05 Nov
Blog

DJI Action 2 Review: Reinventing the Action Camera

DJI action 2.

"With its unique modular design and easily replaceable batteries, the Action 2 breaks the mold that has dictated the design of action cameras for decades."

advantages

  • Versatile and unique modular design

  • Remarkably small and light

  • Great picture quality

  • Gimble-like video stabilization

  • Fantastic audio recording function

disadvantage

  • The image quality is not quite as sharp as with GoPro

  • Low light performance isn't that great

When DJI launched the original Osmo Action, it faced stiff competition with the GoPro Hero 8 Black. Surprisingly, DJI did well where so many other companies had tried to break a chunk of the GoPro market, and the Osmo Action had been my action camera of choice for the past two years. It is high time to upgrade, though, and I've been keeping my eye on the DJI Action 2 – DJI has decided to drop the name "Osmo". The new action camera is a total reinvention aimed at creating its own niche rather than going head to head with the impressive GoPro Hero 10 Black that I recently tested.

The question, however, is whether Action 2's innovative modular approach is enough to set it apart from the competition. Are its unique attributes the head start DJI needs to be successful in the action camera arena?

draft

There's really nothing like the DJI Action 2. First of all, it's small – really small: only 1.54 x 0.86 inches and weighs only 56 grams. To get an idea of ​​what this means in the real world, you can slip it in your pocket or even conveniently carry it on the magnetic tag accessory.

DJI Action 2 lens.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

The second point is that this camera is not just a single unit, it is actually modular, with the front selfie screen or battery separate from the camera module. The modules connect via a strong magnetic clamping system that is absolutely rock-solid. This allows the camera module to be completely sealed even without a charging port, giving it a waterproof rating of up to 32 feet. It can go up to 196 feet deep with the help of the optional waterproof case. Keep in mind that the front touchscreen and battery modules are not waterproof, so don't submerge them without first placing them in the waterproof case.

DJI Action 2 waterproof case.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

Another advantage of this system is that there is no longer any need to open cumbersome connections to replace batteries. A new battery module can be snapped open in a few seconds to begin charging the primary battery. It is even possible to swap the batteries while the recording is in progress. In the long run, I see a potential disadvantage to this approach is that the primary battery will degrade over time and cannot be replaced, but this design offers enough advantages that seem like a small compromise.

DJI Action 2 connector plate.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

The magnetic snap system also allows the Action 2 to be quickly moved between different accessories. You can have it on the bluetooth remote one second and effortlessly snap onto a magnetic mount attached to a headband the next. If a metal object is at hand, the Action 2 can simply be glued onto it, potentially allowing it to be mounted in places where a tripod or other mount would not work.

The 1.76-inch touchscreen on both the camera and front screen modules is certainly tiny, but I had no problem using it or filming with it. A single button turns the camera on / off and stops / starts recording; Double tap to switch modes.

DJI Action 2 touch screen.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

Another interesting design decision is the complete lack of connectors on the camera module. The camera module has 32 GB of onboard memory. To expand this memory, both the battery and the front touchscreen module have a microSD card slot. This means that when the camera is separated from these modules, it can only record in the internal memory. On the plus side, however, this means that if you have multiple power or front touchscreen modules, each with an SD card, these modules not only charge the camera, but also provide additional storage space when plugged in.

One of the more fascinating accessories available for the Action 2 is a macro lens. As someone who spends a lot of time in his spare time photographing insects, tree frogs and flowers, this opens up exciting opportunities. It offers decent magnification, albeit with a healthy dose of edge distortion.

With Action 2 over the past few weeks, I've really come to appreciate how much thought and technology has gone into this camera.

power

As clever as the design of the Action 2 is, it has to be able to deliver great video too. Fortunately, it does. The Action 2 has a 12 MP 1 / 1.7-inch CMOS sensor and an aperture of f / 2.8. These aren't particularly impressive specs, but in practice they produce great looking video. The Action 2 can record 4K footage at up to 120 frames per second for high resolution slow motion or 240 frames per second at 1080p for 8x slow motion.

It's a shame that it doesn't manage 240fps at a resolution of 2.7k, but it didn't bother me that much in use. I generally prefer to shoot in 4K, and when I want super slow motion the action being captured generally dwarfs the importance of resolution.

It achieves that "gimbal-like" stability that allows it to take decent shots while walking and holding the camera.

As for image quality, I'm generally happy with the look of the footage from Action 2. It may be a little saturated and high-contrast, but personally I really like it, and more importantly, it did a good job around Process high-contrast scenes such as a twilight forest with a bright sky. Action 2 consistently managed to get shadows in such situations without blowing out the lights too much.

As you'd expect from a small sensor camera, the low light performance is pretty poor – if not the worst I've seen. There is only so much you can do to overcome the physics of collecting light on a small sensor by a small lens.

Perhaps most importantly, DJI has massively updated its Rocksteady image stabilization so that it is just as good, if not a bit better, than what GoPro has achieved with their latest camera technology. It achieves that "gimbal-like" stability that allows it to take decent shots while walking and holding the camera.

There's also a new HorizonSteady feature that maintains a level horizon regardless of the camera orientation. Keep in mind that RockSteady 2.0 only works below 100 fps and HorizonSteady only works at resolutions of 2.7K or less. Despite the resolution limitation, I found HorizonSteady absolutely worth the tradeoff when shooting smooth footage on uneven, uneven terrain.

In addition, the Action 2 has the hyperlapse and timelapse functions that we expect from action cameras. This is very important to me as it is one of my main uses for action cameras. These modes work well, and I love the prospect of traveling with the Action 2 and using its magnets to capture time-lapse videos in unique locations.

I was shocked at how good the sound recorded from Action 2 was. It's very useful for vlogging purposes – or just for video recording in general. It's far better than I'd expect from an action camera, and is a serious upgrade over the previous Osmo Action, which had pretty good shooting capabilities.

It's very useful for vlogging purposes – or just for video recording in general.

The Action 2 is capable of capturing still images, although in my experience this is a rarely used feature of action cameras. The 12-megapixel sensor does a good job of rendering nice pictures, but honestly, I'm more likely to pull out my phone to take a still photo than to put the Action 2 into photo mode. Even so, the functionality is there when you need it. Another feature you might be interested in is the QuickClip mode, which records preset 15-second videos for social media. You can also stream live with the Action 2 at up to 1080p 30fps or use the camera as a webcam.

Battery life

On the one hand, I was only able to record about 12 minutes of 4K video before the Action 2 ran out of juice in the camera module's 580 mAh battery. However, the other two modules are equipped with 1300 mAh batteries, which is sufficient for a day of shooting. They charge from empty to full in about 90 minutes.

Software and connectivity

I have no complaints about the software on the camera itself. It is very responsive and changing settings is quick and easy. The DJI Mimo companion app is also a useful tool as it enables remote control of the Action 2 and an editing workflow for your footage. There is also an AI editor that can automatically edit your videos with music and matching transitions so they can be easily shared right from the app.

The Action 2 has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connection to the app and optional accessories such as the Bluetooth remote control. I had no problems with the camera in this regard; It is a well developed and optimized system.

Price and availability

The Action 2 comes in two different bundles: the power combo is $ 399 and includes the main camera, power module, magnetic collar, and magnetic adapter mount, while the dual-screen combo is $ 519 and all contains what is included in the power combo, bar an exchange of the power module for a front touchscreen module and a magnetic ball head adapter holder.

The great thing here is that you get the same camera features whether you go for the budget-friendly power combo or the pony-up for the front touchscreen. I wouldn't say both combinations are a real bargain, but it comes down to what you would expect for a camera with Action 2 capabilities.

The Action 2 will be available for the front touchscreen combo from November 2nd. The power combo and most of the additional accessories should be available sometime in mid-November, with the exception of the DJI MIC – which will be available in December – and the magnetic headband – whose availability has not yet been decided at this point.

DJI Action 2 Unboxing 3.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

Our opinion

The DJI Action 2 is a really innovative action camera and its novel approach really sets it apart from the competition. It does pretty much anything you'd expect in an action camera, and it does it very well. It's an action camera that, when taken to the bare minimum, is so small and light that you really have no excuse not to take it with you. By doing everything in its power to rethink action cameras from the ground up, DJI has landed a real home run with Action 2.

Is there a better alternative?

GoPro is always the elephant in the room when it comes to action cameras, and the Hero 10 Black was an easy choice for Editors & # 39; Choice when I checked her out last month. They are so close together that if I were forced to determine a winner I would likely declare a draw.

They're roughly in the same price range considering their different pricing models, and both offer great image stabilization. The GoPro can capture 5.3K footage, its 4K footage looks slightly more detailed, and it can capture 240fps slow-motion at 2.7K, while the Action 2 can only achieve that frame rate at 1080p. However, the Action 2 camera module is only about a third the size of the Hero 10 Black and its modular magnet system offers really unique advantages over the GoPro.

I could go back and forth for hours comparing these two cameras, but in the end I came to the conclusion that they are on par.

Its modular magnet system offers really unique advantages over the GoPro

How long it will take?

Unlike GoPro, DJI doesn't follow an annual release schedule for its products, so I can't tell when it will be replaced. Despite its age, my original Osmo Action is still a very capable camera, and I expect Action 2 will remain relevant for much longer. It's pretty sturdy, so it should last a long time – depending on how much punishment it receives, DJI naturally offers a standard limited warranty on its devices.

The only downer is the already mentioned non-replaceable batteries, especially in the camera module. Eventually, the battery life on this module degrades to the point where you need to leave a battery or front touchscreen module connected in order for it to work for a reasonable amount of time. However, this will last for many years and be used frequently, so this shouldn't stop you from buying the camera.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. The DJI Action 2 is an extremely compelling action camera, especially if you have a specific use case in mind that would benefit from its small size, light weight, and unique modular design.

Editor's recommendations



09 Oct
Blog

SimpliSafe Wireless Outdoor Camera Review

The Simplisafe outdoor camera mounted on the outside.

SimpliSafe wireless outdoor camera

RRP $ 170.00

"The SimpliSafe outdoor surveillance camera is a long-awaited, but slightly flawed addition to the product range."

advantages

  • Great video quality

  • Impressive display in night mode

  • Responsive motion detection with activity zone adjustments

  • Support from Alexa and Google Assistant

disadvantage

  • Unreliable live view and buggy app

  • No standalone options (starter kit required)

  • Expensive if all you want is a camera

Smart outdoor security requires multiple levels of ingenuity and protection, as Mother Nature, UV rays, and other suburban and urban variables are forces that indoor technology just doesn't (for the most part) have to deal with. Fortunately, many smart brands are beyond that and offer bespoke home security products in the form of cameras, floodlights and video doorbells for your garden, patio or outdoor area.

SimpliSafe, a leader in the smart security market, has long offered a variety of home security technologies that encompass almost every element of a comprehensive surveillance system, from cameras and smoke detectors to temperature and glass break sensors. One area in which the company lagged (a little) behind the competition was in outdoor products – but no more.

The new SimpliSafe wireless surveillance camera for outdoors is the company's first dedicated outdoor offering, a relatively small camera that we were happy to test.

Unpack and set up

If you're looking for an outdoor camera that you can buy cheaply, pair it with your WiFi, download an app and get started right away, the SimpliSafe way may not be for you. To use the SimpliSafe wireless outdoor camera, you need to buy one of the SimpliSafe starter kits. Know that even the simplest starter kit (with the add-on for the outdoor camera) costs around $ 250. Compared to competing outdoor cameras like the Nest Cam ($ 180) and the Ring Spotlight Camera ($ 199), if SimpliSafe is the brand of your choice, you'll invest a little more from the start.

The Simplisafe outdoor camera mounted on the outside.

For my setup, I decided on the bare essentials – a base station, a keyboard and the wireless outdoor camera. Activating my system and getting it online was quick and painless. All you really have to do is download the SimpliSafe app and follow the on-screen instructions to configure a system for the first time.

Once your base station is live, adding the outdoor camera is easy too. Just tap the hamburger drop-down menu in the top left corner of the home screen, select Set up your camera, and follow the on-screen instructions. A wise word is that you should allow a reasonable amount of time to actually charge the battery of your outdoor camera (SimpliSafe recommends five hours for a full juice charge).

draft

From an aesthetic point of view, I love the look and feel of the outdoor camera. If you keep it simple, you can tell that it is a sturdy piece of hardware. The outdoor camera is an IP 65 certified device that withstands heavy rain, snow and wind and offers comprehensive protection against dirt, debris and insects. You don't have to worry about the temperature either, as the outdoor camera can withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius and temperatures as high as 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

The 140 degree lens offers an impressive view.

Visually, the cream-colored housing and black lens housing blend in pretty well with most outdoor decorations. During the installation and assembly of my grandmother's Blink outdoor camera, sayings filled up as I kept trying to snap the camera housing into the bracket lock. So you can imagine how much I loved SimpliSafe's super simple magnetized mount. Just two screws in the vinyl siding and you can put the camera on.

Quality and performance

The wireless outdoor camera handles up to full 1080p recordings and live views, with options to scale down to 720p or 480p (both of which put less strain on your internet connection). Real-time recordings and event clips look great. The images I experienced were bright and clear, with super-accurate colors and contrasts – I suspect that's because of the camera's built-in HDR support.

The Simplisafe Outdoor Cam live view (during the day).

The 140-degree lens also offers an impressive view. From the porch of my apartment on the second floor, the camera captured a near-perfect wide-angle view of the entire parking lot and the building across the street – with little to no pixelation. When a person came into view, the camera followed their every move with minimal delay.

While the camera lens lacks an optical zoom, you get an 8x digital push-in to snap into place distant people or objects. To use this function, all you have to do is start the live view of the camera, tap and drag on the image with two fingers. The results are useful, but not surprising. Similar to the zoomed-in quality you can get from a simple point-and-shoot camera, pixelation and distortion appear pretty quickly, but key shapes and colors remain intact.

The Simplisafe Outdoor Cam with activated digital zoom.Full 8x digital zoom with the outside camera.

Such a feature may not help authorities too far in figuring out what a distant culprit looks like, but it is still useful for identifying the make and model of a car parked across the street, for example.

One of my favorite functions of the outdoor camera is the ability to choose between two different night vision experiences. Standard is the default setting (better battery life) and displays images up to 9 m away in black and white. Then there's Spotlight (harder on the battery), a mode that balances the camera's built-in spotlight and HDR to display a colored night view up to 10 feet away.

simplisafe wireless outdoor camera assessment spotlight view 1

simplisafe wireless outdoor camera rating night vision standard 1

Battery life

As mentioned earlier, allow around five hours to fully charge the outdoor camera battery for the first time. Depending on which settings you have on your Outdoor camera, SimpliSafe promises between three and six months of battery life before a charge is required.

software

The SimpliSafe app (for iOS and Android devices) is a feature-rich controller for your entire SimpliSafe suite and a great (but not perfect) way to access, control, and customize your outdoor camera. We've already covered the finer details of the app, so for this review we'll just focus on what it brings to the camera experience.

When you start the app, a static image from each of your SimpliSafe camera feeds will be displayed on the home screen. Tapping the Watch Live icon will take you to a real-time view of what your camera is seeing. In live mode, you can pull out to digitally zoom, start two-way audio chat, and record video clips. Once you are done recording, you can save the clip to your phone or share it with others via SMS or certain social media platforms. There's also a button to jump to the timeline that takes you to the log of the app's motion-triggered event clips.

Various app settings for the Simplisafe outdoor camera.

The motion event log can also be accessed from the home screen (just tap the timeline in the bottom right). Each recording has its own drop-down box that tells you when the event was recorded and how long it lasted, along with the option to play the video. If you have started recordings yourself via the “Watch Live” screen, these will also be logged here (referred to as “User Recordings”).

Tapping the gear icon in the top right corner of the home screen will take you to the camera settings. Here you can, for example, change the name of your camera, adjust the image quality, choose between night vision modes, switch microphone, audio and sirens on and off and much more.

Another field that has some customization options is motion detection. Tapping this option takes you to a separate motion detection menu where you can set the motion sensitivity and choose whether you want the camera to detect people only or all movement (a handy setting for busy housing developments like my own). Then there's my favorite add-on – a gridded Activity Zone adjuster that lets you choose which areas the camera shouldn't pay attention to.

power

One big and annoying problem I had with the app was getting one of the most basic commands to work at all – starting live view. After I tapped Watch Live, my SimpliSafe app often started buffering like it did on dial-up days. After about 30 seconds (or more) this would result in a “camera disconnected” message. I would then have to try restarting the live view or restarting the app from scratch. On average, I had to try to launch live view at least three times before it actually worked.

To troubleshoot, I even unplugged the base station and moved it to several new points in my living room, which didn't help.

Pricing and Subscriptions

Whether you want to experience the full range of SimpliSafe surveillance functions or just want your camera (s) to be able to record videos, a SimpliSafe subscription is required. There are two memberships to choose from, without a contract and can be canceled at any time for both levels.

Camera Recordings Only – Unlimited HD recordings and real-time recordings for up to five SimpliSafe cameras for 33 cents / day (about $ 10 / month).

The basic price for a Simplisafe system with an outdoor camera.

The second stage, the interactive professional surveillance around the clock, includes police, fire brigade and ambulance around the clock, integrated cellular data support, water and temperature monitoring as well as unlimited recordings and real-time recordings for up to 10 Simplisafe cameras. It costs 83 cents / day (about $ 25 / month).

Our opinion

If you're looking for a standalone outdoor camera that you can clamp on a bracket, couple to your network and access via a mobile app, the SimpliSafe wireless outdoor camera does most of these things well – except that it's system inclusive.

If you already own a SimpliSafe system and want an outdoor add-on or are building a new intelligent security suite, the wireless outdoor camera is one component that you will likely want to add. Yes, there can be problems every now and then, and some of the touted features (like 8x digital zoom) aren't as good as you'd think, but it's a solid outdoor proposition in terms of overall quality and performance.

How long it will take?

Due to the weather resistance and temperature protection, we doubt that you will experience much of element-controlled hardware errors with the SimpliSafe wireless outdoor camera. For errors that creep in, the company offers a three-year warranty on all of its devices.

Is there a better alternative?

In terms of image quality and reliability, the Arlo Pro 4 is one of our current outdoor camera favorites, offering a 160-degree lens, lots of customization options, and advanced surveillance plans. For a budget-friendly stand-alone option, there is also the Wyze Cam Outdoor – with an IP-65 bite-sized housing with Alexa and Google Assistant support and a practical time-lapse function.

Should you buy it?

If you are a SimpliSafe fan, then yes. The wireless SimpliSafe outdoor camera is a good addition to a complete SimpliSafe system and offers a few eyes (and ears) for the world outside your walls and windows.

Editor's recommendations



25 Aug
Blog

Google Nest Cam (Battery) Review: The Anywhere Home Camera

Google Nest Cam (battery) on the table.

Google Nest Cam (battery) test: The camera for anywhere in the house

RRP $ 180.00

“The Google Nest Cam (battery) is one of the most versatile cameras out of the box. You even get a free video history. "

advantages

  • Works both indoors and outdoors

  • Stores three hours of video history for free

  • Great contrast with HDR video

  • Magnetic plate has a strong connection

disadvantage

  • Bulky design

  • Details are a little soft

It may be surprising to learn that Google has been in the home security business for quite some time. In fact, the original Nest Cam was first released in 2014, long before any of us could have guessed that the Google Assistant would become the brains behind running the smart home. That's quite a long time if you think about it, and the company has released many more cameras – some of which have been well received by users and critics.

However, the latest intelligent surveillance camera is said to be the most ambitious offering to date. The Google Nest Cam (battery) may be the security camera to beat, not just because it works indoors and outdoors, but because it has enough intelligence and power to be the only camera you can count on, when You work you need it. And, oh yes, you don't have to sign up for a subscription service to get access to the best features.

That's not the rule, but I like where it goes.

Setup and installation

Designed to handle both outdoor and indoor situations, I have to admit, I love that you can choose where to place the Google Nest Cam (battery). Thanks to its IP54 protection rating, it can withstand the weather if it is placed outdoors. I chose to keep it as an indoor camera for this review, but it's worth noting that it comes with a wall plate, screws, and anchors if you set it up outdoors. Because it's battery operated, there's no need to run annoying cables around the house – unless it needs to be charged.

Google Nest Cam (battery) with internal stand on table.John Velasco / Digital Trends

While you can buy the optional $ 30 indoor stand that allows the Nest Cam (battery) to stand upright and move around like other indoor cameras, I just put it on the side of a door frame because its magnetic platter is impressively strong. It takes a lot of force to remove until you need two hands to remove it from surfaces.

Another interesting change is that the camera is no longer tied to the Nest app. Instead, everything is set up and managed by the Google Home app. After following the instructions in the app, your Nest Cam (battery) was up and running in less than five minutes.

draft

The new model bears no resemblance to the original Nest Cam from 2014. It actually follows Google's previous line of home surveillance cameras, the Nest Cam IQ series, which has a similarly rounded design with a short connector between the base and the camera body. The Nest Cam (battery) is only available in the snow color, so it would be nice to get at least a few more options. Am i in love with the design? Not really, especially when it's bulkier than other indoor cameras, but I can still appreciate its modern design.

Google Nest Cam (battery) attached to the fridge with a magnetic plate.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Interestingly, I found that if the camera is separated from the magnet base, it will become inoperable. It's a bit strange that its functionality is tied to the connection to the magnetic disk, but Google says it's a privacy protection feature when you're using it outdoors – so it turns off while it's charging indoors . However, you can turn this off by going to the device information settings in the Google Home app. In this way, it works regardless of whether it is connected to the magnetic disk or not.

I'm also not thrilled that it uses a proprietary power connector. I understand the pin connections help keep it weatherproof outdoors, but the proprietary connection means I just can't use any other charging cable I might have lying around. Instead, I would have to go straight to Google.

camera

In terms of specs, the Google Nest Cam (battery) is a small step down from the previous Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor. It has a 2-megapixel 1 / 2.8-inch sensor with a 130-degree field of view that can record video at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second (fps). In comparison, the Nest Cam IQ Indoor has a decent zoom function that preserves details thanks to its 8 megapixel 4K sensor. With an outdoor camera, the Nest Cam's (battery) field of view is narrower than other all-outdoor cameras, so you'll want to strategically place it in one place to maximize coverage.

Screenshot of the live view of the Google Nest Cam (battery).

Fortunately, the Nest Cam (battery) still offers HDR video, which balances high-contrast scenes well, so the lights and shadows are tinted appropriately to give the entire scene a more neutral contrast. Even so, it doesn't capture nearly the same level of detail and clarity as the Nest Cam IQ Indoor with 4K sensors. Details are a little softer on the Nest Cam (battery). However, its night vision performance is still impressive.

software

As already mentioned, the Google Nest Cam (battery) only works with the Google Home app – unlike previous Nest Cams that could still work with the Nest app. I welcome this change as all of my smart home devices are under one roof. There is an events page through the app that lists all of the event triggers, complete with animated preview clips and detection type.

At first I found the app's navigation a bit confusing as I had to go through other menus to find filter options. Another strange oversight that I noticed while using the app is the ability to quickly take a snapshot or video clip while viewing the video stream live. There are no options for this, which I find quite strange as it is a standard feature on many cameras. I really hope Google will update the camera to enable this basic feature as it comes in handy.

privacy

If Google does one thing perfectly with the Nest Cam (battery), it has to be that they take your privacy seriously. As much as I would have liked to see a kind of privacy shutter over the camera lens itself, the camera can be completely switched off via the Google Home app. You'll find other standard privacy features like motion zones that let you choose which areas the camera should keep an eye on, as well as a green LED on the camera itself to indicate that someone is accessing the live feed.

It's one of the most feature-rich cameras I've come across right out of the box.

Just like the other Nest Cams, I love that you can set up a geofence to turn the Nest Cam (battery) on or off. Using my smartphone's GPS, the Nest Cam (battery) turns off when I enter my apartment – and turns on again when I leave the geofence and leave.

battery

The Nest Cam (battery) has a rechargeable 3.65 V lithium-ion battery with 6 Ah, which cannot be removed and therefore has to be charged at some point using the charging cable supplied. If you're using it as an indoor camera, just keep in mind that the charging cable is about a meter or so – so there is little wiggle room in how far it can be from a power source. Instead, consider picking up the indoor stand as it has a longer wire.

Bottom of the Google Nest Cam (battery) with proprietary connector.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Due to the battery power, the camera can of course be used anywhere. In the short time I've tested, it's still over 85% charged after almost a week of use, which makes me optimistic that it will last over a month on a full charge. This of course depends on how active it is.

characteristics

Many of the features of the previous Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor are locked behind a subscription service. The key feature of the Google Nest Cam (battery) is that it gives you up to three hours of event video out-of-the-box – with no subscription required. This is wonderful news because it captures and stores video of events over the past three hours. If you need more coverage, you'll need to subscribe to Nest Aware for up to 10 days of continuous video recording.

I'm also excited to announce that even in the event of a network failure, the Google Nest Cam (battery) can continue to function normally as it continues to detect events and save clips. I tested this by unplugging my router. This is especially useful as it will not become inoperable if there is a power failure or the Wi-Fi network is interrupted.

Close-up of the Google Nest Cam (battery) camera.John Velasco / Digital Trends

The Nest Cam (battery) will continue to provide intelligent alerts based on what it sees. So far, when it comes to discerning people and pets, it's pretty much right – and alerting me with a notification on my phone. When used outdoors, it also has the ability to detect vehicles. I like that I can customize the notifications through the app, which helps avoid false positives.

And finally, it includes two-way audio for interacting with people. The internal speaker sounds loud and clear enough when used indoors, but I suspect that ambient noise outside could potentially affect its performance.

Our opinion

While there are some minor inconveniences that could easily be resolved with a software update, the $ 180 Google Nest Cam (battery) is a well-rounded security camera that can be effective anywhere. It's a very versatile camera that doesn't hide any advanced features behind a paywall, and one of the most feature-rich cameras I've come across right out of the box.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to clarity and detail, the Arlo Pro 4 is hard to beat with its sharp graphics, color night vision, and removable battery. You pay a little more for it, but the extra features and powerful performance back it up.

At the other end of the spectrum is the $ 130 Eufy SoloCam E40. It shares many of the same functions, such as: B. local storage, which eliminates the need to sign up for a subscription service.

How long it will take?

The Google Nest Cam (battery) has a robust construction with a matte outer casing. It is also designed to operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 F. In the event of a malfunction due to a defect. Google offers a one-year limited warranty that covers this.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. It's rare that you find a security with so much flexibility and smarts out-of-the-box.

Editor's recommendations



16 Aug
Blog

Abode Cam 2 Review: Compact Camera With a Compact Price

Abode Cam 2 mounted on the wall

Abode Cam 2 review: compact camera, compact price

RRP $ 35.00

“The Abode Cam 2 leaves you pleasantly surprised with all of its functions. ”

advantages

  • Low price point

  • Small size

  • Higher frame rate than comparable cameras

  • Option to record 24/7 videos

disadvantage

  • No siren

  • Audio quality is not the best

Abode is a company similar to Wyze known for offering low prices without sacrificing quality. The newest product, the Abode Cam, 2 is no exception to this rule. For only 35 US dollars, this intelligent surveillance camera packs many functions into a (very) small housing and, thanks to its weatherproof rating of IP65, can be set up indoors or outdoors.

While the Abode Cam 2 may not be as fully featured as high-end models, it's affordable enough that almost anyone can buy one, and versatile enough to be used as a stand-alone camera system in a studio apartment, or as part of a much larger security system which is distributed over a house and a yard.

Setup and installation

The Abode Cam 2 uses a 10-step setup process that isn't all that different from the type of setup you would see with similar cameras, but it's not seamless. I've encountered a couple of issues with the setup. In one step, you need to show the camera a QR code that will be displayed on your phone. It took several tries (and a restart) for the camera to recognize the code.

The camera also provides continuous, audible prompts to display the code, which doesn't make the process any less of a chore. However, once it got past that one step, the rest of the setup went smoothly.

After I completed the setup, the Abode Cam 2 immediately started working. I was able to stream and control the camera easily. By default, it can sit flat on its base, but it comes with a mounting kit that allows you to simply screw the camera to the wall if you want to place it high above the floor.

The power cord is six feet long – more than enough to be placed near the ceiling in most homes.

Abode Cam 2 sits on the windowsill.

Features and Specifications

The Abode Cam 2 streams and records videos at 1080p and 30 frames per second. It has a 121 degree field of view that allows you to see a large chunk of the room, which makes mounting this camera in a corner the perfect place to keep an eye on everything. You can speak through the camera with two-way audio, and Starlight-based night vision provides clear images even in almost pitch black conditions.

You can also set up the Abode Cam 2 to record video 24/7.

The really standout feature of this camera is how compact it is. Measuring less than 5 inches per side, the Abode Cam 2 is tiny – and perfect for tucking away in a corner for unobtrusive surveillance. If someone is up to no good and is on the lookout for cameras, it can be particularly difficult to spot, especially if it blends in with the background.

The camera automatically places a frame around anything it identifies as a person, and you can take pictures from within the app. You can also record video clips with just one touch of a button. All recorded videos are displayed in the timeline under the video feed in the app.

It's worth noting that the camera's speaker is almost mute by default. It is difficult to hear what is being said through the speaker unless the volume is turned up to almost maximum and the sound comes through slightly distorted. There's no siren either, but I imagine one could be included with an update. If the video feed is mirrored, you can rotate it 180 degrees within the app.

You can also set up the Abode Cam 2 to record video 24/7. It uses a rolling storage system that deletes the oldest videos first. The camera can be configured to record a short video clip when it detects motion, and you can adjust the detection area for more accurate results and fewer false positives. This feature costs $ 9 per month, but it covers every camera on the network.

The camera is integrated with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can view live video from both applications. Alexa also lets you set up routines that the Google Assistant doesn't offer.

Is it private?

All security cameras have been intensified, especially those without physical privacy screens. Although the Abode Cam 2 does not have a physical data protection lock, you can deactivate the camera within the app under a special sub-heading Data protection. It's not immediately obvious, but you can also delete videos from your timeline by going online to Abode's online portal. This seems like the only way to delete footage. There is also no local recording function.

Although the privacy features could be a bit more robust (and every camera should have a physical privacy lens), the Abode Cam 2 is roughly on par with other cameras in terms of security. The app allows you to lock it when you leave and requires FaceID or a PIN to access it again.

Close-up of the Abode Cam 2 power connector.

Our opinion

The Abode Cam 2 is a pretty simple device. There is not much in the package – just the camera itself, the power adapter and cable, and the mounting kit. But it's so affordable and budget-friendly that you don't expect much, and the Abode Cam 2 will leave you pleasantly surprised with all of its features.

Is there a better alternative?

The Wyze Cam v3 offers many of the same features, but also offers 14 days of free cloud storage as well as local storage via a microSD card. It also includes a siren and works with IFTTT via Alexa and Google Assistant. The Wyze Cam v3 fits the Abode Cam 2 for the same price. The Abode Cam 2 is characterized above all by the fact that it offers more images per second for a smoother video feed.

The Blink Mini is also aimed at a similar audience. This camera is also $ 35, is easy to set up, and has clear audio, but it comes at the expense of less than razor-sharp video. It's not the best option, but it's nowhere near the worst either.

How long it will take?

The build quality is not the highest, which is one of the reasons for the low cost. Even so, the Abode Cam 2 doesn't feel cheap and its weather resistance rating suggests longevity. If cared for, the camera should continue to work for years, though I wouldn't expect it to survive a hard fall. It comes with a one-year warranty that protects it from defects.

Should you buy it?

Yes. At $ 35, the camera is affordable for almost every budget and has a wide variety of features. Although it lags slightly behind the Wyze Cam v3 in terms of functionality, its small size and higher frame rate reduce to what is really important in a surveillance camera: better surveillance and security at home.

Editor's recommendations



02 Jul
Blog

Swann 4K Thermal Sensing Security Camera Review: Needs Work

Swann 4K thermal imaging camera outside in winter.

Swann 4K Ultra HD Dome IP Security Camera with Thermal Sensing NHD-888MSD

"It has excellent monitoring, but the software and user interface could use some tweaking."

  • Incredibly high resolution

  • Clear audio amplification

  • Thermal detection reduces false alarms

  • Face recognition gives you a better idea of ​​who is in your home

  • Installation can be a little tricky

  • No siren

  • Voice assistant support cannot be easily set up

Home surveillance cameras are the first line of defense in a security system, but many act as stand-alone systems. It only takes a few cameras to cover the front and back doors of a house, but a more comprehensive security system requires more than just a few cameras. Swann's new camera kit is the ideal choice for this – the included network video recorder (NVR) stores footage and allows you to view the feeds of all your cameras in a single location, usually a television or external display. Up to eight cameras can be connected at the same time.

Swann sent me an NVR and one of the new 4K Thermal Sensing Security Cameras (PRO-888MSD) to test. The Swann 4K Security Camera with Thermal Imaging is packed with powerful security features, including several that I have never seen in a security camera before.

Installation and setup: just a bit of confusion

Many smart cameras market themselves as "plug and play". Aside from tapping a few icons on your phone, there is not much involved in setting up the cameras. This quick and easy process is very attractive, but the Swann 4K Security Camera with Thermal Imaging Sensor doesn't offer anything. While it wasn't difficult to set up, incomprehensible instructions led to confusion before realizing I should look for a QR code on the NVR rather than the camera itself.

The whole process involved downloading the Swann app, registering an account, and then adding a device. It can be powered independently, but my kit did not include a power cord for the camera; Instead, it works via Power over Ethernet or POE. To do this, I had to power the NVR, connect it to my router via ethernet, and then connect the 4K dome security camera via a secondary ethernet cable that was included. Any ethernet cable will work, but there are advantages to using the included cable – it's one of the longest ethernet cables I've seen.

The NVR contains a mouse, which I found strange. To set up, the NVR must be connected to a monitor or television and set up using an on-screen keyboard. You need to create a password and username before you can sync your device using the mobile app.

Again, not difficult, but the instructions weren't clear so it took longer than expected for the system to work. But when the time came, it started without any problems.

Features: Few false positives

The features of the 4K Dome Security Camera stand out from comparable surveillance cameras.

There are three basic modes: Home, Night, and Away. Everyone has different attitudes that best suit their current needs. For example, Home Mode typically disables indoor cameras and sets outdoor cameras to detect moderate movement. The night mode sets the sensitivity for outside cameras to a higher level and activates inside cameras in unoccupied areas. Away mode arm each camera and set the sensitivity level to a medium to high setting. However, you can also configure any of these modes to best suit your preferences.

You can also activate do not disturb mode in the app. This means that your cameras will continue to register activity, but you will not receive any push notifications. The app also informs you about possible service problems. When I swapped an Ethernet cable for a longer one, the app notified me that a camera had gone offline for two minutes.

Advanced settings include face recognition with personalized alerts based on who the camera sees. You will also get fewer false positives thanks to Swann's True Detect system. The Swann 4K Thermal Security Camera uses thermal imaging cameras to provide more reliable alerts rather than relying solely on motion.

Performance: High quality footage

The Swann 4K surveillance camera with thermal image recognition works excellently both indoors and outdoors. The camera was developed with durability and weather in mind and has a weather protection rating of IP66. It can withstand most outdoor conditions with no problems, while the built-in night vision provides visibility of up to 60 meters as long as the ambient light is present.

The technical details aren't too shabby either. With a 93-degree field of view, a built-in high-gain microphone, and easy mounting options, the 4K dome security camera is a solid addition to any home security system. The quality of the video footage is fantastic too, displaying the footage in near real time with minimal lag. Even when viewing the clips on a 1080p monitor, you will be spoiled with clear details. If there's a reason to buy this camera, it's great video quality.

The sound is also great – it picked up sounds that other cameras wouldn't have. In fact, it could pick up the sound of me typing from 9 meters away.

Software: your basic functions

The Swann app gives you an excellent overview of the activities in your home and the possibility to check the live stream of your camera. You can change the arming mode, check notifications, and play activity alerts throughout the day.

In addition, the functionality is rather sober. Although you can integrate the Swann 4K Thermal Sensing Security Camera with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, you don't do that through the app. Instead, you must first download the Alexa Skill or set up the device in your Google Home app before any of the intelligent assistants will detect the presence of the camera. After that, all you have to do is ask the assistant to stream the feed to your display.

Our opinion

The Swann 4K Thermal Sensing Security Camera is a rugged, powerful surveillance camera, but it leaves out many functions that have become almost standard. For example, there is no siren or the ability to pan or tilt. Both functions would significantly increase the functionality of the camera. The design of the camera almost looks like it should be able to move, but the camera is in a fixed position. The large field of view makes it useful for monitoring large areas at once, but sometimes you need to get creative with the mounting mechanism to get the angle you want.

This camera dropped some bells and whistles in exchange for better performance than many smart cameras. The 4K resolution, high-quality microphone and 60-foot night vision, as well as the NVR and Power-over-Ethernet functionality, are hard to beat. At $ 150, the price isn't bad – but you'll need to combine more than one of these to get the full benefits.

Is there a better alternative?

If you live in a small apartment, you don't need a full NVR and camera setup. An all-in-one camera like the Canary Flex ($ 130) provides you with push notifications, motion alerts, a siren, and more. On the flip side, if you want to go completely high-end with your camera setup, the Arlo Pro 4 has all the features you could need, but at a significantly higher price. For something more affordable, the Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt is an amazing indoor camera.

How long it will take?

The structure of the camera calls for durability. With proper care and installation, this camera should serve you for many years. Outdoor cameras are more prone to damage just from exposure to the elements, but even then they should be used for several years. In the event that something goes wrong, Swann offers a 12-month guarantee on all of its cameras.

Should you buy it?

Yes, the Swann 4K security camera with thermal sensor is characterized by its main task: monitoring your home. If you live in a larger house and want to connect multiple cameras together and monitor them all in one place, the NVR makes it as easy as plugging the ethernet cables into the appropriate ports. While this might be a little on the expensive side for some users, the Swann's audio and video clarity make it one of the best options out there.

Editor's recommendations



27 Jun
Blog

Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021) Review: A Camera That Tracks You

Amazon Echo Show 8 2021 home screen.

Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021)

"The Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021) gives you the freedom to move around during video calls thanks to a new pan and zoom camera."

  • The camera keeps the user in the picture during video calls

  • Lively adaptive display

  • Excellent room-filling sound

  • Recycle the same design as before

With the release of the 3rd generation Amazon Echo Show 10 earlier this spring, Amazon certainly brought out its big guns in the form of a swiveling touchscreen that we've never seen before in a smart display. While there was an undeniable buzz around the 10-inch display, it doesn't feel the same for its newest brother, the Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021). You could say that the announcement was a little lukewarm.

Still, it's the successor to the only smart display that sold me the power of Alexa in a smart display. Its predecessor managed to hit all the points, making it the most versatile smart display in Amazon's product range when I checked it in autumn 2019. The new 13-megapixel camera can be used to digitally pan and zoom during video calls, but seriously, there has to be more to it than that.

Design: Still just the right size

I really enjoyed the original Echo Show 8 because it wasn't too small or too big. In fact, you could say the size was just right. When looking at the new Echo Show 8, you'll find it hard to tell the difference between it and its predecessor, as Amazon chose to recycle the design. From its dimensions of 7.9 "x 5.4" x 3.9 "to the same monitor plate design with fabric covering, the Echo Show 8 (2021) is an exact facsimile of its predecessor.

Amazon Echo Show 8 2021 front viewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

However, by today's standards, the design is as generic and boring as it is with smart displays. Compared to its closest rival, the Google Nest Hub (2nd generation), it looks a bit bulky, although its size still makes it better for placing on tables, counters, and desks than its 10-inch sibling.

Amazon definitely took the easy way of recycling the design, which is a shame because I would have liked to see it trimmed a bit – while still having room for the 8-inch display.

Display: even more lively than before

I can immediately see that Amazon has improved the display. Although the resolution of the 8-inch HD touchscreen remains at 1,280 x 800 pixels, the new adaptive color function makes images look photorealistic in any lighting situation.

Amazon Echo Show 8 2021 oblique viewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The result is a display that automatically adjusts its color temperature so that the photos you scroll through appear lifelike regardless of the time of day or the ambient light conditions. Gone are the bleeding edges that I noticed on the display of the predecessor, replaced by an evenly lit screen that is fascinating to look at. In fact, I'll go as far as to say it's a more attractive display than the one on the one Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation).

Sound performance: room-filling sound

Don't be so quick to turn down this one based on looks as it takes a hit in terms of sound performance. That's not too big a surprise when you consider that the predecessor also impressed me with its booming bass and power. Equipped with the same 2.0-inch neodymium speakers with passive bass radiators, the new Echo Show 8 still proves that it is still a relevant speaker that fills rooms.

Amazon Echo Show 8 2021 side viewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

You feel like audio is preferred in the lower range, which can be seen from the bass being so pronounced, but it's not too overwhelming – especially if you have adjusted the bass, mids and treble settings through the settings menu or the alexa Optimize the app.

Features: YouTube is still a process

If you watch videos heavily on YouTube, the Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021) is not for you as there is no dedicated feature for it. Instead, it still opens the web browser and redirects you to YouTube's website. While you can still watch clips, the experience isn't as intuitive as what you'd get with a Google Assistant smart display. But you really shouldn't be too surprised because we're dealing with an Alexa Smart Display.

The new adaptive color function makes images look photorealistic in every lighting situation.

Rather, the experience continues to focus on the Amazon ecosystem. If you are a Prime subscriber, enjoy all of the rewards and benefits that you have with the Echo Show 8 (2021). From asking Alexa to stream music or video content to receiving notifications when Amazon orders have been delivered, there's no denying that Amazon has it all.

Similar to its siblings, it functions as a home hub for quick and easy smart home control at the push of a button or by voice via Alexa. Speech recognition is still accurate and excellent even with slight background noise.

Camera: No standstill for video calls

Equipped with a 13-megapixel camera, its outstanding feature, you no longer have to stand still or stationary in front of the Echo Show 8 (2021) when making video calls. That's because it now automatically pans and zooms to keep you in the frame. This is a feature we've seen in other smart displays like Facebook Portal and Google Nest Hub Max, but it's obviously a different implementation than that of the Echo Show 10 (3rd generation).

It works pretty well. However, it's best not to be too jerky or fast when moving, as the tracking moves at a moderate speed – enough that it never feels unpredictable. It's a nice addition during the work-from-home era, but it's hardly a defining feature among smart displays. You can use this digital pan and zoom feature on Alexa calls, but I appreciate that it is supported on Zoom calls as well. It would be nice to see wider support for this on other video chat platforms, but time will tell.

Amazon Echo Show 8 2021 pan and zoom cameraJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

If you're concerned about potential snoops, there's a switch that mutes the microphone and disables the camera. In addition to video calls, the camera is vital when you are away from home. I've always enjoyed using the drop-in feature which gives me instant access to the camera from my smartphone, which is perfect for seeing if the kids have come home after school or if there are any pets sniff for snacks. Alexa Guard subscribers also receive notifications when unusual noises are detected – such as breaking glass or triggering smoke alarms.

Our opinion

Sometimes we have high expectations when it comes to subsequent devices. We often long for larger, more elaborate functions. The Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021) is an iterative gadget that only makes a significant improvement in camera functionality. In addition, it is no different from what its predecessor offered.

Thankfully, the cost of the Amazon Echo Show 8 (2021) won't change at $ 130. If you don't crave to be able to move around freely during video calls, save the extra cash and buy the $ 110 First generation Amazon Echo Show 8.

Is there a better alternative?

If you need something smaller, the Amazon Echo Show 5 (2021) is the obvious choice. Conversely, if you want all the bells and whistles in an Alexa-powered smart display, the Echo Show 10 (3rd If you're a fan of the Google Assistant, the Google Nest Hub (2nd generation) is the direct rival of the Echo Show 8 as it is similar in size but has a unique sleep tracking mode that you won't find anywhere else with a smart display.

How long it will take?

Although it's made of plastic, it's the sturdy variant that makes me confident that it can withstand minor accidents and bumps. Since it remains stationary in any location, it will likely remain operational for a long time. In the event of an internal defect, there is a one-year limited warranty that covers the defect.

Should you buy it?

Yes, if you really need that pan and zoom feature on video calls. If not, stick with the original model as there is no functional difference between it.

Editor's recommendations



17 Apr
Blog

Arlo Essential Indoor Camera Review: Privacy Is a Priority

Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera on the table

Arlo Essential indoor surveillance camera

"Thanks to the Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera’s helpful privacy lock, you never have to wonder if Big Brother is watching."

  • Privacy shutter offers security

  • Clear and clear night vision

  • Smart discovery with Arlo Smart

  • Video quality artifact elements

Arlo has long distinguished itself as a high-end surveillance camera manufacturer and has expanded its growth in this segment thanks to the introduction of its Essential line of surveillance cameras. With a balance between price and performance, the Essential line extends the company's reach. However, a certain type of camera was missing – a real type of indoor camera.

With the Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera, all of that changes. On paper, it won't amaze anyone with its specs, but what is really amazing here is the focus on privacy. Equipped with a visual shutter that opens and closes, it is one of the few cameras that addresses the ongoing privacy concerns at home.

A barrier that protects your privacy

It is difficult for security camera companies to have a privacy lock, but Arlo, like some other companies, shows us that it is possible. The Arlo Essential indoor security camera has a simple privacy screen that covers the camera's lens when you don't want it to be recorded – like when you are at home. Unlike other implementations that require users to flip a switch, it is mechanically operated across the entire Arlo app. This is great because you can be away and still control the privacy lock.

Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera privacy screenJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

It blocks the camera's view, protecting your privacy at home. This is important because you know with greater peace of mind that someone is not watching you. When someone actually accesses the camera, the action of the data protection lock is accompanied by an audible sound – so you know that it is being accessed. This is useful because it is so distinctive that you know it is being operated without actually seeing it.

I'm a proponent of mechanically operated privacy shutters like this one, so bravo to Arlo for designing the camera with that in mind.

All the intelligence, mediocre quality

The design of the Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera allows it to stand freely on shelves and desks and to be mounted on the wall using the brackets provided. In terms of design, the all-plastic construction feels a bit hollow and looks pretty generic, but the articulated base allows for quick and easy adjustment for the ideal view with the camera.

It is safer to know that someone is not watching you

For an indoor camera, the 130-degree field of view is sufficient – I've seen other models with larger views – but strategic placement in corners gives the best coverage. It records at 1080p resolution and offers night vision and two-way audio – all the standard features you would expect from a modern security camera.

However, many of the advanced features are hidden behind the Arlo Smart subscription. By default, the Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera sends notifications when motion is detected. However, you won't get item detection, package delivery detection, or activity zones without subscribing to Arlo Smart, which starts at $ 3 a month for a single camera. Fortunately, there is a three month trial that is included with the purchase.

As for the performance of the camera, it's nice that Arlo Smart can distinguish motion from pets or people, so you can filter what you want to get through the app rather than get bombarded by false positives. The quality of the video is average at best. It suffers from artifacts early on, but that seems to go away after a while. There is enough detail to see most of the things in the scene while colors have a slightly unsaturated hue. I have no complaints about night vision performance. It's crisp and clear and illuminates the area up to 20 feet.

One thing that could make it perfect

While I applaud Arlo for its mechanical privacy screen, there is only one thing missing from the Essential Indoor Security Camera that makes it perfect – a geofence feature that can automatically arm the camera when I'm not home.

Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera on the tableJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Currently, activating the camera is a manual process performed through the app. Sometimes I'm just in a hurry and don't have time to activate the camera. A feature that she can automatically activate based on my phone's location would sweeten the package.

Our opinion

If privacy is a primary concern for you, this is Arlo Essential indoor surveillance camera ensures that you don't have to worry thanks to the data protection lock. The $ 100 cost is worth it just because it's a camera you can trust.

How long it will take?

Although the all-plastic construction feels a bit flimsy, it comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers the camera for defects. Given that it is supposed to be stationary in one place, it should last a long time.

Is there a better alternative?

The SimpliSafe SimpliCam is worth considering just because, like this one, it has a mechanically operated privacy screen that you can see and hear. The main benefit is that it works with SimpliSafe's home surveillance system, so not only is it activated and deactivated every time the system is activated, but in an emergency, emergency responders can even access the camera's feed to assess the event.

The Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan & Tilt is worth considering for its lower cost and ability to articulate almost 360 degrees. It can even stow its camera when not in use. This is a slightly different way of protecting home privacy.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It's one of the few models that respects your home privacy and ensures you are informed when the camera is being accessed.

Editor's recommendations




24 Mar
Blog

OnePlus 9 Review: Ultimate Performance And a Middling Camera

oneplus 9 review 5

"It's disappointing with a bland design and a camera that just can't compete with other devices in the same price range."

  • Excellent performance

  • Smooth software

  • Stunning display

  • Boring design

  • Camera still needs work

  • Rising prices

A lot has changed in the smartphone industry over the past year. While OnePlus was once the go-to place for those who wanted a flagship experience a few hundred dollars less than the competition, others got it. The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, for example, took the best things about the Galaxy S20 but sold them for just $ 700. Then came the Samsung Galaxy S21, which starts at $ 800, $ 200 less than its predecessor. Google's Pixel 5 is only $ 700, the iPhone 12 a palatable $ 800.

In other words, the price alone makes the OnePlus 9 not a flagship killer. The price is on the lower end of the flagship range and as such it has to compete on its merits.

I'm not trying to imply that it's not competing. With features like the latest and greatest processor, a beautiful screen, and a great software experience, the OnePlus 9 brings a lot to the table. Not to mention that there is also a OnePlus 9 Pro that we tested separately. He takes the OnePlus 9 and expands its features to 11. But let's get into that the OnePlus 9.

If you are interested in the OnePlus 9 Pro, which is more expensive but also technically a bit more powerful, read our in-depth review.

Design and display

The OnePlus 8T represented a number of changes for the company, but the OnePlus 9 is a lot more iterative. It's not the same as the 8T – but you'll be forgiven for thinking it. It has the flat screen of the OnePlus 8T and a rectangular camera module on the top left on the back. Both differ from the OnePlus 8 a year ago.

It's not a bad look, but it's a boring look. It looks like a Samsung Galaxy S20 – which is fine, but not that exciting in a world where Samsung has made a number of design improvements to the Galaxy S21 that help make it both unique and incredibly elegant looks like.

The OnePlus 9 has a glass back, but it feels a little cheap to me, and I thought it was plastic at first, although maybe that's because of its light weight. It is also easy to fingerprint and, as such, quickly loses its glossy appearance. To be honest, I prefer the look and feel of the Galaxy S21's plastic, which can be seen as frosted glass at a glance.

However, there are aspects of the OnePlus 9 design that I love. The most important among these is the physical ringtone switch. Yes, it's a small feature, but I wish more Android phone manufacturers would adopt it. I wish it had been swapped for the left-mounted volume rocker, as you'll likely use the power button more than the ringtone button, but that's a minor complaint and you will get used to the layout easily.

However, there are aspects of the OnePlus 9 design that I love. The most important among these is the physical ringtone switch.

Another thing I love about the OnePlus 9 is the display. It's a 6.55-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and it looks great. Thanks to the high refresh rate and modern processor, the phone looks and feels incredibly responsive. So much so that you don't really notice that the display has a resolution of 1,080p rather than the 1,440p of the OnePlus 9 Pro. You can tell a little difference between the phones when placed next to each other. However, the OnePlus 9 proves that a high refresh rate is more important than high resolution for good reason. Samsung has found that out too.

The display also gets nice and bright and is easily visible outdoors. According to OnePlus, the display brightness is 1,100 nits, which is slightly less than the 1,300 nits of the OnePlus 9 Pro. Still, it's very bright and I never really wished it would get lighter.

Unfortunately, the device doesn't have the 1 Hz to 120 Hz variable refresh rate that is available on the OnePlus 9 Pro, but it does go from 60 Hz to 120 Hz, which is still great and helps reduce battery consumption a bit.

There is a fingerprint sensor under the display that works great. The sensor is fast and accurate and makes it easy to access your phone. The display is a bit low, which makes it a bit awkward to bend your thumb to reach – but you will get used to the placement.

Power, battery and charging

OnePlus phones were never really about their looks. It was about features for the price – and that includes the technical data under the hood. As you'd expect from a flagship phone in 2021, the OnePlus 9 has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor that is paired with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage, depending on the model. I'm reviewing the model with 12GB of RAM

Thanks to the combination of high-end processor, high refresh rate and relatively light software, the OnePlus 9 works like a dream. In mobile gaming, it loaded quickly and rarely skipped a frame. During the heavy multitasking, the device responded quickly and quickly. If you are looking for a high performer, the OnePlus 9 is for you.

The battery life of the OnePlus 9 is okay. It has a 4,500 mAh battery that can keep you working a full day, and possibly a few hours until the next day if you miss a charge overnight. It's not a sucker, but it's not a multi-day phone.

However, it doesn't have to be a multi-day phone. OnePlus' Warp Charge technology is getting better and better and can now charge the OnePlus 9 from 0 to 100% in around 30 minutes. In other words, if you toss it on the charger during a morning shower, it should get most of its battery life back. This is pretty amazing and removes the fear of other phones battery life. Of course, the OnePlus Warp charger must be used, but you get one that came with the phone. Additional stones will be Reset $ 65 each.

For the first time, the base model of a OnePlus phone also supports wireless charging, which was previously limited to the “Pro” models. The OnePlus 9 supports up to 50 watts of wireless charging. However, to take full advantage of this, you'll need to purchase OnePlus' new Warp Charge 50 wireless charger for a whopping $ 70. Fortunately, you can still use standard Qi chargers even though they charge more slowly.

Camera quality

If you look at the back of the OnePlus 9, you'll see the name of another brand: Hasselblad. The two decided on the color matching of the OnePlus 9 camera. There is a difference between the color matching on the OnePlus 9 and the previous generation OnePlus 8, but the OnePlus 9 also has new hardware that makes it a little difficult to tell the differences.

The OnePlus 9 has a triple camera system with a 48-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 2-megapixel monochrome camera that is used for depth and level of detail. It's really unfortunate that there isn't a telephoto camera here, especially when you consider that the Galaxy S21 manages to fit one into its setup (although it is referred to as a "telephoto") for a similar price.

Ultimately, pictures taken with the OnePlus 9 aren't bad. They are not quite as colorful as those of a Galaxy S21, for example, and they also do not have as many details. Additionally, the camera isn't as consistent – sometimes it takes better photos than sometimes, despite being in a very similar situation. Still, they're not bad.

Unfortunately, at $ 730, not bad is still not good enough. In a world with the Galaxy S21, Pixel 5 and iPhone 12, the OnePlus 9 is still inadequate. But it seems like it will make things better – a software update during this verification process improved the camera quality quite a bit. Hopefully this trend will continue, although you should never buy a phone in the hopes that it will improve in the future.

The front-facing camera is 16 megapixels and is pretty good again – but by no means revolutionary. Photos taken with it appear to have decent contrast. They're not necessarily that detailed, but they do the job for an average selfie.

Unfortunately, at $ 730, not bad is still not good enough.

There are some things that I really appreciate about the OnePlus 9's camera. OnePlus has worked hard to take better photos in low light, and while the phone doesn't compete with any other device, it is leaps and bounds better than the OnePlus 8. Plus, the OnePlus 9 lets you take macro photos with the ultrawide camera like the Galaxy S21. This is a handy feature, and it means OnePlus can avoid shipping the inferior macro camera that other companies (including OnePlus previously) were fond of.

Software experience

If there's one thing that OnePlus has pinned down it's software. The phone comes with OnePlus OxygenOS 11 which is based on Android 11.

OxygenOS has moved further and further away from standard Android in general, but still offers a stripped-down experience that is smooth and easy to navigate. I like most of the improvements OnePlus has made to the software, such as the more consistent look and feel of the Settings app and the Quick Settings menu. Dark mode now looks and works great in both the core software and the OnePlus apps.

OxygenOS finally offers a solid always-on display. This feature was introduced on OxygenOS 11 and was available on OnePlus 8T. It provides an overview of information such as battery life, time and weather. It's similar to everyone else's permanent display, but it's still convenient that it is there in the first place.

OxygenOS also comes with a number of additional features. In particular, you get the App Locker, with which you need authentication to access certain apps. You also get parallel apps that allow you to install two instances of an app to log into two different accounts. This is great for apps that don't already let you sign in to multiple accounts. On OnePlus phones, you can still access the OnePlus shelf, which has quick information like the weather, deep links to some apps, the number of steps you took, and a lot more. For first-time OnePlus users, it may take a while to get used to using Shelf. However, if you do, it can be quite useful.

Our opinion

The OnePlus 9 is a strange version. It's a good phone. With top-notch performance, a fantastic display, and a great software experience, there is definitely a niche for it. But it's disappointing with a bland design and a camera that just can't compete with other devices in the same price range.

It really is a shame, especially given the software experience. You'll have a hard time finding another phone at a price that's as fast and as clean in terms of software as the OnePlus 9. This is in stark contrast to the Galaxy S21, which is fast but is cumbersome and more expensive bloated software.

At $ 730, the OnePlus 9 It's just not enough to have a full experience that is in line with the price. Hence, I recommend many users look elsewhere for this amount of money.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. Chief among these alternatives is the Samsung Galaxy S21which has similar performance and display quality, looks much better, and has a much better camera. If you want an Android phone in the $ 700- $ 800 range, this is the place to go. On the clean and simple side, but with a smaller display and specs, you can buy the Google Pixel 5 for similar money. Alternatively, you can get the last generation Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, which isn't quite as powerful but still has a great display and probably a better camera than the OnePlus 9. It costs only $ 600.

Of course, there's another phone in this price range that's worth considering: The iPhone 12. It offers some of the best performance you can get from a smartphone, and it will probably work just as well in three years as we are used to from OnePlus phones. It offers a clean software experience in iOS and has an excellent camera. The only real downside is the display, which looks nice but doesn't have a high refresh rate like the OnePlus 9 and Galaxy S21. And switching ecosystems can be a deal breaker for some people.

Last but not least is the OnePlus 9 Pro. If you really like the OnePlus style, you can pay $ 970 for a higher resolution display and telephoto camera. You still get the same processing power and software experience. It is up to you to decide for yourself whether these things are worth the extra money.

How long it will take

The OnePlus 9 works just as well as any other flagship of 2021, so it should last at least three years before it really slows down. It's made of glass, so you should probably put it in a case to protect it from drops and bumps.

Should you buy one?

No. The OnePlus 9 is not enough to justify its price. Instead, you should get a Samsung Galaxy S21, S20 FE, iPhone 12, or Pixel 5.

Editor's recommendations




11 Mar
Blog

Oppo Find X3 Pro Hands-on: Camera Consistency At Last

oppo find x3 pro review back flat

Oppo Find X3 Pro at your fingertips: Finally a consistent camera experience

The Oppo Find X2 Pro flew under the radar a little after its release and may suffer from an unfortunate timing when its announcement was made just before the coronavirus pandemic spread around the world in 2020, but also because of its relatively high price and novelty Oppo as a brand outside of China. None of that affected its ability, so I embraced the sequel, the Oppo Find X3 Pro, with welcoming arms.

I've been testing the Find X3 Pro for a few days but haven't spent enough time to fully review and rate it. Instead, this will be an in-depth preliminary review that can be updated over the next week or so once I have a better idea of ​​how the battery, software, and camera are performing on a daily basis.

Still, I've seen enough to know that the Find X3 Pro is designed to redefine the performance of the camera on a smartphone.

design

Oppo has done everything possible to make the Find X3 Pro look like no other flagship with an unusual unibody design. This means that the back of the phone has been forged from a single piece of glass, with the camera module rising up and enclosing the lenses in the top corner. It's all a fluid plate and not separate parts. Oppo said it took 2,000 attempts in his lab to get the process and final look just right.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The advantages lie in the 8.2 mm slim housing and the very clean shape of the device. There are really no sharp edges on the Find X3 Pro, as the corners and sides merge seamlessly into the next control panel. However, the curve where the aluminum case meets the screen is pronounced, so it's not quite as comfortable to hold as the Galaxy S21 + or the Huawei P40 Pro, but the low weight of 193 grams prevents it from getting tired.

While the unibody shape is very noticeable, Oppo wasn't particularly brave with the layout of the camera lens as it's basically a mirror image of the iPhone 12 Pro, nor with the color. My test model is in matte blue, and while it's pretty, it looks a lot like the Pacific blue of the iPhone 12 Pro. What Oppo gives in terms of forward-looking design it takes away with these derivative elements.

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Leave those little aspects aside, however, and the phone's design has many good features. It's a lot lighter than most of the other high-end smartphones that have recently hit the market. So it fits in my pocket without complaining. I can comfortably hold it at all times without it getting out of whack, and the matte finish makes it look clean too. The Oppo Find X3 Pro is a slim, elegant and modern looking smartphone.

screen

Here Oppo goes to Dr. Evil and talks a lot about a billion colors. The 6.7-inch AMOLED screen has a color depth of 10 bits or just over a billion colors and a color gamut of 100% DCI-P3. Oppo then had it professionally calibrated to make sure it was getting the most of its capabilities and we didn't have to mess around to tweak it ourselves. This should mean we can't see any color streaks or dithering like we can on smaller screens. The 10-bit color offers a QHD + resolution of 3216 x 1440, an adaptive refresh rate of 120 Hz, a brightness of 1,300 nits and HDR10 + support.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

According to Oppo, the Find X3 Pro delivers the best color reproduction on any smartphone. But can you really see on a screen this size? Before diving into that, it is worth mentioning how beautiful the Find X3 Pro's screen is in general. The performance comes very close to that of the Samsung Galaxy S21 +, but not quite as bright in direct comparison. It certainly looks great for watching videos on YouTube and Netflix. But what about 10-bit color?

What is frustrating is that Oppo doesn't tell you how to get the most out of the screen. I switched to cinema mode and watched several videos that were supposedly taken with a 10-bit capable camera and compared them to the Galaxy S21 +. I think there are differences as there are slightly fewer stripes visible on the Find X3 Pro, but these could easily be my eyes playing the pranks, simply because you have to look really carefully to see something "different".

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

A 10-bit DCI-P3 screen on a smartphone is very technically impressive, but I'm waiting to be convinced of any actual benefit to anyone looking at general content. I asked Oppo for clarification on how the Find X3 Pro's screen works and how to best use its capabilities. It will be updated as soon as I hear something and keep experimenting.

camera

When we get to the camera, there is more talk of a billion colors. That way, phone owners can enjoy the Find X3 Pro's 10-bit color screen right out of the box, as you can capture 10-bit color photos and videos on it. This is done by flicking a switch in the settings menu so you can take photos in either 10-bit or normal mode. Shoot them in 10-bit quality and the images will be saved as High Efficiency Image Format (HEIF) files, which can cause compatibility issues with viewing and editing.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The 10-bit color feature feels extremely geeky and is currently only relevant to a small number of hardcore photographers. It also distracts from what actually makes the Find X3 Pro's camera desirable – the use of two main cameras. The 50 megapixel Sony IMX766 sensor is used for both the main wide angle and ultra wide angle cameras. This means that the color and balance are the same for both cameras. This is a common complaint against other wide / ultra wide camera setups. These two cameras include a 13-megapixel telephoto camera with 5x hybrid zoom and 20x digital zoom, as well as an unusual 3-megapixel micro lens that can be used to take “microscope” photos with 60x zoom.

I'm only busy with the Find X3 Pro for about a hundred photos, but as of now, it's the real deal. It not only takes beautifully balanced photos with breathtaking dynamic range and color management, but also for main and ultra-wide cameras.

oppo find x3 pro review main bank "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn6.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/find-x3-pro-main-bench- 640x640. jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAAFind the X3 Pro standard camera Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

oppo find x3 pro review wide bank "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn7.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/find-x3-pro-wide-bench- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAAFind the X3 Pro ultra-wide camera Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

oppo find x3 pro review Hauptsonne "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn8.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/find-x3-pro-main-sun- 640x640. jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAAFind the X3 Pro standard camera Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

oppo find x3 pro review wide sun "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn9.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/find-x3-pro-wide-sun- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAAFind the X3 Pro ultra-wide camera Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The wide-angle example shown here with the bench under the tree would have looked very different on a different phone. Instead, it's almost indistinguishable from the standard photo in terms of balance, shadow, and color. Wonderful. It's also very hard to get the camera to misbehave, as you can see in the photo that is shooting in the sun.

What about the micro objective 60x microscope camera? Like a microscope, it's insanely close to taking macro photos like you've never seen them before. The following example shows moss. It's a gimmick, but it really does something that no other phone camera can, and while the results may not be of the best quality, it is possible to really have fun with it. It's definitely not a reason to buy the phone, but it's a welcome change from a useless 2-megapixel macro camera just to make room.

Oppo Find X3 Pro microscope photo mode. Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

About the 10-bit color mode? I don't have a 10-bit color monitor as I suspect many others don't either. Although my Mac Mini M1 can open HEIF files, they look the same on my screen as non-10-bit recordings. The Find X3 Pro's camera otherwise evolves to really deliver what we've wanted for a while: consistency between the main and wide-angle cameras, and that's a significant advancement in mobile photography.

Performance, battery and software

The Oppo Find X3 Pro uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage space, as well as 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6 and a 4,500 mAh battery. There are two main areas that I need to spend even more time with the Find X3 Pro, software, and battery. Oppo’s ColorOS user interface, version 11.2, which was created here over Android 11, is integrated. It's better than ever, but still frustrating and less sophisticated than competing systems from Samsung, OnePlus, and Google.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

For example, apps are spread across multiple home screens in the iOS style by default, and you can then clean up when you switch to the drawer layout. The icons are too square for my taste, the speed depends on what you're doing (scrolling notifications is faster than the app drawer, for example), and the camera app often refuses to work, forcing you to close and reopen it.

This could be because I am using a pre-release version of the software. Hopefully everyone will improve with an update right before the launch. The battery is the other area that still needs evaluation, with performance so far being decent and around 30% of the battery being used for an hour and 45 minutes of general screen time without games. One day should be achievable, but not much else.

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Oppo has added its massively fast SuperVOOC recharge. The 65W system delivers a full charge in just 35 minutes. We have tested this in the past and found that it works exactly as described. The Find X3 Pro also has 30W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging.

Price and availability

The Oppo Find X3 Pro has been announced for the UK, where it starts at £ 1,099 or around $ 1,527. It will be published on April 14th and will be sold via Oppo's own online shop and with a contract with all major airlines. Oppo does not sell its phones in the US, but they are available as an import.

At £ 1,099, the Find X3 Pro faces the Galaxy S21 + and iPhone 12 Pro, which are both cheaper, and the Galaxy S21 Ultra, which is slightly more expensive. It's also facing competition from the upcoming OnePlus 9 Pro, which is likely to undercut the price too.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

While it's too early to make a final judgment, at this point the Oppo Find X3 Pro certainly impressed me with its camera and its compact, lightweight design. The Find X2 Pro has been Oppo’s best phone to date, and the Find X3 Pro seems to be doing things in a meaningful way, although the price is still a bit high. It remains to be checked whether the battery and the software can meet the same standard and whether the 10-bit color screen and the camera setting are relevant for normal people.

Editor's recommendations




27 Jan
Blog

Moto G Play (2021) Review: Battery Life, Performance, Camera

motorola moto g play 2021 rating 4

"Motorola makes the best phone under $ 200 – just set your expectations before you buy."

  • Modern design

  • Great battery life

  • Good advertisement

  • Attractively priced

  • Below average camera

  • Limited software support

  • Mediocre performance

The Moto G series is back for 2021 and consists of the Moto G Power, Moto G Stylus and Moto G Play. While most might want to buy the Moto G Power or save up on the Google Pixel 4a for their competitor, the Moto G Play is great value for money and therefore only costs $ 170.

The phone looks great on paper. With a huge 5,000 mAh battery, a relatively modern design, and a lot more, it could be the ideal device for those looking for a decent phone under $ 200. Is it anyway? I've been testing the 2021 Moto G Play for a while to find out.

Design and display

The Moto G Play is an affordable phone. Hence, you shouldn't expect the design to look too expensive. That said, Motorola does a good job of making sure the phone looks modern enough in the age of edge-to-edge displays.

Gone are the holes in the more expensive Moto G models in favor of a small teardrop notch at the top. Honestly, the notch is as intrusive as the hole punch cutout anyway, and you'll soon forget about it after you've used the phone. The device also has a bigger chin than the other Moto G devices, and that might be more noticeable. Neither of these issues are real, but they do contribute to the fact that the device is a little less premium – which it is.

On the back of the device is the camera with two sensors and a back-mounted fingerprint sensor that appeared to be fast and accurate in our tests. In 2021, on phones like the Galaxy S21, the camera shock on this device is quite small and almost flush with the back of the phone, which is a nice touch. It's also centered so it doesn't wobble a lot on a desk.

On the edges of the phone are the standard volume rocker, power button, and USB-C port. You also get a headphone jack, which is especially good to see on phones in this price range.

The Moto G Play's display is a 6.5-inch 720p LCD display and does the job, but that's about it. Colors aren't particularly vivid and obviously don't have a high refresh rate here, but for things like scrolling Twitter and reading email, this is perfectly fine. It also gets quite bright, which is helpful in direct sunlight or brighter environments.

Power and battery

The Moto G Play is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 460 processor as well as 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage. This is a notable step up from the other Moto G-series devices, which come with 6-series chips and offer at least twice as much storage space. 32GB of storage is a bit weak in 2021, but something is expected from such a cheap phone. Fortunately, there is a microSD card slot so you can expand the storage if you want.

Despite the slightly underloaded processor, the phone works perfectly in daily use. There was little to complain about with basic tasks like emailing, browsing social media, and even multitasking. If you're doing more intense tasks like mobile gaming while playing games like Call of Duty: Mobile, you should expect some serious slowdowns, but despite the slower loading times and jittery menus, the in-game phone has mostly done itself with the occasional skip.

All of the Moto G-Series 2021 devices have good battery life, and the Moto G Play is no exception. The device comes with a powerful 5,000 mAh battery. Thanks to the lower resolution display, it can last two days even with heavy use. If you have a good charging capacity for your device, you won't have to worry about battery life with this phone – and if not, you will have plenty of time to plug it in. You'll have to plug it in but there isn't any wireless charging, though that's no surprise.

Cameras

On the back of the Moto G Play there is a dual camera system with a 13-megapixel main camera with an aperture of 1: 2.0 and a 2MP depth sensor. Despite the fact that great cameras are getting cheaper on smartphones, the Moto G Play doesn't give you the versatility of an ultra-wide or telephoto camera.

Unfortunately, the Moto G Play's camera is mediocre at best. With good lighting, you can take pictures that are … okay. They're not particularly vivid or detailed, but they will get it. However, if you add a bit of complexity to the shot, you don't get much. Low-light photos are either blown, very blurry, or both, and backlit scenes have little to no dynamic range.

If you didn't know you used a $ 170 phone, the Moto G Play's camera will remind you of it – every time.

Software and functions

The 2021 Moto G Play comes with Motorola My UX, which is based on Android 10, and it's a pretty good experience. Motorola is pretty good at providing scaled down software, and you get it on this device. Everything is pretty much where you'd expect it to be, and the user interface is generally easy to navigate.

Motorola has also been pretty good at delivering additional functionality in its software. The phone is equipped with the Moto app, which enables some handy gesture controls – for example, the ability to take a screenshot by touching the screen with three fingers, or turn the phone upside down to “do not disturb”. Other features like Gametime, for example, tweak notification settings while you play. The great thing about these features is that you can enable or disable them depending on which features you actually like. They're all included in the Moto app – instead of being spread across the My UX interface.

Now for the disadvantages (beyond the camera). The phone comes with the dated Android 10. Motorola has stated that it will receive Android 11, but has not yet stated when. Given that Motorola marketing says it will get "at least one software update", Android 11 is likely the end of the line for the 2021 Moto G Play. Fortunately, the device will receive software updates for two years, but it's still very disappointing to see such a lack of software support – which spans all Moto G devices.

Price and availability

Perhaps the best thing about the 2021 Moto G Play is how cheap it is. You can get a whole lot of phone for just $ 170. You can overlook many shortcomings at this price point if you probably won't be holding the phone that long in the first place.

The Moto G Play is available directly from the Motorola website as well as from a few select retailers such as Best Buy. Indeed the device was at the time of this writing Available at Best Buy for just $ 120 When you activate with a carrier, that's an incredible deal.

Our opinion

The Motorola Moto G Play (2021) isn't perfect, and you wouldn't expect it for the price either. The camera is really pretty bad, and while the device's performance is okay for everyday use, it does get slower with heavier multitasking and intense gaming. If you can afford to spend more, this is why you should. You can get it parent Moto G Power for $ 250. And the $ 350 Pixel 4a is more than twice as expensive, but it's also more than twice as good as a phone.

That said, if your budget is no more than $ 200, the 2021 Moto G Play is the way to go. Motorola continues to prove that you can get a solid phone at a super affordable price. As long as your expectations are set correctly.

Is there a better alternative?

No. In this price range, the Moto G Play is the best cell phone under $ 200. However, if you can afford to spend more, you can get the exact same recipe, only better, with this new Moto G Power for $ 250. For a phone that will last longer, perform better, and take better photos along the way, you can access the phone Google Pixel 4a.

How long it will take?

The Moto G Play should be in use for two years given its plastic construction. It's not water-resistant, so you'll need to keep it dry, and you should expect it to get seriously sluggish by the end of those two years.

Should you buy it?

Yes, but only if your budget is no more than $ 200. For $ 250, you get a Moto G Power that performs better in every way.

Editor's recommendations




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