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Articles by Smart HomeBeginner
Best DVD by Mail Services in 2024
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Written by × July 7, 2024 Goodnight, sweet discs. After DVD Netflix closes, many staunch physical media supporters (myself included) mourned. When the final DVD Netflix credits rolled, other DVD by mail services offer solace. If, like me, you’re a physical media enthusiast, there are plenty of DVD by mail rental services and other cinema sources to keep your entertained.
Best Cloud Gaming Services for Android TV
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Written by × January 15, 2024 Android TV is a version of the Android operating system (OS) that runs on set-top boxes like the NVIDIA Shield TV or Chromecast with Google TV, as well as many smart televisions. While there are tons of cloud gaming services for Android, not all of these apps run on Android TV. If you want to play your games on the big screen with a TV or projector, you’ll want to use an Android TV box.
Platin Audio Milan 5.1.4 Soundbar Review: A Great Value Dolby Atmos Surround Sound System
Setting up a home theater surround sound system can be an arduous process, particularly if you’re using a traditional audio-video reciever (AVR) which requires running speaker wire around the room. Even many multi-channel soundbars feature rear speakers tethered to the subwoofer. Enter the Platin Audio Milan 5.1.4, a truly wireless soundbar with Dolby Atmos support that lets you enjoy immersive movies, TV shows, and music without a hassle.
Khadas Tea Review
The Khadas Tea is a neat portable headphone amplifier. It features support for high-bitrate digital audio signals including Master Quality Authenticated or MQA. A palm-sized digital-to-analog converter (DAC), the Khadas Tea features a headphone jack as well as Bluetooth for multiple listening options–both wired and wireless. Additionally, you’ll find MagSafe support for use with compatible Apple iPhones, or even some Android phones with a MagSafe adapter.
Best 1byone Record Players Compared: Which 1byone Turntable is Right for You
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Written by × November 4, 2023 1byone offers wallet-friendly record players that don’t skimp on features. Despite their affordability, its turntables include features like Bluetooth, USB connectivity for digitizing LPs, and high-quality styluses. But which one is right for you? Find out in our guide to the best 1byone turntables with a comparison of the H005 vs. H004 vs. H009 vs. LP11.
Dreo PolyFan 513S Review
An air circulator drastically improves cooling compared to a traditional fan by ensuring air stays in motion around the entire room. While Vornado is almost synonymous with air circulators, Dreo–who keeps putting out some of my favorite home electronics, including tower fans, air purifiers, and air fryers–offers excellent air circulators. While I already had a few Vornados, my current rental’s lack of any overhead fans meant I was on a quest for more cooling options.
Silicon Power XS70 Review: The Best Value NVMe SSD for PS5s and PCs
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Written by × October 2, 2023 A good NVMe SSD, or non-volatile memory express solid state drive gives you blazing-fast read/write speeds. A gen 4 NVMe SSD boasts up to 7000MB/s write speeds, which are over seven times as fast as traditional SATA SSDs, and 35-times greater than spindle HDDs (hard disk drives). Especially for gaming, multimedia usage, and work productivity, an NVMe SSD is crucial. However, they can get pretty pricey.
PS5 Spider-Man Controller Review
Marvel’s Spider-Man first launched on the Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) console in 2018 to critical acclaim. In 2020, Sony re-released Spider-Man as a remastered game for its PlayStation 5 (PS5) console, as well as debuting a spin-off sequel, Spider-Man: Miles Morales. With a sequel, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 coming out, Sony offered a Spider-Man-themed PS5 console and accessories. As a big Marvel buff, I snagged the Spider-Man DualSense controller for the PlayStation 5. But is it worth it?
Infinix GT 10 Pro Review
Gaming on a console like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, or a PC is a real treat. And while a Switch, handheld PC, or gaming laptop lets you play on the go, a phone is even more portable. The Infinix GT 10 Pro is a powerful Android gaming phone. Boasting a beefy Dimensity 8050 processor, dual SIM card support, and even a microSD card, the GT 10 Pro is a great handset for playing mobile games as well as emulation.
OnePlus Pad Review: A Great Value Android Tablet for Work and Play
OnePlus has consistently delivered some of the best value Android phones on the market, like the OnePlus 11, OnePlus 10 Pro, and gaming-focused OnePlus 10T. The visionary hardware manufacturer even offers earbuds and other great products. And its OnePlus Pad, an Android tablet, gets a lot of things right. If you’re looking for a gorgeous tablet for both work and play, the OnePlus Pad is a terrific choice.
What is Satellite Internet and is it Right for You?
Satellite Internet is a compelling option for many people. With its ability to reach virtually any location with a clear view of the sky, satellite Internet is widely available. While satellite Internet has a lot of benefits, such as its broad reach, traditional cable Internet may be better depending on your location. So, is satellite Internet right for you, and should you get satellite Internet?
IMDEN Bluetooth FM Transmitter Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Written by × September 3, 2023 Although the easiest way to connect your phone to your car is using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, that isn’t always possible. Most modern vehicles made within the last decade or so feature at least a 3.5mm headphone jack, if not Bluetooth wireless for streaming music and hands-free calls. But some older automobiles, like the year 2000 Toyota Camry I was driving for a few years, don’t.
Xgimi Horizon Ultra Review
The Xgimi Horizon Ultra is the first of its kind–a long-throw or standard throw 4K projector with Dolby Vision HDR (high dynamic range) support. It features a crisp 4K image, high brightness, and unique light source, making the Horizon Ultra a worthy choice for a home cinema or living room.
How to Install ChromeOS Flex – Turn Your Old Laptop into a DIY Chromebook - Tech Up Your Life
Visit Chrome Enterprise Visit Google’s Chrome Enterprise website and visit the ChromeOS Flex page, then tap Try ChromeOS Flex. Select “install on a personal device” Now, click the link next to “Looking to install on a personal device? Start here.” This takes you to the Prepare for installation Google ChromeOS Flex support page. Create your USB installer Next, tap the “Create the USB installer” button to create your ChromeOS Flex bootable installer.
Nvidia Shield TV Plex Server Setup
Install Plex First, install the Plex Android TV app. It should already be on your Shield TV Pro, but if not, fire up the Google Play Store and download it. Enable Plex Media Server Fire up the Plex Android app, and tick the box Enable Plex Media Server, then hit Next. Configure Plex Media Server Libraries Now, with your Plex media server enabled, you’re prompted to create default libraries for movies, TV shows, music, and photos.
Geekom AS6 Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. PC and Mobile Written by × July 24, 2023 While desktops are great, you don’t always need a large tower PC. In fact, mini PCs continue packing more power in smaller form factors. Previously, I looked at the Geekom Mini IT8, so I was eager to test out its AS6. The AS 6 is solid compact computer built in collaboration with ASUS.
Best DVD Netflix Alternatives
Goodnight, sweet discs. With DVD Netflix closing, many staunch physical media supporters (myself included) are mourning. As the final DVD Netflix credits roll, other DVD by mail services offer solace. However, it’s important to note that DVD Netflix wasn’t just another movies by mail platform. Rather, it’s a true community with its Inside the Envelope blog, regular Twitter DVD chats where like-minded cinephiles could gather online to discuss films, and some of the best swag around.
Best Amazon Prime Day Deals
Amazon Prime Day 2023 is here, running July 11 through 12. And there are tons of deals to add to your cart, which can be overwhelming. Luckily, we’re here with a round-up of the best Amazon Prime Day deals to help you enjoy sweet savings.
Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Gadgets, Smart Home Written by × June 20, 2023 Air fryers are convenient, multi-purpose kitchen appliances. I’ve been enjoying an air fryer for some months now, so I was eager to test out the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer. Boasting two years worth of research and development behind it, the ChefMaker promises a magical mix of delicious, easy-to-make food.
How to Install Emby on Roku
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater, PC and Mobile Written by × June 6, 2023 Emby is a great media server software option like Plex and Jellyfin. With a slew of features like metadata editing capabilities, Emby is a solid personal media organizer for power users. I run both Plex and Emby on my home server, switching between the two when I want to stream because I enjoy each platform.
How to Watch the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Live Without Cable
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater Written by × May 23, 2023 The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup kicks off on July 20, 2023. The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) seeks a third straight World Cup, after championship wins in 2019 and 2015. With rising cable and satellite television prices, many folks have saved money by cutting the cord. Thankfully, you can still watch the Women’s World Cup after you’ve ditched your traditional TV package.
EZQuest UltimatePower 120W GaN USB-C PD Wall Charger Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. PC and Mobile Written by × May 18, 2023 A solid power brick is a must-own. Gone are the days when cell phones regularly include a wall charger in the box. Even if your laptop comes with a power cable, a third-party USB brick often boasts additional features like a compact design and multi-device charging. Enter the EZQuest UltimatePower 120W GaN USB-C PD Wall Charger. It’s one of the best GaN walle chargers on the market.
Voltme Revo 140W PD3.1 GaN Charger Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. PC and Mobile Written by × May 17, 2023 A reliable power brick is a must-have. Although many devices like laptops and Chromebooks come with wall chargers and USB cables, most modern phones don’t. Additionally, most laptop chargers are pretty bulky, and a third-party power brick typically offers multi-device support. The Voltme Revo 140 is an outstanding power brick.
How to Build a Hidden Home Theater System With Sonos
Back in the day, electronics blended in with the surroundings – and no, I’m not talking about those speakers that look like rocks. Television sets from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s were furniture pieces replete with wooden cabinets. While that trend dissipated in favor of unmistakable home entertainment equipment, it’s now returning. Inspired to give my living room a makeover, I created a discreet surround system. Here’s how to build a hidden Sonos home theater! What is a Hidden Home Theatre?
How to Convert VHS to DVD and Digital
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater, How Tos Written by × March 21, 2023 Despite the convenience of streaming from the likes of Netflix, HBO Max, and Paramount+, physical media still serves a crucial purpose for cinephiles. Many beloved films aren’t streamable, like the 1978 Chevy Chase/Goldie Hawn classic “Foul Play,” which you can still rent from DVD Netflix.
How to Install Plex on Docker
Plex is a popular media server software that allows you to organize and stream your media files across multiple devices. Docker, on the other hand, is a platform that helps you easily create, deploy, and run applications in containers. By installing Plex on Docker, you can ensure a consistent and reliable experience across different environments. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of installing Plex on Docker step-by-step. What is Plex?
How to Install Plex on Roku - Set Up Plex on Roku
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater, How Tos Written by × March 22, 2023 Plex is a media server application that allows users to stream and manage their personal media collections from anywhere in the world. It can be installed on a variety of client devices, including Roku streaming devices and the Amazon Firestick, making it a popular choice for people looking to create a home media center.
How to Install Plex on Firestick - Set Up Plex on Amazon Fire TV
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater, How Tos Written by × March 22, 2023 Plex is a popular media server software that allows users to organize and stream their media files, including movies, TV shows, music, and photos. Plex is available on a variety of platforms, including Amazon Fire TV devices, making it easy to stream your media files on your TV.
How to Watch Women's NCAA Tournament March Madness Games Live Without Cable
It’s March, which means the NCAA tournament bounces back into action. With rising cable and satellite costs, many folks turn to cord cutting to save money. If you’ve ditched pricey cable and satellite packages but still want to enjoy sports, you’ve got options. Learn all about how to watch women’s NCAA tournament March Madness games live without cable in 2023! Where to Watch the Women’s NCAA Tournament 2023: Channels Women’s March Madness games play on ESPN and its affiliates.
Dreo Macro Max S Air Purifier Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Smart Home Written by × March 1, 2023 The Dreo Macro Max S is an excellent smart air purifier. It features a true HEPA filter with a three-stage filtration system. There’s smart home connectivity for automation and control. Capable of purifying the air in even larger rooms, the Dreo Macro Max S is a fantastic for folks serious about indoor air quality. But is this the right air purifier for your home?
What is Audio Return Channel: ARC and eARC Explained
Audio Return Channel (ARC) is a feature of HDMI cables that allows audio signals to be sent “upstream” from the TV back to a soundbar or A/V receiver. It’s designed to make connecting your home theater setup simpler and more streamlined. Let’s take a look at how ARC and eARC work as well as why Audio Return Channel so beneficial for your home entertainment system. How Does ARC Work?
How to Install CouchPotato on Linux
A major trend in the tech space is automation. For media center enthusiasts, CouchPotato is a nifty means of automatically aggregating and downloading torrents. Users may set up searches based on metrics such as quality standards, and there are loads of integrations to automatically snatch and download movies. Plus, there’s Usenet support, and even an auto-rename and move feature for maintaining a certain naming convention and folder structure. This makes CouchPotato the ideal Plex companion.
Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Review
While keyboards, mice, controllers, and monitors are crucial for gaming, audio is just as important. It’s essential to have a good set of gaming cans to hear enemy footsteps and in-game audio. The Beyerdynamic MMX 150 is a solid pair of gaming headphones that delivers great performance in a comfortable, well-designed package. But is this the right pair of headphones for you?
Plex vs. Emby: Which Media Server Software is Right for You?
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. PC and Mobile Written by × February 17, 2023 When it comes to personal media server software, Plex and Emby are two of the most popular options available. Both provide users with the ability to organize and stream their personal media library, but they have some critical differences in features and functionality. In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison of Plex vs.
BenQ TK700 vs. BenQ TK700STi: Which BenQ Gaming Projector is Right for You?
Traditionally, projectors haven’t been great for gaming due to high input lag, which means controls often feel sluggish. However, BenQ offers its TK700 and TK700STi, two of the best gaming projectors on the market. Capable of displaying 4K 60Hz with pixel-shifting video with as low as 16ms of input lag, both projectors pair perfectly with current-generation (current-gen) consoles like the PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Xbox Series X/S. But which gaming projector is right for you?
BenQ TK700 Review
While most projectors offer a cinema-like experience for movie watching, high input lag makes most options unsuitable for gaming. Enter the BenQ TK700, a purpose-built gaming projector that delivers 4K ultra-high definition (UHD) gaming with as low as 16ms of input lag. Coupled with great image quality and high brightness, the BenQ TK700 is an excellent projector for both gaming and home theatre use. But is this the right projector for you? Learn why (or why not) in our hands-on BenQ TK700 review.
BenQ v7050i Review: The Best 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Smart TV Projector
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater Written by × January 11, 2023 The BenQ v7050i is an exceptional 4K ultra-short throw (UST) projector. With its laser light source and ability to cast a 100-inch or larger image from just inches away from the screen, the BenQ v7050i is a great television replacement. Its excellent color accuracy, contrast, and brightness make it a fantastic choice for cinephiles. But is this the right projector for your home theatre?
BenQ TK700STi Review - The Best Gaming Projector on the Planet
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Gaming, Home Theater Written by × December 22, 2022 The BenQ TK700STi is an exceptional gaming projector. It features a 4K ultra-high-definition (UHD) resolution with pixel shifting, short throw ration that can produce a 100-inch image from around 6 feet away from the screen, and impressively low input lag. With its superb color accuracy and high brightness, the TK700STi is versatile enough to make a projector for watching movies.
Best Samsung SmartThings Video Doorbell
For smart home automation and control, Samsung SmartThings is one of the most user-friendly ecosystems. You’ll find loads of SmartThings devices and sensors available, from video cameras to thermostat. A video doorbell is a great upgrade that’s easy to install and adds peace of mind from unwanted visitors or porch pirates. Check out the best Samsung SmartThings video doorbells on the market. What is Samsung SmartThings? Samsung SmartThings is a smart home home control and automation platform.
Xgimi Halo+ Review: The Best Portable 1080p Projector on the Planet
The Xgimi Halo+ (Halo Plus) is an excellent 1080p portable projector. It sports a crisp native full high-definition (full HD) resolution, built-in battery, and modest 900 ANSI lumens of brightness. With its automatic image adjustments, onboard Android TV operating system (OS), and Harman Kardon speakers, the Halo Plus makes backyard movie nights a breeze. But is this the right mini projector for your needs?
Deep Sentinel Review - AI-powered, Human-assisted Crime Identification and Prevention
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Smart Home Written by × November 22, 2022 There are tons of smart home security systems for monitoring your home, but Deep Sentinel takes a decidedly different approach with an emphasis on artificial crime prevention. Deep Sentinel utilizes a unique intelligence (AI) suspicious activity identification and prevention system. Coupled with real live human guards, this is a solid security system that offers robust protection.
How to Watch NWSL Games Live Without Cable
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) offers some of the most exciting football (or soccer, depending on your locale) matches–and professional sports games for that matter. In fact, the NWSL continues breaking viewership records. But you’ll want to know where to stream games. Learn how to watch NWSL games live without cable, including supported streaming services, and how to enjoy the National Women’s Soccer League outside of the United States (US).
How to Watch the 2022 FIFA World Cup Live Without Cable
The 2022 FIFA World Cup begins on Sunday, November 20, 2022, and concludes on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Hosted in Qatar, 32 teams duke it out for football (or soccer, depending on your locale) supremacy. Want to watch the 2022 World Cup live without cable? From what channels matches are broadcast on to streaming options, here’s everything you need to enjoy the FIFA World Cup in 2022. How to Watch the 2022 FIFA World Cup Live Without Cable For 2022, World Cup games air on FOX and FS1.
AAXA P8 Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Home Theater Written by × October 25, 2022 The AAXA Technologies P8 is proof that size doesn’t matter. As a pico projector, the P8 produces a big image that’s bright and high-quality for its class. Additionally, this pint-sized smart projector packs Android onboard for streaming capabilities.
How to Install BlueBubbles and Get iMessage on Android, Windows, and Linux
Apple’s iMessage texting protocol is a popular, secure option for Apple aficionados. However, non-Apple users are usually out of luck. Although there’s no way to natively run iMessage on Windows, Linux, or Android devices, there are a few workarounds including AirMessage, WeMessage, and Beeper. However, one of the top software options is BlueBubbles. Learn how to set install BlueBubbles so you can send and receive iMessage on Android, Windows, or Linux! What is iMessage: iMessage vs.
Best Robot Vacuum Cleaners for All Uses and Budgets
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Gadgets, Smart Home Written by × September 21, 2022 A robot vacuum lets you skip the manual labor. Simpy fire up an app, push a button, and let an automatic vacuum clean while you relax. However, you’ll want the right robo vac for your needs and budget.
Best Mini Stereo Amplifier
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Audio Written by × September 1, 2022 While once audio equipment came in hulking form factors, now powerful amplifiers are available in small packages. An amp is a great way to breathe fresh life into a set of analog speakers. Tiny, affordable stereos let you connect a solid pair of bookshelf speakers, then enjoy music from a turntable, Bluetooth streaming, or virtually any other source you can imagine.
Best PlayStation 5 Headset - Top PS5 Gaming Headphones
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Audio, Gaming Written by × August 31, 2022 The PlayStation 5 is an excellent console capable of churning out 4K 120Hz visuals. Its great game library includes titles like Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Horizon Zero Dawn. To truly take advantage of your PS5 console, you’ll want a good set of gaming cans. Since Sony’s fifth-generation game console includes spatial audio, the right headphones enable 3D surround sound.
Audeze Penrose Review
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. Gaming Written by × August 31, 2022 Audeze (pronounced “odyssey”) is a renowned audiophile headphone manufacturer. Its Penrose headset sports planar magnetic drivers, a low-latency Bluetooth connection, and a detachable studio-caliber microphone. With its terrific sound quality, the Penrose is just as comfortable in an intense gaming match as it is handling hi-fi music streaming or Zoom calls.
Best DVD and Blu-ray Ripper Software
Tech Up Your Life is reader-supported. Learn more. PC and Mobile Written by × August 5, 2022 Although streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Paramount Plus are incredibly popular, certain movies and TV shows never made the leap from physical media to streaming. Perhaps you’re a sci-fi purist seeking a copy of the unadulterated “Star Wars” original trilogy. Maybe you’d like to watch “Foul Play” but can’t find it streaming.
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