27 Mar
Blog

Afterparty Review: A Charming Game Of No Consequence

Afterparty bartender

Afterparty Review: A charming game with no consequence

“Playing afterparty feels like a bad evening with friends. Things weren't going as expected, but it's still fun. "

  • Funny, credible dialogue

  • Charming characters

  • Tedious gameplay

  • No consequences for actions

  • Unsatisfactory conclusion

It has been suggested that all the fun people go to hell. This is the kind of damnation that afterparty offers. You play Lola and Milo as friends and you are on a mission to find a way out of a version of hell that is more party than punishment. It is a fascinating concept that unfortunately gets stuck due to lengthy gameplay.

Afterparty does some things well. I wanted to root for this game. It's funny, the speech is excellent, and the characters speak like real people – a rarity for many games, especially for those who take themselves seriously. Playing afterparty feels like a bad evening with friends. Things weren't going as expected, but it's still fun.

There were moments that grabbed me. Milo and Lola are assigned a personal demon, Sister Mary Wormhorn, who unexpectedly torments the duo. The anthropomorphized personal demon is a fun idea and is played excellently. She addresses both family issues, but Milo and Lola are ready to give as best as they can.

Milo points out that his father wasn't perfect – but he wasn't a monster either. Like many parents, he cared and tried and still failed most of the time. Lola, who often hits her head with her sisters, is ready to admit that she thinks her sisters are stupid. Even so, she still cares about her. You are a family. This real, level approach to each character's backstory avoids the overly dramatic stereotypes that video games often use when trying to portray family problems.

Playing afterparty feels like a bad evening with friends. Things weren't going as expected, but it's still fun.

And of course the afterparty, which represents life after death, will soon dissolve. Satan is not the prince of darkness or the prince of the party, he portrays. He reminds me of the guy who goes to college parties years after graduating, not the ruler of hell. As the game progresses and the night goes on, demons collapse, pee on the streets and leave the bars empty. It's funny, but also a little sad.

Yes, the game has its moments. Unfortunately, afterparty never binds them all together. I need more than a few moments to take care of Milo and Lola. And while I admire the unexpected twist for Satan – and the concept of "hell as a big party" – I wondered why this subplot took over the game's story.

Nothing matters when you're dead

I spent a lot of this game wondering if Milo and Lola would make it out of hell or if afterparty would outsmart me in the end, laughing, as Satan explained, of course there is no way out. I anticipated the pitfalls of the plot that the game could put in my way when Afterparty sent me from one place to another and followed very obvious directions on what to do. Again and again everything worked out for Milo and Lola – even if it seemed as if it shouldn't be.

Then I realized that nothing is important in this game.

Screenshot of the afterparty barNight school studio

Afterparty throws in some mini-games, yes, but they are simple distractions, not real games with real consequences. At a crucial moment, I blown out my lead against my demon opponent in one of the game's challenges. She seemed to feel sorry for me. "That's it," I thought. "I'll try again and I know I can beat her this time."

That's how most games work. You try, you fail, you try again until you stop failing or you can't move on. Not so at the after party. It's ironic because hell seems like the perfect place to face the consequences. Instead, the game kept me going as if I had won.

Then I realized that nothing is important in this game.

Afterparty is less of a game than an interactive story. It's a good interactive story, but not a game that offers a challenge. Without feeling a real test or obstacle, or needing to use the mental strength to figure out the way forward, I just went through the movements.

Other narrative titles like Life is Strange or Detroit: Become Human are also not difficult, but they have a sense of consistency that the afterparty lacks. In these games, the way you overcome obstacles has an obvious impact. You will always see a result, but some are better than others. Entire drawing sheets can change due to your decisions.

I never felt that way with Milo and Lola. They felt like recycled characters with an inevitable ending. They are best friends who are not interested in the parties and the social policy of popularity. He is shy. She has sperm. They have problems, but in the end they will find a way to live with their problems, even if they cannot solve them completely. This is a familiar story and since the way I play the game has no effect, it falls apart.

Afterparty is full of chores that feel like homework to tick off a list. You are not a challenge. They are just things to be done to do them. It's something the game's lampshades make fun of, and the jokes are good. However, this is not enough to forgive original sin, to take up tedious tasks in the first place.

Our opinion

Afterparty has a solid script and excellent speech, but it's not an exciting narrative adventure. Like an evening with too many drinks, it is easy to go in with the expectation of fun and regret how you spent your time.

Is there a better alternative?

For story based games yes. Depending on what you're looking for, there are many. Life is strange and its new sequel is the best alternative. You can find more options in the Quantic Dream catalog for Detroit: Become human, heavy rain or Beyond Two Souls. This is especially true if you want to feel the impact of your decisions.

How long it will take?

Afterparty is short. It takes about eight to ten hours, depending on what decisions you make and how interested you are in exploring hell.

Should you buy it

If a slightly grumpy, playable version of The Good Place sounds like a good way to spend a day or two, that's for sure. Afterparty costs only $ 20. So if you are a fan of indie games that are more story than game, this may be the one for you. It is also available on the Xbox Game Pass.

Nevertheless, consider skipping this. There is nothing spectacular that makes this title a must, even if it has a lot of charm.

Editor's recommendations




27 Mar
Blog

LG V60 ThinQ Dual Screen Review: Flagship Spec, Meh Features

lg-v60-thinq

LG V60 ThinQ 5G Dual Screen Test: Not quite a flagship

"The LG ThinQ V60 5G has a massive battery and a unique dual-screen case, but poor software and mediocre design hold it back."

  • Dual screen case can be useful

  • Excellent performance

  • Long battery life

  • Reasonable price

  • Frustrating software

  • Camera is far from the best

  • Slow fingerprint sensor

The LG V50 ThinQ brought a number of innovations to the company's smartphone line. It was the first LG phone to support standard 5G bands and the first LG phone to join the folding phone trend, albeit with an accessory that added a second display instead of a foldable OLED screen. Now LG wants to repeat the trick.

Just a problem. The phone on which it is built – the LG V50 ThinQ – was average at best.

That doesn't mean that the new LG V60 ThinQ is a bad phone. With a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, 8 GB RAM and Android 10, the device has a lot to offer. However, given the price of $ 800 or $ 900 with the dual-screen accessory, it's hard for him to stand out from the many outstanding flagship phones you can buy today.

Design and ports

The LG V50 offered an iterative design update compared to the 2018 LG V40. So you would expect the newer LG V60 to modernize things a bit. Fortunately, it does.

While the V50 had a notch that was almost as big as that of the iPhone X, the V60 swapped things for a smaller semi-circular section. This makes the huge display look even bigger. While a hole cutout like the Samsung Galaxy S20 series would make the phone look even more modern, the small cutout of the V60 is acceptable.

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

The phone has two design modes depending on whether you are using the dual screen case or not. Without the case, the phone looks and feels relatively slim, especially for a device of this size. The camera module on the back isn't flush like the V50, but it doesn't protrude as far as the latest iPhone, Pixel, and Galaxy models.

Below is a USB-C port and a headphone jack. The volume rocker and a special Google Assistant button are on the left. The power switch is on the right.

However, add the display case and it's a completely different ball game. The LG V60 is not small at first and the case is bulky. However, the advantage is the second display and the protection of your phone in the event of a fall.

The phone with a connected dual screen is actually thinner than "real" foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Fold. With the case, the LG V60 sits at 0.59 inches thick, while the Galaxy Fold has a bulky 0.66 inches thick when closed. This is surprising and a point for LG.

Placing the device in your pocket is easy. All you have to do is slide it in from the top and make sure the USB-C connector is inserted into the phone connector. You must then use the supplied magnetic USB-C adapter or wireless charging to charge the phone. On the front of the case you'll see a small monochrome display that shows information such as the time, battery life and notifications. It is a practical addition.

The LG V60 is available in two colors – Classy Blue and Classy White. They both look good, but I'm a fan of Classy White's slightly pearlescent look.

Display quality

While the LG V60 ThinQ 5G has an OLED display, the resolution is 1,080p – a step back from the 1,440p screen of the V50 ThinQ. Combine this with the fact that the refresh rate is only 60 Hz and you have a very mediocre viewing experience, at least compared to other modern flagships.

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

Maybe mediocre is not the right word. The colors on the display were still bright and vivid, and thanks to the fact that it is an OLED display, the black levels were still deep and dark. We could see the display easily even in bright sunlight. It is an excellent representation in many ways. However, the competition has brought the display quality to a new level, so the LG V60 ThinQ feels left behind.

You will also see an optical fingerprint sensor on the display – another slight disappointment. Although the sensor was accurate, it reacted somewhat slowly. I can't help but assume that an ultrasonic sensor would have performed better. This phone has no face recognition. Therefore, a fast fingerprint sensor is important.

The dual screen case

The most interesting feature of the LG V60 ThinQ is of course the dual screen case. It's not a "real" foldable phone like the Galaxy Fold or Motorola Razr. While these phones offer a single foldable display, the dual screen accessory offers a second display of the same size and resolution.

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

The dual screen can be useful, especially when multitasking and playing. With multitasking, the second display makes it easier to watch videos on one side and record them on the other. By using the LG Game Pad with compatible games, mobile gaming becomes even more intense.

On the other hand, the extra bulk is a serious problem. If you are used to a big phone and use your phone for high productivity, the case is absolutely worth the extra batter. But if you see it more as a gimmick, you can safely skip buying a game.

You can also turn the case on and off if you want. It is easy to add or remove the case. You can just keep it at home. Or you can leave it at home for everyday use, but bring it with you for trips of several days. This increases the versatility that a "real" folding phone cannot offer. You also have additional accessories that allow you to keep an overview.

performance

The LG V60 has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor as well as 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage. There is also a microSD card reader so you can expand the built-in memory if necessary.

In daily use, the V60 ThinQ is relatively fast even with heavy multitasking. This is expected from a Snapdragon 865-equipped phone. It did well in benchmarks, although there aren't many Snapdragon 865 smartphones to compare with. Here are the benchmark results we've achieved.

  • Geekbench 5 CPU: 920 single-core, 3410 multi-core
  • AnTuTu 3DBench: 548.375
  • 3DMark Sling Shot Extreme Volcano: 6,542

The phone continued to perform well during mobile gaming. I played a few rounds of Fortnite and Asphalt 9 on the phone with good results. However, this is what I would expect from any flagship phone, so LG doesn't earn any bonus points here.

software

The LG V60 ThinQ 5G has Android 10 with the LG skin over it. At first glance, the software looks good. But the more I used it, the more bloatware I found, and much of it can't be easily removed.

Part of the bloatware is common for Android skins – like a gallery app when most people are likely to use Google Photos. Other unnecessary software is less common and includes preinstalled games like Modern Combat 5 and Sniper Fury, which are thankfully removed. Some apps are installed by the network operator. McAfee recommended by T-Mobile. It all adds up to too many apps and is frustrating. Even worse, many of the apps can only be "deactivated" so that they still take up space.

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

Other aspects of the software could also use work. It has long been known that LG's skin apps are reordered, and that still happens here. After we decided to sort apps alphabetically, we installed some new apps – and they were placed at the bottom of the list instead of in alphabetical order. Also, the phone kept telling me to learn how to use gestures.

In a word, LG's software can be described as annoying. At a time when even Samsung is trying to downsize its Android skins, LG would do well to follow suit.

Photo and video quality

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

LG updated the camera array for the V60. The end result is a triple lens system with a 64 megapixel 1: 1.8 main sensor, a 13 megapixel 1: 1.9 ultrawide lens and a 0.3 megapixel time-of-flight lens that captures depth information.

It is somewhat disappointing to see the lack of a telephoto lens. Most flagship phones offer this feature, and some, like Samsung's S20 range, offer zoom features that range from great to class-leading. In defense of LG, the fact that the main sensor has 64 megapixels allows the phone to take lossless pictures with 2x zoom. This is just as easy in the camera app as in phones with telephoto lenses. With the digital zoom, the phone can deliver photos with up to 10 times the resolution.

In general, photos taken in good light are detailed, but the camera struggled with low-light conditions, which will be disappointing in 2020 when iPhone 11 Pro and Pixel 4 are great for shooting in low-light conditions.

The most interesting thing about the camera of the V60 is the fact that thanks to the Snapdragon 865 chipset it can record 8K videos. However, this takes up space (362 MB per minute). Despite the high resolution, the video did not look as good as the one recorded on the iPhone thanks to the iPhone's improved stabilization and image processing.

The front-facing camera has a size of 10 megapixels and is fine for most applications. The camera struggled again in low light, and in portrait mode it had some problems with edge detection and hair. This is not a big disadvantage, but something to consider when other manufacturers put millions in their camera software.

Great battery life

The best thing about the LG V60 ThinQ is the battery. The device is powered by a huge 5,000 mAh battery. That's a lot of juice, even for a phone with a 1440p 120Hz display. When you consider that the display comes with 1080p and 60 Hz, the phone easily lasts a day of heavy use, with a solid 40 percent remaining.

As expected, the dual display accessories drained the battery considerably, and I found that the phone still contains a lot of petrol even after the second display has been used for a long time.

To really put the battery to the test, I set it up so that a 1080p video is continuously streamed over WiFi, with the display at full brightness. It took almost 13 hours. It is an excellent result.

Price, availability and warranty information

The LG V60 ThinQ costs $ 800 without the dual display accessory or $ 900 with the accessory. Unfortunately, at the time of this writing, it was only available from AT&T and T-Mobile, and there is still no word on an unlocked version of the phone.

The V60 comes with a one-year warranty. If you register the device with LG, you will receive a second year free of charge. The limited warranty covers manufacturer defects, so you are unlikely to discover them in the second year of use.

Our opinion

The LG V60 ThinQ is a solid phone that is disappointed by a frustrating software experience and so-so functions. From the camera quality to the design to the display, the LG V60 ThinQ stands short of its competition.

However, if you're just looking for a flagship phone and don't want to pay more than $ 1,000 for the Samsung Galaxy S20, consider the LG V60 ThinQ.

Are there alternatives?

If you want a Snapdragon 865-equipped phone in the price range below $ 800, this is the way to go – but only because it's the only option. If you can wait a bit, it is worth doing so as OnePlus 8 is likely to offer a better viewing and software experience and is likely to support 5G.

If you don't mind spending a little more money, consider the Samsung Galaxy S20, which offers a more modern design and better camera, but still supports 5G.

How long it will take?

If you choose the LG V60 ThinQ 5G, you should expect a lifespan of at least two years, which you can extend to three or four years. The device has a glass facade, so we recommend buying a housing. It also has an IP68 water resistance. Although we don't recommend letting it swim, it should survive accidental falls in the pool or bath.

LG doesn't have the best track record of software updates. Although the phone comes with Android 10, the latest version of Android, you shouldn't expect timely updates in the future. For this reason, the phone may lose relevance earlier than expected.

Should you buy one?

No. We only recommend buying this phone if you like the idea of ​​the dual display case. Otherwise, the features are not convincing enough to warrant the purchase of this device.

Editor's recommendations




27 Mar
Blog

Training at Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Right now we all have to stay at home, stay safe, stay healthy, and try to stay strong. The last part of this sentence might be something you are concerned about. A lot of stressed people contacted me and worried that they might lose their profits. Are you right to worry?

My answer is emphatic … no!

This answer has two parts:

First, in the big scheme of things, when you lose something in size and strength, it's really not that big a deal compared to reality that many people have lost their lives (and many more will lose their lives) as a result of the COVID- 19 pandemic.

Those who maintain their health have the opportunity to lose loved ones, endure extreme financial difficulties, close deals, and watch years of hard work go up in smoke. When you look at things through this lens, it doesn't seem like a big deal to lose 50 pounds from your squat or an inch from your arms, does it?

Second, maintaining muscles is much easier than building them, even if we don't have access to our gyms for several months. So with minimal training, you can pretty much keep the muscles and strength you've built up. You don't need expensive fitness equipment to keep your profits. And even if you lose some size and strength, the phenomenon of muscle memory is real and you can regain it extremely quickly. Panic over!

Although I don't think that training to hit PRs on your lifts or add a quarter of an inch to your calves should be on your radar now, I think exercise is important. It is important for your well-being. In times of unprecedented stress, worry and disorder, we have to do everything we can to maintain our mental and physical health.

Training is almost certainly an important part of your lifestyle when you read Breaking Muscle. It probably serves several purposes in your life. It has taught you valuable lessons and given you so much more than bigger, stronger muscles. It has developed discipline, taught you the value of hard work, reduced stress, made you more resilient, and created an outlet for anger, fear, and frustration.

Your passion for training should mean that you have a healthy body weight, body fat, and blood pressure, and that you have a robust immune system that has been strengthened by both exercise and a nutritious diet.

Your training will likely help you structure your daily routine. When everything else around you is in turmoil, resorting to healthy habits and routines can keep you calm and allow you to be productive. This is important for your way of thinking. For the generation of snowflakes, this time should be a major challenge.

Many of them will fight and adopt bad habits. You're different. You have a catalog of challenges you have to face in the gym. These will help you take on other challenges. For most of us, this will help us deal with it.

Exercise keeps both your body and mind healthy by giving you a physical outlet for your stress. Your daily training is something that you can look forward to and that gives you a sense of achievement. These are two things that are difficult to get at the moment.

Training at home

Let me explain the facts about free time, training from home, muscle wasting, muscle building and some example exercises that you can do with minimal equipment.

Muscle loss does not occur overnight

If you take a few weeks out of the gym, you won't lose all of your profits! According to several studies, you won't lose any. Some excellent studies in 2013 and one in 2017 showed that well-trained gymnastics rats did not lose any muscle mass during up to three weeks of training.

Maintaining muscles and strength is much easier than building them up

Even if your training is very limited in the coming weeks and months, you can keep your gains with very little training. A study from 2011 came to the conclusion that muscle mass could only be maintained with 1/9 of the usual training volume for 32 weeks! Another study from 2013 found that just 1-2 workouts a week are enough to maintain strength.

You don't need heavy weights

One of the biggest concerns people have when training at home is that they don't put up enough resistance to make their training effective. Assuming you don't have a personal iron paradise at home, you probably had the same worries.

I have good news for you …

You can build muscles with lighter weights than normal. Studies have shown that similar muscle growth occurs when exercising with 5 to 30 reps until failure. A 2016 study found that there was no difference in muscle gains when you used 30% or 80% of your 1-rep maximum and exercised to failure.

Another study from 2018 found that loads of 40, 60 and 80% led to the same growth rates. They found that 20% was not optimal. As a result, we can confidently say that you are fine as long as you use loads with a maximum of 30 repetitions (or more) and train until failure.

Muscle memory

If there is no muscle loss three weeks before training, it can occur after that time. If you don't exercise for three to eight weeks, you lose muscle. The good news, it only takes 2-3 weeks to keep it.

Restoring muscles is a much faster process than developing them for the first time. Countless lifters can confirm this after taking a break due to injury.

A valuable lesson from leisure training

One final point to consider is that a break in the gym could be just what you need. Deloads are a well-known and widely accepted strategy for improved long-term results. All top coaches and athletes recognize their value and use it. The typical trainee ignores them. The emotional attachment to being in the gym means that you are unlikely to discharge often enough (or not at all!). Here's a quick, hard-to-swallow truth for you …

… If you think deloads are for wimps, you're probably training like one!

When taking the concept of time away from training, it is advisable to consider periods of active recovery and strategic deconditioning.

Strategic deconditioning is a basic principle of hypertrophy-specific training (HST). HST is a training method developed by Bryan Haycock (an upcoming guest on the Breaking Muscle podcast) to build muscle as efficiently as possible.

Strategic deconditioning can help you build muscle in the long term. If you take some time to train, your tiredness will be reduced, complete recovery will be possible and your body will be "sensitized" to the muscle-building stimuli of traditional bodybuilding training with high volume.

When you return to exercise, you get an increased muscle building response. In the long run, it is far more efficient to improve training volume and intensity and take time out than to constantly grind away the gym 7 days a week and 52 weeks a year!

Almost everyone misses the big impact of this strategy. The next few weeks offer you the opportunity to discover the advantages. When you take trips to the gym off the table, you can finally learn the benefits of strategic deconditioning. Hopefully you are smart enough to use it in the future once the current situation has calmed down.

Long story short, if you've been training hard this year, it's not a bad thing to have some time (2-3 weeks) of training completely. In fact, it's probably exactly what you need.

You cannot expect to grow up and avoid training forever

As I mentioned earlier, the risk of muscle loss increases after the 3 week mark. If you want to avoid it, it is wise to do some exercise. Without a gym, this depends on working with body weight and the equipment you have lying around in the house. I have put together a lot of home trainings for my online and personal customers.

Some of them have no equipment at home and some of them have quite a bit. I had to get a bit creative to give them effective workouts, but I am very confident that they will all get great results with these workouts.

You will also do so if you follow those listed below in this article.

The principles of the training still apply!

This is not a time to do crazy workouts, full of random exercises popularized by a reality TV star who became an Instagram fit fluencer!

Although you can't train the same way as in the gym, you can train logically and productively.

Therefore, you should program workouts with the 6 most important movement patterns in the core.

These are:

  1. Squat Pattern (single leg versions – number!)
  2. hip joint
  3. Horizontal pressure
  4. Horizontal train
  5. Vertical print
  6. Vertical train

If you train and work hard based on these movement patterns, you can do a lot of progress training from home.

Here are some examples:

  1. Squat patterns – such as lunges, split squats, pistols, step-ups and squats by skaters
  2. Hip joint – RDLs with one leg, RDLs with band or good mornings, hip thrust with increased heel, back extensions, buttocks and nordics (* Nordics are technically not a hip joint, but they train the rear chain very well!)
  3. Horizontal pushups – pushups, backpack pushups, ribbon pushups, pushups with heel height, one-arm pushups, dips
  4. Horizontal train – inverted rows, rows of towels, rows of backpacks, rows of seat belts
  5. Vertical push – handstand pushups, pike pushups, band-shoulder press
  6. Vertical pull – chin and chin-up variants, band-lat pulldowns

Now could be a time to train your core. Most of us neglect that and we will likely be humbled by the many body weight options here.

Are you still worried about losing your winnings?

Let's recap:

  1. Muscle loss is unlikely to occur in the first three weeks of exercise
  2. Maintaining muscles is much easier than building them
  3. You don't need heavy weights
  4. Even if you lose muscle, it will be restored very quickly when you return to normal exercise
  5. 1-3 weeks without training could be exactly what you need
  6. Given the wide rep range that is effective, your workouts don't require expensive fitness equipment
  7. During training (in the gym or at home) we try to generate an internal reaction of the muscle to an external load. This external load can take various forms. Body weight, straps, heavy backpacks and a TRX can do the job just as well as bars and free weights (at least in the short term).
  8. This is an opportunity to use one of the key mechanisms of hypertrophy that is often neglected – this could actually release some benefits that your normal workout won't use

Hopefully that calms your mind!

There are three mechanisms of hypertrophy:

  1. Mechanical tension
  2. Metabolic stress
  3. Muscle damage

Home training is the perfect opportunity to use number two on this list. Although I have developed body weight training that provides a significant mechanical tension stimulus. You can find this at the end of the article.

Metabolic stress is an extremely strong stimulus to exercise. I often program phases that aim to target this muscle building path as the last block in a mass gain phase. After traditional bodybuilding work is stale and a plateau has been reached, a metabolite-style workout may be just what is needed. In my experience, this type of training is an extremely effective growth stimulus in the short term.

Workouts with metabolic stress are incredibly effective for about a month. I have found that the body responds incredibly well to this type of training. Then falling yields occur and the novelty factor subsides and profits slow down again. Hopefully you are a little more optimistic about the prospect of training from home and can see that the next month is indeed an opportunity to build muscle.

Fortunately, the training techniques that are best used to create metabolic stress require less weight than regular gym workouts. They also generally require higher repetitions, shorter rest times, and intensity enhancement techniques such as partial repetitions, circuits, super sets, tri sets, giant sets, and drop sets.

Do what you can with what you have, where you are

Now is the time to focus on metabolic stress-style workouts.

Metabolic stress is commonly known as "pump" and refers to cell swelling and increased acidity (the "burning") in a muscle during exercise. This happens when higher repetitions are done with shorter rest periods, and there are many scientific studies that show that this contributes to muscle growth.

When developing programs to combat metabolic stress, I often use 15-30 repetition sets or combine exercises in sequence to maximize stressful time and the accumulation of metabolites in a particular muscle. Sometimes this means that you can do up to 100 repetitions in a very short time.

Since this training style is different, it offers a new incentive. A novel stimulus is a powerful tool when it comes to building muscle. As a result, it can trigger accelerated muscle building for about a month while the body adapts to it.

Here are some quick tips to optimize your approach to metabolite-style training:

  1. Use shorter rest periods than in the gym (e.g. 30-60 seconds).
  2. Combine exercises (e.g. super sets, tri sets, mechanical drop sets, etc.). You can find an example in my Shoulder Shocker – DB Only Giant Set at the end of this article.
  3. Train at a higher frequency – these types of training allow you to train more often. Most people can do six days a week. You can also hit each muscle group more often. Exercising a muscle every 48 hours is fine
  4. Consider using a blood flow restriction (BFR), as this means you can get results with very little strain
  5. Program the work of individual limbs. For example, split squats require much less external stress than normal squats
  6. Slow down your pace – especially in the lowering phase
  7. Paused repetitions – Stop at the hardest part of the movement and pull the muscle tightly together for a few seconds

Metabolite training done right

When you exercise to create metabolic stress and build muscle in higher rep ranges, it is critical that you bring your sets close to failure. Research shows that training up to (or very close to) failure is more important when doing sets with high reps. You can build as much muscle from 5 repetitions as you can up to 30 repetitions, but you have to approach the failure of the sets with higher repetitions for them to be effective.

Given this information, it is important that all of your sets are on the verge of failure. I generally recommend never leaving more than 2 reps on one of your sets in reserve when using metabolite-style workouts. I also suggest that the last sentence you do for an exercise fails.

Below I have listed a few sample trainings that require minimal equipment:

Body weight only mechanical tension & metabolic stress workout

A: Handstand pushups (or pike pushups if HSPU is not possible), 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2010, 120s (this is quite challenging for most and causes high mechanical stresses, so longer rest periods are fine).

B: Pistol Squat (or Pistol Squat to Box), 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2010, 90s (this is quite challenging for most and leads to high mechanical tension, so longer rest periods are fine).

C: Nordics, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 5010, 90s (control lowering phase and push back with your hands)

D: Chins, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2010, 90s

E: One and a half Bulgarian squats, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 3210, 45s (1 repetition = all the way down, a quarter up, down again, all the way up)

F: Inverted lines, 50 repetitions in as few sentences as possible, 2012, 30s

G: Pushups, 100 reps in as few sets as possible, 1010, 30 seconds

The band only workout

Session 1 – Push:

A: Standing Band Shoulder Press, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45s

B: Band Push Ups, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 3011, 30-45s

C: Standing Flyes with a bracelet, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45s

D: Band Lateral Raise, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45s

E: Triceps pushdown, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45 s

F: Band Pallof Press, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2015, 30-45s

Session 2 – Drag:

A: Knee band lat pulldowns, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 3011, 30-45s

B: Seated neutral rows of grips, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2012, 30-45s

C: Band Moto Rows, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 3111, 30-45s

D: Band Upright Rows, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2012, 30-45s

E: Band Hammer Curls, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2012, 30-45s

F: Band Pull-Aparts, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2012, 30-45s

Session 3 – legs:

A: Bulgarian Split Squats, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45s

B: Band Assisted Nordic Curls, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 4010, 30-45s

C: Heel Elevated One & A Quarter Band Squats, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45s (one repetition = all the way down, a quarter up, down again, then all the way up)

D: Lying Leg Curls, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2013, 30-45s

E: Terminal Knee Extension, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 1012, 30-45 s

F: Band Good Mornings, 3xAMRAP (0-2RIR), 2011, 30-45s

The workout "I only have a light set of dumbbells"

Session 1 – Push:

A: Bulgarian Split Squats, 4 x AMRAP (0-2RIR), 4211, 30-45 s

B: Half-kneeling, one-arm shoulder press, 4 x AMRAP (0-2RIR), 4010, 30-45 s

C: pushups, 4 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 4211, 30-45 s

D: Floor DB Flyes, 3 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 2110, 30-45 s

E: Floor DB triceps extensions, 3 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 2210, 30-45 s

F: DB Lateral Raise, 3 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 2011, 30-45 s

Session 2 – Drag:

A: Pull-ups, 5 x AMRAP (0-2RIR), 2010, 30-45 s

B: Inverted table rows, 4 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 2111, 30-45 s

C: DB Lying Leg Curls, 4 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 3110, 30-45 s

D: DB bicep curls, 3 × AMRAP (0-1RIR), 3010, 30-45 s

Super set:

E1: rear delta fly, 3 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 2011, 0s

E2: DB Upright Rows, 3 x AMRAP (0-1RIR), 2012, 1960s

Shoulder shocker – DB set only (Hold the DBs in your hands all the time, and don't take them out until A6 is ready.)

A1: DB Rear Delt Flyes Supinated grip, 3 x AMRAP (0RIR), 2011, 0s

A2: DB Rear Delt Flyes Pronated Grip, 3 x AMRAP (0RIR), 2011, 0s

A3: DB Lateral Raise, 3 x AMRAP (0RIR), 2011, 0s

A4: DB Front Raise, 3 x AMRAP (0RIR), 2011, 0s

A5: DB-upright lines, 3 x AMRAP (0RIR), 2012, 0s

A6: DB DB Neutral Grip shoulder press, 3 x AMRAP (0RIR), 5010, 90s (yes, this is a 5-second cam – have fun!)

Remarks:

AMRAP is as many representatives as possible

RIR is Reps In Reserve

Tempo is listed as four numbers (e.g. 4211). Each number corresponds to a phase of the elevator. The first number is always the lowering / extending phase.

4211 on split squats means lowering in 4 seconds, stopping at the bottom for 2 seconds, lifting in 1 second, holding up for 1 second … repeating for the next iteration.

For pull-ups, 2010 means 2 seconds lower, no break down, lifting in seconds, no break up.

With these workouts, you can be sure that you …

… Stay at home, stay fit and stay healthy!

If you'd like more sample home workouts, I'll post some on my Instagram page and in the story highlights. You can check them at @tommaccormick. If you want something more individual or more individual in terms of workouts and programs, you can find me at Toms Online Personal Training.

Much depends on your personal circumstances and requires some in-depth reviews of everything from your training options to your physiology.

27 Mar
Blog

Good Mornings Are an Excellent Auxiliary Movement

Strict good morning hours with feet wide, knees locked, and straight back are excellent moves that solve a number of problems for beginners. They also offer additional strengthening for experienced lifters.

The lift should hold the barbell on the shoulders behind the neck, move away from the racks, and maintain a position of at least 90 degrees between the thighs. The knees should be locked and the head should look forward throughout the movement. The athlete should then bend forward from the hip and keep the back straight until the torso is parallel or nearly parallel to the floor before returning to an upright posture.

This movement is great for athletes with tight hamstrings that force the buttocks to hide at the bottom of the squat. It can also be helpful for people with ankle movement problems. It is also an excellent developer of hamstring strength for pulling and straightening the hips. Repetitions should be done in the range of 5 to 8 per set and for four or more sets at the end of the training session. The first time you use it, you should experience significant pain in the Achilles tendon.

27 Mar
Blog

Beats PowerBeats 4 Review: Exercise In Bass

PowerBeats Pro Hero

"The new PowerBeats are exceptional wired fitness headphones."

  • Extremely secure fit

  • Water / sweat resistant

  • Excellent 15 hour battery

  • Excellent radio range

  • Cumbersome cord

  • Not suitable for all ear types

It's March 18th, 2020 and I'm in a Best Buy parking lot.

A short line extends from the electronics retailer's entrance. Although no official shelter-in-place order has been placed in Oregon (yet), Best Buy limits the occupancy to 15 customers each. One customer leaves and the next in line has access. A Best Buy representative asks if I know what I want to get. I tell her I'm after the new PowerBeats 4. She checks her iPad and points to the PowerBeats 3. I tell her that I'm after the new version that comes out today. She calls an employee.

It turns out that Best Buy does not have the new PowerBeats 4, although I received a press release stating the release date for March 18. Confused I walk down the street to Target, where I am strolling into the shop. I can see that there are no PowerBeats 4 in the closed display case – only PowerBeats 3 and PowerBeats Pro. An employee calls his manager. Apparently the "street date" for the new PowerBeats is March 19th.

Twenty-four hours later and exposed twice, I went with a brand new set of PowerBeats headphones. The things I'm going to do for a headphone review.

What's in the box

If I hadn't known better, I might have gotten out of Best Buy with the old model. Nothing is printed on the packaging, indicating that PowerBeats 4 is the new version of the PowerBeats series that replaces PowerBeats 3. The two look similar and have very similar packaging. In fact, the official name for these headphones is not PowerBeats 4. It is just PowerBeats.

You can see Beats headphones one mile away.

The Beats brand is an icon and remains so even after the takeover of the company by Apple. You can see a couple of Beats headphones – and their packaging – a mile away. People love the design and I can understand why.

The PowerBeats are positioned in the box as if they were a pair of earrings with jewels. Mine is the classic Beats Red. Under the display there are additional earplugs in three sizes and a ridiculously short USB-C cable (also Sony), which is wrapped in a case that reminds me that I can charge only 5 minutes can play more than an hour. FAST FUEL, it roars.

Inside a hidden pocket is a nifty manual, a pair of briefs that remind me to download the Beats app, and a Beats sticker.

What's new?

Despite the vague name on the box, I was confident that I had gone with the right headphones, based on major design changes illustrated by a product photo on the back of the box.

The new PowerBeats have an ear hook design similar to the PowerBeats Pro, with the wire coming out from behind one ear and instantly wrapping on the other side. The new model has a tighter, more refined design. The wire no longer dangles over your neck as loosely as before.

This means that the well-known microphone control pod that previously dangled near your mouth is gone. The microphone and its controls are now integrated in the earphones. This is in line with the design of other Apple earphones like the AirPods Pro.

Less noticeable changes include improved battery life, which has increased from 12 hours to 15 hours in this new version of the PowerBeats 3, and a reduced price. These new PowerBeats only cost $ 150. That's $ 50 less than the PowerBeats 3 when it was released, although you can now find it for around $ 80.

At 15 hours, the new PowerBeats has more than doubled the battery life of its next competitor, the Bose SoundSport, and offers a runtime of 6 hours. For comparison: the Jaybird X4 is maximum after 8 to 10 hours and the Jabra Elite Active 45e after 9 hours.

Fit and function

Apple clearly targets athletes with the new PowerBeats. Like the Pro model, they have an IPX4 protection class for sweat and water resistance. The ear hooks are adjustable, although they are so stiff that you may not believe it at first.

The radio range is exceptional

Once you've adjusted them, the earbuds can fit as precisely as you want. Remember that the tighter the fit, the more difficult it is to put on and take off. I am sure that the process will be easier with the repetition, but at the moment I still think it is a pain.

Inside the PowerBeats is Apple's wireless H1 chip, which gives Apple users the same instant connectivity and battery monitoring that other Apple headphones like the AirPods and AirPods Pro do. The wireless range is exceptional. This is ideal for athletes who prefer to store and exercise their phone nearby in the gym without having to carry the phone from station to station.

The new controls on board work for everyone, but athletes also enjoy quick access to play / pause, track tracking, answering / ending calls and – for iPhone users – one-button access to Siri, all about hiding the buttons behind the Beats "B" logo on the right. The volume is controlled by a rocker switch above the right headphone.

Most of Beats' competitors are still stuck on inline control microphones, with the exception of the Jabra 45e, which has a one-touch assistant button.

I'm on the fence when it comes to comfort. I love the feeling of security. These earphones don't go anywhere, no matter how much you move your head. However, the little light bulb behind the silicone earplug is big for my ears and became uncomfortable after an hour. Your mileage will vary.

Virtually all PowerBeats competitors will feel more comfortable, since most of them use a traditional wired earphone design. Again, the exception is the Jabra 45e, which I still find a little more comfortable.

These earphones don't go anywhere, no matter how much you move your head.

Although Powerbeats 4 improves cable placement and because of their presence, the earbuds enjoy superior battery life, I find it awkward. I don't like feeling it all the time and it can't decide whether to stay in a collar shirt or work my way out. The cable still feels longer than it needs to be.

The argument for a wired wireless headphone over a fitness-friendly real wireless earphone is also getting thinner. The battery life and connection stability of the Jabra Elite 75t Active are good enough for most, despite the advanced fitness features the Jabra buds provide for a workout that the PowerBeats does not.

Sound quality and call quality

The whole essence of the beats signature sound is here. It is driving, powerful, exciting and motivating. It relies heavily on the bass and has a special preference for illuminating the heights in certain rooms.

The PowerBeats offer a sufficiently good sound quality and do not pretend to be audiophile headphones. They are not here to sound balanced, to reveal nuances or to bring you closer to music. They are supposed to get you from your butt.

What about the call quality? It is great. With AirPods Pro, thanks to multi-microphone monitoring, it's just right. This will actively mute background noise when speaking. This is an area in which Apple has consistently excelled.

Warranty information

All Beats products are covered by a one-year guarantee against material and processing errors. You can also purchase an extended AppleCare protection plan for $ 29.

Our opinion

The new PowerBeats are a remarkable improvement over their predecessor, with better design and improved battery life, all at $ 50 less. The PowerBeats are clearly aimed at athletes and offer a secure fit, excellent wireless connection, sweat resistance and a long battery life to meet the requirements of the most demanding athletes. If you need wired headphones for your training, the PowerBeats are the right choice.

Is there a better alternative?

For another $ 50, I would suggest considering the truly wireless Jabra Elite Active 75t. They do everything and everything exceptionally well.

How long it will take?

These headphones seem to be built to last. I imagine that these headphones with a rigid ear hook, an impact-resistant plastic housing and silicone-protected wiring should last as long as the battery lasts.

Should you buy them

For sure. If you want the ultimate in secure fit and great battery life with a sound that motivates your workouts, these headphones are for you.

Editor's recommendations




27 Mar
Blog

The 8-Minute Bodyweight Circuit: Does It Actually Work?

I love research that makes movement more accessible to everyone. An article from the American College of Sports Medicine [1] does just that. Researchers reviewed the literature on high-intensity circuit training and developed a cycle of bodyweight exercises that can be done anywhere in less than eight minutes.

The exercises in the circuit are carried out continuously for 30 seconds with high intensity, with a 10 second break and transition between the exercises. The 12 exercises in the circuit are:

1. Jumping Jacks

2. Sit on the wall

3. Pushups

4. Crunches

5. Step-ups

6. Squats

7. Dips

The 8-minute bodyweight circuit: does it actually work? - Fitness, bodyweight exercises, bodyweight, squats, circuit training, lunges, dips, planks, jumping jacks, pushups, wall seats, step-ups

8. Planks

9. Run on the spot

10. lunges

11. Pushups with rotation

The 8-minute bodyweight circuit: does it actually work? - Fitness, bodyweight exercises, bodyweight, squats, circuit training, lunges, dips, planks, jumping jacks, pushups, wall seats, step-ups

12. Side plank

While this short won't make anyone a top athlete, it could help break down training obstacles for those who don't have time to go to the gym. It could also be a great option for traveling athletes. Athletes who need even more challenges can repeat the route several times.

High-intensity circuits also depend on the athlete working with high intensity. This is difficult for people who are deconditioned or new to the exercise. I often read mainstream articles like this from the New York Times that trumpet the fact that you can get a complete workout in just a few minutes.

I don't think most of these authors really understand the requirements of 4-7 minutes of very high intensity work. It is neither comfortable nor pleasant, but they pretend that a few minutes of intensive work is preferable to 20 minutes on a treadmill.

I remember a quote from The Princess Bride that was applied to the phrase "high intensity": "You continue to use this word. I don't think it means what you think it means. "

But for the right audience at the right time, this could be a useful circuit to maintain your fitness on vacation or to start training on a limited time and budget. Try it out and let us know what you think!

References

1. Brett Klika and Chris Jordan. High-intensity circuit training with body weight: maximum results with minimal investment. ACSMs Health & Fitness Journal: May / June 2013 – Volume 17 – Issue 3 – pp. 8–13. doi: 10.1249 / FIT.0b013e31828cb1e8

26 Mar
Blog

Google Nest Wifi Review: Mesh Networking Without The Hassle

“Google's Nest WiFi is a great mesh network system with a secret. It's also a smart speaker. "

  • Easy installation and setup

  • Google Assistant integration

  • Possibility to extend the cover

  • Contemporary design fits every decor

  • A bit expensive

  • Single ethernet port

The rating was last updated by Digital Trends Editor John Velasco on 03/25/2020.

For an average Joe, home internet service means either calling a local service provider or surfing the web to find the best deals. As soon as there is something worth subscribing to, a technician comes out to install it. They are usually ready for use in a few minutes. Most people never worry about replacing a router unless they need more coverage.

The Google Nest Wifi is brought to life with its coverage and consistency for the entire house. Basically, the Nest Wifi aims to do the same job as most other mesh WiFi routers. However, Google's interpretation secretly offers some remarkable features that continue the company's focus on providing multi-functional devices for the smart home.

The Nest WiFi originally had a price of $ 269 for a starter package that was released in fall 2019 and consists of routers and access points. It has received numerous sales. Currently, the same configuration can be purchased directly from Google for $ 199.

You don't have to be a rocket scientist to set it up

Setting up routers can be overwhelming, especially for those who have no background in networking. Google makes the process painless and easy with the included quick guide. I was quite frustrated with overly complex router setups, but this was without a doubt the easiest one to get started.

With the Google Home app on my Android smartphone, I was instructed to connect the Nest WiFi router to my existing Xfinity xFi gateway modem using the included Ethernet connection.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

After setting up the appropriate SSID and password for my network, I needed to capture the QR code on the device using the Google Home app to connect to the Nest WiFi point. From there, it automatically communicated with the router to set up the mesh network.

While I appreciate Google's approach to the setup process, anyone who has configured other mesh networking systems won't find it unique or unusual. For example, Netgear's Orbi Mesh Wi-Fi system has a similar setup process. Mesh networking systems are all about usability, and Google's competitors at Netgear and Linksys were not surprised.

The real key to Google's approach is Google's own brand. The Nest WiFi maintains the corporate software's appearance. If you're using a Pixel phone or have another Google Home device, Nest WiFi is known from the start.

Finally a smarter implementation

Routers are generally little loved. Once set up, they are usually hidden behind a closet or entertainment system and forgotten unless there is a problem. Here, the integration of Google Assistant into the Wi-Fi point shows that the company takes the multifunctional aspect of its devices into account.

The Wi-Fi point is not only helpful to extend coverage at home, but can also be used to perform the same functions as all Google smart speakers. It essentially acts as a Nest Mini speaker, allowing you to play music, access Google Assistant, and even control other connected smart home devices through voice actions.

Speaking of music, it's a small step up from the Nest Mini's audio performance with the distinctive bass it pumps out, making it a more substantial and comfortable ear. Similar to the Nest Mini, proximity sensors can detect when you are nearby and the LEDs on the top of the device light up. I like even better how the LED ring lights up around the body when you instruct the Google Assistant.

Mind you, it's $ 149 per pop, versus a meager $ 50 for the Nest Mini. The Nest WiFi Access Point is first the router, then the smart speaker. Still, it's nice to see that it's more than just a mesh network access point.

The prices are comparable to those of the competitors, as add-on satellites for Netgears Orbi and Amazon Eero-Mesh systems have a similar MSRP. If you use the hardware as an intelligent speaker, Google offers more value.

Cover dead zones

I live in a small apartment that is approximately 1,100 square feet, so my existing xFi gateway can cover most places, although remote areas can be stained. The worst spots are in my bedroom and bathroom, where I tend to see weaker Wi-Fi connectivity, usually at a bar or two. The signal must pass through some walls and other obstacles.

The Nest WiFi mesh system covers these areas with sufficient coverage without sacrificing speed, while using the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for optimal performance. I am still able to achieve speeds of around 900Mbps down and 40Mbps up. These are similar to what I get when I am in the same room as my Xfinity xFi gateway. For the remote areas that weren't fully covered before, it's great to see that my connection speed is now maintained.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

The advantage of this is the additional range of my Wi-Fi network. Even if my current setup does not change drastically, I can use better WiFi in the far corners of my home, which leads to a more reliable connection overall.

The router itself offers more than 2,200 square feet of coverage, while each wifi point adds another 1,600 square feet. The advantage here is of course that you can scale the setup accordingly to ensure proper coverage throughout the home. Of course, you won't be able to do this with most routers unless they are designed with mesh networks in mind.

For comparison: The 2nd generation Eero Pro gateway covers 1,750 square feet, with each beacon covering 1,500 square feet. Even more impressive is the 3,500 square meter coverage with the Orbi router from Netgear and the additional 2,000 square meter coverage with every satellite.

Overall, Google's Nest WiFi isn't the most technically powerful option. However, the average American house is almost 2,500 square meters. This means that a Nest WiFi router with an access point should be enough.

Space for more expansion

Google's approach is to network simply and easily. In my opinion, this is achieved here with the Nest WiFi. Those who yearn for advanced controls and features will be disappointed with the sleek offerings here.

Sure, there is access to features like setting up a guest network, parental controls / restrictions, and even prioritizing traffic, but you won't find any other advanced features that serious network geeks love about routers – like MAC address filtering and setting static IP addresses and dynamic DNS. There are network systems that offer these functions, but the associated costs are higher.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Another thing that can disappoint people is that the Nest WiFi router only has a single Ethernet port. That means you have to purchase an Ethernet hub if you need to connect multiple devices to the network. Most mesh WiFi routers typically offer a single Ethernet port, but you also have some, like the Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 router, which are more generous with their four Ethernet ports.

While I appreciate the integration of Google Assistant into the Wi-Fi point, it would have been really beneficial to have an Ethernet connection as well – but unfortunately there is none.

Warranty information

Since it's stationary, there shouldn't be much concern that it will go bad. In this case, there is a one-year guarantee that covers defects.

Our opinion

The Google Nest WiFi is expensive at $ 199, but better than the original cost of $ 269. The Google Assistant integration adds value, but it's still one of the easiest to configure and cover network systems for your entire home.

Are there any better alternatives?

If you're looking for something cheaper with the same range, consider the alternatives – like the Netgear Orbi, which costs $ 160 for the same configuration. The network system from Netgear offers more range, but does not have the Smart Assistant function that you get with the Nest Wifi point.

Another option is Amazon's new Eero router, which is a bargain at $ 100 for a 1-pack ($ 250 for a 3-pack). Both of these options provide the same simple setup as Google's Nest Wifi.

If you want more advanced setup options, consider the Linksys Velop MX5300 or Netgear XRM570 Nighthawk Pro Gaming WiFi Router. At $ 400 each, they're much more expensive for the routers themselves, but you get advanced network controls and multiple Ethernet ports for landline devices.

How long it will take?

Given the fact that the router and Wi-Fi point will be stationary, this should take some time undisturbed – similar to any network device.

Should you buy it

Yes. Not only can you expand WiFi coverage, the Nest Wifi system can also be used to control the various connected devices in your home.

Editor's recommendations




26 Mar
Blog

Google Nest Hub Review: Small, Simple, and Smart

"Google’s Nest Hub is a great way to keep an eye on your smart home."

  • Simple smart home control

  • No camera on the device

  • Small size means it can be placed anywhere

  • Double as a digital photo frame

  • Affordable

  • No camera means no video chat

  • Poor sound quality

  • The screen is too small for media consumption

This review was last updated by digital trends editor John Velasco on March 25th, 2020.

When the Google Nest Hub ($ 149) arrived on our desk, we were surprised. It couldn't be that tiny little box, we thought. Intelligent displays (intelligent loudspeakers with integrated voice assistants such as Google Assistant or Alexa) should have large screens, large footprints and lots of bells and whistles – right?

Google's Nest Hub has other ideas, and while it's tiny, it has some powerful features that make it powerful under the hood. In a way, its simple approach is a refreshing interpretation of the smart display – but it also feels watered down.

Also worth reading

Also worth mentioning is its bigger brother, the Google Nest Hub Max. It has many of the same functions, but has a larger screen, excellent audio performance and a front-facing camera for video calls. It's also more expensive at $ 229.

Small screen, big world

With a size of just over 4.5 inches, the Google Nest Hub is comparatively small and has a 7-inch screen in portrait format, which is attached to an oval fabric stand on the back. Unlike its competition, the giant Amazon Echo Show, which has a 10-inch screen and 4-inch base, the Nest Hub takes up almost no space and can sit anywhere without taking up a lot of space. This makes it easy to fit in many parts of your home.

Unlike other smart displays, the Nest Hub lacks a camera of any kind. This is either a good or a bad thing depending on how you feel about your privacy and lack of video chat ability. The only buttons on the outside of the hub are volume up / down and microphone on / off.

In addition to the Echo Show and the Lenovo Smart Display (another smart speaker with a screen operated by Google Assistant), the size difference corresponds to the comparison of a tablet with a smartphone. The Nest Hub's small size makes it more versatile – most smart displays are designed for primary kitchen use – but it seems like a missed opportunity as the device comes with six months of free YouTube Premium. The screen is too small to be viewed for a long time.

Greg Mombert / Digital Trends

However, the Nest Hub works as a digital photo frame. If you use Google Photos, you can connect your albums to the device during setup and have photos of your choice rotated throughout the day. We loved this feature and found some long lost gems in our collection.

A function called Ambient EQ automatically adjusts the brightness of the screen so that the device fits into the room. You can also adjust the brightness manually. We also appreciate the interpreter mode, a feature that allows you to communicate with people in different languages.

Keep it real

More reviews for smart displays

We love how easy Google Home makes device setup. The Nest Hub is no different – plug it in, open the Google Home app, and follow simple instructions on both screens to get started. Depending on whether you’re already connected to the Google Home ecosystem, you’ll need to take additional steps.

For example, the app asks if you want to set up Voice Match that automatically recognizes your voice and gives you and others around the house tailored answers. You'll also want to connect to streaming music and video services (you'll need to sign in to your accounts) and smart home devices. This is self-explanatory in the recently revised Google Home app.

In our case, we already have a Google Home device in our test house, which made the setup process as easy as connecting the device.

Greg Mombert / Digital Trends

A smart home love bond

The Google Nest Hub is best when connected to a smart home. We like the pulldown screen, which gives us instant access and control over smart home devices that we have connected. You can still use your voice to control lights, plugs, locks, cameras and more ("Hey Google, turn on the lamp on the ground floor"), but the pull-down menu contains a clear list of connected devices and status of each.

For example, you can tap Lights and get a list of connected lights and their status, or select by room to see a list of all connected devices. You only need a few minutes to organize your devices in every room. It is a user-friendly control panel for all connected devices.

Hey Google, what does my morning commute look like?

Google Assistant works the same regardless of your smart speaker, but the Nest Hub complements your interactions by adding a screen. For example, if you want to create a video tutorial on how to cook eggs hard, just say "Hey Google, show me videos on how to cook eggs hard". You can then select from the results displayed using the touchscreen. For a Google Home Mini or Google Home without a screen, Google Assistant simply reads the instructions. This is not so helpful if you are learning visually.

The hub is a nifty way to get a snapshot of what's happening at home.

There are also other uses. If you've connected a Nest camera (or a compatible camera) to the device, you can view the footage in the Google Nest Hub. We have two Nest cameras in our test house and found that viewing footage from them was a seamless process.

You can also answer the Nest Hello video doorbell on the Nest Hub with bidirectional communication. We don't have Nest Hello in our smart home, but we like the idea of ​​having an extra space to monitor movement at the front door.

Google Home Hub

Google Home Hub

Greg Mombert / Digtial Trends

Since Google Assistant is already connected to Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Maps and other Google platforms, the integration into what we already use is seamless. For example, when we set up the Nest Hub, Google already knew us from our account and usage. Therefore, calendar reminders and the morning commute view were automatically displayed on our home screen. If that scares you, you can adjust what you see.

Ok google, play music on a better speaker

The Google Nest Hub also works as a home hub, but has some shortcomings. The sound quality is the biggest disappointment. It ends up between Google Home and Google Home Mini, and that's not outstanding. It is not loud and bass and treble are missing to make listening a pleasant experience.

The loudspeaker is not loud and the bass is missing to make listening pleasant.

In contrast, the Amazon Echo Spot and Echo Show offer a louder sound and a richer music experience. We understand and respect that Google wanted to keep the device simple, small, and affordable, but it's a missed opportunity not to provide at least adequate sound. Audiophiles or anyone who appreciates a reasonably decent sound will have to pick up another speaker.

The other disadvantage, which we have already pointed out, is the screen. It's just a little bit smaller than we would like. Even an inch would help us enjoy the YouTube videos that we can't access on Amazon devices due to a continuing feud between the two technology giants.

Warranty information

Google offers a one-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship for the Google Nest Hub.

Our opinion

The Google Nest Hub has a lot to offer. We appreciate the focus on smart home controls, the pull-down panel and the functions for digital photo frames. We also appreciate the lack of a camera for those who are concerned about privacy.

We wish Google had made the screen and sound a priority. With free YouTube Premium, it feels like a missed opportunity. At $ 149, however, this is an affordable price for better smart home control.

Is there a better alternative?

It depends on what you are looking for. If you're looking for a smart introductory speaker without a screen, check out Google Home Mini ($ 49) or Amazon Echo Dot ($ 50). Both are enough. If you need the screen for the kitchen and love Google Assistant, the Lenovo Smart Display, available in both 8 and 10 inch sizes ($ 199 and $ 249), is the best choice. However, if you really want the full package, you can pay the additional cost for the Nest Hub Max ($ 229).

If you're interested in Amazon Alexa voice technology, the Echo Show is a great option with a built-in smart home hub, 10-inch screen, and great sound. If you're looking for a smaller smart display, consider the Echo Spot ($ 130), which is meant for a bedside table or desk.

How long it will take?

You can expect Google and Google Assistant to stay here. Google will continue to update and improve Google Assistant technology through firmware updates. However, we cannot guarantee that Google will not introduce another smart display later.

Should you buy it

If you're looking for an affordable smart screen with Google Assistant that focuses on controlling smart homes, buy the Google Nest Hub – as long as you can do without video chats. If you can't, consider the full-featured Nest Hub Max, which also acts as a Google Nest Cam, or maybe an Amazon Echo Show if you prefer Alexa.

Updated March 22, 2019 to add interpreter mode.

Editor's recommendations




26 Mar
Blog

Google Nest Mini Review: Even Faster, Even Smarter

nest mini review google 2nd gen feat

Nest Mini (2nd generation)

"Google's Nest Mini makes an already good device even better and remains the first choice among affordable smart speakers."

  • Fast answers

  • Adjusts the sound based on background noise

  • Environmentally friendly materials

  • Affordable price

  • The maximum volume could be louder

  • Same look as the previous model

This review was updated by Digital Trends Editor John Velasco on 03/25/2020.

The Nest Mini (2nd generation) is the newest mini speaker from Google. The Nest Mini was released on October 22, 2019 and offers a number of improvements, including: B. better sound, faster processing and much more to offer the user a better experience than its predecessor.

We tested the Nest Mini to see how it can compete with the rest of the pint-sized smart speaker pack. Here is our full review of the Nest Mini (2nd generation).

Try these new features

wash your hands

It is more important than ever to make sure that you wash your hands properly, especially if the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus spreads. The Nest Mini offers a brand new feature to help children. They just say "Hey Google, help me wash my hands" and a melody will play from there for 20 seconds to give you a reasonable amount of time to wash your hands.

Find your keys

Isn't it annoying if you've left your keys somewhere at home while you're late for an appointment? With Google Nest Mini, you can track them down using any of Tile's Bluetooth trackers. To track them down, just say, "Hey Google, where are my keys?" From there, Google Assistant reports the last known location.

Same look, but only a few design improvements

The Nest Mini looks almost identical to the Google Home Mini. It is 1.65 inches tall and 3.85 inches in diameter. It has a fabric design and the same rounded shape. The Nest Mini is available in four colors: chalk, charcoal, coral and a new sky color. We received the chalk color for our evaluation.

Google Nest Mini on the tableJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The new Mini has some design improvements over its predecessor. Although you may not notice a big difference at first glance, the differences become clearer during the setup process. For example, on the back of the device there is a small cut-out for a screw that you can use to attach it to a wall. The upper part of the Nest Mini fabric is made from 100 percent recycled plastic, while the outer casing is made from at least 35 percent recycled post-consumer plastic. The Nest Mini is slightly heavier than the Home Mini (181 grams versus 173 grams), and you can feel the quality of the craftsmanship when you hold the Nest Mini in your hand.

Key controls, sensors and connections

The Mini is powered by a 15 watt power supply connected to a DC jack. This is a change from the Mini standard Micro USB connector. Even though it would have been ideal to buy USB Type C, since the Nest Mini is unlikely to move around frequently, Google is perfectly fine with opting for a proprietary connection. There is no 3.5mm audio jack to connect an external speaker, but Bluetooth support.

Erika Rawes / Digital Trends

The Mini also has a side microphone off slider on the side, so you can turn the microphone off at any time. The volume controls are capacitive touch buttons, but are now on the sides of the device – with associated embedded LEDs to indicate their placement. If you touch each side of the device, the volume will increase or decrease.

However, manual control of the volume is not necessary with the Nest Mini, as the device automatically adjusts the volume to the background noise in the room. We noticed that the Nest Mini produced louder music and reactions during many conversations or when playing television than when the room was completely quiet.

Better sound, but if you put it next to the Echo Dot …

The Nest Mini has a 360-degree sound and the same speaker driver (40 mm) as the Home Mini. With the Nest Mini, however, Google has updated the audio tuning software to improve the sound quality. It is said to have a bass twice as strong without affecting the sound quality.

Google Nest Mini on ledgeJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

When we heard the same songs in full volume on the Nest Mini and on the Echo Dot 3rd generation (with a 1.6-inch driver), there was no doubt that the Echo Dot 3rd generation had a louder sound and had a stronger bass. However, the sound of the Nest Mini was clearer and we could hear every level of music – clear midtones, high notes and bass.

When it comes to speech recognition, the Nest Mini is top notch. It hears commands even in the loudest situations and we believe it outperforms the Echo Dot 3 in this area, although the Dot has four far-field microphones and the Nest Mini only three.

A faster assistant

Google has expanded Nest Mini with a machine learning chip with up to a TeraOPS computing power, with which the device can process commands locally. We absolutely noticed a difference in the response time and quality of the Mini's responses.

Google Nest Mini on the wallJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

It quickly answers certain questions such as "How much does it cost to remodel my kitchen?" And then listen and answer immediately the following questions such as "How long does it take to renovate my kitchen?". The answers are becoming more useful and more detailed.

A feature-rich device

Google is adding more and more features to its home devices. The Nest Mini can make free calls using Google Duo (it basically acts as a home phone) and you can use it as an intercom to call other Google / Nest speakers at home. In addition, you can use the stream transmission and transfer content (music, podcasts, etc.) with your voice from your Mini to other compatible devices. Google Nest speakers can now control more than 30,000 different smart home devices. You can let the Nest Mini speak multiple languages ​​and more.

Our opinion

We were somewhat surprised that Google waited so long to update its mini speaker, but didn't make any drastic changes to the overall appearance of the device. This is partly because they didn't want to fix what wasn't broken. Google made changes to the Mini only when needed to maintain the affordable price without compromising on design quality.

Is there a better alternative?

It depends on whether. Some people may prefer the Echo Dot 3rd generation (retail for $ 50) or the Echo Dot 3rd generation with LED clock (retail for $ 60) simply because of them prefer the Amazon Assistant, Alexa, or the Amazon Alexa app. Some people think that the Google Home app is not as intuitive and user-friendly as the Alexa app. Amazon's Echo Dot speakers also have a 3.5mm audio output jack, while the Nest Mini doesn't.

The Nest Mini now offers a faster and smarter assistant. Yes, the Echo Dot offers a slightly better app and more options (more speaker selection, better compatibility with smart home products, compatibility with Apple Music, etc.), but the Nest Mini still has a lot to offer for those who like Google Home devices .

Do you want more options? Check out our favorite 2019 smart speakers.

How long it will take?

Longevity and longevity are areas where Google Nest speakers are typically successful. In the past, Google routinely makes important updates to its assistant than to its smart speakers. In this way, customers can be sure that their devices are not immediately out of date, as they will be replaced with an updated version a few months later.

Should you buy it

Yes. If you're looking for a powerful, fast, and attractive smart speaker at an affordable price, you won't be disappointed with the Nest Mini.

Editor's recommendations




26 Mar
Blog

Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen) With Clock Review: The Time Is Now

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch front

Amazon Echo Dot with clock

"If you plan to build your smart home, the Amazon Echo Dot with clock is a smart choice to keep you up to date."

  • LED watch is useful and versatile

  • Physical buttons are easy to use

  • Tons of Alexa skills to add

  • Diverse compatibility with smart homes

  • Distortion at higher volumes

  • Cannot be transferred directly from apps

This review was last updated by Digital Trends smart home editor John Velasco on March 25th, 2020.

Although I'm often surrounded by cool technology, I have to admit that I've never used an Amazon Alexa speaker in my home before. This is partly because I first bought a Google Home and have been on the Google Assistant train since then. If you have invested in the ecosystem, it is also difficult to make the switch.

But here I am, switching to Amazon Alexa with the company's latest affordable smart speaker in the Amazon Echo Dot with Clock. I know what you're thinking. It's just the Amazon Echo Dot that was struck with an LED watch. But don't dismiss it just because it's a subtle change.

Try these new features

Thanks to frequent updates that expand their toolkit, Alexa is getting smarter. While there are some basic features you should definitely know, there are new tricks available every month. With the Amazon Echo Dot with Clock, you can try the following.

Get the latest weather alerts

Storms and other bad weather can occur immediately, which is useful for the latest warnings. The Echo Dot with clock can keep you up to date by saying, "Alexa, tell me if there's a storm alert."

Election updates

There will be a lot of news when the presidential elections are in full swing. So it is a good idea to know what is going on in politics. You can use the Echo Dot with clock to get the latest voting information, debate reviews, and more. All you have to do is say, "Alexa, what's my election update?" Or "Alexa, what happened in the last debate?"

Timekeeping at a glance

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch angleJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

With the advent of smartphones, the bedroom alarm clock has almost died out. So why in the world do we need another stationary thing to tell us the time? Now that even the Xfinity cable box in my bedroom has removed the clock from its design, there is actually no other way to tell the time when I'm not looking at my phone.

And that's why I can estimate the Amazon Echo Dot with a watch, because when you're half asleep you don't want to fumble around to determine the time. Instead, I can quickly take a look at the puck-sized speaker on my bedside table. Since the brightness of the LED watch adapts to the ambient light conditions, it is never too bright or too dark.

When you are half asleep, you don't want to fumble around to set the time.

It would have been great to see different color options for the LED watch, but the design of this Echo Dot is refreshingly simple and intuitive. There is no fuss about it. You don't even have to touch your phone.

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch ringJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Current owners of the 3rd generation Amazon Echo Dot won't notice anything drastically different with the design of this latest model. Except for the addition of this LED watch, the rest of the speaker is the same. It has a fabric outer panel, physical buttons at the top and the characteristic light ring. Only available in sandstone at the moment, it complements any decoration style without overwhelming anything else you might have lying around.

While the Google Nest Mini has a more coherent appearance, mainly due to the use of LEDs and buttons embedded in the fabric cover, the Amazon Echo Dot with clock offers a more tactile experience. That makes it a lot easier when it's dazed.

Don't expect to rock

Due to its small size, the Amazon Echo Dot with watch is not the first choice if you want to listen to music when friends are over. That is definitely no! Audio performance is sufficient for smaller, isolated rooms, but distortion is noticeable at higher volumes, and it becomes clear how difficult it is for this speaker to maintain clarity.

When I started adding more skills and my different accounts, it became clear that Alexa was as capable as Google Assistant.

You can connect a speaker via the 3.5 mm additional socket to increase the music performance if you want. However, this may be a cumbersome solution.

The Amazon Echo Dot with clock is best suited for interactions with Alexa. The four microphones respond well to my voice commands, while Alexa's responses in their standard voice are far more natural compared to Siri or Google Assistant from Apple. All my requests were recognized by the speaker.

Various smart home integration

At first, Alexa didn't seem as smart as Google Assistant. However, when I started adding more skills and my different accounts, it became clear that she was just as capable. It can control my Philips Hue lights, make calls or order a pizza.

The Echo's LED clock provides the ability to display the countdown when a timer is set. It can also show the temperature if you ask Alexa about it. These are minor functions, but it is no longer necessary to fiddle around with my phone. In addition, the same functions that were available with the last one are still available here.

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch on the tableJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Although you can't deny Alexa's ability to control different smart home devices, there are still some minor issues I have with Alexa. For example, I can't adjust the volume of the speaker using the volume controls on my smartphone unless I start the Alexa app and choose the volume control option.

Another little complaint I made with Alexa is that I can't get something I hear on my phone through an app to the speaker. With Pandora, I can do this if I'm using a Google Home device but Echo devices don't. Instead, everything is managed through the Alexa app.

You could argue that all of these features can only be achieved by talking to Alexa, but sometimes I still like being in control of my smartphone.

Aside from this complaint, I have to admit that there is a huge library of Alexa skills that enhances the functionality of this virtual assistant using the Amazon Echo Dot with clock. It is impressive, even if it is not quite perfect.

Warranty information

The Amazon Echo Dot with watch comes with a 90-day limited warranty and service.

Our opinion

Adding an LED watch to an existing speaker may seem like a lazy update to Amazon, but the Echo Dot (3rd generation) with watch is still an outstanding example of, with its exceptional $ 60 smart home integration cost Entry-level smart speakers, powerful Alexa assistant, and a design that suits any style of decoration.

Amazon also offers several bundles that are worth a look. As a rule, another intelligent device is packaged without increasing the total costs. For example, the bundle that contains a smart light bulb increases its cost to $ 65 while another bundle with a Smart plug You will reset $ 70.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're just heavily invested in the Google ecosystem, the new Google Nest Mini is the obvious alternative. However, if you appreciate Alexa and just want better sound, you should consider either the new Amazon Echo (3rd generation) or Echo Studio.

Do you want more options? Check out our favorite 2019 smart speakers.

How long it will take?

Amazon has continually expanded Alexa’s feature portfolio to include various capabilities, so you can expect this speaker to continue to add new features. Since the Echo Dot with clock is built to be stationary and solid, it can remain functional for a long time.

Should you buy it

Yes, especially if you want to start building your smart home.

Editor's recommendations




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