Tech Review – ANNKE Crater Pro indoor security camera

Home security is a must in my book be indoors or outdoors and for me it is both because if someone wants to get in they will and with cameras inside your home if by any chance they missed the intruders outside you will get them inside once you place the cameras in a clever spot. We have tried and tested many of both here before and today we are working with a new brand called ANNKE and also have an outdoor camera review coming up shortly so stay tuned for that one, for now though we will be loking at the ANNKE Crater Pro indoor security camera.

This camera is simple to set up and use and their app is also quite good and easy to use as you will see down below and in the video review, You will be set up in about 5 mins flat and once done and you have the camera connected go through the app and check out the features on offer and familiarize yourself with them and get the set up that best suits your needs.

Out of the box it is a small familiar shaped camera for what it does and can be placed anywhere in your house or garage, you do however need to be near a power outlet and have a decent Wi-Fi connection to ensure all works well and get the best results and hope there is no disconnection from your Wi-Fi which can happen sometimes.

Also required is a micro sd card for local storage if you so not want to enter a plan which many of these brands are doing now and doing away with the freemium models but the micro sd card is the best route to go although some will complain about the price for a decent one which can be expensive depending on where you buy but buy a branded one and not a cheap one off Amazon as they usually get corrupted fairly  easily from my testing over the years.

One thing that stood out for me with the Crater Pro indoor security camera is how clear the videos are even after downloading them, you can view them online and download to your smartphone and over the years some lacked quality after download and tended to buffer but this is not the case here and for me a vital part of holding evidence if it is required and this is where this camera gets a thumbs up, it also has two way audio and an alarm and has tracking so all the requirements are there for a super affordable indoor camera that does not cheap out on important features,,

Check out the video review below for more and see what is involved and what to expect.

The App

Smart Detection, Instant Alerts

Once the camera detects a person or sound, the camera automatically tracks and follows the movement, capturing every moment clearly. To make sure you don’t miss anything, the camera provides instant alerts to your smartphone or tablet. As soon as the camera detects any suspicious activity, you will be notified so you can take immediate action.

Cover Every Angle of Your House

The camera has a wide range of coverage with a viewing angle of up to 350 degrees horizontally and 60 degrees vertically, which enables it to monitor large areas in your home, office, or yard without any blind spots. The camera is also designed to capture any special movements, ensuring that nothing goes unnoticed.

Two-Way Audio: Seamless Communication

With a built-in speaker and microphone, you can speak to anyone on the other end, whether it’s your pets, family members, or visitors. Two-way audio enables real-time conversations and helps you stay connected with your loved ones while you’re away.

Quickly Show by Voice Command

Compatible with Alexa, you can control it with voice commands to showing you live video feed, playing recorded video or turning the device on/off, making it easy for you to manage your home security from anywhere in the house

 

Features

  • Dual-Band 2.4GHz 5GHzIf
  • 4MP Full HD Clear Image
  • PT 350° Pan & 60° Tilt Wider Coverage
  • Alexa Voice Control Access Quickly

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Video Review

Tech Review – Twinkly Festoon Outdoor RGB Lights Gen II

Earlier this year we checked out one of the coolest tech products outside the norm of phones headphones and earbuds to review which was the Twinkly squares multicolour edition. A nice addition to my house and now placed/ nicked by my daughter and resides in her room now and I guess its fine but I had other plans for this, anyway moving on we have another product from the brand which like other products they have are really cool and popular which is the Festoon Outdoor RGB lights.

OK so you might say what is so special here and there is cheaper out there which there is and I have seen them and was about to buy them but like other similar stuff the other half got for the back garden when we moved into and all of them since purchased from local homeware stores etc simply stopped working and this is the end result for everything for all these lights and fancy items including solar lights from these stores they are not built to last, You are about to say how are these and you only have them x amount of time, well the quality of the product is where we start with and compared to others out there it is clearly visible, a similar item for example is 25 euro, less lights thin wire crap housing and the list goes on.. Ohh and NO APP..

As in out last review there is an app for the product and this enables you to take control of the product, not just an out of box plug in or charge and there you are here is our boring white lights and some might flash.. The Festoon RGB lights are customisable and you are in control and you can also give your own input.

One slight bearbug was I could not connect both ends to make one continuous line but I am sure the could come up with a connector, so I had 20 lights each side which had to meet at a certain point for the power supply. However if you have an outdoor socket it works out better, you can use an extension lead from the house if you wish, these are safe to leave outside all year round even if used for seasonal use but they do give the back garden a nice ambiance now and this is something my partner likes along with the ten million ornaments etc in the garden..

Overall a really nice product that is easy to use and set up and not only being able to use outdoors you can use indoors too if you wish check the video below for more and what to expect.

Twinkly key features:

  • The revolutionary computer vision technology recognises how the lights are positioned on your display, allowing for precise animations.
  • You’re in control of every single one of the 20 LEDs; customize your own effects, and share your effects as animated GIF images. You can even draw your own designs using your finger on your smartphone; save them in the app and then play them!
  • The LEDs are equipped with the newest RGB diffused lens, and are specifically designed to intensify the light effects for unbeatable brightness.
  • WiFi connection dual mode: choose between Twinkly’s integrated WiFi network, or connect directly to your home WiFi network. When connected to your home Wi-Fi network, ask your vocal assistant to switch on and off your lights, or to change the colours, effects or brightness of your decoration.
  • Take the stress out of lighting decoration and use the Twinkly app’s decorating guide; follow the simple step by step instructions to position your lights with ease.
  • The Twinkly Grouping feature lets you connect 2 or more Twinkly light sets via the Twinkly app, to create bigger, better and brighter displays.
  • The brand new Generation II Twinkly controller is more powerful than ever. Thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity music sensor, an enhanced stability and the customisable, multi-effect carousel features, this is the smartest Twinkly controller ever.

BUY

Video review

 

 

 

Tech Review – OMOTON SODI Bagel Robot BM330 Continuity Camera Mount

This little gadget can be used in more ways than one and is affordable and ideal for those who have an iPhone and macbook and can be used as webcam holder being your iPhone or just even for similar third party conferencing apps, it can also be used as a simple phone stand to to give you space and more flexibility whilst on the go or at home and in the office, the build quality is excellent and made with high grade materials and not only can it be with apple products you can use on any laptop in fact as you will see in the video review below.

Being portable is a key factor for me and anyone who travels between rooms or offices and like me who goes to hotels on a regular basis as this will easily fit in a pocket or tech bag making life nice a simple, you can also hook up your iPhone charger if required which tucks away nicely behind the holder itself.

This can be placed at multiple angles and better than a fixed one on your pc or laptop and they usually brutal anyway and this allows you to use your iPhone instead giving a better quality experience, it is simple to use gadget and check the video below for more.

CONTINUITY CAMERA INTEGRATION – Connect, capture, create.

The BM 330 Stand is the ultimate continuity camera mount, compatible with a wide range of PCs and laptops. Seamlessly connect your device and enjoy uninterrupted, high-resolution capture. An instant upgrade for your computer camera.

PERFECT VIDEO PERSPECTIVE – Your angle, your vision.

Unlock your ideal video angle, including Desk View, with versatile, multi-angle capabilities. Whether you’re recording, streaming, or presenting, this stand ensures that you find the most suitable perspective, allowing you to film like never before.

EFFORTLESS CHARGING – Power up and stay focused.

Simply place your MagSafe charging head onto the magnetic disc for convenient and efficient charging, ensuring your device stays powered up without any interruptions.

VERSATILE MOUNTING – Redefining tech compatibility.

The BM 330 Stand offers exceptional compatibility not only with iPhone 12 and above but also with the vast majority of monitors under 55 inches. Its remarkable flexibility even supports curved, irregularly shaped, or non-vertical screens, allowing you to effortlessly connect and expand your display.

 

  • Three Functions in One Stand. Gear up and protect your tech investment!
  • Optimize Your Computer. Effortlessly attach and mount your iPhone on your iMac or other desktop computer.
  • Get More From Your Tech. Use as a detachable continuity camera mount on your MacBook.
  • Solid Phone Stand. A sleek phone stand to keep your desk organized and easy on the eye.

BUY 

Video Review

Tech Review – SJCAM C300 4K Action camera

The SJCAM C300 4K Action cam is a versatile portable camera that can be used just about anywhere or in any scenario and ideal for just about anyone it can be used just to take photos or videos on the fly be mounted to your car for dash cam use and ideal for vloggers and much more with the accessory pack that you get with it as you will see in the unboxing video below so if this is something you need stay tuned, now there is more than my needs met with this guy so far but should I need it all the equipment is there for me so what more could you ask for thinking ahead with how they have prepared the package for you, it can also be used in two ways detached or attached from the main mount or even attached to a selfie stick, it can be hung around your neck too and much more so in the accessory department it is a win win for anyone.

 

Setting us was not too bad there is several apps in the store so use the QR code in the book or check the image below this app is where you begin the set up process and once set up it has been pretty good for me and again signal maybe an issue at times but overall a decent easy to use app that replicated what’s built in on the camera itself which I go through in the video review below.

 

Settings galore. Once connected you are good to go then you need to go through all the settings to get familiar with what you can and cant do here spend some time on this to get the best end result you want as there is many features and settings to adjust some of which important and some just the standard you find on any camera if you will. Once all this is done you are pretty much good to go start taking pictures and videos and then check out the results on the fly or at home on the device or on your connected smartphone which was and iPhone 14 pro in case you are wondering it was also tested on a Pixel 7a device and no notable differences noted and pretty much the same across the two devices.

After that it is pretty much go and do what you need doing and thats all there is to it if you are a pro you can do more and the same applies if like me you just want to point and shoot you get the results and if you want to go underwater you can even do that, check out the video below for more and see how it all works and the results I got.

The App

 

Features

  • 【4K 20MP Action Camera】: Video recording the highest resolution 4K and 2K/60FPS or 1080P/120FPS. 20MP high-definition sensor, 32G SD card supporting 2-3 hours 4K video recording, and store 1500pcs 20M high-definition photos.
  • 【1000mAh and Underwater Camera】: when it is used as a pocket camera, using C300 magnetic accessories, the C300 pocket camera can be attached to clothing, freeing your hands when shooting, suitable for running records; using a waterproof case, It can dive and a variety of water sports camera, up to a depth of 30 meters.
  • 【2800mAh and Grip Camera】: When it is used as a grip camera, you can hold the C300 to complete a variety of selfie fun, or for VLOG, webcam and live. At the same time you can also be assembled with other accessories like a selfie stick, Also as a dash cam or helmet camera use (Note: some accessories are not included).
  • 【Electronic Image Stablization】: This action camera is equipped with improved 6-axis EIS, it can provide gimbal-like stabilization and greatly boost the stability and fluency of your recording. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
  • 【98ft/30m Underwater Camera】: The pocket camera supports the use with the SJCAM waterproof case, providing waterproof camera protection for water activities, snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Underwater 4K action video camera. Note: the gripping camera doesn’t support a waterproof case.
  • 【Not Just Action Camera】: It’s not just an action camera, but also a single-screen selfie camera and a touch dual-screen camera. This camera is equipped with improved 5G Wi-Fi, After connected, the camera’s content can be viewed, set up and downloaded in real-time through “SJCAM Zone” APP. It can also act as a network live stream camera by connecting to home Wi-Fi. and use as a dash cam or Vlog camera.

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Video Review

 

Tech Review – JMbricklayer Chameleon 70124

If you are into lego or similar JMbricklayer should be a place you stop and take a look at, last year we checked out the 3-in-1 medieval weapon and it sits nicely on one of my window ledges today, this time around they have tuned things up a bit and have a bit more tech involved and a tougher challenge and for those who like nature this is a chameleon.

This guy is really cool but you will of course need some spare time to sit down and get this one done as there is more parts to it and has lots of detail in it and when you see the finished product you will be happy you spent those hours sitting down and it took me a whole day with breaks in between to get the job done.

The model includes a rainforest inspired base and a chameleon that hugs on the trunk. The reptile’s pose freezes in a moment of prey capture, with its head slightly lifted and tail coiled, as its tongue snatches an unlucky butterfly, soon to become the chameleon’s satisfying meal.

Features

Mechanical & Crystal Sides

1. Boasts extensive technic elements, such as the pin connectors that enable poseable limbs, and visible hose and tube pieces that simulate transfer device;

2. the custom-crafted shell elements feature a layer of iridescent color and engraved textures, recreating the real skin.

Illumination & Flexible Tail

3. Flick the switch to unleash the vibrant green glow, and more enchanting light effect can be watched in the darkness;

4. Composed of multiple small parts connected by ball joints, the articulated design allows it to curl up or extend straight

Hunting Tongue & Rotatable Eye

5. Made of a few curved tail elements, but their blue transparent color and exaggerated length bring a visually striking impression;

6. Like the real life counterpart does, the eyeball is able to rotate 360 degree to show various expressions.

Graceful Mysterious Mechanical

The Designer Speaks – The set comes with interesting facts about the chameleon on display and the story from the set designer. He tells us “Chameleons are so graceful and mysterious creatures in the world. Their intricate details and ability to change colors and blend with the surroundings sparked an passion within my heart. Thus, the project was made, also combined with the most popular mechanical style.”

Website link https://www.jmbricklayer.com/product/chameleon-70124/, the coupon code applies to all non-discounted products and offers a 15% discount. The code ( VIPTECH15 ) is valid until December 31, 2023. (Both the US Amazon and the online store are free shipping and tax)

Tech Review – OMOTON Sodi Bagel Capture BM310 phone stand

The Bagel Capture is a productivity tool that will work with all iPhone models 12/13/14 versions and MacBook models released after 2017, and is and ideal portable kit for your iPhone this also works with your macbook with the holder itself that is removable to clip onto the rear of it or other slim tablets as seen below.

What is nice with this product is its build quality and how it can be put at any angle yet not topple over as the iPhone is not light by any stretch. This can simply sit beside your laptop or PC and can you can make use of your phone for other means whilst working such as checking social media and more, you could also have it on your bedside locker to consume media as it rotates and gives you a better elevation than being sat there in a case or resting on something else.

Having the choice of angles is great and is more flexible than other phone stands out there and the quality again is top notch and not cheap, there is rubber feet underneath to make it stable and not move and you can also charge your phone on it too which is neat, check the video below for more.

FLEXIBLE VIEWING – Effortless angle adjustments.

The BM310 Stand is a sleek, versatile solution that supports multiple viewing angles, whether it’s portrait or landscape. Adjust to exactly the perfect angle to enhance your visual experience.

ON-THE-GO DEVICE SUPPORT – Compact, foldable, and always within reach.

The perfect solution for anyone seeking portable, versatile support or their device. With its small, foldable design, this stand easily fits in your pocket, so you can take it anywhere you desire.

VERSATILE USE CASES – Elevate your presentations.

This is not just a phone stand. Use it to securely mount your phone to your laptop screen to add another dimension to your computer setup. And now you can try Desk View mode! Capture striking, high-angle shots and keep yourself perfectly in frame during video calls or presentations. An important tool to effectively showcase your work and ideas.

  • Adjustable and Versatile. BM310 has multi-angle and height adjustment options for the best viewing angles.
  • MagSafe Charging Support. Effortlessly charge your device by replacing the magnetic plate with a MagSafe charger.
  • Enable Desk View. Capture high-angle shots to effectively showcase your work and ideas.
  • Portable and Compact. BM310 is foldable and pocket-sized. You can take it with you wherever you go.

BUY

Video Review

Tech Review – Soundpeats Engine 4 earbuds

The Soundpeats Engine 4 earbuds are one of the latest on offer form the brand and come with a new look and design which is really nice, these style of earbuds are not the top of my list however I prefer stems but it is how they sound is what can make you overlook at times and these stood out with my locals asking about them when out testing over the last few weeks..

 

The App

The App as seen above has plenty of features yet again and gives you control on how your earbuds sound however the controls are fixed which is fine and simple to use, the earbuds can be used on their own too so either side can be used whilst the other one is left to charge which is quite handy. I would also advise to complete the adaptive EQ test for the best results and ensure you have got the right tips and are happy with the fit. The controls work really well on these too which is an additional bonus due to the large surface area at hand so for those with big fingers like me it is a bonus. One small downside is the controls are fixed however they are fine as is and pretty much as standard settings on earbuds today. These sound a bit on the brighter side than what I like however with their app they can be changed to suit your needs and their app once again is decent and allows you to take some control over the audio experience.

Overall a different shape of earbud to my liking but sounds good, the fit or style might not suit everyone but they deliver again on the sound aspect with decent battery life and the look of the earbuds and case stands out and will be ideal for first time buyers of earbuds from the company or just looking for something new to try out as this brand has been very consistent over the years for us they offer a wide range of earbuds for all pockets and all styles.

Key Features of the SOUNDPEATS Engine4 Wireless Earbuds include:
1. Hi-Res Audio Wireless Certificated, LDAC Codec for Android Users Available. Boasting 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 with a 10mm woofer and a 6mm tweeter. Engine4 is designed to provide deep bass, clear treble, and crisp mids. Enjoy powerful sound on the go wherever you are. With Engine4, you can take your music experience to the next level.

2. Enhanced Battery Life: These earbuds provide an impressive battery life of up to 12.5 hours on a single charge, and the compact charging case extends the total playtime to an astonishing 43 hours, ensuring uninterrupted audio enjoyment.

3. Seamless Connectivity: Engine4 features Bluetooth 5.3 technology, offering a stable and seamless connection between two different devices for an extended range of up to 100 feet, allowing users to move freely without any audio interruptions. ( Due to the Simultaneously Connection being turned off in the factory setting, you’re allowed to turn it on by using APP as your demand. )

4. Intuitive Touch Controls: The touch-sensitive controls on the earbuds enable easy management of music playback, volume adjustment, and call handling, providing a hassle-free user experience.

5. Ergonomic Design: The Engine4 earbuds are ergonomically designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit, ensuring a snug seal for improved noise isolation and long-lasting comfort, even during extended listening sessions.

6. APP Control: SOUNDPEATS App is build-in 8 kinds of sound effects for choice, you can achieve their enhanced bass or treble-oriented listening experience as you want. For Engine4, you can choose to Turn Off/ On the LDAC Codec mode or the Simultaneously Connection by using APP. Attention, these two features cannot be supported at the same time due to technical issues. The SOUNDPEATS app is on Google Play Store and Apple App Store

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Video Review

Tech Review – ANCwear ANC-107 smartwatch

If you are in the market for a super affordable smartwatch well here it is, coming in at around 30 euros this does all the fitness stuff you need in an oversaturated market but that this price point if offer a bit more than others out there and is kept simple and comes with an an app to keep track of what you do, there is lots of options out there and we have tried many over the last year or two coming in on the sub 100 euro point, this watch is for someone who wants simplicity and does not want their watch pinging all day long with constant messages as you are limited with this one as you will see below and in the video review.

The watch itself is robust and IP68 rated so you can go pretty much anywhere with it and gather the data you require, it also has sleep tracking whilst not for me as I never wear a watch in bed but it is there. It has all more than enough sports to pick from and a superb battery life and one of the best I have had in terms of battery usage over the last few I have reviewed.

You can control your camera shutter and music from the watch and also get functionality with GPS exercises too and this will come in quite handy for most into their fitness, notifications are plain and simple and  you cant reply to them and also calls cant be taken on this watch but answered or rejected from the watch screen itself, you also get a large array of watch faces to pick from too so there is something for everyone here to have it look their way and some of them are really nice and take on the Apple watch, this works both on Android and iOS and is simple to set up and use, check out the video below for more.

 

The App

 

  • [SEE CLEAR, GO FURTHER]–Experience the luxury of our large and easily readable 1.83” display, providing crystal-clear visibility at a glance. IP68 waterproof smartwatch makes you don’t worry about sunshine and raindrops. With long-lasting battery life of 10 days, you can conquer your day with confidence, knowing your large screen smartwatch will keep up.
  • 🔥[YOUR HEALTH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS]–Whether you’re outdoors or at the gym, our fitness smart watch for men women provide health tracking, heart rate monitoring, and faster blood pressure readings. Our watch with durable and skin-friendly materials make lasting comfort. Embrace the power of comprehensive sleep tracking watch, ensuring you make informed decisions for a healthier lifestyle.
  • 🏃‍[UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL]–Elevate your fitness journey with our smart watch’s seamless app connectivity and synchronization. With 120+ sports modes, accurate step counting, and comprehensive fitness tracking, you’ll conquer your goals like never before. Get ready to reach new heights with ANCwear Bluetooth smart watch.
  • 📧[YOUR ULTIMATE COMPANION]–Express your unique style and personality with 200+ dial designs and extensive personalization options. Compatible with both ios 9.0 and Android 5.0 above devices, this digital samrt watch seamlessly integrates into your digital world. Receive notifications, calls, and messages right on your wrist makes effortlessly connected throughout the day. The lightweight smartwatch’s user-friendly interface and easy setup make it a breeze to use.
  • 🎁[THE GIFT OF WELLNESS]–Give the classic smart watch as a gift of health and style to your loved ones. Our step counter watch is not only a remarkable fitness tracker but also a thoughtful present for family members. Track their health, monitor their heart rate, and show them how much you care.
  • 💝[ROBUST DURABILITY, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE]–Our square smart watch is built to withstand the test of time with its durable construction, ensuring this smart watch keeps up with your active lifestyle. Paired with our outstanding customer service, your satisfaction is guaranteed. Invest in quality and experience peace of mind.

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Video Review

Tech Review – Tranya T6 True Wireless Earbuds + 50% discount

Tranya T6 are a nice small pair of earbuds that comes in a nice small case that is robust and solid and both complement each other rather well, the colour choice I had to review more aimed at the ladies is even nice and I no issue wearing them out and about on my testing, they sit well in the ears and do not budge even when running but ensure you have right tips selected for you. There is nice clear voice prompts when connecting and so on and one of the better non robotic ones we tend to hear.

On the look and fit department these look nice and do stand out away from the typical Black and White earbuds mostly seen these days and remember these are on the smaller size, the fit is great once the right tips applied and will not fall out of your ears given their smaller size.

We have push button controls which I like and these work really well and execute your commands at all time which for me is vital and not having unwanted executions which can happen with touch based controls more so but with these no issues at all.

The charge case as you can see is cool and it looks and feels premium and a slightly longer styled case than normal which is fine and fits in the pockets well so in turn will slip into any ladies handbag just the same.

 

The controls as mentioned work well and below you can see what is on offer with their app, you can customise the left and right earbud to an extent and you have a suite of EQ setting to give you your best options and of course you can customize your own. The app has a simple UI and anyone can breeze through it in minutes and get custom to what is what here. Also pay attention to the game mode and dual pairing options as these features will suit many and both work well.

The sound is great but more on the brighter side for me but the app again comes to the rescue where you can reduce the brightness somewhat but overall the sound is sharp and precise highs lows and mids are fine and good bass when you take up use of the app, no lag latency noted here or distortion when maxed out and calls are also crisp and clear so overall for your audio and calls and after going through my usual test loop it is easy to say these will please most folk out there..

Check out the video review below for more.

The App

 

Features 

  • Build-in QualcommR QCC3040 SoC with aptX™ Adaptive Audio Tech
  • All-new Multi-device Connectivity, Fastly Paired with 2 Devices Simultaneously
  • Customized Audio APP, Explore More Features
  • Enhanced 4-mic Array + cVc™ 8.0 tech for Superior Clarity Call Quality
  • 40ms Low Latency Mode for Better Video &Gaming Experience
  • 34-hour Playtime: 9 Hours +25 Hours with Charging Case
  • Accurate Button Control to Experience Smooth Freedom
  • IPX5 Sweat & Water Resistant

BUY and get a 50% discount – with the code Jim50

Video Review