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?💸

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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?

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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.

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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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Ultrahuman Ring Pro Unboxing: Charging Case, Battery + Size vs Ring Air

Ultrahuman Ring Pro Unboxing: Charging Case, Battery + Size vs Ring Air

Click below to see the video:


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

Ultrahuman Ring Pro Review: Charging Case, Battery and First Impressions

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro is worth it if battery life and forgetting your charger are your biggest smart ring frustrations. After almost a week it was still at 66 percent, and the charging case with its own battery comes in the box. The tradeoff is size, because it's noticeably bigger than the Ring Air.

I once forgot my Oura charger on a week-long trip, so I really wanted to see if a ring that charges from its own case could fix that. I unboxed it and compared it to my Ring Air and Oura Ring 4 in the video above.

[link].

How much is the Ultrahuman Ring Pro?

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

Right on the front of the box you can already see the ring and the new charging case, which was the part I was most curious about.

What's in the Ultrahuman Ring Pro box?

You get the ring, a magnetic charging case, and a braided USB-C cable for the case.

The case sits right on top in the inner box, which makes sense because it's the star of this upgrade.

How does the Ultrahuman Ring Pro charging case work?

The case has its own battery inside, so you can charge the ring a few times without plugging anything in. It's magnetic, and when you drop the ring in, it vibrates and plays a little sound so you know it's actually charging.

There's also a charging light on the front. After that trip where I forgot my Oura charger, honestly, this would have saved me.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro vs Oura: is there a subscription?

There's no subscription for the basics, which is huge for me. With Oura I pay $6 every month, but here sleep, stress and heart rate are free.

There are some optional paid plugins, but you don't need them. And with Oura, a charging case like this is another $100, while Ultrahuman just includes it.

How long does the Ultrahuman Ring Pro battery last?

Ultrahuman says up to 15 days, and mine was still at 66 percent after almost a week. That's a huge upgrade for me.

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

Inside there's also 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 vs Ring Air: is it bigger?

Yes, it's definitely bigger than my 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.

Ultrahuman Ring Pro pros and cons

Pros: way better battery than my Ring Air, a charging case with its own battery included, a vibration and sound when charging starts, no required subscription, and up to 250 days of storage.

Cons: it's bulkier than the Ring Air, and $479 is a lot up front.

Who should skip the Ultrahuman Ring Pro?

Skip it if you want the slimmest ring possible, since the size is the first thing I noticed.

If your current ring's battery already works for you and you never travel without your charger, the upgrade matters a lot less.

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.

Is the charging case included?
Yes, it comes in the box, along with a braided USB-C cable to charge the case.

How does the battery compare to Oura Ring 4?
My Oura usually lasts Monday to Friday, while the Ring Pro was still at 66 percent after almost a week.

Is it uncomfortable because of the size?
It's bigger than the Ring Air, but I stopped noticing it after a while.

Watch my Ultrahuman Ring Pro unboxing

Watch the full video above to see the case, the colors and the ring next to my Oura Ring 4.

I've also worn the Ring Pro for a whole month next to my Oura, so check out my full review to see how the battery and case held up.

This post contains affiliate links and a discount code, and I may earn a commission if you buy through them.

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Comments: 0

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Waterdrop X12 Review: Tankless Reverse Osmosis in a Rental (Full Cost Breakdown)

Waterdrop X12 Review: Tankless Reverse Osmosis in a Rental (Full Cost Breakdown)

Click below to see the video:


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

Waterdrop X12 Review: Is This Tankless Reverse Osmosis System Worth It in a Rental?

For years I was that person buying cases of bottled water every single week, carrying them up to my apartment, hating every second of it. I hated the plastic waste. I hated paying for water. And honestly, I hated the taste. Bottled water always tasted like the bottle to me, that faint plastic flavor that just never goes away.

So back in 2021, I finally bought a reverse osmosis system with my own money. The most popular one everyone recommends. It was fine at first, but the tank was massive. It took up my entire under-sink cabinet. Then after a few months, the water pressure dropped and my plumber told me I needed to replace the tank. That was when I switched to a tankless system from Waterdrop, the G3 P600, and it fixed everything. No tank, no pressure problems, and I got my cabinet space back.

Fast forward to now, and I just upgraded to the Waterdrop X12, their 11-stage tankless reverse osmosis system. This is the thing nobody tells you about filtered water: once you start paying attention, you can't stop. It's not just drinking water. It's your coffee, the ice in your freezer (which is where you really taste it), the pot you boil pasta in. It's in everything, all day. And most people are running all of that through whatever comes out of the tap, then wondering why their coffee tastes a little off.

Can You Install an RO System in a Rental Apartment?

Yes. That was my whole hesitation for way too long. I'm renting my apartment and I always assumed you couldn't install something like this without ripping out plumbing. Turns out it's not like that at all. The entire install happens under the sink. You shut off the cold water supply, thread on the feed water adapter (hand tight, then a little turn with a wrench), attach the drain saddle to the drain pipe, and connect the tubing. The tubing is the part I actually like because it's all push-to-connect. The tube goes in until it stops, little tug to make sure it's seated, that's it. No glue, no threading, no plumber. It's all color-coded so you're just matching tube to port.

The Smart Faucet Situation

The X12 comes with its own smart digital faucet that has TDS monitoring and preset dispensing, and it's genuinely nice. But since I'm renting, I already have an RO faucet mounted in my counter that I bought separately. I just connected the X12 to that one and left my counter alone. If you own your place, put in their faucet. If you're renting like me, this workaround works fine.

How Fast Is the Waterdrop X12?

It fills an 8-ounce cup (about 240 milliliters) in roughly four and a half seconds. I know a number like that means nothing until you live with it. So here's what it actually feels like: there's no waiting. You don't stand there. You don't hear a tank refilling. You barely have time to look away and it's full. The capacity is 1,200 gallons a day (about 4,500 liters), rated for a household of six to eight people. I'm nowhere near that, but what it means in practice is it never runs out and it never slows down. Fill a big pot and the next glass is exactly the same.

Does Tankless RO Water Actually Taste Different?

Yes. The X12 is an alkaline system, so after it strips everything out, it adds back calcium and magnesium. You can taste it. Straight RO water can taste kind of flat, almost like nothing. This tastes smooth, rounder. I don't know how else to describe it. My coffee is better. That was the thing that surprised me most. The coffee is the thing that surprised me the most, and I didn't change beans or anything. Just the water.

Water-to-Waste Ratio

This is the spec I actually respect the most here. Most RO systems are around 2:1, so two cups of pure water for every cup that goes down the drain. The X12 is 3:1. Three cups pure for one wasted. That means to make about three gallons (11 liters) of filtered water, you're sending one gallon (3.8 liters) down the drain instead of a gallon and a half (5.7 liters). That always bothered me about reverse osmosis, throwing water away to make water. This is a real improvement on that, and in LA especially, that matters to me.

Waterdrop X12 Filter Replacement Cost Breakdown

Everybody skips this part, so here are the real numbers. There are three filters and they run on different schedules. The carbon filter is about $30, replaced twice a year. The mineral filter is about $33, replaced once a year. The RO membrane is the expensive one, around $160, but it lasts two full years. Averaged out, you're looking at somewhere around $170 a year. Less if you subscribe. Yes, that's a recurring cost, but that's true of every RO system, not just this one. It sounds like a lot until you think about what a case of bottled water costs every week.

Filter changes take about three seconds. Twist, pull, push, done. No shutting off the water. No tools. No mess.

Two Things to Check Before You Buy

It's still a box under your sink. Tankless is so much smaller than a tank system, but measure your cabinet before you order. Especially if you have a garbage disposal taking up space. And it needs an outlet under the sink. Mine has one. A lot of older apartments don't. Those are just the things I'd want somebody to tell me.

Final Thoughts

No tank. No waiting. Less waste. And water that actually tastes like something. That's the whole thing. The link to the Waterdrop X12 is here (link) and also in the description of my video, and there's a sale coming so check there for the discount before you buy.

This video was sponsored by Waterdrop, but I've been using their systems since January of last year (bought the first one myself off Amazon). Some links may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Everything shared here is my personal experience and not professional plumbing or health advice.

Thursday, October 1, 2026 Comments: 0

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LEVEL8 Voyageur Carry-On Review | Is the Wide Handle Actually Better?

LEVEL8 Voyageur Carry-On Review | Is the Wide Handle Actually Better?

Click below to see the video:


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

LEVEL8 Voyageur Carry-On Review: Is the Wide Handle Actually Worth It?

Every suitcase I have ever owned has the same thing going on inside it. Two bumps running right down the middle of the packing space, from the handle bars. You do not really notice them until you are kneeling on a hotel bed trying to get a pair of jeans to lay flat over a speed bump. So you stuff socks in there, or you accept you lost that space, and that is just luggage.

The LEVEL8 Voyageur Carry-On 20 inch does not do that, and after testing it I have thoughts. It is $259.99, and there is one real catch I want to get to.

What Makes the Wide Handle Different

The handle bars are pushed all the way out to the sides of the bag instead of running down the center. Two things come out of that. Your packing surface is completely flat, which is the part I actually care about. And the handle itself is noticeably sturdier, because when you push it you are pushing the whole width of the bag rather than one skinny post in the middle dragging the suitcase along behind it. It just goes straight.

Size, Weight and Build

It is 43 liters, which is about 11 gallons, and that is three liters more than a standard 20 inch carry-on purely because nothing is being wasted on handle grooves. Three liters is a pair of shoes. It weighs 3.7 kilos, so about 8 pounds, light enough that you are not fighting it into an overhead bin. The shell is German polycarbonate with a micro diamond finish, so it is textured rather than glossy, and textured shells scratch way less obviously. A shiny shell looks beat up after one trip. It has 360 spinner wheels that are genuinely quiet, a TSA lock and YKK zippers.

Inside the Bag

Both sides are covered, so nothing falls out when you open it on a hotel bed. One side has a wet dry pocket, which matters more than you think if you have ever packed a damp swimsuit at 6am. The other side is a zipped mesh compartment with a Y-strap, so you clip it, pull it tight, and a puffy jacket goes flat. Because both sides zip shut you can stand the whole thing wide open in an airport and nothing spills out.

The One Thing I Do Not Love

A wide handle means no trolley sleeve. If you are someone who slides a personal item over the handle at the airport, and I am that person, you cannot do that with this bag. That is the trade. Flat packing space and the sturdiest handle I have used, or your tote riding on top. It also does not expand, which for me is fine, but you should know going in.

Who This Is For

If you pack in cubes and you care about everything laying flat, this is an easy yes. There is also a Voyageur two piece set if you want the carry-on and a checked bag together, which works out cheaper than buying them separately. If your airport routine depends on stacking a tote on top of your carry-on, look at a regular handle bag instead. I have reviewed a few of those, including the Monos Hybrid Carry-On and the MVST Select Space Series Carry On, and both have traditional trolley handles. If you want something to carry alongside it, the Luka Expandable Laptop Tote is what I have been using as a personal item.

LEVEL8 sponsored this review and sent me the bag, but the opinions here are mine and I tested it on my own terms. Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you buy through them at no extra cost to you.

Wednesday, September 30, 2026 Comments: 0

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