HooToo updated its popular line of iPhone flash drives earlier this summer to incorporate the speed of USB 3.0 and improve design. The HT-IM003 model is housed in a durable aluminum alloy case and wins out in terms of functionality and design.

It’s slim, sleek, and sturdy. It weighs just a quarter of an ounce and is about 2″ long. On one end sits the standard USB 3.0 drive, with the lightning end on the other. This time around the lightning connected is protected by a cap that is attached by a key-ring. The connector is extended by 4mm which is just enough to work around thick protective cases. That’s a pretty important function, as it’s a pain in the ass to take off a phone case every time you want to use your device.

USB drives are not known for their fast speeds. But USB 3.0 technology gives the HooToo a significant boost over previous models. The drive hits 80 MB/s read and 30 MB/s write speeds on USB 3.0, with some user benchmarks surpassing advertised speeds. That’s good enough to transfer a full HD movie in less than a minute. Unfortunately, lightning port speeds are still stuck in the dark ages, with top read speeds of 30 MB/s and write speeds of 10 MB/s. That means moving large amounts of data from your Apple device to the drive will take a while, but still much faster than uploading to the cloud or sending via email.

HooToo uses a free app called iPlugmate to work on your device. The app has a simple interface that automatically segregates your files based into pics, music, videos, etc. It supports most common file types, including wav, mp3, avi, mkv, doc, pdf, and ppt. You can stream your files directly from iPlugmate while it is attached, which frees up valuable storage on your device. The app lacks any security features, which is disappointing.

Best 2-in-1 iPhone USB Drive: RAVPower Charging Cable

HooToo just released the RAVPower Charging Cable, a 64GB external storage device that doubles as a charging device. It’s the perfect 2-in-1 plug-in for viewing high-usage content like HD videos and picture slideshows.

The RAVPower cable delivers transfers files at a similar clip to the External Storage stick. That means the USB 3.0 port gets 80 MB/s 30MB/s, while the lightning port chugs along at 30 MB/s read and 10 MB/s write. It also operates on the iPlugmate app, which lets you stream most common file types directly from the drive.

The design differs in a couple ways. First, the metal USB 3.0 and lightning ports are connected by a soft rubber cord. This 5 inch long device is flexible, with no unwieldy clip. While the design is convenient, both ports are uncapped. This opens the possibility of them snapping in a purse or briefcase, which is a disadvantage compared to the standard drive. But its functionality as a charger offsets this restriction.

The post The Best USB Drive For iPhones/iPads appeared first on Reactual.

Anker’s Ultra Protective Case is currently the best dustproof iPhone 6 case. It features a built-in screen protector and raised edges to prevent phone damage, and port protectors to keep out dust.  It fits the iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6s.

The Details

This ultra-protective case is Anker’s answer to the wildly popular Otterbox smartphone cases. For half the price you get a case that is just as durable as the Otterbox, but is also much slimmer. The Anker Ultra Protective Case adds just .15 inches and 1.6 ounces to your phone, while the Otterbox Defender is 1.7 inches thick and weighs 1.92 ounces. The Anker also has an 18 month warranty, which is six months longer than Otterbox’s 12 month warranty.

Attaching the case to your phone is incredibly easy. Anker’s precision cutouts are engineered to just snap on to the iPhone 6 / 6s. It is a two-part case with a built in glass screen protector. The back of the case has a tactile grip that feels secure in your hand. The front has raised edges to prevent drops, though Anker claims the phone is drop tested 6 times from 3 feet. Customer reviews confirm that the phone does survive drop tests.

Button and port guards ensure that dust does not enter the phone via the charging and headphone openings. They are a bit of a pain to latch back up, but open easy enough. Unfortunately, the case is not rated to be completely waterproof, although the port guards do prevent water from entering.

Currently, Anker only offers three color options, so it they are lagging behind the competition in terms of variety. The case does not have a circular cutout to display the Apple logo, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on your preference.

Another Option

If you want a dustproof iPhone 6 case that is also completely waterproof, check out the LifeProof Fre case. The FRE meets IP68 standards, which means it is completely dustproof and is fully submersible to 2 meters of water for 1 hour. The Fre also has a MIL STD 810F-519 rated, which means it can withstand drops of 6.6 meters.

Expect a trade-off in functionality for the waterproof rating. The Fre requires an extension cord to use most headphones, and reviewers note that the mute button often fails.

The post The Best Dustproof iPhone 6 Case appeared first on Reactual.

The Details

The  Unifun Waterproof External Battery is great to have on hand for your outdoor excursions. It goes where standard portable chargers can’t: poolside, camping, skiing and just about anywhere there’s a chance of dust or precipitation. That’s why its trusted by first responders as well as vacationers.

The battery takes around 5-7 hours to charge after it expends all 10,400mAh. When it is charged up, the Unifun can fully charge about four empty smartphones. It is compatible with a wide range of gadgets, including the iPhone 6 Plus 5S, 5C 4 4S, iPad Air/iPad Mini, Samsung Galaxy S5 S4 S3, Google Nexus 7, cameras, and tablets. It does automatically power down when it is not in use, which helps keep it going for longer. Unifun claims that the lithium polymer core has a long lifespan and can give up to 1,000 lifetime charges, which is above industry standard.

We also like the battery’s durable casing. It is IP66 waterproof rated, which means it is totally dust-proof and protected against string water jets and waves. One caveat: don’t expect a quick charge with the Unifun. It charges about 1% every five minutes, so it will take a device a while to get back to life if you let it completely expire.

Another Option

The Limefuel Rugged L104XR is another durable waterproof portable charger option. As its name suggests, the Limefuel Rugged can take a beating and has an IP66 rating. It has 2 universally compatible outlets equipped with 5V/2A input.

The Limefuel charges devices faster than the Unifun and both are 10400mAh, but the Limefuel has a shorter lifespan than its competition. It is good for 500 cycles, about half as many as the Unifun.

The post The Best Waterproof Portable Charger appeared first on Reactual.

The Details

Only 0.6 inches thick, the Lenmar Meidian Battery Case has a  2300mAh lithium-ion battery inside. This is enough to charge a dead iPhone battery to 100% in 2.5 hours. 

I’ve been testing it for a year — and it’s a reliable power source. Once it is attached to the phone it is essentially maintenance-free. Charging is via a standard micro-USB cable.

The Lenmar Meidian Battery Case is available at Amazon for about $25.

Another Option for iPhone 5 & 5S

The Morphie Juice Pack Plus is another good charger I’ve tested. Functionally it is similar to the Lenmar case, but the retail price is higher (around $40). It has a battery capacity of 2100mAh — a bit less than the Lenmar’s 2300mAh battery. It will charge a dead iPhone 5 to about 88%.

The post The Best Battery Case For The iPhone 5 & 5S appeared first on Reactual.

Sports earbuds should be comfortable enough to wear for an extended period of time, durable enough to withstand drops, sweat, and dirt, fit securely on the ear – all while producing outstanding sound. Here are our top picks:

• The Best In-Ear Sports Earphones: Jaybird X2
• The Best Behind-the-Neck Earphones: BackBeat Fit
• The Best Over-Ear Sports Earphones Beats by Dr. Dre Powerbeats2 Wireless

The Best In-Ear Sports Earphones: Jaybird X2

Pros:  High-quality audio, secure fit, sweat-proof 

Cons: Left and right buds not labeled

Launched in the second half of 2015, the X2 is the successor to Jaybird’s popular but flawed BlueBuds X earbuds. Although similar in appearance, the X2 offers improved sweat-proofing and sound quality, more comfortable in-ear design, and better battery life. Besides the excellent sound quality, the X2 has good comfort and fit options. Included in the box are three sizes of ear tips in both silicone and foam, as well as three sizes of ear fins. Although the unit is guaranteed sweat-proof, Jaybird offers customers a lifetime warranty against sweat-related damage.

X2 earbuds also feature an eight-hour battery life, and are compatible with any Bluetooth device.

The Jaybird X2 is available from Amazon for about $140.

Best Behind-the-Neck Sports Earphones: Plantronics BackBeat Fit

Pros: Lightweight, comfortable, includes reflective armband/storage case, wireless  

Cons: Cord around neck may bother some people    

A favorite of CNET, Men’s Fitness, and Runner’s World, Plantronics’ BackBeat Fit behind-the-neck earbuds were designed with athletes’ needs in mind. The unit is light, flexible, and allows for the user to wear eyewear unobstructed. Additionally, the ear tips rotate to ensure a snug, comfortable fit. A proprietary audio codec allows for excellent sound, including rich, deep bass. However, the unit doesn’t completely block out external sounds in order to ensure safety and awareness of surroundings. The BackBeat Fit is also durable and waterproof, so feel free to wear these out for a jog in the rain or during an intense sweat-session at the gym. Since the unit was designed to work with Bluetooth smartphones, it also features a microphone that reduces feedback, filters out background sound, and enhances voice quality. Reviewers especially liked the eight-hour battery life and the inclusion of a generously-sized reflective smartphone armband that doubles as a case when not in use.

The BackBeat Fit is available from Amazon for about $104.

The Best Over-Ear Sports Earphones: Beats by Dr. Dre Powerbeats2 Wireless

Pros: Excellent sound quality, water- and sweat-resistant, multiple earpieces  

Cons: Six hour battery life

Although Beats headphones have been maligned by the audio community in the past for favoring style over function, the Powerbeats2 wireless earbuds received top scores from technology and fitness magazines alike, and are currently the second best-selling earbuds on Amazon. Even the Wall Street Journal praised the Powerbeats2 earbuds for their superior sound quality. In addition to excellent sound, these earbuds feature lightweight, soft-touch plastic ear hooks that can be molded to conform to the wearer’s ear and four pairs of multi-sized and shaped ear tips for a perfect, snug fit. These earbuds are also water-resistant (IPX4) and sweat-resistant, and built to withstand even the toughest workout. Powerbeats2 earbuds are wireless and compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled device and, with the addition of a remote built into the cord, can be used as a hands-free headset. However, you’ll only get about six hours of playback before these earbuds will need to be charged.

Powerbeats2 is available at Amazon for about $140.

The post The Best Wireless Sports Earphones appeared first on Reactual.

• The Best No-Frills iPhone/iPad Dock: Twelve South HiRise Deluxe ($55)
• The Best Apple iPhone/iPad Dock with Speakers: Bose SoundDock Series III ($250)
• The Best iPhone/iPad Dock Clock Radio: iHome iDL46 Lightning Dock Clock Radio ($90)

The Best No-Frills iPhone/iPad Dock: Twelve South HiRise Deluxe

Pros: Elegant design, doesn’t block microphone or speakers, adjusts to fit most cases

Cons: Not compatible with Apple 2-meter Lightning cable

Twelve South’s HiRise Deluxe streamlined pedestal docking station complements the elegant simplicity of Apple’s iPhone and iPad. The metal stand, although not heavy, is sturdy and stable. It’s available in three finishes – gold, black, and silver – to match your devices. In addition to charging, the pedestal elevates your device for hands-free use, which is perfect for those who want to Skype, FaceTime, or simply prop up the device to more easily read a recipe. The design also doesn’t block the device’s microphone or speaker, allowing for un-muffled calls and clear audio.

Perhaps one of HiRise Deluxe’s best features is its machined-finish rear-support dial, which moves the rear-support beam back and forth, allowing users to create the perfect fit for each device from iPhones and iPads to Apple TV remotes and other Lightning-compatible products, such as SteelSeries’ Nimbus gaming controller. The adjustable rear support beam also allows for the docking station to be used with most device cases.

The HiRise Deluxe is available from Amazon for about $55.

The Best iPad/iPhone Docks with a Speaker: Bose SoundDock Series III

Pros: Excellent sound quality, AUX input for non-iOS devices

Cons: No Bluetooth

With high-quality products like the SoundDock Series III, it’s no wonder that Bose won PC Magazine’s 2015 Readers’ Choice Award for speaker docks for the third year in a row. In addition to charging an iPhone or iPod, the SoundDock Series III packs superior sound in a small, streamlined package. The relatively small unit (approximately 7 inches tall, 12 inches wide, and 6.5 inches deep) doesn’t take up too much space, and can easily fit on a table, countertop, or shelf. However, similar to other Bose products, the SoundDock Series III uses a proprietary acoustic design and digital signal processing to produce clear, loud, and rich sound despite its small footprint.

The SoundDock Series III also comes with a remote, allowing the user to turn the system on and off, adjust the volume, and navigate playlists from anywhere in the room. Although the system was designed for the Lightning iPhone and iPod models, it offers an auxiliary input in the back to connect to other non-iOS mobile devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

The SoundDock Series III is available from Amazon for about $250.

The Best iPhone/iPad Dock with a Clock Radio: iHome iDL46 Lightning Dock Clock Radio

Pros:  Sturdy, easy user interface, good sound, can charge two devices at once 

Cons: Display too bright at night, bulky

Although the need for a bedside clock radio has waned over the past few years in favor of simply using a smartphone, many people still prefer the classic look and functionality of a bedside clock docking station. In that regard, the iHome iDL46 docking station does it all, including charging up to two Lightning devices at the same time, an FM radio with six preset stations, and an alarm clock with programmable snooze and nap times, gradual wake and sleep features, and dual weekday/weekend alarm settings.

In addition, the device is equipped with a backup battery, ensuring the clock and alarm will continue to function in a power outage. However, at over 9 inches long and 6 inches deep, many users may feel that this unit is somewhat bulky for a bedside table.  Additionally, it was noted in other reviews that the display was too bright at night, even on the lowest setting.

The iHome iDL46 is available from Amazon for about $90.

The post The Best iPhone and iPad Docks of 2016 appeared first on Reactual.

I’ve tried to cover all the basic types of headphones available today: earbuds, wireless earphones, sport earphones, noise-cancelling headphones, full-sized headphones and wireless headphones.

LG Tone HBS-700 Bluetooth Earphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from 264+ reviewers)

Despite selling for under $50, the LG Tone HBS-700 is the highest rated bluetooth headphone currently available. It received an 8 out of 10 rating from CNET, which makes it their Editor’s Choice for a bluetooth earphone. Reviewers at CNET say it is  one of the most comfortable earphones they’ve tried, and that the audio reproduction was impressive. PC Magazine liked the long battery life, but said that the bass reproduction was “thin”, but gave it an overall rating of “Good”.

The LG Tone HBS-700 is available from Amazon for about $45.

Klipsch Image S4 Earbuds

Average Amazon Rating: 3.9 out of 5 (from 1211+ reviewers)

The Klipsch Image S4 Earphone is the highest-rated wired earbuds under $100. Reviewers like the audio clarity of the earphones, and its comfortable fit. Reviewers say these earphones provide audio quality equivalent to earphones that cost hundreds of dollars more. The Klipsch Image S4 Earphone received an Editors’ Choice award from PC Magazine, and an “Excellent” rating from CNET.

If you carry your earphones in your pocket a lot, or are generally rough with them, you might want to consider the more durable Shure SE215-K Earphones — these come with detachable cables (see details below).

The Klipsch Image S4 Earphone is available from Amazon for about $76.

Klipsch Image S4i Earbuds

Average Amazon Rating: 3.7 out of 5 (from 500+ reviewers)

If you will be using earphones with a iPhone or iPod, you should consider getting the Klipsch Image S4i, which provides the same comfortable fit and sound quality as the Image S4, but also incorporates an integrated mic and call answer button, as well as volume controls and remote playback for the iPod.

The Klipsch Image S4 sells for about $99 at Amazon.

MEElectronics M6 Earbuds

Average Amazon Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (from 329+ reviewers)

These M6 Earbuds by MEElectronics are more durable and provide better sound than comparable earphones in their price range. CNET rated them 3.5 out of 4 stars saying “A great value for bass addicts”. These earphones incorporate a “memory wire” and an angled ear tip, making them good earphones wear while  engaged in sports.

You can get the MEElectronics M6 at Amazon for about $20.

Shure SE215-K Earphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.0 out of 5 (from 115+ reviewers)

The SE215-K Earphones by Shure produces some of the best audio you’ll hear from earbuds prince under $100. A solid design, which includes detachable cables, makes these earphones quite durable. Six pairs of tips – small, medium and large in foam and silicone – ensure a nice snug fit no matter what your ear canal’s shape or size. Head-Fi.org recommends the SE215s as their budget pick in Lifehacker’s recent headphone buying guide. The Head-Fi community, a discerning bunch of listeners, have rated these earphones five stars in a couple of interviews.

Buy the Shure SE215-K Earphones at Amazon for about $100.

Klipsch Image S5i Rugged Earbuds

Average Amazon Rating: 3.9 out of 5 (from 50+ reviewers)

Klipsch has released a ruggedized headphone, the Image S5i. The earphones are weather resistant and feature extra large buttons which can be operated while wearing gloves. So far, they are getting good reviews on Amazon.

The Klipsch Image S5i Rugged Earbuds are available on Amazon for about $100.

Etymotic HF5 Earphones

Average Amazon Rating: 3.9 out of 5 (from 52+ reviewers)

One of the best sports earphones available. Etymotic succeeds in creating a balanced realistic sound. Bass-enthusiasts may be disappointed with the thin reproduction of low-frequencies. CNET rates them “Very Good” and iLounge gave them a “A-” rating.

The Etymotic hf5 earphones are sold on Amazon — they are available in Red, Blue, and Black. They sell for about $95.

If you are looking for an Etymotic with iPod/iPhone/iPad controls included, consider the Etymotic ER23-HF3.

Monster iSport Immersion Earphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.3 out of 5 (from 131+ reviewers)

The iSport Immersion Headphone by Monster is designed to be used while engaged in activities like snowboarding, running and working out at the gym. They are durably built and completely sweatproof. In fact, they can even be put in the wash for cleaning.

Available at Amazon for about $150.

Klipsch Image x10i Earbuds

Average Amazon Rating: 4.1 out of 5 (from 168+ reviewers)

The Klipsch Image X10 earbud headphones are tiny, but powerful. They feature contour ear gels that are intended to slip right into the ear canal comfortably. Five different sized ear tips come with these earbud headphones, and a 50-inch vinyl cable is included.

The Klipsch Image X10 are available at Amazon for $137.

Gradio SR80i Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from 330+ reviewers)

The Grado SR60 headphones are made in Brooklyn. Their black-plastic design doesn’t exactly exude high tech, but as soon as doubters hear the SR80, their objections usually melt away. Converts gush about the headset’s rock-solid bass, extraordinary detail, and clarity. The SRS0 has been on the market for more than 10 years, perennially garnering raves in audiophile magazines around the world.

The SRS0′s earpieces have large cushions, but we’re not about to claim that these headphones set a new standard for wearability. After spending a few hours with all that foam clamped over your ears, you’ll need a break.

Buy the Grado SR60 Amazon for around $100.

Grado SR125i Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from 64+ reviewers)

Basically, the Grado SR125 is a slight upgrade to the SR80i — the SR125 is tweaked for slightly better sound. The improved detail can be difficult for some to hear. Grado makes use of the larger sized 1/4 inch plug on this headphone and a very thick cord. Grado doesn’t really intend this headphone for use with a portable MP3 player, but if you want to connect to a portable player or an inexpensive home stereo with the smaller 1/8th inch connection, you’ll need to get an adapter. Whether the sound quality is any better than the SR80i might depend on the quality of the recording and the quality of your music player.

It’s available from Amazon for about $200.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (from 2037+ reviewers)

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50 is the highest rated headphone on Amazon — many enthusiastic reviewers say this the best headphone you can buy for under $150. I haven’t seen any formal reviews of this headphone yet.

The ATH-M50  is available at Amazon for about $137.

AiAiAi TMA-1 Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (from 26+ reviewers)

AIAIAI is a new headphone company from Denmark, and they’ve recently released their first set of DJ headphones, dubbed the TMA-1, which stands for “Tycho Magnetic Anomaly 1″ — the name of the monolith in 2001 A Space Odyssey. The monochromatic design was conceived by Danish design studio KiBiSi. The sound reproduction of the phones is apparently very good — the bass, in particular, being quite impressive.

The AIAIAI TMA-1 gets an “Excellent” rating from CNET and an average of 4.7 out of 5 reviewers from 26 reviewers on Amazon.

The headphones are available from Amazon for about $200.

Ultrasone HFI-580 Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from 28+ reviewers)

If you are looking for a pair of portable headphones that won’t disturb your fellow travelers, you might consider the Ultrasone HFI-580. Unlike many closed-style headphones, the HFI-580 performs very well connected to portable players like the iPod. The headphones have Ultrasone’s patented S-Logic technology, which creates a wide soundstage, making for an incredibly open and clear sonic presentation. PC Magazine rated it 4 out 5 stars, as did “What Hi Fi?” Magazine. CNET gave it a rated of “Very Good” or 3.5 out of 5 stars.

The Ultrasone HFI-580 is available at Amazon for about  $180.

Bowers And Wilkins P5 Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from 175+ reviewers)

Bowers & Wilkins is a legendary name in British Hi-Fi. Recently, they have been attempting to appeal to a more mainstream audience. Thier P5 Headphone is made for listening with a portable player. These headphones block out a lot of external noise, but they contain no active noise-cancellation circuitry. The P5s feature a detachable cord with an integrated volume control that will work with some iPods and iPhones.

Consumer Reports rated this headphone the highest in their portable category. CNET rated it “Excellent” and Trusted Reviews gave it 9 out of 10 stars (their 2010 “Best Headphone Gear” Runner Up).

Many reviewers note that these headphones are extremely comfortable. They have sheep leather ear pads, which are soft, but they may become sticky in hot weather.

The Bowers & Wilkins P5 Headphone is available at Amazon for about $295.

Sennheiser RS-170 Wireless Headphone

Average Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (from 172+ reviewers)

This is the highest rated wireless headphone on Amazon. The Sennheiser RS-170 makes use of the high-fidelity Kleer technology, thus give you CD-quality audio over its wireless connection (superior to Bluetooth in this respect).

You can buy the Sennheiser RS-170 Wireless Headphone at Amazon for about $280.

Bose QuietComfort 15 Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (from 222+ reviewers)

The Bose QuietComfort 15 received a rating of 74/100 from Consumer Reports (the 2nd highest for noise-canceling headphones, just behind the Sony MDR-NC500D). CNET rates the Bose QuietComfort 15  as their number one noise-canceling headphone, giving it an “Excellent” score.

The Bose QuietComfort 15  is available for $300 from Amazon.

Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Average Amazon Rating: 3.9 out of 5 (from 355+ reviewers)

The ATH-ANC7B headphone by Audio Technica is the best rated noise-cancelling headphone under $200. However, CNET only gives them a “Good” rating, saying that they just sound “OK” and that the headphone’s noise-cancellation feature was not impressive. Still, the ATH-ANC7B  gets an impressive Amazon rating of 3.9 of 5 stars from 355+ reviewers.

Another positive note — these headphones do work when the noise-canceling function is turned off, or when their battery is dead. In contrast, Bose noise-cancelling headphones do not operate without a charged battery.

The ATH-ANC7B is available from Amazon for about $121.

Jabra Halo 2 Stereo Headset

Average Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5 (from 30+ reviewers)

Jabra Halo 2 is a highly rated wireless stereo headset. Reviews like its reliable wireless connectivity, and its minimalist design.

The speakers fold up like sunglasses when you’re not using them, and immediately switch on, without the need of a button, when you open them back up again. But reviewers did some reservations about the overall durability of the joins on the headphone.

You can pair two wireless devices at once with the Jabra Halo 2, including your mobile, with the added functionality of answering calls.

The Jabra Halo 2 Stereo Headset is available from Amazon for about $77.

The post The 20 Highest Rated Earbuds & Headphones appeared first on Reactual.

You can also find iPhone cases made with CNC machined aluminum — Vapor Pro cases.

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