Jins Frontswitch 3-In-1 glasses review

Gadgets today perform more than one job — our smartphones double as a camera, and our cars can even double as a smartphone. We get used to having such versatility from products we buy. On the other hand, eyewear traditionally does one job. It helps us see, or stops us squinting in the sunlight. However, choose the right pair of glasses from eyewear-maker Jins, and that changes. Jins has proven its tech credentials in the past with the Meme smartglasses, and the latest Jins Frontswitch is a pair of prescription glasses that performs three functions. The prescription lenses make sure we don’t bump into things; and they protect our eyes from both blue light and sunlight. For extra tech-cool, they are made by a robot.

Clipping sunglass lenses over your eyeglasses isn’t new, but the experience has never been great. There’s usually a big, ugly hinged clip, or big, ugly magnets on the side of the frames. Jins wanted to streamline this method of wearing sunglasses, so it embedded tiny square magnets in the front of the arms. Here, they look like the pins that hold the arms to the frame itself, that we’re used to seeing already. Then, it slimmed down the sunglass attachment, and matched it exactly to the frame shape for a wonderfully seamless style.

It’s impossible to tell the Frontswitch aren’t regular sunglasses when the front panel is attached.

The magnets hold the sunglass lens cover in place, without the need for any external parts at all. The result is it’s impossible to tell the Frontswitch aren’t regular sunglasses when the front panel is attached. We chose to add the Jins Screen blue light filter to our Jins Frontswitch glasses, which block out 25 percent of the blue light emitted by our smartphones and other screens. Blue light causes eye strain, and can make it difficult to fall asleep naturally if you’re using a device at night. Combined, the Frontswitch protects our eyes in two situations, and the prescription lenses correct our faulty vision.

Our Frontswitch glasses came from Jins store in San Francisco, which is important, as that means they were made by Kanna, the name given to the company’s lens edging robot. The conveyer-belt like ‘bot automates the lengthy task of producing prescription lenses, and the time it takes to produce a pair falls to just 30 minutes when Kanna’s in control. Store visitors get to see Kanna in action, and benefit from the incredibly speedy process at the same time.

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

Versatility and a cool robot doesn’t mean anything if the glasses are uncomfortable, or the sunglass panel falls off in a stiff breeze. So what are the Jins Frontswitch like? The frames are plastic, and we chose the grey Frontswitch 371 design, which has a smoked, see-through look in real-life. The arms have a grippy, textured coating at the end which stop them slipping. But the arch didn’t sit on the bridge of our nose, which did mean the oversize grip sections on either side did most of the “holding” — resulting in the glasses feeling a tiny bit heavier than expected.

We love the look of the Frontswitch 371 design, and liked the sunglass panel’s different contrasting finish, giving them more style and a look most of us want from sunglasses. The magnets are strong enough that the sunglass panel won’t fall off, but not so strong that you have to use both hands to take it off. The mirrored surface looks excellent, and provided plenty of protection when out in the sun. The Jins Screen blue light protection does add a slight tint to the regular lenses, but nothing that’s distracting. It’s difficult to say if we noticed an improvement in sleep patterns; but if you’re really worried about it, there’s the Jins Screen Night lens coating, which blocks out 60 percent of blue light.

The Jins Frontswitch have been a hit with everyone that has seen them.

The sunglasses are super light, and although they do add a little weight to the front, it’s never uncomfortable. However, they did slip forward a little more often than normal eyeglasses. I took the Jins Frontswitch along to an optician, who had expressed an interest in seeing them when I collected my prescription ahead of ordering. She was familiar with all the other sunglass attachment methods, and was genuinely impressed with Jins’ method, describing it as an exceptionally neat solution. Other people who I’ve shown have also been surprised at the convenience, and commented on the invisibility of the attachment system. The Jins Frontswitch have been a hit with everyone that has seen them.

Anyone who wears glasses will know the pain of swapping them over for a pair of prescription sunglasses many times a day. You still have to do some swapping with the Jins Frontswitch, but there’s no messing around with cases, you can do it with one hand, and there are no moments between-glasses where you can’t see — important if the transition is taking place when you’re driving. It’s a simple solution to a problem most glasses-wearers encounter, and adding in the blue light protection makes them even more attractive to tech fans concerned their smartphone love is ruining their sleep.

Jins Frontswitch glasses start at a very reasonable $150 with the standard, clear lenses, and are sold through the company’s stores or online. Adding the Jins Screen protection takes the cost to $210, which is the version we tested, and that includes shipping.  There are various other lens options, including polarised lenses, and coatings suitable for people who do a lot of driving.

We love Jins’ approach here. There’s no need to be satisfied with third-rate options, or be forced to buy a pair of regular glasses, a pair of sunglasses, and a third pair of glasses for looking at a screen at night. The Frontswitch does it all-in-one. The tech-world often talks about “disruption,” a hateful buzzword attached to noisy companies doing something to shake-up an established industry. Jins is much more subtle, yet deserves similar plaudits.

Lenovo Moto Z2 Force vs. Apple iPhone 7 Plus: Can the new Android beat Apple’s top phone?

Lenovo has finally taken the wraps off the highly-anticipated Moto Z2 Force, a flagship device aimed squarely at those who want a powerful, stylish, and long-lasting phone. Of course, it’s not the only phone option around, and while most have probably decided whether they’re Android or iOS fans at this point, some might be ready for a change or still on the fence.

The iPhone isn’t just well-designed — it’s also one of the most powerful phones out there in terms of raw performance. It was, however, released more than six months ago. That said, does Lenovo’s forthcoming flagship outpace the latest iPhone in terms of power and performance? Or does the iPhone 7 Plus stand the test of time? Below, we pit Lenovo Moto Z2 Force vs. Apple iPhone 7 Plus to find out.

Specs and performance

Lenovo Moto Z2 Force

Apple iPhone 7 Plus

Size
155.8 x 76 x 6.1 mm (6.13 x 2.99 x 0.24 inches)
158.2 x 77.9 x 7.3mm (6.23 x 3.07 x 0.29 inches)
Weight
5.04 ounces (143 grams)
6.63 ounces (188 grams)
Screen
5.5-inch AMOLED
5.5-inch LED
Resolution
2,560 x 1,440 pixels (534ppi)
1,080 x 1,920 pixels (401ppi)
OS
Android 7.1.1 Nougat
iOS 10
Storage
64GB
32/128/256GB
SD Card Slot
Yes, up to 256GB
No
NFC support
Yes
Yes (For Apple Pay only)
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 835
Apple A10 Fusion
RAM
4GB
3GB
Connectivity
GSM / HSPA / LTE
GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE
Camera
Rear dual 12MP, front 5MP
Rear dual 12MP, front 7MP
Video
4K
2,160p
Bluetooth
Yes, version 4.2
Yes, version 4.2
Fingerprint sensor
Yes
Yes
Other sensors
Accelerometer, proximity
Accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, compass, barometer
Water Resistant
No
Yes, IP67
Battery
2,730mAh
2,900mAh
Charger
USB Type-C
Lightning
Quick Charging
Yes
Yes
Wireless Charging
No
No
Marketplace
Google Play Store
App Store
Colors
Black, gold, grey
Jet Black, Black, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold, Red
Availability

Unlocked, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon

AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon

Price
$750+
$769+
DT Review
Hands-on
4 out of 5 stars

Comparing Android phones with other Android phones is pretty easy, but when it comes to comparing an Android phone with an iOS device, things get a little complicated. That’s because specs alone don’t really give a full picture of performance, and iPhones are notoriously good at baking together specs and software to create a seamless experience.

Still, specs are something to consider. The Lenovo Moto Z2 Force comes with Qualcomm’s chip, the Snapdragon 835. That processor is coupled with 4GB of RAM, which should result in an excellent experience. However, it may not be enough to take on the iPhone. The iPhone 7 Plus comes with the Apple A10 Fusion chip, which is coupled with 3GB of RAM — a little less than the Lenovo device.

So, which is better? Well, it’s complicated. Some benchmark tests award the title to the A10 Fusion chip, while in others, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 is the winner.

There’s another thing to consider, and that’s storage. The iPhone 7 Plus comes in 32GB, 128GB, or 256GB configurations, while the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force comes with 64GB. Thankfully, the latter phone also comes with a MicroSD card slot.

This one is too close to call. The two phones will be similar in terms of performance, and while there are more storage options on the iPhone 7 Plus, the Moto Z2 Force has that handy MicroSD card slot for storage expansion.

Winner: Tie

Design, display, durability

The iPhone has long been one of the better-designed phones out there, and the iPhone 7 Plus is no different. It features an attractive unibody design that showcases the Apple logo on the back, underneath a dual-camera sensor that sits in the upper-left corner of the device. On the bottom of the front of the phone, you’ll find the Home button, which also flaunts Apple’s Touch ID sensor.

The Lenovo Moto Z2 Force looks good, but it doesn’t push many boundaries. On the front, you’ll also find a fingerprint sensor underneath the display, along with a dual-camera sensor on the back. The phone is clearly designed for use with Moto Mods such as the company’s forthcoming 360-degree camera and the Hasselblad True Zoom Moto Mod, highlighted by the pins on the bottom of the back of the phone.

Perhaps more important than the design is the display, given it’s what you’ll be looking at when you use your phone. While the iPhone has traditionally offered a top-tier display, in recent years, it has started to lag behind. The Lenovo Moto Z2 Force offers an AMOLED display with 2,560 x 1,440-pixel resolution, while the iPhone sticks with LCD technology and 1,080 x 1,920-pixel resolution. There’s no getting around it for Apple — the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force offers a better display.

When it comes to durability, things are a little different. Apple has recently made a serious effort to make the iPhone more durable, and the result is a phone that is more than capable of withstanding a few drops and bumps — even if you drop it in water. That’s thanks to its IP67 waterproofing, which basically means the phone can withstand around a meter of water for up to 30 minutes. You won’t want to take this phone swimming, but if you accidentally drop it in the bath, it should be OK. There’s no such waterproofing on the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force, so we’re giving the durability award to the latest iPhone.

While the iPhone is more durable, the Moto Z2 Force offers a better display. This section is a tie.

Winner: Tie

Battery life and charging

The battery life on these two phones is actually pretty similar. While the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force offers a battery capacity of 2,730mAh, the iPhone 7 Plus’ battery sits in at 2,900mAh. Not only is the iPhone’s battery a little larger, but it should also last much longer, thanks to the lower resolution afforded by the iPhone’s display.

Both phones offer some kind of quick charging, so based on the slightly larger battery, we’re giving this one to the iPhone.

Winner: Apple iPhone 7 Plus

Camera

The iPhone has offered an excellent camera for quite some time, and the camera on the iPhone 7 Plus is no different. This is the first iPhone to offer a dual camera, and Apple has managed to create an excellent user experience in doing so. When it comes to raw specs, you’ll find a 12MP sensor with an aperture of f/1.8, optical image stabilization, and phase detection autofocus. The front-facing camera on the iPhone sits in at 7MP.

The iPhone isn’t the only device with a dual-sensor camera. Lenovo has opted for one in the Moto Z2 Force, though, we don’t know how it will perform yet. The specs on the phone’s camera sit in at 12MP, with an f/2.0 aperture and both phase and laser detection autofocus. The front-facing camera, however, is 5MP, which is slightly lower than the iPhone’s front-facing camera.

We don’t know exactly how the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force will perform when it comes to the camera yet, so this one is a tie for now.

Winner: Tie

Software

Software is one of the biggest points of difference when it comes to these two phones. While the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force comes outfitted with the latest version of Android, Android 7.1 Nougat, the iPhone comes with iOS 10.

So what’s the difference between the two? Put simply, iOS is generally a little easier to use, while Android can do a little more. In other words, if you’re looking for a phone that “just works,” then a phone with iOS is probably the way to go. That’s not to say Android doesn’t work — it works great — but it may not be as intuitive to some users. The trade-off, however, is customization. Android is generally a little more customizable, and offers things such as widgets, additional settings, and so on.

There are a few other things to consider, too, like the digital assistant on each phone. The iPhone 7 Plus comes with Siri, while the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force offers Google Assistant, Google’s latest digital assistant. Generally speaking, Google Assistant is considered to be a better assistant, namely because it’s able to understand more commands and is getting better with each update.

Speaking of updates, there’s an advantage to buying a phone made by the company that also makes the software. Whenever there’s an update available for iOS, you’ll get it almost immediately if you have the iPhone 7 Plus. When there’s an update to Android, however, you may have to wait a little, considering the update first has to make it into Lenovo’s hands, so the company can optimize the software for its phones. This can take some time.

Google Assistant is better than Siri, but the iPhone will get faster updates. Usability really comes down to personal preference. This one is a tie.

Winner: Tie

Price and availability

The iPhone 7 Plus has been available for some time now, and you can get it unlocked from the Apple Store, or from any of the major carriers. The device starts at $769, though, you’ll obviously pay more if you opt for more storage.

The Lenovo Moto Z2 Force will be just as available as the iPhone 7 Plus. However, its starting price is a little cheaper, if you buy it from a carrier, and depending which carrier you go with. If you buy it unlocked, it’ll come at a cool $800, but if you go through T-Mobile, you can get it for as little as $750. If you want the Moto Z2 Force, however, you’ll have to wait until August 10 to get your hands on one (though pre-orders are ongoing).

The iPhone may be available right now, but if you go through the right channels, you’ll be able to get the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force for a little cheaper. This one is a tie.

Winner: Tie

Overall winner

This one is extremely close. In fact, the phones tie in every single category except for one — battery life and charging, which makes the Apple iPhone 7 Plus the winner. Still, there’s no denying how close the competition is here, and for many, it’ll simply boil down to the age-old question: Android or iOS.

Either of these two phones is a solid choice, but if you’re on the fence trying to decide between the two, the iPhone 7 Plus seems to be a slightly better choice. If, however, you do end up going for the Lenovo Moto Z2 Force, you won’t be disappointed — it’s shaping up to be an excellent phone.

Weekly Rewind: Battery breakthroughs, game-changing EVs, floating solar plants

A lot can happen in a week when it comes to tech. The constant onslaught of news makes it nigh impossible for mere mortals with real lives to keep track of everything. That’s why we’ve compiled a quick and dirty list of this week’s top tech stories, from what we know about the new Meizu smartphone to how to fix your dishwasher — it’s all here.

Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus: Everything you need to know

Meizu has announced the Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus, its follow up to the Pro 6 and Pro 6 Plus. Fans should be ready for devices that don’t look like any Meizu phone that came before them. In fact, they don’t resemble many other phones at all. Meizu has put two screens on the Pro 7, but unlike LG’s approach with the V20, the main screen is joined by a secondary screen on the back. It doesn’t cover the whole surface of the rear panel though, and it is functionally reminiscent of Samsung’s early experiments with Edge screens, like the one found on the Galaxy S6 Edge Plus.

The secondary screen sits on the left-hand side of the rear panel. The size and resolution hasn’t been confirmed yet, but we do know it’s an AMOLED screen, so it should look great. It shows notifications, the music player, the time, weather information, and can act as a mirror for use with the rear cameras; selfies no longer have to be taken with the front cam.

The phone is set inside an attractive metal body, with a very cool brushed finish. Buyers can choose from matte and space black, gold, or silver.

Read: Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus: Everything you need to know

Some 2012 and 2013 MacBook Pro users got new machines due to bad batteries

Issues with the supply of components most often work against the typical computer user, particularly when it involves an older machine. For a short time, however, some lucky Apple users with 2012 or 2013 MacBook Pros benefited from the company’s supply constraints by receiving a brand-new machine as a replacement. Those fortunate circumstances are now over, and it’s back to business as usual.

According to MacRumors, Apple had a brief problem getting its hands on the integrated battery assembly for mid-2012 and early-2013 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro models. This meant that anyone who visited an Apple Store looking to get a battery replaced was out of luck. In a testament to Apple’s focus on customer service, however, the company made things right in a big way for some customers.

Read: Some 2012 and 2013 MacBook Pro users got new machines due to bad batteries

Usher and James Corden sing, and do good deeds, in latest Carpool Karaoke

When Usher jumped into the passenger seat of James Corden’s car as the latest subject for the popular Carpool Karaoke segment, he probably didn’t realize he’d also get put to work. In this high-energy edition, the pair have plenty of fan interactions that make it a must-watch.

Airing on a recent The Late Late Show With James Corden, the 13-minute segment has already received more than a million views on YouTube. While Usher and Corden rock out to some of the singer’s best hits, from Yeah! to Burn, Caught Up, I Don’t Mind, and OMG, it’s their hijinks outside of the car that offer the most entertainment.

Read: Usher and James Corden sing, and do good deeds, in latest Carpool Karaoke

5 common problems with your dishwasher and how to fix them

Some of us rely heavily on dishwashers to do our dirty work, but when the machine breaks or malfunctions, our home can quickly turn into a scene from The Walking Dead. A typical dishwasher should last between seven and 12 years. However, about one in five dishwashers will break within three or four, according to statistics published in the Huffington Post.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to get your dishwasher repairs covered by a warranty. However, many warranties only offer limited coverage and still might come with an associated cost. Consumer Reports surveyed nearly 30,000 people in 2013 and found that when their products malfunctioned, only 15 percent were able to get repairs covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Moreover, for those people whose warranty offered a repair or replacement, the customer was often still stuck shelling out around $150 for repairs — that’s on top of the cost for the extra warranty coverage.

Read: 5 common problems with your dishwasher and how to fix them

Your next phone could charge in milliseconds with Drexel’s battery breakthrough

Smartphones are modern society’s lifeblood. They keep us connected with our social circles and the services we depend on, like our banks, smart home hubs, and connected cars. There’s just one problem: they run on batteries. But if nanomaterials researchers at Drexel University have their way, we might never have to worry about sitting anxiously by a charger again.

The key is MXene, a two-dimensional material consisting of two parts: a hydrogel (a gel with a liquid water component) and an oxide metal. It’s structurally dense enough to shield radiation and filter water, as the research team at Drexel demonstrated in 2011. But it’s also highly conductive, making it a good candidate for battery membranes.

Read: Your next phone could charge in milliseconds with Drexel’s battery breakthrough

The end of life for Adobe’s Flash software nears, but don’t expect a swift death

On Tuesday, Adobe provided a roadmap for terminating its Flash software for good.  The death will not be swift and quick like it was on Android, as the company does not plan to cease updating and distributing Flash Player until the end of 2020. This will provide enough time for content creators to migrate their existing Flash-based content to newer, more secure platforms like HTML5.

“Several industries and businesses have been built around Flash technology — including gaming, education, and video — and we remain committed to supporting Flash through 2020, as customers and partners put their migration plans into place,” the company said.

Read: The end of life for Adobe’s Flash software nears, but don’t expect a swift death

Everything you can do with your Amazon Echo Show

 

Adding a screen to Amazon’s newest Alexa voice assistant means that the Echo Show can do some things the speaker alone can’t. Whether you want to watch TV, get a cooking tutorial, or see your calendar, the Amazon Echo Show can help out. Developers are racing to catch up on new capabilities rolling in after the device’s launch. Here are a few things you can now do with the Echo Show — just remember that you have to enable these skills in your app. We’ll keep you updated as the Show learns new tricks, but read on to learn more about what’s already available.

Read: Everything you can do with your Amazon Echo Show

Toyota may come out with a game-changing electric car for 2022

The twin issues of short ranges and long charging times are still a major obstacle for electric cars. But a solution to those problems may be on the way, according to a new report, and it will come from an unlikely source. Toyota plans to launch a “long-range” electric car that can recharge in just a few minutes in 2022, according to Reuters, which cites Japanese newspaper Chunichi Shimbum. Toyota has long promoted hydrogen fuel cell vehicles over cars powered by batteries. But if this reported electric car goes on sale, the carmaker could be catapulted to the head of the field.

The key to the car’s performance will be solid-state batteries. These batteries use a solid electrolyte, as opposed to the liquid used in the lithium-ion batteries that power all modern electric cars, not to mention your laptop and phone. Unlike the liquid electrolyte, the solid material isn’t flammable. Proponents of solid-state batteries also claim they will perform better than other chemistries, although the technology has not been commercialized yet.

Read: Toyota may come out with a game-changing electric car for 2022

LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ vacuums your floors and keeps quiet about it

As any homeowner knows, dust and dirt can collect fast. However, not everyone has time to vacuum as often as they would like to. Instead, many have turned toward robot vacuums to get the job done. With the latest LG Hom-Bot Turbo+, consumers are getting a robot vacuum that’s quieter and smarter than ever before.

All three models of LG‘s robot vacuum come with Wi-Fi connectivity, home security settings, and the quietest motors around. Owners can take control of their Home-Bot Turbo+ with their smartphone, or with voice command for the flagship gold model. Using the LG SmartThinQ app on either Android or iPhone, the Hom-Bot can be accessed from anywhere and use up to seven different cleaning modes.

Read: LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ vacuums your floors and keeps quiet about it

The world’s largest floating solar power plant just went online in China

China has announced that the largest floating photovoltaic (PV) facility on earth has finally been completed and connected to the local power grid. Long reviled for its carbon emission record, this is the Chinese government’s latest achievement in its ongoing effort to lead the world in renewable energy adoption.

Located in the city of Huainan in the Anhui province, the 40-megawatt facility was created by PV inverter manufacturer Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ironically, the floating grid itself was constructed over a flooded former coal-mining region.

Read: The world’s largest floating solar power plant just went online in China

Weekly Rewind: Battery breakthroughs, game-changing EVs, floating solar plants

A lot can happen in a week when it comes to tech. The constant onslaught of news makes it nigh impossible for mere mortals with real lives to keep track of everything. That’s why we’ve compiled a quick and dirty list of this week’s top tech stories, from what we know about the new Meizu smartphone to how to fix your dishwasher — it’s all here.

Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus: Everything you need to know

Meizu has announced the Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus, its follow up to the Pro 6 and Pro 6 Plus. Fans should be ready for devices that don’t look like any Meizu phone that came before them. In fact, they don’t resemble many other phones at all. Meizu has put two screens on the Pro 7, but unlike LG’s approach with the V20, the main screen is joined by a secondary screen on the back. It doesn’t cover the whole surface of the rear panel though, and it is functionally reminiscent of Samsung’s early experiments with Edge screens, like the one found on the Galaxy S6 Edge Plus.

The secondary screen sits on the left-hand side of the rear panel. The size and resolution hasn’t been confirmed yet, but we do know it’s an AMOLED screen, so it should look great. It shows notifications, the music player, the time, weather information, and can act as a mirror for use with the rear cameras; selfies no longer have to be taken with the front cam.

The phone is set inside an attractive metal body, with a very cool brushed finish. Buyers can choose from matte and space black, gold, or silver.

Read: Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus: Everything you need to know

Some 2012 and 2013 MacBook Pro users got new machines due to bad batteries

Issues with the supply of components most often work against the typical computer user, particularly when it involves an older machine. For a short time, however, some lucky Apple users with 2012 or 2013 MacBook Pros benefited from the company’s supply constraints by receiving a brand-new machine as a replacement. Those fortunate circumstances are now over, and it’s back to business as usual.

According to MacRumors, Apple had a brief problem getting its hands on the integrated battery assembly for mid-2012 and early-2013 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro models. This meant that anyone who visited an Apple Store looking to get a battery replaced was out of luck. In a testament to Apple’s focus on customer service, however, the company made things right in a big way for some customers.

Read: Some 2012 and 2013 MacBook Pro users got new machines due to bad batteries

Usher and James Corden sing, and do good deeds, in latest Carpool Karaoke

When Usher jumped into the passenger seat of James Corden’s car as the latest subject for the popular Carpool Karaoke segment, he probably didn’t realize he’d also get put to work. In this high-energy edition, the pair have plenty of fan interactions that make it a must-watch.

Airing on a recent The Late Late Show With James Corden, the 13-minute segment has already received more than a million views on YouTube. While Usher and Corden rock out to some of the singer’s best hits, from Yeah! to Burn, Caught Up, I Don’t Mind, and OMG, it’s their hijinks outside of the car that offer the most entertainment.

Read: Usher and James Corden sing, and do good deeds, in latest Carpool Karaoke

5 common problems with your dishwasher and how to fix them

Some of us rely heavily on dishwashers to do our dirty work, but when the machine breaks or malfunctions, our home can quickly turn into a scene from The Walking Dead. A typical dishwasher should last between seven and 12 years. However, about one in five dishwashers will break within three or four, according to statistics published in the Huffington Post.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to get your dishwasher repairs covered by a warranty. However, many warranties only offer limited coverage and still might come with an associated cost. Consumer Reports surveyed nearly 30,000 people in 2013 and found that when their products malfunctioned, only 15 percent were able to get repairs covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Moreover, for those people whose warranty offered a repair or replacement, the customer was often still stuck shelling out around $150 for repairs — that’s on top of the cost for the extra warranty coverage.

Read: 5 common problems with your dishwasher and how to fix them

Your next phone could charge in milliseconds with Drexel’s battery breakthrough

Smartphones are modern society’s lifeblood. They keep us connected with our social circles and the services we depend on, like our banks, smart home hubs, and connected cars. There’s just one problem: they run on batteries. But if nanomaterials researchers at Drexel University have their way, we might never have to worry about sitting anxiously by a charger again.

The key is MXene, a two-dimensional material consisting of two parts: a hydrogel (a gel with a liquid water component) and an oxide metal. It’s structurally dense enough to shield radiation and filter water, as the research team at Drexel demonstrated in 2011. But it’s also highly conductive, making it a good candidate for battery membranes.

Read: Your next phone could charge in milliseconds with Drexel’s battery breakthrough

The end of life for Adobe’s Flash software nears, but don’t expect a swift death

On Tuesday, Adobe provided a roadmap for terminating its Flash software for good.  The death will not be swift and quick like it was on Android, as the company does not plan to cease updating and distributing Flash Player until the end of 2020. This will provide enough time for content creators to migrate their existing Flash-based content to newer, more secure platforms like HTML5.

“Several industries and businesses have been built around Flash technology — including gaming, education, and video — and we remain committed to supporting Flash through 2020, as customers and partners put their migration plans into place,” the company said.

Read: The end of life for Adobe’s Flash software nears, but don’t expect a swift death

Everything you can do with your Amazon Echo Show

 

Adding a screen to Amazon’s newest Alexa voice assistant means that the Echo Show can do some things the speaker alone can’t. Whether you want to watch TV, get a cooking tutorial, or see your calendar, the Amazon Echo Show can help out. Developers are racing to catch up on new capabilities rolling in after the device’s launch. Here are a few things you can now do with the Echo Show — just remember that you have to enable these skills in your app. We’ll keep you updated as the Show learns new tricks, but read on to learn more about what’s already available.

Read: Everything you can do with your Amazon Echo Show

Toyota may come out with a game-changing electric car for 2022

The twin issues of short ranges and long charging times are still a major obstacle for electric cars. But a solution to those problems may be on the way, according to a new report, and it will come from an unlikely source. Toyota plans to launch a “long-range” electric car that can recharge in just a few minutes in 2022, according to Reuters, which cites Japanese newspaper Chunichi Shimbum. Toyota has long promoted hydrogen fuel cell vehicles over cars powered by batteries. But if this reported electric car goes on sale, the carmaker could be catapulted to the head of the field.

The key to the car’s performance will be solid-state batteries. These batteries use a solid electrolyte, as opposed to the liquid used in the lithium-ion batteries that power all modern electric cars, not to mention your laptop and phone. Unlike the liquid electrolyte, the solid material isn’t flammable. Proponents of solid-state batteries also claim they will perform better than other chemistries, although the technology has not been commercialized yet.

Read: Toyota may come out with a game-changing electric car for 2022

LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ vacuums your floors and keeps quiet about it

As any homeowner knows, dust and dirt can collect fast. However, not everyone has time to vacuum as often as they would like to. Instead, many have turned toward robot vacuums to get the job done. With the latest LG Hom-Bot Turbo+, consumers are getting a robot vacuum that’s quieter and smarter than ever before.

All three models of LG‘s robot vacuum come with Wi-Fi connectivity, home security settings, and the quietest motors around. Owners can take control of their Home-Bot Turbo+ with their smartphone, or with voice command for the flagship gold model. Using the LG SmartThinQ app on either Android or iPhone, the Hom-Bot can be accessed from anywhere and use up to seven different cleaning modes.

Read: LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ vacuums your floors and keeps quiet about it

The world’s largest floating solar power plant just went online in China

China has announced that the largest floating photovoltaic (PV) facility on earth has finally been completed and connected to the local power grid. Long reviled for its carbon emission record, this is the Chinese government’s latest achievement in its ongoing effort to lead the world in renewable energy adoption.

Located in the city of Huainan in the Anhui province, the 40-megawatt facility was created by PV inverter manufacturer Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ironically, the floating grid itself was constructed over a flooded former coal-mining region.

Read: The world’s largest floating solar power plant just went online in China

Weekly Rewind: Battery breakthroughs, game-changing EVs, floating solar plants

A lot can happen in a week when it comes to tech. The constant onslaught of news makes it nigh impossible for mere mortals with real lives to keep track of everything. That’s why we’ve compiled a quick and dirty list of this week’s top tech stories, from what we know about the new Meizu smartphone to how to fix your dishwasher — it’s all here.

Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus: Everything you need to know

Meizu has announced the Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus, its follow up to the Pro 6 and Pro 6 Plus. Fans should be ready for devices that don’t look like any Meizu phone that came before them. In fact, they don’t resemble many other phones at all. Meizu has put two screens on the Pro 7, but unlike LG’s approach with the V20, the main screen is joined by a secondary screen on the back. It doesn’t cover the whole surface of the rear panel though, and it is functionally reminiscent of Samsung’s early experiments with Edge screens, like the one found on the Galaxy S6 Edge Plus.

The secondary screen sits on the left-hand side of the rear panel. The size and resolution hasn’t been confirmed yet, but we do know it’s an AMOLED screen, so it should look great. It shows notifications, the music player, the time, weather information, and can act as a mirror for use with the rear cameras; selfies no longer have to be taken with the front cam.

The phone is set inside an attractive metal body, with a very cool brushed finish. Buyers can choose from matte and space black, gold, or silver.

Read: Meizu Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus: Everything you need to know

Some 2012 and 2013 MacBook Pro users got new machines due to bad batteries

Issues with the supply of components most often work against the typical computer user, particularly when it involves an older machine. For a short time, however, some lucky Apple users with 2012 or 2013 MacBook Pros benefited from the company’s supply constraints by receiving a brand-new machine as a replacement. Those fortunate circumstances are now over, and it’s back to business as usual.

According to MacRumors, Apple had a brief problem getting its hands on the integrated battery assembly for mid-2012 and early-2013 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro models. This meant that anyone who visited an Apple Store looking to get a battery replaced was out of luck. In a testament to Apple’s focus on customer service, however, the company made things right in a big way for some customers.

Read: Some 2012 and 2013 MacBook Pro users got new machines due to bad batteries

Usher and James Corden sing, and do good deeds, in latest Carpool Karaoke

When Usher jumped into the passenger seat of James Corden’s car as the latest subject for the popular Carpool Karaoke segment, he probably didn’t realize he’d also get put to work. In this high-energy edition, the pair have plenty of fan interactions that make it a must-watch.

Airing on a recent The Late Late Show With James Corden, the 13-minute segment has already received more than a million views on YouTube. While Usher and Corden rock out to some of the singer’s best hits, from Yeah! to Burn, Caught Up, I Don’t Mind, and OMG, it’s their hijinks outside of the car that offer the most entertainment.

Read: Usher and James Corden sing, and do good deeds, in latest Carpool Karaoke

5 common problems with your dishwasher and how to fix them

Some of us rely heavily on dishwashers to do our dirty work, but when the machine breaks or malfunctions, our home can quickly turn into a scene from The Walking Dead. A typical dishwasher should last between seven and 12 years. However, about one in five dishwashers will break within three or four, according to statistics published in the Huffington Post.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to get your dishwasher repairs covered by a warranty. However, many warranties only offer limited coverage and still might come with an associated cost. Consumer Reports surveyed nearly 30,000 people in 2013 and found that when their products malfunctioned, only 15 percent were able to get repairs covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Moreover, for those people whose warranty offered a repair or replacement, the customer was often still stuck shelling out around $150 for repairs — that’s on top of the cost for the extra warranty coverage.

Read: 5 common problems with your dishwasher and how to fix them

Your next phone could charge in milliseconds with Drexel’s battery breakthrough

Smartphones are modern society’s lifeblood. They keep us connected with our social circles and the services we depend on, like our banks, smart home hubs, and connected cars. There’s just one problem: they run on batteries. But if nanomaterials researchers at Drexel University have their way, we might never have to worry about sitting anxiously by a charger again.

The key is MXene, a two-dimensional material consisting of two parts: a hydrogel (a gel with a liquid water component) and an oxide metal. It’s structurally dense enough to shield radiation and filter water, as the research team at Drexel demonstrated in 2011. But it’s also highly conductive, making it a good candidate for battery membranes.

Read: Your next phone could charge in milliseconds with Drexel’s battery breakthrough

The end of life for Adobe’s Flash software nears, but don’t expect a swift death

On Tuesday, Adobe provided a roadmap for terminating its Flash software for good.  The death will not be swift and quick like it was on Android, as the company does not plan to cease updating and distributing Flash Player until the end of 2020. This will provide enough time for content creators to migrate their existing Flash-based content to newer, more secure platforms like HTML5.

“Several industries and businesses have been built around Flash technology — including gaming, education, and video — and we remain committed to supporting Flash through 2020, as customers and partners put their migration plans into place,” the company said.

Read: The end of life for Adobe’s Flash software nears, but don’t expect a swift death

Everything you can do with your Amazon Echo Show

 

Adding a screen to Amazon’s newest Alexa voice assistant means that the Echo Show can do some things the speaker alone can’t. Whether you want to watch TV, get a cooking tutorial, or see your calendar, the Amazon Echo Show can help out. Developers are racing to catch up on new capabilities rolling in after the device’s launch. Here are a few things you can now do with the Echo Show — just remember that you have to enable these skills in your app. We’ll keep you updated as the Show learns new tricks, but read on to learn more about what’s already available.

Read: Everything you can do with your Amazon Echo Show

Toyota may come out with a game-changing electric car for 2022

The twin issues of short ranges and long charging times are still a major obstacle for electric cars. But a solution to those problems may be on the way, according to a new report, and it will come from an unlikely source. Toyota plans to launch a “long-range” electric car that can recharge in just a few minutes in 2022, according to Reuters, which cites Japanese newspaper Chunichi Shimbum. Toyota has long promoted hydrogen fuel cell vehicles over cars powered by batteries. But if this reported electric car goes on sale, the carmaker could be catapulted to the head of the field.

The key to the car’s performance will be solid-state batteries. These batteries use a solid electrolyte, as opposed to the liquid used in the lithium-ion batteries that power all modern electric cars, not to mention your laptop and phone. Unlike the liquid electrolyte, the solid material isn’t flammable. Proponents of solid-state batteries also claim they will perform better than other chemistries, although the technology has not been commercialized yet.

Read: Toyota may come out with a game-changing electric car for 2022

LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ vacuums your floors and keeps quiet about it

As any homeowner knows, dust and dirt can collect fast. However, not everyone has time to vacuum as often as they would like to. Instead, many have turned toward robot vacuums to get the job done. With the latest LG Hom-Bot Turbo+, consumers are getting a robot vacuum that’s quieter and smarter than ever before.

All three models of LG‘s robot vacuum come with Wi-Fi connectivity, home security settings, and the quietest motors around. Owners can take control of their Home-Bot Turbo+ with their smartphone, or with voice command for the flagship gold model. Using the LG SmartThinQ app on either Android or iPhone, the Hom-Bot can be accessed from anywhere and use up to seven different cleaning modes.

Read: LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ vacuums your floors and keeps quiet about it

The world’s largest floating solar power plant just went online in China

China has announced that the largest floating photovoltaic (PV) facility on earth has finally been completed and connected to the local power grid. Long reviled for its carbon emission record, this is the Chinese government’s latest achievement in its ongoing effort to lead the world in renewable energy adoption.

Located in the city of Huainan in the Anhui province, the 40-megawatt facility was created by PV inverter manufacturer Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ironically, the floating grid itself was constructed over a flooded former coal-mining region.

Read: The world’s largest floating solar power plant just went online in China

Sony a7S II shoots stunning footage of Earth at night from the ISS

Why it matters to you

The detail and low-light capability of the a7S II will allow scientists to study and monitor earth from outer space.

The camera mounted outside the International Space Station (ISS) is responsible for tracking changes on Earth from the movement of ice to the color of the sea — and now, for the first time, that camera is actually one you can buy in stores. On Thursday, Sony shared the first videos from an orbiting ISS a7S II, the first commercial grade camera with 4K capabilities to be mounted outside the ISS.

The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) tested the a7S II to ensure the camera could withstand the harsh environment, with includes cosmic radiation and abrupt temperature fluctuations, Sony says. The Kounotori cargo transporter then took the camera to the ISS, installing the a7S II with an external power supply outside on February 8.

The mounted a7S II records 4K video and still images as the ISS orbits the earth. JAXA says the camera is used for a number of different purposes, including photographing large-scale disasters to estimate the scope of the damage. The camera will also be used to monitor changes in earth, comparing images from two separate time periods to monitor aspects like the movement of ice flows.

JAXA says the a7S II, besides being durable enough to withstand the conditions, has low-light capabilities that the previous camera did not. “Phenomena such as aurora or meteors, or the earth seen at night from space, are a little different from when seen on the ground, so the high sensitivity capture that the α7S II offers is perfect for night shooting,” said Toshitami Ikeda, JAXA associate senior engineer. “The International Space Station makes one orbit of the earth every 90 minutes, and using our previous system, we couldn’t even consider shooting at night, which comes around every 45 minutes. I’m looking forward to its performance and the ability to shoot even in very low light at night.”

The camera is controlled remotely from Earth, a feature made possible from the camera’s USB interface. Unlike the previous camera mounted outside the ISS, the a7S II is also mounted on a two-axis system that allows the camera to shoot at different angles.

The camera is mounted on the KIBO Japanese Experiment Module, which has a robotic arm to adjust equipment without sending an astronaut outside the ISS.

Sony now shares the first still photos and videos from the ISS-mounted camera online.

Samsung and Tumi buddy up to launch new version of the Gear S3 Frontier

Why it matters to you

Looking for a slightly classier take on the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier? The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Tumi Edition could be for you.

If you haven’t yet considered a Samsung smartwatch, the company has a new offering to entice you. Samsung has teamed up with Tumi to offer a new version of the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier, which now offers a custom Tumi watch face, as well as a classy looking grey Italian canvas strap. According to Samsung, that strap is durable enough to handle water and rough conditions, just like the watch body.

Of course, under the hood the device is exactly the same as the original Samsung Gear S3 Frontier. It still offers a 1.3-inch display with a 360 x 360 resolution, and it still has a 380mAh battery, 768MB of RAM, and 4GB of storage. Not bad specs, to be sure — but no different than the already-available Samsung Gear S3 Frontier.

The TUMI strap and watch face won’t come for free. While the standard Samsung Gear S3 Frontier is priced at $349, the TUMI Edition device will set you back $449 from Best Buy and Samsung. It’s on sale now if you buy it online, and you can get it in-store starting on August 6.

The Gear S3 Frontier was first launched last August, and is one of two Samsung Gear S3 devices — the other being the Samsung Gear S3 Classic. As the names suggest, the Gear S3 Frontier is a little more rugged and aimed at sports-use, while the Gear S3 Classic is targeted at business people or those looking for a slightly classier look. That’s not to say that the Gear S3 Frontier isn’t classy — it is — but the Gear S3 Classic is a little more refined.

Some have been expecting a Samsung Gear S4 to be launched toward the end of August, but this new release suggests that may not be the case. If Samsung and Tumi really wanted to team up, they could have done so for a Gear S4 rather than Gear S3, if the Gear S4 was set to launch within a few weeks. We also haven’t seen any rumors about a possible Samsung Gear S4 apart from a patent filing for a wireless charging method, and while that in itself doesn’t mean there won’t be one, it’s a little unusual these days for a major device to launch without at least a leak or two.

The best travel adapters for international jet setters

Whether you’re traveling outside the United States for business or pleasure, for most destinations, you’re going to need a travel adapter if you want to take your gadgets with you. Luckily, we’ve tried out an array of adapters, some of which were better than others. Below, we’ve rounded up the best travel adapters we’ve used, though the right adapter for you will depend on your budget, destination, and available space.

Before we start, we recommend you review this international adapter guide to make sure you know what kind of adapter you need. Bear in mind that we’re just looking at travel adapters here, not voltage converters. Most smartphones, tablets, and other modern devices can handle different voltages. For laptops, you’ll usually see a voltage range — like “100-240 V,” for instance — printed on the power block, which means you don’t need a converter. We’d advise against plugging in a hair dryer or similar product without a voltage converter, however.

We’ve also put together guides to the best travel gadgets and best travel apps, and our Now Boarding column offers even more advice for the connected jet setter.

Zendure Passport Global Travel Adapter ($40)

Of all the travel adapters on our list, this is our current favorite, namely because it offers real versatility and some handy features in a compact package. If you’re traveling through a multitude of countries, this one adapter could meet all your needs. It covers 150 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, Canada, and Japan. To switch between plug types, you press and slide one of the four buttons, each of which locks firmly in place. Plug your gadget into the other side and you’re all set.

The Passport also includes four USB ports capable of outputting 5A/25W total, so you can charge multiple devices at once. The clever feature here, however, is the adapter’s self-resetting fuse. Usually, when the fuse in your travel adapter blows, you have to replace it. Zendure’s Passport will trip and block the overload, and then reset itself automatically, so you can use it again without any fiddling.

Buy one now from:

Kickstarter

Pors-ela International Travel Adapter ($18)

Pors-ela‘s travel adapter has a sliding mechanism for U.S. and Australian plugs at one end and U.K. plugs on the other. The other side sports two USB ports for charging phones or tablets. There’s also a fold-out plug on the bottom for European outlets. You plug your gadget into the top of it. The 6A fuse guards against overloads and there’s even a spare fuse, in case the main fuse should blow.

It’s available in either green or blue, and comes with a handy travel pouch. It’s also fairly compact and lightweight. However, depending on the outlet position and what you’re plugging in, it can be a little awkward and the weight — particularly if you plug in something like the latest MacBook Pro — can start to pull the plug out. This is a common problem for universal adapters and wall-based outlets, though, at least when you plug in heavier power blocks.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Bestek Universal Worldwide Travel Adapter Set ($14)

If you only travel to one country at a time and you don’t mind sifting through your power adapter collection to find the right one before you go, then this set from Bestek might be your best bet. You get eight different power adapters, which cover a wide range of different countries, including the United Kingdom, Europe, India, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Israel.

There are no frills here — these are simple power adapters that take a single plug. They’re pretty solid, however, and should form a strong connection when plugged into most outlets. For the current sale price, this adapter set is a steal.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Mu International Portable Charger ($40)

Our final option is a charging solution for smartphones and tablets, one we rarely leave home without. The central section sports one or two USB ports, so you can charge your smartphones or tablets. The other end features a sliding connection, so you can fit plugs for U.K., European, and U.S. outlets. The European plug is especially handy because it has a folding section at the top, so you can always find the right angle for the outlet at hand.

Currently, you can get the Mu System in either black or white. The black version has two USB ports, so you can charge a couple of phones simultaneously, while the white version has just one. Both versions are slim, lightweight, and compact, so they barely take up luggage space, and if you’re only visiting a single country, you only need to take the relevant adapter to slot in.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

The best travel adapters for international jet setters

Whether you’re traveling outside the United States for business or pleasure, for most destinations, you’re going to need a travel adapter if you want to take your gadgets with you. Luckily, we’ve tried out an array of adapters, some of which were better than others. Below, we’ve rounded up the best travel adapters we’ve used, though the right adapter for you will depend on your budget, destination, and available space.

Before we start, we recommend you review this international adapter guide to make sure you know what kind of adapter you need. Bear in mind that we’re just looking at travel adapters here, not voltage converters. Most smartphones, tablets, and other modern devices can handle different voltages. For laptops, you’ll usually see a voltage range — like “100-240 V,” for instance — printed on the power block, which means you don’t need a converter. We’d advise against plugging in a hair dryer or similar product without a voltage converter, however.

We’ve also put together guides to the best travel gadgets and best travel apps, and our Now Boarding column offers even more advice for the connected jet setter.

Zendure Passport Global Travel Adapter ($40)

Of all the travel adapters on our list, this is our current favorite, namely because it offers real versatility and some handy features in a compact package. If you’re traveling through a multitude of countries, this one adapter could meet all your needs. It covers 150 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, Canada, and Japan. To switch between plug types, you press and slide one of the four buttons, each of which locks firmly in place. Plug your gadget into the other side and you’re all set.

The Passport also includes four USB ports capable of outputting 5A/25W total, so you can charge multiple devices at once. The clever feature here, however, is the adapter’s self-resetting fuse. Usually, when the fuse in your travel adapter blows, you have to replace it. Zendure’s Passport will trip and block the overload, and then reset itself automatically, so you can use it again without any fiddling.

Buy one now from:

Kickstarter

Pors-ela International Travel Adapter ($18)

Pors-ela‘s travel adapter has a sliding mechanism for U.S. and Australian plugs at one end and U.K. plugs on the other. The other side sports two USB ports for charging phones or tablets. There’s also a fold-out plug on the bottom for European outlets. You plug your gadget into the top of it. The 6A fuse guards against overloads and there’s even a spare fuse, in case the main fuse should blow.

It’s available in either green or blue, and comes with a handy travel pouch. It’s also fairly compact and lightweight. However, depending on the outlet position and what you’re plugging in, it can be a little awkward and the weight — particularly if you plug in something like the latest MacBook Pro — can start to pull the plug out. This is a common problem for universal adapters and wall-based outlets, though, at least when you plug in heavier power blocks.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Bestek Universal Worldwide Travel Adapter Set ($14)

If you only travel to one country at a time and you don’t mind sifting through your power adapter collection to find the right one before you go, then this set from Bestek might be your best bet. You get eight different power adapters, which cover a wide range of different countries, including the United Kingdom, Europe, India, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Israel.

There are no frills here — these are simple power adapters that take a single plug. They’re pretty solid, however, and should form a strong connection when plugged into most outlets. For the current sale price, this adapter set is a steal.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Mu International Portable Charger ($40)

Our final option is a charging solution for smartphones and tablets, one we rarely leave home without. The central section sports one or two USB ports, so you can charge your smartphones or tablets. The other end features a sliding connection, so you can fit plugs for U.K., European, and U.S. outlets. The European plug is especially handy because it has a folding section at the top, so you can always find the right angle for the outlet at hand.

Currently, you can get the Mu System in either black or white. The black version has two USB ports, so you can charge a couple of phones simultaneously, while the white version has just one. Both versions are slim, lightweight, and compact, so they barely take up luggage space, and if you’re only visiting a single country, you only need to take the relevant adapter to slot in.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Asus Transformer Pro T304 Review

Research Center:
Asus Transformer Pro T304

Microsoft’s Surface Pro is the most iconic detachable tablet and has maintained a significant lead in the Windows 2-in-1 market in both performance and mindshare. That hasn’t stopped Microsoft’s OEM partners from jumping into the game with their own versions of the most flexible format, with varying success. In our Asus Transformer Pro T304 review, we’re taking a look at a near clone of the Surface Pro that hopes to use a lower price to carve out its own piece of the growing segment.

The main question is, can a machine that looks so much like the Surface Pro — seriously, you’d have a hard time telling them apart from across a room — differentiate itself enough to grab your hard-earned cash? It might if you look at the price. Our review unit offered a seventh-generation Intel Core i7-7500U, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SATA solid-state drive (SSD) for a cool $1,000. Right now, our review configuration is the only one available at retail, except for a special version at wholesaler Costco with the Core i7-7500U, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SATA SSD for $1,400 (on sale for $1,200).

The closest equivalent Microsoft Surface Pro runs $1,600, and the Asus Transformer Pro T304 includes a keyboard cover and active pen, whereas the Surface Pro does not. Add in the Microsoft Signature Type Cover ($160) and the Surface Pen ($100), and the Surface Pro comes in at $1,860. That’s approaching twice as much as the Asus alternative.

Price is only one consideration, however. We’ve seen many Surface imitators fall short. Does the Asus Transformer Pro T304 bring enough features and performance to turn its low price into real value?

Like the Surface Pro, only different

If you were to set the Surface Pro and the Transformer Pro T304 side by side on a table, the average person would have a hard time telling them apart from across the room. The Transformer Pro T304 uses a similar silver magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis, has an almost identical kickstand, and the Charcoal keyboard cover that shipped with our review unit is the spitting image of Microsoft’s Type Cover.

There are differences, however, when you get the machines in your hands. The Transformer Pro T304 doesn’t have the same “solid chunk of metal” feel about it. It doesn’t feel cheap or poorly made by any mean, but Asus doesn’t match Microsoft’s efforts at exuding elegant quality.

Also, the kickstand might look the same, and it extends out to a full 170-degree angle versus the Surface Pro’s 165 degrees — but it doesn’t feel the same. The action is not as smooth, and indicates a little less engineering prowess.

Even so, the Transformer Pro T304 feels like a quality product. It’s similar in weight at 1.79 pounds, versus around 1.7 pounds for the Surface Pro. It has smooth enough edges that it’s comfortable to hold as a tablet, and its keyboard cover offers the same magnetic auto-off (and auto-on, something the Surface Pro lacks) functionality. There were no creaks or twists to imply the Transformer Pro T304 won’t hold up to long-term use.

In other words, the Transformer Pro T304 is a well-made detachable tablet with all the same strengths and weaknesses of its class. It’s excellent as a tablet, and it can serve as a bona fide laptop as long as you use it on a stable platform. The tablet and keyboard are connected via strong magnets, so you won’t worry about them inadvertently coming apart, though you’ll still sense some instability when you’re using it in your lap.

Input options are diverse and good enough for productive work

Like all detachable tablets, the Asus Transformer Pro T304 has a plethora of input options that match the machine’s diversity. As a tablet, it begs to be used with just touch and a pen, yet there’s no better way to input copious amounts of information than a standard keyboard. The Transformer Pro T304 accommodates these needs quite well.

Asus offers two keyboards for the Transformer Pro T304, a version with an aluminum cover, and the Charcoal colored version that came with our review unit. That version has a soft-touch feel that’s similar to the original Microsoft Type Cover for the Surface Pro 3, and it has the same general bounciness when you type on it. Bounce is a common trait of these kinds of keyboard covers, so it’s not a knock against the Transformer Pro T304 specifically.

The generally snappy response should provide a comfortable experience for most touch typists.

The keys offer a solid 1.4mm of travel – almost as much as an average laptop — and a generally snappy response that should provide a comfortable experience for most touch typists. In addition, the keyboard layout is familiar. with all the right-sized keys in all the right places. It’s attached using magnets and a pogo pin connector, so it offers the typical flat and inclined typing positions. Best of all, it stays connected just as it should.

The touchpad is also good enough, and it’s a full 17 percent larger than the Microsoft equivalent. Its glass coating is smooth and comfortable for fast and efficient cursor control, and the buttons are responsive without being overly loud. Because it’s a Microsoft Precision touchpad, all the built-in gestures are available, and they’re just as precise as the name implies.

Asus includes its active pen with the Transformer Pro T304. This is one area where the Asus machine lags the Surface Pro, with the former offering 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity compared to the latter’s 4,096 levels. And the Asus pen doesn’t respond as quickly as Microsoft’s latest, with just a hint of lag when you’re writing quickly across the touchscreen display. That leaves the Transformer Pro T304 near the rest of the detachable pack.

Finally, the Transformer’s 10-point multitouch display responds quickly and accurately, which is the norm with Windows 10 touchscreen machines today. It provides an excellent experience whether in tablet or laptop mode.

Windows Hello support is included, but Asus went with a fingerprint scanner rather than an infrared camera for facial recognition. The Transformer Pro T304 takes a unique approach, however, with the fingerprint scanner embedded within the power button for one-touch wake and login. It worked well, with fingerprints recognized consistently and quickly.

That’s a lot of ports (for a tablet)

Asus packed real connectivity into the Transformer Pro T304, paying attention both to the past and to the future. On the left side of the tablet you’ll find a microSD card reader beneath the volume buttons, which is a little more convenient than sticking it behind the keyboard as some vendors have done. On the right side, you’ll find a USB 3.1 Type-A port, a full-sized HDMI connection, and a USB 3.1 Type-C port. Unfortunately, the latter is not equipped with Thunderbolt 3.

Asus Transformer Pro T304 Compared To

Amazon Fire HD 8 (2017)

Xiaomi Mi Pad 3

Apple iPad 9.7

Apple iPad Pro 12.7

Samsung Galaxy Tab S3

Chuwi Hi12 Windows 10 2-in-1

Samsung TabPro S

Microsoft Surface Pro 3

Dell Venue 11 Pro

Microsoft Surface 2

Samsung ATIV Smart PC 700T

Sony Vaio Duo 11

Microsoft Surface Pro

Acer Iconia Tab W700

Microsoft Surface with Windows RT

You power the Transformer Pro T304 with a standard A/C adapter, which is unfortunate given the presence of the USB Type-C port. We tried a couple of USB Type-C power supplies from other manufacturers, and they did not charge the machine.

A high-resolution display that disappoints

Asus slipped a slightly larger 12.6-inch display into the Transformer Pro T304, up a bit from the more common 12.3-inch screens you’ll find in some other detachable tablets including the Surface Pro. The resolution is a bit lower, at 2,160 x 1,440 or 206 PPI. That’s below the 267 PPI provided by the Surface Pro’s 2,736 x 1,824 resolution. In a nod to productivity, Asus chose the 3:2 aspect ratio that’s great for documents and spreadsheets, but does cause some letterboxing with video.

When measured by our trusty colorimeter, the Transformer Pro T304’s display was of average to below-average quality. In terms of color gamut, the screen came in at 72 percent of AdobeRGB and 93 percent of sRGB. Color accuracy was 2.04, a decent score compared to the optimal of 1.0 or less. And a perfect gamma of 2.2 meant that video scenes won’t be too light or to dark. All of those were competitive with our comparison machines such as the Surface Pro and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2.

That’s the good news. Contrast,on the other hand, was significantly lower than average for the class at 620:1 at full brightness. That’s well below the Surface Pro’s excellent 1180:1 score and the Samsung Galaxy Book’s ultra-high contrast OLED display. Brightness was also low at 251 nits, which was only partially mitigated by the anti-glare screen. Most competing detachable tablets offer better screens, at least in purely objective terms.

Most competing detachable tablets offer better screens, at least in purely objective terms.

In use, the Transformer Pro T304’s display was good enough, with decent colors and acceptable video. And if you don’t like how things look, you can tweak the display using the Asus Splendid Technology utility, which lets you change color profiles between Normal, Eye Care (good for reducing blue light for better sleep), Vivid, and Manual modes. The latter could be particularly helpful for achieving a display that looks good to you personally.

In addition, Asus includes its Tru2Life video enhancement technology, which is supposed to improve clarity, color, and contrast when watching videos. Asus promises a more colorful, vivid, and sharper experience with up to 200 percent more contrast. We tried out some videos and couldn’t tell a significant difference, but this is subjective, and your experience might vary.

Overall, the Transformer Pro T304 has a display that’s pleasant to use but won’t knock your socks off when working, viewing photos, or watching video. It’s fine, but you’re not getting the kind of experience that you’ll get from the superior displays Microsoft uses in its Surface line.

Audio that promises a lot and delivers some of it

The Transformer Pro T304 offers dual speakers that flank the display on each side of the tablet towards the bottom. They fire to the side, which is better than firing backwards, but not as optimal as some tablets with front-firing speakers. Asus promises 96 decibels of sound, a “Smart Amplifier” provided by Texas Instruments aimed at maximizing volume without damaging the speakers, and Harman Kardon certification — all of which, on paper, should provide a superior audio experience.

In our testing, we found that volume could indeed be cranked up to decent levels without distortion and, overall, the sound quality was better than the typical tablet. Using the Asus AudioWizard presets was most effective with movies, where some nice simulated surround sound enhanced the experience. Music was less pleasant, however, with nice highs and a solid midrange but almost non-existent bass.

The bottom line is that you’ll want to keep a set of headphones handy for when you want to listen to your favorite jams, but you can nevertheless share a movie trailer or TV show with your friends in a pinch.

Good but not great performance

Our review unit shipped with a Core i7-7500U, the only processor currently available for the Transformer Pro T304. As such, it promises good performance for its class, and avoids the pitfalls of power-sipping processors that were once the norm for these kinds of machines.

In the Geekbench 4 synthetic benchmark, the Transformer Pro performed right in line with its CPU, scoring 4,153 in the single-core test and 8,322 in the multi-core test. The Surface Pro’s higher-end Core i7-7660U was the leader here, with the competing Core i5 coming in next, and the low-power Core i7-7Y75 in the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 coming in dead last.

The Transformer Pro T304 did stumble a bit on our real-world Handbrake test, which converts a 420GB video file to H.265 format. Here, the machine took 1,453 seconds to complete the conversion, which is significantly slower than expected and second, only to the low-power Core i7 variant. The Handbrake test is more susceptible to heat and CPU throttling than Geekbench, and we can only guess that Asus dialed things back on the Transformer Pro T304 to keep things cool. Interestingly, we noticed this same issue with the Asus Zenbook 3, another thin notebook.

In terms of heat, the machine never got more than just warm anywhere on its surface, and fan noise was reasonable. That attests to the fact that the CPU speed might be scaled back during the longer Handbrake test.

Overall, performance is great for general productivity work, web surfing, and content consumption for which tablets are typically used. The Transformer Pro T304 might not be the machine you want to purchase, however, if you need to do more strenuous tasks like video encoding that might cause the machine to throttle down. That’s no real surprise, but it does show there’s a big gap between the T304 and the top-end Surface Pro, which aced our CPU tests.

Storage suffers from an unfortunate cost-cutting measure

If there’s one area where Asus dialed back the specifications and hampered performance, it’s in its choice of a SATA SSD rather than the increasingly common PCIe variants. SATA drives are significantly slower out of the box, and it’s disappointing to see one used here.

As expected, the Transformer Pro T304 suffered from some seriously below-average storage performance. In the CrystalDiskMark benchmark, the machine scored a poor 495 megabytes per second in the read test, and an even worse 268 MB/s in the write test. That’s destroyed by the very fast Samsung PM961 PCIe SSD in the ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2, as well as the slower but still faster Toshiba XG4 in the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1.

For the most part, users won’t notice this kind of speed differential. Compared to much slower spinning hard disk drives, these are still fast scores. However, if a user needs to access large database files, then the Transformer Pro T304 won’t be a good choice.

In short, the Transformer Pro T304 is a good machine for general productivity work, but anyone who needs maximum oomph should look elsewhere.

Best for casual gaming, or not at all

Detachable tablets running Windows 10 don’t have a reputation for being great portable gaming machines. The reason is simple — most use the integrated Intel HD graphics that come with their CPUs, given the space and thermal management needs of discrete GPUs. The Transformer Pro T304 is no different, being equipped with Intel HD 620.

As expected, the Transformer Pro T304 scored right in line with other systems using a similar Intel HD integrated GPU. In 3DMark Fire Strike, the machine hit a 768, which is no better or worse than our other similarly-equipped comparison systems. The Surface Pro we tested did score much higher thanks to its Intel Iris Plus 640 graphics, as did the much larger HP Spectre x360 15, with its Nvidia GeForce 940MX discrete GPU.

To confirm the obvious, we ran Civilization VI in medium settings at Full HD resolution, and sat back to play a slide show at an average 11 frames per second (FPS). That’s par for the course for Intel HD 620 machines, and even Intel’s Iris Pro 640 could only muster 16 FPS.

You might be able to use the Transformer Pro T304 with some older games, or newer titles with resolution and graphics scaled way, way down. Or, you could just realize that gaming isn’t what this machine is made for and settle for some casual Windows 10 games instead.

Battery life is a real weakness

The Transformer Pro T304 packs in a relatively small 39 watt-hour battery and sports a relatively large and high-resolution display. It also utilizes a fast, full-speed Core i7 processor. Those specifications don’t promise the longest battery life.

Unfortunately, things fell right in line with our low expectations. On our most intensive Basemark battery benchmark, which runs a machine through a series of processor- and GPU-intensive web pages, the Transformer Pro T304 lasted for an underwhelming two hours and 14 minutes. That’s worse than the ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2, and just barely better than the notoriously short-lived Surface Pro 4. The new Surface Pro lasted three hours and 12 minutes, almost an hour longer than the Asus.

On our least battery-intensive video looping test, the Transformer Pro T304 lasted a short seven hours and 53 minutes, again behind the Lenovo and barely ahead of the Surface Pro 4. The new Surface Pro killed the Asus here, coming in at a much stronger 10 hours and 16 minutes.

Battery life fell right in line with our low expectations, and won’t last you a full workday.

Finally, we also ran the Transformer Pro T304 through our iMacros test, which loops through a series of popular web sites. On this test, the machine once again gave a poor showing, coming in at four hours and 44 minutes. The ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2 lasted five hours and 20 minutes in this test, and the Surface Pro five hours and 38 minutes. The Transformer Pro T304’s combination of small battery, high-resolution display, and fast processor means less time away from a charger.

Overall, the Transformer Pro T304 is a thin machine at 8.85mm thick, and it’s light at 1.79 pounds without the keyboard attached. It’s therefore a breeze to carry around with you. However, you won’t be able to work a full day without plugging in, and that significantly reduces the machine’s portability.

Warranty information

Asus offers a one-year warranty on the Transformer Pro T304. However, it also tosses in a year’s accidental damage protection, which covers spill and drop damage that results in the machine being unable to perform its intended functions. That’s way more than most competitors will give you.

Our Take

The Asus Transformer Pro T304 is a solidly built detachable tablet with a decent keyboard cover and pen. It performs well enough and offers superior connectivity. However, its battery life is subpar, and its display is average to below-average for its class.

Where it wins is price. At $1,000 as configured, including the keyboard cover and pen for complete productivity, it’s a solid value in this class of machines, while meeting the needs of the vast majority of people who will purchase a detachable tablet.

Is there a better alternative?

There’s a reason why this review spent so much time comparing the Asus Transformer Pro T304 to Microsoft’s Surface Pro. It’s obvious that Asus wants you to see the similarities between the two machines, and then opt for the Transformer Pro T304 because of its significantly lower price.

The Transformer Pro T304 is slower, has less battery life, and isn’t quite as robust as the Surface Pro. But at close to half the price, it offers some serious value that makes up for its deficiencies. In addition, the Transformer Pro T304 simply outclasses the Surface Pro when it comes to connectivity, offering a solid mix of legacy ports to go with a futuristic USB Type-C connector. We’d take the Surface Pro, but it simply isn’t affordable for everyone.

If you’re not sold on a detachable tablet, then there are other solid 2-in-1s that you can consider. The Lenovo Yoga 720 13-inch is a convertible 2-in-1 that’s in the same ballpark in terms of price, and the HP Spectre 13 2-in-1 costs a bit more, but also offers superior performance and battery life, and in fact is one of our overall favorite 2-in-1 machines.

How long will it last?

The Transformer Pro T304 is built well enough to last, is equipped with a fast processor that should keep up with connectivity tasks, and its equipped with a great selection of ports that should keep it connected well into the future. However, its storage speeds are slow enough that they might not keep up as well as the rest of the machine.

Should you buy it?

Only if you’re short on cash and can’t afford a Microsoft Surface Pro, and you don’t mind the small battery. Asus’ alternative is far more affordable, but make sure you don’t need what you’re giving up.