On HighTechDad, I typically write about gadgets or consumer electronics and how they integrate (or not) within the family environment. For the most part, these are devices that enable Smart Homes or Home Automation or provide some other type of essential utility within the home. But some more everyday and necessary items deserve coverage as well. When you take a step back, a flashlight is a core, emergency- and utility-related gadget that should be on everyone’s list. This review is about one of those items, the KeySmart NanoTorch Twist. (*Disclosure below.)
Read More2 Accell Wireless Charging Solutions to Match Your Needs – Review
I love the fact that smartphones and some accessories are becoming wireless charging enabled. In my home, charging cables are more valuable than gold and seem to become lost or misplaced regularly. As all of our family iPhones in active use are wireless charge capable, I have been shifting the charging stations from wired to wireless. But, there are still some devices like older iPhones, portable batteries, or AirPods that still require cords to plug in. It seems that Accell has this in mind with two new charging docks, specifically the Accell Power 3-in-1 Fast Wireless Charger and the Accell Power Wireless Charging Pad with 5 USB ports and 2 AC Outlets. (*Disclosure below.)
Read MoreWhy Pay $300+ For Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Headphones? Review of dyplay Urban Traveller ANC Headphones
If you haven’t tried Active Noise Canceling (ANC) headphones, you are really missing out. It’s a technology that actively monitors the ambient noise and then instantly generates the inverse sound wave which effectively cancels out the noise. If you work or travel in a noisy environment, ANC is a lifesaver, or rather, a hearing saver! There are many big-name brands out there who offer Bluetooth headphones for several hundred dollars, but many of us may be priced out of this type of audio solution. And that’s where the sub-$100 dyplay ANC Over-Ear Wireless Bluetooth headphones (the dyplay Urban Traveler) are a great alternative to the pricier brands. (*Disclosure below.)
Read MoreDon’t Pack a Suitcase on your Next Short Trip – Use Nayo Almighty Backpack Instead – Review
I have a bit of a thing about backpacks. I love them! Years ago, I used to use a messenger bag for my work commute but then started noticing my back and shoulders were hurting a bit unevenly. So, I made the leap to using a backpack for my commute. I have tested several backpacks over the years, and have become pretty particular on the things I require. But when I made short trips, I always added a carry-on suitcase (and usually overpacked it). Now I think I have the perfect, short-trip solution – the Nayo Almighty Backpack. It’s part backpack and part carry-on suitcase, but more of a 70/30 type of combination. (*Disclosure below.)
Read MoreOld Fashioned Flood Lights are Boring & Dumb – Feit Makes Them Colorful & Smart – Review
A majority of my lightbulbs and wall switches in my home are smart. They can be controlled by Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and by smartphone apps. They are hooked into scenes to provide automated ambiance and remote control. But only recently, has my outdoor lighting joined this smart home generation. And, with the addition of Feit Electric smart WiFi bulbs, my backyard has transformed from boring, dumb, and inefficient lighting into one that is colorful, smart home enabled, and much more energy-efficient. (*Disclosure below.)
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