Fun Tech Reviews
Specialized Turbo S Electric Bike Review
by Jamaica Scott - May 27, 2016
Review
Does being stuck in traffic drive you nuts? The Specialized Turbo S Electric Bike is a great solution. There are many benefits to an electric bike. Depending on where you live, parking can cost upwards of $20 per day! A bike can be locked to a stationary object. Plus, this electric bike is not considered a motor vehicle. Therefore, you do not need to register or insure it. Unlike a moped/electric scooter, you can pedal an electric bike if it runs out of power.
The Turbo S comes with some basic equipment. It has integrated LED lights, which are very sleek. It is important for bicyclists to both see, and be seen. Specialized also offers fenders and a rear rack that match the bike at an additional cost. If you plan to use this bike to commute, fenders will prevent that unsightly mud stripe from appearing on your backside. The rear rack will allow you to mount items on your bike.
With exception of the locking battery, this bike has no theft protection. Simply locking up your bike will only make it more difficult to steal. The sad truth is that a thief might not take your whole bike. There is nothing to prevent a thief from taking components (seat, wheel, pedal, etc.) from the bike. There are products on the market that make components more difficult, if not impossible, to steal. Reasonably securing the bike would be at an additional cost to the buyer.
Without such an investment, this $7,000 bike may as well have an attached “Steal me” sign. Electric bikes are a viable alternative to driving. If you need extra cargo room, racks, baskets, and trailers can be purchased and attached. The Specialized Turbo S is luxurious. However, it is missing a few features. For example, suspension could make off-road use more comfortable. Also, if you plan to leave the bike unattended, consider additional anti-theft options.
Highlights
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Turbo Integrated down-tube battery, self-locking key release, on-board or off-bike charge capable, LED power indicators, and start-up diagnostic feature
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Turbo Alloy Frame and Fork
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Shimano hydraulic disk brakes
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500 Watt motor
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700x45mm tires
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Built in headlights and taillights
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Turbo Clean Cockpit, integrated thumb control, illuminated display
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Custom Specialized, 42V4A, w/Rosenberger plug charger
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Rear wheel/chain drive for electric pedal assist
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Lifetime frame warranty - 3 year motor and battery
Pros
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Custom double legged kickstand
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Self diagnostic system
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Bright LED lights
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Extra large battery capacity
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Mobile App
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Quiet
Score
9.1
Cons
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Heavy (54.5lbs)
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Regen mode must be manually activated
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Lights cannot be turned off
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No suspension
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Throttle mode has a limit of approximately 11 mph
Miggo's Pictar iPhone Camera-grip Review
by Audrey Liang - June 9, 2016
Review
I love to take pictures using my iPhone. Every time I see something fun, I shoot photos using my iPhone and share them with friends. However, there are some exceptions. In a cold winter, for example, I can't convince myself to take off my warm gloves for a picture. On some other times, it’s hard to use only one hand to shoot photos using my iPhone when I am holding something. With Miggo's new Pictar iPhone camera-grip, all those inconveniences are solved.
Miggo's new Pictar is foremost a camera grip that unleashes what an iPhone's camera can do with four conventional single-lens reflex (DSLR) buttons and wheels. The Pictar also has a shutter button to enable a "half press" mode to lock focus. In the back, a zoom ring lets you zoom in or out using one hand. By clicking the ring, you can also switch between iPhone's front and back camera for easy selfies. On the front, you will find the exposure compensation wheel and the smart wheel. The first lets you control brightness levels before shooting pictures while the second offers 7 pre-set camera modes to fit in different situations.It comes with a 1/4" Tripod socket and an AA battery that lasts for 4-6 months.
The key value and what makes it unique is that the Pictar camera-grip is the way it connects and works with your iPhone. The traditional means to connect an accessory with smartphones is through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth while Miggo's new Pictar uses high-frequency dual tone ultrasounds, and every function has a different sound. With the app installed, your iPhone will detect different tones from the casing. This way, Pictar leverages the power of your iPhone without drawing any power from it. With a single AA battery, Pictar can last for up to 6 months. You can also add a tripod and clip-on lenses on it.
For now, the new Pictar iPhone camera-grip works on iPhone models 4 to 6s, and it has already succeeded on Kickstarter so is likely to go into production. If you love your iPhone and the photos it takes and need one hand to pose for selfies, Miggo's Pictar iPhone camera grip can be the one you want. The best part is, you never have to take off gloves for a picture!
Highlights
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Unleash the power of iPhone's camera using high-frequency dual tone sounds
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Multi-state shutter release
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The exposure compensation wheel changes the exposure in steps of 1/3 aperture
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Seven pre-set modes: auto mode, portrait mode, landscape mode, sport mode, snow mode, selfie mode, and video mode.
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Three advanced modes: shutter priority, ISO priority, and manual (iPhone manual =shutter +ISO adjustments)
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1/4" Tripod socket
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A standard CR ½ AA battery that lasts for 4-6 months
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Cold-shoe mount to support lighting units up to ½ pound
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Semi-open body allows connecting most "clip-on" lenses
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PICTAR fits iPhone models 4 to 6S while PICTAR PLUS fits 6 PLUS and 6s PLUS
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2 to 5 year warranty
Pros
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Make your iPhone work like a DSLR
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Save battery power by using high-frequency sound to connect to iPhones
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Can be shared on all iPhones
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Lightweight
Score
9.4
Cons
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No iPhone case or connecting jack are allowed when using Pictar (except for the silicon case for iPhone 6/6s)
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Can only be used on iPhones
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No left-hand version
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Brief delay when trying to focus and snap a photo on the preproduction model
Henes Broon F830 Sport Kids Car Review
by Mikael Romo - March 14 2016
Review
Do you want to treat your kids every now and then? The Broom F830 Sport is a kids car designed for older toddlers to six year olds. However, what makes it different from other kids’ cars you'll find at toy stores is how it combines advanced technology with style. You can order the car in red, black, or white. The F830 will come disassembled, but once you put it together, you'll appreciate its sport car-like design. More importantly, your child will have a ton of fun as they cruise around the neighborhood!
When your child walks up to the Broon F830, they'll actually be able to pull the door and step inside. Like a real car, this one has working doors, rear and front lights, turn signals, as well as accessible hood and trunk. A 12 V motor powers the F830, and with coil spring suspensions and independent gas shock absorbers, your child's ride will be smooth whether over cement, grass, or other terrains. For your child's safety, they'll sit in an ergonomically designed bucket chair with 4-point seat belt, so they'll be safe and comfortable. When your child gets in and drive, the rechargeable vehicle can go up to 6 miles per hour.
Depending on their comfort level with car speed and maneuverability, your child can choose three levels of control over their car: from comfort, to normal, to dynamic. What's more, the vehicle comes with a Bluetooth remote control, so you can control it from a distance if your child wants to ride it but hasn't yet fully grasped steering—an added level of safety. The F830 also comes with a detachable 7-inch Android enabled tablet. When attached to the car dashboard, it displays speed, electronics temperature, distance from destination, and even diagnostics tests--this is a plus as your children can use having fun as a learning experience.
The tablet is Wi-Fi enabled so your child can use it on or off the car to download and play games from the Google Play Store, as well as watch videos or play music. Overall, the Henes Broon F830 car is a high-end kid’s vehicle that is a notch above the rest when it comes to looks and technology.
Highlights
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Comes in black, red, or white
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Attachable 7” Android tablet
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Rechargeable 12V 14Ah battery pack
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Dual 12V 70W driving motor system
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Variable speed up To 6MPH with reverse
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Length: 49", width: 27"
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Bluetooth 2.4Ghz RC remote control - Your chance to be a kid again!
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Functioning hood, trunk & doors
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Bright headlight / aux light / turn signal light / tail / brake / backup lights
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MP3 player & stereo speakers built In
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High density urethane tires
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Spring suspension & shock absorbers
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Leather bucket seat & seat belt harness
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4 wheel suspension with auto/manual braking
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For children 1-6 up io 66 Lbs.
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Warranty dependent on retailer
Pros
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Highly advanced
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Sophisticated-looking
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Safe
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Adapts to terrain
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Parents can control vehicle with remote
Score
9.6
Cons
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Plastic finish may not look as good as metal
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Not all features are simple for children to use
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Lots of technology inside car may require repairs and replacements over the years
Henes Broon F830 Sport Kids Car Video
Boosted Electric Longboard Review
by Mikael Romo - January 25, 2016
Review
Many people enjoy the freedom of light transportation, and for the light commuter, a bike, scooter, or hoverboard is a tempting mode of transportation. But some want to carve hills and traverse urban sprawl with speed and lightness. Too answer that need, the Boosted Electric Longboard is a fun, portable, fast, and rechargeable form of transportation.
Quite simply, "Boosted" is a longboard with an electric motor underneath. The advantage of the motor is the same as that of electric bikes; it exhausts you less to ride it while boosting your speed with minimal effort. It takes 60 minutes to fully recharge the board or 30 minutes to charge up to 85%. You control the longboard with a Bluetooth remote to go faster, slower, or come to a complete stop.
The longboard comes in three varieties, named in order of cheapest to most expensive: the Boosted Single, Boosted Dual, and Dual +. Each board has its own perks, and you can expect to get maximum speeds of up to 18 mph on the Boosted Single, 20 mph on the Dual, and 22mph on the Dual +. While the Single is cheapest, it is also the lightest at 13.5 lbs. and has the longest range at 8 miles on a single charge. Although the Dual and Dual + only have a 7 mile range, they have easier times going up hills without reducing speed. It should be be noted that road conditions, as well as rider weight and riding style affect the range, thus some riders may actually go farther than the regular range. And of course, when the battery runs out, you can ride it just like a regular longboard.
Boosted is great for the college student that needs to get around campus and it's a fun, easy mode of transportation for cruising around town or taking long rides up and down hills. It's a definite "yes" for short commutes in the city where you don't want to spend time parking your car or locking your bike. It's for the young who need to get somewhere and want to have fun while doing it.
Highlights
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Get the feeling of snowboarding, surfing, and wakeboarding
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Adjustable Power
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Wireless Handheld Control
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Regenerative Braking
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38 Inch Flexible Bamboo Vanguard Deck
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Orangatang In Heat Wheels
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Caliber Trucks
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1,000 watts of electric power
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Bluetooth remote control
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60 minute fast charger
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User manual
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6 month warranty against manufacturing defects
Pros
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Lighter than bike to transport
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Can still pedal after battery runs out of power
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Remote offers additional control over your board than just your legs
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Portable charger
Score
9.3
Cons
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8 mile riding range not as competitive as other electric longboards
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Not waterproof
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Have to transport it by hand wherever you take it
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Battery can't be swapped
Boosted Electric Longboard Video
Vintage Cruz Electric Bicycle Review
by Priya Modi - October 26, 2015
Review
You need a mini vacation without burning the wallet. The destination is important, but the journey can be exciting as well. Plan your mini getaway by taking the Vintage Cruz electric bicycle for a ride. It’s a new twist to traditional biking that allows you to explore the outdoors more than just a stroll in the park.
The Vintage Cruz is a classic California cruiser that is a blend of modern technology with a vintage design. It’s almost like owning a piece of historical artwork except this one moves. It has a top speed of 36 mph in race mode which is like a “magic carpet” ride. You can ride alongside the beach or run errands in the neighborhood. Do you prefer the cold? The soul of the bike lies in battery box which disperses heat, allowing you to ride during lower temperatures.
The bike is sturdy and made with KevlarGuard puncture protection built into the Schwalbe balloon tires which help to avoid flats; this is important given the weight of the bike and lack of quick-release systems. When the time comes to take a break, the hydraulic disc brakes enable to stop on a flip of a coin; one word: smooth. Safety always comes first, which is why there is an optional rear taillight upgrade—a must for night riders.
Enjoy a nice meal or take a nap for 2 hours while your bike recharges for a 30-mile journey, and your bike is fully charged and ready to head back. So, if you take pleasure in staying active, the Vintage Cruz is an alternative way of enjoying the outdoors.
Highlights
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30-mile range and 20 MPH in street legal model or 36 MPH Race Mode model
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2 hours recharge time with typical cost of $0.18 USD
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DC 52 - 110/220 AC charger
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52v 12.5 AH battery with estimated life of 30,000 miles
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Shimano Alfine Hydraulic Disc brakes - 180mm front/160mm back
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Schwalbe KevlarGuard tires
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1 year / 30,000 miles warranty
Pros
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30 mile range
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Powerful acceleration
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2 hours to fully recharge
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Comfortable seating
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Regenerative braking
Score
9.5
Cons
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Weight
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Optional upgrade for lights and pedal assist
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Tough to get it insured through traditional policies
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Security – easy to vandalize or steal
Coolest Cooler Review
by Rachael Kalinyak - September 14, 2015
Review
The Coolest Cooler is being called the Swiss Army knife of outdoor equipment. The Coolest Cooler is a well-designed outdoor entertainment system and yes, a common cooler as well. With features you never thought you would find in 1 unit, the Coolest Cooler is a feature-full cooler that any outdoor lover will fall for.
Equipped with a waterproof Bluetooth speaker that is compatible with most, if not all, Bluetooth compatible devices, the Coolest Cooler brings a hassle-free way to enjoy music outdoors. To top it off, the Coolest Cooler comes with a blender - yes a portable blender! - to make your favorite drinks. The blender uses an 18-volt rechargeable battery with enough power to blend over 6 gallons on one charge.
Also, the Coolest Cooler has more storage than you can imagine, and with the locking tie-down hooks, space is plentiful. More space means more room for your favorite snacks and drinks which can be opened with the built on bottle opener and magnetic cap catcher. Furthermore, the is no need to worry about your phone dying on you while you having a good time. The Coolest Cooler not only has a built-in waterproof USB charger, but the will also power your phone via the 18-volt battery.
The Coolest Cooler is designed to both entertain and endure. The Coolest Cooler is equipped with beach tires to easily move over rough terrain and sandy beaches. With multiple colors to choose from, the Coolest Cooler is a customizable must-have for the outdoor entertainer.
Highlights
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Complete outdoor entertainment
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Easy to use
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Smart design
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Fun and hassle free
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Essential storage capacity
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Beach tires
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LED lid-Light
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Ice-crushing blender
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Built-in USB charge
Pros
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Waterproof Bluetooth speaker
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Sturdy beach tires for transport
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Locking tie-downs for more convenience
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Strong 18-volt battery
Cons
Score
9.3
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Poor quality blender
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Blender lever shuts off after 20 seconds
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Low power speaker
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Bulk of Items limits storage space
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