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



12 Nov
Blog

Sony Xperia 5 II Review: A Compact Flagship Phone for 2020

Sony Xperia 5 II review shutter

"The Sony Xperia 5 II is just the right size and specification, but the best of features are yet to be exploited and some frustrating omissions make it difficult to recommend."

  • Compact, lightweight design

  • Nice OLED screen

  • Powerful processor

  • Long battery life

  • No wireless charging

  • No. 5G in the US

  • Camera quirks are frustrating

The Sony Xperia 5 II is the compact flagship smartphone that many yearn for. However, to get the most out of this desirable combination of high quality and small packages, you have to work hard and pay a significant price. I've been living with the phone for a few weeks now and it really is.

design

Shiny, glassy and slippery like a well-oiled fish. This is the best way to describe the Xperia 5 II outside of its modest dimensions and light weight. Because of the 8mm thickness and the larger, not wider shape that the 21: 9 aspect ratio screen allows, it's really compact. It weighs only 163 grams and thanks to its slim design, people with small hands can reach the other side of the screen with their thumbs. It slips easily into pockets and pouches, and unfortunately almost any surface it touches.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Xperia 5 II is made of glass with an aluminum frame and glides around with its own mind on anything that is not a perfectly flat surface. For this reason, you also need to hold on because the body does not offer much support. This brings me to the one thing I really don't like about the phone's design – a mass of buttons on the right side.

From top to bottom there's a small volume rocker, then the on / off switch with a built-in fingerprint sensor, then a Google Assistant button and finally a physical camera shutter button. Pick up the Xperia 5 II and it is almost certain that you will press a button. Usually it is the useless Google Assistant that cannot be remapped or simply disabled. A frustrating design decision that gets worse when I don't have the option to use the feature or not.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, but located a little too centrally on the side in my opinion, and I like the physical camera trigger that is placed on the bottom of the frame so as not to intrude. Finding a 3.5mm headphone jack on the top of the frame is great, despite the phone's slimness. I like the pull-out SIM card tray that doesn't require a SIM removal tool, but it doesn't compromise the phone's IP68 waterproof rating.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Sony Xperia 5 II is easy to use, compact enough for everyone, made of high quality materials and is almost the perfect size for a smartphone. You just have to deal with all of the smoothness.

screen

The 21: 9 aspect ratio is great for watching super widescreen movies and contributes to the phone's small size. While there are 21: 9 movies, the reality is that they're a little rarer than 16: 9 videos. This means you are still watching the most with black bars on either side, although there are plenty of games that take advantage of the super widescreen view, including Minecraft, Asphalt 9, and Fortnite.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

However, this is the specification we want for 2020. The OLED screen offers a resolution of 2520 x 1080, a refresh rate of 120 Hz and 10-bit HDR support. It's not the 4K monster adapted for the Xperia 1 II, but under normal circumstances you won't really notice the lower number of pixels. Plus, it has the same creator mode and image enhancement technology as the more expensive phone. I like the look of it and I doubt many would wish they could get the Xperia 1 II instead.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The display is very nice. Dreamy indeed. Carfection's Audi e-Tron Sportback review is sharp and colorful, while Mnet's live version of WJSN Chocomes Hmph! pops off the screen with its electrified, ultra-vibrant colors. Music videos are great on the Xperia 5 II because of its stereo speakers that have loads of volume and a sweet, controlled sound. Sony's dynamic vibration feature adds vibration that matches what is displayed on the screen. It works well because you can adjust the intensity. Keep it low and it's a pleasing added effect.

And if you use the phone vertically, as you do most of the time, that extra screen real estate gives you more content in feeds and messaging apps without scrolling.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

No, the Xperia 5 II doesn't quite match the Xperia 1 II in terms of sheer, astounding visual appeal of a mobile device, but it's arguably all that anyone needs.

camera

There are three 12-megapixel cameras on the back of the Xperia 5 II: a f / 1.7 standard camera, a f / 2.4 telephoto camera, and a f / 2.2 ultrawide camera. Sony worked with Zeiss Optics on the lenses. Features include optical and electronic image stabilization, HDR, 4K video recording, eye tracking, 3x optical zoom and dual-pixel autofocus. It's almost the same setup as the back of the Xperia 1 II, but with a few changes.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Because it's so similar to the Xperia 1 II, it has the same problems. The photos it takes are often beautiful, with excellent balance and dynamics, but it finds it difficult to focus up close and the results can be inconsistent. There is no night mode for super bright night pictures, so pictures in low light are not as noticeable as some other phones, but there is a lot of realism and detail. The 8-megapixel selfie camera washes out skin tone to death in the default settings. So it is advisable to turn off any enhancements before starting there.

Overall, I edit my pictures a lot. It uses the Google Photos editing suite to make them look just right. It's worth it because the Sony camera captures a lot of delicious detail. I didn't get a chance to play with the Xperia 5 II's eye tracking feature due to the lack of living things (thank you 2020) but I've used it in the past and was very impressed. Proper focus of the eye is critical to accurately capturing portraits. Only a few other telephones have this feature.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Sony sells the Xperia cameras because of their Photo Pro and Cinema Pro apps, which have been tweaked by Sony's experienced camera and cinema teams and are essentially pimped-up manual modes. If you regularly use manual mode for your smartphone's camera, you will appreciate the depth and versatility of each one, and be able to use it to create stunning stills and videos. However, if you've never touched manual mode and are unfamiliar with the principles of shutter speed, white balance, ISO, and manual focus, the learning curve is very steep.

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  • 1.
    The Cinema Pro app from Sony
  • 2.
    Sony's Photo Pro app

It sounds like I'm on the Xperia 5 II's camera, but I'm not really. It's just frustrating. Some wonderfully atmospheric photos with beautiful colors can be taken. I like the combination of ultrawide and telephoto, and the physical camera shutter is a great tactile, ergonomic addition. But it's inconsistent, sometimes outperformed by other cameras on phones that cost less, and places too much emphasis on features beyond many potential owners.

The Sony camera of the Xperia 5 II and Xperia 1 II has everything you need to take wonderful photos. Unlike the Pixel 5 or iPhone 12 Pro, however, this doesn't just happen by pressing the shutter button. If this sounds like something you like and you want to learn more about the mechanics of photography, you will appreciate the Sony phone more.

Software and performance

No performance issues were found when using the Xperia 5 II as a daily phone. It's as fast as you'd expect from a phone with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, along with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Asphalt 9 Legends plays great and also makes use of the screen with an aspect ratio of 21: 9. The lightness of the phone makes it great for long games and movie sessions.

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Sony's user interface with Android 10 is unobtrusive and the software is fast and reliable. Various non-Sony apps are preinstalled, including LinkedIn, which annoy you with annoying notifications and make manual uninstallation difficult. The large screen takes a bit of getting used to once you've viewed a screen with a wider aspect ratio. Icons can appear tightly grouped, and scrolling apps like Twitter and Instagram feel limited at first, but the ergonomic benefits that the shape brings will soon be felt.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

I experienced some problems with the WiFi range and cellular connection. The Xperia 5 II dropped its signal more often than other phones I tested, and it lacks the Wi-Fi range of other models, including the Pixel 5 and iPhone 12 Pro. Calls are good, but it's easy to cover the microphone on the bottom of the phone with your finger, and the front camera retains the faded look that can be seen in their selfies on video calls.

The phone supports 5G in the UK but not in the US. While 5G isn't a reason to buy a phone right now, it does matter later and should be considered when purchasing an expensive device. It is also unfortunate that the phone still has Android 10 instead of Android 11 and there is also no confirmed date for the software update.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The 4,000 mAh battery has proven to be very powerful and easily lasts me a full day, with average screen time per day being between two and four hours. The battery performance of the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE that I had used before was very similar. Long days ended up about 30%. Without video calls, the battery should last two days without any problems.

Unfortunately, there is no wireless charging, and while it supports fast wired charging at 21 watts, you get an 18 W charger in the box. If you already have the higher powered charger, it will be reduced to 50% in 30 minutes. If not, allow at least 45 minutes. However, I like the adaptive charge mode that manages overnight charge cycles to help extend battery life.

Price and availability

The The Sony Xperia 5 II can be pre-ordered in the US. before a December 3 release for $ 949 (it's already discounted to $ 900). It is available now in the UK for £ 799.

Our opinion

If you like Sony's 21: 9 aspect ratio and design, and really should, the Xperia 5 II is the model to buy compared to the Xperia 1 II. It does almost everything for $ 250 less. The screen, battery life, build, and compact size are impressive, although you will have to put some effort into making the most of the camera's talents.

I like the quirky Xperia 5 II, but realize that there are better purchases for the same price or less. It's definitely part of an extinct breed: a really high quality flagship compact phone.

Are there any better alternatives?

Yes. At $ 949, the Xperia 5 II has a lot of competition despite its high specification. The $ 900 OnePlus 8 Pro is our pick of Android alternatives because of the great software and screen, while the $ 1,000 iPhone 12 Pro is a great alternative and has great software, camera, and design. The Galaxy S20 Plus is now available for roughly the same price. If you're happy with the plastic back, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is great value for money at $ 699.

All of these phones are bigger than the Xperia 5 II, however. If you're looking for a brilliant point-and-shoot camera in a compact smartphone, the $ 699 Google Pixel 5 is our pick.

How long it will take?

The technology ensures that the Xperia 5 II has at least a two-year contract or financing plan on before it can possibly feel old. The lack of 5G can lead you to update around this time anyway. The phone is made of glass, but has an IP68 rating and should therefore prove to be relatively durable in a housing.

Sony has been frustratingly dull about its Android software update schedule. It told Digital Trends that it committed to providing regular and timely updates when we asked about Android 11 on the Xperia 1 II, but without providing any specific dates. It's similarly unclear for the Xperia 5 II. Then expect an update, but just be patient.

Should you buy it?

No, there are better phones with a generally accessible camera for the same price. And the lack of 5G in the US hurts its longevity. However, in the UK this is a better option due to the slightly better price and 5G support.

Editor's recommendations




05 Nov
Blog

DJI Mini 2 Review: Same Compact Size, More Confidence Flying

"Don't be fooled by its small size, the DJI Mini 2 is safe to fly and offers 4K video recording."

  • Proper 4K video recording

  • Manages windy conditions

  • Stable connection with OcuSync 2.0

  • Ridiculously compact size

  • An obstacle avoidance sensor is missing

  • Terrible performance in low light

I thought DJI was through with the announcements for the year. After the launch of the DJI Mavic Air 2 and Pocket 2, it seemed unlikely that we would hear anything else from the drone maker in 2020, but it turns out that there is one final exciting product for consumers before the holidays. And yes, it's another drone!

Drones are usually not updated annually, so the announcement of the DJI Mini 2 is surprising. The lightweight drone continues to fly under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) radar due to its weight of 249 grams, making it ideal for beginners as no registration is required. More importantly, however, it fixes some of the shortcomings of the predecessor right away.

More freedom of movement with 4K video

At a time when 4K video recording is standard on smartphones and cameras, it was a disappointment that the Mavic Mini peaked last year at 2.7K resolution. Well, this is the first item on the Mini 2's list that has proper 4K video recording. While the frame rate at 4K is 30 frames per second (FPS), DJI has increased the bit rate from 40 Mbit / s on the Mavic Mini to 100 Mbit / s on the Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2 camera close-upJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

What is that supposed to mean? I'm particularly happy with the extra resolution as it gives me extra wiggle room in the post – for example, cropping and cropping a scene when I export it in 1080p. For those watching videos and clips on 4K screens, the 4K resolution means there is no need to upscale this time around.

Details are plentiful and clear as expected, but best results are achieved during the day and afternoon when there is ample light. Colors have an even, neutral tone – never too saturated to work in the post. However, performance crumbles as the sun goes down and often appears cloudy, dark, and unusable unless the scene contains strong light sources. This is partly because nothing changes on the sensor, a 12-megapixel 1 / 2.3-inch sensor that sits on a 3-axis gimbal.

DJI Mini 2 in the air

Dynamic range performance isn't up to the level I've got with the Mavic Air 2, but some tweaks in the post can highlight details that are otherwise lost in the shadows. Photographers will appreciate the Mini 2's performance for still image capture, but just like video, it has problems with low light and low dynamics.

OcuSync 2.0 offers security

If you've ever piloted the Mavic Mini, you know how prone to interference video transmission can be. It's annoying for sure, but also scary if it takes longer. Fortunately, the DJI Mini 2 alleviates concerns thanks to DJI's OcuSync 2.0 transmission technology. The controller is an exact facsimile of the Mavic Air 2. It's bigger, but I like the way my smartphone is held on top of the controller – as opposed to the floor on the Mavic Mini's controller.

The connectivity between the drone and the controller offers more reliability.

With OcuSync 2.0, the connectivity between drone and controller becomes more reliable. In fact, live video rarely stuttered during my flights. And even though I managed to increase the distance from my location to over 1,000 feet, DJI says it is capable of a range of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). There's nothing worse than latency issues when piloting a drone. This ensures that OcuSync 2.0 gives me more responsive controls on the Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2 OcySync 2.0 controllerJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

One of my biggest concerns about flying the Mavic Mini is reducing its range further as it may interfere with video transmission. There is none of this in the Mini 2.

Fly against the wind

Flying in windy conditions is always risky, but it's deeper when you're dealing with a lightweight drone like the Mavic Mini. I can't tell you how many times I stopped flying due to windy conditions. There are also several videos online of owners reacting to this and floating away from their location due to high winds. Although I'm still cautious, the DJI Mini 2 can handle the wind a lot better.

On the first day of the Mini 2's flight, winds were blowing at 17 miles per hour on the Jersey Shore. Fortunately, DJI upgraded the engines in the Mini 2 to better withstand wind speeds of up to 40 km / h. I have always canceled flights with the Mavic Mini in the past when the wind hit 12 mph. In the air, it's clear that the Mini 2 worked hard to maintain stability, and while it looked like it was rattling around, the video footage stayed buttery smooth.

DJI Mini 2 in the airJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

To really test its performance, I decided to see how it handles flying against the wind. Terrifyingly, it went like a champion – even in normal mode. Switching to sport mode increases performance, making it easy to break through the wind. Its top speed still reaches a top speed of 22 km / h, but accelerating from a floating position shows that the engines are more powerful.

Are you concerned that these upgraded engines will give you a shorter flight time? You don't need to worry as the battery life has been increased to 31 minutes, which is a minute better than its predecessor. Unfortunately the Mini 2 uses a different type of battery so you cannot use existing packs of the Mavic Mini.

Some things that could be better

I must confess that the Mavic Air 2 spoiled me, especially the improved HDR recording, 4K 60 FPS recording, 8K Hyperlapse and Asteroid Quickshot mode. To be fair, the Mini 2 offers some nice footage that controls the drone autonomously for me – like drone, boomerang, and circle quickshot modes. The only area that is still severely lacking in the Mini 2 is avoiding obstacles. The Mavic Air 2 has various sensors on its body to detect obstacles so it can stop in mid-flight and try to avoid them. You don't get any of this with the Mini 2, which means I need to know my surroundings at all times – plus the line of sight distance required.

It's the ideal starter drone.

There is also no automatic tracking mode that would allow the Mini 2 to follow me. As a result, manual piloting with the controller is still the main method for capturing footage. It's not a terrible thing, but if you were pampered by the Mavic Air 2's Active Track 3.0 system, I wouldn't mind following me while cycling around a lake without the fear of it colliding with something.

There have also been a couple of times the DJI Fly app crashed on me while flying the drone. I suspect this is because it isn't the final software, but luckily I restarted it and got back to where I left off.

DJI Mini 2 Fly More ComboJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Our opinion

There are many reasons to choose the DJI Mini 2, especially if you are a first-time drone pilot or an enthusiast. At $ 449, this is an easy recommendation over the $ 400 Mavic Mini. I would recommend buying the $ 599 Fly More Combo instead as it has some extras that make it a sound package.

Not only does it come with three batteries, a charging station, and extra propellers, but I prefer it over the Fly More Combo that included last year's Mavic Mini as it comes with a suitable carry case (including a shoulder strap) and propeller protection wraps around the drone.

Is the Mini 2 perfect? Not exactly, but it's still an amazing tiny drone that doesn't require FAA registration due to its weight of 249 grams. The addition of 4K footage makes it a competent gamer in space, but what really makes this offering superior to its predecessor is the confidence in flying – thanks to OcuSync 2.0 and the improved motors. Flying with confidence is always a good thing and the Mini 2 reassures me of this with its responsiveness.

How long it will take?

The same all-plastic construction can still be seen here, which certainly makes it feel a bit fragile. I don't expect it to handle crashes that well, so flying carefully is essential. You should also pack it extra carefully as it will feel fragile.

You can buy a DJI Care Refresh with the Mini 2 from a cos. Due to water damage and collisions, up to two replacement devices will be made available within a year.

Is there a better alternative?

For this price? Not really. However, when you're ready to spend more, you can get the DJI Mavic Air 2 is the all-round drone for all levels thanks to its safety functions, excellent photo / video performance and advanced tracking system. But at $ 799, you pay almost double to pick it up.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It's an absolute steal considering how easy it is to pilot, plus the 4K video recording, the cinematic quick-shoot options, and the compact size. In contrast to before, I have more confidence when flying thanks to OcuSync 2.0 and its improved motors. It is the ideal starter drone for those who want to improve their game beyond flying for fun.

Editor's recommendations




24 Oct
Blog

Google Pixel 5 Review: Google’s Best in a Compact Package

Google Pixel 5 review up front

Google Pixel 5 Review: Google's Best Technology Grouped for Simplicity

"The Pixel 5 is the best of Google's software and hardware capabilities. It is packaged in a compact, lightweight, but slightly dull-looking body."

  • Compact and light

  • Detailed 90Hz screen

  • High performance camera

  • Two days of battery life

  • Boring design

  • I miss that weird Google feature

I'm all for getting rid of gimmicks on smartphones, firstly to lower the price, and secondly because not everyone uses these "functions" very often. So I was pretty excited about that Pixel 5which focuses on the camera, battery life, software, and most importantly this year, price.

I've been using the Pixel 5 for a while and the frustrating thing is that Google has gone a little too far in their normalization efforts. Gone are the quirks that made old Pixels warm, and while the camera is still a winner, it hasn't advanced the game as much as Pixel 4. I'm a bit ahead here, so let's get into the details.

Hardware and design

Google has never been one to give the Pixel a wild design, but it's very good at making a reasonably sized phone and the Pixel 5 is spot on. The metal body is welcome as it is warm to the touch, not covered with fingerprints, and should also be durable. The nicely rounded sides make it easy to grab and hold, and the 8mm overall size and thickness – similar to other well-proportioned phones like the iPhone 11 Pro – is spot on. At just 151 grams, it's also surprisingly light.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

All of this makes it very easy to live with, and the Pixel 5 will appeal to anyone who thinks many recently released phones are too big. Most competing Android phones are much larger, and only the iPhone 11 Pro comes close to the Pixel 5's perfectly judged dimensions. By removing some of the quirky features from previous Pixel phones, Google decided on a phone that was sized just right. And with a slightly larger screen than the Pixel 4, you'll never feel overwhelmed while watching videos or playing games.

However, it's impossible to be delighted with the way the Pixel 5 looks, especially when you buy the black one. It's an understatement to the point of invisibility and doesn't really have the all-important premium air. The fingerprint sensor is a good example of this. It's on the back rather than under the screen, so it works very well, but it also ages the design of the device. It's annoying that it isn't backed up with a secure face-unlocking system like the Pixel 4 did. There's actually no face unlock at all.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The side buttons are made of metal but feel just as clicky as the plastic buttons on the Pixel 4a, which is almost half the price. That's great for the Pixel 4a, but not so good for the Pixel 5. There really isn't much else to say about the design. This is an important indication that Google's simplification efforts have gone too far. Without a fun experimental Google feature on board, like the Pixel 4's squeezable sides, the Pixel 5 is a bit bland on the surface. Your best bet is to look for the Sorta Sage color (also known as green) which gives the phone some character.

Screen and audio

The 6-inch OLED screen has a refresh rate of 90 Hz and a resolution of 2340 x 1080, is covered with Gorilla Glass 6 and supports HDR10 +. It's bigger than the Pixel 4 and 4a screens, but not as big as the Pixel 4 XL or 4a 5G. Google's decision to remove the sensors required for Soli gesture controls and infrared face unlocking means that the large bezels of Pixel 4 have disappeared, resulting in minimal bezels of a uniform size for Pixel 5. The selfie camera is located in a hole cutout.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

If you've never used a 90Hz refresh rate phone, it's time to pamper yourself. It's definitely more easy on the eyes than a phone with a 60Hz screen, which leads to less fatigue. Combined with the slickness of Android 11, it makes scrolling through Twitter, Chrome, and other apps very enjoyable.

It's a beauty too. It's bright and detailed, but cooler than the Galaxy S20 FE and with less saturation. Carfection's Aston Martin Vantage Roadster test highlights these differences: The silver car looks significantly more silver on the Pixel than on the Samsung phone, while the blue sky is more pronounced on the Galaxy phone. It's similar with the OnePlus 8T, but contrast the Pixel 5 with the cheaper Pixel 4a and the performance is barely distinguishable.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The speakers are decent, but they lack a bit in both volume and bass, and they can't compete with the rounded, deeper sound of the OnePlus 8T and Galaxy S20 FE. Most importantly, the Pixel 5's screen, while attractive, is no better than the competition. Since the speakers are a bit weak, the OnePlus 8T and Galaxy S20 FE offer a better video experience.

Cameras

The main camera on the Pixel 5 is the same 12.2-megapixel, f / 1.7-aperture, phase-detection autofocus (PDAF), and optical image stabilization (OIS) camera found on the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4. One second, the wide-angle camera with an aperture of 16 MP f / 2.2 connects it to the Pixel 5, and it can also be found with the Pixel 4a 5G, but the Pixel 5 doesn't have the telephoto camera of the Pixel 4 – one Switch that Pixel fans asked for last year.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The physical cameras are only part of the story, and Google's computer photography is the star. According to Google, the software for the new phone has been seriously updated so that it can use the same sensor as before. There are a few new features, including Night Sight portraits and new portrait editing features.

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google pixel 5 review edited portrait "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn4.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/pixel-5-edited-portrait-640x640.jpg " srcset = "https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Pixel 5 color edited portrait image

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Let's talk about this first as this is a good demonstration of Google's software capabilities. Portraits can be edited extensively. You can adjust the background blur, remove the background color, and convert the entire image to black and white. This is done with the push of a button, and you can also fine-tune the blur, depth, and color. All of this works whether you're taking portraits with the rear or front camera. There is a special mode to adjust the light source with portrait selfies. See above for examples of what is possible. It's really fun, very effective, and quite easy to use.

That generally sums up the Pixel 5's camera very well. It's really a great point-and-shoot process as you can be sure that no matter the setting or conditions, a great photo will be captured. That simplicity and ability is addicting and fun to snap a lot of pictures just to see what you can get. The wide angle offers versatility and opportunity for dramatic shots, but some will miss the telephoto lens. Unfortunately, Google is not ready to please everyone by including both.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Pixel 5's camera is brilliant, but it's not a huge generation leap over the Pixel 4, and not only does the much cheaper Pixel 4a take basically the same great photos, but the competition has caught up with Google on the software side. Samsung's cameras are consistent these days, but it's the camera on the Apple iPhone 12 and 12 Mini that Google should be most concerned about, as the hardware surrounding the camera is more desirable than the Pixel 5's – and the prices are similar are.

Performance and software

On paper, the Pixel 5 isn't a "flagship" as it uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor rather than the Snapdragon 865 or 865 Plus. This is another way to bring the price down. Unless you're obsessed with a spec sheet, it's not a massive deal. I consider myself a normal user, using the camera, using social apps, making video and voice calls, playing a few games, watching videos, and keeping up with work items.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

It does all of these tasks without interruption – and without the feeling of being under-challenged. Play Asphalt 9 Legends and it's every bit as impressive and fluid on the Pixel 5 as it is on the OnePlus 8T. If anything, there are times when the Pixel 5 runs smoother than some more powerful phones, such as B. when the screen in YouTube is rotated from portrait to landscape and vice versa. Much of this is due to Android 11, the latest version of Google's software. This is an advantage that Pixel 5 has over the competition.

Android 11 on the Pixel 5 (and the Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, and Pixel 4a 5G) could be called boring, as might the design, but the dullness is its strong point. There is no garnish or additional branded apps, just fast, smooth, and simple software. However, I have encountered a few issues with my phone that have proven frustrating.

The first problem was an intermittent bug with the microphone where it would not activate, preventing callers from hearing me and my voice messages being mute. The problem is resolved by turning the phone off and then on again. However, you won't know when the problem occurs until it's too late. My Pixel 5 cleared my WiFi signal more than other phones and consistently has one less reception bar for both WiFi and cellular connections. Maybe this has to do with the metal body.

The front desk issue isn't a deal breaker, but something to consider if you already live in an area with poor reception. It should be noted that the Pixel 5 naturally has 5G, which also opens up new network possibilities. The microphone problem might only be a problem with my phone. After notifying Google before it posted here, I'm expecting a replacement checking model to see if the problem persists. This issue has not yet affected the phone's score.

battery

Battery life is one of the biggest improvements over the Pixel 4. My phone lasted a day with normal use without any problems, and if I turn it off overnight it will last most of the second day as well. After the sad Pixel 4, this is very welcome. It's also conservative on the power supply: with light use on a busy day where I ignored my phone, the battery was still over 80% at 4:00 p.m.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The phone comes with an 18 watt wired charger and supports wireless charging. This is a clever trick considering that the body of the phone is made of metal. Google cut a hole in the back and filled it with a resin that is visually indistinguishable from the rest of the body. Place another device on the back of the Pixel 5 and the battery will wirelessly charge with its own power. This worked with my iPhone 11 Pro, but unfortunately not with my Sony WF-1000XM3 headphones. These reverse wireless charging systems can all be a bit fussy.

Price and availability

The Google Pixel 5 is priced at $ 699 or £ 599. It is available in a version with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage space and is available now Google, Amazon and other retailers. It supports 5G, provided you are in an area with network coverage and have the correct carrier plan. Pixel 5 in the US also has mmWave 5G support for the Verizon network (and increasingly for T-Mobile and AT&T).

Our opinion

When you buy the Pixel 5, you get a well-proportioned phone with a beautiful screen, great camera, fast performance, and easy-to-use software. What else do you need? Not much, technically, but it would be nice to look at the Pixel 5 and feel something, rather than just ambivalence.

Is there a better alternative?

There are several great alternatives to the Pixel 5. The main challengers are the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and the OnePlus 8T. Both use the Snapdragon 865 processor and high quality designs, and while the cameras aren't quite as good as the Pixel's, most people will find them perfectly decent.

The Apple iPhone 12 is emerging as a definite challenger, and the upcoming iPhone 12 Mini can take over the Pixel 5 too. Perhaps the best alternative, however, is the Pixel 4a 5G, which can do almost everything the Pixel 5 can, but for $ 200 less at $ 499. If you're not worried about the wide-angle camera or 5G, the $ 349 Pixel 4a is excellent too.

How long it will take?

The Pixel 5 is an excellent long term smartphone purchase. The conservative look means it will never look more dated than it does now. It offers 5G for the future as well as a two-year guarantee for important Android software updates. It is IP68 waterproof and the metal case is more sturdy than a glass phone. Google also has some attractive cases to complement the Pixel 5. There's no reason the phone won't serve you well for two to three years.

Should you buy one?

Yes, the Pixel 5 is Google's top smartphone of 2020 and while it doesn't look all that exciting, it has the best of Google's software and hardware capabilities at an affordable price.

Editor's recommendations




26 Sep
Blog

Yamaha SR-C20A Review: Clear Sound In a Compact Package

Yamaha C20A soundbar

"The SR-C20A is the bar that Yamaha wanted, but it lacks the low-end sound."

  • Compact, stylish design

  • Easy adjustment

  • Exceptionally clear sound

This year we've seen a lot of sound bars that made it big. The LG SN11RG was a cinema giant, and the Samsung HW-Q800T was a big, powerful device in itself. However, some selected bars went in the opposite direction, such as the Panasonic SoundSlayer and the Zvox AV157. These little bars still charge full size pricing, with both retailing for $ 300.

Yamaha is breaking that mold with its $ 180 SR-C20A. The C20A is wider than the competing soundbars, but not much taller and significantly cheaper. The compact bar is designed to produce a big sound in the smallest of spaces, which has led Yamaha to promote it as a soundbar that extends beyond the living room.

design

The Yamaha experts told me that while they were working on their latest line of soundbars, they obtained information from current Yamaha soundbar owners. According to Yamaha, they found that many owners of these bars were not using them as part of a traditional living room theater setup. Instead, Yamaha bars were found all over the home, from the bedroom to the office, and often placed in narrow spaces that were sometimes unsuitable for larger bars.

Yamaha C20A soundbarNick Woodard / Digital Trends

With that information, Yamaha made the C20A, which is a little over 23 inches wide by approximately 2.5 inches and weighs only 3.9 pounds. In comparison, the company's SR-B20A is 35 inches long and 7.1 pounds, with the older YAS-109 having similar dimensions. However, this isn't the smallest bar out there. Both the Panasonic SoundSlayer and the Zvox AV157 are only 17 inches wide, with the latter weighing just 2.8 pounds.

While the C20A looks petite and undersized with a 65-inch television – or perhaps a 100-inch projection screen – its remarkably compact footprint offers the bar a great deal of versatility in terms of uses. Since the bar is getting the same sleek redesign as the larger B20A, I have to say I'm a fan of the way it's built.

Since the bar is getting the same sleek redesign as the larger B20A, I have to say I'm a fan of the way it's built.

Under the hood of the C20A are two drivers for the front left and right channels, a built-in subwoofer driver, and two passive coolers. The goal here, Yamaha told me, was to put the greatest possible sound in the smallest possible bar. I'll break it down completely later, but if you think there is no way there is no way to build such a small soundbar without making audio concessions, you wouldn't be wrong.

configuration

WLAN cannot be configured with the C20A and a wireless subwoofer cannot be supplied. The device is very simple. It contains a remote control supplied as well as an optical cable to connect the bar to your display. Because of this simplicity, there are no hidden complications or problems with setting up. Most all-in-one bars offer this simplicity, so this is nothing new. However, instantly improving your TV's sound in less than five minutes is always a nice benefit.

Yamaha C20A soundbar with remote controlNick Woodard / Digital Trends

As a not entirely critical but very helpful additional step in the setup process, I would recommend downloading the Yamaha Soundbar Remote App. The physical remote works just fine and the remote app generally has no other functionality. However, there is a volume control that will tell you exactly how loud your bar is. It's also easier to tell when to use the soundbar's ClearVoice and bass enhancement features.

links

The C20A has an interesting number of connections. It only has one HDMI-ARC port, and I have conflicting thoughts about it. Since this bar was built to be compatible with several different setups, I can understand why it doesn't have the extra ports that could be beneficial for a theater soundbar.

If part of the utility of this bar includes integration with a gaming station, as Yamaha suggests, an additional HDMI port would be just as necessary, if not more, than if the C20A was primarily intended for a living room. The Panasonic SoundSlayer, which unlike the Yamaha, outwardly calls itself a gaming soundbar, has a corresponding HDMI input and output to better support combat stations, although it is priced at $ 300.

Yamaha C20A soundbarNick Woodard / Digital Trends

In addition to the HDMI connection, there are two digital optical inputs, an analog audio connection and a USB input, which are only intended for firmware updates. In particular, the C20A lacks the subwoofer output found in the larger Yamaha B20A. This means that you don't have the option of adding a separate powered sub and that the output of the beam itself gets stuck.

The B20A has a bluetooth multipoint that allows you to connect to two different devices at the same time.

The B20A has bluetooth multipoint so you can connect to two devices at the same time. For example, this could mean two different phones that multiple members of the same household can use to play their own music. Or it could be your phone and an Amazon Alexa device, giving your Dot, Flex, or other Echo device the ability to broadcast through the C20A's far more powerful drivers. I've reported that I'd prefer the Yamaha YAS-109's built-in Alexa compatibility, but I don't think Alexa over Bluetooth is a bad way to go.

Sound quality

In order to properly characterize the sound of the C20A, I think it is important to consider the environment for which it was designed. In contrast to the DTS Virtual: X-capable B20A, it was not specially developed as a home theater solution. There's no rule that says you can't incorporate the C20A into your living room, and I imagine some people will just do it because of its minimalist aesthetic. In all of the press materials provided by the company, however, Yamaha is not afraid to emphasize that the C20A is a bar that can go beyond normal living space.

Yamaha C20A soundbarNick Woodard / Digital Trends

I actually agree with the marketing and outside of the living room I think the audio profile of the C20A makes the most sense. It produces a very clear sound and is ideal for acoustically oriented music. Basically, I really enjoyed hearing the C20A when a song didn't need a substantial bass backbone to sound like it should.

I think it works in a smaller space like a bedroom too, where Yamaha's ClearVoice technology can help you hear every clever line from New Girl, even at a lower volume. The company also markets the C20A as small enough to slide under a monitor, enhancing gaming audio. The gaming preset of the C20A provided a more intense sound experience during the game.

When a song didn't need a solid bass backbone to sound like it should, I really enjoyed hearing the C20A.

In these applications – in a bedroom, as part of a gaming setup, or in a smaller room where you want to hear more detailed music – I think the C20A is excellent.

However, if you expect the C20A to effectively fill a living room, the limitations of this bar show up.

The sound is still clear, to be fair, and it gets loud for the package it comes in. But as much as Yamaha has tried to pack bass in the tightest of spaces with passive radiators, the C20A just can't fill the low end of the frequency range enough to provide a great movie viewing experience. As a Marvel nut, I tried the original Avengers (2012) with the C20A. The most challenging scenes, from Bruce Banner slamming his fists against a table to intimidate Natasha Romanoff (and the audience), to the epic Iron Man versus Thor clash in the woods, lacked the power that normally drives them.

While the remote's bass expansion button makes a difference, the C20A is too low on bass to correct things completely. That doesn't mean that I think less about this bar. It effectively serves its mission of being smaller, and it sounds great in small spaces. But I can't help but believe it's in some strange soundbar limbo. For a small soundbar, it is significantly cheaper than the US $ 300 Panasonic SoundSlayer or the US $ 300 Zvox AV157. However, each of these soundbars has been designed to achieve specific goals. The SoundSlayer has positioned itself as a game-specific solution, and Zvox has mainly designed its bar to make dialog easier to hear.

The C20A didn't choose a lane of its own to stay on and instead does several things well instead of doing one thing great. While that's not necessarily a bad way to go, the main thing that sets this soundbar apart from the better-sounding B20A is its size. Unless you really need something that small and are paying an extra $ 20 for enhanced bass, DTS Virtual: X and a subwoofer out seems like a natural way to go.

Our opinion

The SR-C20A is the soundbar Yamaha designed it for – a compact bar that fits into tons of nooks and crannies of a modern home – and it deserves praise for it. At the same time, it comes at the expense of the low-end range needed as a compelling solution for movies, while the costs and features too closely mimic their more powerful cousins.

Are there any better alternatives?

For $ 200, the Yamaha SR-B20A is a better option for larger spaces, but it doesn't offer the luxury of compact versatility that the C20A prides itself on. Off-brand, Vizio's V-Series 2.1 bar costs the identical $ 180 and comes with a wireless subwoofer that will almost certainly solve any problems you've had with the C20A. With a compact size and clear audio. along with a better balance for music. What matters to you, you must be willing to spend $ 300 on the Zvox AV157 which is a significant price increase.

How long it will take?

The SR-C20A is light enough to throw around, but I wouldn't recommend doing so. It feels like a sturdy product though, with connections that aren't exactly state of the art, but don't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.

Should you buy it?

That is a difficult question. If you need clear sound and strong vocals in a smaller space in your house, the C20A is a solid, somewhat expensive option. However, if you're hoping to find an all-in-one bar for movies and TV in your cavernous living room, I'd spend the extra buck on the B20A.

Editor's recommendations




31 May
Blog

LG SN11RG Soundbar Review: A Compact Cinematic Experience

LG SN11RG soundbar

"The LG SN11RG combines cinematic performance on the footprint of a soundbar."

  • Easy setup

  • Sleek design

  • Immersive audio experience

  • Handy Google Assistant

LG John Hammond from Jurassic Park drew our attention to us when building his new soundbar. That means they have spared no expense.

The new SN11RG soundbar from LG is a full 7.1.4 system with Hi-Res audio and Dolby Atmos support as well as other amenities such as the integrated Google Assistant and HDMI eARC. It's also $ 1,700. Let us find out whether the numerous functions of this bar compensate for the price.

design

The important things first. The SN11RG is long due to the lack of a more appropriate word. With a width of almost 57 inches, the Samsung HW-Q90R is nine inches larger, which is not a pipsqueak itself. In other words, you want to make sure you have a media stand that can hold this large bar. It's 2.5 inches thin and not overly heavy at 15.9 pounds, but the sheer width of the bar made it a bit of a nuisance when moving to access the rear ports.

LG SN11RG soundbarNick Woodard

However, big is not all bad, especially when the bar is as elegant and extravagant as the SN11RG. You don't necessarily want your soundbar to showcase your actual display. If you are someone who is on the market for such a setup, this is probably not a problem. For example, if you're a reviewer who combines the bar with a lower-end 4K TV, the difference in aesthetics is noticeable.

The control panel has a number of controls, including an on / off button, a function selection button, volume controls and playback controls, and two buttons for interacting with the soundbar's built-in Google Assistant support. They're handy for having them right at the bar if need be, but I've mainly used the associated remote or mobile app, which I'll access shortly.

The wireless rear speakers and subwoofer that round off the system are housed in solid black housings that outshine the satellites and woofers of the Vizio 5.1 system that I discussed earlier. However, compared to their more direct competitors, they are right in the stadium. You can still stow this submarine with little effort, and finding quarters for the rear speakers was no problem.

LG is relatively limited to specifications for the actual drivers in the system. Of course, the soundbar has high-powered drivers to add channels for the front height, while the rear speakers are equipped with high-firing drivers to restore the rear heights.

To install

An important selling point of most soundbar systems is the possibility of building the entire ensemble far more economically than a traditional home theater system. Since there are no A / V receivers and no long speaker cables, sound bars are generally more accessible to the ordinary listener to get them up and running.

LG SN11RG soundbarNick Woodard / Digital Trends

LG took this rule of thumb and optimized it. Commissioning your SN11RG starts with a three-step process that corresponds to the restrictions of an index card: Connect the soundbar to the power supply, download the Google Home app and set up your Wi-Fi connection. From there, you can stream music as you set up the rest of the system.

The rest of the process is just as simple. You need a connection between the soundbar and the TV. LG offers you HDMI and optical audio options. Both work, but note that optical audio connections don't support Dolby Atmos. If you go this route, you are limited to standard surround sound.

Both the subwoofer and the rear speakers are designed to automatically connect to the soundbar when connected to the power supply. However, LG has a failover in its manual if for some reason it doesn't. After taking the time to carefully unpack the individually packaged components, I connected the entire system in less than 10 minutes.

For me, the best benefit of the setup process is that the rear speakers don't have to be wired to the subwoofer, a common theme in other systems I've dealt with. This allows the subwoofer to be placed where it sounds best in your listening room, rather than being banished to the surroundings in the back of the room. You can even do classic sub-crawling, where you put the sub in your normal listening position and literally crawl around the room to see where it can perform best.

The same applies to the rear speakers, although they are somewhat limited by short power cables (5 feet). It wasn't a problem for me, but all I know is that you need a socket or two nearby.

LG also includes wall mounts for the soundbar and rear speakers, which is a cute addition. However, I have not touched them for the purposes of this review.

The "LG Wi-FI Speaker" app is an important part of the setup puzzle. It not only serves as an additional remote control if you have lost yours – or if it is sitting on your coffee table and you are too comfortable / lazy to reach for it. It is also your ticket to the operation of LG's A.I. Room calibration function that measures the room acoustics and adjusts your system accordingly. I will learn more about it later.

links

The connection will be a problem for some as the SN11RG only has a pair of HDMI HDCP 2.3 inputs. The home theater consumer nowadays has several devices to connect, including everything from 4K Blu-ray players to streaming devices like Rocus or Apple TVs to game consoles like a Nintendo Switch, which means that two HDMI inputs simply don't work seem to be sufficient for a soundbar that will surely weigh on your wallet.

LG SN11RG subwooferNick Woodard / Digital Trends

This can now be fixed easily if your TV has several available HDMI connections. However, if for some reason you have an older model (e.g. a Sony 65-inch 850E series display from 2017) that does not support Dolby Atmos playback, your only workaround is to connect your devices directly to it Connect the soundbar and run a cable from the soundbar's HDMI eARC output to your TV. In this case, the limited number of entries becomes a painful obstacle.

For reference, my personal Marantz SR5012 A / V receiver has seven HDMI inputs and was sold for $ 1,000 when it first came on the market. Admittedly, these are very different devices and it is not realistic to expect a soundbar to have seven inputs. The modern soundbar, especially one that costs $ 1,700, should be able to meet these connectivity requirements in a similar way.

There is also a USB port and an optical input on the back of the SN11RG. However, as I mentioned, you cannot get Dolby Atmos playback using optical playback. This type of connection simply cannot handle the data volume in more advanced audio formats, which means that you limit yourself to simpler surround sound formats like Dolby Digital 5.1.

Intelligent functions

Google plays a big role in the intelligent functions of the SN11RG, since both Google Assistant and Google Chromecast are integrated.

LG SN11RG soundbar remote controlNick Woodard / Digital Trends

Since I'm the Smart Assistant junkie, I've used Google Assistant most often, with some satisfactory results. Coming home and quickly immersing yourself in the music was as easy as asking Google, and changing titles while music was pumping through the soundbar was just as painless. The microphones built into the soundbar also recorded my voice well during music playback.

Even if my normal home theater setup is set up according to my wishes, I still have to do a few steps before I can order my Amazon Echo Dot to start playback on my receiver. Using the integrated assistant of the SN11RG was much faster, which is a kind of goal here.

When you're tired of repeating Google Assistant wake-up words, there's a button on both the remote and soundbar that you can use to access them. The soundbar also supports group play mode via Chromecast, although unfortunately I lacked the additional Chromecast-enabled speakers to try. After all, living from home has some shortcomings.

Sound quality

If the simple setup and sleek design were LG's raptors and omnivores, audio quality is the main attraction. It's the Tyrannosaurus Rex, if you allow me to continue referencing a 27-year-old film, and LG must have given it a lot of teeth to show off.

LG SN11RG soundbarNick Woodard / Digital Trends

It's not just Dolby Atmos and DTS: X support – or the vast amount of other supported audio formats – although they play a prominent role. This is the partnership with Meridian Technology, support for 24-bit / 192 kHz audio resolution, Bluetooth 5.0 technology or even LG's AI Sound Pro hardware. Suffice it to say that LG has left no stone unturned to make this soundbar system an absolute audio juggernaut.

After throwing all sorts of content on it for three weeks, I can say the following about the SN11RG: In the world of sound bars, it's this juggernaut.

The music playback provided the crisp, detailed sound you would hope for in such an expensive bar. However, it is the home theater realm where the SN11RG really gets its money's worth, especially when it comes to Atmos.

Auditioning a selection from a Dolby Atmos demo disc was an impressive experience that showed me that LG's drivers weren't a gimmick. There is also a hidden demo mode that was discovered by an early user. If you press "F" on the main unit for 5 seconds, the same demo tracks will be displayed. However, these short clips only made me want something more essential, so I looked through our top Dolby Atmos tips.

I started with Avengers: Infinity War and I could have called it very good here and there. Minutes after the film started, when Hulk raced to the ground and crashed into the Sanctum Sanctorum, I heard everything I needed to know. It is an impressive and entertaining experience to watch films with the SN11RG that plays the show acoustically to the point where I would have looked for a banner-sized hole in my ceiling if I hadn't known better. The subwoofer offers a significant breakthrough as a worthy buddy for the bar itself, and the rear speakers effectively envelop you in every scene.

I said earlier that I was going to A.I. Room calibration, and here we are. Together with the AI ​​Sound Pro from LG, which according to the company uses an adaptive tone control to automatically match the audio with the content, an excellent sound is generated for the set-it-and-leave-it types. If you prefer to tinker with the sound like me, LG allows that too. There are various sound effects for content such as movies and music, with the option to adjust the levels of each part of the system.

The app also has switching options for modes such as Night Time (softens larger sounds, increases dialogue) or Neural: X, with which content is assigned to the corresponding channels. There's even an AV sync option to fix breaks in the continuity between audio and video.

Put the sound in context

However, there is one limitation that may be somewhat unpopular in circles of soundbar enthusiasts. With as much technology and functionality as companies can build into sound bars these days, there is a point at which returns are falling. And it feels like LG has achieved it.

LG SN11RG rear speakerNick Woodard / Digital Trends

The possibility of testing this soundbar with a comparable home theater system also shows this. As pleasant as the sound of the LG SN11RG is, it will always be limited by the limitations of its design. There is no sound stage with a real separation from left and right, the abundance of floorstanding speakers or the swinging lower end of a beefy home theater submarine. As much as LG can try to virtually reproduce this sound – and believe me, it is trying – it just won't be the real deal.

Maybe you think the LG is unfair to you, and maybe you're right. LG appears to be developing this soundbar for a very specific group of consumers, and it is clear that this group will be thrilled with its performance. But get it straight to the point and you'll pay almost $ 2,000 for audio. Classified as a soundbar, it's objectively great sound. But open up the word for other options, and frankly, there are better ways to spend that kind of money. Your decision will depend on what your home theater room supports and whether you are ready to have problems installing a home theater setup with multiple surround speakers.

Our opinion

The LG SN11RG combines cinematic performance on the footprint of a soundbar, but is available at the high price of a complete home theater package.

Is there a better alternative?

The Samsung HW-Q90R, valued at $ 1,700, is likely to be as close in performance to the LG as in price. If you're looking for even more minimalism without sacrificing quality, the Sennheiser Ambeo for $ 2,500 is an option. Just not cheap.

For a Dolby Atmos soundbar that saves you a few dollars, Vizio's 5.1.4 system costs $ 1,000.

How long it will take?

The build quality of the LG SN11RG is exceptional and the hardware is not bad either. This bar should last many movie nights.

Should you buy it

Yes. It's a high price for sound, and you could build a better system with this type of coin. But for anyone looking for great performance in a sound bar and willing to pay for it, the LG SN11RG is the shortlist of premium options.

Editor's recommendations




25 Apr
Blog

Samsung Galaxy S20 Review: It’s Not A Compact Flagship

Samsung Galaxy S20 review hand

"The Galaxy S20 is the smallest S20, but not small enough to be a compact flagship."

  • Nice screen, 120Hz refresh rate

  • The camera takes good photos

  • Slim, light and easy to hold

  • 5G for the future

  • The size does not do justice to the screen

  • Not small enough to be different

The Galaxy S20 is an excellent phone. It is also the smallest member of the Galaxy S20 family. However, Samsung was wrong in not adopting the even smaller 5.8-inch screen size of the Galaxy S10e.

What is the Galaxy S20? It's a brilliantly powerful smartphone that can't differ from the slightly larger Galaxy S20 Plus to reach the underserved crowd that is screaming for a tiny flagship phone. Let's take a closer look at where the Galaxy S20 is successful and where it fails.

design

The Galaxy S20 looks exactly like the Galaxy S20 Plus, only on a slightly smaller scale. It is thin and light with 163 grams and 7.9 mm thickness and is based on an aluminum metal housing with Gorilla Glass 6 front and back. The screen measures 6.2 inches, so it's smaller than the 6.7-inch Galaxy S20 Plus and just a tad larger than the iPhone 11. I'm very happy that I injected the blue version instead of the matte gray Galaxy S20 Plus much needed character. It's fun to watch, rather than something Winston Smith from 1984 could have come up with on a particularly depressing day.

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It's more natural to hold and use, also thanks to the 20: 9 aspect ratio compared to the Galaxy S20 Plus and OnePlus 8, but it's not that small. Although it's the baby of the S20 series, it's not a small phone. If you have the Galaxy S10 in hand, it's essentially the same size, only with a slightly larger screen. This is possible due to the amazingly slim bezels. They are almost invisible on the sides and only black splinters above and below. Using the Galaxy S20 is really like holding a big screen in your hand.

I also like the little details in the design, from the way the aluminum case bends around the volume and on / off buttons to the delicate camera joint on the back, which looks much less offensive here than the S20 Plus . It's a friendlier, tidier, and better all-round design. However, the larger screen of the S20 Plus convinces me every time it comes to watching videos and playing games.

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The Galaxy S20 is smaller than the other phones in the range, but not so small that the trade-off between screen size and portability matters. The Galaxy S20 isn't a really compact flagship, but it's the most attractive of the three Galaxy S20 devices available this year. It is a puzzle that was ultimately solved by buying the blue or pink Galaxy S20 Plus.

Screen and games

The 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED has a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels for an even higher pixel density than the S20 Plus with 563 ppi. It has a refresh rate of 120 Hz, HDR10 + support and is one of the amazingly beautiful and sharpest smartphone screens that you will stare at. This is also a problem since you really have to stare at it as it feels quite restrictive when you take the opportunity to watch videos. You will enjoy the colors and sharpness of the S20 Plus or S20 Ultra more.

The screen size is great for reading emails and notifications, as well as surfing the Internet. The refresh rate of 120 Hz is not activated by default, but is strongly recommended. Scrolling is smoothed continuously, which results in less strain on the eyes and a more pleasant visual experience. There is a limitation as it can only be operated with the screen with Full HD resolution and not with active QHD resolution.

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Start a video and YouTube shows content in 1080p quality with HDR, if available. Using the NowTV app to watch HBO's vapid but visually charged ballers looks incredible, with lots of details and a very natural color palette. However, the aspect ratio of the screen affects the viewing experience, since black bars run on both sides. Zoom in to fill the screen and you will lose part of the image above and below. Audio is very pleasant, with a lot of volume, although the bass is limited.

Playing is great, especially because of the immense power and performance of the phone and the wide variety of games available on the Google Play Store. Of course, it's not quite as impressive as the larger S20 Plus. Dariusburst is a good example of why you need to zoom out to compensate for the 20: 9 aspect ratio screen. Hill Climb Racer doesn't suffer the same way, and although I never really question the 240 Hz sample rate, the S20 always feels sharp and responsive, which makes playing comfortable.

The Galaxy S20 (from left), the Galaxy S20 Plus and the Galaxy S20 Ultra Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

The Galaxy S20's screen is excellent, but while I'm willing to bypass the 20: 9 aspect ratio drawbacks on the larger models, I'm less willing to do so on the mid-size S20. If I want to pay for the kind of specs and media skills here, I really want to be able to enjoy them. That means a bigger screen.

camera

The camera of the Galaxy S20 is the same as that of the Galaxy S20 Plus. It only has a slightly more compact bulge on the back. It houses the 12-megapixel 1: 1.8 aperture sensor with optical image stabilization as well as a second 12-megapixel ultra-wide sensor and a third 64-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. It records 4K videos, has a time-of-flight sensor and there is a 10 megapixel selfie camera on the front.

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I found it to offer the same performance as the S20 Plus. The camera is versatile, with wide-angle and zoom functions, takes decent shots in night mode and has a great photo editing suite built into the app. Portrait mode is effective, but must be used with care, as it sometimes fails to focus and edge detection suffers in more complex shapes. If this works, the edit mode to remove color from the background when taking portraits can produce some atmospheric, eye-catching shots.

You can find more information on the rating in the Galaxy S20 Plus test because the camera is identical. Check out some of the photo examples here to see how the Galaxy S20 behaves against it. The degree of saturation may be a little daunting, but is more reserved than with previous Samsung cameras. I have found that pictures taken on sunny days offer just the right amount of life and visual impact. Note that night mode can increase noise while lightening shaded areas. Therefore, shooting outside of night mode is often preferable.

Ultimately, the Galaxy S20 takes detailed and colorful photos that you want to share with minimal editing. There are more powerful cameras, from the iPhone 11 Pro to the Huawei P40 Pro, but the S20 (and the S20 Plus) are crowd pullers that take photos day and night and in most situations that you are happy with.

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Like the phone itself, the camera is a brilliant all-rounder that does without the great functions of the Galaxy S20 Ultra.

Software and security

The same Android 10-based OneUI 2.0 software is installed on the Galaxy S20 as on the S20 Plus and S20 Ultra. I went into more detail in my Galaxy S20 Plus review, but my overall impression remains the same. The colorful, bold, and fairly large icons stand out on the screen, and you can see what they're doing at a glance. The appearance can also be customized. By default, for example, it is a 4 x 4 grid with symbols, which makes it look a bit childish. However, for those who don't like large print, it can be switched to a 5 x 4 layout or a 6 x 4 layout. Style version.

I had no problems with apps, notifications are delivered without any problems and the design on a Google Pixel 4 was not so far removed from Android that it is a mysterious journey – although it is so different that it has its own identity. The haptic feedback is tactile, but I don't like the standard Samsung keyboard because it doesn't offer swipe input. Therefore, it is preferable to switch to Google's Gboard.

The problems remain the same. The Samsung Daily screen that appears is useless, and the need to use a hidden software key to turn off the phone, since the hardware key is assigned to Bixby, is irritating. On a positive note, the use of Samsung DeX to connect to my MacBook works well and much better than before because photos and music can now be synchronized.

The Galaxy S20 (from left), the Galaxy S20 Plus and the Galaxy S20 Ultra Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

I mainly relied on the face unlock system to secure the Galaxy S20. It's fast and reliable, even if the phone sometimes doesn't wake up properly when I answer it, so I have to press the power button, which slows down the process. The built-in fingerprint sensor is the opposite. It is a bit slow and unreliable.

Power and battery

The golden glasses keep going. The Galaxy S20, bought in the USA, has the Snapdragon 865 processor with 12 GB RAM and is therefore one of the most powerful smartphones that you can currently buy. For this test I use the European version with a Samsung Exynos 990 chipset. Here are the benchmark results to see how they stand out from the competition.

Geekbench 5: 2753 Muilt-Core / 905 Single-Core

3DMark Sling Shot Extreme: 5198 volcano

Not surprisingly, this is almost the same as the Galaxy S20 Plus, which puts it slightly behind the Oppo Find X2 Pro and its Qualcomm Snapdragon 865. This shows how the U.S. Galaxy S20 phones will work. The OnePlus 8 Pro did better in the gaming benchmark test, which is probably not only due to the graphics chip of the Snapdragon 865, but also to the additional gaming modes of the phone, which are more comprehensive than those of the Galaxy S20.

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The smallest Galaxy S20 phone gets the smallest battery. It is a 4,000 mAh cell that performs adequately. For daily, moderate use, including some phone and video calls, the Galaxy S20 ended the day at around 15% until 11 p.m. However, this was the case when a Wi-Fi connection was made, so I would assume it would be fairly empty if it had used a cellular network. With the included 25W Type C wired USB charger, the value increases from 0 to 55% in 30 minutes, and the full charge takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes. The Galaxy S20 also has wireless charging.

Although the Galaxy S20 has 5G, I don't have 5G coverage in my area. I tried both the Vodafone and EE 4G networks. Calls are clear to both, and reception was good on both cellular and Wi-Fi calls. Even though the speaker is small, I never had to constantly reposition the phone to find the right position to hear the caller.

Price, availability and guarantee

The Galaxy S20 costs $ 1,000 and is available in the cloud blue color shown above, as well as in the colors Cloud Pink, Cloud White and Cosmic Gray. It is available now from Samsung, various retailers and with a contract with network operators. In the UK, the phone costs £ 800 and is sold through all major carriers and also through Samsung itself.

You get a standard one-year warranty to cover manufacturing defects. If you buy the phone directly through Samsung, you can add a premium care package that offers accidental damage coverage and 24-hour care for $ 12 a month.

Our opinion

The Galaxy S20 is an excellent smartphone, but it doesn't differ enough from the larger, more user-friendly Galaxy S20 Plus, it's not cheap enough to be tempting as a budget buy, and it's not small enough to buy a truly compact flagship. If you want to spend $ 1,000 or more on a phone with one of the best screens in the industry, you can also get it in a size you like, and that's more true for the Galaxy S20 Plus than the S20. Assuming you understand this, the Galaxy S20 is still an excellent smartphone.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. The Galaxy S20 Plus is the better buy in the Galaxy S20 range. However, if you only want to spend $ 1,000 on a new phone, you should take a closer look at the iPhone 11 Pro for $ 1,000 and the OnePlus 8 Pro for $ 1,000. Both seriously challenge the Galaxy S20 with excellent battery, camera and screen performance at the same price. The 5.8-inch iPhone 11 Pro will also meet your desire for a reasonably sized flagship.

We also think the $ 700 iPhone 11 is a great buy. If you're looking for a brilliant camera phone and don't want to worry about battery life, the Google Pixel 4 XL is worth a look. If you're in the UK looking for a less common alternative, the Oppo Find X2 Pro fills the gap if you don't mind spending more.

How long it will take?

With the fastest Qualcomm processor you can currently get, a nice screen, a decent camera, and 5G for the future, the Galaxy S20 easily lasts for a two-year contract and even longer.

It has an IP68 waterproof rating so it survives when it gets wet, but the vitreous can be kept in a suitcase if you're a bit clumsy. Samsung regularly offers software updates for its phones, and its flagships are usually well served. However, don't expect them to arrive as quickly as if you had bought a Google Pixel 4 XL or an iPhone 11 Pro.

Should you buy it

No. Most people should opt for the larger Galaxy S20 Plus.

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