IPL Vs Laser Hair Removal After 6 Years | Braun Silk-expert Pro 5

IPL Vs Laser Hair Removal After 6 Years | Braun Silk-expert Pro 5

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Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

Home IPL vs Laser Hair Removal After 6 Years With the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5

After 6 years, home IPL with the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 has worked better for me than 10+ professional laser hair removal sessions did. It's worth a look if your hair is dark, your skin fits the skin tone chart and your laser results only lasted while you kept booking sessions. Now I only do a session 2 to 4 times a year.

Does home IPL work as well as laser hair removal?

For me it worked better. Compared to 10+ professional laser hair removal sessions on the Vectus and the Thunder MT, the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 was night and day.

A laser uses one focused kind of light and IPL uses a broader flash of light, but both go after the dark color in the hair root. Plus I don't have to go anywhere and get naked in front of strangers, so I'd much rather do it at home.

Does IPL hair removal work long term?

It has for me, and I'm still using the Braun 6 years later. I used to have thick dark hair and now what grows back is mostly like peach fuzz up close.

The few dark hairs that still come back are a lot thinner so they're barely visible, and they take a while to grow back. I only shave them when I do a treatment, and these days that's not more than once every few months.

The Mayo Clinic says even laser hair removal doesn't guarantee the hair will never grow back, and the hair that does come back is often finer and lighter. That's pretty much what I see with my Braun.

I think you have to keep reminding the skin, so if you stop completely the hair just grows back, but one session every few months keeps that from happening.

What were my IPL results in the first year?

My first year with the Braun was 6 sessions in 2020, and after that year I could go months without shaving and the hair didn't grow back.

I wrote down every date: April 12, May 4, June 7, then I shaved in July but skipped the session, and I did another one on August 10. After that came September 25 and December 27, and the December results were the same as September, so that's where my first year ended.

The results were great everywhere except one spot, the deeper part of my bikini area. It gave me the red light so the Braun wouldn't flash there and that area had zero change, but at my September 25 session it got better results. On my legs the hair that did come back was mostly around my knees, and my right armpit was worse than my left.

How does the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 work?

The Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 uses flashes of light instead of a laser, and that light goes after the dark color in the hair root, so your hair has to be dark enough for it to work.

It's a small handheld device with a cord, and in the box there's also a pouch. The flash comes out of a window on the head.

The skin tone sensors are called SensoAdapt, and they read your skin and adjust the power by themselves. White lights on the power bar mean it's ready to flash, but if your skin tone is outside what it's made for, only the first light turns red and it won't flash.

It's usually around $300 on sale at places like Target, Walmart and Amazon, and under $400 at full price.

How often should you use home IPL?

Braun's plan is once a week for the first 4 to 12 weeks and after that only when you need it. In the beginning my sessions were a few weeks apart and it still worked for me, and now I only do a session 2 to 4 times a year.

Braun says in their own study people got up to 95 percent less hair on the lower legs within a month and up to 2 years of smooth skin if you follow their plan. For me, even without following their plan exactly, it's been 6 years and only a few thin hairs still come back.

A session takes me under 5 minutes, and that's including shaving. I shave before every session with a cheap Philips shaver (the SatinShave Essential). It's so fast and it's $20, and sometimes I don't even do a full session, I just zap the spots where a few hairs came back.

Does IPL hurt?

In the beginning it did hurt for me, but the more sessions I did the less it hurt. Now the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 just feels warm on my skin.

Is home IPL cheaper than laser hair removal?

For me, yes. At salons around me today, legs, underarms and bikini line run from about $290 to over $500 a session, so 10 sessions at today's prices would be somewhere around $3,000 to $5,000.

The Braun on sale costs about what one laser hair removal session costs at those salons, and I was doubtful when I bought it in 2020 but it wasn't as expensive as the clinic.

What are the downsides of the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5?

It's not a one or two session thing. I did 6 sessions that first year and my results only stopped changing after September.

You also have to connect it to an outlet, and it would be even better if it was battery powered.

Who should skip home IPL?

If your hair is red, gray, white or very light blonde it won't work for you, because there's no dark color in the root for the light to go after. It's also not made for skin that's darker than the skin tone chart, and if you'd rather have someone else do it for you, the clinic probably makes more sense.

If your hair is dark blonde to black, your skin is within the chart, and your laser hair removal results only lasted while you kept booking sessions, the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 is worth a look. At least it was for me.

Do you need protective glasses for IPL?

Yes, get them. Mine are laser safety glasses from Amazon, but for quick sessions now I just look away and close my eyes.

Home IPL questions I get a lot

Does the hair come back thicker after IPL? No, for me it's the opposite, it went from thick and dark to mostly peach fuzz.

How fast will I see results? For me it was really quickly, and I show that in my 3 month IPL update along with my tips and how the pain compares to laser hair removal at the salon.

Where do you use it? I do my armpits, belly and full legs with it, and it's still the same Braun I got in 2020.

Where can I see how it all started? My first Braun Silk Expert IPL demo and review is the place to start.

Some links in this post are affiliate links that earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Saturday, November 14, 2026 Comments: 0

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Cuyana Double Loop Satchel | I Checked What Actually Fits In This Work Bag

Cuyana Double Loop Satchel | I Checked What Actually Fits In This Work Bag

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Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

Cuyana Double Loop Satchel Review And What Fits Inside

The Cuyana Double Loop Satchel packs a lot of practical features into one bag, and I can see it working for the office, errands and travel. It makes the most sense if you need the space, since it weighs 2.9 lbs before you put anything in it.

Does a 16-inch laptop fit in the Cuyana Double Loop Satchel?

Yes, the main compartment fits up to a 16-inch laptop. There is also a built-in laptop sleeve that fits up to a 14-inch laptop, so you do not need a separate one.

I also have room for my wallet and phone, and there is a spot for a water bottle.

Is the Cuyana Double Loop Satchel too heavy?

It depends on what you carry. It weighs 2.9 lbs empty, and almost three pounds is worth considering once you add your laptop and everything else.

All the compartments are useful, but I would make sure I actually need that much space before committing to a bag this size.

What is the strap drop on the Cuyana Double Loop Satchel?

The strap drop is 12.5 inches. It is fixed, so make sure that length works for you before you buy.

What is the Cuyana Double Loop Satchel made of?

The Cuyana Double Loop Satchel has pebbled Italian leather that adds texture, a soft suede lining, and gold hardware including a gold clip closure. It is made in Turkey.

The side pockets and the inside clasps are magnetic, so I can grab my phone quickly and everything stays secure. I have seen it compared to designer bags, but I would rather judge it by the materials, construction and how it works day to day.

Who is the Cuyana Double Loop Satchel for?

It is for someone who carries a laptop and wants one bag for the office, errands and travel. It has a structured shape, but the lighter leather and gold hardware keep it from looking too corporate, so it works with a casual outfit too.

The main thing I would think about before buying is what you usually carry.

Cuyana Double Loop Satchel FAQ

Does it come with a dust bag? Yes, it comes with a dust bag.

Is there a warranty? Yes, there is a two-year warranty.

Does it stand up on its own? Yes, and that makes it easier to set down and get things in and out.

Is there a place for my keys? Yes, there is a clip inside for your keys.

I also reviewed the YSL Saint Laurent tote work bag and shared what is in my work bag.

Some links on this page are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Thursday, November 12, 2026 Comments: 0

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iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 18 Pro Max Which Size Should You Buy

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Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 18 Pro Max: Which Size Should You Buy?

After using both the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone 18 Pro Max side by side, I returned the Max. The cameras, chip, storage and colors are identical on both sizes. The only differences are screen size, battery rating and weight, and for me the weight tipped it. I made a full video breaking down every difference after testing both phones. 

How much bigger is the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

About 13 millimeters taller and 6 millimeters wider. Both phones are the same thickness, so the Max isn't chunkier, it's just bigger in your hand. You feel the extra width every time you reach across the screen with your thumb.

The Max screen is only 0.6 inches bigger, roughly 10 percent more screen. But the phone is 38 grams heavier, which is 18 percent more weight. That's like holding about seven extra quarters. It sounds like nothing, but a phone is something you hold for hours, and for filming especially, that extra weight wore on me fast.

Does the iPhone 18 Pro Max have a better camera?

No. Both sizes have the exact same camera system: the main camera, the telephoto, the ultra wide and the front camera. Even the zoom is the same. You don't give up anything on photos or video by picking the smaller one.

Same goes for the chip, the storage options (including the new 2 terabyte tier) and the four colors (black, silver, glacier and burgundy). So the bigger screen, the higher battery rating and the extra weight are the entire difference between the two phones.

iPhone 18 Pro vs Pro Max battery life

The Max wins on paper. Apple rates it at up to 45 hours of video playback versus 36 hours on the Pro, which is 9 hours or about 25 percent more. There's also a newer rating called Typical Use, which is closer to a real day: the Pro Max gets up to 30 hours, the Pro up to 24 hours. That's 6 hours more, also about 25 percent.

So the battery rating goes up by 25 percent while the weight only goes up by 18 percent. That is a real advantage for the Max. But my iPhone 18 Pro still has over 30 percent left at the end of every day, so I don't even charge it at night.

If your day usually ends with battery to spare, the rating gap won't change anything for you. If you often end close to zero, the extra 25 percent on the Max is the one real reason to size up. If you're worried about battery on the Pro, a small Anker Nano power bank is cheaper than the $100 upgrade and weighs less than the difference between the two phones.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max worth $100 more?

For me, no. The Max costs $100 more, about 8 percent, for a bigger screen and a higher battery rating. No better camera, no extra features. The regular Pro already lasts me the full day with battery to spare, so the extra $100 didn't buy me anything I would use.

Which iPhone 18 Pro is easier to carry every day?

The regular Pro fits great in my pocket, in my case, and on the long strap I use when I walk my dog. A strap changes the size question, because when the phone isn't in your hand, the extra 38 grams matters a lot less. But for one-handed texting and for holding the phone up while filming, lighter won.

The Max is a bigger thing to carry, and if you keep your phone in a bag or hold it with two hands, the size might not bother you at all. If you can, hold both in a store before you buy, because 6 millimeters of extra width doesn't tell you how a phone sits in your hand.

iPhone 18 Pro vs Pro Max honest pros and cons

The Pro is smaller, lighter, fits easily in a pocket, and costs $100 less. The cons: a smaller screen for watching video, and a lower battery rating if your days run long.

The Max has the bigger screen and the higher battery rating. The cons: it's 38 grams heavier, harder to use with one hand, and that weight adds up when you hold your phone for hours. The battery number is tempting, but it came with a phone that was a lot to carry, and that's why I returned it.

Who should get the iPhone 18 Pro?

Get the regular Pro if you carry your phone in your pocket or on a strap, use it with one hand, and your day usually ends with battery left. You get the same camera for $100 less in a lighter phone. A MagSafe kickstand or a magnetic suction mount works great with the smaller size for filming hands-free.

Who should get the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

Get the Max if you want the biggest screen, you use your phone with two hands or carry it in a bag, and you often end the day close to zero on battery. The extra 25 percent battery rating is the one real reason to size up.

iPhone 18 Pro vs Pro Max FAQ

Can I use the same case on both sizes?
No. The Pro Max is 13 millimeters taller and 6 millimeters wider, so cases are not interchangeable.

Is the Pro Max screen noticeably better for watching video?
It's 0.6 inches bigger, so yes, you see more. But it's the same display quality, so you're only gaining size, not resolution or brightness.

Does brainless scrolling change with the Max?
Weirdly, yes. My hand got tired of scrolling faster on the Max because of the weight, so my scrolling time actually went down.

What's Apple's Typical Use battery rating?
A newer rating closer to a normal day than video playback. The Pro Max gets up to 30 hours, the Pro up to 24 hours.

Watch the full video above for all the side-by-side comparisons after testing both phones for a month.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Friday, November 6, 2026 Comments: 0

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Off Season Flight To Warsaw With Empty Seats | LOT Polish Airlines Economy LAX To WAW Flight Review

Off Season Flight To Warsaw With Empty Seats | LOT Polish Airlines Economy LAX To WAW Flight Review

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Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

LOT Polish Airlines Economy Review From Los Angeles To Warsaw

Is LOT Polish Airlines economy worth it from Los Angeles to Warsaw? It depends. My seat was broken and kept reclining on its own, but the crew was warm and helpful, and in the off season with empty seats the flight was still great.

I made a full video of this flight, so watch it above if you want to see it all. Here is what I'd tell a friend before they book.

Is LOT the cheapest way to fly from Los Angeles to Warsaw?

For me, yes. LOT is the only nonstop flight from Los Angeles to Warsaw and it was also the cheapest one. My round trip was $770 and that included a checked bag.

A low price and a nonstop tell you nothing about the seat, though, and that's the part you can't check when you book.

Is the seat comfortable in LOT economy?

Leg room was comfortable enough for me. The seat itself was broken even though I could still use it. It kept reclining on its own without me pressing the button, which matters most when you're trying to sleep.

On my last LOT economy flight the seat wouldn't recline at all, and the flight before that was the same. That makes me think this is a common issue and not just bad luck. I didn't fight it and I let it recline.

Is LOT premium economy better than economy?

I'd already had a broken seat in premium economy, so this time I picked economy on purpose. Paying more for a seat that might be broken felt like a bad bet.

The problems were different each time, so I don't think paying more is a fix. Premium isn't a guarantee of a working seat, and economy is the cheaper way to take the same chance. If you want to see what paying extra gets you, watch my video where we paid extra for premium economy, or the premium economy vs economy comparison.

Does the time of year change the LOT experience?

For me it did. I flew in the off season and the plane had lots of empty seats, including two empty seats right next to me. With a broken seat, I had room to work with.

Picture the same flight in summer when it's super crowded. If your seat is broken and every other seat is taken, there's nowhere to move. If you can pick your dates, the off season gives you better odds, and if your seat is broken and the flight isn't full, ask the crew about moving.

What are the food and movies like on LOT economy?

Dinner was penne with mushrooms and spinach and I didn't like it. I regret not getting the chicken, so if the crew asks, ask for the chicken.

The movie selection was good. I watched a Polish movie called Bogowie (Gods) and it was amazing, so look for it if you like Polish films.

What is arriving in Warsaw like?

We landed on time and it was raining. With a checked bag I took an Uber instead of the train because it was easier. Passport control was fast because of the automatic booths, and getting my bags was fast too.

I did get randomly selected for customs, which has happened on each of the last four times I've flown. They check my luggage for cigarettes, alcohol or undeclared cash.

Would I fly LOT economy again?

It depends. In the off season with empty seats, it was still great. If you're flying in a busy season, a broken seat with no empty seats around is the real risk, and you should know that before you pay.

LOT economy FAQ

Is LOT the only nonstop from Los Angeles to Warsaw? Yes, and it was also the cheapest one for me.

Was the crew good? Yes, the crew was warm and helpful for the whole flight.

Is premium economy a safe fix for a broken seat? No. I've had a broken seat in premium economy too.

Should I take the train or an Uber from the airport? I took an Uber because it was easier with a checked bag.

Want to see the whole flight? Watch my full LOT economy review above.

Tuesday, November 3, 2026 Comments: 0

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Ultrahuman Ring Pro Review After 1 Month (vs Oura Ring 4)

Ultrahuman Ring Pro Review After 1 Month (vs Oura Ring 4)

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Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

Ultrahuman Ring Pro Review: Charging Case, Battery Life and Size vs Ring Air

Is the Ultrahuman Ring Pro worth it? For me, yes, mostly because of the battery and the charging case, and I think it’s a great fit if you hate charging your ring or don’t want another subscription.

Just know it’s noticeably bigger than the Ring Air. I unboxed it in this video and compared it to my Ring Air and Oura Ring 4 in the video above.

Why I wanted a smart ring with a charging case

I once forgot my Oura charger on a week-long trip, and if you wear a smart ring you know how annoying that is.

So when my Ultrahuman Ring Pro arrived, after wearing the Ring Air for about two years, the case was the first thing I wanted to test.

How much is the Ultrahuman Ring Pro?

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro is $479 and comes in four colors. I went with gold because honestly it’s my favorite.

You can check colors and sizes on the Ultrahuman Ring Pro page, and my code CABPRO gives you a discount.

How does the Ultrahuman Ring Pro charging case work?

The case is magnetic and has its own battery inside, so you can charge the ring a few times without plugging anything in.

When you put the ring in, the case vibrates and plays a little sound, so you know it’s actually charging, and I love that. There’s also a charging light on the front.

It charges with a braided USB-C cable that comes in the box. After that trip, honestly, this would have saved me.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro vs Oura: is there a subscription?

No, the Ultrahuman Ring Pro has no required subscription. The basics like sleep, stress and heart rate are free.

There are some optional paid plugins, but you don’t need them. With Oura I pay $6 every month, so this is huge for me.

The case is another big difference. With Oura a charging case like this is another $100, but with the Ring Pro it comes in the box.

How big is the Ultrahuman Ring Pro compared to the Ring Air?

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro is definitely bigger than the Ring Air. If you want a slim ring, keep that in mind.

I was worried I wouldn’t get used to it, but after a while I just stopped noticing it.

How long does the Ultrahuman Ring Pro battery last?

Ultrahuman says the Ring Pro battery lasts up to 15 days. In my testing, the Ring Pro was still at 66 percent after almost a week.

For comparison, my Oura Ring 4 usually lasts me Monday to Friday, and my Ring Air was more like two or three days.

The Ring Pro also has a new processor and up to 250 days of storage, so it holds a lot of data even if you don’t sync it for a while.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro pros and cons

What I like: the battery is a huge upgrade, the charging case comes included, there’s no required subscription, and the case gives you a vibration and sound so you know it’s charging.

What could be better: it’s bigger than the Ring Air, and some extra features are optional paid plugins.

Who should skip the Ultrahuman Ring Pro?

If you want the slimmest ring possible, this one might feel too big for you.

If you rarely travel and don’t mind charging every few days, the case and battery may not be worth the upgrade for you.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro FAQ

Does the Ultrahuman Ring Pro need a subscription?
No. Sleep, stress and heart rate are free, and the paid plugins are optional.

Does the charging case come with the Ring Pro?
Yes. The magnetic charging case and a braided USB-C cable are in the box.

Is the Ring Pro bigger than the Ring Air?
Yes, it’s definitely bigger, but I stopped noticing it after a while.

How long did the battery last for me?
It was still at 66 percent after almost a week, while Ultrahuman says up to 15 days.

My full Ultrahuman Ring Pro review

I’ve now worn the Ring Pro for a whole month next to my Oura, so watch the video above to see the case, the size and the battery side by side.

If you want one, here’s my Ring Pro link with code CABPRO.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Sunday, November 1, 2026 Comments: 0

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Dyson Airsmooth Review: Is It Worth It if You Already Have an Airwrap?💸

Dyson Airsmooth Review: Is It Worth It if You Already Have an Airwrap?💸

Click below to see the video:


Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

Dyson Airsmooth Review: Is It Worth $250?

The Dyson Airsmooth is a solid dryer brush that left my hair smoother and shinier than I expected, with almost zero snagging and no scalp burn even on the highest setting. It's best for anyone who wants a simple blowout tool without paying Airwrap prices. I go through every detail in the video above, but here's everything I found after testing it.

What Is the Dyson Airsmooth?

It's Dyson's first dedicated dryer brush. One tool, one head, one job. Think of it as Dyson's answer to the Revlon One-Step, but lighter, smarter, and way less likely to rip your hair out.

It weighs 1.4 lb (just over half a kilogram), has a 6.5 ft cord, and runs on 100 to 240 volts. That universal voltage is honestly huge because the Airwrap is locked to whatever region you bought it in. Plug the US Airwrap into a European outlet and it can burn out. The Airsmooth just needs a plug adapter and works anywhere.

Price is $249.99, which is less than half of what the newest Airwrap costs.

The head is a teardrop shape. One side is flat and wide, the other is thin. Dyson says the thin end gets closer to the root for more lift. It also comes with a clip-on bristle protector for storage, which is a nice touch most brushes don't have. No charging brick either, so it's noticeably lighter than something like the Airstrait.

Dyson Airsmooth vs Airwrap: What's the Difference?

The Airwrap is a multi-tool that curls, smooths, and dries. The Airsmooth only does blowouts. That's it.

The Airsmooth has less blowing power than the Airwrap or Airstrait. I couldn't just blast-dry the roots the way I can with my Airwrap, so hair that was still wet near my scalp took longer. But the trade-off is a much smoother glide through the hair, especially on the ends where I get a lot of knots. With my Airwrap's round brush, I'd feel pulling and breakage in that section. With this, it was noticeably smoother.

I think the lower airflow might actually be on purpose. If it's blowing too much air, your hair won't lay as smooth. So it's possibly a design choice, not a limitation.

If you want one tool that does everything (curls, waves, drying), the Airwrap is still that tool. The Airsmooth only makes sense if blowouts are your main thing.

Does the Dyson Airsmooth Actually Prevent Breakage?

This is the part that surprised me the most. Yes, it seems to.

There are two types of bristles on this brush. Anti-snag bristles are looped with a hole in the middle and they collapse under pressure so hair slips out instead of getting caught. Those are the same ones on the newest Airwrap round brush. The second kind is new: Pivot Flex bristles that sit on an open base and flex up to 90 degrees. That base diffuses air from the bottom instead of blasting it straight at your scalp.

Dyson claims 95% snag-free and I have no way to test that number. It does still pull some hair. It's not zero. But it's way less than a regular bristle brush.

After doing my whole head, I checked for split ends and found basically one. Usually after using a round brush, I'd have a ton. I did use an anti-breakage fluid, which has been making a huge difference lately, but even last time I straightened with that fluid I still saw breakage. This time, almost nothing.

Does the Airsmooth Burn Your Scalp?

No, and this is honestly the most impressive part.

On the highest heat setting, I held the brush right next to my scalp for 30+ seconds at a time. No burning, no discomfort. With my Airwrap's round brush, I'd definitely feel my scalp getting very hot. The Airsmooth has intelligent heat control that measures temperature many times a second and adjusts so it doesn't spike. Cheaper dryer brushes don't do this at all.

I could hold this tool right next to my head for minutes and it never got uncomfortable. For people looking for root volume, there's really nothing else like that.

But here's the catch: the hair itself does get very hot. When I went back over the same section, I could feel the heat in my hair. So you absolutely still need heat protectant spray or cream. The tool won't snag or break your hair mechanically, but if you skip heat protection, the temperature will still damage it over time.

How to Use the Dyson Airsmooth (What Actually Worked)

I went in without watching a tutorial because I wanted to see how intuitive it is. The first few minutes were awkward. I kept flipping it around trying to figure out which side does what.

Here's what worked: point the thin end of the teardrop shape toward your scalp, pull down along the flat side, then roll the ends on the rounder part and hold. That gives you the bend. Once that clicked, it went a lot faster.

For root volume, keep the brush right next to your scalp and just hold it there. It dries the roots and lifts at the same time without burning. This also solved my initial complaint about not being able to dry the wet roots. You just have to be patient and hold the brush close. With a volumizing mousse on top of this, you'd get even more

Friday, October 30, 2026 Comments: 0

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iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone 18 Pro Is the Upgrade Worth $100 More

iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone 18 Pro Is the Upgrade Worth $100 More

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Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 17 Pro: Is the Upgrade Worth $100 More?

The iPhone 18 Pro is not a huge change from the 17 Pro, and most people with a 17 Pro do not need to swap. If you're coming from something older like I was, the heat and battery improvements alone made it worth it for me. I bought my iPhone 18 Pro myself and used it every day for almost a month next to my husband's iPhone 17 Pro. Watch the full comparison in the video above, or keep reading for everything I found.

What's actually different between the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro?

From the outside, honestly nothing. The size, screen, and telephoto are the same on both phones. The changes are a new main camera, a new chip, and a higher battery rating.

The iPhone 18 Pro has the same height and width as the 17 Pro and is only 5 g heavier than the 17 Pro's 206 g (about 7.3 oz). Screen brightness is the same too, up to 3,000 nits outdoors, and both dim down to one nit.

The dynamic island is smaller on the 18 Pro and can show up to three live activities at once. If you're coming from a 15 Pro like I was, the jump is bigger because the 15 Pro is titanium instead of aluminum, its telephoto only goes to 3x, and its front camera is 12 megapixels. Both newer phones have an 18 megapixel center stage front camera, so that's part of the upgrade from a 15 Pro if you take a lot of selfies or video calls.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro camera better than the 17 Pro?

Yes, and the difference I could actually see side by side was the background blur.

Next to my husband's 17 Pro, the iPhone 18 Pro had a noticeably better bokeh effect. That soft, blurry background that gives you that DSLR look. The reason is the new 48 megapixel main camera with a variable aperture, which means little physical blades that open and close anywhere from f/1.48 to f/4. The 17 Pro is fixed at f/1.78.

A wider opening lets in more light and blurs the background more. Apple says the new camera also gives around 50% better low light at the widest setting. I have no way to measure that, but in my own use the new camera really makes a difference for background blur, low light, night shots, and the video I shoot for my channel.

The only side by side I did with the 17 Pro was the blur, so I can't tell you how the rest compares between the two. The telephoto goes to 4x and 8x on both the 18 Pro and the 17 Pro, so that zoom is not exclusive to the new phone. But coming from a 15 Pro, it's a real jump.

There are also new manual controls in the camera app on the 18 Pro for aperture, shutter speed, white balance, and a histogram. The 17 Pro doesn't have those. And cinematic mode goes up to 4K 60 on the 18 Pro.

Does the iPhone 18 Pro get hot?

Not like my 15 Pro did, and that was the single biggest change coming from my old phone.

My 15 Pro would get burning hot after more than 5 minutes of filming and the battery would die so fast. The 18 Pro is so much better at that. Since I film a lot for my channel, that's the situation where it matters most.

The 18 Pro has a new vapor chamber with three times the surface area of the previous one. My 15 Pro had no vapor chamber at all. The chip is the A20 Pro, Apple's first 2 nanometer chip, with a 7-core GPU compared to the 17 Pro's 6-core A19 Pro. Apple says the graphics are up to 40% faster and the vapor chamber gives up to 40% more sustained performance.

I didn't test heat directly against the 17 Pro, so my comparison here is only against my 15 Pro.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro battery better than the 17 Pro?

Honestly, just a little. The iPhone 18 Pro is rated 3 hours above the 17 Pro for video playback (36 hours vs 33 hours). Compared to my 15 Pro at 23 hours, the jump is huge.

3 hours between the two newer phones is not something I could feel in daily use. But the difference from my 15 Pro was real because that phone would die so fast whenever I filmed.

Charging is faster too. The 18 Pro hits 50% in about 15 minutes, the 17 Pro takes about 20, and my 15 Pro took about 30. But that speed needs a 60W adapter sold separately. Magnetic wireless charging is also 25W now, where my 15 Pro was 15W.

How much does the iPhone 18 Pro cost?

It starts at $1,199 for 256 GB, which is $100 more than the iPhone 17 Pro at its $1,099 launch price with the same 256 GB. My 15 Pro launched at $999 with 128 GB, so you get double the storage for $200 more.

That extra $100 over the 17 Pro is about 9% more, or roughly $8 a month if you spread it over a year. If you have 17 Pro and thinking of upgrading - personally I would say it's not worth it. 17 Pro is very similar to 18 Pro, there's no drastic upgrade here.

iPhone 18 Pro honest pros and cons

The variable aperture camera produces a real, visible improvement in background blur. Heat management is dramatically better than the 15 Pro. Battery life is rated higher and charging is faster. New manual camera controls give you more flexibility if you actually use them.

On the con side, it costs $100 more than the 17 Pro for a phone with the same size, same screen, and same telephoto. The new camera controls only matter if you actually open them, so if you only take quick photos in good light you may never use them. If you're coming from a titanium 15 Pro, this one is aluminum and a little heavier. And $200 more than the 15 Pro at launch is not a small price jump either.

Who should upgrade to the iPhone 18 Pro?

If you have a 17 Pro, I'd only upgrade if the background blur and DSLR look matter to you, because that's the one difference I saw side by side. Everything else is almost the same.

If you're on a 15 Pro like I was, then yes, I think it's worth it. The heat and the battery were the two problems I had, and the 18 Pro fixed both.

If you want to save money and don't care about blur, the 17 Pro is $100 less at launch prices and has the same size, screen, and telephoto.

iPhone 18 Pro FAQ

Is the iPhone 18 Pro camera better than the 17 Pro?
In my side by side, the 18 Pro had the better bokeh and that soft DSLR look. The telephoto is the same on both.

Does the iPhone 18 Pro get hot?
Not like my 15 Pro did, which got burning hot after more than 5 minutes of filming. Don't get me wrong - 18 Pro also sometimes gets got but it cools off so much faster - my 15 Pro would stay hot for a long time.

Does the iPhone 18 Pro charge faster than the 17 Pro?
About 15 minutes to 50% compared to about 20 on the 17 Pro, but you need a 60W adapter for that speed.

Is it worth upgrading from a 15 Pro?
For me, yes. The 18 Pro fixed the two biggest problems I had with my old phone: the heat and the battery.

For the full side-by-side walkthrough including the camera blur comparison, watch the complete video at the top of this page.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 Comments: 0

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Ultrahuman Ring Pro Size Guide | Sizing Kit + Between Sizes Tips | Same as Ring Air?

Ultrahuman Ring Pro Size Guide | Sizing Kit + Between Sizes Tips | Same as Ring Air?

Click below to see the video:


Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

Ultrahuman Ring Pro Sizing Guide: What to Do When You're Between Sizes

If you're trying to figure out your Ultrahuman Ring Pro size, the short answer is: use the free sizing kit, give it a few days if you're between two sizes, and prioritize sleep comfort. I already wear a size 7 Ring Air, and after going through the full sizing process with the Ultrahuman Ring Pro, I landed on a size 7 there too. Here's exactly how I got there. You can also watch the full breakdown in the video above.

Does Ultrahuman give you a sizing kit with the Ring Pro?

Yes, Ultrahuman includes a free sizing kit when you order. It's a set of plastic sizers in every size from 5 to 14. Even though Ultrahuman sent me the Ring Pro to try, I still went through the full sizing process the same way anyone buying it would, so this is a real-world test, not a rushed unboxing.

Is Ultrahuman Ring Pro sizing the same as the Ring Air?

According to Ultrahuman, yes, it's the same sizing system. That lines up with my experience: I wear a size 7 Ring Air, went through the full sizing kit with the Ring Pro, and ended up with a size 7 there too. If you already know your Ring Air size, you likely don't need a new sizing kit.

What to do if you're between two sizes on the Ultrahuman Ring Pro

This is exactly where I got stuck. I tried the sizers on both my index finger and middle finger and couldn't immediately tell whether the 6 or 7 felt right. My tip: don't force a decision on the first try. I waited a few days and tried both again. The 6 ended up feeling too tight, and the 7 felt comfortable enough to sleep in, which is the only thing that really matters since you wear this ring every single night. If you're between sizes, go with the one you'd actually want on your finger at 3am.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro: honest pros and cons

The sizing process itself is low-friction since the kit is free and covers every size. The fact that it matches the Ring Air sizing means returning wearers don't have to guess. The main friction point is that being between sizes isn't immediately obvious, and rushing that decision is easy to do. Give it more time than you think you need before committing.

Who should skip the Ultrahuman Ring Pro sizing kit?

If you already own a Ring Air and know your size fits well, you can probably skip the sizing step. If you've never worn an Ultrahuman ring before, don't skip it since finger sizing varies more than you'd expect between people. You can order the Ring Pro here and the sizing kit ships with it automatically. Use code CABPRO for a discount.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro sizing FAQ

Do I need the sizing kit if I already wear a Ring Air? Probably not. Ultrahuman says the sizing is the same, and my size 7 carried over exactly from the Ring Air to the Ring Pro.

Which finger should I size on? I tried both index and middle finger. Go with whichever finger you plan to actually wear it on daily, and test both sizes over a few days, not just once.

What if neither size feels perfect right away? That's normal. I didn't pick a size on my first try either. Wear each sizer for a day or two and see how you feel about it when you wake up, since sleep comfort is the real deciding factor.

Does Ultrahuman charge for the sizing kit? No, it's included free when you place your Ring Pro order.

Where can I see the full Ultrahuman Ring Pro unboxing? I linked it in the description of the video above, so check that out if you want the complete first look.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 Comments: 0

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UWANT D600 Honest Review - What Nobody Tells You Before Buying

UWANT D600 Honest Review - What Nobody Tells You Before Buying

Click below to see the video:


Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

UWANT D600 Review: Does This Wet Dry Vacuum Smell?

No, it didn't. I let the UWANT D600 wet dry vacuum sit for a few days between uses, smelled it later, and got nothing. I'd point it at people who already have a robot vacuum and want something for real spills and deeper cleans.

I filmed the whole test, the spills, the tank and the base, so you can see it for yourself.

What is the UWANT D600?

It's a wet dry vacuum that vacuums and mops in one pass, and it comes with a self cleaning base station. It costs $300.

UWANT sent it over to try, but I tested it however I wanted, so this is my own take.

Why would I need a wet dry vacuum if I have a robot vacuum?

My robot vacuum and mop handles my day to day cleaning, but it's not built for an actual spill or a deep clean. That's the gap I wanted to fill.

I've also tried all in one machines before that ended up worse at both jobs than separate tools, so I went in skeptical.

Does the UWANT D600 smell?

Not in my test. With most wet dry vacuums the suction is fine, it's the water tank and the roller that start smelling like mildew after a few uses unless you clean them obsessively every time.

So I didn't test it once and call it a day. I let it sit for a few days between uses, because that's how I'd realistically use it, and when I smelled it days later there was no smell.

How does the self cleaning base work?

It runs hot water through the roller and then does a hot air dry. UWANT says that combo sanitizes the roller and cuts down on odor causing bacteria.

The base has a push in design, so you just shove the machine in without lining anything up. It also lights up in different colors depending on the stage, which is a little gimmicky, but it does make it obvious when it's done.

Does the UWANT D600 fit under furniture?

Yes, it got under both my couch and my bed. It's built low profile, and honestly most wet dry vacuums I've used can't do that.

Getting under my couch without moving furniture is a real thing that improved how I clean, not just a spec on the box.

How strong is the UWANT D600 suction?

It's rated at 23 kilopascals of suction, so about 3.3 pounds per square inch.

There are a few modes. It can adjust suction automatically depending on how dirty the floor is, or you can put it in max mode for something tougher.

UWANT D600 pros and cons

Pros: the one pass clean is huge for me, because I'm way more likely to clean my floors regularly if it's one step instead of two. It fits under my furniture, and there was no smell when I checked it days later.

Cons: the base has a voice prompt ("Start charging") that sounds like someone recorded it on their phone. The color lights are a bit gimmicky. And $300 is not nothing.

Is the UWANT D600 worth $300?

For me it's a deep clean tool, not a replacement for my everyday robot vacuum and mop. It comes down to whether saving that extra step every so often is worth $300 to you specifically.

If you want to compare models first, here are all the UWANT wet dry vacuums in one place.

Who should skip the UWANT D600?

If you just want one everyday floor cleaner and you're happy with your robot vacuum, I'd think hard about the price first.

If you deal with spills, low furniture, or wet dry vacuums that always end up smelling, it's worth a look.

UWANT D600 FAQ

Does the UWANT D600 smell after a few days? Not in my test. I let it sit for a few days between uses and it had no smell when I checked.

Can it replace a robot vacuum? Not for me. I use it for spills and deeper cleans and keep my robot for everyday cleaning.

Does it fit under a bed or couch? It got under both of mine because it's built low profile.

Do I have to line it up on the base? No, the base has a push in design, so you just shove it in.

Want to see the spills and the smell test? Watch my full UWANT D600 review above, and grab it with my UWANT D600 link if you want to try it.

UWANT sent me the D600, and some links are affiliate links that may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Friday, October 23, 2026 Comments: 0

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I Returned the iPhone 18 Pro Max. Here's Why.

I Returned the iPhone 18 Pro Max. Here's Why.

Click below to see the video:


Links to everything I mentioned are available here: [link].

iPhone 18 Pro Max Review: Why I Returned It After 2 Weeks

I bought the iPhone 18 Pro Max and the regular iPhone 18 Pro with my own money, used both for over two weeks, and returned the Max. It's a great phone for people who use two hands, but for one-handed texting, filming, and using it in bed, the size and weight were too much for me. I kept the iPhone 18 Pro instead.

I made a full video walking through every reason, with real comparisons and weights.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max too big for one-handed use?

For me, yes. Texting with one hand on the Pro Max was one of the main reasons I returned it. The width is what matters most for one-handed use because the wider the phone, the farther your thumb has to reach. A spec sheet can't tell you that. I'd honestly recommend holding one in a store before buying.

How heavy is the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

The iPhone 18 Pro Max weighs 249 grams (about 8.8 ounces). That's 62 grams more than my iPhone 15 Pro at 187 grams. 62 grams doesn't sound like much, but you hold a phone all day, so that extra weight adds up every time you pick it up.

For filming, the weight was a real problem. I shoot a lot of video for my YouTube channel, which means holding my phone up for a long time. A weight you barely notice for 10 seconds gets harder the longer your arm stays out.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max battery worth the extra $100?

Not in my experience. I was really hoping the battery on the Pro Max would be significantly better, but it was only slightly better than the regular Pro. And the battery on my iPhone 18 Pro is already so good that the small difference wasn't worth the extra cost for me.

Instead of paying $100 more for a slightly bigger battery, I'd just get a small Anker Nano power bank. I haven't needed it with my 18 Pro, but with my old 15 Pro it was a lifesaver.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max comfortable in bed?

Not for me. When you're holding a phone up over your face while lying down, the width and the weight are exactly what you notice. The Pro Max was too big and too heavy for that.

iPhone 18 Pro Max accessory problems

Here's something nobody really talks about. The iPhone 18 Pro Max doesn't work great with accessories made for the regular Pro size. My mini tripods, my MagSafe kickstand holder, and my ULANZI suction mount were all designed for the regular size. The Max is just too big for them.

Who should buy the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

It makes sense if you already hold your phone with two hands, or you prop it up on a desk or a stand and you want the biggest screen in the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. But if you text with one hand a lot, film while holding your phone, or use it in bed every night, the Max is probably going to bother you the way it bothered me.

iPhone 18 Pro Max FAQ

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max worth $1,299?
It starts at $1,299 with 256 gigabytes. Since I couldn't use it comfortably for the three things I do most (texting, filming, using it in bed), it wasn't worth that price for me and I returned it.

Did I keep the iPhone 18 Pro Max?
No. I returned the Pro Max after more than two weeks and kept the regular iPhone 18 Pro.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max too heavy for filming?
At 249 grams, it was too heavy for me to hold up while filming for extended periods. If you film with your phone a lot, this matters.

Should I get the iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max?
If you use your phone with one hand, I'd go with the regular Pro. If you use two hands or mostly use your phone on a stand, the Max could work for you. Try both in a store if you can.

Watch the full video above for all my real-world testing, weight comparisons, and the full breakdown of why I made my choice.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Comments: 0

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