18 Nov
Blog

Apple HomePod Mini Review: The Smart Speaker Apple Needs

Apple HomePod mini on the table

"The HomePod mini is exactly what Apple needs to be a relevant player in the world of smart speakers."

  • Computerized audio optimizes the experience

  • Clean sounding highs and mids

  • The compact size makes it discreet

  • It's the cheapest HomeKit hub

  • Siri lacks the advanced intelligence of her colleagues

  • Short power cord

Apple rarely has flaws in its products, especially in the dominant era that began with the release of the iPhone. The Cupertino, California-based company has been kicking it out of the stadium time and again, setting the bar for every product category it enters. Products like the iPod, iPhone, iPad, and AirPods have shown phenomenal appeal with consumers, but that doesn't mean Apple is infallible.

The HomePod is an example of one of those missed opportunities, and its failure has hampered Apple's ambitious smart home efforts. Pricing was partly the problem – a premium price of $ 349 out of the gates made it a tough sell for the masses. Now, however, there appears to be a redemption with the HomePod mini. While it looks like Apple has gotten smaller with this iteration, don't let its size fool you, as this decision has bigger implications that make it a great player in the smart home.

Smaller is better

Gone is the cylindrical, bulky design of the original HomePod, which has been replaced with a more subtle appearance thanks to its spherical shape. It's adorned with the same fabric as its predecessor – something I wasn't too excited about because my cats viewed it as a scratching post. However, thanks to its smaller size, it fits better in tighter, smaller spaces and out of the reach of cats. Eventually I decided to place it in my entertainment center in the living room where it won't overwhelm the rest of the material there.

Apple HomePod Mini Smart Speaker Size ComparisonJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The HomePod mini has a backlit touch-sensitive lid. The animation of Siri listening and reacting gives it a sleek look, but it still can't lift my eyes from the echo LED ring of light. On the back is the power cord that ends with a USB-C connection. Surprisingly, the cable itself doesn't seem detachable. Since the original HomePod's cable could be removed with a bit of tug, I figured this would be the case here, too – but it doesn't seem to be. In addition, the length of the cord is quite short, which means it has to be placed near an electrical outlet.

Don't buy just one, buy two because this year's HomePod mini won't empty your wallet.

Apple's decision to go small is an interesting one. You'd think its size rivals the Nest Mini and Echo Dot, but it's actually meant to hold its own in the mid-range.

Computer audio at its finest

If you're all into raw audio, the original HomePod is the natural choice for you. You should stop now if this is your only priority. This is because the HomePod mini is nowhere near the performance of the original. HomePod mini really comes to life because compelling computer audio is able to analyze and optimize whatever is playing.

Apple HomePod Mini Touch controlsJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

From a technical specs perspective, the full-range driver of the HomePod mini and the two passive radiators don't let audiophiles drool too much. In fact, it's the combination of Apple's S5 chip and computer audio that provides an enticing and compelling audio experience. The HomePod mini doesn't disappoint with its size and produces plenty of mids and highs that are not drowned out by the bass. In fact, the focus on the mids and highs becomes even clearer as the volume is increased – it never loses contact with them and the bass never sounds tight.

If I have one criticism of audio quality, it is that the HomePod mini controls audio tuning. There is no way to customize or customize my special preferences. It's not a deal breaker, but I would still appreciate some degree of control over things like highs and lows.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Back to my point about computer audio. This is most noticeable when I've paired the HomePod mini with my Apple TV 4K to watch videos. Unlike my soundbar, which seems to prefer the sound effects and scores over the dialogue, the computerized audio attenuates the scores and sound effects appropriately with each dialogue so that I can actually understand what people are saying. This kind of smart setting is also useful when playing commercials as my soundbar has a tendency to turn up the volume while playing. With the HomePod mini, however, the volume remains constant. When it comes to computer audio, I'm all-in.

Catching up with the competition

First and foremost, the HomePod mini is the cheapest home hub for Apple HomeKit devices at home. You need it so that your HomeKit devices can communicate with your needs when you are not on your home network. Previously, the only other alternatives were the more expensive Apple TV HD ($ 149), Apple TV 4K ($ 179), and HomePod ($ 299). You can also use an iPad, but I don't usually recommend doing this because you want your home hub to remain stationary at home. Therefore, the iPad is the least qualified candidate in my opinion.

Siri still has a lot of catching up to do, which is reflected in the fact that she is missing the performance of her colleagues. Google Assistant always surprises me for its intelligence, while Amazon Alexa can be exchanged for a celebrity voice like Samuel L. Jackson. Siri isn't as smart or as funny as the other two virtual assistants, but I really hope she catches up. For example, it annoys me that Siri doesn't want to reveal my appointments for that day when I ask about it. Instead, it tells me to check my phone, which is inconvenient. It's probably a setting somewhere that prevents her from announcing it, but it's annoying nonetheless.

Apple HomePod Mini Smart Speaker Size ComparisonJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Even so, there are other features that I found useful. Use the intercom function, with which I can play an audio message on all connected HomePod speakers in my apartment. It's great when you don't want to shout from the kitchen to someone else in another room that dinner is ready. There's also Proximity Control, which lets me relay something I'm hearing on my iPhone to my HomePod mini – all by placing my iPhone over the HomePod mini’s touch-sensitive surface. The seamless functionality that allows different devices to communicate with each other in this way is what Apple is known for, and the proximity control is proof of that.

It's also about app support. Right now, music listeners only have a handful of options to choose from when it comes to streaming from an iPhone to a HomePod mini. Apple Music and Pandora work like a charm comfortably, but many other third-party apps like YouTube Music are missing.

The HomePod mini is the speaker Apple should bring out first.

Over the past year we've seen more and more HomeKit-compatible smart home devices, from smart locks to cameras. The lack of compatible devices undoubtedly reduced the consumer appeal of making Siri the virtual assistant of choice at home, but things have gotten better. While Apple still lags behind Google and Amazon in terms of overall devices supported, using HomeKit devices offers a higher level of security and privacy.

Apple HomePod mini in handJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

This is the untold story you won't hear too much about in the smart home wars. Apple doesn't require its users to install a new app or sign up for an account in order to use these smart home devices. All you have to do is set it up from the Home app and you're done.

Our opinion

The HomePod mini is the speaker Apple should bring out first. If so, the company would be in a far better position in the smart home market. Regardless, the $ 100 cost makes it an attractive proposition that is better positioned to bring Siri home. Sure, it's not as smart or powerful as some of the other smart speakers, but it doesn't have to be, as it's a logical choice for many more Apple due to its computerized audio, subtle design, and HomeKit home hub functionality. User is this time.

How long it will take?

Like all Apple devices, the HomePod mini is solidly built. The mesh should hold up if left undisturbed, but the cloth-like material is prone to staining if something is easily spilled on it.

Apple offers a one-year limited warranty that covers defects. However, you can also purchase them AppleCare + for the HomePod mini, which effectively extends coverage for two years and covers two instances of accidental damage.

Is there a better alternative?

You bet. For the same cost, Google Nest Audio is very present in the audio department. Audiophiles will appreciate its punchy and more powerful audio performance, while the Amazon Echo (4th generation) strikes a balance between design, performance and compatibility with other smart home devices.

Should you buy it?

Don't buy just one, buy two because this year's HomePod mini won't empty your wallet. Plus, if you are a home theater fan, you will be amazed at the computer audio you can get.

Editor's recommendations




29 Oct
Blog

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 review: Sonos Beam-beater

Bose Smart Soundbar 300

"Packed with features and great sound, it's an investment you won't regret."

  • Expansive and rich sound

  • Either Alexa or Google Assistant

  • Elegant, minimalist design

  • Listen to private headphones

  • AirPlay 2

  • Expensive for a small soundbar

  • Some music services are not supported

  • No Chromecast option for Android

Bose has gradually expanded its portfolio of smart soundbars and its $ 400 Smart soundbar 300 is the newest addition. It's the smallest and most affordable product in the range, but it has most of the features of its more expensive siblings, the Soundbar 500 for $ 550 and the Soundbar 700 for $ 800.

It might be the perfect choice for those with smaller rooms (or just smaller budgets). Is it right for you Let's try it out.

What's in the box?

In a mostly recyclable box (with some foam inserts that you may need to throw away), you get the Smart Soundbar 300, a power cable, an optical cable, a remote control and a quick start guide.

design

Bose Smart Soundbar 300Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Bose's soundbar design philosophy is one that I fully support: these speakers should be heard, not seen. The Smart Soundbar 300 is almost invisible with its completely matt black housing and its extremely flat shape.

It will look like home when I'm in front of virtually every television I can think of.

At just 2.25 inches tall and 27.5 inches wide, it won't block the bottom of your screen and (depending on the design of your TV) you might even be able to place it under the screen between your legs.

But it's also elegant. With clean lines, a button-free exterior, and a wraparound metal grille, it will look like home sitting in front of virtually every television I can think of. The $ 400 Sonos Beam – Bose's closest competitor – is a bit narrower, but also a bit bigger.

In the upper left corner, a small multi-colored LED light strip gives you visual feedback on the status of the speaker. Two white bars indicate a break, a single blue bar indicates Bluetooth and a small red point means mute. It would be cool if Bose used it to display the volume, but unfortunately not that lucky.

If you'd like to mount it on the wall, an optional bracket is available for $ 40.

The connection ports, which include an HDMI-ARC, an optical input, an Ethernet port, an infrared expansion port and a subwoofer output, are located on the rear. We'll discuss how these can be used in a moment.

Setup and connections

Bose Smart Soundbar 300Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

As with the Soundbar 500 and 700, the Smart Soundbar 300 is not just a TV speaker, it's also a wireless smart speaker that can be added to other Bose wireless speakers for a whole house audio solution. For this reason, the Bose Music app is required to set up (and use the non-TV features) (free on iOS and Android). Today, most people likely have a phone or tablet that can run the app. If you don't, consider one of the many soundbar systems that aren't based on Wi-Fi or app control.

The music app makes setup effortless. In a few minutes the soundbar will be connected to your wireless network and you can configure the soundbar 300 with either Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, or just skip this step (you can always change it later if you change your mind).

The advantage of connecting the speaker to your TV using the supplied optical cable is that you don't use any of your HDMI connections, which depending on the TV set can be scarce. Since the Soundbar 300 is not compatible with advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS: X (which require HDMI ARC), an optical connection is really all you need.

Usually, using an optical connection means missing out on the HDMI enabled TV control features. Thanks to the infrared heater of the Soundbar 300, you can still use Alexa or Google Assistant to operate TV functions without HDMI. This is a neat trick that the Sonos Beam can't.

Oddly enough, Bose recommends using an HDMI cable, which is more reliable than using infrared. It's not included in the box, however, as most people already have an extra HDMI cable, while optical cables tend to be harder to come by.

The bass connector for wiring a subwoofer is proprietary, so it cannot be used with another company's subwoofer. However, if you're not a fan of cables, it makes more sense to upgrade the low-end of the Soundbar 300 to include Bose wireless subwoofers, which cost $ 400 Bass module 500and the $ 700 Bass module 700. If you want to create a more immersive surround sound atmosphere, the soundbar is compatible with the $ 299 wireless device too Bose surround speakers or $ 500 Bose surround speaker 700.

Streaming music from the Bose Music app over WiFi provides the best sound quality for Android users, but it's not a great music management app (more on this below). Instead, Apple users will be happiest with AirPlay 2, which gives every app on your phone or tablet a direct Wi-Fi connection to the speaker. Spotify subscribers can use the Spotify Connect feature to connect to the speaker from any Spotify app. There is also bluetooth on board which will be the best option for Android users.

Speaking of Bluetooth: The Soundbar 300 has the same Bose SimpleSync technology as the more expensive Soundbar 500 and 700. With SimpleSync you can pair a set of Bose Bluetooth headphones or a Bluetooth speaker with the soundbar and control the volume for the two devices independently of each other . It may work with third party headphones – I tried one set Bowers and Wilkins PX5 Headphones and it worked, if a little out of sync. However, your mileage may vary: The Sony WH-1000XM4 was not recognized by the soundbar.

Sound quality

Bose Smart Soundbar 300Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

If you're looking for room-filling sound, look no further. The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 delivers the goods, whether it's bigger, better sound for movies and TV shows, or just listening to your favorite music.

By default, the speaker's EQ is comfortably neutral and has a good frequency balance that works well with a wide variety of music genres and TV content. Given that soundbars are usually the tool of choice for those looking for a simple home theater upgrade, it's a good thing that you can dramatically increase the bass response using the Music app.

Don't get me wrong, the Soundbar 300 can't deliver the kind of bone-jarring bass a dedicated subwoofer can, but in a smaller space, like a bedroom, it has more than enough oomph to bring even the biggest blockbusters to life .

Not that it has to be confined to a small room – the soundbar can get very loud and does so without distortion.

The result is an impressive feeling that the Sonos Beam cannot quite keep up with.

For voice-heavy music or TV dialogues, the soundbar offers flawless, clear playback. Higher frequencies work freely and have both structure and airiness – an unusual combination, even with more expensive speakers.

I was particularly impressed by the sound stage width of the Soundbar 300. The angled full-range drivers impressively reflect the sound from your side walls in the direction of the display / listening zone and create an impressive feeling that the Sonos Beam cannot quite keep up with. The beam feels warmer and has more resonance when it comes to string instruments like bass or cello, but it's also a more reserved sound. The soundbar 300's dispersion pattern feels much more open.

Dialog enhancement mode is essentially a one-click EQ adjustment that brings higher frequencies to the fore and forces other bands to fade into the background. It's not a substitute for something as specific as the Zvox AV157 TV speaker, but it does go a long way in making cloudy speech easier to spot.

Multiroom audio and music sources

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 and Sonos Beam "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn2.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/bose-smart-soundbar-300-00012- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAABose Smart Soundbar 300 (front) and Sonos Beam Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 and Sonos Beam "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn3.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/bose-smart-soundbar-300-00014- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAABose Smart Soundbar 300 (right) and Sonos Beam Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 and Sonos Beam "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn4.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/bose-smart-soundbar-300-00013- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAABose Smart Soundbar 300 (right) and Sonos Beam Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The Bose Music app provides an easy way to manage multiple Bose wireless speakers in your home, including the ability to group them for shared or separate playback. It's not perfect – you can't pair stereo speakers or use them as surround to upgrade a soundbar like the 300 – but for most people it provides very good control.

However, this control does not extend very far into streaming music. The app supports a decent selection of music services including Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, and SiriusXM. However, there is no consistency. Some services are searchable, others are not, and each has its own interface. There is no way to create playlists with the app. You are therefore dependent on the tools of each service. You can save playlists, albums, and songs as presets, but the app only gives you six presets to work with.

Not only is the Sonos system better, it's orders of magnitude better, with universal search, unlimited favorites, multi-source playlists, and support for every streaming service under the sun.

remote control

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 remote controlSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

The Smart Soundbar 300 comes with a small and simple infrared remote control. It covers the basics: volume, mute, play / pause, power, and source selection (music, TV, bluetooth). The rubberized surface and the curved back make it easy to hold and use.

The only unusual aspect of this remote control is the ability to use the music app to synchronize the power button function with your TV and / or cable box. When you do this, pressing the power button turns the soundbar and these two other devices on and off.

Voice assistants

Bose Smart Soundbar 300Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

With the Soundbar 300 you can choose Alexa or Google Assistant as your voice. A.I. You can change your mind at any time, but just like a Sonos smart speaker, you can't do both at the same time.

Regardless of which A.I. If you choose, the soundbar's microphones are great at picking up the wake-up words and commands.

The feature you choose determines which features you can use. Here you will find an overview of the advantages of the individual systems. One important consideration for those who want to use their music to control their music: the service you want to control must be supported by the Bose Music app as well as the voice assistant you choose. Otherwise it won't work.

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 appAlthough the Google Assistant works well with YouTube Music, you won't be able to bring up YouTube Music tracks on the soundbar 300 (or currently with Bose smart speakers).

Regardless of which A.I. If you choose, the soundbar's microphones are also great at picking up wake-up words and commands from across the room – no shouting required. A tap on the microphone button gives you complete privacy. I especially like the fact that the LED light strip responds to let you know your wake word has been heard. The Sonos Beam can also confirm wake-up words, but instead uses an audio chirp, which I find more intrusive.

Those who set up Alexa in the soundbar can use Bose's Voice4Video technology, which extends the control and control of Alexa to your TV and cable box – even if those devices are not directly compatible with Alexa. Once configured, you can ask Alexa to turn on the TV and even switch to a specific channel.

I found this feature to be a bit successful. Basic commands like “Alexa, turn on the TV” worked fine, but channel changes were found to be more inconsistent. When I asked Alexa to switch to channel 33, I sometimes saw "333" on the screen. At other times the channel request would be correct, but the channel change itself was not performed. And sometimes it just worked.

It is possible that these glitches are related to my particular TV and cable box combination. However, since I was using HDMI rather than optical, I would have expected more consistency.

Our opinion

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is an excellent choice for music and movies in small to medium-sized rooms with an expansive sound and some really innovative additional features.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're looking to build a whole house audio system, the $ 400 Sonos Beam is a better choice. It sounds great and its software platform remains the best in the business for those who want complete control over their music and speakers.

However, if you're really looking for a soundbar that can drastically improve the audio performance of your TV for movies and shows, and do an equally good job with your favorite music, the Bose Smart Soundbar 300 sounds better in my opinion.

How long it will take?

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 comes with a one-year warranty. Bose has an excellent reputation for making quality products, and I trust the Soundbar 300 will last as long as you need it to be.

Should you buy it?

Yes. While the Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is expensive compared to many other TV speakers, its sound quality, customization, additional features, voice control, and expandability make it an investment you won't regret.

Editor's recommendations




15 Oct
Blog

Lenovo Smart Clock Essential Review: Tech meets nostalgia

Lenovo Smart Clock Essential Rating 2 out of 9

Lenovo Smart Clock Essential

"The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential will wake you up, but it's a snoozer that knows what else is out there."

  • Compact design

  • Shows the time clearly

  • Affordable price

  • USB port for charging devices

  • No way to set an alarm through the Google Home app

  • A firm tip is required to snooze

  • Not good for music playback

More than any other company besides Google itself, Lenovo has designed Smart Assistant devices with the Google Assistant. From smart displays to hybrid tablets, Lenovo has one of the more robust portfolios. While this isn't the first time the company has delved into the world of alarm clocks, the latest addition is the Lenovo Smart Clock Essential, giving consumers even more choices about what to impress these prime properties about their beds. The sticker price of $ 50 seems like a home run, but it needs to stand out from others to make a better buy than the competition.

Bring back alarm clock

Today's smart home devices can be overwhelming at times, especially as Google's smart home ecosystem continues to evolve. What is evident here is Lenovo's intention to simplify the design of its smart alarm clock. Unlike its earlier efforts, this one doesn't have a touchscreen, but rather the LED design of traditional alarm clocks. With that in mind, the Smart Clock Essential has a bit of nostalgia.

The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential takes up roughly the same space as the Google Nest Mini and is a suitable addition to any bedside table. Thanks to the large LEDs on the front, I can quickly see the time – and without straining my eyes if I suddenly wake up in the middle of the night. It's also great that the temperature and weather conditions are shown through icons. Around the top lip of the device are physical controls for volume and pause / play, as well as a button for manually setting alarms. If you're like me and have a charger nearby for your smartphone, you'll appreciate the fact that there is a full-size USB stick just for that purpose.

One could argue that its design is nothing more than a shrunken version of its sibling, the Smart Alarm Clock, but the Essential's use of LEDs instead of a touchscreen display makes it less distracting. It's simple, looks clean, and saves space.

All Google Assistant smarts

Interaction with Lenovo Smart Clock Essential is done through voice actions and commands through the Google Assistant. In this regard, it works like any other smart speaker or display. Compared to the Google Nest Mini, the Essential is definitely a better option when you consider the visual element it provides for showing the time, day of the week, temperature, and weather conditions. It's just more convenient than asking the Google Assistant for all of these details, for example.

The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential is a suitable addition to any bedside table.

There are two ways to set an alarm: you can tell the Google Assistant to set an alarm, or you can set an alarm manually in Essential. At a time when voice actions are faster, this method may seem archaic, but those who grew up with a real alarm clock will appreciate that bit of nostalgia. On a more modern note, I find it convenient that I can just respond with "stop" to turn off the alarm when it goes off.

But what if you need a little extra time to wake up? Then you can just say, "Hey Google, sleep for six minutes." You can also turn off an alarm by pressing any of the physical buttons other than the alarm button. You can also tap the top of the Essential to turn it off.

I really would have liked more controls in the Google Home app, such as the ability to set alarms. On the one hand, I understand that voice commands have become the preferred method for setting alarms, but it wouldn't hurt to give users the option to set one through the Google Home app.

Some minor quirks

Don't expect the sound quality to blow your mind, which is to be expected given the size. It is what you hear about the Google Nest Mini. For responses from the Google Assistant, the 3-watt speaker is enough to recognize it, but it lacks the robust tones and punch of other audio-centric smart speakers – like Google Nest Audio or Google Home.

I found some minor quirks with the Lenovo Smart Clock Essential that hopefully will be fixed with future software updates. For some reason, it can't compete with other Google Assistant speakers or displays in the same room. Whenever I ask him to turn the night light on or off, my Google Nest Hub responds with an error. However, if I mute the Nest Hub and say the command again, it works like a charm. Also, the snooze function doesn't work when I tap the top of the device.

Our opinion

The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential is a tough call. It's a touch of nostalgia, but it doesn't bring anything new to the (night) table.

How long it will take?

Since it will remain stationary, it is unlikely to break. It's sturdy and well built so I'm confident it will withstand a fall. There is a 1 year limited warranty that covers defects.

Is there a better alternative?

There are some products in Lenovo's own portfolio that are better alternatives. The logical suggestion is the $ 80 Lenovo Smart Alarm Clock, which has a touchscreen display that offers some “light” smart display features, such as: E.g. access to smart home controls (e.g. turning on lights) and live feeds from surveillance cameras. The Lenovo Smart Display 7 offers the best solution as it is a full featured smart display with a camera that costs $ 100.

Should you buy it?

Yes, mainly for cost reasons, when you don't need the added functionality of the other alternatives above.

Editor's recommendations




29 Aug
Blog

Oral-B iO Series 9 Smart Toothbrush Review: Pearly Whites at a Steep Cost

Oral-B iO Series 9 hand held smart toothbrush

Oral-B iO Series 9 Smart Toothbrush

"With so much time devoted to development, it does justice to the best brushing performance."

  • Exceptional cleaning performance

  • Comes with four brush heads

  • LED ring helps with pressure sensitivity

  • Robust build quality

  • Expensive

  • Eats up battery

Earlier this year during CES 2020, I got a glimpse of Oral-B's new intelligent toothbrush: the iO series 9. I only had the opportunity to attend a single brushing session, but I got away from the intrigued experience. If a company has been developing a smart toothbrush for six years, expectations will surely be high. Months after this brief encounter, I've been better informed to tell you if it's worth the wait.

High tech in every way

I've owned several manual and electric toothbrushes, but the iO Series 9 is the first that I'd call downright imposing. While it looks like just another electric toothbrush from a cursory inspection, it's undeniably fancier to look up close and equipped with technology that makes it one step above the other. It's made of plastic, but much stronger than other brushes. The weight and the solid feel go together. A tiny screen displays battery life, brushing modes, and even an emoji face after each brush to evaluate my performance. Oral-B has put a lot of work into the brush mechanism, which consists of a frictionless, sleek magnetic drive system to create powerful micro-vibrations while brushing (more on that later).

Oral-B iO Series 9 Smart Toothbrush Display Close-upJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Pearl white clean

To be honest, I am thrilled with how well this toothbrush cleans my teeth. When using one of Oral-B's entry-level electric toothbrushes in the past, I've never been convinced they are any easier to clean than Philips' Sonicare line. The iO Series 9 is a whole different beast. In fact, it's the best toothbrush I've ever used including the Colgate Hum that I checked out right before this one.

It's the best brush I've ever come across.

Part of his world class performance comes from his ability to see how much pressure I am applying while brushing my teeth. An LED ring around the toothbrush lights up red, blue or green to indicate whether it is too much, too little or just right. The Oral-B app does the same, but I prefer the visual representation of the light, even when brushing with my smartphone in hand. In addition, a distinctive vibration indicates when it's time to switch to another quadrant.

Thanks to its intense micro-vibrations, the Oral-B iO series 9 offers the best brushing performance I've ever experienced. I feel like my teeth are getting a polishing job in addition to a power wash – this is how my teeth feel squeaky every time. The hard-to-remove plaque buildup between teeth isn't completely eliminated, but to be honest, I haven't come across a toothbrush that is good at this. Sorry, you still need to floss.

Oral-B iO series 9 smart toothbrush brush your teethJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

After each brush you will see how much battery is left. Unsurprisingly, it's a battery eater, draining around 10% of its battery after each use. So yes, it will require frequent fees.

More of the same smart features

So far, most of the smart toothbrushes I've come across don't differ too much in their smart features. The Oral-B iO 9 tracks a total of six zones during the tour with the app, so that I can see exactly how well I brush each area. However, the tracking function is not available when the brushes are not guided, which is rather puzzling for something "smart". At the end of each brush, I get a score from zero to 100 to indicate my cleaning performance.

While it can tell me how well I brush each quadrant, part of me craves for more accurate brush dates. For example, I can spend a lot of time brushing the front of my teeth while neglecting the back, but it treats the two sides as one. It doesn't paint a true picture of my brushing and my habits. This is not an isolated problem, but a common problem shared by most of the products in this category. I want a smart toothbrush that learns my exact brushing habits and guides me to practical improvements. I don't want to clean to chase after a score.

Our opinion

Impressive cleaning comes at a price, which for the Oral-B iO Series 9 means more than $ 300 to fork. It's ridiculously expensive, but it's also one of the most advanced toothbrushes out there, and delivers a satisfactory clean every time. Fortunately, the purchase comes with a travel case and four brush heads, which saves the difficulty of buying replacements soon after. Even so, a two-pack replacement costs $ 30.

How long it will take?

I'm confident that with its considerable build quality, it will hold up for a while. Oral-B offers a 2 year warranty that covers defects but not normal wear and tear.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're looking for an exceptional clean with connectivity features, it's hard to find anything else that comes close. You may be able to get similar performance with the other models of Oral-B, possibly with the iO Series 7 smart toothbrush for $ 200.

Should you buy it?

Yes, mostly because cleaning takes precedence over everything else. All intelligent functions and tracking are extra. If cleaning is unsuccessful, there is an error.

Editor's recommendations




17 Aug
Blog

Hum by Colgate Smart Toothbrush Review: Get Paid To Brush

Hum from Colgate Smart Toothbrush on ledge

Hum from Colgate Smart Toothbrush

"Too lazy to brush? Colgate Hum awards points every time you use it to get you off the couch. "

  • Earn reward points for brushing

  • App guides you to effective brushing

  • So-so cleaning performance

  • Can be tricked into brushing teeth

  • Limited selection with online shop

Smart toothbrushes are not new. They have been around for years, collecting data and providing us with useful information to improve our cleaning skills. The question is whether or not any of the new technologies or advances will make a practical difference. Sure, it's wonderful that some of them have gyroscopes, accelerometers, and pressure sensors inside, but at the end of the day, they're all meaningless if they can't change their habits.

This is where Hum by Colgate is different: it redirects the conversation to focus on changing our brushing habits – with the help of incentives. It's probably the smartest thing that happens to the smart toothbrush.

The charm to please

Colgate's intelligent toothbrush has a certain charm. That's because it's not about being a souped-up, tech-savvy toothbrush. There is no such thing as an imposing stature. Instead, Colgate's approach is rather reserved and, because of the pastel colors, often reminds me more than anything of a painter's brush. Available in two versions, rechargeable or battery operated, you can choose from three colors – in my case blue.

Hum from Colgate Smart Toothbrush in handJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Aside from the charming design, there isn't much that sets it apart from other toothbrushes. Although it is light and hollow, it is ergonomically designed to be comfortable while brushing. It comes with a carrying case and a charging station. I don't know why, but I was forced to see if the Colgate Hum could charge using one of my smartphone's wireless charging pads. And sure enough!

Superficially clean, tough in between

Before I get into the intelligent functions of the Hum by Colgate, I would like to describe in detail the cleaning performance that I prefer above all. The Colgate brush head is similar to others that vibrate, like Philips Sonicare electric toothbrushes, to break up plaque and dirt. The brush itself combines rigid brushes with softer, almost plastic-like brushes.

The overall brush performance is average I would say. The vibration is not as strong as I would like it to be, but it still managed to fix the superficial cleaning. However, it is not effective at removing stuck pieces of food from between your teeth. Therefore, floss is still required. I appreciate that it comes with a tongue cleaner, which you don't often find.

Hum from Colgate Smart Toothbrush AppJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

You can brush your teeth in two ways: on your own or with the mobile app. The former have vibrations that indicate when it is time to move on to another area of ​​your mouth – while the latter visually showed me how long and where to brush. I prefer the app experience as it makes sure I cover all areas of my mouth properly. On the other hand, it's nice that the toothbrush saves data from my brushes for up to 10 days. So you don't have to bring your smartphone with you every time you clean.

Incentives for brushing

As a smart toothbrush, the Colgate Hum does not exceed any of my existing expectations. It can tell where I'm cleaning and whether I'm cleaning fast enough. You can find this in every other smart toothbrush on the market. Where it stands out from the crowd are the incentives Colgate has for you to brush your teeth and in some ways it's a brilliant idea.

Whenever you brush, you will earn “smile” points – one point every time you brush, no matter how long or how well you do it. Reaching 100 points equals USD 1 in credit that can be used to purchase replacement heads (USD 10 for a two-pack) or a new toothbrush. It's worth noting that there is a hard cap of three allowable brushing sessions per day so you can't do something outrageous like brushing 100 times in a single day.

Currently the shop has a relatively limited selection so I hope more things have been added to it. Maybe toothpaste or floss? While it seems like it takes forever to collect enough points to get a significant discount, the app has Activities that you can use other ways to collect more points.

I was able to fool Colgate's buzz by pretending to brush my teeth.

This is without question the smartest thing that can happen to the smart toothbrush in a while. Oddly enough, I was able to fool Colgate's buzz by pretending to brush my teeth. In fact, I don't think it can actually sense whether it's in my mouth or not – so it depends on movement more than anything. It's not a bad thing in and of itself, especially considering how many points you can earn in a day.

Our opinion

Functionally, the $ 70 Hum from Colgate is no different from any other smart toothbrush on the market. What's special about this is how Colgate promotes the brushing experience by collecting points for discounts on actual products. It's a smart move and motivational tool to get you to brush more often.

How long it will take?

The all-plastic construction makes it feel light and hollow, but I'm confident that it will hold up well over time. There is a two year limited warranty that covers defects.

In my experience, the battery drain is around 3% to 4% for every three minute session. It's not terrible, but you'll get at least a handful of brushes before you need a recharge.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to cleaning and features, there are others out there who do a better job. The iO series from Philips Sonicare and Oral-B have impeccable cleaning capabilities. If this is the most important thing to you, then they are the better recommendations.

Should you buy it?

If you're on a tight budget and can overlook its mediocre cleaning performance, then definitely buy it, especially if there is an incentive to brush your teeth.

Editor's recommendations




17 Jul
Blog

Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch Review: Not So Smart

Eufy Smart Lock touch dial pad

Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch review: Not so intelligent

"It looks scary, but its functionality is too tame."

  • Robust design

  • Unlocked quickly with your fingerprint

  • Can set up temporary codes

  • Not a good value

  • Bluetooth connection only

Eufy was in a tear on the smart home market last year. So far it has been shown that the product line strikes a balance between functions, performance and price. The company has tackled everything from robotic vacuum cleaners to surveillance cameras. Now Eufy is breaking into the world of intelligent locks.

Enter the Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch, which appears to be business. What is a bit surprising is the price, which at $ 250 is a bold statement for a company that is proud of the budget prices for many of its devices. Is this reward worth it?

Long installation

Here's the first thing you should know. To use Eufy's Smart Lock, you must replace the entire existing deadlock. I was not particularly impressed by this, because it means that I have to replace my existing key set. Even if you, like me, are familiar with installing smart locks, the installation process can be tedious.

The entire installation process from start to finish took approximately 30 minutes.

Overall, the entire installation process took 30 minutes from start to finish. This is more than twice the time it took me to install the SimpliSafe Smart Lock and Level Lock. With both you can use your existing lock.

Why does it take so long? On the inside of your door there is a mounting plate for the internal assembly, in which the batteries and the locking switch are located. Positioning and assembling is not a challenge, but a bit fussy.

Solid design that means business

I admit that the Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch has an intimidating presence. The design includes a metal frame, shiny plastic accents and a striking fingerprint sensor. Seams are barely visible on the outer assembly, while the keyhole is protected by a metal cover. The digital keyboard appears invisible to the eye unless it is touched, which activates the backlight.

Eufy Smart Lock touch dial padJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The durability is low because it has a weatherproof protection rating IP65, so that it can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

Although powered by four AA batteries, there is a micro USB connector on the bottom of the external assembly that can be connected to a power source. This is useful when the battery is empty and you don't have the physical keys. The battery is designed for one year and still shows all five bars after two weeks.

It may look chunky, but given its durable design, I agree with the bulky and intimidating look.

It could be smarter

Convenience is important, so I like an intelligent lock that can get me in in no time. The fingerprint sensor is without a doubt my preferred method of unlocking the lock as it can recognize me in less than a second. It was just right to see my fingerprints.

The digital keyboard is my next choice. However, you will encounter the problem that fingerprints are visible on the surface. This problem can make it easier for someone to guess your passcode by examining the keys you pressed in the past.

There is a function in the Eufy Security app, the scramble password, with which you can enter random numbers before or after entering the passcode. It's a nice idea, but seems too annoying to use at any frequency.

Of course, you can also use the Smart Lock app to unlock it. However, it relies heavily on a Bluetooth connection, so it will take a few seconds for the connection to be established when you approach the lock.

This means that you can't unlock remotely through the app when you're not at home. Alexa and Google Assistant are not compatible with Eufy's lock. While other smart locks can detect when your phone is nearby and unlock it automatically, you won't find this feature here. These restrictions bother me because they seriously affect the comfort of the lock.

Still, there are options to set up temporary access for individuals. You can select the dates and times when these temporary codes are active. This is ideal for guests or dog walkers. You can also check in the app who unlocks the door at what time.

If you're concerned about data protection, you just know that fingerprints and in-app data are stored locally with a bank-quality AES128 encryption chip.

Our opinion

Eufy had a number of solid smart home devices, but the Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch lags behind the competition. With an inflated price of $ 250, it's a huge investment that lacks the intelligence of other locks.

Is there a better alternative?

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock achieves the same amount as this, but offers more features and easier installation while keeping your existing lock. The level lock is also a similar option that turns any existing lock into a smart lock. If you are on a budget, the $ 100 Wyze Lock is hard to beat.

How long it will take?

It's solidly built and Eufy offers a 1-year limited warranty for defects. Smart locks are not misused much because they are fixed in one position. So I would expect Eufy's castle to last for years. You will probably want to replace it with newer locks due to upgrades long before it breaks.

Should you buy it

No. Eufy's expensive Smart Lock Touch lacks too many features that are common among competitors.

Editor's recommendations




06 Jul
Blog

Arlo Pro 3 Review: A Great Choice For Smart Home Security

Netgear Arlo Pro 3

"The Alro Pro 3 is a premium choice for smart home security."

  • Weatherproof, wireless cameras

  • High quality 2K video

  • Smart A.I. properties

  • Easy to install and use

  • Easy upgrade for existing Arlo owners

  • Minor performance issues with multiple 2K streams

  • A subscription is required for advanced features

Since its beginnings as a peculiar offshoot of Netgear, Arlo has found its rhythm with an excellent selection of wireless and weatherproof smart cams. The high-resolution Arlo Pro 2 tops our list of the best outdoor surveillance cameras in 2019 – and it is also a good choice for indoor surveillance.

In April Arlos became Ultra 4K came and marked the first shot in a next generation battle for the supremacy of the UHD Smart Cam. It offers superior sharpness and impressively large views, but a price tag of $ 300 per camera and a restrictive upgrade path for existing Arlo owners meant it wasn't a big hit.

The Arlo Pro 3 ($ 499 for a 2-camera kit with additional cameras at $ 199 each) sits exactly between the two. While Arlo Ultra 4K's headline-breaking UHD resolution is lacking, it does offer a wider range of enhancements that make it a better choice than Arlo's most expensive kit.

There has been fierce competition in this area, but Arlo's excellent track record has given consumers confidence that this should succeed.

Netgear Arlo Pro 3Terry Walsh / Digital Trends

This new model improves the Arlo Pro 2's 1080p image resolution to sharper, more vivid 2K (2560 x 1440 pixels) and supports a high dynamic range (HDR), which promises better video quality in very dark or bright areas. A 160 degree field of view may be narrower than the Arlo Ultra 4K's generous 180 degree field of view, but it's a significant advance over the 130 degrees offered by the outgoing model.

Additional functions are performed directly by the Arlo Ultra 4K. An integrated headlamp allows Arlo to take advantage of color night vision support, while noise-canceling two-way audio and a siren in front of the camera further strengthen the Arlo Pro 3's security requirements. It also benefits from the clean magnetic charging system that we got to know in April that promises a battery life of up to six months between charges.

A better choice for Arlo upgrades

Visually, the cameras and the SmartHub of the Arlo Pro 3 look identical to those we saw when we tested the Arlo 4K Ultra. That's not a bad thing, as Arlo's much-copied design is one of the more compact and attractive systems. The curvy all-plastic case is sturdy enough to withstand the elements, while installation is simplified by a strong magnetic mounting system (a screw-mounting option is also available). A partially flattened base also allows the camera to be placed indoors on a shelf or desktop. In short, you can install the Arlo Pro 3 anywhere.

The often copied design by Arlo is one of the more compact and attractive systems.

It also includes Arlo's latest SmartHub (VMB4540), which enables the network connection between the cameras and your router. Again, it looks identical to the slimmer device introduced with the Arlo Ultra 4K, but a closer look reveals important differences. External video storage for camera shots is available, but this model enables it via a single USB 2.0 port instead of the microSD slot equipped with the Arlo Ultra.

This is good news for surveillance video horters who benefit from storage capacities of up to 2 TB. The With Arlo Pro 3's lower resolution video, the system can also operate with reduced bandwidth requirements. This SmartHub works with 802.11 b / g / n Wi-Fi and not with the faster "AC" standard supported by the Arlo Ultra 4K.

Netgear Arlo Pro 3Terry Walsh / Digital Trends

Perhaps the best news is that owners of some older Arlo systems You can add Arlo Pro 3 cameras to your existing network and take advantage of enhanced 2K video streams without having to replace the SmartHubs. This makes the Arlo Pro 3 a better upgrade option than Arlo's top tier kit. Arlo Pro 3 owners can even add Ultra 4K cameras to their systems at a later date without losing functionality.

Setup is a breeze

As with every Arlo system we tested, commissioning Arlo Pro 3 is very easy. Arlo recently launched a new version of its smartphone app that guides you through the installation. While cheaper smart camera systems can switch between direct Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections during setup, Arlo's wired SmartHub does the installation smoothly.

Hardware installation is just as easy. The scope of delivery includes options for screw and magnetic fastening. Arlo's newer concave magnetic mount is fabulous and combines strength and versatility. Cameras snap into place on the bracket on the back and can be precisely angled despite the fixed connection. For more ambitious assembly, the included adjustable safety bracket can be screwed into walls, fences, ceilings, trees, etc. It supports 360 degree rotation and 90 degree tilt.

A step in video quality

In use, the Arlo Pro 3's 2K image quality is a noticeable improvement over the previous generation camera (and a big leap over the 720p that is supported by the original Arlo system). While it's not quite as clear as Arlo Ultra 4K or wired Nest Cam IQ models, it's still very good indeed.

The improved resolution allows you to use the camera's 12x digital zoom without instantly breaking images into blurry chaos. If you exceed the 3x zoom, the quality will be noticeably affected. Arlo Pro 3 is equipped with an intelligent automatic zoom and tracking function, which is practical for security monitoring. As we found with the Arlo Ultra 4K, the resolution of the camera is unfortunately reduced to 1080p when the function is activated.

Night vision offers greater sharpness and clarity than many competitors.

We found that the image quality is balanced during the day, with precise colors and good contrast. Arlo's Auto HDR feature makes it one of the few smart cameras we've tested indoors that avoid overexposure near bright windows. This means taking pictures of people looking through your windows to see if you are at home. The 160-degree field of view is wide enough to cover all but the most spacious rooms or huge gardens, and the distortion of the fisheye is negligible.

At night, Arlo Pro 3's color night vision feature requires the camera's built-in headlight to be illuminated. The resulting images are certainly more natural than the creepy standard monochrome images produced by competitors. Although the range is good, color night vision suffers from the blurring and noise that normally occurs in high ISO photography. If the headlight is deactivated, the camera returns to a standard night vision setting. The lighting area is good here too, and while monochrome images are a bit noisy, the night vision of Arlo Pro 3 offers greater clarity and clarity than many of its competitors.

Piercing alarm, integrated headlight

While the Arlo Pro 3 doesn't necessarily compete with those Easy or nest safe As a full-fledged smart home security system, it comes with a number of overlapping features that are worth considering until we wait for the next one to arrive Arlo security system.

The Arlo Pro 2 SmartHub piercing alarm was transmitted to the cameras themselves. The option can be triggered when motion is detected. The resulting racket is certainly enough to scare an intruder and, together with the camera's bright, integrated LED spotlight, forms an effective first line of protection for your home.

The Arlo app supports a number of configurable modes for activating the system. In addition to manually switching, you can enable monitoring using a timed schedule or geolocation setting. Each mode can be customized with simple IFTTT rules for motion detection, video recording and built-in alarm, or you can quickly create a custom mode that suits your preferences. Everything is very simple.

Easy to use, but it's super smart under the hood.

Elsewhere, we found the updated Arlo app easy to understand. There are few ways to tweak camera settings, but they do include useful options such as brightness, low-light settings, and video quality controls. Navigating, reviewing, and sharing video clips from the library is easy. A standard daily timeline view is supported by filters that allow users to zoom in on certain cameras or check clips based on the type of alert triggered or the object detected. Our only criticism of the app is that connecting to a camera's livestream can take a while, even on the local network. In some cases, we watched live videos within 5 seconds. In other cases, there is a delay of up to 30 seconds.

Terry Walsh / Digital Trends

Since both cameras broadcast 2K video live at the same time, we noticed some temporary performance problems during stress tests. About every 20 seconds, both streams were replaced by a black screen for one second before the livestream was restored. When 2K local streaming was disabled, the performance improved, although there was occasional flickering. Since both cameras report a good signal, we can only assume that this was a problem with the network bandwidth or a processing bottleneck. Maybe it would have been better to maintain Arlo Ultra's 802.11ac connectivity?

Intelligent functions behind Paywall

While Nest often praises Smart Cam A.I. Received, the Arlo Pro 3 is equipped with an admirable set of improvements that offer real comfort and benefit. Unfortunately, most are locked up behind you Arlo Smart Subscription service for $ 3 per month. A 3-month free trial version is available during setup so that you can try out the functions and check whether the upgrade makes sense.

This includes extended object recognition, which the camera can use to differentiate between people, vehicles, animals and packages (the latter is currently in the beta phase). Smoke and carbon dioxide alarm detection sends you a smartphone notification when a camera detects an audible alarm. US subscribers also benefit from an e911 feature that allows you to call emergency services with a single touch of a button on your smartphone.

We loved Arlo's extensive notification feature, which adds a thumbnail to the smart notifications sent to your phone. When a person is recognized, an image captured by your camera is displayed. Many smart cams do the same thing, but Arlo also darkens the image and clearly highlights the person in the frame. A quick look and you can check if the friend or foe of the camera has been recognized. Arlo is easy to use, but super smart under the hood. With everyday features like custom activity zones and a 30-day video recording cloud, Arlo Smart functions well. Only you can decide whether they are worth the extra effort.

Our opinion

While the Arlo Ultra 4K made headlines with its eye-catching UHD video resolution, we think the Arlo Pro 3 is a more worthy and economical successor to our favorite Smartcam of the past two years, the Arlo Pro 2. It is certainly not cheap, but the improved one Image quality, the integrated security functions and the simple app control of the Arlo Pro 3 make it an excellent choice for home surveillance. If you enjoy investing in a monthly subscription, you can take advantage of an expanded suite of useful A.I. Features that make the Arlo Pro 3 one of the smartest systems around. In the meantime, owners of Arlo systems of the first and second generation have a reasonable way to update their cameras and / or SmartHubs. We were waiting for a competitive Arlo Pro 2 smart cam to hit the bar – maybe it was inevitable that the Arlo Pro 3 would do the job.

Is there a better alternative?

Few intelligent cameras offer Arlo's convincing mix of lightness, quality and versatility. With a limited budget, however, there are numerous cheaper systems available. The Swann Smart Security Camera ($ 129) is a solid budget device with similar wireless connectivity and weatherproof protection to Arlo and 1080p HD imaging.

At the premium end of the market, the Arlo 4K Ultra ($ 599 for a 2-camera bundle) definitely beats the Arlo Pro 3 in terms of video quality, but you should be aware that you are into new cameras and a replacement SmartHub must invest Use UHD video. It's also worth noting that Arlo recently expanded its line and introduced new models like the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight and the Arlo Essential.

The Cam Cam Outdoor ($ 329) and Nest Cam IQ Indoor ($ 229) cameras are top-notch performers that lack the versatility and value of the Arlo Pro 3.

How long it will take?

Arlo Pro 3 was developed to withstand the hard temperament of mother nature with operating temperatures between -20 ° C and 45 ° C. So expect the hardware to be robust. In terms of software, Arlo continues to publish improvements and optimizations for all Arlo systems. We therefore expect the owners to live a long and happy life with the Arlo Pro 3.

Should you buy it

Yes. It's an investment, but the Arlo Pro 3 is a great choice for those considering their first smart home camera system.

Editor's recommendations




02 Jul
Blog

Bose Home Speaker 500 Review: Smart, Stylish, Surround Sound

Bose Home Speaker 500

"Rich, expansive sound helps this intelligent speaker deliver a virtuoso performance."

  • Expansive stereo sound

  • Slim, attractive design

  • Choice of Alexa or Google Assistant

  • Easy to use controls

  • Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and line-in options

  • AirPlay 2

  • Expensive

  • Some music services are not supported

  • A little cumbersome multiroom control

  • No Chromecast option for Android

In the early days of the smart speaker revolution, finding a speaker that sounded both smart and great was a challenge. Fortunately, those days are long gone. With products from Sonos, Marshall, Apple and Amazon, you can now have and eat your cake. However, before deciding on a new wireless smart speaker from one of these companies, you should consider the $ 300 Bose Home Speaker 500.

With a fascinating mix of sleek design, expansive sound and a choice of digital assistants, it could be just the smart audio device that your home was missing.

But is it right for you? Let's take a look.

design

Bose Home Speaker 500Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The Bose Home Speaker 500 is available in triple black or a sophisticated two-tone silver and white tone and is deceptively large. With an elliptical shape that is much wider than it is deep, its base is small enough to easily find a seat on a countertop, bookcase, or coat. At just 4.75 pounds, it's also surprisingly light for its size.

Nothing breaks the smooth aluminum and plastic contours of the speaker – even the included AUX input is barely noticeable and is located on the back near the floor. My triple black test device looked great no matter where I placed it.

There are people who are tempted to hide their speakers (even the good looking ones) where they can be heard but not seen. However, this would be a mistake with the Home Speaker 500. Not only would this make using the thoughtful design more difficult touch controls that adorn the top, but also prevent you from seeing the front-facing color screen.

Not that you have to see or touch it (it's not a touchscreen), but it just looks so damn cool that it would be a shame not to place it where it can be appreciated.

But I can't help thinking that Bose missed an opportunity here. When you are listening to music, the 3-inch screen shows the album art for the currently playing track, along with the artist and the track name. If the speaker is inactive, you can choose a dial or nothing at all, but that's all it does. I can think of several ways to use this screen: weather forecasts, news feeds, or just a selection of softly animated screensavers.

Given that the home speaker 500 can also be used as a smart speaker, it would be super cool to see the screen as a secondary display for voice commands, e.g. If you said, "Alexa, what's the weather like?" and the screen showed you the current weather along with Alexa’s spoken response.

But I digress. Those who want to hear the same artists, playlists, or radio stations regularly will appreciate the six special preset buttons on the Home Speaker 500. You assign them in the Bose Music app and they can be assigned to almost any music source supported by the app.

configuration

Sonos has always been my benchmark for quick and easy setups, but Bose is under a second. With the Bose Music app, I configured the Home Speaker 500 for my home WiFi, connected it to my Google account for access to the Google Assistant, and streamed music in less than five minutes.

The Bose Music app is simple and mostly very intuitive to use, with great instructions and feedback at every step.

links

Bose Home Speaker 500Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Some wireless home speakers like Sonos only offer Wi-Fi, but the Bose Home Speaker 500 lets you make three connections: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and the aforementioned line-in input. With the exception of a USB port for accessing disk-based files, you can't ask for more.

However, Bose has chosen not to include an Ethernet jack, which you may miss if your Wi-Fi network is stained in some places. Sonos contains them except for one of its speakers, but I suspect that very few of its customers use them – I certainly never needed that.

Wi-Fi with its higher bandwidth than Bluetooth should be your preferred connection method, but it gets a little difficult here.

With Wi-Fi, you can set up and control the Home Speaker 500 through the Bose Music app. This also includes streaming music from Spotify Premium and Free, Apple Music, TuneIn, Pandora, SiriusXM, Amazon Music, Deezer and iHeartRadio. It's a good selection, but not nearly as extensive as Sonos'. For example, tide and YouTube music are not included. There is also no way to stream from a personal music collection on your home network.

If you're an Apple device owner, AirPlay 2 can make up for this shortcoming, so you can stream virtually any audio source from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to the Home Speaker 500. If you're an Android user who lacks the music app, Bluetooth is your only replacement option.

Chromecast for audio may be a future Wi-Fi path for Android owners, but the Home Speaker 500 does not yet support it. When it appears, it appears as a subset of the Google Assistant, so for those who prefer Alexa – or no assistant at all – it still gets stuck with Bluetooth.

Sound quality

Bose Home Speaker 500Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Bose makes a pretty big claim for the Home Speaker 500: "The widest sound of all intelligent speakers." I put it side by side with the $ 200 Amazon Echo Studio, which has a very similar internal driver layout and both products are designed to deliver impressive sound. The Home Speaker 500 performed admirably and delivered a slightly wider sound stage than the Echo Studio despite the weaker bass response.

How expansive the sound becomes depends in part on the placement. In an ideal world, you would give her plenty of room to breathe, away from the walls and preferably not stowed in a bookcase.

Broadest or not, I think you'll love how this speaker sounds. Bose has positioned the internal drivers so that sound waves are distributed in a kind of crooked 360-degree field. By that I mean the best seat in the house is right in front of the speaker, but you can still enjoy about 80% of its full quality from almost anywhere else.

I learned to appreciate this effect when I reviewed Bose's excellent portable home speaker, which produces an almost perfectly circular sound field.

What is impressive is that you not only get real room-filling audio, but also a fairly decent stereo separation – not an easy task for such a small speaker.

You can set both bass and treble in the app. However, if your taste isn't really going in either direction, the factory EQ offers a nice balance between the two.

If there's a weakness, it's in the midrange definition – a challenging area for even the best little speakers. This is particularly noticeable when playing genres such as classical or jazz – instruments that live in the middle frequencies, such as cellos and some woodwinds, can be flattened somewhat. Overall, the Home Speaker 500 is a pleasure to hear, regardless of whether it provides the setting for an intimate dinner or a rough get-together.

The Home Speaker 500 also offers impressive volume levels. Max get this thing out and be ready for many knocks on the door of irritated neighbors.

Multiroom audio

Bose Home Speaker 500Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

One of the advantages of buying a wireless speaker at home is that different music can be played in each room, or the same music (or a combination thereof) can be played in all rooms. The Home Speaker 500 can be easily grouped with other Bose home speakers such as the Home Speaker 300 or the Bose Soundbar 500 using the Bose Music app.

However, using multiroom requires a bit of planning. Since you can also create speaker groups with AirPlay 2, you need to decide whether you want to stream from a music service in the Bose Music app – in which case you would manage your speaker groups there – or from another app on your phone or tablet – in in this case you would manage the groups using the AirPlay 2 interface.

The two systems don't play well together. Groups created in the Bose Music app don't like trying to change them with AirPlay 2, or vice versa.

There's also no way to create stereo pairs with two Bose speakers. If multiroom audio is top priority, you're probably more satisfied with Sonos.

However, Bose has a trick up its sleeve that I haven't found in any wireless speaker system, including Sonos. Bose calls it Simplesync and allows you to group any Bluetooth audio device, from a portable speaker to a wireless headphone, with the Home Speaker 500. In this sense, according to Bose, this function works best with the company's own Bluetooth speakers and headphones. This audio is more precisely synchronized.

It's true. I tried Simplesync with a JBL Flip 5 speaker that I had on hand, and while setup was a breeze, there was a fraction of a second latency between the two speakers. I wouldn't rely on doing multiroom audio, but it's a pretty handy option.

Voice assistants

Bose has followed Sonos' role model in its smart speaker strategy, and that's an excellent decision. As with Sonos, with Bose you can choose between Alexa and Google Assistant for the Home Speaker 500 instead of selling two different versions of the speaker as with other home audio companies.

I chose Google Assistant for this review because I have more compatible products at home. However, setting up Home Speaker 500 with Alexa is just as easy. Bose really nailed the smart speaker experience. Voice commands are easily recognized, even in fairly noisy environments and up to 15 feet away, without you having to actually raise your voice. If privacy is an issue, a special microphone mute button guarantees an A.I.-free environment.

The response times are also very good. I have found no difference between the Home Speaker 500 and my Google Nest mini in terms of response times.

I particularly liked that the bright white LED strip over the color screen immediately gave visual feedback that my commands had been heard. Most smart speakers have a similar visual cue. However, if they are only visible from the top (e.g. Sonos smart speakers or Google's Home and Nest minis), you won't be able to see them that easily from a room.

There is one limitation when you choose the Bose Home Speaker 500 as your smart speaker, and that is compatibility with music services. Although Google Assistant and Alexa can take control of a variety of music services, you cannot use these voice assistants if the Home Speaker 500 does not support a particular service (see Connections above). Google Play Music (now mainly switched to YouTube Music), Apple Music and Tidal are examples of services that none of the Home Speaker 500 wizards can control.

Our opinion

At its new lower price of $ 300, the Bose Home Speaker 500 costs the same as the Apple HomePod and Google Home Max, two very good smart speakers. But with Bluetooth, line-in, a full color display and a choice of voice assistants, it offers more value than these two products and also sounds amazing.

Is there a better alternative?

For $ 200, the Sonos One delivers great sound and supports almost every streaming service on the planet. It doesn't have the ultra-wide stereo sound stage, Bluetooth, AUX input, or chic color screen of the Home Speaker 500, but it has the best multiroom audio system we've ever used. It's still our top rated smart speaker for a reason.

If you're on board with Bose and want to take over the smart speaker experience but prefer to pay a little less, the $ 200 Bose Home Speaker 300 loses the color screen and wide stereo sound, but retains all other functions.

How long it will take?

Bose builds great products that usually last a long time. It only applies to the Home Speaker 500 with a one-year warranty, although this is standard for similar products from other companies.

Should you buy it

Yes. The Bose Home Speaker 500 combines beautiful design with flexibility of the voice assistant and an expansive stereo sound, which is characterized by its slim body. The color screen is also a nice touch. Android users should be aware of the lack of Chromecast as a Wi-Fi streaming option, but Apple users should be more than happy with AirPlay 2 as a Bluetooth alternative.

Editor's recommendations




24 Jun
Blog

Lockly Vision Review: The Swiss Army Knife of Smart Locks

"The Lockly Vision combines a lot of innovative functions in one intelligent lock."

  • Fingerprint sensor

  • Voice commands

  • Digital and real key options

  • Extra secure keyboard

  • Good battery life

  • Difficult to install

  • No night vision

  • Grainy Camera Footage

The Lockly vision currently offers more features than any other Smart Lock on the market. At $ 400, it's a little bit more than we are used to from an intelligent lock, but it offers so many great features that it can be worth it if you want quality and versatility. Here is everything I learned trying out this lock at home.

Lock options galore

Many smart locks have only a few functions for locking and unlocking. The Lockly Vision has six. Regardless of your smart lock style, you've covered this lock. You can lock or unlock it using the app, a PIN number on the keyboard, a key, your fingerprint, voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant, or digital keys that you can share with others through the app.

The problem with other locks that have a keyboard is that your fingers will eventually stain the numbers you use for your PIN, making it a little bit easier for a thief to find out your code. I think it's pretty awesome that the vision mixes the numbers on the keyboard so that the numbers are in a different area each time you tap the pad. No other lock on the market does this. There are also three numbers per key. Even if someone looks over your shoulder while entering your PIN, they cannot find out. As a precaution, the lock switches to safe mode after three successive failed attempts and the camera records videos of whoever is standing at the door. The correct code must be entered twice, or a fingerprint must be used to exit Safe Mode.

Lockly Vision fingerprint sensorLockly

Another outstanding feature is the fingerprint sensor. This sensor can perform a 3D scan and store up to 99 different fingerprints. The 3D design prevents potential crooks from holding an image of your fingerprint for the scan. The sensor can actually tell the difference between a finger and an image. I loved that it quickly scanned and unlocked the door with just one touch.

The digital keys can be adjusted so that they only work for a certain time. Even better, these keys work when the lock is not connected to the internet. This is very useful if your home's internet service is faulty. Of course, if you don't trust digital keys, you can always use real ones. The keyhole has a small cover when not in use, which gives the whole device an elegant look.

Doorbell camera comfort

Unlike most other intelligent locks, the Vision has an integrated doorbell camera that offers another level of security. You can go to the app, tap the camera and see who is at your door. While viewing the livestream, you can start a video recording, call for help, or operate the lock. You can also hear the person at your door and speak to them using the two-way audio function. I found the sound loud and clear.

For $ 400 I expected more from the camera. The pictures, both in HD mode and normal mode, weren't fantastic when compared to a special video doorbell like the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus, but they were still decent. The footage was a bit pixelated. However, there wasn't much curvature or "fisheye" distortion around the edges of the picture, so that was nice.

Lockly Vision doorbell camera on app

Another problem I had with the camera is that there is no night vision. Basically you have to leave the light on your veranda switched on, otherwise it cannot “see” anyone or anything in front of your door. When the light on the porch was on, the black and white material was grainy, but I could still see what I was seeing. This is not uncommon for smart lock / doorbell camera combinations. Another combo lock, the Gate All-In-One, has no night vision, for example. However, like the Arlo video doorbell, a stand-alone doorbell camera of the top class usually has night vision.

The field of vision is also limited. While you can see the faces of the visitors, you cannot see if there is a package on your porch. In contrast to many doorbell cameras, it also does not have recognition functions that can draw your attention to a person, an animal or a package on your veranda. In addition, you cannot adjust the area where the camera records.

Long installation

The only thing that really annoyed me about the vision was the installation. I have to admit, I had to grit my teeth and just swear a little in the end.

There are 52 steps before you can get this lock working.

Most Smart Locks have the installation guide in the app, but not this. You need to download the separate BILT app and then search for the vision lock to get the installation instructions. The quick start guide that came with the lock provides basic instructions, but they're not particularly good.

Lockly Vision installation partsAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

There are also 52 steps before you can get this lock working. If you don't have much patience (like me), the installation of this lock will frustrate you. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish for a level-headed person or a little longer if you are an impatient person like me.

Why are there so many steps to installing the vision? In addition to the actual lock, the Vision also requires a door sensor attached to the door frame and a connected Vision Connect hub. You need the hub for the camera and voice command functions to work. I would mention that the time it takes to install the lock here is just as long / long as installing a separate door lock and a video doorbell.

Battery life

My biggest problem with smart locks is when the batteries are empty. Who really wants to maintain their door lock frequently? I was happy to learn that the vision can last up to 1 year with a set of fresh AA batteries. I really hoped there would be a rechargeable battery, but smart locks don't usually have this option, so I can't be too upset. After about a week of using the lock, the battery level is still 100% according to the app. This is comforting to know, as video streaming usually discharges the battery, but we're still excited to see how it works after a month.

Our opinion

The Lockly vision seems to have it all. It offers countless automation options, a camera, two-way audio, a keyboard, a key option and even a fingerprint sensor. While most of the features were fantastic, I was a little disappointed with the camera. It was just not very clear and the lack of night vision worried me. Overall, however, I think that anyone who buys the vision will be very happy with it. It's an innovative Smart Lock in almost every way, and even if the camera isn't the best, it's still a nice addition to a fantastic Smart Lock.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to Smart Lock functions, no. On the other hand, great doorbell cameras like the Ring Video Doorbell 2 or the Arlo Video Doorbell in combination with a cheaper Smart Lock like August Wi-Fi Smart Lock or the Nest X Yale Lock can be a good option if you are concerned about that Camera.

Will it take?

The Lockly Vision is very robust and works at temperatures from -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. So it seems that it lasts a very long time. There is also a limited 5-year warranty on mechanics and finish, and a 2-year warranty on electronics.

Should you buy it

Yes. If you can afford the price, this is a fantastic smart lock if you can live with mediocre camera quality.

Editor's recommendations




12 May
Blog

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

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with the door open

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

  • No bridge required

  • Easy to install

  • Automatic unlock and lock function

  • Robust construction

  • Batteries are not rechargeable

  • Stabs out the door

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

installation

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

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

August Wi-Fi lock is installedAugust

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

design

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

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

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

properties

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

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

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

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

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

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

No bridge required

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

No bridge clears my sockets for other intelligent devices.

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

safety

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

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

Voice control and compatibility

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

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

Battery problems

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

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock batteriesAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

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

Our opinion

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

Is there a better alternative?

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

How long it will take?

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

Should you buy it

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

Editor's recommendations




1234