Google Home Max vs. Sonos Play:5: Which should you buy?

I have years of experience with Sonos and other connected speakers — I’ve said Hey Google almost more than my own kids’ names — so I know a thing or two when it comes to in-home audio.

Sonos Play:5

Stellar sound

$499 at Amazon

Pros

• Top-quality sound
• Stream from over 55 music services
• Easy multi-room streaming

Cons

• Expensive
• No Bluetooth
• No voice control or smart features

The Sonos Play:5 is an amazing speaker with amazing sound that is hard to beat. While it lacks smart features or voice control, it still sounds the best.

Google Home Max

Smart and powerful

$399 at Google

Pros

• Google Assistant & smart home controls built-in
• Bluetooth support
• Deep bass

Cons

• Can’t stream from all music services
• Multi-room audio is limited and tricky
• Design is uninspired

With its combination of great sound, smart home features, and built-in Google Assistant, there isn’t much to not like about the Google Home Max.

Music To My Ears

The Google Home Max is a full-featured smart speaker that will fit right into nearly any smart home. While it’s hard to knock the Sonos Play:5 for anything with its stellar sound quality, it does lose some ground with its lack of any voice control or smart home features — but not enough to keep it from winning this battle.

These two speakers are on an even playing field in many areas. While the Play:5 edges out the Home Max in quality of sound (by quite a bit), both speakers offer multi-room audio, both have a line-in, both be used horizontally or vertically, and both put out great sound.

The glaring difference here is that the Google Home Max is a connected speaker with Google Assistant and smart home control built-in, while the Play:5 isn’t very smart at all. The benefit is that by adding a simple Amazon Echo device (even the inexpensive Echo Dot) to your home, you can easily add smart features to the Play:5.

Play Together

Where the Play:5 easily connects with other Sonos speakers in your home, the Google Home Max works with other Google Home devices like the Home Mini or Home Hub, as well as Chomecast Audio devices. Google’s multiroom setup is a bit finicky, however, giving Sonos the edge here in the ease of setup and use when it comes to using multiple speakers.

Everything you do with Sonos takes place in the Sonos app. From setup to adding more speakers to grouping to adding music services to playing music — it’s all there. Conversely, using the Home Max requires you to first set up the device using the Google Home app, then to stream you’ll have to use the actual music apps — Google Play Music, YouTube Music, Spotify, etc. Rather than accessing your services in the app itself and streaming away like Sonos, the Home Max requires you to “cast” from the music apps to the speaker itself.

The Home Max also has Bluetooth support — something you won’t find on any Sonos speaker. This gives you yet another option beyond streaming or using the line-in.

Take it to the Max

Both the Home Max and Play:5 also carry the option to customize their sound as well. The Home Max uses Smart Sound to adjust to its placement in the room, while the Play:5 uses the TrueSound app through your phone to tweak up the EQ and put out the best possible sound.

It’s a super-close battle that comes down to the wire, but in the end — even without voice control or smart home features — the Sonos Play:5 wins the race. When you buy a speaker in this price range you want the best possible sound, and for that reason, the Sonos Play:5 is the winner. If you’re looking for the added bonus of smart features, adding an inexpensive Alexa device to the mix will help get you there.

Sonos Play:5

Stellar Sound

Premium sound at a premium price.

$499 at Amazon

Although it lacks any native voice assistant or smart home controls, the Play:5 is an amazing speaker with stellar sound.

Google Home Max

Smart and powerful

$399 at Google

Smart features can’t save it.

With big sound, Google Assistant and smart home controls, the Home Max is a true powerhouse, but the sound quality just doesn’t match that of the Play:5.

New Borderlands 2 VR gameplay shown off at TwitchCon

Handsome Jack awaits you in glorious cel-shaded madness

The Borderlands series by Gearbox has been a fan favorite for years and with the 2-year anniversary of the PlayStation VR, Gearbox and Sony have just announced a VR version of the acclaimed Borderlands 2.

Update October 31, 2018: New Borderlands 2 VR gameplay shown off at TwitchCon

The Borderlands Instagram account gave us our first look at the gameplay from Borderlands VR at TwichCon 2018 and from what we can see from the short clip it looks like a lot of fun.

The gameplay shows a small sequence of combat as well as showing off the smooth motion. I’m one of those people who gets a little sick from smooth motion but they have said that teleport mode will be available.

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Feeling virtually handsome? Come down to the @playstation truck at @twitchcon to kick some ass in Borderlands 2 VR! … #twitchcon #twitchcon2018 #borderlands #borderlands2 #ps4 #psvr

A post shared by Borderlands (@borderlands) on Oct 26, 2018 at 2:27pm PDT

Update October 25, 2018: No DLC

It looks like Borderlands 2 VR won’t ship with the 10 DLC that the original game has now. The Borderlands twitter account tweeted that only the core game will be available for VR.

This is a big blow to those who were hoping for the full Borderlands 2 experience in VR as a lot of the best content came from those 10 DLCs. Will we see these DLCs come to Borderlands 2 VR at a later date? Only time will tell.

Borderlands 2 VR launches with the full core game of Borderlands 2 and the original four Vault Hunters, with the complete experience re-imagined for VR!

— Borderlands (@Borderlands) October 23, 2018

While information is still a little sketchy, here is everything we know right now.

• What is Borderlands 2?
• What is the control system?
• Is it still multiplayer?
• What on earth is BadAss Mega Fun Time?
• What other VR goodness is there?

What is Borderlands 2?

Borderlands 2, which came out in 2012, is a unique take on the first person shooter (FPS). With a funny and crazy story, Borderlands 2 never took itself too seriously, giving you the chance to enjoy the cel-shaded visuals spraying blood all over you and the literal millions of weapon combinations the game could spit out at you. If you don’t own it already in non-VR form, it’s still worth picking up and playing through, especially since it’s available on just about every platform and console. Even now it holds up as one of the most fun FPS I’ve ever played.

See at Amazon

What is the control system?

Borderlands 2 VR is controlled primarily with the DualShock 4 controller but is said to be “Enhanced by the Move Controllers.” The team at Sony have mentioned that the game will include teleporting as your means of locomotion, which has been utilized in a lot of VR games since teleporting helps to reduce the motion sickness that can occur in VR. However, using the DualShock controller will allow you to move around at a walking and running pace.

Using the Move Controllers should allow us to use the melee and gun powers separately for some pretty sweet combos and it will definitely make dual wielding heaps of fun, while the teleporting mechanic will hopefully make boss fights a little easier, or crazier. At least, it’ll put a new spin on the game if you’ve played it already.

Is it still multiplayer?

Unfortunately no, Gearbox made Borderlands VR a single-player experience. That means it edited some of the hunter skills to better reflect that single-player feeling. One example is for Maya, who’s going to see the following change:

We updated previous skills that relied on a co-op partner, such as Maya’s “Res” ability, which now is called “Empathy” – causing Phaselock to deplete half your current health, damaging enemies based on how much health you lost.

While it’s a shame we won’t be able to play on Pandora with our friends, it’s good to know that Gearbox has reworked the game instead of just doing a straight port, which given the crazy nature of the gameplay would have probably made for a poor port.

What on earth is BadAss Mega Fun Time?

BadAss Mega Fun Time — or BAMF Time — is a new mechanic especially developed by Gearbox to help you cope with the frantic nature of the game in VR.

Essentially, it’s a bullet-time mode that allows you to move around in real-time while everyone else is going as slow as molasses. This kind of slow-motion is exceedingly helpful in VR as a way to gather your thoughts and take specific aim at something rather than just raining a hail of bullets on everything.

It’ll also allow you to use your skills while in BAMF Time, making kills even easier, or crazier, depending on your tastes. For me, crazier is always better.

What other VR goodness is there?

Borderlands 2 VR will let you play with all the original hunter classes but with their skill list updated to use the VR view and the BAMF Time mechanic. This is another welcome change from Gearbox, showing they have put thought and effort into the VR version of the game.

The other big VR experience is going to be the driving. Taking the unique way VR handles visuals, Gearbox is trying a different approach to the vehicular mayhem from the original game. You’ll use the Move Controllers to steer the vehicle while your headset acts as your target reticule. All you need to do is look in the direction you want and your gun will shoot that way. This could, of course, be a recipe for disaster and make you feel sick but I think Gearbox is aware of this and is just trying to have some fun with us.

When and where can I get it?

Borderlands 2 will be available on December 14 but is available now to pre-order through the PlayStation Store. If you do pre-order, you get a PS4 theme for your troubles.

The Pre-order price is $50, which makes sense since it’s a full-length game.

Pre-order at PlayStation Store

PlayStation 4

• PS4 vs. PS4 Slim vs. PS4 Pro: Which should you buy?
• PlayStation VR Review
• Playing PS4 games through your phone is awesome

Amazon

Start jamming with the compact Aukey Portable Bluetooth Speaker for $6

Stream music wirelessly from up to 33 feet away.

Aukey’s Portable Bluetooth Speaker is available for just $5.89 at Amazon when you enter the code 7AGY49ED during checkout, saving you $13 off its usual price there.

This speaker can wirelessly stream music from up to 33 feet away using Bluetooth, or you can connect a device using the included 3.5mm audio cable. It features a block-effect rubberized finish with gently ridged grills giving it a rock-solid form and surprising durability. It’s also water-resistant, so is perfect for taking on your next hiking trip.

It currently has over 50 reviews on Amazon with a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Aukey backs it up with a 24-month warranty.

See at Amazon

This $9 iClever wireless FM transmitter adds Bluetooth to your car

Do a little bit of everything.

The iClever wireless Bluetooth FM transmitter radio adapter is down to $9.10 with code F55CARKIT. This car kit sells for $26 usually, and the lowest we’ve ever seen it drop to directly was $18.

Use this one device to add an FM transmitter, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a micro SD card reader for playing music that way. Plug in and charge two devices in the USB ports or use them to play music off a flash drive. The design is meant to be compact and ergonomic with a little radio knob and digital screen display. It also has a built-in microphone for hands-free calls. The device supports micro SD cards up to 32GB, and the Samsung Evo Select 32GB card is only $6.99 on Amazon.

See on Amazon

Best Rugged Cases for the Google Pixel 3 XL

Despite its notch, the Pixel 3 XL is one of the best large Android phones you can buy right now. It has a gorgeous OLED display, fantastic software, and the very best smartphone camera around. Its glass back finally brings wireless charging support, but this also makes it prone to scratches and cracks. Keep your Pixel 3 XL out of harm’s way with one of these rugged cases.

One of the greatest

Spigen Rugged Armor

If you want an affordable case that’s rugged without being too bulky, the Spigen Rugged Armor is a really fantastic choice. Its flexible TPU material is military-grade certified, Spigen’s Air Cushion Technology protects against hard impacts, and the carbon fiber accents look great.

$13 at Amazon

Budget pick

Ringke Onyx

Need to go even cheaper? Ringke’s Onyx case is another solid option. It wraps around the Pixel 3 XL with ease and comes in two gorgeous colors (Lilac Purple and Black). It’s shock-absorbent, has precise button covers, and provides full 360-degree protection.

$10 at Amazon

Maximum protection

Poetic Revolution

Ready to go all-in with the rugged case lifestyle? The Poetic Revolution is for you. This thing really has it all. 360-degree protection, dust flaps, shock absorbing TPU bumper, and even a built-in screen protector.

$17 at Amazon

Built-in kickstand

Spigen Tough Armor

Another great case from Spigen is the Tough Armor. It has a dual-layer design for maximum durability, tactile buttons, Air Cushion Technology to protect against hard impacts, and there’s also a built-in kickstand on the back. Neat!

$17 at Amazon

A unique hybrid

Ringke Fusion-X

Ringke’s Fusion-X case gives you the transparency of a clear case and the safety of a rugged case all wrapped up in one excellent package. The TPU bumpers all around the case provide for enhanced grip, drop protection, and just makes the Pixel 3 XL look darn cool.

$10 at Amazon

It’s an OtterBox

OtterBox Defender Series

Last but certainly not least, the OtterBox Defender Series is one of the most durable cases you can find for the Pixel 3 XL. It has a tried and true multi-layer design, belt clip holster, and port covers so you don’t have to worry about unwanted debris.

$60 at Amazon

For a phone as large, slippery, and fragile as the Pixel 3 XL, you can’t go wrong with a rugged case for it. This is a phone that needs extra protection out of the box, and if you want to keep it safe without adding too much bulk, the Spigen Rugged Armor is one of the best options out there. Alternatively, if you’re fine with some added heft, the Poetic Revolution is a force to be reckoned with.

LG might announce a foldable smartphone at CES 2019

This won’t be LG’s first foray into foldable phones.

Even though we’re just about to start November, CES 2019 will be here before you know it. That means a ton of announcements for new phones, smart home gadgets, and plenty more. Among all of the big reveals, it’s now reported that LG will use the show to unveil its latest foldable smartphone.

Reliable tipster Evan Blass recently shared the following on Twitter:

I can’t speak for Samsung……but I do know that LG plans to unveil a foldable phone at its 2019 CES keynote.

— Evan Blass (@evleaks) October 31, 2018

We don’t have any further details on what the foldable phone will look like, cost, or where it’ll be released, but at the very least, we have something already to look forward to.

Foldable phones are likely going to be one of the bigger trends next year, but don’t forget that this won’t be LG’s first foray into this tech. The company’s first folding phone, the G Flex, announced in 2013 with a curved body that could be bent without breaking. That was later followed up in 2015 with the G Flex 2, but that was the last time LG messed with its foldable/bendable design.

What are you hoping to see from LG’s next foldable phone?

LG V40 ThinQ review: Five cameras aimed straight at Samsung

This $389 Wen 2000-watt inverter generator produces power without the noise

Includes a USB port for staying charged in the wild.

The Wen 56200i 2000-Watt 79.7cc Inverter Generator is down to $389.18 on Amazon. This generator has been selling for around $445 over the last couple months. The price drop today is a match for the best we’ve seen on Amazon, although there was a deal dropping it to $380 on Newegg back in August. It is currently around $445 or higher at Newegg and Home Depot.

The generator uses fuel in its 79.7cc 4-stroke engine to create clean, efficient, portable power. It only generates 51 decibels of noise, which is relatively quiet compared to a more traditional generator. That’s important if you want to use this around other people like at campgrounds or tailgates. There are two three-pong 120V outlets, one 12V DC receptable, and one 5V USB port so you can charge your phone, computer, or other electronics. It has 4.5 stars based on 535 reviews at Amazon. You’ll also receive a two-year warranty with its purchase.

See on Amazon

Save 55% on CrazyTalk Animator 3 Pro for a limited time

It’s no secret that video animations are great at attracting online viewers. Who doesn’t love a fun and colorful animated distraction? Don’t you wish you could quickly create your own fun animations, or add a splash of magic to your social media?

Save over $100 on a lifetime license for CrazyTalk Animator 3 Pro! Learn more

Android Central Digital Offers has a great deal for any budding animators out there. Check out this great deal on the CrazyTalk Animator 3 Pro. For just $79, you can get lifetime access to this simple and effective animation platform.

CrazyTalk Animator Pro is one of the worlds easiest 2D animation software to use no matter your skill level. The program features a wide range of motion templates to help bring characters, logos, or whatever else to life. You’re able to use the facial tracking found in iPhone X and later, allowing you to capture facial motion to simplify animating characters. There are character templates along with a vast library of motion templates for humans, quadrupeds, winged, and spinal creatures.

Create awesome animations for your business or social media! Learn more

This software would typically cost you $179, but for a limited time, you’ll be able to get CrazyTalk Animator 3 Pro for just $79. Also, use coupon code BOO15 and save an additional 15 percent — you’ll pay just $67.17 but only for a limited time so don’t miss out!

What’s the best place to buy the RED Hydrogen One?

Best answer: You can buy the Hydrogen One from AT&T, Verizon, or unlocked directly from RED, but only AT&T offers a bundle with two free movies optimized for 4V playback.

AT&T: RED Hydrogen One ($1295)

Carrier support

If you’re a cinema aficionado who just can’t resist the temptation of the RED brand name, the Hydrogen One is finally available to purchase starting this Friday, November 2nd. At a whopping $1295, it’s certainly not cheap, but it’s the most affordable RED product yet, save for a few camera accessories like cables and batteries.

Both Verizon and AT&T will be carrying the Hydrogen One, offering different payment plans to make the phone easier to walk out with. Of course, you’ll still end up paying the full $1295 over time regardless, but Verizon has 24-month financing for $53.95 per month. AT&T, on the other hand, will let you get away with $43.17 a month, but the financing period is stretched out to 30 months.

To help ease the blow, AT&T is offering free downloads of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Ready Player One to the first 10,000 people who buy a Hydrogen One on its network. Available in the Hydrogen Network, these movies are optimized for RED’s Holographic 4-View display technology. Unfortunately, Verizon isn’t offering any kind of bundled bonus content with the Hydrogen One at the moment.

Buying unlocked

If you don’t mind handing over the full $1295 up front — or if you’d rather wait it out and snag the elusive titanium model for an even higher price of $1595 — you can buy the Hydrogen One directly from RED’s site. While you won’t get Fantastic Beasts or Ready Player One, you do get an unlocked model that’s free of any carrier bloatware … and of course, you avoid piling more costs onto your monthly phone bill.

Our pick

RED Hydrogen One

$1295 at AT&T
$1295 at Verizon

Squeeze every bit of value you can out of this high-dollar phone.

If you’re going to buy the Hydrogen One, you’ll get the most value out of AT&T’s H4V movie bundle, but if that’s not important to you or you’re on a different carrier, you can buy it from Verizon or unlocked directly from RED.

Nomad Updates Qi-Compatible Base Station With Integrated Apple Watch Charger

Accessory company Nomad today launched the Base Station Apple Watch Edition, which includes a Qi charging mat for iPhone and integrated charging puck for Apple Watch. The new accessory is an upgrade from the original Base Station, which was focused on Qi charging for iPhone and lacked Apple Watch charging support.

The Base Station Apple Watch Edition includes three 7.5W charging coils underneath a padded leather surface, which the company says will let users choose from multiple charging orientations. On the top left corner of the unit is a stand for Apple Watch, which charges the smartwatch in Nightstand Mode and supports both closed loop and open loop bands.

Nomad says the Base Station Apple Watch Edition can charge up to three devices at once, presumably referring to two Qi-compatible iPhones and one Apple Watch, but it’s unclear how a second iPhone fits on the mat when Apple Watch is charging. Nomad seems to acknowledge this in its FAQ on the stand, stating that while it supports up to three devices, “it is designed to comfortably charge 1 Apple Watch and 1 phone simultaneously.”

Easily charge your Apple Watch and iPhone wirelessly. We’ve added three coils to provide mulitiple charging orientations; center your phone over a coil and wirelessly charge your phone how you like. Great for your desk, bedside, and around the house.

We recently got our hands on the original Nomad Base Station and shared our thoughts in a review on the MacRumors YouTube channel. While the leather surface lacked reliable grip for case-less iPhones and finding the hot spot for charging proved finicky, we largely came away impressed by Nomad’s accessory thanks to its design and additional port options on the back.

In terms of those ports, it’s worth noting the updated Base Station Apple Watch Edition appears to have ditched the extra USB-A and USB-C ports on the back of the device. For those interested, the new accessory is available to purchase on Nomad’s website today for $119.95.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Nomad. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Tag: Nomad
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