ChromeOS has always had a bad reputation for being a glorified browser. And over the years, Google has tried to convince the tech world otherwise. 

Take the Chromebook pixel line as an example. 

Google’s Chromebook Pixels (2013 and 2015) have had more powerful intel processors than their competitors. The 2015 version took that a step further with an i7 variant that outperformed the Celeron Chromebooks by other manufacturers. 

The 2017 Google Pixelbook 12in is an upgrade to the 2015 Chromebook Pixel. But before we get to the spec sheet, here’s something about Chromebooks first.

What are Chromebooks and ChromeOS?

Chromebooks feature ChromeOS, a light-weight operating system made for web-based applications. These devices boot significantly faster and take less space, making them perfect for browsing and lenient tasks. 

The original intent for ChromeOS and Chromebooks was to be the cheaper alternative to laptops. With devices like the Google Pixelbook 12in, this is changing rapidly.

These 2-in-1 devices are getting better hardware and increasingly smoother software, making them more expensive. This change ponders the question, why even use a Chromebook?

Benefits of Using a Chromebook

Chromebooks miss out on functionality benefits like gaming and multimedia editing. You’ll also miss some of the Windows apps and be on a constant search for alternatives. 

Nonetheless, here are a few things that Chromebooks are good at:

• Quick boots and in-general faster operations
• Integration with Google Workspace
• Cheaper and great for office use
• Better collaboration and higher security than Windows because of cloud-based functioning
• Good battery life

If you want a device that takes care of all things browsing there’s no need for you to spend more than a few hundred bucks.

A Chromebook also acts like your tablet whenever you need to watch Netflix or play some light games. 

Being cheap also makes these devices great for educational use. Students can do pretty much all of their tasks. Like writing notes and assignments, making presentations, and multimedia consumption. 

So, does all of this apply to the Google Pixelbook i7? Let’s find out.

All About the Google Pixelbook i7 – Features, Specifications, & More

The Google Pixelbook i7 is somewhat of a different beast, which isn’t always a good thing. The cheapest option costs $999, and the highest variant for $1,500. 

Now that’s one expensive Chromebook. As you’d expect, the Google Pixelbook 12in does everything a cheaper alternative would, but faster and better. 

Being Google’s own child, the Pixelbook also gets more attention than other devices. 

Google Pixelbook i7 – Features & All the Good Stuff

The Pixelbook has some smart features if it’s part of the ecosystem. Like unlocking the device with your phone’s fingerprint sensor, and automatic tethering from mobile data.

The Google Pixelbook 12in has great hardware too! The hinges are all solid and support 360° tilting. The keyboard is good enough for long typing hours, and the keyboard support’s smooth finish is wonderful. 

The design is sleek and unique, just like the Pixel phones. The front side leaves a bit to be desired with unusually thicker bezels (even more than the Chromebook Pixel 2015)! Although, the beautiful display makes up for it.

The 7th gen kaby-lake processor makes the device one of the fastest Chromebooks ever. Along with that, an SSD makes everything just that much faster. 

Google Pixelbook i7 – Specifications

The Google Pixelbook i7 (12in) has one of the best spec sheets in the Chromebook market.

Google Pixelbook i7 – The Pros & Cons

For the most part, Google Pixelbook i7 is a great Chromebook. In fact, you can easily put it amongst the best. 

However, the best Chromebook is still sometimes worse than a great tablet or a great laptop. So, most of the cons we’ll discuss are greatly influenced by the Pixelbook’s nature itself. 

The Pros

• The Pixelbook is sturdy and has decent build quality
• Software stays up-to-date with frequent changes by Google to make it better
• Google integrations make life easier and smarter with lots of cool features
• Extremely fast and smooth for a Chromebook
• Bult-in Google Assistant button for easier access and usage
• Plenty of Android Apps 

The Cons 

• No Microsoft Office or any Windows apps
• ChromeOS has a moderately difficult learning curve coming from a Mac or Windows PC
• While tilting 360°, holding the Pixelbook becomes awkward when you keep hitting the keyboard (inactive while tilted)
• Compatibility issues with quite a few Android apps
• Very less gaming capability

Comparing the Google Pixelbook i7 with Other Alternatives

When it comes to Chromebook alternatives, we’d suggest going for cheaper ones. After all, a Chromebook’s purpose is lightweight browser usage and office work.

However, the Pixelbook doesn’t just compete with other Chromebooks. You can get a Macbook Air, Microsoft Surface Laptop, or an iPad, all for around the same price.

As Marques from MKBHD put it in his video, “2-in-1s are usually worse at being a tablet than an actual tablet. And, they’re also worse at being a laptop than an actual laptop.” This also applies to the Google Pixelbook 12in. 

But, if you’re only looking for one device that does both, there isn’t any better option than the Pixelbook. 

Getting Past the ChromeOS on the Google Pixelbook i7

As I said earlier, a lot of things wrong with the Pixelbook are because of ChromeOS. But, there are ways to go around it.

You’ll be glad to hear that the Pixelbook has access to fully functional Debian Linux. Although its stability remains questionable.

If you’re willing to risk it, there is a way to install Ubuntu alongside ChromeOS. It won’t be as unstable as Linux, but there are some minor bugs you’ll have to deal with. 

As it is, ChromeOS does fine for programming work. But, installing these OS could make it a better experience.

Our Final Word

To sum it up, the Google Pixelbook i7 is a top dog instead of a game-changer in the Chromebook Market!

For the price of one big grand, you need to think your needs through. Regardless, we can still see the Pixelbook get a fair share of its fans.

And, for a good reason!

Also Read : Understanding the Importance of IoT (Internet of Things) : Pros, Cons, and Opinions

The post Google Pixelbook i7 – Bringing New Life to ChromeOS? appeared first on Tech Research Online.

Be it on plains, on the top of the mountains, or maybe in the middle of an ocean. There is always that one guy with a drone and if you want to be that guy, keep reading!  

We are sure that you have browsed through hundreds of options looking for the best drone that fits your pocket before landing here. But we can assure you that you have landed in the right place and this is where your search will end.   

Now, all you need to do is to go through a list that we have complied of “Best Flying Drones in 2021.” Here, you will find affordable premium flying machines with a detailed buying guide. You can pick the one that works the best for you, feature, money, and skill-wise.   

Without wasting more time, let’s get to the list of the best drone in 2021:  

1. DJI Air 2S Flying Drones

DJI Air 2S is a superb combination of the best features of the Mavic Air 2 and Mavic 2 Pro, our favorite DJI drones. The drones offer a compact design of the former and the 20MP 1-Inch sensor found in the latter. The combination makes the Air 2S our top choice for both pros and hobbyists who are looking for an easy-to-carry drone.  

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 20MP  
• Flight time: 31 minutes  
• Range: 8km-12km  
• Weight: 595g  
• Controller: Yes   

REASONS TO BUY: Small and lightweight along with a Large 1-Inch sensor  

REASONS TO AVOID: Controller is not foldable and has no adjustable aperture   

This does deliver several advantages over its predecessor such as the ability to shoot 5.4K video at 30fps, the ability to shoot 1080p at 120fps, along with some impressive high ISO performance.   

The flying drone gives you both extra creative flexibility and digital zoom supports to give you an all-around flying machine experience.  

2. DJI Mavic Air 2 

Previously, the Mavic Air 2 was our top competitor but it has been nudged out of the limelight by the DJI Air 2S. Despite this, this flying drone shouldn’t necessarily be looked at as an option, this is mostly because it’s more affordable than the latter and will suit you better if you don’t need the larger 1-Inch sensor.   

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 12MP  
• Battery size: 3,950 mAh  
• Weight: 570g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 10km  

REASONS TO BUY: Very easy to fly, Strong 34-minute battery life, and shoots great 4K/60p video  

REASONS TO AVOID: No screen on the controller and camera feed sometimes stutters  

Besides, the flying drone still shoots 4K/60p video, has a comparable maximum 10km range, and boasts an impressive 34-minute flight time. However, we will suggest you stretch to the Air 2S if you can primarily because of its larger sensor and useful digital zoom.   

All in all, the Mavic Air 2 has proved itself a great value option that is worth considering while making a choice that is well worth considering.  

3. DJI Mini 2 

The Mini 2, which is the successor of the DJI Mavic Mini, has the same ultra-compact design as before but comes along with a new controller to delivers a more polished flying experience and boosts its range (thanks to Ocusync 2.0 connectivity).  

One of our few complaints about DJI Mavic Mini was that it couldn’t shoot a 4K video, However, its successor solves that issue and gives us a few extra treats.   

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 12MP  
• Battery size: 2,250 mAh  
• Weight: 249g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 5.8 GHz: 10km (FCC); 6km (SRRC)  

REASONS TO BUY: Impressive battery life, incredibly compact size, simple controls, and app  

REASONS TO AVOID: Pricier than Mavic Mini and no ‘follow me’ mode Pricier than Mavic Mini  

Similar to the Mavic Mini, this flying machine is packed with a selection QuickShot modes which are beginner-friendly and make sure that the drone performs pre-programmed moves.   

But that is not it, the Mini 2 also offers more for pro snappers with its inclusion of raw photo shooting. While the Mini 2 isn’t a very big step up from the Mavic Mini, but it’s one of the best compact drones out there.   

4. DJI Mavic 2 Pro 

While the DJI Air 2S did overshadows the older Mavic 2 Pro, but there is no say on how much longer the Mavic 2 Pro will be around?   

New rumors of the successor of the Mavic 2 Pro have already begun to surface. They say that the DJI Mavic 3 Pro (or perhaps the DJI Pro 3) will succeed later this year.   

The new flagship will likely ship with a new sensor which will set a new benchmark for folding drones. However, there is no confirmed release date. At least for the time being, the Mavic 2 Pro remains a top drone in DJI’s flying line-up.  

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDES:  

• Camera resolution: 20MP  
• Flight time: 3,950 mAh  
• Weight: 907g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 8km  

REASONS TO BUY: Advanced yet easy to fly, excellent foldable design, and one-inch 20MP sensor  

REASONS TO AVOID: No portrait shooting option and noise can be a problem above ISO 100  

While the Mavic 2 Pro delivers outstanding image quality with its 20MP 1-inch sensor, this flying drone offers better value in a smaller package. The flying machine offers raw support for pro-level images along with an adjustable aperture for in-flight f-stop tweaks. This is a real bonus for all the users who prefer manual control exposure.  

5. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom 

Apart from one crucial difference, the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is quite identical to the Mavic 2 Pro, its camera system. Both the flying machines are incredibly portable and share the same lightweight foldable design.   

The drone offers a range of high-spec features such as the Zoom pairs a smaller 12MP sensor with a 24-48mm optical zoom lens. This feature enables the users to capture close-up shots while maintaining a safe and legal distance.  

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 12MP  
• Battery size: 3,950 mAh  
• Weight: 905g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 8km  

REASONS TO BUY: 24-48mm optical zoom lens and easy to fly and intuitive to control  

REASONS TO AVOID: Noise is a problem above ISO 100 and a small 12MP sensor  

However, the image quality of the smaller sensor doesn’t quite match the quality of the Mavic 2 Pro, but photos and videos are still better for professional use.   

The boon is that the zoom lens can unlock creative shooting potential. Distortion is minimal, the range is good, and control is intuitive. On top of that, it offers all of the intelligent flight modes including Active Track and Hyperlapse.   

To sum it up, if you are someone who wants a drone with zoom, this one is for you.  

6. Ryze Tello 

newegg.com

Ryze Tello can be defined as simple, lightweight, and affordable. It is designed to be a fun drone for beginners and first-time flyers. The flying drone offers plenty of features such as 13 minutes of reasonable flight time along with a handful of automated tricks despite its budget price tag.  

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 5MP  
• Flight time: 13 minutes  
• Weight: 80g  
• Controller: Optional   
• Range: 100m  

REASONS TO BUY: Lightweight and compact and responsive flight controls  

REASONS TO AVOID: Unstable in the wind and choppy video transmission   

The nose-mounted camera offers less impressive image quality with limited dynamic range and compression when streaming 720p HD video. Besides, the frame rate is affected by any drop in connection strength as video is beamed directly to your smartphone.  

That said, the drone’s app is straightforward with an on-screen twin-stick setup. The theoretical range given by the company is 100m, but 30-40m is more realistic. 

To sum it up, Ryze Tello is a fun drone to fly on a calm day, reacting nimbly to intuitive inputs and zipping along at a rapid chop. Despite its limited range. which is a bit restrictive, it’s the best starter drone around.  

7. PowerVisionPowerEgg X  

digitalcameraworld.com

PowerVision’s PowerEgg X is an aerial orb with a distinctive ability to fly in harsh conditions such as rain and land on lakes. While the quality of the image is affected due to its plastic waterproof housing, but being able to operate in tough conditions opens up an array of possibilities.  

The PowerEgg X can be deployed as a handheld camera and an autonomous AI camera with its versatile modular design. It can be mounted to a tripod and controlled with hand gestures.  

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDES:  

• Camera resolution: 12MP  
• Flight time: 3,800 mAh  
• Weight: 522g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 6km  

REASONS TO BUY: Converts into a handheld camera and can fly in rain and land on water  

REASONS TO AVOID: Lacks Raw video modes and image quality falls short of rivals   

On the flip-side, image quality isn’t great but it does produce decent 4K footage in bright conditions. But with its fixed aperture, it can’t compete with DJI’s Mavic drone’s fixed-focus 12MP 1/2.8-inch CMOS sensor. The drone also does not offer an option to record in Raw video formats.   

To sum it up, the PowerEgg X is one of the best options around for shooting, sharp video sequences in bad weather.  

8. Parrot Anafi 

dronelife.com

The Parrot Anafi is a lightweight, bug-like drone with the best photography chops that are among the most impressive. The drone can take direct photos with its 180 degrees camera of a vertical range which is a feat others can match.   

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 21MP  
• Battery size: 2700mAh  
• Weight: 3202g  
• Controller: Yes   

REASONS TO BUY: 180-degree vertical camera and 4K UHD video at 60fps  

REASONS TO AVOID: No obstacle avoidance   

The flying drone also offers a 2.8x zoomable lens with no image quality reduction. It is a particularly good choice for selfie fans.   

It offers a Follow Me mode which automatically adjusts for more photogenic angles by tracking your movements. Plus, its SmartDronies modes, such as Orbit, Boomerang, Parabola, and Tornado, allows it to fly in circles around you.   

However, we will not recommend it to first-time users due to its lack of obstacle avoidance.   

9. DJI Inspire 2 

dronerush.com

DJI Inspire 2 has soundly knocked its predecessor out of this list with a sleek metal composite bodywork upgrade. This flying beast is an impressive piece of kit. What’s more?  

The drone has advanced object avoidance technology. Hence, users don’t have to worry about the body accidentally getting scratched.   

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 30MP  
• Battery Size: 4280mAh  
• Weight: 3440g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 7 km  

REASONS TO BUY: Good battery life, amazing build quality, and plenty of features 

REASONS TO AVOID: Quite pricey   

The drone offers you more than 25 minutes of flight time with its twin-battery arrangement. It also offers you the ability to swap camera lenses which means that professional photographers and videographers will now have complete control over their creations.  

The drone kit is completed with a fully-featured smartphone app and a dedicated remote control, both of which make it incredibly easy to control. But make no mistake, this is a professional piece of kit and beginners should avoid it together.  

10. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 

gizmochina.com

DJI’s Phantom series took its drones to new heights. While the company’s Phantom 4 Pro V.20 isn’t the latest model, it remains the finest for professionals in need of something sturdy and reliable for harsh weather conditions.   

The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 was launched in 2018 and was a big upgrade on the Phantom 4. The upgrade bought vastly improved obstacle avoidance and intelligent flight modes. Its 20MP 1-inch sensor can also shoot 4K/60p video and impressive raw stills at 100Mbps in the D-log color profile.   

ITS SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:  

• Camera resolution: 20MP  
• Battery size: 6000mAh  
• Weight: 1375g  
• Controller: Yes   
• Range: 8km  

REASONS TO BUY: Sturdy and fast drone, large 1-inch 20MP sensor, and shoots 4K/60p video at 100Mbps  

REASONS TO AVOID: Pricier than Mavic 2 Pro, large and bulky, and more complex than foldable   

Of course, the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0’s size is as convenient as the foldable Mavic 2 Pro. But it brings a mechanical shutter and boasts a higher 4K frame rate.   

It’s certainly worth considering if shoot high-quality aerial stills and video in challenging weather with some excellent handling and 30 minutes of flight time which might be too much for the Mavic 2 Pro.  

Author Bio:

Shreeya Chourasia is an experienced B2B marketing/tech content writer, who is diligently committed for growing your online presence. Her writing doesn’t merely direct the audience to take action, rather it explains how to take action for promising outcomes.

 Read Also : Top 10 Longest flying Time Drones Review in 2022

The post Top 10 Best Flying Drones Review in 2021   appeared first on Tech Research Online.

The future is transforming. Our everyday life is changing with the advancements and technologies happening around us. We find things easier today. With the advancements of excellent and affordable Tech Gadgets, every industry has been revolutionizing.

With the advances in digital technologies, from artificial intelligence, and robotics to nanotechnology and virtual reality, there are several gadgets that we are supposed to know. The future lies in embracing emerging technologies.

With Wi-Fi and other network protocols, homes have turned into intelligent homes. In this blog, you will read about the topmost technical gadgets that will be in demand in 2021. From gaming gadgets, Healthcare devices, and Daily home appliances to camera equipment, there are many more innovations to be experienced.

Top Gadgets of 2021 

1. Amazon Smart Plug

Do you remember that day when you left a fan or AC unit running? Amazon Smart Plug would not let you get confused. This gadget is one cool gadget to look out for in 2021. With Amazon Smart Plug, you can control the lights, fans, TV, and other electronic devices with its voice control feature. If you have an Alexa-enabled device like Echo, Fire TV, Fire tablet, Sonos One, or even just the Alexa app on your phone, you can control other gadgets of your home.

If your tech gadgets are plugged into Amazon Smart Plug, you can open up your Alexa app and cut off the power. Smart plugs approximately use about 1-2 Watts of power. Therefore, your energy bill is measured in kilowatts per hour.

2. Moorebot Scout

Scout is the world’s first autonomous AI robot that can track, discover and explore your environment. Moorebot Scout is a home robot for intelligent monitoring.

The popular features of Moorebot Scout are:

• FHD camera with night vision
• 4WD Mecanum Omni-directional wheels
• Wifi-enabled IoT mode
• Encrypted data with high security,
• Voice control with Alexa and Google
• Video streaming Alexa or Google screen devices

Scout is an ideal assistant for home monitoring. The best thing about Scout is that it has no blind spot. Instead, the Moorebot robot functions as an autonomous surveillance camera on wheels. This tool is a product of AI technology.

3. Parrot’s new Anafi AI drone

Parrot is releasing a new drone, the Anafi AI, in 2021. This AI drone is the first to use 4G as a primary data link. Anafi can also use a Wi-Fi connection.

The drone features include a camera with:

• 48MP 1/2″ Quad Bayer sensor
• 24mm lens
• Fixed F2.0 aperture
• 73º FOV affixed to a 6-axis stabilized gimbal with +90º upward and -90º downward tilt
• 4K/60p footage at H.265 with HDR10

That Parrot Anafi has a WISeKey Secure Element. The user can permanently delete all data with a single click with the gadget. With the latest Artificial Intelligence applications and insights, there are several powerful, real-world applications created today.

4. Dusk: App-Enabled Electrochromic Bright Sunglasses

Another innovation of 2021 is app-enabled electrochromic intelligent sunglasses. The app-enabled electrochromic bright sunglasses include open ear audio for music and a built-in mic for calls. This electrochromic glass can be used in high-end houses and offices for some time.

It is based on a timeless Wayfarer design. They are IP65 waterproof and have onboard tactile controls for adjusting the tint without a phone.

The built-in speakers of the sunglasses deliver crystal clear sound with bass. It is also perfect for driving, walking, or running. It has a premium matte finish and has all the technical advancements in it. It is waterproof and has only 26g.

There are two different Dusk glasses, including Dusk and Dusk Lite, with app-enabled, waterproof, and dustproof. However, dusk Lite has no built-in audio, built-in microphone, and voice assistance.

5. Reevo: The Hubless E-bike

The latest Reevo e-bike is hubless. The hubless cycle rolling down the street not only looks great but is filled with features. The bike has 750 watts of power, 500 watt-hours of battery, much gadgetry, and a pair of hubless wheels.

The features of the e-bike include a built-in wheel lock, fingerprint sensor, anti-theft sensors, and GPS tracking to protect your investment. The LED lighting to the front and rear wheels can turn themselves on automatically when the light gets low.

It has an integrated automatic lock housed within the frame, out of reach from bolt cutters. The integrated GPS with motion detection feature helps the user know where REEVO is. 

6. Oculus Quest 2

Oculus Quest has revolutionized wireless VR. Quest 2 is a suite of innovations of new VR games. Quest 2 is designed to enhance fit and comfort. It has customizable head straps and facial interface add-ons. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and Powerful to experience virtual reality.

The Quest 2 version has simple graphics and an emphasis on physical movement. The software runs on a desktop computer when connected over USB or Wi-Fi.

7. Insta360 GO

Insta360 GO is the world’s smallest hands-free action camera. It weighs about 6x lighter than the old action camera. It has the same sized image sensor and fits perfectly on your shirt where you can travel, swim or even play by attaching the camera to you. The features of this camera include:

• FlowState Stabilization
• Hands-Free
• Mount Anywhere
• 1440p 50fps
• Waterproof to 4m (13ft)
• Auto Editing
• Hyperlapse
• Slow Motion
• Remote Control
• WiFi Preview

8. Apple AirTag

Do you forget your wallet, keys, or anything often? If yes, here is Apple AirTag– a constant reminder for you. AirTag is the easiest way to keep track of your things. Once you attach your keys, backpack, or anything with AirTag, you can find it easily. On your radar in the Find My app, you can track down your Apple devices.

How does an AirTag work? First, your airbag sends out a secure Bluetooth signal. Then, devices in the Find My network can detect the signal. Do not worry; this protects your privacy and is encrypted. The battery life or data usage is also efficient in the Apple AirTag.

The Features of Apple AirTag are:

• 32mm diameter, 6mm thickness (TBC)
• IP67 protection
• User-removable CR2032 battery
• Personalization available
• Find My app tracking
• Precision Finding
• Ask Siri to find
• Seamless setup

Conclusion:

There are many more cool and affordable Tech gadgets to look at this year. Artificial Intelligence-powered technological Gadgets are highly in demand and on the rise. Technology makes life better and much easier today. So why wait? Which gadget do you prefer to buy in 2021?

Read Also : 7 Futuristic Tech Gadgets in 2022 that Left will Make You Speechless!

Author Bio: 

Jon Baleva is an IT professional with 20 years of experience in programming and networking. He has trained professionals and students in IT Programming courses. He is also a writer who writes on tech-related topics for various tech magazines in the Philippines. He is now an IT Trainer with Edoxi Training Institute, Dubai.

The post 8 Cool and Affordable Tech Gadgets To Look Out in 2021 appeared first on Tech Research Online.