Gadgethead Spring 2023

CONTENTS

Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone Air Fryer AF300UK • Shark Stratos Anti Hair Wrap Plus Anti-Odour Upright Vacuum • Scott Slimissimo Bean to Cup Coffee Machine • YAWN Air Sofa Bed • ION8 Leak Proof 1 Litre Water Bottle • Shark Klik n’ Flip Automatic Steam Mop S6003UK • IC 360 Smart Security Light Bulb Camera • Arlo – Essential XL Spotlight Camera • ZeroWater 12 Cup / 2.8L Jug

Vasque Torre AT GTX • Technaxx FULL HD Birdcam TX-165

Newton Gravity 12 Running Shoes • APL Women’s TechLoom Zipline • MET Veleno MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet

Twelve South Forte • Thames & Kosmos Plasma Ball • Clckr Stand & Grip for Magsafe • Twelve South HoverBar Tower • iWALK Power Bank Charger • HUE Animation Studio

Edifier Wireless Speaker MS50A • Skullcandy X Doritos Dime 2 True Wireless Earbuds • Edifier WH500 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Engino Mega Builds Challenger Space shuttle • PowerUp 4.0 RC Paper Plane

Foreo LUNA 4 Smart Facial Cleansing and Firming Massage Device and Micro-foam Cleanser • QuietOn 3.1 • Dermadry Hands and Feet

BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony • Sleepytroll Baby Rocker • Minimeis G4 Shoulder Carrier

Meta Quest: ‘David Attenborough’s Conquest of the Skies’

EmeTerm Fashion Anti-nausea Wrist Band

Technaxx Universal Car Alarm Pro TX-168

HOUSEHOLD OUTDOORS SPORT&FITNESS GADGETS AUDIO TOYS&GAMES HEALTH&BEAUTY VEHICLES TRAVEL GAMING BABY

NINJA FOODI MAX DUAL ZONE AIR FRYER AF300UK

YOU WON’T GO FAR ON SOCIAL MEDIA WITHOUT COMING ACROSS A POST ABOUT AN AIR FRYER. IT IS SAFE TO SAY THAT THIS HANDY PIECE OF COOKING EQUIPMENT HAS TAKEN KITCHENS ACROSS THE WORLD BY STORM. ONE OF THE MOST TALKED ABOUT BY FAR IS THE NINJA FOODI DUAL ZONE AIR FRYER – AF300UK. NINJA IS ALREADY A WELL-ESTABLISHED NAME IN THE HOME EQUIPMENT DEPARTMENT, SO WE COULDN’T WAIT TO PUT THE NEW COOKING GADGET TO THE TEST, AND WE WERE FAR FROM DISAPPOINTED!

I’ll get straight to the point, there is no doubt that the Ninja Foodi can cook food effectively, whether it is fish fingers or chicken breasts, everything is perfectly cooked. Although there is lots of trial and error involved with the timings of cooking, the end product is always worth it. A big bonus of the Ninja Foodi is that I found it to be much better than other cooking methods, like an oven, frying pan, or microwave. The Ninja Foodi cooks food in a much shorter time than an oven, air frying chicken in just 28 minutes. It also has much greater functionality, with six different cooking methods, including air frying, max crisp, roasting, baking, dehydrating, and reheating. This means that the Foodi combines the functions of numerous pieces of cooking equipment into one compact box.

Using a single piece of equipment means that you can save effort, time, and potentially most importantly, cost. The Ninja Foodi uses considerably less amount of energy than ramping up the whole oven. The use of dual trays is not necessarily unique in the escalating market of Air Fryers, however, Ninja has gone the extra mile by allowing cooks across the country to programme different cooking times and temperatures due to its dual zone

capability. The cooking temperature and timings can also be pre-scheduled, making it a lot more efficient than an oven, as you can cook two different items at different temperatures. The drawers are really easy to control, thanks to the interface which allows you to simply control timings and temperature (max. being a whopping 240 C.) without any fuss. They don’t yet have inner linings for the trays, however, I always use big cake casings or a load of baking paper, which I find works really well. There is also brilliant health benefits, as it only uses a small amount of oil to cook a large number of things. This means that it is much more effective than a frying pan. The only improvement I would make the trays is thearebility to see into the trays, using glass trays, to see how your food is progressing.

We tested the 7.6 litres, which I found to be good sizing for two people. However, if you were cooking for a family, it could be worth upgrading to the 9.5 litres, although this can be very hard to get hold of. The 7.6 litres, however, is more affordable for 9.5 litres (retailed at 249.99) so could be a better option. In terms of the sizing, however, the shape is like a small compact, so it can fit perfectly if you have a small kitchen like me. Another great advantage is that the trays can be taken out, so it makes it super quick to clean up and wash after cooking. Overall, the Ninja Foodi is an invaluable asset, saving you time, money, and effort in the kitchen. What more could you want from such high-calibre cooking equipment?

PROS

- Cooks effectively.

- Combined uses of microwave, frying pan, and oven using six different cooking functions.

- Dual zones allow you to cook at separate timings and temperatures.

- Shorter cooking time.

- Uses less energy with the same results.

- Healthier options.

- Easy to clean and compact.

- Good control interface.

- Different sizes available.

- Comes with an imaginative recipe booklet.

CONS

- Inner casings for the tray not yet available.

- Unlike an oven, frying pan, or microwave, you can’t check on how your food is progressing.

- Slightly on the pricier side compares to others on the market but is worth the extra pennies!

HOUSEHOLD SHARK STRATOS ANTI HAIR WRAP PLUS ANTI-ODOUR UPRIGHT VACUUM

RRP: £399.99 https://sharkclean.co.uk/product/shark-stratos-anti-hair-wrap-plus-

SHARK IS ONCE AGAIN COMING UP WITH FRESH AND INNOVATIVE IDEAS OF HOW TO MAKE YOUR CHORES JUST THAT LITTLE BIT EASIER. THE LATEST STRATOS VACUUM SHOWCASES SOME OF THE BEST ANTI-HAIR WRAP TECHNOLOGY YET! THIS IS BRILLIANT FOR THE BIG ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN, MAKING YOUR HOME HAIRLESS AND FRESH WITH A SIMPLE SWEEP AROUND THE HOUSE.

Similar to many Shark Vacuums, they possess lots of fantastic features which ensure that not a speck of dust is left. I found that the advanced Anti-Hair Wrap was incredibly effective. As I have long hair, and a dog, the highly developed anti-hair wrap technology is really put to the test. However, I found it to pick up the range of hair lengths with ease.

The Stratos Upright Vacuum is great as it is free-standing, which I love, as you don’t have to try and balance it somewhere when moving things out of way (we all know the struggle). It’s upright structure also makes it a lot more robust. Unlike other models, this particular Stratos isn’t cordless. However, I think I prefer this for a couple of reasons: firstly, I found that the vacuum is in fact more powerful than the cordless range, which is a major plus if you are to get every spec of dirt out of the carpet (or hard floors – it’s suitable for both). Number 2; although it has a cord, it is very lightweight, making it easier and less tiring to hoover, meaning that you can spend longer in the Spring sunshine!

Furthermore, the Shark Stratos stands out from other corded vacuums as the main base is lightweight and portable, allowing you to lift the hoover comfortably. This works by easily detaching the vacuum from the main base, unlike many other vacuums, it is also really clear where it reattaches. This means that the Stratos is not just for the floor, but also great for reaching those pesky cobwebs up in the corner of the room that

you keep meaning to get, or getting right in behind the sofa.

Another development in the latest Stratos is the anti-odour technology. Everyone is familiar with the old vacuum smell that haunts the cleaning cupboard, and yet, the Stratos is specially designed with a cartridge system that you can easily replace, to stop the vacuum from developing dust cup odours, (causing the haunting smell) making the hoovering an even more pleasant experience!

PROS:

- Very powerful.

- Effective Anti-Hair Wrap.

- Picks up the finest of pet hair.

- Free-standing and upright.

- Anti-odour technology.

- Portable.

CONS:

- Has a small capacity so it has to be emptied regularly.

SCOTT SLIMISSIMO BEAN TO CUP COFFEE MACHINE

£179.00 (promotional price)

ANY KEEN COFFEE CONNOISSEUR WILL RECOGNISE THE IMPORTANCE OF FINDING THE PERFECT CUP OF ESPRESSO. IF THIS IS TO BE ACHIEVED AT HOME, THERE ARE VARIOUS MACHINES INVOLVED, WHICH TAKE EXTRA TIME AND EFFORT. AND YET, THE SCOTT SLIMISSIMO BEAN TO CUP COFFEE MACHINE IS PERFECT FOR THOSE OF US WHO WANT THE FRESHEST AND STRONGEST COFFEE, WITHOUT ALL THE HASSLE.

First and foremost, the machine has a sleek and simple design, reflecting its simple useability, with a width of 180mm. Consequently, it has the aesthetic of a New York coffee shop, but the useability and size to fit effortlessly into your kitchen. Indeed, the Slimissimo is activated with a single touch. By pressing one button, a concoction of smells and sound occur to create the best cup of steaming coffee.

From the Slimissimo, it is clear that Scott prioritises flavour at every step. The Slimissimo has a patented brewing system, so that you can make the most out of your beans. Furthermore, the machine can achieve 19 bars of pressure, providing a certain richness that is unmatched by other coffee machines. To complement this, the Slimissimo also has a Thermoblock instant heating system. I found this to work really well, as one of my greatest annoyances is when the coffee arrives stone cold, however, the Slimissimo thankfully exceeded my expectations on this score. The machine also allows the user to control the coffee volume, which I love, as I am no longer cut short in my espresso cup. The detachable coffee unit also makes it easy to clean, which is a big plus!

The star of the show, however, is certainly the stainlesssteel burr grinder. Firstly, the use of a burr grinder over blend is commendable, as the grind is more uniform and better quality. The one thing that any coffee lover will appreciate, is the fact that there is five grind settings. Personally, I prefer a really fine

grind, however, I know others prefer their espresso a bit more gritty, thus, it adheres to people’s particularities with their coffee.

The touch interface is also really easy to use, and not like flying a space ship which I have found in the past. Thus, with the Slimissimo, you are not limited to a shot of fiery espresso but are given the option to make a lungo if you want to go easier on your taste buds. Additionally, the coffee spout on the machine is adjustable, A great feature for those of us who love espresso in a big mug or a tiny cup, there is flexibility.

Overall, if you want simple useability that doesn’t infringe on the rich flavour of your morning espresso, then the Scott Slimissimo Bean to Cup Coffee Machine is the way to go!

PROS:

- Espresso with one touch.

- Sleek design.

- Compact, so will fit easily in the kitchen.

- Doesn’t skimp on the flavour.

- Burr grinder with 5 different settings.

- Easy to use interface.

- Controlled coffee volume.

-Effective heating system.

- Adjustable coffee spout.

- Detachable coffee (easy cleaning).

YAWN AIR SOFA BED

LIVING IN A SMALL FLAT, ONE OF THE DRAWBACKS CAN BE THAT WHEN YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON COME OVER, SEATING ARRANGEMENTS QUICKLY BECOME AN ISSUE. THAT’S BEFORE YOU HAVE EVEN CONSIDERED WHERE PEOPLE ARE GOING TO SLEEP… HENCE WHY I WAS EAGER TO PUT THE YAWN AIR SOFA BED TO THE TEST.

My first impressions are that the Sofa Bed is convenient, comfortable, and durable, perfect for having loads of people around. When inflated, it creates a small two-seater sofa or small double bed. Living in a smaller space, I found it to be a perfect size as it didn’t take up the whole room, but still provided sufficient seating options.

Once inflated, it is super comfortable and doesn’t feel like a standard blow-up air mattress. The inflation process was also really quick and easy. The video instructions provided on the website mean that the bed is set up in no time. Literally, the bed only takes 3 minutes or so to inflate to full size, using the electric pump that is included in the package. All you need to do is just attach the pump to the nozzle and turn the dial. The pump connects effectively to the nozzle on the bed, hence why it has such a fast inflation time.

YAWN also very usefully provide an extra storage bag. Anyone that has used an air mattress before will know that the small bag that carries everything always gets lost, therefore showing how they have their customer’s experience in mind. However, the storage bags provided are quite flimsy and small, so it can be difficult to pack things away. (Hence why it’s quite handy that they provide another.)

In regard to the comfort of the bed itself, it’s like lying on a cloud, far from the rubbish night’s sleep that air mattresses are usually associated with. It doesn’t feel like you are lying on an inflated mattress for a number of reasons. Firstly, the rounded edges of the bed are specially designed so that you can put a fitted bedsheet on the bed if you desire. Secondly, the YAWN Air Sofa Bed has a headboard and side arms. When converted into the bed mode, the side boards are there to stop you from rolling out of bed, or your pillows falling off. Although this demonstrates some great design thinking, I found that it meant I felt a bit squished, although after a while I did begin to get used to it. Thirdly, the air nozzle works so effectively that in the morning, the bed hasn’t deflated at all.

The YAWN Air Sofa Bed adds extra convenience, as it can be used outside as the warmer weather comes in. Once again, this is brilliant if you have a load of people around for a barbecue. Furthermore, it’s really easy to clean, making it the perfect garden party companion.

The YAWN Air Sofa Bed is the best for falling into the land of nod and waking up refreshed in the morning. It is also a greatly beneficial solution to the age-old problem of finding seats for lots of guests. Before you know it, it will be a staple part of your furniture!

PROS:

- Perfect if you’re having lots of people around.

- Dual purpose as a sofa and bed.

- Really comfortable.

- Feels like a genuine bed due to specific design features such as headboard and sideboards.

- Easy and quick set-up, with video instructions found on the website.

- Electric pump included in the cost.

- Provide you with an extra storage bag.

- Can be used inside and outside in the garden.

- Easily portable.

CONS:

- The storage bag is quite flimsy so it can be difficult to get back into the bag.

HOUSEHOLD ION8 LEAK PROOF 1 LITRE WATER BOTTLE

I WAS ALWAYS TOLD WHEN I WAS YOUNGER TO DRINK LOADS OF WATER, AND EVEN AS AN ADULT, HYDRATION IS KEY TO GOOD HEALTH. I FIND THE TRICK TO STAYING HYDRATED IS GETTING YOUR HANDS ON A STURDY AND RELIABLE BOTTLE. WHEN I TESTED OUT SOME ION8 LEAK PROOF 1 LITRE WATER BOTTLES, I FOUND IT DID THE TRICK FOR GETTING MY THREE LITRES A DAY.

We tested out the ION8 1200ml leakproof bottle in striking Alaskan Blue, as well as two children’s bottles, one unicorn rainbow 600 ml bottle, and a Space themed 350 ml. Evidently, ION8 offers a range of sizes for adults, children and toddlers. This is great for encouraging younger children to drink more water, as a 1200ml seems quite daunting, yet water in small doses is much more manageable for a child.

The first thing that struck me when I was choosing the bottles was the fact that ION8 has a massive range of colours and designs, from whales and llamas to utilitarian steel. On some of the more intricate designs they have really cute prints. Additionally, on some of the children’s bottles, the design is slightly raised and is therefore great for helping children hold it sensibly without spilling. Even on the adult bottle, the powder paint finish means that the bottle has an effective grip.

The one touch lid is where the ION8 bottles really shine. The one touch lids are perfect for anti-leakage, due to the twostep lock on the front. Firstly, you move down the click over the lock. You then slide the button down to unlock the lid. This lets you press the button so the lid pops open. The same mechanism is also used on the children’s bottles. This is a perfect and simple mechanism to stop the lid from popping open and spilling everywhere. Furthermore, on the off chance that the lid gets damaged, you can purchase replacement lids online for a fraction of the price of the original bottle.

Around the lid is a textured pattern. Again, this means that you grip effectively to unscrew the lid, this is one of many small features that greatly elevate a simple water bottle. Other features include a ring to the back of the lid, making it easier to carry. It also means that the bottle can be attached to clips on bags etc. going towards easy transportation.

Overall, I would definitely recommend the ION8 water bottles if you are looking for motivation to stay hydrated and don’t want any pesky spillages!

PROS:

- A nice-looking bottle makes you drink more water. (Fact!)

- Lots of different and creative designs.

- The design on the children’s bottle acts as a grip.

- Stippled texture on adult bottles.

- One Touch lids are effective and easy to use.

- Textured pattern around the lid so they are easy to screw off.

- Ring on the back for easy transportation.

- Can purchase replacement lids off the website

SHARK KLIK N’ FLIP

AUTOMATIC STEAM

MOP S6003UK

https://sharkclean.co.uk/product/shark-klik-n-flip-automatic-steam-mop-

I FIND THAT ONE OF THE MOST ARDUOUS CHORES IS MOPPING THE FLOOR, AS YOU HAVE TO USE LOTS OF WATER TO GET THE JOB DONE PROPERLY. AS TITANS OF THE CLEANING INDUSTRY, SHARK ARE HERE TO ANSWER YOUR PRAYERS WITH THEIR LATEST RELEASE OF THE KLIK N’ FLIP STEAM POCKET MOP. WITH A DUAL PURPOSE OF MOPPING AND SCRUBBING, IT MAKES MOPPING THE FLOORS TEN TIMES EASIER AND MORE CONVENIENT.

Firstly, it is easy to see how a steam mop is more efficient than conventional methods. With the added feature of steam rather than water, you can reach higher temperatures, therefore becoming more effective at killing germs and removing dirt. The Shark Klik n’ Flip has even greater capabilities with three different levels of intelligent steam controls, so you can have a deep and precise clean or a simple whip round for extra sparkle on your floors.

The mop itself is really compact and light, which I particularly like. An extendable arm may come in handy at times, but this is only a minor suggestion. Due to its compact nature, the mop is also great for storage. (Especially in a cluttered cleaning cupboard like mine.) This handy cleaning gadget also has a 15-minute steam time and a heating time of 30 minutes, making it the most proficient Shark steam mop to date. You simply add water to the water tank, which has a capacity of 0.35 L, and you’re off! Although this does not sound like a lot of water, I found it gave me plenty of time to get the job done.

When first testing it out, I was sceptical about how it would perform on my tiled floor in the bathroom. However, the Shark Klik n’ Flip can be used on all hard floors, even being effective on tiled floors, as it easily got into all the little nooks and crannies. Furthermore, the mop uses Steam Blast Technology. This was possibly my favourite feature, as you can flip up the mop head, so

you can fire direct steam on the area of dirt. Flip the head back on, and you can get rid of dirt in a single swipe, making the Klik n’ Flip a brilliant feature.

The kit also comes with a doublesided cleaning pad, this is great as it means that you can carry on cleaning for longer, without having to change the head of the mop every five minutes. This is also better for the environment as it is multi-use and machine washable. Additionally, you can also release the mop into the bin without having to touch it, avoiding the messy parts as they disappear in the bin. A bonus!

Shark have specially designed

the mop so that the steam is evenly distributed across the pad, possessing a wider surface area for cleaning, and avoiding pesky streak marks. The packaging comes with two dirt grip pads that have multiple uses, which also works out better for the environment as they are not single use. Furthermore, more pads can be purchased easily on the website for a small price.

Overall, I could not recommend the Shark Klik n’ Flip enough, as it has made cleaning my floors simple and convenient!

PROS:

- Use of steam means it can reach higher temperatures.

- Three Steam levels.

- Lightweight and compact.

- Short heating time and steaming time.

- Can be used across all types of hard floors.

- Steam Blast Technology to get rid of stubborn dirt.

- Double-sided cleaning pad for multiple use.

- Even distribution of steam.

HOUSEHOLD IC 360 SMART SECURITY LIGHT BULB CAMERA

NO EXPENSE CAN BE SPARED WHEN IT COMES TO GUARANTEEING THE SECURITY OF YOUR HOME. FURTHERMORE, PROTECTING YOUR LIVING SPACE NEEDS TO BE A SIMPLE AND STRESS-FREE PROCEDURE. THESE ARE JUST A COUPLE OF VITAL REQUIREMENTS THAT THE IC 360 SMART SECURITY LIGHT BULB CAMERA DELIVERS ON. NOT ONLY IS IT HIGHLY TECHNICAL AND EFFECTIVE, BUT ITS INSTALLATION IS ALSO AS EASY AS CHANGING A LIGHTBULB!

It is really that easy, as this nifty security camera can be fitted to the wall via an E27 fitting mount. This is great considering that’s wireless, so you’re not faffing about with tonnes of cables. This also means that the battery life is endless, and you don’t need to worry about it running out unexpectantly. In the UK, however, you are slightly restricted in the location of the camera, as E27 fittings are primarily used for lamps, rather than wall or ceiling fixtures. This means that you either screw it into a lamp or get a B27 to E27 adapter, which adds an inch or so to the length, and the adapter comes at an extra cost. On the other hand, the IC 360 has more versatility in the US, as an E27 fitting can also be found in all ceiling and wall fixtures.

A benefit of the IC 360 Smart Security Light Bulb Camera is the fact it’s a perfect size, not too huge, but still big enough to deter theft. This is the ultimate goal, meaning that you can rest assured that your house is protected. A further feature that ensures protection is the motion and sound detector. This is great as it means that it only captures video when is appropriate, capturing movement and sound in real time. This is extra effective when considering that the security camera also acts as a lightbulb, therefore, a light comes on whenever any movement or sound is detected. This is vital for guaranteeing the safety of your home during the night, as it means the camera has constant visibility, further helped by a 360-degree rotating

base, allowing for full coverage. The use of smart technology also means that it has a special feature for pets, therefore saving it from going off every time a four-legged friend walks past. Whether you are keeping an eye on what the kids are doing, or checking who’s at the door, you can always be sure to see what’s going on with the free smart app connectivity, enabling you to see what’s going on in real-time. This, of course, would dictate that you be looking at the app all the time, which just isn’t plausible. Thankfully, the app sends you a notification if anything is detected, as well as makes a recording

of the video, allowing you to keep tabs on what’s going on at all times.

A further helpful addition is the use of the microphone that is accessible via the app, this lets you communicate with those in the house, which of course, is a great bonus. The only thing I would say is that the app’s live feed feature took some time to set up and understand. However, once you do get your head around it, it works really effectively!

PROS:

- Small and discreet which can catch authentic movements in real-time.

- Motion and sound sensors that trigger the light.

- Microphone to speak through the camera.

- Can see and speak through the phone via the app.

CONS:

- In the UK the E27 screw fitting only fits in lamps, so you would need an adapter, which comes at an extra cost.

- The app can take a while to set up and understand.

HOUSEHOLD ARLO –ESSENTIAL XL SPOTLIGHT CAMERA

£129.99

THE ABILITY TO ENSURE THE SECURITY OF YOUR HOME IS A KEY PRIORITY FOR ANY HOMEOWNER. ARLO’S ESSENTIAL XL SPOTLIGHT CAMERA ENSURES THIS SECURITY IN A WAY THAT IS ACCESSIBLE AND NOT TOO TECHNICAL WHILST STILL ACHIEVING HIGH EFFICIENCY.

From the get go, I found the Arlo Essential XL Spotlight Camera incredibly easy to use. Instead of having to faff around with electrics, the Arlo Essential XL is 100% wireless. Its battery life is also a year-long after just one charge. Additionally, the clamp that it comes with operates on a swivel, therefore you can position the camera in any way you like, maximizing the camera’s visibility. This is further helped by the fact that it facilitates a 130-degree viewing camera angle. This extensively wide angle is rare if we compare the Arlo spotlight to others on the market at the moment, therefore you can rest assured that you have the largest proportion of your house covered. Further encouraging is the fact that it is small and compact, but still visible as you walk through the door. This means that it’s small enough to not become an eye soar but still big enough to be a deterrent to any potential burglars.

Another really useful and relatively unique feature is the Arlo App that they suggest you download so that you can receive notifications if your camera picks up any motion, therefore you can always be on top of when your package has arrived. (Or you can even spy on your neighbour that won’t stop knocking). However, I would recommend that when you set up the camera and connect to the Arlo App, do so in a place that is close to your Wi-Fi router, so that the camera and app can connect successfully. Once they are connected, however, you can place the camera wherever you want.

Another really useful component is the ‘Activity zones’

feature, which let me pinpoint exactly where I wanted the camera to pick up motion. This was especially nice since I didn’t get bombarded with notifications every time something walked past my house. For example, I found that even when a cat did wander across one of the activity zones, the advanced AI technology used by the camera meant that I wasn’t notified due to its ability to specifically identify people, packages, as well as other unwanted objects that may appear. The app is also useful for seeing any delivery people that you might miss whilst at work. With the two-way microphone (that can be used via the app) you can talk to the people at the door, ensuring that you are on top of any visitors. Additionally, any motion that the camera does pick is kept on a cloud, therefore you can easily look back at anything that you find as it’s accessible for thirty days, and is captured in high definition. This meant that I received a really clear picture of who was at my door. This was achievable even at nighttime, as it (no surprises) comes with a sufficiently bright spotlight, keeping the house secure 24/7.

Overall, the Arlo Essential Spotlight Security Camera will never fail you come whatever the weather or time of day. Plus, due to its advanced technological aspects, it can determine who is friend or foe, ensuring the important safety of my home.

PROS:

Robust quality

Easy to build and set up.

Excellent image quality

Long-life camera

2-way microphone perfect for talking to visitors at the door. Set up of particular activity zones

Reasonably priced in comparison to other security cameras

CONS:

The mobile app took a bit to understand.

£44.99 https://zerowater.co.uk/collections/jugs/products/zerowater-12-cup-water-filter-jug

HOUSEHOLD ZEROWATER 12 CUP / 2.8L JUG

CALL ME FUSSY, BUT ONE OF MY PET HATES IS TAP WATER. I FIND THAT IT CAN HAVE A SLIGHTLY STALE OR METALLIC TASTE, SO A FILTRATION JUG IS A MUST IN MY FRIDGE. THIS MEANT THAT I WAS MORE THAN HAPPY TO TEST OUT THE ZEROWATER ADVANCED FILTRATION, TO SEE IF IT REALLY DID FRESHEN UP MY HYDRATION.

Compared to other filtration jugs, the ZeroWater is highly technical with lots of unique added features. However, I found that it did in fact purify my water and got rid of the strange taste. When looking at the technicalities of the ZeroWater, it uses a specialised 5-stage Ion Exchange Filter, that dissolves the solids that would usually affect the taste, making the water taste extra fresh. Just to check that the water is up to a particular standard, ZeroWater includes a Water Quality Meter. Although, this is good for those who are extra particular, for me I don’t think I would use it too often, becoming somewhat of a novelty.

The sheer size of thing is admirable as it can fill up to 12 cups. Personally, I quite liked how big it was as you are not constantly filling it up – there is nothing more annoying than pouring yourself a drink and finding it empty. However, due to its increased capacity, you need to have a huge fridge otherwise it takes up the majority of the fridge shelf. However, the ZeroWater can be complemented on its pour, as there is minimal spillage, and any water that is still being filtered does not fall into the lower reservoir or your cup, (an issue that I’ve had in the past). Additionally, the jug also has a handle spigot (effectively its own little tap), that lets you run water out of the bottom, which I haven’t seen anywhere else.

Although the ZeroWater is more expensive than some of its competitors, its ion exchange technology makes up the extra cost, making the water seem like it has come straight from the Spring.

PROS

- 5-stage Ion Exchange

- Water tastes incredibly fresh.

- Includes a Water Quality Meter

- Large size.

- Minimal spillage when pouring.

- Handle spigot for alternative pouring.

CONS:

- Requires a big fridge.

- Water Quality Meter is somewhat of a novelty.

Surf 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.

VASQUE TORRE AT GTX

A ROBUST PAIR OF BOOTS IS A MUST IF YOU’RE HEADING OUT THIS SPRING. I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT I CAN BE QUITE PARTICULAR WHEN IT COMES TO MOUNTAIN BOOTS, AS YOU CAN VERY EASILY GET IT WRONG. THANKFULLY, VASQUE’S RELEASE OF THE TORRE AT GTX MAKES SURE THAT ANY EXPEDITIONS ARE COMFORTABLE AND DURABLE, GIVING YOU AN EXTRA SPRING IN YOUR STEP.

Vasque is an American company that was created with enjoyable hiking in mind. Founder William Sweasy travelled to Europe in 1964, where he observed a major hiking craze, something that wasn’t replicated back home. He then made it his mission to bring the hiking phenomena back to America, through the use of robust materials that are specially designed to introduce people to the wonders of hiking. Since then, Vasque has become a highly established maker of hiking footwear. The Torre AT GTX gives you everything you might need from a hiking boot. Upon opening, the boot appears robust, whilst still feeling lightweight, making it the perfect combination. The women’s boots come in three colours: Cappuccino, Sage, and Blue, allowing for more choice than usual. Furthermore, the boots have a specialised Gore-tex waterproof material, that is surrounded by leather and suede, allowing for functionality and a stylish edge. The Gore-tex material is tried and tested to withstand any weather conditions, keeping your feet protected, whilst also allowing for any breathability.

When I took the boots out for a test drive, I found them to be comfortable over a long period of time, due to a cushioned lining that quickly moulded to the shape of my foot. Furthermore, the sole of the foot has sufficient tread so that you have optimum grip as you scramble up the mountain or wander through the fields. In the long term, it seems like it will take a lot to wear them down, meaning that they will be long-lasting and worth the investment. The smaller details of the hiking boots have also not gone amiss. For example, they have sturdy metal lacing hooks which allow the laces to remain tight and effective throughout the day. A slight alteration could be made in the sizing, however, as the shoes tend to run slightly narrow, so I would recommend sizing up. However, I would say that they are certainly worth the investment as they are durable and reliable, even in the worst weather conditions.

PROS:

- lightweight

- Gore-tex waterproof material.

- Comfortable lining to avoid rubbing and blisters.

- Breathable material so that you avoid excess sweating.

- Sturdy tread for extra grip.

- Strong lacing hooks.

- Three distinct layers to avoid wearing down.

CONS:

- The sizing runs slightly narrow.

TECHNAXX FULL HD BIRDCAM TX-165

AS A CHILD, I LOVED WATCHING NATURE PROGRAMMES AND SEEING ALL THE AMAZING BIRDS UP CLOSE. THIS SOON TRANSLATED TO AN INTEREST IN MY FAMILY’S OWN GARDEN, BUT I ALWAYS FOUND THAT IT WAS NEVER QUITE THE SAME WHEN YOU WATCH THEM FROM AFAR. IT SEEMS THAT I WAS NOT ALONE, AS AROUND 3 MILLION PEOPLE DO SOME FORM OF BIRD WATCHING THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. GERMAN COMPANY, TECHNAXX, HAS COME TO THE RESCUE IN THE CREATION OF THE FULL HD BIRDCAM TX-165, WHICH MEANS YOU CAN FINALLY SEE THE UNIQUE CREATURES UP CLOSE!

When you open the box, the first thing you notice is how robust it looks, made from sturdy hard plastic. This is good for its functionality as its utilitarian exterior means that it will withstand any weather conditions, as well as blending effortlessly into the garden with a forest green colour. Alongside the birdhouse, the kit comes with a bird food container, 4AA batteries, a Micro USB Cable, as well as a railing mount, wall mount, bar mount, and rope mount. The wall mount worked effectively at holding up the bird cam, however, the rope mount, used to attach the cam to a tree, was not as effective at keeping the bird cam stable, so I would sway more towards using the wall or bar mount permanently.

Looking at its interior and functionality, it works highly efficiently as a feeder, which is excellent for attracting birds. Surprisingly enough, the use of a feeder is something less common on bird cams, so it shows that some clear forefront is being placed into the product. Furthermore, the hook to attach the bird feeder is to the side of the camera slightly. Although this may seem like a small touch it means that the camera focuses entirely on the bird. The only thing I would point out is that the bird feeder section is quite small (fitting 150g of food), so you would need to fill it up regularly

So, what about the final product? I was really impressed with the pictures that are produced in high definition, capturing the rapid movements of the bird perfectly. Additionally, the camera has several handy buttons which allow you to position the

camera perfectly. The camera also has a built-in microphone to hear any birdsongbird song, however, this remained fairly faint in the final footage.

The Birdcam uses a PIR (Passive Infra-Red) which effectively captures a picture of the bird, with a 100-degree angle. Over the week that it was up, I found it to be very effective at monitoring movement. If anything, it was almost a bit too good, as it took hundreds of photographs with nothing to detect. But at least we know it works! The video footage had an extra feature of slow-motion capture. This was good for the normal erratic movements that

birds make, as it allows you to get a proper good look at them.

One more thing to make note of is the fact that the footage is recorded in AVI, which means that you must convert it on the computer to be able to see the final product. Although this is relatively simple to do, it does mean that you can’t view it straight away.

Overall, the Technaxx FULL HD Birdcam TX is a great new feature in our garden as it has opened up a whole new world. It provides a rare experience of being able to see the birds in action, for a really reasonable price too!

PROS:

- Structured and Robust.

- Packaging comes with lots of useful extras.

- Highly functional.

- Includes a bird feeder.

- Great quality photos.

- Ability to move the camera into the perfect position.

- Camera uses PIR with 100-degree angle.

- Slow motion option.

CONS:

- Rope mount is not as stable as the wall mount.

- Microphone capture is faint.

£156.00

NEWTON GRAVITY 12 RUNNING SHOES

THE MARKET FOR RUNNING SHOES IS FAIRLY SATURATED, THEREFORE COMPANIES ARE COMING UP WITH MORE INVENTIVE WAYS TO MAKE THEIR PRODUCT UNIQUE. SOME IDEAS ARE CERTAINLY BETTER THAN OTHERS. NEWTON’S GRAVITY 12 RANGE, HOWEVER, HAS IMAGINATIVE FEATURES WHICH ARE ACTUALLY VERY EFFECTIVE IN HELPING YOU RUN, WHILST STILL BEING AFFORDABLE AND COMFORTABLE.

The Gravity 12’s have a thicker inside sole than most trainers, providing ample cushioning and support to your foot whilst on the move. However, compared to other trainers, the external sole is pretty minimal. Rather, Newton has a thick set of lugs that line the bottom, known as the ‘XPS+ Plating System’, which is built from castor beans, earning Newton big ticks for sustainability as companies continue to think about their green footprint. The plating lets you have more leverage and flexibility when you run, as many people have reported that it lets the shoe be reactive to your stride, with five separate lugs for each metatarsal.

my feet into having a midfoot strike, as I naturally am a forefront striker, which isn’t great for long-distance runners. Therefore, I would definitely recommend the Gravity 12s if you want to improve your foot positioning when running.

When looking at the upper part of the shoe, it feels very light and flimsy. Some runners would be turned off by this, as they want more support. However, I personally prefer a lighter feel to the shoe as it enables breathability and ventilation, as well as greater flexibility. In the men’s Gravity 12 range, there is a broad range of sizes, as well as three colour combinations available (Blue/Black, Citron, and Grey/ Red). For the women’s range, there are also plenty of colour options, (Navy/ Artic, Citron, Sky Blue/Pink) as well as a slight alteration in the design and fit to suit women’s feet better.

PROS:

- Thicker inside sole.

- Plating System includes foot positioning and cadence.

- Brilliant breathability and Ventilation.

- 3 different colour combinations are available.

APL WOMEN’S TECHLOOM ZIPLINE

FINDING THE PERFECT RUNNING SHOE CAN BE A FINE ART, WITH MANY KEEN RUNNERS SPENDING HUNDREDS OF POUNDS FINDING THE RIGHT FIT. EVERY TIME I HAVE TRIED TO FIND THE PERFECT RUNNING FOOTWEAR THERE IS ALWAYS A CHARACTERISTIC THAT ISN’T QUITE RIGHT, WHETHER IT BE THE SHAPE, WEIGHT, OR DESIGN. HOWEVER, APL HAVE COME TO THE RESCUE WITH THE WOMEN’S TECHLOOM ZIPLINE, SPORTING COMFORT AND FLEXIBILITY WHILST RUNNING. I was keen to test the TechLoom Zipline, as I am trying to get back into running as the weather gets warmer. When going for a jog around my local area, I found them to be really comfortable when worn over an extended period. This is thanks to the springy ‘Future Foam’ that runs on the inside sole of the shoe, acting as a great cushion for reducing the impact of my foot on the tarmac.

When it comes to the exterior of the shoe, I personally found that the shoes offered great support and were very robust, but also not clunky and heavy, making it the perfect balance. The outer shoe is made from thin and stretchy material, which allows for great breathability and flexibility, so the shoe moves with your foot as you run. This also makes them really nice to wear, as it effectively feels like you’re wearing socks with soles. Unlike cosy socks, I found the fit to run slightly narrow on my feet, despite getting my standard size. Therefore, if you have slightly wider feet like me, then this is just something to be aware of. In regard to the sole, it is fairly thick but also hollow, so that the shoe remains light. The main sole itself isn’t very flexible, however, the bottom of the sole has a thin layer of gel that creates grip for the trainer. Here, you can begin to find external cushioning, alongside ample grip to avoid you slipping

and sliding across the road, track, or grass.

Furthermore, a small but great feature is the fact the loops for the laces are made from strings of material that stretches the entire shoe. Consequently, when running, the laces stretch and move with the movement of the foot. I thought this worked really well because it meant that the laces did not cut into my foot when on the move. APL has provided plenty of design and colour options so that you can find the colour combination that works for you. Often, fellow runners stick to black, white, or grey, so I like the fact that APL has thought of the box by providing loads of funky colours. The Ziplines I tested were in a ‘Blue Haze/ Impulse Red’, a neon runner’s dream. They of course offer all the standard colours too, but it gives you an idea of how far out you could go when getting your fitness in.

Overall, if you want bold and colourful, but also comfortable and flexible running shoes, then the TechLoom Zipline is the shoe for you!

PROS:

- Comfortable to wear due to the Future Foam in the interior sole.

- Lightweight, flexible, and breathable, due to the thin material of the exterior.

- Stretchy material so the shoes adapt with the movement of your foot.

- Effective grip due to the gel layer on the bottom of the shoe.

- Lots of colour combinations available, in both standard and neon colours.

CONS:

- A fairly narrow fit, so would recommend sizing up.

MET VELENO MIPS MOUNTAIN BIKE HELMET

ITALY IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS FANTASTIC RANGE OF FOOD, ICONIC RANGE OF CARS, AND BEAUTIFUL COASTLINES. WELL, NOW THERE IS SOMETHING ELSE TO ADD TO THE LIST: MOUNTAIN BIKE HELMETS. THAT’S RIGHT, THE VELENO MIPS MOUNTAIN BIKE HELMET IS MUCH MORE THAN JUST A CYCLING HELMET BUT IS A VITAL PIECE OF EQUIPMENT AS YOU RACE ACROSS THE COUNTRYSIDE. THE VELENO HELMET USES AN ITALIAN DESIGN, WITH ADVENTURE, SPEED, AND SAFETY IN MIND, TO CREATE A COMFORTABLE, STYLISH AND SECURE CYCLING EXPERIENCE.

Despite its branding as a mountain bike helmet, the Veleno can boast great versatility. Due to its many features, it’s great for a casual ride around your local area or braving the slopes. Although its outer shell was made with mountain biking as the most extreme case, it is also capable of keeping you protected on gravel and tarmac services. When wearing the helmet out on a ride, it felt really light but still secure and firm around my head, so I felt sufficiently protected, with extended head coverage and MIPS-C2 Brain Protection, so you can feel comfortable and safe. The 360 adjustable head belt on the helmet also meant that I could adjust it to fit my head comfortably, without it digging in at all. It also offered great breathability, which I particularly liked. As the weather begins to get better in the Spring sunshine, there is a greater chance of feeling sweaty and suffocated when wearing a helmet for a long time. Thanks to the air-vent-like design, however, (possessing 26 vents) I kept cool throughout my cycle on different terrains.

The helmet also has an aerodynamic shape, making you look the part whilst out on the bike (even if you’re not feeling it), with a goodlooking design. Another great feature is the fact that the sun visor on the helmet is small and removable. This a great touch as some cyclists prefer not to have visors, although I personally quite like them, so it’s good to have the option. Additionally, if it does get really sunny, they have a sunglasses port to store your shades whilst you’re climbing or descending.

The MET Veleno is available in bronze, deep purple, olive iridescent, teal blue, titanium, white grey, black, and red, with a matte or metallic finish. Furthermore, the helmet is available in three different sizes and weights, so there’s a helmet out there for everybody. Therefore, the MET Veleno MIPS Helmet is perfect for seasoned professional cyclists, or those who are just testing out new wheels.

PROS:

- Stylish.

- Soft padding.

- Meets safety specifications.

- Versatility for riders of any experience.

- Aerodynamic shape.

- Adjustable head belt.

- Breathability using 26 vents areas.

- Available in a wide range of colours.

- Removable sun visor.

https://www.apple.com/uk/shop/product/HPKW2ZM/A/ twelve-south-fort%C3%A9-for-magsafe-charger

TWELVE SOUTH FORTE

ANY KEEN APPLE USER WILL BE AWARE OF TWELVE SOUTH, WHO HAVE BEEN CREATING IMAGINATIVE ACCESSORIES FOR APPLE PRODUCTS SINCE 2009. SUCH INNOVATIONS CAN ALSO BE SEEN IN TWELVE SOUTH’S LATEST RELEASE OF THE FORTE. TRANSLATED TO ENGLISH, THE WORD ‘FORTE’ MEANS STRENGTH OR TALENT. THIS MAY SEEM LIKE AN OVER-EXAGGERATION FOR THE NAME OF A PHONE STAND, AND YET THIS THOUGHT WOULD BE IN VAIN. THE TWELVE SOUTH FOTE INCORPORATES THE NEWEST INNOVATIONS IN IPHONE CHARGING, WITH THE ACCESSIBILITY OF A PHONE STAND.

Apple’s latest release of the MagSafe accessory for iPhone 12’s and beyond has taken the world by storm. It effectively is a new quick and safe form of wireless charging that saves you from having to fiddle with loads of plugs and cables. It is therefore no wonder that Twelve South has taken the initiative to further advance the already successful product. Indeed, the Forte uses the gadget to create a floating iPhone stand that uses the MagSafe (not included with the Forte) to charge your phone at an efficient 15 Watts.

The Forte works by using magnetic support seen in the MagSafe, in order to efficiently hold your phone in place. The standing aspect of the product I found to be really good, as you can tilt the phone at a 75-degree angle, creating even more benefits when looking at your phone. Similar to what I usually find with Twelve South products, the Twelve South is really good for scrolling through my phone in bed. By placing it on the stand next to me, I could easily scroll without having to hold it, and I can adjust the angle depending on how I am sitting. However, the real advantage arrives when my phone is automatically on charge as I fall asleep. This is greatly beneficial as I often wake up with my phone on an annoyingly low battery. However, the use of the Forte means that it will always be on charge, and I can grab it and go in the morning. Perfect!

PROS:

- Sleek design

- Movement of 75 degrees

- Fast charging

- Creative thinking

- Always ensures your phone is on charge.

GADGETS THAMES & KOSMOS PLASMA BALL

https://store.thamesandkosmos.com/products/the-thames-kosmos-

THAMES AND KOSMOS MAKE IT THEIR MISSION TO MAKE SCIENCE MORE INTERACTIVE, ACCESSIBLE AND FUN. MOST RECENTLY, THE BRAND-NEW RELEASE OF THE PLASMA BALL BRINGS THE SCIENCE OF STARS TO YOUR HOME. IN FACT, I FOUND IT TO BE MESMERISING AS THE PLASMA BALL CREATES GLOWING ELECTRICAL STEMS THAT DANCE AROUND IN THE BALL FOR HOURS ON END.

This fascinating product is the perfect gift for anyone who loves physics or wants to develop their overall love for science. By accessing the fourth state of matter in the Plasma Ball, you are gazing at the ionized gas found in stars! The glass globe works by sending a high-voltage alternating current from a Tesla coil (the ball in the middle) through a noble gas to the surface of the glass. This is the process that creates lively streams of electricity. You are then witnessing escaping electrons that cause gas to light up. What’s more, when activated by touch, each tentacle zooms over to your fingertip, feeling like you and science are at one. When touching it, I first thought I would receive an electric shock or something similar, however, I felt more of a buzzing feeling that wasn’t uncomfortable, but more intriguing. Particularly since the feeling is the controlling electricity through your fingertips! The plasma ball would make a great quirky ornament in your home, as a 5-inch sphere sits on a curved stand. Furthermore, the Plasma Ball is made to be able to hang on a wall or sit on a tabletop, acting as the perfect conversation starter. Additionally, the Plasma Ball has the option to be powered via batteries (not included) or a USB-C cable.

The Plasma Ball has two modes: always-on and sound activation. The latter is particularly entertaining, as it makes you think you’re in a sci-fi film. Effectively, when you play music, the electrical tentacles wiggle and dance according to the sound, which received lots of attention in the GadgetHead Office. Overall, Thames & Kosmos have taken a dusty device used in our physics lessons and given it a revamp. Therefore, it provides hours of marvels and wonders as rocket science happens right before your eyes!

plasma-ball

PROS:

- Making science fun.

- The science of stars can be brought to your home!

- Hangs on a wall or tabletop.

- Sound activation mode.

- Powered by battery or USB-C.

- Safe and entertaining.

CLCKR STAND & GRIP FOR MAGSAFE

CLCKR ARE WELL-KNOWN FOR THEIR INGENUOUS PHONE ACCESSORY TO STOP THE INEVITABLE DROPPING OF YOUR PHONE. WITH THE STAND & GRIP FOR MAGSAFE, THEY’VE CERTAINLY DONE IT AGAIN, BUT WITH AN EXTRA TWIST!

At GadgetHead, we have reviewed many Clckr products, including the predecessor the Stand & Grip. So, by now we are fully aware of how experienced Clckr are in the world of phone handles! And with the Magsafe they have done it again! Much like its predecessor, the handle itself is comfortable and incredibly comfortable, still heralding a simple but slick design. They have kept with the same design of the actual handle, which I particularly enjoy, as there is a fold in the handle which means that is malleable and can be held and positioned in many ways, whilst still remaining strong! So does it say what it says on the tin? Well, I can confirm that the Stand is in fact really effective, as the handle is sturdy and structured, so that your phone doesn’t knocked about (even on the bumpiest of transport). And yes, the Grip is really nice to hold in your hand, even for a long time. Sdue to the flexibility of the handle, it can shift in shape to suit your hand or what your doing (perfect for not dropping your phone on your face!) The only thing I could add is a sturdier strap, as the handle is a bit thin, but whilst it is thin, it also means that is more malleable to the shape and movement of your hands.

The Stand & Grip Magsafe is also really easy to take on and off, just with a simple click!! (And it makes a really satisfying sound) The Stand and Grip is attached magnetically

to your Magsafe, without affecting the connectivity to your wireless charger. The Clkckr also differs from other phone handles in the fact it uses a sturdy magnet rather than a gel that may unstick over time, making it much secure and long-lasting.

At a time when wireless charging is becoming a new norm, the kind of adaptability seen in the Stand & Grip, is not only a welcome addition but a necessity. The added capability means that your phone is still accessible to charge, without the annoyance of having to remove the Stand & Grip.

To go with the well thought design is five different colours. This means that it can seamlessly blend into your phone case or add a pop of colour.

PROS:

- Prevents phone damage

- Comfortable handle

- Endless amount of uses.

- Allows you to charge your phone.

- Uses magnet to attach rather than gel

CONS:

- Material used for the strap is thin

£139.95

https://www.apple.com/uk/shop/product/HQ412ZM/A/twelve-south-hoverbar-tower-for-ipad

TWELVE SOUTH HOVERBAR TOWER

IN THE PAST, WE HAVE REVIEWED MANY TWELVE SOUTH PRODUCTS. EACH TIME WE ARE IMPRESSED BY HOW THEY ELEVATE A WIDE VARIETY OF APPLE PRODUCTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL. THIS TIME, THE TWELVE SOUTH HOVERBAR IS PERHAPS NOT THE MOST INVENTIVE MECHANISM THEY HAVE EVER RELEASED, BUT STILL DEMONSTRATES SOME FORETHOUGHT INTO THE USE OF THE APPLE IPAD.

The Twelve South HoverBar Tower allows you to use your iPad completely hands-free, which is great for workouts, and many other things like following recipes when cooking. This is because the floor stand is incredibly versatile, as it is height adjustable. The stand ranges from 2.5 feet to 5.5 feet, providing plenty of room depending on what you are doing.

I found that propping up your iPad when doing something can be a real pain, especially when in a room where there is no tv or large screen. When putting the Twelve South HoverBar to the test, I used it when cycling on the exercise, which I usually do in the shed (converted into a makeshift gym) in the garden. This space doesn’t have a TV and nowhere to properly stand a laptop, so I usually just listen to music, which means it’s hard to stay motivated. However, this all changed when I used the HoverBar!! I was able to watch a video on my iPad to keep me going, and the (usually gruelling) hour flew by! I also used the HoverBar in the Kitchen to follow a recipe. I have quite limited workspace, so standing up an iPad can take up a lot of space, therefore, the HoverBar was great, as I had more room to chop the veg!

A great feature, that demonstrates some clear forethought from Twelve South, is the fact that the HoverBar is compatible with any iPad and (most) cases. This is perfect for a greater range of people who have used their trusty iPad for a range of years but want to make the most of the latest technology. This is no wonder considering the sleek design of the product; the iPad attaches to the stand via a clamp that is adjustable to the dimensions of the iPad, as well as using a specially designed pad that attaches to all Apple iPads, adding greater flexibility. One thing I would caution is that the HoverBar can be slightly wobbly when attaching the iPad, suggesting that the base might need to be a bit sturdier, but overall I would say it is well-balanced and a handy companion to the iPad.

PROS:

- Compatible with all Apple iPads and most cases.

- Sleek design

- A wide range of uses.

- Available in both black and white.

CONS:

- slightly wobbly when attaching the iPad.

IWALK POWER BANK CHARGER

NOTHING FEELS WORSE THAN BEING OUT AND ABOUT AND SUDDENLY YOUR SCREEN GOES BLANK AND SUBSEQUENTLY TURNS OFF. IN AN INCREASINGLY CO-DEPENDENT WORLD WHERE PEOPLE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT THEIR PHONES, THE FEELING OF HAVING YOUR PHONE RUN OUT OF CHARGE IS A SOMEWHAT DEFLATING FEELING. THANKFULLY, THERE IS SUCH A THING AS A PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER. AND YET, THE IWALK IS ONE STEP AHEAD OF THE REST, AS THEY HAVE CREATED A FAST-CHARGING PORTABLE CHARGER THAT IS SO COMPACT THAT IT’S THE SAME SIZE AS LIPSTICK!

Unlike other portable chargers, the iWALK doesn’t need a cable and just connects to the phone via the charging port. Its specially designed shape means that it fits as a small extension to the end of your phone. You simply flip off the cap and plug it in. The cap is connected to the charger, so you don’t lose it. This makes it really easy to use your phone whilst charging, instead of having to hold an extra object connected by a lead. Furthermore, since it is so compact in size, it’s great for travelling and to keep in your bag until you need it, since it weighs an insignificant 75g, and is not big and clunky like other chargers. The iWALK is also available in a range of colours including black, white, blue or pink, so you can match the charger with your phone. When using the iWALK out and about, I found that the power bank did occasionally become loose. Not only does this stop the flow of charge to your phone, but it can also be dropped and subsequently lost. Therefore, when using it I had to check that it was definitely plugged in, but this wasn’t too much of a bother considering I was on my phone whilst using the power bank.

The iWALK has three lights to indicate how much charge the power bank has left. All three lights showing demonstrate that it’s on 90-100%, two lights indicate 60% to 89%, and

one light indicates 1%-59%. Although this is a great feature, I feel like it could be improved by adding another light or changing the amount of charge indicated by one light. On the final light, the power bank could either be on the verge of dying or half full, so it needs to be a bit more specific. Perhaps four lights indicating 25% each would be better.

On the other hand, the iWALK has a great feature which stops the

power bank from running out of charge. If you haven’t used the charger for more than 30 seconds, and it is still switched on, then it has an auto shut-off function which stops the battery from being drained.

Finally, the iWALK is a great gift for any iPhone (only available for iPhone users), as it is compatible with many models. Thus, with the iWALK, you can be rest assured that your iPhone will never run out of battery again.

PROS:

- Compact size.

- Lightweight.

- Plugs into the phone rather than having to use a cable.

- Lights to indicate the amount of charge left on the power bank.

- Auto shut off to stop battery drainage.

CONS:

- Can occasionally fall out of the iPhone jack.

- Lights indicating charge are too broad.

HUE ANIMATION STUDIO

FOR SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES ALIKE, HUE ANIMATION STUDIO FROM HUE IS MORE THAN JUST A TOY – THIS IS AN ALL-IN-ONE KIT THAT ALLOWS YOUR KIDS TO CREATE PROPER STOP MOTION ANIMATED VIDEOS, GIVING THEM EVERYTHING THEY NEED FROM IMAGE CAPTURE TO EDITING SOFTWARE. MANY BIG-TIME FILM MAKERS STARTED AT HOME WITH A VIDEO CAMERA AND A STOP MOTION PROJECT, AND WITH YOUTUBE AND OTHER PLATFORMS MAKING VIDEO CREATION A MORE VIABLE CAREER THAN EVER BEFORE. THIS IS A GREAT WAY FOR KIDS TO DEVELOP IMPORTANT 21ST CENTURY SKILLS WHILST HAVING A LOT OF FUN.

HUE Animation Studio includes everything you need to set your kids up to do a stop motion project, or better yet, for them to feel like they have the tools to set it up themselves. The cameras available in red, blue or green, look fun and accessible rather than intimidating, even down to the fun, wiggly, posable, ‘monster eye’ style head. The camera connects via a USB plug and has a built-in microphone, so it’s super easy to use to capture film footage AND audio. It is equally easy to set up and start using the software.

In total, the kit comes with a HUE HD camera, stop motion software for Windows and macOS, and a full-colour 64page book that offers a step-by-step guide on how to create your first movie. The kit also includes downloadable sound effects, backgrounds and a storyboard template. They can also record their own voice and import background files, including ones they make themselves!

What I loved about this kit is that it enables kids to achieve ambitious projects, but breaks the information down in a way that they can understand. The materials were put together by teachers, so they know how to make something that is clear to follow whilst still being inspiring. I was also impressed that,

even though this software is for kids, it doesn’t limit them by dumbing down its capabilities. You can edit frames, add text and special effects, and can even use a green screen – this would have been so much fun to have had as a kid, and would still be fun now!

With digital media a more accessible and viable outlet for young people than ever before, this kit makes sense. These are skills that your kids are probably going to value having in their digital futures, so why not get them started now? This kit is well put together by people who know what they’re doing, providing much more structure than downloading MonkeyJam and wondering what to do (which is what I did when Kid Me tried her hand at stop motion). If your kids have a creative side and like making up stories, this would be a fantastic gift for their birthday or Christmas. It’s made me want to make movies again myself!

PROS:

Posable camera. Easy to use. Fun design.

Full colour 64-page book. Downloadable software for Windows and macOS. Includes sound effects, backgrounds and a storyboard template. Green screen using the box.

Flex

A whole new pumping experience, shaped

MORE MILK TESTED

technology. medela.com/flex

EDIFIER WIRELESS SPEAKER MS50A

£129.99 https://www.edifier.com/product-ms50a.html

A WIRELESS SPEAKER DOES WAY MORE THAN SIMPLY PLAY MUSIC, IT MAKES THE WASHING UP BEARABLE, IT LIVENS UP A PARTY, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, IT ALLOWS YOU TO DANCE AROUND THE HOUSE TO YOUR FAVOURITE SONG. THEREFORE, DUE TO THE JOYS THAT CAN BE GAINED FROM A WIRELESS SPEAKER, I WAS EAGER TO PUT THE LATEST EDIFIER GADGET TO THE TEST!

Fundamentally, the Edifier Wireless Speaker is large and robust, offering great sound quality. The bass sound is also smooth and rich which I love. The wooden exterior is a particularly nice characteristic, as it gives the speaker a retro aesthetic which could easily blend in with the interiors of someone’s home.

On the more technical side, the speaker is controlled simply by touch or via the Edifier Home App, (which is really easy to use) thanks to the wireless Bluetooth connection. I prefer this over some smart speakers as I am constantly shouting at my smart speaker as it fails to understand me, so I always end up going over and controlling it by touch anyway. (The Edifier Wireless Speaker has no internal microphone for privacy settings, a big plus.) In this sense, however, it does not belong to the smart speaker family, as it needs to be connected to other smart speakers to be controlled by voice.

The Edifier Wireless Speaker does, however, have multiroom connectivity using music synchronisation with a number of huge listening sites, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Tidal. This means that you can wander from room to room whilst still listening to your favourite songs. Additionally, the Speaker has the capability to connect to devices, such as Apple AirPlay 2 and Amazon Alexa. This allows you to group a multi-room music system so that you can command the playback using your voice. This is clever forethought, because it combines the technology of smart speakers, with the brilliant sound quality of Edifier, working as the ultimate speaker combo.

PROS:

- Cool aesthetic and a nice design.

- Smooth bass sound.

- Controlled by Edifier Home App.

- No internal microphone.

- Multi-room connectivity.

- Ability to connect to Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Tidal.

- Can connect to Amazon Alexa and Apple Airplay 2.

X

DORITOS DIME 2

TRUE WIRELESS EARBUDS

£39.99

https://www.skullcandy.co.uk/doritos-dime-2-wireless-earbuds/

OVER THE YEARS, WE HAVE REVIEWED MANY OF SKULLCANDY’S PRODUCTS. EACH TIME WE ARE REALLY IMPRESSED BY THEIR INNOVATIVE WAYS OF MAKING EARBUDS NOT JUST A GREAT LISTENING EXPERIENCE, BUT AN ACTIVE DESIGN CHOICE. THEREFORE, THE SKULLCANDY X DORITOS DIME 2 TRUE WIRELESS EARBUDS ARE A QUIRKY ALTERNATIVE TO YOUR STANDARD HEADPHONES, AT A REALLY REASONABLE PRICE.

This particular collab between Skullcandy and Doritos witnesses a serious revamp of the Dime 2 series. However, these earbuds feature an eccentric design, with an imaginative collab that is really thinking out of the box of earbud design. The end product marries together the world’s two favourite things; great snacks and a great listening experience. By having this unique collab, Skullcandy can give the Dime 2 a new pop of colour by using the fiery ‘Doritos red’ that is striking, whilst being familiar. Plus, by having UV-reactive glow graphics, the earbuds have an extra flair that is far more exciting and alluring that the solid block colours that are used usually on other earbuds. This can get repetitive and dull, which is the opposite of what these headphones are. Although the ‘Doritos red’, is the only colour available, this would make sense given the super limited availability of this brilliant collab.

The earbuds themselves are really comfortable to wear, which is a staple of Skullcandy gadgets. Furthermore, the earbuds come with in-ear gels that come in a range of sizes, to ensure that they stay in your ears, and come in their own little packaging to avoid damage. Additionally, the sleek design does not stop at the earbuds, but also extends to the charging case.

The size of the case is the perfect medium, as it is small enough to fit in your pocket but still big enough to not get lost at the bottom of your bag. The charging cable for the box is really short

AUDIO

however, which can be a bit annoying. I would suggest purchasing a longer cable. So, what about the technical side of the earbuds? Well, for starters, they’re wireless which has a wide range of benefits, including greater accessibility, and no possibility of getting really tangled, which can be a real pain. The earbuds also have 12 hours of total battery life, outlasting many of its other competitors. Another great feature is the built-in use of finding technology, via the use of a free Tile App, you can easily and quickly locate them. The app also has a lost mode, which if activated, will use other Tile Apps nearby to help find the earbuds.

When it comes to the sound, the quality can go a bit off when turned up really loud. However, for the affordable price of £39.99, the sound is great when kept at normal levels. Another aspect to consider about the Skullcandy X Doritos Dime 2 is they do not have noise cancellation, and the built-in mic can pick up a lot of surrounding noise, so if you want to use these in an overtly noisy area then I would suggest going for something a bit more expensive. However, for everyday listening, they make the perfect earbuds, especially for that extra Dorito edge!!

PROS:

- Imaginative collab.

- Quirky design.

- ‘Dorito red’ is a bold and attractive colour.

- Really comfortable, thanks to the in-ear gels.

- Small and compact charging case.

- Twelve hours of total battery life.

- Tile App is free and means you can find the earbuds easily.

- Very affordable.

CONS:

- Lead for charging is very short.

- Built-in mic can pick up a bit of surround sound.

- Sound quality is not great when music is at full volume.

WIRELESS ON-EAR HEADPHONES

THE LATEST EDIFIER HEADPHONES ARE ONE FOR THE BOOKS, AS THEY PROVIDE COMFORT AND GREAT SOUND QUALITY, ACTING AS THE PERFECT GRAB-AND-GO EARPHONES FOR TRAVEL. AS AN AUDIO COMPANY, EDIFIER IS WELL-ESTABLISHED IN THE WORLD OF HEADPHONES, SO IT WAS NO SURPRISE TO FIND THAT THE WH500 CREATE A GREAT SET OF WIRELESS EARPHONES, ALLOWING YOU TO ESCAPE THE REST OF THE WORLD AND APPRECIATE YOUR CAREFULLY CRAFTED PLAYLIST!

The headphones have an attractive appearance, with a sleek matte finish and streamlined design. Available in three separate colours, (black, white, and light blue) allowing the headphones to fit your particular style. In terms of sound quality, they have good bass control. In many headphones, the bass can begin to feel uncomfortable, subsequently affecting the sound quality. And yet, Edifier is one step ahead, as there is a specially designed 30mm dynamic driver. This provides a rich and full sound which is further complemented by a customisable EQ, via the accessible Edifier Connect App. Despite the good sound quality, however, the sound leakage is pretty substantial, which could get annoying for your fellow passenger or gym enthusiast. Going back to the Edifier Connect App, it is a fantastic feature that opens up the headphones to have much greater capabilities, such as volume and tap control. This is a unique feature to have and allows the headphones to be catered to your preferences. (It does require authorisation of GPS, which many won’t want to do.) Furthermore, the earphones have buttons to be able to pause the music or adjust the volume, allowing for greater accessibility.

When I tested out the headphones, I used them simply to sit on the train and even took them to the gym. I can confirm that thanks to the soft padding of the earphones and the design, they were comfortable to wear for long periods of time on the train, and when I took a call, I found the microphone to pick up my voice really well, and my friend’s voice was crystal clear! Even when I was on the treadmill at the gym, I was nervous that they

would fall straight away, however, they remained stable and comfortable. They also blocked out the sounds from the rest of the gym, which kept me more focused and proved that environmental noise cancellation is a highly effective feature. I think this is primarily because they are lightweight, which is due to the thin plastic used, which does mean that they are not the sturdiest, but still good for taking out and about.

There is nothing worse than when you are listening to your favourite song and then suddenly it cuts off. Thankfully, the WH500 headphones have a long battery time, so with just ten minutes of charging time the headphones have six hours of playing time. This is highly efficient as you don’t have to keep worrying about it running out. An ingenious feature I also thought was really useful is the shutdown times: this effectively allows you to listen to your headphone as you fall asleep, as the headphones will turn off at a specified time so that you can remain in peaceful slumber.

PROS:

- Great sound quality with deep bass.

- Sleek design and foldability.

- Available in 3 separate colours.

- Wireless lets you be handsfree.

- Edifier Connect App allows you to customise your headphone qualities.

- Comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

- Stay on your head despite vigorous movement.

- Great for calls with a great microphone.

- Extended battery life of 40 hours.

CONS:

- Don’t feel the most robust.

- Considerable sound leakage.

TOYS & GAMES ENGINO MEGA BUILDS CHALLENGER SPACE SHUTTLE

£179.99

THE IMPORTANCE OF STEM SUBJECTS IS CERTAINLY ON THE RISE, AS THE WORLD BECOMES INCREASINGLY DEPENDENT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL THINKING. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT ENGINO ARE GREATLY AWARE OF, AS THEIR PRODUCTS HAVE HELPED CHILDREN DEVELOP VITAL SKILLS IN SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND CREATIVITY FOR NEARLY TWENTY YEARS.

As part of the special edition ‘Mega Build’ Range, Engino have released the new Challenger Space Shuttle. As far as the design goes, the space shuttle is a fantastic idea, as it replicates the specialised engineering and algorithmic thinking skills that are required for STEM. The kit is recommended for children aged 9 and above, however, I certainly learnt many new skills when giving the Space Shuttle a go!

The Mega Build Challenger Space Shuttle includes over 1000 parts, which can initially seem daunting, but are all necessary to build the mighty shuttle! Plus, Engino is there to help by providing an app, called KidCad, (great name) that provides 3D interactive instructions. I found this to be invaluable, as the instructions were really easy to follow and let you see your creative process in greater detail, since you can zoom in and out and visualise certain aspects. KidCad is available to download for free on PC, smartphone, and tablet, making it accessible for children and adults.

In terms of the actual construction, it was really fun and enjoyable to build, whilst requiring some concentration. The kit consists of 1135 parts that perfectly fit together to build intricate parts of the shuttle. Although this may seem fiddly, each small rod, bolt, and wheel is specially designed in a snap-fit motion so that it is fast and easy to build. As I went through the building proccess, it was great to see the model slowly come together.

Disguised behind an enjoyable construction project, is also includes vital skill development in following instructions, as well as focus and perseverance skills. These are significant in developing a child’s practical nature, particularly if they are interested in going into a STEM subject. Away from STEM, it can also help your child develop fine motor skills, as well as ideas for teamwork and collaboration, in which the Space Shuttle can become a project between friends. Once assembled, it feels like such an achievement that it can be proudly displayed. However, on the chance you do want the mighty structure down, it comes with a handy extraction tool which makes it so much easier to take parts down and pull apart small pieces.

Another fantastic feature is the fact that it all comes in a robust plastic box, allowing you to keep it all together. This is a heavensend in stopping you lose any of the tiny parts, as you can keep the box sealed up tight and neatly tucked away when not being used.

Overall, the Engino Mega Build Space Shuttle is a fantastic project for young children to have hours of fun that they continuously come back to, whilst developing a wide range of important skills. Incorporating enjoyable and imaginative projects with education helps open up a new world of fun, as Engino are encouraging millions of future engineers.

PROS:

- Utilises skills needed for STEM subjects.

- Develop skills in perseverance and teamwork.

- 3D interactive instructions via app.

- Includes extraction tool for disassembling.

- Packaged in a plastic box, keeping parts together.

- Keeps children entertained for hours!!

TOYS & GAMES

POWERUP 4.0 RC PAPER PLANE

GETTING AN OLD PIECE OF SCRAP PAPER AND TRANSFERRING IT INTO A PAPER PLANE IS A STAPLE OF CHILDHOOD FUN. INDEED, THE NOTION OF A SIMPLE PAPER PLANE HAS HAD SOME SERIOUS RENOVATIONS OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS. MOST NOTICEABLY BY POWERUP, WHO IN THEIR LATEST VERSION, HAS GIVEN THE PAPER PLANE A HIGH-TECH REVAMP BY ALLOWING YOU TO CONTROL THE PAPER MECHANISM THROUGH THE USE OF YOUR SMARTPHONE. THIS IS DEFINITELY AN IMPROVEMENT ON THROWING THE PAPER AND HOPING FOR THE BEST, BUT EVEN WITH THE USE OF YOUR PHONE, WILL THE ICONIC PAPER PLANE FLY ANY BETTER?

The PowerUp 4.0 RC Power Plane is a great quirky gadget that is perfect for getting the kids out and about as the weather warms up. Setting up the plane is relatively simple, as somewhat similar to the conventional paper plane, you fold up one of the four paper templates that are given to you in the pack. PowerUp also provides easy-to-follow instructional videos to advise how to fold the plane if you are looking for exact precision.

The four sheets of paper provided allow you to add your own designs so that the plane is personalised. Alternatively, you don’t have to use the paper provided and you can use your own, however, I would recommend using a denser piece of paper, so that it can hold the housing unit effectively.

To put the plane together, you fit the 4.0 smart motor module to the crossbar and propeller, also provided in the pack. The flying mechanism itself consists of a control unit that holds the battery and processor for flying the plane, which connects to a pair of propellers via a lightweight carbon fibre tube. The control unit has an on/off switch to save battery, as well as a USB

port so that the unit can be charged up for the flight. You then attach the power mechanism to the plane (using sticky tape not provided in the pack) and hey presto, you are ready to fly.

The plane is controlled via the PowerUp 4.0 which is available on both iOS and Android. The PowerUp4.0 app connects to the plane using Bluetooth. I found the app to be highly advanced but still easy to use. The main home screen of the app has a big throttle, which replicates the control of a real plane. Alongside the throttle is a gauge demonstrating the battery life, and another showing the strength of the Bluetooth. Also similar to the view of a pilot, there is a horizon line behind the throttle, which lets you know where the plane is roughly pointing. I really liked this app display, as it is fun to pretend you’re flying a real plane, and allows you to accurately control the flight path of your PowerUp.

Now down to business! As expected, the PowerUp4.0 is more complex than simply lobbing the paper plane into the air. I was firstly surprised at how powerful the propellers were, as

on my first few attempts the plane would just shoot off straight into the ground. Instead, you must carefully angle the plane with one hand, whilst controlling it via the app with your other hand. However, once you have found the careful balance between the two, you have lift off!

I made the fatal mistake of first trying to fly the plane inside, however, I quickly learned that this is very much an outdoor activity. Due to the strength of the propellor, the plane flies incredibly far, so much so that the plane is advertised to have a 70-meter range, and yet despite this, it continues to fly far into the distance. The new generation of PowerUp also has an auto-stabiliser, which works in making sure that it doesn’t dart off in a spin, which I thought worked really well at keeping the plane on a straight path.

The PowerUp 4.0 also has a ten-minute flight time on a single charge. At first, I thought this wasn’t too long, but when flying it, it felt like ample time for entertainment when you consider how each flight only lasts about a minute.

Overall, I found the PowerUp to be great fun as it elevates the standard paper plane into a high-tech gadget that combines the technology of a drone with the old-school enjoyment of a paper plane.

The PowerUp 4.0 can also be found on Amazon.

PROS:

- Provides four paper templates and a spare propeller set.

- Provide easy-to-follow instructional videos.

- Opportunity to personalise your plane.

- Powerful smart unit module and propeller.

- Auto-stabiliser allows the plane to fly in windy conditions without spinning.

- PowerUp 4.0 is easy to use and has a fun display, available on iOS and Android.

- 70-meter control range.

- 10-minute flight time on a single charge.

CONS:

- Requires a big open space to fly effectively, would recommend going to a park rather than inside or in the garden.

FACIAL CLEANSING AND FIRMING MASSAGE DEVICE AND MICROFOAM CLEANSER

NOWADAYS, EVERYONE IS SEARCHING FOR THE ‘NO MAKE-UP’ MAKE-UP LOOK. AND AS ANY MAKE-UP TUTORIAL OR SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER WILL TELL YOU, THE KEY TO THE ‘CLEAN MAKE-UP’ AESTHETIC IS A SPOTLESS SKINCARE ROUTINE. SO MUCH SO, THAT SKINCARE HAS TAKEN OFF, WITH MANY DEDICATING MORE TIME TO PREPPING THEIR SKIN. CURRENTLY, A SKINCARE DEVICE WHICH IS REALLY TAKING OFF IS THE FOREO LUNA 4, WHICH ACTS AS A MASSAGE DEVICE AND A CLEANSING BRUSH, PROVIDING THE ULTIMATE COMBO. The LUNA 4 uses a low-frequency massage, making the perfect start to your skincare routine by stimulating blood flow to the skin. The brand-new generation of LUNA is specially designed for sensitive skin. As someone who has to be very selective with the products I use on my face, I found that the LUNA 4 did not bring a rash or itch, due to the soft silicone bristles that are smooth and aptly comforting, which left my skin feeling firm and fresh. This is thanks to the T-sonic pulsations that are unique to Foreo products. Whether you want a smooth massage in the evening, or a deep pore scrub, the LUNA 4 has three different cleansing modes: Gentle, Regular and Deep. The first mode is really nice to press across the cheek, as it is a warm cozy feeling (and slightly tickles). The deep mode really works into your skin, leaving a deep tingling feeling, and lets you know that your face has been thoroughly cleansed with your pores left clear for the rest of your skincare routine.

The LUNA 4 is activated and controlled via the Foreo For You App. This app is ideal for personalising your own LUNA 4 as it lets you set cleansing preferences and a firming massage routine, such as the pulsation intensity and the duration of the massage. This lets you get straight on with your skincare routine rather than messing around with the settings every time you use it. I found the app to be really easy to use, with a nice design and great

features, like letting you choose one of their pre-set massages that advise you how to get the most relaxation out of your LUNA. Additionally, you can also connect other FOREO devices, so that everything stays coordinated and in the right place. The LUNA 4 also charges a USB-C that plugs into the back. The only problem is that the charger cannot fit into the two-pin shaver socket that is usually found in bathrooms, so you have to look elsewhere in the house.

Foreo also has plenty of other products such as cleansers and serums that lets the LUNA reach its full potential. When testing out the MicroFoam Cleanser. This is really smooth feeling on your skin and goes deep into the pores that are activated by the pulsations. This makes it a valuable counterpart as a creamy and fragrant cleanser.

Overall, give your skin the cleaning routine that it deserves, through a soothing massage and cleanse that cannot be reached simply by rubbing cream in your skin. Plus, with a variety of pastel colours, the LUNA 4 elevates your skincare to a new level.

PROS:

- Due usage as a facial massager and cleaning brush.

- Effectively cleans the skin, getting deep into the pores.

- Provides a soothing massage.

- Suitable for sensitive skin

- Three modes of cleansing.

- Soft silicone bristles.

- Foreo For You App is easy to use and lets you personalise.

- Micro-foam cleanser creates a smooth and feels great with the LUNA.

CONS:

- Needs a usb socket to charge which usually cannot be found in the bathroom.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

QUIETON 3.1

£249.00 https://quieton.com/shop/quieton-3-sleep-earbuds/

THE NOTION OF MODERNISED AND TECHNOLOGICAL EARBUDS AT FIRST SEEMS SOMEWHAT FUTILE. HOWEVER, WITH THE RELEASE OF THE QUIETON 3.1, I STAND CORRECTED! NOT ONLY ARE THEY EXCEPTIONALLY COSY AS YOU LAY ON THE PILLOW, BUT THEY HAVE ALSO QUICKLY BECOME AN INDISPENSABLE PART OF MY SLEEP.

Like most people nowadays, I really struggle to blissfully fall asleep like they do in those bed adverts. Reality is, I’m tossing and turning for at least an hour. This is primarily because I live in an apartment in a city, so outside noise is always inevitable. And yet, it wasn’t till I tried the QuietOn 3.1 did I realise how much it was affecting me. They do what they say on the tin, as I drifted to sleep in minutes, and the outside noises drifted away. Realistically, I could still hear the odd snoring, but they did a good job of getting rid of major disturbances, thanks to the Active Noise Cancelling Technology.

The earbuds themselves were really comfortable, as the foam inserts are mouldable to the shape of your ear, providing a perfect cosy fit. Plus, due to their compact size, it allows side sleepers like me to not get interrupted by the shape of the earbud. In the past, when I have reviewed other earbuds, they would be uncomfortable throughout the night, and yet the QuietOn 3.1 remained wearable and unnoticeable until morning. The earbuds also come in different sizes, so they are great even if you have tiny ears!

The packaging of the QuietOn 3.1 continues to be nicely designed, as the case has a smooth white exterior, and silver hardware inside the case, keeping your precious earbuds safe. The case also charges the earbuds, so that they are all prepared for when you come home from your busy day. The earbuds themselves also herald a 28-hour battery life, thus lasting at least two nights on a single charge. Therefore, although they are certainly not the cheapest earbuds on the market, you can’t put a price on a good night’s sleep.

PROS:

- Optimal comfort.

- Mouldable inserts.

- Active Noise Technology.

- Unnoticeable in the ear.

- Compact size.

- Earbuds have 28-hour charge life.

- Charging case.

CONS:

- Quality costs.

£314.00

HEALTH & DERMADRYBEAUTY HANDS AND FEET

THE DERMADRY HANDS & FEET IS A CLINICALLY PROVEN IONTOPHORESIS MACHINE THAT DOES WONDERS FOR THOSE WHO SUFFER FROM EXCESSIVE SWEATING ON THEIR HANDS AND FEET. THIS IS A TOPIC THAT FOR PEOPLE WHO SUFFER FROM HYPERHIDROSIS (EXCESSIVE SWEATING), IS HARDLY SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT. HOWEVER, THIS MAKES THE DERMADRY HANDS AND FEET EVEN MORE IMPORTANT, AS IT CAN PROVIDE AN EASY AND PAINLESS SOLUTION TO AN AGE-OLD PROBLEM.

The use of deodorant doesn’t quite cut it for preventing sweat on your hands and feet, so you are left with little option. Subsequently, the Dermadry Hands & Feet is great for tackling excess sweating without surgery or the use of prescription drugs. Furthermore, it is easy to use in the comfort of your own home, with minimal hassle. The treatment sessions take around 15-20 minutes, and each session provides you with the comfort of six weeks of dryness. However, it can take numerous attempts to have an effect, with 98.3% of patients seeing lasting results. When you open the box, it looks really professional, sleek and medical. The kit is placed in a solid white box, that is very discreet. Inside, it has all the equipment you need, like treatment trays and electrodes. At first, it appears overtly medical and complicated, however, with a quick look at the provided manual, it is fairly straightforward. Admittedly, there is a lot of setting up to do, but considering that once it gets going all you must do is sit and relax with your feet in a tray, it seems worth it.

To use the Dermadry Hands & Feet, you set up the electrodes by plugging them into the adapter and device. Then place wet towels over the trays (seems weird but it works), then set the treatment going. Twenty minutes of simply sitting with your feet or hands in the tray, and you’re done! When you first use it and set the frequency, it does feel slightly strange. But

after a few minutes, you get used to it, especially with the ability to decrease and increase the voltage if needed. For extra help, they have lots of videos on the website which give a step-by-step guide, making it a breeze.

You have to be at 13 years of age to use the Dermadry Hands & Feet. Furthermore, it is clinically tried and tested, and subsequently recommended by doctors. With any medical piece of kit such as this, there is a list of potential side effects, as well as list of medical conditions that shouldn’t use the device, so read the instructions carefully before use!

For an easy solution to a big problem that affects millions of people per year, Dermadry Hands & Feet is the best way to go. It’s tried and tested, noninvasive, and affordable. What’s not to love?

PROS:

- Non-invasive.

- Affordable.

- Used in the comfort of your own home.

- High satisfaction rating.

CONS:

- Feeling can get a bit of getting used to.

BABY BABYBJÖRN BABY CARRIER HARMONY

£209.00

THE ABILITY TO CARRY A NEWBORN BABY AROUND HANDSFREE IS A MUST FOR NEW PARENTS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE OUT AND ABOUT. THANKFULLY, THIS IS SOMETHING THAT BABYBJÖRN KNOW ALL TOO WELL, AS THE SWEDISH COMPANY HAS BEEN PROVIDING A HELPING HAND FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY. THUS, THE BABYBJORN BABY CARRIER HARMONY IS NO DIFFERENT, PROVIDING COMFORT FOR THE BABY AND THE ACCESSIBILITY OF USING A CARRIER.

The Baby Carrier Harmony comes in a wide range of colours, including grey, dusty pink, cream, silver, navy blue, and black – which my friend and her 6-month-old put to the test. The Baby Carrier Harmony offers four possible positions, parentfacing, world-facing, and a back carry, it also has a newborn inward-facing position for the ultimate fitting.

The carrier itself is made of super soft mesh and jersey material and extra padding to ensure that both parent and little one are comfortable. So much so, that when tested on my friend’s 6-month-old, she fell asleep easily. This is thanks to the 3D mesh material, it is not only really comfortable, but breathable, light, and easy to clean. Result!

BabyBjörn is the world leading baby carrier brand and has been manufacturing multi-award winning baby carriers for over 50 years. The carrier provides adjustable head support and seat size. The buckles are also especially designed so that they are easily locked and unlocked, which is perfectly partnered with various zips and locks so the shape can easily be changed. Unlike many baby products, the carrier can last for an extended period of time, from 0-3 years.

Equally important, of course, is the comfort of the parents. Thanks to strong padding around the shoulders and hips, it is really comfortable to use, as the baby’s weight is distributed evenly on the wearer.

PROS:

- Super soft and comfortable for both baby and parent.

- Available in 6 different colours.

- Can hold the baby in four different positions.

- 3D mesh material for extra comfort.

- Size and shape easily adjustable.

- Suitable for 0-3 months.

CONS:

- Can be slightly too big for smaller framed parents.

BABY SLEEPYTROLL BABY ROCKER

AS ANY PARENT WILL KNOW, THERE IS NOTHING MORE EXHAUSTING THAN HAVING TO SPEND HOURS ROCKING THE PRAM TO KEEP THE LITTLE TIGERS ASLEEP, AND TRYING TO SUSTAIN THAT QUIET BLISS FOR JUST A LITTLE BIT LONGER… THANKFULLY, SLEEPYTROLL HAS HEARD YOUR PLEAS TO THE SOUND OF DEPRIVED SLEEP AND ACHING ARMS, PROVIDING THE PERFECT SOLUTION WITH THE SLEEPYTROLL BABY ROCKER.

When I tested it out on my friend’s restless 6-month-old, I found the Sleepytroll Baby Rocker to be highly practical and effective, which is something that is often lost behind the cutsie aesthetic of most other baby products. In my experience, babies only fall asleep if they’re snug in something that’s moving, whether it be a pram or a car. Therefore, the Sleepytroll Baby Rocker provides a simple answer to an age-old problem. It works by simply attaching the handy gadget to a pram and choosing what speed/motion you want the rocking to be at. After that, you can have a well-deserved rest! It sent my friend’s 6-month-old to sleep in minutes.

One of the first things that struck me is how versatile the Sleepytoll Baby Rocker is. Due to its adjustable strap, the gadget is multi-usage. This means that it can be attached to a pram, seat, crib, and soon to also be available for bouncers, via the use of additional adapters. This is a versatility that is not seen in other Baby Rockers on the market, as they usually just attach to the pram, which is not useful if you are out and about, or you do not want to disturb their precious slumber. The Sleepytroll Baby Rocker’s versatility is helped by the fact that the device is small and compact, so it is easily portable and can be used out and about (when you most want to avoid the screaming fits).

Another fantastic feature is the use of a motion sensor, which detects if the baby is asleep or awake, and subsequently begins rocking again so that they remain in the land of nod. This is further helped by a sound sensor, that detects the early snuffles of crying before anything big erupts! The rocking strength of the rocker can also be adjusted manually, depending on the size of the pram and what you need it for. To this end, the Sleepytroll

Baby Rocker is much more powerful and sensitive than many others on the market. The fact that it also comes with rechargeable batteries means that you won’t be worried about it constantly running out of juice. The only thing to be aware of is that the baby rocker only works for 40 minutes at a time, but it is so effective that this is more than enough time to get the job done, and you can leave them sleeping for hours!

I could not recommend the Sleepytroll Baby Rocker enough, as it is a lifesaver for any parents who want to get jobs done around the house or relax, without worrying about a sleeping child. Even though it is a bit more expensive than other rockers, it’s definitely worth the extra pennies, due to the extra features like the motion sensor, rocking adjustability, and its versatility in attaching to all the important things, like prams, cribs and car seats!

PROS:

- Very effective at sending the little one to sleep.

- Small and compact.

- Incredibly versatile, with the ability to fit to multiple pieces of furniture and carriers.

- Portable, so you are able to relax even if you are out and about.

- Adjustable strap, so that it can be wrapped around any pram or cot.

- Functionality above aesthetic (unlike many baby products).

- Rechargeable and free of toxins.

- Motion sensor to detect when your baby is asleep or awake. Starts rocking again if the baby awakes.

- The rock strength is adjustable depending on the size of the pram and what you need it for.

-More powerful than other baby rockers on the market.

CONS:

- Basic mode rocks for 40 mins.

MINIMEIS G4 SHOULDER CARRIER

£169.99

OVER THE YEARS, WE HAVE REVIEWED MANY BABY CARRIERS, ALL WITH THEIR UNIQUE FEATURES AND PURPOSES. THE MINIMEIS G4 SHOULDER CARRIER IS PERFECT FOR THOSE PARENTS WHO LOVE THE OUTDOORS AND EXPLORING. INDEED, MINIMEIS WAS CREATED WITH THE IDEA OF ADVENTURE, FUN AND QUALITY TIME, AS THEY BELIEVE THAT THE WORLD LOOKS ITS BEST FROM SAFE SHOULDERS. AFTER PUTTING THE MINIMEIS TO THE TEST I WOULD CERTAINLY SAY THAT IT HAS DONE THE TRICK IN GIVING YOUR CHILD A SENSE OF THE WILD FROM A SAFE AND SECURE PLACE.

The Minimeis carrier is suitable for ages 6 months to 4 years, which allows the product to be very long-lasting and worth the money. Additionally, even from the carrier’s appearance, you can’t help but notice that is much more structured and robust than other baby carriers. This means that your child can stay secure whilst sitting comfortably on your shoulders. This is great for when you are carrying the child for extended periods of time, perhaps when you are on a family holiday or showing your little one the beautiful countryside on a hike. Consequently, whilst your child is taking in the nature around them, the Minimeis guarantees that their back is well supported, which in turn means less discomfort in your neck, back, and shoulders over an extended period of time. And yet despite the hard skeleton of the carrier, the Minimeis has thick soft padding across the child’s seating area and the carrier’s shoulders, so that sturdy security does not infringe on comfort.

Importantly, you should not tighten the front strap fully to your chest, because it may cause the carrier to slide backwards. Instead, you tighten the side straps so that it fits firmly to your arms and shoulders. It is at this point that you can adjust the chest strap so that everything stays in place. Consequently, you can lift the child into the carrier, but you must make sure that they are sat fully back into the seat before you strap them in, to ensure optimum comfort for both you and the child. Thankfully, Minimeis provide an informative video, that is easy to follow and explains in greater detail how to adjust and use the shoulder carrier. The packaging of the Minimeis Shoulder Carrier is another great aspect, as it arrives in a drawstring bag, meaning that there is no plastic

involved. (A big environmental plus.) The bag is made from thick material so can be used again and again, either to transport the Minimeis around or to carry anything else you may need for your child’s adventurous expedition. The shoulder carrier also folds down to a really compact size that will easily fit under the buggy or in the back of the car and can easily be opened up when needed. The Minimeis is also available in Black Navy, Burgandy, Urban Camo, Grey/Orange, and Black Grey, providing a wide range of colours. The Minimeis G4 Shoulder Carrier is the best companion for your child’s adventures as it provides great support for both you and the child, whilst letting you roam the countryside hands-free in comfort and style.

PROS:

- Lets you take your child on exciting adventures!

- Very robust

- Can be used over a long period of time.

- Comfortable to wear over long periods.

- Thick and soft padding.

- Simple use of straps and buckles.

- Video available to inform parents on how to use.

- Plastic-free packaging.

- Arrives in a reusable drawstring bag.

- Available in a wide range of colours.

QUEST: ‘DAVID

ATTENBOROUGH’S CONQUEST OF THE SKIES’

META QUEST’S LATEST FILM ‘DAVID ATTENBOROUGH’S CONQUEST OF THE SKIES’ TAKES YOU ON A JOURNEY THAT FEELS OTHERWORLDLY, AND YET IS PRESENTING OUR PLANET IN A WHOLE OTHER DIMENSION. FROM THE MOST INTRICATE FLUTTER OF WINGS TO THE SWOOPING FLIGHT OF THE WORLD’S MOST AMAZING BIRDS, THIS IS AN EXPERIENCE THAT CANNOT BE MISSED. THE DOCUMENTARY IS ANOTHER RELEASE FROM THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED META MOVIES, INCLUDING ‘MICRO MONSTERS’ AND ‘KINGDOM OF PLANTS’. ‘CONQUEST OF THE SKIES’ HOWEVER, OPENS UP A NEW REALM OF DOCUMENTARY MAKING. ALONGSIDE ITS MAJESTIC NATURE, YOU ALSO DISCOVER THE SAVAGERY OF THE NATURAL WORLD, THROUGH A FRESH AND INNOVATIVE MEDIUM, GIVING YOU THE KEY TO THE CREATURES OF THE SKY. THE FILMS ARE BASED ON PREVIOUS DOCUMENTARIES AND CONVERTED FOR THE INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES OF VR. THE END PRODUCT ALLOWS YOU TO WITNESS SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST AMAZING ANIMALS UP CLOSE FOR THE FIRST TIME.

The VR experience takes you on a historical journey of the evolution of each flying animal. Each episode is less than 10 minutes long, providing bite-sized wonders of the planet. The first episode: ‘Vanguards’, takes you on a journey of some of the world’s oldest and most majestic flying creatures. You can discover the intricate and perplexing world of insects, including the beauty of dragonflies and butterflies.

‘Rivals’ follows on with the world of reptiles and dinosaurs. You are transported to a world where they hold dominion over the world with a mite and force that leaves much desired from the history books. You also see a whole new side to reptiles, which may be a tricky part for some. Admittedly, I am usually quite scared of animals like snakes and lizards, and yet I found the lives of lizards compelling for once.

The final episode, ‘Victors’, witnesses the development of birds. This part was my personal favourite as you really take flight. You witness the evolution of these spectacular animals through appearances from tiny hummingbirds to majestic hunting owls that swoop and dart in front of you.

As always with Meta, the graphics are incredible, so you are able to see every tiny feather. Unlike other VR games that I experienced, this one made me feel a little less nauseous, which is always a bonus. The sound system is also something to behold, as it really helps you encapsulate the environment you are in. Not to mention the fact that it elevates David Attenborough’s iconic documentation to a whole new level. Unlike watching one of his documentaries on TV, you feel like you are joining him on the expedition, bringing even greater connectivity between the world’s greatest animals, and a wonderful source of knowledge.

Overall, the Meta ‘Conquest of the Skies’ cannot be missed. It immerses in a world that was never thought possible away from your TV screen. It can be enjoyed by all ages, as there is something timeless about the wonders of our natural world.

PROS:

- Amazing graphics and visuals.

- Unlike anything else available.

- The surround sound is really in its element.

- Educational and compelling.

- It’s free!

CONS:

- Still made me feel slightly nauseous (but better than other games).

ANTI-NAUSEA WRIST BAND

$149.99

IS THERE ANYTHING WORSE THAN THE FEELING OF NAUSEA WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELLING ON A LONG JOURNEY? IT IS MOST WELL-KNOWN TO AFFECT CHILDREN, HOWEVER, MILLIONS OF ADULTS ALSO SUFFER WITH IT, AND IS A MUCH MORE COMMON PROBLEM AMONGST GROWN-UPS THAN IS OFTEN REALISED. AS SOMEONE WHO SUFFERS FROM IT WELL INTO ADULTHOOD, I COULDN’T WAIT TO TRY THE EMETERM FASHION ANTI-NAUSEA WRIST BAND, AND SEE IF IT COULD REALLY CURE AN AGE-OLD PROBLEM.

Usually, when travelling for more than three hours in the car, the motion sickness really begins to kick in. However, my luck turned when I tried the EmeTerm on a journey up north, I thought it was great, as it began to work quickly in removing that horribly familiar feeling without having to take large tablets hours beforehand. (Which I always forget to take!) It is worth noting that the EmeTerm is suitable for children aged 6+, and has multiple uses, such as stopping morning sickness. This makes the wrist band ideal for countless women who suffer from miserable morning sickness during pregnancy.

Aesthetically, the EmeTerm is vastly different from the standard neon bands you would see as a child, as it blends in and is not overtly noticeable on your wrist. The band is available in black and light blue, therefore helping blend in with the rest of your clothing. Furthermore, it is very lightweight so easy and comfortable to wear over long periods of time. The strap fits really securely around the wrist with a double clasp mechanism, ensuring that it works effectively but is still wearable. I did find that I had to get somebody to help me do up the strap, as the securing part is quite fiddly, but is easy to remove once worn on a long journey. In conclusion, the EmeTerm Fashion Anti-nausea wrist band acts as the perfect travel companion, as my motion sickness was completely stopped, and I no longer have to worry about the wretched sicky feeling. Therefore, I would 100% recommend it next time you travel by boat, train, or car!!

EmeTerm will be releasing a new Nausea wristband in 2023, the EmeTerm Explore.

PROS

- Works really fast at relieving motion sickness.

- Available in two different colours.

- Comfortable to wear over long periods of time.

- Unlike the use of medication, there are no side effects or drowsiness

CONS:

- Strap can be a bit fiddly, and you need a friend to help put the wrist band on.

CAR ALARM PRO TX-168

BETWEEN 2021 AND 2022, THERE WAS A 21% INCREASE IN CAR THEFTS IN THE UK. THEREFORE, FOR ANY CAR OWNER, IT IS ALWAYS A WORRY. AND YET, NOT ALL CARS POSSESS BUILT-IN CAR ALARMS, LEAVING MANY PEOPLE (INCLUDING MYSELF) OUT IN THE ELEMENTS WHEN IT COMES TO CAR BREAK-INS. HENCE WHY I WAS EAGER TO TEST OUT TECHNAXX’S UNIVERSAL CAR ALARM PRO TX-168, AND I WAS CERTAINLY NOT DISAPPOINTED!

German company Technaxx uses simple technology that has a big impact. In the case of the Universal Car Alarm, you receive a small interior alarm, that possesses an LED light and plugs into the accessory dock (cigarette lighter). Personally, I think that this particular connection system is good because it means that setting up the alarm is really easy, plus the alarm can be used in any vehicle. Furthermore, the alarm possesses USBC and USB-A dock, so that it can be used to charge your phone or other devices. Another great bonus!

The alarm detects motion by using a PIR sensor (Passive Infra-Red), which is commonly used in Technaxx products. The alarm package also includes a remote control fob. With just a single button, it is really easy to use, as you can turn the alarm on and off, and stop the sound. There is also the potential to connect another three fobs, however, only one comes with the kit.

You also additionally receive an exterior alarm that can be attached to the car under the bonnet, which is again, really easy to install. This is a clever element as it means that once the alarm goes off, it certainly cannot be missed, as the exterior also generates a big sound.

The LED light on the exterior alarm is also a really good indicator of what the alarm is up to, including if it is armed, disarmed, or low battery, as well as many other factors. The LED light is a good element as it is incredibly noticeable and lets you know that everything is working effectively, by flashing different colours depending on what it is up to. I expected the light to be somewhat faint, however, the LED is very bright and noticeable.

For example, when the alarm is armed, a red light flashes every 5 seconds, which can be activated by pressing the remote-control button once. It can then be disarmed simply by pressing the button, also working at a considerable distance away from the car. Further featured in the packaging is an instruction manual that is in many languages, as well as a rechargeable lithium battery. The booklet itself is also really small, so can easily fit in your glove box.

The battery in the alarm needs to be charged in the accessory socket. In my case, my car had to be running for it to provide power, which is something to be aware of. It takes about two hours to charge fully, which then provides a week’s worth of life. Although this would be considered a long-life accessory, it does mean that you must routinely charge the alarm for it to be

effective in your car at all times. However, the light flashes blue continuously when it is low on battery, which I think is a great feature to guarantee that the alarm is always charged, and your car is always protected.

Overall, I think the Technaxx Universal Car Alarm is not only a good purchase, but completely necessary as car theft is on the rise. Even if you don’t own a car, this little gadget is great to have as it doesn’t have to be used for a car but anywhere it can be plugged in, making it very versatile!

PROS:

- Simple to use.

- Compact.

- Bright LED light and loud alarm.

- LED light flashes different colours depending on need.

- Can be used in any vehicle with an accessory dock. (Basically, all of them).

- Comes with a remote-control fob that uses a single button.

- Doesn’t have to be used in a car.

- The alarm can be charged from home over a micro-USB cable.

CONS:

- Car must be running for the battery to be charged.

- Does not come with other fobs.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

AT GADGET HEAD, OUR AIM IS TO GIVE OUR READERS THE MOST HONEST REVIEWS WE CAN.

We also seek to provide all manufacturers with an equal opportunity to promote their goods: in fact, we are incredibly proud that startup companies have just as much of a chance to feature in our magazine as established brands do. How do we ensure all of this? Our policy is simple: we do not offer sponsored reviews. Instead, if you send us goods to review, we reserve to right to keep and sell these on. By funding our magazine in this way, we can guarantee that we are not publishing paid-for opinions or prioritizing larger companies, and there are no hidden fees to having your product reviewed and featured.

WE DON’T GUARANTEE 5-STAR REVIEWS, BUT WE DO GUARANTEE AN HONEST ONE!

Copy Editor Lucy Pilgrim

hello@thegadgethead.com

Lead Designer Alina Sandu

studio@littlegatepublishing.com

Publisher Stephen Warman

stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com

EXPLORE. ENJOY.

MAXIA 4 THE NEW GENERATION OF THE LEGEND

GIVI’S most popular top case, totally redesigned. Stylish as never before, versatile and as strong as ever.

• ABS cover with a new design

• Internally strengthened outer edge

• Double cover made from plastic and aluminium

• New outer band

• New optical reflectors with small reflector on the outer band

• Capacity: 56 lt