New netbooks add some brawn, but are they still a good buy?
In the beginning, netbooks were modest devices. Most lacked the giddyup to even run Windows. Now, netbooks have grown up to the point where even basic models perform many everyday tasks with ease, and a new class of netbooks is starting to challenge full-sized laptops when it comes to getting things done. But this higher power comes at a price — literally — as netbooks are starting to catch up to and even pass full-sized laptops when it comes to the bottom line. Do these more powerful but more expensive netbooks still make sense? That’s among the things you can learn in our freshly updated report on netbooks.
Getting prepared for a hurricane
It’s that time of year. Hurricane Earl is set to become the first big storm of 2010 to let its presence be felt in the United States. Hurricane warnings and watches are in effect on the east coast, and experts are closely monitoring Earl’s track to see just how far north is effects might be felt.
One needn’t be a historian to understand the potential dangers hurricanes present every time they make landfall. Even “smaller” storms can cause a lot of damage. While there’s nothing anyone can do to stop a hurricane, you can reduce some of the anxiety associated with Mother Nature’s violent outbursts by preparing for them ahead of time. To that end, we’ve assembled some useful links that may come in handy throughout the rest of hurricane season. Remember, it’s not officially over until December 1.
Fast facts about slow cookers
When it comes to choosing a slow cooker, you have many brands to pick from. But one manufacturer, Hamilton Beach, stands out when it comes to producing what pros and consumers alike say are the best slow cookers available. Three Hamilton Beach slow cookers make the list of Best Reviewed products in our latest report update. What we found most surprising was that a previous Best Reviewed pick, the All-Clad 99009, has fallen sharply out of favor with some consumers.
1.3 million Garmin GPS units recalled for overheating/fire risk
Garmin GPS units are hot items — both figuratively and literally, it seems. Reviews bear that out, as the nuvi series of automotive GPS devices sweeps ConsumerSearch’s Best Reviewed categories in our most recent full report. Unfortunately, Garmin has identified a potentially dangerous overheating problem when certain third-party batteries produced within a specific date range are used in conjunction with specific printed circuit boards (PCBs). The overheating risk could lead to increased risk of fire.
You have questions, ConsumerSearch has answers
It’s time to dip into the ConsumerSearch mailbag again and answer some reader email. Whether it’s a question, a comment (or even a complaint), we love to hear from users, and we love helping them find solutions to their problems. Read on for a sampling of the latest notes from our readers.
Are current 3D TVs already obsolete?
While there are many hurdles standing in the way of 3D TV’s widespread adoption (including high cost, lack of content and even fears that watching 3D TV could make you sick), but the requirement for expensive and sometimes-uncomfortable glasses to see the 3D effect is one of the most significant. Though consumer electronics manufacturers have been working on auto-stereoscopic (glasses-free) high-def 3D, most experts have said that such TVs are years away from being a practical reality. Imagine their surprise, then, in the wake of reports that Toshiba plans to introduce a 3D TV that needs no glasses, and hopes to have it available by the end of 2010.
Best leaf blowers to make leaves leave
Leaf blowers can make quick work of backyard clean ups, but as the experts at This Old House magazine note, it’s important to pick one that’s capable of handling the work you have for it. Choices range from small, handheld leaf blowers that are most suitable for clearing leaves from a patio, to walk-behind wheeled behemoths that can clear the leaves from the back 40, and everything in between. The just updated ConsumerSearch report on leaf blowers provides the lowdown on the very best choices for every job and every budget.
Which dorm fridges make the grade?
No dorm room is complete without a mini refrigerator (college students need to keep all that Red Bull someplace), but it’s not quite as easy as heading to Walmart and picking up the cheapest fridge you can find. There’s a major distinction between the two main types of mini fridges, and it’s one that’s not apparent at first glance. It turns out that some models are not fridges as all — instead of using a compressor and coolant like a regular fridge, some models use thermoelectric cooling — much like those portable coolers that plug into a car’s cigarette lighter. This type of mini fridge can’t get very cold, so they’re not a good choice for storing leftovers and your drinks won’t be super chilly.
Get A Grip handle slips up in professional testing
Get A Grip is a portable plastic handle with spring-loaded suction cups at both ends. According to the infomercial, it’s designed to function as a safety handle and users can securely attach it to almost any smooth surface with a firm push. Since it’s suction-powered, no tools are required to install it or remove it.
However, many reviewers dispute the claims made in the infomercial, which promotes the Get A Grip as a safety handle that can be used in the shower to prevent falls. Contrary to the advertisement, the product’s instructions clearly state that it should not be used to support body weight or to maintain balance.
More from our mailbox
We at ConsumerSearch welcome reader feedback, be it a question, a comment or a complaint (we answer the complaint letters too). We do our best to find the answers, even if it’s not something we’re currently covering, and we’re happy to hear suggestions about what you’d like to see us cover in the future. Here’s this week’s batch of stumpers.