Wishlist/Neat things/cool things to buy time!

[Darrell KSR]

Inspired by Doc's "killing time" thread, I found a cool link, "whyIambroke.com," which features really cool stuff to buy. It made me think it would be a pretty cool thread to start as a "member contribution" thread.

Here are the rules.

1) Post ONE (1) cool thing only per day, per person.

Those are the rules.

Think it through carefully before you contribute your "cool thing" for the day. Note--it does not have to be obnoxious, like a million dollar helicopter--but it can be. It can be some cool $10 item, too (something that some of us might ACTUALLY buy). If you own it already, it's a bonus.

I'll post one later today to get it started.

[Darrell KSR]

Mine for today is a practical one, and very affordable. I do not own it, but I think I'll get one or two. It's the "WaterBOB." Basically, it's a food-grade plastic oblong container that you fill in your bathtub to hold approximately 100 gallons of water. That would help you get through an emergency situation, hurricane, loss of power/water, etc. for a period of time. The cost is $25. The only bad thing is that it seems to be a one-time use--i.e., you fill it up with a hurricane expected, you don't need it, you really can't use it again. (Some say you can, by adding some bleach to the water the next time, but I dunno about that.)

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61XI1FwqFDL._SL1000_.jpg

Link to buy on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AXLUX2/?tag=059-20

[blueboss]

http://seabreacher.com/sites/default/files/rotor/mako.jpg

It's the one I posted on Doc's thread but I like it

http://seabreacher.com/

[Doc]

Inspired by Doc's "killing time" thread, I found a cool link, "whyIambroke.com," which features really cool stuff to buy. It made me think it would be a pretty cool thread to start as a "member contribution" thread.

Here are the rules.

1) Post ONE (1) cool thing only per day, per person.

Those are the rules.

Think it through carefully before you contribute your "cool thing" for the day. Note--it does not have to be obnoxious, like a million dollar helicopter--but it can be. It can be some cool $10 item, too (something that some of us might ACTUALLY buy). If you own it already, it's a bonus.

I'll post one later today to get it started.

I was looking over WhyI'mbroke and found this:

http://www.thinklilreds.com/index/Home_files/shapeimage_1.png

does this dude have like the longest finger you have ever seen?

[Doc]

I was expecting Darrell to go with this:

http://tiwibzone.tiwib.netdna-cdn.com/images/igrow-helmet.jpg

link (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006FOGM8O/?tag=047-20)

[dan_bgblue]

http://www.foxnews.com/science/2012/09/08/inventor-cultivates-no-mow-easy-grow-grass/

[badrose]

http://www.foxnews.com/science/2012/09/08/inventor-cultivates-no-mow-easy-grow-grass/

Gotta love this one.

[CitizenBBN]

Darrell, you may also check out www.cheaperthandirt.com they sell the water tanks in various sizes, good prices.

I want one myself, funny b/c wife and I were just discussing it a couple of days ago. I'm not prepping for *** Hits The Fan (SHTF) just yet but I have been through 2 multi-day ice events in Lexington that pretty much shut the city down and left me with no power for days. So I'd like to get a basic week or 10 day stockpile. A tank for water (havent' lost it yet but you never know), some long term storage food, a crank radio/charger. I have some kerosene lamps and fuel and am a big believer in old school solutions. I need to lay in a bunch more guns and ammo those,and I have almost no camo clothing. Never know when the zombies will show up.

That's a dangerous site. Already see 3-4 things I don't know how I survived without.

[Darrell KSR]

I have to get this. I don't know why.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/619XSu8hlkL._SL1500_.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osGES6hrAUI/UYFQlt4apRI/AAAAAAAAH0o/s1JgCqiGbk8/s1600/Chef'n-Bananza-Banana-Slicer-2.png

Chef'n Bananza Banana Slicer
by Chef'n
4.1 out of 5 stars See all reviews (95 customer reviews)
List Price: $9.99
Price: $9.95 & FREE Shipping on orders over $25. Details

[KSRBEvans]

I'm kind of an earphone/headphone floozy. I'll try 'em all. I've got the Earpods that came with my iPhone, a set of Shure in-ear earbuds and Mrs. BEvans got me a set of Bose QC15s last year. But my current favorites are these $30 Arctic bluetooth headphones (http://www.amazon.com/ARCTIC-Sound-ORACO-ERM28-GBA01-Headphones-Black/dp/B0040Z1EHY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1367860131&sr=1-1&keywords=p311+headphones).

2122

I really like having no wires, and the sound quality is good for what you pay. Plus they charge via USB so no batteries to replace, and they fold for easy storage.

[CGWildcat]

My one for the day that's on my wishlist to have :evilgrin0007:2123

[Darrell KSR]

I'm kind of an earphone/headphone floozy. I'll try 'em all. I've got the Earpods that came with my iPhone, a set of Shure in-ear earbuds and Mrs. BEvans got me a set of Bose QC15s last year. But my current favorites are these $30 Arctic bluetooth headphones (http://www.amazon.com/ARCTIC-Sound-ORACO-ERM28-GBA01-Headphones-Black/dp/B0040Z1EHY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1367860131&sr=1-1&keywords=p311+headphones).

2122

I really like having no wires, and the sound quality is good for what you pay. Plus they charge via USB so no batteries to replace, and they fold for easy storage.

Ooh, I like those.

[Darrell KSR]

Continuing my line of "cheap"....I offer today's --

http://a.tgcdn.net/images/products/frontsquare/eded_drinklip_portable_cupholder.jpg

I have not spilled coffee on my computer--yet--but I have managed to spill it on my desk, on papers and files. You need a ledge on your desk to make this work, though, which currently keeps it from being a winner for me right now.

http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/eded/?cpg=cj&ref=&CJURL=&CJID=2069771

[CGWildcat]

I'm going with this one today.... http://www.coolthings.com/armour39-fitness-tracker/

http://netdna.coolthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/armour39a.jpg

[Darrell KSR]

I'm thinking about getting a fitness tracker of some sort. Saw something for about $99 that was very small, but wonder if something like that would be better. Then again, if I had that guy's physique, I don't know that I'd worry about a tracker.

[KGB]

I'm an admitted audiophile and gadget junkie. I've tried many high end in-ear headphones: Bose, Sennheiser. My favorites are the Monster iSport.

http://www.amazon.com/Monster-iSport-Immersion-Headphones-ControlTalk/dp/B005L38XRS/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1368288906&sr=1-4&keywords=monster+isport

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61eFPcIR3CL._SL1000_.jpg

They sound awesome and stay in your ears when exercising.

2149

[KSRBEvans]

OK, heard about this on Leo Laporte's Tech Guy podcast--it's totally frivolous, a little pricey, but when I checked out the website and saw it working, my head exploded.

The Grillbot (http://grillbots.com/)--think "'Roomba' for your grill."

2185

Set it on your grill grates and it cleans your grill with 3 wire brushes.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnxyO6OPvWg

Rechargeable, works on hot or cold grills, has a beeper to go off when your grill's clean. $99 on pre-order. Putting in my Father's Day gift request now.

[Darrell KSR]

VERY cool. And one of those things that Joe Average can afford to get, yet feel like he's being sinfully splurging.

I like it. Great selection.

Mobile platform post.

[Darrell KSR]

OK, heard about this on Leo Laporte's Tech Guy podcast--it's totally frivolous, a little pricey, but when I checked out the website and saw it working, my head exploded.

The Grillbot (http://grillbots.com/)--think "'Roomba' for your grill."

2185

Set it on your grill grates and it cleans your grill with 3 wire brushes.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnxyO6OPvWg

Rechargeable, works on hot or cold grills, has a beeper to go off when your grill's clean. $99 on pre-order. Putting in my Father's Day gift request now.

Did you get it--and does it work well?

[Darrell KSR]

I'm kind of an earphone/headphone floozy. I'll try 'em all. I've got the Earpods that came with my iPhone, a set of Shure in-ear earbuds and Mrs. BEvans got me a set of Bose QC15s last year. But my current favorites are these $30 Arctic bluetooth headphones (http://www.amazon.com/ARCTIC-Sound-ORACO-ERM28-GBA01-Headphones-Black/dp/B0040Z1EHY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1367860131&sr=1-1&keywords=p311+headphones).

2122

I really like having no wires, and the sound quality is good for what you pay. Plus they charge via USB so no batteries to replace, and they fold for easy storage.

BEvans--are there any similar ones to those that are designed for sports activities, running outside, etc.? I love the bluetooth, but those don't look too friendly for running outside in 85+ degree weather :).

[Darrell KSR]

Here's mine for today -- son just bought a car three weeks ago, and the CD player it came with did not have an input jack for iPods, etc. His birthday is a week from today, so he will be getting this:


http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41dlud3PRuL._SY300_.jpg


GOgroove FlexSMART X2 Wireless In-Car Bluetooth FM Transmitter with Charging, Music Control, and Hands-Free Calling for Android, iPhone, Blackberry, & Windows Smartphones
by Accessory Power
4.3 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2,852 customer reviews)


Really cool bluetooth. I might get one for myself, too. $49.99 and I found it from a site that had the "best of everything" in many categories (a little like that "whyiambroke" site above). I throw things like that on a google spreadsheet 'wishlist" to keep up with them for when the time is right.

[CitizenBBN]

Darrell you may want to check out their new model, the X3. I don't know anything about them but I do have a car that could use one. Love the hands free calling/talking in my car, miss it when I drive the older one. I take it this does that based on my quick search, but not clear if the microphone pickup is in this device or if it just does the dialing.

[Darrell KSR]

Darrell you may want to check out their new model, the X3. I don't know anything about them but I do have a car that could use one. Love the hands free calling/talking in my car, miss it when I drive the older one. I take it this does that based on my quick search, but not clear if the microphone pickup is in this device or if it just does the dialing.

Thanks, did not know anything new was out yet, and this has not yet been ordered.

[Darrell KSR]

I like that one a lot.

[Darrell KSR]

Darrell you may want to check out their new model, the X3. I don't know anything about them but I do have a car that could use one. Love the hands free calling/talking in my car, miss it when I drive the older one. I take it this does that based on my quick search, but not clear if the microphone pickup is in this device or if it just does the dialing.

I thought I posted this, but I bought the X3 for my son. His car does not have bluetooth in it, and he is a music fiend and really enjoys his iPod music. He tells me this device is incredibly good. He is using it on bluetooth and he says it automatically finds the best station, it is always perfectly clear, and that it remembers the last song you were on, or something like that. Anyway, he got it about 3 weeks ago and he has been thrilled with it.

It also looks great in the car. It projects out from the ac adapter thing. I'm not explaining it well, but it presents well.

Very happy with that product. Great if your car does not have bluetooth. Can't tell you about the phone; he doesn't use that part of it, but the reviews on it have been very good on all parts of it. Personally speaking, it has been a big hit with my 21-year old son.

Not a great picture, but it really looks good in his car.

http://images17.newegg.com/is/image/newegg/75-983-614-TS?$S300$

[Darrell KSR]

Here's a cool device--for me, this is too pricy for me to pick up, but if any of you enjoy camping regularly enough, it looks like a nice pick-up.

It's a camp stove. But the kicker on this is two things--first, it does not use the propane tanks (that's what mine uses), so you don't have to carry extra tanks. It burns....wood, in the form of twigs you pick up. I don't know how big a fire it would start, but it came highly recommended for its efficiency, as it has a built in battery and a fan which improves its fire-buring.

The 2nd part of it is really cool. While it is burning, you can plug in a USB cord, and charge your phone or other device. Have a need for your cell, or your kids' tablet to keep them entertained after you've done the days' activities? Plug it in. It says that 20 minutes of charging an iPhone when the fire is burning will give 60 minutes of talk time.

The price of $130 is too high for me--I might look at something like this at about $50, but my camping days are very rare.

http://www.rei.com/media/tt/b1de18cf-ddbd-4394-aae2-d5c9c5402fde.jpg

It is the BioLite Woodburning Camp Stove.

[CitizenBBN]

That's pretty cool. Doesn't really help start fire, but converts it into an efficient design and gets you a usb charger from wood. Not bad.

[KSRBEvans]

Here's mine for today -- son just bought a car three weeks ago, and the CD player it came with did not have an input jack for iPods, etc. His birthday is a week from today, so he will be getting this:


http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41dlud3PRuL._SY300_.jpg


GOgroove FlexSMART X2 Wireless In-Car Bluetooth FM Transmitter with Charging, Music Control, and Hands-Free Calling for Android, iPhone, Blackberry, & Windows Smartphones
by Accessory Power
4.3 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2,852 customer reviews)


Really cool bluetooth. I might get one for myself, too. $49.99 and I found it from a site that had the "best of everything" in many categories (a little like that "whyiambroke" site above). I throw things like that on a google spreadsheet 'wishlist" to keep up with them for when the time is right.

That's what I use to listen to my iPhone in my car. My car's in between generations: no tape player so I can't use a tape adapter, and no Aux input so I can't use an Aux cable. The X2 was the perfect solution for me, and works much better than other radio transmitters I've tried.

[KSRBEvans]

BEvans--are there any similar ones to those that are designed for sports activities, running outside, etc.? I love the bluetooth, but those don't look too friendly for running outside in 85+ degree weather :).

You know, they work really well for outdoor activities. They're smaller than they look--about the size of the wired "sports" headphones. They just sit on the ear and aren't too thick. That's what I use when I'm cutting grass, exercising outside, etc.

[Darrell KSR]

X2 had great reviews, and was in one of those "best products" articles /lists I enjoy. I almost hated to go with the x3 because the x2 had such a good, long track record, but I took a small leap of faith with the same company and it exceeded my expectations. That company makes great products.

And we have owned two of the adapter transmitters before. You can definitely get bad ones, so you know the difference.

Sent using Forum Runner

[Darrell KSR]

You know, they work really well for outdoor activities. They're smaller than they look--about the size of the wired "sports" headphones. They just sit on the ear and aren't too thick. That's what I use when I'm cutting grass, exercising outside, etc.

How hot are they? I walked 2.25 miles yesterday at 3 pm, 90 degrees. If I have those little wired "in ear" headphones it doesn't add any heat and sweat just rolls past it. But I took a look at the reviews on the link you posted, and it seems a lot of people are happy using it at the gym, exercising, working in the yard, etc. Interesting.

Sent using Forum Runner

[Doc]

Here is a good one for you, the "bumper dumper"

http://www.bumperdumper.com/images/bdedned1.jpg

[Catfan73]

I have to get this. I don't know why.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/619XSu8hlkL._SL1500_.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osGES6hrAUI/UYFQlt4apRI/AAAAAAAAH0o/s1JgCqiGbk8/s1600/Chef'n-Bananza-Banana-Slicer-2.png

Chef'n Bananza Banana Slicer
by Chef'n
4.1 out of 5 stars See all reviews (95 customer reviews)
List Price: $9.99
Price: $9.95 & FREE Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Gone are the days of biting off slice-sized chunks of banana and spitting them onto a serving tray. At long last there is a saliva-free way of slicing bananas. Thank you Hutzler!

Next on my wish list: a kitchen tool for dividing frozen water into cube-sized chunks (Stolen from an Amazon.com review of the Hutzler 571 Banana Slicer.)

[Doc]

I have to get this. I don't know why.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/619XSu8hlkL._SL1500_.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osGES6hrAUI/UYFQlt4apRI/AAAAAAAAH0o/s1JgCqiGbk8/s1600/Chef'n-Bananza-Banana-Slicer-2.png

Chef'n Bananza Banana Slicer
by Chef'n
4.1 out of 5 stars See all reviews (95 customer reviews)
List Price: $9.99
Price: $9.95 & FREE Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Looks like something Lorraina Bobbit or Huna Abedin would use

[Darrell KSR]

Laying in bed with insomnia, so I will add a picture later, but here is a inexpensive product that is terrific for hot weather. Several companies make it, but the one we first bought is called a "frogg togg" chilling pad or towel.

It is a piece of material that comes in a tube. You put it in water and wring it out a little, then place it on your head and neck, and it cools your body temperature.

My son has been using it for three years of playing a lot of soccer outdoors in the Alabama and Tennessee (mainly) heat, and it works great. He puts it in a little playmate cooler with some water and ice - doesn't require much ice, but enough to keep the water really cold - and takes it to all games and practices. I bought one for myself when I began running in the heat, and it works even for old men.

Price is about $10-15, depending on where you find it.

[Darrell KSR]

Frogg Togg:



2540




2541

Sent using Forum Runner

[Darrell KSR]

Just got this yesterday, and tried it out today--FANTASTIC device.

http://www.modernbike.com/images/Product_Images/main_2126188638.jpg

It is called the "Sweat GUTR," (pronounced gutter), the "ultimate sweatband."

Here it is by itself, in the color I got it.

http://www.pricepoint.com/_productimages/350x350/510_gtrhb0_fro_0.jpg

Very simple concept. Piece of medical grade silicone, goes around your forehead. Has a channel, or gutter, built in. Basically the sweat that used to go down your forehead into your eyes, instead channels off to the side. No more stinging eyes. I wear contacts, and it may hurt a little more because of that. No more having to wipe off sunglasses because sweat dripped on the lenses.

The silicone rubber does not smell. Comes in a bunch of colors--I got frost, which almost blends in with the skin. It does not absorb sweat like a normal sweatband would, it instead deflects and re-channels it. Just rinse it off under a faucet when you're done and it's ready to go.

Cost is about $15-20, depending on where you get it. It exceeded my expectations today. I ran 4 miles (what I call running, anyway), in just under an hour, and sweated profusely. But none down the front of my face, and none in my eyes. Great product. I am buying one for a friend of mine who saw it today and asked me if it worked, and said he could use it when he's working in his yard (a huge yard, and he's in it often).

[Darrell KSR]

FWIW, I have been using this product routinely, and it works great. I don't know what is wrong with the people at Amazon who claim it doesn't work for them. I sweat profusely, and it channels the sweat down the side away from my eyes.

I "ran" yesterday from 5:30 to 6:30, or do--95 degrees, and I had to take it very easy. Made one water break in the middle, and only went 3.5 miles (pretty big elevation changes where I was going, which I walk, too). Anyway, i could not locate my Sweat Gutr. My eyes stung like crazy, even though I was wearing my Nike running hat; it could not keep the perspiration out of my eyes.

I ordered another one when I got home. It will be here tomorrow (thanks, Amazon Prime). I will find the other--it's in the back of my car, or a gym bag, or the bathroom, or someplace--but it's worth having two of them.

Just got this yesterday, and tried it out today--FANTASTIC device.

http://www.modernbike.com/images/Product_Images/main_2126188638.jpg

It is called the "Sweat GUTR," (pronounced gutter), the "ultimate sweatband."

Here it is by itself, in the color I got it.

http://www.pricepoint.com/_productimages/350x350/510_gtrhb0_fro_0.jpg

Very simple concept. Piece of medical grade silicone, goes around your forehead. Has a channel, or gutter, built in. Basically the sweat that used to go down your forehead into your eyes, instead channels off to the side. No more stinging eyes. I wear contacts, and it may hurt a little more because of that. No more having to wipe off sunglasses because sweat dripped on the lenses.

The silicone rubber does not smell. Comes in a bunch of colors--I got frost, which almost blends in with the skin. It does not absorb sweat like a normal sweatband would, it instead deflects and re-channels it. Just rinse it off under a faucet when you're done and it's ready to go.

Cost is about $15-20, depending on where you get it. It exceeded my expectations today. I ran 4 miles (what I call running, anyway), in just under an hour, and sweated profusely. But none down the front of my face, and none in my eyes. Great product. I am buying one for a friend of mine who saw it today and asked me if it worked, and said he could use it when he's working in his yard (a huge yard, and he's in it often).

[Darrell KSR]

Here's a very inexpensive item that has made my household a lot happier. We have this one--they make many of them that are "magnetic," but our dishwasher is not steel, so a magnet won't work. This sits on top of the edge of the dishwasher very nicely, and works well.

Before we got it, we constantly had "I put it in the sink because I didn't know if the dishes were clean or dirty in the dishwasher" discussions. That has been remedied with this little $5 item.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/519i%2BelDhtL._SL1280_.jpg

[Darrell KSR]

Here's a cool idea one, but I don't know if it works.

For those who have spouses or significant others who may arise at a different time--it's a disc that slips under your pillow, connects to your smartphone, and will vibrate when the alarm goes off, rather than your smartphone going off.

It is supposed to last a month without having to recharge, supports multiple alarms, days, etc. Works with both ios and android.

Regular price at this place is $22, today sale is $20.

Probably will not get it, but it intrigued me.

http://pimages.solidsignal.com/SMSHAKERBU_zoom.jpg

http://www.solidsignal.com/pview.asp?p=SMSHAKERBU&d=iLUV-SMSHAKERBU-Bluetooth-Smart-Alarm-SmartShaker---Blue-%28SMSHAKERBU%29&sku=639247950214&q=iluv

[Doc]

Or you could put the alarm on vibrate and put the phone under the pillow. Send me $10.00 for the suggestion and consider it a 50% saving on the $20.00 price of the disc

[Darrell KSR]

Doc, I don't trust putting my phone under my pillow. Don't want to crush the screen with my massive noggin.

Seriously, I did that a few times, and once found I had knocked it between the metal rail bed. I'd rather spend $20 than put a $700 phone in harm's way, but I fidget when I sleep, move around too much.

The other obvious thing for me is that my phone charges every night. I wouldn't want wires under my pillow either.

[PedroDaGr8]

@ Darryl - a few fitness trackers have had this functionality for a while. You set an alarm and they will even monitor your sleep cycle waking you up at the appropriate stage of sleep near your alarm time. This allows you to feel the most rested when you wake up. Others, like the FitBit Charge, will just vibrate the FitBit on your wrist to wake you up but don't do the sleep cycle tracking.

[Darrell KSR]

I'm familiar with those. But I like this a lot better, especially since I do not like the fitness trackers you wear on your wrist. Think of it as replacing an alarm clock, rather than replacing a fitness trainer or sleep monitor, and you'll have a better picture of how I see this $20 item. Also love that you don't have to charge it for a month. (It's about 50% of the reason I have the Fitbit Zip, where the battery last 3-6 months--mine closer to 3-4).


@ Darryl - a few fitness trackers have had this functionality for a while. You set an alarm and they will even monitor your sleep cycle waking you up at the appropriate stage of sleep near your alarm time. This allows you to feel the most rested when you wake up. Others, like the FitBit Charge, will just vibrate the FitBit on your wrist to wake you up but don't do the sleep cycle tracking.

[Darrell KSR]

I may have posted about this before, but I've just tried it. It's the Xiaomi Mi Band (pronounced Show-me-Me).

I bought it on a lark for $13. I do not like wearing things on my wrist, but figured for $13 I could throw it away, give it away, etc. if I didn't like it.

It came with no instructions. None. Well, last night, I decided to google/youtube it, and found a youtube that unboxed it, showed how to use it, etc. Very easy, but if you didn't know to download a free app, there's absolutely no way you'd know what to do with it.

Anyway, initial impressions.

* Looks fine. It's rubber with an aluminum color insert. I don't know if it's aluminum or what. It's the "brains" of the wristband; the part that gets charged up.

* About the charging -- it's an incredible 30-day battery. I detest having to recharge things. It's a large part of the reason why I like Fitbit Zip over all the other fitbits; I put a battery in it, and forget it for 3-6 months (in my usage, more like 3-1/2 to 4 months). But charging once a month? I can probably live with that. And all the reviews I read on it said it is legitimate.

* Using it -- I used the alarm feature (vibrates on the wrist 5 times at the appointed time), the sleep tracking feature (said I slept 5:54 last night, which is about right), and step counting. I did a "test" for step counting where I walked 300 steps, and counted them, and it was dead on. Doesn't mean it will always be--and I wonder if it will artificially add steps when I'm typing on my computer, etc.--but for a quick first test, it passed.

* Size -- this is shocking. I have small wrists, and I have it on the largest setting possible, and it is the very last hole. As in, anyone with a medium-sized wrist couldn't wear it. Now, maybe I ordered a "small" or something; I dunno. But this thing barely fits me; it wouldn't fit anybody with a bigger wrist. Crazy.

* Comfort -- it's fine, as far as these things go. I don't like wearing things on my wrist, so I'm not a fan, but that's not this device's fault.

* Ratings/etc. Waiting on engadget to rate it, but "user ratings" are mostly extremely high, with minority very low ratings. At engadget, average user rating is 8.1. That compares favorably to the Fitbit ChargeHR (8.3) and Fitbit Charge (7.0).
http://www.engadget.com/compare/fitness/84072+84532+84698+84474+79154/

Cnet editors rate it 3.5 stars, and 7.6 overall.
http://www.cnet.com/products/xiaomi-mi-band/

Ridiculously cheap, and simple, and effective, according to the reviews. Also water resistant, although the Cnet editors warn that the rubber strap can be uncomfortable when wet.

Be careful of reviews -- here's one that has it 4.9/5.0, with 656 customer reviews. That just seems too out of whack to me. Most of the ones I see have it around 8/10, give or take. I think that's fair, but if you consider price, it makes it a 10/10 to me.

http://www.gearbest.com/smart-watches/pp_126026.html

Warning -- I'm not sure where I bought it; I think it was a slick deal around the first of the year/end of last year, and I'm just getting around to using it. There is a fake mi band being sold on Amazon that is not the real thing; just beware, read reviews, etc. if interested. For less than $15, I recommend it.

[Doc]

Doc, I don't trust putting my phone under my pillow. Don't want to crush the screen with my massive noggin.

Seriously, I did that a few times, and once found I had knocked it between the metal rail bed. I'd rather spend $20 than put a $700 phone in harm's way, but I fidget when I sleep, move around too much.

The other obvious thing for me is that my phone charges every night. I wouldn't want wires under my pillow either.


That's OK, you can still send me the $20.00

[Darrell KSR]

That's OK, you can still send me the $20.00

I'll think about it ;)

FWIW, I'm wearing the Mi band and my fitbit zip. They are within 9 steps of each other for the entire day. I'll take that and call it good for either one.

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

[Darrell KSR]

Just a follow up. The Mi band works well, but occasionally gets way off on steps depending on activity. Still useful. However, I misplaced my charger. Ordered another one, will take a month to get in from China.

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

[Darrell KSR]

My wishlist - docking station for my surface pro (ordered last year but did not receive) .



Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

[Darrell KSR]

Just got this yesterday, and tried it out today--FANTASTIC device.

http://www.modernbike.com/images/Product_Images/main_2126188638.jpg

It is called the "Sweat GUTR," (pronounced gutter), the "ultimate sweatband."

Here it is by itself, in the color I got it.

http://www.pricepoint.com/_productimages/350x350/510_gtrhb0_fro_0.jpg

Very simple concept. Piece of medical grade silicone, goes around your forehead. Has a channel, or gutter, built in. Basically the sweat that used to go down your forehead into your eyes, instead channels off to the side. No more stinging eyes. I wear contacts, and it may hurt a little more because of that. No more having to wipe off sunglasses because sweat dripped on the lenses.

The silicone rubber does not smell. Comes in a bunch of colors--I got frost, which almost blends in with the skin. It does not absorb sweat like a normal sweatband would, it instead deflects and re-channels it. Just rinse it off under a faucet when you're done and it's ready to go.

Cost is about $15-20, depending on where you get it. It exceeded my expectations today. I ran 4 miles (what I call running, anyway), in just under an hour, and sweated profusely. But none down the front of my face, and none in my eyes. Great product. I am buying one for a friend of mine who saw it today and asked me if it worked, and said he could use it when he's working in his yard (a huge yard, and he's in it often).
Still using when I exercise, and believe it or not, I used it the last couple of days in oppressive heat watching soccer games to keep sweat out of my eyes. Worked crazy well.

[blueboss]

I'm still using the one I bought for exercise back in March.

I like mine just fine with a couple of exceptions. The first being that the sweat gutter is designed to channel the sweat from your forehead and direct it towards the sides and back of your head which for me is to my ears. Sweat in my ears is obviously uncomfortable but also poses a problem with my ear buds.

The other thing is since it is designed to direct the sweat to the back of your head, which it does if you're looking forward with your head up. The bad news if your neck is bent and you're looking down the sweat is directed back to the front and back into your eyes and face, but only if your sweaty task has you looking down.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Darrell KSR]

Yeah, it doesn't absorb, just channels. It hits me on the temples, which is glorious as it is cooling. I have had it hit my ear before, so I know what you are talking about, and if it did that regularly, I wouldn't be a fan.

I kicked myself for not wearing it at Disney when the sweat washed the sunscreen into my eyes and burned about 30 minutes. My daughter would've killed me, but I think it would have been worth it.

[CitizenBBN]

I kicked myself for not wearing it at Disney when the sweat washed the sunscreen into my eyes and burned about 30 minutes. My daughter would've killed me, but I think it would have been worth it.

She's not used to her parents acting like nerds yet? You've been taking it too easy on her. ;)

[Darrell KSR]

My wishlist - docking station for my surface pro (ordered last year but did not receive) .



Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

I never updated this, but because I'm an idiot, I did not realize when it came in (with the rush of things I bought business-wise at the end of the year--two Surface Pro's, two monitors, docking station, etc. ad nauseam), I just put it up. Found it after a year of it being put up.

[Darrell KSR]

I have something to add....an LCD Screen Sun Shield for DSLR cameras and camcorders.

One of the things that I miss from my old Sony camcorder was an eye viewfinder for recording. My "new" Canon Vixia HF R700 is like most others in its price range, with a flip out LCD screen only for viewing, not only for playback, but also for recording. Recording so many hours of video during bright sunlight shows you just what a poor idea that is. I got to the point where I just pointed it generally at the field, and moved the tripod back and forth, guessing where it was recording.

This sun shield produces shade for the screen where you can see the screen again. Remarkable. I'd say it gets back 80% of your viewing, which is fine for seeing where you are recording. It is leather, and adjustable, and about $13, it is inexpensive. Really works great.

https://www.amazon.com/Screen-Cameras-Camcorders-Compatible-PowerShot/dp/B004ECZJDS

5814

[KSRBEvans]

Something I got this year that's really upped my grilling game--an instant read thermometer. The best is generally regarded to be the Thermapen (http://www.thermoworks.com/Classic-Thermapen?gclid=CjwKEAjw7ZHABRCTr_DV4_ejvgQSJACr-Ycwt5l9eGJKP7WqyorQz-1PF87DHnXKvXJB7MFTTyVjsBoCH4Tw_wcB), but at $80.00 it can be a little pricey. I got this one (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GRFHXVQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1) on Amazon for $25 and it's very good--takes, say, 3-4 seconds to register vs. the 1-2 for the Thermapen, but otherwise is the same.

I've always done OK with beef but struggled with chicken and salmon--tended to overcook. This little ditty helps me hit the mark and the end product is consistently better.

[Darrell KSR]

Something I got this year that's really upped my grilling game--an instant read thermometer. The best is generally regarded to be the Thermapen (http://www.thermoworks.com/Classic-Thermapen?gclid=CjwKEAjw7ZHABRCTr_DV4_ejvgQSJACr-Ycwt5l9eGJKP7WqyorQz-1PF87DHnXKvXJB7MFTTyVjsBoCH4Tw_wcB), but at $80.00 it can be a little pricey. I got this one (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GRFHXVQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1) on Amazon for $25 and it's very good--takes, say, 3-4 seconds to register vs. the 1-2 for the Thermapen, but otherwise is the same.

I've always done OK with beef but struggled with chicken and salmon--tended to overcook. This little ditty helps me hit the mark and the end product is consistently better.

Thanks for that recommendation, BEvans. I have an "instant" thermometer that probably takes 40 seconds to get up to speed. Heck, I can burn things in 40 seconds while waiting on it to reach the correct temperature. I don't know how long it really takes, but it's a long time. 3-4 seconds would be a Godsend.

Yes, I overcook things too--even beef in my case. I have become a little better at that, but anything else? I could really use that thermometer.

[PedroDaGr8]

Thanks for that recommendation, BEvans. I have an "instant" thermometer that probably takes 40 seconds to get up to speed. Heck, I can burn things in 40 seconds while waiting on it to reach the correct temperature. I don't know how long it really takes, but it's a long time. 3-4 seconds would be a Godsend.

Yes, I overcook things too--even beef in my case. I have become a little better at that, but anything else? I could really use that thermometer.

Meh.com (or was it woot.com) just recently had a bluetooth grill thermometer (the type with a long lead that you leave in while cooking) for only $20. Very useful when grilling as well.

[CitizenBBN]

Meh.com (or was it woot.com) just recently had a bluetooth grill thermometer (the type with a long lead that you leave in while cooking) for only $20. Very useful when grilling as well.

I got one that's wireless, has a receiver and a base station, don't get to use it often but when I do it's great. Having it as a phone app would be all the cooler.

[KSRBEvans]

Meh.com (or was it woot.com) just recently had a bluetooth grill thermometer (the type with a long lead that you leave in while cooking) for only $20. Very useful when grilling as well.

I have one of those, too, and find it useful when cooking something for a long period of time, like a pork butt. But for quick-grill items (10 minutes or less), I think an instant-read works better. YMMV.

[CitizenBBN]

I use mine on prime rib. Boy I love making a prime rib, just don't get to do it very often.

[Darrell KSR]

Just got this yesterday, and tried it out today--FANTASTIC device.

http://www.modernbike.com/images/Product_Images/main_2126188638.jpg

It is called the "Sweat GUTR," (pronounced gutter), the "ultimate sweatband."

Here it is by itself, in the color I got it.

http://www.pricepoint.com/_productimages/350x350/510_gtrhb0_fro_0.jpg

Very simple concept. Piece of medical grade silicone, goes around your forehead. Has a channel, or gutter, built in. Basically the sweat that used to go down your forehead into your eyes, instead channels off to the side. No more stinging eyes. I wear contacts, and it may hurt a little more because of that. No more having to wipe off sunglasses because sweat dripped on the lenses.

The silicone rubber does not smell. Comes in a bunch of colors--I got frost, which almost blends in with the skin. It does not absorb sweat like a normal sweatband would, it instead deflects and re-channels it. Just rinse it off under a faucet when you're done and it's ready to go.

Cost is about $15-20, depending on where you get it. It exceeded my expectations today. I ran 4 miles (what I call running, anyway), in just under an hour, and sweated profusely. But none down the front of my face, and none in my eyes. Great product. I am buying one for a friend of mine who saw it today and asked me if it worked, and said he could use it when he's working in his yard (a huge yard, and he's in it often).

I know this is random, but as I hung up my hat and my sweat gutr to dry (I rinse them after using them to get the sweat/salt crystals off), I thought about this thread.

Since the initial purchase, I have bought two more for myself. Two of them stay in my house with two different "dry-fit type" hats, and one of them stays in my car with my dry-fit UK hat, in case I am caught out exercising and forgot, or otherwise need the sweat protection.

Two of them have become somewhat discolored--all three were the clear, or whatever they call it, and it has that "aged" look, or the look of having been out in the sun. So do I, so I guess that's ok. But other than that, they continue to work masterfully. Today I "ran" (old man slow jog) 3.63 miles in 97 degree heat. My hat, as usual, was completely soaked in sweat, as was my shirt and shorts. But not one drop of sweat hit my eyes. And remember, I am follicly-challenged, and sweating is maybe the thing I do best. In fact, today after my run, I continued to sweat (I sit on a towel at home for about 15 minutes after I drive home), and then usually take a shower and hope that after the shower I have stopped sweating. Today my wife and I needed to pick up my daughter's car from the mechanic after my run, so I sat and sweated for about 15 minutes, and then just dashed in the shower long enough to knock the sweat off, but not really take a shower. I was still sweating when I got into my car to leave.

Sunday I ran and wore my glasses rather than contact lens. Not one drop there, either.

It may not work for all people, due to differing sizes of foreheads or whatever, and I don't think it is as effective for bicycling or something where your head is down. But for me, it's as close to the perfect product as they make.

USUALLY the sweat drips down my temples, which is cooling and pleasant to me in 90+ degree weather. On rare occasion (but not so rare as to be surprising) I'll get a drip into my ears. I think it has to do with where I wear my earphones, which wrap around my head into my ears, but I don't know exactly why. Or maybe from the sunglasses. In any event, it's annoying when that happens, but my earphones are waterproof, and guaranteed sweat-resistant for the life of the device, and it has never stopped working.

Anyway, thought I would raise this necro-thread from the dead to mention the Sweat Gutr again.

A+++++ product. One of my favorite micro-purchases ever.