Review
Yep — it’s a corn-kernel remover. But does it work?
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Thanks to all who took a stab at guessing the function of our corny mystery gadget last week. We know you’ve been sitting in suspense all weekend waiting to find out what exactly this thing is supposed to do. Turns out that the very first response on our Facebook page was right on the money. Bob Boza will be getting one of these in the mail — it’s a device that’s supposed to make it easier to cut the kernels off of ears of corn. Some of you sure had some crazy ideas about what it was supposed to do. Read on for the prize for creativity, and find out if the Corn Cutter really works.
Back to School: Solving the calculator equation
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
As the busy back-to-school season begins in earnest, high school and college students will be in search of a reliable and reasonably powerful calculator. And despite the proliferation of smartphones and laptops in the classroom, many instutions still require plain-old calculators to prevent cheating on exams. Certainly, the most basic and inexpensive four-function (add, subtract, multiply and divide) calculator won’t cut the mustard by the time a student faces his or her first algebra class. But how much more calculator is necessary? Is a good basic scientific calculator enough, or is one with more features and functions — including the ability to graphically display the results — a must-have?
Choosing a padlock for your child’s school locker
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
It’s hard to believe back-to-school season is already upon us. Why, it seems like just last month we wrapped up graduation season! But with many school districts starting up in mid- to late- August, it’s time to start shopping for school supplies. While some schools, including the ones I went to, provide lockers with built-in locks, some require that students provide their own padlocks each year. Padlocks aren’t the most complicated purchase, but there are still a few things to consider. To start, you need to choose between a keyed padlock and a combination lock, both of which have pros and cons. In addition, you need to make sure the lock is sturdy enough to take some abuse and that it’s the right size. The good news is that you can typically find a quality padlock for less than $10 at most drug stores and hardware stores or at Target or Walmart.
Kouros 3.3 oz spray for men by Yves Saint Laurent Review
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Kouros 3.3 oz spray for men by Yves Saint Laurent
Eau De Toilette Spray…Contains Green Eucalyptus, Incense, Cedarwood, Mace, Camphor Wood, Benzoin.
In all honesty…
Gift: No
Pros: None
Cons: Mutant Species, Overpowering, Sewage Plant
Fragrance Type: Rotting Corpse, Landfill, Raw Sewage
Reviewer Comments: Look I’m pretty open minded and very into colognes. I have about 20 at any given time. I’m talking Cool Water to LaCoste. Armani to Issey. My tastes are ecletic and varied. I HAVE NEVER returned any fragrence, until Kouros. I was embarrassed the entire day I had it on and hid away from as many people as possible until I could wash it off. Which I might add took two showers.
Originally posted at Scentiments (legalese)
Be a BBQ genius: 3 healthy toppings you’re already eating
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Tis the season for tongs, smoke and charcoal. That’s right, readers. BBQ season is here, prompting us to sidle up to our picnic tables to partake in a grilled smorgasbord. But the next time you find yourself chowing down, take note. Several common condiments are actually chocked with good-for-you ingredients. Here, three tasty toppings with hidden health benefits.
Buzz off! Which insect repellents work best?
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Although they’re very effective, experts are torn on insect repellents containing the controversial chemical DEET. An active ingredient in many insect repellents, DEET works by blocking the odors that attract insects to humans. In high concentrations, DEET has been proven to damage clothing, paint finishes and even plastic. It also has a very strong scent, which most reviewers find unpleasant. Many alternatives to DEET have appeared on the market, but no other alternative insect repellent is shown to be as effective, especially for warding off mosquitoes.
Dear editor… questions from readers and some answers
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Like many publications and websites, we at ConsumerSearch welcome reader feedback, be it a question, a comment or even a complaint. From time to time, we like to answer reader mail on the blog; in some cases, the particular question or comment is a common one. Read on for a sampling from the ConsumerSearch inbox. In some instances, letters have been edited for length.
Take a listen: ConsumerSearch on NPR
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Yesterday, ConsumerSearch editor-in-chief Christine Frietchen appeared on National Public Radio’s Talk of the Nation program to discuss how shoppers can determine which consumer reviews are the most reliable. She also directly addressed questions posed by listeners calling into the show. NPR has posted the full audio from the segment, as well as a complete transcript, at its website. Head on over there to give it a listen.
GSI Halulite Minimalist Cookset Review
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
GSI Halulite Minimalist Cookset
The GSI Halulite™ Minimalist cookset gives ultralight backpackers a compact system for heating water to rehydrate meals and make hot drinks.
Nice pot , tough lid
Gift: No
Pros: Compact, Easy To Clean, Lightweight, Stable, Durable
Best Uses: Backpacking
What Is Your Gear Style: Minimalist
Reviewer Comments: I love the pot but when the cover gets wet its hard to get off.
Casio Exilim EX-FH100 (black)
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
The high-speed Casio Exilim EX-FH100 is a compelling compact megazoom camera for those constantly worried about missing a snapshot.
Win this week’s mystery gadget!
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
We recently spotted this funky looking gizmo in a store and kind of had to buy it, it was so weird. So here’s the deal — check out the pictures on Facebook. The first correct answer posted to our Facebook page wins the gadget. But there’s also a prize for the most creative answer (subjectively judged by our editors). You have until midnight (Eastern time) on Sunday July 18 to enter.
Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Mini – white
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
The Xperia X10 Mini packs a lot of features into a small design. The compact touch screen won’t be for everyone, but it mostly satisfies as an Android phone.
Windows XP SP2 put out to pasture, barn door left open for security risks
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
On Tuesday, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). Touted by some as the most significant and crucial of Microsoft’s many operating-system fixes, it addressed a host of issues in the original release of Windows XP, including lots of security holes. “It was the first time Microsoft could tout Windows as being secure,” says Gartner Research analyst John Pescatore in an article posted at Computerworld.com. That’s no longer true in the case of SP2, as Tuesday’s retirement means that those who have yet to upgrade to XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) or migrate to Windows Vista or 7 will no longer receive any hotfixes (program patches), including security patches and updates.
Airhead® Hot Dog Towable Review
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Airhead Hot Dog 3 Person Towable Tube
You’ve see it before, just never at this price!You’ll have the time of your life on this ‘water weenie’ designed for 1 to 3 riders. HOT DOG has deluxe nylon-wrapped handles with neoprene knuckle guards and seat pads for comfort and to help you stay on top. It’s …
The Hot Dog is Awesome!
Pros: Strong Construction, Easy To Install, Attractive Design, No Rattle
Best Uses: Tubing, Smaller Boats
Reviewer Comments: We all enjoyed riding the Hot Dog… from my 4 year old niece to my 68 year old dad! It’s fun to look at, has more control and interaction than a tube, and is perfect for riding with friends. It was hard for the older people to get back on once they fell off in deep water, but that’s true of any float. The kids were able to bounce each other and be crazy, while the older people had a blast riding together. The construction seems really solid and it was no problem to hook to the tow rope. It’s been a great water toy!
Things to consider before buying a lawn tractor
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
You’ve looked at your neighbor’s lawn tractor with envy long enough. You want to stow your walk-behind lawn mower and (literally) get in the driver’s seat for your landscaping needs. Thing is, no matter what you do, you’ll be laying out a significant chunk of dough for a lawn tractor, so it’s important that you determine exactly what your needs are, because while you might like the tractor Fred next door has, it may be totally wrong for you. Here are some basic considerations to factor in before you head to a dealer to buy a new lawn tractor.
More bad news for the Apple iPhone 4
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Apple’s woes relating to the iPhone 4′s well-publicized reception problems continue apace. The latest blow comes from Consumer Reports, which has completed formal testing of the phone and delivered some news that’s not likely to leave the folks in Cupertino smiling. Despite outscoring other tested smartphones in terms of features, etc., CR says it cannot recommend the latest iPhone because of the nagging reception issues, leading to increased talk that Apple could wind up recalling the phone.
Reality Bites: Best products to soothe itchy bug bites
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Sandals, sunglasses… bug bites? It’s a rare soul who doesn’t have to deal with this pesky summer accessory. To help readers stave off an insanely itchy experience, we sleuthed out some solid anti-itch, mosquito bite-soothing picks. Here, a few highly-rated products, some DIY home remedies and who-the-heck-knew truths to help you better cope this season.
Pearl Izumi Limited Edition Cycling Jersey – Three-Quarter Zip, Short Sleeve (For Women) Review
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Pearl Izumi Limited Edition Cycling Jersey – Three-Quarter Zip, Short Sleeve (For Women)
Closeouts . Pearl Izumi’s Limited Edition cycling jersey features patented one-way capillary action and hydrophobic fibers to wick moisture, keeping you cool and dry on even the most intense rides. Highly breathable fabric Sensor System pulls moisture away from the skin Three-quarter zip Thr…
Great All-Around Jersey
Sizing: Feels true to size
Pros: Lightweight, Stylish, Breathable, Durable, Dries Quickly
Best Uses: Mountain Biking, Road Biking
Reviewer Comments: I’m extremely happy with this jersey! I wore it during my first mountain bike race last Saturday and it didn’t let me down. The three pockets were easy to access during the race. The shirt survived several encounters with trees, vines with thorns and the ground itself and came through with not even a snag!
Originally posted at Sierra Trading Post (legalese)
Original Rockford Red Heel Monkey Socks 2 Pair Pack Review
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Original Rockford Red Heel Monkey Socks 2 Pair Pack
Original Rockford Monkey Socks 2 Pair Pack Cotton Thermal Boot Sock Content: 97% Cotton, 2% Acrylic, 1% Spandex. Brown Heather with Natural Top and Red Heel. (Size LARGE is the most popular size for making the Sock Monkey Doll.) Size Small is great for making Sock Monkey Kids! Note: Monkey Sock Dol…
Awesome Company
Sizing: Feels true to size
Pros: Durable, Soft, Attractive Design
Reviewer Comments: I am a return customer and will continue to do business with Amazing Socks. [...] pricing is the most competitive.
Originally posted at Amazing Socks (legalese)
Samsung HZ35W
by Talk about Deal on Jul.30, 2010, under Review
Samsung’s HZ35W is pretty much an across-the-board improvement from its predecessor resulting in a GPS-enabled compact megazoom worth considering.