The Difference Between Amazon Alexa and Echo (The “API Mandate” Is Alive!) – New Video

Echo vs Alexa difference YouTube thumbnail with me wearing a cowboy hat

People sometimes use the terms “Amazon Alexa” and “Amazon Echo” interchangeably, as though they are the same thing. But they are actually different. Amazon Alexa is the smart cloud platform used by Amazon, and this can be accessed on our phones, through our smart watches, in our cars – and yes, through Amazon Echo. Amazon … Read more

Help, My Ring Camera Or Doorbell Video Is Black! (How To Fix)

Ring motion recording footage showing the blacked out privacy zone.

Ring is still on the top when it comes to smart home technology. Since being acquired by Amazon, Ring has moved to become the leader of smart home security as well as lighting and other smart tech arenas. However, their technology isn’t always totally reliable. Smart home devices rely on complicated networks of apps, physical gadgets, … Read more

All Ring Doorbell Models Explained (Beginner-Friendly Buying Guide) – New Video

YouTube thumbnail showing me looking confused with 5 Ring Doorbells around me

Ring have come a long way since their appearance on Shark Tank back in 2013. Heck, they now offer 10 different smart doorbells (and over 10 smart cameras). Whilst this is good in terms of choice, it can also be pretty confusing. As as a result, I shot this video to talk you through all … Read more

Philips Hue Motion Sensor Light Information

My Philips Hue motion sensor in setup mode

Hue motion sensors are some of the most useful smart home devices out there. They allow you to have your lights turn on and off automatically. They can also be used for more advanced applications and home automation. These motion sensors also let you know when something’s going wrong. There’s an LED indicator on the … Read more

Are Ring Cameras Best for Recording Wildlife (In Your Yard Or Elsewhere)?

A cat captured during daytime on my Ring Doorbell Pro

You’ve probably seen at least one viral video from a Ring camera that captures the quirky and fun world of wildlife. Because these cameras are motion activated, they’re always getting interesting and exciting footage of our local wildlife. There are Ring camera users who are looking to use their Ring tech for wildlife photography and … Read more

HEV Light and the LIFX Clean Bulb (Myth or Real?!) – New Video

YouTube background showing me holding a cotton swab after testing my keyboard

In August 2020, the LIFX CEO announced a new LIFX product on Twitter – the LIFX Clean: This product is designed to be anti-bacterial, providing both smart lighting and cleaning potential. However the actual cleaning capability isn’t always effective – especially when run for a short amount of time, or from more than 4 foot … Read more

A Message For Ring’s Marketing Team: SORT IT OUT! – New Video

YouTube thumbnail showing me looking annoyed and the text Why

I was recently on YouTube and Ring’s Floodlight Cam Wired Plus announcement video popped up for me to watch. This confused me, because Ring already announced this product – a month ago! As it turns out, that was actually a completely different product (the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro). Ring’s product line-up seems quite confusing … Read more

When Philips Hue’s Downlights (GU10) Are Too Long & Don’t Fit!

Philips Hue GU10 size comparison diagram between both generation of bulbs updated

Philips Hue is still one of the biggest and best names in smart home lighting. Their Gu10 lights are an ideal choice for modern looking homes who want that recessed lighting style. The only problem is that the Gu10 standard is a little inconsistent and Philips Hue Lights has also changed the size of their … Read more

Smart Lighting In 2021-2022 & Beyond: Everything You NEED To Know

An image of me holding Hue accessories with the text Make The Right Choice

If you’re new to the world of smart lighting, you might be baffled by all the different choices out there. Whether it’s Philips Hue, LIFX or a budget make on Amazon, it’s not often clear what company to go with. Plus is there a difference between Wi-Fi and Zigbee based lighting? Finally, should you care … Read more