OBDLink LX review

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OBDLink LX is an OBD2 adapter. It’s plugged into OBD2 ports and connected to Android devices or Windows PCs via Bluetooth. With the adapter, your Android device or Windows PC becomes a sophisticated OBD2 scan tool.

What’s in the box?

  • OBDLink LX adapter
  • Instruction guide
  • Installation Disc for Windows software (OBDwiz)

Specifications

  • Dimension: 2″ D x 1.8″ L x 0.9″ H
  • Weight: 1.12 oz

Basic Features

Read and Clear the trouble codes – OBDLink LX is plugged into an OBD2 port to get access to a vehicle’s computer and also connect to your Android device or Windows PC via Bluetooth. With app or software, you can read and clear trouble codes which are essential for diagnosing engine problem of modern vehicles.

The trouble codes are stored on the computer even before Check Engine Light comes on. The computer detects a problem and stores code as a Pending code. You don’t see Check Engine Light yet. After a while, if the problem still exists, the computer set the code as a Permanent code and turns on Check Engine Light. OBDLink LX can retrieve both Permanent and Pending codes.

Freeze Frame data – Freeze frame data is a snapshot of engine data when the computer stores a trouble code. It helps you determine where to look first when diagnosing.

I/M Readiness Monitors – A vehicle’s computer performs a self-test various systems every time you reset the computer (=clear Check Engine Light.) If they are not completed, a vehicle won’t pass a state inspection.

Live Data – You can see many engine data in Android apps or Windows software. Both OBDLink Android app and OBDwiz allow you to customize them in a digital, graph, or gauge style. You can create a virtual dashboard as you’d like.

Key Features

World’s fastest Bluetooth OBD2 adapter – Up to 4 times faster than competitors. Its quick response makes gauges, graphs, and dials smoother and more detailed.

BatterySaver technology – The adapter is monitoring vehicle’s battery voltage all the time. It automatically turns on or goes to sleep mode accordingly.

Free OBDLink Android app and OBDwiz – OBDLink Android app is the exclusive app for OBDLink adapters. It’s very similar to Torque app. OBDwiz is software for Windows. It’s a good bonus because OBD2 software for Windows is usually expensive.

More 3rd party app and software options – OBDLink LX is compatible with many 3rd party apps and software.

3-year warranty and Free firmware/software updates – They offer a 3-year warranty and free lifetime firmware and software updates.

Pros

OBDLink LX is up to 4 times faster than competitors. In Live Data, gauge actions are as smooth as a real one. Graphs are detailed. A free Window software, OBDwiz is useful when you want to use a laptop. And there are many apps and software compatible with OBDLink LX.

Cons

OBDLink LX is not compatible with iOS devices. If you want to use iPhones or iPads, this is not the adapter for you.

Difference between MX and LX

OBDLink MX works with two additional OBD2 protocols, SW-CAN and MS-CAN, which are used in late GM and Ford models. That’s the only difference between MX and LX, and MX is a little more expensive than LX. If your car is not GM or Ford, and you are sure that you don’t use the adapter on these models, there is no reason to pay extra money for OBDLink MX.

Conclusion

OBDLink LX is fast, reliable, and versatile OBD2 adapter. There are many apps and software compatible with the adapter. They are not only for engine diagnosis but also data logging, recording route maps, or creating a secondary dashboard with smooth and detailed gauge actions. OBDLink LX is the best OBD2 adapter for those who want to try many 3rd party apps and software on Android and Windows PC. Click to see the latest price.

OBDLink MX review

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OBDLink MX is an OBD2 adapter that works with Android and Windows PC. It’s up to 4 times faster than competitors, meaning flawless and smooth actions in live data. OBDLink MX is the adapter compatible with various apps and software.

What’s in the box?

  • OBDLink MX Bluetooth adapter
  • Instruction guide
  • Installation disc for Windows software (OBDwiz)

In the box, the adapter itself, a piece of paper of instruction guide, and an installation disc of OBDwiz Windows software. The software is worthy because many OBD software for Windows is not attractive in design. Besides, although most of them are free to install, functions and features are limited. You will need to purchase full versions. OBDwiz software comes with the adapter for free, and you can use all features without any restrictions or additional costs.

Specifications

  • Dimension: 2″ D x 1.8″ L x  0.9″ H
  • Weight: 1.12 oz

Basic Features

Read and Clear the trouble codes – The adapter is plugged into an OBD2 port, and then it gets access to a vehicle’s computer. When you have Check Engine Light, the computer stores the trouble code which helps you diagnose the engine problem. You can read the codes on your Android devices or Windows PC. After fixing the problem, you can clear the codes to turn off Check Engine Light.

Before the computer triggers Check Engine Light on and sets a trouble code as a permanent code, the computer has already had the code as a pending code. You can read and clear both permanent and pending codes.

Freeze Frame data – It’s a snapshot of engine data at the moment the computer stores a trouble code. It gives a rough idea of vehicle’s condition at that moment and helps you where to start diagnosing first.

I/M Readiness Monitors – The computer performs a self-test on numbers of systems every after being reset (cleared Check Engine Light.) It takes a while and a couple of drive cycles to complete. If they are not finished, it’s not ready to take a car to the state inspection. Regulation of inspection varies from the state to the state. It may pass the inspection even when some systems’ self-tests are not finished.

Live Data – Both OBDLink Android app and OBDwiz can display various engine data such as RPM, Coolant temp, Mass Air Flow volume, etc in a graph, dial, or digital style. Of course, you can use and do the same in 3rd party apps such as Torque and DashCommand. Your mobile device or Windows PC becomes fully customized secondary dashboard.

Key Features

Supports SW-CAN & MS-CAN protocols – OBDLink MX is compatible with SW-CAN and MS-CAN which is used in late-model GM, Ford, and Mazda. It allows you to perform enhanced diagnosis which most other OBD2 adapters can’t get access such as ABS, Airbag, and Transmission.

World’s fastest Bluetooth OBD2 adapter – Up to 4 times faster than competitors. It means it provides more frequent data points, smoother graphs, more realistic gauge actions.

BatterySaver Technology – The adapter monitors the voltage of vehicle’s battery and automatically sleep and wake-up accordingly. Thus, you can leave the adapter plugged without worrying about a battery drain.

Free OBDLink Android app and OBDwiz – OBDLink Android app works exclusively with OBDLink adapters. It’s very similar to Torque app. You also have OBDwiz software for Window PC. The features of the software are almost the same as the OBDLink app, but you may prefer using PC to Android devices for data logging and recording purposes.

More 3rd party app and software options – Android’s Play Store has numerous OBD2 diagnostic apps. OBDLink MX is compatible with most of them. On the top of it, there is a unique app like obdCANex or a professional OBD software, ScanXL.

3-year warranty and Free firmware/software updates – Unlike cheap generic OBD2 adapters, the firmware of OBDLink MX can be updated.

Pros

OBDLink MX is up to 4 times faster than competitors. If you use the adapter only for reading and clearing Check Engine Light, it doesn’t matter how fast it is. But, if you want to create and set up virtual gauges or digital meters on your mobile device, OBDLink MX provides smoother and more realistic actions. It also provides more precise graph actions which help diagnosis better.

SW-CAN & MS-CAN protocol supports will bring more possibilities. In fact, some 3rd party apps already offer enhanced diagnosis on Ford vehicles. And an Android app called obdCANex provides remote control of windows and locks on selected GM vehicles. There will be more and more Android apps with new features developed in the future.

For logging and recording purposes, you may want to use a laptop. OBDLink MX is compatible with Windows PC, and a free Windows software, OBDwiz comes with the adapter.

Cons

It advertises OBD professional software, ScanXL which is exclusively compatible with the adapter and capable of enhanced diagnostics on GM, Ford, and Mazda. However, ScanXL is expensive. Besides, you will need add-ons to perform enhanced diagnostics, and they are also expensive.

OBDLink MX Bluetooth is not compatible with iOS devices. You need a WiFi version if you use iOS devices.

Difference between MX and LX

OBDLink LX lacks a compatibility with two OBD2 protocols, SW-CAN and MS-CAN, which are used in late GM and Ford models. That’s the only difference between MX and LX, and MX is a little more expensive than LX. If your car is late models of GM or Ford, or you are an auto mechanic who works on these models, you should choose OBDLink MX over LX.

Conclusion

OBDLink MX is fast, reliable, and versatile OBD2 adapter. There are already many apps compatible with the adapter. And many developers use OBDLink MX when they test their apps. Some cheap OBD2 adapters may not be going to be compatible with new apps, but OBDLink MX will. If you use Android devices and Windows PCs and want to use many different apps including unique or future apps, OBDLink MX would be the best OBD2 adapter for you. Click to see the latest price.

BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool review

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BlueDriver is an OBD2 adapter created by a company called Lemur Vehicle Monitors. The adapter works exclusively with their app. It uses Bluetooth to connect to your Android or iOS devices. The app is free, and there are no subscription fee or in-app purchases. All you need to buy is the adapter to make your mobile device into a sophisticated OBD2 scan tool.

What’s in the box?

  • BlueDriver OBD2 sensor
  • Instruction guide

In the box, BlueDriver OBD2 adapter (sensor), and either a little piece of paper or a card that is supposed to be an instruction guide. It says that you can begin by installing the app, and the app has a user manual in it. There is a QR code on the box and even the sensor itself. You can install the app by scanning them.

Specifications

  • Dimension: 1.9″ L x 2.2″ D x 1″ H
  • Weight: 1.6 oz

The sensor is small and compact. The company could make a design of the sensor smaller and shorter. But, to remove it from OBD2 port easily, the sensor has a tab on end to grip and pinch by your fingers. And, there is one LED indicator light to show power and connection status.

Features of BlueDriver

Read and Clear Trouble Codes – When your car’s engine has a problem, a vehicle’s computer tries to tell you by turning on Check Engine Light on the dash. At the same time, the computer stores Trouble Codes for you to identify the problem. OBD2 scan tools can get access to the computer and retrieve the codes.

You may see the codes even when Check Engine Light is off. Depending on codes, the computer takes a certain time to trigger Check Engine Light and stores trouble codes (Permanent codes) after it detects a problem. During this time, the computer stores these codes as Pending codes. BlueDirver can read and clear both Permanent and Pending codes.

Read and Clear Enhanced Codes (ABS, Airbag, and Transmission for supported makes and models only) – While most OBD2 adapters can get access only to vehicles’ engine computer, BlueDriver can do it to ABS, Airbag, Transmission modules. This feature is limited to supported makes and models. Currently, they are GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, BMW, Nissan, and Honda. A company continuously works on developing to make more makes and models supported.

Repair Reports – Once you get a trouble code, you will get a report containing details of the code, possible causes, and reported fixes. The app matches your car’s year, make, and model then provides a report from a database of over 6.6 million fixes verified by certified automotive technicians. Although you may get this information by searching on the internet, it takes time to reach a specific. You might end up reading unrelated articles or guess works and advice from armatures. Repair Reports save your time. They are organized and ready to provide you the correct information, and more importantly, they are keeping updated.

Freeze Frame – It’s a snapshot of PIDs such as RPM, coolant temp, mass airflow volume, etc at the moment a trouble code is stored. With Freeze Frame data and Repair Reports, you will know where to start diagnosing to identify the cause of the problem.

Smog Check – Also known as I/M readiness monitor. It’s a set of self-test done by a vehicle’s computer, showing Ready or Not Ready. It tells you whether your car is ready to be taken to the state inspection. Regulation of inspection varies from the state to the state. So, it may pass the inspection even if one of the tests is Not Ready

Mode 6 – It’s an advanced test result. Unlike Smog Check, Mode 6 shows test results in values. When values exceed a maximum or minimum threshold, a vehicle’s computer illuminates Check Engine Light. In other words, no matter how close the value is to the threshold, the computer doesn’t set trouble codes even if you feel something wrong with the vehicle. Mode 6 is used to find a problem with a vehicle without Check Engine Light. Depending on the vehicle, Mode 6 may show either raw hex values or interpreted test IDs and values.

Live Data – It shows real-time engine data such as RPM, coolant temp, speed, etc. A list of data varies from vehicle to vehicle. In general, the newer cars, the more numbers of data provided. You can customize Live Data Dashboard by selecting PIDs, changing the color, displaying in a graph, gauge, or digital style. You can also create a file to export and log.

Pros

BlueDriver is focused on vehicle diagnosis and repair. Repair Reports are very helpful and time-saving. Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, Airbag, and Transmission) are outstanding features. It used to need expensive scan tools to diagnose all these modules. Now, all you need is BlueDriver sensor and app. The feature is currently limited to certain makes and models. But, a company has been developing the sensor and app together, and they are improving rapidly. In fact, when it was released, enhanced diagnostics are available only on GM, Ford, and Chrysler. But now, Toyota, BMW, Nissan, and Honda have become supported.

BlueDriver is one of the few OBD2 Bluetooth adapters which compatible with both Android and iOS devices. For example, OBDLink MX and BAFX Products adapters work with Android only. If you have an iOS device, you need WiFi version of OBDLink MX or BAFX Products adapters.

Cons

BlueDriver is not compatible with any 3rd party apps. It works with BlueDriver app only. If you want to use other apps such as Torque, BlueDriver is not for you.

Conclusion

BlueDriver is the best OBD2 adapter for vehicle diagnosis. The company is helpful and serious about helping DIY-ers. That reflects on continually updating repair reports, customer support, and improvements over years since its release. All features including new ones that may become available in the future are offered without in-app purchases or subscriptions. BlueDriver is definitely worth its price. Click to see the latest price.

5 Best OBD2 Adapters for Android in 2017

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Read Also

Thanks to advanced technologies, our lives are becoming more and more convenient. You carry, use, look at them every day. But, they are not only limited to items carrying around or having in our homes like cellphones, computers, smart home products but also for our cars. For recent years, OBD2 adapters have been popular among car enthusiasts, Sunday mechanics, or even professional automotive technicians. These little gadgets can get access to vehicles’ computers and give lots of information by transmitting to your smartphones. It’s been a while since its first appearance. So, countless products are on the market now. And, it’s difficult to choose one if you don’t know much about these products. I hope this post help you pick up the right OBD adapter. Here are the best OBD2 adapters in 2017.

BAFX Products 34t5 Bluetooth OBDII Scan Adapter Tool

BAFX has been an amazon’s best seller for many years. It’s a very basic OBD2 adapter, and its price is reasonable. Unlike many other adapters of the same or less price range, BAFX is reliable because there are no copied products. Many cheap adapters are copied, sold and re-sold with less quality and loose inspection. As a result, you may receive a defect. Besides, you may not have a warranty for it. However, BAFX adapter is sold only by a manufacturer. You may find re-sellers of the adapter somewhere else, but I strongly recommend buying at amazon.com. It’s sold directly by the manufacturer (fulfilled by Amazon) with a two-year warranty. Click here to see more details.

Panlong Bluetooth OBD2 Scan Adapter

Panlong is another basic OBD2 adapter. The price is lower than BAFX. It’s one of the least expensive adapters. Dimension 1.9″ L x 1.3″ D x 1″ H. Its stubby shape doesn’t stick out from an OBD port, and it won’t interfere your driving. A blue-tinted transparent housing looks cool. You can see circuit boards with LED indicator lights through it. Unfortunately, a defect rate seems higher than BAFX but a lot lower than average. A manufacturer offers 100% money back guarantee and 1-year replacement with professional customer service. As BAFX, I strongly recommend avoiding re-sellers and buying at amazon.com. (sold by Ace Deal and fulfilled by Amazon)

ScanTool OBDLink LX OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter

OBDLink LX is an OBD2 adapter with better quality than generic adapters such as BAFX and Panlong. Unlike generic adapters, a firmware of OBDLink LX can be updated for free when available. You also get a free exclusive app for Android and software for Windows PC (OBDwiz.) Of course, you can use many other 3rd party apps. Especially, free software for Windows is a big bonus because many software for Windows is expensive. Although there are some free ones, they have limited functions.

OBDLink LX is up to 4 times faster than competitors. If you plan to use the adapter for monitoring or recording engine data, LX performs excellent jobs for those purposes. It will provide more data points, smoother graphs, and more realistic virtual gauges.

Battery saver technology allows you leave the adapter plugged without worrying about draining vehicle’s battery. The adapter comes with a three-year warranty and lifetime software and firmware upgrades. Click here to see more details.

ScanTool OBDLink MX OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter

OBDLink MX has all features of LX, plus some other features for many late models of GM, Ford and Mazda vehicles. For supported GM models, you can open and close windows, door locks, or start the engine remotely by using 3rd party app called obdCANex. It is also compatible with enhanced PC software called ScanXL to access ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other vehicles’ modules. It used to need expensive scan tools to access all these modules. They cost at least several thousand dollars, but now you can do it for a fraction of costs.

Again, MX has all features of LX including a free Android app, Windows PC software (OBDwiz), battery saver technology, three-year warranty, and free software and firmware updates. MX is slightly more expensive than LX. If you have late-model GM, Ford, or Mazda or you are a mechanic who works on many different makes and models, MX is a good choice. Click here to see more details.

BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool

BlueDriver is probably the best choice for a professional mechanics or those who mainly use the adapter for diagnosis. The adapter is manufactured by a company called Lemur Vehicles Monitors. The company has been developing the adapter and exclusive app together. The BlueDriver app contains a database of over 6.6 million fixes verified by certified auto mechanics. When you get trouble codes, it will show you not only definitions of codes but also possible causes and reported fixes. You can even ask for more details by an email or a live chat through the app.

It has access to ABS, Airbag, Transmission modules, too. Currently, it’s limited to GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota, and BMW with some models excluded, but the company is working on other makes and models to make it compatible. Unlike OBDLink MX, you don’t need extra software (ScanXL) to scan ABS, Airbag, and Transmission modules. It’s all done in a BlueDriver app. And, unlike all other adapters listed above, BlueDirver works with both Android and iOS devices.

It’s very professional adapter and app. But, there is one thing you should know before purchasing. BlueDirver adapter is not compatible any other apps. It works with BlueDriver app only. As compared with Torque app, BlueDriver doesn’t have a map to see and record a route you drive. However, you can fully customize live data to create a virtual dashboard just like Torque.

Since the company is developing both the adapter and app together, it’s improving rapidly. BlueDriver is the best OBD2 adapter for diagnosis with great potential. Click here to see more details.

ProductBAFX Products 34t5Panlong PL-B02ScanTool OBDLink LXScanTool OBDLink MXBlueDriver
Dimension
D x L x H		3.5" x 1.8" x 1"1.3" x 1.9" x 1"2" x 1.8" x 0.9"2" x 1.8" x 0.9"2.2" x 1.9" x 1"
Weight2.88 oz0.64 oz1.12 oz1.12 oz1.6 oz
iOS compatibility Y/NNNNNY
Windows compatibility Y/NYYYYN
Price$29.99*$17.99*$69.99*$99.99*$99.95*
*Click to see the latest price

Take care of notifications on Gear VR with Do Not Disturb mode

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While a push notification is a very convenient feature of smartphones, you may sometimes feel they are annoying. You might already configure the setting as you received notifications only from the apps you chose. However, when you are playing VR, probably you don’t want them at all.

Notification setting on smartphones

If you turn off all notifications on the smartphone, it won’t disturb you playing VR. But, when you turn back on, it turns on all of them. The smartphone doesn’t remember the apps you chose. So, you will have to re-configure the setting as you receive notifications only from the apps you want. This re-configuration is a hassle.

Do Not Disturb Mode

There is a better and easy way to deal with notifications. Instead of changing notification-setting of the smartphone, you should use a Do-not-disturb mode. You may know that there is a Do-not-disturb mode in a swipe-down menu on the phone, but it exists on Gear VR, too. Both modes on the phone and Gear VR can be easily accessed and toggled. But, doing it on Gear VR is better because it doesn’t change the configuration on the phone. It goes back to the setting when you finish playing VR.

How to turn on Do-not-disturb mode on Gear VR

  1. Go to Home screen
  2. Tap ‘Settings’ on the bottom, then tap ‘See All’ or Press and hold a back button
  3. Tap ‘Do Not Disturb’

Do-not-disturb mode on Gear VR is different from one on smartphones

Now, you won’t see notifications pop up. It’s worth noting that Do-not-disturb mode on Gear VR is different from one on the phone and effective only on Gear VR. When you remove the phone from Gear VR, it goes back to the same configuration as before. You don’t have to turn it off before removing the phone from the headset. Or, you don’t have to open and toggle the mode on the phone after removing, either.

The setting remains

And, Do-not-disturb mode on Gear VR is remaining on or off until you toggle on Gear VR, even after you remove your smartphone from the headset. When you play Gear VR next time, Do not disturb mode remains on unless you turn it off by doing the same way above.

Summary

When you are playing games of some genres like horror and action, popup notifications can be deadly. Now that you know how to make them disappear, I hope you enjoy Gear VR without worrying about these hidden obstacles.

Tips and Tricks to enjoy Virtual Reality with Samsung Gear VR

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If you just got Samsung Gear VR headset and tried it out, you might have gotten small issues like battery drain or overheat. Virtual Reality is still new technology, and it’s developing now. Currently, some problems are inevitable. However, you can minimize them with some tips and tricks in this post. It also shows tricks to help you optimize your experience with Gear VR.

Charge your smartphone

First off, you should make sure that your phone has an adequate charge on its battery. VR apps tend to drain a lot of charge from the battery, and that can’t be helped. But, the more charge on the battery,  the longer you’ll be able to play.

It’s true that Gear VR has a port to connect a USB cable and charge the battery while you’re playing. But, it’s not an ideal solution. One of the benefits of mobile VRs is wire-free. Unlike Oculus Rift or HTC Vive, you don’t have to connect any wires. Although you don’t or you can’t walk around with Gear VR because there is no position sensor or camera, you probably turn around, look up and down, or even spin. You can easily get tangled on the cable. So, charge the battery in advance, and you will get freedom.

Use a headphone

An immersive experience is what VR is for. No matter how good smartphone’s speakers are, wearing a headphone guarantees to enhance an immersive experience. Bluetooth headphones can be used, but wired headphones are better because they are less load to the smartphone and consume less charge on the battery. Use a headphone, and you will get to the next level of immersive experiences.

Try a swivel chair

Playing VR on a fixed chair gets you tired quickly, and you will be reluctant to look around. Instead of tweaking and craning your neck on a couch, try a swivel chair when you play VR next time. Let a chair rotate when you want to look around. You don’t have to tweak your neck anymore. It’s more comfortable and less stressful.

Get Gear VR controller

Samsung released the official controller for Gear VR in 2017. The controller brings you a whole new experience. Although you still need an aftermarket gamepad for certain games like Minecraft, the controller is compatible with many games. If games can be played with a touchpad on the side of Gear VR, you can play them with the controller. Plus, many new games have been developed after its release, and they are compatible with the controller. Plus, some games can be played with Gear VR controller only.

Choose apps and games enjoyable for you

There are so many apps and games for Gear VR, and they are not made equal in comfort level. Some apps and games involve a lot of camera movements, player motions, and disorienting effects. And these apps and games may not be enjoyable especially for those who are new to VR. Oculus store shows the comfort ratings on each app and game. You can find the rating as either Comfort, Moderate, or Intense on a page of app and game. Use the rating as a reference, and you won’t end up purchasing games that give you motion sickness.

Deal with heat

Overheating is a serious issue when playing VR. It’s not only Samsung smartphones problem but also all smartphones compatible with VR apps. The cause of overheating is too much load on smartphones when a VR app is running. It seems that overheating is inevitable, but you can do a couple of things to help it out.

First off, close all other applications before starting VR. Once you put the headset, you are in the different world. Leave everything behind in the real world.

Next, block all notifications. You don’t want a notification pop up in the middle of gunfire

Get an aftermaket gamepad for some games

While many games can be played only with a touchpad on the side of Gear VR, some games require a gamepad. The games like Minecraft need many buttons to be played. Aftermarket gamepads have almost the same button-layout as Playstation’s or Xbox’s controllers. But, you need to choose one compatible with Android. They are connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth, so you don’t have to worry about wires tangled. Some of them are small and compact, having a good design for portability and storage. Some are thick but feels good in hands, having a good design for operability and maneuverability.

Keep it clean

You need to clean the headset from time to time. Lenses should be clear and dust-free. You can keep them clean with a dust cloth and lens cleaner. If you have an air duster, you will have a better result. And remember, you need to clean a screen of a smartphone as well. If dust is on the screen, lenses of VR magnifies it no matter how small it is. You can clean it in the same way as you do to lenses with the same materials.

And a face pad eventually gets dirty. The face pad is attached to the main body by a velcro. You can easily remove and wash it. Don’t worry. When it’s worn out, you can buy a replacement only. Enjoy VR experiences with comfort and good hygiene.

I hope these tips and tricks help you optimize an immersive experience with Gear VR.

Mellow sous vide oven – the first sous vide machine with refrigeration system

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Mellow is the most innovative sous vide oven available today. Unlike other sous vide ovens, it has a built-in WiFi. But, The most outstanding feature of Mellow is the refrigeration system.

What’s in a box?

  • Mellow sous vide oven
  • 20 sealable plastic bags
  • Instructional booklets

Plastics bags come with the machine. Water pressure is used to let air out of bags (They are not for vacuum sealers.) They are custom made, a perfect fit to the shape of Mellow’s water bath. A food-safe plastic, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is used. Both BPA and phthalate free. Of course, you can use other bags as long as they are safe to use for sous vide cooking. If you like their bags, you can order them from their website or mobile app.

Design

Mellow doesn’t have any buttons. You only see an indicator light that shows whether the machine is paired with your smartphone. A water bath is clear plastic. Unlike Tribest Sousvant, Mellow’s water bath has double wall insulation.

The design is a very simple. It’s a white box with a plastic water bath. If you don’t know what it is, you’ll probably never know what it is. But, the overall design is good for a small appliance which stays on a kitchen counter.

Specifications

  • Dimension: 6.7″ W x 12.5″ D x 15.8″ H
  • Weight: 20 lbs
  • Water bath capacity: 5 liters (=1.32 gallons)
  • Water bath dimension: 6.1″ W x 9.1″ D x 11.2 H
  • Heating Power: 1000 watts
  • Cooling Power: 140 watts
  • Temperature range: 39 degrees F (at 84F room temp) to 194 degrees F

It’s very compact machine. It doesn’t need much space on your kitchen counter. However, the size of the water bath is small. It has a capacity of 5 liters. You can put 5 liters of water and foods. Because of the size, Mellow is not suitable for a big family or those who want to cook a large amount at a time.

A 1000-watt heater is very powerful for the small size of a water bath. It can heat up water quickly. Thanks to double wall insulation, it doesn’t consume much energy after it reaches the target temperature. According to a manufacturer, it only needs around 30 watts to maintain the heat.

Features

  • Refrigeration system
  • Weight sensor
  • Wireless connection
  • Energy efficiency
  • Instant feedback
  • Smart control

You have to have a smartphone to use Mellow. There are no buttons on the machine. Operating through a smartphone’s app is the only way. If you have an Android device, it should be a version 4.4 or later. If iPhone, iOS9 or later.

Mellow is the first sous vide machine with a capability of cooling. The refrigeration system keeps foods flesh. According to the manufacturer, it can cool to 39 degrees F at 84 F room temperature.

Built-in WiFi allows you to control Mellow from anywhere. And thanks to the refrigeration system, you can leave food in the water bath for a long time without worrying about freshness and safety.

I think that the WiFi feature of sous vide machines has finally become useful and practical with the refrigeration system. There are many sous vide immersion circulators with WiFi such as Chefsteps Joule, or Anova, but you have to manage to keep food in water bath fresh in case you are away from home for a long time. Some people put ice cubes in a water bath to deal with the problem, but it’s a hassle. Besides, it can go wrong when you have a sudden change of schedules such as overtime work or heavy traffic. Mellow is the first sous vide machine that makes sense for the WiFi feature.

Weight sensor detects changes in weight when you put food in the water bath. Then, it starts cooling down and maintains a safe temperature until you start cooking. At the same time, it sends a push notification on your smartphone.

The remote control is not the only benefit of built-in WiFi. With WiFi and internet connection, Mellow learns a preference of your taste by getting feedback from you. If you didn’t like the steak cooked by Mellow last time, send feedback and Mellow will give suggestions and improve next time. The more you use and send feedback, the more Mellow know your taste.

As another benefit of WiFi, the app will update with improvements and new features. So, possibilities are endless.

Conclusion

Mellow is apparently not for a big family or those who want to cook a large amount because of its small size. However, if you are busy and away from home most of the day, Mellow will be a great help for your cooking. And the price, $399 is very reasonable for all those features. Click here to see the latest price.

Understanding Sous Vide cooking method

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Types of cooking methods

Among all types of cooking methods, there is one thing in common. It’s raising a temperature of food in both internal and external. Traditional cooking methods such as searing, baking, and steaming require high heat. By the time inner part of food gets cooked, outer part tends to be overcooked. And a flavor and moisture of food are likely to escape by either dripping or evaporating. Sous vide is the method of cooking without worrying about these problems.

What is Sous Vide?

Sous Vide means Under Vacuum in French. The method first developed in the late 1700s and rediscovered by French and American chefs in the 1960s. Sous Vide has been used in food-service industry since then. And now that there are many sous vide machines intended for home use on the market, Sous Vide cooking became popular and well-known.

Sous Vide cooking involves a container filled with water and food in a vacuum sealed bag. Food is immersed in the water regulated at a constant temperature. Required temperatures depend on ingredients and recipes, but they are lower than traditional methods. It also takes a longer time than traditional methods.

Any types of cooking methods have both advantages and disadvantages. For example, searing cooks food very quickly, but there is always a risk of overcooking. Sous Vide takes a long time to cook, and that’s the only inconvenience of Sous Vide. This cooking method became popular and wide-spread quickly because many benefits justify the inconvenience.

Benefits of Sous Vide

  • Sous Vide is the cooking method with a constant and low temperature. So, there is no way to overcook the food.
  • While cooking, food is in a vacuum sealed bag the whole time. There is no place for a flavor, juice, and moisture to escape. It results in a tender and juicy meal with intense flavor.
  • It’s easy. After you put ingredients, spices, and seasonings in a vacuum sealed bag, the rest of step is always “Cook for XX hours at XX degrees.” And this step is done by sous vide machines. All you need to do is to set temperature and timer on the machine.

To start Sous Vide cooking at home

Sous Vide is the cooking method with constant and low temperature. And Sous Vide machines perform this job precisely. There had been already many products on the market. Prices range from under $100 to $500. Some of them have unique features, and some have unique designs. It’s important to get familiar with their features before buying, and then choose the best product for you.

5 Things to consider before buying Sous Vide machine

5 Things to consider before buying Sous Vide machine

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Although Sous vide cooking method has existed for decades, sous vide cooking became popular for home kitchens quite recently. Starting with Anova immersion circulator, many sous vide machines has been released for home use in the last few years. And these years are enough time for introducing us so many new products that you may not be able to keep up. This post is about 5 things to consider before buying sous vide machine and hopefully helps you choose the right sous vide machine for you.

#1 The capacity of a water bath

A capacity of water bath of all sous vide ovens is between 2 to 3 gallons. It’s believed to be practical because you need to carry the machine to a kitchen sink to empty or clean it. And it’s believed to be enough for home cooking. For example, SousVide Supreme water oven (2.75-gallon capacity) includes a stainless steel rack which can hold up 20 x 4oz portions. I think it’s sufficient for home cooking.

A capacity of water bath of immersion circulators, however, are ranging widely from 3 to 10 gallons. If you cook a large volume of food at a time, you need to choose an immersion circulator compatible with high capacity. For example, Chefsteps Joule claims that it can work in up to 10-gallon container. However, a 10-gallon container is huge. You can’t find such pods in the kitchen. You may find that size of cooler boxes or storage boxes and use them as a water bath if you really need it.

The point is that 10-gallon sous vide cooking are not practical for the home kitchen. As mentioned, 2.75-gallon capacity water oven can cook 20 x 4oz portions, and it’s probably sufficient. But, if you are sure that you need to cook a larger volume of food at a time, immersion circulators compatible with high capacity are the only option.

#2 How long you cook by sous vide

Sous vide cooking relatively needs a long time. Some recipes take even a day or more. If you plan to cook such foods, water ovens are recommended. Water ovens include a lid. It eliminates the problem of evaporation. Although you may find a container with a lid that perfectly fits a specific brands of an immersion circulator, water ovens are more energy efficient. For example, SousVide Supreme Demi water oven is a double wall insulated water bath. Once it reaches a targeted temperature, it stays warm without a power of heater. Plus, it doesn’t need a motor to circulate water, it remains quite and consumes as little as 550 watts at max.

So, if you want to cook for a long time, water ovens are preferable. It’s better to choose ones with good insulation and energy efficiency.

#3 How much food you cook at a time

If you cook only a single steak at a time, you don’t need a large water bath. Immersion circulators are suitable for those who cook only a small portion of food because you can use any container as a water bath as long as the food is immersed in it. You may choose a pot, saucepan, or even frying pan. But, you have to make sure that whatever you use as a water bath is deep enough for the immersion circulator. Immersion circulators have a sensor for a water level. When the level is below a threshold, the machine automatically stops to prevent from overheating. Minimum water depth varies from model to model. For example, minimum depth of Anova precision immersion circulator is 2.5 inches. You probably have a pot that is deep enough for this machine, but you can’t use a frying pan for it. Chefsteps Joule, however, needs only 1.5 inches of water. You will have many choices for a water bath with this machine.

As you see, minimum water depth is a important factor when comparing and choosing immersion circulators.

#4 Size

Immersion circulators don’t take up much space in your kitchen. They can be stored in a kitchen drawer when not in use. Unless you purchase an extra water container, immersion circulators won’t interfere with your kitchen space. On the other hand, water ovens need space. Unless you have enough storage area, water ovens will be left on a kitchen counter even when not in use. Thus, overall size is important for water ovens. Gourmia GSV-550 is 2.25-gallon water oven. Its shallow water bath makes the machine wide. Besides, handles on both sides stick out. They make the machine wider. On the other hand, SousVide Supreme Demi is 2.3-gallon water oven. Its handles are recessed, and overall size keeps compact and space-saving.

When you decide to purchase water oven, just get the dimension of the machine and consider where to put it before buying.

#5 Design

Again, if you choose water oven over immersion circulator and don’t have storage space for it in your kitchen, it will be left on the kitchen counter all the time. And some people care its appearance very much. If you are one of them, Tribest Sousvant water oven is the one you may want to consider first. Its water bath is clear all the way around. You can perfectly see the progress of cooking without opening a lid or picking up the food. The overall design is very modern. It will add positive impression to your kitchen counter. Unlike SousVide Supreme, there is no insulation, and it has a motor to circulate water, so it’s less energy-efficient than SousVide Supreme. But if you do only a short-time cook (around an hour), and care the design more than anything, Tribest Sousvant may be the best choice.

The Best Sous Vide Machines in 2017

ProductChefsStep JoulesAnova WiFiGourmia GSV-130
Dimension1.85" x 1.85" x 11"2.75" x 2.75" x 14.75"4" x 5" x 14.5"
Weight1.28 lbs2.5 lbs2.3 lbs
Power1100 watts900 watts1200 watts
Max water valume10 gallons5 gallons3.5 gallons
Min/Max water depth 1.5" / 8"2.5" / 6.25"2.75" / 6"
Max temperature208 degree F210 degree F203 degree F
Wireless TechnologyBluetooth + WiFiBluetooth + WiFin/a
Price$199.00*$149.00*$79.99*
*Click to see the latest price
ProductTribest SousVantSousVide SupremeSousVide Supreme DemiGourmia GSV-900Gourmia GSV-550
Dimension
D x W x H		14.5" x 8" x 15.5"11.4" x 14.2 x 11.410.96" x 12.99" x 11.310" x 15" x 8.75"10.75" x 16" x 8.25"
Weight10 lbs13 lbs9.8 lbs8.3 lbs9 lbs
Power1000 watts850 watts550 watts800 watts525 watts
Water Bath Volume3 gallons3 gallons2.3 gallons2.5 gallons2.25 gallons
Max Temperature194 degrees F210 degrees F210 degrees F212 degrees F194 degrees F
Price $399.00*$429.00*$329.00*$129.99*$74.99*
*Click to see the latest price

Gourmia GSV-900 & GSV-550 sous vide oven review

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Gourmia GSV-900 and GSV-550 are budget sous vide water ovens. Their design are not attractive. They are kind of big and wide. And there are not many remarkable features. However, the prices are much lower than other brands’ water ovens.

What’ in Box of GSV-900?

  • Gourmia sous vide oven
  • Stainless steel rack
  • Instruction manual

Recessed handles are attached to the body on both sides. A lid has a window to look through it. But, condensation is built up inside of the lid when in use, so the window doesn’t help much monitoring foods.

A display and buttons are located on the top. The display shows the cooking time and temperature. The timer can be set up to 24 hours. And a heater and circulator are located below the display and buttons, on one side of the machine. This layout makes the machine low and flat, but wide and big. I find it less attractive for counter-top appliances.

Gourmia GSV-550 has one quart-less capacity of water bath than GSV-900. And the price is lower. It’s one of the least expensive Sous Vide water ovens today.

What’s in Box of GSV-550

  • Gourmia sous vide oven
  • Stainless steel rack
  • Bonus recipe book

The maximum water capacity is 9 quart. The including rack helps to separate food pouches, making it possible to cook up to 12 4-oz-porches at the same time. Unlike GSV-900, the heater is located at the bottom of the unit, and there is no circulator. It relies on convection to maintain temperature.

The overall design is very simple, similar to SousVide Supreme/Demi. Handles are attached to the body on both sides. Unlike GSV-900 or SousVide Supreme/Demi, they are bulged, making it wider. A lid is transparent. You can see through it better than GSV-900.

Back-lit display and buttons on the front wall. The maximum temperature is 194 degree F (90 degrees C), which is relatively low but believed to be sufficient for most sous vide cooking. The timer can be set between 30 minutes and 72 hours.

Specs and comparison of GSV-900 and GSV-550

ProductGourmia GSV-900Gourmia GSV-550
Dimension10" L x 15" W x 8.75" H10.75" L x 16" W x 8.25" H
Weight8.3 lbs9 lbs
Power800 watts525 watts
Water bath capacity2.5 gallons2.25 gallons
Maximum temperature212 degrees F194 degrees F

Conclusion

Gourmai GSV-900 works well for its reasonable price. However, there are no remarkable features. Its operation is just the same as immersion circulators. Thus, you may consider GSV-900 as all-in-one immersion circulator. As long as it’s a good discounted price, and you want an all-in-one design of Sous Vide machine, you may want to choose Gourmia GSV-900.

Gourmia GSV-550 is another budget Sous Vide oven. It has a little smaller capacity than GSV-900, but it’s a little cheaper. The building quality and accuracy of the temperature of both models are inferior to SousVide Supreme/Demi. If you just want to try out sous vide cooking with an all-in-one machine, both Gourmia sous vide ovens are recommended. Click to see the current prices of GSV-900 and GSV-550.