14 Aug
Blog

Get Lean, Get Strong, Get Results

Mario Tomic has successfully brought his natural curiosity and discipline into a successful career as a coach for entrepreneurs and all people in order to get fit and master their development. In today's episode, we discuss the key habits he has developed to help him transition smoothly through his career.

Some of the most important tips we cover are:

  • Protect your time. Mario refers to the complexity tax and how he manages to remove everything unnecessary that stands in the way of the reconciliation of life, work and education, while optimizing the results in each area
  • As a former programmer and gamer, Mario is well prepared to talk about how to take a data-driven approach to decision-making
  • If you want to get the most out of your workouts and be successful, you need to learn how to improve your pain tolerance
  • The benefit of doing things that are hard, like saying no to things that can prevail
  • And the most important productivity hack of all, except knowing that there are no short cuts to success

You can find this too, and all are other Six Pack of Knowledge podcasts (curated discussions with the world's greatest hypertrophy experts).

Find all of our podcasts on the following services: iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, YouTube, Stitcher, PlayerFM, PodBean

14 Aug
Blog

Avantree Aria Pro Review: Functional, Affordable Headphones

Avantree Aria Pro headphones

"The Aria Pro has hit a sweet spot in terms of features and price, and is doing well as work-oriented headphones."

  • Flexible design

  • Decent active noise cancellation

  • Good codec support

  • Average battery life

  • Niche best use case

Avantree sails in uncharted waters with its Aria Pro wireless headphones. There just aren't a lot of headphone manufacturers willing to hover between budget models from brands like JLab Audio and more highly regarded cans from Sony and others.

By that definition, the $ 100 Aria Pro could be considered an ambitious headphone, with active noise cancellation and great codec support, aimed at stealing fans of products above and below them. Of course, it's how well Avantree's new cans – which the company doesn't specifically say are office lifestyle-focused but certainly based on the features they offer – live up to that definition that determines how they do cut off . I am here to find out.

Out of the box

The Aria Pro are delivered in simple packaging: a white box with headphones in the carrying case. The headphones and case come with a couple of accessories, including a detachable boom microphone, 3.5mm audio cable, micro-USB charging cable, and the usual documentation. The most notable part here is the boom microphone which gives these headphones an immediate advantage in workplace situations. I'll get back to that in a moment.

Avantree Aria Pro headphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

Turning on the headphones is as easy as flipping the power switch on the bottom of the right ear cup, which will automatically put the Aria Pro into Bluetooth pairing mode. The rest of the connection process is standard and after testing these headphones, the Aria Pro reconnected seamlessly every time it was turned on.

With modern headphones and earbuds, I expect to be able to move around my house or backyard for some quick chores while also having a strong connection to my phone which is on the charger. The Aria Pro and its Bluetooth 5 technology passed this test with flying colors, as do most newer hearing aids.

design

Especially for $ 100 headphones, I found the Aria Pro to be reliably built cans. They lack the elegance of more expensive models like the Razer Opus, but they are comfortable, flexible headphones. Even after considering a few nuances, if you can get these two design feats at this price, it's a win in my book.

Avantree Aria Pro headphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

The Aria Pro are equipped with what Avantree calls “protein leather” ear pads, and I admittedly had cups with a better feel over my ears. However, these offer good wearing comfort for longer periods of time. They swivel 90 degrees so the headphones lie flat on your collarbone and have a reasonable range of motion for tilting back and forth. The headband is a little sharper than you might want in some areas, but they feel durable to the touch, despite being fully adjustable. That's all to say that these headphones should fit most people and be reasonably comfortable using them.

These headphones should work well and feel reasonably comfortable for most people.

At the bottom of each Aria Pro mug is a small army of buttons, inputs, and switches. You have your power switch, volume control and track control, plus the USB port on the right cup and your ANC switch, call control, microphone control and the auxiliary port on the left. There are quite a few buttons available to you, but after a day or two I got used to the Aria Pro's complex control panel. I had some problems with phone calls that first day because I hadn't read the part of the setup guide on how to unmute the boom microphone when plugged in. Take this as a warning as it is a little embarrassing to leave your local dog daycare hanging out because they can't hear you frantically fiddling with your headphones trying to get your audio to work on the other end.

properties

The Aria Pro seems to land in an odd middle ground when it comes to features. On the one hand, they have some features that are more advanced than more expensive alternatives. On the other hand, cheaper headphones outperform them in a few other categories. In the end, of course, it comes down to what's most important to you, but it's worth figuring out where these cans position themselves in the competition.

Avantree Aria Pro headphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

According to Avantree, the Aria Pro can play for up to 15 hours with active noise cancellation and up to 24 hours without activation. That's a good range until you find that the JLab Audio Studio ANC offers 28 hours of playback with ANC and 34 hours without. The JLab was $ 40 less than the Aria Pro, so its battery life is comparatively well below its value.

The Aria Pro has an impressive list of supported audio codecs for its price range, including aptX, aptX HD and SBC. That probably gives them a head start over products like the Sony WH-CH710N, which support SBC and AAC codecs, but have no aptX functions. Once again, it depends on your specific situation and which codecs are a better fit for you, but having that $ 100 support is without a doubt a solid selling point for the Aria Pro.

The Aria Pro has an impressive list of supported audio codecs for its price range, including aptX, aptX HD and SBC.

Finally, the Aria Pro supports Bluetooth with multipoint connectivity, so you can pair your headphones with your phone and a work laptop at the same time. It might not sound like the most groundbreaking feature, but the ability to place a call and then seamlessly go back to the content you've been watching on your laptop is a helpful feature that you should have in two office-oriented doses. In comparison, it took Sony until the newly released WH-1000XM4 to add this feature to its flagship headphones. You can get the same in the Aria Pro for $ 250 less. They just miss everything else that makes the XM4 amazing.

Audio quality

Once again, the Aria Pro lands between competitions. Before I wrap it up, here's a quick summary: The Aria Pro sounds better than budget cans like the JLab Audio Studio ANC, but it doesn't offer options like the Razer Opus and Sony WH-CH710N.

Avantree Aria Pro headphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

That's not necessarily a bad thing for the Aria Pro, as they are half the price of Sony and Opus. It's forgivable that they lack the clarity of these high-end headphones, and it's understandable that they don't perform quite as well at either end of the frequency range. It's not a disappointment that you don't get remarkable fidelity for $ 100, but these headphones sound good, and they should sound just as good given their focus.

Call quality is now a somewhat capricious sub-category. With the boom microphone attached, the conversation was clear on both ends. When I took off the boom mic and leaned on the smaller mic on the headset itself and then went for a walk, conversations with the same people were easily infiltrated by my surroundings. They could still hear me, but they could also hear everything else, including the steps I was taking. I understand these headphones were more geared towards an office or professional setting, and I think they will serve that purpose well with the boom mic attached, but be careful as you step into the busy sounds of the world, submit your calls to the exact same sounds.

Active noise cancellation

I've described the JLab Audio Studio ANC's active noise cancellation as a "no-frills feature" and would probably use a similar description for the Aria Pro – with one caveat. Just like with these JLab headphones, the ANC in the Aria Pro is an on or off option without the ability to adjust the noise cancellation. The Aria Pro, however, do a significantly better job.

Avantree Aria Pro headphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

I wouldn't call this a surprise, as more expensive headphones should traditionally be able to better implement a feature like ANC. The Aria Pro has a much more pronounced effect on attenuating ambient noise and removing the harsher outside noise that would otherwise enter a quiet work area. They have a slight white noise effect and neither do they when bumped into noisy situations like walking on a busy street. But for use in an office, in my opinion, these headphones are excellent, especially at their low price.

For better ANC capabilities, you'll have to expect something more essential like the Razer Opus or the top of the line Sony WH-1000XM4. The Aria Pro is pale in comparison to any of them. But as you can imagine, you will be paying a lot more to achieve this level of quality.

Our opinion

Avantree made a pair of work-conscious headphones in the Aria Pro that have the features needed to succeed in that role and just enough features to make them a suitable set of commuter cans – whenever the commuting back to an actual one Becomes part of society. However, their functions are best used in a work environment that puts them in that niche position. You can venture outside of this space, but your results may vary.

Are there any better alternatives?

Save money with the JLab Studio ANC for $ 60. It offers better battery life, but poorer audio quality and active noise cancellation. Or you can double up and get something like the $ 199 Razer Opus, which for $ 100 upgrades the Aria Pro in most regions – you'll only spend twice as much on the privilege.

How long will they last?

The Aria Pro is backed by a one year warranty with the option to use an additional 12 months when you register your headphones. In addition to the durable build quality, this should give you the confidence to wear these every day without fear of them stalling.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The Avantree Aria Pro are only average in some areas. But when you look at the bigger picture, they pretty much offer a lot for a pretty affordable price. If I had to spend $ 100 on headphones both to increase productivity and enjoy a podcast after work, this would be my shortlist.

Editor's recommendations




13 Aug
Blog

Samsung TU8000 Crystal UHD TV Review: Good Design, Good Enough Performance

Samsung Tu8000 Crystal Led UHD TV Rating 1

"The Samsung TU8000 is roughly on par, which is great for a budget-friendly set."

  • Attractive, slim bezel design

  • Excellent 1080p upscaling

  • Good color rendering

  • HDMI eARC support

  • Aggressive vignette

  • The contrast is clouded in complex scenes

  • Not particularly bright

It might not be QLED, but the Samsung TU8000 Crystal UHD HDR TV promises amazing colors, high contrast ratios, and great HDR playback for just $ 55 for a 55-inch device. That is promising for not a lot of money, especially since the design of this TV features a very attractive thin bezel.

Samsung promises a top-notch 4K upscaling system thanks to its 4K processing and an auto-game mode that is claimed to optimize the screen and minimize input lag. For a clearly budget-friendly television, Samsung met the TU8000 with many expectations. But does it deliver?

Out of the box

I always appreciate a TV that comes with minimal setup, and the TU8000 delivers on that. With just the remote control, batteries, two feet, two cable management locks and a power cable, this Samsung was thankfully easy to take out of the box and assemble. No screwdriver required, the feet simply slide into position and hold in place. These feet are plastic and don't feel particularly great, but from a distance they look nice and definitely get the job done. Once you are on your media stand, the TV feels safe and stable.

Samsung Tu8000 crystal led UHD TV rating 8 "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn2.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/samsung-tu8000-crystal-uhd-tv -review-8-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAAThe feet are simple but effective. Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

Samsung Tu8000 crystal led uhd TV rating 5 "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn3.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/samsung-tu8000-crystal-uhd-tv -review-5-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAAThis removable plastic fastener isn't particularly attractive. Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

Samsung Tu8000 crystal led UHD TV rating 4 "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn4.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/samsung-tu8000-crystal-uhd-tv -review-4-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAAYou can stick the cable in these grooves too, but they don't stay particularly well. Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

However, I'm less enthusiastic about the cable management claps mentioned above. They're lightweight plastic clips that sit on the back of the TV's feet and aren't particularly sturdy to the touch. Plus, they're pretty unattractive. This is a bummer considering how good the rest of this TV looks from the front. You can hide the cable and fasteners pretty well, but it's certainly not perfect and I wanted a better solution here. There are also some grooves on the back of the TV for the cable to plug into, but it doesn't stay very well and the power cord is also quite short, which further limits your options here.

Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

The voice remote control supplied with the TU8000, like other modern Samsung remote controls, has a slim and curved profile that only houses the buttons that are absolutely necessary. I appreciate how small it is, yet still give me everything I need to enjoy content. It's a voice remote that works with apps like YouTube when you're in a search bar. It also acts as a smart assistant with Google Assistant, Bixby or Amazon Alexa (depending on what you choose during setup).

Features and design

It's not a top-of-the-range Samsung and definitely a plastic model, but the TU8000 manages to improve the looks of a Samsung for the most part. The back of the TV isn't particularly impressive, with a fully rounded plastic back that doesn't scream "high end," but luckily, you'll rarely look there. From the front, the sleek design of the TV on the left, right, and top is crisp and attractive. The base is a bit thicker, but lined with a silver plastic that blends in well and looks expensive, at least from a distance.

From the front, the sleek design of the TV on the left, right, and top is crisp and attractive.

Like other Samsung televisions, the TU8000 is powered by the Tizen smart TV system. Setup was easy and enjoyable and, thanks to the connection with the Samsung SmartThings app, extremely fast. Although you don't need the app, setup times are significantly reduced as you have access to a full keyboard (instead of having to type in your email address and WiFi password letter by letter with the remote control).

Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

The TU8000 has three integrated HDMI inputs, only one of which has an eARC connection. Samsung has not taken into account the beautiful workmanship of its high-end models like the Q90T, so unfortunately you won't see any reduced artifacts or banding with content with a low bit rate. More on this and further information on image quality in a moment.

The largest bezel is on the bottom of the TV and is still relatively narrow, with a subtle logo placement. Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

user friendliness

The Tizen Smart TV experience is … okay. As we've said before, it's a perfect example of "good enough," though it doesn't always do its best on that particular TV. Oddly enough, navigating to different apps or content in the Tizen UI shows some lag and is therefore slow and fast, but the performance of the apps themselves is snappy and pleasant. While I didn't like turning on the TV and choosing the app I want to use, I liked the user interface when I got to know Netflix, Amazon Prime, or YouTube. The other downside to Tizen is that it isn't as robust as other streaming platforms like Roku or Android TV. For example, there is no Crunchyroll app. This probably won't bother the majority of people as it has a full breakdown of the most popular apps.

While Tizen does the job, it's generally also overflowing with lots of unnecessary and irrelevant suggestions to look at. You can largely avoid this, but due to the input delay in Tizen navigation, I sometimes accidentally hit "down" too many times and was inundated with a full screen of poorly suggested content. Part of what makes Tizen so beautiful is that it generally only takes up a quarter of your screen when switching between apps, changing your source, or adjusting your picture. If Tizen breaks off from it, it shows its mistakes.

And as we have already mentioned with other Samsung Smart TVs and as I mentioned above, while it supports intelligent assistants that are (thankfully) not only Bixby, the voice integration is not as good as, for example, with an Android TV. It's a bit clunky and disjointed here, but it works.

picture quality

It should come as no surprise that if we found screen uniformity issues on a high-end Samsung TV this year, they would also appear in the lower TU8000 range. There is some particularly aggressive vignetting on this TV that is very inconsistent around every corner. For example, the top left corner on my test unit showed some of the worst vignetting, with the bottom left being a little less aggressive. Nevertheless, all four corners clearly have problems here. The vignette was also clearly visible in the mailbox contents.

This television does not use local dimming zones, but is edge-lit. This is an older, cheaper technology that offers less control over brightness and black levels. As a result, there is considerable bloom, predominantly from the lower part of the television, when there is a light subject on a dark background. With particularly high-contrast images, the scenes can be washed out by this flower.

The halo effect also occurs on bright objects, but it's not as bad as I expected. With small sources like subtitles, you can see about half an inch of halo around the letters, while with larger sources it can grow to about an inch and a half. It's not particularly noticeable in most cases, but it's there.

Edge-lighting induced bloom can really wash out what the panel is trying to do and makes for a generally muddy view.

The contrast of the TU8000 is only okay overall. I think the panel is capable of good black levels, but in too many scenes the edge-lit blooming mentioned above really washes out what the panel is trying to do and makes for a generally muddy view. The Mandalorian, with whom I also tested strips with a low bit rate content thanks to the many wide shots in a clear sky, seemed less powerful than I'm used to, since black and white somehow merge into a medium gray. However, it by no means makes the content uncontrollable.

Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

In less challenging scenes where the area between highlights and shadows is more compact, the TU8000 performs much better. There's a 12K aerial video of a night flight over New York that we like to use as a base, and the slow panning of Times Square looked very good on this TV. Darks were well represented, and when the bright lights came in from the top of the screen, the TU8000 did a pretty good job of keeping the image where it should be.

In other challenging scenes, the TU8000 was able to smooth out shadows and bring out details pretty well. It may border washed-out borders again, but the detail has not been lost; At least the TU8000 doesn't crush black people. The quality is not what we expect from top-notch TVs, but for the price I was happy.

Samsung rightly touted 1080p upscaling: it's fantastic.

Out-of-the-box color accuracy is pretty good even in Standard (but stay away from Dynamic). The film mode reduces Samsung's sharpness to zero, which is very easy to see, and the contrast is better in this mode than in standard. In both Standard and Movie, skin tones could use some work as many of the nuances seem lost, but green and blue are pretty nice.

The TU8000 tends to be more yellow and more blue in film mode, while it is sharpened far too much in standard mode. In both cases the balance is thrown off a bit, but is bearable. This can likely be fixed with a special calibration, but since this TV is aimed at the more general consumer and not a pixel peeper, I say, I don't mind. Most will be perfectly happy with this TV in standard (the horror!) Or movie mode, and that's honestly a relief to report. This TV has to look great right away as the average customer doesn't touch a single setting, and I have to say that it works fine in that regard (although you really need to turn motion smoothing off).

Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

The brightness is sufficient, but some of the particularly gritty content like Netflix 'Dark is a challenge during the day. Certainly doable, but I had to squint. However, shows like The Mentalist (via Amazon Prime Video) look fantastic no matter when I've watched them. Speaking of the mentalist: The TU8000 has wonderfully demonstrated its outstanding capabilities there, as this 1080p stream looks fantastic on the 55-inch set. Samsung rightly touted 1080p upscaling: it's fantastic.

Gaming performance

This is a good TV to play with, at least for now. According to Samsung, the TU8000 has gamer functions that reduce latency. However, this TV does not have a variable refresh rate, so it cannot remove the jerking. In addition, the display of content is limited to 60 Hz.

I can confirm that while the input delay is less than most TVs in game mode, it is not as fast as a gamer would want to see in a competition where you need split second response times. It's certainly good enough for the occasional single player game, but still a little slow for more intense, action-oriented online games like Apex Legends, top-tier Fortnite games, or Call of Duty.

The performance here is likely good enough for most current generation console games, but it won't be able to play at maximum specs with the next generation due fall 2020.

Sound quality

We don't usually talk too much about the sound quality of modern flat screen TVs, and I didn't want to consider that at all when I submitted this TV for review. However, I was very impressed with the TU8000. Not only can it get damn loud, but the sound quality is shockingly balanced. I strongly recommend buying a soundbar or sound system for any TV (my personal favorite is The Fives by Klipsch), but honestly, if you forego it, you honestly might not feel bad about this choice.

The sound works best in a smaller room. So if you plan to pick one up for a guest room or bedroom, you will be happy with the audio.

Jaron Schneider / Digital Trends

Our opinion

I used the TU8000 for about a week and became more interested in it than I thought. The thin bezel, mixed with great upscaling and surprisingly good sound quality, made for a really pleasant viewing experience. Sure, it has its downsides and the vignetting can be distracting at times, but overall, it does a very satisfactory job with its laundry list of promises. Samsung really had its job cut out for itself when it set such standards with its marketing, but the company is doing well enough in all of these categories for the most part. It isn't and shouldn't be an industry leader. For a fairly budget-friendly TV, many people will be perfectly happy with the Samsung TU8000, especially if you can find it on sale.

Is there a better alternative?

We're still waiting to test out the 2020 TCL 5 Series which seems to be a real head-turner, but despite being a year old, the 2019 5 Series is still a pretty comparable choice to the TU8000. You may also want to consider the new Vizio M or V series, as both sets offer a price close to or lower than the TU8000 for the same size or larger. We'll update this post when we've had the opportunity to rate the entire competition and provide clearer guidance.

How long it will take?

With three HDMI ports and one of them eARC, I'm confident this TV can get you a lot of work done. It's technologically built to last well into the future, and the quality feels solid.

warranty

Samsung offers a one-year parts and labor warranty for home use and a 90-day parts and labor warranty for commercial use.

Should you buy it?

I will reserve a judgment here. I think this is a good TV that is pretty good value at $ 500 for a 55-inch unit. If I didn't know that Vizio has two potential competitors soon, and if TCL doesn't look really promising with its 2020 5 Series, this could be an easy call. There is a lot of competition for the Samsung TU8000 this fall, however. So if you can wait a little to make your decision, this is probably your best bet right now. We will update this recommendation as soon as we have a chance to fully evaluate the field.

Editor's recommendations




13 Aug
Blog

10 Tips For Healthy Skin

When it comes to health, mental and physical wellbeing are paramount. They exercise, eat clean, and keep stress at bay. But what are you doing for your skin? We asked our experts for advice. Read on for her top tips to keep your skin strong and healthy.

Woman drinking water

1. Drink water

Drinking water may not directly affect the moisture levels of your skin, but it does indirectly benefit your largest organ. Your body needs adequate hydration to perform key functions that support healthy skin. When hydrated, it can move along beneficial fluids more effectively and flush out unwanted toxins. This will help minimize inflammation and help support your skin's moisture barrier. Water is also important for the production of structural proteins like collagen and elastin, which keep your skin strong, plump, and elastic. While eight glasses of water a day may not be the magic bullet you are looking for, it will help you maintain a healthy, youthful looking complexion.

There are several ways to make sure your body is getting the moisture it needs. In addition to drinking water, you can include foods rich in water in your daily diet. Foods like cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelons, and strawberries are more than 90% water, so they are excellent sources of moisture. Another great choice: celery. Wellness expert Genieve Burley tells us: “Celery contains great nutrients! … Juicing celery removes the fibrous stem and concentrates all of the potent vitamins and minerals contained in celery. It's also an alkalizing, anti-inflammatory, and all-round wonder plant. "

Salad with berries

2. Load up antioxidants

It's no secret that antioxidants are skin care superstars. But what are they really doing? In short: antioxidants neutralize and protect the body from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable and highly reactive molecules that come from a variety of sources, including air pollutants, chemicals, UV rays, and cigarette smoke. These atoms are missing an electron and they are looking for other molecules to attach to in order to stabilize. If this continues to happen, it triggers oxidative stress, which plays a role in premature aging.

Antioxidants are naturally occurring vitamins and minerals that fight free radicals by donating an electron, reducing their reactivity and protecting the skin from damage. Your body naturally produces antioxidants, but you can also find them in everyday foods like berries and leafy greens, as well as surprising sources like coffee and popcorn. Here are some common antioxidants that are beneficial for your skin and the foods in which they are found:

  • Vitamin C: Most fruits and vegetables, especially berries, oranges, and peppers
  • Vitamin A: milk, butter and eggs
  • Vitamin E: nuts, seeds and leafy vegetables
  • Beta Carotene: Colorful fruits and vegetables like carrots, mangoes and spinach
  • Lycopene: Red and pink fruits and vegetables such as watermelon and tomatoes
  • Lutein: leafy vegetables, corn, papaya and oranges
  • Anthocyanins: Purple-colored foods like blueberries, pomegranates, and beets
  • Catechins: green tea, dark chocolate, berries

nuts

3. Include healthy fats

Other key components of healthy skin are essential fatty acids (EFAs) like omega-3 (linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid). These healthy fats act as building blocks for healthy cell membranes and are an essential part of the skin's moisture barrier. A healthy lipid barrier not only helps the skin retain moisture and absorb useful vitamins and minerals, but it also keeps irritants away that can lead to dryness and inflammation.

Unlike antioxidants, EFAs cannot be synthesized by the body and must come from your diet or topical skin care routine. Here are some sources of these beneficial fats:

  • Omega-3: salmon, mackerel, sardines, flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts, eggs
  • Omega-6: soybean oil, walnuts, sunflower seeds, almonds, cashew nuts

A non-essential fatty acid ("not essential" as your body can produce it on its own) is omega-9 (oleic acid). These highly occlusive oils are particularly beneficial for dry skin because they can lock in moisture and soften the skin. Omega-9 sources include extra virgin olive oil, rose hip oil, avocados, nuts, and sesame oil.

Woman in sun hat

4. Limit sun exposure

Sun exposure is one of the greatest threats to healthy skin. UV rays are the main cause of melanoma, identified by the Skin Cancer Foundation as the most common and dangerous form of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society predicts 96,480 new melanoma cases will be diagnosed in the US in 2019 alone. The approach to minimizing the risk of melanoma is to protect yourself from UV rays: look for shade, apply sun protection factor and wear protective clothing.

Sun exposure also contributes to premature aging. Boldijarre Koronczay, Eminence Organics President, says, "UVA rays destroy collagen, contribute to a lack of elasticity and tone, and cause thicker skin." Sun damage can cause skin to take on a leathery appearance, broken by the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles. Over time, age and liver spots also appear from sun damage that has accumulated over many years of exposure. In addition to incorporating your SPF skin into your routine, include high quality aftercare products to improve your chances of harm reduction.

donuts

5. Limit your sugar intake

Sugar is one of the worst culprits for skin aging. Do you remember free radicals? In a process called glycation, sugar binds to proteins to produce the same unstable molecules. Not only do free radicals destroy collagen and elastin (structural proteins that keep your skin strong and supple), they also prevent your body from producing more. Without these essential building blocks, your skin will lose its firmness and elasticity, and fine lines and wrinkles will set in.

If you don't understand how to eliminate sweets from your diet, swap naughty for natural ones. Nike trainer Betina Gozo suggests, "If you're a gummy devil like me, swap that craving for berries similar in size and sweetness to curb your cravings." If you're someone who loves chocolate, make a smoothie with cocoa or – my personal favorite – make "ice cream" with a frozen banana and add some dark chocolate chips! "

Woman meditates

6. Limit stress

From accelerating the aging process to increasing sensitivity to flare-ups, stress can unfortunately happen exactly where you don't want it: on your skin. One way stress affects your skin is by triggering the release of cortisol (aptly referred to as the "stress hormone"). High levels of cortisol accelerate the aging process by breaking down collagen and elastin. They also signal your skin to produce more oil, which contributes to the development of acne. During times of stress, your body also releases inflammatory chemicals such as interleukins as part of its fight or flight response. While inflammation is necessary to protect your health, it can make uncomfortable skin conditions worse.

Breathe deeper. Take the time to notice your breath. When the breath is shallow, it indicates that the body is contracting and tense.

A great way to limit stress is to take a break. Genieve suggests starting the day with grounding exercises like deep breathing and meditation: “Breathe deeper. Take the time to notice your breath. When the breath is shallow, it indicates that the body is contracting and tense. Take the time to notice your breath, lengthen the inhale and exhale, and watch your body relax. "Betina also promotes the benefits of meditative practice:" One of the newer things I picked up two years ago was meditation – it changed me so much. It helped me stay more grounded, less reactive, and overall more present and happy! "

Woman tying running shoe

7. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can work wonders to maintain and improve the health of your skin. Sweaty exercise increases your heart rate and increases the blood flow necessary to supply oxygen and essential vitamins and nutrients to your cells. Exercising regularly can also counteract the aging process by lowering cortisol levels and activating the release of healing endorphins. Genieve says, “Moving your body is medicine. It enables detoxification by flushing all organs, increases breathing, lubricates joints and strengthens muscles. Breathing and moving can help balance hormones and move waste stagnant in the intestines. All of this leads to healthier and happier skin. "

One thing to keep in mind: Always clean your skin after exercising. Sweating is the natural way of detoxifying your skin. However, without a proper wash, any toxins released can return to your pores. Give yourself extra time after your workout to wash away sweat and dirt from your skin so you can get the most out of your workout.

Woman looking at phone in bed

8. Try a digital detox

One of the recent top spa and wellness trends is disconnecting your devices – especially before bed. Why? MindBodyGreen explains: "Turning off electronics and lights can help your body do what it needs to do in the evening: produce melatonin and relax to go to sleep." REM sleep is the optimal time for repair and regeneration Your skin: Melatonin counteracts environmental damage, human growth hormone accelerates cell regeneration and your body's stem cells multiply faster.

Betina advises, “Stop scrolling your phone or sit on your computer at least 1 hour before bed. In fact, if you can, try to avoid all the screens once the sun goes down! Ok let's be real, this is almost impossible so I suggest wearing blue light blockers. Not only will this help you damage your eyes from the light from the screens, but once the sun goes down your body will want to make melatonin, but not when exposed to that blue light! Get the most out of your sleep by blocking out the lights or staying away from these screens. "

Woman wakes up and stretches

9. Get 8 hours of sleep

Getting enough sleep is just as important as separating before bed. In fact, studies show that lack of sleep contributes to finer lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and less elasticity. Genieve emphasizes: “Sleep more! So having less than 8 hours of sleep is last year … The more sleep you get, the healthier you are. All repair processes take place when your body is in deep sleep. During this time, hormones and neurotransmitters are produced that create optimal health, ward off disease, and work on epidermal tissues, muscles, and joints. "When you've got enough hours of sleep, you're giving your body enough time to perform the functions that keep your skin healthy.

The more sleep you get, the healthier you are.

Experts also emphasize the importance of sleep quality. Michael Breus, Ph.D. A board certified sleep specialist suggests following a consistent sleep-wake schedule to improve the quality of your sleep. He tells MindBodyGreen, “Every morning when you wake up at the same time, you get sunlight through your eyes, which helps you reset your daily rhythm. This reset affects every organ system and every disease state. It also tells your brain when to fall asleep and when to wake up. This can make your sleep cycle more efficient and increase deep sleep. "

Woman looking in the mirror

10. Use natural skin care products

One of the best things you can do for your skin is incorporating natural ingredients and products into your skin care regimen. Choosing a natural skin care product will ensure that you are not exposing your skin to harsh chemicals that can disrupt the moisture barrier and cause irritation and dryness. Additionally, natural, organic, and Biodynamic® ingredients contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant-rich ingredients that will improve the health of your skin over time. It has been found that biodynamic plants alone contain up to 13% more potassium, 20% more sodium, 34% more iron and 47% more vitamin C than conventionally grown ingredients.

At Eminence Organics, we care about the health of your skin. Our natural skin care products contain fresh fruit pulp, plants and exotic spices that come from organic and Biodynamic® farms around the world. Choosing organic ingredients ensures that our products are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients and do not contain harmful chemicals such as parabens, petrolatum, mineral oils, propylene glycol and sodium lauryl sulfate. Are you looking for more tips for healthy skin? Check out the In The Mix video below, where Natalie shares product suggestions for healthy, perfect skin.

(embed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQTgnJM0lZQ (/ embed)

How do you keep your skin healthy? Let us know your comments below and join the conversation on social media.

This post was originally published in January 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and completeness.

13 Aug
Blog

Get Lean, Get Strong, Get Results

Mario Tomic has successfully brought his natural curiosity and discipline into a successful career as a coach for entrepreneurs and all people in order to get fit and master their development. In today's episode, we discuss the key habits he has developed to help him transition smoothly through his career.

Some of the most important tips we cover are:

  • Protect your time. Mario refers to the complexity tax and how he manages to remove everything unnecessary that stands in the way of the reconciliation of life, work and education, while optimizing the results in each area
  • As a former programmer and gamer, Mario is well prepared to talk about how to take a data-driven approach to decision-making
  • If you want to get the most out of your workouts and be successful, you need to learn how to improve your pain tolerance
  • The benefit of doing things that are hard, like saying no to things that can prevail
  • And the most important productivity hack of all, except knowing that there are no short cuts to success

You can find this too, and all are other Six Pack of Knowledge podcasts (curated discussions with the world's greatest hypertrophy experts).

Find all of our podcasts on the following services: iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, YouTube, Stitcher, PlayerFM, PodBean

13 Aug
Blog

Marvel’s Avengers Beta Review: Not Yet the Mightiest Game

Iron Man attacks in Marvel's Avengers

"Marvel's Avengers Beta has enough content to let players know if the full game is going to be for them."

  • Solid gameplay

  • Well written story

  • Hourly repeatable content

  • Improved live service aspects

  • Disappointing opening

  • Very familiar

  • Missing characters

The good news is that the Marvel & # 39; s Avengers beta has an impressive amount of content for curious gamers to delve into. The not-so-good news is that it may not be for everyone. Those who have a deep-rooted affection for these heroes and who like constantly evolving titles like Destiny 2 will be excited to be leaving the beta for the full game to be released. Players looking for a focused, linear storyline may be disappointed with the repetition of the games and the pursuit of loot.

The game is not ashamed to emulate other popular live service experiences and even improve them in some aspects. It also offers excellent gameplay among the various characters. It's a shame that Avengers trust in its multiplayer framework affects other elements of the game so much.

The story is thin, but good

The preview features part of the included story, which is pretty well written and certainly well listed. I can't say for sure whether or not the game is worth buying the game for those who are solely looking for the single player story, but it is certainly not the focus of the title and the campaign is missing because of that.

Thor fights on the Golden Gate Bridge in Marvel's AvengersPhoto courtesy Square Enix

The tutorial level, which takes place on the Golden Gate Bridge, is the least fun part of the beta and is the first thing you do in the game. While I understand the developer's desire to give a taste of each of the characters, the hot-swapping between them isn't what they were designed for, and therefore it feels incongruent to the experience later in the beta. The tutorial is interrupted by short cutscenes every few minutes, which doesn't help. Although it passes fast enough, it leaves a bad taste in your mouth at the start of the game.

The good news is that the Marvel & # 39; s Avengers beta has an impressive amount of content for curious gamers to delve into.

The beta skips a series of early levels introducing Kamala Khan, the heroine at the heart of the game, and begins after already working with Bruce Banner to put the team back together. You then play as both the Hulk and Kamala, also known as Ms. Marvel, in a linear and an open mission.

If one fits in well with the history of the game, several functions are immediately introduced to the player. It can feel overwhelming until you get into the rhythm of the game, but hopefully this won't be a problem for full release.

Hulk versus Abomination in Marvel's AvengersPhoto courtesy Square Enix

The more time I spent in the game's beta, the more fun I got. Troy Baker's Bruce and Sandra Saad's Kamala have some brilliant mentoring and menteeing moments together, including a touching but lighthearted scene at the Chimera, a dilapidated helicarrier the couple uses as their home base. Still, it's hard to imagine Mark Ruffalo delivering the lines since the Dr. Banner here is written in a similar way to its MCU counterpart.

The heroes are at the center of the fun

After you get used to the controls, both characters feel great as well as Iron Man and Black Widow, which the player unlocks with the multiplayer portion of the beta. The heroes are basically controlled in the same way, so the player can lose some muscle memory, but the execution of their attacks and their effects on enemies are different.

It's proof of the game's combat system that even Black Widow, a character with no superpowers, can still compete and have as much fun playing as the entire roster. That means players spend their time jumping between heroes, and while they might find a favorite like I did with Kamala, they don't mind if they're forced to play as one in a multiplayer match different character to play.

The Avengers fight robots in Marvel's AvengersPhoto courtesy Square Enix

The beta does not include Thor and Captain America, although they are included in the tutorial and will be added when it is fully released. The developers wouldn't speak to their expulsion if asked, but something tells me they'll need a little more time in the oven if I play them in the opening level. Hopefully when the game starts with all six heroes the roster will feel just as balanced and entertaining as it is here. It also gives me hope that the game will hit Spider-Man when it hits PlayStation in 2021.

The gameplay is further enhanced with skill trees and equipment modifiers that you can use to level up your hero. However, some of the attacks are frame-by-frame identical to those inside the MCU. There's a move Iron Man uses in the opening scene of Age of Ultron where he pulls out a couple of Hydra soldiers by flying straight at them to stop himself at the last second with his hand pushers to stop the to send bad guys racing. This exact move is available through the in-game skill tree. Not only does it feel fantastic, but it also serves as another direct link to the films.

I like the elements of the game that fit into the Marvel Cinematic Universe because, like many other players, I'm a huge fan of this franchise. The problem occurs when the developer Crystal Dynamics makes an effort to determine that this game is something different from these movies. It adds confusion to an already overcrowded experience and makes me wish they either had their own vision or delved into a playable version of the films rather than this somber mishmash of the two.

Even so, Marvel's Avengers shines for itself in its multiplayer option. In one scenario, I used a land pound as the Hulk who tossed a handful of bad guys in the air. The insult of the injury was added when another player used Kamala's high-five ability, a devastating move that caused her disturbed palm to shoot out and plunge enemies into the stratosphere. Attacks also adapt to the enemy you are facing. For example, the Hulk has an ability that involves charging through a line of enemies, grabbing the last one in the chain, and slamming it to the ground. However, if the final enemy is an opponent in a giant mech suit, the Hulk will instead jump onto its frame and bash it with its fists. For a replayed game, these differentiators allow moments of uniqueness to shine through and inspire you to begin mission after mission.

Each character has two heroic abilities and one almighty ultimate move. The special thing is Tony's Hulkbuster suit, which in addition to the flight and explosive abilities of Iron Man briefly gives him the strength of the green avenger. I specifically mention this step not only because the Hulkbuster armor is one of the coolest things out there, but also because anyone in the group can use it. Imagine my surprise when I call the suit while playing as Iron Man hampered by a wave of enemies and watch my friend as the black widow jumps in the huge armor and smashes it until her heart is satisfied is.

Iron Man fights robots in Marvel's AvengersPhoto courtesy Square Enix

I've had a handful of such moments when the game's problems went away. It was one of the funniest games I'd played lately, and I could hear how cool what had just happened on the screen was.

While the gameplay is strong, it feels very similar to other Avengers experiences like the Ultimate Alliance series and Lego titles. During the missions, you will come across boxes where you can open new equipment and collectibles, as well as boxes where you can look for resources. It's all way more sophisticated and fun than previous games. Even so, it doesn't feel like it's reinventing the wheel.

Aspects of the game enhance the live service genre

Hero missions, war zones, and the faster, more focused drop zones will initially be accessible via the war table on the chimera once the single player portion of the beta has been completed. From here, the player is given a world map that they can access to different parts of the world, each containing different types of missions.

I've had a handful of moments when the game's problems went away.

An area, the tundra, which is the setting for the final single player mission in the beta, can only be revisited if a hidden secondary objective is achieved in one of the first war zones. The stumble in the beta gave a glimpse into the depth and replayability of the final game with all of its content. The most interesting setting, the East Coast city shown during the game's final showcase, was unfortunately not available during our beta but was promised for the upcoming public.

The game shines over Destiny 2 in small but powerful quality of life improvements that its fan base has been looking for. In Avengers, there is an automatic gear button for your prey at the highest level of power. You can equip equipment from your locker, choose a new mission, and access the marketplace for additional cosmetics without having to return to the chimera. It's hard to say what exclusive functionality the Helicarrier will have in the final game. Even so, in the beta, I was able to do whatever I needed while sitting on the Quinjet, which serves as the waiting screen between missions. As you spend more and more time in the game hunting for prey, this time saving is welcome.

Marvel's Avengers is a game that is okay 90% of the time, and 10% of the time, takes you into the world of these heroes like no other game. It's a relief that it never delves into really bad territory outside of the tutorial, but the game's worldliness doesn't seem appropriate for Earth's most powerful heroes, especially from a studio with such a pedigree for top titles like the Grave Raider- Reboot trilogy.

Our opinion

The Marvel & # 39; s Avengers Beta gives a glimpse into the promise of what the entire game could be, but its familiarity and focus on live service multiplayer might be an aversion to some.

Is there a better alternative?

Numerous current games such as Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order and Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2 offer an Avengers experience. For those looking for a live service game, Destiny 2 is still the crème de la crème and has had several years to revise and refine its formula. However, Marvel's Avengers significantly improves on all of these titles.

How long it will take?

The content of the story in the beta is approximately an hour. The War Zones and Drop Zones range from five minutes to an hour, depending on their size and the level of exploration by the player. They can be repeated, with each hero having a level cap of 15 and a power level cap of 45. If you maximize your time in beta, over a dozen hours of content can easily be found.

Should you buy it?

As it stands, it's hard to recommend pre-ordering Marvel's Avengers for access to its beta.

The beta will be released on three different weekends. The first opened exclusively for PlayStation 4 pre-orders from August 7th to 9th. The next beta phase will be open to all PS4 users from 9 p.m. August 14-21, August 16. A full beta for PS4, Xbox and PC players will finally start at 9 p.m. August 21 to 9 p.m. August 23. All times are local to your time zone. There is no early beta option for Xbox or PC users.

There is currently no crossplay feature, but the game will be playable for generations (so that PS4 and PS5 owners can, for example, compete against each other together). According to Crystal Dynamics, there is currently no attempt to allow multiplayer across platforms, but character exclusivity will not affect its plans.

The game will officially launch on September 4th.

Editor's recommendations




13 Aug
Blog

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD Review

2020 Toyota Highlander

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD Review: Cool Tech

"The 2020 Toyota Highlander is your average performer on a crowded stage."

  • Well integrated touch screen

  • Comfortable ride

  • Lack of interior space

  • Poor quality interior

  • Badly tuned transmission

When you have a lot of people or things to move around, a minivan is the perfect tool. Minivans are chilly, however, which is why there are vehicles like the 2020 Toyota Highlander.

With three rows of seats and a rugged SUV look, the Highlander is the perfect choice for parents who wouldn't be caught dead in a minivan. That's a huge part of the buying audience. In addition to old competitors like the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer, the reworked 2020 Highlander faces newer competition in the form of the Subaru Ascent, Volkswagen Atlas and the Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride twins.

The 2020 Highlander was a base price of $ 35,720, but that only buys a base front-wheel drive LE model. The price goes up quickly with options. Our test car was a fully loaded Platinum model with all the bells and whistles and four-wheel drive priced at $ 50,663.

2020 Toyota Highlander Profile

Design and interior

With its sinister front end, the Highlander wants to convey truck-like toughness. Under the skin, however, it is based on the same TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform as ordinary cars like the Camry and Corolla, as well as the smaller RAV4. This is a widely used strategy in the auto industry as most buyers want the looks and high driving position of a truck, but not the bad road manners.

In terms of design, the interior of the Highlander is pretty low-key. Apart from a floating case for the infotainment touchscreen, the design is completely unoriginal. The interior was boring to look at, but at least functional. The outside view was good, and small touches like a phone rest and well-placed USB ports made a big difference. The Highlander is equipped as standard with four USB ports and two 120-volt sockets in the first and second rows. Qi cell phone charging is available. However, you cannot get USB ports on the third line. The front seats (upholstered leather with heating and ventilation in our Platinum test car) were very comfortable even after hours of driving.

The Highlander falls short where it really matters: interior.

It was harder to excuse the quality of the interior. The thin plastic trim and rubbery dashboard trim didn't feel appropriate for a vehicle at the base price of the Highlander of $ 35,720, let alone a vehicle that cost $ 15,000 more. Most of the Highlander's competitors have the same problem (the Hyundai Palisade is a notable exception), but it seemed particularly bad in the Toyota.

The Highlander also fails where it really matters: in the interior. At 27.7 inches, third-row legroom is the worst in this segment, and the overall space is so cramped that even young children are likely to find it uncomfortable. The front row legroom and headroom are also on the back of the pack. The cargo space is a little below average and is way behind the Chevrolet Traverse and the Volkswagen Atlas. As with all vehicles of this size, you will need to fold down the third row seats to gain ample cargo space.

2020 Toyota Highlander touch screen

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

The 2020 Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility, Waze and an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot. Platinum models like our test car have a 12.3-inch touchscreen. A head-up display is also available.

Toyota bucked the trend by opting for a landscape rather than a portrait for the big screen. It looks better than the awkwardly integrated 10.1-inch portrait screen in the Ford Explorer without sacrificing functionality. The screen is easier to reach for both the driver and front passenger, and a three-column split setup makes logical use of the huge strip of pixels. It's a shame Toyota decided to fill that huge screen with simple, outdated graphics.

The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane following assistant, automatic high beam and traffic sign recognition. Optional functions include blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic warning, autonomous emergency braking in the opposite direction and a 360-degree camera system.

With a three-column split setup, the large pixel strip of the screen is used logically.

The addition of standard driver aids is pretty good for a vehicle in this price range, but the performance has been below par. The adaptive cruise control left a large gap to the vehicle in front so that other vehicles could switch on suddenly. The system also responded slowly when the car in front accelerated, although this could be partly due to the poorly tuned transmission.

The lane following assistant, which uses steering inputs to keep the car centered on its lane, only worked on arrow-straight stretches of road. It couldn't follow even the smoothest of freeway curves, allowing the Highlander to drift off its lane as if driven by the inattentive human that such technology should surpass.

One thing Toyota did right was integrating the camera and system. An overhead view is automatically displayed on the infotainment screen when you shift into reverse. It can be activated at other times at the push of a button. A simple setup like this makes parking a lot easier, but not every automaker seems to have figured that out.

2020 Toyota Highlander interior

Experience at the wheel

For the 2020 model year, Toyota offers two powertrain options: gasoline or hybrid. Toyota dropped the four-cylinder base engine from the previous generation Highlander, so now a 3.5-liter V6 is chosen as standard. It puts out 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Power is just ahead of the Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride twins, but the Ford Explorer can produce 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft with a 2.3-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Honda Pilot and the Subaru Ascent have less power but more torque. The V6 Highlander is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is average for the segment, although the Nissan Pathfinder outperforms with a towing power of 6,000 pounds.

The hybrid option combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system for a combined output of 243 hp. As with other Toyota hybrid crossovers, all-wheel drive is achieved via a second electric motor for the rear axle with no mechanical connection to the front wheels. The Ford Explorer is the only other vehicle in this segment that offers a hybrid powertrain.

The V6 engine was disappointed with a chunky gearbox.

Our test car had the V6 engine which turned out to be very powerful for everyday driving. In fact, it sounded pretty good, even though the Toyota Avalon TRD sedan didn't have the power exhaust system. However, the engine was disappointed by a chunky gearbox. The eight-speed automatic shifted roughly and responded slowly to requests for more power, like Scotty when he reported to the Enterprise after taking a sleeping pill.

The Highlander has front-wheel drive as standard, but our test car had the optional all-wheel drive system with torque vector. Torque vectoring changes the distribution of power between the wheels on each axle to improve cornering. The system made a noticeable difference and made the Highlander much more agile than a vehicle of this size would normally.

The Highlander is not a Supra, however. Aside from the torque transmission, even the slightest hint of aggression in corners is answered with the scolding screeching of the tires. The Highlander is much happier on freeways, where it offers a comfortable ride and sweeping views of the road. This is the case with most other vehicles in this segment, although the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot offer a bit more excitement on winding roads.

2020 Toyota Highlander rear

Fuel economy and safety

Platinum models, including our test car, are rated at 24 mpg (21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive and 23 mpg (20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive. These numbers are slightly above average for this segment. The Highlander Hybrid achieves up to 36 MPG in combination with front-wheel drive, much better than the Ford Explorer Hybrid with a maximum of 28 MPG.

The Highlander received the "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Road Safety (IIHS), with the highest rating "Top Safety Pick +" being missed due to poorly rated headlights in the lower trim levels. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not yet rated the 2020 Highlander.

Toyota offers a 36,000 mile base three year warranty and a 60,000 mile five year powertrain warranty, plus free scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles. The warranty period is average for a mainstream brand, but the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are warranted for 10 years and 100,000 miles on the powertrain.

Predicting the future reliability of a new vehicle like the 2020 Highlander is difficult, but overall Toyota has an excellent reputation for reliability. Earlier generations of Highlanders have proven to be quite sturdy, which is why they are popular with taxi and Uber drivers.

How DT would configure this car

If you want the most technology in a 2020 Toyota Highlander, you have to go for the highest platinum trim level. It has the largest 12.3-inch touchscreen as well as a head-up display, a digital rear-view mirror and a 360-degree camera system as standard. It also gets niceties like a panoramic sunroof, improved leather upholstery, and 20-inch wheels.

This test drive didn't include the hybrid model, but if you're buying a Highlander it might be worth a look. The hybrid has a premium of around $ 2,000 over the V6 Highlander, but has significantly better mileage and eliminates the rough-shifting transmission used in V6 models. The hybrid option is also one of the few things that really sets the Highlander apart from the competition.

2020 Toyota Highlander third row

Our opinion

The Highlander has been the number one choice for many families since the first generation was introduced in 2001, but the fourth generation model for 2020 rests on its laurels. Buyers can still expect reliability and a minimum of practicality, but the competition offers more.

Interior space and functionality are crucial for a vehicle like this. The third row of the Highlander is too narrow for everyday use and the space in the other two rows is behind most of the pack. The interior has some nice details, like a well-integrated touchscreen, but the materials are below average. Nothing about the interior or packaging is remarkable or innovative.

It is similar with the driving experience. The Highlander is perfectly fine to drive, but it doesn't attract any attention. Buyers probably don't expect sports car performance, but at least the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent won't put the driver to sleep. The Hyundai Palisade offers greater sophistication overall, while the Ford Explorer has some off-road capabilities.

Then there is the sliding door elephant in the room. Whether or not you think the Highlander is cooler than a minivan, it's undoubtedly less practical. Toyota's own Sienna can accommodate the same number of people with a larger overall passenger and cargo volume. The sliding doors of a minivan and the lower ride height also make it easier to load and unload people and objects. The Sienna is even getting a standard 33-mpg hybrid powertrain for the 2021 model year.

Should you get one

No. The Highlander is a competent family freight forwarder, but with so many other options, why should he settle for just competent?

Editor's recommendations




12 Aug
Blog

Urbanista Athens Review: The Underdog of Sports Earbuds

Urbanista Athens earphones

"The Athen is a pair of affordable and remarkably good sports-oriented earphones."

  • Comfortable space requirement

  • Eight hours of battery life

  • IP 67 weatherproof

  • Affordable

  • Confusing controls

  • Bass bullies other frequencies

The Urbanista Athens are a humble little pair of true wireless earbuds. Between its generic appearance and its price far from the premium price, there aren't many outward-looking features that would catch the gaze of the average weekend warrior.

Since we all have to study over and over again, looks can be deceptive. Pop Urbanista's new $ 130 earbuds have arrived and they're starting to shine. Not just an accidental surprise, these buds are a tremendous force against some of the best workout-oriented true wireless earbuds out there today.

Out of the box

It's a bit of a quirk, but I always prefer the bookbinding style packaging that buds like those from Athens arrive in, as opposed to the sleeve-like design of other earphone boxes. In general, there's less to disassemble, and it's a little nicer to have all of the packaging in your hands. Urbanista even shows your message buds in a plastic case for optimized look.

Urbanista Athens earphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

Under the compartment that houses the buds and wireless charging case, you'll find additional earbuds and fins, as well as the quick start guide and a USB-C charging cable. It's nothing like most other true wireless earbuds you haven't seen before, and probably nothing you won't see again. Even so, I will continue to take note of this standard content as each component is an important part of the ensemble. This charging cable, ridiculously short as it is, wouldn't be laughing at if it weren't included with your purchase.

The setup process, which is similar to the Athens accessories, is exactly what you would expect from modern wireless earbuds. Pull the buds out of the case and they will go into automatic pairing mode. You can find it in your mobile device's bluetooth settings and terminate the connection. Other reviews of the Athens noted that the buds don't always automatically pair, but I haven't experienced this phenomenon in my time testing.

Bluetooth 5 tech is built into these earbuds as it should be at this point. As with most of my Bluetooth 5 experiences, the connection to Athens was solid, offering plenty of range to move around the house and get chores done while still jamming on the cover of the Vitamin String Quartet. Yes, that's absolutely a thing I do.

design

Admittedly, I am enthusiastic about the design of the Athen, thanks to its compact construction and its openly different footprint than other sports-loving Buds. Newer sports buds I've tested, including the JBL / Under Armor True Wireless Flash X and the Edifier TWS6, have significantly more pointed ear fins. Both did a good job protecting the buds but gave them a noticeably greater presence in your ear.

Urbanista Athens earphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

Not so with Athens, whose ear fins are delicate loops that extend from the ends of the buds. As unspoken as they are, they still have real traction in your ears and have excelled with them over several runs and brisk walks during my reporting period. I found them to be more comfortable than the larger-finned competitors, albeit not quite as comfortable as the Jabra Elite 75t or Elite Active 75t.

The wireless charging case is also pleasantly small, which to a certain extent reminds me of a slightly smaller, dark copy of the Samsung Galaxy Buds + charging case. Speaking of which, the Athens are currently only available in black. If you're looking to take creative leaps with your aesthetic, the Athens aren't the buds to catch your ears. That said, they are perfectly passable in terms of attractiveness as far as black true wireless earbuds go.

Urbanista opted for a multi-press control system with the Athens, with the logo on each side serving as the button of your choice. The manual contains all the controls very factually, including the volume control (thankful), the ability to pause and change tracks, answer and end calls, and the integration of voice assistants. If you think this is a lot for two buttons, you're right, especially since none of these controls are used on more than two presses. It's learnable, but not the easiest system considering some commands are situational. For example, double-tapping the left logo pauses and plays the tracks, but also answers and ends calls.

properties

Somewhat surprising is that the Athenians have left their price range in terms of features. They're not knockout-strong uppercuts, mind you, but they're significant kicks against competitors who cost more and offer less.

The Athens offers a battery life of eight hours and three additional charges for a total playback of 32 hours.

The Athens offers a battery life of eight hours and three additional charges for a total playback of 32 hours. You can spend more and get better juice with competitors like the Sony WF-SP800N, but you can also spend more and unfortunately get less. The Jabra Elite Active 75t offers 7.5 hours of battery life – often closer to seven in our reviewers' tests – for nearly $ 70 more than the Urbanistas. That may tell more about the cost of the otherwise excellent Elite Active 75t, but it does lead the Athens to have a slight advantage in this category.

Urbanista Athens earphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

Equally fascinating is the fact that the Athens has an IP67 weather resistance rating that offers complete protection against dust and contact, as well as protection against 30 minutes of water up to 1 meter in immersion. I suppose that's overkill for what most people will be using these for, but it does allow Urbanista to market these buds as swim and shower friendly. It's also a better rating than the Active 75t and JLab Epic Air Sport, which previously held the title of our best real radio buds for training. Note. Note.

The Athenians have IP67 weather resistance, which provides complete protection against dust and contact, as well as protection against 30 minutes of water up to 1 meter immersion.

To be transparent, I didn't get a chance to take these buds for a swim, but I ventured into the shower to test this waterproof rating and the Athens came out squeaky clean on the other side.

Another small feature of the Athens is stereo phone calls which seem like a bit of a perk until you've dealt with a pair of buds that only offer mono sound for calls. It might just be my personal preference, but I would much rather have that sweet stereo sound for my conversations.

Audio quality

If there has been one area where Athens hasn't delivered too much, it's audio. To be clear, I don't want to say that this is a disadvantageous aspect of these earbuds. They are $ 130 buds, and they should sound like $ 130 buds: Objectively decent, and in many cases good. I think almost everything else about the buds made me expect them to go over their price again and instead sound the way they should. In all fairness, that speaks volumes more about the Athens' other characteristics than about its sound quality.

Urbanista Athens earphonesNick Woodard / Digital Trends

The Athens are clear sounding buds if they will, with tracks like Jake Shimabukuro's rendition of Hallelujah not missing a single train of the ukulele. Urbanista says it worked with audio engineer Axel Gretl on these buds, and it shows this on most pieces of music. They feel like they're trying too hard at the low end, especially on songs where those bass notes are more prominent throughout the track. Readers of my previous reviews know that Lizzo's music is a common starting point for my bass testing, and the low end in Truth Hurts seemed to take the rest of the song hostage. I love low frequencies as much as the closest listener, and I understand that powerful bass can be important to athletes on the move. But it's important to stick to that (bass) line and not detract from the rest of the track, and I thought Athens struggled with that in certain cases.

These buds don't have active noise cancellation, and at $ 130 it's not currently expected to have this functionality. With budget buds like the Edifier TWS NB breaking the mold, this is likely to change soon. But for now the Athens gets by with above-average passive noise cancellation thanks to a good fit in your ears. They also get loud, which of course helps to block out the unwanted noises around you.

Urbanista doesn't have much information available on the Athens microphones but I can vouch for them to provide quality phone calls. As I mentioned above, I enjoyed having stereo sound for calls, but perhaps more importantly, my voice could be heard clearly on the other end, even in a louder environment. My brother could barely hear the dogs wrestling in the background while we talked about our weekend plans.

Our opinion

Urbanista Athens true wireless earbuds are not only affordable, they also outperform major active earbud categories. They may not be the gold standard, but they are certainly worth their weight as notable sports-oriented wearables.

Are there any better alternatives?

The $ 200 Sony WF-SP800N offers active noise cancellation, 13 hours of non-ANC playback, and great sound for an additional $ 70. The $ 120 Edifier TWS6 costs $ 10 less and offers similar battery life and possibly better sound.

How long will they last?

The Athenians have a one-year guarantee and an IP rating that protects them from almost anything that nature can throw on them. These buds will hang around.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The Urbanista Athens excel in many areas that they shouldn't have, at least in terms of their affordable price. With their above-average battery life, comfortable design and weatherproof properties, the Athens are the buds for the aspiring athlete.

Editor's recommendations




12 Aug
Blog

G-Shock GWF-A1000 Frogman Review: Worth Splashing Out On

casio g shock gwf a1000 frogman review bag

"The Casio GWF-A1000 Frogman is a handy diving watch with just enough connectivity features to get through."

  • G-shock toughness

  • Sapphire crystal over the dial

  • Reliable G-Shock Connected App

  • Easy to understand diving function

  • Solar energy means no charging is required

  • No depth sensor

  • Solid on most wrists

  • No step tracker

Casio has adopted the connected technology of its traditional watches almost entirely. The G-Shock and Pro Trek watch ranges are smarter, from the WearOS-based Pro Trek WSD-F30 to the Pro Trek PRT-B50 to the newer G-Shock GBD-H1000 Move.

Now, with the GWF-A1000, Casio has brought its most basic connectivity to the dive-centric Frogman watch line. It's not what I would call a smartwatch, but it uses Bluetooth technology to make life with the watch easier, and it adds some features that are relevant to those who want to dive with it.

The new Frogman diving watch offers more than just a technical update. The previously fully digital face has been swapped for an analog face and then wrapped in the brand's iconic carbon monocoque body.

design

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

While the GWF-A1000 has an analog movement, it is obviously still a G-Shock Frogman in its design. Those familiar with the range will recognize the asymmetrical style of the branding and the frog logo on the case back. The asymmetrical shape prevents the case from hitting your wrist when you bend it and makes it easier to press the buttons. There are four buttons in total, only the ones on the left side of the case are immediately recognizable. The other two flank the attractively knurled and very grippy crown.

With its carbon monocoque construction, Casio was able to remove the button guards from previous Frogman watches while maintaining overall strength while making the watch much lighter. It weighs 119 grams (0.26 pounds) compared to 141 grams for the previous generation watch. That's an improvement, but you definitely know it's on your wrist. By comparison, the heaviest Apple Watch Series 5 still weighs less than 50 grams – or 0.11 pounds.

Try to deliberately damage the frogman or a G-shock and you would likely fail.

It's also very large, with a case size of 56mm and a thickness of a whopping 19mm. On the other hand, the size shouldn't come as a surprise. The Frogman has always been one of G-Shock's largest and most iconic watches, and the A1000 is no exception. The thickness alludes to the key trait of the Key G-Shock: toughness. The all-in-one case made of carbon envelops the movement and the technology inside and offers the watch the highest level of shock protection and 200-meter water resistance according to ISO.

It is resistant to magnetic fields and vibrations and the face is covered with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The thick fluoroelastomer strap is attached to the watch with large pins through the carbon / resin case and is even resistant to water and dirt. You could try damaging the frogman or some other G-shock on purpose, but you would likely fail. This portability, combined with the unique design and useful technology, is what makes me G-Shock watches.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The sapphire crystal has excellent clarity and a distinctive sheen, as well as a very subtle curvature that adds depth to the face and beautifully captures the light on the wrist. The buttons are big and have a positive effect. Loosening the screw-down crown takes a little force (don't forget to screw it back on, otherwise the watch will not be waterproof), but this is not a problem even if the watch is on your wrist.

How is it on the wrist? You and everyone else will know it's there. This is a statement watch and it's very eye-catching. The bracelet is not particularly pliable, but this was not a problem as the watch should be worn loosely. I never felt the watch was uncomfortable unless it was under a sleeve.

Make no mistake, it's not for thin wrists.

Because of the bulk, it's best to slide the sleeve back when wearing the Frogman. You have to make a few compromises if you want to wear the A1000 every day, but personally, I don't think it's an everyday watch at all. For me, it's a dive-oriented summer watch that is worn to be demonstrated.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Frogman's busy, asymmetrical design means it isn't for everyone. It's clearly not intended for small wrists, but Casio's move to analog puts it in line with other popular dive watches from manufacturers like Seiko, and the moderate reduction in weight and bulk means it could appeal to those less likely to actually dive with it . Make no mistake, it's not for thin wrists.

I've long been a fan of the Frogman's unusual design, and replacing the digital display with three subdials and a small date window hasn't changed its visual appeal.

G-Shock Connected App

The Frogman connects to the G-Shock Connected app on your phone via Bluetooth. It's well designed, fast, stable, and provides an easy way to change various functions of the watch and manage dive-specific functions. I like the way it remembers all other Bluetooth-equipped G-Shock watches too, so there is no need to tweak any additional settings after registering a new model, a feature I'd love to see in WearOS.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The connection is easily activated with a single push of a button on the watch. I used the GWF-A1000 connected to an iPhone 11 Pro, but there is also an app for Android. Setting the world time is a good example of how the app speeds up some processes. Tap the World Time tab, select your city, and tap Sync. The time is then sent to the Frogman's subdial and the whole process doesn't take any time. A push of a button in the app quickly swaps the world and home times, which is ideal for traveling. This simple operation is repeated when setting alarms and timers.

For divers, the app includes a dive log function and the ability to add a location to measure the tide point. It's a long press of a button to put the watch into dive mode. At this point the main hour and minute hands will move to the 12 o'clock position and the time will change to the World Time subdial. Start the dive and the second hand will start showing the total elapsed time shown by the main hands moving together for clarity. Bright light on the hands and on the bezel between positions 12 and 20 makes it easier to judge the time in the dark.

casio g shock gwf a1000 frogman review app guide "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn2.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/g-shock-frogman-app- guide -640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP//yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAThe quick guide of the G-Shock Connected App to the functions of the watch Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

casio g shock gwf a1000 frogman review app alarm "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn3.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/g-shock-frogman-app- alarm -640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP//yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEASet the alarm with the G-Shock Connected app Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

casio g shock gwf a1000 frogman review app time "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn4.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/g-shock-frogman-app- time -640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP//yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEASet the world time with the G-Shock Connected app Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Stop the dive sequence and the hands will return to 12 o'clock. The second hand rotates backwards to indicate the surface interval time. The data from the watch is then stored in the app, along with location data and the ability to add photos, as well as information about conditions, depth, temperature and your equipment. Both the dive mode and the dive log are easy to use, even for someone unfamiliar with diving watches, but you will need to spend a short time learning how it all works. The good news is that the app has comprehensive instructions on how it works, and it also acts as a digital manual.

The watch does not have a vibration feature so there is no chance that notification support will ever be added. This isn't something I really want on the watch, but it's a shame Casio doesn't just add an accelerometer and step tracking to all of the connected watches. This general function would add value to the GWF-A1000.

The connection to the iPhone app is constant unless you disconnect it or close the app completely. While connected, it will activate your phone's GPS, which means it is using some battery power.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

While the Frogman won't send notifications, have a touchscreen, or run apps, the Bluetooth connection makes using the watch functions faster and easier, and adds some relevant features to make the watch more useful. It does this with a reliable and easy to use app. Casio shows how many other watch manufacturers who want to build a connected watch should do something.

Keys and functions

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

There are four buttons and the crown on the watch. The menu button at 8 o'clock toggles between tide mode, calendar mode, stopwatch and timer. The 3 o'clock subdial shows the status of the watch and also shows the tide point if it has been set in the app. The keys are precise and feel powerful. I like the way you can push a button and move the pointers out of the way so you can easily view the two subdials too.

The time can be set through the app, which is based on your phone's time, or through the radio controlled multi-band 6 system, which wirelessly retrieves the correct time at set intervals from a number of remote stations around the world. In my experience, Multi Band 6 usually requires a little patience before it works. This depends on the location and the signal. This is the quickest way for the app to adjust the time after changing the time zones. The crown can also be used to set the time.

I enjoyed the speed at which the hands move when using special functions. They're quick so you never wait for them to get out of the way and nothing seems to take too long. We're geared for devices to be quick to respond these days, and the GWF-A1000's triple dual-core motors that control the hands can meet our needs.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

It is important to note that while this is a diver's watch, it does not have a depth sensor, as is the case with the all-digital GWF-D1000 G-Shock Frogman watches. Whether or not this becomes less of a diving watch is up for debate and may depend on how serious you are about diving. However, this is arguably consistent with the design and engineering changes that are driving the GWF-A1000 towards the watch fan, which may never actually go diving at all.

Battery and charging

Just because the Frogman has a Bluetooth connection, it doesn't need to be regularly charged using a cable. The GWF-A1000 has a solar charge and does not require any additional electricity to continue working. The battery level can be checked in the app. If the battery is empty, it will take two hours of direct sunlight to work again and another 21 hours to full. Times vary depending on the light source, but the clock draws energy from everything including fluorescent lighting in the house.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

If your watch is used regularly, the battery is unlikely to ever run out because it only takes eight minutes of sunlight to get enough power for a full day. So if you're out for a day, the battery is likely to stay full. With the exception of a few trips outside, I've been inside for over a week while wearing the Frogman and the battery is not full. According to Casio, a full battery will last about five months without any visible light.

Price and availability

You can now purchase the G-Shock GWF-A1000 Frogman from the G-Shock online shop and boutiques. In the US, it's yours for $ 800. In the UK it's £ 699.

Our opinion

The GWF-A1000 Frogman takes advantage of connected technology in an ever-desirable G-Shock watch. Even if you never go diving with it, you are left with an extremely robust watch that delivers the coveted diving watch look.

However, it is not a smartwatch. So don't expect it to compete with the Apple Watch or WearOS watches in terms of connectivity or functionality.

Is there a better alternative?

There are very few attached diving watches available. If your list says "Scuba Diving" and "Bluetooth Connected", your main viewing is the G-Shock GWF-A1000 Frogman. However, if you are considering a full-fledged smartwatch, you can get a more feature-rich model for less.

If you own an iPhone and want a smartwatch, consider buying the Apple Watch Series 5 for $ 400. If you have an Android phone, we recommend the $ 280 Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2, which has great software and a neat design. If you're a Casio fan, the $ 500 Pro Trek WSD-F30 is a rugged WearOS outdoor smartwatch, while the $ 500 Suunto 7 is a sporty high-tech WearOS watch that worth considering.

If the Frogman responds but you don't dive (not that it really matters), the G-Shock Mudmaster and G-Shock Gravitymaster have similar functions. These have different designs that can better suit your lifestyle. Finally, Fossil makes several hybrid smartwatches that add basic smartwatch functionality to a watch that looks like a regular watch.

How long it will take?

Solar charging, no software on the watch to update, no technology like a touchscreen that either goes wrong or ages the watch prematurely, and the incredible toughness of a G-shock means the GWF-A1000 will last indefinitely. The only aspect that may be nearing the end of its useful life is the app in case Casio decides to change the way it connects to their watches in the future.

Should you buy one?

Yes. Casio shows that it is possible to combine connected technology with a desirable hybrid watch and that you don't always have to turn to fashion watches to get it.

Editor's recommendations




12 Aug
Blog

Sony Xperia 1 II Review: Stands Out From the Crowd

Sony Xperia 1 II review

Sony Xperia 1 II review: stand out from the crowd

"The Xperia 1 II is different from other high-end smartphones, but its specifics are just a little too niche to have any broad appeal."

  • Nice high resolution screen

  • Compact design that is easy to hold

  • The camera takes great photos

  • Excellent audio

  • Fingerprint sensor is weak

  • No. 5G in the US

Sony is doing everything possible to make devices that do not meet the 2020 smartphone rules. The Xperia 1 II (yes, that's "one two" as in the sequel to the Xperia 1) isn't a curvy all-screen phone, it doesn't have a built-in fingerprint sensor to get the most out of it, the camera expects You already know your camera technology. It follows the herd at the price, which is a whopping $ 1,200.

It's refreshing to use a phone that isn't a clone of someone else this year, but while Sony is doing a lot right, the direction in which it is trying to make the phone stand out is a little too niche. Let's take a closer look.

design

The looks of the Xperia 1 II will split opinions, but I think it looks excellent. It uses a screen with an aspect ratio of 21: 9 which gives it an elongated, more than wide style, and square sides for a boxy, monolithic shape. The glossy black finish on my test phone is classy, ​​if a little faceless, and the build quality and construction are superb.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

You would expect that, wouldn't you? Of course, but it's noticeable here. While the sides of the phone are flat, the glass on the front and back has a 2D curve on all sides and blends beautifully and seamlessly with the case. It's like the phone has been expertly carved out of a single block of black glass.

On the back is a vertical camera lens module in the left corner. It's so tightly filled with sensors that two won't fit in and get on the body itself. On the right side there is a volume rocker and a power switch, which also houses the fingerprint sensor. Underneath is a two-stage camera shutter release. More on that later.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

On the opposite side is the easy-to-open SIM card tray from Sony. No special tool is needed to extract from the body, which makes life easier for those who regularly switch SIMs or MicroSD cards on the go. It's also much more secure than the Xperia 10 Plus, which was too easy to pull out of the phone.

The Xperia 1 II is light at 181 grams and slim at 7.9 mm. It doesn't have the curves of the OnePlus 8 Pro or the sleek shape of the Huawei P40 Pro, but it offers comfort, grip, and class. The 21: 9 aspect ratio means the body isn't too wide to be held and used with one hand, the glass isn't slippery, and the design has a cool simplicity that means it'll still be good in a year looks.

screen

What an absolute beauty the Xperia 1 II's screen is – just what you'd expect from a company that makes some of the best TVs out there. (Have you seen the new A8H 4K OLED? It's superb.) The Xperia's 6.5-inch screen is an HDR-enabled OLED panel with an astonishing 3,840 × 1,644 pixel resolution. That is a pixel density of 643ppi – for comparison: Even the beautiful iPhone 11 Pro only manages 458ppi.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

To just call it sharp is an understatement. It's gorgeous in a way that a smartphone screen doesn't have to be. I've experimented with wallpapers, videos, and images online and in my own gallery and it never disappoints. From the inky blacks – set Dark Mode so that it really appreciates its depth – to its unwillingness to display even a single pixel, and anything and everyone is a joy to look at. The flat screen also pays off here, as the screen appears to be directly on the glass surface.

When looking at the settings, you can change the white balance or activate the creator mode, which optimizes the graphics via a special color gamut and 10-bit HDR. It was created with the help of Sony's CineAlta team, who usually work on video cameras that capture the latest blockbuster movies. Sony has also added a video enhancement mode and a motion blur reduction mode. Both are effective, but the look isn't for everyone. Motion blur, for example, smooths out video playback on YouTube, but at the expense of realism.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Carfection's 4K video test of the Alpine A110S on YouTube shows the strengths of the Xperia 1 II. The level of detail is fantastic, including reading the tire brand and size from a distance, and the color balance is exemplary. If I have criticism, the palette is pretty cool, so white can be pretty strong at high brightness, but enabling Creator mode can improve that.

It's colorful, vibrant, and extremely customizable. It's probably the best phone screen I've ever seen. What a shame there isn't a 90 or 120 Hz refresh rate, a feature many would consider a staple for any 2020 flagship phone.

camera

Here is an overview of the cameras in the Xperia 1 II. You get a standard 12-megapixel sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12-megapixel wide-angle sensor and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens with OIS. It has a 3D time-of-flight sensor, flash, photo light and Sony's high-precision eye-tracking technology. The camera expert Zeiss supplies the lenses and there is a 3x optical zoom, HDR, 4K HDR video recording with up to 60 frames per second (fps) and a burst mode with 20 fps.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Sony has also pre-installed two custom camera apps, Cinema Pro and Photo Pro, which emulate the user interface and functionality of Alpha cameras such as the Sony A9 and Sony A7 III. Continuing to leverage the know-how from within, Sony wants its smartphone cameras to be an extension of its pro-level gear, offering a similar level of versatility in a compact, portable device. As a strategy, it makes perfect sense; In reality, it's still something regular phone buyers may never handle.

Take the Cinema Pro app. You have complete control over how you record videos on the Xperia 1 II, from focus to shutter speed, white balance, ISO and the overall look of your footage. I don't doubt the features are clear and you will get the highest quality video out of the box if you are familiar with using a pro level camera to record video. If you're like me, someone who puts the camera on auto, the learning curve is very steep and you'll be shooting a ton of junk videos before you get to anything halfway decent. The thing is, you could just take a picture with the regular camera app and cut out all of the sweat and swearing that comes from trying to change Cinema Pro's settings correctly.

Photo Pro and Cinema Pro are too complex for ordinary phone buyers, but it's great to see Sony are working to differentiate their devices from others by leveraging their massive in-house expertise and there will be a segment of buyers who will be the granular ones Controlling loves these apps. Does it affect the usability of the regular Xperia 1 II camera? Fortunately no. In most environments, you can safely use the phone's normal camera app and take great-looking, shareable photos.

The saturation isn't too clumsy, so photos appear natural but have enough pop to pass along without editing. The wide-angle and 3x optical zoom offer a lot of versatility, and the physical two-stage focus / shutter release works great. I noticed a halo in some photos in bright sunlight that isn't particularly good in low light. The selfie camera can also take blurred, lifeless photos. The camera is good for the most part, but I think you really need to understand photography and should learn to use the pro apps to get the most of it.

This is where Sony starts to lose points on the basics. The app is poorly designed to start with. For example, the button to switch to selfie camera is hidden in the menu at the top of the screen so you'll have to look for it. It's also a bit slow: there is a noticeable pause when switching between lenses and when taking a photo. This is fundamental and frustrating on a high-end phone from a seasoned manufacturer. Switching to a better camera app could help.

Performance, Connectivity and Software

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 and 8 GB of RAM provide the Xperia 1 II with 256 GB of storage space and a slot for a MicroSD card or a second SIM card in this practical quick-release compartment on the side. The phone also has UFS 3.0 for fast storage access (for laypeople this means that storage performance is closer to SSDs, but has longer battery life). This is all what we'd expect from a flagship smartphone, and it was as quick and smooth as expected.

Geekbench 5: 895 single core / 3287 multi core

3DMark Sling Shot Extreme: 6.062 (volcano)

These scores are slightly lower than the OnePlus 8 Pro and lower in 3DMark than the Exynos-based Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus, although the Xperia outperforms it in Geekbench 5. I haven't found any performance deficit. I like to play on the Xperia 1 II. I've mostly played casual games and spent way too much time with Hill Climb Racer, mostly because the phone is very comfortable to hold in landscape mode. The 21: 9 widescreen aspect ratio looks great, the screen is incredibly sharp, and I didn't really miss a higher refresh rate either. If you're playing more graphically intense games like Real Racing 3, the phone does a great job and never gets hot.

sony xperia 1 ii review photo per app "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn1.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/sony-xperia-1-ii-photo - pro-app-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAASony Photo Pro app Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Sony Xperia 1 II Review Kino Pro App "class =" m-Karussell - Bild dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn2.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/sony-xperia-1-ii-cinema - pro-app-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAASony Cinema Pro app Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

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Even though the Sony phone has a 5G capable Snapdragon 865 processor, 5G is disabled in the US. It's active in the UK version but I couldn't test the functionality because 5G isn't available in my region. If there is no 5G in a phone at that price, it affects its long-term appeal. All calls sounded fine, although reception was a bit problematic and the phone wasn't receiving a strong signal compared to others. The phone also tends to get quite hot during extended calls, but against the palm of your hand rather than your face.

My test device has Android 10 installed with the July 1st Android security patch installed. In addition, it has a Sony-owned user interface that is very similar to Google's Pixel software. Gestures work well, there's an effective dark mode, and the notification shadow and app drawer are where you'd expect them to be. I didn't have any speed issues, but was frustrated at times that apps took a while to close after swiping to quit.

There are a few too many pre-installed apps, including LinkedIn, that send prompts to use when you're using the phone. This also applies to Sony-owned apps like the News Suite app, which isn't very attractive and has too many sponsored articles to be useful. Many other manufacturers have given up this procedure or at least offer the option of being able to preinstall these apps recommended by Moneymaking during setup. It's annoying that Sony isn't doing the same thing.

Battery and sound

The 4,000 mAh battery lasts around five to five and a half hours of screen time a day. This meant that outside of very heavy usage days, it could travel a full distance from 8 a.m. to midnight before a charge was required. It's acceptable, but not great. The fingerprint sensor is the same – acceptable, but not great. It's unreliable and quite awkward to use as it's smaller than the side sensors on previous Sony phones. It doesn't like wet fingers either. All of this is made more annoying by the lack of a face unlock to resort to.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Sony has equipped the Xperia 1 II with stereo front speakers. These are excellent and offer a full, deep, and engaging sound. Audio is enhanced by a feature called Dynamic Vibration, which uses haptic motors to add vibration to the media being played on the phone. It works in many apps, including YouTube and Twitter, and is surprisingly effective. It can get a little too much with music videos where it's constantly vibrating, but it's pretty much fun with movies. Best of all, you can adjust the intensity directly via the volume or turn it off entirely if you don't like it.

The excellent audio performance combined with the stunning screen make the Xperia 1 II an excellent multimedia phone.

Price, guarantee and availability

The Xperia 1 II is priced at $ 1,199 in the US and is available now from Sony, Amazon, and other retailers. In the UK, the Xperia 1 II costs £ 1,099.

Our opinion

The Sony Xperia 1 II is something else, and that instantly makes me warm. The screen is one of the best in the business, the camera takes some great photos, and the quality of the phone itself is superb. I also appreciate Sony's attempts to make the Xperia 1 II stand out from the crowd. However, the complex pro-level camera apps are very attractive, and the decision not to include 5G in the US models is as confusing as it is unfortunate.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. If you want a top-of-the-line Android phone with a good camera, we recommend either the Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus or S20 Ultra, or a look at the Galaxy Note 10 Plus or the new Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, depending on your budget. The OnePlus 8 Pro is also highly recommended and is considerably cheaper. If you are in the UK or don't mind importing, the Oppo Find X2 Pro is excellent too.

Our other suggestion here is to buy an iPhone 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max. The camera is excellent and if you need professional tools. There are many apps available in the App Store that you can use to replicate Sony's Cinema and Video Pro app functionality. You will receive our recommendation for the best phone to buy as a bonus today. Note, however, that it doesn't come with 5G either. For that, you'll have to wait for the iPhone 12 to arrive this fall.

How long it will take?

The Xperia 1 II is IP68 water and dust resistant, which gives it a good chance of survival if the humidity changes, and the Gorilla Glass 6 front and rear are durable. My test model noticed a few faint scratches on the screen from spending relatively little time in pockets and pockets. A screen protector and a case would be advisable.

While the lack of 5G in the US version isn't a big deal for everyone right now, it will become an increasingly desirable feature over the next two years. This is the minimum time we would expect you to keep this phone. and not having it as an option can be a problem. We encourage you to carefully consider whether you are likely to want 5G in the near future and buy accordingly.

Sony hasn't said when Android 11 will arrive on the Xperia 1 II. During the general review of ongoing software updates, we were told: “Sony Mobile offers regular and timely security upgrades. While phones cannot be updated indefinitely, we offer industry standard security upgrades on our devices, depending on the region and network operator. "

Should you buy it?

No. Despite its strengths, you can buy a phone with similar features that has 5G on board and is ready for the future. When you spend $ 1,199 on a phone, expect it to have the latest technology to ensure it will last. In the UK, where the phone has 5G, the Xperia 1 II is a better choice.

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