When I say small ears I actually mean the outer ear canal where you put your earbud, if your ear canal is smaller than usual an earbud that’s too fat will either fall out or be painful so you won’t use them, so it’s vital you buy the right ones in the first place.

A go-to advice is to make sure any earbuds you buy, have a range of sizes of the little rubber ear tips that sometimes come with the earbuds. That way you can experiment with the different tips to find whats fits best.

Check my post on other earbuds here

So what are the best earbuds for small ears?

Sony Link Buds S

Features

• 20 hours battery life,
• Truly Wireless,
• Noise Cancelling,
• Lightweight,
• Adaptive Sound Control
• 4 sets of ear tips

Sony have created a youtube vid to properly fit your buds check it out here

Bose QuietComfort Noise II Canceling Earbuds

Features

• 2 hours play from 20 mins charge
• Noise cancelling
• Super high quality
• Bose sound quality
• Waterproof
• Bose comfort kit, 3 sets of tips and 3 stability bands.

I’ve always liked the overall quality and build of Bose products and have mentioned it several times on my blog, so Bose is definitely gonna make onto the best earbuds for small ears list!! Check out my more detailed reviews of the Bose earbuds here

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

Features

• Active Noise Cancellation,
• Adaptive Transparency,
• Personalise Spatial Audio
• Wireless charging case
• 4 sets of ear tips

Airpods are the go-to for most people when it comes to earbuds and granted these do deserve a place on our best earbuds for small ears list, I’m not that keen but that might be because of the genre of music i listen to that doesn’t lend itself to high treble producing drivers. but they do have super clear call quality audio and active noise cancellation.

Technics EAH-AZ80

Features

• Superior sound quality
• Noise cancelling
• Long battery life
• Cool Techincs brand
• 15 min charge = 70 mins play
• Comes with 7 ear tips so you’ll definitely find your size

For me these Techinics buds are the pick of the pile here, great sound quality, super mic for calls and a massive selection of ear tips for that all-important comfort and fit.

Soundcore Anker Life P2:

• 3 Eq modes
• A.I enhanced calls
• Super light weight
• water resistant
• Super low price

if you want a quality earbud that’s not gonna skint you, you won’t go far wrong with these, they have decent sound quality, ok battery life and seem to fit ok too. So for £20 whats to lose?

Conclusion

So that completes our list of best earbuds for small ears, I’m sure you’ll find one here that fits your budget, style and sound requirements, we have gone from super cheap to a top-tier product, as always remember, buy cheap buy twice, i’m not talking about the budget ones in our list, I’m talking about the crap you find in phone repair shops or horrible little kiosks in shopping centres, this shite won’t last a month before you throw them trust me.

Best Overall

Technics EAH-AZ80

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£219

Best Battery

Sony Link Buds S

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£139

Best Budget

Soundcore Anker Life P2

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£20

The post Best Earbuds For Small Ears in 2024 appeared first on toptech7.com.

Sonus is a brand of wireless home audio devices that deliver high-quality sound and smart features. Sonus devices can connect to each other over WiFi and create a whole-house sound system.

As a few of the devices mentioned here are sound bars you might want to check out my post on various soundbars here

You can control Sonus devices with the Sonus app, your voice, Apple AirPlay 2, and more. You can also stream music, podcasts, radio, audiobooks, and more from hundreds of services. You can Connect Sonus to your home hub such as Echo, nest and Apple Home kit.

The 7 Best Sonus Devices

Sonus One

What Is it?

Tbhe Sonus One is A small but powerful portable speaker, ideal for taking your music with you around the house , be it in the kitchen bedroom or on a dry day outside.

Stream music, radio, audiobooks and more from all your favourite services. Control is easy with the Sonos app and Apple AirPlay 2. Mix and match Sonos speakers around your home for multiroom listening, immersive home cinema and stereo sound. Everything works seamlessly together over WiFi.

Add 2 Sonus one for spacial sound, buy 4 for total surround as they will all link to each other and other Sonus products

Features

• Voice control
• Apple Air Play 2
• Touch Control
• WiFi
• Humidity Resistant

Who’s it for ?

Maybe someone who likes premium sound quality but hasn’t got the budget for a whole house system, but may want to expand.

Sonus Beam2

What is it ?

The Beam is a next gen sound bar which will totally transform your television-watching experience. Todays super thin tellys can’t pack a punch with those stick thin speakers and this will be more than apparent whilst watching action films, those explosions sound more like a mouse coughing.

The Sonus beam will change that, Enjoy crystal-clear dialogue for TV shows, films, and games, and stream music from all your favourite services. Advanced processing unlocks spatial audio, creating a virtual surround sound experience with Dolby Atmos. Get set up in minutes and easily control Beam with the Sonos app, your TV remote, and your voice. Add a subwoofer and rear speakers any time for more immersive surround sound. Easily create a connected system for your whole home when you add Sonos speakers to more rooms.

Features

• Dolby Atmos
• Voice Controlled
• T.V remote sync
• Hdmi eARC
• True Sound

Who’s it for

Anyone who wants to up their telly watching game with a view to expanding, bear in mind even though this is a mid-range soundbar with Atmos, you’ll probably want to add the companion subwoofer for the full cinema experience later on.

Era 300

What Is It?

The Era 300 is a premium smart speaker for someone who demands more power and quality from their smart speaker, it can be used as a stand-alone smart speaker or you could pair it with the Arc Or Beam sound bar and you have got one awesome surround set up for either music, home cinema or both.

Feel more connected to all your audio content with phenomenally clear and spacious sound. Stream from all your favourite services and devices with WiFi and Bluetooth. Connect a turntable or other audio source using an auxiliary cable and the Sonos Line-In Adapter. Experience mind-bendingly realistic surround sound when you pair two Era 300 speakers with Arc and stream spatial audio with Dolby Atmos. Set up is easy, and control is even easier with the Sonos app, next-generation touch controls, and your voice.

Features

• Dolby Atmos
• Bluetooth
• Wifi
• True play
• 6 speakers
• Line in
• voice controlled

Who’s it for

Anyone who wants a more high-end sound from a smart speaker with the possibility of expanding into a premium home cinema when funds allow

Arc Soundbar

What Is It?

A premium sound bar with eleven speakers, spacial dolby atmos to give you the ultimate base to build a kick-ass home cinema set up that will outperform most home audio systems..

Again for the ultimate setup pair with 2 rear speakers like the era and the gen 3 sub, and you’ll never watch a movie with wishy washy sound ever again!!

Easy to set up and use, Arc puts you at the centre of TV shows, movies, and games with crystal-clear dialogue and two dedicated height channels that render spatial audio content in 3D. When the TV is off, stream music and more from all your favourite services in the highest-resolution formats. Feel even more immersed whenever you choose to add a Sonos subwoofer and pair of rear speakers, and easily create a whole-home sound system with Sonos speakers in more rooms.

Features

• 11 speakers
• dolby atmos
• voice control
• Speech enhancement, turn this setting on in the Sonos app to boost voice frequencies and clarify dialogue.
• Adjustable EQ via the App
• Syncs with alexa and google home

Who’s it for?

For the person who wants to build a more high-end home cinema that can be used as a home audio with the opportunity to create a whole house system.

Sonus Ray

What is it?

A cheaper ( if thats the right word) sound-bar. the ray may be a world cheaper than the beam or arc but it will still totally transform your listening experience compared to the tinny clanging your tellys standard speakers will pollute your ears with. This would also be an ideal present for any gamer in your family, as yes it is smaller but the sound quality you will get from your gaming with te Ray will be another level. and you can still expand this system into a full surround system by adding rear speakers and a sub, or multi room system with additional speakers.

Features

• Tv remote sync
• Optical connection ( ideal for connecting to next gen consoles)
• Touch controls
• Great Price
• Bass reflex system
• Compact dimensions

Who’s it for

Anyone who wants an upgraded sound for their viewing or gamers who want an extra kick in their gaming immersion levels without spending over £500.

Sonus Roam

What is it?

The Roam is an ultra-portable smart speaker. It is ideal for taking with you on camping trips or just for chilling in your garden in the summer ( or winter as it’s water resistant!) with your favourite tunes without the need for power cables or super expensive outdoor speakers.

Enjoy hours of music, radio, audiobooks, and more from all your favourite services thanks to Roam’s long-lasting rechargeable battery. Listen at home with WiFi and easily control the sound with the Sonos app, your voice, and Apple AirPlay 2. Use Bluetooth, when you’re away and outdoors. Add more Sonos speakers around your home for multiroom listening. Everything works together over WiFi.

Features

• Water resistant ( ip67)
• Bluetooth
• Voice controlled
• Airplay2
• Drop resistant
• Lowest price ever!!

Who’s it for?

Anyone who needs sounds on the go, perfect for weekends away, camping trips or chilling in the garden.

Sonus Sub Gen 3

What is it?

I know I may of gone a little of track with this one but anyone who knows me will tell you I couldn’t possibly list any brand of smart speaker/home cinema without mentioning a subwoofer. I would sooner selotape my ears shut than listen to an action film or listen to any music ever written without the solid presence of a sharp kicking bass!

But anyway just like it says in the title, the Sonus Sub Gen 3 is a subwoofer that provides the most spine-kicking bass to your action film and music, the very second your budget allows, you should add a sub to any audio system you own!!

Features

• Gives the most amaing bass
• Wireless
• Responsive done to 25hz
• Only 1 cable
• Easy set-up
• Matches all Sonus amplified speakers/soundbars

Who’s it for

The sound guru who really needs the full home cinema environment, the sub will relieve the mids and tweeters of trying to provide you with the full sound range. Add a sub to your home cinema and all that’s missing is popcorn and a bag of £20 pick and mix that every snot-nosed kid had handled and thrown back in the tub and you’re in the cinema!!!

Conclusion

Whilst writing this article I’ve had the pleasure of testing what i can only describe of some of the best Home cinema/audio products that are available today, each one of the above speakers really does perform so well that you won’t regret spending the money on them, and as you can some if you buy now there’s some great discount to be had.

The problem is if you do have the means to buy say buy the arc, the sub and 2 surround speakers, your cinema will hate you and forget what you look like!!!

The post The 7 Best Sonus Devices You Can Buy In 2024 appeared first on toptech7.com.

So, What should I look for in the best MacBook chargers?

Gone are the days when your charger gets about as hot as the sun after 30 minutes of charging your prized MacBook! You need G.A.N technology

What’s G.A.N technology?

“G.A.N.” in the context of charging technology refers to Gallium Nitride, a material used in the construction of power electronics, particularly chargers and adapters. Gallium Nitride chargers have gained popularity due to their efficiency and compact size compared to traditional silicon-based chargers.

GAN chargers are more energy-efficient and generate less heat, making them a preferred choice for fast charging devices like smartphones, laptops, and other electronic gadgets. They allow for faster charging while maintaining a smaller and more portable form factor. Gallium Nitride technology has revolutionised the charging industry, offering users a more convenient and efficient way to power their devices.

Ok, sounds technical, what does all that crap mean to me?

The main benefit of using a Gan tech charger is you can charge multiple devices, quicker with less heat and less risk of overcharging…win, win, win, win

Gan chargers have a smart chip in them to charge your device ‘smart’ so you will notice as your battery charge level increases, the power that your charger lets through to your device will be less, thus prolonging the life of your battery.

This also will prevent overcharging, because I’m sure you’re like me and plug your phone in when you go to bed and it sits there taking a full charge for the 8 hours you’re in bed!!!!

With a good G.A.N charger as soon as your battery hits 100%, your charger voltage will be 0!

Rapid Charging

Using the best MacBook chargers, your charging times will be greatly reduced, as long as you have the right cable. You need to look for a Usb C connection and the cable must be able to take the higher wattage, for a MacBook look for 65-100w.

Right, in that case, whats the 5 best MacBook chargers then please!!

Gadget Goose 65w 3 port

• 65w
• 2 usb c ports 1 usb a port
• Comes with fast charge cable
• ideal for travellers as its lightweight

Verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

UGREEN MacBook Pro Charger 100W USB C Charger Nexode 4-Port USB C Laptop Charger GaN Charger

• 100 w
• 4 port, 3 usb c, 1 usb a
• Big Name

verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Gadget Goose 140w multi-port GaN laptop charger

• !40w!
• 5 ports 3 usb c and 2 usb a so you could charge your macbook, iPhone, airpods, iPad and you apple watch at the same time!!
• includes braided usb c pd3 fast charger cable
• Great Low price for a 140w charger

Verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️

100W USB C Plug, Anker Prime GaN 3-Port 

• !00w
• Folding pins good for travelling
• 3 ports 2 usb c and 1 usb a
• Massive name

Verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

USB C Charger, Spigen 120W GaN Fast 4-Port USB C Charging Station, 

• 120w
• 4 Ports 2 usb c and 2 usb a
• Charging station
• Good for office

Verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Best Budget

Gadget Goose 65w.

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• 65w
• 3 ports
• includes usb c cable

£25.99

Best Overall

Gadget Goose 140w

---

• 140w
• 5 ports
• includes usb c cable

£67.99

Best for Office

Spigen 120W

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• 120w
• 4 ports
• ideal for desk top

£64.99

The post The 5 Best MacBook Chargers for 2023 appeared first on toptech7.com.

But, in a world filled with options, how do you determine which of these two heavyweights is the perfect fit for your security needs? That’s precisely what we’re here to uncover in this comprehensive comparison. We’ll delve deep into the realms of Blink and Arlo, exploring their key features, performance, ease of use, and more, to help you make an informed decision that ensures your peace of mind.

Join us on this journey as we dissect Blink and Arlo, pitting them against each other to find out which emerges as the ultimate guardian of your space. Whether you’re safeguarding your home sweet home or fortifying your business fortress, this comparison will serve as your compass in the realm of smart security cameras.

If you want a cheap spycam solution check my post here on turning an old iPhone into a spycam

For some smart advice on setting up your smart home read my post here

I Need Cameras! So Blink Or Arlo Whats the Best Home CCTV?

Blink Outdoor

Main Features

The Blink Outdoor cameras are wireless and run on long-lasting lithium batteries. This means you can install them virtually anywhere around your property without the need for complicated wiring. The battery is claimed to last 2 years, but as with anything this can vary with usage.

HD Video Quality:

Motion Detection:

Blink cameras are equipped with advanced motion detection sensors that can trigger recording when motion is detected. This feature helps conserve battery life by only recording when necessary. Blinks own companion app is very good, clear and easy to navigate, make sure you enable push notifications so when the camera is triggered, you get the push message on the phone with instant access to the system.

Customisable Motion Zones:

Users can set up customisable motion zones within the camera’s field of view. This allows you to focus on specific areas and reduce false alarms from motion in non-critical areas. one note on this from personal experience, when installing your cameras be conscious on what they are looking at eg trees or swings that may move around in the wind. Also depending on where you live, make sure your cameras arn’t pointing into your neighbours house, or they could be thinking you’re a pervert and report you to the police!!

Live View and Two-Way Audio:

You can access a live view of your camera feed via the Blink app, which is available on smartphones and tablets. Additionally, Blink cameras come with two-way audio, allowing you to listen and speak through the camera using the app.

Infrared Night Vision:

Blink Outdoor cameras have infrared (IR) LEDs for night vision, enabling them to capture clear video even in low-light or complete darkness. This illuminates the field of vision area but only in black and white

Weather-Resistant Design:

These cameras are designed to withstand various weather conditions, making them suitable for outdoor use. They are rated for use in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.

Cloud Storage:

Blink offers cloud storage plans that allow you to store video clips and access them remotely through the app. At the time of writing blink has now removed the free storage plan so you still get the alerts but the footage isn’t stored.So you’re goona have to spend a couple of pounds a month for this feature, which i believe is the norm now.

Smart Home Integration:

Blink cameras can be integrated with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control them using voice commands and view live feeds on Alexa-enabled devices like Echo Show.

Easy Installation:

Setting up Blink cameras is straightforward, and the system includes mounting hardware for easy installation on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. Gone are the days of needing miles of co-axle cable buried in your walls to enable your cameras, these all run off your wifi, be mindful of this if you have a slow connection (less than 2mb) as you won’t be able to access the footage clearly.

Long Battery Life:

Blink’s efficient power management ensures that the batteries can last for up to two years before needing replacement or recharging, depending on usage.

Siren and Alarm:

Some Blink camera models have a built-in siren that can be triggered remotely to deter intruders.

Things we Love ❤️

High Quality Images ✅

Easy to use App ✅

Price ✅

Things We Hate 🤬

Limited Camera Options ❌

No Storage without a paid plan ❌

Smart integration few and far between ❌

Arlo

Next up is blinks number one competitors, Arlo. Lets have a look what the difference in the two are, if any!!

Main Features of the Arlo

The Arlo home CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) system is known for its advanced features that provide comprehensive home security and surveillance. Here are some of the key features of the Arlo home CCTV system:

Wireless and Weather-Resistant Cameras:

• • Arlo cameras are wireless, allowing for flexible placement around your property. They are also designed to withstand various weather conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

High-Definition Video Quality:

• • Arlo cameras capture video in high-definition (HD) and some models offer 4K Ultra HD resolution, ensuring clear and detailed footage.

Wire-Free or Wired Options:

• • Arlo offers both wire-free and wired camera options to suit different preferences and installation needs. As a rule most high end or commercial cctv systems use wired cameras, as we all know, wifi can drop out when ever it feels like it!!

Motion Detection and Alerts:

• • Arlo cameras feature advanced motion detection sensors that can trigger recordings and send instant alerts to your smartphone when motion is detected. Again, similar ro blink, Arlo’s app it pretty easy to use and the main functions operate perfectly for the cameras. Again depending on the speed of your home internet and your phone signal at time of usage.

Customizable Motion Zones:

• • Users can create custom motion detection zones within the camera’s field of view, allowing you to focus on specific areas and reduce false alarms. Unlike the blink, this feature, for me gives the arlo the edge. you can reduce the focus on your swaying trees and more on the crim jumping over your wall to rob your knomes!!

Smart Home Integration:

• • Arlo cameras are compatible with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This integration enables voice control and allows you to incorporate Arlo into your existing smart home ecosystem.

Two-Way Audio:

• • Many Arlo camera models include two-way audio, enabling you to listen and speak through the camera using the Arlo app.

Cloud Storage and Local Storage Options:

• • Arlo offers both cloud-based and local storage options, allowing you to choose the storage method that best suits your needs. Cloud storage plans offer extended video history and additional features.you can use your arlo camera without a paid subscription if you have a arlo base station.

Smart Siren and Built-in Lights:

• • Some Arlo camera models feature a built-in siren and lights that can be triggered remotely to deter intruders.

Geofencing:

• • Geofencing allows Arlo to automatically arm or disarm your cameras based on your smartphone’s location, providing convenience and enhancing privacy. Love this feature, saves the issue of you forgetting to arm your system when you leave the house.

• • Activity zones enable you to define specific areas within the camera’s view where you want to receive motion alerts.

Battery Life and Power Options:

• • Arlo cameras are known for their efficient power management, offering long battery life, and some models can be powered by solar panels for continuous operation.

Things We Love ❤️

No need for a paid plan to save footage  ✅

Geofencing ✅

Built In Lights ✅

Things We Hate 🤬

Best Features are paywalled ❌

Tricky to set up ❌

Setting wireless SSID to be hidden makes live view unusable ❌

Conclusion 

Both of these cctv systems are more than sufficient to protect the outside of your house, for me the Arlo edges it because of the features, the light and the fact you can store some footage on the hub (sold separately!) but it could come down to personal choice as theres not much it price wise.

Arlo pro 4

arlo pro 4 amazon £104.41

Blink Outdoor

Blink Outdoor Amazon £104.41

The post Blink Or Arlo Whats the Best Home CCTV In 2023 appeared first on toptech7.com.

BOSE QuietComfort II vs. Sony WF-1000XM4 Earbuds Comparison

In the realm of wireless noise-cancelling earbuds, two giants stand tall: the BOSE QuietComfort II Wireless Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling Earbuds – Triple Black and the Sony WF-1000XM4. Both promise an immersive audio experience and superior noise cancellation, making the choice between them a delightful challenge. who will come out top in our premium ear buds bose versus sony comparison Join us as we delve into the features and nuances that set these two powerhouses apart.

Audio Excellence

BOSE’s QuietComfort II presents a balanced soundstage with deep bass and crisp highs that cater to a variety of musical genres. Sony’s WF-1000XM4 is no slouch either, featuring a detailed sound signature that captivates audiophiles with rich instrumentals and immersive vocals. The choice between the two largely depends on your audio preferences.

Battery Life and Charging

 The QuietComfort II offers up to 6 hours of continuous playback and an additional 12 hours with the charging case, ensuring an extended listening session. Sony’s WF-1000XM4 offers a competitive battery life, with up to 8 hours on a single charge and an extra 16 hours with the charging case. If extended use without recharging is essential, the WF-1000XM4 might have a slight edge. Speaking of battery life, a power bank can help if you rely on your buds or you’re out camping off grid. Check out our buyers guide on powerbanks here 

Controls and Connectivity

Both earbuds offer intuitive touch controls for seamless navigation. The QuietComfort II boasts easy access to controls through tapping and swiping, while the WF-1000XM4 incorporates Adaptive Sound Control, adjusting noise-cancelling settings based on your activity and surroundings. Both options prioritize user-friendly interactions.

Additional Features

The QuietComfort II stands out with its impressive sweat and weather resistance, making it a great option for workouts and outdoor activities. The WF-1000XM4, on the other hand, boasts LDAC technology for high-resolution audio streaming when paired with compatible devices, appealing to audiophiles seeking top-tier sound quality.

Price Point

Pricing can play a significant role in your decision-making process. The QuietComfort II generally falls in the mid-to-high range, while the WF-1000XM4 often competes at a similar price point. Consider your budget and the features that align with your priorities.

Bose: £180-£250

Sony: £198-£245

Conclusion: Choosing between the BOSE QuietComfort II Wireless Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling Earbuds – Triple Black and the Sony WF-1000XM4 is a matter of personal preference. Both earbuds excel in providing exceptional audio quality, noise cancellation, and comfort. Whether you lean toward BOSE’s elegance and balanced sound or Sony’s innovative features and detailed soundstage, rest assured that either choice will immerse you in a world of audiophile delight. If you wanted a biased decision, then I would go with the Bose every time. I love Bose stuff and always have, i mean every nightclub worth its entry fee used Bose speakers, so that has to count for something. If you’re looking for a total immersive sound stage, check my buyers guide on Over ear headphones here

The post BOSE QuietComfort II vs. Sony WF-1000XM4 Earbuds Comparison appeared first on toptech7.com.