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rifthy · 4 years ago

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JBL Reflect Mini NC TWS Review : Justify The Price?

We’re checking out the JBL Reflect Mini NC noise canceling earbuds, which feature the best bass heavy sound. That is sure to get you going, and you’re getting a really secure fit to match.

The companion app also allows some seriously impressive customization, specifically in the sound department, because the things you can do with this earbud is impressive but anyway, if you want to grab a pair from Amazon

Get the JBL Reflect Mini NC from Amazon Here

JBL Reflect Mini NC : Design and Build

Starting with physical features and design, and these buds are incredibly sturdy. You can definitely tell they’re designed with exercising in mind.

You just got basic smooth, hard plastics all around with a bit of a ribbed feel on the inside of the buds. And that JBL logo is also Reflective for a bit of nighttime visibility enhancement.

The indicator lights are also on the inside of the earbuds, so no unnecessary flashing. The buds are a little bit on the chunky side, but with that wingtip there, they’re incredibly secure, so you’re getting three sizes of wingtips and ear tips.

The mediums for both earbuds and wingtips work best for me, and this specific styling tip I find stays in my ear incredibly well.

So, no matter what you’re doing, weight, training, running, CrossFit, you’re going to be okay. There’s no way they’re going to fall out or even budge out of your ear. The ergonomics aren’t the best though I do get a bit of discomfort. This could be different for everyone, and this was also after trying all the extra ear tips and wingtips.

Even though the case is a bit chunky, it still feels really sturdy. Like the earbuds, it’s made of the same material with a bit of a grip to it, and the hinge here is also nice and sturdy for all.

If you like to use your buds when training, you get an ipx7 waterproof rating, so fine for sweat, splashes of water use in the rain, and you can also submerge the buds in water.

Design and Build

4/5

JBL Reflect Mini NC : Features

You’re getting Bluetooth 5.1 here, along with SBC and AAC codec, unsure if there’s Apt-X, you’re not getting multi-pairing. Still, you can use the left or right earbud individually, and this works in mono mode.

So you can hear both audio channels in one earbud.

Connection

Now, when you open the lid of the case, the earbuds will start to connect to your phone and do so really quickly in about four seconds and taking the earbuds in and out of the case is nice and seamless, and the magnets here are also nice and Strong

Features

4/5

JBL Reflect Mini NC : Controls

On to touch controls, and you can sort of control everything here, but you do need to make some sacrifices in the app.

So if you want to control volume, you have to sacrifice the ambient control. When you’ve got pairs like the Sennheiser momentum twos, Soundpeats t2, where you can control noise, canceling, and volume all at the same time. They could have done it better.

Apart from that sensitivity, here is decent. It’s not the best, but you are also getting some auto pause and play action when you take the earbuds out of your ear, which works seamlessly, and you can turn this on and off in the app as well

Which is really nice in case you don’t want to have it there.

And also, when you take one earbud out, the transparency mode will kick in your opposite earbud, so you don’t have noise canceling in one earbud, and it sounds kind of weird. You get subtle, beat feedback in the earbuds when adjusting all controls.

Controls

4/5

JBL Reflect Mini NC : App

Now I quickly touched upon the features that the app has to offer so on the main screen.

You have the battery life of the earbuds and the case, which is pretty handy to have. You have some ambient control, noise canceling options, and smart audio moves tab there, so you have a normal mode to provide the Best connection and audio mode for the best sound quality.

I found it didn’t make a huge difference, but it just tweaked everything up just a tiny bit, and you also have a video mode that works as a low latency mode.

But I found with the other modes in terms of latency on YouTube and Netflix tested on an iPhone 11, there were no issues with latency.

So the only reason you’d want to use that video mode is for gaming.

It actually does help quite a bit, and specifically, if you like, to play the first person, shooters you’ve also got an eq down there, which is really impressive

you’ve also got an auto power on and off feature, which is nice to have an auto pause and play voice assistant settings anc tuning,

So overall, really nice app. I like the UI, and it’s nice and snappy as well

Controls

4/5

JBL Reflect Mini NC : Sound

Let’s talk about the sound now, but starting with volume here, because at 100% volume, these bad boys crank, you really don’t need any more volume there.

If you’re looking for low level listening, you’re not really getting it here, but if you like to listen to podcasts or music at low volumes, there’s barely any white noise, which is nice all right onto the sound when it Comes to a sound signature this made for training

I feel like JBL has absolutely nailed it because you’re getting bass that hits incredibly deep, uh it’s, but it still has some incredible punch to it

This is the best bass response out of any earbud that I’ve tested and since the treble and mids are also just pushed forward really well, I feel like that adds to that punchy bass as well as instrumentation and vocals being right at the forefront of the Mix

you’re just getting incredible Clarity, no matter what genre you’re listening to now, you’re not getting the crispest or sparkly treble that you might see on like the Sony or the Sennheiser momentum twos, but you’re getting just enough to provide really lovely Clarity

this also doesn’t get too harsh at those high volumes and this mid-range and treble allows for some seriously impressive instrument separation in a sound stage that, considering the amount of bass you’re getting

These buds actually sound pretty similar to the Soundpeats H1, which is loud bass, heavy, but still retaining Clarity, earbud.

But on the H1 you kind of get a little bit crisper treble, but it’s the mid-range and the JBL that are pushed more forward and that bass is a lot punchier.

These still aren’t the bassiest bud, but you have pretty much unlimited customization when you jump into that eq.

I found the presets didn’t work for me. They didn’t really do anything just make your own presets and when you can pump that bass up a little bit, these sound.

JBL has nicely done and if you want to have a cleaner sound, just bring the bass down chuck the mids up in the treble, if you like, or if you don’t want that treble to be too harsh at those high volumes, bring It down a little bit.

And it all works really well. Just because that bass response gives you that nice heavy feel.

But it gives you so much punch that I’ve never really heard of in any other TWS. And it does so while still retaining some incredible clarity with all the instrumentation and the vocals as well.

You get an incredible instrument, separation, a nice amount of bass. All the horns and keys come through really well with that excellent treble response. That low end works really well, alongside the Clarity providing an excellent full sound.

These are the best to use with the hard stuff that nice direct, sound along with that great low end.

I was honestly not expecting the amount of Clarity you can get with the amount of low energy.

Sound

4.8/5

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JBL Reflect Mini NC : Noise Cancelling

noise Canceling now for the price you’re paying here. I was honestly expecting some better noise-canceling performance. Sometimes,

when I turn on the noise canceling and not even really notice a huge difference, this is mainly because the passive noise isolation on these buds is better than normal. After all, the earbuds are pretty chunky, and the ear tips a little bit wider than normal.

This provides really good passive noise isolation, So kind of combine this with the noise canceling, and you’re getting pretty decent noise canceling.

And when you can get pairs like the effort free pro or the soundpeats t2 at half the price with superior noise canceling I feel JBL needs to step up the game a bit.

A couple of pros, though there’s barely any cabin pressure, as well as that hissing sound. That is evident with noise, canceling, which is nice and, of course, with noise canceling comes your ambient mode, which isn’t the best here.

You can hear your voice quite well, but i feel like it just could have been a bit more amplified, but if you’re just like outdoor running and watching for traffic and that kind of stuff, you should be fine, all right.

So I forgot to talk about ANC tuning, but I found this didn’t change anything with the noise canceling really when playing around with it.

ANC

3.4/5

JBL Reflect Mini NC : Battery

Now in terms of battery life, You’re getting 7 hours from the earbuds and an additional two charges from the case, which brings the total up to 21 hours.

Even with the advertised battery life considering the size of the case, i was honestly expecting a little more. You are getting a fast charge, which 10 minutes of charge will give you an hour’s playback on the earbuds, there’s no wireless charging, but they do charge via USB type-c with the cable included.

On the front of the case, You have an led bar which looks pretty cool. It’s a little bit unique there.

It will let you know if you need to charge up your case and that’ll also stay lit up when your earbuds are charging in the case as well.

Battery

4.2/5

JBL Reflect Mini NC : Call Quality

All right, on to the microphone test, not excellent, but should honestly do the job for most phone calls

The microphones here are picking up my voice quite well.

Call Quality

4/5

Conclusion

The only main cons are the noise canceling not being the best and the fit not being incredibly comfortable.

That’s at least for my right ear that could be different for you.

Apart from that, these buds are absolutely killer, especially if you’re looking for training, bud, and they’re definitely worth checking.

Get the JBL Reflect Mini NC from Amazon Here

#jbl earphones #jbl #wireless earbuds #budget wireless headphones #wireless #ANC earbuds

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agilenano · 4 years ago

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Agilenano - News: The Best Wireless Earbuds of 2021

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. If you're looking for the best wireless earbuds you can buy, no matter which phone you own, you want Jabra's Elite Active 85t (available at Amazon for $199.99). They provide superb build quality, audio performance, usability, and noise canceling alongside comprehensive controls (for iPhone and Android) and a wide array of other top-flight features. This adds up to the most well-rounded buds in the business. As our sprawling list shows, however, there are a shocking amount of impressive wireless options, from Apple's indomitable AirPods Pro to more great options from Jabra, Samsung, Sony and others in a wide variety of styles and price points. We've tried out dozens of these babies, using both real-world and lab testing, and we're constantly testing new pairs to keep up with this rapidly evolving category. The rankings were extremely tight, and each pair has something to offer, so rest assured you'll find the perfect wireless earbuds below, no matter what you're into. These are the best wireless earbuds we tested ranked, in order: Jabra Elite 85t Apple AirPods Pro Jabra Elite Active 75t Sony WF-1000XM3 Panasonic RZ-S500W Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Samsung Galaxy Buds+ JBL Club Pro+ TWS Sony WF-SP800N Powerbeats Powerbeats Pro Google Pixel Buds Credit: Reviewed/Ryan Waniata The Jabra Elite 85t offer the best features, usability, and controls no matter which phone you choose. Best Overall Jabra Elite 85t True Wireless Jabra’s Elite 85t really have it all: smooth and balanced sound, impressive noise cancellation, comprehensive controls, a compact form factor, solid battery life, and a barrel full of other top-flight features, adding up to the best wireless earbuds around—whether you pledge your allegiance to Android or iPhone. Perhaps more than any one feature, it’s the open-style design of these earbuds that make them our favorite all-around bombers. While a more bulbous design means fit isn’t quite as secure as their Elite 75t predecessors, the Elite 85t's oval ear tips provide a proper seal without plugging up your ears. The innovative design means you won’t hear yourself chewing, walking, jogging, etc. in the same way as most earbuds, and yet music and noise canceling are intimate and effective respectively. This makes the Elite 85t direct competitors to Apple’s open-style AirPods Pro, but with more features for either side of the mobile aisle, and a more active-ready design to boot. Since they’re device agnostic, you can choose any of the major voice assistants (or none), and they offer all the controls you need (including volume control by default) for whichever mobile device you prefer. Speaking of controls, they’re customizable through Jabra’s excellent Sound+ app, allowing you to configure the buds’ two easy-push buttons how you see fit. Also customizable is noise cancelation and transparency mode, the latter of which is among the most natural-sounding you’ll hear on the market to keep you aware of your environment in style—again, a direct shot across the AirPods Pro bow. The word "natural" keeps coming up when using the Elite 85t, and it's a big key to their success. You can wear them for hours, even when you’re not listening to audio, and never miss a beat thanks to how seamlessly they transition between noise canceling and transparency mode; a few taps of the keys (even while wearing gloves) lets you slide between jamming out in solitude and striking up a conversation. Multi-point connection also makes it easy to switch between fun and work modes. As for downsides, the Elite 85t’s IPX4 water resistance rating means you can splash them but they’re not as weather-ready as their cousins, the Elite and Elite Active 75t earbuds (though they meet or beat almost all other similarly equipped competitors). As referenced above, the fit is also less stable than what you’ll get in purpose-built workout buds. There’s not much else to complain about, though, as these buds are about as well-rounded as they come. If you can afford their not-insignificant cost, you’ll be rewarded with good sound, great features, and the best usability on the market. Pros Outstanding features and design Rich, balanced sound Impressive noise canceling Cons Not as sport-friendly as other Jabra buds $199.99 from Amazon $229.99 from Best Buy $199.99 from Walmart Credit: Reviewed / Jackson Ruckar The Apple AirPods Pro are an unstoppable force, especially if you own an iPhone. Best For iPhone Apple AirPods Pro Apple's AirPods Pro take everything we love about the traditional AirPods and ramp things up a notch (or three). They sound better than all Apple earbuds before them, deliver excellent noise reduction, and add proper water-resistance (finally). What’s more, these are the first Apple earbuds with swappable silicone ear tips, making it easy for just about anyone to get a comfortable fit. While battery life is middling at 4.5 to 5 hours (Jabra's Elite 85t offer up to 7 hours without noise canceling), the pocket-friendly charging case holds multiple recharges for 24 hours total listening time. In addition, quick charging provides an hour of listening in just five minutes, so you'll rarely need to worry about dead earbuds. In our lab tests, we found the AirPods Pro’s noise cancellation was on par with pricier noise-canceling headphones, with a minimal hit to battery life. Their Transparency Mode is also among the most effective and natural-sounding we’ve experienced, allowing you to pipe in the outside world for those times you want to be aware of your surroundings. The call quality—which uses dual microphones plus digital distortion reduction—is also excellent. The design also makes them incredibly easy to pair, control, and wear. The AirPods Pro are pricey, but they offer enough of a meaningful upgrade that we think they’re worth it—especially for those who use iPhones—since they can be your go-to headphones for everyday use, long trips by train or plane, and even light workouts. It's for all these reasons the AirPods Pro are some of the most popular earbuds on the planet. Pros Active noise cancellation Silicon tips ensure a more comfortable fit Easy setup and syncing Cons Sub-par audio quality, given their price $199.99 from Amazon $249.99 from Best Buy $199.98 from Walmart $219.99 from Target Credit: Reviewed / Jackson Ruckar The Jabra Elite Active 75t are great for working out, and so much more. Best for Running Jabra Elite Active 75t The Jabra Elite Active 75t are a great set of wireless earphones for just about anyone. But they're particularly suitable for folks who spend a lot of time running or working out, thanks to their nimble design and their hearty, IP57-rated water and dust resistance, allowing you to safely rinse them off after a workout. The Elite Active 75t will net you nearly every bell and whistle you might be hoping for. You'll get everything from a finder function so you won't lose track of them to transparency mode, which allows you to hear the world around you so you can stay aware in nearly any situation. Jabra even released a firmware update that adds digital active noise cancellation to the impressive passive noise isolation, which helps make these already versatile buds all the more so. The Elite Active 75t sound decent, though their heavy, bass-forward sound signature won't be for everyone, and it might take some tinkering in the accompanying app to find an equalization setting that fits your playlist. Still, their sound performance will satisfy most casual listeners and power users alike, and it's bolstered by around 7 hours of battery life per charge (or around 5.5 hours with ANC). We also love the Elite Active 75t’s playback controls; their buttons are easy enough to press without needing much force, yet firm enough that they rarely get pressed accidentally. Jabra’s intuitive controls and customization (thanks to the loaded Jabra Sound+ app) make for one of the best user experiences in the true wireless game. One small point of caution: Their small size and rigid plastic design isn't a perfect fit for everyone, and they also may wear on those with smaller ears after a few hours—though that's the case with the majority of true wireless earbuds to some degree. All in all, the Jabra Elite Active 75t are a great pick for folks looking for superb performance, durability, and a well-rounded experience. In addition, if you don't see the need for your earbuds to be fully submerged in water—and you want to save a few bucks—the Elite 75t earbuds are nearly identical to their cousins, only with a less-rugged IP55 dust/water-resistance rating. Either way, you'll be getting a great pair of durable earbuds, armed for virtually any scenario you can throw at them. Pros Durable, dunkable design Sleek and small Loaded with features Cons Sound lacks balance Fit can be tricky $149.99 from Amazon $179.99 from Best Buy $188.00 from Walmart Credit: Reviewed/Jackson Ruckar The Samsung Galaxy+ Buds are exceptionally easy on the wallet and offer impressive fit and features. Best Value Samsung Galaxy Buds+ The winning follow-up to Samsung's original Galaxy Buds, the 2020 Samsung Galaxy Buds+ check off a lot of the right boxes where true wireless headphones are concerned, starting with their light and comfy design and incredibly long playback time, making for excellent usability—which is really what true wireless earbuds are all about. While they don't sound as good or have all the features of our top picks, the Galaxy Buds+ still sound plenty good, and their price has dropped significantly from their already low MSRP, making them among the most enticing buds on our list. Key Galaxy Buds+ features include transparency mode (which Samsung calls Ambient Sound), basic water resistance, Qi wireless charging for the case, a well-appointed app, onboard volume controls, and a whopping 11 hours of max playback per charge (and up to 22 hours total with the case). That's four more hours than the max playback time of Jabra's Elite 85t, and more than double the AirPods Pro, though you'll have to give up any form of noise cancellation in the bargain. In addition, we really enjoy the Galaxy Buds+'s simple and comfortable form factor, which adds rubberized grips alongside three sizes of ear tips for a secure fit. The buds and compact charging case are also available in multiple colors to suit your style or even match your phone. While they're only IPX2 rated for water resistance, it's enough to use them for modest workouts and in drizzling rain. This is the hill we're prepared to die on: these will be a better choice for most folks than the classic AirPods, especially if you use them alongside the minimalist and intuitive Samsung Wearables app. The only major drawback is that they don't work with older phones, so check those requirements before you pull the trigger. If you don't need noise canceling, but just want something affordable and versatile, the Galaxy Buds+ are your pick. Pros Great features for the price Flexible fit Long battery life Cons Occasionally tinny treble May not work with older phones $109.99 from Amazon $149.99 from Best Buy $99.99 from Walmart $109.99 from Target Credit: Reviewed/Ryan Waniata The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds offer the most tranquil earbud experience on the market. Best Active Noise Canceling Bose QuietComfort Earbuds It will come as no surprise to Bose fans that the QuietComfort Earbuds were designed from the ground up for one thing: brilliant active noise cancellation. On that front they succeed immensely, instantly offering best-in-class canceling alongside a premium design, clear sound, and a comfy and secure fit that keeps them in place under duress. In order to get those features, however, you’ll have to deal with a hefty price tag and some compromises elsewhere in the design, which is why these buds slip down in our overall ranking. Those compromises include extra-large earbuds that weigh around 50% more than the AirPods Pro and a chunky charging case that offers only two recharges for a relatively low 18 hours of total battery between buds and case, making them tougher to take along. On the other hand, we applaud Bose for adding onboard volume control to the earbuds about a month after release via swipes up and down on the right bud. In addition, the versatile Bose Music app allows you to adjust noise cancellation levels in multiple ways, the loudness of your own voice during phone calls, and other parameters (though we would have liked some form of EQ). While we wish Bose would have thrown in a bit more for your money, what you're really paying for is world-class noise cancellation, and that's exactly what you get. Simply put, if you want the best noise cancellation in the true wireless genre, it’s Bose or bust. Pros Class leading noise canceling Comfy, secure fit Tight, present audio Cons Chunky design Case has mediocre battery $279.00 from Amazon $279.00 from Best Buy $279.00 from Walmart $279.99 from Target How We Tested Credit: Reviewed.com / TJ Donegan True wireless earbuds all come with two individual buds—no wires between them—and a charging case. The Tests For this list, we focus on several key pain points that consumers typically run into when buying both wireless and “true wireless” earbuds: battery life, ease of use, controls, wireless range, sound quality, sound isolation, and comfort. For sound quality tests, we first put our earbuds through some basic audio tests in our labs in Cambridge, MA to give us data on a few things such as max volume, passive and active noise attenuation (including active noise cancellation), and how well each earbud blocked outside noise. From there, we used all the earbuds extensively, playing a wide variety of test tracks ranging from classical to hip-hop, rock, jazz, and more. The other features were all tested in real-life situations, including sweat proofing, short- and long-term comfort, battery life, microphone quality, and connectivity over distances and through obstacles like doors and walls. Perhaps the biggest missing link in all headphone reviews is durability. It's simply impossible for us to test a single pair and come to a meaningful conclusion about how well they'll hold up over time and with regular use (and abuse). To try to get at this issue, we did note any major issues that popped up in user reviews (where available), though this didn't impact the final scoring. The truth is that wireless earbuds across the board have struggled with durability, so this is a major cause of concern for us. Since some of these models are quite new, we are reserving the right to re-evaluate our conclusions as we become aware of any major issues as time goes on. What You Should Know About Headphones You've probably seen a bunch of different headphones in your everyday life, but what you may not realize is that headphones, while they have a number of different selling points, are primarily categorized into three types: in-ear (including all earbuds), on-ear, and over-ear. Credit: Reviewed Three popular types of headphones: in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear. Knowing the basic terminology of modern headphones is the best way to estimate what you need (or want) in a pair of headphones, which will guide you towards deciding how much to spend. Usually, if you have an idea of what style you're looking for, which features you want or need, and how you'll be using your new headphones, you can start to estimate how much you want to spend. If you don’t, our list should help you figure out what you do and do not want. For example, Sony's super-popular WH-1000XM3 headphones are Bluetooth (wireless) over-ears with Adaptive Noise Canceling. If you're not sure what all that means, read on to see which pair is right for you. Style: Deciding on one of the three common form factors—in-ear, on-ear, or over-ear—should be your first step. Generally, in-ear headphones are the most portable and convenient, over-ear headphones are the most comfortable, while on-ear headphones are somewhere in between. Check out our guide to the pros and cons of each form factor. Credit: Reviewed / Betsey Goldwasser Selecting a style of headphone comes down to many factors, including comfort, portability, and stylishness. Bluetooth/wireless: Do you want wireless headphones? A pair of Bluetooth headphones will let you unplug from your source device, while a set of "true wireless" earbuds are even more minimalist, offering totally wire-free listening. If you're looking for an experience that won't tether you to your phone, tablet, or laptop, Bluetooth headphones are what you need—and fortunately, they're ubiquitous enough these days that you can find them in every style and price range. Active Noise Cancellation: Noise-canceling headphones, i.e those with active noise cancellation (ANC) aren't just for frequent flyers. Originally developed for pilots, these headphones reduce the volume of ambient noise around you. Over the last several years they've become a mainstay for travelers, public transit commuters, gym-goers, and those working in distracting environments in the office or at home. If you already know you're looking for noise-canceling headphones, check out the best ones we've tested. Transparency mode: This feature goes by many names, including hearthrough mode, ambient sound mode, etc. All of these phrases refer to the same technology, which uses tiny microphones on the exterior of your headphones or earbuds to filter in sound from your environment. The purpose is to keep you aware of your surroundings, letting you play tunes while you jog or hike, while still being conscious of dangers or alerts. Not all transparency mode is created equal, though, and how a headphone’s hardware and software handle things like wind gusts can make a serious difference in the feature’s utility. Open-backed: Last but not least, this niche kind of over-ear headphone is a style that's especially preferred by people mixing and mastering audio. Unlike traditional "closed-back" headphones, open-back headphones have, literally, open backs, allowing some of the sound to escape into the room around you (and vice versa). While these headphones are primarily meant for audio professionals and audiophiles, it's worth knowing about them if only to decide if they're something you want to consider. Other Wireless Earbuds We Tested Sony WF-1000XM3 Our former pick for the Best Active Noise Canceling earbuds, Sony’s WF-1000XM3 are among the best wireless earbuds you can buy, full stop. Like their over-ear siblings the WH-1000XM3 and the newer WH-1000XM4, these fully wireless earbuds are loaded with tech, offer impressive sound, and have the ability to whisk away the outside world with some of the most powerful noise cancellation around. While their lack of water resistance make them a tough sell for gym rats, anyone who wants great sound and serious noise cancellation to complement the sheer convenience of fully wireless earbuds should consider these. Along with whisper-quiet noise canceling, the WH-1000XM3 offer solid battery life at 6 hours per charge with noise cancellation engaged, and 8 hours without it, with an extra three charges in the charging case for up to 24 hours total. In addition, Sony's powerful Headphones Connect app lets you customize a carousel of settings to make things just right for your listening habits. Perhaps best of all to value hunters, as they've hung around on the market, you can often find them on sale at a great price. With their impressive collection of features and stellar performance, the WF-1000XM3 are a fantastic option, packed with value. If you’re looking for the same mix of gorgeous sound, great features, and class-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) offered by Sony's stellar over-ear models—but in a tiny, wireless form factor—these are the earbuds for you. Pros Great sound quality Solid battery life Excellent noise canceling Cons Not water-resistant Finicky controls $178.00 from Amazon $178.00 from Best Buy $178.00 from Walmart $179.99 from Target Panasonic RZ-S500W Panasonic's RZ-S500W won our favor with a brilliant combination of great sound and top-notch noise canceling at a price that easily undercuts major competitors. Honestly, we utilize noise canceling more than any other true wireless feature as we're often wearing them for tasks like vacuuming or lawn mowing, which is why we're so taken with these relatively affordable buds. Whereas many wireless earbuds offer noise canceling as something of an afterthought, the RZ-S500W serve up powerful cancellation across frequencies for a comforting realm of sanctity from barking dogs, yelling kids, and much more. As noted, sound is also impressive, with a clear and mostly even sound signature that offers quality listening across musical genres, podcasts, and more. Panasonic’s app adds to the fun, letting you adjust everything from EQ to noise cancellation and transparency mode (AKA ambient sound mode, hearthrough mode, etc.) so you can choose exactly how much environmental sound you let in or keep out. With around 6 hours of playback per charge, the RZ-S500W sit directly in the middle of their biggest competitors in the ANC earbuds space, but at a lower price. That said, they do have a few drawbacks. For one thing, their charging case only holds two charges, meaning you’ll have to top it off more frequently than most rivals. On top of that, while we found the RZ-S500W quite comfortable, fit can be tricky due to their somewhat bulky design. Even when they're properly sealed, they tend to jostle during rigorous activities, making them a much better fit for your office (home or otherwise) than your daily jog. On the other hand, unlike Sony’s WF-1000XM3, the RZ-S500W offer IPX4 water resistance, allowing you to easily combat the elements. Add in their other generous features and the Panasonic RZ-S500W earbuds sit among our favorite earbuds to come out in 2020. We'll add that they're often on sale for far below their already low price point which, if you can snag it, makes them among the best value propositions in the space. Pros Excellent noise cancellation Clean, balanced sound Impressive feature set Cons Battery life is so-so Fit may be tricky for some $149.99 from Amazon $149.99 from B&H Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Pro are a shameless attempt to create a pair of earbuds just as special and impressive for Samsung phones as Apple’s AirPods are for iPhones. And the gambit worked pretty dang well. Samsung has loaded up a feature-packed pair of earbuds bespoke for the Samsung faithful that offer plenty for those outside the Samsung family, too. The big headliner for these earbuds is solid active noise cancellation, a first for Samsung’s true wireless buds if you don’t count the Galaxy Buds Live (and with ANC that weak you probably shouldn’t). But that’s just the beginning. They also offer adjustable ambient audio, which is boostable for super hearing, alongside a truckload of other popular features we expect in flagship earbuds, from the ability to use one bud at a time to a wireless charging case and a Find My Earbuds function. One particularly interesting feature is Voice detect, designed to pause ANC and engage ambient mode when you speak so you can keep in touch with those around you hands-free, though we found it can be overzealous at times. Most of the Galaxy Buds Pro’s top features will work for any phone once you download Samsung’s well-equipped Wear app. But Samsung didn’t stop there, offering a litany of extra features for the Samsung faithful, including auto-pairing, Bixby wakeup, and even a new 3D audio feature that’s saved for those with the Galaxy S21 and up. In other words, it pays to be heavily invested in Samsung’s ecosystem. Samsung does well to straddle both sides of that line, though, adding design traits everyone can enjoy such as class-leading water resistance (IPX7) and impressive, well-balanced sound that’s as good at bumping beats as it is carving out ultra-clear detail or serving up phone calls. There are some downsides, including a lack of volume control by default (you’ve got to swap out another function), a fit that can wear on the ears over time, and battery life that’s just so-so for 2021 (less than 5 hours per charge with ANC). In addition, so far we’ve found the case doesn’t charge the earbuds as quickly as advertised, meaning you’ll have to wait longer once you lose juice. That said, Samsung has created a winner here thanks to a well-rounded feature list, impressive audio performance, and a great price that make its Galaxy Buds Pro instant contenders—especially if you’re toting around a new Samsung phone. Pros Powerful, nuanced sound Plenty of features Stylish, micro-sized design Cons No separate volume Pedestrian battery life Sluggish charging $199.99 from Amazon $199.99 from Best Buy $199.99 from Target $199.99 from B&H Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 Sennheiser’s new-and-improved Momentum, the Momentum 2 True Wireless offer the best sound in the category, though their amazing performance comes with a hefty price tag. First, the good stuff: The Momentum True Wireless 2 serve up a rich, dynamic listening experience regardless of genre, thanks in part to their mild (but relatively effective) active noise cancellation. In fact, they sound so good that you might find yourself discovering sonic details in songs you thought you knew like the back of your hand. Listening to music on the Momentum 2 is an altogether inviting experience, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better sounding pair of wireless earbuds of any kind in 2020. They also offer desirable features like transparency mode for environmental awareness alongside their basic active noise cancellation. Compared to the original Sennheiser Momentum, the Momentum 2 offer a vastly improved selection of touch controls on the outside of each earbud. And as a bonus, Sennheiser’s Smart Control app has also improved, making the customization experience painless and surprisingly granular, allowing you to change up the controls in any configuration. With Bluetooth 5.0, they also offer a better wireless connection overall. There are a few drawbacks should you decide to shell out the dough for a pair. For one thing, while the Momentum 2 True Wireless offer better battery life than their predecessor, they top out at around seven hours (or a little over five with noise cancellation enabled), which is better than Apple's AirPods Pro, but less than we'd like for their price point. In addition, the Momentum 2 aren’t quite as durable as some of the more affordable true wireless earbuds we’ve tested, and while they're relatively easy to use, the interface isn't quite as dead-simple as Apple's AirPods Pro. Still, if you value high-quality sound first and foremost, and you've got the means, Sennheiser's Momentum 2 are a fantastic pick. They’re better than their predecessor and stand toe-to-toe with our top picks in a wide range of categories. Pros Glorious sound Noise cancellation Customizable controls Cons Battery could still be better Not as rugged as we'd like $249.98 from Amazon $299.98 from Best Buy $249.95 from Walmart $299.95 from B&H Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Klipsch’s second generation of true wireless earbuds are just as stylish as the company’s first pair, the original T5, but with some impressive upgrades. What hasn’t changed here is the sound, which is among the best in the category. The T5 II offer clear, detailed sound that’s as dynamic as it is engaging, alongside crystal clear phone calls. The new buds offer plenty of handy features such as comprehensive controls (including onboard volume control), a light and comfy fit, top-notch dust and water resistance (IP67), and a Zippo-like metallic case that's as robust as they come but still fits perfectly in your pocket. There are a few downsides, of course (otherwise they’d be our top pick, right?). Those include a lack of some sought after features like active noise cancellation and a wireless charging case. In addition, the controls can be finicky. That said, these earbuds won our hearts with a simple and stylish design that's easy to take along, and some of the best sound in the genre. If sound is your top concern, and you don’t want to spring for the much pricier Sennheiser Momentum 2, you’ll want to give the T5 II a long look. Pros Clear, vividly detailed sound Great style, fit, and finish Good battery life Cons Some controls are finicky Missing some features $199.00 from Amazon $199.00 from Best Buy $199.00 from Walmart $199.00 from B&H JBL Club Pro+ TWS The Club Pro+ TWS mark JBL's most serious foray into the true wireless space. While these aren't exactly revolutionary, JBL does deserve kudos for how many of the right boxes the Club Pro+ TWS check off. At the end of the day, however, while they're a jack of all trades, they also fall a bit short of mastery. You'll find an agreeable list of features here, including robust sound quality, decent noise canceling, standard battery life at around 6 hours per charge, and ample customizability thanks to JBL's dedicated My Headphones app. We also found ourselves impressed with the hyper-compact design of the charging case—it's small enough to fit right in the palm of your hand. And while multiple ear tip options, an IPX4 rating, and USB-C quick charging don't exactly make for exciting extras, it's good to see JBL taking the proper cues from its forebears in the true wireless space. For what you're paying, the Club Pro+ TWS are, simply put, a solid product. But that's also their weakness: they aren't the best-sounding buds on the list, nor do they cancel noise as effectively as competitors like Bose and Sony. Yet they stand head and shoulders above many options in this price range, and are flexible enough in terms of potential use cases that the average listener won't have any complaints. In many ways, this lack of exaggerated ability is what gives the Club Pro+ their attractively mid-range price point, making them potentially a great fit for listeners who want to save money without sacrificing features. Sony has been on a roll in the true wireless space lately. Whether it's the company’s value-packed, bass-thumping WF-XB700 or the noise-squashing WF-1000XM3, Sony has proven its formula is working. The fact that some of these pairs have slipped down a few notches in our rankings in recent months is more a testament to the rabid competition in the space than anything inherently wrong with these buds. The WF-SP800N are formidable earbuds in their own right, offering an embarrassment of features for their price point, along with impressive sound, a strong and stable connection, and a sporty, water-resistant design—something the flagship WF-1000XM3 buds don’t have. Packing everything from light noise cancellation and transparency mode to automatic audio adjustment and Bluetooth 5.0, the SP800N are impressively well-appointed for their price point—especially since you can often find them on sale. They're also highly adjustable thanks to Sony's Headphones Connect app, including a five-band EQ with a separate bass control so you can easily pull back (or ramp up) their booming "Extra Bass" feature. As for negatives, the SP800N’s noise cancelation is nothing to write home about, the buds are fairly bulky, and the charging case stores only one extra charge, though their 9 hours of playback per charge makes this more palatable. In addition, we found a tear in one of the silicone ear fins after just a few days (though, as we've yet to hear about other reviewers running into this issue, we're hoping it was just a rogue bad fin). Because of their fins, it can also be a pain to put them in and take them out. Their incredible playback time of 9 hours on a single charge with noise cancellation—and a whopping 13 hours without it—helps make up for their charging case's shortcomings. Add in their wealth of other features and the SP800N are steeped with value, making them a great choice if you're looking for action-ready sports buds. For more info, check out our full review of the WF-SP800N. Pros Good sound quality Sleek design Highly customizable Cons No on-set volume controls So-so noise canceling $169.99 from Best Buy $199.95 from B&H Beats Powerbeats (4th Gen) The 4th-gen Beats Powerbeats are basically the same headphones as the Powerbeats Pro—they simply aren't "true wireless," featuring a small cable that runs between the two buds and behind your neck. However, what you're sacrificing by way of true wireless freedom, you're making up for in price. People love the Powerbeats Pro, but they're often just too darn expensive (at full price anyway) for many budgets. The Powerbeats are a great stand-in, priced well below the Powerbeats Pro's suggested retail price, and their price tag is only falling. Not only that, but you'll also get longer battery per charge (though there's no charging case for a top-off). Outside of the wire situation, Powerbeats fans will be very glad to know that the connected Powerbeats sound just as good as the "Pro" model, and offer similar levels of flexibility and style (i.e., they come in a bunch of colors). Like other Beats headphones, their sound profile is still bass-forward, but it’s thankfully restrained here for excellent clarity. As you’d expect for fitness headphones, the Powerbeats are also sweat- and water-resistant so you won’t have to worry about going for the gusto, while a three-button control system present on both earbuds makes it easy to use them with just one earbud at a time. They also offer shockingly good connection quality that outdoes their siblings, as well as any other true wireless earbuds we've ever tried. Seriously, they've got such good range you may actually forget where you put your phone. These are an excellent addition if you've been after the workout-ready, sound-forward style of the original Powerbeats Pro but don't want to shell out that much cash. Heck, if you don't mind the addition of one little wire, there's really no reason not to buy these instead. Pros Incredible wireless range Clear, powerful sound Workout ready Cons No transparency mode Ear hooks can get uncomfortable $119.00 from Walmart $119.00 from B&H Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro Priced similarly to Apple's AirPods Pro, the Beats Powerbeats Pro are impressive true wireless earphones in their own right. Though they've lost some luster in recent years with heated competiton, they offer impressive playback time per charge, great sound, and a durable, sporty design. They're relatively stylish (as you might expect from Beats), available in ivory, black, navy, or moss colors, and feature adjustable ear hooks to help keep them in your ears during just about any workout. Like the Powerbeats, they offer great water resistance and vastly improved sound quality over previous Beats earbuds, making them a good choice for general use, though their ear-hook design can get uncomfortable over time. Like virtually all true wireless earphones, they come with a pocketable charging case (thanks to their ear hooks, it’s a lot larger than most), but their impressive 9 hours of battery life per charge allows you to leave the case behind. The Powerbeats Pro are less minimalist than Apple's AirPods, and come at a premium price point—especially for headphones that don’t include active noise cancellation or even any form of transparency mode, which makes them less-than-ideal for jogging in busy areas. Because of their Apple-first design, they're also not as good an option if you own an Android phone. Their price point has also dropped a fair bit over time, though, and if you’re looking for fitness first, the top Beats earbuds are a fine choice, especially if you find them on a good sale. Pros Water-resistant Available in a number of colors Long battery life Cons Bass-forward sound not for everyone Ear hooks can be uncomfortable $199.95 from Amazon $198.00 from Walmart $199.99 from Target $199.95 from B&H Google Pixel Buds (2020) Google’s first Pixel Buds were kind of a mess. They were tethered by an odd cable, packed in a terrible case, and had a fit as awkward as their sound. With a full overhaul for 2020, the new Pixel Buds are leaps and bounds above their predecessor, and that starts with their new minimalist design. Nimble, and bearing a built-in rubberized wing to keep them in place and flush with your ears, the 2020 Pixel Buds are both comfy and stylish. The egg-shaped charging case is equally stylish, with a pocket-ready form factor, wireless charging, and a unique look that takes cues from Apple’s AirPods and AirPods Pro, yet stands on its own. The Pixel Buds also offer clear sound—though the midrange and bass could definitely use some more oomph—and features like Find My Earbuds via the app, and even voice wake up for Google Assistant. There are reasons the Pixel Buds aren’t higher on this list, however. While the feature set isn’t exactly austere, the Buds leave out desirable features like Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode, instead going with Adaptive Sound, Google’s answer to noise control. Designed to turn the earbuds up when you’re in a busy area, Adaptive Sound didn't impress in testing, offering modest adjustment that was only noticeable when blasting extremely loud noises nearby. The earbuds have also dealt with a lot of bugs, including spotty call quality, occasional swapping of the stereo image and, reported connectivity troubles. This latter issue may be due to the Pixel Buds’ small size (and therefore small antennas) but it’s not something we expect in earbuds at this price point. Not for nothing, while their 5 hours of battery playback (plus 20 in the case) is fine, it’s also exactly what Apple offered in its original AirPods four years ago, and nearly all newer buds at this price offer more playback time. That said, if you love the Pixel Buds’ design (which we do) and don’t mind throwing the dice on some occasional bugs and connectivity issues, they’re a stylish and comfortable way to go, and still offer better sound and features than Apple’s standard Airpods. Pros Sleek and compact design Comfy fit Clean, effervescent sound Cons Slightly buggy performance No transparency mode Poor call quality $179.99 from Best Buy $179.00 from Walmart $179.99 from Target $179.00 from B&H Additional Wireless Earbuds Options The original Apple AirPods are still the same great, easy-to-use option they've been for years, and that's exactly why they didn't make our ranked list. Frankly you can do a lot better for sound, features, and durability for your money these days, but they're still a good buy if you really want Apple's signature white buds and don't want to pay up. Get Apple's AirPods from Amazon Samsung's Galaxy Buds Live are an intriguing concept that never quite took off with us, mainly because the fit just never worked and their feature set is less than expected for the price. That said, they look cool and have decent sound quality so if you think the fit works for you they could be worth a try. Gest Samsung's Galaxy Buds Live from Amazon Sony's WF-XB700 are perfectly respectable earbuds that simply didn't have what it takes to make our top picks due to a somewhat awkward design and a bass-first profile. That said, they're a great price (especially on sale) and could be a fantastic fit for those looking for a name brand on a budget. Get the Sony WF-XB700 from Amazon Jabra's Elite Active 65t were among the first quality true wireless earbuds to offer something for nearly everyone, whether you're more comfortable at the gym or lounging in your backyard. They've been outdone by sleeker, smaller options over the years, but their price has also dropped accordingly. Get Jabra's Elite Active 65t from Amazon Bose'sSoundsport Free are getting long in the tooth and offer a bulbous fit, but they do provide fantastic sound. If you can get them on a good sale, they may be worth the investment. Get the Bose SoundSport Free from Amazon For those serious about sound, Shure's SE215 present a unique way to go wireless (or wired thanks to their breakaway design) without sacrificing sound quality, allowing you to swap for a wired or wireless cable. The real headline? These are some of the best-sounding earbuds at their price point. Get the Shure SE215 from Amazon The Phiaton Curve BT 120 NC headphones offer an impressive collection of features for their price point. The Curve boasts quick charging, very sturdy materials, and a vibrating neckband design that

Agilenano - News from Agilenano from shopsnetwork (4 sites) https://agilenano.com/blogs/news/the-best-wireless-earbuds-of-2021

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hightechdad · 4 years ago

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As we all work remotely now or are using online video apps like Webex, Zoom, or Teams, having a good headset for hours upon hours of talk and listen time is critical. If your headset is heavy, extended wearing time weighs down on you, literally. Or if you need to hear your surroundings, like while being at home or while driving, having earbuds can severely restrict your hearing. That’s why, when I got the opportunity to review the AfterShokz OpenComm bone conduction Bluetooth headset, I was intrigued by many of its innovative features. It’s truly not like any other headset you may have used in the past! (*Disclosure below.) I have tested many different types of headsets and earbuds in the past. Some are fantastic for commuting, where they fully block out all of the ambient noise. Others have had ANC (Active Noise Cancelling), which drowns out other types of background noise. Others are great for gaming, and while they are light-weight (and actually quite good for extended video conference calls), they are big and bulky and don’t really look “professional.” Then I tried the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth headset, and I suddenly have a new favorite headset for all of my video conferencing needs. The AfterShokz OpenComm’s have a truly unique design and solve similarly unique use cases. Do note, these might not be perfect for you. You need to understand that using the OpenComm headset, your ears are NOT obstructed in any way. There is nothing that physically covers your ear or goes into your ear. Sound is transmitted by something called “bone conduction,” which I will go into later. So this headset might not be good for just jamming out to music (personally, I would prefer using earbuds or a headset). But for video conferencing or phone calls, I’m sold! What is Bone Conduction? The AfterShokz OpenComm uses a technology called Bone Conduction to transmit sounds. It is not a new technology. It’s been around for quite a while and is used by other types of headsets or earbuds. AfterShockz seems to have done a fairly good job incorporating it into their product line as other headsets use it as well. According to AfterShokz, they are using 7-generation bone conduction technology, which, in my mind, means it is fairly mature. And, I should state, there are plenty of people who love as well as dislike this technology. So how does it work? Essentially, these types of headsets have their “speakers” that rest on the wearer’s cheekbones. While traditional headsets transmit sound waves that cause the eardrum to vibrate, with bone conduction, those sound waves are instead transmitted through the cheekbone, effectively bypassing the eardrum and going directly to the cochlea. The cochlea is “the spiral cavity of the inner ear containing the organ of Corti, which produces nerve impulses in response to sound vibrations.“ Here is where you can decide whether you love or don’t love bone conduction. As I mentioned before, it truly depends on your use case. After testing out the AfterShokz OpenComm headset, I can strongly say that I would NOT use it for listening to music. You do lose fidelity, and the lows (like the bass) are almost non-existent. That being said, for spoken words, like listening to a podcast or participating in an audio or video conference call, I feel that the AfterShokz OpenComm are ideal, and not just because the bone conduction technique works great for that use case. It’s because of the other features and design of the OpenComm headset. When you first use the AfterShokz OpenComm and experience the bone conduction in action, it may be a bit surprising. It actually does work, and, even though this is essentially an “open ear” headset, those around you cannot really hear the audio coming from the headset (unless you crank up the volume all the way to 11). And a funny side note about high volume and bone conduction. To get high volume, the headset has to vibrate more intensely. When you put it at high volume, the “speakers” actually vibrate so much on the OpenComm, that they actually tickled my cheekbones where they rested. You will feel the vibrations (obviously) at lower levels, and sometimes it takes a little getting used to. A Well Thought Out Design Let’s talk a little bit about the design of the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth headset. It’s my belief that AfterShokz wanted to create a headset that could be worn for extended periods of time. So that is how I actually tested it. First, there is the USB magnetic charger, which can plug into your USB Type-A port. This (proprietary) cord has two magnets that connect to the headset itself and hold it in place while it charges. Don’t lose this cord as you will have to order one specifically from AfterShokz – they are non-standard. I simply charged the headset over-night. But you can get a full charge quite quickly – about one hour. And how long does a battery charge last? According to AfterShokz, you can have up to 16 hours of talk time or 8 hours of listening time! That’s impressive. So at the beginning of my work-from-home day, I put the headset on. Since it is Bluetooth, it is cord-free. The headset does rest over your ears, but not in them. And the “speaker” (the bone conduction part) presses lightly on your cheekbones. A band connects the two “speakers” behind your head. I left the AfterShokz OpenComm headset on my head and connected to my MacBook Pro via Bluetooth all day. I conducted several video conference calls and left them on my head for the full 10-hour workday. I even wandered around my home to test the range of the Bluetooth. Before I go into the usage and performance results, let me tell you a bit more about the design. For starters, I need to highlight the weight of the AfterShokz OpenComm headset. It weighs only 33 grams! Let me translate that into what that really means. It is so light-weight, after time, you barely notice that you are wearing it. To me, this is an incredibly important spec. If a headset is too heavy, you will take it off. I literally left the OpenComm’s on my head the entire day and have been for several days for work hours. Some other quick, yet important specs: It uses Bluetooth 5.0It has a wireless range of about 33 feet (which I can attest to)It has a water-resistant rating (IPP55)Standby time is about 14 daysCharge time is about 1 hourThe mic is DSP Noise-Cancelling But all specifications aside, how well does the headset work for working at home or in noisy environments? Thoughts on using the AfterShokz OpenComm headset I have now used the AfterShokz for a couple of weeks. I have done several video calls, even ones where I asked the other participants how well I sounded. It’s important to find headsets that both sound good to you (using the speakers) and sound good to those listening to you (because of the Mic). The open-ear design might not be good for people who really want to focus and not be distracted by external sounds. However, I can think of plenty of use cases where hearing your surroundings is critical. As we work from home, that also means that we may have kids or other family members that we need to listen out for. With earbuds or headsets, that can be a tricky thing to do. You might not hear everything that is happening. With the AfterShokz OpenComm’s, you CAN hear everything AND hear what is going on on your calls. A similar use case is for those who drive for a living or frequently have to drive and be on the phone. In many states, it is actually illegal to have earbuds in both ears. And equally illegal is actually holding or using your smartphone. The OpenComm headset is perfect for both of these driving requirements. You physically have nothing in your ears obstructing you from hearing your surroundings, but you can also do hands-free calling. My understanding is that many truck drivers like using these (coupled with the long battery life). But let’s talk about the microphone. There is nothing worse than having a headset that doesn’t have a good mic. Either the audio quality that is transmitted is bad, or it picks up all of the ambient noise around you. The AfterShokz OpenComm has an adjustable Digital Signal Processing (DSP) boom microphone, which actually uses two built-in mics to eliminate background noise. My wife helped me test this out while I was on a video call with a work colleague. She stood about four feet away from me and had a regular (and then louder) conversation with me. My work colleague could not hear anything that she said and only heard my spoken voice. So, overall, very successful test. Lots of Button Actions The one thing that my old brain hasn’t gotten its head around yet are the multiple actions you can take with the three buttons. There are two volume buttons (which serve other purposes) and a multifunction button. To turn the AfterShokz on or off, you simply press and hold the plus volume button. You will get voice prompts when you do this action. To pair on Bluetooth, once the OpenComm headset is turned on, you press and hold the plus button again to enter pairing mode. I was able to successfully pair to both my iPhone and my MacBook Pro (but I primarily use the MBP for all of my calls). The OpenComm’s remember that I last connected with the MBP, so it automatically tries to reconnect with that. The Bluetooth range, as I mentioned, is actually quite good. I can wander around my home and still remain connected to my Mac. If I go out of range, I get a beep indicating the connection has been lost. Normally, when I get back within range, the OpenComm’s reconnect automatically. Sometimes, however, I do have to press the multifunction button to force a reconnect (if I have been disconnected for a long time but the headset is still powered on). The multifunction button serves a variety of purposes, including answering and ending calls, play/pause (single click), next song (double-click), previous song (triple-click), and more. You can also do other standard call functions by holding the button. And, if you are on standby, you can activate the voice assistant by holding the multifunction button for 2 seconds. Your hand simply has to get used to finding the buttons and pressing them appropriately. The Price of Open Listening Hopefully, this review gives you a good understanding of how the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth headset works and performs. Again, it might not be a solution for everyone. Your ears are NOT covered, so you DO hear all of the sounds around you. But, the audio quality, particularly for spoken words (like conference calls and conversations), is quite good. Again, I probably wouldn’t use the OpenComm headset for pure music listening through. So what will this technology set you back in terms of price? The AfterShokz OpenComm headset retails for $159.95 on the AfterShokz website. And you can pick it up on Amazon currently for the same price of $159.95. You do also get a nice zippered carrying case to protect your investment! Shop on HighTechDad The product shown below (and related products that have been reviewed on HighTechDad) is available within the HighTechDad Shop. This review has all of the details about this particular product and you can order it directly by clicking on the Buy button or clicking on the image/title to view more. Be sure to review other products available in the HighTechDad Shop. AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headset $159.95 Buy on Amazon Overall, I was quite impressed with the comfort of the AfterShokz OpenComm headset. Being that it was extremely lightweight, you can wear them for hours. Also, with an impressive battery life of eight hours of listening time and 16 hours of talk time, this headset is ideal for your work-from-home environment. I often forget that I’m actually wearing the OpenComms. Disclosure: I have a material connection because I received a sample of a product for consideration in preparing to review the product and write this content. I was/am not expected to return this item after my review period. All opinions within this article are my own and are typically not subject to the editorial review from any 3rd party. Also, some of the links in the post above may be “affiliate” or “advertising” links. These may be automatically created or placed by me manually. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item (sometimes but not necessarily the product or service being reviewed), I will receive a small affiliate or advertising commission. More information can be found on my About page. HTD says: If you are looking for a Bluetooth headset for an environment where you must hear your surroundings (like driving), or you want a headset for video or conference calls that is extremely light-weight, the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth Bone Conduction headset should be at the top of your list!

https://www.hightechdad.com/2021/02/08/headset-works-around-your-ears-not-in-them-aftershokz-opencomm-bluetooth-headset-review/

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tech-battery · 5 years ago

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AirPods versus AirPods Pro — Apple's wireless earbuds compared

Apple's just-launched AirPods Pro are certain to be a desirable audio accessory this holiday season, but how different is it from the existing second-generation AirPods? AppleInsider runs the numbers on both sets of wireless earphones.

Launched on Monday and shipping from October 30, the AirPods Pro are a premium alternative to the existing and already highly-coveted AirPods. The key change for this version is the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation, but there's far more changes to the model from what's available in its predecessor.

Physical

The AirPods Pro are best described as shorter and squatter than the AirPods, having a shorter height of 1.22 inches against 1.59 but measuring wider and deeper at 0.86 by 0.94 inches against 0.65 by 0.71 inches. To external viewers, the main difference is the stem of the AirPods Pro is a fair bit shorter than for the AirPods, which is their biggest clue as to which version is being worn.

The short and squat changes also apply to the case, which measures 1.78 inches in height and with a width and depth of 2.39 inches and 0.85 inches respectively. The case for the AirPods is, again taller at 2.11 inches but not as wide at 1.74 inches, and with a comparable 0.84 inches in depth.

If the AirPods Pro case is rotated so it is on its side against the upright AirPods case, there's not much difference at all, with the Pro being generally slightly smaller in terms of overall volume. Just like the AirPods Pro, the case is also slightly heavier at 1.61 ounces, versus 1.41 ounces for the AirPods case.

Another big difference is the AirPods Pro use of additional silicone tips that can be switched between three different sizes to give an optimal fit to the ear cavity, something not offered by AirPods. Apple claims the fit helps provide an "exceptional seal for Active Noise Cancellation" to function optimally.

This arguably also accounts for the additional width of the AirPods Pro, and with the shifting of internals up into the earbud, this allows Apple to reduce the length to something that is less obvious.

Similar Functionality

The core functionality of both the AirPods and AirPods Pro are the same, mostly due to the use of Apple's H1 headphone chip in both models. The chip drives the connectivity with an iPhone or another device, as well as enabling voice-activated Siri, with Apple boasting it also reduces audio latency for gaming by up to 30 percent.

The built-in optical sensors and motion accelerometers work together to manage the audio experience, such as turning on the microphones for calls and for Siri, and for turning each AirPod on to play sound when it is placed in an ear. Taps of each earphone can be used to control music playback or answer a phone call, instead of needing a verbal Siri request to do so or to access the connected device hosting the audio feed.

The speech-detecting accelerometer is able to recognize when the user is speaking then, in concert with the beamforming microphones, can filter out external noise to try and focus on the user's voice for clearer audio.

The Big Difference: Active Noise Cancellation and Adaptive EQ

The main change potential AirPods owners will care about is Active Noise Cancellation, which is available on the AirPods Pro but not the AirPods. As with other noise-cancelling systems, the AirPods detects external sound to determine environmental noise, then creates an equivalent "anti-noise" to cancel it out before it reaches the user's ear.

The AirPods Pro include an extra microphone that is inward-facing, which listens towards the ear. Any remaining noise that is detected by the microphone is then dealt with in a similar way, further enhancing the ANC effect.

According to Apple, this process is performed 200 times per second.

Due to the use of an effective ANC as well as using the vented silicone tips that seal the ear canal, a Transparency mode is offered in the AirPods Pro that can let users hear the environment while still listening to music, making it safer for wearers to hear traffic or other potential hazards while out and about.

The system is similar to ANC in that it detects the environmental noise and processes it, but instead it reduces the volume.

The included Force sensor, new to AirPods Pro, is used to switch between the full ANC and Transparency modes, though it also helps assist with other tapping actions.

The introduction of Adaptive EQ also promises to make music better for users, by automatically tuning the low and mid-range frequencies of the music to the shape of the individual's ear. This, combined with a custom high dynamic range amplifier and a high-excursion, low-distortion speaker driver providing rich bass down to a level of 20Hz, promises to offer a great audio experience.

Power and Sweat

Both versions offer similar levels of power usage, though with ever so slight differences. While both are capable of up to 5 hours of music listening from a single charge, this drops slightly to 4.5 hours for the AirPods Pro when used with ANC. For talk time, the AirPods Pro come out on top with 3.5 hours to the AirPods 3 hours.

Wen used with the charging cases, Apple claims both models offer "More than 24 hours of listening time" in total, and "Up to 18 hours of talk time."

The specifications for charging the AirPods advise 15 minutes in the case will provide up to three hours of listening time. For the AirPods Pro, this is instead described as 5 minutes of charging resulting in around 1 hour of listening, making the two roughly comparable on that metric.

Apple also goes out of its way to state the AirPods Pro offer a level of sweat and water resistance, specifically at an IPX4 rating, whereas there is no mention of the feature for AirPods. It is likely that the additional silicone tips offer enough purchase to make the AirPods Pro more suitable for activities like running and working out, whereas the AirPods' slightly less secure seating make them less useful in that regard.

A Decent Upgrade

In theory, the AirPods Pro are the easy choice among the pair if someone wants to buy wireless earphones to go with their iPhone. The addition of ANC to the device makes it a no-brainer for people who hate having to deal with environmental noise and other distractions, while the Transparency mode still makes the user aware in situations where they need to pay attention.

As all other elements are largely the same, it becomes a question of whether the extra price is worth it for these additional functions. Considering other headphones with ANC can command a significant premium on top of non-ANC versions that can run to well over $100 in some instances, paying an extra $50 for the same thing in AirPods is actually quite reasonable.

This is of course in comparing the AirPods with Wireless Charging Case against the AirPods Pro, which uses a similar wirelessly-charged case. The price difference rises to $90 when comparing the lowest cost AirPods at $159 with the non-Wireless version of the Charging Case, but seeing as you gain the Wireless Charging Case as part of the upgrade as well, it's still worth going for it.

First-generation AirPods users looking to replace theirs may also want to opt for the AirPods Pro instead of going for the second-generation AirPods, though both they and second-generation model users may prefer to stick to their existing units instead of upgrading if they don't value ANC that much.

Where to Buy

AirPods Pro will be available only in white for $249 and are available to order from B&H, or Apple directly in the US and more than 25 other countries and regions. AirPods Pro will start shipping on October 30 and be available in stores beginning later this week. Apple's 2019 AirPods refresh remains available.

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kobikoachman · 8 years ago

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I believes that Fashion and Technology go hand in hand, especially nowadays that technology gadgets are in everyone’s life, they need each other – Mr. Kobi

Try imagining your life without technology…one word describes it “Nightmare”

Technology gadgets such as smart phones, laptops, home sound systems are everywhere, they add fun and convenience to our lives. These gadgets have now become essential accessories (and some of them fashion accessories) in everybody’s life … something we can’t do without.

If you choose not to invest in them, your everyday life including your work life could be so boring and slow. Invest in a good quality gadget and you’ve got yourself a true “partner” that can help speed up your work, improve your lifestyle as well as help you make a good first impression at all times – this will ultimately increase your chances of building success through your style. Something we are very passionate about here at MR KOACHMAN.

Here is our list of best lifestyle and technology gadgets that every classy gentleman should own, choose the perfect one for your unique lifestyle among these great picks.

READ: TOP 13 QUALITIES THAT MAKE YOU A CLASSY GENTLEMAN

9 Technology Gadgets Every Classy Gentleman Should Own

No 1: LAPTOP

Every gentleman needs a laptop that is fast, light, sleek and classy. Here are 4 suggestions to choose from. Make your choice based on your brand preference and your budget. Don’t forget to get a stylish sleek Case to protect your Laptop.

Apple MacBook – This is the lightest and most compact Mac notebook ever. It is the perfect choice for the man who loves a light, sleek and fast machine

Apple Mac Book Pro – This is my personal favorite. It’s faster and more powerful than the old MacBook Pro, yet remarkably thinner and lighter. It has the brightest, most colorful Mac notebook display ever

HP Spectre – This is design and technology taken to a whole new level. If you are not a fan of Apple, then you can take a look at HP Spectre. This luxurious laptop is completely irresistible.

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 – If you are a Microsoft fan or if you need a powerful tool that deliver an ideal balance of craftsmanship, performance and versatility.

Apple Macbook

Apple Macbook Pro

HP Spectre

Microsoft Surface Pro 4

ALSO READ: TOP 15 CARS FOR STYLISH GENTLEMEN

No. 2: A Classy Smartphone + Good Case

There’s no gadget more fashionable than a smartphone. It’s like a mini computer. With your smartphone you would be able to do a lot of things from writing notes, planning your schedules, carrying out financial transactions, reading interesting news and ebooks and enjoying a wide variety of games. Great choices are:

iPhone 7 or iPhone 7Plus – Enhanced cameras, fast performance and IP67 water resistance make the iPhone 7 and larger iPhone 7 plus an attractive option for every true classy gentleman (unless you own an iPhone 6s/6plus).

Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge – This is not just a new phone. It brings a new way of thinking about what a phone can do.

Porsche Design Huawei Mate 9 – The HUAWEI PORSCHE DESIGN Mate 9 is a luxury high-performance device combining craft and functionality. It offers a unique and ergonomic True Curve Design, inspired by the natural shape of the human hand. This smartphone will be available from 31st January 2017.

Google Pixel – It has the highest rated smartphone camera. Ever. A battery that lasts all day. Unlimited storage for all your photos and videos. And it’s the first phone with the Google Assistant built in.

When you’ve made your choice from the list, don’t forget to get a nice sleek phone case to match your classy smartphone.

Porsche Design Huawei Mate 9

Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge

iPhone 7Plus

Google Pixel

No 3: Smart Watch

The smart watch is a sister to the smart phone, it helps you easily realize information synchronization with your mobile phone. With a smart watch you will never worry about missing important calls, messages or notifications, it will remind you. Fill your Smart Watch with music, then head out for a run. It can record steps, calories and distance, making it easy for you to fully control your sports.

Sony SmartWatch 3 SWR50

Apple Watch Series 2

Moto 360 – Smartwatch powered by Android Wear

ALSO READ: 10 CLASSY WRIST WATCHES FOR STYLISH MEN

No 4: Smart TV

So how do you know if you already have a Smart TV? It’s simple…if your TV has built-in internet connectivity, which allows it to access a range of online services including video on demand, social networking and instant messaging and (optionally) has a web browser that allows access to most websites. Then you have a SMART TV. If you don’t have one, here are some great choices below:

Sony Bravia Smart TV

Samsung Smart TV

LG Smart TV

LG Signature OLED Smart TV

Smart TV Samsung

Sony Bravia

No 5: Noise-Cancelling headphones

Noise-cancelling headphones are headphones that reduce unwanted ambient sounds using active noise control. This makes it possible to listen to music without raising the volume excessively. Some great choices are:

Sony MDR-1000X: The MDR-1000X is a top-notch wireless noise-canceling headphone that’s stacked with features and sounds excellent.

Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H8: The Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H8 has a sleek design with a metal/leather headband, plush ear cups, and very good sound for Bluetooth. It also features active noise canceling, touch controls and a replaceable rechargeable battery.

Bose QuietComfort 35: Bluetooth meets best-in-class noise canceling: the Bose QuietComfort 35 is one of the ultimate noise canceling wireless headphone you can buy right now.

Bose QuietComfort 35

Sony MDR

Bang & Olufsen

No 6: In-Ear Headphones

Not a fan of the over-the-ear headphones? Check out some of the best in-ear headphones on the market and review.

Sennheiser Momentum M2 IEi

Beyerdynamic Byron

B&O BeoPlay H3 ANC

Bose SoundSport Pulse

Beyerdynamic Byron

B&O BeoPlay H3 ANC

Bose SoundSport Pulse

Sennheiser Momentum M2 IEi

No 7: A HiFi System

Enjoy powerful sound, a huge choice of music and stylish design with mini, micro and all in one Hi-Fi systems. Listen to your favourite tunes on your portable music player with USB Direct and Audio in, MP3-CD and CD-R/RW. Here are a couple of them to choose from.

Philips Traditional Micro Hi-Fi Speaker System

Sony CMT-SBT100 Micro Music System with Bluetooth & NFC

Sharp XLHF202 with Bluetooth & NFC

Philips Traditional Micro Hi-Fi Speaker System

Sharp XLHF202 HiFi

Sony CMT

No 8: Camera

Capture your next adventure in high quality with some of the best digital cameras. You can make your choice – a Compact Camera Or DSLR. We’ve listed 2 Compact and 2 DSLR cameras below, make your choice:

Panasonic Lumix LX100

Fuji X100T

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Nikon D810

Nikon D810 Camera

Fuji x100T

Panasonic Lumix Lx100

Canon EOS 5D

No 9: Gaming Console

Experience your games like never before when you choose from any of these gaming consoles we’ve picked for you. They will give you the most immersive gaming experience you’ve ever had.

Sony PlayStation 4

Xbox One S

Nintendo Wii U Console

Xbox One S

Nintendo Wii U

Playstation 4

FINAL THOUGHTS

There you have it, these gadgets listed above would certainly make a substantive improvement in daily life. Gadgets are fast becoming an integral component of everyday life, therefore, while trying to make a choice of which one to buy, consider if it looks classic, if it’s functional and if it reflect your sense of style. If you keep these three things in mind, then you would never make the wrong choice ‘cos any one you eventually choose will become a classic part of your look.

How many of these gadgets listed above do you already have? Which ones do you plan to invest in this year? Please feel free to drop your comments and contributions on the comment section below.

If you are serious about improving your sense of style and becoming a classy modern gentleman in as little as 30 days, I recommend reading our Style Guide – KOBI KOACHMAN ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MEN’S STYLE | A HANDBOOK FOR THE MODERN GENTLEMAN.

If you will like to contact us, use the Contact Page Form or send us an email – [email protected]. You can find us on Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Facebook. Feel free to join/follow us on any of the channels you frequently use as we continuously inspire you on how to dress well and live well. Until next time – Continue to do well, live well and dress really well! Be Classy!

Yours in Style,

Kobi O. Mbagwu (Mr. Kobi) Founder, MrKoachman.com Connect with me

On Instagram | Twitter | Linkedin | Pinterest | GooglePlus

Follow my blog with Bloglovin>>>

9 Technology Gadgets Every Classy Gentleman Should Own I believes that Fashion and Technology go hand in hand, especially nowadays that technology gadgets are in everyone's life, they need each other – Mr.

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airpodshub · 8 months ago

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Elevate Your Listening Experience with AirPods Pro 2nd Generation

One of the most anticipated upgrades in the AirPods Pro 2 is the introduction of spatial audio technology. This groundbreaking feature uses advanced algorithms to create an immersive, theater-like experience, where sound seems to emanate from all around you. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, or listening to music, spatial audio transports you into the heart of the action, adding a new dimension to your entertainment.

In addition to spatial audio, Shop Airpods Pro 2nd Generation the AirPods Pro 2 boast improved active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities, making them ideal for blocking out distractions in any environment. Whether you’re working in a bustling coffee shop, commuting on a noisy train, or simply seeking some peace and quiet at home, the AirPods Pro 2 ensure that you can immerse yourself fully in your audio experience without interruption.

Apple has also refined the design of the AirPods Pro 2, enhancing both comfort and durability. The new earbuds feature a sleek, streamlined profile that fits snugly in the ear for hours of comfortable wear. Plus, with an IPX4 water and sweat resistance rating, they’re built to withstand the rigors of your active lifestyle, whether you’re hitting the gym or braving the elements on your morning run.

Of course, Airpods 3rd Generation MagSafe Case no Apple product would be complete without seamless integration with the rest of the Apple ecosystem, and the AirPods Pro 2 are no exception. With the H1 chip powering the audio experience, you can effortlessly switch between your Apple devices, from your iPhone to your iPad to your Mac, with just a tap. And thanks to Siri integration, you can control your music, answer calls, and more, all with the power of your voice.

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of the AirPods Pro 2 is the promise of future updates and enhancements. As with previous generations of AirPods, Apple is committed to delivering ongoing improvements through software updates, ensuring that your investment in the AirPods Pro 2 continues to pay dividends for years to come. Whether it’s new features, enhanced performance, or improved compatibility, you can rest assured that your AirPods Pro 2 will only get better with time.

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mikegranich87 · 3 years ago

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The best July 4th tech deals we could find

As the holiday weekend approaches, deals on the latest gadgets have been popping up across the web. Apple's 10.2-inch iPad is $30 off right now and Solo Stove, the maker of compact, stainless steel fire pits, has knocked $120 off most of its devices. We even have a few holdouts from Amazon Prime Day still available, like deals on Anker's Eufy RoboVac 11S and a two-pack Nest WiFi system. Here are the best July 4th tech deals we could find.

10.2-inch iPad

The 10.2-inch iPad remains on sale for $299, or $30 off its normal price. It's arguably the best tablet for new tablet owners and we liked its improved performance, familiar design and support for the first-generation Apple Pencil.

Buy 10.2-inch iPad at Amazon - $299

MacBook Air M1

Apple's MacBook Air M1 has dropped to $899, which is the best price we've seen it. If you're looking to upgrade your notebook, this is one of the best options for most people right now. The Air M1 earned a score of 94 from us for its incredibly fast performance, excellent keyboard and trackpad, good battery life and lack of fan noise.

Buy MacBook Air M1 at Amazon - $899

24-inch iMac M1

Apple's colorful iMacs with 8-core GPUs are $50 off right now at Amazon, bringing them down to $1,450. We gave this desktop a score of 89 for its remarkable performance thanks to the M1 chip, lovely 24-inch Retina Display and its thin-and-light design.

Buy 24-inch iMac at Amazon - $1,450

Solo Stove Bonfire

Engadget

Solo Stove's Bonfire is $120 off for the company's July 4th sale, bringing it down to $230. That's the best price we've seen, and the other models are also $120 off for a limited time, too. These are smokeless, portable fire pits that we've recommended in the past as an easy way to upgrade your backyard setup.

Buy Bonfire at Solo Stove - $230

ThermoWorks Thermapen Mk4

Engadget

On the heels of the new Thermapen One announcement, the Thermapen Mk4 has been discounted to $69. It's the best instant-read thermometer we've used so far —the backlit display makes it easy to read in almost any situation and the display rotates depending on how you're holding the pen. Plus, you never have to remember to turn it off because the pen automatically turns on when you pick it up and will shut off after some time of no use.

ThermoWorks is also running an Independence Day sale that knocks up to 20 percent off remote BBQ alarm thermometers.

Buy Thermapen Mk4 at ThermoWorks - $69Shop ThermoWorks Independence Day sale

Apple Watch Series 6 Product Red Edition

Apple

The GPS + Cellular models of the Apple Watch Series 6 Product Red Edition are $100 off at Amazon. The 40mm is down to $399, or close to a record low, while the 44mm version has hit an all-time low of $429. We gave the Series 6 a score of 89 for its speedier performance, quicker charging and slightly improved battery life.

Buy Apple Watch Series 6 (40mm, GPS + Cellular) at Amazon - $399Buy Apple Watch Series 6 (44mm, GPS + Cellular) at Amazon - $429

GameStop Independence Day sale

Through Sunday, July 4, GameStop is running a holiday sale that includes a "buy two, get one free" promo on a number of titles including Marios + Rabbids Kingdom Battle and Spider-Man: Miles Morales. The sale also includes discounts on pre-owned games as well as $30 in extra credit when you trade in a PS4, XB1, Nintendo Switch or another console.

Shop GameStop's Independence Day sale

Samsung Galaxy Buds+

Billy Steele / Engadget

Both Amazon and Microsoft have the Galaxy Buds+ for $100, or $50 off their normal price. We gave them a score of 83 for their improved audio quality, longer battery life, deeper iOS integration and better call quality.

Buy Galaxy Buds+ at Amazon - $100Buy Galaxy Buds+ at Microsoft - $100

Anker Eufy RoboVac 11S

One of our favorite budget robot vacuums, the Anker Eufy RoboVac 11S, has dropped to $140. That's $90 off its normal price and close to its record-low. Not only is this one of the slimmest robo-vacs we've tried, but it cleans hard floors and carpets thoroughly and it comes with a remote that you can use to manually direct the vacuum, set schedules and more.

Buy RoboVac 11S at Amazon - $140

Google Nest WiFi (2 pack)

The Nest WiFi pack with one router and one extension point is down to $189, or $80 off. We gave this mesh system a score of 84 for its unobtrusive design, simple installation process and built-in smart speaker capabilities.

Buy Nest WiFi (2 pack) at Walmart - $189

55-inch LG C1 OLED 4K smart TV

LG's 2021 C1 OLED 4K TVs have dropped in price, so you can grab the 55-inch for $1,497, or about $300 off its normal price. The C1 is the mid-tier lineup that includes the company's latest processor, HDMI 2.1 support and NVIDIA G-SYNC and FreeSync compatibility.

Buy 55-inch LG C1 OLED at Amazon - $1,497Buy 55-inch LG C1 OLED at Best Buy - $1,500

48-inch LG CX OLED 4K smart TV

My Best Buy members can get the 48-inch LG CX OLED 4K smart TV for $1,250, or $250 off its normal price. It's free to sign up for My Best Buy and it's worth it to get a bit of extra money off all of the retailer's current sales. This OLED set has LG's a9 Gen 3 processor, support for Dolby Vision, Atmos, HDR10 and HLG plus Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa integration.

Buy 48-inch LG CX OLED at Best Buy - $1,250

Beats Solo Pro

The Beats Solo Pro are still discounted to a record-low of $149. We liked these on-ear cans for their excellent sound quality, good ANC and hands-free Siri capabilities.

Buy Beats Solo Pro at Walmart - $149

Omaze gaming PC giveaway

fpphotobank via Getty Images

Omaze is giving away another $20,000 to build your ultimate gaming PC. This sweepstakes is free to enter, but funds donated with purchased entries will benefit Schools on Wheels, an organization that provides free tutoring and mentoring services to children experiencing homelessness across Southern California. Through July 2, you can use the code RADNESS150 at checkout to get an additional 150 bonus entries.

Enter to win at Omaze

Pricing and availability is subject to change. No donation or payment necessary to enter or win this sweepstakes.See official rules on Omaze.

New tech deals

55-inch Sony A8H Bravia OLED smart TV

Amazon knocked about $600 off Sony's 55-inch A8H Bravia OLED smart TV. It includes the company's X1 Ultimate processor, Game Mode for a smoother, more responsive experience, the Android TV operating system and support for the Google Assistant, Amazon's Alexa and even Apple's AirPlay 2.

Buy 55-inch Sony A8H Bravia OLED at Amazon - $1,298

MagSafe charger

Apple's MagSafe charger is down to $34 at Amazon, or $6 off its normal price. While not a huge discount, it's a good opportunity to get a first-party accessory for less. This thin disk magnetically attaches to the back of the latest iPhones to power them up.

Buy MagSage charger at Amazon - $34

Twelve South 4th of July sale

The accessory maker Twelve South is running a 4th of July sale through July 5th that knocks up to 60 percent off of many products. Of note are the AirFly Bluetooth transmitter for as low as $25, the Compass Pro adjustable iPad stand for $50 and the HiRise Lightning Stand for $25.

Shop Twelve South 4th of July sale

Casetify July 4th sale

Casetify's holiday sale gets you 15 percent off most items through July 5th when you use the code 4JULY21 at checkout. The company makes colorful cases and protective gear for numerous mobile devices including iPhones, Galaxy handsets, AirPods and more. They also make great gifts thanks to Casetify's extensive library of customizable accessories.

Shop Casetify's July 4th sale

Speck Independence Day sale

Through July 4th, you can get 30 percent off sitewide at Speck. In addition to iPhones and Android device cases, Speck has gear for AirPods, MacBooks, Kindles, Chromebooks and others. If you want a case for your smartphone that will both look good and keep your gadget safe, Speck accessories are good options.

Shop Speck's Independence Day sale

Aukey PowerZeus 500 portable power station

Aukey's PowerZeus 500 portable power station is on sale for $367 when you use the code AUKEYPLUS at checkout. This 518Wh station can easily come with you on a camping trip to provide juice to all your devices, or act as a backup battery during power outages.

Buy PowerZeus 500 at Aukey - $367

NordVPN

One of our recommended VPNs is running a good sale on a two-year subscription. You can sign up for NordVPN for only $89 for the first two years, which comes out to $44.50 per year. We like NordVPN for its speed, its no-logs policy, the thousands of servers it has to choose from and that one account supports up to six connected devices.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

from Mike Granich https://www.engadget.com/weekly-tech-deals-best-july-4th-tech-deals-124559228.html?src=rss

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