better for Business is available on home page GR


RingCentral vs Vonage: RingCentral is Better for Business published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
RingCentral vs Vonage: RingCentral is Better for Business published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

American Airlines Offers Live TV Powered By DISH

If you love TV then fall is a special time of year. That’s when all of the new series premiere and many of your old favorites come back for another season. Many of us enjoy these shows from the comfort of our living rooms or in bed, but that’s not always possible for everyone these days with our busy schedules. It’s a good thing that we can take our TV shows with us on the go. And sometimes that means flying at 30,000 feet in the air.

Never Miss a TV Show Again

If that sounds like you DISH has a special treat in store for you on your next American Airline flight. For the first time ever, American Airlines passengers can watch 12 live channels powered by DISH on domestic flights. It doesn’t matter if you yourself are a DISH subscriber or not. Just enjoy the entertainment. As of this writing, this TV experience has been activated on 100 domestic aircraft. There are also plans to extend it to the airline’s long-term mainline narrowbody fleet of over 700 aircraft during 2019. So DISH has you covered on American Airline flights for the foreseeable future. You’ll have plenty to watch as you travel to your destination. American Airline’s domestic flights include the following channels: Bravo, FOX, CBS, NBC, CNBC, NFL Network, CNN, Telemundo, Disney Channel, TNT, ESPN and USA. Passengers can access these live channels directly on their personal laptops, phones or tablets for the price of absolutely free.

Free Live Tv Compliments of DISH

Live TV is available from gate to gate and compliments American’s already strong existing lineup of free entertainment that includes hundreds of movies and on-demand TV shows. This will surely make your flight feel more like your living room, which is the whole point. If you have a great experience you’ll use the airline again and again. DISH is also hoping that you remember your experience. This is great for nervous travelers as well since it gives them a great diversion.

The blog post American Airlines Offers Live TV Powered By DISH was first published to GadgetReview - www.gadgetreview.com


American Airlines Offers Live TV Powered By DISH published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
American Airlines Offers Live TV Powered By DISH published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

SoundPEATS Force Bluetooth Earbuds Are Great For Working Out

I don’t know about you, but I want earbuds that are great for a workout but will also work in any other situation. Most don’t deliver and even if they are great for working out, they usually have other problems. However, SoundPEATS Force Bluetooth Earbuds are made for working out as well as everyday use when you are not at the gym. The specs suggest that they have thought of everything design-wise.

Rich Sound and Deep Bass

They offer rich and powerful sound thanks to a CSR8645 chip and aptX. You get high fidelity sound, smooth Bluetooth transmission, and superior communication. You’ll also love the bass thanks to a metal and TPU material made chamber that delivers powerful bass and a nice medium-high frequency. Battery life is another area that many earbuds fail miserably in, but not here. SoundPEATS made sure that these will give you lots of runtime. The built-in 300mAh battery offers two to three times the power of normal Bluetooth headphones or earbuds, with up to 16 hours of play/music time and 300 hours of standby time. It also boasts an IPX5 waterproof level, which is great for not only sweat but for when it’s raining too. These features make these earbuds perfect for any activity, whether it is hiking, running, working out or traveling. You also won’t have to worry about the neckband being uncomfortable. It’s made with medical level liquid silicone, which is a soft and folding material that allows you to easily pack it all away into the included zipper case and take it with you anywhere. The earbuds also have magnets for easier storage and carrying. These earbuds are compatible with anything as long as it has Bluetooth 4.0 or above.

Earbuds Designed for Active lifestyles

The package gives you the SoundPEATS Force Headphones plus: 10 x Ear Tips 6 x Interchangeable Ear Hooks 1 x Hanging Hook 1 x USB Charging Cable 1 x Case 1 x User Guide Enjoy your workouts and much more while wearing these bad boys. They have everything that it takes to be one of the best pairs of earbuds out there.

SoundPEATS Force Bluetooth Earbuds Are Great For Working Out was originally published on gadgetreview customer testimonials


SoundPEATS Force Bluetooth Earbuds Are Great For Working Out published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
SoundPEATS Force Bluetooth Earbuds Are Great For Working Out published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Verizon’s Fios Gigabit Connection Deal Offers Xbox Goodies – While Supplies Last

Internet providers are well known for their deals, but Verizon’s new campaign targets a specific demographic, gamers. That’s right, Verizon is reaching out to Xbox gamers with a new offer that also nets you some Xbox–friendly access options.

  1. Xbox Live Subscription from FiOS
  2. Choice of one of two games: PUBG or Sea Thieves
We know, you probably have some questions. So let’s answer some of the most obvious ones to provide a clearer look at just what Verizon is offering for this promo, which is good until supplies last.

Okay, What is Fios Gigabit Connection?

The offer requires that you sign up for or upgrade to Fios Gigabit Connection, one of the top tiers of internet service that Verizon provides, with speeds up to 940/880 Mbps. It is offered on a 100% fiber-optic network, which means it uses fiber-optic cable all the way to the home. Fiber-optic lines are famous for using woven glass and light to transmit information, which allows them to send and receive data at incredible speeds. With Fios Gigabit Connection, however, the fiber connection continues all the way to your home. This allows for up to 940/880 Mbps speeds with fewer lags and data issues. That’s an incredibly good speed spec and you can check to see how it compares to other speeds and what you can accomplish with this tier on Verizon’s FAQ page. Unfortunately, Fios Gigabit Connection isn’t available everywhere, so you will need to hop over to Verizon and check availability in your area.

What Gaming Bonuses Do I Get?

Well, first you get those amazing speeds up to 940/880 Mbps, which are excellent for high-level gaming. If you stream a lot of games and the highest-definition, 4k gameplay is important to you, this is a good way to game. If you run a gaming stream on Twitch or a similar platform and have a lot of things going on at once, Fios Gigabit Connection speeds may also help prevent a lot lagging. Finally, if you prefer more sensitive shooter games where accuracy is vital, more bandwidth can help keep your eye on the bullseye. But that’s all just the icing on the cake. You also get Xbox-specific goodies:
  1. A free year of Xbox Live Gold. Depending on how you purchase Xbox Live, this typically costs between $50 to $60, and now you get it for free for a year. If you already have Xbox Live, don’t worry about it – the deal can be used for next year if you want.
  2. A choice between two games – Sea of Thieves or PUBG. PUBG (Player Unknown’s Battleground) is, of course, famous enough to need little introduction, but this immensely popular battle royale game is the chief competitor for Fortnite and filled with the same kind of chaotic fun, strategy, and shooting skills that define the genre. Sea of Thieves, meanwhile, is a co-op game where you ride the pirate seas in an incredibly realistic sailing experience, looking for quests to complete while dodging – or plundering – other players on the map.

All Right, What Would This Cost?

You can get the Fios Gigabit Connection deal for $79.99 per month with Auto Pay plus taxes, equipment charges and other fees. The standard setup charge is waived for this deal, and there is no annual contract. If you are with another service, you can also get up to a $500 credit to help cover any early termination fees for switching.

Verizon’s Fios Gigabit Connection Deal Offers Xbox Goodies – While Supplies Last is courtesy of tested products by gadgetreview


Verizon’s Fios Gigabit Connection Deal Offers Xbox Goodies – While Supplies Last published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Verizon’s Fios Gigabit Connection Deal Offers Xbox Goodies – While Supplies Last published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Link Interactive Home Security System Review

The Link Interactive Home Security system is just one of dozens of DIY protection networks that have burst onto the scene in the past several years, using an array of older sensors alongside new technologies like 24/7 IP cameras to give homeowners a cheaper solution to alternatives like Bay or ADT. But will Link Interactive really be able to trust the average user (like myself) with something as technologically complex as home security? Read on in my Link Interactive home security system review to find out!

Overview

Price: $10/month + equipment from ScoutAvailable: Now Summary: The Scout Alarm home security system is a protection network made for a new generation of homeowners, and incorporates deep customization options into its network of intrusion sensors with the help of IFTTT and more. What We Liked
  • Simple, seamless setup
  • Deep customization options
  • Responsive sensors
  • Contract-free subscription option
What We Didn’t
  • Could use a native IP camera option

Scout Alarm System Specs

Hardware and Design

Unlike some other options in the emerging market of DIY home security, the Link Interactive system is 100% fully committed to function over form. While the Scout Alarm System comes with several different color choices and looks like something straight out of Apple’s labratory, the Link Interactive system is proudly unconcerned with coming off as chic or stylish, instead opting to look pretty much exactly how you would expect a home security apparatus to. The desk-or-wall based touchscreen panel is the only thing that looks remotely modern, and even then the LED screen is fairly grainy and by no means will you want to be watching any movies on it anytime soon. That said, it still functioned perfectly under multiple tests, including operating with a glove on and with messy fingers in case you accidentally spilled a drink on yourself in the time it took to get inside and get the alarm shut off before it alerting the authorities. Our testing kit came with the one central touchscreen panel, one motion sensor, one glass break sensor, one smoke alarm, and a door/window sensor. All were coated with a flat-white color scheme without any additional options, so if for any reason you think that might not work with your home’s decor, you’d be better going with an alternative like the Scout instead.

Setup and Installation

From opening the box to the system being fully functional, it took me about 30 minutes to get the system running the way it was supposed to (at least in practice). Unfortunately, whoever tested the system before I did stripped the adhesive off all the sensors, so I was unable to actually stick anything to the doors or windows to get the full effect. On the software side of things, the setup process wasn’t that much unlike what you’d find when setting up a mesh networking router. After plugging the “Hub” in, I then followed the on-screen instructions to go through and add each additional device one by one until the whole network of motion, door, and window sensors were live. Read More: Canary Home Security Review Unlike some other options in this category, we didn’t need to make any calls or speak with an installation assistant to make it from zero to 100% protected. Everything was handled directly from the Scout app on an iPhone 7, which also happened to be where the different devices and IFTTT connections were managed.

Software and Integrations

The Scout app for iOS isn’t as well-defined or intuitive as other general apps you might find for the device, but it still functioned well enough on its own to get the job done. Despite its lacking UI, we were still able to navigate around and set things up with relative ease, and nothing crashed during the process which is always a plus when it comes to any product that just made it off the first floor of Kickstarter. Read More: Angee Home Security System Raises Over $470,000 on Kickstarter One of the biggest selling points of the Scout Alarm system is the extensive number of external devices and apps that it’s compatible with right out of the gate. If you’ve been working on your smart home upgrades piece by piece, this is the perfect system for you thanks to its integration with all manner of smart home devices and software. This includes the ability to connect with third-party hardware like Nest Thermostats, Protect, Amazon Alexa, and Dropcam, as well as with the popular app IFTTT to create recipes that give you more control over what happens if/when an alarm is triggered. This gives the system immense levels of customization and depth that would take an entire article to explain on its own, but all you need to know here is that if you can dream it, you can just about do it with the Scout Alarm system.

Performance

Although we would normally take the IFTTT integrations into account when testing the performance of a system, we decided for our blanket reviews of these types of devices it would be best to keep things impartial and rate them on their barebone functionality instead. Without any additional recipes, devices, or software added on top, the Scout Alarm performed pretty much exactly how you’d expect it to, given the hardware. When the “front door” was opened - no adhesive to actually install on the door, remember - the alarm went off and sent the notifications we had asked it to, including an email, a text message, and a phone call (you can also set it to let off its local alarm on the Hub, which screeches at an ear-splitting 90dB). From here we were given the option to either mute the alarm or have the system call the police, and while we couldn’t actually test the police response ourselves without running the risk of getting a hefty citation, we’d imagine it’s just as quick as it would otherwise be if you’d called yourself. The included RFID key fobs, which are used to grant access without setting off the alarm, worked at a decent distance away from the front door sensor. The included RFID-laced sticker was a nice touch as well, and functioned as something we could slide into our wallets or attach to the back of a smartphone to turn it into another wireless disarming device. Read More: Netgear Arlo Q Security Camera Review The same story of quick responsiveness carried over to the window sensor, which notified us in a matter of milliseconds after the bond between the base unit and the companion magnet were broken. Last up was the motion sensor, which claims around 25ft of sight in optimal conditions. The motion sensor was very sensitive, and should only be placed in an area where you’d expect almost no movement unless an actual break-in was happening. That is, unless you like the idea of being notified two hundred times a day that a tree branch outside blew in the wind.

Pricing/Subscriptions

As I mentioned in the hardware section, everything about the Scout Alarm system is sold on a purely a'la carte basis - you couldn’t even buy a package deal if you wanted to. For the system we tested the total cost came to $345, though it should be noted this only covered the front door, one window, and our backyard. The good thing about the a'la carte system is that if you have another door or series of doors you want to monitor, but don’t need RFID access on them (basement, sliding glass, or back doors for example), you can buy the comparitvely cheaper window sensors and achieve the same effect. For a more protected household with two doors monitored, several windows, and multiple yards you could easily be looking at a cost in the range of $500 - $700, though this all depends on the size of your home and how secure you want to be. As far as the monthly subscription is concerned, you have two choices to pick from, neither of which demand any sort of contract which is a huge plus in my book. For $9.99 you can get the basic plan which adds 3G connectivity in case your home internet is cut during a burglary, and for $19.99 you also get 24/7 monitoring from professionals who will be able to respond to threats even when you’re away from your phone.

Wrap Up

The Scout Alarm is a new type of security for a new type of buyer, the “millennial” home security system that keeps members of all ages safe from outside threats. The software is simple to use, the system is easy to set up, and its deep vault of possible customization thanks to IFTTT makes it a gold mine for even the most experienced smart home geeks among us. Though the a'la carte DIY approach to home security may not be for everyone, Scout knows who it’s targeting with this product and it’s done everything it needs to do to capture that market splendidly. If I had any criticisms here it would focus mainly on the lack of any included IP camera options, but if you’ve already got a Dropcam, then getting it running with the rest of the system is a cinch. All told if you want the closest thing you’ll get to a “plug and play” home security network today, the Scout Alarm is the system to go with. Read Next: Best Home Security System

The article Link Interactive Home Security System Review was originally published to GadgetReview Expert Testing & Reviews


Link Interactive Home Security System Review published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Link Interactive Home Security System Review published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Saturday, September 15, 2018

Best Appliance Brands

If you buy a large home appliance, you want it to be both reliable and durable – it’s the top concern for buyers considering refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, air conditioners, microwaves, and any other bulky, pricey appliance. So let’s tackle the big question! What are the best appliance brands? Which are the top-rated for their quality, their performance, and their overall user reviews? We took a look, and here’s what we found. When it comes to reliability, fewer service calls, and customer opinion, Whirlpool appliances tend to score the highest out of available brands. That makes Whirlpool an excellent place to start your appliance hunt! However, the data also has several other brands performing extremely well, including LG, KitchenAid, and more. Let’s take a look!

Best Appliance Brands

#1  Whirlpool

When looking for large kitchen appliances, Whirlpool is one of the most reliable brands on the market, excellent for those who want durable models that are easy to use and won’t unexpectedly break down right after you buy them. According to Yale Appliance statistics, Whirlpool is the most reliable brand in their affordable lines (typically smaller models at prices well-fitted for those on a budget), with the lowest percentage of service calls. Whirlpool also comes in the top 3 on Ranker’s survey of the best large kitchen appliance brands. They have also received high marks for their customer service, which is always reassuring from the consumer point of view! (Repair service marks for Whirlpool are significantly lower, so it’s a good thing their products don’t break down very easily.) Whirlpool products tend to slant toward laundry appliances, followed by basic oven ranges and refrigerators. Their products don’t always have a lot of bells and whistles, but provide long-term durability instead…which is usually exactly what homeowners want. However, if you are looking for particularly large or spacious appliances, you may want to consider other brands.

#2  LG

While LG is typically associated with electronics, the company has won numerous accolades for its appliances: according to a J.D. Power report, LG ranks highest in appliance ratings for washers, dryers, dishwashers, oven ranges, French door refrigerators, and top-mount freezer-fridge setups. Yeah, that’s a lot of appliance options! Specifically, LG won seven JD awards (2017), and the brand performed particularly well in performance, reliability, ease of use, and styling/appearance (with high marks in customer satisfaction as well). It’s easy to see how LG does so well. The company has hit a sweet spot of including just enough high-end tech to make their appliances top performers, without making them too fragile or difficult to use. The LG/SKS brand, in particular, is a high-end option for luxury kitchen spaces. However, this popularity comes with a price – high prices, to be exact. You may have to pay more for an LG model. Note: As Yale Appliances and others mention, the “techy” brands like Samsung and LG tend to have a lot of bad reviews floating around online, with an important caveat. This might discourage consumers from looking into their appliances, but take a closer look and you see that most of these reviews have to do with something other than product. The appliances themselves performed excellently (and these brands have the awards to prove it). However, these bad reviews occur typically because something went wrong in the delivery process (which is often out of the hands of the brand) or a tech support question that the buyer didn’t feel was answered correctly. These issues are more likely to happen with these large electronics companies that have many different divisions and logistics concerns, as opposed to a much more focused brand like Whirlpool. To prevent problems along this line, we suggest you find a trusted local retailer to supply LG products (or appliances from other large companies) to reduce any delivery issues you may experience.

#3  Samsung

Yale lists Samsung as one of the top luxury appliance brands available, excellent for when you are willing to spend a bit extra to invest in high-tech features, large appliances, and the latest designs. There’s a reason they are the top selling brand in the United States. Samsung also has excellent compatibility benefits with other devices. Their TVs are just as durable as their kitchen appliances. If all your Samsung electronics have smart features, you can operate them on the same Samsung platform, including your appliances. So, if you are already a Samsung fan, you get extra synergy from incorporating Samsung appliances into your ecosystem. Samsung refrigerators, in particular, get a lot of praise for design, especially with larger washers and refrigeration units. However, they are also known for producing top-notch oven ranges and stovetops.

#4  Frigidaire

When Ranker has people to talk about the best kitchen appliance brands, the most-voted brand was Frigidaire by a sizable number. Consumer Reports also ranks it as a refrigerator brand that won’t let you down, especially when it comes to side-by-sides. The key here is specialization and simplicity. Frigidaire is a dependable middle-of-the-road choice, not too expensive and not too complicated, making it a common choice for homeowners replacing older appliances with newer models that don’t ask too much. Of course, specialization also limits Frigidaire’s reach: the company has a good, long-standing reputation for coolant systems, making it an ideal choice for refrigerators and air conditioner units. Outside of this, however, other brands tend to become much more competitive, and Frigidaire falls down the list.

#5  KitchenAid

KitchenAid is an interesting case study. The brand has a long history of providing solid products, but had started to fall behind more aggressive competitors entering the modern market. In return, KitchenAid revamped its appliance design entirely, focusing on high-end models with a sharp industrial look. As a result, KitchenAid is one of the best brands available today for high-end dishwashers, refrigerators, and oven ranges. If you are thinking about a serious kitchen remodel, looking into KitchenAid products and see if their recent offerings appeal to you. This being said, it is still KitchenAid, and they are primarily interested in durability, performance, and traditional-style controls. This is not the best place to look for advanced smart features or fun touchscreens.

#6  Bosch

While LG may have gotten most of the J.D. Power Ratings awards in the recent study, Bosch came in second place for these esteemed ratings. The Bosch brand did particularly well in cooktops and wall ovens, plus performing well for over the range microwaves – basically, if it needs to be heated, Bosch is worth looking into. The company’s strengths tend to be useful features, good warranties, and low prices compared to other brands. This makes them a good choice for buyers who want budget appliances that still perform well.

#7  Miele

Do you want an alternative brand compared to the usual suspects, but one that consistently gets praise for appliance quality and performance? Miele is exactly the sort of brand you should look into when making your decisions. This German manufacturer has amassed multiple best brand awards over the years, and is known for its top of the line products. However, there are two important notes about Miele worth knowing. First, they are largely focused on European sectors, so it will probably be more difficult to products compatibility with American outlets and voltage – always check to be sure (don’t worry, Miele does have U.S. centers of operation, too, but you need to be careful when buying online). Second, Miele products tend to be high-end in terms of construction, which means they also tend to cost more. Prices will be higher for these products, so watch for deals.

The following post Best Appliance Brands is available on gadgetreview.com/


Best Appliance Brands published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Best Appliance Brands published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Saturday, September 8, 2018

iRobot Roomba i7+ Robot Vacuum Can Now Empty Itself

We’ve been enjoying our robot vacuum cleaners in our homes for years now and we love them, but one of the biggest drawbacks to owning one has always been the fact that you have to manually empty their bins every fairly often. Well, it looks like iRobot has come up with a clever solution. You are going to love this.

This Robot Empties Itself

iRobot has announced the Roomba i7+ robot vacuum with Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal. This robot vacuum has a few new tricks that owners are going to fall in love with. It will remember your home’s floor plan and even clean specific rooms by name, but the coolest trick is that it will automatically empty itself. This makes owning a robot vacuum easier than ever and gives users something they have been wanting for a long time: Freedom from constant robot maintenance. Using Imprint Smart Mapping, the Roomba i7+ is able to learn, map and adapt to your home’s floor plan. This allows you to clean specific rooms by name using the iRobot HOME App or by voice command if you have Alexa enabled devices or Google Assistant. The Roomba i7+ will do its job cleaning your floors and when it’s finished cleaning, it will dock into the Clean Base and empty its dustbin. The Clean Base holds 30 bins of dirt. This means that you won’t have to worry about emptying your robot vacuum cleaner daily and can instead forget about vacuuming for weeks until you need to clean the base.

Schedule Cleaning Times and More

You can also use the iRobot HOME app to schedule cleaning times, view Clean Maps of your home, tweak cleaning settings and more. It’s going to be very nice not having to empty your Roomba’s bin daily. It’s one less thing to do around the house and let’s face it, we have enough chores as it is. Vacuuming and mopping are just the start.

The following post iRobot Roomba i7+ Robot Vacuum Can Now Empty Itself was first published to GadgetReviews


iRobot Roomba i7+ Robot Vacuum Can Now Empty Itself published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
iRobot Roomba i7+ Robot Vacuum Can Now Empty Itself published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

DISH Launches OnePoint To Control Multiple TVs

DISH has been making a lot of solid moves lately to give their customers even more and now DISH has launched a new app that businesses are going to love. It’s called DISH OnePoint. OnePoint is an interactive app that gives business owners the ability to control multiple televisions from a single interface.

Your Customers Will Never Miss A Thing

The days of getting frustrated by all of those remotes are over. With OnePoint, you can control multiple TVs using iPad and Android tablets. You can use the DISH OnePoint remote app to manage large entertainment systems that use DISH set-top boxes, making it an ideal solution for businesses like sports bars, restaurants, fitness centers, waiting rooms and more. If you have a business that uses multiple TVs, this is going to make life easier. Now you won’t have to worry about juggling remotes or scrolling through the programming guides, both of which are a pain. This means that your customers don’t have to miss a second of the big game or any show that they’re watching while employees find the right channel. This is another great reason to love DISH. DISH OnePoint features include a single interface that will control all TVs connected to your network with a single app as well as custom groups that lets you rename individual receivers and create custom groups to easily control a single TV, a group of sets or the entire system. You can also set favorite channels or categories in the interactive guide. It also brings an interactive guide and searches that let you search for content in the interactive guide without upsetting the current program. Plus you can filter content by favorites or genre.

Control It All From Your Tablet

DISH OnePoint is available for free on iPad and Android tablets and is compatible with DISH’s Wally set-top box and all generations of Hopper and Joey receivers. If you have a Hopper Duo, support for that is coming soon. This is a great move by DISH.

The following article DISH Launches OnePoint To Control Multiple TVs Read more on: New Product Reviews by GadgetReview


DISH Launches OnePoint To Control Multiple TVs published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
DISH Launches OnePoint To Control Multiple TVs published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Moët Mini Champagne Vending Machines Arrive In Los Angeles

Last week Mama Lion, the popular bar, lounge and social club in Los Angeles, celebrated the arrival of champagne vending machines for their guests to enjoy. Hey, when you need a bottle of bubbly, you need one, so these machines are very convenient. You’ll never have to be without champagne again.

Let The Champagne Flow

This is especially great for celebrating things on the spur of the moment. Good thing there is champagne in that machine over there. Just pay the machine and you’ll be popping the cork in no time. The vending machine is loaded with 320 mini bottles of Moët and Chandon champagne, so you can always have your fancy brut and rosé when you need them. This machine helps you to keep the party going. And with all of the live entertainment at Mama lion’s you can be sure that the party continues. This is a first for Los Angeles and a first for Mama Lion and Moët & Chandon. That’s because this is the first lounge and bar in California to serve champagne from a vending machine. Making it a fun occasion to use the machine, the new vending machine installation includes interesting touches like a tiny champagne flute for every purchase. And aside from that the machine only takes specially branded Moët golden tokens that you can buy for $20 at the bar. These details make using the machine a more interesting experience for patrons. You may not be aware, but the very first Moët & Chandon champagne vending machine was unveiled back in 2013, however, those were only available in limited quantities, in very exclusive locations.

A High Profile Treat

The concept first showed up in the U.S. at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Las Vegas and vending machines have since shown up at some of Hollywood and the fashion world’s most high-profile celebrations. We’re talking the Golden Globe awards, amfAR Gala and Harper’s Bazaar Icons during NYFW. But now folks in Los Angeles can see what all of the excitement is about. This is the town that makes the movies we love and they are always innovating.

Moët Mini Champagne Vending Machines Arrive In Los Angeles See more on: Gadget Review - honest reviews that help


Moët Mini Champagne Vending Machines Arrive In Los Angeles published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Moët Mini Champagne Vending Machines Arrive In Los Angeles published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Smarter Coffee Second Generation Coffee Maker

What would life look like without our morning coffee? I shudder to think what that kind of a world would look like. Most of us would probably stay in bed. Lucky for us, no one is going to be taking our coffee away anytime soon.

The Smartest Coffee Maker You Can Buy

In fact, coffee makers like the Smarter Coffee Second Generation Coffee Maker are making it easier than ever to enjoy a fresh cup of joe anytime you want, with some very nice home automation features built right in. Imagine getting out of bed and going downstairs to find a freshly brewed cup that you didn’t have to lift a finger to make? Now that’s the future we’ve been waiting for. It is here. Smarter Coffee’s Second Generation coffee machine has a built-in grinder and is compatible with many popular smart home products like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and If This Then That (IFTTT). I have no doubt that you will find it to be the smartest coffee maker you’ve ever had. The minimal design will please wives everywhere as it shouldn’t clash with your home decor, only compliment it. This machine sports replaceable panels so that you can change the color too. Why wait on your coffee when it can wait on you? Get coffee when you want it with no hassles. You have full control of the machine remotely via the Smarter app which is compatible with iOS and Android. Use the Smarter app to start your day with a fresh batch of coffee by setting alarms with Wake Up mode. If you want to sleep late, no problem, since the hotplate keeps your brew warmer for up to 40 minutes. You won’t find many coffee makers that do this, but hey, if you still prefer your old pour over coffee maker, we understand.

Coffee When you Want It

Do you want your coffee the instant you get home from work? Again, no problem. Smarter Coffee knows when you enter the front door and will start brewing a pot with Home mode. Many coffee aficionados like to grind their coffee before brewing and these folks won’t be disappointed thanks to the hopper on top of the machine. It sure is nice to see a coffee maker that adjusts to our lifestyles so well.

Smarter Coffee Second Generation Coffee Maker Find more on: Gadget Review - honest reviews that help


Smarter Coffee Second Generation Coffee Maker published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/
Smarter Coffee Second Generation Coffee Maker published first on http://www.gadgetreview.com/