Question: What landscape picture do you like?

After having this TV for almost a year, it's flaws become pretty apparent. The TV is perfect except for the following things.1) Sometimes the letter buttons on the reverse side of the remote will just stop working. So if you are using the built in YouTube, you might find that you have to manually use the arrows to go to each letter on the screen even though you have all these letter buttons on your remote. They just randomly don't work sometimes.2) Netflix is fine, but YouTube and other apps have serious difficulty streaming for extended periods of time. Even on a 50mbit internet connection, the TV can't seem to buffer the video far enough into the future, and videos play extremely choppy. But this seems to happen more on the 3rd or 4th video you watch, almost like the older videos are being stuck in cache somewhere and now the cache is full, so quitting the app and reloading it makes it better for another two videos... it just seems like they didn't test their included Apps. Maybe this app is provided by YouTube and not vizio, but it is still a part of the TV.3) Automatic volume adjust doesn't work after awhile... the volume will be great, and then sometimes the volume auto adjust feature that is supposed to maintain a constant volume on all content gets screwy, and the volume goes up and down and up and down and up and down while watching movies or videos. Extremely annoying. It can be rectified by either turning the Smart Volume off, or resetting to factory defaults (but then it may randomly return). Turning the Smart volume off would be fine, except when you do this, you may find for certain videos or movies, you will turn the tv volume all the way up to 100% and it will still be quieter than it was when the smart volume was working at 30 or 40%. Basically, your overall maximum volume is seriously reduced. I would say this is the most annoying issue of all with this TV, and if I had known this before hand, I would not have purchased this TV unless I had also purchased a separate audio system.4) About once every 2 months the TV just completely freezes, won't turn off or on until you unplug it. Something about the software on the TV I guess, just has some kind of error and if you are watching TV at the time, the picture gets stuck, and the buttons stop working. You need to unplug the TV and plug it back in. Sometimes it happens when the TV is off, and you can't turn the TV on until you unplug it and plug it back in. This happens without rhyme or reason, but it is rare. Still, it is very annoying when it does happen.5) 3D auto detect is a little poor. It detects fine with certain things like PS3 games, but other things like streaming movies it doesn't detect so well. I'm not sure if other TVs are better at this. It could be a fault of the source.Otherwise, this is a pretty nice TV. I do think it was worth the price at the time I bought it, it was very cheap for the included features. The picture is just fine, and it's big, and the 3D looks good.

Answer: the picture gets stuck

After having this TV for almost a year, it's flaws become pretty apparent. The TV is perfect except for the following things.1) Sometimes the letter buttons on the reverse side of the remote will just stop working. So if you are using the built in YouTube, you might find that you have to manually use the arrows to go to each letter on the screen even though you have all these letter buttons on your remote. They just randomly don't work sometimes.2) Netflix is fine, but YouTube and other apps have serious difficulty streaming for extended periods of time. Even on a 50mbit internet connection, the TV can't seem to buffer the video far enough into the future, and videos play extremely choppy. But this seems to happen more on the 3rd or 4th video you watch, almost like the older videos are being stuck in cache somewhere and now the cache is full, so quitting the app and reloading it makes it better for another two videos... it just seems like they didn't test their included Apps. Maybe this app is provided by YouTube and not vizio, but it is still a part of the TV.3) Automatic volume adjust doesn't work after awhile... the volume will be great, and then sometimes the volume auto adjust feature that is supposed to maintain a constant volume on all content gets screwy, and the volume goes up and down and up and down and up and down while watching movies or videos. Extremely annoying. It can be rectified by either turning the Smart Volume off, or resetting to factory defaults (but then it may randomly return). Turning the Smart volume off would be fine, except when you do this, you may find for certain videos or movies, you will turn the tv volume all the way up to 100% and it will still be quieter than it was when the smart volume was working at 30 or 40%. Basically, your overall maximum volume is seriously reduced. I would say this is the most annoying issue of all with this TV, and if I had known this before hand, I would not have purchased this TV unless I had also purchased a separate audio system.4) About once every 2 months the TV just completely freezes, won't turn off or on until you unplug it. <hl> Something about the software on the TV I guess, just has some kind of error and if you are watching TV at the time, the picture gets stuck , and the buttons stop working. <hl> You need to unplug the TV and plug it back in. Sometimes it happens when the TV is off, and you can't turn the TV on until you unplug it and plug it back in. This happens without rhyme or reason, but it is rare. Still, it is very annoying when it does happen.5) 3D auto detect is a little poor. It detects fine with certain things like PS3 games, but other things like streaming movies it doesn't detect so well. I'm not sure if other TVs are better at this. It could be a fault of the source. Otherwise, this is a pretty nice TV. I do think it was worth the price at the time I bought it, it was very cheap for the included features. The picture is just fine, and it's big, and the 3D looks good.

After having this TV for almost a year, it's flaws become pretty apparent. The TV is perfect except for the following things.1) Sometimes the letter buttons on the reverse side of the remote will just stop working. So if you are using the built in YouTube, you might find that you have to manually use the arrows to go to each letter on the screen even though you have all these letter buttons on your remote. They just randomly don't work sometimes.2) Netflix is fine, but YouTube and other apps have serious difficulty streaming for extended periods of time. Even on a 50mbit internet connection, the TV can't seem to buffer the video far enough into the future, and videos play extremely choppy. But this seems to happen more on the 3rd or 4th video you watch, almost like the older videos are being stuck in cache somewhere and now the cache is full, so quitting the app and reloading it makes it better for another two videos... it just seems like they didn't test their included Apps. Maybe this app is provided by YouTube and not vizio, but it is still a part of the TV.3) Automatic volume adjust doesn't work after awhile... the volume will be great, and then sometimes the volume auto adjust feature that is supposed to maintain a constant volume on all content gets screwy, and the volume goes up and down and up and down and up and down while watching movies or videos. Extremely annoying. It can be rectified by either turning the Smart Volume off, or resetting to factory defaults (but then it may randomly return). Turning the Smart volume off would be fine, except when you do this, you may find for certain videos or movies, you will turn the tv volume all the way up to 100% and it will still be quieter than it was when the smart volume was working at 30 or 40%. Basically, your overall maximum volume is seriously reduced. I would say this is the most annoying issue of all with this TV, and if I had known this before hand, I would not have purchased this TV unless I had also purchased a separate audio system.4) About once every 2 months the TV just completely freezes, won't turn off or on until you unplug it. Something about the software on the TV I guess, just has some kind of error and if you are watching TV at the time, <hl> the picture gets stuck <hl>, and the buttons stop working. You need to unplug the TV and plug it back in. Sometimes it happens when the TV is off, and you can't turn the TV on until you unplug it and plug it back in. This happens without rhyme or reason, but it is rare. Still, it is very annoying when it does happen.5) 3D auto detect is a little poor. It detects fine with certain things like PS3 games, but other things like streaming movies it doesn't detect so well. I'm not sure if other TVs are better at this. It could be a fault of the source.Otherwise, this is a pretty nice TV. I do think it was worth the price at the time I bought it, it was very cheap for the included features. The picture is just fine, and it's big, and the 3D looks good.

Something about the software on the TV I guess, just has some kind of error and if you are watching TV at the time, <hl> the picture gets stuck <hl> , and the buttons stop working.


Question: How does the case work?

I have to say that this is the perfect case for my kindle fire hd. Does it give the best protection like an expensive otterbox that has a rubber layer, plastic layer and screen protector? No but the amazon kindle fire hd case is the thinnest, lightest and coolest looking case and also like $25 less. Sure I am sacrificing some protection for style and size. I can fit my kindle fire hd with the case inside my inner jacket pocket while I know that I can't do that with the rest of these larger cases. Does it have the best stand? No. I would think that a stand that clicks into place would be better but this case does have rubber grips and it has never failed me. Some people may want to use the stand and push on the screen with their finger or stylus and it could be an issue there but I even use my stylus with the stand and it held up. Where this case compensates and has the edge over the other cases is.... 1. It snaps in and fits so well that the kindle fire hd and case appear be one piece together. It makes it so light and thin. 2. The case wakes up or puts to sleep the kindle. 3. Magnetic cover keeps it close and I think it is strong enough. 4. The pebble look leather looks real nice and fancy and inside the case there is a "denim looking" cloth that protects the screen. 5. The speaker is covered and protected with designed openings. There isn't a simple cutout or it isn't covered over to muffle the sounds. 6. The inputs like the power button, volume, charging port and headphone jack all work very well for me. I know some people complained about the headphone jack being too small but it fit fine for my ipod headphone and even my larger headphone that has larger size hexagon input. 7. While it may not be the best protection, it still gives you very good protection. I take good care of all my electronics and was more concerned with scratches/scuffs on the screen rather than impact falls so I think this case will be fine. Even if I dropped it on hardwood floor from 4 feet, I think it will hold up and protect the kindle fire hd. I am happy with case but I think a stylus loop on the front cover would make the case better. Putting the stylus on the spine wears out the spine and makes the cover a little crooked when closed. I give this case a 4.5 stars out of 5.

Answer: The case wakes up or puts to sleep the kindle

I have to say that this is the perfect case for my kindle fire hd. Does it give the best protection like an expensive otterbox that has a rubber layer, plastic layer and screen protector? No but the amazon kindle fire hd case is the thinnest, lightest and coolest looking case and also like $25 less. Sure I am sacrificing some protection for style and size. I can fit my kindle fire hd with the case inside my inner jacket pocket while I know that I can't do that with the rest of these larger cases. Does it have the best stand? No. I would think that a stand that clicks into place would be better but this case does have rubber grips and it has never failed me. Some people may want to use the stand and push on the screen with their finger or stylus and it could be an issue there but I even use my stylus with the stand and it held up. Where this case compensates and has the edge over the other cases is.... 1. It snaps in and fits so well that the kindle fire hd and case appear be one piece together. It makes it so light and thin. 2. <hl> The case wakes up or puts to sleep the kindle . <hl> 3. Magnetic cover keeps it close and I think it is strong enough. 4. The pebble look leather looks real nice and fancy and inside the case there is a "denim looking" cloth that protects the screen. 5. The speaker is covered and protected with designed openings. There isn't a simple cutout or it isn't covered over to muffle the sounds. 6. The inputs like the power button, volume, charging port and headphone jack all work very well for me. I know some people complained about the headphone jack being too small but it fit fine for my ipod headphone and even my larger headphone that has larger size hexagon input. 7. While it may not be the best protection, it still gives you very good protection. I take good care of all my electronics and was more concerned with scratches/scuffs on the screen rather than impact falls so I think this case will be fine. Even if I dropped it on hardwood floor from 4 feet, I think it will hold up and protect the kindle fire hd. I am happy with case but I think a stylus loop on the front cover would make the case better. Putting the stylus on the spine wears out the spine and makes the cover a little crooked when closed. I give this case a 4.5 stars out of 5.

I have to say that this is the perfect case for my kindle fire hd. Does it give the best protection like an expensive otterbox that has a rubber layer, plastic layer and screen protector? No but the amazon kindle fire hd case is the thinnest, lightest and coolest looking case and also like $25 less. Sure I am sacrificing some protection for style and size. I can fit my kindle fire hd with the case inside my inner jacket pocket while I know that I can't do that with the rest of these larger cases. Does it have the best stand? No. I would think that a stand that clicks into place would be better but this case does have rubber grips and it has never failed me. Some people may want to use the stand and push on the screen with their finger or stylus and it could be an issue there but I even use my stylus with the stand and it held up. Where this case compensates and has the edge over the other cases is.... 1. It snaps in and fits so well that the kindle fire hd and case appear be one piece together. It makes it so light and thin. 2. <hl> The case wakes up or puts to sleep the kindle <hl>. 3. Magnetic cover keeps it close and I think it is strong enough. 4. The pebble look leather looks real nice and fancy and inside the case there is a "denim looking" cloth that protects the screen. 5. The speaker is covered and protected with designed openings. There isn't a simple cutout or it isn't covered over to muffle the sounds. 6. The inputs like the power button, volume, charging port and headphone jack all work very well for me. I know some people complained about the headphone jack being too small but it fit fine for my ipod headphone and even my larger headphone that has larger size hexagon input. 7. While it may not be the best protection, it still gives you very good protection. I take good care of all my electronics and was more concerned with scratches/scuffs on the screen rather than impact falls so I think this case will be fine. Even if I dropped it on hardwood floor from 4 feet, I think it will hold up and protect the kindle fire hd. I am happy with case but I think a stylus loop on the front cover would make the case better. Putting the stylus on the spine wears out the spine and makes the cover a little crooked when closed. I give this case a 4.5 stars out of 5.

<hl> The case wakes up or puts to sleep the kindle <hl> .


Question: How was the fit?

.When I first got these earbuds there was a bit of a learning curve to connect with my iPhone 5s. I also connect to a Bose Sound Link mini, a JBL Flip and a Kinovo bluetooth receiver in my car (all of which are excellent!).When I first got the GOs I would always have to activate bluetooth in the iPhone to connect tp the buds. Then I re-read the instructions and I realized that I was holding the activate button on the GOs too long so they would always go into pairing mode. Now I can go from any bluetooth device to the other without pairing.The sound is excellent for earbuds, the ear fit is good with the medium sized inserts and the buttons work well with my iPhone.

Answer: the ear fit is good

.When I first got these earbuds there was a bit of a learning curve to connect with my iPhone 5s. I also connect to a Bose Sound Link mini, a JBL Flip and a Kinovo bluetooth receiver in my car (all of which are excellent!).When I first got the GOs I would always have to activate bluetooth in the iPhone to connect tp the buds. Then I re-read the instructions and I realized that I was holding the activate button on the GOs too long so they would always go into pairing mode. Now I can go from any bluetooth device to the other without pairing. <hl> The sound is excellent for earbuds, the ear fit is good with the medium sized inserts and the buttons work well with my iPhone. <hl>

.When I first got these earbuds there was a bit of a learning curve to connect with my iPhone 5s. I also connect to a Bose Sound Link mini, a JBL Flip and a Kinovo bluetooth receiver in my car (all of which are excellent!).When I first got the GOs I would always have to activate bluetooth in the iPhone to connect tp the buds. Then I re-read the instructions and I realized that I was holding the activate button on the GOs too long so they would always go into pairing mode. Now I can go from any bluetooth device to the other without pairing.The sound is excellent for earbuds, <hl> the ear fit is good <hl> with the medium sized inserts and the buttons work well with my iPhone.


Question: How is the cord?

I bought a 25' Mediabridge cable to connect my computer to my TV and it does the job with no problems at all, the picture on the TV is clear with no interruptions. It's a cable, not rocket science, so all one needs is a sturdy, well-constructed product that does the job and this certainly does that - because of the way I use it, the cable gets plugged and unplugged from my computer numerous times and the connection is still firm. What more could you ask from a cable? So nice to see a company focus on offering a high-quality product at a great price. Mediabridge has distinguished itself in this regard, unlike some other brands whose cables are flimsy and prone to break down or those that try to convince you there's something 'extra-special' about their cables and charge exorbitant prices for the same thing (I think the word "monster" in Monster Cable refers to the price rather than any difference in performance compared to other high-quality cables like the Mediabridge I bought)

Answer: is a sturdy, well-constructed product that does the job and this certainly does that

I bought a 25' Mediabridge cable to connect my computer to my TV and it does the job with no problems at all, the picture on the TV is clear with no interruptions. <hl> It's a cable, not rocket science, so all one needs is a sturdy, well-constructed product that does the job and this certainly does that - because of the way I use it, the cable gets plugged and unplugged from my computer numerous times and the connection is still firm. <hl> What more could you ask from a cable? So nice to see a company focus on offering a high-quality product at a great price. Mediabridge has distinguished itself in this regard, unlike some other brands whose cables are flimsy and prone to break down or those that try to convince you there's something 'extra-special' about their cables and charge exorbitant prices for the same thing (I think the word "monster" in Monster Cable refers to the price rather than any difference in performance compared to other high-quality cables like the Mediabridge I bought)

I bought a 25' Mediabridge cable to connect my computer to my TV and it does the job with no problems at all, the picture on the TV is clear with no interruptions. It's a cable, not rocket science, so all one needs <hl> is a sturdy, well-constructed product that does the job and this certainly does that <hl> - because of the way I use it, the cable gets plugged and unplugged from my computer numerous times and the connection is still firm. What more could you ask from a cable? So nice to see a company focus on offering a high-quality product at a great price. Mediabridge has distinguished itself in this regard, unlike some other brands whose cables are flimsy and prone to break down or those that try to convince you there's something 'extra-special' about their cables and charge exorbitant prices for the same thing (I think the word "monster" in Monster Cable refers to the price rather than any difference in performance compared to other high-quality cables like the Mediabridge I bought)


Question: How would you describe the texture of the lens at all focal lengths above 150mm?

UPDATED: 5/20/2011:  I used my D700, and only my 50mm F1.8 to capture my Grandson's first haircut!  I posted an image here.  And, on the way home following the haircut, a clearing storm brought some gorgeous bluish-black clouds at dusk so I swung down towards the river and shot a couple of shots with the 50mm.  I posted one here called "Blue Hour".  Enjoy.  Seriously, can't go wrong -- though the price seems to be creeping upwards...This 50mm 1.8 is an excellent purchase at around a hundred bucks.  I hate to use the word investment, because we know camera equipment is definitely NOT an investment.  I bought it because I heard so much about it, and, I had a 50mm back in my old film days.  I have not  been disappointed.  I will agree with  many here who say that at F1.8 the results are less than stellar.  This is true--- there is a lack of contrast, not necessarily sharpness (at least in my copy of the lens) that you will notice.  Since I know that as a fact going in to a shoot or session, I set my aperture at F2.0, or F2.2 on my D700, or D300.  This solves the problem.  The resulting images at F 2.0 and above are amazingly sharp, and clear.  Don't get me wrong, I love my 16-35F4VR, and my 24-70F2.8 but this 50mm rocks as a standalone lens when the situation demands fast lens.  As a matter of fact, in a few hours I'm heading off to my grandsons first haircut of his life.  What did I pack?  The D700 (for better high ISO performance than the D300), and my 50mm 1.8.For the price (which seems to have risen lately and rightly so) you can't go wrong.  Even if you have other zoom lenses that cover this range as I do, this lens is unbelievably useful in low light to no light situations.  Personally, I'm lazy and hate zooming with my feet, but I'd much rather do that with this lens, than either using flash, or blurring photos of important events.The lens finish is plasticy but so what?  Are you going to be banging it around on a regular basis?  My 50mm travels with me just about everywhere either in a camera bag, or in my North Face Recon backpack (not a camera backpack) just about everywhere, and I pump about 80,000 images a year per body, between landscapes, motorsports, portraits, etc.  So far, so good.  It does stand up to a beating.  I do not use any protective filter on it as the glass is relatively well recessed on this lens.When I do need to use filters such as polarizers, or ND's, I have step-up rings that take the lens from the 52mm size to 77mm which is the standard size of all my filters. It does look "strange" having the tiny little 50mm lens hidden behind a huge 77mm filter, but it WORKS.Again, if you are looking to make an investment -- there's that ugly word again, make that acquisition, to your photo gear you can't go wrong at this price point; If you wind up hating it, there's always the ability to return it, or sell it on eBay.Enjoy.

Answer: this lens is unbelievably useful in low light to no light situations

UPDATED: 5/20/2011: I used my D700, and only my 50mm F1.8 to capture my Grandson's first haircut! I posted an image here. And, on the way home following the haircut, a clearing storm brought some gorgeous bluish-black clouds at dusk so I swung down towards the river and shot a couple of shots with the 50mm. I posted one here called "Blue Hour". Enjoy. Seriously, can't go wrong -- though the price seems to be creeping upwards... This 50mm 1.8 is an excellent purchase at around a hundred bucks. I hate to use the word investment, because we know camera equipment is definitely NOT an investment. I bought it because I heard so much about it, and, I had a 50mm back in my old film days. I have not been disappointed. I will agree with many here who say that at F1.8 the results are less than stellar. This is true--- there is a lack of contrast, not necessarily sharpness (at least in my copy of the lens) that you will notice. Since I know that as a fact going in to a shoot or session, I set my aperture at F2.0, or F2.2 on my D700, or D300. This solves the problem. The resulting images at F 2.0 and above are amazingly sharp, and clear. Don't get me wrong, I love my 16-35F4VR, and my 24-70F2.8 but this 50mm rocks as a standalone lens when the situation demands fast lens. As a matter of fact, in a few hours I'm heading off to my grandsons first haircut of his life. What did I pack? The D700 (for better high ISO performance than the D300), and my 50mm 1.8.For the price (which seems to have risen lately and rightly so) you can't go wrong. <hl> Even if you have other zoom lenses that cover this range as I do, this lens is unbelievably useful in low light to no light situations . <hl> Personally, I'm lazy and hate zooming with my feet, but I'd much rather do that with this lens, than either using flash, or blurring photos of important events. The lens finish is plasticy but so what? Are you going to be banging it around on a regular basis? My 50mm travels with me just about everywhere either in a camera bag, or in my North Face Recon backpack (not a camera backpack) just about everywhere, and I pump about 80,000 images a year per body, between landscapes, motorsports, portraits, etc. So far, so good. It does stand up to a beating. I do not use any protective filter on it as the glass is relatively well recessed on this lens. When I do need to use filters such as polarizers, or ND's, I have step-up rings that take the lens from the 52mm size to 77mm which is the standard size of all my filters. It does look "strange" having the tiny little 50mm lens hidden behind a huge 77mm filter, but it WORKS.Again, if you are looking to make an investment -- there's that ugly word again, make that acquisition, to your photo gear you can't go wrong at this price point; If you wind up hating it, there's always the ability to return it, or sell it on eBay.Enjoy.

UPDATED: 5/20/2011: I used my D700, and only my 50mm F1.8 to capture my Grandson's first haircut! I posted an image here. And, on the way home following the haircut, a clearing storm brought some gorgeous bluish-black clouds at dusk so I swung down towards the river and shot a couple of shots with the 50mm. I posted one here called "Blue Hour". Enjoy. Seriously, can't go wrong -- though the price seems to be creeping upwards...This 50mm 1.8 is an excellent purchase at around a hundred bucks. I hate to use the word investment, because we know camera equipment is definitely NOT an investment. I bought it because I heard so much about it, and, I had a 50mm back in my old film days. I have not been disappointed. I will agree with many here who say that at F1.8 the results are less than stellar. This is true--- there is a lack of contrast, not necessarily sharpness (at least in my copy of the lens) that you will notice. Since I know that as a fact going in to a shoot or session, I set my aperture at F2.0, or F2.2 on my D700, or D300. This solves the problem. The resulting images at F 2.0 and above are amazingly sharp, and clear. Don't get me wrong, I love my 16-35F4VR, and my 24-70F2.8 but this 50mm rocks as a standalone lens when the situation demands fast lens. As a matter of fact, in a few hours I'm heading off to my grandsons first haircut of his life. What did I pack? The D700 (for better high ISO performance than the D300), and my 50mm 1.8.For the price (which seems to have risen lately and rightly so) you can't go wrong. Even if you have other zoom lenses that cover this range as I do, <hl> this lens is unbelievably useful in low light to no light situations <hl>. Personally, I'm lazy and hate zooming with my feet, but I'd much rather do that with this lens, than either using flash, or blurring photos of important events.The lens finish is plasticy but so what? Are you going to be banging it around on a regular basis? My 50mm travels with me just about everywhere either in a camera bag, or in my North Face Recon backpack (not a camera backpack) just about everywhere, and I pump about 80,000 images a year per body, between landscapes, motorsports, portraits, etc. So far, so good. It does stand up to a beating. I do not use any protective filter on it as the glass is relatively well recessed on this lens.When I do need to use filters such as polarizers, or ND's, I have step-up rings that take the lens from the 52mm size to 77mm which is the standard size of all my filters. It does look "strange" having the tiny little 50mm lens hidden behind a huge 77mm filter, but it WORKS.Again, if you are looking to make an investment -- there's that ugly word again, make that acquisition, to your photo gear you can't go wrong at this price point; If you wind up hating it, there's always the ability to return it, or sell it on eBay.Enjoy.

Even if you have other zoom lenses that cover this range as I do, <hl> this lens is unbelievably useful in low light to no light situations <hl> .


Question: What size is the mouse?

This mouse is excellent for gaming.  The only draw back is that the mouse wheel jiggles ever so slightly under quick movement but most times it's not noticeable.  It's rechargeable and has all kinds of settings.  The feel is great and buttons galore

Answer: This mouse is excellent for gaming

This mouse is excellent for gaming .

<hl> This mouse is excellent for gaming . <hl> The only draw back is that the mouse wheel jiggles ever so slightly under quick movement but most times it's not noticeable. It's rechargeable and has all kinds of settings. The feel is great and buttons galore

<hl> This mouse is excellent for gaming <hl>. The only draw back is that the mouse wheel jiggles ever so slightly under quick movement but most times it's not noticeable. It's rechargeable and has all kinds of settings. The feel is great and buttons galore

<hl> This mouse is excellent for gaming <hl> .


Question: Does the software available?

I started using this router - the beginning of August, 2012. I had heard that the new software (Cisco Cloud Connect) was very intuitive and easy to use, despite some early controversy about it.  By the way, many of the 1 star reviews are based on concerns about privacy that have been put to rest by the manufacturer.This router is among a select few "state of the art" routers offering multiple but simultaneous operation on both the 2.4 and 5.0GHz bands - each band is capable of 3 streams (connections). This is a so called 900 router (the current gold standard for home routers).Much has been written about the new software - some of which was full of praise (including a glowing CNET review) and some of which is quite damning (including many 1 star reviews here on Amazon). The bottom line is that this software is wonderfully easy to use and any concerns that Cisco might be monitoring your internet activity have been put to rest by the manufacturer. Cisco has revised and clarified their policies to make it abundantly clear that this is a NON ISSUE. See Cisco's remarks posted right here on Amazon. So many of these 1 star reviews are quite dated.Also remember that Cisco allows you to opt out of this software altogether and administer your router locally with no connection to Cisco or the cloud (internet).What we have here is a "top of the line" advanced router that is very easy to set up thanks to its intuitive software.  That is exactly what I wanted ---- because routers can be quite difficult to setup/manage, particularly the very best (and most advanced) ones. The EA 4500 is very easy to setup and is a true "set and forget" type of device.So, what is not to like? The software and router are great and the fact that it can be managed in the cloud (meaning the router can be accessed via the internet) is largely unimportant. You will, most likely, just like me, simply set it up (using all or most of the simple software defaults) and forget about it! But for those of you who have the rare need to manage a router once it is set up , then you can access your router via any internet connection if you have passed Cisco's extensive security measures.As of August, 2012, the other competing routers you should look at are the Asus RT-N66U, WD (Western Digital) N900 and the Netgear R6300. I based my choice on Cisco's very intuitive software and very good range. While it may not always be the best (according to professional reviews), it has a better than average range.What may confuse many future buyers is that there is a new DRAFT (meaning far from finished) standard that is coming to Wi-Fi and routers. You will see, no doubt, many new routers coming to market boosting of conformance to the "draft" or the unfinished AC standard (802.11ac). The fact that NO clients (meaning there is NOT ONE real world receiving device) that exists for this new and yet to be finished standard is never pointed out. While meaningless, every router manufacturer will start to bring out new devices, or firmware upgrades to claim  "compliance" to this new DRAFT standard of AC. You can, at least for the next couple of years, largely ignore this spec.If you want a high performance router that simultaneously operates on both bands, can easily handle 3 simultaneous signals per band and works with all current standards and devices - then this is the one for you. If you want a set and forget type of device that is easy to setup ---this is also the one for you. Highly recommended.I should add this router also creates a GUEST network (a network that can never access your home files).Yet, if friends come over, they will be greeted with an easy Wi-Fi connection. You can turn off this feature easily in the setup but it is a real convenience that most people will like.  Frankly, I doubt there will be many that turn it off since it is both secure and really convenient for guests. Yet to be fair, most other new high end routers now also offer this same feature. So it is not unique to this router yet a welcome addition to the feature set of most newer high end routers.I'm hesitant to give performance figures. What I can say is that I have a large home. This router is located on the second story of my home, in the north most corner. I routinely connect on the first floor, on the south most corner, with excellent results. By accident, I had created a worse case scenario - yet I get top-notch results. There may be even better performing routers available but I'll take the easy set-up of this one versus all comers.I guess you could say I am happy with my purchase.

Answer: I had heard that the new software

I started using this router - the beginning of August, 2012. <hl> I had heard that the new software (Cisco Cloud Connect) was very intuitive and easy to use, despite some early controversy about it. <hl> By the way, many of the 1 star reviews are based on concerns about privacy that have been put to rest by the manufacturer. This router is among a select few "state of the art" routers offering multiple but simultaneous operation on both the 2.4 and 5.0GHz bands - each band is capable of 3 streams (connections). This is a so called 900 router (the current gold standard for home routers).Much has been written about the new software - some of which was full of praise (including a glowing CNET review) and some of which is quite damning (including many 1 star reviews here on Amazon). The bottom line is that this software is wonderfully easy to use and any concerns that Cisco might be monitoring your internet activity have been put to rest by the manufacturer. Cisco has revised and clarified their policies to make it abundantly clear that this is a NON ISSUE. See Cisco's remarks posted right here on Amazon. So many of these 1 star reviews are quite dated. Also remember that Cisco allows you to opt out of this software altogether and administer your router locally with no connection to Cisco or the cloud (internet).What we have here is a "top of the line" advanced router that is very easy to set up thanks to its intuitive software. That is exactly what I wanted ---- because routers can be quite difficult to setup/manage, particularly the very best (and most advanced) ones. The EA 4500 is very easy to setup and is a true "set and forget" type of device. So, what is not to like? The software and router are great and the fact that it can be managed in the cloud (meaning the router can be accessed via the internet) is largely unimportant. You will, most likely, just like me, simply set it up (using all or most of the simple software defaults) and forget about it! But for those of you who have the rare need to manage a router once it is set up , then you can access your router via any internet connection if you have passed Cisco's extensive security measures. As of August, 2012, the other competing routers you should look at are the Asus RT-N66U, WD (Western Digital) N900 and the Netgear R6300. I based my choice on Cisco's very intuitive software and very good range. While it may not always be the best (according to professional reviews), it has a better than average range. What may confuse many future buyers is that there is a new DRAFT (meaning far from finished) standard that is coming to Wi-Fi and routers. You will see, no doubt, many new routers coming to market boosting of conformance to the "draft" or the unfinished AC standard (802.11ac). The fact that NO clients (meaning there is NOT ONE real world receiving device) that exists for this new and yet to be finished standard is never pointed out. While meaningless, every router manufacturer will start to bring out new devices, or firmware upgrades to claim "compliance" to this new DRAFT standard of AC. You can, at least for the next couple of years, largely ignore this spec. If you want a high performance router that simultaneously operates on both bands, can easily handle 3 simultaneous signals per band and works with all current standards and devices - then this is the one for you. If you want a set and forget type of device that is easy to setup ---this is also the one for you. Highly recommended. I should add this router also creates a GUEST network (a network that can never access your home files).Yet, if friends come over, they will be greeted with an easy Wi-Fi connection. You can turn off this feature easily in the setup but it is a real convenience that most people will like. Frankly, I doubt there will be many that turn it off since it is both secure and really convenient for guests. Yet to be fair, most other new high end routers now also offer this same feature. So it is not unique to this router yet a welcome addition to the feature set of most newer high end routers. I'm hesitant to give performance figures. What I can say is that I have a large home. This router is located on the second story of my home, in the north most corner. I routinely connect on the first floor, on the south most corner, with excellent results. By accident, I had created a worse case scenario - yet I get top-notch results. There may be even better performing routers available but I'll take the easy set-up of this one versus all comers. I guess you could say I am happy with my purchase.

I started using this router - the beginning of August, 2012. <hl> I had heard that the new software <hl> (Cisco Cloud Connect) was very intuitive and easy to use, despite some early controversy about it. By the way, many of the 1 star reviews are based on concerns about privacy that have been put to rest by the manufacturer.This router is among a select few "state of the art" routers offering multiple but simultaneous operation on both the 2.4 and 5.0GHz bands - each band is capable of 3 streams (connections). This is a so called 900 router (the current gold standard for home routers).Much has been written about the new software - some of which was full of praise (including a glowing CNET review) and some of which is quite damning (including many 1 star reviews here on Amazon). The bottom line is that this software is wonderfully easy to use and any concerns that Cisco might be monitoring your internet activity have been put to rest by the manufacturer. Cisco has revised and clarified their policies to make it abundantly clear that this is a NON ISSUE. See Cisco's remarks posted right here on Amazon. So many of these 1 star reviews are quite dated.Also remember that Cisco allows you to opt out of this software altogether and administer your router locally with no connection to Cisco or the cloud (internet).What we have here is a "top of the line" advanced router that is very easy to set up thanks to its intuitive software. That is exactly what I wanted ---- because routers can be quite difficult to setup/manage, particularly the very best (and most advanced) ones. The EA 4500 is very easy to setup and is a true "set and forget" type of device.So, what is not to like? The software and router are great and the fact that it can be managed in the cloud (meaning the router can be accessed via the internet) is largely unimportant. You will, most likely, just like me, simply set it up (using all or most of the simple software defaults) and forget about it! But for those of you who have the rare need to manage a router once it is set up , then you can access your router via any internet connection if you have passed Cisco's extensive security measures.As of August, 2012, the other competing routers you should look at are the Asus RT-N66U, WD (Western Digital) N900 and the Netgear R6300. I based my choice on Cisco's very intuitive software and very good range. While it may not always be the best (according to professional reviews), it has a better than average range.What may confuse many future buyers is that there is a new DRAFT (meaning far from finished) standard that is coming to Wi-Fi and routers. You will see, no doubt, many new routers coming to market boosting of conformance to the "draft" or the unfinished AC standard (802.11ac). The fact that NO clients (meaning there is NOT ONE real world receiving device) that exists for this new and yet to be finished standard is never pointed out. While meaningless, every router manufacturer will start to bring out new devices, or firmware upgrades to claim "compliance" to this new DRAFT standard of AC. You can, at least for the next couple of years, largely ignore this spec.If you want a high performance router that simultaneously operates on both bands, can easily handle 3 simultaneous signals per band and works with all current standards and devices - then this is the one for you. If you want a set and forget type of device that is easy to setup ---this is also the one for you. Highly recommended.I should add this router also creates a GUEST network (a network that can never access your home files).Yet, if friends come over, they will be greeted with an easy Wi-Fi connection. You can turn off this feature easily in the setup but it is a real convenience that most people will like. Frankly, I doubt there will be many that turn it off since it is both secure and really convenient for guests. Yet to be fair, most other new high end routers now also offer this same feature. So it is not unique to this router yet a welcome addition to the feature set of most newer high end routers.I'm hesitant to give performance figures. What I can say is that I have a large home. This router is located on the second story of my home, in the north most corner. I routinely connect on the first floor, on the south most corner, with excellent results. By accident, I had created a worse case scenario - yet I get top-notch results. There may be even better performing routers available but I'll take the easy set-up of this one versus all comers.I guess you could say I am happy with my purchase.


Question: How is the lens?

I bought the model with the Canon EF mount to use with my 5D Mark III body. The lens is tack sharp wide open and focuses quickly and quietly with the center AF point. Unfortunately, in my tests using a tripod and shutter delay, shots that are recorded as in focus on the camera using a peripheral AF point are soft throughout. After noting this I found other reviews and forum comments with this same complaint.Tamron evidently needs to update the firmware to communicate better with the 5D Mark III (and perhaps other bodies as well). If all I wanted was to use the center point this lens would be great, especially with stabilization, but that's not what I wanted and I returned the lens.

Answer: The lens is tack sharp

I bought the model with the Canon EF mount to use with my 5D Mark III body. <hl> The lens is tack sharp wide open and focuses quickly and quietly with the center AF point. <hl> Unfortunately, in my tests using a tripod and shutter delay, shots that are recorded as in focus on the camera using a peripheral AF point are soft throughout. After noting this I found other reviews and forum comments with this same complaint. Tamron evidently needs to update the firmware to communicate better with the 5D Mark III (and perhaps other bodies as well). If all I wanted was to use the center point this lens would be great, especially with stabilization, but that's not what I wanted and I returned the lens.

I bought the model with the Canon EF mount to use with my 5D Mark III body. <hl> The lens is tack sharp <hl> wide open and focuses quickly and quietly with the center AF point. Unfortunately, in my tests using a tripod and shutter delay, shots that are recorded as in focus on the camera using a peripheral AF point are soft throughout. After noting this I found other reviews and forum comments with this same complaint.Tamron evidently needs to update the firmware to communicate better with the 5D Mark III (and perhaps other bodies as well). If all I wanted was to use the center point this lens would be great, especially with stabilization, but that's not what I wanted and I returned the lens.


Question: What is the best layout?

I was looking at smaller ones for use in the living room.  I'm glad I got this one instead.  It's plenty compact and lightweight.  However, the keypad is full size so typing is effortless.  The touch is good and the touchpad works perfectly.

Answer: The touch is good and the touchpad works perfectly

I was looking at smaller ones for use in the living room. I'm glad I got this one instead. It's plenty compact and lightweight. However, the keypad is full size so typing is effortless. <hl> The touch is good and the touchpad works perfectly . <hl>

I was looking at smaller ones for use in the living room. I'm glad I got this one instead. It's plenty compact and lightweight. However, the keypad is full size so typing is effortless. <hl> The touch is good and the touchpad works perfectly <hl>.

<hl> The touch is good and the touchpad works perfectly <hl> .


Question: What is the picture like?

I could hardly wait to offer my review of this television.I was a bit worried about the purchase for a few reasons:Since it wasn't the 240 hz refresh rate, I worried that the picture wouldn't be as clear and sharp as my Samsung 47" with the 120 hz rate. I, so far, have been proven wrong about that. The picture is excellent any way you look at it.Now, I'm not a big gamer. I'm too old for that (although I do own both an Xbox with Kinect and a Wii). So I can't verify the issues other reviewers stated about the slower refresh rate causing their video to lag while playing. As of yet, I saw no lag in anything I viewed to date. I truly believe that unless you are going to be one of those ultimately picky people that I have come across in other reviews, whether you choose to purchase this TV with the 120 hz rate of the 240, I feel you will enjoy the picture either way.One comparison I have between my Samsung 47" and the LG 55" is that it seems with all the reviews of these TV's, people are complaining about the light LED bleeding especially from the corners. I saw that very sugnificantly with the Samsung. But, I have to say with my experience of owning this TV in the last week, there is no such bleeding to speak of. The upper left corner seems to display a slightly lighter glow than the other three but nothing to really be annoyed about. After watching the movie "Cowboys + Aliens" last night, I was awe struck by the clarity of the picture and the true to life colors. No, it wasn't a blu ray copy, just the standard DVD copy and it was still awesome. I felt as if I could walk right into the screen and be part of the movie. With my theatre sound and that picture, I felt as if I was back at the theatre watching it for a second time. Oh, and it was also not in 3D mode either.I am not sure I am all that big on the local dimming option either because I was a little annoyed that when the scene went dark, and I had the room dark with just the christmas tree lights on, the picture would darken. Then when some sort of lighting would appear on screen, the picture would lighten back up to normal. I thought this was odd as to me, shouldn't the picture, in a brighter setting then become dim instead of brighter? I don't know maybe I was seeing it incorrectly, not sure.As other reviewers have commented about the 3D for this television, in a way I do find it kind of gimmicky, (if that is a word). But, that too, is still a very awesome feature for home theatre. By gimmicky, I found that while using the 3D mode during regular television viewing, if the frame of actors was still with not much movement, then the picture appeared 2D. But once the scene got more active and there was more background motion, then one can very much so see the depth of 3D. I also noticed that when viewing a program in true HD, if in 3D mode, the sharper the picture, the more the 3D depth stands out. Now, movies and videos that are shot in 3D are awesome! I have TRON Legacy in 3D. With the purchase of this TV I also purchased an LG 3D blu ray player. It was so awesome being able to view that movie feeling as if I was at the theatre watching it for the second time in 3D. It is so cool also, with the passive 3D, one can view movies and shows in 3D without worrying about a second box or if the batteries are going to die. You just put the glasses on when switched to 3D mode and totally enjoy!The LG apps are ok. There could be more. One reviewer totally put down the Netflix app. I found nothing wrong with it. It loaded my shows just fine and I actually watched and episode of "The Munsters" in 3D. Very cool. I dowloaded the 3D Zone app. It's a cool app if you want something to give you the feel of what your 3D watching experience should be like. The videos are streamed over the internet connection and since my wireless seems a bit hoaky at times where it is located, I had to wait for each 30 second set of video to keep downloading. I also didn't like the way the producers of these 3D vidoes felt it necessary to combine the logos for the videos with actual moving background videos. The whole experience was very annoying for me to watch with all that misplaced movement going on. Once you get passed the logos and the actual video begins to play, then it's pretty cool to watch in 3D.My whole experience with the product at this point is in one word "Awesome"! Unless some failure happens with it or I notice other anomolies, I would definitely recommend this product to others. It's a very fun and enjoyable home theatre experience. Reviewers are mentioning how the TV cuts the resolution in half for each eye so you still get the 1080P HD picture. Well all that is way too techincal for this reviewer to worry about. All I know, from my experience the last few days, this product, whether in 3D or not, gives a very sharp, clear, wathable picture. It has a whole suite of picture setting options, some even I don't understand what they do.Oh, and I also find the magic remote quite useful. I prefer using it with the pointer on the screen as a "one click and point" button solution over trying to go through the menu options and trying to find all the right keys on the regular remote, especially if you can't see them in the dark. It's so much easier to use than the standard remote control. So, for me, the magic remote is a huge plus!The only drawback I found annoying, as others have mentioned, the speakers for these thin tv's have a bit to be desired. But what can one expect. I felt that once you adjust all the sound options, you can get some pretty good sound out of the built in speakers so again that function isn't even too bad. But, I want to be able to add my first sub-woofer for added bass during regular TV viewing, without having to run it through the stereo reciever where a second sub-woofer is already connected. The only option I could find on the back for an external audio out connection was the headphone jack. I tried plugging my sub-woofer into that jack but because it is labeled as a headphone jack, the tv "smartly" disables the on-board speakers and doesn't offer the user the option to do so his or herself. The TV warns you that you have plugged something into the headphone jack and the the speakers turn off. Then I can get some bass through my sub-woofer but now without any sound from the TV. Hmmmmm.... The Samsung at least had not a headphone jack but a labeled audio out jack and didn't disable the internal speakers unless you opted to do so through the options screen. So, now I have to research another way to get sound to my first sub-woofer without the need to turn go through my stereo receiver first.I also noticed people were complaining about the digital fibre optic output and that it didn't pass through the 5.1 audio. I haven't hooked anything up to that yet so I am not going to review or comment further unless I do.All In all, I think the TV so far is awesome and I do say go out and order it or buy it if you have the cash!!!!Update, 1.5 months after purchase....I still go with all the above except now I have tried the 5.1 optical output. I tried playing some dvd video files with 5.1 surroumd sound still encoded and the sound was produced just as it was with the original movies through all 5 speakers. I found that to be awesome!I also don't see where people FREAK out about the saying the resolution is being cut in half when viewing 3D. What exactly do you people feel your eyes are actually capable of detecting when watching television? Geez!! I felt when veiwing 3D, the picture looks every bit as sharp and clear as it did when viewing 2D. Maybe I'm not as picky as some of you but when you expect something more than your own eyes are able to detect in the first place, that is going too far in my book! Just watch it and enjoy!I personally love this television and I personally NOT going to wait a year for some other technology to come out. As far as I am concerned, the next technology will have to be when they make the images holographic and appear in the middle of my living room or viewing area without using any glasses or wearing anything extra for veiwing what-so-ever. Until they master that feet, I'm pretty satisfied with what I have now. Just hope it doesn't blow up on me in the next 5 years or so! :-)

Answer: The picture is excellent

I could hardly wait to offer my review of this television. I was a bit worried about the purchase for a few reasons:Since it wasn't the 240 hz refresh rate, I worried that the picture wouldn't be as clear and sharp as my Samsung 47" with the 120 hz rate. I, so far, have been proven wrong about that. <hl> The picture is excellent any way you look at it. <hl> Now, I'm not a big gamer. I'm too old for that (although I do own both an Xbox with Kinect and a Wii). So I can't verify the issues other reviewers stated about the slower refresh rate causing their video to lag while playing. As of yet, I saw no lag in anything I viewed to date. I truly believe that unless you are going to be one of those ultimately picky people that I have come across in other reviews, whether you choose to purchase this TV with the 120 hz rate of the 240, I feel you will enjoy the picture either way. One comparison I have between my Samsung 47" and the LG 55" is that it seems with all the reviews of these TV's, people are complaining about the light LED bleeding especially from the corners. I saw that very sugnificantly with the Samsung. But, I have to say with my experience of owning this TV in the last week, there is no such bleeding to speak of. The upper left corner seems to display a slightly lighter glow than the other three but nothing to really be annoyed about. After watching the movie "Cowboys + Aliens" last night, I was awe struck by the clarity of the picture and the true to life colors. No, it wasn't a blu ray copy, just the standard DVD copy and it was still awesome. I felt as if I could walk right into the screen and be part of the movie. With my theatre sound and that picture, I felt as if I was back at the theatre watching it for a second time. Oh, and it was also not in 3D mode either. I am not sure I am all that big on the local dimming option either because I was a little annoyed that when the scene went dark, and I had the room dark with just the christmas tree lights on, the picture would darken. Then when some sort of lighting would appear on screen, the picture would lighten back up to normal. I thought this was odd as to me, shouldn't the picture, in a brighter setting then become dim instead of brighter? I don't know maybe I was seeing it incorrectly, not sure. As other reviewers have commented about the 3D for this television, in a way I do find it kind of gimmicky, (if that is a word). But, that too, is still a very awesome feature for home theatre. By gimmicky, I found that while using the 3D mode during regular television viewing, if the frame of actors was still with not much movement, then the picture appeared 2D. But once the scene got more active and there was more background motion, then one can very much so see the depth of 3D. I also noticed that when viewing a program in true HD, if in 3D mode, the sharper the picture, the more the 3D depth stands out. Now, movies and videos that are shot in 3D are awesome! I have TRON Legacy in 3D. With the purchase of this TV I also purchased an LG 3D blu ray player. It was so awesome being able to view that movie feeling as if I was at the theatre watching it for the second time in 3D. It is so cool also, with the passive 3D, one can view movies and shows in 3D without worrying about a second box or if the batteries are going to die. You just put the glasses on when switched to 3D mode and totally enjoy!The LG apps are ok. There could be more. One reviewer totally put down the Netflix app. I found nothing wrong with it. It loaded my shows just fine and I actually watched and episode of "The Munsters" in 3D. Very cool. I dowloaded the 3D Zone app. It's a cool app if you want something to give you the feel of what your 3D watching experience should be like. The videos are streamed over the internet connection and since my wireless seems a bit hoaky at times where it is located, I had to wait for each 30 second set of video to keep downloading. I also didn't like the way the producers of these 3D vidoes felt it necessary to combine the logos for the videos with actual moving background videos. The whole experience was very annoying for me to watch with all that misplaced movement going on. Once you get passed the logos and the actual video begins to play, then it's pretty cool to watch in 3D.My whole experience with the product at this point is in one word "Awesome"! Unless some failure happens with it or I notice other anomolies, I would definitely recommend this product to others. It's a very fun and enjoyable home theatre experience. Reviewers are mentioning how the TV cuts the resolution in half for each eye so you still get the 1080P HD picture. Well all that is way too techincal for this reviewer to worry about. All I know, from my experience the last few days, this product, whether in 3D or not, gives a very sharp, clear, wathable picture. It has a whole suite of picture setting options, some even I don't understand what they do. Oh, and I also find the magic remote quite useful. I prefer using it with the pointer on the screen as a "one click and point" button solution over trying to go through the menu options and trying to find all the right keys on the regular remote, especially if you can't see them in the dark. It's so much easier to use than the standard remote control. So, for me, the magic remote is a huge plus!The only drawback I found annoying, as others have mentioned, the speakers for these thin tv's have a bit to be desired. But what can one expect. I felt that once you adjust all the sound options, you can get some pretty good sound out of the built in speakers so again that function isn't even too bad. But, I want to be able to add my first sub-woofer for added bass during regular TV viewing, without having to run it through the stereo reciever where a second sub-woofer is already connected. The only option I could find on the back for an external audio out connection was the headphone jack. I tried plugging my sub-woofer into that jack but because it is labeled as a headphone jack, the tv "smartly" disables the on-board speakers and doesn't offer the user the option to do so his or herself. The TV warns you that you have plugged something into the headphone jack and the the speakers turn off. Then I can get some bass through my sub-woofer but now without any sound from the TV. Hmmmmm.... The Samsung at least had not a headphone jack but a labeled audio out jack and didn't disable the internal speakers unless you opted to do so through the options screen. So, now I have to research another way to get sound to my first sub-woofer without the need to turn go through my stereo receiver first. I also noticed people were complaining about the digital fibre optic output and that it didn't pass through the 5.1 audio. I haven't hooked anything up to that yet so I am not going to review or comment further unless I do. All In all, I think the TV so far is awesome and I do say go out and order it or buy it if you have the cash!!!!Update, 1.5 months after purchase.... I still go with all the above except now I have tried the 5.1 optical output. I tried playing some dvd video files with 5.1 surroumd sound still encoded and the sound was produced just as it was with the original movies through all 5 speakers. I found that to be awesome!I also don't see where people FREAK out about the saying the resolution is being cut in half when viewing 3D. What exactly do you people feel your eyes are actually capable of detecting when watching television? Geez!! I felt when veiwing 3D, the picture looks every bit as sharp and clear as it did when viewing 2D. Maybe I'm not as picky as some of you but when you expect something more than your own eyes are able to detect in the first place, that is going too far in my book! Just watch it and enjoy!I personally love this television and I personally NOT going to wait a year for some other technology to come out. As far as I am concerned, the next technology will have to be when they make the images holographic and appear in the middle of my living room or viewing area without using any glasses or wearing anything extra for veiwing what-so-ever. Until they master that feet, I'm pretty satisfied with what I have now. Just hope it doesn't blow up on me in the next 5 years or so! :-)

I could hardly wait to offer my review of this television.I was a bit worried about the purchase for a few reasons:Since it wasn't the 240 hz refresh rate, I worried that the picture wouldn't be as clear and sharp as my Samsung 47" with the 120 hz rate. I, so far, have been proven wrong about that. <hl> The picture is excellent <hl> any way you look at it.Now, I'm not a big gamer. I'm too old for that (although I do own both an Xbox with Kinect and a Wii). So I can't verify the issues other reviewers stated about the slower refresh rate causing their video to lag while playing. As of yet, I saw no lag in anything I viewed to date. I truly believe that unless you are going to be one of those ultimately picky people that I have come across in other reviews, whether you choose to purchase this TV with the 120 hz rate of the 240, I feel you will enjoy the picture either way.One comparison I have between my Samsung 47" and the LG 55" is that it seems with all the reviews of these TV's, people are complaining about the light LED bleeding especially from the corners. I saw that very sugnificantly with the Samsung. But, I have to say with my experience of owning this TV in the last week, there is no such bleeding to speak of. The upper left corner seems to display a slightly lighter glow than the other three but nothing to really be annoyed about. After watching the movie "Cowboys + Aliens" last night, I was awe struck by the clarity of the picture and the true to life colors. No, it wasn't a blu ray copy, just the standard DVD copy and it was still awesome. I felt as if I could walk right into the screen and be part of the movie. With my theatre sound and that picture, I felt as if I was back at the theatre watching it for a second time. Oh, and it was also not in 3D mode either.I am not sure I am all that big on the local dimming option either because I was a little annoyed that when the scene went dark, and I had the room dark with just the christmas tree lights on, the picture would darken. Then when some sort of lighting would appear on screen, the picture would lighten back up to normal. I thought this was odd as to me, shouldn't the picture, in a brighter setting then become dim instead of brighter? I don't know maybe I was seeing it incorrectly, not sure.As other reviewers have commented about the 3D for this television, in a way I do find it kind of gimmicky, (if that is a word). But, that too, is still a very awesome feature for home theatre. By gimmicky, I found that while using the 3D mode during regular television viewing, if the frame of actors was still with not much movement, then the picture appeared 2D. But once the scene got more active and there was more background motion, then one can very much so see the depth of 3D. I also noticed that when viewing a program in true HD, if in 3D mode, the sharper the picture, the more the 3D depth stands out. Now, movies and videos that are shot in 3D are awesome! I have TRON Legacy in 3D. With the purchase of this TV I also purchased an LG 3D blu ray player. It was so awesome being able to view that movie feeling as if I was at the theatre watching it for the second time in 3D. It is so cool also, with the passive 3D, one can view movies and shows in 3D without worrying about a second box or if the batteries are going to die. You just put the glasses on when switched to 3D mode and totally enjoy!The LG apps are ok. There could be more. One reviewer totally put down the Netflix app. I found nothing wrong with it. It loaded my shows just fine and I actually watched and episode of "The Munsters" in 3D. Very cool. I dowloaded the 3D Zone app. It's a cool app if you want something to give you the feel of what your 3D watching experience should be like. The videos are streamed over the internet connection and since my wireless seems a bit hoaky at times where it is located, I had to wait for each 30 second set of video to keep downloading. I also didn't like the way the producers of these 3D vidoes felt it necessary to combine the logos for the videos with actual moving background videos. The whole experience was very annoying for me to watch with all that misplaced movement going on. Once you get passed the logos and the actual video begins to play, then it's pretty cool to watch in 3D.My whole experience with the product at this point is in one word "Awesome"! Unless some failure happens with it or I notice other anomolies, I would definitely recommend this product to others. It's a very fun and enjoyable home theatre experience. Reviewers are mentioning how the TV cuts the resolution in half for each eye so you still get the 1080P HD picture. Well all that is way too techincal for this reviewer to worry about. All I know, from my experience the last few days, this product, whether in 3D or not, gives a very sharp, clear, wathable picture. It has a whole suite of picture setting options, some even I don't understand what they do.Oh, and I also find the magic remote quite useful. I prefer using it with the pointer on the screen as a "one click and point" button solution over trying to go through the menu options and trying to find all the right keys on the regular remote, especially if you can't see them in the dark. It's so much easier to use than the standard remote control. So, for me, the magic remote is a huge plus!The only drawback I found annoying, as others have mentioned, the speakers for these thin tv's have a bit to be desired. But what can one expect. I felt that once you adjust all the sound options, you can get some pretty good sound out of the built in speakers so again that function isn't even too bad. But, I want to be able to add my first sub-woofer for added bass during regular TV viewing, without having to run it through the stereo reciever where a second sub-woofer is already connected. The only option I could find on the back for an external audio out connection was the headphone jack. I tried plugging my sub-woofer into that jack but because it is labeled as a headphone jack, the tv "smartly" disables the on-board speakers and doesn't offer the user the option to do so his or herself. The TV warns you that you have plugged something into the headphone jack and the the speakers turn off. Then I can get some bass through my sub-woofer but now without any sound from the TV. Hmmmmm.... The Samsung at least had not a headphone jack but a labeled audio out jack and didn't disable the internal speakers unless you opted to do so through the options screen. So, now I have to research another way to get sound to my first sub-woofer without the need to turn go through my stereo receiver first.I also noticed people were complaining about the digital fibre optic output and that it didn't pass through the 5.1 audio. I haven't hooked anything up to that yet so I am not going to review or comment further unless I do.All In all, I think the TV so far is awesome and I do say go out and order it or buy it if you have the cash!!!!Update, 1.5 months after purchase....I still go with all the above except now I have tried the 5.1 optical output. I tried playing some dvd video files with 5.1 surroumd sound still encoded and the sound was produced just as it was with the original movies through all 5 speakers. I found that to be awesome!I also don't see where people FREAK out about the saying the resolution is being cut in half when viewing 3D. What exactly do you people feel your eyes are actually capable of detecting when watching television? Geez!! I felt when veiwing 3D, the picture looks every bit as sharp and clear as it did when viewing 2D. Maybe I'm not as picky as some of you but when you expect something more than your own eyes are able to detect in the first place, that is going too far in my book! Just watch it and enjoy!I personally love this television and I personally NOT going to wait a year for some other technology to come out. As far as I am concerned, the next technology will have to be when they make the images holographic and appear in the middle of my living room or viewing area without using any glasses or wearing anything extra for veiwing what-so-ever. Until they master that feet, I'm pretty satisfied with what I have now. Just hope it doesn't blow up on me in the next 5 years or so! :-)


Question: How is the quality sound on this device?

These headphones are amazing. When you plug them in, you can clearly hear everything you are listening to and they have good bass response. The microphone is handy when talking on the phone, but it's not always at the most convenient place. The phones themselves are so good both my sons immediately purchased their own sets (minus the microphone). They sit very securely in your ear and work great.

Answer: These headphones are amazing

These headphones are amazing .

<hl> These headphones are amazing . <hl> When you plug them in, you can clearly hear everything you are listening to and they have good bass response. The microphone is handy when talking on the phone, but it's not always at the most convenient place. The phones themselves are so good both my sons immediately purchased their own sets (minus the microphone). They sit very securely in your ear and work great.

<hl> These headphones are amazing <hl>. When you plug them in, you can clearly hear everything you are listening to and they have good bass response. The microphone is handy when talking on the phone, but it's not always at the most convenient place. The phones themselves are so good both my sons immediately purchased their own sets (minus the microphone). They sit very securely in your ear and work great.

<hl> These headphones are amazing <hl> .


Question: How can I have more usb port on my PC?

Answer: i have a macbook pro so i don't have many usb

<hl> i have a macbook pro so i don't have many usb ports and this works great and was really cheap! <hl>

<hl> i have a macbook pro so i don't have many usb <hl> ports and this works great and was really cheap!


Question: Why do I have a large area?

Used this for 6 months, using both bands as well as the Gigabit ports, very reliable, no reboot, no reset. Same with my last 2 TP-Link G routers. Working right out of the box. No updates needed. Signal is better than my previous Linksys E2000. I used to use Linksys router exclusively, but their routers often need some update or tweaking with the firmware to get reliable performance out of it. Now I know what my future routers will be.Tried adding a dirve to the USB port, but speed is too low.

Answer: Working

Working right out of the box.

Used this for 6 months, using both bands as well as the Gigabit ports, very reliable, no reboot, no reset. Same with my last 2 TP-Link G routers. <hl> Working right out of the box. <hl> No updates needed. Signal is better than my previous Linksys E2000. I used to use Linksys router exclusively, but their routers often need some update or tweaking with the firmware to get reliable performance out of it. Now I know what my future routers will be. Tried adding a dirve to the USB port, but speed is too low.

Used this for 6 months, using both bands as well as the Gigabit ports, very reliable, no reboot, no reset. Same with my last 2 TP-Link G routers. <hl> Working <hl> right out of the box. No updates needed. Signal is better than my previous Linksys E2000. I used to use Linksys router exclusively, but their routers often need some update or tweaking with the firmware to get reliable performance out of it. Now I know what my future routers will be.Tried adding a dirve to the USB port, but speed is too low.


Question: How is the autofocus?

This is a fantastic lens considering its price, its zoom range, its compact size, and its light weight. It's by far the cheapest lens I own (the others are the $700+ Canon 15-85, the $400+ Canon 60 macro, the $400 Tamron 28-75).I considered getting the Canon 70-200mm f/4 IS L lens but for 5x the price you get less zoom range, a heavier and bulkier lens, and perhaps a little more snob appeal with the white barrel and that precious red ring.  No doubt the L lens surpasses this one when you photograph test charts (how often do you do that?), and its weather sealing allows it to withstand thunderstorms better, but frankly speaking, if you're not a pro who pushes the envelope, who cares?If you have a crop camera, this lens lets you take advantage of the smaller sensor - you're not paying for (and lugging around) all that extra glass.  Maybe the extra $800 you spend on the L lens will make a difference in 1% of your photos, but you realize the benefit of the lighter weight and smaller size 100% of the time.  Plus you're more likely to bring it with you.Yes, at longer focal lengths you lose one f-stop compared to the L lens.  But at those focal lengths, DOF is short anyway, so you can still get portraits with blurred backgrounds at f/5.6.Sure, the front element rotates and the autofocus is slower, and you can hear the IS at work, but are those worth $800?

Answer: a heavier and bulkier lens

This is a fantastic lens considering its price, its zoom range, its compact size, and its light weight. <hl> It's by far the cheapest lens I own (the others are the $700+ Canon 15-85, the $400+ Canon 60 macro, the $400 Tamron 28-75).I considered getting the Canon 70-200mm f/4 IS L lens but for 5x the price you get less zoom range, a heavier and bulkier lens , and perhaps a little more snob appeal with the white barrel and that precious red ring. <hl> No doubt the L lens surpasses this one when you photograph test charts (how often do you do that?), and its weather sealing allows it to withstand thunderstorms better, but frankly speaking, if you're not a pro who pushes the envelope, who cares?If you have a crop camera, this lens lets you take advantage of the smaller sensor - you're not paying for (and lugging around) all that extra glass. Maybe the extra $800 you spend on the L lens will make a difference in 1% of your photos, but you realize the benefit of the lighter weight and smaller size 100% of the time. Plus you're more likely to bring it with you. Yes, at longer focal lengths you lose one f-stop compared to the L lens. But at those focal lengths, DOF is short anyway, so you can still get portraits with blurred backgrounds at f/5.6.Sure, the front element rotates and the autofocus is slower, and you can hear the IS at work, but are those worth $800?

This is a fantastic lens considering its price, its zoom range, its compact size, and its light weight. It's by far the cheapest lens I own (the others are the $700+ Canon 15-85, the $400+ Canon 60 macro, the $400 Tamron 28-75).I considered getting the Canon 70-200mm f/4 IS L lens but for 5x the price you get less zoom range, <hl> a heavier and bulkier lens <hl>, and perhaps a little more snob appeal with the white barrel and that precious red ring. No doubt the L lens surpasses this one when you photograph test charts (how often do you do that?), and its weather sealing allows it to withstand thunderstorms better, but frankly speaking, if you're not a pro who pushes the envelope, who cares?If you have a crop camera, this lens lets you take advantage of the smaller sensor - you're not paying for (and lugging around) all that extra glass. Maybe the extra $800 you spend on the L lens will make a difference in 1% of your photos, but you realize the benefit of the lighter weight and smaller size 100% of the time. Plus you're more likely to bring it with you.Yes, at longer focal lengths you lose one f-stop compared to the L lens. But at those focal lengths, DOF is short anyway, so you can still get portraits with blurred backgrounds at f/5.6.Sure, the front element rotates and the autofocus is slower, and you can hear the IS at work, but are those worth $800?

It's by far the cheapest lens I own (the others are the $700+ Canon 15-85, the $400+ Canon 60 macro, the $400 Tamron 28-75).I considered getting the Canon 70-200mm f/4 IS L lens but for 5x the price you get less zoom range, <hl> a heavier and bulkier lens <hl> , and perhaps a little more snob appeal with the white barrel and that precious red ring.


Question: How is the presence of mid?

Pretty basic ear peices! They have great bass for being small and cheap. However I can't figure out how to replace the foam? The size they come with, the medium, seems a bit big for me...Hmmm... My only other complaint is that the L and R are microscopic.

Answer: Pretty basic ear peices

Pretty basic ear peices !

<hl> Pretty basic ear peices ! <hl> They have great bass for being small and cheap. However I can't figure out how to replace the foam? The size they come with, the medium, seems a bit big for me... Hmmm... My only other complaint is that the L and R are microscopic.

<hl> Pretty basic ear peices <hl>! They have great bass for being small and cheap. However I can't figure out how to replace the foam? The size they come with, the medium, seems a bit big for me...Hmmm... My only other complaint is that the L and R are microscopic.


Question: How is picture?

If I had but one regret, it's that I couldn't afford the larger version! Picture is absolutely incredible! Set-up was simple (even a caveman can do it), and the Magic Remote is quite functional - operates similar to a Wii controller. I even have it programed to operate my HD cable box, albeit for the simpler tasks like Guide, channel and volume. Smart TV feature is well received, really wish they'd add Amazon Prime to the roundup.Wireless network connectivity was a breeze - like any wireless network, you need a strong signal. I have a booster antenna on my wireless router, so I have an especially strong signal anywhere in the house, and other than an occasional hiccup from my ISP, no issues with streaming movies or music.All in all, extremely satisfied with the LG 42LM6200, a must buy if you're in the market for this size TV. I just wish I could have afforded the 55!

Answer: Picture is absolutely incredible

<hl> If I had but one regret, it's that I couldn't afford the larger version! Picture is absolutely incredible ! <hl> Set-up was simple (even a caveman can do it), and the Magic Remote is quite functional - operates similar to a Wii controller. I even have it programed to operate my HD cable box, albeit for the simpler tasks like Guide, channel and volume. Smart TV feature is well received, really wish they'd add Amazon Prime to the roundup. Wireless network connectivity was a breeze - like any wireless network, you need a strong signal. I have a booster antenna on my wireless router, so I have an especially strong signal anywhere in the house, and other than an occasional hiccup from my ISP, no issues with streaming movies or music. All in all, extremely satisfied with the LG 42LM6200, a must buy if you're in the market for this size TV. I just wish I could have afforded the 55!

If I had but one regret, it's that I couldn't afford the larger version! <hl> Picture is absolutely incredible <hl>! Set-up was simple (even a caveman can do it), and the Magic Remote is quite functional - operates similar to a Wii controller. I even have it programed to operate my HD cable box, albeit for the simpler tasks like Guide, channel and volume. Smart TV feature is well received, really wish they'd add Amazon Prime to the roundup.Wireless network connectivity was a breeze - like any wireless network, you need a strong signal. I have a booster antenna on my wireless router, so I have an especially strong signal anywhere in the house, and other than an occasional hiccup from my ISP, no issues with streaming movies or music.All in all, extremely satisfied with the LG 42LM6200, a must buy if you're in the market for this size TV. I just wish I could have afforded the 55!

If I had but one regret, it's that I couldn't afford the larger version! <hl> Picture is absolutely incredible <hl> !


Question: How do you like the reception?

With all the fancy stereos in my house, I find myself using this radio the most.  The reception and sound are great for a radio this size, and because it's light and has batteries, I can carry it from room to room, wherever I need it.  Excellent quality for the price.

Answer: The reception and sound are great

With all the fancy stereos in my house, I find myself using this radio the most. <hl> The reception and sound are great for a radio this size, and because it's light and has batteries, I can carry it from room to room, wherever I need it. <hl> Excellent quality for the price.

With all the fancy stereos in my house, I find myself using this radio the most. <hl> The reception and sound are great <hl> for a radio this size, and because it's light and has batteries, I can carry it from room to room, wherever I need it. Excellent quality for the price.


Question: What is the quality of the software?

I have been using my desktop for over a month now with this SSD as the main drive, and I am incredibly pleased with its performance. Keep in mind, I came straight over from primarily using HDDs for my mass storage devices, thus the difference to me was more noticeable than for someone moving between SSDs (depending on their quality, of course.) For those who are more technically inclined or interested, I will paste benchmark data for the drive's performance at the end of the review.The design of the drive is very sleek and stylish. It boasts a smooth, polished, black exterior to house the powerful internals. You see what you expect out of an SSD: a lot of performance using a very small amount of space. I was a little bummed when I had to install it out of view as it was quite pleasant to look at.Installation is simple just like any other SATA drive; plug it into your motherboard and power supply, and you'll be smooth sailing from there.I'll discuss performance in terms of what's visibly noticeable, and following the conclusion, as aforementioned I will post benchmark results. From the moment I power on, to when I reach the login screen is only a span of about ten seconds or so (possibly slightly less); this is honestly a very quick process. If I didn't have a password lock, I would obviously boot into my system much quicker without having to input the keystrokes for the password. After I log in, I am instantly able to begin opening programs, and they load quickly. Anything from Firefox or Chrome, my large Steam library, or large movie files. I have not attempted to utilize any hungry video/photo editing programs, but you can rest assured that your loading times with those would be low as well. Furthermore, I play very high performing games such as Skyrim with high-res texture mods, Battlefield 3, and Anno 2070 to name a few.When considering this SSD for purchase, keep in mind the cost per GB when thinking about what size of SSD to get. Of course, if you just want to boot your OS quickly and some important high performance programs, you are likely better off with a smaller SSD with a larger HDD to store other files. In my case, I've installed the OS, all of my programs, and games to the SSD, while having a couple of other much larger HDDs to store the large movie files, music libraries, etc. Keep in mind, I don't install all of my games simultaneously to allow more room for other purposes. I purchased this SSD during a sale, thus granting me a better value per GB of space on this 256gb drive. If budgeting is important, considering waiting for a big sale as an option. Should money not be a concern, Samsung will be releasing high performance 1TB SSDs to the market for a much higher price point, but you will be able to get HDD storage sizes with the incredible speeds of an SSD.In summary, purchasing this SSD will not disappoint you or your wallet. You get a nicely designed product with stellar performance at a great price point, especially during a good sale. If you're coming from primarily using HDDs, you will be blown away by the colossal difference in speeds. In most cases, price will be the major deciding factor between what size of SSD to purchase. With this particular drive size, it would behoove you to consider using it in tandem with a HDD of a much larger storage capacity.Pros:-Amazing, noticeable performance, especially if coming from HDD usage-Stylish design-Great value per GB, especially if purchased during a saleCons:None encounteredBechmark:As promised, here are the results I obtained from running CrystalDiskMark:Sequential Read :  503.236 MB/sSequential Write :  478.656 MB/sRandom Read 512KB :  447.499 MB/sRandom Write 512KB :  154.937 MB/sRandom Read 4KB (QD=1) :  31.125 MB/s [  7598.8 IOPS]Random Write 4KB (QD=1) :  99.221 MB/s [ 24223.9 IOPS]Random Read 4KB (QD=32) :  337.172 MB/s [ 82317.5 IOPS]Random Write 4KB (QD=32) :  141.240 MB/s [ 34482.4 IOPS]Finally, as a reference point, these are the specs of the system I use this SSD with:Gigabyte Z87X-UD4H moboIntel i7 4770k 3.5GhzCoolermaster Hyper 212 EvoGigabyte GeForce GTX 770 4GBCorsair Vengeance 2x4GB (8gb) 1600mhz 9-9-9-24Samsung 840 PRO 256gb SSD(primary)Seagate barracuda 500gb 5400rpm HDD (data storage)Western Digital 1gb HDD (data storage)Samsung 24x DVD driveCorsair HX750Coolermaster Storm Trooper

Answer: very sleek and stylish

I have been using my desktop for over a month now with this SSD as the main drive, and I am incredibly pleased with its performance. Keep in mind, I came straight over from primarily using HDDs for my mass storage devices, thus the difference to me was more noticeable than for someone moving between SSDs (depending on their quality, of course.) For those who are more technically inclined or interested, I will paste benchmark data for the drive's performance at the end of the review. <hl> The design of the drive is very sleek and stylish . <hl> It boasts a smooth, polished, black exterior to house the powerful internals. You see what you expect out of an SSD: a lot of performance using a very small amount of space. I was a little bummed when I had to install it out of view as it was quite pleasant to look at. Installation is simple just like any other SATA drive; plug it into your motherboard and power supply, and you'll be smooth sailing from there. I'll discuss performance in terms of what's visibly noticeable, and following the conclusion, as aforementioned I will post benchmark results. From the moment I power on, to when I reach the login screen is only a span of about ten seconds or so (possibly slightly less); this is honestly a very quick process. If I didn't have a password lock, I would obviously boot into my system much quicker without having to input the keystrokes for the password. After I log in, I am instantly able to begin opening programs, and they load quickly. Anything from Firefox or Chrome, my large Steam library, or large movie files. I have not attempted to utilize any hungry video/photo editing programs, but you can rest assured that your loading times with those would be low as well. Furthermore, I play very high performing games such as Skyrim with high-res texture mods, Battlefield 3, and Anno 2070 to name a few. When considering this SSD for purchase, keep in mind the cost per GB when thinking about what size of SSD to get. Of course, if you just want to boot your OS quickly and some important high performance programs, you are likely better off with a smaller SSD with a larger HDD to store other files. In my case, I've installed the OS, all of my programs, and games to the SSD, while having a couple of other much larger HDDs to store the large movie files, music libraries, etc. Keep in mind, I don't install all of my games simultaneously to allow more room for other purposes. I purchased this SSD during a sale, thus granting me a better value per GB of space on this 256gb drive. If budgeting is important, considering waiting for a big sale as an option. Should money not be a concern, Samsung will be releasing high performance 1TB SSDs to the market for a much higher price point, but you will be able to get HDD storage sizes with the incredible speeds of an SSD.In summary, purchasing this SSD will not disappoint you or your wallet. You get a nicely designed product with stellar performance at a great price point, especially during a good sale. If you're coming from primarily using HDDs, you will be blown away by the colossal difference in speeds. In most cases, price will be the major deciding factor between what size of SSD to purchase. With this particular drive size, it would behoove you to consider using it in tandem with a HDD of a much larger storage capacity. Pros:-Amazing, noticeable performance, especially if coming from HDD usage-Stylish design-Great value per GB, especially if purchased during a saleCons:None encounteredBechmark:As promised, here are the results I obtained from running CrystalDiskMark:Sequential Read : 503.236 MB/sSequential Write : 478.656 MB/sRandom Read 512KB : 447.499 MB/sRandom Write 512KB : 154.937 MB/sRandom Read 4KB (QD=1) : 31.125 MB/s [ 7598.8 IOPS]Random Write 4KB (QD=1) : 99.221 MB/s [ 24223.9 IOPS]Random Read 4KB (QD=32) : 337.172 MB/s [ 82317.5 IOPS]Random Write 4KB (QD=32) : 141.240 MB/s [ 34482.4 IOPS]Finally, as a reference point, these are the specs of the system I use this SSD with:Gigabyte Z87X-UD4H moboIntel i7 4770k 3.5GhzCoolermaster Hyper 212 EvoGigabyte GeForce GTX 770 4GBCorsair Vengeance 2x4GB (8gb) 1600mhz 9-9-9-24Samsung 840 PRO 256gb SSD(primary)Seagate barracuda 500gb 5400rpm HDD (data storage)Western Digital 1gb HDD (data storage)Samsung 24x DVD driveCorsair HX750Coolermaster Storm Trooper

I have been using my desktop for over a month now with this SSD as the main drive, and I am incredibly pleased with its performance. Keep in mind, I came straight over from primarily using HDDs for my mass storage devices, thus the difference to me was more noticeable than for someone moving between SSDs (depending on their quality, of course.) For those who are more technically inclined or interested, I will paste benchmark data for the drive's performance at the end of the review.The design of the drive is <hl> very sleek and stylish <hl>. It boasts a smooth, polished, black exterior to house the powerful internals. You see what you expect out of an SSD: a lot of performance using a very small amount of space. I was a little bummed when I had to install it out of view as it was quite pleasant to look at.Installation is simple just like any other SATA drive; plug it into your motherboard and power supply, and you'll be smooth sailing from there.I'll discuss performance in terms of what's visibly noticeable, and following the conclusion, as aforementioned I will post benchmark results. From the moment I power on, to when I reach the login screen is only a span of about ten seconds or so (possibly slightly less); this is honestly a very quick process. If I didn't have a password lock, I would obviously boot into my system much quicker without having to input the keystrokes for the password. After I log in, I am instantly able to begin opening programs, and they load quickly. Anything from Firefox or Chrome, my large Steam library, or large movie files. I have not attempted to utilize any hungry video/photo editing programs, but you can rest assured that your loading times with those would be low as well. Furthermore, I play very high performing games such as Skyrim with high-res texture mods, Battlefield 3, and Anno 2070 to name a few.When considering this SSD for purchase, keep in mind the cost per GB when thinking about what size of SSD to get. Of course, if you just want to boot your OS quickly and some important high performance programs, you are likely better off with a smaller SSD with a larger HDD to store other files. In my case, I've installed the OS, all of my programs, and games to the SSD, while having a couple of other much larger HDDs to store the large movie files, music libraries, etc. Keep in mind, I don't install all of my games simultaneously to allow more room for other purposes. I purchased this SSD during a sale, thus granting me a better value per GB of space on this 256gb drive. If budgeting is important, considering waiting for a big sale as an option. Should money not be a concern, Samsung will be releasing high performance 1TB SSDs to the market for a much higher price point, but you will be able to get HDD storage sizes with the incredible speeds of an SSD.In summary, purchasing this SSD will not disappoint you or your wallet. You get a nicely designed product with stellar performance at a great price point, especially during a good sale. If you're coming from primarily using HDDs, you will be blown away by the colossal difference in speeds. In most cases, price will be the major deciding factor between what size of SSD to purchase. With this particular drive size, it would behoove you to consider using it in tandem with a HDD of a much larger storage capacity.Pros:-Amazing, noticeable performance, especially if coming from HDD usage-Stylish design-Great value per GB, especially if purchased during a saleCons:None encounteredBechmark:As promised, here are the results I obtained from running CrystalDiskMark:Sequential Read : 503.236 MB/sSequential Write : 478.656 MB/sRandom Read 512KB : 447.499 MB/sRandom Write 512KB : 154.937 MB/sRandom Read 4KB (QD=1) : 31.125 MB/s [ 7598.8 IOPS]Random Write 4KB (QD=1) : 99.221 MB/s [ 24223.9 IOPS]Random Read 4KB (QD=32) : 337.172 MB/s [ 82317.5 IOPS]Random Write 4KB (QD=32) : 141.240 MB/s [ 34482.4 IOPS]Finally, as a reference point, these are the specs of the system I use this SSD with:Gigabyte Z87X-UD4H moboIntel i7 4770k 3.5GhzCoolermaster Hyper 212 EvoGigabyte GeForce GTX 770 4GBCorsair Vengeance 2x4GB (8gb) 1600mhz 9-9-9-24Samsung 840 PRO 256gb SSD(primary)Seagate barracuda 500gb 5400rpm HDD (data storage)Western Digital 1gb HDD (data storage)Samsung 24x DVD driveCorsair HX750Coolermaster Storm Trooper

The design of the drive is <hl> very sleek and stylish <hl> .