Accessories

By February 15, 2017 Read More →

Gear4 Buckingham case for iPad review

I have been rather impressed with Gear4 products. I have been lucky enough to check out a few of their iPhone cases and have always found that they manage a nice balance between being very rugged, but not massively overbuilt. So when I got the opportunity to get my hands on the new Gear4 Buckingham iPad case for my Air 2, expectations were high.

The Buckingham features the same DSO “smart material” that Gear4 uses in their phone cases and purports to meet military standards at keeping your tech safe from being dropped. This wallet style case is almost identical to the Oxford model that my phone is currently encased within and I have been very happy with that.

As soon as I received the package from Tech Addicts HQ, I noticed something was up. It felt much heavier than I was expecting. It’s not uncommon for us to receive several products for review at the same time and, although I wasn’t expecting anything else,  I thought this was maybe the case. Nope. Just the Buckingham. Now, Gear4 do package their products very robustly, so maybe it’s the packaging. After opening it, it still felt rather heavy so out came the scales. The case weighed in at a rather chunky 427g. That may not seem like much, but to put it into context, the iPad air 2 weighs around 440, so the case weighs almost the same as the device!

 

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In fairness, it does feel like a very sturdy case and I would certainly have faith in its ability to keep my iPad secure. The iPad sits snugly inside the holder and the wrap around cover stays closed thanks to a magnetic tab and offers the very handy sleep/wake function. It’s a great looking case, nicely styled without going over the top and does not add significant bulk to the ipad. I did like the flat black with blue accents on the front and the card/note holders inside the cover. I wasn’t sure at first about the tab, it seemed to get in the way, but after a short while, I kinda got used to it. The cover also acts as a stand for the iPad, although I found that the material on the inside cover was too soft and not grippy enough to stop the screen from slipping flat. Perhaps this is something that would improve with time as the case wears in. Another little niggle that is common to most of these style cases is the access to the buttons

Another little niggle that is common to most of these style cases is the access to the buttons along the edge of the iPad. The thick DSO material actually works against the Buckingham in this respect. The controls themselves are covered, but there are raised “virtual buttons” on the cover directly over them with the idea being that you press on the case and it, in turn, presses on the actual button. This works in theory, but in practice, I have always found that you have to press a few times and generally rather firmly before anything happens. Truth be told, I have become so frustrated with them in the past that I have taken a craft knife and removed them, leaving recessed access to the controls. Elegant? No, but it does work.

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Overall I liked the Buckingham, I liked it a lot in fact, but the burning question is did I keep it on my iPad or did I revert back to the relatively simple Targus cover that I had been using?

As much as I like the Buckingham, and as fond as I am of super protective cases, I personally did not like the extra weight it added. It is a lot more protective than most cases, including the one I am currently using, but it is also double the weight. This makes it a judgement call. If weight isn’t a factor for you, or you need that extra protection, then I say go for it, you won’t be disappointed with it. However, if your daily carry bag is already feeling a bit on the hefty side, you may want to look at other options.

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By February 12, 2017 Read More →

Uniquefire XM-L2 Led Torch Unboxing

vlcsnap-00034Here we have a quick look at the externals of the XM-L2 Led Torch from Uniquefire. This £14.99 torch features 3 Brightness Levels, Tactical Security design with Strobe and SOS Function. An intense spotlight that can cover 600 feet and the floodlight has a high level of brightness.

A skid-proof and water resistant designed is freely usable in poor weather or harsh conditions. Useful to carry when caving, hiking, night riding and outdoor camping. Super bright, blinding effect and crenellate design to protect the head.

Check back for a review soon…

Pick one up from Amazon here:

By February 9, 2017 Read More →

Vitastiq releases its Bluetooth vitamin tracker

second-editionAfter two very successful Indiegogo campaigns and recognitions from CESA Awards and Google Campus Warsaw, Vitastiq has just released Vitastiq 2, its Bluetooth edition device.
Vitastiq 2 pairs with a smartphone or tablet enabling users to track the trend of 26 vitamins and minerals. Meanwhile, the Vitastiq app (Android and iOS) stores the previous readings and provides information about vitamins and minerals and their natural sources.

 

Vitastiq concept is based on Electroacupuncture by dr. Voll (EAV) and the existing EAV devices. The EAV methodology has been used for over 50 years by nutritionists and other experts.
As of now, Vitastiq has users in over 90 countries around the world. It received the CESA Award for the Best User Experience in 2015 and 2016; it has been recognised as the best start-up at the Google Campus Warsaw workshop and featured in the global media outlets such as T3 UK, TechCrunch, Wired, The Huffington Post, Venture Beat, CNET, and the like.

You can import the Vitastiq 2, for now, from the European store. https://shop.vitastiq.com/ A UK release is upcoming.

Posted in: Accessories, News
By February 1, 2017 Read More →

A look at the Aukey Portable Wireless Speaker

Image33It’s ruggedized, cheap, loud and portable, but is it any good? We take a look the the AUKEY Bluetooth Speaker with 12 / 30 Hour Playtime, Enhanced Bass and Water Resistance

Dual 5W drivers produce deep lows, textured mids, and clear highs to enjoy at home or outdoor.

Latest Bluetooth 4.1 Instantly connects your phone or tablet and automatically reconnects to the last device used among 33ft wireless range.

Up to 30-hour playtime and talk time, stream your music wirelessly with A2DP Bluetooth or plugged in via AUX input with included 3.5mm audio cable.

Easily manage audio playback and calls with volume controls, and built-in microphone. Choose your sound signature with the Mode switch. Built-in 1/4″-20 standard tripod screw mount for outdoor use.

Package Contents: AUKEY SK-M12 Bluetooth 4.1 Speaker, Micro-USB Cable, 3.5mm Audio Cable, User Manual, 24 Month Warranty.

Grab one from Amazon for £29.99.

By January 31, 2017 Read More →

Aukey USB Turbo Car Charger Unboxing

vlcsnap-00033Aukey has become Amazon’s #1 Quick Charge Brand! Here we have a look at the Turbo Car Charger before the review in a week or so. This little charger contains:

Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 Technology: AUKEY is Officially licensed and certified to use Quick Charge 2.0 Tech. Built-in the QC 2.0 Tech charges compatible devices 75% faster than standard chargers.

AUKEY AiPower Technology: The signature green USB port is equipped with AUKEY’s exclusive AiPower technology, providing the safest maximum charge for non-Quick Charge devices, up to 2.4 amps.

Common Quick Charge 2.0 Compatible Devices: Nexus, Sony, Motorola Droid Turbo, Moto, HTC, and more.

Package Contents: AUKEY 30W 2 Port USB Car Charger, a 3.3ft USB Micro USB Cable, User manual, and full 24 Month Worry-Free Warranty.

Pick one up from Amazon.

By January 30, 2017 Read More →

AUKEY Portable LED Lamp Unboxing

Image34Aukey has sent over this handy little accessory, a lightweight LED lamp with mircoUSB connection. Foldable and 3 hours of battery life this is pretty unique and interesting design.

With its compact form factor and sleek anodised aluminium housing, the LT-ST7 is an ideal portable lighting solution for reading, studying, or working on a project in the garage. The LT-ST7 is lightweight at just 9.2oz and features a unique pivot that folds in multiple directions for precise light positioning. Choose from 2 brightness level with the touch control switch.

24 Month Warranty
Whether it’s your first AUKEY purchase or you’re back for more, rest assured that we’re in this together: All AUKEY products are backed by our 24 Month Product Warranty.

Specifications
Color Temperature: 5500-6000K
LED Bulbs: 21
Input: 100-240V
Total Power: 3W
Net Weight: 9.2oz

Grab one here for £20.99

By January 24, 2017 Read More →

Speedlink announces Nintendo Switch Accessories

sl-330600-bk_rgb_001Nintendo fans have long been counting down the days until they can finally get their hands on the new Nintendo Switch® console. According to the Japanese manufacturer, the home video gaming system will go on sale at the start of March. To ensure gaming enthusiasts are well-equipped for the new console, SPEEDLINK is proud to announce a range of accessories for the new console in advance of its official sales launch.

SPEEDLINK was founded in 1998, and the team behind the brand has been working flat-out for many weeks to bring consumers its new lineup ahead of the sales launch of the Nintendo Switch® – the Japanese video game and console manufacturer’s new platform. The initial range of accessories, including multi-piece starter kits, is expected to be available online and in stores from mid-February onwards – before the console’s global release.

“As a brand whose roots lie in the gaming world and which produced accessories for the Amiga and C64, we can’t wait for the new console – especially as we’re also passionate gamers. As one of the leading providers of computer and video game accessories, we simply just had to develop a matching lineup for the Nintendo Switch® and launch it in good time before the console goes on sale”, said Steffen Soltau, Head of Corporate Communications at Jöllenbeck GmbH.

All the accessories are already available to pre-order online, with two starter kits expected to be added to the lineup at the end of January.

Posted in: Accessories, gaming, News
By January 14, 2017 Read More →

GEAR4 puts military grade protection into the iPad case

GEAR4, the UK’s number one trusted impact protection case brand, today launches its new Buckingham iPad TPU flip case range, featuring D3O – the most advanced shock absorbing technology for enhanced impact protection. The Buckingham case, linked to GEAR4’s British roots, combines modern forms and materials to deliver the ultimate combination of sleek protection. The case is available for iPad mini 4, Air2/Pro 9.7 inch and Pro 12.9 inch.

The D3O® impact technology used in the Buckingham case is in fact so trusted worldwide that it is the same material found in the U.S military combat uniforms, American football helmets and protective gear worn by pro athletes (including Usain Bolt) and extreme sportsmen, such as Olympic ski teams. With these kinds of endorsements, iPad owners can rest assured that they have the most technologically advanced casing available on the market.

D3O® has a unique molecular structure; in standard conditions, the molecules flow freely allowing the material to remain soft and flexible, but on impact lock together to absorb and dissipate the impact energy, which means your device stays safe when dropped. GEAR4 are the first to use an injection moulded grade of D3O® technology to deliver more impact protection per cubic millimetre than other leading materials.

GEAR4 designers combined this unique technology with a functional design featuring a standing option to work in landscape at a desk, table or on a lap and four slots for business or payment cards. There are also two larger slots for important documents and its unique clip closure ensures the device, as well as valuable items, are kept safe whilst not in use.

The Buckingham is available in black with orange, blue and grey trim from www.gear4.com and Carphone Warehouse

Buckingham – iPad Air2/ 9.7″ Pro RRP – £59.99

Buckingham – iPad 12.9″ Pro RRP – £59.99

Buckingham – iPad Mini 4 RRP – £49.99

By January 11, 2017 Read More →

Alxum 10-Port USB Charging Station Unboxing

image27Organisation is the name of the game and the Alxum 10-Port USB Charging Station is a cheaper alternative that packs a lot more value for the money. But is it any good?

10 PORT USB DESKTOP CHARGING STATION – Charges up to 10 devices at once. Rapid charging with BC1.2 technology provides up to 5V 2.4A of power per port. Keep your smartphone, tablet, laptop and other devices organised on your desktop or counter

MULTIPLE DEVICE CHARGER – It charges your Apple iPhone 6 plus, 6, 5s, se, 4s, 4, iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, iPod, Samsung Galaxy S7, S7 Edge, S6, S6 Edge, S5 S4, S3, Tab, Note4, Note3, Note2, Google Nexus 6 6P 5X, Amazon Kindle Fire, Paperwhite, Sony, LG, HTC, Motorola, ASUS ZenFone, BlackBerry, ZTE, YotaPhone, Huawei, BLU Vivo, PSP, OnePlus One Two, digital camera, MP3 Players, e-reader, Bluetooth headphones, portable speakers, power bank, tablet and mobile devices

SMART IC – Sophisticated circuit design with over-heating, over-current and over-charging protection. With SmartIC technology, it can automatically recognise your devices, distribute the perfect charge to each charging device individually and simultaneously. Charging will automatically stop when the battery is full. Surge protection keep your appliances safe

CERTIFIED SAFETY – UL certification and Alxum’s Multi-Protect safety system ensure complete protection for you, your and your devices. Worldwide AC 100-240V input voltage. Rated DOE Level 6 for energy efficiency.

Innovative design for space saving. Adjustable separator bracket stand allows you to adjust the width needed for different devices. Organize more than 10 devices? Use Alxum 5 Pack Plastic Separators for better performance.

Pick one up from Amazon for £59.99 

By January 9, 2017 Read More →

The Alxum Hi-Speed USB 2.0 4-Port Ultra Mini Hub Unboxing

image25The Alxum Hi-Speed USB 2.0 4-Port Ultra Mini Hub comes in four flavours and priced appropriately. This black version with a 120cm long cable is also available in white and priced at £8.99. Then there is a black and a white version with a 60cm long cable for £7.99. The Hub adds up to 4 peripherals quickly and easily for Plug-and-Play connectivity to your USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 devices. Especially great for notebooks which come with only a few ports in an era when you need to attach many USB devices at once, such as a mouse, keyboard, card reader or thumb drive, etc. It offers an ideal way to connect on the road, and virtually anywhere you need fast access to your USB devices.

High Speed Data Transfer
Four downstream ports support high-speed (480Mbps), full-speed (12Mbps), and low-speed (1.5Mbps). This USB Hub saves your valuable USB 2.0 quota by consolidate 4 x USB 2.0 interfaces to one USB port so you can have more 4 peripherals connected simultaneously.It maintains backwards compatibility with USB 1.1 devices, so feel free to add more to your Mac, Windows or Chrome devices. To get the full power, the host and the device must have the same version.

Portable Size
With compact size, this 4 port USB 2.0 hub is a perfect lightweight travel tool, and the right companion for your business trip and travel. This compact hub tucks easily into the pocket of your laptop bag. Only take it out when you need to connect additional USB peripherals like, mouse, keyboard, thumb drive, digital cameras, flash drives, iPod etc.

Additional Notes
1.This hub is not meant to serve as a stand-alone charger. Devices connected to this hub should not exceed a combined current of 5V 900mAh.
2.External hard-drives should be connected to an external power source, do not connect it to high power-consuming devices (such as HDDs, certain office equipment, etc). This 4 Port hub will not charge an iPad (it will only sync).

Package Contents:
1 x 4 Ports USB 2.0 Portable Hub

  • 4 port USB 2.0 or 1.1 devices to Compact size and portable. Easily expand by connecting up to your Macbook, Laptop, ultrabook, tablet PC and any USB 2.0 capable computer works with USB. Works with USB extension cable and reverse Compatible with USB 1.1
  • Designed with a built-in surge protector to keep your devices safe. Plug-and-Play; hot-plugging; driver free.
  • Designed with a built-in surge protector to keep your devices safe
  • Build in Overvoltage/Overcurrent/Leakage and Short-Circuit protection unit. The connection cable is attached to the hub -no need to worry about leaving it behind or losing it
  • Compatible with Windows XP /Vista/7/ 8 /8.1 (32/64-bit), Mac OS 10.10 or higher, Linux.

Grab one from Amazon here.

https://www.ukmeds.co.uk/surgical-face-masks