29 Mar
Blog

Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G Lens Review: The Perfect Astro Lens?

Sony Fe 20mm F18 test lens 7771

Sony FE 20mm f / 1.8G lens test: an excellent landscape lens

"With maximum sharpness and minimal distortion, the 20 mm lens from Sony is an almost perfect astrophotography and landscape lens."

  • Outstanding sharpness

  • Small to no aberrations

  • Light

  • Aperture de-click switch

  • Weatherproof

  • Slight barrel distortion and vignetting

With the exception of third-party manufacturers, the Sony FE 20mm f / 1.8G is the widest full-frame E-mount prime lens to date. It's designed to take more of the scene and offers a 94-degree angle of view – phone photographers can imagine it is between the wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle lenses of an iPhone 11 – but adjusts this field of view with a large f / 1 , 8 aperture for excellent low-light performance.

While the focal length and aperture are clear in the name of the lens, other features from Sony such as the "advanced optical design" and the "Dual XD Linear Motor" have to be decoded. (I'll come to that.)

But are these features worth nearly $ 900? Thanks to superior sharpness and minimal distortion, I have to say yes. This is still a niche lens, but its jargon-packed list of features is more than just marketing hype.

Design and specifications

The FE 20mm f / 1.8 is part of Sony's high-end G-series (but not the high-end GM-series) and is housed in a weatherproof, lightweight housing that fits on the A7R IV which I served as a test camera, this review felt at home. These two linear autofocus motors help the lens adjust the performance of modern Alpha series housings, while a dedicated aperture ring with a click switch enhances its appeal for serious video shooters.

The lens feels sturdy and well built. The barrel isn't made of metal, but that helps keep the weight at a reasonable 13 ounces. With a length of 3.5 inches, it doesn't take up much space in the camera bag and accepts modest 67mm filters.

What is not obvious when looking at the lens is the optical design, which consists of 14 elements in 12 groups with an aperture of nine wings that stops up to 1:22.

An aperture ring offers direct control of the aperture without having to rely on a camera-based dial. This takes getting used to, but feels just like how you naturally hold a camera in two hands.

The aperture ring is not just about ergonomics. With the de-click switch, the aperture settings can be adjusted silently and continuously, which is important for video recording. I definitely prefer to enable the click for still images as you can feel how much you've adjusted it without looking. (The aperture value is still displayed in the electronic viewfinder, but the click only feels more reassuring.)

In addition to the aperture ring and the de-click switch, there is a focus lock button and a switch in the lens barrel with which you can easily switch from auto focus to manual mode. A standard focus ring is located on the front of the lens.

Autofocus

This is where the dual XD linear motor system comes in, which is said to generate fast and quiet auto focus. My experience matched these claims. The auto focus is pretty quiet. It is not silent, but it does not distract you when you take pictures in a sensitive environment such as a wedding ceremony.

The speed of the autofocus was in line with the expectations we had of the A7R IV – fast and accurate, only struggling with subjects that most cameras struggle with, such as shiny objects or where there is not much contrast.

The 20 mm focus very close to the front of the lens, about 7 inches. With the large focal length, this is not enough for real macro functions, but I did not expect the generous 0.2x magnification. For a wide-angle lens, this close-up opens up a number of creative possibilities for a variety of subjects.

picture quality

Note that 20 mm is an unusual focal length – 24 mm is much more common for a prime number, since larger angles are usually covered by zooms, e.g. B. the FE 16-35 mm f / 2.8 from Sony. The focal length is ideal not only for taking wide views, but also for exaggerating the distance between objects, while the bright aperture of 1: 1.8 simply cannot be achieved by zooming.

The lens has some barrel distortion towards the edges, but less than expected with a wide-angle lens. Lines near the edges of the frame are gently curved towards the corners, but this can easily be attached to the post.

Vignetting is also a common problem with wide-angle lenses, especially with such large apertures, but the Sony 20mm only had a very slight darkening in the corners. The vignette was completely removed by a slight adjustment of +5 in Lightroom.

However, the resolution is even more impressive. The sharpness was excellent in the middle, even wide open, and really showed what the 61 megapixel A7R IV can do. Lowering the aperture brought a slight improvement, but if you want that dreamy, shallow depth of field, you don't have to worry about sacrificing focus to get it. The edges had only a slight drop in sharpness, which is probably not recognizable in real pictures.

Where the lens really shines is in astrophotography. This is certainly a photographic discipline in which both bright apertures and wide angles are required and where sharpness is of the utmost importance. Stars are represented as tiny pinpricks of light without sagittal coma flickering, even towards the edges of the frame. Together with the resolution of the A7R IV, the lens helped capture an abundance of sharp stars.

Small light sources do not suffer from the usual flares, while larger light sources – such as the sun or the moon – create starbursts. But the flare is well controlled overall in the FE 20 mm, and even hard light didn't cause much of a problem. Occasionally, a starburst was paired with a rainbow arch or a slight color shift, but nothing big. Chromatic aberration also does not appear to be present.

Wide angles are generally not thought of for their bokeh, but the FE 20mm f / 1.8 looks great here. With an aperture of nine sheets, even a stopped recording creates soft, circular blur patterns. I couldn't see any "onion rings" or other strange shapes that bokeh fans like to criticize.

For videos, the lens produced more of the same with sharp details and well-controlled stray light. The clicked aperture is very impressive here; I could hear my own breathing, but no mechanical noise when I set the aperture while recording.

Our opinion

The wide angle, the fast aperture and the high-end optics ensure an excellent mix of the Sony FE 20mm f / 1.8G. The sharpness is excellent, aberrations are minimal or nonexistent and all the things that wide-angle lenses do most struggle – like barrel distortion and vignetting – are minor and barely noticeable on most shots.

For $ 898, this is certainly not a budget prime. But for photographers who regularly pull out a wide angle, the high-quality workmanship and the impressive optics are probably worth it. The lens is ideal for astrophotography, landscapes and any other picture that needs a broad perspective.

Is there a better alternative?

The focal length of 20 mm is not very common, and for e-mount shooters it depends on this Sony that Sigma 20 mm 1: 1.4 DG HSM Art.or just with a zoom.

The Sigma is an excellent lens, but some users complain about corner distortion when shooting stars. Designed as a DSLR lens, it weighs twice as much as the Sony. In addition, there is not the usual financial advantage of a third-party provider, since both lenses cost the same.

However, the Sigma has a brighter aperture of 1: 1.4 for shots where the last bit of light is important. The Sony 20mm is probably the better option for most, as the 1: 1.4 advantage over 1: 1.8 is pretty small, but the size and weight difference is big.

How long it will take?

The Sony 20mm is well built, so the lens should last for several years, apart from a major disaster. Lenses typically have long product lifecycles, so we wouldn't expect a replacement for many years.

Should you buy it

Yes. If you need a bright wide-angle prime in your kit, the Sony FE 20mm f / 1.8G offers excellent quality in a light, durable lens that's not too expensive.

Editor's recommendations




29 Mar
Blog

Marshall Tufton Bluetooth Speaker Review: Bold Block Rocker

Marshall Tufton

Marshall Tufton Bluetooth Speaker Review: Large, bold rocker

"The Marshall Tufton is an accomplished party speaker and belongs to your next meeting."

  • Beautiful authentic design

  • Very solid construction

  • Sounds great at high volumes

  • Very good battery life

If you want a really good bluetooth speaker, there are many good options – and even more if you're not that picky. Most of these speakers are rather small and emphasize the personal but portable sound. If you want something with a little more power – a Bluetooth speaker that powers an entire terrace party as easily as mood music at home, your choices are much more limited.

One of these options is the Marshall Tufton, a $ 400 Bluetooth speaker that doesn't apologize for its main job: it's a serious party machine that strikes a fine line between performance and portability. Given the high price and some very capable competitors, is it the right Bluetooth speaker for your next meeting? We put it to the test to find out.

Classic design

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The Marshall brand is of course best known for its legendary guitar amps and speaker stacks that have shaped the stages and garages of the music world for decades. When the British brand entered the personal audio sector, it naturally retained this appearance and gave its products an authenticity that few other companies can claim. I've always liked the look, but smaller products like headphones lack the same presence of live music equipment.

That's why I love the tufton. As a large Bluetooth speaker (over a meter tall), it can use the Marshall design legacy in a way that few other personal Marshall audio products can. From its crisscross metal grille with the italic Marshall logo to the textured body surfaces and top-mounted knobs, it's the best you can get from a real Marshall amplifier. Some people who saw me with it asked if it was a small guitar amp.

I am also a big fan of the internal power supply. You shouldn't have to carry a large power stone around with you when you drive off, and the tufton doesn't make you. A simple and easily replaceable 2-pin power cord is all you need.

Built like a brick …

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

These classic Marshall design features are not just cosmetic. The tufton is big, heavy and very solid. At just over 10 pounds, you don't want to carry this beast long distances, although the leather-like detachable strap is ideal for that.

One has the impression that one could take the tufton almost anywhere and it would survive well.

This weight is the result of four separate amplifiers that power four separate drivers, a battery, a built-in power supply, and some apparently very robust materials in the cabinet walls.

With corners that are protected by rounded plastic end caps and a set of solid rubber feet, you get the impression that you could take the tufton almost anywhere and it would survive well. It even has low water protection: An IPX2 rating means that you don't have to fear the occasional encounter with rain – just don't make it a habit and definitely try not to spill your beer on it everywhere.

Do one thing and do it well

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Everything about the Marshall Tufton indicates that he is primarily and exclusively a speaker. You can choose between Bluetooth (with aptX if your device supports it) or a 3.5mm line-in connection on the back, but that's all for you. You will not find a USB port to play music from a USB stick or to charge your phone. There is no microphone that could turn the tufton into a large speakerphone.

For those who yearn for an easier time without sacrificing today's amenities, the Marshall Tufton is a dream come true.

You won't even find the play / pause button, which has become almost universal in the world of Bluetooth speakers. What you will find are three old school controls for power / volume, bass and treble. They turn with perfect resistance. I don't know if something really analog is going on beneath the surface, but Marshall has mimicked the feel of a real analog speaker so well that I just don't care.

Pairing the Tufton with your device couldn't be easier. If the speaker doesn't switch to Bluetooth pairing mode the first time you turn it on, just press and hold the corresponding Bluetooth button for 3 seconds and the speaker will appear in your list of Bluetooth devices. Tap on it and you're done. You can use the same button to switch to using the line-in input.

Marshall claims only 30 feet of radio operation for the Tufton, but I was able to walk over 100 feet from the speaker outdoors and the music continued to play on my iPhone 11.

The rechargeable battery of the Tufton is suitable for an alleged operating time of 20 hours. As far as I can see, this is about right. However, expect to get less of it if you use the full volume.

For those who yearn for an easier time without sacrificing today's amenities, the Marshall Tufton is a dream come true.

More power than precision

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Given the visual similarity of the Tufton to Marshall's live music devices, its audio chops are best appreciated in spacious rooms. It can get remarkably loud. Loud enough to make neighbors you haven't invited aware of what a good time you are having. This is done without any signs of distortion or unwanted vibrations in the housing up to the maximum setting.

With a total output of 80 watts, it just gets louder and sounds better at higher volumes than with the Sonos Move.

With the bass and treble controls set to the midpoints, the tufton creates a good balance between lows, mids and highs. The bass is as full and sovereign as you would expect from a cabinet of this size, which is equipped with a generous reflex connection for air movements. But this bass never overwhelms and can be easily adjusted to your liking with the bass button. The vocals are crisp and clear, and the tufa prevents them from getting hard at higher volumes, which is often the case with fewer speakers.

Thanks to the dedicated rear-end full-range driver, the Tufton has an admirable 360-degree coverage. The front certainly sounds better, but not as much as you'd think if you just looked at it. Unfortunately, this arrangement does not add much to the stereo separation. Not that a single speaker would ever make excellent stereo – especially a speaker with a high rectangle – but it is something to be aware of.

I compared the Marshall Tufton to the similarly expensive and similarly equipped Sonos Move for $ 399. Both are designed for use on the street and provide large, open spaces with plenty of full-range sound, but the tufa completely outperforms the move outdoors. With a total output of 80 watts, it just gets louder and sounds better at higher volumes than the Sonos.

If you take these two wireless speakers with you, the script will be flipped. The Sonos Move with its integrated AutoTrueplay EQ system has a deeper and wider sound stage than the Tufton. This is noticeable when both speakers use Bluetooth. Switching the Move to Wi-Fi and adding a lossless audio source like HiFi streaming music from Tidal will make it even clearer.

Jazz standards by artists like John Coltrane and Miles Davis are allowed to breathe through the move in a way that the tufton with its trend-setting and more closed design simply cannot cope with.

Is that a deal breaker? Barely. However, potential Marshall Tufton buyers should know that they are getting an accomplished block rocker, not a precision instrument for critical listening.

Our opinion

With tons of portable energy and a no-frills design that exudes Rock & # 39; roll authenticity, the Marshall Tufton is a great Bluetooth party speaker that you can take anywhere. As long as you don't expect this classic muscle car of a speaker to sound like a hi-fi home system, it will impress those who want to inspire a lot.

Is there a better alternative?

There are several great alternatives to the $ 400 Marshall Tufton, including the $ 399 Sonos move and the $ 400 Ultimate Ears hyperboom. Each has its strengths: The Move is a chameleon that effortlessly switches between wireless home hi-fi speakers and party mode, while the Hyperboom is a bass-heavy beach and pool companion with many connections. But neither have the raw power of Tufton nor its retro charm, which in our opinion makes it a class of its own. To get a more capable crowd-puller, you have to watch heavyweights like the $ 900 Soundboks 2.

How long it will take?

The Marshall Tufton looks very good and I expect it to last a long time if you don't abuse it. The manufacturer's warranty is only one year, which is less than a few (Logitech gives a two-year warranty on the Hyperboom). However, the biggest limitation to the longevity of Bluetooth speakers is the battery. The tuft is not user replaceable. When he's done, he's done. It is worth noting that the Sonos Move battery can be replaced by the user.

Should you buy it

If you are proud to be the person who always brings the music, the Marshall Tufton is your Bluetooth speaker. It sounds great and looks great. If you agree with the almost spartan lack of features and the relatively expensive price, you will indeed be very happy.

Editor's recommendations




29 Mar
Blog

CELLZYME ON-TOX Anti-Wrinkle Serum Review

Skin health depends not only on what you eat or drink, but also on the quality of the products you use. The fact that the beauty industry is constantly changing, new trends appear and old formulas are put in the box "Why did we ever do it?" Many “must have” products from last year are completely forgotten this year and leave us open to new ideas and innovations.

I fully understand the problem of catching up on new beauty trends. What is difficult is to decide which skin and hair care products will actually work for you in order to do justice to both the hard elements, the aging skin and undoubtedly the wrinkles. With a few clever choices, your skin will never feel neglected.

What's this? (From the company website)

A good alternative to botox. Undo wrinkles for 12 hours with every treatment without needles! + Long-term anti-aging effects! + Multiple effects on skin health! CELLZYME ON-TOX is a revolutionary anti-aging secret from South Korea that contains 2-3 months (4 ml (2 per pack)).

Main ingredients: LOOK HERE

How do you use it?

  • You can apply it wherever it is needed before or after applying makeup.
  • Press a drop on your finger. Spread it where you need it, with even strokes in one direction.
  • Keep a neutral expression for 2-3 minutes.
  • You only need a small amount once a day in the morning.
  • The other best way to improve transdermal absorption is to first soak the face in hot water (or rags) for about a minute, then apply a small amount of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) to the area with your finger and then do that Apply skin product. Apply a moisturizer if you feel dry (e.g. coconut oil, hyaluronic acid, etc.).

  • Another effective way:

    After soaking in hot water, apply a small amount of hand sanitizer to the area. Apply the skin product before the disinfectant evaporates. This option appears to be much better and gives immediate results.

My experience with CellZyme On-TOX?

I spent a lot money in Sephora and Ulta looking for a miracle serum to get rid of my eye bags and pigmentation for the past 3 years. ! I had terrible skin for the record, it all started with mild acne in adults, which later left dark spots and pores on my face. I also spent time figuring out how to hide my skin uneven Texture, the only solution was to buy concealer to hide and not feel these imperfections judged from someone who speaks to me face to face. I didn't change anything in my diet except eating fruit. Recently when I was introduced by CellZyme ON TOX Ava Naturals I was very excited to try it as I read some really good reviews online. When I first used this stuff, I could see that the area around my lips looked extremely flawless.

I followed the directions on the box and the results were remarkable. My face felt like I had 12 hours of peaceful sleep along with a serious deep tissue facial. I could see the results that the company claimed. I also read that this serum reduces pores and improves skin texture with daily use. I have noticed that the pores around my nose are slightly less visible than before, but I can give you detailed information about my pores and pigmentation after I have finished the product completely.

This product has a gel-like texture with a light formula. It is easily absorbed into the skin and leaves no residue. The formula helps to make the skin look younger immediately and also prevents the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Antioxidants in this product help neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are responsible for damaging the skin and causing premature aging. With regular use, your skin becomes even, healthy and radiant.

Final judgment: This serum is fun, I love the fact that it has immediate visible effects on the skin, my skin looks healthy and much younger after applying this product, which is all I want from a serum !. No need to hide imperfections and wrinkles with concealer layers.

Bnb rating: 5/5

Beautyndbest.com ©

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28 Mar
Blog

Suunto 7 Smartwatch Review: Wider Appeal, But Still Hardcore

Suunto 7 smartwatch review garbage bag

Suunto 7 Review: Still a hardcore fitness watch

"The Suunto 7 offers good battery life and performance, but it's still not the best daily driver."

  • Comprehensive fitness functions

  • Two days of battery life

  • Smooth performance and software

  • Durable, water-repellent housing

  • Annoying buttons can be frustrating

  • Expensive compared to the competition

  • Best for dedicated fitness fans

Suunto, a Finnish activity brand, has a serious following among hardcore fitness fanatics. With the new Suunto 7 Smartwatch, the company is now throwing a worn training shoe into the lucrative sports lifestyle world. Suunto 7 is the company's first smartwatch with Google's WearOS platform, which increases its appeal. While the design still seduces the brand's core fans, it's less sporty than some of Suunto's other GPS fitness watches and trackers.

design

The Suunto 7 is similar to the Suunto 9 from 2018. It has a glass fiber reinforced polyamide housing, a stainless steel bezel and a wonderfully soft and flexible silicone bracelet. The case has four buttons, each made of the same stainless steel as the bezel and large enough to be accessed even when wearing gloves.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

At 50 mm, the watch is large on all wrists. At only 70 grams, however, it is not difficult. It is lighter than the Suunto 9 and slightly heavier than the stainless steel Apple Watch Series 5. A 1.4-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels is located under a piece of gorilla glass. All of this makes the Suunto 7 a tough animal. The watch is shockproof, waterproof up to 50 meters and the gorilla glass keeps the screen free from scratches. Suunto is pushing the lifestyle aspect, but don't worry that the watch has softened because the Suunto 7 feels very durable.

Is it fashionable? This is the hardest part for Suunto to get it right. GPS watches have been built for ages, but none of them are watches I want to wear every day. The Suunto 7 should be different. Did I want it on my wrist when I wasn't exercising?

Yes I have. My test watch came in a combination of white and burgundy that gives spring a touch of spring. The light weight makes up for the overall size, but since it's quite thick, it doesn't fit easily under the sleeves of the shirt.

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The clunkiness highlights it as a sports watch. Many of Fossil's WearOS watches are slimmer, and at 15.6 mm, the thick Suunto 7 is 5 mm thicker than the Apple Watch Series 5. However, it doesn't try to be an alternative to a Michael Kors or Kate Spade watch be. It tries to be more useful and tasty when you wear it every day. I think it works.

Software and usage

This is the first time Suunto has been using Google's WearOS for a smartwatch. Previously, it used its own fitness software. The implementation is solid. It's quick and smooth, which is rarely said about WearOS smartwatches and doesn't get frustrating with normal use.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

Suunto has four buttons on the case that you can play with, which is not necessary. The button instead of the crown and the one below it are customizable. By default, they are linked to music playback or a timer. The button above the crown opens Suunto's fitness app and the button on the opposite side of the case is the menu or back button.

This is a frustrating setup. The menu button is the one you press most often. However, it is the most difficult to reach and you cannot assign the menu button to the normal position on the crown. Even worse, there is no rotating crown to make scrolling through WearOS 'many menus and screens a little more comfortable. It's the touchscreen or nothing.

Otherwise WearOS works as expected. Swipe up for notifications, left for Google Fit, right for Google Assistant, and down for the control panel. There is a small selection of watch faces, most of which are not very inspiring, except for one that is based on Suunto's Heat Map running route planner. This shows popular hiking trails nearby and looks cool, provided there are activities nearby. It can be set to display a variety of other activities.

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Some problems that WearOS have in common can be found here. Notifications are a pain, or more precisely, notifications are a pain. I like the way you can interact with information coming from your phone, including predefined replies to messages, the ability to read and reply to emails, and the ability to see information quickly at a glance . But WearOS kept reminding me of the same notifications. This continues until they are released on the phone or the list on the watch is cleared.

I prefer to run the watch without additional apps, which improves performance. However, they can be installed through Google Play. Spotify is a popular download that works well on WearOS and provides complete control over your music. It is fast enough when the watch is connected to Wi-Fi, but it slows down somewhat when it is connected to your phone. It's representative of all apps on WearOS – it's functional, but not amazing.

Suunto fitness app

Suunto's fitness app is accessed using the button in the top right corner and contains more than 70 different sport tracking modes. Some options include hiking, running, cycling, swimming, boxing, and horse riding. It connects to Google Fit, Strava and Endomondo and has its own GPS and map system. The maps show popular and less popular hiking, running and hiking routes.

Andy Boxall / DigitalTrends.com

Unfortunately, this is difficult to test if the current advice is to stay indoors. Still, I managed to take a couple of visits to the gym and take a walk before that happened.

The fitness app is easy to use. Just pick your sport and swipe to start. I instinctively wanted to use the touchscreen to stop training at the end, but that can only be done with the physical buttons. Too bad there is no option for either.

The data displayed is comprehensive and shows heart rate and heart rate zones, elapsed time, calories, peak training effect (PTE), EPOC data (excess oxygen consumption after training) and recovery time. While walking, you have access to distance, pace, cadence, altitude, descent and lap data. It is comprehensive, clearly displayed on the screen and relatively accessible to the novice. This is important because too much information will make Suunto 7 less attractive to non-hardcore fitness fans.

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However, much of what makes the Suunto platform so appealing will only appeal to people who are deeply into fitness. Exploring local routes is most useful for people who are not at home but still want to get out and run, while the social aspect connects you to other Suunto owners who struggle themselves. Some of the openly shared activities in the Suunto app go far beyond my admittedly modest athletic ability, which kept me from sharing my weak 50-minute walk on site. The Suunto 7 may be less hardcore than previous Suunto watches, but the people who use the platform regularly have not changed.

Battery and power

Given the poor lifespan of the WearOS battery, the Suunto 7 battery is surprisingly solid. During a workout of approximately one hour a day, the Suunto 7's 450 mAh battery lost approximately 50% of its capacity with the surrounding screen turned on. That said, it's realistic to use the watch for two days. This is easy to achieve by turning off the constantly on screen.

Suunto has done this through some interesting technical advances that Qualcomm has worked on. An energy-saving co-processor now takes care of the fitness tracking, relieves the Snapdragon 3100 platform and reduces power consumption.

According to Suunto, the watch lasts an entire working day and still records a three-hour training session on a single charge. That seems achievable. The battery is charged via a plastic magnetic base, which is attached to the back of the watch. It's proprietary, so don't lose it.

The overall performance is excellent. The close relationship Suunto has with Qualcomm has paid off, as the smartwatch software is smooth and fluid even when using apps like Spotify. The OLED screen is colorful, but it's no different from other smartwatch devices I've used recently. Daily use of Suunto 7 is a comfortable, effortless, and frustration-free experience that can be a rarity for WearOS watches.

Price, guarantee and availability

Suunto 7 is now available from Suunto and other retailers. It costs $ 500 or £ 430 in the UK and is available in five color schemes. There is a two-year warranty, but only one year for the battery and bracelet.

Our opinion

Suunto 7 is successful in two areas where other WearOS watches often fail. It offers a usable battery life of two days and good overall performance, but doesn't manage to become a people-friendly lifestyle smartwatch. This is because the design is not universally appealing and the hyperfocused sports functions are irrelevant for the occasional fitness fan. The Suunto 7 isn't a niche like the brand's usual watches, but it's still a niche, and that has led to a slight lack of focus.

Is there a better alternative?

It doesn't happen often that an Apple product looks like a bargain, but the Apple Watch Series 5 for $ 400 can be bought for $ 100 less than the Suunto 7 and is still the best smartwatch you have able to buy. It will easily serve both casual and dedicated fitness fanatics. If you have an iPhone, this is the smart watch you want.

What if you want a lifestyle watch with sporting skills and not the other way around and don't have an iPhone? The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is excellent. WearOS is not executed, but Samsung's own Tizen software is used. Fitness tracking is easy to use and comprehensive enough for most users. I also like the Huawei Health platform connected to the Huawei Watch GT2 or Honor's MagicWatch 2. Both cost less than half the Suunto 7 and are aimed at those who want casual fitness tracking.

Wearing the Suunto 7 reminded me of the Casio WSD-F30. It's big and brave, has great battery life, and comes from a brand with a built-in hardcore crowd. It even costs the same at $ 500 and is worth a look because of its more attractive design and exclusive apps for certain outdoor activities.

How long it will take?

Smartwatches do not have to be replaced as often as your phone. The technology doesn't change quickly, so you can easily use it for several years before you even think about swapping it for another. Even then, it's more about design than functionality.

Suunto 7 is tough too. The body is shock and water repellent and made of strong material. The screen is covered with gorilla glass to protect it from scratches. I accidentally hit mine against various objects and it shows no signs of use.

Should you buy one?

No. If you crave a Suunto Sport smartwatch that you can wear every day, Suunto 7 might meet your needs. However, if you own an iPhone, don't live or breathe fitness, and have never heard of Suunto, Apple Watch Series 5 has everything you could want and more – for less.

Editor's recommendations




28 Mar
Blog

Nintendo Switch Review: Latest Updates, Games, and More

Nintendo Switch 32 GB console

"The Nintendo Switch is a home run for Nintendo and fulfills its innovative premise."

  • Play at home or on the go

  • Sharp display

  • Unique multimode controller

  • Excellent game library

  • Great battery life

  • Limited internal storage

  • Some controller options are uncomfortable

This review was last updated on March 27th, 2020 by Lisa Marie Segarra, Gaming Editor of Digital Trends.

Nintendo wants to win you back. After the failure of the last home console, the Wii U, the publisher of Mario and Zelda, announced very quickly that they were working hard on a new console. Although the legendary publisher has made some amazing games in the meantime – like Super Mario Maker and Splatoon – Nintendo felt it was holding back, and fans accepted it because they knew there was a new era on the horizon. In our Nintendo Switch test, the question was, "Can Nintendo change things with new hardware?" The answer is a resounding "yes".

What's in the box

The Switch is a "hybrid" game console. It can be connected to a TV like a PlayStation 4 or Xbox One or can be carried as a portable device, similar to the Nintendo 3DS or Game Boy.

The switch itself is a small tablet with a 6.2-inch LCD multi-touch display. Inside, the console has a custom Nvidia Tegra processor and 32 GB of internal storage. It also has what you'd expect from a portable device: accelerometer, gyroscope, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, Wi-Fi and WiFi (IEEE 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac).

On the outside there is a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, stereo speakers, power and volume buttons, connectors for game cartridges, a microSD slot for expandable memory, a USB Type-C connector for charging and a stand.

It also comes with a dock, a holder that the switch slides into when you want to charge it or play it on a TV. The dock is practically a hollow plastic hub that connects via the console's USB Type-C port. There are three ports on the back: USB Type C for charging, HDMI for audio and video output and a USB 2.0 port. There are also two additional USB 2.0 ports on the side. The rear connections are exposed through a simple door in the rear area, in which some cables are also hidden.

The switch perfectly reflects Nintendo's sensitivity to gaming.

Also included are two detachable controllers called "Joy-Cons", which have all controller buttons and can be slid onto the tablet, two Joy-Con straps and the Joy-Con handle, the two Joy-Cons as a single controller connects with each other.

(They're pretty versatile. For example, you can connect them to your PC or create art on a Surface Pro.)

Battery life and portability

The original switch has a battery life of 2.5 to 6 hours, and its lifespan depends on how demanding the game you are playing is. For example, a game like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" places a greater strain on the resources of the console, so the battery lasts about 3 hours, even less if you play at full brightness. To say all of this, it won't take through most flights, but it's fine if the shuttle service works.

For a system that promotes portability, this is disappointing. While both the Nintendo 3DS and PS Vita last between three and five hours, Nintendo could easily have used the original Switch as an opportunity to improve the standard.

Fortunately, a new version of the Switch with improved battery life was launched in 2019. The updated console with a new chip layout and revised Tegra X1 processor dramatically improves the battery performance of the original switch and offers a battery life of 4.5 to nine hours. That's two precious hours of game time added to your Breath of the Wild game session. This change to one of the Switch's biggest flaws takes the console to a new level, especially for gamers who play a lot on the go.

Speaking of gaming on the go, while the Switch is not quite as portable as the 3DS, the upcoming Switch Lite promises to be. The Switch Lite offers a smaller, lighter, and more compact design for the family and aims to satisfy gamers who prefer the handheld gaming lifestyle. It has the same revised chip layout and the same Tegra X1 processor as the updated switch and promises a battery life of up to seven hours. The September 20 release may only add the lack of portability that the hybrid version of the console lacks.

Play your way

Although the Switch is a small tablet, it carries its soul outside of its small case. With the Joy-Cons, games can be controlled in many different ways. The small, remote-controlled controllers can be inserted and latched on both sides of the switch and transform it into a handheld game device à la Nintendo Game Boy and 3DS systems.

Both the console and Joy-Cons feel robust and are solid and of high quality.

Turning the Joy-Cons on and off may be one of the best physical design features of any game hardware in modern memory. It is simple, fun and there is a nice click that you can both feel and hear when the Joy-Cons are in place. It's a seamless transition, even in the middle of the game.

The switch feels good in the hand. Both the console and Joy-Cons feel robust and are solid and of high quality. The matte finish of the Joy-Con makes the console look and feel modern, whether you buy the gray or the colorful red-blue version. At 398 grams (0.9 pounds) and connected to Joy-Cons, it's light enough to last long distances in portable mode.

Although the dock doesn't feel as robust or well constructed as the console itself, it does the job. Although only the USB-C connector holds it in place, the switch in the dock appears to be secure and there have never been any connection problems between the console and the dock. It may be difficult to connect the switch console to the USB-C port at the bottom of the dock the first time, and the same “click” of detection that Joy-Cons provides you with to inform you that the console is secure.

Nintendo Switch review

Nintendo Switch review

If the console is connected to its dock or you just don't want to hold the entire console, you can use Joy-Cons freely or plug it into Joy-Con Grip, making it a conventional controller. The grip works like any other gamepad, but is much smaller than the Dualshock 4 of the PS4 or the Xbox One controller. This can cause discomfort in most adults. The small joysticks of the Joy-Con are also not as big as usual, making them seem difficult to grip. The optional Pro Controller fixes this problem – and is a great gamepad – but it's an accessory for $ 70.

A multiplayer machine, even on the go

Two Joy-Cons open the door for self-contained local multiplayer experiences. In some games, players can use a single Joy-Con as a controller. The Joy-Cons also have all the motion sensors that are required for gesture-based, motion-controlled games, similar to the Nintendo Wii.

However, using the individual Joy-Cons as a mini controller for the local multiplayer mode can be downright uncomfortable. The controllers are very small and have a rounded rectangular shape when rotated horizontally. Holding on to them can become painful after prolonged and / or intensive game sessions.

The included "Joy-Con straps" of the console give each Joy-Con more comfortable shoulder buttons and of course a wrist strap – but they only slightly improve comfort. The Joy-Cons are also not identical. The analog stick and the buttons are in different positions on the left and right. Joy-Cons.

The analog on the right is basically in the middle of the controller, making it difficult to get a grip on the stick. The player with the left Joy-Con definitely has an advantage when a game uses the thumb handle. If you need a controller if need be, using a replacement GameCube controller might be a better option. Thanks to a recent update, they are compatible.

There is a badly built element of the switch: its stand. It's a thin plastic flap that flips out of the back of the console and holds the console upright for multiplayer gaming on the go – or when you're tired and don't want to hold the console. The console remains upright as long as it is not touched or jostled. However, after opening it once, you are afraid that it may break. That would be particularly bad, since the stand also serves as a protective cover for the MicroSD slot.

A toy box with peripherals

There are a number of third-party peripherals that are designed to address all of the minor problems when playing the switch in its many use cases. These “optional” elements not only significantly increase the cost of the switch, they also show that the cost of the switch's “all-rounder” approach to hardware design has created a console with acceptable but annoying errors.

For example, the console's 32 GB of internal storage can store many screenshots, short video clips (for a small number of first-party games), and probably more than a few small indie games. However, players who are used to buying games digitally need a large MicroSDXC card for additional storage.

Nate Barrett / Digital Trends

Nate Barrett / Digital Trends

If you travel frequently and over long distances, you'll need an extra battery, similar to the one people carry around to charge their phone. Third-party accessory manufacturers have even started to develop portable docks and batteries specifically designed for the switch, such as: B. the SwitchCharge, which replaces the weak stand of the console.

If you're playing competitive or long distance games at the same time, you'll want to buy the Nintendo Pro Controller, which costs an additional $ 70.

However, not all peripheral devices have been developed to remedy the shortcomings of the system. With Nintendo Labo, launched about a year after the Switch itself, younger players can combine the Switch and its Joy-Con controllers with cardboard kits to create completely new experiences. This includes everything from playable pianos to RC cars to a fishing rod, each of which uses the system's infrared cameras and rumbles to do unexpected things. Existing games, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, are even supported, offering fans a new way of racing.

Everything about the games

Nintendo's Achilles' heel with some previous home consoles was a lack of software support. The Wii U struggled to release games consistently over its short lifespan, and the Wii struggled to attract third-party developers.

However, this did not prove to be a problem with the switch. From Zelda to Mario to Pokemon, the Switch has experienced a flood of excellent games that can appeal to long-time Nintendo fans as well as newbies.

Even better, the switch has become the point of contact for remastering, remakes and reissues of older games. It can play the original doom. It can play Star Wars Episode I: Racer. It can play the original Final Fantasy VII. It can play a variety of emulated NES and SNES games. Even The Witcher 3 is available. There is an enormous depth of content.

Mostly better online

Nintendo hasn't been at the forefront of online gaming innovation over the years, but the Switch offers a relatively stable multiplayer experience from Arms to Splatoon 2. Some games, like Mario Kart 8, work great online.

However, the limited matchmaking options in some of the biggest games, as well as the bizarre decision to omit voice chat without a smartphone app, are confusing and fading compared to the quality of life options available on both PlayStation Network and Xbox Live.

Unfortunately, Nintendo has also used its online service as a barrier to online gaming and its popular virtual console system. While a paid subscription for online access is common on current generation consoles, it's unfair to limit access to some of Nintendo's most popular retro games. Instead of allowing you to buy classics like we saw on previous Nintendo consoles, you get a selection of NES and SNES titles as part of your subscription. It's a good option, but it's a mistake to make it the only option.

Still, Nintendo has shown a surprising willingness to work with other platforms in some of its online games. If you want to play Minecraft or Fortnite: Battle Royale on Switch with your friends on Xbox or PC, you can even get Xbox successes in the case of the previous game.

No Netflix here yet

Despite its variety of game styles and parts, the Switch is actually an uncomplicated slot machine. Unlike other consoles that want to become an all-in-one living room or mobile online entertainment device, the switch is (at least for the time being) exclusively dedicated to gaming and gaming.

The user interface is very simple – a series of large squares that show your available games. Below the games there is a second set of smaller round buttons with a Nintendo curated blog feed, eShop, a place to view and share screenshots, etc.

Only a few non-gaming apps are currently available – Hulu is currently the only major streaming service – and Nintendo has not specified when or if these features will come to the console. As with the camera, its omission is not a big loss.

Most players already have a large number of devices – phones, tablets, laptops – on which they can watch Netflix and YouTube. At the same time, the switch would be a good personal screen with its sharp screen and third-party status.

Maybe Link can save our world

You probably don't think about the performance a game console consumes, but it can be significant. An Xbox One X can suck more juice than a small fridge while playing. This harms our planet and can cause hidden costs for your electricity bills over time.

The Nintendo portable switch circumvents the problem. When playing in docked mode, about 12 watts are consumed. The switch's total power consumption is even lower if other factors such as standby and data center usage are taken into account. PlayStation and Xbox consoles often download large patches and can be used to stream content from power-hungry data centers.

It all adds up. A study by the Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory found that the switch uses less than a tenth as much power as the PlayStation 4 Pro when all energy sources are taken into account. It's far less demanding than the Xbox One S or Xbox One X.

The switch can also store your wallet. A light player spends $ 47 less on their electricity bills if they buy the switch instead of a PlayStation 4 Pro. A player who often plays all day can save up to $ 180. That's enough to buy three new games at full price.

Nintendo also offers free recycling for your old console and peripherals through the Take Back program. Microsoft and Sony offer similar programs, but they are more difficult to find on each company's website.

Warranty information

The Nintendo Switch comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Our opinion

The Switch manages to combine Nintendo's penchant for strange, tricky hardware with the high-quality design that we expect from consoles in the modern era. From a hardware perspective, it's the best console the company has had in generations – possibly ever.

Nevertheless, the Switch is a Nintendo machine that was developed to play Nintendo games. Despite all the measures taken to reinforce the feeling of the mainstream, the shortcomings show that the console was designed so that the developers of Nintendo can develop interesting games. If you love Nintendo, this is a good sign as the capital N seems to be taking a new step.

Is there a better alternative?

The switch is unique. There are no platforms that offer the same home / portable “hybrid” functionality or such a wide range of controller options. Many of his best franchise companies like Splatoon and Mario cannot be played on any other platform, Nintendo or in any other way.

If you can do without Nintendo games and play on a TV or monitor, it's better to buy a PS4, Xbox One, or a gaming PC. If you already have one of these, the Switch is a fantastic second system that gives you access to more original games than any other option.

If you are specifically looking for a portable platform, we recommend the Switch over the 3DS. With improved battery life and an extensive collection of games available on the switch, you would only limit your options if you have an inferior handheld that is at the end of its life cycle.

How long it will take?

In the past, successful game consoles have a shelf life of about five years before the manufacturer makes a new console. We should also note that console manufacturers have worked to shorten the lifecycle of systems, even if the hardware is successful. This is the case with the switch.

Nintendo launched an updated version of the console with improved battery life two years after its first release. The Switch Lite, a compact version of the Switch that was developed exclusively for handheld games, came onto the market shortly afterwards. Original Switch owners who aren't interested in a more handheld-friendly console will likely pass the Switch Lite on, but the revised version of the Switch is a permanent replacement for the original, which significantly shortens battery life, which was a bit short of the debut version.

Should you buy it

Yes. If you love Nintendo and want to keep playing new Nintendo games or already have a modern game console, the Switch should be your next game console. However, if this is your first modern console or you mostly want to play a lot of games online, you should fit.

Editor's recommendations




28 Mar
Blog

Nintendo Switch Lite Review: An Unapologetic Handheld

Nintendo Switch games dominate the 2019 Holidays Exclusive Survey Lite review feature

Nintendo Switch Lite – Gray

"Small improvements make the Switch Lite a little triumph."

  • Comfortable design

  • Sharp and vivid display

  • Solid battery life

  • Bring back the legendary D-Pad

  • Affordable

  • Slightly smaller game library

  • No support for TV mode

  • No motion control

This review was last updated on March 27th, 2020 by Lisa Marie Segarra, Gaming Editor of Digital Trends.

With the release of Nintendo Switch – the company's hybrid grab-and-go console – Nintendo finally found a happy medium for console and handheld gamers. The Switch's ability to switch between TV and handheld modes at the touch of a finger was and remains its biggest attraction. Even so, some sacrifices were made to appeal to a wider audience.

The switch isn't as compact as the company's earlier handhelds, like the venerable Nintendo 3DS. It tends to finger cramps during long game sessions and has a short battery life that is not ideal for games on the go. Nintendo removed the ability to switch from the equation and gave us the Switch Lite, an intrepid return to handheld gaming that is a solution to all of these problems.

Small and wild

The Switch Lite dispenses with the Joy-Cons and has an all-in-one design. It is almost an inch shorter and therefore more compact than the original. At 9.7 ounces, it's lighter, but not so strong that it feels weak. Instead, you get a more portable console that you can put in the side pocket of a backpack or bag on the go.

To keep small but nice Julian Chokkattu / Digital Trends

Although the Switch Lite is smaller than its predecessor, it is incredibly comfortable to hold. The layout differs slightly because the shoulder buttons are higher and the release buttons are slightly longer than with the normal switch. Instead of the four separate direction buttons of the Joy-Cons, a D-Pad is also introduced.

This ensures a smoother and more precise input, since no divot has to be moved each time a key is pressed. It feels good to play Super Mario Maker 2 levels the way I remember playing classic Super Mario games as a kid. The ergonomic shape of the Switch Lite lies well in your hands. The improved button layout gives the handheld the impression that it was designed for long handheld games.

It was introduced in a small selection of colors – gray, yellow or turquoise – with cream-colored buttons, which represent a nice contrast on the gray console and complement the variants turquoise and yellow. A version of Pokemon Sword and Shield is now available, and Nintendo is likely to have plans for even more colors and designs, and announced a new version of the coral in 2020, a strategy the company used on previous handhelds. With its small size, variety of colors and matt surface, the Switch Lite has an enchanting aesthetic that children and Nintendo fans will love.

In terms of performance and battery life, the Switch Lite has a smaller and more energy-efficient Tegra chip than the original Switch. According to Nintendo, this contributes to a longer battery life. Given that portability is a key feature of Switch Lite, this is definitely one of the most important upgrades to consider.

Julian Chokkattu / Digital Trends

According to Nintendo, the Switch Lite will offer around three to seven hours of game time. In comparison, the original switch promised about 2.5 to 6.5 hours. Playing Link & # 39; s Awakening at 50% brightness on the Switch Lite offered about four hours of play. It took about three and a half hours at full brightness.

If you want to pass the time during a commute or if you have to keep the kids (or yourself) busy for a few hours, I would say that the Switch Lite does a stand-up job. It didn't take six hours, but it was a good distraction for a good part of it. I wish the Switch Lite had the same extended battery life as the redesigned Nintendo Switch, but its small size and cheaper price could be the reason why it isn't.

A serious handheld

There are no obvious differences in gaming performance. The properties of Nintendo are still very soft on the Switch Lite. Drifting through Bowser's castle in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is still as satisfying as I remember it. Still, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 still suffers from texture loading issues, and the occasional drop in frame rate is barely noticeable in Link & # 39; s awakening. Basically, games that weren't that hot on the original Switch will still not be as good on the Switch Lite.

While playing on my handheld and comparing the two, I found the 5.5-inch touchscreen and 720p resolution of the Switch Lite display to be sharper and more vivid than the screen on the original Switch. This is probably due to what the Switch's native resolution looks like on a smaller screen, but the difference is noticeable.

Livelier and sharper display Julian Chokkattu / Digital Trends

Despite their differences, the Switch Lite offers many of the same offerings as the original. The operating system is the same, that is, it has the same functions – and their lack. There is no native chat support (at least not without a little help from game developers) and, as mentioned by Business Insider, still no Bluetooth audio support.

Switch Lite's lack of Bluetooth support for wireless headphones is a potential problem for some, but more environmentally conscious. Wireless earphones contribute to the problem of electronic waste due to their short lifespan and inability to be repaired. And if you really want Bluetooth audio, buy an adapter – one of several cool Switch Lite accessories you'll end up investing in. There is also the included additional connection for wired headphones, which offers better audio for games anyway.

It is also worth noting that the Switch Lite does not support the entire switch library. This makes sense: The Switch Lite does not have a dock, an HDMI output or Joy-Cons. This means that he cannot connect to the TV and has no motion control. By default, only games that can be played in handheld mode are supported. You can find these on the back of the game bag or on the page under the supported game modes in Nintendo eShop.

This has no significant impact on your options. However, if you want to play Just Dance or try Nintendo Labo, you should use the standard switch. As someone who only plays the switch in handheld mode, these options are not missed. You can buy Joy-Cons and see a booth if you are interested in games that require support in tabletop mode. However, this is an additional part of the money exchange out of your pocket that may be better spent on a normal switch.

Our opinion

For handheld players, the Nintendo Switch Lite is a little triumph. Its compact body makes it more portable than the original switch, and its ergonomic design feels good during long gaming sessions. These small improvements combined with the return of the D-Pad and an impressive display make the Switch Lite the best dedicated Nintendo handheld ever.

That said, it's a handheld through and through. Without a dock, HDMI support or Joy-Cons, the Switch Lite does not offer TV support or motion control, which has a minor impact on your gaming options. Battery life could be better, but it's an improvement over the original.

Is there a better alternative?

No, the Nintendo Switch Lite is currently the best handheld you can get. The closest competitors would be the Nintendo 3DS or the PlayStation Vita, but fewer games are released on the 3DS and the PS Vita is no longer supported by Sony. Both are dated compared to the Switch Lite.

How long it will take?

Nintendo systems have a 12-month warranty that covers defects, but no physical damage. In terms of relevance, the Switch Lite has the potential to hold on to the next generation of Nintendo consoles. As the Sony PS5 and Xbox Scarlett hit the market next year, popular first-party exclusive products and an ever-expanding game library make the Switch Lite a remarkable option, especially for gamers looking for a dedicated handheld.

Should you buy it

Yes. The Switch Lite is the best handheld console you can buy today, and possibly the best ever made.

Updated March 27, 2020: Updated information about the new Coral Switch Lite model.

Editor's recommendations




27 Mar
Blog

Afterparty Review: A Charming Game Of No Consequence

Afterparty bartender

Afterparty Review: A charming game with no consequence

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

  • Funny, credible dialogue

  • Charming characters

  • Tedious gameplay

  • No consequences for actions

  • Unsatisfactory conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nothing matters when you're dead

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

Then I realized that nothing is important in this game.

Screenshot of the afterparty barNight school studio

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

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

Then I realized that nothing is important in this game.

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

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

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

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

Our opinion

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

Is there a better alternative?

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

How long it will take?

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

Should you buy it

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

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

Editor's recommendations




27 Mar
Blog

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

lg-v60-thinq

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

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

  • Dual screen case can be useful

  • Excellent performance

  • Long battery life

  • Reasonable price

  • Frustrating software

  • Camera is far from the best

  • Slow fingerprint sensor

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

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

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

Design and ports

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

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

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

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

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

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

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

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

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

Display quality

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

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

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

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

The dual screen case

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

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

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

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

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

performance

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

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

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

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

software

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

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

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

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

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

Photo and video quality

Christian de Looper / Digital Trends

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

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

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

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

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

Great battery life

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

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

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

Price, availability and warranty information

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

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

Our opinion

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

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

Are there alternatives?

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

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

How long it will take?

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

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

Should you buy one?

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

Editor's recommendations




27 Mar
Blog

Beats PowerBeats 4 Review: Exercise In Bass

PowerBeats Pro Hero

"The new PowerBeats are exceptional wired fitness headphones."

  • Extremely secure fit

  • Water / sweat resistant

  • Excellent 15 hour battery

  • Excellent radio range

  • Cumbersome cord

  • Not suitable for all ear types

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

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

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

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

What's in the box

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

You can see Beats headphones one mile away.

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

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

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

What's new?

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

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

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

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

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

Fit and function

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

The radio range is exceptional

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sound quality and call quality

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

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

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

Warranty information

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

Our opinion

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

Is there a better alternative?

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

How long it will take?

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

Should you buy them

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

Editor's recommendations




26 Mar
Blog

Google Nest Wifi Review: Mesh Networking Without The Hassle

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

  • Easy installation and setup

  • Google Assistant integration

  • Possibility to extend the cover

  • Contemporary design fits every decor

  • A bit expensive

  • Single ethernet port

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Velasco / Digital Trends

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

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

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

Finally a smarter implementation

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

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

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

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

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

Cover dead zones

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

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

John Velasco / Digital Trends

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

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

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

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

Space for more expansion

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

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

John Velasco / Digital Trends

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

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

Warranty information

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

Our opinion

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

Are there any better alternatives?

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

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

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

How long it will take?

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

Should you buy it

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

Editor's recommendations




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