Video Review: DODOcase BOOKback for the iPad 2
I've finished my video review of the DODOcase BOOKback skin for the iPad 2 and it's now available on my YouTube channel:
This skin costs $19.95 plus shipping directly from DODOcase. It covers the rear of the iPad to protect it from scratches while still allowing you to use a screen cover like Apple's own Smart Cover.
Overall, I really like the BOOKback and it's a keeper for me. It adds good grip to a naked iPad, protects the back from scratches, and is an ideal companion for the Smart Cover if you're interested in maintaining the iPad 2's thin profile and don't need any drop protection. Watch my review to get my full list of pros and cons.
Next up on my review schedule is a Treegloo case for my iPad 2. Treegloo makes hardcover book-style cases for the iPad much like those sold by DODOcase and Portenzo. However, Treegloo offers some unique customization options not available through other companies, like custom images on the inside cover, suede lining for the wood frame that holds the iPad, and more. I chose a standard black exterior, the London Underground map for the interior, red suede lining for the wood frame, and a new closure called the Kinetic Latch. It's scheduled to arrive this week and I'm already far too excited to receive it.
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Review: Gazelle Gadget Recycling Service
I almost always sell my old gadgets to upgrade to new ones and going from the iPad 1 to the iPad 2 was no different. I usually sell my old gadgets online through eBay, Craigslist, or the forums at MacRumors and everythingiCafe. However, I saw that nearly all of these venues were flooded with first-generation iPads for sale as most people seemed to have the same idea as me to get funds to put toward the new iPad. So, I decided to try something different.
The one podcast I listen to regularly (aside from the everythingiCafe podcast I do with Chris every week, of course) is Leo Laporte's MacBreak Weekly. Gazelle, an electronics recycling service, has been a sponsor of that podcast and since I generally trust that Leo would not lead his listeners to an organization that scams customers, I decided I would go through Gazelle to sell my iPad 1.
Gazelle either resells or recycles the gadgets they buy from customers. To get a feel for what Gazelle does with electronics that are still usable and in good condition, you can see their eBay store here.
The very first thing you need to do with Gazelle is submit information about the gadget you'd like them to buy from you. All I did was enter 'iPad' into the search bar on their site and I was given a list of models from which to choose. I chose the 64GB Wi-Fi + 3G model that I had and then I needed to answer a few questions about its accessories and overall condition. It was in flawless condition with no scratches or other marks thanks to a screen protector and the many cases I had for it. After submitting this information, Gazelle gives you a quote on how much they will pay for the item if you accept their offer and send it to them within 30 days (and they verify that the item's condition matches what you described).
Now, I will admit I got a little lucky here. I did all of this right on the day after the iPad 2 went on sale and Gazelle offered me $530 plus a $26 bonus (from promo code 'ipadtoday' that I heard in one of Leo's podcasts) for my iPad in flawless condition. Prices can change daily and Gazelle apparently got an influx of first-generation iPads soon after the release of the iPad 2 and the offer price for an iPad 1 in the same condition went down to around $300 on Monday. As I write this post, Gazelle is now offering $328 for the 64GB 3G + WiFi iPad 1. I'm not sure if the promo code I used still works but you're welcome to try it if you'd like.
So, lesson number 1 with Gazelle: timing is key. If you're looking to upgrade to a new version of a gadget, it's best to do so before or right after the new version becomes available to ensure you get the best price, in general. If you wait until everyone and their mother is also selling theirs, the laws of demand and supply dictate that you probably won't get as much money for it. Of course, this is only a general rule – if you're selling something that's very rare and expensive, timing may not be much of an issue for you.
To accept Gazelle's offer, I had to create an account on their site, which was free, and provide my address and other information. This part was easy and all done on my new iPad 2. Gazelle also provided me with a prepaid shipping label, which I printed out later that day. I restored my iPad as a new device to remove all of my information from it, cleaned it thoroughly, and then packed it up carefully in its original box inside another larger box filled with packing peanuts. I dropped it off at a local FedEx office first thing on Monday, March 14.
A few days later, I checked my Gazelle account online to see if they'd received it. I saw that my iPad had indeed arrived and been checked in and was waiting to be inspected next. The next day, March 17, I received an email indicating that they'd inspected my iPad and that everything "checked out" and that they were giving me the full amount promised in their online quote. The email indicated I would receive payment within 3 to 5 days.
Gazelle offers multiple payment methods, including check, Walmart Pre-paid Visa, Amazon.com gift card, or PayPal. I had chosen PayPal during the registration process. On Saturday, March 19, I received an email letting me know that Gazelle had submitted payment to me via PayPal as promised.
And that was it! The entire transaction was completed in less than a week and I didn't need to worry about a Nigerian scammer trying to buy my iPad through eBay or haggling with a stranger in a dark corner at a local coffee shop. Overall, I found my experience with Gazelle to be quick and painless and I'd definitely use them again.
Now, I have heard that others have not had good experiences with Gazelle. I don't think any company is perfect and I'm sure Gazelle isn't either. From what I've heard and seen online, they may not agree with the condition of the item once they receive it and inspect it themselves, or they may not return everything to you if you decline their offer in the end and they ship your item back to you. I can't speak to how often this happens based on this one experience I've had with them, but I would encourage anyone to be honest when you submit information about your gadget. And, don't send them anything extra that's not an accessory that must be included with the gadget you want them to buy.
Have you used Gazelle or another gadget recycling service? If so, how did it work out for you?
Review: Smart Cover for iPad 2
Mon, Mar 14 2011 05:13
| iPad, Accessories
| Permalink
So, I waited in line for about 4.5 hours on Friday to get an iPad 2. By the time I got to the front of the line, the Apple Store was out of the AT&T 3G models, which was pretty disappointing since I'd had my heart set ona 32GB 3G model. I almost left the line then but decided to stick it out since I'd already been there for several hours. At about 6:00 p.m. I walked out with a 64GB Wi-Fi only version in black.
Of course, I set it up as soon as I got home and started using it right away. Compared to the first-generation iPad, the iPad 2 is faster and lighter. I didn't think that the first iPad was slow before but there is a marked difference between it and the new iPad. And though the weight difference is slight between the two on paper, it is noticeable enough to make it easier for me to hold the iPad 2 for longer reading sessions, fortunately.
I also picked up one of Apple's Smart Covers when I bought the iPad 2 since I was intrigued by the demo video posted on Apple's site. At the last second, I opted for the black leather cover instead of the gray polyurethane one. Overall, I like the cover but I think it's expensive for what it offers. I recorded a video review of it yesterday:
iFixIt just took apart the Smart Cover and found 21 magnets (!) in it, along with 10 in the iPad 2 to work with those in the Smart Cover. I love Apple's level of attention to detail when it comes to product design.
Did you buy an iPad 2 and any accessories for it? How was your iPad 2 launch day experience?
The Apple store has opened!
Fri, Mar 11 2011 05:18
| Permalink
Just got in line for the iPad 2!
Fri, Mar 11 2011 01:39
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The iPad 2 is an Evil Temptress
First and foremost, I love my first-generation iPad. It's primarily my ebook reader and doubles as a very portable tool for browsing the web, checking my email, and slashing fruit with a virtual sword (not to mention killing those dastardly green pigs). This week Apple announced the second-generation iPad with a few new features and a slimmer design, though not with any particularly earth-shattering specs overall. Despite this, I'm probably going to upgrade even though I don't *need* the iPad 2.
Why am I going to upgrade? Well, I am an admitted Apple fangirl for one. But I'm particularly drawn to two things about the iPad 2: the thinner casing and the lighter weight.
My current iPad is a good little mostly-svelte workhorse but I do find it to be heavy for its primary purpose as an ebook reader for me. I do work out and lift weights so the iPad isn't unwieldy in a sheer physical sense for me but it's just not nearly as comfortable to hold for long periods of time as a Kindle. When I get sucked into a good book, I read for hours at a stretch, sometimes 8 or more hours in a row (which kills my weekend productivity, in case you were wondering).
(I've had a Kindle before and know first-hand that they are very good ereader devices. But I like the wider variety of things I can do with an iPad and prefer it over a single-purpose device like the Kindle. Of course, if I feel the burning need to use a Kindle instead, I can just borrow the one I got my husband for Christmas since he never really uses it anyway.)
At the media event, Steve Jobs said they'd shaved off about .2 lbs off the weight of the iPad 2 design. No, this doesn't sound like much at all but I'm willing to bet I'll notice it. While I'll be sorry to say goodbye to my absolute favorite Vaja Agenda 2 case for my first-generation iPad, I look forward to trying out Apple's new Smart Cover and other accessories as well.
Will you get the iPad 2?
If there's anyone out there interested in buying a flawless 64GB 3G iPad that comes with the box and all accessories, let me know. ;)
Temptation: Switching to Verizon's iPhone 4
If you don't already know, Verizon announced today that it will begin selling a CMDA version of the iPhone 4 in February. This marks the end of AT&T's exclusive contract to carry the iPhone in the U.S., a day many have been looking forward to given the GSM giant's poor coverage and performance in several regions. While I haven't been chomping at the bit for a Verizon iPhone I am tempted to switch to Verizon, though I need more information before making my final decision.
Most importantly, I need to know data plan pricing. Verizon did not cover this at the event today, which is a little surprising in my view since I'm certain they've already worked this out. My guess is that not revealing this information is a tactic to help draw people in to continue paying attention to Verizon until this information is available, and to not muddy the announcement itself with more mundane details. Verizon's iPhone 4 splash page lets you submit your email address to get more information as it's available, which will definitely help them ascertain the volume of interest out there.
My contract with AT&T ends in June and while I could certainly pay the early termination fee to get out of this earlier, I'm not making that decision until I know more about Verizon's iPhone plans. Also, I'm a little disappointed that the Verizon iPhone will not be a global phone that's still compatible with GSM networks. While I don't travel out of the country often, I like having the option to use a local SIM card to get better rates (my AT&T iPhone is jailbroken and unlocked to allow this).
One feature that is quite appealing about the Verizon iPhone 4 is its ability to act as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 5 devices, essentially turning it into a Mi-Fi-like device. From the way it was worded at the event, it sounds like this feature will be included for free, though I'm not 100% positive of this without knowing the plan pricing details from Verizon. Technically, this is not something I need since I generally only need to tether one device at a time (my laptop) to my iPhone 4, which I can do easily already with the help of the TetherMe jailbreak app. Plus, I already have a MiFi (on AT&T) and my iPad has 3G capability built-in.
The most significant reason why the Verizon iPhone is tempting to me is when it comes to large events like CES where AT&Ts network is usually overwhelmed and nearly useless in such enormous crowds. However, I only attend these events once a year for a few days, so this is hardly reason to switch carriers and possibly increase my monthly expenses.
When it comes to coverage and service quality, AT&T has not been terrible for me in the Boston area. I do hesitate to make calls on my iPhone sometimes since I do experience dropped calls more often than I'd like though I rarely have trouble getting a decent data connection anywhere I go. My beef with AT&T has been about the dropped calls, the fact that they charge more for tethering without providing any additional data to go along with the $20 premium they charge for this privilege, and how much they charge for text messaging, which actually costs all carriers very little to offer.
However, I'm sure Verizon is not without its faults as well and I think I'll be content to wait to see how the iPhone 4 works for those who switch before committing to making the jump from AT&T.
Will you be switching to the Verizon iPhone?
Video Review: Portenzo Notebook case for the Apple iPad
Mon, Dec 27 2010 10:45
| iPad, Accessories, cases, Dodocase
| Permalink
Since the DODOcase, the first moleskine-style case for the iPad, was released earlier this year, a few companies have developed similar cases to bring a little competition to the table. Portenzo is one of these companies, making a case that looks almost exactly like the DODOcase along with offering other colors, options, and case styles to boot.
Portenzo was kind enough to send me a case to review and I chose their iPad Notebook case in a color combination that mimics that of the DODOcase and added one feature that is not an option with the DODOcase: a stylus holder (a $9.95 option). The Portenzo iPad Notebook case starts at $59.95 and you can choose from two exterior materials and 10 different interior colors at no additional charge. You can add engraving and/or a stylus holder for an additional charge.
In my video review, I go over the Portenzo case by itself first and then in the second half, I compare the Portenzo case to the DODOcase:
In case you're curious, I shot and edited (using the iMovie app) this video entirely on my iPhone 4.
In the end, the Portenzo is a very good case that is a solid alternative to the DODOcase. I think they have a bit of an edge over the DODOcase with more color options in this case style at no additional charge, and a superb method of securing the iPad within the case. For me, there is one small difference that keeps me going back to my DODOcase – the width and sturdiness of the spine makes it better when propped on a table in front me me in landscape orientation. This is a matter of personal preference, though, so you should think about what features are most important to you and then make your choice if these two cases are on your shopping list.
If you're looking for more information on the DODOcase, you can see my video review of it here and my full written review of it here.
DISCLOSURE: This case was provided to me at no charge as a review unit. The value of this case as ordered is $69.90.
Regrouping and my latest iPhone 4 accessory acquisition
Mon, Nov 8 2010 06:20
| iPhone, Accessories, Musings
| Permalink
I'm not dead. I'm still here. I swear. I know I haven't posted here and a while and it's not been intentional at all. I have this strange issue when it comes to my blog sometimes. When I've got a long list of things to do for work, family, and home, I tend to prioritize my blog at the bottom of that list since I do this primarily for fun. It's never really been my intention to turn my site into something that generates regular income (I generally earn enough from ads and affiliate links to just barely cover hosting costs) and so I prioritize it accordingly despite the fact that I have ideas nearly every day about something I could blog about.
Anyway, I haven't meant to abandon my site and will be working on posting more often. I do have several items in the queue, including the final written reviews for the Quirky Cloak and Vaja Agenda 2 cases for the iPad. I also have video reviews to prepare for the Portenzo iPad case plus other cases from Cimo USA.
I did get an iPhone 4 accessory last week that has been a bit exciting for me. I purchased a replacement metal back plate from cnn.cn. It looks like just like this:
Image courtesy of unplggd.com
It's surprisingly well done and doesn't look tacky, which is what I had been expecting frankly. It was very easy to install and I like how it changes the look of my iPhone without being too outlandish (I'd always missed the aluminum look of the first-generation iPhone). It hasn't affected reception though since it doesn't sit flush with the internals of the iPhone, it does obscure the camera a little (the top left corner of pictures taken in low lighting look a little darker). Still, not bad for $18 shipped.
In other news, I participated in my very first podcast over the weekend for everythingiCafe.com where I occasionally contribute instructional articles and am active in the forums. I'll be sure to post a link when the podcast is available for download and your feedback is welcome! It's an iPhone-related podcast, so be prepared for me in full Apple-nerd mode (though some would argue that that's my only mode).
Anyway, I haven't meant to abandon my site and will be working on posting more often. I do have several items in the queue, including the final written reviews for the Quirky Cloak and Vaja Agenda 2 cases for the iPad. I also have video reviews to prepare for the Portenzo iPad case plus other cases from Cimo USA.
I did get an iPhone 4 accessory last week that has been a bit exciting for me. I purchased a replacement metal back plate from cnn.cn. It looks like just like this:
Image courtesy of unplggd.comIt's surprisingly well done and doesn't look tacky, which is what I had been expecting frankly. It was very easy to install and I like how it changes the look of my iPhone without being too outlandish (I'd always missed the aluminum look of the first-generation iPhone). It hasn't affected reception though since it doesn't sit flush with the internals of the iPhone, it does obscure the camera a little (the top left corner of pictures taken in low lighting look a little darker). Still, not bad for $18 shipped.
In other news, I participated in my very first podcast over the weekend for everythingiCafe.com where I occasionally contribute instructional articles and am active in the forums. I'll be sure to post a link when the podcast is available for download and your feedback is welcome! It's an iPhone-related podcast, so be prepared for me in full Apple-nerd mode (though some would argue that that's my only mode).
First Impressions Review: Vaja Agenda 2 Case for iPad
As I mentioned last week, my Vaja Agenda 2 case arrived recently and I've now spent a few days using it. I recorded a video today going over the case and my initial impressions of it:
(A quick note on the video – I meant to say "sleep/wake switch" instead of "home button" when showing the top of the iPad in the case.)
This is one of my longer videos at just under 10 minutes (I am nothing but thorough when it comes to a $200+ accessory, it seems) and I recorded it using my iPhone 4. I actually think it looks better than the other videos I've shot using my husband's Flip Mino HD and I'll probably keep using it unless my iPhone 4 is the subject of the video, of course.
In short, I have already grown to love this Vaja case. It's well-designed and absolutely gorgeous. It has a few minor issues and is incredibly expensive, on the other hand. So far, I'm quite glad I got this case and it is most thoroughly edging out my DODOcase as my favorite.
I do plan on writing a full review of this case after I've spent more time with it, so stay tuned. If there's anything you want me to cover in the review or if you just have any questions about it in the meantime, email me at marianne@macgirl.net or use the contact form here.
