11 May
Blog

Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight Review: A Bright Choice

Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight

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

  • Adjustable brightness

  • Can connect to other smart devices

  • 1200 lumens of white light

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

about this ring product.

Brighten the night

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

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

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

App functions

Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight in the Ring app

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

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

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

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

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

Power from the sun

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

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

It takes a buddy

Ring bridge in handAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

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

Our opinion

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

Is there a better alternative?

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

How long it will take?

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

Should you buy it

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

Editor's recommendations




01 May
Blog

Garmin Vivimove Style Review: Smart, Timeless, Quirky

garmin vivimove style review intelligent timeless quirky vivoactive 28

"Garmin does fitness without flash in its subtle Vivomove style."

  • Timeless aesthetics

  • Robust Garmin Connect app

  • Hands move to see statistics

  • HR and Pulsox sensors

  • No buttons

  • Dull AMOLED displays

  • Picky gesture control

Fitness watches usually look clear: chunky, colorful, rubberized. You send a message to the world that you make fitness a priority – or at least that you buy things that make fitness a priority.

For some, sending this message is part of the appeal. I'm the first to admit that putting on a watch that could help me sail around the world makes my day a little more fearless, even if I haven't left my neighborhood for weeks. However, if you're not the type to wear a 26.2 bumper sticker, the Garmin Vivomove Style may be right for you. It promises the entire inner life and the data of a full-fledged fitness tracker and a smartwatch, without the appearance.

When I got my hands on Vivomove Style for the first time, I was shocked at how light it was. With the nylon strap, the watch weighs at least 35 grams. With a case size of 42 x 42 x 11.9 mm, I expected it would be heavier, especially given the technology inside, but the all-aluminum construction is a watch that is the opposite of clunky. While the device I tested had the nylon strap "Black Pepper", the Vivomove Style offers several different options in terms of housing color and strap selection. For those who want to improve the quality a little, there is also a Vivomove Luxe line with stainless steel housings and high-quality strap options.

Deceptive look

At first glance, the face of the Vivomove Style looks incredibly simple. With physical hands and nothing that alludes to intelligent functions, it looks like a simple wristwatch. But these looks are pretty deceptive. The Vivomove Style is a touchscreen. At the top and bottom of the dial are AMOLED displays for displaying customizable data fields. The AMOLED displays are indistinguishable from the dial, so you don't get the usual obvious transition from the screen to the non-screen area, which enables the covert nature of the Vivomove style.

When you move your wrist to bring the watch to your face, the screen lights up with two data fields to take a quick look at some preselected statistics. Gesture control works most of the time and has the option of being completely off, on during an activity, or always on. If it doesn't work, it quickly becomes frustrating. The Garmin Venu had the same problem, but rescue grace was the "always on" option for its AMOLED screen. The Vivomove style does not get this option. You can tap the face twice to wake it up, but it diminishes the undercover nature of the Vivomove style and instead makes it look like you think your watch is broken.

Tapping the top and bottom of the glass made it easier for me to navigate, but it took almost three days to get used to it. Even then, my faucets were sometimes not always registered on the screen, and my once immaculate incognito smartwatch was covered with fingerprints, which drove me crazy. The question really arises, why no buttons? A single button on the side would do a lot to relieve the frustration I was having with the touchscreen. But unfortunately the Vivomove style is buttonless and not better for it.

Once the ads are on, you can swipe to see everything Vivomove Style has to offer. Here the Vivomove Style and the entire Garmin suite shine with tracking capabilities. You will find the usual statistics such as steps, inclines, calorie consumption and heart rate as well as intelligent notifications for iPhone and Android. Anyone familiar with Garmin's metrics will be happy with the automatic goal that learns about your current activity and sets daily goals to drive you forward. Sleep monitoring, intensity minutes, body battery, stress tracking and VO2 max are included as well as monitoring the fluid intake. Because of these metrics, joining the Garmin ecosystem is worthwhile.

The Vivomove Style does a neat party trick to display the data: The hands of the physical clock move to indicate your status, between the different levels of the heart rate zones, the battery etc. This is not really necessary after two weeks of playing Get the Vivomove Style I still get a kick out of the interaction between the physical hands and the AMOLED screens. Of course, this means that the hands of the watch no longer show the time. If this bothers you, you can lock it manually to show the time during an activity versus your heart rate. However, you have to repeat this every time you start a new activity.

Disappointing screen

On Garmin's Venu, the AMOLED displays are something nice. They are a bit boring with the Vivomove style. I'm not sure if it is due to the gap between the touchscreen and the surface of the AMOLED, but it is nowhere near as clear as the Venu. The AMOLED displays also consume more battery than the standard MIP (memory in pixels) display used by other Garmin watches. I had about four days of battery life with daily exercise and I can only wonder how much more life I would have had if Garmin had used different displays.

The Vivomove Style includes a heart rate monitor, a barometric altimeter, an accelerometer and a pulse ox sensor. Instead of your own GPS device, the Vivomove Style relies on the GPS of your smartphone to get location information. This means that the Garmin Connect app needs to be running in the background to get route, distance, and speed information. This makes starting activities like walking, running, cycling, or swimming a bit more cumbersome, as you'll need to pull your phone out when the Connect app isn't running.

Once in an activity, the Vivomove style can track you well with runs like cadence, time, pace and distance timers. In the meantime, strength training activities have a replay counter and swimming has an underwater heart rate monitor. There are a number of other Vivomove-style activity profiles, but none is particularly robust in the metrics provided. The Vivomove style is ideal for training with heart rate zones. However, if you are looking for more detailed data such as swimming stroke analysis, automatic break or training plans, you have to look elsewhere.

Garmin grants a one-year standard warranty on the Vivomove Style, which includes defects, but does not include cosmetic defects such as scratches and dents or accidents.

Our opinion

The Vivomove Style is possibly the most subtle fitness watch you can buy today. But the concessions on styling, including the lack of physical buttons, also make it more difficult to use. The task is largely done through the comprehensive Garmin Connect app, but the user interface could be a little more polished.

Is there a better alternative?

The Fossil Hybrid Smartwatch HR comes closest to the ability of the Garmin and does not have functions such as touchscreen, customizable data fields and the know-how of the Garmin Connect app.

How long it will take?

Garmin products are built to last, and I have no doubt that the Vivomove style can last for at least a few years.

Should you buy it

If you hate the look of standard fitness trackers and smartwatches, yes. The Vivomove Style is a very respectable option, which is strange, but has a large selection of health sensors and a rescue grace in the Garmin Connect app.

Editor's recommendations




16 Apr
Blog

Lenovo Yoga Smart Tab Review: Flexible and Smart

Lenovo Yoga Smart Tab Rating 2 hands on 4 of 21

"As the name suggests, this Android tablet proves to be intelligent and flexible with many useful functions."

  • Built-in stand

  • You can hang it up

  • Works as a smart home hub

  • Google Assistant built in

  • The YouTube dashboard is broken

  • Unbalanced weight

The Lenovo Yoga Smart Tab is an Android tablet that really stands out from its competitors. It offers a number of useful functions in a 10.1-inch device, including a versatile stand, Google Assistant, Smart Hub functions and much more. Here you can see how intelligent the Yoga Smart Tab really is.

design

Yoga Smart Tab hangs on a wall

Where most tablets need outside help in the form of covers or stands, the Yoga Smart Tab is designed to do everything you need. It has a built-in stand that pops out to watch films at the push of a button and can be adjusted to the desired angle. It also has a support to make typing easier when it is on a flat surface. You can even hang it on a wall with the stand if ever needed.

Since there are speakers on one side of the tablet, holding is a bit cumbersome, especially in portrait mode, as it is heavier on one side than the other. It's also a bit chunky which made my arm tired. It weighs 581 grams. The Galaxy Tab S6 weighs 420 g and the Amazon Fire HD 10 504 g. That doesn't seem to make much difference, but if you hold a tablet in your hand for an hour or two, every little bit counts.

The 10.1-inch FHD IPS screen (1920 x 1200) is very clear and shows no major distortions when viewed from different angles. The colors are vivid and when looking at photos it almost seemed like I was looking at a high quality print.

software

The Yoga Smart Tab is smarter than a regular tablet because it has a special Google Assistant mode and a variety of skills. Opening the tablet stand automatically activates the Google Assistant environment mode. The tablet turns the constantly on display into an intelligent screen that shows the weather, your agenda, entertainment, memories and much more. Most tablets don't have environmental mode access, so this is a great additional feature.

I really like the ambient option because it's even more useful than your average Android tablet.

If you don't want all that jazz on your screen, you can also use the feature to turn your tablet into a photo frame or remote control for your Google Assistant-compatible smart home devices. I really like the ambient option because it is even more useful than the average Android tablet. In addition, it has 360-degree far-field voice recognition, so Google Assistant can hear you no matter where you are in the room.

Audio quality

Yoga Smart Tab speaker

Another feature that distinguishes the Yoga Smart Tab from other tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is the fact that it has speakers on both sides of the screen. The two JBL HiFi speakers and Dolby Atmos support do a pretty good job.

If you turn up the volume all the way, it loses its quality.

The bass is nice as long as you don't want it to knock too hard or to listen at full volume. If you turn the volume all the way up, it loses quality. This can be a problem if you enjoy listening to YouTube videos on your tablet, although most tablets have this problem.

performance

Yoga smart tab screen

The Yoga Smart Tab also has a literal Smart Tab. You drag the tab to the right and a YouTube dashboard opens. While this is practical, it is also incorrect. Sometimes I wasn't able to play videos on the dashboard (I just saw the sinking circle of doom). However, when I opened the actual YouTube app, the videos played perfectly.

The screen's performance was excellent. Scrolling, navigating, and opening apps went smoothly without the lag you see on some tablets. However, with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 439 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it's not a good choice for graphics-intensive games. Many 3D titles will stutter and hesitate.

The battery life on the tab is decent. It can take up to 11 hours if you only surf the Internet and offers up to 10 hours of video playback. This is comparable to the battery life of the Galaxy Tab S6.

Our opinion

The Lenovo Yoga Smart Tab may not be perfect, but it is a reliable, dual-purpose device that combines the smart display with a tablet. Thanks to its versatile stand and smart home hub functions, it is more useful than many tablets on the market. Otherwise, the screen and sound are on par with the competition. The only real downside is the unbalanced feel and extra weight when you hold the Smart Tab.

Are there any better options out there?

Perhaps. It just depends on your needs. If you're looking for an excellent Android tablet, the Galaxy Tab S6 is hard to beat. However, one thing that the S6 doesn't have is the Google Assistant environment mode feature. This means that it cannot be used as a hub for your smart devices like the Yoga Smart Tab. If the hub was not so interesting for you, you can choose the S6. If the price matters, the Yoga Smart Tab is around half the price of the S6 at around $ 300.

How long it will take?

The Smart Tab is very well made and I think it will go the distance because it is made of aluminum instead of just plastic. It also comes with a one year warranty.

Should you buy it

Yes, if you have many smart home products compatible with Google Assistant, this tablet is a good choice.

Editor's recommendations




09 Apr
Blog

Amazon Echo Show 5 Review: A Smart Display Hidden in a Clock

Amazon Echo Show 5 review

"Amazon's Echo Show 5 is so much more than an intelligent alarm clock."

  • Compact size fits anywhere

  • Attractive design

  • Versatile functions

  • Improved data protection regulations

  • Starting price

  • Slow smart home touchscreen control

  • Alexa calls aren't easy enough yet

  • No Google Photos or YouTube

Despite its name, Amazon Echo Show 5 ($ 90) is the third generation of Alexa-enabled devices to pack a screen. It was developed for desktops, bedside tables, kitchens and shelves and is the most compact Echo Show to date with a 5.5-inch screen, an integrated HD camera and a number of functional improvements compared to the two larger brothers Amazon Echo Show 8 for 130 US -Dollar and $ 230 Amazon Echo Show (2nd generation).

We won't blame you if your head turns with the rapid development of intelligent displays. Amazon, Google, and Partners are all experimenting with form factors, features, and prices to find the sweet spot that drives users to distribute these devices around the house.

Related articles

Google's Nest Hub ($ 129) and Lenovo Smart Display 7 ($ 100) are two of its direct competitors and offer similar functions in a compact size. In contrast, Amazon has developed Echo Show 5 as a real entry-level device. At a price well below $ 100, the retail giant is repeating a strategy previously tested with the audio-only Echo Dot, but this is obviously a more powerful device. You can't buy three or five at the same time as hosiery like you did at Echo Dot, but Echo Show is cheap enough to treat yourself and pick up a second as a valuable gift.

An intelligent display that you would like to flaunt

Amazon has made a few attempts to turn the Echo Show into a form factor that few would call ugly, but this new model makes it possible. The plate-like designs of previous generations are available in charcoal or sandstone and have been replaced by playful dimensions, gentler curves and flowing lines. It doesn't quite have the feel of Nest Hub, but curved corners, an angled, material-wrapped rear, and a grippy, rubberized base make Echo Show 5 both pretty and practical.

While all Echo Show devices have a data protection button to deactivate the integrated camera and microphone array, the Echo Show 5 goes one step further with a bulky camera shutter that slides over the lens. For a device that is being installed in potentially millions of bedrooms around the world, this is an obvious and very eye-catching attempt to address user privacy concerns. Slide the shutter button to display a bright orange tab while the lens hood changes from black to white and a notification appears on the screen. You will always know when data protection is activated.

The compact dimensions of the Echo Show 5 are ideal on the bedside table.

Even better, the lock ensures that you can still talk to Alexa or family and friends on drop-ins, Skype and Alexa video calls with a hidden camera. It's a simple addition to Echo Show's privacy features, but welcome.

If you're used to a larger 7- or 10-inch smart display, the 5.5-inch Echo Show initially feels like a step down. Fortunately, the display is clear and colorful, and has a resolution of 960 x 480, which is more than sufficient for photos, videos and the Alexa user interface. The menus are clear and easy to read throughout the room, and information such as time, date and weather are clear at a glance.

However, we still prefer a larger display for the kitchen. Google Nest Hub's recipes and YouTube videos look fantastic on a 7-inch, higher-resolution screen, while photos come to life in family rooms. However, the compact dimensions of the Echo Show 5 are ideal on the bedside table.

Alexa at its best

It's no secret that a smart assistant with a screen is an overall more engaging and useful smart assistant. This is certainly the case with the Echo Show 5, which turns out to be a surprisingly versatile device with alarms, reminders, entertainment, smart home routines and much more. When you've thought about the similar-looking Lenovo Smart Clock, stop. Echo Show 5 does a lot more.

While mostly instructing Alexa by voice, you can swipe left on the screen to access a function panel for easy on-screen navigation. We found the touchscreen display to be very responsive, but it took a few seconds for some features, such as B. the smart home control, after the selection was displayed – longer than desired.

Amazon Echo Show 5 reviewTerry Walsh / Digital Trends

We love the ability to customize the home screen with alternative backgrounds, photos and a selection of rotating information. This is a major advance over the limited customization features of the Lenovo Smart Clock and helps make life with the Echo Show 5 feel more personal.

An ambient sunrise function can gently brighten the display 15 minutes before your alarm is triggered. It works well to gently prepare you for the inevitable wake-up call. Sure, you can tell Alexa dazed to stop the alarm, but you can also hit a beat at the top of the screen (we tried to type) to set a snooze timer. If you spend a little time configuring Alexa Routines, you can start your day better with your favorite music and light scenes, set the thermostat, get the latest news, and find out about your daily routine.

Varied music and video selection, but still no YouTube

The loudspeaker of this echo is an appealing bedroom companion for music and radio with many low-end functions. Alexa’s verbal responses to your commands can be heard clearly throughout the room. Given Amazon's continued spats with Google, you won't find any dedicated YouTube or Google Photos apps on board – and let's be clear, both are overlooked – but with support for Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Prime Video, and more you have alternatives. It wouldn't be our first choice to watch an episode of Jack Ryan, but if you don't have a bedroom TV, this is a reasonable option.

It is the friendliest and most versatile smart display from Amazon.

Any Amazon Echo device can control your smart home with voice commands, but life is much easier with a screen. If voice commands don't work or you can't remember the exact name of a device to control it, you have a chic touchscreen controller on hand as a backup. While surfacing takes a few nervous seconds, you can access and control all of the lights, thermostats, cameras, and other smart home devices that Alexa knows. Depending on the device, the functions available may be restricted. For example, we could only change the color of our Philips Hue lights using voice commands, but touchscreen controls are definitely a useful backup.

On the other hand, smart home security systems such as the Ring Video Doorbell 2 offer enhanced functions for the Echo Show. When a visitor calls, you can see and communicate with them on the smart display. You no longer have to rush to the door half dressed to greet the UPS employee.

Alexa and Skype calls, messaging and more

In addition to Skype, the Echo Show 5 offers a number of Alexa voice, video call and messaging functions. Regardless of whether you choose a full video or just voice, the ability to communicate without pulling out your phone is liberating. With an exotic selection of Alexa-enabled devices like smoke detectors and intelligent thermostats, you can now yell at the kids from any room without the excuse of not being heard.

Amazon Echo Show 5 reviewTerry Walsh / Digital Trends

While we've found that conversations with the built-in speaker, dual microphone array, and 1-megapixel camera work well, finding the right contact using voice can be challenging, especially when using Skype. It's still very early for Alexa calls, and while we think this is a groundbreaking feature, Amazon still needs to do more to make external calls effortlessly.

Warranty information

As with all Amazon Echo devices, this new model is covered by a 1-year warranty.

Our opinion

Echo Show 5 is the perfect desktop companion for Alexa fans. We love its cute, compact shape, which represents a major advance over previous generations. Our initial concerns about the reduced screen size quickly resolved in use. It is the ideal size for a bedside table or at your desk.

It is important that it is so much more than an "intelligent alarm clock". While alarms, reminders, timers and basic information such as weather and news reports are the most popular applications, the Echo Show 5 is a capable companion at home, with decent entertainment options, improved smart home functions and hands-free communication.

In addition to the playful form factor, well-thought-out improvements such as new data protection functions, customization options and Sunrise settings make the Echo Show 5 Amazon the friendliest and most versatile smart display to date.

Is there a better alternative?

Google fans who are concerned about the lack of YouTube and Google Photos may opt for the more expensive Lenovo Smart Display 7 ($ 100) or Google Nest Hub ($ 129), while Alexa users find one larger screen, continue to purchase Echo Show 8 ($ 13). or second generation Echo Show ($ 230). For desktop or bedside tables, however, the Echo Show 5 offers fantastic value for money.

How long it will take?

We have found that Echo devices are robust and are well supported with feature updates. Of course, Amazon has been playing the customer support game for many years and they do better than most. No concerns here.

Should you buy it

Yes. Amazon Echo Show 5 is an easy pickup for Alexa fans and a great entry-level device for those considering their first smart display.

Editor's recommendations




26 Mar
Blog

Google Nest Hub Review: Small, Simple, and Smart

"Google’s Nest Hub is a great way to keep an eye on your smart home."

  • Simple smart home control

  • No camera on the device

  • Small size means it can be placed anywhere

  • Double as a digital photo frame

  • Affordable

  • No camera means no video chat

  • Poor sound quality

  • The screen is too small for media consumption

This review was last updated by digital trends editor John Velasco on March 25th, 2020.

When the Google Nest Hub ($ 149) arrived on our desk, we were surprised. It couldn't be that tiny little box, we thought. Intelligent displays (intelligent loudspeakers with integrated voice assistants such as Google Assistant or Alexa) should have large screens, large footprints and lots of bells and whistles – right?

Google's Nest Hub has other ideas, and while it's tiny, it has some powerful features that make it powerful under the hood. In a way, its simple approach is a refreshing interpretation of the smart display – but it also feels watered down.

Also worth reading

Also worth mentioning is its bigger brother, the Google Nest Hub Max. It has many of the same functions, but has a larger screen, excellent audio performance and a front-facing camera for video calls. It's also more expensive at $ 229.

Small screen, big world

With a size of just over 4.5 inches, the Google Nest Hub is comparatively small and has a 7-inch screen in portrait format, which is attached to an oval fabric stand on the back. Unlike its competition, the giant Amazon Echo Show, which has a 10-inch screen and 4-inch base, the Nest Hub takes up almost no space and can sit anywhere without taking up a lot of space. This makes it easy to fit in many parts of your home.

Unlike other smart displays, the Nest Hub lacks a camera of any kind. This is either a good or a bad thing depending on how you feel about your privacy and lack of video chat ability. The only buttons on the outside of the hub are volume up / down and microphone on / off.

In addition to the Echo Show and the Lenovo Smart Display (another smart speaker with a screen operated by Google Assistant), the size difference corresponds to the comparison of a tablet with a smartphone. The Nest Hub's small size makes it more versatile – most smart displays are designed for primary kitchen use – but it seems like a missed opportunity as the device comes with six months of free YouTube Premium. The screen is too small to be viewed for a long time.

Greg Mombert / Digital Trends

However, the Nest Hub works as a digital photo frame. If you use Google Photos, you can connect your albums to the device during setup and have photos of your choice rotated throughout the day. We loved this feature and found some long lost gems in our collection.

A function called Ambient EQ automatically adjusts the brightness of the screen so that the device fits into the room. You can also adjust the brightness manually. We also appreciate the interpreter mode, a feature that allows you to communicate with people in different languages.

Keep it real

More reviews for smart displays

We love how easy Google Home makes device setup. The Nest Hub is no different – plug it in, open the Google Home app, and follow simple instructions on both screens to get started. Depending on whether you’re already connected to the Google Home ecosystem, you’ll need to take additional steps.

For example, the app asks if you want to set up Voice Match that automatically recognizes your voice and gives you and others around the house tailored answers. You'll also want to connect to streaming music and video services (you'll need to sign in to your accounts) and smart home devices. This is self-explanatory in the recently revised Google Home app.

In our case, we already have a Google Home device in our test house, which made the setup process as easy as connecting the device.

Greg Mombert / Digital Trends

A smart home love bond

The Google Nest Hub is best when connected to a smart home. We like the pulldown screen, which gives us instant access and control over smart home devices that we have connected. You can still use your voice to control lights, plugs, locks, cameras and more ("Hey Google, turn on the lamp on the ground floor"), but the pull-down menu contains a clear list of connected devices and status of each.

For example, you can tap Lights and get a list of connected lights and their status, or select by room to see a list of all connected devices. You only need a few minutes to organize your devices in every room. It is a user-friendly control panel for all connected devices.

Hey Google, what does my morning commute look like?

Google Assistant works the same regardless of your smart speaker, but the Nest Hub complements your interactions by adding a screen. For example, if you want to create a video tutorial on how to cook eggs hard, just say "Hey Google, show me videos on how to cook eggs hard". You can then select from the results displayed using the touchscreen. For a Google Home Mini or Google Home without a screen, Google Assistant simply reads the instructions. This is not so helpful if you are learning visually.

The hub is a nifty way to get a snapshot of what's happening at home.

There are also other uses. If you've connected a Nest camera (or a compatible camera) to the device, you can view the footage in the Google Nest Hub. We have two Nest cameras in our test house and found that viewing footage from them was a seamless process.

You can also answer the Nest Hello video doorbell on the Nest Hub with bidirectional communication. We don't have Nest Hello in our smart home, but we like the idea of ​​having an extra space to monitor movement at the front door.

Google Home Hub

Google Home Hub

Greg Mombert / Digtial Trends

Since Google Assistant is already connected to Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Maps and other Google platforms, the integration into what we already use is seamless. For example, when we set up the Nest Hub, Google already knew us from our account and usage. Therefore, calendar reminders and the morning commute view were automatically displayed on our home screen. If that scares you, you can adjust what you see.

Ok google, play music on a better speaker

The Google Nest Hub also works as a home hub, but has some shortcomings. The sound quality is the biggest disappointment. It ends up between Google Home and Google Home Mini, and that's not outstanding. It is not loud and bass and treble are missing to make listening a pleasant experience.

The loudspeaker is not loud and the bass is missing to make listening pleasant.

In contrast, the Amazon Echo Spot and Echo Show offer a louder sound and a richer music experience. We understand and respect that Google wanted to keep the device simple, small, and affordable, but it's a missed opportunity not to provide at least adequate sound. Audiophiles or anyone who appreciates a reasonably decent sound will have to pick up another speaker.

The other disadvantage, which we have already pointed out, is the screen. It's just a little bit smaller than we would like. Even an inch would help us enjoy the YouTube videos that we can't access on Amazon devices due to a continuing feud between the two technology giants.

Warranty information

Google offers a one-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship for the Google Nest Hub.

Our opinion

The Google Nest Hub has a lot to offer. We appreciate the focus on smart home controls, the pull-down panel and the functions for digital photo frames. We also appreciate the lack of a camera for those who are concerned about privacy.

We wish Google had made the screen and sound a priority. With free YouTube Premium, it feels like a missed opportunity. At $ 149, however, this is an affordable price for better smart home control.

Is there a better alternative?

It depends on what you are looking for. If you're looking for a smart introductory speaker without a screen, check out Google Home Mini ($ 49) or Amazon Echo Dot ($ 50). Both are enough. If you need the screen for the kitchen and love Google Assistant, the Lenovo Smart Display, available in both 8 and 10 inch sizes ($ 199 and $ 249), is the best choice. However, if you really want the full package, you can pay the additional cost for the Nest Hub Max ($ 229).

If you're interested in Amazon Alexa voice technology, the Echo Show is a great option with a built-in smart home hub, 10-inch screen, and great sound. If you're looking for a smaller smart display, consider the Echo Spot ($ 130), which is meant for a bedside table or desk.

How long it will take?

You can expect Google and Google Assistant to stay here. Google will continue to update and improve Google Assistant technology through firmware updates. However, we cannot guarantee that Google will not introduce another smart display later.

Should you buy it

If you're looking for an affordable smart screen with Google Assistant that focuses on controlling smart homes, buy the Google Nest Hub – as long as you can do without video chats. If you can't, consider the full-featured Nest Hub Max, which also acts as a Google Nest Cam, or maybe an Amazon Echo Show if you prefer Alexa.

Updated March 22, 2019 to add interpreter mode.

Editor's recommendations




06 Mar
Blog

Kwikset Halo Review: A Tough Smart Lock That’s Hard To Love

kwikset halo

"You won't find a more stable Smart Lock, but the functionality is questionable."

  • Durable construction

  • Versatile entry

  • Must replace your latch

  • Bad installation experience

  • Touchpad is an annoyance

The Halo from Kwikset is an intelligent lock that can be controlled with an app, codes or an old-fashioned set of keys. This versatility, paired with super hard hardware, seems to be a winning combination. But while the halo has a lot to offer, there are some shortcomings that make it less practical than it looked at first glance.

installation

The halo is more difficult to install than some locks because you have to take out your current latch and install a new one. Other door locks like the August Smart Lock or the Wyze Lock fit over your existing bolt and make the transition easier. If you're not mechanically inclined (like me), getting the old latch out and inserting the new one can be frustrating.

If you don't need to install a new latch, why should you do that?

Kwikset's instructions even say that you may need a wooden chisel during installation. I'm not sure how many households have a wooden chisel on hand, but I tend to estimate few.

Halo before installation

However, my biggest frustration with the installation was due to the app. The quick start guide will ask you to download the app. You will then need to follow the on-screen instructions to install the lock. Paper instructions are not included.

However, I had to switch screens to answer a text. When I got back to the app, she insisted that I go through a long, lengthy account login process. When that was done, I never returned to the installation process. I had to find it again and then try to find the installation screen I was on before the interruption. That seems to me to be a usability error.

durability

Most of the characteristic of this intelligent lock is its toughness. The halo is shockproof, fireproof for up to 20 minutes, pickproof and hardened against drills or saws. Even the connecting wires inside are reinforced. This is a stable lock. You can only tell by its weight that it is made to last.

Keyboard and access

Halo app and lock

The Halo has a keyboard that lights up for easy viewing, but doesn't miss the problems with touchpads.

The big problem is sensitivity. You need to touch the pad to activate it and then enter your key code. I found that if I didn't enter my code quickly enough within seconds, the pad would fall asleep and wouldn't wake up again. I stood around, tapping the screen impatiently, trying to bring him back to life for a minute or two. If you're in a hurry to get in, this is a no-go.

In addition, the keyboard clearly shows fingerprints. This means that a potential crook can look at the pattern of fingerprints on the touchpad and find your code easily. I tried wiping the touchpad after use, but who will really clean the lock every time they use it?

One feature I like is that you can use the app to turn off the keyboard completely. You can then use your keys or the app to control the locking and unlocking of your door. It undermines the sense of an intelligent lock with a keyboard, but that shows you how much I don't like the Halo keyboard.

Too bad, because this lock can store up to 250 user codes, including time limits and expiration dates, which you can control via the app. I can see where that would be useful.

The alarm didn't work

One of the features I liked when I first heard about the Halo is that an alarm sounds when the code is entered incorrectly three times. This would let you know immediately if someone tried to find out your code and break into your home.

Kwikset Halo code options

So I tried it in the interest of science. I entered three random codes and nothing happened to my dismay. There was no alarm. No notification appeared on my phone. Other attempts have also not triggered an alarm.

I contacted the company's support team and they were informed that the batteries may be weak or the connection may become loose. Neither seemed to be the cause. As far as I can tell, the function just doesn't work as an advertisement.

Our opinion

The Kwikset Halo is disappointing. The keyboard is tedious and installing a new latch is a big problem. At $ 229, other smart locks are cheaper and work better.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. The August Smart Lock Pro only costs $ 85 and works with your current latch. If you want a smart lock with a keyboard, choose the Nest X Yale or the Schlage Encode. They cost roughly the same, but these locks work better overall.

Will it take?

Absolutely. It is a beast. A lifetime warranty is also provided.

Should you buy it

The halo has no match when it comes to strength and toughness, but the technology isn't great. Pass this on.

Editor's recommendations




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