Friday, May 20, 2016

Best E-reader? Amazon Kindle Review 2016

I am writing this from the perspective of being a long-time experienced Kindle user vs. someone brand new. From an overall perspective, considering the pricing of the Kindle with Special Offers at $79 vs. higher amounts for the different flavors of Kindle available today, this one is a bargain. If you have wanted to get your kids a Kindle to encourage reading as well as sharing of books but hesitated because $119 to $400+ is a lot of money to risk with a child, maybe at $79 this is your price point.
I've had this Kindle for a while now. Many of the reviews say it all so I don't think I could add much. But I feel like I need to speak on behalf of this Kindle to shield it from reviewers and owners who seem to have no idea what they bought. If this could help clear up any confusion for a first time buyer then writing this is worth it. So I have to begin by asking reviewers that confuse us all?
Do you have any clue what you bought? Let's all say it out loud: THIS KINDLE DOES NOT HAVE A LIGHT!!!!!! It is an entry level model with no light. Amazon has always sold non lighted Kindles, and I still have many of them. They are a cheap way to get into the e-reader scene. Can you read a real book in the dark? Of course not. So these non lighted Kindles are not epic failures for not having a light just as the last novel you bought was not an epic failure for not having a built in light. It is ridiculous to buy this Kindle then give it a 1 star review because it doesn't have a light. Read the product descriptions. This Kindle has no light, the Paperwhite and Voyage do.
Scream all to the heavens: THIS KINDLE DOES NOT HAVE PAGE TURNING BUTTONS!!!! To buy this Kindle then give it a 1 star review because your old Kindle had page turning buttons and this one does not is insane. Could you not see when you clicked on "BUY" that this Kindle had no page turning buttons. Sometimes I think there are two kinds of Kindle owners: those who want page turning buttons and those who don't mind moving their thumb a nano meter to turn a page. If you can tell by my sarcasm, I belong to the latter bunch.
Then of course there are the technically deficient that have no clue what wifi is, are unable to sign on, and blame it on the Kindle. BAM! another 1 star review. Well I feel for you on this one, If you are new to the scene all Kindles come wifi ready, ready to sign on to your wifi set up at home. When this is done you can buy book from your Kindle or computer. All of your purchases are held in that magical storage space called "the cloud" and you can access those from any Kindle registered under your name.
Now for my two cents. This is a great Kindle. The software is the latest, similar to the Paperwhite. It's quick, has any feature you could ask for from an entry level Kindle. I don't understand the hate for touch screen. You should embrace it. See that word on the page you don't know? Touch it with your finger and a dictionary pops up giving you the definition. How many clicks on the Kindle Keyboard would this same function take (still have my Keyboard and love it, but probably like one loves an antique typewriter). As far as page turns go, see my nano meter thumb comment above. Once you get used to it it's a piece of cake. Hey, the first time I picked up an iPhone to type a text message "how are you?" it came out "lskdlj eiieoi c;?" You need to acclimate yourself to a touch screen. Once you do those page turning buttons will start to feel like cheap little bits of plastic that will eventually stop working.
Under a lamp or in natural daylight the text is bold and easy to see. Some fonts are bolder than others. This is also a very light Kindle. I've found kind of a sweet spot for holding Kindles. Pinching the bezel to hold it is awkward. I place the bottom left corner in the middle of my palm, rest the back of it on my four fingers, and tilt it slightly to the left so it doesn't fall in my lap. My thumb is perfectly free to move that nano meter to turn a page.
So let's sum up:
*This Kindle does not have a light.
*This Kindle does not have page turning buttons.
*This Kindle (like all Kindles) has wifi capability. When you are home on your wifi you can buy and download books from the Kindle store. If you go to the beach, you cannot. If you want this then get 3G. This is like a cell phone. Personally I've never needed to buy a book outside of my home so never felt the need for 3G.
If this helps one person it was worth typing.
You take your Kindle everywhere, so you want a Kindle case that protects your device and fits your look. Find the best ones below: http://www.tagreat.com/tablet-cases-c-42. TAGreat cases and sleeves keep your Kindle living happily ever after.

Friday, May 6, 2016

Top 3 Best Samsung Galaxy S7 Cases

Cases for the Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge are just starting to hit the market with plenty more on the way. With so many people scrambling to get a new Samsung Galaxy S7, supplies of compatible Samsung Galaxy S7 cases are very low at some local retailers. If you are still hunting for the perfect case for your Galaxy S7, we've rounded up 15 awesome cases that you can buy online, right now. Whether you are shopping for a water-resistant case, a wallet-style case, a cute case, or just a solid, all-around protective case, one of these options is sure to suit your unique demands for an Galaxy S7 case.
Why take the chance? Peruse the Galaxy S7 cases that are flooding onto the market and get the style and protection you need.
1. iCarer Genuine Leather Case for Samsung Galaxy S7
Installation was a snap. The phone fits in to place and is secured by each edge being slightly curved to hug the corners of the fun. The leather not only looks premium but it is as advertised, premium leather. I bought the brown case and find it to be dress casual. Today was the first day of using my new case and I have already been complimented twice while using it at work. The quality of the case is well built. Some "folio" type cases are flimsy and look cheap and fall a part where the binding is. Although, I have not used this case for more than 1 day so far, I can tell from other cases that this one is built much better and to last. Instructions are included on how to care for the leather and a case that is comes in.
If you are looking for a case that is slim that will go in to your front pocket easily, this is a phone I can assure you would be just that. I hate bulky cases. Protecting your phone is great, but I don't need a case that is either impossible to put in my pocket or fit comfortably. You will be pleased if this is on your checklist.
Cut outs for the phone are for the home button, camera lens, and where the ear piece is. As seen in the pictures, the top of the phone is protected by the bezel edges but is still exposed as well as the bottom where the speaker, charging slot, and auxiliary jack. I am very picky with protection but as I said, I love this case b/c it offers the protection I want as well as comfort and sophistication.
I did receive this case at a discounted price in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. If you are looking for a genuine leather case that is slim fitted, that offers great protection then you will not be disappointed with your purchase.
Price: $18.99
2. Defender Series Rugged Case for Samsung Galaxy S7
This Defender Series Galaxy S7 case fits like a glove and provides bump and scratch protection for the sides, back and top. The large cut-out for the Apple logo, I can take it or leave it. None of the ports are made more difficult to access, and the skin does not interfere with pushability on the volume and power buttons. The wrap-around edge rises slightly over the screen and does not interfere with swiping. It feels good in the hand, with a slightly matted finish.
The polycarbonate shell is flexible and it's easy to put on and remove the case. For people who aren't accident-prone and want a minimalist, low-profile case, this is a good option.
As there are no moving pieces, nothing should break during normal use, but Defender Series backs the product up with a lifetime replacement policy nonetheless. Manufacturer provided unit for evaluation.
Price: $15.65
3. ROCK S-View Flip Cover for Samsung Galaxy S7
Fits my phone like a charm. Looks amazing on my phone. When I close the case I get a convenient time screen and charging information. Looks sharp! This was my third case for this phone. I bought a cheap one, not bad. Then I bought a Body Glove, again, not bad. Finally I bought this one and was kicking myself for not buying it first.
Love the case. It covers and fits the phone perfect. I love the color. I have a screen protector on and it works fine. I know some people don't like the fact that the case scratches on the back but I don't mind as long as my phone doesn't have scratches. You could have come up to me and told me this was new and I would have totally believed it. I'll definitely be buying from this company again. I'll admit I was a bit nervous trying them out at first but I'm glad I did!
The notifications are dismiss-able but NOT actionable in the s-view. Actionable items include: responding to events, notifications, and timers; controlling your music playback; accessing your contacts; accessing the camera.
Price: $10.95
Without a doubt, a Galaxy S7 Case is a good investment. There are many different cell phone cases available in the market, so be sure to test out a few before purchasing one.

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Best Battery Case for Samsung Galaxy S7 edge

Experience your Samsung Galaxy S7 edge in a whole new way. The best part of the TAGreat Samsung Galaxy S7 edge Portable Charger / Battery Case provides your phone with premium protection against the wear and tear of everyday living, while it is still keep its minimal form factor. With its light-weight, simplest bumper design, the does an outstanding job to extend your time to rock, talk, and protect your phone.
This durable, ultra-slim case enclosed a maximum capacity 5200mAh battery core, with the ability to double the lifespan of your Samsung Galaxy S7 edge battery life for some series extra hours. The TAGreat has fully functional set of features including LED power level indicators so you can check power remaining at any time, and pass through syncing so that you don't need to remove the battery to sync with iTunes.
I received the TAGreat Battery case for the phone in a silver bubble wrap that protected the case very well. Kudos to the shipping department!
I posted a lot of pictures of the product with space grey and white phone! The size differences and more!
Check them out!
Onwards to the Review!
Quick Version:
Pros: Great Battery Life, Protective Case, Sync Through the Case, Raised Lip for a lay on the table design, Tactile Buttons, Does not interfere with camera and flash functionality, and Slimmer than my Otter Box!
Cons: Slight Speaker Audio Distortion past 80% volume
“Whatever”: When charging the case, it charges the phone first then the case, the soft black material is a fingerprint magnet for oily fingers, You have to use the headphone extension/adapter to use the headphone jack, and non-included wall charger to charge the case (you can always use your wall charger)
In Depth Version:
The Packaging:
The TAGreat Battery Case comes in very stylish orange and white box. Trianium claims on the box that it provides a “Protective Bumper”, “Doubles Battery Life”, “Sync through the Case”, “5200mAh Battery”. Furthermore, the box provides an informative diagram of the case for the phone (such as button placements and various features). Kudos to the marketing team for providing a stylish yet informative box.
Inside the Packaging:
Opening the top two plastic safety seals on the box reveals a plastic shell housing the following: an Headphone Extension/Adapter Cable, Micro USB Charging/Syncing Cable, User’s Manual, and of course, the TAGreat Battery case itself. I do want to commend Trianium for the well thought out user’s manual. It provides information to what is included with the packaging, how to install the battery case, how to use the battery case, charging specifications, frequently asked questions, benefits, and warnings and warranty information.
Here is the specifications of the TAGreat Battery Case (as listed in the user’s manual).
Battery Type: Li-polymer
Capacity: 3.7V/5200mAh
Input: DC 5V/1A (Max)
Output: DC 5V/1A
Dimensions: 159 x 73 x 16 mm (L x W x D)
Utilizing the TAGreat Battery Case:
Wow! Holding the Battery case in the hand feels great! The black model comes with a soft touch material that does not make the phone slippery. I do; however, have to note that since it is black and the material is soft, it is a fingerprint magnet!
Installing the battery case was a breeze. As mention in the User’s manual, lift the bumper surrounding the case, gently slide the phone onto the lighting connector of the case, and snap the bumper back on the case.
*Do NOTE that it needs to snap into place*
I recommend you listen for the snap and visually inspect that it is leveled on there and in place!
Using the case to charge your phone is as easy as holding the power button on the back of the case for 2 seconds and releasing it! Repeat the process to turn it off! There are 4 LED indicators in the back that indicate how much power you have in the battery pack.
Information on LEDs and Power in the Case
4 Lit up LEDS: The Battery Pack has 75-100% Power Remaining
3 Lit Up LEDs: The Battery Pack has 50-75% Power Remaining
2 Lit Up LEDs: The Battery Pack has 25-50% Power Remaining
1 Lit Up LED: The Battery Pack has 1-25% Power Remaining
The case provides a lay on the table design with a raised lip that does not interfere with my plastic screen protector. The buttons are AWESOME ON THIS CASE. Tactile feedback is definitely there on the volume rocker and power button. There is a cut out for the silent switch. It is noted that the cut out makes the button recessed; however, there is no problem accessing it even with short nails like mine.
I tested the phone for any possible microphone muting and speaker audio muting problems. I am glad to say all my callers can hear me loud and clear! Furthermore, the speaker seemed perfectly fine up till about 80% max volume. I noticed at 80% volume or higher, there was a slight distortion or echoing of the speaker audio. When I mean SLIGHT, you really really REALLY have to be listening for it. As with most battery cases, you have to use a headphone extension/adapter to access the headphone jack. I find it a pain in the butt to use an extension but that is just me being lazy.
I also had the chance to test out the camera with flash and the various sensors on the phone. The cut out for the camera is nice and wide and does not interfere with flash or taking the picture. The case did not interfere with any proximity sensors or made it difficult to use the home button.
I tested the “claim” that it could sync through the TAGreat Battery Case. I am happy to report that it DOES work. I was able to sync my phone to iTunes without a problem.
Size? Weight? Aesthetics? This case is slimmer than my Otter Box! I was thoroughly surprised and very welcoming to the design. The TAGreat Battery Case did add some weight to the phone but nothing significant enough to make you hate your phone for being a brick or anything to make everyday use cumbersome. Aesthetics? I know this is a very subjective topic. I for one, like the design of this case. It looks freaking awesome! I had a couple of my friends inquire about the case and how “cool” it was.
The most important thing: Does it work as a battery case? My answer is YES!! At 5200 mAh, the battery case double the battery life of your phone and then some. The phone comes with an 1810 mAh battery case. With battery case and the conventional math, you can be packing 4910 mAh in your pocket! This should carry even the heaviest phone users throughout the day and then some! Those who use their phone sparingly like myself, you may expect a 2-4 days without reaching for a charging cable!
Minor Quirks and “Meh” Opinions about the Case:
Like I mentioned earlier, there is a slight distortion in the speaker audio if you crank it past 80%. The headphone extension is required to use the headphone jack. The Micro USB cable did not come with a wall charger (but you can always use your apple wall charger). The soft touch material of the case is a fingerprint magnet if your hands are oily. When charging the case, it will charge your phone first before charging the case.
Extended Battery Case for Samsung Galaxy S7 edge
 Final Thoughts/Closing Thoughts:
This is a very well designed case. If you are looking for a battery case, look no further! The Trianium Battery Case for the phone is where it is at! Stylish, Slim, Protective, and Functional are words that I would use to describe this case!
This battery case is well made, sturdy and a bit bulkier than we are used to. It has gold plating design and the cord seems to be of high quality. This product is also available on Tagreat.com here: Battery Case for Samsung Galaxy S7 edge.