14 May
Blog

Ecobee SmartCamera Review: Eyes Fixed On Intruders

ecobee smart camera review

Ecobee SmartCamera test: eyes on intruders

"If you take privacy seriously, the ecobee SmartCamera is the security camera for your home."

  • Great privacy features

  • Huge field of view combined with panning and tilting

  • Alexa built in

  • Subscription costs are lower than those of competitors

  • Setup can be difficult.

  • Many functions are blocked behind the subscription.

The Ecobee SmartCamera is a small, powerful surveillance camera that packs many functions into its tiny frame. It is also one of Ecobee's first companies to go beyond the popular intelligent thermostats for which the company is best known.

This $ 179 surveillance camera records 1080p video with a 5-megapixel sensor, 180-degree field of view, and pan and tilt functions. There is also a siren built in, which is not loud, but at least frightens everyone who does not expect so much volume from such a small camera.

The SmartCamera can be integrated into existing Ecobee devices such as intelligent thermostats, motion sensors and door / window sensors. We were given a device to try and review and found it both easy and intuitive to use, but the setup process was more complicated than necessary. The Ecobee SmartCamera is a great experience overall, but could be refined in some areas.

User-friendly but complicated setup

The device is immediately ready for use. The base is attached to a magnetic piece and holds the camera securely in place, either from behind or from below. The next step was to set it up. Unfortunately, there were some problems here.

Patrick Hearn / Digital Trends

The Ecobee SmartCamera can be set up using the HomeKit or the airport setup. HomeKit installation is a simple step-by-step process. There is even a HomeKit registration sticker on the back of the camera that you can scan for convenience. After that, the connection had to check the camera. This step failed several times and required a hard reset after each error.

In honor of Ecobee, the app guides the user through every step of the process. Each error code is documented and a solution is given. The app even makes it easy to contact Ecobee support if you encounter something that is not that easy to fix. However, the first impression is important and the SmartCamera frustrated us with the installation.

Packed with features

Apart from the frustrating installation, the SmartCamera worked like a dream as soon as it was ready for use. The 180 degree field of view is impressive. The entire field is not visible at once, but the pan and tilt functions allow the user to move their viewing angle around the room. The SmartCamera also has an enormous digital zoom function, with which you can concentrate on the smallest details in the frame.

The video feed is clear and sharp during the day. We could easily read text on boxes and a number of handcarts (the camera was tested in the middle of a movement). The camera still offers a clear view at night, but its range increases. The feed remains clear, but loses resolution when it is enlarged.

ecobee smartcamera rating menu

ecobee smart camera review feed

The included siren is just loud enough to be annoying, but not so much that it hurts the ears. It is also not loud enough to draw neighbors' attention, but it could scare an intruder. It will likely not scare anyone as it can be easily steamed with a blanket.

The SmartCamera notifies you by push notification when it detects motion and can save videos for up to 2 minutes. You can review footage for up to 14 days by subscribing to Ecobee Haven. There is a free one-month trial version of the service that includes entry and occupancy detection, intelligent notifications, and automatic activation / deactivation. The service costs $ 5 per month for the "Essential" plan and $ 10 per month for the "Extended" plan. The “Essential” plan includes home surveillance and video for a single camera, while the “Extended” plan covers an unlimited number of cameras.

The 180 degree field of view is impressive.

The Ecobee SmartCamera also has Alexa, which is integrated directly into the device, and can stream music, call and control smart home. In a growing smart home ecosystem, it's convenient to use Alexa. There's also a feature called SmartFocus that uses the digital pan and zoom feature to focus a person in the center of the frame when motion is detected. This is especially useful and something you don't find too often in home security cameras.

Overall, the functions of the Ecobee SmartCamera stand out from the competition. It has a number of smaller functions, such as: B. Window mode, which can be used when the camera is pointing out of a window. It deactivates the infrared light to eliminate reflections from the glass.

Privacy focused

Ecobee nailed privacy straight out of the gate. You must use two-factor authentication with the SmartCamera to immediately eliminate many of the biggest potential threats. The video feed is encrypted and all videos are processed on board the camera and not in the cloud. This means that the footage is much safer than if it were sent back and forth. The Ecobee app is not password-locked by default, although users can make their phone settings more secure.

Ecobee nailed privacy straight out of the gate.

The most interesting data protection function is that the SmartCamera is shut down at home. This function can be deactivated, but is activated by default. The SmartCamera detects when your phone is nearby based on the location of your phone and automatically switches the recording off to ensure absolute privacy for you and your family. This is a great feature, especially if you don't want a security camera to record you while you are at home. It is easy to forget to switch the camera off manually, so that activating the automatic switch-off function eliminates another level of complications.

Patrick Hearn / Digital Trends

Our opinion

At around $ 180, the Ecobee SmartCamera has a price similar to some of its rivals. The upfront investment is definitely more to get the most out of the device – and you also need the subscription service – but considering the features, this isn't a bad price. Ecobee has proven to be one of the top players in the world of intelligent thermostats. It is therefore exciting to see how the company is entering a new segment of the smart home market with such an impressive debut.

Is there a better alternative?

The Ecobee SmartCamera is a great option at its price. However, if you are looking for a slightly cheaper security camera with better resolution, check out the Nest Cam Indoor. It's cheaper at $ 130, but swaps some features in favor of 4K resolution and a lower price. If money doesn't matter and you're looking for the absolute best security camera for your home, the Arlo Pro 3 is a great choice.

How long it will take?

The Ecobee SmartCamera is designed to operate between 32 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit at an optimal humidity below 85%. Unless something catastrophic happens, the interior conditions of your house should never exceed them. If the camera is in the warehouse, it is even more durable. An inactive SmartCamera can withstand temperatures from -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a sturdy, sturdy camera that should last for years if properly cared for.

If that's not enough to convince you, there is also a 3-year limited warranty that covers defects and normal use.

Should you buy it

Yes, the Ecobee SmartCamera is a solid purchase. Despite the problems with the setup, the SmartCamera is an excellent investment in an increasingly data protection-oriented world due to its numerous data protection functions.

Editor's recommendations




13 May
Blog

Microsoft Surface Earbuds Review: Productivity For A Price

Microsoft Surface Earbuds

Micorsoft Surface Earbuds

"As a productivity tool, Surface Earbuds offer solid value."

  • Integration with Microsoft 365

  • IPX4 waterproof

  • Eight hours of audio playback

  • Aesthetically unique design

  • No noise cancellation

  • Value depends on the brand

Microsoft has taken a chance with its new Surface Earbuds. One of the largest technology companies in the world could try to survive in a new area by beating its competitors in its own game. Or it could double on its own brand and rely on creating a truly unique experience.

You can probably guess which direction Microsoft is headed.

The $ 200 Surface Earbuds are here and come at a lot cheaper than the price at which they were originally launched in late 2019 – $ 250.Microsoft marketed and integrated them as a pair of real wireless earbuds made almost exclusively for professional use the new buds as creatively as possible in its own software. The company accidentally raised an important question: Can the surface earbuds be the ultimate productivity buds and thrive as everyday wearables?

Out of the box

The packaging for the Microsoft Surface Earbuds is classically minimalist: a white box with a single image of the buds even on the top. The glossy white charging case with the Microsoft logo is located under the lid. The buds rest inside with a USB-C charging cable, two additional pairs of earplugs, and product documents.

Microsoft Surface EarbudsNick Woodard / Digital Trends

The surface earphones are set up in one of two ways – simple or super simple. If you've ever paired wireless earphones with your smartphone, this process is no different. However, if you pair the Surface Earbuds with a Surface PC, Microsoft has a Swift Pair feature to make the connection much easier. This feature is similar to the quick connect features of Google Pixel Buds 2 and Apple AirPods, and is a trend we'd love to see more of in the future.

Microsoft has its own Surface Audio app with useful but not essential video tutorials. Without firmware updates and a supplied equalizer, you could completely do without the app and not miss much.

Surface earbuds support connections to multiple devices, so switching between your phone and computer is not a problem. As for the connections themselves, I did not notice any significant dropouts during the review period. This included cases where I left my phone in the house and ventured into my humble garden.

design

Part of me is inexplicably fascinated by the aesthetics of the surface earbuds. Another part of me wants to bring the whole design back to the drawing board. Of course there is a lot to unpack here.

Microsoft Surface EarbudsNick Woodard / Digital Trends

The description of the buds we gave at the company's Surface Hardware event in October 2019 remains accurate – from the outside, they resemble measuring earrings. Granted, I've never been a fan of this actual earring style. But when I go back to earbud design, I find that kind of groundbreaking look very appealing.

There is a soft silicone earplug on the other side of the touch-sensitive outer pane. I swapped the original tips for the smaller version to give the buds a safer feel in my ears. According to Microsoft, the Surface Earbuds have four anchor points to ensure the most effective fit possible.

Ironically, my design complaint is about fit. These are heavy buds; At 7.3 grams each, they're stronger than most of the competition, including those from Apple and Google, as well as the Samsung Galaxy Buds + and Amazon Echo Buds, and they extend slightly outside the ear. Both are relatively small and forgivable topics. What is annoying is that buds offered as workhorses simply don't have the secure fit to take on this role – especially when the wearer is training.

I've tried running with these buds twice, and both times I got into a swamp because I had to constantly readjust them during my run. I have not ruled out having bulky ear canals, although I have not encountered these problems in any of the buds that I have recently checked. Regardless, it's one of those bugs that gets worse every time, and it leaves a sour taste in terms of usability.

To be fair, press materials for the Surface Earbuds refrained from mentioning sports compatibility and made it clear that they were simply not intended for this type of activity. However, if you are considering spending $ 200 on earphones, this is an important distinction. You will not run with them or participate in high-intensity workouts.

properties

The standard functions of the Surface Earbuds are competitive, but not unique: IPX4 water resistance, eight hours of battery life with three additional charging processes and touch controls for completing tasks such as changing music, making calls and interacting with intelligent assistants, including Microsoft's own Cortana. Aside from an auto pause when pulling out a bud, which is oddly MIA, the Surface Earbuds have numerous features that help them measure themselves against the industry giants.

Microsoft Surface EarbudsNick Woodard / Digital Trends

Honestly, if that were all the Surface Earbuds had to offer, I would recommend looking elsewhere. There are other options that perform these functions as well, and in some cases better, to reduce the burden on the old bank account. Fortunately, it’s the capabilities of Surface Earbuds when used with Microsoft 365 that put them in a separate class.

If you run an iOS device with the Surface Earbuds, you can listen to, delete and reply to emails on the go thanks to the "Play my emails" function in the Outlook mobile app. Are you looking for something that is a bit more innovative? Using the earphones with PowerPoint on a PC offers the possibility to activate live subtitles and subtitles, both of which can be translated into one of more than 60 different languages.

Granted, this may be a niche advantage rather than a common feature – at the moment I have to assume that most everyday Surface Earbuds owners don't have to translate their presentations into different languages. It is still a good option if the reason ever shows up.

Most of all, I think Microsoft's dictation feature is the most appropriate. In programs like PowerPoint, Outlook, and Microsoft Word, you can use your voice to dictate content while Microsoft is writing it down for you. It is not a perfect tool as you might expect. Based on my experience, I have corrected some grammatical errors here and there. This function is already available from Microsoft without the buds themselves being needed. However, I found that the two built-in microphones on each earphone recorded my speech more effectively, and I was able to write this section of the review almost entirely with dictations.

As far as I know, the Microsoft Word app does not currently support dictation, so this is not a mobile-friendly function. However, this could change in the future and leave the door open to improve an already fascinating function. In terms of productivity, this could really be a game changer with a few tweaks.

Audio quality

Call quality is the most important component of the audio quality of Surface Earbuds, if you follow Microsoft's mantra to get things done. According to my tests, the microphones mentioned above do an excellent job in each bud by both picking up your voice and playing down background noise.

Microsoft Surface EarbudsNick Woodard / Digital Trends

For music playback and other content, the Surface Earbuds are equipped with 13.6 mm drivers (relatively large for earphones), which can be operated in a frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. They support SBC and aptX audio codecs and offer what Microsoft has called the "Surface Omnisonic Sound Profile" to improve the sound.

The resulting sound quality is … good. The sizeable drivers handle the low end well, and the music in general is wonderfully clear. Overall, Microsoft has achieved a performance that is almost identical to the mainstream functions: a sound that does not surpass its competitors, but sounds objectively good enough to sit at the table. The problem is that Microsoft grabbed one of the most expensive chairs in the house. The fact that Microsoft lowered the retail price for the Surface Earbuds between the autumn release and the spring release is a sense of self-awareness. However, this is a band aid rather than a long-term solution.

The surface earbuds lose brownie points because they have no active noise cancellation, let alone effective passive noise isolation. It goes without saying that I have not yet commuted with these, but a morning walk through a busy street made a lot of noise penetrate my listening experience. Sure, you can turn up the volume to drown things out. At normal listening levels, however, you'll hear the outside world in addition to your podcasts and playlists.

Our opinion

When used as a work environment tool in conjunction with Microsoft's own devices and software, the Surface Earbuds offer solid value and an experience that no other pair of buds can currently offer. They are simply not the most flexible real wireless option for the money, and it is not realistic to expect it.

Are there any better alternatives?

They are hard to beat in terms of productivity. But when things like audio quality, battery life or usability come into play, the locks open. The $ 179 Google Pixel Buds 2, $ 129 Amazon Echo Buds, and $ 150 Samsung Galaxy Buds + offer better values ​​for what they offer. The Sony WF-1000XM3 currently only costs $ 30 more than the Surface Earbuds and is our preferred wireless earbud overall.

How long will they last?

It helps to be Microsoft here. Without considering the Surface Earbuds' one-year limited hardware warranty, these buds were born with Microsoft's reputation for making well-built devices. Expect the surface earphones to last a long time if they are well cared for.

Should you buy them

Yes, but only if you're looking for earbuds that can really act as a productivity tool, and for a good one. Otherwise, you will find buds for a better value that better suits your needs.

Editor's recommendations




13 May
Blog

3Doodler Create+ Leather Edition Review: 3D drawing with wood

3Doodler Create + Leather Edition wood

"The 3Doodler Create + brings 3D creations made of wood and plastic to the top of your pen."

  • Specially developed for working with wood

  • Comes with a lot of accessories

  • Premium look

  • Steep learning curve

  • Constant maintenance required

3Doodler has been in full swing since the surprising success of its Kickstarter campaign in 2013 and provides an affordable 3D printing pen for the masses. There have been several iterations of the 3D printing pen since then, like 3Doodler 2.0 in 2015 and 3Doodler Create +, but the core idea has remained unchanged.

The company was very well received by educators, thanks in part to the marketing of the 3Doodler as a creative tool for various STEM classes and activities (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). In the same footsteps as the 3Doodler 2.0, which marketed itself more to enthusiasts and professionals, the company's latest model, the 3Doodler Create + Leather Edition, is written as an executive office pen for 3D printing. Is it the only true 3D printing pen that masters them all?

Now in leather

If you look at 3Doodler's existing range of 3D printing pens, it is obvious that the designs are aimed at young people. They are simple, straightforward and designed for the task of drawing in 3D. However, the Leather Edition makes it clear that it is trying to attract enthusiasts who take 3D drawing seriously – those with creative talent. Similar to the 3Doodler 2.0 with an aluminum housing, the Leather Edition with its whiskey-tanned leather exterior offers the same level of sophistication.

3Doodler Create + Leather Edition front viewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

As much as the company claims a sense of refined elegance with its new 3D printing pen, the leather only contributes more to aesthetics than to usefulness. Ultimately, it still looks more like a tool and feels like it's a high-quality handwriting instrument.

Optimized for wood

Basically, it is similar to its predecessors in that the same plastic filaments (FLEXY, ABS and PLA) are melted to draw on surfaces and in the air. New in this model, it was specifically designed for working with wood filaments – while the previous ones weren't necessarily meant for wood. The Leather Edition has been optimized from the ground up for use with wood as the main filament.

The wood adds to the variety that the pen is used to and gives projects a more natural look. They add to the decor and other bells and whistles that you might have lying around at home, but you have to go through a few trials and mistakes before you really get a good feel for wood drawing.

Master the technology

We tried to create some wooden creations with the included project manual, which contains tips for beginners to get the most out of the 3Doodler. There's definitely a learning curve if you've never used one before. In fact, finding the right pace to get the best results was a bigger challenge for us. If you move too fast, you will get thin pieces of plastic that will not give your creations structural support. If you move too slowly, thick clumps are formed.

In contrast to some plastic filaments, which cool down relatively quickly when pulled out to allow them to be drawn into the air, the wood filaments do not harden immediately. After we had mastered the technology, we were able to create some rough creations with the 3Doodler Create + Leather Edition. We recommend using the matt side of the supplied Mini DoodlePad surface, mainly because the wood filaments are easier to remove. Without the step-by-step guide for wood projects, we would have no idea how best to use the 3D printing pen. We used it to make a money clip and a wooden figure of eight.

3Doodler Create + Leather Edition doodlesJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

In simple solid wood projects, they start as 2D creations. For more complex projects, 2D parts are welded together with the 3Doodler until they have reached the desired shape. In our situation, we created a model of the Eiffel Tower by fusing 2D parts of the shiny PLA filaments that came with the package, and then adding additional details and support using the wood filaments. What is nice is that all the filaments fuse well together.

Maintenance, servicing, maintenance

In order to keep the 3Doodler in perfect condition, it must be serviced regularly by ensuring that the filaments are completely removed after each use. You don't want it to sit idle for a while as the heated filament cools down in the nozzle. It is therefore important that all of the material is ejected. Detaching the unused filament is an easy process, as you can simply press one of the two buttons twice to reverse it, instead of forcibly removing it by pulling.

3Doodler Create + Leather Edition doodlesJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

For advanced users, the Leather Edition also comes with a nozzle set that contains 6 more heads to add even more variety when the filaments come out of the nozzle. They help to improve projects with the different patterns and strengths they provide. Although our special creations appear coarse, these nozzles can help give those who have mastered their drawing techniques more precision and cleaner surfaces.

Our opinion

Get back $ 120 with the 3Doodler Create + Leather Edition, $ 40 more than with the current 3Doodler Create + 3D printing pen. It is also worth noting that this is the first time that the wood filament packs and the nozzle set have been included in the packaging. While the thought of a 3D printing pen still attracts attention so people can draw in the air, the 3Doodler Create + Leather Edition remains an artistic tool for those who take their creations seriously. You won't make anything elaborate or ornate, but at least you can create some unique handmade ornaments with a personal touch.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're reliant on cash, retailers like Amazon have several cheaper options. You could pick them up, but 3Doodler has built a solid reputation and ecosystem to support its deployment over the years.

How long it will take?

Frequent maintenance is required for the 3Doodler Create + Leather Edition to work properly. However, a one-year guarantee is granted.

Should you buy it

If you have no artistic background, you are unlikely to use it religiously. If you do this, it is an option to think about, as all possible creations use the plastic and wood filaments available to you. You can also explore the different types of filaments and project ideas on the 3Doodler website. You no longer have to reorder filaments and get inspiration for your next project. There is already the 3Doodler Start 3D printing pen for teenagers and educators, but the sophisticated look of the 3Doodler Create + Leather Edition makes it a tool for enthusiasts who want to take the time to master the techniques required to create artworks.

3Doodler Create + Leather Edition in table "class =" dt-lazy-load dt-lazy-pending

Editor's recommendations




13 May
Blog

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 Review: Less Is More

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2

"The Surface Headphones 2 offer all-day comfort and intuitive controls to stand out from the crowd."

  • Inexpensive

  • good sound

  • Excellent control

  • Good noise cancellation

  • Disappointing battery life

  • Distortion at higher volumes

Microsoft's original Surface headphones were surprisingly good since the company had never made noise canceling headphones before. They brought solid noise cancellation, respectable sound quality and were very comfortable. In addition, the intuitive controls were top notch.

However, they were slowed down by poor battery life, a lack of high quality Bluetooth codecs, and no real way to optimize settings like the EQ. They were expensive too. At $ 350, they went head-to-toe with Sony's incredibly good WH-1000XM3. Microsoft had little hope of winning this fight.

Microsoft's second attempt, the Surface Headphones 2, is less like a new version than a confirmation that too much was charged for the first Surface Headphones. With a price tag of $ 250 and some small improvements, the Surface Headphones 2 are looking for a niche.

Now at a cheaper price

It may seem strange to start a headphone review by talking about money, but in this case it is justified. The biggest change Microsoft made to the Surface Headphones 2 is the price. At $ 250, they're $ 100 less than the original Surface headphones. It makes a big difference. Not only are they cheaper, they are also cheaper because they also contain some extras.

design

If you place the Microsoft Surface Headphones and the Surface Headphones 2 side by side, you will hardly notice any differences … unless you choose the matt black option, which connects the previous light gray.

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The new model has an identical design with the same minimalist aesthetics. The seamless headband, the one-sided swivel arms for the ear cup and the subtle Windows logo are copies of the first generation. Fortunately, these are also the particularly comfortable ear cushions and the characteristic knob controls for volume and active noise suppression.

The large touchpads on each ear cup are easy to use and react very quickly to knocking.

At $ 250, they're $ 100 less than the original Surface headphones, and that makes a big difference.

A small change is the ability to freely rotate each ear cup 180 degrees so that you can wear the Surface Headphones 2 more comfortably around your neck when you're not using them. You can also perform DJ-style one-ear monitoring when using the analog cable.

In short, Microsoft made the wise decision to keep all of the physical traits that helped the first generation stand out.

Comfort still stands out the most. I wore these headphones for a full 9-to-5 working day when I got myself into this rating, and apart from sweaty ears (an inevitable consequence of closed headphones), I never felt a hint of discomfort. It is remarkable.

Still, I don't think they'll be the best companion in the gym. Stationary bikes, ellipticals, and free weights shouldn't be a problem, but bumpy activities like running or skipping rope can cause the headphones to move slightly. In this case, greater comfort goes hand in hand with a loose fit, making the Surface Headphones 2 more suitable for long sessions at the desk than for long trips in the city.

Cortana and language support

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

A hands-free voice assistant is a great convenience – one of the things I like most about products like AirPods Pro from Apple, Pixel Buds 2 from Google and Echo Buds from Amazon. And although Cortana hasn't won as many hearts and minds as Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa, it was a cool feature of the first-generation Surface headphones to be able to talk to her without pressing a button.

Unfortunately, Cortana has almost given up the second-generation Surface cans. You can still access your voice commands. To do this, however, you need Microsoft apps such as Outlook Mobile. Once it's set up (a complicated process), you can call Cortana hands-free, for example to read your email. Only certain types of email accounts are supported. You can only use this if you are in the United States.

I suspect most people – unless they're hardcore Office 365 fans – will ignore this feature and simply use the device's built-in wizard, which you can run by long-pressing the touchpad on one of the ear cups.

In its briefing with journalists, Microsoft promoted the fact that both the Surface Headphones 2 and the new Surface Buds can perform subtitles and translations in real time in Microsoft apps such as PowerPoint. It's definitely a solid tool, but I can't see too many business people standing in front of a boardroom with meeting attendees with full-sized headphones. The Surface Earbuds are a different story.

Battery life

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The original Surface headphones suffered from poor battery life. With just 15 hours (or 18 hours if you turned off Cortana's voice activation feature) between charges, they fell significantly behind noise-canceling headphones at the same price – many of which can last twice as long. We are used to spending 25 to 30 hours or more on premium noise canceling headphones.

Microsoft has made some profits in this department, but frankly not as much as I would like. The battery life is said to be 20 hours when the ANC is turned on, which is better, but still a long way from cheap ANC headphones like these Taotronics.

After five minutes of quick charging, you get an additional hour of play, which is also not exactly convincing. With the WH-1000XM3 from Sony you get five hours after 10 minutes of charging.

Audio quality

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Like their predecessors, the Surface Headphones 2 deliver a strong sound. Microsoft calls it Omnisonic sound, but you can calculate that down to marketing language. In practice, these headphones deliver a rich, full sound that can be extensively optimized using the new Surface Audio app for iOS and Android (which you can also use with the first generation Surface Headphones).

Rock, jazz, classical and pop presets have expanded these genres, which presets don't always do right.

With the factory settings, you hear a very flat response that audio purists look for in their speakers and headphones. Highs, lows and mids are all well balanced, and the bass response is just so clear that your favorite songs have a real presence. These cans don't offer the precision, clarity, and depth of the soundstage you get with high-end headphones, but given their new, cheaper price, they're no longer a deal-breaker.

If you jump into the EQ settings of the app, you can move this bass from benign to bombastic in one fell swoop. Can you find a combination of settings that you like? You can save them with your own labels – a huge improvement over the first pass. I found that the rock, jazz, classical and pop presets built into the app actually improved these genres, which isn't always right with presets.

Although the overall sound quality remains unchanged from the first version, Microsoft has added support for the aptX Bluetooth codec, which is said to improve sound quality when used with devices that support it. However, my iPhone 11 doesn't support this, so I couldn't test it.

With moderate traffic noise and peaceful interiors, the calls were clear and the noise was reduced to a minimum.

As good as their sound is, I've found a significant disadvantage. If you set the volume to 9, 10 or 11, distortion can creep in. I first noticed them on Death Cab For Cuties To the Ground's snare drum beats. A quick review of other tracks like my favorite low-end bass shaker Boom Boom Pow by the Black Eyed Peas confirmed that bass drums can do the same thing.

Everything north of Volume 8 is almost painfully loud and I can't imagine that you want to expose yourself to these levels for a very long time. However, it is surprising that Microsoft did not tune the Surface Headphones 2 to the distortion.

Call quality

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offer excellent call quality. With moderate traffic noise and peaceful interiors, the calls were clear and the noise was reduced to a minimum.

The only minor problem was the ANC function. You can usually choose between 13 noise reduction levels and two pass-through modes with the left ear cup wheel: normal pass-through and ambient gain.

Passthrough is ideal for calls because it allows you to hear your own voice naturally. However, during a call – and sometimes at other times – pass-through mode will switch back to the lowest ANC setting, usually accompanied by an audible click.

I contacted Microsoft to see if the Surface team knew why this was happening, but I had no response at the time of publication.

Noise canceling quality

I have to say that after using many different ANC headphones, I like the Microsoft noise cancellation system the most. That doesn't mean that the Surface Headphones 2 at ANC are better than the Sony WH-1000XM3 or the Bose Noise Canceling 700 – they are not. However, their dial-controlled intensity is impressive and intuitive.

It hasn't changed since the first generation cans, but it's still worth pointing out. It's a far better way to adjust the amount of outside noise you want to let in than using app-based presets. This is usually done this way.

The ANC itself is not bad either. There is a very small hiss when you are not playing music and it does not provide complete silence, but it does reduce slightly loud roaring noises like bathroom fans or vacuum cleaners to an acceptably quiet level.

Our opinion

The Microsoft Surface Headphones were surpassed by their competitors at $ 350. With a price tag of $ 250 and a slight increase in battery life, the Surface Headphones deserve 2 serious considerations.

Is there a better alternative?

You can usually find Jabra's Elite 85H for around $ 250. With a better battery life, slightly better sound quality and water resistance, they are an excellent alternative to the Surface Headphones 2.

However, they don't have Surface's excellent dial-based controls, which makes the most accessed functions much easier and more user-friendly.

How long will they last?

Microsoft grants a one-year warranty on the Surface Headphones 2, which is common for headphones. Their build quality looks better than average and I think that with reasonable care they should last for many years.

Should you buy them

Yes. The price of the Surface Headphone 2 is the biggest improvement and does what was once an overpriced product at a very good price. They have a shorter battery life than the competition, but with great sound, comfort and ANC, as well as some of the best controls on all headphones, they have definitely found their niche.

Editor's recommendations




12 May
Blog

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Review: Simple, Serious Security

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with the door open

"It may look like a sweet snack, but this lock gives you real security and great features."

  • No bridge required

  • Easy to install

  • Automatic unlock and lock function

  • Robust construction

  • Batteries are not rechargeable

  • Stabs out the door

If you're intimidated by installing a smart lock, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock ($ 250) is a good choice. All you need is a screwdriver and five minutes. People say things are foolproof all the time, but in this case it really is. August Wi-Fi also offers many practical functions. Here you will find everything you need to know about this simple, user-friendly Smart Lock.

installation

As already mentioned, installing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is very easy. In fact, it's the easiest Smart Lock I've ever installed. There are two reasons.

First, the app gives you step-by-step instructions with short videos instead of just pictures so you really can't go wrong. Second, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock does not replace your current bar like the third generation August Smart Lock.

August Wi-Fi lock is installedAugust

You simply remove the thumb on the inside of the door with the Smart Lock. The installation took about five minutes. The connection to the app and the calibration of the lock took a maximum of three minutes.

design

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the little brother of the August Smart Lock Pro. It's 45% smaller and 20% slimmer, making it a slim little lock the size of a snack cake. It is made of either silver or matt black plastic. The August WiFi sticks out pretty far out the door, but that really didn't bother me.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock from the sideAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

What worried me a bit is that my bar is gold. That means my lock is now gold on one side and silver on the other. I can see where replacing the whole thing, including the latch, can be a good idea. These types of locks are not that easy to install, but they look more polished and coherent.

properties

The August app is very intuitive and wonderfully trouble-free. Its functions are very similar to most other intelligent locks on the market. You can unlock August from anywhere and check the activity log to monitor who's coming and going in your house. You can also give friends and family members virtual keys that can be used to unlock the door.

These virtual keys can be set to work at any time or on a set schedule. You can also issue temporary keys that expire at any time. If you want, you can get notifications on your phone when certain people access the lock in addition to the activity log. This means you have ultimate control over who has access to your home.

If it detects you, August Wi-Fi will be unlocked when you approach and lock the door when you move away.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock also has a feature called Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock. You can use the app to set the lock to recognize your phone or Apple Watch when you come and go through the door. When August Wi-Fi detects your device, it unlocks when you get close and locks the door when you get away.

Via the app you can set up the lock to wait up to 30 minutes before it is automatically locked. This is a good option if other family members leave the house at the same time. I love this feature because I hate taking out my keys or phone to mess around with locks. I usually have my hands full. However, Auto-Lock is not an exclusive feature for August. For example, the Wyze Lock and Danalock V3 have a similar function.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has a device called DoorSense. This is a small, pill-shaped sensor that you attach to the door frame. This allows the app to tell you whether your door is open or closed. If you have a child, spouse, or roommate who forgets to close the door, this can be useful.

No bridge required

Another thing I really like is that the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock needs nothing more than the tiny DoorSense sensor to work. This is not always the case with intelligent locks.

No bridge clears my sockets for other intelligent devices.

For example, for the Wyze Lock, the Wyze Lock Gateway must be plugged into a nearby outlet for it to work properly, and for the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect, the August Wi-Fi Bridge must work. No bridge clears my sockets for other intelligent devices.

safety

Automating your home is sometimes scary because getting hacked is always a problem. August has several ways to protect you. First, the app has two-step verification to prevent unauthorized users from accessing your account. Second, both encryption using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and TLS are used to ensure the security of your data.

Are you afraid that you will lose your phone and that anyone who finds it will have access to your home? August has a great feature that allows you to disable the app and virtual keys by accessing the lost phone website. These functions all indicate a higher urgency when it comes to security and data protection in the smart home.

Voice control and compatibility

Regardless of the type of voice assistant you use, you can control the August WLAN. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri. Voice commands can be used to unlock and check the status of your door. This is very helpful, especially when I can't find my phone to remotely unlock the door.

Are you afraid that a random person can open your door by asking your smart speaker through the window? Don't worry, a four-digit code is required to open it. Small details like this again show that the company takes security seriously. You can also connect the August WiFi to various hubs and services. It is compatible with Airbnb, Samsung SmartThings, SimpliSafe and Apple HomeKit, among others.

Battery problems

The only thing I really didn't like about the August WiFi is the power source. It is powered by two CR123 batteries. You are probably like me and have nothing else in your house that uses this type of battery. That said, you can't just get a couple of fresh batteries out of the trash when they're empty. You need to buy a special backup set to have it on hand.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock batteriesAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

I assume it's a little problem, but I will surely forget to buy new batteries specifically for my lock. I really wish it had a battery like that Friday Lock from Friday Labs. In this knowledge, the battery is designed for three to six months under normal operating conditions.

Our opinion

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a great choice when it comes to automating your door locks quickly and easily. It offers all the functions you would expect from an advanced Smart Lock, such as virtual keys and input warnings. The price is in the upper price segment, but in my opinion it's worth it for the user-friendliness, the high-quality app, the robust workmanship and the mixture of great functions that you can find in first-class locks.

Is there a better alternative?

Well, it all depends on what you want. For example, if you'd rather have a smart lock with a keyboard, the Nest X Yale lock is a better choice. If you want a lock that offers all of the standard features you'll find on most other advanced smart locks without having to replace your bolt, August WiFi is a great choice. Another option is the level lock, which has a similar price but doesn't replace your existing thumb rotation. So it doesn't change the look of your door. However, there aren't as many features like this.

How long it will take?

The August Wi-Fi appears to be well built and robust. Although the housing is made of plastic, the parts that are attached to your door are made of thick metal. I think it lasts no matter how many times you bump into it. There is also a 30-day money back guarantee and a one-year limited guarantee.

Should you buy it

Yes. It's a great little castle with a strong emphasis on privacy and security.

Editor's recommendations




12 May
Blog

Matterhackers Pulse XE 3D Printer Review: A Durable High-End 3D Printer

matterhackers pulse xe review 11

MatterHackers Pulse XE NylonX Advanced Materials 3D printer package

"If you need to print with exotic, high-performance materials, this is the right printer."

  • Excellent out-of-box performance

  • Wide material capacities

  • Durable, well-designed components

  • Attractive, modern design

  • State-of-the-art functions

  • Requires a dedicated computer to reach its full potential

  • Lack of ventilation system

  • Not the fastest

Printing with high-performance materials can be difficult. Sure, there are options on the market, but most come in the form of retrofitting aftermarket components to a printer in one way or another, at least in the mid-range consumer market. Enter the MatterHackers Pulse XE, the highest end of the MatterHackers Pulse line of 3D printers, and one of the few devices designed exclusively to instantly print some of the hardest materials on the market.

The pulse line is an interesting linchpin of its creators. MatterHackers has long been known as a reseller of a wide variety of 3D printers and materials that can be used with them. Thanks to this, MatterHackers has been effectively gathering information about what members of the 3D printing community expect from their printers for years and showing what types of pulses are available. The Pulse range is available in three options with multiple combinations of even more specialized hardware and a love letter to your market. Resolve dozens of common complaints with out-of-the-box hardware and include many of the most common aftermarket upgrades as standard components. In conjunction with MatterControl (MatterHackers control software), each pulse is an attractive product in itself.

STANDOUT FUNCTIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

The outstanding selling point of the Pulse XE is its versatility, but also its user friendliness should not be underestimated. With a build volume of 250 x 220 x 215 mm (10 x 9 x 8.5 inches), the Pulse finds a good balance while maintaining a manageable space requirement with a respectable capacity.

In addition, the leveling routine via the connected BLTouch sensor ensures a reliable, easy-to-calibrate printer. The functions of MatterControl when a host device is connected to the printer make it incredibly easy to use. An optional magnetic removable build plate (included with this test model) makes removing the print incredibly easy.

MatterHackersJames Lynch / Digital Trends

Finally there is Olsson Ruby nozzle on hotend. The Pulse XE can hardly be called "high performance" when using a standard brass die for extrusion. The name of the Olsson Ruby nozzle doesn't just sound cool. At the top of this otherwise normal-looking 3D printer nozzle is a small ruby ​​with an even smaller hole on the bottom that serves as an opening. The hardness of the ruby ​​gives the nozzle an exceptional lifespan and enables it to withstand even the most abrasive filaments with ease. While other nozzle options exist that achieve similar goals, they are typically made entirely of hardened materials such as steel. The ruby ​​achieves the same goal with a laboratory-made gem that is held in the head of the nozzle. Admittedly, this is the brightest way to get things done.

The Pulse XE was manufactured using some of the highest quality parts in the consumer for prosumer markets

Another unique feature of the Pulse line is that, unlike most printers on the market, MatterHackers printers are specifically designed for their MatterControl control software, as they work mostly independently and connect to a computer that serves as a backup option. Connecting a dedicated computer to the Pulse increases its capabilities through several functions that are otherwise only found in the upper market segment. From the ability to self-calibrate with up to 100 individual data points, to a greater degree of control over movement during printing, to the resumption of 3D printing that was interrupted in the event of a power failure or other power failure, MatterControl increases the flexibility of the Massive machine (as long as the semi-finished print is still on the bed when the power supply is restored). This doesn't mean that the Pulse can't work on its own in the same way as other printers, just that adding a dedicated controller turns a Matterhackers Pulse from a good all-round performer into a cutting-edge piece of personal manufacturing equipment.

BUILD QUALITY AND RELIABILITY

The quality of the Pulse XE should not be underestimated. With a frame made from a hybrid of specially machined aluminum, anodized extrusions and precise 3D printed components (undoubtedly made with other pulse printers), this printer was built for a long service life. The damping mounts attached to each of the motors offer noise reduction, and care and attention has obviously been put into the overall design. The underlying build quality is one thing, but a lot can go wrong on a 3D printer with good bones. So what about the other components? In this area, MatterHackers definitely used the best that they could find.

MatterHackersJames Lynch / Digital Trends

As an example, MatterHackers decided to use E3Ds v6, a precision-made hot end from one of the most respected brands in 3D printing. To push the plastic itself, the ultra-high-performance extruder from BondTech was selected to ensure additional performance. The Ultimachines RAMBo Mini-Motherboard (with Panucatt's Azteeg x5 GT as an even more powerful upgrade) forms the brain of the device and the excellent VIKI 2 control panel at the front.

In short, the Pulse XE has been manufactured using some of the best consumer end parts for prosumer markets and also uses many parts that are normally added to printers as aftermarket upgrades as standard. All of this results in a precision-made printer with a legendarily reliable extrusion mechanism, a long-life motherboard (just like Lulzbots Taz 6 and Mini, and I would say every motherboard that NASA trusts me will trust) with an easy-to-read, informative display the front of the device. In the month that I had the Pulse, he easily mastered every challenge I faced him and has printed almost continuously since leaving the box.

PERFORMANCE

Could the Pulse XE have disadvantages with all of these great features? Unfortunately yes. While the Pulse works incredibly reliably and immediately has remarkable versatility, the biggest disadvantage of the XE and the Pulse line in general is the underlying design. The Pulse XE is a 3D printer with a side bed or bed spinner, ie the print bed moves from side to side in one direction to move the model to be printed. This is an incredibly easy to construct, maintain, and repair design (since this configuration allows easy access to the axle and its parts), but has the obvious disadvantage that moving the bed can cause reliability problems if it moves too quickly (Due to the dynamics of the bed in the fight against changes in direction). . This can manifest itself in the fact that in extreme cases the entire pressure shifts from side to side to small, wavy lines over the pressure at lower speeds. Momentum is not a friend of a bed sling. This means that the Pulse XE prints at an average speed that should be enough for most, but fades compared to the speeds of some other models.

James Lynch / Digital Trends

How good it prints, the Pulse XE works flawlessly right away. I have nothing to report about any scatter marks or stains, the layers are smooth and the corners are absolutely within the tolerances that you would expect. While it is worth noting that print quality for most 3D printers in the FDM or FFF category (i.e. they use a hot nozzle to extrude plastic filaments) may need to be roughly the same over time, modification and careful optimization the Pulse XE doesn't work whatever to produce excellent prints. With a thin layer of glue on the build plate and a short automatic calibration process, I was able to simply select "print" from the MatterControl user interface and leave, knowing that I would return to a finished model. The adhesive may be a sticking point for some, but is easy to apply and required to print the materials for which the XE was developed, such as. B. nylon (which has the ability to permanently bond to most reusable construction areas and thus permanently ruin them). A plate that does not require glue and is intended for use with other materials is available as an additional option from MatterHackers.

So if I am not talking about speed and not necessarily print quality, what am I talking about when I call the XE a "high performance" DD printer? In a word, materials. The components of the Pulse XE are designed to reach and withstand elevated temperatures, push plastic with greater force, and withstand the risk of damage from some of the more exotic materials. Some of these components are significantly more expensive than the standard, which explains the high cost of this machine, but the advantages are significant in terms of versatility. Thanks to these hardened components, the XE has access to materials such as nylon and polycarbonate, as well as materials with hard fibers or particles to increase strength, such as carbon or glass fibers.

Access to these materials opens up whole worlds to a print shop owner. Glass-infused nylon is widely used to manufacture power tool housings, drone frames, and low-power electronics heatsinks, while polycarbonate can be used for such diverse things as high-strength electronics housings, greenhouse walls, and any application that values ​​high impact strength. Another advantage of the hardened nozzle, however, is a material that few newbies would consider a risky material for a printer, namely anything that glows in the dark. With its hardened nozzle, the Pulse XE can withstand the heavy load of hard particles, which give the objects glowing in the dark their clear shine, whereby the nozzle of a standard printer wears out as soon as the first layers of the material are in place. From surprisingly challenging to previously impossible, the MatterHackers Pulse XE seems to print with almost any plastic that can be turned into a string.

SAFETY

James Lynch / Digital Trends

All of this goes well with an often overlooked disadvantage of working with such materials. Safety. I have used nylon extensively in my pulse testing over the past month, and during that time I had to feel quite comfortable in a ventilator because of the dangers of using such materials. For example, nylon releases some chemicals when it melts, but one of the most notable must be hydrogen cyanide. Yes, the cyanide. While my mask filters out a good amount of these toxic materials, it is certainly not a long-term solution. Proper ventilation through my skylights and exposure limitation also help, but an option for a filtered housing for the Pulse would work well for the future. Until then, use should be limited to a room where such materials are adequately ventilated and not in locations where the user can be continuously exposed to the materials during the printing process.

Our opinion

Overall, my time with the Pulse XE was phenomenal. From my fourteen printers, it quickly became a favorite, and the use was largely a blast. I can't imagine a task I couldn't do, and the latest version of MatterControl has proven to be an incredibly powerful control system. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to work with some of the wilder materials, and to those who are simply looking for a highly reliable printer, the cheaper standard Pulse is also a good choice.

Is there a better alternative?

While the desktop FDM printing market definitely has a lot of competition, the Pulse line stands out across the board. The basic Pulse model goes from head to toe with the original Prusa i3 MK3 / S, but offers the advantages of many other customization options and a shorter lead time.

In the meantime, the Pulse XE can be seen as a competitor to the Lulzbot Taz line and other real performance printers. In this case, the Lulzbot has an advantage in terms of build volume, but the ready-to-use ability of the Pulse XE to print with some of the most powerful materials on the market without modifications or additional components, magnetic beds, and slightly lower costs means that it is attractive Option remains.

How long it will take?

One of the biggest advantages of open source 3D printers like this is that their future lifespan is more or less unlimited. Both motherboards used in the Pulse run commonly used, widely used firmware systems that use a common protocol that has been standard in the 3D printing community for years. One particular advantage of the Pulse line is that it relies on MatterControl. Further updates to more advanced features are likely to be in preparation, and support for the product will be available in the coming years.

Should you buy it

Would you like to work with the best without fuss? If so, absolutely! Otherwise yes! This thing is awesome!

Editor's recommendations




11 May
Blog

Microsoft Surface Go 2 Review: The Awkward Teenager

Microsoft Surface Go 2 review 05

"The Surface Go 2 still doesn't live up to its infinite potential."

  • Nice, bright screen

  • Light but robust

  • Runs a full version of Windows 10

  • Intel Core m3 offers solid performance

  • Too expensive

  • Using tablets is still difficult

  • The battery life is missing

The Surface Go 2 is the clumsy teenager in the Surface family.

The Surface Pro is grown up, confident and goal-oriented. The upcoming Surface Duo and Surface Neo are the children of the family, full of promises that have yet to be proven. But the Go 2 surface? It pushes in between. It's smart and has an idea of ​​what to do, but it doesn't seem to be sure.

Starting at $ 400, the iPad is the most direct competitor at $ 329. However, you will have to pay an additional $ 70 for the Type Cover keyboard connector. My updated Surface Go 2 test device with Type Cover costs $ 700.

Has Microsoft optimized the formula so far that Go 2 finds its place?

Design and display

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

The Go 2 is the latest in a long line of Microsoft attempts to make a small Surface device. The Surface Go was first launched in 2018, but preceded the original Surface, which started in Windows RT in 2012.

The size of the screen is the most notable change in the formula. It now measures diagonally at 10.5 inches, grown by 10 inches. It's only 5% more screen, but on smaller devices every half inch counts.

The screen itself is beautiful, especially for a device for $ 399.

Microsoft did this by adding only 0.05 pounds to the weight of the device, which is important. The Go 2's portability differs from the Surface Pro and allows it to compete with the iPad. The ability to hold and operate the device in one hand is crucial.

To avoid enlargement, the Surface Go 2 has slightly smaller side panels than its predecessor. I like this change, although I want more. I am spoiled by the current number of tablets and laptops, which do much more to improve the screen-to-body ratio. The lower panel of course allows the Type Cover keyboard to sit at its angle.

From the port's perspective, nothing has changed. Like the original, the Surface Go 2 has a USB-C port, a Surface Connect dock, a headphone jack and a microSD card slot. You can charge using either the USB-C port or the Surface Connect dock. This is useful if you want to charge when connecting USB accessories.

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

The screen itself is beautiful, especially for a device for $ 399. A laptop for this price is probably not even 1080p and is likely to be dark and saturated. Not the Surface Go 2. The 1,920 x 1,280 panel is lively, bright and sharp. There are laptops and tablets with more accurate colors or higher contrast, but none at this price.

That is, of course, with the exception of the 10.2-inch iPad for $ 329. The 2,160 x 1,620 display has a higher pixel density and is also a bit brighter. But let's be honest – the real advantage of the iPad over the Surface Go 2 is not the build quality or the display. It's in the software department.

Software problems galore

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

The Surface Go 2 is delivered with "Windows 10 in S mode". This is the tablet's first software problem. Not many Windows devices sell a lot with this unfortunate version of Windows 10, which prevents you from installing EXE files from the Internet.

Do you think it doesn't concern you? I quickly reached the limits of S mode when I called out about zoom after our morning hustle and bustle. The Surface Go 2 comes with a 1080p, 5 megapixel webcam that is perfect for video conferencing. However, I found that S mode was preventing me from downloading the app and instead referred me to the Microsoft Store.

Fine. I click on the store and of course find that zoom is nowhere to be found. It is such situation ties that make S mode a problematic idea.

And yes, just get out of S mode. A restart is not even necessary. But "S mode" is not a phrase most tech-savvy people know, and they certainly don't know why they should turn it on or off. The warning Microsoft is giving about performance and battery life is enough to keep most people from switching to normal Windows 10.

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

Except for S mode, the status of Windows 10 tablet mode has not improved in the past five years. It's still not a touch-friendly software experience. Most of the gestures are not intuitive. It works, but it is rough.

Obviously, Microsoft has no interest in improving tablet mode as it is actively working on its replacement Windows 10X. The company recently announced that the touch-friendly interface for single-screen devices will be available before the more experimental two-screen devices.

The Surface Go 2 is in a strange transition from Windows 10 to Windows 10X.

A computer is only as good as the software it runs. The Surface Go 2 is unfortunately stuck in the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 10X.

Keyboard and touchpad

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

The Surface Go 2 was introduced in the middle of the change of the iPad. Apple's tablets now offer full cursor and mouse support and a fancy Magic Keyboard attachment. This makes the iPad Pro feel more like a serious laptop replacement.

In terms of price, however, the real competition for the Surface Go 2 is the $ 329 iPad from 2019. If this iPad could use the Magic keyboard, the Surface Go 2 would be in trouble. However, this doesn't mean that the $ 329 iPad doesn't have the old smart keyboard, which lacks a touchpad. Alternatively, you can try a third-party keyboard case, such as the Logitech Combo Touch.

Because of its small size, typing feels a little uncomfortable when touched.

The Surface Go 2 has a solid keyboard, but is not perfect. For example, typing with the touch feels a little uncomfortable. The layout of the QWERTY line is a little too far to the left, making it difficult to reach the "R" key without lifting the rest of my fingers. This is exactly where the T button should be.

I had the same problem with the original Surface Go, although I was able to re-familiarize myself within a few hours. The solution? I hover my fingers over the buttons instead of resting them on a standard layout.

The touchpad isn't huge, but it does respond. Other Windows 10 laptops at this price usually have textured plastic touchpads that are nowhere near as smooth as the Type Cover.

Although the Surface Go 2 doesn't come with the Type Cover, Microsoft currently only charges $ 70 for the attachment. Apple charges $ 160 for its Smart Keyboard and Magic Keyboard from $ 250.

The Surface Go 2 is also compatible with the $ 100 Surface Pen, although Microsoft hasn't bundled it with our review sample. I was satisfied with the Surface Pen in the past and I assume that this will also be the case with the Surface Go 2. For some, this may be a primary reason to buy the device because the Surface Go 2 is the cheapest compatible device with the Surface Pen.

performance

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

The Surface Go 2 is available in two versions. Both have dual-core processors, but the big news is the more expensive variant, which is powered by an Intel Core m3-8100Y. This is a premiere for the Surface Go, which in the past only offered Intel Pentium Gold chips.

It's a big change for the better. The Surface Go 2 is almost 50% faster than its predecessor in benchmarks. Apps load faster, multitasking is smoother, and finding the performance cap is much more difficult. It is not impossible, but now beyond what many people want to do with this device.

The best part? The Surface Go 2 is fanless, stays quiet and surprisingly cool with a variety of workloads.

However, the Core m3 model costs $ 630. It also comes with 8 GB of RAM and a 128 GB SSD. That's not a terrible price for the specs, but you can buy an Intel Core i5 or a new AMD Ryzen 7 chip for the same price. Just don't expect it to be as slim and slim as the Go 2.

The Surface Go 2 is fanless and therefore remains completely noiseless and cool.

The new MacBook Air is a good reference. It was recently updated with a 10th generation Core i3 processor that only contains two cores and four threads. The air benchmarks are 15% faster in the single-core area and 20% in the multi-core area than in the Surface Go 2. This is not a big gap, and the launch of the Air is much more expensive at $ 1,000 .

It's a pity that the Intel Core m3 is not a standard. The basic Surface Go 2 comes with the Pentium 4425Y, a small step up from the Pentium 4415Y in the original Surface Go. I haven't tested it yet, but expect performance similar to the original Go with some issues.

This is the version most people are likely to buy, and that's a problem. It offers less headroom for multitasking, especially if you want to connect an external monitor. If you match memory and storage, the Intel Core m3 option is only $ 80 more expensive, but offers a significant increase in performance.

Battery life

Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

There are situations when the Surface Go 2 is a fantastic companion. It is the perfect size to use recipes and videos in the kitchen or to travel as a work and media device. However, these tasks require long battery life, and the original Surface Go lacked endurance. It only took about five hours on a single charge.

The Surface Go 2 is even worse thanks to the faster Core m3 chip and the 27 watt-hour battery. With light use, it took about four hours and thirteen minutes. With my standard mix of multitasking, streaming music, web apps and office, it was less than four hours. I even tried my normal routine in Microsoft's new Edge browser, but that didn't help.

My local video playback test was the only bright spot. It took an impressive eleven hours and fifteen minutes, and even exceeded Microsoft's own ten hours. Unfortunately, if you do something more essential, that number will drop significantly.

Budget laptops often don't offer much more battery life, but the iPad is a longer-lasting device that offers seven to eight hours in many situations.

More expensive Surface devices also do better. While consuming more power, they make up for it with much larger batteries.

Our opinion

The Surface Go 2 is a device that I want to love. In many ways, it's the 2-in-1 I've always wanted. With the right software running, a more comfortable keyboard, thinner bezels, and better battery life, I can consider using both a tablet and a laptop to ensure the life of a single device.

This dream device is a completely different device than today's Surface Go 2. The next iteration may be the one that reaches the next level, but the Surface Go 2 doesn't make the cut.

Are there alternatives?

Among the tablets, the iPad is the best alternative for $ 329. It's lighter, has a better screen, and destroys the Surface Go in its software experience.

Good alternatives for laptops are the $ 650 Pixelbook Go, which offers a better laptop experience, and the $ 650 Acer Swift 3 with Ryzen, which offers a lot more power.

How long it will take?

The Surface Go 2 may feel chunkier earlier than other laptops and 2-in-1 devices you can buy in 2020. The installations were already a year or two ago. Microsoft grants a standard one-year warranty on its Surface products.

Should you buy it

No. It's a solid device for people who want Surface functionality at low UVP, but most people will be better off with the Surface Pro, an iPad, or a Chromebook.

Editor's recommendations




11 May
Blog

Tag Heuer Connected Review: Indulge Yourself, It’s Worth It

Tag Heuer connected 2020 smartwatch review 02 face

Tag Heuer Connected (2020) Review: Go ahead, treat yourself

"The Tag Heuer Connected is a desirable smartwatch that is easy to love at first glance."

  • Nice design and comfortable to wear

  • Sapphire crystal over the screen

  • Good battery life

  • Heart rate sensor and custom fitness app

  • Naturally expensive

  • No way to make or receive calls

Is there a difference between putting on and wearing a Tag Heuer smartwatch compared to another WearOS smartwatch? The answer is yes – but it has nothing to do with technology. With the Tag Heuer Connected we get a Swiss smartwatch that is not only suitable for loyal watch freaks, but for everyone who has a piece of disposable income to spend something special.

design

It is so pretty. So, so pretty. The Tag Heuer Connected shown here has a stainless steel case, a solid ceramic bezel made of brushed steel and a rubber strap. It is reserved and yet noble, fits stylistically to everything and is obviously still a Tag Heuer. You can buy versions with metal bands and with a matt black PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating. I was a little worried about the size of the new version before seeing it in real life as it is a substantial 44mm wide and 13.5mm thick case, but my worry was not necessary.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

It is exactly right. This is the minimal bezel thanks to the nice screen, the slim buttons and the reasonably large horns. Sapphire crystal covers the screen and fits directly into the bezel. This is important for ergonomics, as this makes the touchscreen more comfortable to use. There is no bezel on the screen itself and the display takes up the entire dial.

The sapphire with its characteristic sheen is wonderful to look at and offers scratch protection. The strong metal buttons – new for a Tag Heuer Connected Smartwatch – have a positive effect. The strap is thick, yet soft, strong but pliable, and I like the bevelled edge of the bezel, which gives just the right amount of shine in sunlight. The rubber coating on the crown is a great move as it increases grip as you scroll through the menu system.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

However, the watch is quite thick, which is optically balanced by a clever rejuvenation of the heart rate sensor. It does not stop that it is painful to fit under tight shirt sleeves. The heart rate sensor protrudes from the body to ensure good contact with your wrist and increases the profile of the watch when worn.

At least it's not a heavy watch and the rubber band stays comfortable. I happily wore the smartwatch all day without feeling uncomfortable. It feels close to a traditional high-end luxury watch.

Tag Heuer has given up modularity, which means that none of the main components are interchangeable, including the horns. It has accepted that this is a smartwatch and therefore has to be suitable for everyone, not for an additional purchase that will be picked up by its established customers alongside a Tag Heuer Monaco Golf worth $ 6,350. This gives the watch more focus and makes it nicer to own, not only for those who want to have the cache with the name, but also for those who want to wear a luxury smart watch and use it every day.

software

The last WearOS watch I wore for a long time was the Suunto 7, and the software experience was better than many others. I am happy to say that the Tag Heuer has been similarly improved over older (and cheaper) WearOS watches. General use, such as notifications, the use of Google Assistant and fitness tracking, is smooth and fast, making the watch comfortable to use every day. There are some delays when using online services like the Play Store, but I haven't used them regularly enough to notice this.

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Tag Heuer's watch face collection is pleasantly diverse, but strangely limited. There are two classic Tag Heuer faces that look great, but I'd like to have more options than abstract faces. These graphically heavy faces, called carbon and orbital, look fantastic, especially the way the moving stars on the orbital face represent the second hand. but they're not exactly saying Tag Heuer, which is probably important for anyone who buys this watch.

The initial WearOS setup process is slow and cumbersome. You need to enter passwords, agree to various agreements, and install updates. It takes up to 45 minutes. In many cases, the watch must be in the charger. Compare this to the faster and less lengthy setup required for an Apple Watch, and the introduction to your Tag Heuer watch isn't ideal.

However, this is more of a problem with the software than with this watch and occurs regardless of the WearOS model purchased. After that, you still need to install some important apps, including Google Maps and Google Fit, which are not standard, but will significantly improve the user experience.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

There are several pre-installed Tag Heuer apps. The excellent golf app, previously seen on the Golf Edition Tag Heuer watch, now uses the buttons on the case for faster navigation on the watch. It takes the Tag Heuer Golf app on your phone, and I've found that the course list is still out of date. It shows my local course as open but has been closed for many years. Apart from that, the app is a great companion on the golf course.

There's also a beautifully designed custom timer and stopwatch app, as well as a new sports app. It offers settings for golf, running, cycling, walking, fitness and a general fitness tracking mode. As with the Golf app, the physical buttons are active to make stopping and stopping easier, and the display shows time, calorie and heart rate data.

However, the app still needs to be polished. For example, the rotating crown does not work when entering your personal data, but somewhere else in the app. Otherwise, it is well designed and can be quickly synchronized with the Tag Heuer Sports app on your mobile phone. The data are not complete and are only intended for occasional fitness fans.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

Google Fit is available, but again, the crown doesn't work with the software. By default, the hardware buttons are configured to enable the Tag Heuer apps. However, they can be changed to the apps of your choice. I like the helpful Google Assistant screen, which is swiped from the left and clearly shows the weather, appointments and other assistant functions such as delivery dates.

Notifications can be answered with predefined responses or with a tiny keyboard. The former is preferable. I received fewer repeated notifications than some other WearOS smartwatches, but found that some notifications were not delivered at all. Again, the inconsistency of notifications is more of a problem with WearOS than with this special smartwatch. WearOS works well here, but even then it doesn't come close to the robust reliability of Apple's WatchOS.

Screen, connectivity and performance

The 1.4-inch OLED screen has a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, so you can see information clearly. The lack of a bezel gives it an ultra-modern style, especially when reading text. The detail is razor sharp, the colors are striking and the visibility of the sunlight is good. This is supported by a decent automatic brightness function. It quickly adapted to indoor and outdoor lighting conditions and stuck to its choice, rather than accidentally increasing or decreasing the level like some other WearOS watches. The constantly active screen is another success. It shows the time with an animated second hand at a glance, without you having to lift your wrist and without noticeably affecting the battery life.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

This comes in part from the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 platform that powers the watch. This is a massive improvement over the old Snapdragon Wear 2100 platform, and the advantages in terms of efficiency and speed are obvious. There is almost no stuttering, and even connecting to the Google Play Store – often a speed issue – is acceptable. Google Assistant is easy to use with your voice and is activated after a long press on the crown. It answers the same questions you would easily ask your phone. However, I would still not use it in public.

You cannot make or receive calls from Tag Heuer Connected. When a call comes in via the watch, you are notified, but the answering machine immediately switches it to your phone. While speaking with your watch is the same social acceptance issue as speaking with Google Assistant, it is sometimes a practical feature. Given the price of the Tag Heuer Connected, it's a shame it isn't included. The vibration is subtle but strong enough to be felt.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

It is also the first Tag Heuer smartwatch with a heart rate sensor. Compared to the Apple Watch Series 5, it constantly reads two or three beats faster. I trust the Apple Watch for several reasons, but mainly because my heart rate is the same for many months, while others vary more.

battery

Compared to the watch itself, the included charging base is rather shabby and made of plastic. It attaches magnetically to the back of the watch and takes up to an hour and 30 minutes to fully charge. It feels very slow, now we have smartphones with significantly larger batteries that can be charged in an hour or less.

The 430 mAh battery easily lasted a whole day with moderate use and recorded about 45 minutes of training with Google Fit or the Tag Heuer app. Movement restrictions have made it impossible to test the effects of using more extensive fitness features. Without fitness tracking and just notifications, the Tag Heuer Connected took one and a half days. Not that bad.

Price, availability and guarantee

The Tag Heuer Connected is not expensive for luxury watch standards, but expensive for smartwatch standards. The steel case and black rubber strap model shown here costs $ 1,800 or £ 1,495, but you could pay at least $ 2,350 or £ 1,950 for the titanium versions. The collection is now available in Tag Heuer's own online shop. Tag Heuer grants a two-year guarantee, which however does not cover the battery or the crystal.

Our opinion

With the new Tag Heuer Connected, Tag Heuer is fully committed to developing a real smartwatch. Forgetting the modular functions has resulted in a better made, more focused, and more portable smartwatch than any other version before. While it doesn't offer any additional functionality over many other WearOS smartwatches, its design, construction, and materials outperform everything else and ensure that it offers the luxury required by a Tag Heuer. WearOS is not frustrating and also performs well. All of this surpasses the ownership experience of many smartwatches under $ 300.

Is there a better alternative?

There are two ways to look at this question. If you're looking for an alternative luxury smartwatch, there are few options available to you. The $ 995 Montblanc Summit 2 Plus is a similarly compact, beautifully designed WearOS smartwatch. Apple's Apple Watch Series 5 Hermés Edition, worth $ 1,400, is also something special, especially because of the beautiful bracelets and unique dials. Then there is the Movado Connect 2.0 for $ 795 and even the Alpina AlpinerX, which is characterized by the fact that it does not use WearOS.

If you want a smartwatch and don't really care if it comes from a luxury brand, there are many more options. We like the $ 295 Fossil Gen 5, the $ 280 Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2, and the awesome $ 275 Diesel On Fadelite.

These are all WearOS watches that work with Android and iOS phones. However, if you have an iPhone, you should only buy a smartwatch – the Apple Watch Series 5 for $ 400.

It should be noted here that the functions of all WearOS watches are largely identical, regardless of whether you buy a luxury smartwatch or not. When you choose a luxury model, you pay more for the materials, the build quality and the brand name than for additional functions.

How long it will take?

A smartwatch should last for about two to three years, and that goes for any smartwatch, luxury, or otherwise. This is due to the deterioration of the battery, technological advances and the availability of software updates. The Tag Heuer Connected itself is water-resistant to 50 meters, has a stainless steel case, sapphire crystal and a ceramic bezel, which means that it is very hard-wearing.

Tag Heuer has also reduced modularity so that you cannot swap the smartwatch case for a mechanical case, which will keep your strap and horn options when the digital part is no longer optimal. The cost was high, but it may have added value to Tag Heuer collectors and justified the initial price.

Should you buy it

Yes, but just know what you're buying. You buy a Tag Heuer smartwatch and have to accept the enormous additional cost and importance of it compared to spending around $ 300 on another smartwatch.

Editor's recommendations




11 May
Blog

Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight Review: A Bright Choice

Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight

"You won't find a more intelligent and useful solar safety light on the market."

  • Adjustable brightness

  • Can connect to other smart devices

  • 1200 lumens of white light

The Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight is the answer to your outdoor security requirements, especially if you don't know anything about wiring and don't want to hire an electrician to install security lights outside your home. This lamp is easy to assemble and is powered by a solar panel. You don't have to worry about batteries or wiring, and installation takes an amazingly quick 5 to 10 minutes. Even better? With the Ring app you have full control over this intelligent light. Really, there is nothing you don't like

about this ring product.

Brighten the night

This writer's back yard gets as dark as a mine shaft at night, so I need a floodlight that can really turn off the light. I wasn't sure if a solar light would do the job. But when I tried the Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight on a cloudy night, it lit up most of the 4-acre lot behind my house.

If you need a little less power for your cottage, you can control the brightness with the Ring app.

It is also adjustable. If you need a little less power for your holiday home, you can use the ring app to control the brightness as you wish. In total, the light provides up to 1,200 lumens of white light (3500K color temperature).

App functions

Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight in the Ring app

You'd think that a simple spotlight wouldn't have too many app features. Just on, off and maybe a brightness control, right? Well, the Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight offers a lot more functions in the Ring app. In addition to changing the brightness, you can also enable a motion detection option that turns on the light when it detects something is moving in the area. You can also choose whether or not to receive a warning on your phone every time a movement is detected.

It was really only recognized when my dogs were moving and not seeing any insect movement, which can be a lot here in Texas.

You can also adjust the sensitivity so that the light doesn't come on every time a moth floats by. I set the light to medium sensitivity and then left my dogs in the back yard for a few hours. A look at the "Event History" section of the app showed me that the light only came on a few times, which means that it was really only recognized when my dogs were moving and not detecting any insect movements, which can be a lot here in Texas .

Ring Smart Lighting solar floodlight and blue skyAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

The app also gives you the option to set your floodlights on a schedule. You can connect it to other lights in your house or set it on your own schedule. I have set it to turn on only from dawn to dawn, which gives it time to turn the battery on fully during the day. The combination with other devices such as the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is also a good idea. For example, each time your floodlight detects motion, it can be set up to automatically turn on the camera on your video doorbell. This ensures that if someone tries to sneak around your property, you have a better chance of capturing video footage of the person – and it's a wonderful deterrent.

Power from the sun

Ring Smart Lighting solar floodlight and solar panel Alina Bradford / Digital Trends

By far my favorite feature of the Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight is that it is solar. You don't have to wire anything or replace batteries. As long as you set up the 2 W solar panel in a sunny place, you can get started. My garden has a lot of shade, but the battery is still well charged. The solar panel is fantastic, but it is dedicated to light so it cannot be used with other products.

It takes a buddy

Ring bridge in handAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

An important thing to remember is that you have to buy one Ring bridge In order for the floodlights to be connected to the app and to be coupled with other lights and intelligent devices in your home, the WiFi in your home is less used. The ring bridge costs $ 50 and is about the size of half a deck of cards. So it takes up very little space in your house. Unfortunately, it cannot be used with devices that were not made by Ring.

Our opinion

I really can't say enough good things about this light. The Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight ($ 90) is affordable, easy to install, and maintenance-free. The app gives you the control you've ever dreamed of when it comes to outdoor lighting. This product really met all of my outdoor security lighting requirements.

Is there a better alternative?

Not really. There are some solar powered floodlights on the market at prices between $ 35 and $ 600, but there are very few that can be controlled with an app, and probably none that can be connected to other lights in your home. The next light that the Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight can be compared to is the Link2Home Security Solar Floodlight ($ 40): It is programmable, but not really "intelligent" and cannot be connected to other smart devices.

How long it will take?

I think it will stand the test of time. It is designed for a temperature of -20 ° C to 50 ° C and is weatherproof with protection class IP66. There is also a 1 year limited warranty.

Should you buy it

Yes, there really is no reason why you would not love this light.

Editor's recommendations




09 May
Blog

Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus Review: Complacent in a Sea of Innovations

"Live breakdowns and a few missing functions make this doorbell a dubious choice."

  • A variety of motion controls

  • Pre-roll preview function

  • Compatible with Alexa and Ring devices

  • easy installation

  • Doesn't recognize boxes

  • Glitchy live view

  • Distorted video

We already love ringtones. With the ring app, you can see who is at your door, wherever you are, and even talk to visitors in real time. We love Ring so much that Ring Video Doorbell 2 and Ring Video Doorbell Pro made our list of the best video doorbells for 2020. Now the company has launched the next model in its line, the Ring video doorbell 3 Plus ($ 229.99). Will we love it as much? That's how it went.

Doorbell Plus 3 is ringinginstallation

Setting up the doorbell is fairly easy since the doorbell app guides you by connecting the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network. It is even helpful to set up security and usage settings. The installation kit also includes everything you need, including a drill, in case you need to drill new holes for the mounting bracket.

As soon as this is complete, you can connect your new doorbell to other Ring products such as the Ring Solar Floodlight, Solar Path Lights, the various intelligent light bulbs from Ring or Solar Step Lights. With this connection to other devices, you can set up tasks. For example, you can set up a task to automatically turn on your smart lights during the night when the doorbell detects motion.

Ring video doorbell 3 plus cover platesAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

If you have color preferences, the 3 Plus comes with two different front panels: you can choose between silver and black to better match your home. Replacing is as easy as snapping a case onto your phone.

I recommend combining bell 3 with the bell signal. It will work without it, but if someone comes to your door and you don't have your phone nearby, you probably won't hear the doorbell ringing. It is not very loud. I could barely hear it and was only a few yards from the front door. The carillon sounds in your house.

Outstanding functions

The bell 3 has so many functions that it looks almost overwhelming. Fortunately, the app is intuitive and it's easy to set everything up.

One feature that I like is the pre-roll option. This allows the camera to record a four-second preview video to see exactly what triggered a motion alarm. The footage is shot in black and white to conserve the battery. In the event of a possible break-in or tampering with the package, this additional four seconds can help law enforcement. Unfortunately, pre-roll does not work with the night vision of the camera. That means you won't get this nifty feature at night.

I was disappointed that there was no box detection technology.

The motion detection is fully customizable. You can adjust the area of ​​the motion detector, for example, by specifying how many feet from your door it detects motion. If your home is near a sidewalk or street, you will not be notified by the doorbell every time something goes past your home. If you want to take a nap, you can turn off motion alerts for 30 minutes to four hours. You can even adjust the sensitivity of the motion detector to reduce warnings.

Ring video doorbell 3 plus app

There are options to change what the doorbell also recognizes. You can choose whether the doorbell detects some kind of movement or just people. I was disappointed that there was no box detection technology like the Nest Hello doorbell. I get a lot of packages and want to know when a package is on my porch. For some reason, this doorbell does not contain the box identification A.I. Feature. It has the same field of view as the nest at 160 degrees, so it's a shame it doesn't support this feature.

In addition to these options, you can also customize various modes that can be set up with specific behaviors when you are at home or on the go. In home mode, for example, you can set the doorbell so that no movement is detected and deactivate the live view function.

Do you want to stay up to date? The Ring app sends you real-time crime and security alerts reported by your neighbors or local law enforcement agencies. The app shows you current activities on a map of your neighborhood, weekly safety reports and more. I think it's a very useful feature. For example, a neighbor was shot down the street by her boyfriend. I could see the location of the incident on the map. The app also reports information about missing children near you so you can keep an eye out for them.

Ring neighborhood warnings

Works with Alexa

Although the app works great, you can connect other smart devices outside of the ring ecosystem to your doorbell using the Alexa app. You can also control the doorbell with voice commands. For example, you can say commands like this:

  • "Alexa, speak to the front door."
  • "Alexa, turn off the motion sensor on the front door. "
  • "Alexa, set the motion sensitivity on the front door to low."

If you have an Alexa-compatible smart display like the Amazon Echo Show, you can see who is at the door on the screen. You can also speak to them for even more flexibility when using the 3 Plus.

Video and audio

The Bell 3 Plus has 1080p HD video, which means that the quality has not changed since the Bell 2. Still, the video was nice and clear, but there was a problem.

Things are just a little rounded.

There's fishbowl-like distortion for everything you see through the camera. However, this doesn't seem to affect how visible a person is in the video, regardless of where they stand on the porch. Things are just a little rounded. I'm a little disappointed because other video doorbells like the Arlo video doorbell have figured out how to get great video quality without the fishbowl look.

Ring video doorbell 3 plus live videoAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

The live video can also be faulty and it can take a minute for a connection to the app to be established. This can be annoying when trying to speak to someone at your door. You can go before you get the app up and running. Shutting down and restarting the app fixed the problem, but it was an annoyance. It's hard to say what is the culprit behind the problem, as the 3 Plus has both 2.4 and 5 GHz dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity.

While the 3 Plus is doing a great night video, I wish it had a built-in floodlight like the August Doorbell Cam Pro. There are dozens of situations where a little more light on your porch can be useful. August also records color night videos, and the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus only records in black and white.

You need a cloud service plan to save your videos. With Ring Protect, you can review and share videos and photos for up to 60 days. It costs $ 3 a month per device or $ 100 a year for your entire household. This price is comparable to other video doorbell video storage plans like Nest Aware, but Ring Protect gives you a lot more storage days. August, on the other hand, offers its customers its video memory for free.

The audio quality when you talk to someone through the app is very good. The 3 Plus has noise cancellation technology that makes voices stand out from all the noises in your house, which is very helpful.

privacy

Ring has been in the news many times for privacy concerns related to their cameras. However, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus has some features that can help you calm down. For example, there is a two-step confirmation to access the app or your account online and protect your personal information. You can also turn off the microphone to prevent it from hearing things you don't want to hear. If certain parts of your garden are not to be recorded, e.g. For example, your pool or your children's play area, you can set up privacy zones that limit the visibility or recording of the camera. In the video you can see a black box in which the data protection area has been set up in the app.

Our opinion

Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is a decent intelligent doorbell. It has a lot of great features, but it's not the best option we've come across. The video specs could have been updated to keep up with the competition, and I don't like the live video glitches. However, there are many great features that allow you to customize how the doorbell detects things around your door. Finally, I really appreciate how easy it is to integrate into a larger smart home ecosystem to work with other smart products that are compatible with Alexa and Ring. When it comes to price, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is $ 300 compared to other major providers in the high-end video doorbell market.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. The Arlo video doorbell ($ 149) is cheaper and offers many great options, including Alexa integration. The August Doorbell Cam Pro ($ 171) is also cheaper and has a fantastic lighting feature.

How long it will take?

The whole doorbell is made of plastic. The thinness of the cover plate affects me. I'm not sure if it will withstand rigorous use, but a one-year limited warranty is given. In the unfortunate event that it is stolen, Ring will replace it free of charge.

Should I buy it?

If you already have a lot of ring products in your house, I would absolutely say so. The best thing about the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is how it interacts with other Ring products and the great Ring app features like crime warnings. If you are not a ring fan, I would choose a different video doorbell.

Editor's recommendations




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