Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Cutting the (Other) Cord: The Best Wireless Internet Options]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/12/29/best-wireless-internet-mobile-hotspot-options/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/29/best-wireless-internet-mobile-hotspot-options/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/29/best-wireless-internet-mobile-hotspot-options/#commentsMifi

A reader asks: I'm intrigued by the idea of getting rid of my DSL Internet service, and switching to one of these 4G wireless services I've seen advertised. My question is whether it's actually viable at this point. I have a desktop and a couple laptops, and two phones we use on our home Wi-Fi network, and wonder if these services can handle all that. I have no idea how to research this, so just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: Like jetpacks and 'Minority Report'-style computer interfaces, totally wireless high-speed Internet access is one of those tech fantasies that just can't get here soon enough. That's not to say versions of this wireless wonderland don't already exist. All of the major cell phone providers, along with a few third-party players, sell devices that nominally fill this particular bill. It's just that they don't quite do it as well as they seem to promise, and, in some cases, service is woefully lacking.

Consumers have long been able to purchase or rent USB antennas that plug into laptops to grant mobile Internet access, and recent years have seen relatively zippy 3G speeds (or at least speeds on par with low-end DSL home service). Most work rather well, but the data plans can be pricey. And, since only one device is able to go online at a given time, antennas aren't a viable alternative to a home network, which allows multiple gadgets to surf the 'Net simultaneously.

Continue reading Cutting the (Other) Cord: The Best Wireless Internet Options

SwitchedCutting the (Other) Cord: The Best Wireless Internet Options originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3G4gattcellphonesClearClear4gjusttellmewhattogetMifi2200MobileHotspotSierraWirelesssprintT-MobileverizonVirginMobileUsawireless internetWirelessInternetWed, 29 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super-Charge Your Wi-Fi: Upgrading to N]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/12/15/faster-wi-fi-network-upgrade-to-80211n/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/15/faster-wi-fi-network-upgrade-to-80211n/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/15/faster-wi-fi-network-upgrade-to-80211n/#commentsUpgrading to N A reader asks: I recently got a new laptop that supposedly has super-fast Wi-Fi, but I honestly don't see any difference from before, which is a disappointment. I've been googling around and discovered that maybe I need to upgrade the device thingie that my DSL service provides. I honestly don't understand all this, but I really feel the need for speed, so Just Tell Me What To Get!


Dear Reader: You aren't the first person to contact us befuddled by the intricacies (and pitfalls) of Wi-Fi. Despite the leaps and bounds that engineers have made in simplifying things for consumers, setting up a Wi-Fi home network can quickly get technical and frustrating. But, with a little background info and a few recommendations, you won't need to become a network IT guy or HAM radio enthusiast to get a handle on these wireless wonders.

At the risk of presuming some of our readers are complete newbies, we'll start at the very beginning. (We've heard it's the best place to start.) So, if you're already a networking wizard, feel free to skip ahead for our specific recommendations.

Continue reading Super-Charge Your Wi-Fi: Upgrading to N

SwitchedSuper-Charge Your Wi-Fi: Upgrading to N originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11naccess pointAccessPointapple airport extremeAppleAirportExtremebase stationBaseStationcisco connectcisco linksys e3000 wireless-n routerCiscoConnectCiscoLinksysE3000Wireless-nRouterfeaturesjtmwtgjusttellmewhattogetnetworkingwi-fi routerWi-fiRouterwireless-nWed, 15 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Electric Slide: Bring Your Photo Collection Into the Digital Age]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/12/14/best-photo-slide-negative-scanning-services/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/14/best-photo-slide-negative-scanning-services/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/14/best-photo-slide-negative-scanning-services/#commentsElectric Slide A reader asks: Well, it finally happened. My parents sold their house, and have ordered me to trash everything in their basement, including a couple boxes worth of slides spanning half a century. I would love to digitize them, but having tried to do it myself, I've realized it would take me forever. I know there are pricey bulk scanners you can buy (which scare me), and then also online services (which just bewilder me). My plate is full, so make a tough decision for me, and Just Tell Me What To Get!

Dear Reader: We happen to be awaiting the onslaught of that particular tidal wave of unwanted responsibility ourselves, and so you have our pity and sympathy. Situations like these are a potent reminder of how difficult the transition from analog to digital can be, and of how many media formats many of us still have lurking around, yet to be addressed.

Your particular conundrum is, we believe, universal, and, thankfully, the market and technology have progressed enough in recent years to offer a palatable, if not ideal, solution.

Continue reading Electric Slide: Bring Your Photo Collection Into the Digital Age

SwitchedElectric Slide: Bring Your Photo Collection Into the Digital Age originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analogcamerasDigitalConversionfeaturesjusttellmewhattogetNegativeScanningphotographyPhotoScanningScanningServiceSlideScannertopTue, 14 Dec 2010 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Boxes for Streaming Internet Video (And More) to Your TV]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/12/02/best-internet-tv-boxes-apple-tv-roku-xds-tv-live-hub/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/02/best-internet-tv-boxes-apple-tv-roku-xds-tv-live-hub/http://www.switched.com/2010/12/02/best-internet-tv-boxes-apple-tv-roku-xds-tv-live-hub/#commentsBest Streaming Boxes
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As a tech blogger, you know things are getting tricky when you can't even figure out what to call the devices you're writing about. Digital Media Streamers, or Media Extenders? Internet TV Adapters, or Digital Media Renderers? Thus, we witness just one example of the confusion surrounding all these newfangled, mostly black, little boxes that are intended to hook up to your TV and Internet, and bring the glory of streaming video to your living room. We aim to clean up that confusion, and even suggest which ones deserve a place in your home. (And, to make things easier, we'll just call these things Network Enabled Replay Devices, or NERD, until the industry comes up with something better.)

The concept of centralizing all your digital delights isn't new; companies have been struggling for more than a decade to make this convergence dream a reality. The general paradigm until now has been to slap a media-centric operating system onto a fully-functioning, shrunken PC that ultimately gets squeezed into your home theater setup. The fact that you likely don't own such a device speaks to their common failings. They were either clunky in design, missing critical features, unreliable, or required a degree in advanced computing to set up and use.

Continue reading Best Boxes for Streaming Internet Video (And More) to Your TV

SwitchedBest Boxes for Streaming Internet Video (And More) to Your TV originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazon on demandAmazonOnDemandApple TVAppleTvGoogle TVGoogleTvhgginternet videoInternetVideojusttellmewhattogetlogitech revueLogitechRevuenetflixroku xdsRokuXdswd tv live hubWdTvLiveHubwestern digitalWesternDigitalThu, 02 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hook Yourself Up With the Best Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Under $100]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/11/10/best-wireless-keyboard-mouse-under-100-logitech-mk520/http://www.switched.com/2010/11/10/best-wireless-keyboard-mouse-under-100-logitech-mk520/http://www.switched.com/2010/11/10/best-wireless-keyboard-mouse-under-100-logitech-mk520/#commentsLogitech MK520
 A reader writes: I've taken to plugging my laptop into my HDTV when watching Hulu, streaming Netflix, or when I'm tired of squinting at my tiny screen. Unfortunately, I've discovered my arms are not long enough to reach the keyboard and touchpad when I'm laying on the couch. I need a wireless keyboard and mouse that will let me not only take charge of the Netflix queue, but also bang out an e-mail or two without having to leave the butt groove in my sofa. I don't want to spend a ton of cash, so Just Tell Me What To Get!

Dear reader: These days, each wireless keyboard and mouse combo is as unique as the humble snowflake, so your simple question sets up a hefty challenge. While a Bluetooth-input device offers more versatility and compatibility than does a device with an exclusively designed wireless dongle, such models are often more expensive and require some tinkering to get working. On the other hand, those that use proprietary wireless tech -- like Logitech's Unifying receiver system -- are usually cheaper than their Bluetooth counterparts, tend to work the moment they're plugged in, and don't suffer from the lag between key presses and on-screen actions that can affect budget Bluetooth solutions. That's why we suggest you save yourself the cash and hassle; pick up the Logitech MK520 set for a perfectly reasonable $59.99.

Continue reading Hook Yourself Up With the Best Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Under $100

SwitchedHook Yourself Up With the Best Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Under $100 originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresjusttellmewhattogetkeyboardKeyboardAndMousekeyboardslogitechLogitechMk520mk520mouseperipheralsreviewtopWed, 10 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Affordable, Non-Dorky Bluetooth Headset?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/11/08/best-bluetooth-headset-blueant-t1-affordable/http://www.switched.com/2010/11/08/best-bluetooth-headset-blueant-t1-affordable/http://www.switched.com/2010/11/08/best-bluetooth-headset-blueant-t1-affordable/#commentsBlueAnt T1 So my city is cracking down big time on driving while talking, but my kids call me to pick them up from school. I need to use my phone on-the-go. I'm going to breakdown and ask for some help with a solid, non-flashy Bluetooth headpiece. I don't want to be that lady muttering to herself, but safety first. Also, I am a complete ditz when it comes to recharging my devices, so I need something with good battery life. Please... Just Tell Me What To Get!

Ah, the old Bluetooth conundrum: to look a fool and be hands-free, or to balance your touch-screen on your greasy face while driving. Well, if you must go wireless, we've got a solution for you. When looking for a new Bluetooth headset, you want something that is comfortable, provides consistent sound quality (on both ends of the line), sports a solid battery life, and won't break while it's hopping between your ears, drawers, glove compartments and pockets. BlueAnt's T1 fits the bill, and can be found for less than $60 online. Most importantly, its clean, understated design means you won't feel like a goober when it's attached to the side of your head.

Gallery: BlueAnt T1

Continue reading What's the Best Affordable, Non-Dorky Bluetooth Headset?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Affordable, Non-Dorky Bluetooth Headset? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueantblueant t1BlueantT1bluetoothBluetoothHeadsetfeaturesheadsetjusttellmewhattogetperipheralst1topMon, 08 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best Humidifiers to Soothe Our Dried-Out Schnozzes]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/11/01/best-humidifiers-soothe-our-dried-out-noses/http://www.switched.com/2010/11/01/best-humidifiers-soothe-our-dried-out-noses/http://www.switched.com/2010/11/01/best-humidifiers-soothe-our-dried-out-noses/#commentsBest Humidifiers
 A reader asks: With winter coming, my girlfriend has tasked me with buying a humidifier so her skin and sinuses don't dry out when she stays over. I went to the electronics store, and there were at least 40 models churning out mist with all sorts of options, buttons and assorted craziness. I know two things: I have no idea what I'm shopping for, and that I better pick a winner, or else. So, save my hide (and my girl's nasal passages) and Just Tell Me What to Get!

Dear Reader: Ah, autumn -- when our eyes delight in falling golden leaves, the air turns crisp, and our noses become cracked, dried up bloody messes. As apartment dwellers who have no control over the thermostat and suffer through nights of Saharan dryness, we feel your good lady's pain. We also have a rescue plan for you.

Continue reading The Best Humidifiers to Soothe Our Dried-Out Schnozzes

SwitchedThe Best Humidifiers to Soothe Our Dried-Out Schnozzes originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-o-swiss aos-7144Air-o-swissAos-7144crane cool mist humidifierCraneCoolMistHumidifierfeatureshomedics ultrasonic humidifier cm-50HomedicsUltrasonicHumidifierCm-50humidifierJustTellMeWhatToGettopMon, 01 Nov 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Into Vinyl? The Best Turntables Under $400]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/10/25/the-best-turntables-under-400-vinyl/http://www.switched.com/2010/10/25/the-best-turntables-under-400-vinyl/http://www.switched.com/2010/10/25/the-best-turntables-under-400-vinyl/#commentsTop Turntables
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A reader writes: "I recently helped my parents clean out their house, and, lo and behold, stumbled upon my beloved record collection, which I had assumed was long gone. So, now I need a record player. I'm not planning on becoming a wedding DJ anytime soon, but I want my Emerson, Lake and Palmer to really bump, so help make this reunion work and just tell me what to get!"

Dear Reader: You, sir, have asked us to step into a snake pit. Other than the OS wars, no topic inspires such passion, enmity and grief than vinyl, especially when it comes to advocating for the appropriate devices needed to properly enjoy it. But we are duty bound, and soldier on we will.

If you've spent more than a couple seconds cruising online for an opinion on a solid turntable, you are undoubtedly overwhelmed by the incredible array of options -- despite the supposed demise of vinyl three decades ago! (The correct term, by the way, if you want to fit in, is "turntable" and not "record player." Those are for kids.) The fact that vinyl didn't go extinct is a good thing, of course, as we ourselves love records and turntables. The complexity in buying then comes from the fact that turntables, despite being seemingly simple mechanical devices, are comprised of a handful of discrete mechanisms and components that are incredibly varied as you go from brand to brand and price range to price range. So, when you're in the market for a turntable, the sophisticated buyer will want to consider the elements that make up the whole. To name a few, there are the following: the drive system (belted or direct drive); the tonearm (straight or curved, hollow or solid); the cartridge type (ceramic, moving magnet, or moving coil); the platter (wood, metal, glass); and the plinth (i.e., the base of the player, made of metal, plastic, wood fiber or glass). And then there are the assorted electronics that go into it. Still with us?

Continue reading Into Vinyl? The Best Turntables Under $400

SwitchedInto Vinyl? The Best Turntables Under $400 originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audacityaudio technica at-lp60AudioTechnicaAt-lp60featuresjtmwtgJustTellMeWhatToGetPro-Ject Debut IIIPro-jectDebutIiirecord playerRecordPlayerstanton t.92 usbStantonT.92UsbtopturntableturntablesMon, 25 Oct 2010 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Denon AVR-591: Best Budget Home Theater Receiver]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/10/19/denon-avr-591-amped-up-for-a-low-cost-home-theater-receiver/http://www.switched.com/2010/10/19/denon-avr-591-amped-up-for-a-low-cost-home-theater-receiver/http://www.switched.com/2010/10/19/denon-avr-591-amped-up-for-a-low-cost-home-theater-receiver/#commentsDenon
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A reader writes: My trusty Sony receiver finally fizzled out after nearly 15 years, and sadly I'm looking for a home theater version that will incorporate all the digital and high def devices I've accumulated since I bought it: a game console, DVD player, DVR and sometimes my laptop for Netflix. I've obviously been out of the game for a while and don't even know what goes into a good A/V receiver these days, especially since prices go from $200 to $2,000. So help a brother whose bank balance is on the low end and Just Tell Me What To Get!

Dear Reader: For those tuning in for the first time, this is not a Very Special '80s Flashback edition of JTMWTG. Receivers were once a ubiquitous item in U.S. households. They were the centerpiece of home audio systems, the device that everything else plugs into, and acted like a switcher, an amplifier and in most cases a radio tuner. Once everyone started plugging video devices into them as well, they became A/V or home theater receivers, but still basically do the same thing: they are the middleman to your audio and video sources, the cockpit to your airplane, the CIC to your Battlestar, communicating with your speakers.

The fantastic news is that with A/V receivers these days, even the relatively low-end models, still offer incredible features and quality. That's not to say there aren't lemons out there -- oh, there are always lemons lurking -- but we've found a model we think you'll love, which will accommodate all your digital effects and should last you at least as long as your beloved Sony.

Continue reading Denon AVR-591: Best Budget Home Theater Receiver

SwitchedDenon AVR-591: Best Budget Home Theater Receiver originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampav receiverAvReceiverdenon avr-391denon avr-591DenonAvr-391DenonAvr-591featureshdmihome theater receiverHomeTheaterReceiverjusttellmewhattogetsurround soundSurroundSoundTue, 19 Oct 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best iPhone Medical Apps]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/10/14/the-best-iphone-medical-apps/http://www.switched.com/2010/10/14/the-best-iphone-medical-apps/http://www.switched.com/2010/10/14/the-best-iphone-medical-apps/#commentsMedical Apps
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Something's wrong. You don't know what it is, and you don't know why it's happening, but something deep within you just doesn't feel right. Then, like a bolt of lightning, it hits you: you're sick. Great, now what? Your jerk of a boss won't let you go home early, and the blink-of-an-eye lunch break won't give you enough time to see that doctor who can't remember your name anyway. Luckily, you have your iPhone.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta it's not, but your iPhone, surprisingly enough, can offer some pretty helpful medical advice and information in a pinch -- assuming you've downloaded the right apps. Whether you're dealing with chronic back pain, struggling with seasonal allergies or, God forbid, faced with an urgent 9-1-1 emergency, having a well-stocked collection of medical apps can make your next health crisis a whole lot easier to handle. Here are nine medical apps worth checking out, and who (or what) they are best for.

Continue reading The Best iPhone Medical Apps

SwitchedThe Best iPhone Medical Apps originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allergiesallergy alertAllergyAlertappscannabiscures azCuresAzepocratesfeatureshermesifirstaidiosiphoneipodjusttellmewhattogetmedical emergencyMedicalEmergencymedicinal herbsmedicinal marijuanaMedicinalHerbsMedicinalMarijuananight recorderNightRecordersnoringtopweb mdWebMdwebmdmobileThu, 14 Oct 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Bookshelf Speakers With Big Sound for Few Bucks]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/09/20/best-bookshelf-speakers-with-big-sound-for-few-bucks/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/20/best-bookshelf-speakers-with-big-sound-for-few-bucks/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/20/best-bookshelf-speakers-with-big-sound-for-few-bucks/#commentsBest Bookshelf Speakers
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A reader asks: I just moved in with roommates to my first dorm room and realized we need speakers. (Three dudes listening to headphones in the same room is just creepy.) We don't have a ton of space, so a 5.1 system is out of the question, and a booming subwoofer would probably get us written up anyway. High-quality audio matters to me, though, and all the computer speakers I've seen sound crappy or are too pricey. Do a shallow-pocketed student a favor, and Just Tell Me What To Get!

Dear Reader: It's always heartening to hear when some young go-getter -- presumably raised on low-quality MP3s and even lower-quality earbuds -- stands up for audio fidelity. We salute you, sir! (Of course, you're also expecting top quality on the cheap, but we'll forgive your sense of entitlement and chalk it up to youthful exuberance.)

Anyway, we've done the stroll down desktop speaker row ourselves, and have found that the selection generally isn't to our liking. While certainly there are plenty of great 5.1 and 7.1 surround systems, and even 2.1 systems that provide pretty good boom for the buck, when you get into the self-powered computer speaker realm, the pickings get slimmer; cheap plastic bodies and alternately tinny or flat sounds saturate the market. But, as you might guess, we do have a winner for you, and, in case you have a severely limited budget, we've included a cheaper runner-up (as well as a top-shelf pick, should your roommates step up and chip in).

Continue reading Best Bookshelf Speakers With Big Sound for Few Bucks

SwitchedBest Bookshelf Speakers With Big Sound for Few Bucks originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioAudioengine2A2ComputerSpeakersfeaturesjusttellmewhattogetLogitchZ320M-audioAv30speakerstopMon, 20 Sep 2010 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Reeder: The Best iPhone RSS App for Feed Addicts]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/09/16/reeder-the-best-iphone-rss-app-for-feed-addicts/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/16/reeder-the-best-iphone-rss-app-for-feed-addicts/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/16/reeder-the-best-iphone-rss-app-for-feed-addicts/#commentsReeder iPhone RSS App RSS's demise is being touted around the blogosphere again this month, but, frankly, we can't live without really simple syndication. Yes, iPad apps like 'Flipboard' and 'Twitter' are innovative in their abilities to make sense of what your friends are sharing on social networks, but, for our money, there's nothing quite like the dopamine-addled, mouth-to-the-firehose thrill of loading up a couple hundred RSS feeds and plunging through thousands of unread news items, blog posts and images. Whether you're a politics junkie, sports fanatic, celebrity news addict or are simply looking for more customization, a mobile RSS reader is essential for staying connected.

Google Reader has long been one of the best Web-based feedreaders, but Google Reader's excellent mobile version still lags behind dedicated apps with its lack of sharing options, offline reading features and speed. Assuming you're using a Google Reader account to keep your feeds organized and synced across multiple computers and mobile devices, you need look no further than 'Reeder' on the iPhone.

Gallery: Reeder App

Item viewSharing optionsSharing on deliciousStarred feed viewNotice: syncing status at the top of the app

Continue reading Reeder: The Best iPhone RSS App for Feed Addicts

SwitchedReeder: The Best iPhone RSS App for Feed Addicts originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscolumnsfeaturesgoogleGoogleReaderjusttellmewhattogetreederreviewsrssRssReaderSilvioRizziThu, 16 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Femtocells Can Help You Get a Better Cell Phone Signal at Home]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/09/08/femtocells-can-help-you-get-a-better-cell-phone-signal-at-home/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/08/femtocells-can-help-you-get-a-better-cell-phone-signal-at-home/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/08/femtocells-can-help-you-get-a-better-cell-phone-signal-at-home/#commentsFemtocells

A reader asks:

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I recently moved apartments, and was startled to discover that I get little to no cell phone signal in my new pad, which obviously sucks. Calls drop or don't come through, and my phone chews through the battery. To make a call I have to go on my roof or across the street. Short of switching to a new service provider, which I don't want to do, I've read there are gadgets that may help, but I have no idea if they work. I don't know what to do, so just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader:

Pardon the pun, but your complaint about a lack of wireless signal seems to be in the air these days -- a Harris Interactive survey found that 67-percent of U.S. mobile owners complain they have reception problems at home. In the early days of cell phones, this lapse of coverage may have been more forgivable since service plans cost less and most of us primarily used landline phones for calls from home. That has obviously changed, and the good news is that service providers are belatedly and cautiously owning up to the failings by offering a solution: femtocells!

Continue reading Femtocells Can Help You Get a Better Cell Phone Signal at Home

SwitchedFemtocells Can Help You Get a Better Cell Phone Signal at Home originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonescolumnsfeaturesfemtocellfemtocellsjusttellmewhattogetnetwork extenderNetworkExtendersignal boosterSignalBoosterWed, 08 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Twitter iPad App Review: Multi-Panels and Multi-Functions]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/09/04/twitter-ipad-app-review-multi-panels-and-multi-functions-too-b/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/04/twitter-ipad-app-review-multi-panels-and-multi-functions-too-b/http://www.switched.com/2010/09/04/twitter-ipad-app-review-multi-panels-and-multi-functions-too-b/#commentsTwitter for iPad The new official Twitter client for the iPad just landed this week, and it's offering some of the most interesting mobile app design ideas we've seen this year. The iPad offers more screen space than cellphones, and the Twitter team fortunately didn't simply port over a bigger version of the wildly popular (and well-made) official app for the iPhone. We spent some time with the app, so head after the break to see if it holds up to its iPhone predecessor.

Gallery: Twitter for iPad

Continue reading Twitter iPad App Review: Multi-Panels and Multi-Functions

SwitchedTwitter iPad App Review: Multi-Panels and Multi-Functions originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsfeaturesiosipadjusttellmewhattogetreviewstwittertwitter for ipadTwitterForIpadSat, 04 Sep 2010 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best e-Readers Compared: Kindle, Kobo, Nook and Reader Throw Down]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/08/30/the-best-e-readers-compared-kindle-kobo-nook-and-reader-throw/http://www.switched.com/2010/08/30/the-best-e-readers-compared-kindle-kobo-nook-and-reader-throw/http://www.switched.com/2010/08/30/the-best-e-readers-compared-kindle-kobo-nook-and-reader-throw/#commentsereaders
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With Amazon's recent announcement that digital e-books outsold hardcover books for the first time, and paperbacks destined to a similar fate in the near future, we can safely say the e-book revolution is upon us. That doesn't necessarily mean, however, that the devices upon which we read those books -- digital e-readers, tablet computers, smartphones -- are anywhere near their final form. Last December, we took a look at the most popular e-readers on the market, and, while many companies have made only incremental alterations to their lineups since then, a few new additions and serious price-drops among others have vastly changed the landscape.

And, oh yeah, there's that whole iPad thing.

Continue reading The Best e-Readers Compared: Kindle, Kobo, Nook and Reader Throw Down

SwitchedThe Best e-Readers Compared: Kindle, Kobo, Nook and Reader Throw Down originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazone-readerebookEbookReaderebookseinkeReaderfeaturesjusttellmewhattogetkindlekindle 3Kindle3kobonooksony prs-900SonyPrs-900topMon, 30 Aug 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sweet and Simple: The Best Basic Phones for Our Dearest Dads]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/06/15/sweet-and-simple-the-best-basic-phones-for-our-dearest-dads/http://www.switched.com/2010/06/15/sweet-and-simple-the-best-basic-phones-for-our-dearest-dads/http://www.switched.com/2010/06/15/sweet-and-simple-the-best-basic-phones-for-our-dearest-dads/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dad Phones
A reader asks: My father is a businessman who travels a lot internationally, and asked me to find him a bare bones, simple cell phone that works well but also looks good. For the life of me I can't settle on a device. Instead, the market is flooded with smartphones or regular ones with tons of confusing crap stuffed inside. He doesn't text much but needs the capability, and his vision and hearing aren't the best, so font size and volume are biggies, too. I've given up searching so Just Tell Me What To Get!

Dear Reader: We think your father probably represents a vast, under-served market sweet spot: the Boomers who regularly use cell phones and text, but have no need for a tricked-out convergent cell phone. Call them the silenced majority, if you will. It seems with all the smartphone mania of the past few years, cell makers threw the baby out with the bathwater, and have all but abandoned developing quality "feature" phones, as they're now called. They have the same flimsy designs and craptastic OSes they've had for the past five years, with perhaps a token media player, Web browser and camera thrown in. It's a shame. If the marketplace works anywhere as efficiently as economist Adam Smith proposed, some clever phone manufacturer is surely going to read your letter, realize the value of this market, design a spectacularly simple but good phone and make a killing. (We don't mean the Jitterbug, which, while perfect for some people, isn't right in this case.) Please let it be soon.

Until then, though, we do have a few suggestions to help out. Since you didn't say what service provider he uses and we suspect you aren't the only one with this dilemma, we went ahead and found the best "simple" phone for each of the big four U.S. carriers -- ones that are sturdy, stylish and simple, and that can be used internationally (with the exception of Sprint). Oh, and because we've been on the receiving end of plenty of pocket dialers, we only went with flip phones for easy, compact travel for your dad on-the-go.

Continue reading Sweet and Simple: The Best Basic Phones for Our Dearest Dads

SwitchedSweet and Simple: The Best Basic Phones for Our Dearest Dads originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attcellphonesescapadeexpire-images:2011-6-14feature phonesFeaturePhonesfeaturesglobalinternationalinternational phonesInternationalPhonesjusttellmewhattogetnokianokia 3711Nokia3711pantechpantech breeze iiPantechBreezeIiquad-bandsanyosanyo scp 3810SanyoScp3810sprintt-mobiletopverizonverizon wireless escaladeVerizonWirelessEscaladeVisionImpairedTue, 15 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best HDTV I Can Get for Under $500?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/04/05/whats-the-best-hdtv-i-can-get-for-under-500/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/05/whats-the-best-hdtv-i-can-get-for-under-500/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/05/whats-the-best-hdtv-i-can-get-for-under-500/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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A reader asks: I just moved into a new house, have an empty living room, and want the best possible TV I can get to fill the gaping hole -- for under 500 bucks, that is. I know it's a tall order, but I'm broke and need to be sure whatever TV I get is going to impress my suspicious wife and last for the next, oh, 30 years -- until I've finally paid off my mortgage. So please, just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: Our sincere congratulations on your new home!. (And congrats to your neighbors, too, who surely will benefit from your propping up the ailing real estate market.) With apologies to the Dude, we're firm believers that nothing ties a room together like a swanky new TV, so we're more than happy to do the heavy lifting for you.

Continue reading What's the Best HDTV I Can Get for Under $500?

SwitchedWhat's the Best HDTV I Can Get for Under $500? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p120hzbudgetfeatureshdtvjusttellmewhattogetpanasonic viera tcle32g1PanasonicVieraTcle32g1sony bravia ex400SonyBraviaEx400toptvMon, 05 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best PC Monitor/TV for Under $350?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/25/the-best-pc-monitor-tv-for-under-350/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/25/the-best-pc-monitor-tv-for-under-350/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/25/the-best-pc-monitor-tv-for-under-350/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A reader asks: One of my college housemates just moved out, which is a good thing, but he took his TV with him. This is a bad thing. So I'm looking for a PC monitor that can do double duty as a TV, too -- something reasonably big, as good quality as possible, fast enough for console games and is around $350 or so. I'm stuck with a laptop 12-inch screen until you reply, so hurry up and just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: On those gray days when we wake up in the morning and wonder what it all means anyway, it's questions like these that bring us around and get our blood pumping again: We do it for the children!

Sob stories aside, your question is actually a good one, since a dual-purpose monitor is a great solution for a lot of people who don't have the space, cash or inclination to get multiple flat screens. And, while we're under the impression that many college kids already watch TV shows almost exclusively on laptops and monitors, movies and console games are inherently social activities that benefit from a communal screen.

Continue reading What's the Best PC Monitor/TV for Under $350?

SwitchedWhat's the Best PC Monitor/TV for Under $350? originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p24-inch display24-inchDisplayfeatureshdtvjusttellmewhattogetmonitorp2570reviewssamsung syncmaster p2570SamsungSyncmasterP2570topThu, 25 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Console Baseball Game?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/22/whats-the-best-console-baseball-game/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/22/whats-the-best-console-baseball-game/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/22/whats-the-best-console-baseball-game/#commentsFiled under:

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A reader writes: So baseball season is just about upon us, and for the first time in years, I'm itching to play some baseball video games. In the past, the choice was easy: Just get the latest from EA and be done with it. But these days, I'm a bit confused by all the choices. What's the best baseball video game these days?

You know what, reader? You're right; the choice used to be simple, and we're here to tell you that it still is -- sort of. Things have changed quite a bit. EA is no longer in the MLB baseball game, old-fashioned sprites have turned into fully motion-captured stars, and online play is all the rage.

Continue reading What's the Best Console Baseball Game?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Console Baseball Game? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baseballfeaturesgamesjusttellmewhattogetMLBmlb 2k10Mlb2k10the showTheShowtopvideo gamesVideoGamesMon, 22 Mar 2010 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best Earbuds That Won't Break the Bank]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/15/the-best-earbuds-that-wont-break-the-bank/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/15/the-best-earbuds-that-wont-break-the-bank/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/15/the-best-earbuds-that-wont-break-the-bank/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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A reader asks: The original Apple iPod ear buds I've been using for years have finally crapped out, and I'm looking for a replacement and hopefully an upgrade. My budget is $100 max, and I want the best possible combination of good sound and comfort. I'm not a huge fan of the types you shove in your ear canal. Since you can't try out earphones at any stores I've visited, I have no idea what the best options are, so just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: We hear you loud and clear. The inability to test out earphones before buying is a tricky affair, like the consumer electronics version of a pot luck dinner; you might stumble upon something really tasty or get screwed with the equivalent of the dreaded green bean casserole with cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.

To clarify a bit, the term "earbuds" refers to earphones that sit in the rim of the ear, while "canalphones," or "in-ear monitors," are the variety inserted into the ear canal. The difference between the two is immense. Buds are preferred by many for comfort and also for the ability to hear outside sound in addition to music. However, earbuds can't approach the sonic experience offered by similarly priced canalphones, and often require a higher volume in order to compete with ambient noise. As a result, they can potentially endanger your long-term hearing. Canalphones, on the other hand, can offer incredible sound quality at a much lower volume and typically shut out a majority of ambient sound (although that can be a problem if you're, say, biking in traffic or walking along a busy street). Canalphones aren't for everyone, seeing as they get shoved deep into the ear canal, making for a more "intimate" experience with the intricacies of using an ear wax pick. But we digress...

Continue reading The Best Earbuds That Won't Break the Bank

SwitchedThe Best Earbuds That Won't Break the Bank originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AkgK319canalphonesEarBudEarBudsearphonefeaturesIEMin-ear monitorsIn-earMonitorsjusttellmewhattogetKlipschImageS4ShureSe210topMon, 15 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What Underwater Point-and-Shoot Camera Should I Get?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/08/what-underwater-point-and-shoot-camera-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/08/what-underwater-point-and-shoot-camera-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/08/what-underwater-point-and-shoot-camera-should-i-get/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A reader asks: I'm interested in a waterproof camera for an upcoming trip but can't decide between the various point-and-shoot models. I've read that some leak, or simply don't take great pictures. I know you can buy waterproof camera housings but wonder if I can get away with one camera that just does it all. So, just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: We totally agree. In our perfect world, every camera would be waterproof, shockproof, scratch-proof, lightweight and be able to snap perfect photos without a fuss. Encouragingly, several camera companies are taking steps in the right direction with moderately priced waterproof/ruggedized models already available from Canon, Fujifilm, Olympus, Pentax and Sony, among others. Less encouraging is that virtually all of them have some hiccup that leaves us wanting.

Gallery: Waterproof Camera

Continue reading What Underwater Point-and-Shoot Camera Should I Get?

SwitchedWhat Underwater Point-and-Shoot Camera Should I Get? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canon powershot d10CanonPowershotD10featuresjusttellmewhattogetpoint and shootpoint-and-shootPointAndShoottopwaterproofwaterproof camerawaterproofcameraMon, 08 Mar 2010 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Point-and-Shoot Camera Under $150?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/26/whats-the-best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-150/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/26/whats-the-best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-150/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/26/whats-the-best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-150/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A reader writes: My wife treats digital cameras like they're disposables, so once again I'm in charge of finding her next victim. Since I know I'll be in this position again by the end of summer, what's my best option for a camera that takes great pictures, is simple as pie to use, and is cheap enough that it won't make me cry when she inevitably busts it -- say under $150 or so? I've given up on winning this battle, so Just Tell Me What to Get!

Dear Reader: While our first instinct is to dispatch Switched's 'Minority Report'-style Precrimes Division in order to prevent any more techie tragedies at the hands of your wife, you asked for an answer and not an intervention, so we'll keep them at bay. For now.

Continue reading What's the Best Point-and-Shoot Camera Under $150?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Point-and-Shoot Camera Under $150? originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A reader writes: These Android smartphones look pretty hot. It seems they can do everything the iPhone does, but they come in more flavors, from more companies. So what's the best one to get?

Dear Reader: The Android operating system may be the first serious competitor to the iPhone platform -- with a slick interface and tons of cool applications. Unlike Apple's tightly policed Apps Store, Google's Android Market lets you download any program written by any developer.

Continue reading What's the Best Android Phone on Each Carrier?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Android Phone on Each Carrier? originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroid erisDroidErisfeaturesjusttellmewhattogetmotomotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidsamsung momentSamsungMomentsprintt-mobiletopverizonFri, 05 Feb 2010 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[What Noise-Canceling Headphones Should I Get?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/03/what-noise-canceling-headphones-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/03/what-noise-canceling-headphones-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/03/what-noise-canceling-headphones-should-i-get/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A reader writes: I travel a lot for work and the wimpy iPod earphones just don't hack it against the whine of airplane engines and, worse, seatmates. I'm looking for a reliable, comfortable, easily portable pair of noise-canceling headphones that won't break the bank. I don't have time to research them all, so just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: Like DVRs, iPhones and Slingboxes, noise-canceling headphones are one of those special breeds of gadgetry that inspire instant and rabid fandom in their new owners; they wonder how they ever survived without them. So we're positive you're going to be happy with your upgrade to the sound of silence.

Continue reading What Noise-Canceling Headphones Should I Get?

SwitchedWhat Noise-Canceling Headphones Should I Get? originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresjusttellmewhattogetjvc ha-nc250 headphonesJvcHa-nc250HeadphonesnoisecancelingtopWed, 03 Feb 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[What iPod Car Adapter Should I Get?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/01/12/what-ipod-car-adapter-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/01/12/what-ipod-car-adapter-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/01/12/what-ipod-car-adapter-should-i-get/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A reader writes: I drive a couple hours for my work commute and am looking for a way of hooking up my new iPod touch to my car stereo, which is an old tape deck but puts out great sound. I want something that can put out good audio quality, will keep my iPod charged, and hopefully not create too much clutter. A visit to Best Buy was an exercise in frustration, and if I have to hear another day of drive-time DJ banter I'm gonna lose it, so just tell me what to get already!

Dear Reader: In an age when car CD players are already becoming outdated, and virtually every car maker offers built-in iPod integration, we salute your steadfast loyalty to the anachronistic and obsolete. Talk about rolling old school! As we don't know all the particulars of your car stereo setup, we can't recommend one hard-and-fast solution, but we do have a few suggestions, one of which should surely suit you.

Continue reading What iPod Car Adapter Should I Get?

SwitchedWhat iPod Car Adapter Should I Get? originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>belkin micro auto chargerBelkinMicroAutoChargercassette adapterCassetteAdapterfeaturesgriffin autopilotgriffin itrip autopilotGriffinAutopilotGriffinItripAutopilotipod car kitipod car mountsIpodCarKitIpodCarMountsjtmwtgjusttellmewhattogetmonster icarplay cassetteMonsterIcarplayCassettetopTue, 12 Jan 2010 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Networked Storage Device Under $250?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/24/whats-the-best-networked-storage-device-under-250/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/24/whats-the-best-networked-storage-device-under-250/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/24/whats-the-best-networked-storage-device-under-250/#commentsFiled under: ,


A reader writes: I want an easy way to back up my computer's data -- but I would also like to be able to access it securely when I'm on the road. I've heard a lot of talk about cloud computing, but I'm wary of moving my files to a third-party machine. I'd prefer something I can hook into my home network and know will always be there. Just tell me what to get!

There are literally hundreds of backup and storage options out there. Many cater to the tech elite, but a growing number are being built for less experienced users. Among the best of the latter type is Netgear's Stora. With substantial storage space, multiple backup options, and secure file sharing, this home media server lets you protect important files, as well as share pictures and movies with friends and family.

Continue reading What's the Best Networked Storage Device Under $250?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Networked Storage Device Under $250? originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresjusttellmewhattogetnasnetgearnetgear storaNetgearStoranetwork attached storageNetworkAttachedStoragestoratopThu, 24 Dec 2009 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Super Portable Laptop Under $500?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/21/best-portable-computer-under-500/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/21/best-portable-computer-under-500/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/21/best-portable-computer-under-500/#commentsFiled under: ,


A reader writes: I've decided to get a secondary computer and want to keep it cheap -- but there are so many netbooks and low-priced notebooks on the market that I don't know where to start. I want something reasonably powerful and comfortable to work with. Just tell me what to get!

Dearest Reader: You're hardly alone in your confusion. While the netbook is red-hot this year and being touted as the "next great thing," new processors from Intel -- dubbed CULV for Consumer Ultra Low Voltage -- have brought ultra-slim, fully featured notebooks, with all-day battery life, down to the same price as a good netbook. Plenty of decent options are available for under $500, but you'd be hard pressed to find a deal that tops Toshiba's T-115, packed with two gigabytes of memory and 250 gigabytes of storage.

What separates the T-115 from a similarly priced netbook is its power. Rather than running Intel's Atom processor, which is adequate for light use (but buckles under even moderately demanding tasks), the T-115 relies on the Celeron, meaning you're able to have multiple windows open without lag and watch YouTube videos stutter-free. Also, if you aren't an inordinate multi-tasker, the T-115 can run for seven hours or more -- significantly longer than most netbooks. (The Web site boasts a nine-hour plus battery life, but that's under ideal -- not real world -- conditions.)

Continue reading What's the Best Super Portable Laptop Under $500?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Super Portable Laptop Under $500? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresjusttellmewhattogettoptoshibatoshiba t115ToshibaT115Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:48:00 EST<![CDATA[A Very Special Holiday E-Reader Roundup]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/18/a-very-special-christmas-e-reader-roundup/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/18/a-very-special-christmas-e-reader-roundup/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/18/a-very-special-christmas-e-reader-roundup/#commentsFiled under:


A reader writes: I'm looking to buy my slightly tech-phobic wife a digital book reader for Christmas, and may pick one up for myself as well. The most popular one seems to be the Amazon Kindle, but I've also seen new models by half a dozen other companies and don't really know what I should be looking for. So make my life easier, just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: Let us first say that we absolutely sympathize with your confusion surrounding the crowded digital-book-reader marketplace. While e-readers have been around for about a decade now, sales have been on a tear ever since Amazon's first-generation Kindle appeared in 2007, and it seems a week hasn't gone by in the past few months that a new model isn't announced by some new company trying to cash in on the craze.

There are two main paradigms to consider when picking an e-reader: ones that can download books and periodicals via a free 3G wireless account; and ones that must be synced with a computer in order to upload content, sort of like an iPod or other digital music player. This is your first crucial decision: Kindle lovers can't shut up about the joy of getting near-instant downloads of their favorite newspaper subscriptions or grabbing a book on the fly, but the practice of regularly syncing with a computer is well-established for anyone who uses a digital music player. The latter isn't such an onerous hardship, and generally means a longer battery life.

The other main consideration is where you'll be buying your books from. There are loads of online sources that provide e-books for free or for sale, from ebooks.com, Google Books, or your local library, as well as the individual stores run by the device makers. The problem is that there are several e-book file formats, some with DRM and some without, and some that are proprietary (meaning you can't transfer it between devices). All of the readers we feature below support the most common types -- ePub and PDF files -- except Kindles, which can do PDF but also Kindle-only AZW files. Which means that if you buy e-books from Amazon, you can only ever buy from Amazon and won't be able to access those books in the future using another type of e-reader. Some people won't be bothered by the distinction; however, it's an important point and has already caused a stir after a prominent author agreed to an exclusive e-book deal with Amazon. Since you have been warned, hit the jump to see our picks and pans.

SwitchedA Very Special Holiday E-Reader Roundup originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon kindleAmazonKindlee-readerereaderfeatureshggjusttellmewhattogetnooktopFri, 18 Dec 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Affordable Blu-ray Player With Streaming Video?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/07/whats-the-best-affordable-blu-ray-player-with-streaming-video/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/07/whats-the-best-affordable-blu-ray-player-with-streaming-video/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/07/whats-the-best-affordable-blu-ray-player-with-streaming-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A reader writes: I'm shopping for a low-cost Blu-ray player for my dad, who is deeply in love with his new HDTV. I know he'd want one that does Netflix streaming since he has a subscription, but with so many options out there I'm totally lost -- just tell me what to get!

Dearest Reader: If you ask us, Blu-ray technology is in a transition period, so bear with our rant while we try to answer your timely and excellent question.

The Blu-ray situation is a little confounding for us at the moment. Lest we be wrongly accused by videophiles in the comments section, we love movies on Blu-ray and freely agree that its audio and video quality are unparalleled. The problem we have is with the current crop of Blu-ray players. Unbelievably, the market is still plagued by an abundance of unstandardized spec lists (e.g., lack of HDMI 1.3 or BD-Live support), widespread tech foibles (e.g., unreliable networking, system freezes, audio sync), and relatively high prices to boot. Unlike a bare-bones $75 upscaling DVD player that just works, Blu-ray players often just don't (based on the thousands of anecdotal customer reviews from dozens of online sites we've perused).

Continue reading What's the Best Affordable Blu-ray Player With Streaming Video?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Affordable Blu-ray Player With Streaming Video? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayerfeaturesinsigniajtmwtgjusttellmewhattogetps3rokuvideoplayertopMon, 07 Dec 2009 12:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Just Tell Me What to Get: Sub-$1,000 LCD for the Living Room]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/11/just-tell-me-what-to-get-sub-1-000-lcd-for-the-living-room/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/11/just-tell-me-what-to-get-sub-1-000-lcd-for-the-living-room/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/11/just-tell-me-what-to-get-sub-1-000-lcd-for-the-living-room/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A reader writes: I need a good TV for my living room specifically, and I've decided that LCD is the way to go. I definitely want good video quality and I'd like to keep it under a grand if I can. Please... just tell me what to get!

What up, reader? While the screen-size arms race is destined to continue forever (We fully expect to see a 120-incher any day now.), it turns out that the sweet spot for a typical living room is 40 or 42 inches. A TV around that size is big enough to let you lose yourself in a movie, but won't squat in the corner like an electronic elephant once you turn it off. With that in mind, we're pretty hot for Samsung's LN40B550 40-inch 1080p LCD HDTV ($950 list, but lower at many places).

Continue reading Just Tell Me What to Get: Sub-$1,000 LCD for the Living Room

SwitchedJust Tell Me What to Get: Sub-$1,000 LCD for the Living Room originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresjusttellmewhattogetpanasonic viera x1PanasonicVieraX1samsung lcdsamsung ln40b550SamsungLcdSamsungLn40b550topWed, 11 Nov 2009 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best iMac for Basic Creative Tasks?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/09/whats-the-best-imac-for-basic-creative-tasks/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/09/whats-the-best-imac-for-basic-creative-tasks/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/09/whats-the-best-imac-for-basic-creative-tasks/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Question: I'm finally ready to move to Mac, especially with Apple's latest iMacs. I really like the design and simplicity. But which one should I get? I was thinking I should get the base model for $1199, but the big 27-incher is pretty tempting, too, even though it's another $500. Or should I spend the extra money and get the upgraded versions of the iMac? So confusing -- I thought Apple was easy! I'll be using it for a little bit of everything, but my high-end needs will include a little video editing, music writing, and graphic design with Photoshop.
Answer: Apple certainly likes to tout its simplicity and plug-and-play usability, but try telling that to someone switching to Mac for the first time. On the surface, it looks as though Apple has two new iMacs out: the 21.5-inch and 27-inch. Simple. Done. Right?

Not so much. Let's take a quick trip to Apple shopping land (otherwise known as store.apple.com).

Continue reading What's the Best iMac for Basic Creative Tasks?

SwitchedWhat's the Best iMac for Basic Creative Tasks? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A reader writes: I need a good TV for my living room, and I've decided that LCD, particularly LED, is the way to go. I've heard that some plasmas can look better than LCDs, so I definitely want good video quality, but I heard they use up a lot of energy and I don't want to break the bank if I can avoid it. Also, I'd like something that doesn't use up too much power. Please... just tell me what to get!

What up, reader? Indeed, the Plasma vs. LCD conflict is a tough one, as plasma does traditionally provide better black levels, which can translate to superior contrast between dark and light onscreen, especially valuable when watching high-definition movies now in the Blu-ray era.

The good news is that LCDs are continuing to evolve, with the switch to energy-saving LEDs (light-emitting diodes) as their light source (versus more common cold cathode fluorescent lamps, if you want to get technical). The Next Big Thing in energy-efficient televisions is local dimming LED, which can make specific areas of the screen lighter or darker depending upon the picture being displayed. The improvement can be absolutely stunning, imparting more drastic blacks and a much-needed boost to the dynamic contrast ratio, rated at a mind-boggling 2,000,000:1. Unfortunately, a lot of these LED TVs are pricey, but we've found one from good ol' bang-for-the-buck Vizio.

Continue reading Cutting-Edge, Eco-Friendly LED TV for Less Than $2,200?

SwitchedCutting-Edge, Eco-Friendly LED TV for Less Than $2,200? originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresjusttellmewhattogetlcdlcdtvledtopvizioWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What Are the Best Budget Computer Speakers Under $100?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/08/28/what-are-the-best-budget-computer-speakers-under-100/http://www.switched.com/2009/08/28/what-are-the-best-budget-computer-speakers-under-100/http://www.switched.com/2009/08/28/what-are-the-best-budget-computer-speakers-under-100/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Question: I use my computer for most of my TV and movie watching and music listening, but my machine's built-in speakers sound bloody awful. I want a set of computer speakers that sounds good whether cranked up loud or turned down soft. And I don't want to spend a fortune.

Advice: The underpowered speakers built into laptops and desktops can suck the life out of any video or song. They're too small to handle bass, and not of a high enough quality to reproduce most of the detail and richness in the audio.

Continue reading What Are the Best Budget Computer Speakers Under $100?

SwitchedWhat Are the Best Budget Computer Speakers Under $100? originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 12:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetfeatureshouseholdjusttellmewhattogetspeakersstudentstopFri, 28 Aug 2009 12:41:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Digital SLR Camera for Beginners?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/08/07/whats-the-best-digital-slr-camera-for-beginners/http://www.switched.com/2009/08/07/whats-the-best-digital-slr-camera-for-beginners/http://www.switched.com/2009/08/07/whats-the-best-digital-slr-camera-for-beginners/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Question: I see more and more people carrying digital SLRs these days. And when I look at the great photos, I understand why. I'd like to upgrade from my point-and-shoot, but the choices are overwhelming. What's a good beginner SLR that can also grow with me if I want to get more serious?

Advice: Our current favorite among beginner models is the Nikon D5000. It's not the cheapest -- even from Nikon -- but it has great room to grow. The D5000 is very similar to the company's pricier D90 camera and comes with one significant upgrade: An articulating, 2.7-inch LCD screen allows you to frame the photo while holding the camera above your head, down at your waist, or even facing towards you for a self-portrait. That gives it a leg up on Canon's Digital Rebel line of entry-level SLRs.

The LCD is especially handy when using the D5000's video-capture feature, since you don't have to hold the camera right up to your nose while shooting. The 720p HD movies it takes don't match the crisp images you can get with a dedicated high-def camcorder, but they make a fun supplement to the excellent 12-megapixel still photos.

Continue reading What's the Best Digital SLR Camera for Beginners?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Digital SLR Camera for Beginners? originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d5000featuresjusttellmewhattogetnikonnikon d5000NikonD5000topFri, 07 Aug 2009 12:49:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Digital Camera for Around $100?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/07/28/whats-the-best-digital-camera-for-around-100/http://www.switched.com/2009/07/28/whats-the-best-digital-camera-for-around-100/http://www.switched.com/2009/07/28/whats-the-best-digital-camera-for-around-100/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Question: I need a new digital camera. But since money is tight these days, I can't spend much over $100. Is there a camera around that price that's worth any money at all?

Our Advice: Yes. These days, most camera makers sell surprisingly capable point-and-shoots for just over $100. At that price, you won't get the latest and greatest photo technology. But you will get an inexpensive camera that takes good pictures and offers a useful array of automatic features. Our current favorite is Fujifilm's 10-megapixel Finepix J20, which you can pick up for about $120.

The J20 has a more compact, sturdy, and stylish design than many of its budget-priced competitors. And its 2.7-inch LCD provides a clear view in a wide range of lighting situations, from bright sunlight to dim interiors. It also produces impressively sharp and colorful images at ISO (light sensitivity) settings as high as 1600. That allows you to shoot without the flash in low light and still capture photos with minimal graininess. All those qualities lend the J20 versatility and easy portability, making it a good all-purpose snapshot camera.

Continue reading What's the Best Digital Camera for Around $100?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Digital Camera for Around $100? originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bargainsdigicamsfeaturesjusttellmewhattogetrecessionshoppingtopTue, 28 Jul 2009 15:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Earbuds Under $100?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/07/21/best-earbuds-under-100/http://www.switched.com/2009/07/21/best-earbuds-under-100/http://www.switched.com/2009/07/21/best-earbuds-under-100/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


A reader asks: I travel and commute a lot, and I need a set of headphones for my iPod and laptop. Those white earbuds just don't cut it on a plane or subway - especially for blocking out noise. I like to watch action movies, so they need to have good bass for those Hollywood explosions. But I'm also a jazz fan.

Hey Reader: We're not crazy about stock earbuds, either, and we've tried just about every alternative on the market. While in-ear models from Etymotic and Shure are popular for their excellent noise blocking and über-clear sound, they are expensive and uncomfortable on long trips. Instead, we recommend an affordable set from Ultimate Ears, the MetroFi 220. For $79, you get full, crisp bass without sacrificing clarity in the middle and upper ranges -- making the headphones versatile enough for all kinds of movies and music.

The extremely compact earbuds look pretty snazzy, with shiny, titanium-colored accents and a red-tinted ring clearly marking the right-ear bud. You get three sizes of smooth silicon tips. That way, you can select the ones that go just far enough into your ear canals to stay put and block noise -- without tickling your cochlea. Their black, hard-plastic carrying case fits easily in your pocket. For an extra $10, Ultimate Ears also makes an iPhone-compatible version, the MetroFi 220vi, which features an inline mic and a call-answer button.

SwitchedBest Earbuds Under $100? originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioearbudsfeaturesheadphonesipodaccessoriesjusttellmewhattogettopTue, 21 Jul 2009 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Best iPod-Enabled Alarm Clock Radio: Cambridge Soundworks i765]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/06/26/best-ipod-enabled-alarm-clock-radio-cambridge-soundworks-i765/http://www.switched.com/2009/06/26/best-ipod-enabled-alarm-clock-radio-cambridge-soundworks-i765/http://www.switched.com/2009/06/26/best-ipod-enabled-alarm-clock-radio-cambridge-soundworks-i765/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


A reader writes: I want a decent-sounding audiophile table radio that can not only handle my iPod, but also wake me up in the morning! The Bose Wave radio II looks nice, but I'm not sure I want to spend more than $300 on this. Just tell me what to get!

Sure, Bose's Wave radio II sounds great, but do you really want to shell out $350 for a high-end clock radio that doesn't interface directly with your iPod? Likewise, Tivoli Audio's $400 iYiYi looks and sounds as nice as it gets it gets for a table radio/alarm clock, but just don't count on it waking you up (its snooze button is hard to find when you're half asleep). And the other options - from companies such as Griffin, iHome, and iLuv - may look nice, but they don't stack up sound-quality-wise. So, which hi-fi table radio to pick? To us, the choice is clear: Cambridge Soundworks i765 'High Performance HD iPod/DVD Entertainment System' is every bit as feature-packed and aurally-satisfying as its pricier rivals, and yet can be purchase for as little as $200 (with the right rebates/mark-downs).

Essentially an iPod-video-enabled version of the company's line of high-performance table/clock radios, the i765 has all the features you'd expect from the category, including two speakers and a built-in subwoofer that can handle stereo or wide/surround-sound-like configurations (as well as precise and deep bass, even at high volume levels). Output and input jacks let you play music from non-iPod devices (like your cell phone or computer) and plug in additional speakers, respectively.

Continue reading Best iPod-Enabled Alarm Clock Radio: Cambridge Soundworks i765

SwitchedBest iPod-Enabled Alarm Clock Radio: Cambridge Soundworks i765 originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Question: We're taking a trip cross-country this summer, and I want to bring a video camera for some home movies. I've got a couple hundred bucks to spend but don't want to break the bank. I've seen a lot of these small, solid-state camcorders recently, and I'm wondering which one you recommend?

Hey Reader: We live in wonderful times. There are many styles of camcorders to choose from these days, and most companies have HD models for under $500. (Video sites such as YouTube and Vimeo make it easy to post HD clips right from a camera. But if you want to edit HD creations first, know that you'll need a pretty powerful PC.) For your price range, nothing beats the convenience of a pocket-sized camera like the Pure Digital Flip MinoHD, which delivers the goods while still being light on your wallet and incredibly easy to use.

Gone are the days of lugging around an unwieldy camcorder and box of tapes -- today's pocket camcorders record to solid-state hard drives and have hardly any moving parts. Not only does this eliminate tape jams, it also enables nearly instantaneous shooting, so you don't miss the moment when inspiration strikes.

Continue reading Best HD Camcorder Under $250

SwitchedBest HD Camcorder Under $250 originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 29 May 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camcorderfeaturesflipflip mino hdFlipMinoHdflipvideojusttellmewhattogetminohdtopFri, 29 May 2009 13:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Which Rugged Camera Should You Get?]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/05/15/which-rugged-camera-should-you-get/http://www.switched.com/2009/05/15/which-rugged-camera-should-you-get/http://www.switched.com/2009/05/15/which-rugged-camera-should-you-get/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

just tell me what to get panasonic ts1

Question: I'm planning a vacation with my wife and kids this summer, and I want one camera to cover it all. Something small enough to take around with us wherever we go, and most importantly, super durable and waterproof so we can take it to the beach without giving daddy a heart attack. Any suggestions?

Hey reader: "Tough" cameras have definitely been the rage lately, with several of the big manufacturers recently unleashing new models into the wild. Over the past few years, Olympus has definitely led the way in this category with its Stylus Tough series of nearly unbreakable cams.

But we aren't in love with the Olympus photo quality. So we were excited when Panasonic brought out the ultradurable DMC-TS1 earlier this year.

Continue reading Which Rugged Camera Should You Get?

SwitchedWhich Rugged Camera Should You Get? originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 15 May 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digicamsfeaturesjusttellmewhattogetlumixpanasonicpanasonic dsc-tsipanasonic ts1PanasonicDsc-tsiPanasonicTs1pointandshootsroughntumbleruggedruggedcamerastoptoughcamsts1Fri, 15 May 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Just Tell Me What to Get: iPhone Earbuds]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/10/11/just-tell-me-what-to-get-iphone-earbuds/http://www.switched.com/2007/10/11/just-tell-me-what-to-get-iphone-earbuds/http://www.switched.com/2007/10/11/just-tell-me-what-to-get-iphone-earbuds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



A reader writes: I bought an iPhone and was bummed to see that I can't use my favorite pair of earbuds with it (thanks to a proprietary audio input). The earbuds that came with the iPhone are no good sound-wise and so far I haven't seen many options for IPhone-compatible earbuds. So, I'm looking for a pair of iPhone-compatible earbuds that not only sound good (and go up to 11, volume-wise), but also let me take phone calls. Just tell me what to get!


We were just as disappointed as you were when we got our iPhone, so we immediately went out and bought a bunch of different models. Though we'd heard a lot of great things about the $99 Shure Stereo Headset Universal that we picked up at our local AT&T Store, we actually preferred the equally-priced V-Moda Vibe Duo earbuds, which not only look stylish with their three-toned white rubber, black, and chrome finish, but also offer decent definition in the mid-range and excellent, non-distorting bass on the low-end.

Like many a headset, the V-Moda Vibe Duo comes with a fit kit for differently-sized aural canals, as well as a compact leather case so you don't break them! Our only gripe is you can't answer the phone by just tapping on the mic, as you can with Apple's standard earbuds, but pretty much none of the options out there for the iPhone have this function -- yet. Besides, we'll take the better sound over call-convenience any day! One other thing we like: The cord is made of some kind of synthetic cloth, which doesn't tangle as easily the plastic cords of most earbuds we've had.




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SwitchedJust Tell Me What to Get: iPhone Earbuds originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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