28 Jun
Blog

Nanoleaf Elements Review: Smart Lighting From the Forest

nanoleaf elements look like wooden light panels

"You will fall in love with the rustic appearance of the Nanoleaf Elements and at the same time appreciate its smart functions."

  • Unique lighting design like no other on the market

  • Easy to use, intuitive app

  • easy installation

  • Incredibly customizable

  • High price point

  • No support for 5 GHz networks

Smart lights from Nanoleaf earned a spot in the background of more Twitch streams than I can count, and for good reason: the Nanoleaf Aurora and Nanoleaf Canvas look amazing, with loads of customization options to suit just about any mood. With that in mind, I took the chance to review the Nanoleaf Elements, the newest addition to the company's lineup.

Nanoleaf Elements look like they are made of wood and are lit from within. Their purpose is ultimately decorative, but they will stand out when placed on a wall and make for a real talking point. This is no ordinary set of smart lights!

Design: Natural light that makes you feel like you are in a forest

The design of the Nanoleaf Elements is the main attraction. The hexagonal design leads to six specific points that are equipped with an LED. This allows the elements to generate light at each of the six points and shine from the outside in.

The panels made of imitation wood attract attention and give the lights a rustic look that makes them a great addition to a dining room. While the Nanoleaf Elements only produce white light, the temperature of the light can be adjusted to produce different levels of heat. The light ranges from 1,500K to 4,000K – from cold white to warm white.

However, the light is not that bright. At just 22 lumens, you could use it for reading if you were sitting right next to it, but it doesn't provide enough light for any kind of task-oriented work. It makes for great mood lighting and with a lifespan of 25,000 hours, these lamps will last a long time.

In my experience, the lights create a kind of peaceful atmosphere. They are perfect for a quiet dinner or just to chat with friends in the background.

easy installation

The Nanoleaf Elements are easy to install. It took less than 10 minutes to create the pattern I wanted on my wall, and that includes the 30 seconds of pressure required to attach each panel to the wall. The panels have a swivel pad on the back that allows you to easily adjust the angle, and each side has a fastener to snap the connectors into place.

Thanks to this design, you can create an almost infinite number of shapes and designs with tiles. A single power supply can support up to 22 panels, although the device I tested only came with 10. The maximum number of tiles per controller is 80, but you'd have to set up a really impressive system to deal with the maximum number of tiles. It would take up quite a bit of space – at 9 "x 7.75" per title, the elements are large enough to function as wall art all on their own.

A complete set of functions

The choice of pattern and design of the tiles is yours, and the Elements contain a whole host of features that give them many different capabilities.

For example, you can play music and sync the lights to pulse and move to the beat. The Connect + feature means the tiles will automatically sense where they are in relation to each other to ensure that the lights shift in an organic and natural way. In the Nanoleaf app, you can arrange tiles in specific patterns and assign roles to each one.

That leads to the next important feature that Nanoleaf offers: touch controls. You can set specific tiles to perform tasks based on touch. For example, one panel can scroll through different HomeKit scenes while another can change the pattern or turn on the lights in your home.

The Nanoleaf Elements also connect to all major smart home platforms and intelligent assistants. You can turn your lights on and off and change the pattern through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. The Elements also connect to Samsung SmartThings and IFTTT.

The Elements kit also comes with a manual control panel. All you have to do is connect it to one of your tiles to turn the panels on or off, change the pattern, mix the patterns, and much more. However, I would recommend connecting it to the edge somewhere near the floor. It doesn't light up and sticks out like a sore thumb when the rest of the panels are lit.

An intuitive app

One of the standout features of the Nanoleaf Elements is the ease of use of the above app. If you've used a Nanoleaf product before, you know there are thousands of custom scenes for Nanoleaf Aurora and Canvas. You may think that you don't have access to these scenes – after all, they rely on color – but that's not entirely true.

The elements translate all the different colors into different heat levels. This means that every single scene is available. If you don't like the default scenes and patterns in the app, just look for one that better suits your tastes.

The layout wizard allows you to visualize the design before creating it. Just line it up and organize the tiles and then tap the eyeball icon in the bottom right and it will show you what the pattern would look like on your wall with augmented reality.

You can also invite users through the app so that more people can control your lights.

Finally, you can use the Explore tab in the app to check out related apps, scenes, integrations, and more. If you're new to Nanoleaf, the Explore tab makes it easy for you to familiarize yourself with all of the different options the Elements offer. You can also sign up for the beta program this way to explore new, not-yet-public features.

Our opinion

The Nanoleaf Elements are a beautiful, fresh interpretation of intelligent lighting that really stands out due to its rustic design. Other decorative smart lights appear to be aimed at a playroom or arcade, but the Elements will feel right at home in your mother's kitchen. The easy installation and intuitive app are just cherries on a great core system.

Is there a better alternative?

There is no other intelligent lighting system like the Nanoleaf Elements on the market. Sure, there are plenty of lights out there that offer a wide variety of colors, but if you want a natural look the Elements are the only real option.

How long it will take?

With a lifespan of 25,000 hours, the Nanoleaf Elements will continue to function for a long time. That's 1,041 days and 16 hours. So if you don't keep the lights on 24/7 (and even then they will last forever), your Elements will be working for the foreseeable future. A two-year warranty is also included with the purchase.

Should you buy it?

The Nanoleaf Elements are a fantastic lighting system, but the cost is a little prohibitive. At $ 300 for the Elements Smarter Kit and $ 99 for each expansion pack, the Elements will make a dent in your wallet. However, if you want to create a unique lighting system in your home, there is nothing quite like it.

Editor's recommendations



23 Apr
Blog

Polk React Review: Affordable, Expandable, And Smart

Polk React soundbar

"With its excellent film and music quality, it is a valuable addition to any TV room."

  • Sleek, flat design

  • Easy adjustment

  • Very good sound quality

  • Affordable wireless accessories

  • Alexa built in

  • No HDMI inputs

  • Playback controls are missing on the remote control

  • Requires Alexa for Wi-Fi streaming

  • No Chromecast or AirPlay

By far the biggest advantage of buying a soundbar is its simplicity. One speaker, two cables and bam! Much better sound than your TV alone. As soundbars add functions such as subwoofers, surround speakers or voice functions, their price and complexity also increase.

Polk's $ 250 React soundbar is designed to help. On its own, it's a smart speaker with Alexa technology that delivers decent virtual surround sound. But you can also bring the system to a full 5.1 setup by adding Polks $ 200 wireless subwoofer and $ 200 surround speakers.

Does this $ 650 investment compete or beat the competition? Let's try it out.

What's in the box?

Polk provides the React soundbar with everything you need to get started, including an HDMI cable, an optical cable, a remote control with batteries, a wall-mount template, and wall-mount hardware. There are loads of styrofoam to throw away (or recycle if appropriate facilities are available in your area) and a number of multi-purpose bags.

It gets very little attention as to what exactly is what you want in a soundbar.

design

At just 34 inches wide, the Polk React should easily be placed in front of almost any television. Because of its height of 2.2 inches, it is short enough to avoid blocking the underside of the screen (and any infrared receivers there). .

Polk React soundbarRich Shibley / Digital Trends

The (almost) completely dark gray, cloth-wrapped exterior is completely neutral and hardly attracts any attention, which in my opinion is exactly what you expect from a soundbar. I think it's far more appealing than Polk's first attempt at a smart soundbar – the $ 299 Polk Command Bar.

On the top, it looks like someone punched a hole the size of an echo dot in the speaker and then put an echo dot in it. This isn't far from the truth – that circular set of buttons and microphones is indeed the tell-tale sign that the React is an Alexa smart speaker, too.

In contrast to Sonos Beam or Arc or Bose Soundbar 300, the use of Alexa plays a central role in setting up the React. However, we will explain this further below.

The fabric housing of the React conceals two mid-range speakers, two tweeters and two passive bass radiators. Two LED displays are also faded out (until they light up): A long, segmented horizontal bar that serves as a level indicator for settings such as volume and bass, as well as Alexa's colorful, animated response cues and a small LED point that lights up depending on the source signal different colors (blue for Bluetooth, green for Dolby Audio, etc.).

The wireless React subwoofer, like so many other subwoofers, is a simple black box. However, thanks to its rectangular shape, it may be easier to hide behind or next to a couch than some of the more cube-shaped designs we've seen.

But I love the optional Polk SR2 wireless rear speakers. They have a fabric grille to match the React soundbar and a trapezoidal shape that gives them a lot of flexibility in placement. Their rubber feet allow them to sit comfortably on any surface, while the standard threaded holes for speaker mounting allow you to use a variety of third-party brackets and stands. Or you can just use the supplied mounting hardware. Surround speakers are rarely distinguished by their design, which makes the SR2 a refreshing change of pace.

links

Polk React soundbar inputsRich Shibley / Digital Trends

The response is pretty barebones from the connectivity point of view. You get a single HDMI ARC port for audio only, an optical port in case your TV doesn't support HDMI ARC, and a USB port. There is no analog input. So you can't count on being able to connect an external wired sound source such as a portable media player.

Setting up the React using the Alexa app couldn't be easier.

There is also no way to use the optical and HDMI-ARC as separate inputs. They are mutually exclusive. Connecting one of them will lock the other.

Setup and configuration

Yes, it is possible to use the Polk React soundbar on its own without setting it up for use with Amazon Alexa. If this is what you intend to do, I recommend finding another soundbar. The Alexa app is required for Wi-Fi access, multi-room audio and intelligent speaker functions.

The good news is that setting up the React couldn't be easier using the Alexa app.

Just place the soundbar and connect it to your TV. If your TV has HDMI ARC and you don't mind sacrificing an HDMI port on your TV, use that connection. This allows the soundbar to control the volume / mute of the TV and vice versa. Otherwise an optical connection is fine and does not affect the sound quality at all.

Plug in the power cord and open the Amazon Alexa app. Within a few seconds, the app automatically detects that the reaction is available for setup and prompts you to do so.

Polk React soundbar with remote controlRich Shibley / Digital Trends

Pro tip: If you've never downloaded or used the Alexa app before, take a few minutes to download it and create a new account, or use your existing Amazon account. Doing this before turning on React for the first time will make the process a lot smoother.

The Alexa app will walk you through a few steps like choosing the React location in your home and choosing a default music service.

If you choose to go for the wireless subwoofer or the SR2 environment, the process of adding it should be painless as well. All I had to do was plug them in and the React would automatically recognize them and connect wirelessly. A voice prompt even told me that the SR2 speakers needed to be updated before they could work, and the React bar did that update automatically and restart itself. I've never seen a hands-off setup like this before.

If you've used your TV's built-in speakers, the React will feel like a serious upgrade.

I say it should be painless because it was like that for me. However, our senior editor Caleb Denison also set up a React soundbar and found that adding the surrounds wasn't quite as smooth (see our video review above).

Sound quality

The React soundbar alone sounds very good considering its size and price. In contrast to many inexpensive loudspeakers, it ensures an excellent frequency balance. Higher registers like speech are clear and precise, the midtones are well rendered, and the bass is far stronger than I expected because the soundbar is based on passive bass radiators – not active drivers – for its deep end.

Polk React soundbarRich Shibley / Digital Trends

If you've used your TV's built-in speakers, the React will feel like a serious upgrade. Polk promises "big, detailed, virtual surround sound," and I'd say React largely lives up to that – at least in the "large" and "detailed" categories.

As far as simulating a real surround sound setup is concerned, it is not quite as successful as, for example, the Bose Soundbar 300. The React certainly offers a nice, wide soundstage that easily fills even medium-sized rooms with sound, but is not entirely successful Wraparound effect that the best virtual surround systems can achieve. This may be because the React bar is actually a two-channel speaker with discrete left and right drivers. If you need to virtualize one center channel, there isn't much room left for virtualizing two surround channels.

Polk offers four EQ presets: Music, Movie, Sports, and Night. Music and film sounded very similar to me. The night cuts most of the lower frequencies, making you less likely to disturb other people in your home who are trying to sleep. Sport should actually be called "speech" as it enhances higher frequencies for better clarity of dialogue.

The surrounds are not used at all when streaming music, which seems like a big missed opportunity.

The soundbar is a really fluid player when it comes to music too, but that's where the Wi-Fi connection comes in, activated by the Alexa app. The React has Bluetooth so you can stream music from any smartphone, tablet or computer. However, you will get significantly better quality if you stream using the services available in the Alexa app or via Spotify Connect.

Polk React Soundbar Subwoofer

Polk React Soundbar SR2 Surround Speakers

My only complaint is that the Alexa app doesn't support some services. Tidal and YouTube music are particularly absent. And since the React doesn't have AirPlay or Chromecast, you'll need to use Bluetooth if your favorite service isn't listed.

The addition of the wireless subwoofer does exactly what you would expect. Low-end bass goes from something you hear to something you feel, an important component for action movie fans.

Finally, adding the SR2 wireless surround speakers makes up for the lack of depth. As Denison points out in his video review, to get the most out of them, you need to turn up the volume on these speakers. Annoyingly, the surrounds are only for 5.1 soundtracks. They are not used at all when streaming music, which seems like a big missed opportunity.

Control and ease of use

The React's remote control is nothing special, but that's a good thing. It's comfortable to use, has dedicated buttons for all important settings, and although it's not backlit, the white labels on the black, rubberized surface are easy to read even in a fairly dark room. If you don't want to say "Alexa" before issuing a voice command, you can press the appropriate Alexa button instead.

I especially like when you add the SR2 wireless speakers. The remote control offers you volume controls and balance controls only for these channels.

The only missing component is playback controls when streaming music, which is an odd omission. Given the React's generous music options (including MP3 storage on a USB device), you'd think there was at least one play / pause button.

Polk React Soundbar Remote ControlRich Shibley / Digital Trends

The remote also seemed to be having trouble relaying its infrared commands to the soundbar. I had to adjust the angle of the remote further as I pointed it at the bar – sometimes the button registered immediately, sometimes not at all.

In the instructions, Polk warns that a light source aimed directly at the soundbar's IR sensor can cause interference, but I'm pretty sure it won't.

When you include Alexa in the equation, control is taken to the next level. Not only can you use the React for the myriad of tasks we can assign to smart speakers, such as: B. to inform us of the weather forecast or set reminders, but you can also access music or podcasts from the available services.

Using Alexa or the Alexa app to control music playback is simple but limited. You can access songs, albums, and playlists, but there is no way to add new favorites or create playlists. All of this must be done in the app of the respective service. It certainly can't be compared to what Sonos has to offer, but then again, the Sonos Beam costs considerably more.

I wish you could use Alexa for TV based commands e.g. For example, turning the TV on and off, or changing inputs (something you can do with the Bose Smart Soundbar 300), but that's not included in the React at the moment.

Our opinion

While it doesn't offer the same versatility as other smart soundbars like the Sonos Beam or the Bose Smart Soundbar 300, the Polk React is great value for both movies and music and can be easily and cheaply converted to a true 5.1 Surround be expanded sound home theater system.

Is there a better alternative?

If you want a midrange soundbar that doubles as a smart speaker, there is simply nothing on the market that comes close Polk React for the price.

If you're willing to spend $ 150 more, you can do both Sonos Beam and Bose Smart Soundbar 300 Choose from a voice assistant, better music streaming options, and better multi-room audio. However, upgrading to full surround sound systems costs considerably more.

If all you want is a simple, no-frills soundbar, this is it Vizio V21 It's hard to beat at just $ 180 including a wireless subwoofer.

How long it will take?

Polk Audio has a reputation for making solidly built speakers, and the React seems to be following that trend. The amplifier is guaranteed for one year and the speakers for three years. I assume it will take many years to come.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The Polk React is easy to use and sounds great for both movies and music. The ability to inexpensively expand it and use it as a smart speaker are practical extras.

Editor's recommendations




04 Apr
Blog

Lenovo Smart Frame Review: Simple With Google Photos in Mind

Lenovo Smart Frame Review Subseries Gallery 2

"No Distraction Here: The Lenovo Smart Frame is about sharing your favorite memories."

  • Photo-realistic display

  • One of the largest picture frames ever

  • Convenient organization with Google Photos

  • Easy wall mounting

  • It is expensive

  • Does not support other photo services

Digital photo frames are nothing new. They've been around almost as long as the first commercial digital cameras. Over the years, arguably, the greatest innovation in digital photo frames has centered on smart displays – how smart displays effectively serve as photo frames and add value to them.

In Lenovo's view, the Photo Frame is again a stand-alone product with the power and help of Google Photos. Unlike other photo frames you've come across, the Lenovo Smart Frame wants to make its presence known with its huge 15 x 24 inch digital canvas. Compared to today's smart displays, it's an undeniable Goliath.

Realistic picture quality

I loved the first digital photo frame I bought in the early 2000s, but when I look back now, it was total rubbish. Not only was it low resolution, but the colors were bleeding through the sides and corners like no other. Of course, with today's digital photo frames, you won't have these worries.

The sheer size of the Lenovo Smart Frame dwarfs the vast majority of digital photo frames in circulation. While most are largely reserved for coffee tables, bedside tables, end tables, and cramped counters, the Lenovo Smart Frame yearns to be wall-mounted – or at least deserves to be propped up on its own pedestal or shelf. This is due to the sizeable 21.5-inch IPS panel. Not only is it significantly larger than other picture frame displays, but its realistic look is enhanced by its anti-glare coating. When viewed directly, this can be confused with a normal picture frame.

While the 1080p resolution works decently from a distance, I can see less detail in the images on closer inspection. This is obviously expected and is not a complete distraction. As long as the original image was captured correctly, it is still pleasing to the eye. The colors are also displayed well, and the viewing angles are excellent and do not distort at wide angles.

Thanks to Google's Ambient EQ technology, the Nest Hub smart displays are among the best for lifelike results. I have to admit, however, that the Lenovo Smart Frame's matte finish makes the display more realistic. Aside from the lack of a higher resolution display, it does it justice when it comes to presenting photos.

Google photos is a must

In order for photos to appear on the Wi-Fi connected Lenovo Smart Frame, you need to set up Google Photos – this is mandatory and the only option. This is a bit limiting and I would have liked wider support for other image services like Shutterfly. However, since this is Google Photos, it comes in handy that I can quickly fill an album to present on the Lenovo Smart Frame by selecting familiar faces. (This works on pets too.) Better to have to go through all of my albums manually.

In addition to showing my Google Photos, which can be shuffled in chronological order or via the Lenovo Smart Frame app, you can set up other “channels” to show other things besides photos. The only other options are the Art Gallery and Clock channels, which show curated graphics and the time, respectively. The latter only have a handful of clock widgets to choose from, but I really wish they could show other important information – like weather and temperature.

Although the Lenovo Smart Frame automatically flips through photos, it has a built-in motion sensor that makes it easy for anyone to scroll through them and the various channels. You have to be patient with these hand gestures because if you're like me and want to scroll through a set in a hurry, it can't keep up.

There are two ways to assemble the frame. I opted for the easy way of putting it on a wall with the power chord behind it, but later I used the included wall mount to mount it properly. While it's still heavier than other frames at 8.26 pounds without the metal frame mount, you don't need to find pins in the wall to attach it to the wall. Once it's on the wall, you can easily remove it by pulling on the switches on the back of the unit. If you have younger children who may be attracted to the power cord, a child-resistant clip is provided to make the cord easy to detach from the device.

Stick to what it does best

We have high expectations for displays these days, especially considering how smart displays are the command centers of some households. One can expect that the Lenovo Smart Frame can do more, e.g. B. Play videos, possibly act as a second screen, or even provide voice control with the Google Assistant. There was also a point where I wished I could have broadcast a video that I was watching on my smartphone. But, you know what? It doesn't do any of them. And who knows if it ever will.

This may be hard to swallow for some, but I understand Lenovo's intent. The company already makes its own line of Google Assistant-based smart displays (like the Lenovo Smart Display 7, which I love). The Smart Frame therefore serves only one purpose: A picture frame that inspires you with some of your favorite memories.

Our opinion

What can also be difficult to accept for some people is the $ 400 cost of the Lenovo Smart Frame. It's way above what you can find anywhere else, even for fancy smart displays that serve as frames for your photo memories and cost around $ 250.

Its size is undoubtedly its greatest asset. Few are ever as tall as 10 inches. So it's a picture frame worth mounting in a high-traffic area of ​​your home for family members and visitors to see. With the integration of Google Photos, you can no longer organize your favorite memories and move them into a picture frame.

How long it will take?

The Lenovo Smart Frame is mainly made of plastic and is solidly built. Since this is a heavy side, extra care should be taken where you place it if you don't plan to mount it on the wall. It comes with a one year limited warranty.

Is there a better alternative?

As mentioned earlier, smart displays like the Google Nest Hub are actually a better investment as they double as picture frames. Therefore, if you want to fill smaller spaces, these are the better option. Conversely, you won't find many picture frames larger than 10 inches. This is one of the few options to consider – especially those over 20 inches.

Should you buy it?

Yes, for its presentation style as the right photo frame that is easy to manage thanks to Google Photos.

Editor's recommendations




23 Mar
Blog

Sharp Smart Countertop Microwave Review: Do You Need Alexa?

sharp smart countertop microwave alexa lifestyle

Sharp Smart Microwave SMC1139FS

"The voice command is only useful when you are doing the finishing touches."

  • Solid performer

  • Makes great popcorn

  • Slim design

  • Alexa connectivity a hit or miss

The Sharp Smart Microwave is elegant, works well and can take over 70 commands from Alexa. This makes us wonder if all devices need to jump on the voice command cart as our homes get smarter. This isn't the first time we've tested our cooking skills with an attached work tool, but it won't be the last.

A silver lining

As for the microwaves, this sharp model is sharp. The front of the microwave, model SMC1449FS, is dipped in stainless steel, and the black pressure field with white lettering and blue start button adds to its appeal. This model would definitely feel at home in an updated modern kitchen.

At 12 x 20.3 x 14.9 inches in size and weighing a whopping 29.8 pounds, the microwave isn't the largest we've come across. But it's not the smallest either. The 1.4 cubic foot model takes up quite a bit of counter space. So keep this in mind if you don't have a lot of space, but if you put it under cabinets, there should still be plenty of space between the top of the microwave and the bottom of a cabinet.

Alexa, make me popcorn

The intelligent microwave works with Alexa. This is different from a product that Alexa is in. You can tell your Alexa device to tell the microwave to do something. And sometimes it actually does. Sounds like a phone game, doesn't it?

We are ahead of ourselves. Let's start at the beginning. There are three options for pairing Alexa devices (such as the Echo Dot) with the microwave: Zero Touch (Wi-Fi does the job), Barcode (scanning with your phone) or user guidance (manually adding the Steps to follow). Regardless of how you connect, WiFi is essential, which makes sense. How else would Alexa and the microwave communicate?

The chicken wasn't rubbery, parts of it were cooked.

We tried all three options on multiple devices and found that Wi-Fi is easiest for anyone who already has an Alexa network of devices. If you're just starting out with Alexa, the barcode option works fine. A note about Wi-Fi: once you've connected the microwave to your Wi-Fi network, this information will be used to program the clock. For some reason our internet is on the east coast (it has to do with or internet provider) so the clock is ET. We tried to program the clock manually. As long as the WiFi is connected, the clock is by default ET.

You can give 70 commands to the microwave (it doesn't respond to improvisation). Before you can tell him to do something, you need to actually put the food in the microwave, close it, and then ask to carry out a command. The voice command is only useful when you need to add the finishing touches to a dish and heat some vegetables or something else in the microwave to keep everything warm when you serve it.

In our tests, the performance with Alexa was hit or miss and left us more frustrated than anything else. We could get it running maybe half the time, and where we were in the house didn't seem to make a difference. We tried standing right next to the microwave – sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't.

The main event

The good news is that the Sharp microwave does everything else really well. We have tested the 1,000 watt microwave for a few months and can see that it is a solid unit. We especially liked the Defrost, Potatoes, and Popcorn settings – three options we don't normally use because we fear they will ruin our food.

We put chicken breasts on the carousel in the microwave to thaw, put in the weight and let the microwave do the rest. When we took it out about nine minutes later, the chicken wasn't gummy, parts of it were cooked. After letting the chicken rest for a few minutes, we were able to cook it without any problems. We were equally pleased with the potato setting. In about eight minutes, a medium-sized spud came out with the perfect softness. We put it in the toaster for that crispy crust and had a delicious potato that took about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Sharp teamed up with Orville Redenbacher on the popcorn setting – and we managed to pop a perfect bag of popcorn. We bought a pack of Orville Redenbachers popcorn, put a bag in the microwave, and hit the popcorn button once. The time changed on the microwave's digital numeric keypad, it popped for about three minutes, and that was it. None of this was burned, and there was minimal grain at the bottom of the bag. The interesting thing is that the popcorn didn't sound like it was popping a lot.

Our opinion

The Sharp Smart Microwave is slightly better than the original Amazon Smart Oven with Alexa commands. However, the technology has not improved much. Don't let the claim “Work with Alexa” make you a reason to purchase this model.

Is there a better alternative?

There are some other microwaves that work with Alexa that are cheaper and smaller. If a microwave that works with Alexa is essential and you want a bigger, more powerful option, get this one. However, if Alexa connectivity isn't a must, there are plenty of microwaves available that don't cost that much.

How long it will take?

Microwaves should last between nine and 10 years. Read our guide to device longevity to learn more.

The Sharp Smart Microwave SMC1449FS comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty. The guarantee covers the magnetron tube for a further four years. As with all warranties, it is important to properly care for your microwave.

Should you buy it?

At around $ 170, the microwave costs more than the same model without the Alexa feature. If you want to buy it as a microwave, let's say do it (or save some batter and get the SMC1442CS version). If you buy it for the Alexa feature, it isn't quite there yet.

Editor's recommendations




04 Mar
Blog

Wyze Bulb Color: The Worthiest Cheap Smart Light Bulb

Wyze Bulb color in lamp green

"It's so good and cheap that you may never return to Philips Hue."

  • Really bright edition

  • The colors are very saturated

  • Doesn't need a bridge

  • Ridiculously cheap

Anyone who has expressed an interest in upgrading to smart LED lightbulbs knows the Philips Hue brand. You could say it's the Apple of smart lighting based on the countless positive reviews of its lightbulbs and the brand loyalty that has been built over the years. However, the light bulbs can be expensive.

Because of this, I've enjoyed some cheaper alternatives over the past few years. Xiaomi's Yeelight picks up only $ 27This is a significant savings over the $ 50 you would pay for a single Philips Hue color changing bulb. Even better were the Sylvania Smart + lamps that I used in my bathroom. A 4-pack is only $ 35.

Now we have another new competitor in the room with the Wyze Bulb Color. After achieving success in a variety of areas of the smart home, Wyze is making a stir in the lighting category with its $ 35 worth of color-changing lightbulbs.

Shining bright

One of the biggest drawbacks of cheaper alternatives, similar to Xiaomi's Yeelight, is that they are typically not that bright. Fortunately, that's not a problem for the Wyze Bulb Color. In fact, there is no comparison in terms of peak brightness when compared to Yeelight and Sylvania Smart + – it is noticeably brighter.

Wyze Bulb paint on the tableJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

This is due to the 1100 lumens of brightness it can produce, making it a 75 watt equivalent lightbulb. For comparison: Sylvania Smart + and Yeelight are 60 watt equivalent light bulbs. If you place the three lamps next to each other, there is no question that the Wyze Bulb Color has the strongest light output. In addition to the colors, this also applies to all temperatures of the daylight colors.

It's cheap but powerful.

And what about the mighty Philips Hue A19 lamp that I've been using for years? Although the differences aren't that big, the Wyze Bulb Color is still lighter – if only with a narrow border.

No bridges are needed here

Ask anyone who has dealt with a wide variety of smart home devices and they will tell you how annoying it is to set up a bridge. In my particular situation, my router only has a few Ethernet ports available to install a bridge. So it's a relief that the Wyze Bulb Color doesn't require one. Instead, connectivity is limited to Wi-Fi.

Wyze Bulb Color Wyze AppJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Setting up with the Wyze app for Android is child's play. As a result, I had to briefly connect to the bulb's Wi-Fi network before I could automatically connect to my home's Wi-Fi network. The app is pretty straightforward and has controls for brightness, color modes, automation, and scene modes. If you prefer your favorite smart home ecosystem, you'll be happy to know that it has support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Voice controls work like a charm once they're set up through the Google Home app, so I can group them with other smart lights for room-by-room control.

Wyze Bulb paint on table greenJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The only flaw with this experience concerns the scene modes that Wyze offers. In contrast to the Philips Hue lamps, the scene modes provided by Wyze are uniform. That means you just set all the lights to the same color – while Philips Hue gives you some interesting color combinations that are more dynamic. Hopefully that will change as things move forward.

Vibrant colors that burst

I was skeptical about saturation, mostly because most of the inexpensive lamps I've used didn't produce enough brightness and saturation to make colors pop. Here, too, the Wyze Bulb Color impressed me with the intensity of its color saturation. Blue and red are especially saturated and vibrant, so even a single lightbulb does a wonderful job of distributing enough saturation evenly wherever it goes.

Our opinion

Wyze's appetite to conquer the smart home never seems to end. The Wyze Bulb Color is a solid competitor in the field of intelligent lighting that dominates everything else in its price range. At $ 35 for a pack of 4, the Wyze Bulb Color is a fantastic way to light up your home without spending a fortune. It's cheap but powerful.

How long it will take?

The design of the Wyze color pear doesn't differ from anything else I've come across. It's mostly plastic, which is a good thing because, unlike traditional incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs that use glass, the plastic won't break as easily when the lamp is hit. Life expectancy is 25,000 hours, but there is a 1-year limited warranty that covers defects.

Is there a better alternative?

Not really for the price. Wyze's name in the tech space is growing all the time, so I feel that their products are more reputable than other cheaper alternatives you can probably find online.

Should you buy it?

Yes, it's only $ 35 for a 4-pack. That's cheaper than just buying a single Philips Hue color-changing light for $ 50.

Editor's recommendations




17 Feb
Blog

Citizen CZ Smart Review: Nearly a Great Citizen Smartwatch

Citizen cz smart smartwatch rating wrist shirt

"The Citizen CZ Smart is a good smartwatch with solid performance and battery life, but the design isn't quite what we'd expect from such a remarkable watchmaker."

  • High quality stainless steel case

  • Comfortable strap for a good fit

  • Decent battery life

  • Surprisingly good performance

  • Inaccurate number of steps

  • Not enough "citizen" design

Citizen has been making clocks for more than 100 years, manufacturing all of its components in-house, and pioneering a wide variety of technologies that focus on the use of light output and high precision. It's the newest watch the citizen CZ Smartis the company's first touchscreen smartwatch – and based on that legacy, we should be excited about it. As a fan of the brand's watches in general, I was keen to try them out.

The more watch brands are interested in smartwatches, the better the design, convenience and technology become. So it is important for companies like Citizen to get involved. Is the Citizen CZ Smart joining Tag Heuer's Connected (2020), Montblanc's Summit 2 and Alpina's AlpinerX as another example of the traditional watch industry getting smartwatches right?

I wore it to find out.

design

The only question that really needs to be answered here is whether the CZ Smart looks and feels like a Citizen watch. Yes, but not as much as some of the brand's more well-known models, and you probably need to be familiar with the Citizen line of diving watches to see the family connection. The shape and design of the bezel are reminiscent of the Promaster Diver range, as are the guards around the crown. However, to most casual watchers, it looks like any other smartwatch and may even be confused with the Fossil Garrett HR.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Here is the problem. I really like the style of the CZ Smart, but it's just not citizen enough and a problem that persists in the software. Citizen hasn't used its selection of incredibly recognizable watch face designs for various watch faces either, offering only a handful of more commonplace watch faces to choose from. Why is there no view of the eye-catching Skyhawk or the unusual satellite wave? Tag Heuer gets this aspect right, offering a wide range of dial designs that match the brand or are part of collections designed by ambassadors. There's really no reason Citizen couldn't have done the same.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

It's unfortunate that the CZ Smart is no longer bourgeois as the watch looks great on the wrist. The bezel is thin, the blue color gives it character, the 46mm case is made of stainless steel and feels of very high quality. Gorilla glass is placed over the screen for protection. The 22 m long blue silicone strap is very comfortable and should also be very durable. It does have a plastic bottom, however, which is a little unfortunate. While very similar to the Fossil Garrett HR, it looks a lot more mature and feels better built too.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Citizen likely relied on partnering with Fossil to produce the CZ Smart. The couple announced some time ago that they would be working together on hybrid smartwatch technology. However, given the presence of the Fossil wellness app and the pre-installation of Spotify, this certainly seems to be a product of that partnership too. It's not a bad thing, Fossil is working on smartwatches with a lot of brands including Diesel, Micheal Kors, and Skagen. It knows what it is doing.

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The Citizen CZ Smart looks great and is very comfortable, but it doesn't quite say "I'm wearing a Citizen Smartwatch" like it should, and it feels like a missed opportunity.

Screen and performance

The CZ Smart has a 1.28-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 416 x 416 pixels so it's very sharp, which makes me even sadder that there aren't many great standard Citizen watch faces to take advantage of . Inside is a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 processor, not the newer Snapdragon Wear 4100 chip, which makes it technically out of date. Unfortunately, Citizen isn't the only one who is satisfied with the aging Snapdragon 3100 chip, as almost all other smartwatch manufacturers do.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Fortunately, it's not a performance disaster at all. Once you do the basics like tracking workouts, receiving notifications, and using apps, you can easily do the functions. It took a while, but the chip has been effectively optimized when it is tuned to 1GB of RAM along with the latest software and can be used perfectly every day. What it misses is the increased efficiency of the Snapdragon 4100. The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3's battery lasts at least three full days on a single charge, and the CZ Smart doesn't quite manage that.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

How does the battery compare? It's decent. With general daily use and just activity tracking with the wellness app, I got almost three work days by turning the clock off overnight. If you're following with Google Fit, streaming music, or using intense apps like Google Maps, it's just two business days. The watch charges quickly, with 80% charging in about 45 minutes and 100% charging in about 70 minutes.

While the CZ Smart isn't great, it has the power and battery life to do what I want a smartwatch to do every day.

Navigation and software

It's great to see that the CZ Smart already has the latest software update for Google Wear OS H-MR2 installed, which undoubtedly contributes to slightly better battery life and faster performance. It also introduces new features such as an adjustable time limit for the screen and a new weather tile.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

One of the most welcome features of the CZ Smart is the rotating crown, which makes it easy to navigate the Wear OS software. It should be a standard feature on all Wear OS smartwatches, but it isn't. Congratulations Citizen for adding it here. The guards around the crown make it less uncomfortable to turn your thumb as well. The buttons on either side of the crown activate Google Fit and the Citizen Watch Face app, but can be reconfigured.

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The CZ Smart delivers notifications from your phone with average reliability. This is what I expect from Wear OS in general, which is nowhere near as reliable in communicating with your phone as Apple's WatchOS. The CZ Smart has a speaker and microphone for making and receiving calls. This is always welcome. However, there is no 4G LTE connection so a connection to your phone is required. It's loud enough to have a conversation at home.

Fitness tracking

Fossil's wellness app is on board and promises to track basic activities – steps, sleep, calories, and exercise, without draining your battery too much. It suits the CZ Smart because I don't see it being worn by hardcore fitness fanatics, but by people who want to know how much (or how little) they are exercising. It's easy to use as everything is shown on one screen and only offers one indoor or outdoor exercise tracking option. It's quick and easy and suits my idea of ​​how the watch is worn. Google Fit is also available for anyone who wants more in-depth, data-intensive activity tracking.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

How is the CZ Smart when you are tracking activity? It is annoying that the software has to be optimized because the CZ Smart overestimates the number of steps many times over. After realizing that I was supposedly supposed to run a lot more than was possible when locked, I compared it to the Apple Watch Series 6. I found that the CZ Smart recorded 3,600 steps on a busy morning while the Apple Watch 2,500 steps counted.

While the heart rate monitor results have been consistent and I don't think anyone genuinely concerned about tracking fitness will look at this model, Citizen will have to fix the accuracy of the step count soon.

Price and availability

The Citizen CZ Smart costs and it is $ 395 available now from Amazon and via the Citizen online shop. There are three different models: The version shown here in blue and stainless steel, a stainless steel model with a black bracelet and a black / red bezel, and a black stainless steel version with a black metal link bracelet. All are at the same price.

Our opinion

The Citizen CZ Smart is a very good smartwatch for doing what I want every day. It's fast and the battery lasts longer than expected. It is also very well made and comfortable to wear. However, it comes to a crowded market with dozens of similar smartwatches that you can say the same about. So it's unfortunate that Citizen hasn't really used its brand name and watchmaking expertise to differentiate itself.

I wanted the CZ Smart to have the same draw as buying a Skyhawk A-T, but instead it's like buying another Wear OS smartwatch from the past few years and because of that, this is a missed opportunity. The citizen could really have taken control of the watchmaker / smartwatch area here.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. If you want a smartwatch for your Android phone, we recommend the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3. It may not be the best looking watch you can buy, but it is the most technologically advanced Wear OS smartwatch right now. The Snapdragon 4100 chip goes well with Mobvoi's unusual dual-screen design to get the most out of the battery and provide plenty of performance.

If you own an iPhone and are looking for a smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 6 or Apple Watch SE are for you. It's not often that an Apple product can be called a bargain, but when compared to the $ 395 Citizen CZ Smart, the $ 279 Apple Watch SE in particular offers great value. Relationship.

The other watch to consider is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3. The software is easier to use and more attractive than Google's Wear operating system. The rotating bezel simplifies navigation. Due to the citizen's high price for the CZ Smart, it directly competes with all of these smartwatches, with some being offered at much lower prices.

How long it will take?

Like all good smartwatches, the Citizen CZ Smart will last at least two years before you can replace it. The Snapdragon 3100 chip is already old, however, and when at some point more models with the Snapdragon 4100 hit the market, smartwatches that use the old platform will really feel their age. However, smartwatches do not have the same power requirements as smartphones. So, if you keep doing the same things with the watch as you always have, this makes a good companion.

Due to the stainless steel housing, the gorilla glass and the water resistance of 3ATM, the CZ Smart should be very durable. The 22mm armband is thick and sturdy and can also be easily replaced due to the 22mm size and quick release pins.

Should you buy it?

Sadly no. There are better, more up-to-date smartwatches available at lower prices. The unfortunate thing here is if the CZ Smart really looked and felt like a citizen watch, the verdict might have been different.

Editor's recommendations




16 Feb
Blog

Vizio Elevate: A Smart Soundbar that Pivots for Atmos Audio

"When the rain is realistic enough to grab an umbrella, the Elevate delivers immersive audio at its best."

  • Easy setup, clear diagram with connections

  • Wonderfully unique design

  • Deep control over audio output levels

  • Exceptionally clear dialogue

  • Space-dependent effects

  • Expensive

If you want to tune the audio in your home to match the high quality picture you've invested in – and I think you should, it's one of the best ways to upgrade your movie night – there isn't one more convenient way than a Dolby Atmos soundbar system. The picture quality of your set is amazing, isn't it? Why isn't the sound impressive right away?

Vizio believes that a soundbar can also be a statement. The new 48-inch Elevate soundbar features speaker housings that rotate to shoot at the ceiling or directly at you. Sounds great right? The problem with these systems is that they tend to compromise or make sacrifices. According to Vizio, the Elevate soundbar doesn't compromise – and the $ 1,000 price tag would suggest it does. But does it live up to the hype? We'll find out in a moment.

What's in the box: Unpack the Vizio Elevate

Along with the speakers themselves – carefully packed in a rather elaborate chair-shaped box – comes an accessory box, and I love what Vizio did here: not only does this box contain everything you need to set it up, it's also very clear labeled and partially color-coded. The scope of delivery includes two different power cables, one for the sub and one for the soundbar. However, you can use the longer cable depending on what you want.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

The scope of delivery also includes the remote control (batteries included), a digital optical cable, an HDMI cable, brackets and hardware, as well as two analog audio cables. One audio cable can be used for a smart speaker and the other for pretty much any other device you might want to connect to the soundbar.

The rod itself is slim and cylindrical, with a satin silver finish and clean lines. What is really interesting is the cutout at the bottom that was specially designed for this soundbar to sit right on top of the Vizio H1 OLED TV. Remove it and the pair gently nestle against each other. If you don't have a Vizio TV, leave the cutout attached.

The surround speakers are nice and compact so they don't take up too much space in your room. The Atmos driver is triggered on the top of each surround speaker, while a neat little non-slip silicone pad is attached to the bottom. On the back of the speaker there is a screw hole for wall mounting and color-coded RCA speaker connections.

The subwoofer is slightly larger than most soundbars, and deliberately: The volume of the case is supposed to support a huge 8-inch driver that looks very robust. The back of the sub has a nicely flared exit port at the top that helps prevent airborne noise if the Elevate is really throbbing. Below are a few places where you can connect your surround speakers.

Between the soundbar, the surrounds and the subwoofer, the Elevate system includes 18 drivers that are operated with enough watts of power so that the system can reach 107 decibels. The subwoofer hits a frequency of 30Hz, which is deep enough in the bass range to rattle pictures off the wall, but just before the deepest bass you would get from a high-end subwoofer – in other words, you will feel the bass.

links

Riley Young / Digital Trends

Under the soundbar itself you will find your optical digital connection on the left and two aux connections on the right – interestingly one of them is marked for an intelligent loudspeaker. There are two HDMI inputs that allow you to connect two devices directly to the soundbar, and a third HDMI port for an e-ARC connection. The first two send a signal to your TV, while the e-ARC connection accepts downstream audio from the TV.

Set up

Setting up the system is really a breeze. Take your subwoofer and place it in the back of the room near an electrical outlet so you can plug it in. It is important where you place your subwoofer in your room as your surround speakers need to be connected directly to the subwoofer. That's right, the surround signal goes first to the subwoofer, where an amplifier controls these surround speakers. Sure, they have really long wires so you have some flexibility in placement for all of these components, but by and large the front and back of the room is determined by this connection.

The soundbar itself can be placed in front of the television, on the bracket of your Vizio OLED television or on the wall bracket with the brackets provided. When it comes to connections, you can simply run an HDMI cable from your TV to the Vizio Elevate through the ARC or eARC port on each device – and that's really all you have to do to get sound.

Synchronization is practically automatic: turn it on and you're good to go. Unfortunately, while setting up the soundbar system itself is a breeze, making sure you're getting Dolby Atmos is a little more complicated.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

If you have a really new TV – 2018 or newer – you will likely be fine. Most new TVs support Atmos passthrough. This means you can connect devices to the TV (or use the built-in streaming apps) and stream Dolby Atmos to the soundbar. If your TV is a little older, it probably doesn't support Atmos passthrough. You would therefore like to connect devices directly to one of the two HDMI ports in the soundbar.

Then it gets a little more complicated.

First, make sure the game console, disc player, or streaming device you own supports Atmos. A quick look through the manual or the product website should confirm this. Additionally, you need to make sure that the streaming app you are using – Netflix or Disney + or whatever – is actually streaming Dolby Atmos on that particular device as this is inconsistent: Netflix may be able to stream Atmos on Xbox One X to the Example, but not on a specific streaming stick. So check the chain – all of the different components you use must support Atmos.

The same applies to DTS: X, every source and every device in the chain must be checked twice.

versatility

One of the things that annoys me the most about soundbars in general, but Dolby Atmos soundbars in particular, is that I don't get control of the individual layers I need. That changes with the Vizio Elevate soundbar, which gives you control over everything: left, right, center, surround level, surround balance, Atmos height channel effects, subwoofer level, bass, treble – whatever you call it. Why is that important? For example, let's say I can't put the surround speakers exactly where they should be (which, by the way, is right in the left and right corners of your seating area). With individual level adjustments, you can optimize your setup to achieve really good Atmos height and surround effects, regardless of where these speakers are located.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

One of the other things that bother me about soundbars is that they usually rely on color-coded LED systems to let you know important things, such as: B. which input you have set or which EQ mode you have selected. Vizios Elevate does that too, of course, but at least they've made it easy to understand: a table on the back of the remote shows you which color means what.

There's also an indicator just above the remote that tells you pretty much everything you need to know and which is activated when you manage all of your various settings in the soundbar. In other words, this bar doesn't give you any onscreen interface – but between the diagram on the remote and that little screen, you really have all the information you need. In addition, there is a voice that tells you which input you are set to when switching.

performance

The Dolby Atmos version of the Elevate soundbar is unique. Sure, the surround speakers are traditional, with some drivers pointing into the room and others pointing towards the ceiling. The soundbar itself is different: the speakers at either end of the front tube rotate between Atmos mode and standard audio. When the sound picks up a Dolby Atmos signal, these speakers roll up and emit sound from the ceiling – this is how you get a 5.1.4 Atmos experience. (Why four? Two speakers in the front and two in the surround speakers, all facing the ceiling.)

If you don't hear Atmos content, the speakers will shut down. When this happens, the Elevate changes the mapping of the various woofers and tweeters in the sound system, giving you better fidelity and a wider soundstage, at least that's the promise. That also means this soundbar could sound great for music.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

But let's face it, the Elevate is here to produce amazing movie soundtracks and mind-blowing Atmos effects, and my word, does it ever do that? This soundbar just sounds very, very good. The Atmos effects vary depending on the type of ceiling, but the range is clearly sufficient. You can goose them to get more out of them, resulting in a truly amazing experience: helicopters that really fly over your head, or rain that is realistic enough to make you reach for an umbrella.

With the Elevate you have the feeling that action is taking place above you, but beyond that the transition from the soundbar to the surround speakers to the Atmos effects is extremely smooth – I don't hear any holes in the sphere of sound, it's all very cohesive . What does that mean? It's very simple: when you're enjoying a movie, don't think about the soundbar, just get lost in the movie. The fidelity of this soundbar comes into its own here too, with very clear dialogue that isn't overly accentuated, which was previously an issue.

There is nothing boxy about this system. It has a very open sound that is also extremely dynamic. So when things get explosive they are really explosive, and when things are more sensitive and quieter, you hear the whole nuance. The tweeters Vizio recorded here are really cute: they don't yell at you, they don't get overly hissing – it's just a really fun sound signature down the line.

Our opinion

Has Vizio kept its promise of an uncompromising soundbar? I say this: I think it has done better than anyone so far. I am very impressed with the musicality of this soundbar and that is usually one of the biggest problems. The control is immense, which means audiophiles can tune it to sound exactly how they want. It's also a very smooth, cohesive sound with great fidelity – another hallmark of a great soundbar.

Is there a better alternative?

When you consider the Elevate, you're probably not looking for something as simple as the Bose Solo 5 TV sound system. They hope for the best, the crème de la crème, and there are certainly competitors out there. The Sonos Arc, for example, is another Swiss Army Knife that also brings Dolby Atmos and A.I. Controls – as well as a brand name that will impress your friends. However, connectivity is limited with just a single HDMI port. Further up the thinned line of high-end speaker systems is the Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage, which has a beautiful design and deep and resonant bass. It's also twice as expensive.

How long it will take?

The specification wars are ending, Dolby Atmos and DTS: X have won, and you are unlikely to see any new unsupported formats. Vizio is known for its high quality products, and this soundbar is likely to last you for the next decade.

warranty

Vizio offers a standard 1 year warranty on the Elevate soundbar. Please refer to the Vizio warranty page for more information.

Should you buy it?

Yes absolutely. The Vizio combines a new design with audiophile controls and simply outstanding sound and is the ultimate compliment for your high-end television.

Editor's recommendations




06 Feb
Blog

Netatmo Smart Video Doorbell Review: Aiming Too Hgh

Netatmo video doorbell mounted on brick

Netatmo Smart Video Doorbell

"The Netatmo Smart Video Doorbell is a great video doorbell with a few small flaws and one big one – the price."

  • Intelligent A.I. Camera detection

  • Clear video day and night

  • Expensive

  • Narrow field of view

  • Blocky design collides with some decor

When asked to review the Netatmo security camera a few months ago, I was impressed with the functionality but not impressed with the design. Fortunately, Netatmo has made some progress in this category with its Smart Video Doorbell. The wired doorbell from Netatmo brings person recognition and the known functions of artificial intelligence (A.I.) to a thankfully smaller form factor.

Netatmo hasn't quite shaken off its blocky roots yet, however, as the design of this doorbell reminds me of something you might see in Minecraft. The doorbell consists of three squares stacked on top of each other. The top square has the camera and Netatmo branding, the middle square has a loudspeaker grille for bidirectional communication, and the bottom square has the button with a bell symbol. Overall, the aesthetic works for me. It looks modern so it looks a little different on a brick home, but you can go upstairs well.

Installation first

The installation is very easy. Netatmo even included a silicone lock that you slide the doorbell wires through for additional sealing. It's a nice touch that I haven't seen before. You can also use a 25 degree offset to see if your house is mine and the door is set back from the brick siding. A carillon module is included in the scope of delivery, which you must also connect to your transformer. So make sure you know where that is. Netatmo also includes an additional backup, which is a first in my career as a doorbell checker. Better to have it and not need it, I suppose.

Netatmo

The video feed is very good. My backyard in Chicago is currently a snowy landscape so I can't comment on the color rendering, but I can tell you the white balance is spot on. A fish-eye effect can be seen at the edges of the field of view with a diagonal of 140 degrees. The infrared image is also quite good at night. There's a lot of camera in this doorbell.

Netatmo has some work to do on its aesthetics, but this is a solid step in the right direction.

The speaker built into the camera is loud and clear. Netatmo doesn't list an official speaker volume specification, but it is certainly clear enough for a conversation to take place. Both the two-way conversation and the video feed are pretty lag-free, so you don't get those awkward pauses where you say something and then wait for the voice to go through.

Return home

The doorbell also works with Apple's HomeKit, although I mainly used the Netatmo Security app for my tests. After my review of the Logitech video doorbell, it was a nice change of pace. Netatmo is still doing smart things with A.I. like focusing and cropping on the motion themes in the thumbnails of saved events. In the first few days, of course, a floodlight in the frame was identified as a person, but that's why detection zones are important.

The software has some special features that are difficult to reconcile with one another. For example, to view the live camera, you need to press a phone icon in the middle of the screen. To terminate the connection, you must also press a hang-up key. While watching the live feed, you can unmute the speaker and microphone on the doorbell to have a conversation with whoever is there. I've got the thinking behind it – you "call" the camera to have a conversation with whoever is at the door.

Screenshot of the Netatmo Security App.

Netatmo doubles the "phone call" metaphor when the doorbell rings. The app not only rings your interior, but also initiates a call between you and the doorbell. Other doorbells, like our recently tested Wyze video doorbell, simply send you a notification and you can choose whether or not to respond. This feature follows the Netatmo video calling metaphor, but just because I can streamline it doesn't mean it's a good idea.

One of the few that support HomeKit

The addition of Apple's HomeKit brings a nice new level of automation that we explored in the Logitech video doorbell. You can use the motion sensor on the doorbell to trigger other actions around the house, although I haven't found one that makes sense yet. The video feed also works more intuitively through HomeKit. You don't have to ring the doorbell to see what's going on outside. With the Netatmo app, Android users can also enjoy the doorbell.

Our opinion

Overall, this is a solid entry into the video doorbell space. Netatmo has some work to do on its aesthetics, but this is a solid step in the right direction. To be honest, the blocky doorbell doesn't suit every type of home. Integration with Apple HomeKit is easy without excluding Android users. The video feed is great and has a slightly narrower field of view than others on the market.

As a stand-alone doorbell, this is exactly the right thing for you. It does everything a video doorbell needs and uses Smart A.I. to find out what's important in a particular clip. I would love to test this out in a non-winter month to see animals running across my deck so I could really say that A.I. Through my steps, however, my review of the Netatmo video camera gave me a good idea of ​​what to expect. When putting your smart home piece together piece by piece, this is a good addition as long as you like the look.

Is there a better alternative?

The Netatmo video doorbell does a lot of things right, but Netatmo is charging nearly $ 300, and there are other options worth considering. From a design perspective, I prefer the rounded look of the Arlo Video doorbell or the Nest Hello. From the point of view of the field of view, 140 degrees is the center of the road. Doorbells like the Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro give you full 180-degree top, bottom, left, and right angles. Simply put, for its price point, the Netatmo should be the best of all, and it really isn't.

Will it take?

The Netatmo video doorbell works between -10 and 40 degrees Celsius and is IP44 compliant. Netatmo products are guaranteed for two years. The silicon barrier helps keep water out of the electronics, so I see no reason why this doorbell shouldn't last long.

Should you buy it?

No. At $ 300 there are other options that do a better job. See the Wyze Video Doorbell at 1/10 the price. It is true that Netatmo does not charge a subscription service and that all videos are stored locally on an included SD card. However, at this price point, it's hard to recommend, especially when video doorbell prices are generally falling.

Editor's recommendations




28 Jan
Blog

Tempo Studio Review: Smart Fitness Display Features Weights

Tempo Studio Rating 3 out of 5

"The Tempo Studio Fitness Display is the smarter, more sophisticated connected home gym."

  • Comes with all the accessories you will need

  • 3D motion tracking for the correct shape

  • Sharp looking touchscreen display

  • Weights are hidden in the device

  • Less live lessons

  • Do not follow all exercises

Getting in shape is different for everyone. Some people may just want the number on the scale to go down while others choose to improve their stamina or stamina. However, whatever the goal, there is no doubt that smart fitness displays are changing the way we exercise at home.

While most of them focus solely on high-intensity cardio training, the Tempo Studio emphasizes strength and muscle building by using 3D sensors to monitor proper form. It also features free weights and a barbell for workouts, live classes to measure yourself against, and more. On the surface, it offers everything you need as a worthy alternative to the actual gym. But how much better is it than competing displays?

A home gym with weights

Without question, the Tempo Studio's biggest differentiator is how it packs all of the weights necessary for training. With other intelligent fitness displays like Mirror or Echelon Reflect, users have to enter their own weights. Tempo Studio comes with a variety of weight plates, two dumbbells, a barbell, a heart rate monitor, an exercise mat, and a recovery roller – all included in the sticker price of $ 1,995. You could easily spend a considerable sum on purchasing a set of weights. So, when you know all of this is already included, the Tempo Studio is ahead of the pack.

Even better is the fact that it includes all the weights and dumbbells. Because of this design choice, Tempo Studio is more of a freestanding smart fitness display than a wall mount. The end result is a sizable exercise machine that is 6 feet by 2 feet, 2 inches by 1 foot, 4 inches. In my tiny apartment, it takes up quite a bit of space, but I still appreciate that it keeps the weights in a compartment under the display while the barbell and dumbbells are attached to the back. Managing fitness equipment has never been easier.

The largest touchscreen in your home

The imposing stature of the Tempo Studio is mainly due to its gigantic 42-inch display. What was more surprising was the realization that it was actually a touchscreen, which I honestly did not expect. Not only is it detailed and bright, it also doesn't suffer from some of the visibility issues caused by glare on some other mirror-based smart displays. Everything is perfectly visible even at larger angles, so that the instructions of the trainers on the screen can be easily followed.

Speaking of touch, the interaction with the display is strange at first, but pretty straightforward and responsive. It's just a couple of inconveniences while you're exercising. For one thing, I wish there were special volume controls that could be accessed immediately.

Managing fitness equipment has never been easier.

Instead, the volume can only be adjusted when you start a workout and press the appropriate icon in the lower right corner of the user interface. There is also no smartphone integration. Basic functions such as pause / playback therefore always require a physical touch on the display.

Correct shape through 3D motion tracking

What sets Tempo Studio apart from the competition is its ability to track correct form for various exercises using a 3D flight motion sensor located under the display. It looks like a camera, but it's really only there to model your shape. If there's one thing I've learned about exercising from every personal trainer I know, it's that getting in shape goes a long way. And that's exactly what Tempo Studio does by constantly telling me to keep my knees over my toes when I'm not in the ideal squat shape.

The Tempo Studio also shows my heart rate and other statistics about my current training – e.g. B. How many repetitions I did, my pace and my freedom of movement. The level of detail achieved through the use of the 3D motion sensor provides valuable data that fitness junkies will appreciate. However, not all exercises are tracked with the 3D motion sensor. In fact, motion tracking seems to be limited to exercises that are mostly about weights. Most of the other workouts, like some of the boxing and cardio workouts, don't get motion tracking treatment.

Despite this shortcoming, the Tempo Studio seems to be constantly learning – maybe at some point it can pursue a wider range of workouts. Some things are better than nothing.

Bringing sweat to a sweat needs more variety

If you've ever taken any of the group classes at traditional gyms, you'll know what to expect with Tempo Studio classes. As mentioned earlier, the focus here is on strength training. So expect some serious lifting. By combining some cardio exercises with core strength training, I was able to work up a sweat and get a decent heart rate. I'm used to lifting heavy weights, but not at the speed or intensity I'm going through here. It's a challenge for sure, so you may want to drop the weights on the first start to acclimate and find the right pace.

Workouts are harder than just relying on gravity or body weight, which definitely helps build muscle. However, the studio doesn't have nearly the same different classes as Mirror. Likewise, there are fewer live courses to sign up for and try out. Even so, the on-demand courses provide what you expect – great motivation and guidance from Tempo Studio teachers. At the end of each class, the exercise is broken down into a chart to help track my progress over time.

I would love to see more different workouts to choose from, but I love that they include weights in their workouts. If you are on your priority list and want to build muscle, Tempo Studio will help you along the way. All you need to know is that it requires a subscription of $ 39 per month.

Our opinion

Even if it's not perfect, Tempo Studio has appeal. It's neither crazy expensive nor cheap. At $ 1,995, it's more than the attractive Lululemon Mirror ($ 1,495) but less than the Tonal ($ 2,995). The latter also focuses on strength training, but achieves it through a patented digital weight system based on resistance.

When you have all the weights and equipment ready to go, combined with real-time coaching from 3D motion sensors, it is enough to recommend the Tempo Studio as a fully connected home gym that you should consider.

How long it will take?

You can treat the Tempo Studio like a device to use at home as it stays stationary in one place. It's nice to know that Tempo Studio comes with a limited warranty that covers the case and weights for three years. The display and heart rate monitor are covered for one year.

Is there a better alternative?

Not everyone focuses on weight training. So, if you are looking for something with a wider range of classes, you should check out Mirror by Lululemon. It includes exercise classes you won't find with Tempo Studio, such as Pilates, ballet, tai chi, and more. Mirror also offers one-to-one classes where only you and the trainer are present.

Should you buy it?

You bet. The one-time costs (without subscription) include everything you need for a challenging training session.

Editor's recommendations




13 Dec
Blog

Eero 6 Router Review: Smart Home Management Made Easy

Eero 6 Wi-Fi Mesh Router

Eero 6 Wi-Fi 6 System (3 Pack)

"When a growing smart home needs to be covered, the Eero 6 is a cost-effective solution."

  • Affordable Wi-Fi 6 mesh system

  • Intuitive device management via app

  • Solid speeds from the router

  • Few ethernet ports on the router

Routers are likely a priority for many people. It's one of those underrated devices in the home that only works in the background, and the only time it ever comes to mind is when things aren't working properly.

A growing smart home presents some challenges as more and more devices require connectivity. This is why you should look into a router that can manage them all. With Wi-Fi 6, an integrated mesh network and a system that can be controlled with Alexa from Amazon, the Eero 6 is undoubtedly an attractive option for the average consumer.

Cover for the whole house

Growing your smart home includes not just the devices, but adequate coverage to ensure they stay connected and are not compromised in any way. The Eero 6 is a dual band Wi-Fi 6 mesh network that allows you to provision extender nodes to cover large rooms. For smaller spaces like my apartment, which is a smidge over 1,000 square feet, the Eero 6 is a bit over the top – but others will appreciate its 5,000 square foot range for larger homes and rooms.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

In my setup, the system packs a router and two extender nodes. I use it as a secondary, complementary network that contains my Internet of Things (IoT devices). My main network serves as the primary network for surfing the Internet with my smartphones and computers. Similar to other mesh routers I've checked out, the Eero router is connected to my modem gateway via one of its two gigabit ports. If you urgently need to make other connections, there isn't much left. I know how quickly things can get out of hand when you introduce smart home devices that require their own hubs or bridges. So it would have been nice to have more ports.

This is exactly what the growing smart home needs.

The extender nodes only act as Wi-Fi hubs to extend the range of the network to every corner of your home. Depending on the signal strength, I like that the Eero 6 automatically selects which node / router the devices are connected to. For example, the two smart displays in my bedroom connect to the extender node, which is in the same room – unlike the main router in the living room. In contrast to the router, the node extenders do not have any Ethernet ports for expansion. Not too surprising, but I still wish they had one or two.

Convenient smart home management

Today's routers are more consumer-friendly than ever, and the Eero 6 is no exception. Setting up is a breeze and all it takes is plugging the router into my gateway and downloading the Eero app. From there, you can attach it to your Amazon account to access voice control with Alexa.

The app does a good job of figuring out which devices are connected to the Eero 6. Since the naming conventions for some devices can be unclear, I would recommend going back to the app as soon as possible to change them. My smart home consists of more than 50 connected devices. So it helps that I oversee their activities, especially if you notice that a gadget appears to be sending larger amounts of data. It's a red flag that will help users better understand how their devices are behaving.

When it comes to the smart home, disabling access to a specific device is made easier with the help of Alexa. Once you've enabled the Eero Alexa skill, you can instruct the voice assistant to stop WiFi for a specific device or the entire network.

It's worth noting that the Eero 6 has an integrated ZigBee smart home hub, similar to the current Amazon Echo (4th generation). This makes it a breeze to connect ZigBee-enabled accessories and devices through the Alexa app without the need to use other third-party apps. That way, you don't have to manage another app or service. So, if you're already deep in the Amazon ecosystem, the Eero 6's ability to control ZigBee devices comes in handy.

Speed, speed, speed

The Comcast Xfinity router I've been using for a while now offers average download and upload speeds of 250Mbps and 40Mbps, respectively. Interestingly, switching to the Eero 6 has boosted performance to around 350 Mbit / s and 41 Mbit / s. The faster download speed is only achieved through the main Eero 6 router.

Eero 6 Wi-Fi Mesh RouterJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

However, when connected to one of the extender nodes, the performance will drop to about the same as my Xfinity router. For most smart home devices, this shouldn't be a problem, unless it's a security camera that uploads footage to the cloud for you to access. The latency response via the extender nodes is roughly the same as that of the main Eero router. This is therefore useful for real-time video conversations that you may have on a smart display, security camera, or other device.

Our opinion

You can't go wrong with the Eero 6 – this is exactly what the growing smart home needs to keep expanding. It has it all: a built-in ZigBee hub, expansion with extenders, device management, Alexa control, and an affordable price of $ 279 for a 3-pack system. For comparison, a similar Google Nest Wi-Fi kit costs $ 349. However, what Google has to offer is the additional utility of its Node Extenders that use Google Assistant for voice control so that they can effectively act as smart speakers.

How long it will take?

The minimalist all-plastic construction of the Eero 6 feels decent. However, since they are unlikely to ever move once they are set up, there is little risk of damage to them. In the event something goes wrong on its own, there's a 1 year limited warranty to cover it.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes and no. The Google Nest Wi-Fi costs more, but the added convenience of the Google Assistant built into its extender nodes makes it a useful utility for the smart home.

Should you buy it?

This is a good option if you are looking for a mesh network system that does not require an expensive investment.

Editor's recommendations




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