Know It All Nev

On Demand Reviews – 2021

Category: Smart Home

The perfect cordless handheld vacuums of 2021

Nifty Nev
Handheld vacuum, handheld vacuums, proactive evergreen, Smart Home, vacuum |

It’s not unusual for one home to have multiple vacuum cleaners. Traditionally, an upright vacuum is the most commonplace of the many vac options available, netting you a deep clean across all floor types and featuring several attachments for every nook and cranny of your home — but most upright vacs require a corded connection for power, limiting how much cleaning you can do in one area of your home. Then there are robotic vacuums.
Combining intelligent sensors and mapping functions, a bot vacuum can be automated to clean your house on a schedule of your choosing. Additional bot vac features include voice assistant integration for popular A.I. tools like Alexa and Google Assistant, as well as water tanks for mopping jobs. While robot vacs do a good job of tackling the dirt and debris of your residence, they’re not exactly portable and can’t do much when it comes to cobwebs on the ceiling. That’s where a cordless handheld vac comes into play.
Mobile and lightweight enough to carry with one hand, cordless handheld vacs run off of powerful rechargeable batteries that allow you to deep-clean your floors, ceilings, draperies, HVAC vents, and car upholstery. Washable filters and easy-empty dust caps are other standout features you’ll find in today’s leading handheld units.
Whether you want an extra vac to handle the tough-to-reach spots of your home or enjoy the idea of a quick-grab vac for miniature dry spills and pet hair, here are five of the best cordless handheld vacuums you can buy right now.
Black + Decker Dustbuster for Pet Hair

Pet hair gets everywhere, hides well, and quickly reemerges as soon as one heap is vacuumed up. For those looking for an ideal handheld pet vac, Black + Decker’s Dustbuster should be a top consideration. Right off the bat, we’re all about the vac’s main pet hair attachment, a motorized brush head composed of rubber bristles that dig deep into upholstery, getting at pet hair you didn’t even know was there.
Tired of staring down those ceiling-corner cobwebs? Throw on the Dustbuster’s extra-long crevice tool to get extra reach out of your vac. Cobweb won’t budge? Up the suction speed or set the vac to PowerBoost to max out the Dustbuster’s strength. Both the dust cap and filter are easy to clean and empty, and the 20-volt lithium-ion battery will keep you cleaning for long periods of time. When the battery gets low, the built-in indicator will let you know it’s time to recharge.
While the Black + Decker Dustbuster won’t handle any wet messes, it’s still one of our favorite handheld options for pet owners.
Hoover Onepwr Handheld Vac

Lightweight and compact, the Hoover Onepwr is designed to be stowed away and quickly taken out when a mess presents itself. We also love that the battery pack is removable and can be used on all other Onepwr products, even upright models.
The extra-large dust cap and included crevice tool will allow you to go for days without needing to empty the vac while also ensuring that there’s no corner of your home that goes untouched. Some users have noticed a loss of suction power when attaching the crevice tool, but not to a degree where the vac is inefficient.
In terms of battery life, you can expect a full charge to last up to 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to tackle a quick mess in the house or an entire car-cleaning job (if there aren’t too many chip crumbs to suck up). All in all, the Hoover Onepwr Handheld Vac is a great addition to any home, big or small.
Ridgid 18-Volt Handheld Vac

While it’s a bummer that you have to purchase the battery packs and charger separately, this Ridgid handheld vac more than makes up for its lack of must-have accessories with incredible performance.
Designed for industrial use but versatile enough for home usage, too, the Ridgid is easy to carry for long periods of time, comfortable on your hands, and long-lasting. If you’re dreading the step-stool when it comes time to vacuum your HVAC return, you’ll love the included 22-inch extension tube. The vac even comes with a crevice tool for difficult sawdust at the worksite or deep-seated pet hair between couch cushions.
Best of all, those batteries you purchased can be used on other Ridgid hardware, making the Ridgid 18-Volt Handheld Vacuum a solid bet for your next do-it-yourself garage adventure or living room quick-cleaner.
Shark WV201 Handheld Vac

Weighing in at only 1.4 pounds, the Shark WV201 is one of the lightest handheld vacs on the market. In terms of design and comfort, it’s also one of the most minimalist vacs you can get your hands on. The sleek wand makes it easy to get the WV201 into hard-to-reach spots while also making it simple to stow the vac away on its charging dock when not in use.
Speaking of charging docks, we also love that you can store all the vac’s attachments on the base, including the multi-surface pet tool. Shark’s brushless motor and the chassis engineered for optimal airflow means you’ll be getting the most powerful suction, regardless of the surface you’re tackling.
The Shark WV201’s small footprint means a small dust cap, too. While this may be OK for most homeowners, those with frequent or larger messes to tackle may want a handheld vac with a larger dust cap.
Black + Decker Max Handheld Vac

If you’ve been having trouble cleaning the highest shelves of your home, the Black + Decker Max is tailor-made for you. Featuring a 200-degree adjustable nozzle, you’ll be able to position the vac’s main attachment to get at even the hardest-to-reach places. Still can’t get all the dust off those ceiling fan blades? Add on the extendable crevice tool for a little more reach.
The cyclonic action of the vac delivers powerful suction, solid engineering furthered by the 20-volt lithium-ion battery. When you’re finished cleaning, the charging base doubles as a home for the vac and all its attachments, too.
When it comes time to clean your Black + Decker Max, you can easily remove the entire dirt bowl and filter to wash them in your kitchen sink. Just be sure that the filter itself is completely dry before you fire it up again.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

One of the best pet cameras of 2021

Nifty Nev
Pawbo, pet cameras, Petcube Bites 2, proactive evergreen, Smart Home |

Have you ever wondered what your pets are doing while you’re not home? Based on the torn-up furniture of weeks past, the evidence is stockpiling against that new puppy of yours — or should you blame the cat for the destruction?
Whether you want to keep tabs on your closest companions while you’re at work, out running errands, or away on vacation, there are plenty of pet cameras you can purchase that will allow you to monitor and communicate with your animals. Heck, many models even allow you to disburse treats.
As experts on all things smart home, and as lovers of cats and dogs, we’re here to help manage your household and the needs of your pet. For your consideration, here’s our roundup of the best pet cameras you can buy right now.
Petcube Bites 2

When it comes to impressive camera quality and interactive features, the Petcube Bites 2 is one of our top choices. Designed for both dogs and cats, the cam is compatible with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz network bands and can be set up in as little as two minutes (compatible with iOS 11 and Android 7.1.2 or higher).
Once connected to Wi-Fi, the Petcube app is your go-to resource. Want to see what the dog is up to? Call him over using the cam’s two-way chat function and view a live feed of the hound with the Bites’ 1080p HD lens with 160-degrees of rotation. Sun setting? The Bites’ automatic night vision should clear things up for you. If your pets tend to be mischievous while you’re away, your Bites 2 will send you both motion and sound notifications when trouble is detected.
There’s even a 1.5-pound treat dispenser for the good boys and girls of the animal kingdom. Choose between short, medium, or long-distance flings depending on what pet you’re trying to reward. If that’s enough, onboard Alexa integration means your Bites 2 can be used as a smart speaker, letting you play music for your pets, chat live with veterinarians, and order treats on the fly.
While some have argued that treat dispensing can be a bit delayed now and then, we can’t recommend the Petcube Bites 2 enough.
YI Smart Dome Security Camera

One of our favorite features of the Yl Smart Dome is that the camera is intelligent enough to differentiate between humans and animals. This means you’ll only receive the most relevant motion and sound notifications through the Yl companion app. When the Smart Dome captures a recording of a disturbance, the footage can be stored locally (with an external SD card) or in the Yl cloud (subscription required).
We also love the camera’s incredible range of motion, featuring 340-degree rotation and 95-degree tilting. Couple that with the 160-degree wide-angle lens, and you’re looking at optimal coverage of whatever room you place the Smart Dome in. When powered down, the camera lens drops behind the base casing, making it impossible for hackers to tap into a live feed of your home.
With Alexa and Google Assistant integration, as well as two-way chat, you can even speak to your pets on the go. Have an Echo Show in your home office? If you hear a noise downstairs, you can ask Alexa to pull video from the Yl Smart Dome to see what the dog is up to in the kitchen.
Pawbo Life Pet Camera

How about a decent serving of fun and games for your furry friend? In addition to treat dispensing, the Pawbo Life has a built-in laser pointer that you can set up for automatic pointing or manual controls using the Pawbo companion app (for iOS and Android devices). There’s nothing like watching your cat bounce off the walls when you’re away from home.
The camera itself sports a 130-degree wide-angle lens that records and stores footage to the Pawbo app. While you’re only getting 720p HD, the image quality is sharp and balanced. Like many other mentions on this list, the Pawbo Life also features two-way chat for speaking with your pets when you log into the camera. Unfortunately, there’s no smart assistant integration to speak of with this model.
For big families that all want to get in on the surveillance action, the Pawbo app allows up to eight consecutive users to be logged in, monitoring and communicating at one time. There’s even instant social sharing, letting you grab a snapshot of your pet and then posting it to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram on the fly.
While the sticker price is a bit on the high side, the Pawbo Life Pet Camera delivers top performance, great features, and one of the most robust social media experiences we’ve found in a pet camera.
Furbo Dog Camera

While many cameras on our list feature bark detection, the Furbo goes a step further by allowing you to adjust barking sensitivity. The company claims that this function has saved the lives of hundreds of dogs that are stuck at home during an emergency.
The 160-degree lens delivers 1080p footage with the option of 4x digital zooming for zeroing in on your pooch from afar. If it’s dark out, night vision will kick on to ensure you can still see your pets come sunset. Two-way chatting and Alexa commands keep you connected to your animal, letting you do things like programming the Furbo to shoot out a treat every two hours.
Additionally, you can enroll in a Furbo subscription for cloud recording, smart alerts that ping you when your dog is being unruly, and a feature called Dog Diary that compiles your dog’s entire day into 60 seconds of footage.
The Alexa-ready Furbo Dog Camera is packed with plenty of dog-monitoring features, but you can also use it to check in on your cats, too.
Petcube Play 2

Like the Bites 2, Petcube’s Play 2 delivers all the best performance features we expect from a solid pet cam, but with a few bonuses thrown in. The Play 2 may be our favorite design of any pet cam we’ve spotlighted in this roundup. Tall cameras with rounded bases for treat dispensers are a common sight when shopping for pet cams, which is why the Play 2’s cubed design truly stands out amongst the competition. That being said, if you want treat dispensing, we suggest the Bites 2 instead.
In terms of visuals, you’re getting full 1080p HD, both day and night, and a 160-degree lens with 4x digital zoom. The two-way chatting and motion/sound notifications of the Bites 2 are built into the Play 2 as well, along with a laser pointer that you can set for automatic or manual controls.
For those that want more out of their Petcube Play 2, you can sign up for Petcube Care, a membership that will grant you 90 days of cloud-based event storage, automatic video recording, and bark/meow notifications.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Find out how to use the Google House app in your PC

Nifty Nev
Android, Google Assistant, Google Home, proactive evergreen, Smart Home |

When it comes to running your smart home, Google makes it easy, thanks to the company’s suite of web-connected products and services. With Google Assistant as the brains of the smart operation, all of your Google-powered devices are housed under one roof for controls and customization — the Google Home app.
Available exclusively for iOS and Android devices, you won’t find a dedicated desktop app for running your Google smart home on your Mac or PC. That being said, there are a few workarounds you can implement, allowing you to add Google Home’s intuitive features to your computer of choice. Read on to learn how.
Use Google Home through your Chromebook
Mark Coppock/Digital Trends
While your run-of-the-mill desktop doesn’t feature onboard support for the Google Home app, those using a Chromebook can download and use the application as they would on a regular mobile device — and it’s all possible via the Google Play Store.
To get started, go into the Settings menu of your Chromebook. Click Apps, find the Google Play Store tab, then click Turn On. Now all you have to do is head into the Google Play Store on your Chromebook, download the Google Home app, and launch it.
Because the building blocks of Chrome OS and Android are pretty close in nature, you’ll be able to use the Google Home app to do everything you normally do on your mobile device — including device controls, routine building, and casting — but through your Chromebook.
Put Google Chrome to the test
Caio/Pexels
If you’re already using Google Chrome as the default web browser for your PC or Mac and are looking to add Google Home functionality to your desktop, you’ll be glad to know that you can use Google Chrome to unlock the casting and streaming features that are built into the Home application.
To do so, you’ll first want to ensure that your desktop is running the latest version of the Chrome browser. Next, with the Chrome browser launched, you can either click the More icon (three vertical dots) or right-click a blank section of your webpage. Then, click Cast, followed by your device of choice.
While you won’t be able to use Google Chrome for Google Assistant or any kind of device customization for the hardware on your network, the casting function will allow you to send audio and video from your desktop to certain Google Home devices on your network.
Try an Android emulator

Did you know that you can mimic your phone or tablet’s Android operating system to your desktop? With programs like Bluestacks, you can enjoy the look, feel, and functionality of your phone’s Android OS right from your home computer. While there are a handful of emulators to choose from, Bluestacks is known for its reliability, easy layout, and customization options.
To get started, download Bluestacks for your PC or Mac, then launch the program. During setup, you’ll be prompted to enter Google Play Store credentials for downloading apps. After entering this info, go into the Play Store, search for Google Home, and click Install.
When you launch the Google Home app, you’ll be prompted to enter your Google account info, at which point the rest of your installation will mirror that of Google Home on a mobile device. Once you’ve locked down your location preferences and a few other tweaks, you’re ready to use the app.
The nice thing about Bluestacks (minus the ads) is that Google Home will perform exactly the same way it does on the mobile gear the app is designed for.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Learn how to use Amazon Echo as a doorbell chime

Nifty Nev
Alexa, Alexa doorbell, Amazon, Amazon Echo, How To, proactive evergreen, Smart Home |

Your Amazon Echo is packed with smart features that can vary based on the other smart devices you are using around your home. One capability that users may not know about is using the Echo as a doorbell chime, so whenever your doorbell is activated, your Echo will chime too, allowing you to hear it as long you’re near the smart speaker. Interested in setting that up? Here’s what you need to do.
 Step 1: Install a compatible doorbell

Amazon’s Echo — and Alexa working with it — need a compatible smart doorbell to make a connection. Without the right doorbell, none of this is possible. Amazon has a whole list of various doorbells that are compatible with Alexa, but for this particular example, we’re going to choose a Ring Video Doorbell. Ring’s doorbells are some of the best video doorbells on the market, and they work very well with Alexa, so they make for an excellent demonstration. We also have a complete guide on how to install your Ring Doorbell.
Mount your video doorbell, make sure it’s turned on, and use the video doorbell app to set it up, connect it to your Wi-Fi, and get everything in working order. Once you are satisfied, it’s time to work with your Echo.
Step 2: Enable the corresponding skill on the Alexa app

Open up your Alexa app, select the More button in the lower-right corner, and then select Skills & Games from the new list.

Now you will want to search for the corresponding Alexa Skill for your smart device. Select the Magnifying Glass in the upper-right corner, and type in “Ring,” then select the Ring skill when it appears in the results.
Note: You can also say something like, “Alexa, search for new smart devices,” to get started, but this can be a little clunky if Alexa struggles to recognize the Ring Video Doorbell at first. It’s a good idea to use the app if voice commands aren’t working as well.
Step 3: Link the two devices

Select Enable to Use on the Ring Skill. Alexa will now walk you through the steps to link your Ring Video Doorbell to your Echo, starting with having you log in to the Ring app with your Ring account information (have this handy). Follow all the prompts, and give Alexa permission to access your Ring data when asked.
When you are finished, you should see a notification that the Ring Doorbell is now linked with Alexa. However, this doesn’t always mean that your Echo is fully connected yet. Wait for about a minute, then head to the Alexa app again, select Devices, and select All Devices. Look for your Ring Video Doorbell’s name to make sure the Ring Doorbell is found and connected. If it isn’t, select the Plus Sign in the upper-right so Alexa can locate it and connect properly.
Step 4: Visit your doorbell page on the Alexa App

Since you’re already in Devices, this next step won’t take long! Select your Ring Doorbell, and examine the settings. You will see two separate sections, one for Doorbell Announcement and one for Motion Announcement. You can enable both of them if you want, but for a true doorbell chime, you will want to make sure that at least Doorbell Announcement is enabled.
Now select the option that says Doorbell Sound. Here, you can pick from a variety of different chimes that your Echo will make when the doorbell is activated. Pick your preferred option here.
Note: If you have an Echo Show model, you can also command it to show a livestream of the Ring Video Doorbell’s feed whenever you get an alert. This saves some time if you are busy around your home and don’t have your phone handy to bring up a feed there.
Step 5: Check that your Echo is ready to chime

Your Echo should be ready to act as a doorbell chime now, but there’s one last step you should take. Head back to your Alexa app home screen and select Devices again, and then select All Devices and find the Echo that you want to chime. Select Communications from the Echo menu.

Make sure that Communications itself is enabled and that Announcements are enabled. Now you should be good to go!
Step 6: Add other Alexa skills as preferred
You don’t need to do anything else to receive doorbell chimes from your Echo, but if you want to experiment, you can check out skills like Door Chimes to add new sounds to your doorbell.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Finest low-cost Nespresso offers for August 2021

Nifty Nev
breville, Commerce 2020, De'Longhi, Deals, Evergreen Deals, Nespresso, Single Serve Coffee, Smart Home |

Are you shopping for the best cheap coffee maker deals? Nespresso’s outstanding single-serve espresso machines and coffee makers brew high-quality coffee and espresso with no waste and little mess. There are two types of Nespresso machines and many model variations for each type. We found the best Nespresso deals for you for both types of machines. Further below in this article, we list the major factors to consider when choosing the right cheap Nespresso machine to suit your particular java Jones.
Today’s best Nespresso deals

How to choose a Nespresso machine
Whether you’re looking for the simplest, least expensive Nespresso or searching for a barista-level device because instant single serve Keurig deals won’t cut it anymore, you have plenty of choices. The following is a list of factors and features and useful buying advice to consider in choosing a Nespresso machine for yourself or as a gift.

Nespresso, Breville, or De’Longhi: Nespresso sells coffee and espresso in pods. Nespresso does not manufacture coffee makers or espresso machines, but licenses other companies to use the Nespresso brand name and make the machines. Breville and De’Longhi are the two companies licensed to manufacture and sell Nespresso machines in the U.S. Both companies sell a wide range of Nespresso machines, and it can get confusing because, other than styling, the features are often nearly identical. Whether you buy a Breville or De’Longhi machine, however, they are both the real deal.
Original or Vertuo: There are two types of Nespresso machines, which the company calls the original line and Vertuo line machines. Each type works with different capsules. Original capsule machines brew coffee with 19-bar pressure extraction and can brew two sizes, from 1.35 ounces to 5 ounces. There are also third-party brands of capsules that work in original machines. Nespresso Vertuo machines brew using extraction plus centrifugal force, spinning up to 7,000 times a second. Vertuo capsules have bar codes that instruct the machines on how to brew the coffee. You can brew in five different sizes with Vertuo machines, from 1.35 ounces to 14 ounces. Nespresso creates the same flavors for each line of machines.
Brew sizes: European style espresso and coffee drinks range from 1.35-ounce single shot to 5-ounce lingo brews. You can also create a double shot 2.7-ounce drink with both capsule sizes. If you prefer American style 8-ounce cups or 14-ounce brews for travel mugs, choose a Vertuoline machine.
Water reservoir: The larger the Nespresso machine’s water reservoir, the more cups can be brewed without refilling. The larger machines take up more counter space, however.
Milk frothers: Some of the higher-end original line Nespresso machines have integrated milk frothers. Lower-cost Nespresso original-line and all current Vertuoline machines need external frothers. Breville and De’Longhi both sell Nespresso machines bundled with separate Aeroccino milk frothers.
Space: Original-line Nespresso machines with integrated frothers and both types of machines with large water reservoirs take up a good deal of counter space. Most machines have the water reservoir in the rear, which reduces width, but some have the tank on the side. Smaller original line machines such as the Pixie and the Essenza Mini machines take up the least space.
Budget: Nespresso’s original line machine list prices range from $150 to $600. Vertuo line list prices start at $160 and go up to $300. Deals are common for both lines, and you can often find all but the most expensive models for less than $200.

We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Professional Evaluate: Spot-on topic monitoring

Nifty Nev
best home security systems, Eufy, Floodlight Camera, Security Cameras, Smart Home |

Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro Review: Spot-on subject tracking
MSRP $299.00

“From its sharp visuals to its rich app, there’s plenty to love about Eufy’s Floodlight Cam 2 Pro.”

Excellent video quality

Great motion tracking

A powerful companion app

No subscription required

Hardwired only

Only 8GB of internal storage (no cloud option)

Over the years, the world of smart security has taken on an all-new form. Where we once relied on the big names of home surveillance to come in, install their hardware, and provide remote monitoring services, the power of the security system has gradually become more and more DIY — and that’s the way we like it. Nothing beats grabbing your phone, opening an app, and viewing an instant live feed from a designated camera.
When it comes to outdoor DIY devices, installation itself may take a bit longer, but the immediate peace of mind remains the same. Plus, what’s not to love about a high-powered floodlight camera with an app to control it?
When shopping for a floodlight system, you’ll cross paths with hundreds of brands that claim to be the best, but one name that continues to blow us away is Eufy, the smart home division of parent company Anker Innovations. Amid the release of an all-new outdoor camera lineup, we were able to get our hands on the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro, the company’s current flagship offering.
Does the Floodlight Cam 2 live up to its “premium” billing? Yes, indeed. Read on to learn more.
Out of the box
The Floodlight Cam 2 has the look and feel of a camera that is built for performance. You know when something simply feels cheap? Never did this thought cross my mind with the Cam 2, especially once I held it in my hands. About as heavy as a brick, the Floodlight has an IP65-rated outer shell that feels rugged and ready for the elements.
The Cam 2 comes with everything you need to get up and running. Box contents include the camera itself, mounting and wiring hardware, a USB power connector for initial setup (you’ll need a power brick on standby), and the instruction manual.
Before heading outdoors to mount the Cam 2, you’ll first need to connect the device to your Wi-Fi and the Eufy app (for iOS and Android platforms). Once you’ve added the app to your mobile device, open it and tap Add Device. Choose the Floodlight Cam 2 Pro from the list of available hardware, after which you’ll be prompted to scan the QR code located on the camera body. The QR label is cleverly hidden inside the bottom clamshell compartment of the Floodlight, which is accessible by holding in the release tab (mind your fingers) and pulling down on the white part of the camera body.
Tapping into the live feed, daylight viewing presented a clear and colorful picture with well-balanced contrast and little (if any) visual artifacts.

Next, you’ll connect your Floodlight for temporary power using the included USB cable, allowing you to walk through the rest of the app setup. Once you’ve paired the camera to your Wi-Fi and run through the firmware update, you’re ready to begin mounting.

Wired installation only
Similar to many other outdoor camera products (especially those with high-powered lighting), the Floodlight Cam 2 requires a hardwired power connection (110 to 240-volts). While certain residences may have existing wiring located below house and garage awnings that you can use, you may have to add professional wiring and a compatible junction box to your to-do list if your home isn’t floodlight-ready.

Yes, I groaned to myself because I wish the Cam 2 could run on batteries (I’m not a fan of wiring jobs), but there’s no way I’m going to ding the overall score because of this. With its bevy of rich features, plus internal storage and powerful lighting (more on both of those assets below), a hardwired connection is completely necessary. Without one, we’d be charging batteries every two weeks.
With a wall or ceiling junction box in place (either setup is Floodlight-approved), the rest of the install is just a matter of screwing in the Cam 2’s rectangular mounting plate, connecting the wiring, and attaching the camera. Conveniently, the camera comes with a heavy-duty strap that you can hang against the junction box while you’re wiring.
Top-notch video quality and motion tracking
The Floodlight Cam 2 boasts a 2K sensor for both live feed and video recordings. That’s double the pixel count over its predecessor, the Eufy Floodlight Camera. Where the previous iteration only offered fixed viewing, the Cam 2 features an adjustable 360-degree lens housing, a 130-degree vertical axis, and complete pan-and-tilt controls. While a lack of 4K support may leave some users disappointed, based on the video quality I was privy to during my trial, I assume most property owners will be more than satisfied.

The Cam 2 delivers exceptional video, day and night. Tapping into the live feed, daylight viewing presented a clear and colorful picture with well-balanced contrast and little (if any) visual artifacts. Nighttime views employ the three 3,000-lumen adjustable floodlights, adding plenty of illumination to the area in and around the camera. Better yet, the Cam 2’s automatic night mode (you can toggle it on and off in the app) brings another layer of nocturnal detailing.

One of my favorite out-of-the-box Cam 2 features, second only to the visuals, is the camera’s subject tracking. A highly responsive A.I. module is built for human recognition. Whenever a passerby crossed into the Cam 2’s 270-degree motion threshold, my Cam 2 flew into action, locking onto the person and tracking them with ease. Along with a motion notification on your phone, the Cam 2 also records and logs a video clip in the Eufy app whenever a human is detected.
Yes, it’s a huge perk to not have to run your credit card for a yearly cloud-service membership, but those looking for expanded storage may be slightly disappointed.

Best of all, you can create two customized activity zones in the Eufy app (more on app coverage below) to cut down on unnecessary motion alerts that fall outside your property line.
A feature-rich companion app
The Cam 2’s fundamentals are all quite stellar, but what about the mobile app? Rest assured, you’re in good hands. Eufy Security is your one-stop portal for all of Anker’s security products, from indoor and outdoor cameras to motion sensors. On the homepage, a Devices tab lists all of your Eufy hardware currently online, along with a thumbnail of the last recorded image.
Whenever a motion clip is recorded, it’s stored under the Events tab. Here, you can sort through all of your recordings, with filters for humans, pets, and more. You can also rewatch clips and delete ones you don’t need anymore. With 8GB of internal storage estimated to last up to about 30 days (based on average motion detection settings), there’s no subscription required to store video. Yes, it’s a huge perk to not have to run your credit card for a yearly cloud-service membership, but those looking for expanded storage may be slightly disappointed.

Under the Security tab, you’ll be able to set your Cam 2 to Home and Away modes, with unique settings and adjustments for each. You’ll also find Geofencing and Schedule selections for programming your camera based on your zip code, sunrise/sunset, the time of day, and more.
From the Devices screen, tapping the Floodlight Cam 2’s Play button brings you to a live feed of the camera, with options for recording, screenshots, two-way talk, and tracking/calibration features. Tapping the Settings icon in the top-right corner brings you to various adjustments for the Cam 2 itself, including motion detection/monitoring, lighting, recording, and video quality. You can also arm/disarm the Cam 2, toggle auto night vision on and off, and more.
For smart home aficionados, the Cam 2 features support for both Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to receive and view motion events and live feeds from your Cam 2 using a compatible smart display.
Price and warranty
The Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro currently sells for $299 and comes with a one-year, hassle-free warranty.
Our take
Outside of a slightly longer installation window than most smart security devices, the Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is top of the line. Sporting stellar video quality, intelligent subject tracking, plenty of customization options, a solid mobile app, and a fair price point, the Cam 2 is a premium outdoor fixture that we highly recommend for any residential or commercial property.
Is there a better alternative?
In terms of wired floodlight cameras, the Floodlight Cam 2 fits right in with other top floodlight options from the likes of Ring, Arlo, and other major security brands. If you’re a quality connoisseur and absolutely require 4K, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera will net you UHD-viewing, the option for wire-free installation, and a softer price point. However, you’ll need to opt in for an Arlo subscription if you want any kind of video storage, which makes the Floodlight Cam 2’s internal storage all the more sweeter.
How long will it last?
A rugged design and a hardwired power connection to your home’s electrical should keep the Floodlight Cam 2 going for quite some time. If any troubles do arise, you’re covered by Eufy’s one-year warranty.
Should you buy it?
Absolutely. The Floodlight Cam 2 Pro delivers exceptional performance from setup to mounting and a companion app with a head-spinning amount of customization options.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Advisable low cost robotic vacuum offers wanted for August 2021: Roomba, Eufy, Deebot

Nifty Nev
Commerce 2020, Deals, ecovacs, Eufy, Evergreen Deals, robot vacuums, Roomba, shark, Smart Home |

Robot vacuum cleaners do a great job with routine floor cleaning in your home. Robotic vacuum cleaners proved their life-changing value in the last several years, and now they are smarter and more valuable than ever before. Robot vacs keep floors clean and give family members time to spend with each other or on favorite activities. We found several Roomba deals as well as other robot vacuum deals on brands like Ecovacs, Eufy, and Shark. You can find them all below.
Today’s best robot vacuum deals

How to choose a Robot Vacuum
With robot vacuum deals as low as $140, the decision of whether to buy a robotic vac isn’t as had as when they cost closer to $1,000, but there are still decisions based on brands and features.
All robot vacuums share a core set of features. The differences between models in the same brand usually relate to different sizes, battery life, navigation modes, and more.
Standard features for all robot vacuums:

Motor suction power: Vacuum motors create suction to pull dust, dirt, and debris into an internal dust bin. The stronger the suction power, the more efficiently the robot vacuum can clean your floors. Many robot vacuums aren’t strong enough to work with thick pile carpeting, but most work adequately with low to medium pile carpets. Most robot vacuums today automatically detect the surface on which they are working and can adjust the suction power, turning it all the way up on carpeting.
Center roller and edge brushes: Various forms of flexible center roller brushes loosen dirt and debris. Some robot vacuums have two roller brushes. Most also have two side or edge brushes to move dirt next to walls and in corners toward the center of the robot vacuum movement so it can be sucked up.
Battery operation with return-to-charge: Robot vacuums don’t use cables. The running time per charge varies, but most robot vacs can run at least 60 minutes before needing a charge. Most also automatically return to their charging station for recharging, which can take two to four hours. If your floors require maximum suction power most or all of the time, battery operation time will be lower.
Internal dust bin with filter(s): Robot vacuums pack the dirt and debris tightly into an internal dustbin. A few high-end models self-empty the dustbin into a larger bin at the charging station, but in most cases, you’ll need to empty it yourself — typically a fast and easy process.
Obstacle detection: A robot vacuum that doesn’t have sensors to detect obstacles will continue to bash itself. Virtually all robot vacuums today either sense obstacles ahead of time and shift course or have articulated bumpers and will change direction when they tap a wall, cabinet, or furniture. Many robot vacs also detect drops, so they don’t fall down stairs or off landings.
App control: Most robot vacuum manufacturers provide a mobile app or a Wi-Fi app you can use to start, stop, pause, or send the robot vacuum to the base station. Smartphone apps typically can manage the robot vacuum remotely.
Scheduling: You can set up a calendar for your robot vacuum, ranging from days and start time to separate schedules for different rooms or areas.

Differentiating factors and features for robot vacuums:

Battery life per charge: If 60 minutes of vacuuming is the minimum acceptable running time per charge, 90 to 110 minutes is more common. The robot vacuum doesn’t stop for breaks or phone calls, so even 30 minutes of vacuuming can accomplish a lot.
Cleaning modes: In addition to just starting and stopping, many robot vacuums add one room cleaning, spot cleaning, and more.
Pet friendliness: Pets are generally okay with robot vacuums, but a lot of dog or cat hair can tangle the on the rollers quickly. If you have long-haired pets, be sure to look for one of the many models with pet-friendly features.
Boundary management: Pets also feature in boundary management, but robot vacuums that knock over or spill pets food and water dishes are aggravating. Midrange to high-end robot vacuums often come with boundary strips you can put on the floor. With a boundary strip blocking a dog dish or any other object or area you do not want the robot vacuum to touch or enter, your pets will still be able to drink during the days when the vacuum runs.
Alexa or Google Assistant voice command support: In addition to mobile apps, an increasing number of robot vacuums support Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or both, so when you’re home, you can manage the vacuum with voice commands.
Navigation and mapping: Robot vacuum navigation is more varied than any other feature. Advanced models create maps of individual rooms and sometimes entire floors. Sophisticated mapping and navigation help the robot waste less time by cleaning more efficiently and not going over locations multiple times. Mapping also allows appropriate vacuum scheduling for different rooms base on use and debris.
Charge and resume: Most robot vacuums go back to their docking station to charge when they need it. More advanced models continue cleaning once they recharge. The fanciest models return and pick up where they left off according to stored room maps.
Wet mopping: A minority of robot vacuums also have a damp mop feature.
Self-emptying dustbins: Emptying the dustbin from a robot vac isn’t that big a deal, but just like throwing water off the side of a boat, don’t empty the container into the wind. A very few models have self-emptying features that use a suction motor in the docking station to pull the debris from the vacuum’s internal bin and store the dirt, dust, and debris in a much larger bin in the docking station. Eventually, a human has to empty the larger container, but this feature allows people to let the vacuum clean unattended for extended periods.

Do robot vacuums work on carpet?
Carpets are the most demanding floors for any vacuum. Most robot vacuums detect changes in floor surfaces and boost the power to the motor’s maximum strength on carpeting. Robot vacuums are typically rated for thin to medium pile carpeting. The automated cleaners use various types of flexible rollers to loosen dirt and debris, and then the suction pulls the dirt into the internal dust bin.
Do robot vacuums work on tile floors?
Robot vacuums work well on tile floors because they detect floor surfaces and apply extra suction as needed.
Do robot vacuums scratch wood floors?
Robot vacuums don’t scratch wood floors because they use brushes or flexible rubber rulers that adjust to the floor surface, applying extra suction where needed.
We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Best low cost Google Nest Digital camera choices for August 2021

Nifty Nev
Commerce 2020, Deals, Evergreen Deals, home security cameras, Nest Camera Deals, Nest Camera Sales, Smart Home |

Are you shopping for smart security cameras for your house? Are you looking for the best cheap home security camera deals? Google Nest cameras get high marks in our best home security camera round-up. Nest Security Cameras support 24/7 video monitoring and integrate easily with other Google Nest smart home devices, including video doorbells, smart speakers and displays, entertainment, and connectivity products. In addition to compatibility with Google Assistant, Nest Cameras work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which broadens their utility and appeal. It can be hard to find truly outstanding Nest camera deals, but we search regularly, and update this post frequently, so check back often to score the best Nest Camera deals.
Best Nest Camera deals

Nest Cam IQ Outdoor

The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor security camera is a weather-proof wired outdoor 1080p HD video camera with a tamper-resistant case. Nest’s Supersight video employs a 4K image sensor, high dynamic range support, and 12x digital zoom to stream and record extremely clear images. Nest’s HD Talk and Listen enhances audio quality both ways so you’ll hear exactly what’s going on and what people are saying and they’ll hear you clearly as well. You can use the Nest app to review recorded content in the cloud and set up the camera to send alerts to your smartphone when it detects a person in its range of view.
Nest Cam IQ Indoor

The Nest Cam IQ Indoor is a wired camera with a wide base for easy placement on any indoor surface. A mounting screw hole in the base and a ball joint stem allow installation in any location with a solid surface. The Nest Cam IQ Indoor has an 8-megapixel 4K sensor with enhanced zoom and the ability to differentiate humans from other objects in defined areas in the 130-degree field of view. Two-way talk is standard, and with a Nest Aware subscription, you can manage the camera’s facial recognition, automatic close-ups, and defined area motion detection.
Nest Cam Outdoor

The weatherproof  Nest Cam Outdoor has a 3-megapixel sensor with 8x digital zoom and a 130-degree wide-angle field of view. With its eight infrared LED-powered Night Vision, the Nest Cam Outdoor records 1080p HD video 24/7, including audio with two-way talk support. Connect directly to Wi-Fi with no hub required and control the Nest Cam Outdoor with the Nest app on a smartphone or tablet. With a Nest Aware subscription, you can view up to 30 days of video history, share selected video clips, and define specific activity zones within the field of view, and send alerts when humans enter the zones.
Nest Cam Indoor

Digital Trends named the latest version of the Nest Cam Indoor the best indoor security camera for 2020 because of its image quality and smart capabilities. The cam’s 4K sensor, HDR, and 12x digital zoom can work in conjunction to focus automatically on specific parts of the 130-degree field of view. The wired Nest Cam Indoor includes two-way talk and can be installed with the included stand, on a wall, or with a standard camera tripod mount. If you subscribe to Nest Aware for 30 days of cloud storage, you can create short video clips from the recorded content.
How to choose a Nest Cam
Because a mix of different Nest Cams can work in the same system, your Nest Cam choice for any specific location depends on just two factors: Weather protection and your need for advanced features. You can use outdoor models inside, but you’ll pay a premium to do so. Save money by using Nest Cam Outdoor models only where they’ll need protection from dust and weather. Also, for basic applications, you may not need the extra features included with the Nest Cam IQ models.
The four Nest Cams share a basic feature set. The cameras differ based on their design for indoor or outdoor applications and the level of smart features. All four cameras require wired power connections, record 1080p full HD video, and support two-way talk audio. They include night vision, send alerts to your smartphone when they detect motion, and can be configured to record live video 24/7 for storage in the cloud.
Extra features on the Nest Cam IQ models include person alerts when the camera detects a human, close-up tracking with automatic digital zoom, HD audio for additional clarity with two-way talk, and familiar face alerts to let you know if the camera detected a friend or family member or a stranger. With an optional Nest Aware subscription, you can view 5-day, 10-day, or 30-day video history and configure activity zones and intelligent alerts with all Nest Cams. Nest Aware costs from $5 to $30 a month, depending on the video history access duration.
Are Nest Cameras secure?
Google Nest Cams store video in the cloud where the content is password protected. The Nest app for viewing live video is also password-protected, but you can add more security by using two-step verification for both your Google account and Nest accounts.
Do Nest Cameras record audio?
By default, Nest Cams record audio, but you can turn off audio recording with the Nest app or with a Nest Aware subscription.
Are Nest Cameras waterproof?
The Nest Cam Outdoor is IP65 rated to protect from dust and low-pressure water jets. The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is IP66 rated for protection from dust and high-pressure water jets. Neither outdoor model can be submerged in water, but both are protected from the rain.
Do Nest Cameras work with Alexa?
Nest Cams are compatible with Amazon Alexa’s voice commands.
Are Nest Cameras motion-activated?
Nest Cams are all motion-activated within a 130-degree wide field of view. Nest Cam IQ models can define specific activity zones to monitor so they don’t send alerts in areas with frequent motion, such as passing cars.
Do Nest Cameras work with Google Assistant?
Nest Cams are compatible with Google Assistant voice commands.
We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Most dependable low-cost Philips Hue offers out there for August 2021

Nifty Nev
Commerce 2020, Deals, Evergreen Deals, Philips Hue Deals, Philips Hue Starter Kit, Presidents Day 2021, Smart Home, smart lights |

For several years, Philips Hue has set the standard for smart home lighting. Philips Hue smart light bulbs, lamps, and light fixtures serve an incredible range of purposes in homes. Whether you use light for security, convenience, navigation after dark indoors and outdoors, design, aesthetics, creative expression, or setting the mood, Philips Hue lights can do the job. We’ve found the best Philips Hue deals on individual lights and Philips Hue Starter Kits.
Best Philips Hue deals

Beginner’s guide to Philips Hue
Philips Hue doesn’t only make smart light bulbs. Philips Hue manufactures everything you need to set up a comprehensive home lighting systems in your home.
Hue smart bulb types and sizes
You can buy individual Hue lights in many shapes or styles, including candles, bulbs, spotlights, recessed lights, wall lights, ceiling lights, path lights, lightstrips, outdoor lights, and more. The bulbs are available in standard light bulb screw base sizes. Philips Hue Lightstrips are often used under counters, behind furniture or plants, or installed in shapes or patterns to set room moods or to create lighting designs or scenes.
Hue smart bulb colors
Many Philips Hue lights are available in Hue White, Hue White Ambiance, and Hue White Color Ambiance bulbs. Philips White lights are soft, dimmable warm white lights. With Hue White Ambiance bulbs, you can adjust the color temperature from warm white to cool daylight in addition to controlling the light brightness with dimmer control. Hue White Color Ambiance lights are dimmable and adjust from warm white to cool white light, but you can also select from 16 million colors via the Hue app and a Bluetooth smartphone connection or with a Hue Bridge.
What is a Philips Hue Starter Kit?
A Philips Hue Starter Kit includes everything you need to install Philips Hue smart lights in your home or office for a specific purpose. There are two advantages to buying a Hue Kit: Convenience and cost-savings.
For example, if you want to install your first Philips Hue smart lights, Hue Starter Kits include from one to four Hue light bulbs and a Hue Bridge at a total cost less than buying the bulbs and Bridge separately. One Bridge can control up to 50 Hue lights, so after you install the Starter Kit, you can add to your system by buying new bulbs separately.
Hue Dimmer Kits include a Hue Light bulb and a wireless dimmer switch for less than the total cost if purchased separately.
Does Philips Hue require a Smart Bridge?
The original Philips Hue smart lights required a Hue Bridge, also called a hub. In 2019, however, Philips added Bluetooth to many of its bulbs. When you pair a Bluetooth-equipped Philips Hue bulb with your smartphone, you can use the Hue app to control the light without a Hue Bridge. You can control up to 10 Philips Hue bulbs paired to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
All Philips Hue lights, including bulbs with Bluetooth built-in, work with the Philips Hue Bridge. Using the Bridge opens the full feature set. A single Philips Hue Bridge manages up to 50 bulbs.
Philips Hue Accessories
In addition to Hue lights and Starter Kits, Philips also makes a selection of lighting accessories.

Play HDMI Synch Box – Sync your Hue lights with your home theater by connecting up to four HDMI devices.
Hue Smart Plug – Plug in any light to the Bluetooth-equipped Hue Smart Plug and add it to your existing Hue system to control by voice or with the Hue app via Bluetooth.
Hue Smart button – Use the single control button to turn lights on or off and control brightness levels.
Hue Outdoor sensor – Place the battery-powered Hue-Outdoor Sensor outside, and its motion detector will turn on the lights via a connection to a Hue Bridge.
Hue Motion sensor – Use the battery-operated indoor motion detector to trigger your Hue lights when the sensor detects motion.
Hue Dimmer switch – Install the battery-operated Bluetooth and Hue Bridge compatible dimmer switch on any wall or remove it to use as a remote control for your lighting.

Does Philips Hue work with Google Assistant?
Philips Hue lighting works with Google Assistant voice commands. Just say “OK, Google” to control Hue lights throughout your home.
Does Philips Hue work with Apple HomeKit and Siri?
Philips Hue lighting works with Siri voice commands and with Apple HomeKit-enabled devices and accessories.
Does Philips Hue work with Amazon Alexa?
With an Amazon Alexa smart device, you can control Philips Hue lighting systems in your home with Alexa voice commands.
Does Philips Hue work with Microsoft Cortana?
Philips Hue lighting works with Microsoft Cortana so you can use Cortana voice commands to control your Hue lights.
Does Philips Hue work with IFTTT?
Philips Hue lighting works with If This, Then That, and many other connectivity standards, including the Logitech Harmony remote control, Samsung SmartThings, Xfinity Home, Vivint Smart Home, Lutron Aurora smart bulb dimmer, Razer Chroma equipment, and more.
We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More