GADGETHEAD Issue 3.07
UK
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Contents
GADGETHEAD Senior Writer Emma Hilling emmahilling@littlegatepublishing.com Sales Director Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com Junior Copy Editor Alice Instone-Brewer alice@littlegatepublishing.com Junior Copy Editor Steve Weller steveweller@littlegatepublishing.com Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
Anki: Two Brains Are Better Than One• Geko PanicSafe• Fizzics Waytap Page 10 Sweetdreamers ewan the Dream Sheep• ADX Pulse V4• Drift Innovation Compass• Goal Zero Yeti 150 Page 20 Think Tank Streetwalker Rolling Backpack V2.0• Tabcat• The Big Green Egg Minimax• SunnyCam Xtreme Edition• PMD Recovery Collagen Infusing Facial Mask Page 30 No Quarter Bike Detailing Kit• Leica DISTO D810 Touch• Varidesk Pro Plus 35• Swing Speed Radar with Tempo Timer• Think Tank Turnstyle 10 V2.0 Page 40 Thinkware F770• PMD Kiss• Dubarry Ultima Sailing Boot• Osprey Aether AG 70• PMD Personal Microderm Pro Page 50 VARIDESK VARIChair• Microplane Master Series• Osprey Talon 33• Spurcycle Bell Page 60 Loc8tor Lite• Rapha Flyweight Bib Shorts• Joby GripTight ONE Gorilla Pod & Impulse Remote
Two Brains Are Better Than One Cozmo the groundbreaking entertainment robot with a big brain and bigger personality just got even smarter with the introduction of Cozmo Code Lab. Consumer robotics & artificial intelligence (AI) company, Anki, today announced Cozmo, the incredible robot companion, just became even smarter with the addition of Cozmo Code Lab. Available in the UK from 15th September, the charming and mischievous Cozmo is a real-life robot like you’ve only ever seen on the big screen. Designed with fun and friendship in mind, the innovative Cozmo Code Lab programming platform enhances Cozmo’s credentials as one of the most
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sophisticated consumer robots out there which is developed by a leading team of Ph.D. roboticists, world-class animators, and renowned game developers. Cozmo Code Lab is a simple and intuitive visual programming language that allows you to easily tap into his advanced robotics technology. Dragging and dropping blocks into a sequence in Code Lab will trigger realtime actions from your friend Cozmo - it’s time to let your imagination do the talking. In the current
technology-fueled world, learning to code has quickly become a valued skill, empowering kids to become creators of the technology that they use and enjoy. Code Lab is part of the Cozmo app and will be available in September. “Everything we do at Anki is in an effort to advance the state of robotics, whether that is kids learning coding for the first time, or Ph.D. students solving complex computer vision challenges in a lab with Cozmo,” said Boris Sofman, CEO and co-founder at Anki. “With the launch of Code Lab, Cozmo now helps kids develop the logic and
reasoning skills that programming requires. Based on the Scratch Blocks project, a collaboration between MIT Media Lab and Google, we now have a powerful tool that gives anyone interested in learning to code a robot the opportunity to unleash their creativity. There’s simply no consumer robotics platform available like Cozmo.” The world is your oyster with Cozmo Code Lab, giving you the opportunity to create thoughtful and logic-based play as kids are challenged to approach programming much like a real programmer. • Movement: Make Cozmo drive, from simple forward/backward/turns to intelligent motions like avoiding obstacles • Actions: Control his body, from moving his lift and head, to changing lights or having him say short phrases • Animations: Access dozens of the animations that make Cozmo’s personality, created by a team of film and gaming animators • Events: Trigger highly intelligent actions like having Cozmo react to a face, a smile, or a frown, or use his cubes to trigger a reaction
Writing sophisticated programs requires a programmer to define a set of rules to solve an issue. Cozmo’s Code Lab challenges kids to find a solution to prescribed prompts by moving the blocks into an appropriate sequence. It also allows them to experiment with Cozmo to create whatever content they can imagine. Code Lab for Cozmo is based on Scratch Blocks, a project of the MIT Media Lab, used by millions of people around the world. With Code Lab, Cozmo owners can start out with very simple programs, but then move into extremely sophisticated coding projects like creating entirely new games for the robot.
Gadgethead Magazine
Geko PanicSafe With both my partner and I learning to drive later in life, we are familiar with that horrible feeling of seeing someone you adore drive off…after stalling twice and putting window wipers on…and the shear panic of wondering whether they will make it to their destination in one piece. I only wish I had the Geko PanicSafe then. This clever little device is a combination of GPS tracking, a built-in G-sensor and Bluetooth technology that helps you keep in contact with loved ones by instantly alerting you when they or their car is in need. To use the PanicSafe, you need to download the WISO app and pair it to the device. Then, select up to seven contacts to notify in the 6
case of an emergency, and the set-up is complete. The SOS alerts can be activated either by pressing and holding the button for two seconds, or, if the G-Sensor is triggered in the event of a collision. Once an alert is sent, your contacts will automatically receive a call (Android only), text and email, and the app will use your device’s GPS signal to alert your emergency contacts of your exact location (this
will be continuously updated every two to three minutes). The Audio Recording feature also lets you send your emergency contacts a recording to let them know what’s going on. If everything is fine, the alarm can be deactivated and your contacts will receive another message to let them know you’re okay. The PanicSafe charges through your car’s cigarette lighter and has a Quick Charge 3.0 feature that allows you to charge your devices up to more than 70% in the same amount of time a conventional charger would charge to 20%,
which means you can still charge up your phone whilst the PanicSafe is plugged in.. The alarm will still activate even if car’s power supply is disrupted in the event of an accident. We tested out the PanicSafe by activating the alarm and playing a large scale hide and seek game. It worked perfectly as long as I had signal. Obviously, we didn’t smash it into any walls to test the G-Sensor, so we can’t know for certain how effective it is. All things considered, any extra safety measure on today’s roads can only be a good thing, and this is a small price to pay for a little extra peace of mind when your loved ones are behind the wheel. RRP $79.99
http://www.mygekogear.com/products/ panicsafe-emergency-locator-fast-charger/ Pros Up to seven emergency contacts Manual or impact activated Updates GPS location every few minutes Charges through the cigarette lighter Works as a fast charging station Internal power supply if the cars power is lost Reasonably priced Small and discrete
Gadgethead Magazine
Fizzics Waytap In this hot weather, it is difficult to beat a nice cold beer with friends, but if you are anything like my group of mates this often results in a discussion/ argument over the best way to serve a beer. Most people will agree that a beer poured from the tap in a pub is the ultimate in taste and condition; the downside to this is having to pay the everincreasing prices and sharing your relaxing time with a bunch of alcoholic locals that immediately make you reconsider ever putting a beer to your lips again. The Fizzics Waytap brings you the best of both worlds, with the taste quality of a brewer’s tap in 8
the comfort of your own back garden or campsite. The Fizzics MicroFoam technology improves the flavour and sensation of any carbonated beer, controlling both fluid dynamics and sound. It is a portable size, letting you drink your beverage whenever and wherever you want, and is available in white, black, and slate grey. Simply place a can or bottle of beer into the Waytap
system, then pull the handle forward to pour the beer under pressure at a controlled rate to maintain the carbonation within the body of the beer. You can push the handle backwards to begin the “sonication process” - this applies sound waves to control the process of converting the beer’s natural carbonation into an ideal Micro-Foam to give you the perfect head on your beer and lock in the fizz. Fizzics is compatible with any size cans, bottles & up to 64oz growlers, and works well with all beer styles,
http://www.fizzics.com/ Pros Enhances flavour Works with all beer styles No gas, chemicals or proprietary parts required Universal Fun to use Solid construction Portable
Cons Batteries not included Some beers become too fizzy
including IPAs, Pilsners, Stouts, Porters and lagers. It doesn’t require CO2 or nitro cartridges, proprietary replacement parts or ongoing refills to operate - all you need is four AA batteries to operate it. So how did we get on with the Fizzics Waytap? The taste of the beer was impressive; I didn’t think
it would make much of a difference, but it really does improve the flavour. It is also quite a novelty to use there is something cool about being able to pour your own beer from a tap! However, depending on what beer you use, it can come out very lively. Having to waste time and beer by letting the head settle can get tedious, and the four AA battery power doesn’t last you long - even when you aren’t using it, they seem to drain. The Fizzics Waytap is a fun and high quality product, but if you are a beer connoisseur you probably won’t be impressed. RRP $129.99.
Gadgethead Magazine
Sweetdreamers ewan the Dream Sheep ewan (yes, he has a name) is not just a cute soft toy - he is also a clever sleep aid that plays soothing sounds to help lull restless babies and toddlers to sleep. Unlike the traditional mobiles that play lullabies, ewan uses sounds and light to replicate the experience a baby would have in the womb, making for an easier transition from womb to world. I gave ewan to my nephew when he was a few weeks old and we found the combination of the soft pink light and the real heartbeat sound (similar to that of a sonogram) helped settle him even at his most restless times. There is also the option of harp, rain and vacuum sounds (which has proved most popular with my 10
friend’s toddler) to mix things up as they get older. ewan can attach securely to the crib but is also portable, so he can keep your baby company on car journeys or in the push chair - you can even attach a dummy to his tail! ewan will gently fade out and switch off after 20 minutes, which research has suggested is the optimum amount of time a baby requires to fall asleep. However, there have been times when my nephew would start to stir once ewan switched off, and someone would have to enter the room to switch it on again,
which then disturbed him further. It would help if there was on option to change ewan to continuous play. Another thing that could become a problem is that, due to the battery pack, it is only surface washable, so if this does become my nephew’s favourite toy it could become a bit of a mess in the future. Sweetdreamers have managed to combine a sleep aid, soft toy, comforter and night light, all into a beautifully designed, reasonably priced product that both mother and child will adore. It has a few flaws, however, that would stop me from buying another. RRP £29.99
http://www.sweetdreamers.co.uk/baby-product/ewan-the-dream-sheep Pros Comforting for baby (and parents) Nightlight Portable
Cons Drains batteries quickly No option of playing sounds longer than 20 minutes Only surface washable
Gadgethead Magazine
ADX Pulse V4 The Pulse V4 features Bluetooth V4.0 (hence the name). It comes with aptX and NFC pairing with a range of 20 meters, and you can also use the included braided AUX cable for another connection option. The V4 features 25 core Kevlar drivers and a 7.4 Volt 3000mah battery that will give you up to 20 hours’ playtime per charge (with a four-six hour full charge time). This speaker is compact but not tiny, measuring in at 190 x 86 x 75cm and weighing 700g. It’s handy for taking out in the garden or on day trips, but might be too bulky for longer trips or where light packing is necessary. The overall design is sleek and is available in two colours: Brushed Silver or Brushed Grey. The triangular shape isn’t an accident - the non-equilateral design reducing standing wave and resonance to allow sound reproduction to remain as pure possible. To finish off, the Pulse V4’s input 12
ports and power button are all situated at the back for a cleaner look. The V4’s controls are LED backlit and have capacitive touch sensitivity, which is nice and responsive and feels modern (who doesn’t like a touch sensitive button?). The sound quality is impressive for a speaker this size; the uprated 2x50mm Kevlar drivers have 25 core motor system with Neodymium magnets and metal retaining rings (V3 has 20core motor system), and a powerful motor system means the V4 produces deep and controlled
bass along with layered and clear mid and hightones. The positioning of the “Pulse Bass Radiators” lets you play with the options by taking advantage of ‘boundary effect’, and for increased bass you can position the speaker near the corner of a room where bass is boasted by +6db. Even the battery has been selected with the sound in mind - the 7.4 Volt – 3000mAh Lithium battery has low noise (that hiss you get when you switch on portable speakers) to keep the signal as pure as possible. The Pulse V4 is excellent portable speaker with great sound quality, and is even better now it has a reduced price! This will make a popular addition to any BBQ or picnic in the sun. RRP £139.99
http://www.adxspeakers.co.uk/product/pulsev4/ Pros Great sound quality Sleek design 20 hour battery life Max range of 20 meter
Cons A little too bulky for long trips
Gadgethead Magazine
Drift Innovation Compass The Drift Innovation Compass is essentially a wearable camera (not what you would guess from the name). It was designed with the idea that it will allow you to capture every moment without having to stop and, you know, appreciate it (welcome to modern life). The camera is reasonably compact at 43 x 43 x 13.8mm and weighs just 34g. It features 8MP and records in 1080p, has 50-6400 ISO, a CMOS sensor and comes with 2GB built-in storage, but is also compatible with Micro SD cards up to 32GB and comes with 10GB free cloud storage. The battery life is weak at four hours’ tops - that’s two hours of 1080P 30FPS video recording or four hours for photos alone. As the camera is marketed at incredibly snap-
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happy types that like to document every moment, this will give you about a day’s use per charge. It comes with a wireless remote that will work up to ten meters away, and there is a built-in high sensitivity microphone that picks up sound clearly even at a bit of a distance. You can create time-lapses with videos or photos with the use of the free companion app, Drift Life. You can also livestream and control the Compass more accurately with this app, including view finding, shooting
photos and capturing video. The Compass comes with a clip or lanyard, but the magnet attachment (used in all of the promotional videos) is sold separately. This magnet can be fixed to your clothes without damaging them, and it would have been really useful to have it. As well as the magnet, it’s also possible to purchase silicone skins in a variety of colours to personalise your camera. I’m going to be blunt here - I simply don’t understand the point of this camera at all: the camera lens is in a diamond shape, so it is difficult to line up a straight shot, and to take a shot you must
double tap the camera, which is inconsistent in whether or not it reacts. It feels as though they had the technology and wanted to use it, whether or not it actually added anything to the product… which it did not. I also felt self-conscious wearing this camera in public. It’s like walking around with a camera raised to your face - people give you shifty looks. “Why are you filming me on the underground?” After receiving a few glares my fragile confidence couldn’t hack it anymore and I put the camera in my pocket. The big question is, do you need this when there are such high-quality cameras on your phone, and tough rugged action cameras for more exciting activities? The answer is no. The Compass is a niche product that doesn’t perform well and will quickly become a source of frustration, until it ends up in the back of your drawer forever. RRP £99.99
https://driftinnovation.com/products/compass Pros Compact Lightweight
Cons Difficult to activate shutter Doesn’t come with the only attachment that’s worth using Short battery life Looks strange whilst wearing it Doesn’t offer anything that your phone or action camera doesn’t already have Disappointing results
Gadgethead Magazine
Goal Zero Yeti 150 It is all well and good escaping to the countryside every now and then to recharge our batteries, but it’s a fact of modern life that most of the things we have become so reliant on need more than just some burnt sausages and warm beer to keep their batteries charged. If you want to share photos of your sun burn on social media or continue to annoy your friends by playing the same album over and over on your portable speaker, you will need something to fill your devices with juice. The Goal Zero Yeti 150 can power up your device in three different ways: you can use the USB port that charges all your medium-size USB powered devices, the 12V is best suited to charge all your medium 12V powered devices and the AC Inverter allows you to use the Yeti by plugging in your device just as you would in a wall socket. The Yeti 150 is designed for devices
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like smartphones, MP3 players, digital cameras, E-readers, tablets, portable lights, car adapters, laptops, DSLR camera batteries, display monitors and GPS systems. It will charge up your device roughly as fast as it would by plugging it into the mains at home - perhaps a touch slower, but nothing you would really notice. The LCD battery display will show you how much power you are getting for example, a highpower charge might make the charge level of your Yeti 150 drop very quickly, so you won’t be getting the full 150Wh of power. However, if you’re recharging devices
that draw power more slowly, you will get closer to 150Wh consistently. If you are in conditions likely to go below freezing, it is recommended that you keep the Yeti in an insulated cooler and connected to a power source (solar panels - this way, the natural heat generated by the Yeti 150 is contained and will keep battery capacity at its highest. Also, keeping the Yeti connected to a power source (solar panel or wall outlet) between uses or in storage will keep the battery in good health and prolongs its life. Obviously, it isn’t always practical to keep the battery plugged in all year round, so if
you can’t, fully charging it every three months and storing it in a cool, dry place should help to maintain the battery. The Yeti uses modified sine wave inverters, which work well with small electronic equipment - usually anything that includes an AC power cable with the box. However it isn’t suitable for fluorescent lights with dimming function, power tools employing “solid state” power or variable speed control, digital clocks with radios,
and sewing machines with speed, so no alarm clocks, disco lights, DIY or haberdashery whilst you are away. It takes six hours to charge from a wall socket, eight from your car and between 3-52 hours from solar panels, depending on what kind you use. This will give you about 15 full charges of your smartphone, six charges of a tablet and 25 charges of your Go Pro. One rather silly design flaw is when you plug a UK plug into the multiregional socket, the plug
then covers up the on off button, so you end up having to remove the plug without being able to switch it off first. The £180 price tag could also put off a lot of campers who are trying to save money by going camping in the first place. All things considered, though, we found the Goal Zero Yeti 150 a great little camping companion; it is compact, lightweight, robust and keeps your devices alive, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors for longer. RRP £199
http://www.goalzero.com/p/164/goal-zero-yeti150-solar-generator/ Pros Compact Light Solid construction Different power options Quickly charges devices
Cons Only suitable for medium power devices Expensive Multi-regional adaptors’ on/off button gets covered up
Gadgethead Magazine
Sur f 3 Inspired by mountain bike technology Why choose between a four-wheel urban pushchair or a three-wheel trekking pushchair. With Surf 3 you can have both, uniquely adaptable it can switch between city and trekking modes with ease. Whether you’re in the town or country the unique suspension ensures a smooth ride.
DriveSt
Direct Attac USB 3.0 4 wheels for urban use
silvercrossbaby.com
Trekking wheel for multi terrain use
DriveStation™ Quad Direct Attached Storage USB 3.0
HD-QHU3/R5
Huge Capacity Direct Attached Storage Huge Capacity Direct Attached Storage
Buffalo Technology’s DriveStation™ Quad (HD-QHU3 series) is a 4-bay Direct Attached Storage device perfect for demanding SMB. The HD-QHU3 comes fully populated with high-reliability Buffalo Technology’s DriveStation™ WD Red™ drives in total capacities of up to 24TB.
Quad (HD-QHU3 series) is a 4-bay
™ The DriveStation Quad is RAID-enabled customised Direct Attached Storage deviceforperfect redundancy and capacity depending on your specific needs for demanding SMB. The HD-QHU3 and also comes with 10 licenses of NovaStor NovaBACKUP comes Essentials fully populated Business software. with high-
reliability WD Red™ drives in total
The DriveStation™ Quad features the capacity, redundancy, capacities of required up to 24TB. and performance for any demanding user – the perfect solution for backing up large servers, multimedia files, or databases. The HD-QHU3 series is sold fully populated with WD Red drives and total capacities of 8, 12, 16, or 24TB. HD-QHU3/R5
Features and Benefits • 4 bay Direct Attached Storage fully populated with WD Red™ hard drives - Available with 8, 12, 16, or 24TB capacities
• RAID-enabled for performance and reliability - Supports RAID 0/1/5/10/Spanning/JBOD
• Perfect for Server, PC, and/or Database Backup
Features and Benefits
- Also includes 10 free licenses of NovaStor NovaBackup Business Essentials
• Power Saving – Auto Power feature turns on and off automatically with your computer
4-bay Direct Attached Storage •• SuperSpeed connectivity with USB 3.0
fully populated with WD Red™ hard drives with 8, 12, 16, or 24TB capacities • RAID-enabled for performance and reliability - Supports RAID 0/1/5/10/Spanning/JBOD • Perfect for ™Server, PC, and/or Database Backup - Also includes 10 free licenses of NovaStor NovaBACKUP® Business Essentials • Power Saving – Auto Power feature turns on and off automatically with your computer ched Storage • SuperSpeed connectivity with USB 3.0 • 3 year warranty - Available • 3 year warranty
tation Quad
Think Tank Streetwalker Rolling Backpack V2.0 The Streetwalker Rolling Backpack V2.0 is a hybrid rolling case that can switch into a backpack as and when you need it to. I think the name could do with a little rethinking, as saying you were travelling with a streetwalker will get you a few funny looks in the UK. Awkward name aside, this case has a lot going for it. Starting with its large gear profile, its internal dimensions are 11.8” W x 19.7” H x 6.3–7.1” D (30 x 50 x 16–18 cm) with a dedicate laptop compartment measuring 9.8” W x 14.5” H x 0.9” D (25 x 36.8 x 2.3 cm), and it will hold one gripped DSLR, one standard DSLR, five – seven standard zoom lenses and a 15” laptop, and a maximum lens size of 200–400mm f/4. For its large size, this case surprisingly only weighs 8.2 lbs (3.7 kg). There are two padded, adjustable shoulder straps that 20
pop out from a padded compartment and feature D-rings and a daisy chain, as well as an adjustable sternum strap. The harness is comfortable to wear, even with the bag fully packed. However, for a bit of extra back support, a waist strap would be greatly appreciated to take the pressure off your shoulders on longer walks. The Streetwalker (sorry, but that’s what it’s called) has a dedicated smartphone pocket to fit up to a 5.5” (14cm) screen size, two zip side pockets with stretchy pockets on top and on the front, and there is a tripod mount and two more pockets
for quick access to all your essentials. The main compartment features fully adjustable reinforced dividers to customise the interior for your gear, and there are also two interior clear zip pockets to allow you to quickly locate small accessories like SD cards and batteries. The reinforced telescoping handle has rubberised touch points, slides out smoothly and feels strong and sturdy. It is also user-replaceable, as are the 80mm wheels (with sealed ABEC grade 5 bearings for quiet rolling), wheel housings, feet and kick plate, all of which extends the product’s life. The Streetwalker is constructed from YKK RC Fuse zippers, ballistic nylon, highdensity velex and
closed-cell PU foam, which give the bag a durable and high-quality look and feel. There is an included seam-sealed rain cover, lockable YKK RC Fuse zips on the main compartment and it is compatible with camera support straps (sold separately). The Streetwalker Rolling Backpack V2.0 has been designed to meet most U.S. and international airline carry-on requirements, but it is always important to double check with your airline that the bag is compatible. The Streetwalker V2.0 is a great bag to quietly and comfortably roll around or swing up onto your shoulders. I would like the aforementioned waist strap to be added, along with some handles on the side to make it easier to grab out of the overhead compartment or off the carousel. Aside from that, it is a brilliantly versatile piece that can make travelling with large amounts of gear a doddle. RRP ÂŁ289
https://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/ streetwalker-rolling-backpack-v2 Pros Padded shoulder and sternum straps in a zip compartment Light Large gear profile and lots of pockets Dedicate 15� laptop compartment Quiet smooth rolling User-replaceable retractable handle, wheels, wheel housings, feet and kick plate
Cons No waist strap No side handles
Gadgethead Magazine
Tabcat
I can look back and laugh now about how ridiculous my partner and I were the first time our cat didn’t come home when called. We have two boys who have always been reliable at coming home when we whistle, but on the day that is now known as No Finley Friday I remember me, my partner and the other cat running up and down the road trying to locate the fourth member of our little family. Four hours later, of course, he strolled in like nothing had happened, much to our frustration and relief. 22
The Tabcat has been created to prevent such pointless worry. Almost certainly, the fuzzy little git was sitting in
someone else’s garden just meters away, but we simply had no way of knowing. The Tabcat works in two different ways to help you find your moggy when they decide to do a disappearing act. It comes with a remote that has four buttons and four locating discs, which can be attached to different cats or
collars depending on how often you cat likes to ditch their collar when out on the prowl. The Tabcat boasts a range of up to 122 metres (400 feet) and can guides you in to within 2.5cm of the locator. It isn’t a GPS tracker, so there is no need for apps, WIFI, Bluetooth or GPS connection: with a press of the button an alarm and light will be activated to help you easily track your cat down (or their collar, at least) wherever they may be hiding. It works a bit like the game hot and cold; a red light will flash to tell you that you are in range of your pet, then as you walk in the right direction it will change to amber and then green. The second way the Tabcat can be used is as a training tool - when you press the relevant button the locater disc will activate a small beep that with some initial training can be used to associate with their favourite treat. This will soon get them to ditch the serious business of a staring at next door’s tabby
and come running home. The discs themselves are larger than I would like, but very lightweight, and after half a day of confused looks our cats got used to having them around their necks. The build quality of both the remote and discs doesn’t feel that great, as it is very thin plastic and the discs clip together, but it has survived the rough and tumble of cat life thus far, so I have faith that they will last. I love the idea behind the Tabcat - it is simple and effective, as well as cheaper and easier to use than a GPS locater. With a touch of a button I can get my cat to run through the door (with a Dreamies bribe) and if not, I can quickly find them without looking like the neighbourhood weirdo wandering around whistling and looking over people’s fences. RRP £69.99
mytabcat.com Pros Locates cats within 122 meters Can be used as a training aid Easy to use Lightweight Comes with four discs (spare discs sold separately) Two year warranty Longer battery life than GPS style locators
Cons Plastic feels flimsy Discs are large
Gadgethead Magazine
The Big Green Egg Minimax It’s that time of year again - BBQ season is fully upon us. Why would you bother cooking your sausages under the grill when you can take four hours to burn them to cinders on an BBQ whilst chocking on plumes of smoke and trying to keep the wasps out of your beer? Like most summer activities, the idea of a BBQ is often much better in theory than in practice, but that doesn’t stop us from having one every summer. However, this summer will be different, for what looks like a large alien egg has landed in our back garden and promised to change the way we cook our meat forever! The Big Green Egg comes in four sizes - minimax, medium, large and extra-large. It comes with everything 24
you need to get started: the Ceramic Big Green Egg, firebox, fire ring and fire grate, a steel cooking grid, dual Function metal top, ceramic snuffer cap, Tel-True thermometer dome gauge and a pair of tongs. You can either buy a full kit or your Egg and Eggccessorises (eggcellent pun) separately. The Big Green Egg is essentially a ceramic cooker that can grill, BBQ, slow cook and smoke. The space-shuttle quality ceramic allows
for a wide range of temperatures that can be controlled down to the nearest five degrees and won’t dry out the meat. The initial price could seriously put people off, but the Egg comes with a lifetime guarantee, plus it really does live up to the hype. You can be set up and cooking in under 12 minutes. The unique cedar/ oak blend charcoal creates a beautiful caramelisation, making the ribs we cooked on the Egg quite possibly the best I have eaten in my life. Continuing with the charcoal, unlike the regular stuff, it isn’t packed with lighting agents, and is
totally natural as well as responsibly sourced. It also stays lit for hours - one bag could last you eight times as long as the normal stuff. The Big Green Egg is a game changer - it is a breeze to use and has also encouraged us to get experimental with more types of recipes, instead of the usual sausage and burgers. The food it produces is delicious and juicy, whilst the feel-good factor of using natural products just adds to the Egg’s charm. RRP £599.99
http://www.biggreenegg.eu/en/eggs/minimax/ Pros Easy to use Versatile Quick to heat up Delicious results Temperature control Lifetime guarantee Natural, responsibly sourced charcoal High quality construction and accessories
Gadgethead Magazine
SunnyCam Xtreme Edition These glasses are what the seven-yearold me dreamt that everyone in the future would be wearing (I’m still waiting for hologram messaging, but we are getting there). The SunnyCam Xtreme Edition are water resistant 1080p POV recording glasses, charged via micro USB. These glasses are easy to use: turn them on by holding down the power button, and a vibration indicator and red light flashing on the inside of the frame will let you know that 26
it’s active. As well as recording video, the glasses can be used to take a photo whilst the camera is still recording - simply press the power button once and the light will flash blue to indicate the photo has been taken. The camera is integrated into the frame right between the eyes for a true point of view shot. They have a built in 16GB memory that can hold up to three hours’ video footage, but you will only get about an hours’ worth
of recording time per charge, which isn’t very long. The Xtreme Edition is the world’s first water resistant video eyewear with IP66 rating, and it also has a Grilamid TR90 high impact resistant frame that is designed to handle the extreme, which you wouldn’t necessarily expect, due to the lightweight plastic feel of the frame. The lenses on the frame are interchangeable: the Photochromic Lenses, Ice Mirrored Lenses and Ice Mirrored Lenses are
https://sunnycam.co/xtreme-edition-videorecording-glasses/ Pros POV 1080p video Mount free Easy to use Built in 16GB memory Good video quality in daylight Hard case included
Cons Chunky design Lenses can be difficult to change Cheap carabiner clip on case doesn’t close properly Poor quality in low lights Frame sits in your peripheral Short battery life
available at an extra cost, but it comes with Polarized and Clear lenses. The Polarized lenses popped out easily, but the clear ones were tricky to get in and out to the point that I was worried I was going to break them, and the instruction manual offers no advice on the best way to go about it.
So, what did we think? Well, I love that you don’t need to stick mounts on helmets or dashboards or attempt to get a good angle with a chest harness, and the video quality is good in daylight, but it is a bit too dark in low light. The overall look is a bit clumpy for my taste, and the frame is in your peripheral vision, which isn’t good for activities like cycling or other sports. They also look really ugly in the clear lenses - I don’t think even Bono would put them on his face. The Sunnycam Xtreme Edition are good for any activities that are less than an hour long, but you won’t be winning any awards for style. RRP £149.99 Gadgethead Magazine
PMD Recovery Collagen Infusing Facial Mask Picture the scene: my fiancé is brushing his teeth in the bathroom, minding his own business. When he bends over to spit toothpaste into the sink, stands up straight and sees the reflection of a white masked face standing behind him holding a rolling pin. Understandably, he jumps out of his skin and yells at me whilst showering me in toothpaste, saying he thought that Michael Myers had come to bash his head in (how was I to know he watched Halloween the night before?) So, why did I have a white mask? Well, I was testing out the PMD Recovery Collagen Infusing Facial Mask. Why the rolling pin? Well, who doesn’t like homemade cookies after a pampering session? Why was I in the bathroom? Ok, you caught me, I’m just a git and wanted to scare the bejesus out of him. So, enough about our dysfunctional home 28
life; the Recovery is specially formulated for PMD’s Personal Microderm as a smart weekly after-treatment mask, and claims to soothe and plump your skin. This mask creates a protective barrier that allows vital hydration to instantly calm your skin, smooth lines and lock in moisture. The Hyaluronic Acid attracts and holds moisture in the skin by penetrating deep into it, boosting elasticity and locking in essential moisture. The acetyl tetrapeptide helps to relieve sensitive skin by decreasing inflammation and reducing sensitivity, whilst the collagen helps to keep your
skin looking younger and giving it firmness and elasticity. The last important ingredient is olive oil – this is loaded with antioxidants that reduce free-radical damage, premature aging and wrinkles, and is quickly absorbed deeply into the skin to boost hydration. Like many face products, it is difficult to accurately tell if the long-term effects and youthful retaining properties of this face mask are truly effective, but what I could tell was that my skin was left feeling refreshed, smooth and soft. The mask doesn’t leave any greasy residue, it smells great, feels soothing whilst wearing it, and even if it doesn’t achieve anything (which I’m sure it does), it is simply a pleasure to use. RRP £35
https://uk.pmdbeauty.com/product/ recovery-anti-aging-collagen-infusedsheet-mask-box-5/ Pros Soothing Smells good Leaves skin feeling refreshed and hydrated Cruelty free Softens skin
Cons ÂŁ35 for five masks
Gadgethead Magazine
No Quarter Bike Detailing Kit As the owner of a Matt black carbon fibre racing bike, I’ve been really frustrated that I can never get it looking clean and water mark free. I got my hands on the No Quarter detailing kit which includes some really effective (and beautifully smelling) foaming cleaner and the most amazing carnuba wax polish and finish protector. Not only does it do an amazing job of cutting away the dirt but it very easily leaves a wax finish that the water just rolls off. No smearing or hard polishing required, the kit contains every sponge, cloth, brush and applicator you could need, all neatly packaged with clear instructions. And the best thing, my bike still smells of bubble gum!
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Gadgethead Magazine
Leica DISTO D810 Touch The Leica DISTO D810 Touch is a 15-measurementmode laser distance meter, accurate to 1mm, and is chock full of useful features to let you get on with the job. For starters, it has a touch screen UI, integrated digital camera, a tilt sensor and is Bluetooth Smart. The D810’s exclusive Measure In Picture (MIP) technology can deliver you with the height, width, area, diameter, or circumference of an object in a picture taken. This works by letting you bracket your target using pointers on the touch screen to remotely measure the width, area, or diameter of the object. It has a 200m+ range and can easily reach beyond the view of the naked eye, and the point finder has
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a 4x digital zoom with cross hairs on the LCD display to show you where the laser is. The Smart Horizontal lets you shoot over obstacles, so you can measure the level horizontal distance to your target. You can send measurements directly to your apps using Bluetooth Smart, and the Leica DISTO Sketch App lets you take a picture with your iPhone or Android and layer measured lines on top of it. The
Diameter function uses the MIP technology to measure cylindrical objects, the big receiver lens and its connected module have a range of over 600ft (depending on conditions). The Intelligent Endpiece can be flipped open 90 degrees to align the base perfectly on an edge or corner, and it can also be flipped out all the way and put into a corner to accurately measure diagonals. The memory store will hold 30 displays and images with measurements associated with them, and there is a timer to delay a measurement the same way you would with the shutter on a digital camera.
With over 20 functions and ways to measure, you will always have your favourites, so the aptly named Favourites function lets you add your mostused functions to the tabs at the bottom of the touch screen for quick access. The Leica DISTO D810 Touch has a rechargeable battery that will take approximately 4000 measurements per charge, and the entire device is housed in a tough and durable casing. All in all, you couldn’t ask for much more in a laser distance meter, other than it getting up to make you a cuppa on your break. The Leica DISTO D810 Touch has more functions than you could possibly use, all wrapped up in a high quality box. RRP £688
https://lasers.leica-geosystems.com/uk/disto/ d810-touch Pros Solid construction 20 different functions Touch screen LCD Accurate to 1mm Store 30 measurements 4000 measurement battery life
Gadgethead Magazine
Varidesk Pro Plus 35 As people are becoming more aware of the health issues that sitting at a desk all day can cause, more and more people are turning to practical solutions that allow them to work in a variety of positions. The Varidesk Pro Plus is Varidesk’s best-selling height-adjustable desk, and it comes in a variety of sizes and styles suited to your workspace. Available in white, black, dark wood, ‘butcher block’ and ‘zebra wood’, the Pro Plus also comes in three sizes - 30inch, 36inch or 48inch - so you can find the perfect desk for your set-up. The Pro Plus has a two-tiered design that gives you a spacious upper area for your laptop and single or dual-monitor setup, whilst the lower tier can be used for a full-sized keyboard and mouse with space for a graphics pad or note book. The largest model (Pro Plus 48) will
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hold up to 45 lbs (20.4 kg). Like all Varidesk products it arrives fully assembled and doesn’t require any screws, clasps or installation of any kind. Not only does this mean you can get your desk up and running straight away, but it also means you can easily move it if you switch desks or change jobs. The Pro Plus simply sits on top of an existing desk and has a weighted base that it remains sturdy and stable even when fully extended. To open it out, you use the IconDual Handle system - just squeeze the handles and you can either raise or lower the desk in seconds without any effort, due
to the spring-assisted mechanism that does all the hard work for you (adjustable to 11 different heights). The Pro Plus was easy to use - we just popped it on the desk (this is a two-person job) and covered it in work rubbish. One thing that would be useful would be a hole to feed the cables through, as this would stop them moving about when you raise and lower the desk and allow you the put it flush against the wall. It was smooth and effortless to adjust and the whole thing has a clean high-quality finish (we tested the black, 36inch version). I found myself continually adjusting it and moving my body in the process, which was a great way to encourage movement and good posture throughout the working day. RRP £365
https://uk.varidesk.com/en-gb/shop Pros Looks great Sturdy
Cons Nowhere to feed cables through
Five designs and three sizes available No assembly or installation required Two tires Easy to adjust
Gadgethead Magazine
Swing Speed Radar with Tempo Timer The Swing Speed Radar with Tempo Timer has been created to optimise your clubhead speed and tempo time. Endorsed by Jim McLean, this device provides you with feedback on your clubhead speed in relation to ball distance, whilst feedback on your tempo time indicates how consistent and repeatable your swing is, giving you a clearer idea of your performance and consistency. You can measure either reading alone or combine the two. It isn’t necessary to hit an actual golf ball - you can use a Wiffle ball, Birdie ball or sponge ball, but it is best to swing at a ball of some kind to replicate the release of 36
the club properly. This means you can safely practice in your garden or garage, and not only when you’re on the driving range or during play. You also don’t need to attach anything to the golf club to use the Radar, which allows you to use the club
exactly as you would on the green with no added weight or other factors, as well as being able to switch between clubs with ease. Easy to use, you simply set the radar up, turn it on and swing away – there’s no need to waste time adjusting complicated settings. After five minutes of inactivity, the device will automatically turn itself off to save battery power, and to wake it up you just press the function button. The Swing Speed Radar
with Tempo Timer seemed, during our testing, to be accurate and consistent (there were a few dodgy readings, but only very rarely). The build quality isn’t great for the price; the finish could be cleaner and the function button could be more responsive and better looking. However, it works well and is easy to use, helping you to get a useful insight into your swing speed and tempo, so overall, it is a useful training aid. RRP £129.99
https://www.golfswingsystems.co.uk/product/ swing-speed-radar-with-tempo/ Pros Accurate Easy to use Measure swing speed and tempo time Doesn’t require hitting a ball Automatic switch off Speed range 40 MPH to 200 MPH
Cons Batteries not included Inferior build quality
Gadgethead Magazine
Think Tank Turnstyle 10 V2.0 This compact little shoulder bag is available in two colours - either charcoal or a very attractive indigo blue (which we received). Don’t let the small size of the Turnstyle 10 V2.0 deceive you - it can easily hold a standard DSLR or larger mirrorless system (Sony A7, Panasonic GH4), an 8” tablet, 24-70mm f/2.8 or f/4 attached and additional lenses. The internal dimensions are 7.1” W x 12.6” H x 4.8” D (18
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x 32 x 12.2 cm) with exterior dimensions of 8.3” W x 15.4” H x
5.2” D (21 x 39 x 13.2 cm). The small tablet compartment is 6.3” x 8.7” x 0.4” (16 x 22 x 1 cm) and the whole thing only weighs 1.0lb (0.4kg). The Turnstyle has a wide, padded shoulder strap hanging to 35–68.3” (includes the
length of bag), with an additional stability strap to keep things secure if you are travelling on a bike or are simply rushing about, which can be tucked out of the way when not needed. The sling bag design allows for easy rotation of the bag and quick, easy access to all your gear without needing to remove the bag from your person, including a dedicated padded pocket that fits an 8” tablet. The Turnstyle feature a breathable 320G air-mesh back panel that is designed to help keep your back cooler when wearing the bag over long periods of times. This panel helps a little, and the small profile also helps to keep your back cool, but I still ended up with a wet patch on my lower back after a full day’s use (although it was a very
warm day). There are two pockets - the main body for your camera gear and another pocket on the front with an organiser pocket for batteries, memory cards or other small accessories. It is a little difficult to access small items that slip into the corners of this pocket, as it is quite tight. Back inside the main compartment, there is a rear internal pocket for documents, fully customisable interior dividers and a seam-sealed rain cover included in its own dedicated section. The Turnstyle 10 V2.0 is a stylish and discrete lightweight camera bag that frees you from the shackles of a large heavy shoulder bag when out and about, perfect for day trips and commuting. RRP £59.99
https://www. thinktankphoto.com/ products/turnstyle-10 Pros Light Quick and easy access Slim profile Wide padded shoulder strap and additional waist strap Dedicated 8” laptop pocket Fully customisable dividers
Cons Front pocket is tight Breathable 320G air-mesh back panel has little effect
Gadgethead Magazine
Thinkware F770 The Thinkware F770 is a front & rear dash cam that records in full HD, featuring Super Night Vision, Time Lapse, Road Safety Warning Systems and Safety Camera Alert. With 1080p Full HD & Full HD 2CH, 30fps and Advanced Video Clear Technology, the F770 produces a clear high-quality image. The night vision uses Image Signal Processing technology and real-time image processing to produce an image ten times brighter than earlier models, which means you will still get clear details even in carparks and roads without streetlight. The Time Lapse records one frame per second, reducing the size of the video file and allowing video recordings in parking mode to continue up to 16 times longer than other dash cams. However, this does require installing the F770 with 40
the hardwiring cable provided. CMOS Image Sensors provide constant front and rearview recording during both daytime and night-time. However, the THINKWARE DASH CAM F770 FULL HD Rear-view camera is sold separately. The F770 also has various warning systems, including the Road Safety Warning System, which alerts you when your vehicle goes off lane at over 30MPS, and front collision warnings which calculate the average distance from
the vehicle in front and alerts the driver in advance when reaching the range of safe breaking distance. The dash cam will also notify you of red lights and speed cameras, and the Active Impact Monitoring System will automatically store the video data ten seconds prior to and after a collision registered by the 3-axis G-Sensor. This dash cam has built-in GPS, internal back-up memory and built-in Wi-Fi that can be used to connect the camera to your smart device where you can manage files and configure the settings. The DUAL SAVE function records all events triggered by strong collisions onto the two separate memory systems,
The Nand Flash internal memory and the Micro SD external memory, to provide you with belt and braces. Also for extra safety, the fail-safe recording uses the Super Capacitor for backup power in case the main power gets disconnected, to ensure safe storage of any recording in progress. The Thinkware F770 is packed full of useful functions that will help to keep you safe on the road, protect your car when it’s parked and ensure important footage is captured with all the necessary details. RRP £209
http://www.thinkware.com/Products/ Dashcam/F770 Pros Excellent image quality in all lighting conditions Audible road safety warnings (lane drifting, red light, speed camera and collision) Built in GPS and Wi-Fi Dual Save function Collision detection Connects to smart device
Cons Installation guide not very clear
Gadgethead Magazine
PMD Kiss Whether you love it or hate it, big lips are on trend now. It is difficult to tell the difference between the Geordie Shore cast and ducks in my local park, although the fighting, sex and swearing is a bit of a giveaway (those ducks are filthy). Naturally, a whole heap of products and procedures have followed suit to provide you with plumped up, kissable lips; sadly, some of these involve painful and expensive lip injections, but thankfully there is a natural and cheaper why to give you lips some extra volume. The Kiss lip plumping system from PMD increases your lip’s volume and gives you a fuller look, as 42
well as reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles around your mouth and bringing out your natural lip colour. Supposedly, they can create an instant and long-lasting results with daily use. The Kiss is super easy to use - simply apply the Kiss Smart Lip Plumping Serum (which gets bonus points for not being tested on animals) onto clean, dry lips, then turn on the device and
place the Plumping Tip firmly and directly onto your lip to create a tight seal for suction. The Kiss gently sucks and releases your lip; you need to use it in the six sections of your lips as shown in the instructions, 15 – 20 times on each section to achieve results. The device is quite loud when active, which is a bit annoying, but the feeling is quite nice, like having little kisses all over your lips (that makes me sound lonelier than I meant it too), and you genuinely can see a difference straight after using it. My bottom lip is quite
plump naturally, and after a turn on the Kiss it looked like I had been stung by a bee, but when I just used it on a top lip I got an even sexy pout that I was quite pleased with. After about two hours the result wore off, but PMD state that if you use the Kiss and Smart Lip Plumping Serum daily for four-six weeks, your lips will stay fuller from increased collagen production (though results vary with every user). The Kiss is quick, easy and pleasant to use, pain free and economical. I found it particularly good for using first thing in the day to wake up my lips, and it effortlessly fitted into my morning routine. RRP ÂŁ125
https://uk.pmdbeauty.com/kiss/ Pros Quick and easy to use Two lip sizes Can be used with any lip serum or gloss Lip plumping serum included (not tested on animals) One-off cost Pain free
Cons Noisy
Gadgethead Magazine
Dubarry Ultima Sailing Boot Dubarry was established in 1937 when a cooperative company set about providing employment in Ballinasloe, Galway on the west coast of Ireland. Today, they produce leather boots inspired by the rugged coastline and sailing heritage that has long been at the heart of the area. The Ultima boots have been designed for sailing, fully waterproof as well as breathable and warm due to their GORE-TEX lining. This lining has tiny holes that prevent water entering the shoe but allows perspiration to be wicked away from the foot, helping to keep your feet at a comfortable temperature. The boots are constructed from a high quality, water resistant crushed leather hybrid between pull up and nubuck, and feature an expandable section of Lycra that has been incorporated into the back of the boot to give the calf 44
area a bit of stretch. The Ultima features the Dubarry’s awardwinning NonSlip, NonMarking outsole design that is constructed from duo compound PU and rubber, which has been directly injectmoulded onto the upper. Branding is at a minimum, with a small brass, rust proof emblem and a moulded rubber insert on the centre leg band, which reinforces the boot and keeps them upright and ready to put on. The boots are available in donkey brown, brown or black, and in UK 3-13 in both women’s and men’s. Personally,
I think the black variety looks the best, followed by the donkey brown (which we received). The brown remind me of those horrible UGG boots people would insist on wearing outside. The boots are very quick to pull on with a leather loop at the back, and they kept my feet warm and dry throughout testing, but that non-slip sole could use a little upgrade. Most of the time they provide good traction, but every now and then they would slip just enough to make your heart jump into your mouth. Sadly this meant I was left feeling very cautious with every step. So, would I pay the £279 asking price? Probably not, as you only need one slip up to result in a nasty accident. RRP £279
http://www. dubarryboots.com/ ultima-sailing-boot Pros Fully waterproof Comfortable Warm Stretchy Lycra on the calf Easy to pull on and off
Cons Pricey Sole can get slippy
Gadgethead Magazine
Osprey Aether AG 70 The Aether AG 70 from Osprey has been designed for multi-day backpacking and significant weight loads. It features the award-winning AG AntiGravity backsystem and the custom-mouldable fit of Osprey’s next generation IsoForm hipbelt. The back of the bag is made up of a sprung mesh lumbar area and stiff load bars that are built into the harness, which this provide an impressive load transfer through the large muscle groups in the legs and
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create a comfortable, even weight across your body that can be maintained for long periods of time. The AG 70 is available in three colours and two sizes (medium or large). The bag has
taken everything into consideration and has tried to make life as simple as possible when out on a hike. One of these features are its multiple access points, including a J-Zip front panel access into the main body, and the sleeping back compartment, which has a wide zip entry and an internal divider. The lid also features multiple pockets to
keep essentials organised, and is completely removable if not needed, whilst the deployable FlapJacket (sounds delicious) will act as a cover to keep the contents of the pack protected. On top of this, there are a load of regular pockets including a stretch front pocket, twin zip pockets on the hipbelt and stretch mesh side pockets with InsideOut Compression to reduce the profile of the bag when it isn’t fully loaded. For bad weather, there is an integrated rain cover, and for all your hiking equipment there is the Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment, twin ice axe loops and multiple attachment points for attaching your important gear. The AG 70’s torso length is also adjustable for the perfect fit and it is compatible with Osprey’s Daylite & Daylite Plus. It has removable
sleeping pad straps, an adjustable sternum strap with emergency whistle, and there is also an internal hydration sleeve and key attachment clip included. With its generous capacity, the Osprey Aether AG 70 is surprisingly light and wonderfully comfortable - this is a vastly versatile and excellent bag for longer excursions and adventures. RRP £200
https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/gb_en/ aether-ag-70 Pros Comfortable AG AntiGravity 3D suspended mesh backpanel Adjustable torso Multi access Removeable lid Pre-curved IsoForm CM moldable hipbelt Compression straps Lots of pockets and attachment points
Gadgethead Magazine
PMD Personal Microderm Pro The Personal Microderm is a skincare tool that can be used at home and claims to provide the same results as a professional, in-office microdermabrasion treatment. With easy-to-use weekly treatments, this device aims to reveal smoother, brighter and younger looking skin. It works by using patented spinning disc technology combined with calibrated vacuum suction to leave skin looking fresh and rejuvenated, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes and enlarged pores. These spinning discs are embedded with aluminium oxide crystals that gently exfoliate dead cells from the surface of the skin, kind of like a sander, but with less horror movie style results. By removing this dead skin cell barrier, the new cell growth is stimulated,
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and fresh and younger looking skin is revealed. The calibrated vacuum suction is the power behind effective microdermabrasion: this suction increases circulation and triggers the skin’s natural healing process, which in turn boosts collagen and elastin in the skin, leaving it feeling firm and looking fresher and more radiant. Research suggests that once the dead layer of skin cells is removed, skin care products can penetrate 20X deeper, meaning you will get the most effective results out of your chosen skin care
products. You should see results after 8-12 weeks of weekly use, but even after my first treatment my skin felt smooth and soft and looked like it was glowing. The long-term benefits can include the diminished appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, blemishes and dark spots. The Personal Mircoderm Pro is quick and easy to use. I think the build quality lets it down a little - as you are shelling out ÂŁ200 they could make it feel more durable. However, it feels like you are getting a good, deep clean when you use it, and my skin felt lovely and soft afterwards. Is it worth the asking price? Well, if you have particularly
problematic skin or areas you want to work on, it is worth doing your research first to avoid an expensive disappointment. However, if you have a bit of spare cash and enjoy a good pampering, we think you will enjoy the PMD Personal Mircoderm Pro. RRP ÂŁ199
https://uk.pmdbeauty.com/product/pmdpersonal-microderm-pro-international/ Pros Feels good to use Skin is left feeling smoother and soft Skins looks brighter Four different discs included in two sizes each
Cons Noisy Poor build quality No noticeable effect on wrinkles (however only used for four weeks so far) Pricey
Gadgethead Magazine
VARIDESK VARIChair We all know that sitting around in front of the TV at home isn’t good for you, but have you ever considered how much time you spend sitting whilst you’re at work? The VARIChair has been specially designed to engage your legs, back and core muscles whilst you are at the desk or work station, and encourages you to move more throughout your day. Due to the low back design and curved padded seat, you can either comfortably sit or lean on the stool. The generous padding is comfortable in either position and feels durable, but it also has a plastic texture and doesn’t breathe well; a sweaty backside may be another clever tactic to keep you moving, but I don’t think that was intentional! The secret to the VARIChair is the articulating pedestal this offers a wide range of motion, so you can rock or stretch while
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sitting. The air-lift piston also raises or lowers the seat from 23” to 32.75” and can easily be adjusted whilst sitting on it, so you can quickly change position when needed. This chair has a weighted base, so you don’t have to worry about it tipping over or moving about on the floor, and the notable absence of wheels means you are more likely to get up to fetch things that are just out of your reach. Thankfully, like the other VARIDESK products, the VARIChair comes fully assembled,
so you don’t need to mess about with tiny screws and complicated instruction manuals - simply pop it out of the box and it’s ready to use. One thing that didn’t feel comfortable in the VARIChair was turning; due to the lean on the chair, it feels like you are about to be toppled off. I think this is intended to keep your core engaged, but it just made me feel unstable. I mostly liked to use this stool for leaning on, and it kept me more active than usual – however, it does take a little getting used to, as it is a big change from a regular stool (that is the point, after all!), so it might not be for everyone. RRP $195
https://www.varidesk.com/products/standing-desk-chair-varichair Pros
Cons
Wide range of movements
Takes some time to get used to
Can be used for sitting and leaning
Odd angle when turning to the sides
Low profile back to promote good posture
High price
Air-lift piston mechanism
Seat material doesn’t breathe
Fully assembled
Gadgethead Magazine
Secure Your Data Hardware Encrypted (AES 256-bit) USB 3.0 External Hard Drive PIN activated (6-16 digits) Works with PC, Mac, Linux, Citrix, Android, Thin Clients and Embedded Systems
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Microplane Master Series Microplane tools moved their way from the workshop to the kitchen in 1994, after a Canadian woman who was attempting to make an orange cake found her grater simply wasn’t working on the fruit, and grabbed a woodworking tool instead. The blade slid effortlessly across the orange and provided her with the zest she needed, and this discovery laid the foundation for the creation of the Microplane kitchen graters. 40 years on, Microplane are now one of the preferred graters of choice for professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts worldwide. One of the reasons for their tools’ success is that Microplane were the first manufacturer to use photo-etching technology for graters, which gives the blades an ultra-sharp cutting edge. Manufactured
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in the USA, the blades’ tiny teeth are like little knives, cutting ingredients with ease and forcing the food to fall away from the grater rather than blocking the holes. The Master Series features a solid and stylish walnut wooden handle from Kentucky and a strong stainless-steel frame. It looks grate (grate…grater... get it) and feels tough. There is a black silicone pad at the end of the grater that I assume is there to protect your surface and deliver a non-slip grip if needed, which is useful, but it does detract from the clean wood/metal finish. There are five blades variations: Zester, Fine, Coarse, Ribbon and Extra Coarse. We received the Ribbon and Zester to test out. The Zester blade is perfect for hard cheese, ginger, garlic, spices, chocolate, truffles, nuts and similar (preferably not all in the same meal) whilst the
Ribbon works well with soft and hard cheeses, apples, potatoes, aubergine, carrots, chocolate and courgettes. These graters are hand wash only due to the wood handle, which might be a downside for some people, but seeing as hand washing is our option at home, it wasn’t a problem for us. For added protection in the kitchen draw, these graters come with a plastic guard that prevents the blades from
blunting whilst being bumped against rolling pins and other kitchen utensils. In the short time we have had these graters, they have already become the go-to tool when grating ginger, garlic, cheese…. basically, anything that can be grated is getting grated at the moment! They look professional in the kitchen (even if your meals don’t) and are a breeze to use.
http://us.microplane.com/masterseries.aspx Pros Walnut handle Sharp blades Five blades available Protective sleeve Silicone grip
Cons Hand wash only
Gadgethead Magazine
Osprey Talon 33 The Talon 33 is a versatile backpack designed specifically for mountain hiking and long days outdoors, but can be used for anything from the work commute to popping to the shops. It is available in four colours - Black, Ultramarine Blue, Spring Green and Martian Red - and features the new AirScape accordion foam back panel and a seamless lumbarto-hipbelt body wrap to allow for as much air flow to the back as possible, whilst at the same time keeping the pack close to the body and spreading the weight evenly around the hips. The Talon 33 also has an adjustable back length to provide a precise fit and has lots of hiking features, including the Stowon-the-Go trekking pole attachment, twin ice-axe attachments 56
and the InsideOut compression straps. For easy access to essentials like your phone or snack bars, there are two zip pockets on the hipbelt, and there is another pocket on top of the bag suitable for a map, gloves or similar. On the front of the bag there is a large PowerMesh pocket, where you can stuff a waterproof shell or jumper, and to encourage you to keep hydrated during the day there is a hydration reservoir that has a quick access external hydration sleeve and
is compatible with all Hydraulics reservoirs. The Talon 33 features also include an internal key attachment clip, internal top load compression strap, an LED light attachment point and an emergency whistle to help you alert rescuers as to your whereabouts. The Talon 33’s material feels durable and high quality, and the AirScape mesh back panel is a unique and effective way to attempt to keep you cooler. Overall, it is a comfortable, lightweight backpack that is packed full of features to compliment a day’s hiking. RRP £100
https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/gb_en/ hiking/talon-series/talon-33-1 Pros Versatile Cool and comfortable Lots of pockets and features Seamless lumbar to hipbelt body wrap Adjustable torso length AirScape mesh covered accordion foam back panel
Gadgethead Magazine
Spurcycle Bell Ok, so maybe a big chunky bell could ruin the overall look of your vintage fixed-gear bike with antique leather saddle and ironic basket, but when you are cycling to your favourite independent, responsibly sourced, dairy-free coffee shop you need something to make the plebeians move out of the way. Fear not- Spurcycle have designed possibly one of the most attractive bicycle bells to compliment you hipster bike (side note: this bell will also work on non-hipster bikes). The Spurcycle bell arrives in modest and recyclable cardboard packaging. It is
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available in both a ‘Raw Metal’ finish (which looks beautiful) or in a ‘Black Diamond Like Carbon’ coating. The bell has two rubber feet on the bottom to protect your bike’s paintwork and keep it from sliding around, but the bands used to fix the bell onto the
handlebars are made from metal. If you are super precious about your paintwork, it might be worth switching them for plastic ones, but this will compromise the overall look of the bell. The Spurcycle is simple to attach: it comes with two bands (22-26mm or 30-36mm) which you insert into the nut slots and release to lock the bell in place. Then, simply position the bell forward or upright
and tighten the bolt with the included Allen key to secure it. With a flick of the paper clip style switch, the bell produces a clean and pleasant “ding” that rings three times longer than regular bells and is loud enough to pre-warn people without scaring the living daylights out of them. I fell in love with this little bell - its attractive, raw design and happy singing sound will make the perfect addition to any bike. RRP £49
https://www.spurcycle.com/products/betterbicycle-bell Pros Beautiful Loud Easy to attach Two designs available Cheerful sound
Cons Metal attachments (look great but potential for damage)
Gadgethead Magazine
Loc8tor Lite I have a bit of a reputation amongst my friends for being hopelessly forgetful. As well as forever leaving my stuff at people’s home, forgetting to bring my wallet, phone, keys or all the above, I am also very talented at losing items immediately after placing them down. It’s like the sideboards and tables in my life simply swallows up my stuff. The Loc8tor Lite has been designed exactly for people like me this credit card-sized handset directs you exactly which way to walk to your lost item, and will work easily through doors and wall. This is the smallest and lightest mini homing tag of its kind. Weighing in at only 6g, you can attach it to anything without even knowing it’s there. It has a range of 122meters (400feet) in clear line of sight, and doesn’t require any ongoing costs, 60
GPS, apps or Bluetooth connection. There is also no need to charge up the device, as the CR2032 batteries will last you up to 12 months and can easily be replaced for a few pounds. The Loc8tor Lite uses RF-based technology that combines audio and visual indicators to help you find your item; simply press the relevant button and the handset will light up if you are within range of your item, the lights will change from red to amber to green to let you know you are getting closer, and will detect you item to within 2.5cm. The
locator tags will also emit a small beep to help you pinpoint your item. The Loc8tor Lite comes with two Lightweight homing tags and the handset, which is a little tight as the handset works with up to four tags. The extra two tags must be bought separately at £19.99, making the full set come to £100. The Loc8tor Lite is easy to use and helps you to quickly find you items. Apart from a few hiccups where it failed to detect my keys at first, even though they were within the house, it is unobtrusive and a time saver. However, I’m not convinced its build quality and limited features warrant the large price tag. RRP £59.99
https://loc8tor.co.uk/shop/loc8tor-lite/ Pros Small and light Long range up to 122m (400 feet) in clear sight One-off payment One year battery life 30 day money back guarantee. Easy to use
Cons Thin plastic could be damaged over time Only two tags provided Expensive Beep could be louder
Gadgethead Magazine
Rapha Flyweight Bib Shorts The Flyweight Bib Shorts have been specifically designed for cycling and training in hot and humid conditions. With an 80% polyester and 20% elastane combination fabric, they are light and breathable, featuring a thin mesh upper section with a cut away at the front to keep you cool. The material offers a soft four-way stretch to allow for maximum movement, and they have been treated with Coldblack, which reduces the build-up of heat by reducing the amount of sunlight absorbed by the fabric. The chamois pad is the same perforated, quick drying one used in the Pro Team Lightweight Bib Shorts - it runs on the thin side here, as the aim of these shorts is to save weight where possible.
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The Flyweight Bib Shorts are available in six colours: black/black, white/black, dark blue/ green, dark grey, dark Navy and high vis pink. On each design, the Rapha logo is printed on the side of the left leg. To ensure a smooth finish, the seams have bonded elastic binding, so there is no chafing from a rough seam, and the lightweight silicone dot gripper is there to try to prevent the shorts from riding up regardless of how
hard you peddle. These shorts are incredibly lightweight and so fine on the skin, it is almost like they have been made from nylon tights. The chamois could be a deal breaker for some, though, as it is a little thin and could become uncomfortable over very long distances. As for keeping you cool, these Bibs perform very well; the breathable and wicking material combined with that perforated chamois makes them an ideal choice for humid and hot rides. These shorts are quality through and through, as is often the case with Rapha products. RRP ÂŁ160
http://www.rapha.cc/gb/en/shop/flyweightbib-shorts/product/FYB01XX Pros Lightweight Breathable High quality construction Comfortable Coldback Treatment Six colours available
Cons Thinner chamois
Gadgethead Magazine
Joby GripTight ONE Gorilla Pod & Impulse Remote Love it or hate it, we live in a world where having a good time is only as important as taking the perfect photo to show your friends and followers that you are having a good. Getting that delicate balance of candid yet vogue-worthy shot of you drinking your morning coffee isn’t always easy when trying to reach your arm out as far as you can whilst maintaining a relaxed expression. The GripTight ONE Gorilla Pod and Impulse Remote from Joby is a compact set a of tools to make light work of taking a photo from your smart phone from any angle. Starting with the GripTight ONE, it is a strong and versatile mount that will grip hold of your
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smartphone (suitable from 56mm-91mm) and cling onto it for dear life. I shook the phone around quite vigorously by the tripod (I will get to that bit in a minute) and there was no way it was coming out. It mounts to any tripod with standard 1/4�-20 attachment. The second element is the Gorilla
Pod stand - if you have never used one other these before, you are going to love it: it is super bendy in every direction, meaning you can wrap it around poles or railings or use it for an easy grip handle for Vlogging the options are endless. It even has little rubber foot grips to provide stability on any surface, and is lightweight (16lb) and compact (1.34 x 1.57 x 6.50 in), making it easy to store or carry around. The last part to this little kit it the Impulse Bluetooth remote control shutter,
http://joby.com/griptight-onemagnetic Pros Compact Lightweight Versatile Easy to use Reliably strong mount 90ft range Bluetooth remote Ultra-bendy gorilla pod tripod
which is compatible with Android and iPhone devices without the need for downloading any apps. It attaches to the GripTight Mount with the included adapter. The Bluetooth has a range of up to 90 feet and comes with a replaceable
CR2032 battery, the LED around button lights when triggering the camera and flashes when pairing with the device, so you know when you have successfully taken a picture. I fell in love with this little kit - it is so versatile and will make a great accessory for anyone. Whether you are an Instragram addict or simply taking some holiday snaps, it will open a whole new world of opportunities for self-portraits or group shots. RRP $59.95
Gadgethead Magazine
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