Reviews

The Motorola Q11 (manufactured by Minim under license from Motorola) is an inexpensive Wi-Fi 6 mesh router kit that is easy to set up and comes with built-in security software, making it an attractive option for people on a budget. The Q11 we tested comes in a three-pack that should be sufficient for a 5,000-square-foot home. The Q11 lacks Bluetooth and Zigbee support but has MU-MIMO, beamforming, and the ability to use 160MHz data channels (160MHz is the highest bandwidth available on 5GHz routers) for gamers or data hogs at home. via MotorolaWhen I evaluated the Motorola MH7603 mesh system I was impressed by how easy it was to use. Its built-in network security and parental control software were some of my favorite features. However, I was disappointed that it did not have multi-gig LAN and USB ports. The Motorola Q11 also lacks multi-gig and USB ports, but it does support the aforementioned 160MHz channels and WPA3 encryption, two things not present in the other model.Setting up the Motorola Q11 requires the use of the Motosync app, which is developed by Minim and can be downloaded on both iOS and Android devices. The app utilizes QR codes located on the underside of the Q11 devices. It takes about 20 minutes to set up all three components but I did have to go back later and move things around for better performance.The mobile app is relatively helpful should you run into issues along the way. The app displays useful information such as the number of online devices and their names, and allows users to view satellite signal strength and reboot satellites. The Security center on the main screen provides information on security software scans, intrusion numbers, and vulnerability checks. Additionally, the Home Filter feature can block ads and malicious websites, filter adult content, and track internet use and filtering parameters for each user profile. The app also indicates whether the current connection supports various online activities like web browsing, music streaming, gaming, and 4K videos. I appreciate the frictionless manner in which I can create profiles for members of the home, assigning devices, and put together schedules. As a parent I wish I had this sort of control in my house a decade ago when my son began his journey with phones, tablets, and laptops. The Motosync app can also track data use on a household or individual basis for those with monthly data limits, and offers a direct chat link to the company’s support staff through a headset logo at the bottom of the screen.The Q11’s performance is excellent when connected in relatively close proximity to a satellite or the main router. Similar to what I found with the MH7603, things work best when you spread the units out a bit. When they suggest a home of up to 5,000 square feet, they’re serious. I can blanket my entire home of around 1,800 square feet with just the main component. The Q11 offers basic home network options, including port forwarding capability and UPnP, and provides built-in router security without any extra charge. And with the WPA3 and 160MHz channel support, it makes for a more attractive package than the MH7603. Although there were occasional connectivity issues during the first week of use, the Motorola Q11 mesh system performed well overall in testing. The Motosync app works effectively, but users need to create an account, which could be a concern for some regarding data privacy. Don’t want to share your data? You’ll lose access to pretty much the full app.I have a few quibbles with the experience but it’s not so much a Q11 problem as it is with Motorola/Minim. When I experienced connectivity issues with the mesh system, I had hoped to manually check for a software update but ultimately found that there was no option to do so. Further, there are no settings for updates or an update changelog available. I had to do some trial and error in placement of the router and accompanying extenders and that was mostly after a few online searches. As it turns out, you can have your mesh system set up too close. Also a pain point, there was no way to prefer a band for a connected device, even though the Q11 system does a decent job of finding the right band. However, it took a long time for new devices to connect to the 5GHz band, sometimes taking over 10 minutes. Final ThoughtsThe Motorola Q11 is a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 mesh router kit that is easy to set up and configure. It is a great option for people on a budget and do not need all-out performance. However, it may not be suitable for all users, specifically those who need more Ethernet ports or USB connection for network-wide data storage. Also worth considering, the app is helpful and seems to offer most of the features I want, but it takes time to figure out where things are located — if they are available at all.The Q11 can be ordered as a single unit for $99 or in a three-pack for $199. Unless you have a rather large home, I would recommend going with a single unit for this model. It’s rated up to 2,000 square feet and should be more than sufficient for the average homeowner.

Samsung has already set some standards when it comes to foldable- either its fold or flip, there is no third option. And tech giant Samsung may start worrying about its foldable because BBK’s kids set the sail towards the foldable segment. According to the reports, Vivo is planning to bring its new foldable smartphone into the market. Of course, Samsung is four iterations forward in the foldable market, and the brand already earned high status in the market, so it’s quite difficult for the upcoming brands to earn consumers’ trust. Vivo is planning to bring a clamshell-style foldable smartphone which is reportedly called Vivo X Flip. The Vivo X Flip has the same design as the OPPO Find N2 Flip that was launched last month globally. Reliable Tipster Digital Chat Station leaks key features and some design renders of the Vivo’s upcoming clamshell smartphone. According to the tipster Digital Chat Station, the Upcoming Vivo X Flip will feature a 6.8-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, and up to 12GB of RAM. Renders suggest that the Vivo X Flip will have a larger square-shaped cover screen (dimensions are unknown at this point) which is remarkably larger than Galaxy Z Flip 4 (review).Source- WeiboIn terms of optics, The flip phone will feature a dual rear camera setup with a 50MP Sony IMX866 primary camera paired with a 12MP Sony IMX633 ultrawide shooter. Just like other Vivo flagships, the X Flip’s rear cameras are co-engineered with Zeeis. There is a center-mounted punch-hole selfie camera but the resolution is unknown. The foldable is said to have a 4,400mAH battery (which is 700mAh more than the Galaxy Z Flip 4) with 44W fast wired charging support. Furthermore, reports suggest the Vivo X Flip will feature 5G, Bluetooth v5.2, WiFi 6, GPS, NFC, USB Type C port, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.  There are no details about its launch, but the X Flip is expected to be launched in china next month. But So far specs we have, the Vivo X Flip seems that a solid flip foldable competitor. In the end, it just leaks and before granting this, it’s better to wait for the Vivo’s official announcement. 

Although the Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 is an excellent gaming laptop, don't configure it with an RTX 4090 GPU.

As we continue to evolve the mobile computing market, we also spread our personal information to more and more accessible avenues. Whether it’s Google, Amazon, Apple, or any of the other major tech players, our data is the currency we trade for most services. Punkt has come to the market with devices like the MP02 phone to challenge this paradigm.The MovementIt’s rare that a new device comes our way that completely perplexes me. The Punkt is part throwback and part unplugged 4G, if that makes sense. The fully 4G-connected device is consciously limited to just messaging, basic calendars, and phone calls. It’s an interesting movement that Punkt sees users that want to take a step back from the connected web.The idea is that you shift your daily interactions to very focused and deliberate conversations. This means you have your close circle of friends and family that text or call you on a regular basis and all other noise makers are on the outside looking in.Punkt sees the MP02 as your primary communication device that can be augmented by other devices like a laptop or tablet. You only stay consistently plugged into the primary discussions via messages and phone calls, but you can still call on the 4G connection to access the wider web when needed on the secondary units.To utilize this vision the Punkt MP02 is running a BlackBerry-hardened version of Android — Android 8.1 to be exact with the proprietary Apostrophy OS found on the device. The functionality is very security focused and you won’t find any of your favorite apps here.DesignThe Punkt is constructed of glass-fiber reinforced plastic with an angled almost wedged design. The phone isn’t much larger than a Roku remote but has a great feel in the hand. The balance is something you can tell Punkt’s lead designer Jasper Morrison really focused on getting right.The majority of the front of the MP02 are the keys, another throwback. Not only are tactile keys present, but it’s also all just numerical keys short of dedicated navigation buttons on the left side. That’s right you, don’t get a QWERTY keyboard. Just 0-9 baby!Atop the keyboard is a 2-inch black and white screen. The tech is a transflective LCD that reminds me of an e-ink. It’s easy on the eyes and should take minimal battery life. The screen seems tiny in today’s market, but again, it’s about focused communication only so it works.There are two speakers on the Punkt MP02. There’s a dedicated earphone grille at the top for taking traditional calls and a larger speakerphone array on the back of the phone. Both are adequate for what you’d expect for the respective usage cases.Finally, at the bottom of the MP02 is a single USB-C charging port. This is another reminder that while this is somewhat of a throwback, Punkt includes very updated technology. Having this over a proprietary or older port to save money is a huge plus to just using any USB-C standard charging cable when needed.Daily usageThis is where I really struggled with the Punkt MP02. There is something freeing about not having your normal smartphone tropes and having connected apps constantly pinging you during the day. Being able to unplug and strip the experience down for just communication is refreshing. Having only access to calls, texts, and calendars is a unique take back to possibly a better time in mobile.Calls and text work as expected as well. I saw zero issues using traditional text messages and phone calls while using the Punkt MP02. Pick your contact and then text away or make a quick call much like you would on any other device… with a few caveats we’ll cover in a few seconds.The Pigeon platform is built off the existing Signal protocol and is a great, hardened way to keep on-device communications encrypted. It also means that the Punk MP02 leverages the WiFi and LTE connections to make these calls and texts.This sounds great, but it comes with hiccups. For one, the Pigeon can perform normal SMS, but you can’t utilize group chats without the other people using Signal. No MMS-style group chats are available without individual responses to each contact.The same is true for WiFi calling. You can’t complete calls outside the cellular connection unless the other user is on Signal. I really wish the company would enable this as it would make my next complaint a little less of an issue.The phone doesn’t support the 71 megahertz band or Verizon here in America. This is a pretty big blow to two of the three major carriers in the States. The 71 band is T-Mobile’s main band to use in rural areas, and I found that the MP02 simply doesn’t recognize any Verizon SIM. Traditional WiFi calling would go a long way to help those that could mitigate this while on a home or office network.Otherwise, I have three more knocks to the Punkt MP02 in general use. One, the interface isn’t great. It’s almost too minimalistic and not very intuitive to me. For instance, there’s no easy way to manipulate the volume. Most actions also take multiple clicks of the up and down arrows to accomplish. Answering a text takes three clicks: down, click, click. Even the “shortcuts” button for messages and contacts only works from the main home screen.Next, you can’t sync contacts without manually downloading CSV files to the device. I know this is a pattern of the security focus, and a conscious choice, but it just seems like a miss for me. Modern smartphone syncing makes this so easy and I’d bet many younger users have never done this via CSV on any device.And that brings me to the last gripe. I think this phone might be a non-starter for anyone under 30 years of age. Many of the interactions found on the Punkt MP02 are heavily influenced by devices that were no longer available after say the 2010s. By this point in mobile history, you had one of three devices: still holding a BlackBerry or you’d adopted either Android of iOS.Picking up the Punkt is like a time capsule in a way. T9 actions for texting are a completely foreign concept. Downloading a physical file to upload your contacts is as well. It’s almost a contradiction in a way as I do think the current generation would be interested in the Punkt ethos.The younger tech users are becoming more and more aware of the digital data they sacrifice and searching for new ways to circumvent those hooks to big techs like Google and Apple. However, I think the learning curve to using the MP02 may be too much of a hurdle over options like de-Googled alternatives like Copperhead or CalyxOS. These custom ROMs offer some similar security measures without sacrificing the hardware or app stores they expect to have on modern phones.Battery lifeWith the slimmed-down OS onboard the Punkt, it’s no surprise battery life has been great. I was able to easily get multiple days out of general usage. Standby should last at least a week. If you are only placing the occasional sub-thirty minute call and texting I could easily see you getting a 3-4 day endurance time on the MP02.ConclusionAgain, I’m torn on the Punkt MP02. It’s always refreshing to see a company take the idea of merging great design into a secure communication device. We expend our data in numerous ways online and taking back that to an extent can be compelling. Re-establish more one-to-one communication with our loved ones is also a noble offering. I just don’t know if this is worth it for the masses though.I personally found that I felt too handicapped by the MP02 to use it as my daily driver. And maybe that’s the balance. I could see a world where users could have this as a secondary phone for vacationing or date nights. You can simplify your interactions by throwing your SIM in the Punkt and know that only truly important contacts can get in touch.At $379 it still might be a hard sell, but I hope the company continues its path. Punkt has teased some more versatile phones that may offer a more complete alternative to traditional smartphones. I’m encouraged by that thought and look forward to what Punkt releases next.If you are interested in the Punkt MP02 you can purchase the phone direct from the company’s storefront below. It’s available in both Black or Light Blue variants.Purchase the Punkt MP02

MobileX is a new wireless service launched by mobile pioneer and consumer champion Peter Adderton (founder of Boost Mobile), which promises to give consumers ultimate control over their mobile phone costs.The service utilizes AI to predict how much data customers need, resulting in a dramatic reduction in cost while ensuring reliable speed and service.MobileX offers a free prediction period of up to ten days to learn a user’s data consumption patterns and provides a forecast of how much data they will need each month, often resulting in substantial savings. Customers can also create their own custom service plan by selecting the data amount they think will work best for them.Key Details for MobileXOffers a unique app-based service that utilizes AI to predict how much data customers needGives customers the ability to create their own custom service plan by selecting the data amount they think will work best for themCompetitive unlimited plans in the market with 15 GB of high-speed data for $20 per month or 30 GB for $25 per monthCustomers can switch or cancel their plans at any timeUnused data at the end of their billing cycle can carry the data forwardUsers can customize settings such as video quality, which can impact data usageFor those who prefer unlimited data plans, MobileX offers two of the most competitive unlimited plans in the market with 15 GB of high-speed data for $20 per month or 30 GB for $25 per month with no minimum commitment and no surprise fees, providing cost transparency.MobileX is designed to put customers in control, with the flexibility to switch or even cancel their plans at any time. Features such as the MobileX Data Optimizer mode allow users to customize settings such as video quality, which can impact data usage.Customers with unused data at the end of their billing cycle can carry the data forward.The MobileX app is currently available for download in the Apple and Google Play app stores. To start service, customers need a compatible, unlocked iPhone or Android device and can activate their service with a physical SIM card or eSIM.MobileX delivers the industry’s fastest available data speeds and proven reliability nationwide. According to Adderton, MobileX does the thinking for customers and uses AI to learn and evolve with a customer’s usage patterns so they have the ability to only pay for what they use, offering unprecedented customization and control.

The PuroQuiets, priced $130, are a more fashionable approach to audio from the Puro Sound Labs brand. Available in a handful of color combinations, they call to mind a fancy car from the 1950s or what we thought headphones of the future would look like in the 1960s. But don’t let the physical aspect fool you, these are plenty modern in terms of features.Noteworthy FeaturesActive Noise Cancellation (ANC) up to 22 dB quieterVolume limited at 85dbUp to 35 hours of battery/ 23 hours with ANCAvailable in four colors ( Red, Teal, Dark Blue, Pink)$129GalleryListen to the EpisodeThoughts and ConclusionThe PuroQuiets are a nice option for parents looking to outfit their child with something cool looking, feature-rich, and practical.The volume limiting feature ensures listeners never have music that’s too loud or potentially damaging in the long term. And besides that, the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps bring down the background noises and distractions that might otherwise impede enjoyment.The distinct colorways and design blend modern features with a retro look that might remind some parents of the headphones that they grew up with back in the day.Rounding things out, the sound and battery are both as good as we’d hoped for the price.You can purchase these for about $130.

Spring has sprung and so have the offers on portable solar generators at the BLUETTI Spring Sale 2023, which will start on 7 March. Spring is the time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. There’s no better time to stock up on the must-haves for spring camping, hiking, picnicking and more.Home Backup – AC500 & B300S AC500+B300S Starts at C$5699 (Was C$5999, Save C$300)The AC500 & B300S system is designed for home backup and off-grid power. It comes with a built-in 5000W (10000W surge) inverter and a B300S LFP battery with a capacity of 3072Wh, extendable to 18.4kWh with six modules. This huge capacity and its UPS capability gives travelers peace of mind when away for several days. Once outages occur, AC500 can detect and switch over in 20ms to keep the house running as usual. So there’s no need to rush home to check the fridge, fish tank and security cameras have power. Moreover, BLUETTI app can provide real-time monitoring.Featuring an efficient MPPT controller, the AC500 accepts solar input of up to 2400W on top of its ultra-fast 3000W AC charging. When AC and solar charging together, it reaches 5400W max input, charging this big machine in no time.Starter Portable Power – EB3A  EB3A+PV120 Starts at C$638 (Was C$828, Save C$190)At about 10 lbs, the BLUETTI EB3A is compact and portable for outdoor camping and short trips. It is rated for up to 600W and a 1200W surge wattage, enough to power multiple devices such as laptops, phones, mini-fridges, cameras, slow-cookers. It stores 268Wh in its LiFePO4 (LFP) battery, delivering 2500 cycles before reaching 80% capacity. Outdoor enthusiasts won’t have to search for power outlets in the backcountry with this little power box in hand.  EB3A can power a 10W light for 22 hours, a 60W car fridge for 4 hours and an 80W TV for 3 hours straight.  On a full charge, it will power a 60W laptop for 4 hours. When connected to solar panels for max 200W charging, the EB3A allows longer outdoor stays. Plus, the BLUETTI App allows to monitor and control in real time from anywhere for ongoing management.Advanced Portable Power – EB70SEB70S+PV120 Starts at C$1018 (Was C$1198, Save C$180)This portable powerhouses is ideal for camping, traveling, overlanding and other outdoor adventures. The EB70S is updated in output, 800W continuous and1400W surge, and larger capacity of 716Wh. It can power up to 12 devices simultaneously with its versatile DC or AC outputs. A single charge will run a 75W television and a 90W mini fridge for over 8 or 6.8 hours. Even if it runs out of power, fast solar and in-car charging can quickly replenish it. There will always be plenty of power on the go.Off-grid Living Backup – AC300 & B300AC300+2/B300 Starts at C$6498  (Was C$7397, Save C$899)Featuring a 3000W inverter with 16 outputs, the AC300 is modular in design. Connect four 3072Wh B300 expansion batteries for a whopping 12288Wh capacity. Whether it’s building a vanlife power system or providing enough power for glamping, DIY, gardening and more, the AC300+B300 combo will exceed expectations. Power cuts drive people mad, fearing spoiled food in fridges and piles of smelly laundry. Fortunately, this will not happen with the AC300&B300, which can run a 700W refrigerator for 3.7 hours and a 500W washing machine for 5.2 hours.All-rounder Mobile Power – AC200MAXAC200MAX+B300  Starts at C$4598 (Was C$5398, Save C$800)Following on from the popular AC200P, the AC200Max takes the technology to the next level, offering the option to expand with additional battery modules, such as two B230s at 6,144Wh and two B300s at 8,192Wh. Standalone, it has 2,048Wh in its belly and can deliver 2,200W to multiple devices via its 14 outlets and two top-mounted wireless charging pads. It’s a versatile and budget-friendly power backup for indoors and out.Top-pick All-in-one Power – AC200P  AC200P+3/PV350 Starts at C$4746 (Was C$5296, Save C$550)Packed with a 2000W inverter and a 2000Wh LiFePO4 battery, the AC200P is compact and portable for outdoor activities and emergency backup. Its capacity can also be extended to 4048Wh and 5072Wh respectively when connected to the B230 or B300. 17 versatile outlets ensure that any device can be charged in time.  Solar Panels – PV120, PV200, PV350, PV420PV420 Starts at C$999 (Was C$1099, Save C$100)BLUETTI panels use monocrystalline cells with up to 23.4% efficiency. Covered with ETFE material and equipped with an IP65 junction box, they are designed to withstand all scratches and splashes. They are also easy to store and transport thanks to their fold-and-go design. Especially, the PV420 is the latest innovation that can produce 420W power from sunlight, speeding up charging greatly. It has hit the shelf on BLUETTI’s official website on February 28. In nature, solar panels are a must-have, providing endless clean energy for use whenever it is needed. About BLUETTIWith over 10 years of industry experience, BLUETTI has tried to stay true to a sustainable future through green energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use while delivering an exceptional eco-friendly experience for everyone and the world. BLUETTI is making its presence in 70+ countries and is trusted by millions of customers across the globe. For more information, please visit BLUETTI online at https://www.bluettipower.ca/. EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Tecno unveiled its first-ever Techno Phantom V Fold smartphone at the MWC 2023. With this smartphone brand makes its emphatic entrance into the foldable smartphone market.Tecno joins the foldable revolutionLooking back at the time specifically 2 to 3 years ago, Samsung was the only brand that stands alone when it comes to foldable smartphones. Samsung created a major impact in the foldable segment with its latest signature Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 (review) and Galaxy Z Fold 4 series. But now the table starts turning, and every brand (Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, and others) trying to get into the foldable market, and that’s not bad either. It’s great to see competition between brands, in offering innovative and beautifully designed foldable smartphones. Most recently, OPPO unveiled its foldable smartphones in the market- OPPO Find N and OPPO Find N2 Flip.Tecno brand is mostly known for its budget range smartphone but its sub-brand called Phantom is rocking with its latest flagship smartphone offering such as Phantom X2 and X2 Pro. And the Phantom V Fold is the first foldable smartphone by the brand that offers a premium smartphone experience through exceptional performance and superior technologies. Let’s see what Tecno packs in its foldable smartphone.The Phantom V Fold will first launch in India at a price of $1,099 for the 12/256GB storage variant. It’s the first most affordable fold smartphone on the market today. And there is a higher 512GB storage version also available which costs $1,222.Tecno Phantom V Fold- Beyond the ExtraordinaryTecno presents a great rival to foldable smartphones, the brand promises a premium foldable device experience with flagship features and powerful systems.The Phantom V Fold sports a stunning 7.85-inch 2K (2296x2000px resolution) 120Hz LTPO display (its quite bigger than Galaxy Z Fold 4’s display) with an optimal 8:7 aspect raion when unfolded. When closed, The phone reveals an outstanding 6.42-inch micro curved design 2550×1080 px resolution120Hz display with a 21:9 aspect ratio for a classic single-screen flagship smartphone experience.Tecno Phantom V Fold uses a brand’s self-developed aerospace-grade drop-shaped hinge and that means you should see a smooth articulation. The Phantom V Fold has a nearly invisible screen crease and for durability, Tecno says, the hinge should last 200,000 folds.Speaking about the chipset, the Tecno Phantom V Fold is powered by MediaTek’s latest Dimensity 9000+ chipset based on 4nm architecture under the hood, which is the same processor found on the OPPO Find N2 Flip smartphone. It packs 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB of UFS3.1 internal storage. The foldable runs on Andriod 13 based on Tecno’s developed highly customized and optimized- HiOS13 Fold.The Phantom V Fold features a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP main camera sensor, a 50MP 2x zoom camera, and a 13MP ultrawide shooter. There’s a 32MP selfie camera on the cover screen and 16MP on the inner screen.Besides the powerful processor, Phantom V Fold houses a 5,000mAh battery with 45W fast wired charging. Tecno claims that the smartphone charges 40% in just 15 minutes and fully charges in just 55 minutes.

The Goldilocks phone of the Galaxy S23 family.

Up for review today are a pair of wireless headphones from Puro Sound Labs. Dubbed the PuroPro Hybrid ANC Headphones, they’re in a pretty competitive market. How do they fare? Read on to learn more or to listen to the podcast where we discuss them.What are the PuroPro Hybrid ANC Headphones?The PuroPro Hybrid ANC Headphones, priced $150, are a comfortable pair of headphones with leather ear cushions and headband. Offered in three colors, they offer a long-lasting battery, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and volume limiting.Notable FeaturesTwo levels of ANC (15db/32db) using five micsVolume limiting to 85db for 8hrs/95db for 50 minutes32 hours playtime, 28 hours with ANCLeather ear cushions and headband40mm dynamic driversThree colors (Black, Rose Gold, Orange)$150GalleryListen to the EpisodeThoughts and ConclusionThe PuroPro Hybrid ANC Headphones are very comfortable to wear, even for longer listening sessions. And thanks to the generous battery, we don’t have to worry about those sessions being cut short. We’re charging these up maybe once a week, at the most, and getting through days and days of podcasts and playlists.The volume limiting feature is pretty helpful, even if it’s hard to admit to ourselves. Sure, we like to crank things up and really dive into music, but if we’re smart, we keep things in line. Capping volume levels at 85 decibels is plenty loud for our needs, especially if we’re offsetting things with active noise cancellation.The black is a little boring, but headphones aren’t usually about the fashion. With that said, you may be interested in checking out the other colors if only because the two-tone looks sharp.Where to Buy the PuroPro Hybrid ANC HeadphonesYou can learn more about the PuroPro and purchase them at the manufacturer’s website where they are currently priced about $149.

If you’re struggling with spotty Wi-Fi coverage in your home, it might be time to look into upgrading to a whole-home solution.The Motorola MH7603 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 system ($239) is a great option for medium to large homes, and it’s super easy to set up and manage with its three-piece mesh system.With features like strong parental controls and anti-malware software, it’s definitely worth considering for parents or those looking to help oversee their aging parents and their networks.While it’s a solid performer for its price, the MH7603 is a case of “you get what you pay for” in that you may wish to spend a little more money for added features.The MH7603 is a comprehensive system that offers up to 5,000 square feet of coverage, with 2,000 square feet for the router and 1,500 square feet for each node, making it ideal for larger homes. If you have a smaller home, we recommend starting with a single router node for $119.99 and add more nodes if they’re needed.All three nodes in the system are low-profile and identical in design. They have a sleek white finish, stand at 2.6-inches tall and 5-inches wide, and they come with two internal antennas. Size-wise you’ll need about as much space as a typical cereal bowl or three-wick candle.The top of each node features the brand’s iconic Motorola “M” logo, while the front has a small LED indicator. The LED light glows solid white when the system is working properly and connected; a solid amber light indicates a weak connection between a node and the main router. If the LED light blinks slowly in blue, the system is in pairing mode, and should you see it blinking rapidly in blue, it’s probably undergoing a firmware update.The MH7603 offers a gigabit WAN/LAN port and a gigabit LAN port. As a node (extender), both of these ports can be used as LAN ports or for wired backhaul, providing plenty of options. Link aggregation is not supported, however, so you won’t be able to combine the ports for multi-gigabit speeds. On the back panel, in addition to the LAN ports, you’ll find a USB-C port used exclusively for power, and a reset button.Under the hood, the system is powered by a 1.5GHz quad-core CPU, 256MB of DDR3 RAM, and 128MB of flash memory. It’s a dual-band AX1800 system, offering maximum (theoretical) data rates of up to 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and up to 1,200Mbps on the 5GHz band. The system supports most Wi-Fi 6 technologies, including 1024 QAM, direct-to-client beamforming, 2×2 MU-MIMO data streaming, and OFDMA transmissions. However, it’s worth noting that it does not support WPA3 encryption or 160MHz channels, two features that are typically found in midrange and high-end Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems. Should these be important to you, you’ll have to look elsewhere or consider spending a little more.Rather than offering a web management console, the MH7603 relies on the motosync mobile app for managing the system, for better or worse. We come from an era where logging into a website or desktop client helped us to oversee networks, drives, and other systems so sometimes that’s missed. The user-friendly app presents a Network screen with icons for each node, as well as an icon that shows the number of connected devices. Tapping on the router icon allows you to view which devices are currently connected to it and gives you the option to reboot the node. When you tap on a satellite node, you can see its current and past signal strength and bandwidth usage. Additionally, you can run an internet upload and download speed test, view which clients are connected to the node, and see which channel it’s using for backhaul.The Top Data Use panel provides hourly, daily, and weekly bandwidth usage data for each client device and user profile. Looking to find out who is using all of your bandwidth or data? This makes it pretty easy and intuitive to figure out. The Connection panel displays the results of your most recent speed test and informs you if your network is optimized for activities like gaming, 4K video streaming, web browsing, and music playback.The Profiles button directs you to a screen where you can create individual user profiles, assign devices to each profile, set access schedules and time limits, apply filters, and review usage reports for each profile.Parents will appreciate being able to lump of all of their child’s devices into one profile, giving them hard cut-off times or apply filters for content. It’s also nice to go in and simply freeze things for the time being.The Settings (gear) button takes you to a screen where you can configure web filtering, add new users and nodes, set the time zone, and configure Port Forwarding and internet connection settings.Setting up the MH7603 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 system is a pretty simple affair, and is like other mesh systems. To start, you’ll need to download the motosync mobile app and create an account. Then, simply tap “Set Up a New Device” on the Get Started screen and use your phone to scan the QR code on the router node. Follow the app’s instructions to unplug your modem, connect the router node to the modem with the included LAN cable, and power up both devices.After selecting “Set Up a New Device,” I scanned the QR code on the base of the router node and followed the instructions to connect it to my modem and power both devices. Once the LED began flashing blue, I confirmed the connection and waited for a firmware update.Then I added the extenders by scanning the QR code on one of the nodes and following the onscreen instructions to pair it with the router node. After repeating the process for the second node, I optimized my Wi-Fi settings and completed the installation.The MH7603 router and satellite node delivered a generally strong combined (2.4GHz and 5GHz) wireless signals to all corners of our test house, and, for the most part, equally to each floor. Having previously used other mesh systems I’ve become familiar with certain troublesome pockets in the home, one in the basement and the other on the second floor. The Motorola system worked as well as others, generally speaking, but did seem to require some trial and error with physical placement. It was almost as if these devices needed more space between them and that things weren’t stronger by being closer in proximity. A little searching online told me that this is not entirely uncommon; it also speaks to the strength of a single unit. I found connections were as strong, if not stronger, when I removed one of the satellite pieces. Similarly, I noticed that speeds and connection were much more consistent when using the main router. Tablets, TV’s and other devices connected to an extender would sometimes be much slower or seem to drop entirely. I suspect it might be due to overlapping placement, but I wish it would default to grabbing the main unit over any satellites. At one point I removed one of the extenders and things were less troublesome. Perhaps my home is just not big enough to merit this three-piece system.The Motorola MH7603 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 system may not offer top-notch performance, but it provides decent throughput speeds and wide signal coverage for medium-sized homes. Its easy installation process and motosync mobile app enable parents to assign parental controls, monitor user activity, and apply filters to prevent access to specific websites.While it may not offer multi-gig and USB connectivity these features are not typical in mesh systems within this price range. However, the addition of WPA3 encryption and 160MHz channel capability would be beneficial.

If you’ve been looking for a smart, stylish and superior ride experience – look no further! I recently had the opportunity to test out one of the newest bikes on the market: an elegantly designed machine that offers a great combination of comfort, performance, smart features and luxury. Right away when I saw it, I knew this was something special. Its sleek design caught my eye. The glossy white and intricate details made it stand apart from other models in its class. Its features, advantages and purpose-I concluded that this bike is truly unlike any other found on the market today; making it well worth every penny spent!I was super excited when I got the chance to test-ride the Urtopia Chord e-bike. With a combination of comfort, luxury, and purposeful features all rolled into one package, I had a lot to love about this bike!Unique design that will turn heads, unparalleled elegance and styleThe Urtopia Chord e-bike is truly a sight to behold. Its sleek, white design catches the eye with its intricate details and glossy finish. When I first took the elegant bike out of the box, I was quickly enthralled by its smooth lines and glossy paint – something akin to a piano accompanied by classical music. What’s more, while this aluminum bike had no visible weld traces, the attention to detail with its design was incomparable. After talking to their team, they revealed that they used a car grade man-craft called “liquid forging” to make such detailed design like at the joint point between the seat tube and top tube possible. I was deeply impressed by how much effort was put into making this ebike unique compared to all the others out there! Riding this ebike makes me feel so confident due to its impressive craftsmanship.Smart technology for safety and convenience I would call it is the smartest ebike on the market. It features a revolutionary handlebar called the ‘smartbar’ where all the clever functions are contained. 4G connectivity powered by an embedded SIM card, GPS, gyroscope technology , microphone, speaker and fingerprint reader. It even has Bluetooth capabilities built in so you can access multiple smart functions seamlessly! The possibilities with this bike are endless and you’re sure to benefit from superb safety and convenience as you ride.I absolutely love the safety features that come included. The fingerprint activation prevents any unauthorized use of the bike, and the alarm function ensures I’m notified if anyone touches my bike. With the GPS tracking feature, I’m always able to know where my bike is at any moment – which has definitely made me feel more secure since it’s almost impossible for it to get truly lost. Beyond this, I love the navigation display. It can show arrows on its matrix screen for directions and even has a built-in speaker so it will announce turns like you would usually find in a navigation app. Plus, there’s haptic feedback on the handlebars when you turn so you don’t ever miss an intended path! After testing it out myself, I can honestly say that this combination of features is incredibly useful and makes riding much more enjoyable as while being able to take in the sights without major distractions.Top Features at a GlanceElegant design in black and white color optionsSmart tech includes over-the-air (OTA) updates for firmwareAnti-theftGPS and eSIM with navigation through Google Maps in the mobile appAI voice controlTracking of calories, mileage, weather, power, and moreIntegrated Bluetooth speakerProjected lights and red position lightRemovable battery8-Speed Shimano rear derailleurTop speed of 20mphUp to 75 miles on a chargeThis bike doesn’t just feature voice control, ride data recording, Bluetooth music and a shareable riding route on the Urtopia app but it also has an integrated stvzo front light AND even comes with a game mode. But that’s not all – there are even more surprises to discover. With Over The Air (OTA) updates, this amazing bike can stay updated with any new functions released in the future. Thanks to its modular design, you can easily do a hardware update. Simply touch a button or replace a box to upgrade your bike’s hardware and make sure it remains at the cutting edge of technology. Unbelievable, right? With this smartest ebike by Urotpia, you could enjoy years of hassle-free cycling and total peace of mind for the future.Superior quality and comfort while riding let’s talk about the light weight of this bike. It weighs in at a light 21kg and I can tell you that it rides like a dream. The light weight makes it incredibly easy to control as it responds quickly to every turn; it’s almost effortless to ride! And due to its light weight, my range has been greatly extended. All in all, this light weight bike is perfect for those who desire superior quality and comfort while riding. Riding the Chord around town is a truly superior experience. The comfortable upright riding position combined with a 250 W rear hub motor and torque sensor complemented by an 8-speed Shimano transmission and hydraulic disc brakes made for an incredible experience. The best part of my time with this ebike was that there was absolutely no delay or lag when it came to acceleration, coordinating with the assistance seamlessly. I’m also pleased to report that braking power was more than sufficient too – when I reached 50% battery, I had already ridden 54 km! Taking such details into consideration, I would estimate that one single charge could get me up to 100 km in optimal conditions. All in all, this smartest ebike certainly lives up to its promise of delivering superior quality and comfort while riding.Riding the ebike that has a gear ratio range between 1.5 and 4.5 truly opened my eyes to what is possible. It has plenty of power for slow city rides, but also enough for me to hit 40km/hr during an enthusiastic ride. The cadency was surprisingly accommodating as well, so with the electric assistance I can have calm days out or get more vigorous exercise from it too, which is great! It really does feel like a hooligan dressed in a suit – beneath the good looks lies a bike ready for the most feral rides. Its versatility is extremely attractive and it easily became one of my favorite point.Affordable price tagOverall, the Urotpia Chord has blown me away with its incredible capabilities and craftsmanship. I can confidently say that it’s one of the lightest, smartest and most efficient ebike on the market right now, When it comes to electric bicycles, the Urtopia Chord stands out from the crowd. Not only is this smart ebike sleek and stylish, but it also has an array of features that make it an attractive option for anyone looking for a reliable form of transportation. This bike is far ahead of its time. What’s more, the Urtopia Chord comes with a surprisingly affordable price tag when you consider all that it offers. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a smart ebike that won’t break the bank!Early Bird SavingsAs we often find with the launch of hot new products, there are savings to be had for early adopters. The same is the case here with the Urtopia Chord. Head to the ebike’s website and you’ll find it available it two versions (High Step and Step Through) in both black and white options. Moreover, you’ll save as part of the Early Bird promotional rate.EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

The Xiaomi 13 Pro has a lovely design, fast performance, and a phenomenal camera system. Read our full review.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a high-tech, high-budget keyboard with some awesome and unique features that have revolutionized the gaming industry since its release. It arrived back in 2019 as a tenkeyless counterpart to its sister, the Apex Pro, and is still highly competitive with other top dogs in the gaming industry. While wireless mechanical keyboards aren’t super common in gaming, I think the Apex Pro TKL has undoubtedly claimed its rightful spot within the realm, thanks to a couple of tricks that this keyboard has up its sleeve, and now it’s back in 2023, freshly revamped for consumers.A Feature-Packed ProductMy first impression of the keyboard before I got my hands on it was one word: overkill. Of course, depending on what you’re looking for in a keyboard, that word can have a lot of different connotations. Allow me to clarify.If you’re looking for a keyboard that will be the last keyboard you ever have to buy, this one can definitely fill that void. If you want to level up your game to the absolute max, you’re in the right place. If you want a keyboard that has tons of top-of-the-line features with excellent build quality, look no further. In my mind, SteelSeries didn’t cut any corners, and the Apex Pro TKL is a great high-end keyboard that is absolutely packed with features, aesthetics, and durability, making it a worthy purchase for many people.Look & FeelSo, let’s start with the basics. The aesthetics of the keyboard are great. I personally love the tenkeyless design and really appreciate the extra space that this particular layout leaves for my mouse. The font of the keycaps is pretty basic, but large and easy to read. Though most buyers may not consider it, I think a good font can be important, and SteelSeries opted to keep it simple and neat. The RGB backlighting that is so commonplace on gaming keyboards today is present here of course, and there are several different multicolor light modes that are programmed into the keyboards “profiles”. I didn’t have much preference for many of the default styles, but luckily SteelSeries’ website directed me to their support software that allows for customizable key-by-key programming of the RGB backlighting.In addition, the OLED display in the corner of the keyboard looks super cool and adds a futuristic touch to the overall design that I really enjoy, aside from its useful functionality.The wrist pad magnetizes to the base of the keyboard for easy attachment and removal, and the outer surface is silicon-like, but smooth and with a reduced friction coefficient, making it extremely comfortable for long periods of play-time. The SteelSeries logo in the center is subtle but definitely adds to the looks.The metal top plate and base plate are made of an aluminum that SteelSeries claims to be “identical to the aluminum used in jets providing enhanced rigidity and structural stability.” I find the finish of the keyboard to be very sleek, and the build quality feels amazing thanks to this construction.Omnipoint 2.0 Adjustable SwitchesNow for one of the most important things that many consider when shopping for a keyboard: the switches. Of course, the Apex Pro TKL is a mechanical keyboard, so the switches have a fairly long travel distance for full actuation. However, the SteelSeries innovation is ever-present on this product with their Omnipoint 2.0 switches. The keyboard employs “state-of-the-art magnetic sensors” which give you the ultimate responsiveness and speed that you want in just about any keyboard. On top of that, the switches allow you to decide the actuation distance required for a registered keypress, and even permit the use of 2-in-1 use. A half press can be used to walk in game, while a full press of the same key is a sprint. You can use the built in OLED smart display to set the minimum switch travel in your profile. This way you can easily adjust your keyboard to fit your style. Some gamers may have a preference for preciseness, or perhaps you may wish to require more deliberation in each keystroke.Regardless, the switches on this keyboard sound and feel great. They are loud and “clacky” like most mechanical keyboards, and these particular switches have a pretty linear response, which means resistance doesn’t increase or decrease as you press down further. The wireless connection was fast enough that I experienced no noticeable input lag while using it, and SteelSeries seems to take a lot of pride in the actuation and response time with these switches in general.Other ThoughtsOverall, the Apex Pro TKL does everything right, and I think it has no reason not to at its current price point. There are a few other things that I think are important to mention, but maybe aren’t central to the keyboard’s personality. The OLED display is pretty high tech, though I think it’s unnecessary for the overall experience of the user. It adds to the design for sure, but it’s not terribly easy to use, and I found myself fiddling with it for a while to understand how to work it, only to find that it only does a couple things such as control the actuation depth of the switches. It allows you to store a couple of different settings profiles, which is really nice for serious gamers, but not ideal for the average user as it may add further confusion. One thing that many people will likely find super important for their experience with the keyboard is the Bluetooth connection. First off, the keyboard can connect using integrated Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities, or a USB-C dongle that you can plug into your computer or laptop so if you don’t have built-in Bluetooth, not to worry! I’m not sure why they went with USB-C here over regular USB-A as I feel the former is still less common, but hey, that’s innovation. One thing that I personally find important in an all-purpose keyboard is the included Bluetooth profile switching, that allows you to quickly swap your connection between up to 3 paired devices. If you’re a user of multiple devices, this keyboard is perfect, thanks to this feature and its compatibility with Xbox, PC, Mac, and PlayStation. Thanks to this, I can switch between typing to my Xbox, laptop, and PC with the press of a button. In general, the connection is fast with little to no lag, pairing was extremely easy, and the keyboard exits sleep mode and reconnects to the device about as fast as you could expect from a wireless keyboard.Battery life doesn’t seem to be anything special, as I had to charge it after about one week, but that was with pretty regular use, as I’ve used it for much more than gaming in my time with it so far. I don’t have any complaints about it either way, due to the use that I put it through, and I’d be curious to see the amount of power that the OLED display draws on its own.ConclusionIn conclusion, the Apex Pro TKL is a highly recommendable high-budget keyboard for anyone who loves mechanical keyboards. The look and feel are absolutely top notch, and I really appreciate high build-quality in just about any tech products these days. It’s obvious that a lot of development and time at SteelSeries went into designing the Apex Pro TKL with its plethora of features and elegant display of high-end technology. In the end, the experience you will have with this keyboard is what you make of it, and I think it can be a great option for anyone who wants a durable, good-looking keyboard for all purposes.

The Huawei Watch Buds are two products in one, with the smartwatch hiding a pair of true wireless earbuds. I've worn them both, but couldn't live with them.

I recently got a new mini Bernedoodle puppy and he is cute and fun and adorable… except when he is whining in his crate. Unfortunately, this dude is the lightest sleeper I have ever shared a room with. If I wake up at 2:30am to reach for a drink of water, this dog is up and will cry until 3:00am. If he’s taking an afternoon nap in his crate and the TV is too loud, I’m bound to hear his cries through the walls.A great solution to this problem, as I have found, is using white noise. If I put on a white noise podcast he will nap for hours without interruption. However, putting on a podcast involves leaving my phone or laptop in his room during the only time when I’m not worried about keeping an eye on him.Naturally, the iLive White Noise Machine with Night Light seemed like the perfect gadget to try. This machine is a standalone white noise emitter that plugs into the wall. It’s just slightly taller than a 3rd generation Amazon Echo Dot, and has a ring that emits a soft light. Everything on the device is customizable with 25 different sounds to choose from, 10 different light colors, and 5 different timing options. With the iLive White Noise Machine on my bedside table, I hoped to put an end to the incessant cacophony coming from the bed of my 10-week-old, too-cute-to-do-any-wrong pup.Sound QualityThe first thing I wanted to see when I turned on the iLive White Noise Machine was that it would be loud enough to drown out any other sounds that may disturb my dog. I was very pleased to hear that this device can get plenty loud. It’s not just loud though. I would be happy to use it as quiet background noise while reading a novel, or as defense against my noisy neighbor’s late night jam sessions.The quality of sound coming from the speaker is nothing special, but I didn’t expect it to be. Background noise is not usually intended to be focused on. It gets worse above a certain threshold of volume, but unless you’re worried about counting the splashes of each individual raindrop on the pond at 80 decibels, it will probably serve you well.Night LightWhile the night light feature was not my draw to this product, I did find some use for it. My little puppy does go to sleep before I do, and leaving the night light on was a great way to be able to find my way to my own bed in the dark without using the flashlight on my phone. The warmer colors are very soothing, and I could them being used during meditation. The night light is also dimmable, so you can set it to the brightness of your choosing. In terms of brightness, I would say that it doesn’t fill up the whole 200 square feet of my bedroom, but keeps one corner pretty well lit.CustomizationLikely my favorite part of the iLive White Noise Machine is the number of customizable features. I loved being able to change the type of white noise I listened to from static to rainfall to piano music. The machine also allows the user to set the timer for the white noise to a predetermined number of hours or continuous. These features along with volume, brightness, and light color, really allow each user to customize their space however they want. (Also I should mention that it is possible to have both a light with no noise, and noise with no light).Ease of UseI have a hard time thinking about how this product could be any easier to use. It is very straightforward, and I don’t think I even looked at the instructions once. It plugs in, then the buttons are very intuitive. I suppose if there was one thing that I had to complain about it would be that you do have to scroll through all 25 sounds in a list going back and forth, but I think that’s rather picky.OverallAs a standalone white noise machine, the iLive White Noise Machine with Night Light completely met all my expectations. This little device does quite a good job of controlling the ambiance of a small, personal area. It has become a habit to use every time I go to bed, and my puppy sleeps better too.