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Ask Engadget: best Philadelphia wireless carrier?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from is from Joe, who has helped inspire a regular feature and also wants to know which carrier he should pick for Philadelphia. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hey! I loved your question about NYC carriers and thought it would be a great idea to let your visitors sound off on other major cities. I'd love to hear opinions on Philadelphia carriers myself, so if you could possibly consider adding this, I think it would be appreciated by many." Way back in April, we asked you about which carrier rules the roost in NYC and it caused a little sensation, with hundreds of you bombarding the Ask Engadget inbox to ask if we'd do your city or state. We'll be sprinkling them in every now and again to let you sound off about the coverage in your local area, so if you live in Philadelphia and have world-class (or world's worst) signal, let us know in the comments below.
Ask Engadget: best carry-on electronics bag?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Ben, who needs a stylish way to carry around his electronics haul. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hey Engadget, I'm looking for your help in picking a new travel bag. Ideally, I'd like something that's in a messenger format, but I'm open to other options if you can suggest them. Currently I've got a 13-inch laptop (and charger), iPad, noise cancelling headphones and the various bits and bobs that go with them. Any help you can provide would be great, thanks!" This week, we're revisiting a topic from January 2010, but given how much has changed since then, it's well worth keeping it up to date. We've heard good things about the Timbuk2 Commute Messenger that we gave away as part of our Back to School sweepstake, but your humble narrator is still toting around a cumbersome (and less useful) Lowepro Fastpack 250, which the TSA doesn't take kindly to. Still, that's why we'll open this up the floor and find out what you're all rocking when it comes time for that gadget-laden cross-country jaunt.
Ask Engadget: best online rolodex?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Ellio, who needs to control his wayward address book with something a little more useful than Gmail. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hi there. I love Ask Engadget and I've got a problem I hope you can help with. I run my own business and deal with thousands of contacts on a regular basis. I need a more efficient way of cataloging their contact details than Gmail contacts or my OS X address book -- since I'd like to be able to tag-search for people who work for the same company or in the same industry. Friends have suggested using a spreadsheet, but I'm sure someone's invented a more efficient method than that, so any pointers you can give would be amazing, thanks!" With a small army of contacts we have to marshall on a regular basis, we feel your pain Ellio. We've heard some things about Flexadex, but many of our staffers just muddle on through with Gmail. That's why we'll open the floor to our beautiful and clever commenters to find out what they use on a regular basis.
Ask Engadget: is iPod Touch and Wireless Printer-based credit card processing possible?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Dustin, who wants to turn the humble iPod Touch into a cash register for live events. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "We currently have 10 credit card terminals we purchased three years ago, and we're looking to replace them thanks to their horrific failure rate and replacement cost. We only use them for special events, but they account for $24 million of our credit card revenue. Ideally I'd like to replace them with iPod touches and a wireless printer, but I can't seem to find a solution that offers printing -- but it's essential to what we do. Thanks for your help!" We found that Square lets you connect to a Star Micronics receipt printer, and Intuit GoPayment accepts Bluetooth-enabled P25 Blue Bamboo printers -- so those could work for you. Of course, Ask Engadget is about sourcing the opinion of our hive-mind, so if your business has already conquered this problem, why not share what you know?
Ask Engadget: best robot cleaner for stone tile floors?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Anthony, who needs some robotic help keeping his stone floors clean. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "We have stone tile floors in the kitchen and two kids. What wet floor cleaning robot would help us keep the floor clean, navigate the kitchen and handle the uneven stone floor tiles and grooves?" We love original and different questions like this, the more original and different the better, so let's help this gentleman out. It's the old story of the high-tech being flustered by the stone age, but what's the solution? Is it the iRobot Scooba, with its squeegee apparatus tucked underneath, or something else? Why not share your considerable experiences in the comments below.
Ask Engadget: What's the best entry-level DSLR?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Joyce, who wants us to open the open the camera wars in the interests of helping out a photography newbie. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm very interested in photography and currently have a minor in Communication Design. I really want to get more serious, but I can't spend too much money ($800 limit) on a DSLR. I'm leaning towards a Canon because my sister has one as well so we could share lenses, and any with a video mode would be useful. Any advice regarding a decent DSLR and beginner lenses would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!" It's been three years since we last asked this question, so we're well overdue to gauge your opinions. Tell us what budget shooter and lenses offer the best bang-for-your-buck and ease of use, which unit's the most forgiving and which offers the cheapest lenses for those just dipping their toes into the water?
Ask Engadget: best 'Find my Phone' app for Android?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Jacob, who needs to ensure he can find his Android phone if it's lost. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hi good folks at Engadget! I just upgraded to a Galaxy S III and I need a new "find my phone" tool. I used to use SeekDroid on my DROID 2, but the web interface won't work on the new phone. I know Samsung's got an app called DIVE that can do this, but it doesn't seem to be supported on Verizon phones. If you've got any suggestions, that'd be fantastic. Thanks!" Actually, we had a look and we don't think it's available on any US Samsung handset without flashing your firmware. But let's imagine he doesn't want that level of hassle. What app should he be picking up? Where's my Droid? Plan B? Something else? What's worked for you -- share your wisdom.
Ask Engadget: best external Blu-Ray drive?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Dominic, who's moving into the world of drive-less laptops but can't let go of his Blu-Ray discs. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hi guys, I'm about to purchase a laptop without a disc drive and I'd like to get a portable Blu-Ray drive to go with it. Do any of you know of any USB bus-powered units that are small(ish) and cool-looking? Thanks!" Well, if you're looking for a truly stylish piece of hardware, then we suggest taking a look at ASUS' art-deco inspired offerings, but beyond that? Let's turn it over to you, the friendly Engadget community -- come share your knowledge.
Ask Engadget: best case for the Samsung Galaxy S III?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Amandeep, who needs a case for his new superphone. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hey guys, I just snagged myself a new Galaxy S III, but I'm at a loss when it comes to deciding on a case. I'm looking for something that falls between the typical silicone wrap and a full-on army grade rubber block of invincibility. It needs to provide sufficient protection from the occasional drop or two while staying relatively sleek and somewhat stylish. That said, my last phone was a Thunderbolt with an extended battery, so it's safe to say that I won't mind a bit of thickness. I've had my eye on a Shell-Gel series case from Ballistic, but I'm still in need of suggestions. Any ideas?" How about it peeps? What do you use to protect your Galaxy S III that you'd recommend to another? Constructive suggestions are always welcomed.
Ask Engadget: best Mac gamepad?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from is from Jaime, who's really just showing off about their new Retina MBP. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I recently bought a Retina MacBook Pro and started playing a bunch of games from Steam. I'm wondering if there's a gamepad I could use to play Portal or Left4Dead on a Mac, I grew up with a NES, so there's something about the form that feels natural to me. Thanks!" Okay, so for those of us who do tire of W-A-S-D, what's the best solution to game on a Mac? Is there a perfect device on the market, or should we all just hack an Xbox 360 controller to do the same job? It's a fun week, spread some fun in the comments.
Ask Engadget: best tablet, software and case for a child with a developmental disorder?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from is from Kim, who wants to help her four-year-old play games and communicate in the home. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm looking at getting a tablet for my four-year-old, developmentally delayed daughter. She uses an iPad with her therapist to play games and say what she wants, but I'm not sure if I should get the same for the home. Is there an Android alternative that's as useful in our special circumstances, and is it compatible with a sturdy, water-proof case for it?" For our two cents, we'd say that in such circumstances, continuity is probably an important factor to take into account. However, we're also aware that some of the specialist apps run into the hundreds of dollars, which few can easily afford, so let's turn the question over to our community. Do you have experience in the area, or perhaps you've already been in this situation? Either way, why not share what you know?
Ask Engadget: Best sub-$310 power-efficient HTPC for a caravan?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Is from Martin, who is looking for a hyper-efficient media streamer for his retro caravan. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "My partner and I are renovating a small '70s caravan and would like a power-efficient media center/PC purely to watch our library of movies and TV shows. We're in Australia, so getting hold of kit like the Raspberry Pi would be difficult, we're looking for something that's equally power efficient, even up to $300 AUD (around $310 USD). Cheers!"" That's this week's challenge, Engadgeteers -- do you feel up for it? Can you help our southern hemisphere friends find a power-efficient HTPC for under $310 that won't drain a retro-caravan's batteries? Can we help these people turn the temporary home into a rockin' media-streamin' paradise? Hit us up in the comments if you've got some expertise to share.
Ask Engadget: Are KIRFs worth it?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Sabin, who wants a high-spec smartphone and is prepared to venture to the dark side to get it. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I know, I know. I sound like an idiot, but I'd like a full-featured smartphone without the hefty cost. I'm looking for an unlocked phone and came across some of the China Global iPhone KIRFs that run Android. I'm no slouch in loading ROMs, building jtags, etc., but I'd like to know if the hardware is solid, because I can make the software work if that's the case." Putting aside the various ethical and legal quandaries for the moment, it's a very good question. Are KIRFs usable smartphones for those who know their way around tech? Does the hardware work to such a standard that you can expect useful performance and bluff your way through a crowd of those paying full price? Share your experiences with the group -- we're sure you'll feel better afterward.
Ask Engadget: best online storefront for a small business?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Cesar, who wants to become the next eBoy. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I design and make customized t-shirts in my town, and over the last two years they've become pretty popular. I've had to expand to keep up with all the demand, so now I'm looking at taking my business online, but I don't know anything about building my own e-store. What's the best way for a newbie to start their own e-store? I've been looking at services like Wix, but can you think of anything better? Thanks in advance!"We're always looking to ask questions that are a little bit different than "help me pick an Android tablet" and this one's a real doozy. In a former life we once had to help build a site that used POWA, which we were quite taken with, but that's as far as our knowledge goes. Perhaps one of you knows of a truly excellent e-commerce platform for small businesses and can point Cesar in the right direction. Go on, let's be good to one another.
Ask Engadget: best 'invincible' point-and-shoot camera?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Mark, who's in the market for a heavy-duty camera. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Back in 2009, you asked what the best rugged, waterproof point-and-shoot camera was. I'm looking for the same thing now and wondered if the readers had any recommendations. I'm not interested in a normal point-and-shoot with a waterproof case, I want something that's waterproof, sandproof, shockproof, that's idiot-proof, with a reasonable optical zoom and with minimal shutter lag. Hope someone can help! Thanks." Firstly, thank you for doing your homework! It's reasonable that we should swing past this topic again after three years, so what about it dear friends? A point-and-shoot you'd be happy to take dirt biking, snorkeling and won't break when you drop it. Any you've bought yourself that's withstood your lifestyle, have you found any that you'd warn us away from? Let us know in the comments below.
Ask Engadget: best four-in-one printer, scanner, copier and fax?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Georgi, who is risking his life, his wallet and his sanity to buy the most hated of all consumer electronics: a printer. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm looking into buying a new four-in-one for my company. I'd love an internet connected printer that can scan directly to a mac from the menu, be able to email faxes it receives without printing them to save on paper and if it could support mobile devices, that'd be fantastic. I had my eyes on a couple of Epson and HP models but I'm not sure what to buy in terms of longer lifespan, cartridge price and software support. My budget's around $125. Thank you!" Your humble narrator can tell you for sure that HP's Photosmart 5514 isn't the way to go -- we're waiting on our third replacement unit in as many weeks. Each time a new reconditioned model arrives at our door, we plug it in only to find that it's as broken as the one we bought new. Anyway, let's turn the question over to our audience, who may know of a printer that's reliable, cheap and not a figment of our collective imagination. Over to you.
Ask Engadget: best cheap external Macbook Air monitor?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Neil, who wants a display for his Macbook Air that costs less than a cinema display. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Dear Engadget, I use my Macbook Air in clamshell mode 95% of the time. I use an Acer V223W 22-inch monitor, but connected over Mini Displayport to DVI, it looks dull and fuzzy. I know an Apple Cinema Display is fantastic, but I don't want to splurge over $1000 for one. Can you suggest something a little more reasonably priced please? Thank you!" The first thing that came to our mind was one of Dell's high-end offerings, the 27-inch U2711 is available for $815 (a little cheaper) and comes with the same 2560 x 1440 IPS panel. But we suspect there's an even better option out there, tucked away in the brains of our commenters. So why not share your knowledge with the group and add a note below?
Ask Engadget: best sub-$200 super-powerful router?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Richard, who needs a router capable of handling all of his not-inconsiderable household traffic. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm looking into buying a router than can handle Netflix streaming to my Blu-Ray player, a wireless printer, two smartphones, a tablet, an always-on desktop, external HDD and an Airave signal booster. My Linksys WRT45G can't handle two data-heavy connections at the same time, so I have to restart it when it drops. I'll need something hefty, but under $200 would be ideal, if it's got a USB 3.0 connection for my HDD, even better. Distance isn't as important as stability and capacity, since I've got a single-level 3 bedroom house. Thank you!" Several of our staffers are fans of Netgear's N900, a dual-band unit that can certainly handle everything you'd care to throw at it, although it does only have USB 2.0 ports. There's always Amped's R20000G, but whilst we know its signal strength is good, we don't know how well it could handle a hefty load. But that's just our first thoughts, plenty of you out there will know the answer, so celebrate the long weekend and share your knowledge in the comments below.
Ask Engadget: Electric commuting on the cheap?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from is from Warren, who wants to find an electrical moped within his budget. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "What's the cheapest two-wheeled electric vehicle that goes over 45mph available in the US? I looked at the Gas-powered $2,500 Sym Symba, but as far as I can tell, I'd have to spend four times that much for an electric equivalent. Am I missing something? Thank you!" Unfortunately, you are. The biggest barrier to joining the EV parade is the price of batteries, which are often more expensive than the vehicles they're situated inside. For example, even a motorized bicycle like the Grace One is $6,000 -- but that's as far as our knowledge goes on the subject. Perhaps there is a solution out there, all it needs is for one of our friendly commenters to tell all in the river of text below.
Ask Engadget: best smartphone for the over fifties?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from is from Daniel (no relation), who wants to upgrade his parents cellphones. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "My parents (aged 52 and 57) are long-time Nokia (dumbphone) users who aren't savvy at all. I told them about how me and my girlfriend's Android phones automatically sync calendars and they want something similar. My father's eyes aren't the best and he's a carpenter, so I thought about a dust-proof handset like the Lumia 800 or the Galaxy Xcover, but I'm worried Android's too technical for them. We're in Europe, so carriers are no problem, but any help you can give would be great. Thanks!" We're all getting older, so let's try to work out a great handset for those who need a little help. We speak from personal experience when we say it's probably not going to be the Samsung Galaxy Y -- trust us. If you think you've got a better idea, throw it down in the comments below.
