The Best Webcam for Video Calls
Elgato FaceCam vs Logitech Brio 4K vs iMac M1 Facetime: Which Is the Best Webcam?
As someone who’s tested out different webcams over the past 18 months, I’ve realised there’s more to choosing a good webcam than just the price tag. In this article, I’ll give my honest review of the Elgato FaceCam, Logitech Brio 4K, and iMac M1 Facetime. I’ll go into detail on the type of lighting, background, and even your complexion to help you make the right choice.
Logitech Brio 4K
The Logitech Brio 4K is an excellent camera suitable for any setting. It offers a wide range of features that you can use with Zoom. However, if you plan to use the Logitech Brio with Zoom, you’ll need to stick to the basic software, as the more complex Logitech software will slow things down.
Despite having 4K in its name, getting this camera to display that resolution is difficult. I’ve tried it in different settings, including Zoom, but have yet to get beyond 720p. The camera also distorts at the edges when you use the full width, which is noticeable in detailed backgrounds. In terms of colour, the Logitech Brio does a great job of capturing your complexion and the colours in your surroundings, but it’s not quite Canon colour. Overall, I’d give this camera four out of five stars, but if you’re buying it expecting 4K, that’s not the case.
Elgato FaceCam
The Elgato FaceCam has been heavily advertised online, with reviewers in well-lit rooms or studio setups telling you this is the perfect camera for you. However, my experience has been different. I’ve used natural lighting with only one small light box, and the results could have been better. People who reviewed this webcam often have three-point lighting and expensive lightboxes, which aren’t always practical for everyone.
Apple iMac M1 Camera
The iMac M1 camera is, without a doubt, the best camera among the three. It’s better than any other webcam out there. With its 1080p resolution, it’s the only webcam I’ve used that delivers the quality it promises. The iMac M1 camera has no distortion, which is impressive, considering how wide the camera is. It also does a fantastic job of capturing colours and complexion, making the footage look natural and realistic. The only downside is that you need an iMac M1 to use it. You can read our full review of the iMac M1 here.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a great quality webcam, go for the iMac M1 FaceCam. It’s the best webcam on the market. If you’re on a budget and want to save money, the Logitech Brio 4K is a good option. Just don’t expect it to deliver 4K. The Elgato FaceCam is a decent camera, but it’s not as good as its reviews suggest. It might work well for you if you’re in a well-lit room or have a studio setup, but it’s not suitable for everyone.
Apple iMac M1 Review
The Apple iMac M1: The Perfect Work-From-Home Companion
This review is part of techloto’s working-from-home series, where we’ve covered the best mouse, ideal microphones, and other tools to make working from home more comfortable. Today, we’re looking at the Apple iMac M1 to see if it’s the perfect work-from-home companion.
Design
The first thing you’ll notice about the iMac M1 is its design. Apple has come a long way from the 2006 Apple HD display: a massive 30-inch screen that took up too much space and weighed a ton. This iMac is light and almost paper-thin, making it a perfect fit for any desk. Its design would appeal to students looking for a computer to put in their dorm room or anyone with limited space at home. We appreciate Apple adding a splash of colour to their design, which is not strongly saturated, giving tones that can fit into any space. The variety of colours allows users to choose the colour they prefer.
Performance
When it comes to handling applications, the iMac M1 excels. It’s impressive how smoothly it runs Teams and Zoom, even in long meetings with many participants. The fan is virtually silent, and the M1 chip allows the applications to function without issues. If you’re someone who has long meetings and video calls, this is the perfect computer for you, and you’ll see the value of the M1 chip.
Camera
Another impressive aspect is the camera. The iMac M1 camera is equipped with Facetime technology, and it’s a game-changer. The camera resolution is not the most important thing, but how it handles contrast sets it apart. After using a Canon camera as a webcam, the Facetime camera on the iMac handles contrast much better.
Keyboard and Mouse
The keyboard and mouse are also excellent. The keyboard is comfortable to type on, and the mouse is smooth and easy to use. These are essential components for a work-from-home setup, and the iMac M1 delivers in this area.
Connections
The available connections are also impressive. It has a Thunderbolt port, an SDXC card slot, and a headphone jack, among others. These connections allow for seamless integration with other devices, making transferring files and using accessories easier.
Screen Size
A challenging aspect of the iMac M1 is the screen size. If you’re someone who edits videos, audio, or designs, the screen size probably won’t be big enough. A larger screen is usually more productive for creative workflow.
Conclusion
The iMac M1 is an excellent work-from-home companion. Its design, performance, camera, keyboard and mouse, and available connections make it a great choice for anyone who needs a computer to work from home. Although the screen size may not be ideal for everyone, it is still an excellent choice for most people. The Apple iMac M1 is the perfect blend of functionality and design, and we’d highly recommend it.
Herman Miller Cosm Chair Review
The Herman Miller Cosm chair is beautifully designed, but is it worth £1000?
The Cosm Chair is a beautiful piece of furniture, so when you look at the price tag, you expect it to be designed well, right?
First Impressions
At first glance, the Herman Miller Cosm High Back Chair is a statement piece. It takes executive chairs to a whole other level; it brings luxury to any room and opens up the space. It has a nice high back for support, and the mesh makes it look attractive. It’s something that would easily fit into a designer’s workspace.
Practicality Issues
When it comes to practicality, the Herman Miller Cosm Chair falls short. The mesh on the arms creates a constant grinding and scraping feeling on the elbows. If you’re someone who likes to sit down at your desk without having your arms on the armrest, you’ll feel your hands scraping against the mesh, making it difficult to relax. Another area for improvement is the need for adjustability. This chair is not adjustable and has no way to recline, meaning you can never truly relax in the chair. When you try to recline, there is constant pushback.
Conclusion
The Herman Miller Cosm Chair is great if you want to put someone in a factory setting to ensure they always work efficiently. If you never want to relax, this is the chair for you. However, if you’re looking for a practical and comfortable office chair, it’s best to keep searching. Herman Miller has incredible chairs, and the Aeron chair is absolutely amazing, so be sure to test it out.
But if you’ve tested the Cosm chair and can honestly say it’s a comfortable office chair, let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Perhaps it simply needed some getting used to.
IMOO Watch Phone Z6 Review
A Smart Watch Perfect for Kids: imoo Watch Phone Z6
Today, we’re looking at the imoo Watch Phone, specifically the Z6 model. It’s a true definition of a smartwatch that kids can wear and take to school. The design is inconspicuous, making it look like any other watch but with added benefits that kids and parents will love.
What Makes the imoo Watch So Practical?
Parents will appreciate the extra sense of security the imoo Watch provides. With location services, they can be aware of where their children are at all times. It’s a great way to communicate with your child without giving them an expensive device, and the watch is easy to set up and use. The watch takes a SIM card, and you’ll be ready to go once it’s connected to Wi-Fi. You can have two-way calls, send voice notes, text messages, pictures, and videos straight from the watch or your phone.
Easy to Use and Customise
The imoo Watch is user-friendly, and your phone acts as the control panel for the watch. You can save all your contacts to the watch from your phone and customise it to your liking. You can use the imoo app on your phone to manage everything on the watch.
Design and Durability
The design of the imoo Watch is rugged and made to last, even for kids. It’s designed to look like a toy, and its flimsy appearance makes it less likely to be stolen. The front-facing and back-facing cameras allow for video calls, and the watch has a lifting feature to make it easy to make calls without holding the watch.
Features for Parents
The helicopter parents out there will love the location services as they can set a class mode so their children won’t be disturbed during specific hours. It’s a great way to give parents peace of mind and ensure their children are always safe.
Conclusion
The imoo Watch is a smartwatch perfect for kids. It’s practical, user-friendly, and provides peace of mind for parents. Its rugged design and location services make it a great alternative to giving kids an expensive phone. There’s so much to explore in customising the watch to make it your own. Give it a try, and let us know what you think.
FiFine USB Microphone K678 Review
Let’s take a look at the FIFINE USB Microphone K678
FIFINE USB Microphone K678 Review
In this review, I’ll cover the setup, build quality, sound quality, and some of the applications where you could use this microphone.
Setup
The setup of the FIFINE USB Microphone K678 is effortless and straightforward. Whether you’re using a Mac or PC, it’s a true plug-and-play experience. There are no drivers to install, and there’s no additional software required. Simply connect the microphone to your computer via USB, and you’re ready to go.
Build Quality
The first thing you’ll notice when unbox the FIFINE USB Microphone K678 is the high-quality packaging. It’s clear that the company takes great care in producing and delivering its products. The microphone is well-made, with a sturdy, metallic body and a professional black finish. The rubber feet on the bottom of the microphone prevent it from scratching your desk or other surfaces and help soften the sound of typing.
Features
The FIFINE USB Microphone K678 is designed for self-monitoring, with a one-click mute button at the front of the microphone. It also has knobs for controlling the microphone and headphone levels, allowing you to connect your earphones to the microphone for easy monitoring. Additionally, there’s space at the bottom of the microphone for attaching a mount, a USB port for direct connection to your computer, and a 3.5mm headphone output.
Sound Quality
To test the sound quality of the FIFINE USB Microphone K678, I compared it to a $400 condenser microphone. The results were impressive, with the USB microphone delivering a clear and crisp sound comparable to the more expensive condenser microphone.
Real-Life Test
I also tested the FIFINE USB Microphone K678 in a real-life setting, using it for a three-hour Zoom call. After the call, the microphone was still cool to the touch, which is a testament to its quality and durability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the FIFINE USB Microphone K678 is an excellent choice for premium sound quality in a compact and stylish package. It’s perfect for office meetings or other applications where you want to monitor your output, and it’s small enough not to take up too much space on your desk. Whether you’re a gamer, streamer, or just someone who wants to improve their audio quality, the Fi Fine USB Microphone K678 is definitely worth considering.
Unboxing and Setting up the Polar Vantage V2
Get the Polar Vantage V2 up and running
Unboxing and Setting up the Polar Vantage V2
I’ve been eagerly waiting to get my hands on the Polar Vantage V2 since we heard the rumours on the Polar Reddit page. So, let’s dive into it!
Packaging and Presentation
The Polar Vantage V2 comes in a type of packaging that we are now familiar with when it comes to high-end Polar watches. However, the presentation of it is a bit different this time. Polar has made it a bit simpler, making it easier to get the watch out of the box and start using it. All you need to do is pull apart the box and lift the top part, and there you will see your brand-new Polar Vantage V2.
First Impressions
As soon as you take out the Polar Vantage V2, you will first notice that it is lighter than its predecessors, the Polar Vantage and the Polar Grit X. Despite its lighter weight, the watch still has the high-quality build that we are used to with Polar watches.
Charging the Watch
Underneath the watch, you will see a new Polar cable for charging your watch. I recommend connecting it and charging it for about an hour to avoid any heartache. An interesting thing I noticed is that, unlike other Polar watches, this one doesn’t switch on automatically as soon as it gets some power from the charger. You have to press and hold the bottom left button to power it on.
Setting up the Watch
Even if you’re new to Polar, and especially if you already have a Polar account, the best way to get your watch up and running is to connect it straight to your computer. Don’t bother trying to connect it to your phone at first. Download the Polar app and sync all your data to ensure that all your sport profiles are on the watch. If you already have a Polar watch, you will want to remove it from your profile to avoid any confusion.
What’s New in the Polar Vantage V2
At a glance, you will see that the Polar Vantage V2 has the same menus you’re used to but with a few added options in the settings section. The watch now has weather information, like the Polar Grit X, and Polar is adding more value to their newer watches. The activity section is the same, with the same options for tracking your daily activity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Polar Vantage V2 is a well-designed and feature-packed watch that builds upon its predecessors. The unboxing and setup process is straightforward, and the added options in the settings section add value to the watch. Whether you’re new to Polar or already have a Polar watch, the Polar Vantage V2 is definitely worth considering.
WAU Bike Review 2023 and Specifications
Get to know the amazing WAU Bike
WAU Bike Review 2023
I’d like to introduce you to the WAU bike. This amazing bike is truly a game-changer for all cycling enthusiasts. Over the past week, I’ve had the pleasure of riding this bike, and I’m excited to share my thoughts and experiences with you.
To start, I must say that this bike is incredibly well-built. I’ve ridden several different bikes in my time, including tracks, carreras, and apollos, but this bike takes the cake when it comes to sturdiness and durability. The frame is solid, and whenever I’m on the road, I feel in complete control, and most importantly, I feel safe.
One of the things that sets this bike apart is the level of control you have when riding it. At first, I was a little hesitant about riding an electric bike because I didn’t want to feel like I was losing control to an automatic system. However, once I got on the bike, I quickly realized that this wasn’t the case. The bike still feels like you’re riding a regular bike, and you have complete control over your speed, direction, and more.
The bike is equipped with a display that displays important information such as your speed, the level of assistance you’re getting, and how long you’ve been riding. The display is also backlit, which makes it easy to see even in low light conditions. The controls on the bike are very simple, with a power button to turn the bike on, and controls for the level of assistance you’re receiving.
Additionally, the bike has a throttle, which allows you to control your speed without having to pedal. You also have the option of using the gears on the right-hand side of the handle to change your speed and make riding easier. On the left-hand side of the handle, you’ll find controls for the lights and indicators. This is a great feature that makes you feel more confident when riding on the road.
Finally, I would like to make a recommendation. I would love to see a feature added to the display that reminds you which direction you’re indicating. I’ve found that I sometimes forget which direction I’ve indicated, and it would be great if the display could remind me.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I must say that this bike has exceeded my expectations in every way. It’s fun to ride, safe, and incredibly well-built. I would highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a new and exciting way to experience the joys of cycling.
WAU Bike specs review 2023
Let’s talk about the specs for the WAU Bike
I have to say, the build of this bike is truly impressive. It’s made with heat-treated aluminium which gives it a great suspension, ensuring a smooth ride every time you hit the road. But don’t worry, if you’re on a smooth surface or going uphill, the bike also has a lockout suspension so you can maximize your speed and efficiency.
One of the things that sets this bike apart is its battery casing. Made of high-grade ABS plastic, the casing is both tough and durable, so you never have to worry about it being damaged while you’re charging it or while it’s inside the bike. And with two keys for extra security, you can have complete confidence in the security of your bike.
I did some research and found out that the 100-mile range this bike offers is no joke. In fact, it gives you three times what you usually get on the market for a bike of this price. This is because other e-bikes on the market are known to use cheap batteries from China. But WAU Bike is different. It’s a UK-based company and they use only the best parts for their bikes, including higher grade Samsung cells for the battery.
When shopping for an e-bike, it’s important to consider how the company sources their batteries. The type of battery they use can greatly impact the battery life cycle. Just think, if your phone battery died every year, that would be a real headache. With WAU Bike, you don’t have to worry about that because you know you’re getting a battery with a long life cycle.
Another aspect of this bike that has gotten a lot of attention is its lighting. People have been asking me where I got the lights and if they can get them for their own bike. Unfortunately, these lights are not sold separately, they’re part of the bike. But they’re worth mentioning because they’re incredibly bright and make it easy to see and be seen, both at night and during the day. And with built-in indicators and brake lights, you can feel confident and safe on the road.
Conclusion
Finally, I want to touch on the GPS tracking. This is a big deal for the WAU Bike because, although it has an alarm, it doesn’t have an immobilizer. Having the GPS tracking gives you extra peace of mind, knowing exactly where your bike is and who is riding it at all times. Overall, the WAU Bike is a fantastic e-bike that has been designed and built with the rider in mind.
MX Master 3 Vs MX ERGO Vs MX Vertical Mouse Review 2023
Here is a functional review for the Logitech MX Vertical, MX Ergo, and MX Master 3.
I spend a lot of time in front of my computer, especially when editing videos and audio. That’s why it’s crucial for me to have the right mouse that won’t cause any discomfort or carpal tunnel syndrome. The only way to know which one works best for me was to use each mouse for a few hours, and I’ll be sharing that feedback with you.
First, let’s talk about the MX Vertical. This mouse is quite unique, and if you work in a company with an IT department, you may have seen IT guys using a vertical mouse. They swear by it, saying it’s the best thing ever and more ergonomically comfortable. But after using it myself, I have to say that this mouse is more of a conversation starter rather than functional. The motion of moving the mouse in a vertical position is uncomfortable, especially after a few hours. It’s meant to replicate a handshake motion, but nobody sits down in that position for hours on end. Also, the clicking feels unnatural and doesn’t feel right. It may work for basic documents, but if you’re spending hours in front of the computer, it’s not recommended.
Next, let’s move on to the MX Ergo. This is hands down the best mouse I have ever used. It looks like a spaceship and is almost as big as one. Despite having small hands, I can see the value of having such a large mouse. It’s comfortable to hold, and the trackball is perfect for scrolling. The mouse has a tilt function, which makes it even more comfortable to use. It’s easy to navigate, and the buttons are well-placed. The MX Ergo is a great choice for anyone who’s looking for a mouse that’s comfortable to use for hours on end.
Finally, let’s talk about the MX Master 3. This mouse is similar to the MX Ergo, but it’s a bit smaller and lighter. It’s still a great mouse, but if you have larger hands, the MX Ergo may be a better choice. The MX Master 3 has a thumb wheel, which makes it easier to navigate, and the buttons are well-placed. The mouse has a smooth scroll and a comfortable grip. It’s easy to use, and the trackball is perfect for scrolling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, after using each of these mice, my top pick would be the MX Ergo. It’s comfortable to use for hours on end, and it has all the features I need. The MX Master 3 is a close second, but it’s a bit smaller, which may be a problem for those with larger hands. And finally, the MX Vertical is not recommended if you’re spending hours in front of the computer. It’s not comfortable to use, and the clicking feels unnatural.
Libratone Zipp Classic Review 2023
Libratone Zipp Classic will rival most existing wireless portable speakers.
Is the Libratone Zipp Classic still worth it?
I’ve been using the Libratone Zipp Classic speaker for eight years, and I absolutely love it. Despite the release of newer versions of the speaker, I still find myself reaching for this one.
One of the standout features is that it is a Wi-Fi speaker rather than a Bluetooth speaker. I find this feature more interesting as it makes the speaker more versatile and allows me to connect it to my iPad and play sound from it while cooking.
What connections does the Libratone Zipp Classic have?
The speaker also has a jack-to-jack input which, while useful at the time, is not as necessary now that most phones do not have a jack input. Additionally, the speaker has a USB port which is intended for USB play, but unfortunately, it does not work with Android devices due to the lack of USB play support.
How good is the sound quality of the Libratone Zipp Classic?
Despite some of its older features, the sound quality of the Libratone Zipp Classic is still difficult to rival, even with newer speakers. I also love that the speaker has Spotify play, which makes it a very useful device for me.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I give the Libratone Zipp Classic speaker a positive review. Its Wi-Fi feature and the Spotify play are the main reasons why I’ve been using it for eight years despite newer versions being available. For more information on the speaker, you can head to the full review.
Is the Sonos Play 3 still worth it in 2021?
Simply put, the Sonos Play 3 is a worthwhile investment and a great addition to your Sonos ecosystem.
Sound Quality
The speaker produces a better sound than the Sonos Play 1 and Sonos 1 SL. The highs and mids are audible and clearly distinguished from the rich room-filling bass. Unfortunately, it lacks the built-in Alexa and Google Home featured on current Sonos speakers.
How much should you pay for the Sonos Play 3 in 2021?
I recommend purchasing a pair and keeping the buying price between £150 and £200.
Sonos has discontinued the Play 3, so you are limited to buying them online, think eBay or Nextdoor. I prefer the latter because sellers are likely to offer a more reasonable price on Nextdoor. Pay using PayPal to ensure that your purchase is protected.
Modernising the speaker
To modernise the Play 3, buy a Google Home or Nest and connect the Sonos as your “main music speaker.” eBay is flooded with brand-new or second-hand Google Assistant devices at a discount. Once synced, Google will play music on the Sonos whenever prompted.
Speaker Placement
For music streaming, the Play 3 is comparative to the Sonos Beam, and one could argue that a pair of Play 3s would rival a single Play 5, but it is not the hill on which I would be willing to die. I made that comparison to reassure buyers that one Play 3 is adequate for small to medium-sized bedrooms or kitchens.
Users will rarely play music at maximum volume on these speakers. I started with a stereo pair, but I was not able to fully utilise the speakers. Splitting the stereo pair between the bedroom and kitchen is ideal.
Conclusion
The Play 3 is a brilliant starter or additional speaker for Sonos enthusiasts. The rich and room-filling sound that it produces means that it outperformers some current Sonos speakers. Using the Sonos Trueplay settings, you can create a suitable sound for small to medium-sized rooms. Save yourself some money and enjoy the premium sound of the Play 3. Click here for more reviews.