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The Best Android Shoot 'em Up Games

8/29/2018

1 Comment

 

Raiden Legacy

POSITIVE
  • Challenging
    Raiden was designed for coin operated arcade cabinets and as such it was designed to get as much coins as possible. It's not unfair, but it can quickly get very difficult.
  • Includes 4 Raiden games
    The app includes Raiden Fighters, Raiden Fighters 2: Operation Hell Dive, and the excellent Raiden Fighters Jet.?
NEGATIVE
  • Unforgiving
    One wrong move and the game has to be started from the beginning.

Escape Velocity

Escape Velocity is based around classic shoot em up game play but is combined with procedurally generated levels. It is free to play and includes in-app purchases that range from $0.99 - $9.26 per item.

POSITIVE
  • Amazing graphics
    Really nice graphics different type of spaceships, awesome environment.
  • Replayability through randomly generated levels
    Randomly generated levels and enemies you never find the same way.
  • Unique weapon system
    The ship and the weapons can be upgraded. First time the system looks a bit weird but you can get used to it.
  • Open exploration
    There is a non-linear game play you go your way as you wish there are no limits.
NEGATIVE
  • Tutorial
    The tutorial could be better to make it clear how the mechanics of the game work.
  • Menu
    The GUI of the game could be more clear with easier to find the options.

StarLightRiders

StarLightRiders is a Caravan style BulletHell Shoot em up, each level is unique where players compete to get the highest score.

POSITIVE
  • Great controls and unique mechanics
    Smooth and responsive controls along with the warp mechanic make it a fresh change.
  • Free and no in-app purchases
    Says there is on the store page, but there are none in the game.
NEGATIVE
  • Unforgiving
    On the harder difficulty make one wrong move and it's game over.

Danmaku Unlimited 2

Danmaku Unlimited 2 is a bullet hell Bullet shmup that costs $4.59 and has zero in app purchases.

POSITIVE
  • Smooth touch screen controls
    For what can make or break a bullet hell shooter Danmaku Unlimited 2 accomplishes smooth and responsive controls on the touch screen.
  • Challenging, but fair
    In a typical bullet-hell fashion, the game requires constant focus, precise control and looks impossible at a distance. But if you are good enough, Danmaku Unlimited 2 can be mastered.
  • Great design to the gameplay
    The design of the game ranging from backgrounds to the ships is fantastic to look at in motion.
  • Online leaderboards
    You can compete with other people to get a higher score.
NEGATIVE
  • Not a lot of features
    It only takes 10 minutes to see all of what the game offers.

Sky Force 2014

Sky Force 2014 is a top down shoot'em up that is free to play but has in app purchases that range from $0.99 - $1.99 per item.

POSITIVE
  • Looks and sounds good
    The game has high quality graphics, beautiful aesthetics and a great soundtrack.
  • Has a persistent leveling mechanic
    Upgrades to the ship carry over to next playthroughs.
NEGATIVE
  • Convoluted payment model
    Time spent on upgrades and replenishing available ships can be reduced by spending stars (in-game currency). Additionally, after 1000 stars have been spent a store opens that allows removing ads, getting more stars and halving upgrade and replenish times for money.

Tyrian 2000

POSITIVE
  • It isn't bullet hell!
    Unlike the vast majority of SMUPs out there, this one doesn't demand perfection. Your ship can take multiple hits and you aren't expected to dodge an endless barrage of bullets.

Thunder Legend X

dynamic space shoot 'em up game with an epic gameplay

POSITIVE
  • Great graphics
  • Satisfying shooting mechanics
  • Free
  • Varied levels and spaceships
    There are multiple stages and various spaceships that you can unlock and upgrade.
1 Comment

10 Best ITunes DRM Removal And Media Converters For Windows [2018]

7/3/2018

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NoteBurner

1. Convert both iTunes rentals and purchases to FRM-free MP4. 2. Convert at 20X faster speed with lossless quality. 3. Keep all subtitles and AC3 5.1 audio track. 4. Support multiple output formats.

Positive

Responsive technical support

Positive

Converts extremely fast

Negative

Only accepts items inside of iTunes as source/input files
You cannot use this with local files you have _outside_ of iTunes.

Negative

Doesn't support converting Apple Music songs
However, NoteBurner iTunes DRM Audio Converter is also a powerful Apple Music Converter on the whole market.

Negative

It failed to work
NoteBurner worked beautifully when the Apple music library size only had 10,000 downloaded audio tracks. It crashed ever since it exceeded this number.

Negative

Poor customer service
NoteBurner DRM Audio Converter worked beautifully while Apple Music library size was up to 10,000 downloaded audio tracks or so. It crashes ever since. I have provided the company's support with numerous crash reports, and my XML library files/ At one time they sent me back a new beta app to test, but it didn't help. I have never heard from them ever since.

Apple Music Converter

Positive

Makes it easy to remove DRM
Apple Music Converter can remove DRM (digital rights music) protection from both iTunes as well as Apple Music. It can also strip off DRM from AA/AAX audiobooks and convert them to DRM-free file types such as MP3, FLAC or AAC.

Positive

Free trial version lets you try it before buying
You can download Apple Music Converter and try it for free, and there is also a 30 day money back guarantee.

Negative

Dated interface
Not enough user-friendly.

M4V Converter Plus for Win

It is an all-in-one iTunes DRM removal software, which can remove DRM from iTunes videos legally. And convert protected iTunes videos to MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV, WMV, MPEG, etc.

Positive

Cost-effective

Positive

Simple and fast

Positive

Support iTunes iCloud

Positive

Compatible with Windows 7, Win 8 and Win 10.

Positive

Has a free trial version
M4V Converter Plus for Win provides a free trial version to covert 1 minute of each iTunes video.

Positive

Support converting iTunes movie rentals and purchases

Positive

iTunes purchased movies and rent movies converter

Negative

Overpriced
Full version costs $44.95.

Macsome iTunes Music Converter

Positive

Convert DRM Music to common MP3, WAV, FLAC, M4A

Positive

Do well with iTunes DRM audio files

DRM Media Converter

Positive

It not only removes DRM from iTunes videos, but WMV and ASF files

Negative

No passthru option / not lossless friendly
Lossless codecs are available, but when trying to keep the quality of original source files there is no option to pass through. The user must select a bitrate which may blow up the file size or select a lower bitrate that inherently loses quality compared to the source file.

Negative

There is only a Windows version

Negative

Doesn't show media information
Does not show the media information of source files.

Kigo M4V Converter for Windows

Positive

Easily convert purchased movies

Negative

Too expensive

Sidify Apple Music Converter

Sidify Apple Music Converter supports removing DRM from Apple music tracks, iTunes mp4s, and iTunes Audible audiobooks. Its main feature is its ability to render the captured audios at almost the same quality as the original streams. It also keeps ID3 tags and metadata.

Positive

Keeps original audio quality after conversion

Positive

Very fast conversion speed

Positive

UI is very user friendly

Negative

Mainly supports converting Apple Music, iTunes M4P music and Audible audiobooks

Specs

  • Output Formats - MP3? AAC? FLAC? WAV
  • Supported OS - Windows 10, 8,7,Vista, XP
  • Conversion Speed - Up to 10X speed


39.95

DVDFab DRM Removal

As Apple’s own version of DRM protection technology, FairPlay makes it impossible for customers to enjoy their purchased songs, videos, movies and audiobooks on any unauthorized non-Apple devices. However, with DVDFab DRM Removal for Apple, probably the best DRM removal software available out there, users can easily bypass Apple's FairPlay, or in other words, remove the DRM encryptions from their legally purchased content in a flash, producing the DRM-free music, videos, movies and audiobooks that play back flawlessly on popular music and video playback devices, such as portable music players, smart phones and tablets, etc.

Positive

One of the best DRM removal software
DVDFab DRM Removal for Apple is born for removing the DRM encryptions implemented on the songs, movies, TV Shows and other contents from Apple. It gives users the freedom of enjoying their legally purchased contents on any unauthorized non-Apple device they own.

Specs

  • Output - M4V M4A
  • Support - Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista (32/64 bit)


GET IT HERE

M4VGear DRM Media Converter

Positive

Very fast conversion speed

Positive

Intuitive program

Positive

It‘s a very popular program!

Positive

Timely customer service

Positive

Friendly user interface

Positive

Keeps all the original subtitles and audio tracks

Negative

Need to install iTunes

Negative

Sometimes crashes

Specs

  • Supported Windows Versions - Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 (32-bit & 64-bit)
  • Output Formats - MP4, MOV, AVI, MP3, FLV, 3GP
  • Supported Devices - iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, Samsung Galaxy S8, LG G4, Google Nexus series, Xbox One, PS4


GET IT HERE

iTunes Video Converter for Mac

Remove DRM from iTunes movies, music videos and TV shows, purchased or rented! Convert DRM-protected iTunes M4V video to MP4.

Positive

iTunes DRM Removal Software
As a professional iTunes M4V DRM removal software, iTunes Video Converter for Mac makes it extremely easy to get rid of iTunes DRM protection and play your iTunes rented or purchased movies, TV shows anywhere you want. iTunes Video Converter for Mac will help you:
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Top 5 Ergonomic Keyboards

7/3/2018

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Kinesis Advantage2

The Kinesis Advantage2 is a uniquely-shaped ergonomic keyboard that is the best at preventing injuries associated with prolonged, incorrect hand posture and finger strain. The key layout is designed so that it can be used in the most optimal way possible, with a set of keys assigned to each finger. All these factors combine to make the Advantage2 the best option for enjoyable, rested and productive programming.

Advantages
  • No undesirable movements
    Because of its size, this keyboard stands firmly on the desk and doesn't suffer from unwanted movement during use.
  • Very programmable
    This keyboard has several programmable options, like Macro recording, key remapping or keyboard layout (the keyboard can be changed from QWERTY to Dvorak with the touch of a button).
  • Clusters of keys under each thumb means less reaching
    Having multiple keys under the thumbs lets you keep the rest of your hands still, and helps prevent reaching. For example, the backspace key on a regular keyboard is way in the top right corner, while on the Kinesis keyboard it's under the left thumb. So, to hit the backspace button you just need to move your thumb while on regular keyboards you need to move your whole right hand and stretch your pinky to reach it.
  • Optimized, ergonomic shape that significantly reduces the risk of RSI
    This keyboard is sculpted to fit the curvature of your hand more naturally than regular flat boards. This helps reduce the risks of suffering repetitive strain injuries.
  • Comfortable palm rests
    The large, raised palm rests provide comfort while typing.
  • Good for learning how to touch type
    This layout, because of its uniqueness, is perfect to learn touch typing. Even for those that were never able to learn it with common keyboards. It still requires practice to get proficient, of course.
  • Prepared for macOS, Windows and Linux
    Besides the option of easily changing between preprogrammed layouts of these 3 systems, extra OS-specific keycaps come with the keyboard.
Disadvantages
  • Not great for gaming
    This keyboard is amazing for typing, but not great for gaming. Many games make intensive keys such as the Arrow keys or the Alt, Control and Shift keys. With this keyboard, it's not very comfortable to use them so frequently.
  • Quite bulky, therefore not very portable
    As a direct consequence of its unconventional ergonomic shape, the Advantage2 is quite bulky. At 16.5 in’ x 8 in’ x 2.88 in’ (419 mm x 203 mm x 73 mm), it's not the most portable keyboard.
  • Different switches for the function keys
    The functions keys are not build with the same switches than the other keys: they use Cherry ML switches instead of Cherry MX Brown switches. Because of their shorter travel distance, the ML feels quite different. It's awkward to have such different sensations for different parts of the keyboard.
  • Proficiency means overcoming a learning curve
    Becoming an expert at using this keyboard’s optimized design needs time and patience, since it’s so different from what most people are used to. Some of its drastic layout changes can be disorienting at first. For example, the four arrow keys are separated: up and down on the right side cluster; left and right on the left side cluster. It’s also built to enforce healthier hand posture and movements, that may feel weird at first. For instance, the keyboard trains you (using a deactivatable key feedback) to press keys smoothly instead of smashing down, which reduces hand strain. Usually, it takes between two to four weeks of regular use to feel completely comfortable at using this keyboard.
  • Can be a bit flakey at times
    The downside of this keyboard is that it can occasionally act up. The biggest problem is that the up-event for a key occasionally gets lost and then some key will auto-repeat until you press it again. Or even worse, it's a key that has no visible effect like an Alt key, and then you have to figure out which key it is that is in the virtual down position, and press it again. It has had this same problem for the last 20 years. You learn to live with it for the sake of your hands.
SPECIFICATIONS
Full Media Controls No
Weight 1 kg / 2.2 lbs
Programmable macros Yes
Warranty 3 years
Accessories Quick Start Guide, self-adhesive palm pads, keycap puller and 4 extra keycaps ( 2 Command keys, 1 Alt/Option key and 1 Alt key)
Detachable USB No
External dimensions 420 x 203 x 73 mm ( 16.5'' x 8''x 2.88'' )
USB Hub Yes
Backlighting No
Layouts QWERTY / Dvorak
Available Switches Cherry MX Brown

Kinesis Freestyle2 w/ VIP3

Ergonomic split keyboard. The VIP3 add-on lets you pick from 3 angles of tilt and adds wrist support.

Advantages
  • Reduces wrist pain
    The wrist support offered by this keyboard alleviates wrist strain.
  • Ergonomic design
    The Freestyle 2 has an ergonomic design, aimed to promote healthier and more comfortable typing.
Disadvantages
  • Not very solid
    This keyboard's construction is not very sturdy and it feels flimsy.
  • Bad for spreadsheet work
    Since it has no numeric pad, the Freestyle 2 is not convenient for spreadsheet work.

Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000

The Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 is the best ergonomic non-mechanical keyboard out there, given the comfort it provides and how it positively impacts user’s overall posture and health. This is mainly due to its key layout designed to adapt to the natural shape of the hands. It’s a perfectly affordable non-mechanical option for programmers who want to code faster, easier and healthier.

Advantages
  • Can be used with a negative tilt
    While the 4000 keyboard can be raised at the back like conventional keyboards, it also comes with a detachable platform that raises the front of the keyboard. This creates a negative tilt more natural to the arm-hand alignment.
  • Ergonomic and comfortable
    The 4000 keyboard is designed to be more comfortable to type on than regular rectangular keyboards. Its key rows curve to match the human hands’ angled resting position, eliminating the wrist strain that happens with regular keyboards. This is an important factor in reducing the risk of injury.
  • Great value for money
    With a retail price of $96.86, this keyboard is considerably more affordable than most ergonomic keyboards on the market. It doesn’t have the same caliber as more premium keyboards, but it’s a top option for those on a budget who are looking for a good ergonomic option.
  • Ergonomic wrist support
    Foam cushions support one’s wrists while typing, preventing “hanging hands,” which can cause fatigue over extended periods.
  • Several additional, personalizable keys
    This keyboard has hotkeys for things like media control, zoom or launching applications. The function keys also have secondary functions, activated by an F-lock key. Some of them are customizable via a companion app (for Windows and macOS) that ships with the keyboard.
  • Great for people with big hands
    Due to its size, this keyboard is great for those who have big hands.
  • Key swapping for macOS
    On macOS, users have the option of swapping the Windows and Alt keys, so they match the Option and Command key order found on standard Apple keyboards, even if no alternate keycaps or stickers are provided for use with this OS.
Disadvantages
  • Most of the extra functionality keys are not supported on macOS
    This keyboard has a lot of extra functionality keys useful for daily tasks, like media controls or back/forward keys. Unfortunately, most of them are not supported on macOS, even after driver installation.
  • It’s from Microsoft, which has a track record of being unethical
    A lot of people are not very fond of Microsoft for ethical reasons. This con has nothing to do with the technical capabilities of the keyboard, it's just something to keep in mind.
  • Key layout is hard to reconfigure
    It's hard to reconfigure the 4000's default key layout. Some users would like to have the option of moving a few keys around, which is very difficult with this keyboard.
  • The space bar is hard to press
    While it's new, the space bar needs quite some force to be pressed down.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight 1.3 kg / 2.9 lbs
Macros Yes
Warranty 3 years
External dimensions 503 x 262 x 82.8 mm ( 19.8'' x 10.3'' x 3.26'' )
Full Media Controls Yes
USB Hub No
Switches Rubber dome
Detachable USB No
Backlighting No
Layout QWERTY

Ergodox

Open-source split keyboard based on the Kinesis Advantage's layout. This keyboard is available as a DIY project. Some commercial clones exist.

Advantages
  • Many accessible keys
    There are more keys which are easily accessible for touch typists than on the usual keyboards.
  • Split design lets you optimize positioning
    You can arrange each side of the keyboard to match your hand positions. Helps keep your body straight and improve your posture. Additionally, you can (for gaming) move the right half out of the way in order to place the mouse in a more comfortable position.
  • Firmware updates
    Because of the nature of ErgoDox, within an open source community, there are advancements in firmware being made continuously.
  • More actions for the thumb
    Unlike other keyboards, like the Lexmark M15 and Cherry G80-5000, where the only action performable by the thumbs is punching the spacebar, ErgoDox has extra keys placed near the spacebar, within thumb reach. This prevents the thumbs from being a bit redundant.
  • Open source
    The ErgoDox has an open design, so if you want to modify anything at all, you can fork the Github repository.
  • Many accessible keys
    There are more keys which are easily accessible for touch typists than on the usual keyboards.
  • Comfortable for those with broad shoulders and large hands
    Because of its split design, the ErgoDox lets you optimize the positioning of its halves according to what's best for your body shape, even if you have broad shoulders and large hands.
  • Ultimate customizability
    You can map any key to any position easily using a simple GUI, including making hardware key layers. And, since the firmware is open source, you can modify it to do anything you want. Many of the hardware components can also be altered/replaced by equivalent parts.
Disadvantages
  • Expensive
    Getting a complete kit from Massdrop costs about $400. Sourcing each part individually ends up a bit under $200.
  • Needs to be assembled
    This can be fun, but some people just want a working keyboard without having to spend three hours with a soldering iron. It's tricky to find pre-assembled ErgoDoxes, and they're not mass-produced. It is also possible to commission an enthusiast to build one up as well. Some Massdrops of the ErgoDox kit did came with an option allowing one to choose whether to have it pre-made or not.

Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Desktop

Advantages
  • Slider witch for using special functions or media controls
    Rather than the usual Fn key that needs to be pressed in combination with other keys to activate said key's secondary functions, the Sculpt has slider switch that does this. This makes it easier to default to those functions.
  • Quiet
    Thanks to the scissor switches used, this keyboard is very quiet.
  • Number pad can be placed where it is more convenient
    Since the number pad is a separate part from the main keyboard, its position can adjusted and it can be moved out of the way when it isn't being used. This allows for a more ergonomic mouse use, since it can be placed closer to the keyboard, just like in a tenkeyless design.
  • Ergonomically shaped
    Our hands naturally rest angled when in front of us, and this keyboard has been built to conform to that, rather than having us awkwardly trying to straighten our hands on a regular flat keyboard, putting strain on our wrists. The keyboard is also curved into a dome shape, which contributes to its ergonomic shape.
  • Clean look and flexible positioning due to wireless connection
    This keyboard connects wirelessly to the computer. This offers many benefits, such as a clean, tidy look (no cable mess) or a flexible positioning (greater use range). On top of that, it doesn't occupy one of the ports.
  • Cushioned palm rest
    This keyboard has a comfortable, cushioned palm rest.
Disadvantages
  • Functions keys are not easy to use
    The function keys are too small.
  • Some keys aren't very reliable
    Some keys (like Backspace or Enter), if not pressed perfectly perpendicularly, hit the shelf of the frame and get blocked on their way down. This means the stroke isn't registered and, on top of that, feels awkward. On the (slightly) bright side, this awkward feel acts as feedback that the key wasn't fully pressed.
  • The wireless dongle is not replaceable
    The wireless dongle is pre-paired with the keyboard and mouse from the factory. If it stops working, or you lose it, or you break it, you have to throw away the whole set. Also if you buy the keyboard on its own, and decide to add the mouse afterwards, you won't be able to pair the mouse with the existent dongle and need to have 2 dongles, occupying 2 USB ports.
  • Bad separation of key clusters
    The Page Up, Page Down, Home, Insert, End, Delete and Arrow keys are squeezed together, right next to Enter, right Shift and right Control, without any physical barrier/marker to separate the two key clusters. Since this is not an usual layout, it is disorienting for users.
  • The key switches used aren't ideal for long typing sessions
    The switches used are scissor switches, which are the ones used in many laptops. They provide shallow keystrokes which don't give the same feedback as a mechanical keyboard. These keys need to be bottomed out in order to activate, which creates some strain on your finger's joints as they are constantly hitting the bottom of the stroke. Scissor switches are also known to be less accurate than other keyboards.
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Top 3 Handheld 3D Scanners For Professional Use - (2018)

7/3/2018

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1) EinScan-Pro

The EinScan-Pro is a multi-form handheld 3D scanner meant to service a multitude of needs. The result is a professional-grade handheld scanner that costs little more than most industrial fixed setups.

Good
Good cost-to-quality ratio
The EinScan-Pro boasts professional quality similar to the Artec Eva, at a third the price. While still costly for the basic tinkerer, this scanner is of sufficient quality to appeal to more advanced users.
Good
Very light
The EinScan-Pro only weighs 0.8 kg (less than 2 lbs), allowing for an easy, smooth, and comfortable scanning process, even over long periods of time.
Good
If enabled, free and automatic scans are incredibly fast
If one purchases the Industrial Add-on Pack, which adds a turntable and a tripod for $700, objects on the turntable can be scanned with uncanny speed: one or two 2 second scans can produce a very high-quality 3D model, even on a glossy surface: example(https://ift.tt/2tOUGoY)
Good
Four modes can suit most scanning needs
The EinScan Pro has four modes (though two of them require an add-on), each matching a specific need. With no add-ons, the device can be used on the Handheld Rapid and HD Scan modes, which offer differing levels of accuracy and methods for stitching. With the industrial add-on pack, the EinScan-Pro can also detect color and texture, and the Automatic and Free Scan modes use a turntable for very fast, accurate scans of small objects.
Good
Slick look
While not necessary to the functionality of the scanner, the EinScan-Pro has a nice, sharp look that goes well in any modern office or home.
Good
Software can automatically stitch scans together
When multiple scans of an object are taken, to form the 3D model, there is often a step that requires the user to manually align scans to form the whole image. Some exceptions aside, the software used alongside the EinScan-Pro can do this automatically with surprising accuracy, making everything much easier.
Bad
Does not scan color or texture by default
An additional module is required to enable the scanning of color and textures.
Bad
Requires high-end hardware
EinScan recommends at least 2GB of dedicated video memory, 8GB of RAM, and an i5 processor or higher. While the processor requirements aren't too severe, the dedicated video memory minimum is quite high. However, when compared to the cost of the scanner, a computer like this may not be too much to ask.
Bad
Does not operate outside
As is the case for many optical scanners, the EinScan-Pro has difficulty dealing with very bright light. Scanning outside, during the day is difficult, if not impossible.
SPECIFICATIONS
  • File formats => OBJ, STL, ASC, PLY
  • Resolution at maximum scanning distance => 0.1 mm
  • Resolution at minimum scanning distance => 0.05 mm
Read more

2) Artec Space Spider

This is one of the most precise handheld 3D scanners available on the market. Designed specifically for close-up scanning, the resolution of 0.1mm is a great result for a handheld 3D scanner. As long as you can keep the scanner between 0.2m-0.3m from the object, you’ll have great results.

Good
Companion software is great
Artec Studio, the official software for this scanner, is versatile, user friendly, and very well documented. Every aspect of the software is described well on the official documentation. It’s also powerful and intuitive, making it quite worth the hefty price.
Good
Great scan resolution
The 0.1mm resolution is the best available for a handheld 3D scanner. This scanner combines the freedom and versatility of a handheld scanner with the accuracy of a stationary unit.
Bad
Expensive
This device is quite expensive, making it a purely industrial product, as only medium or large companies are able to afford it.
Bad
Scanning distance is quite limited
In order to get maximum precision, you need to make sure the scanner stays within the 0.2 m - 0.3 m range distance from the target object. This 0.1 m margin is low for a handheld device and can be an issue, especially since it takes several minutes to complete a scan.
Bad
Official software requires an extra investment
As with other Artec scanners, purchasing an Artec Studio annual license costs $400.
SPECIFICATIONS
  • Minimum scanning distance => 0.2 m
  • File formats => OBJ, PLY, WRL, STL, AOP, ASCII, Disney PTEX, E57, XYZRGB
  • Maximum scanning distance => 0.3 m
  • Available accessories => Battery pack
  • Resolution at minimum scanning distance => 0.1 mm
  • Resolution at maximum scanning distance => 0.15 mm
  • Scanning technology => Structured Light Scanning
€19,700

3) Artec Eva

The Artec Eva is a high-end professional-quality 3D scanner. Industrial-class scanners can be even more expensive, but the Eva is one of the best options below the $50,000 mark.

Good
Wide variety of output formats
The data gathered from this device can be used in almost every CAD application. The full list of supported formats is impressive: OBJ, PLY, WRL, STL, AOP, ASCII, Disney PTEX, E57 and XYZRGB. The scanned data can be used for purely geometric design operations (like editing and redesigning scanned shapes), as well as for applications involving shape, colour and texture of objects (art and design based applications). This array of file formats, which includes some that are proprietary or uncommonly used, avoids having to take annoying extra steps for converting files to the desired format.
Good
Impressive resolution
In terms of scan quality, this is one of the best handheld 3D scanners available. The maximum resolution of the unit is an impressive 0.5 mm at the minimum 0.4 m scanning distance.
Good
Good documentation available
The Artec Eva is well documented, with high quality manuals available for download from the manufacturer’s website. There are also plenty of YouTube tutorials on how to use the device.
Good
No object size limit
As a handheld scanner, there is theoretically no limit to scannable object size, as long as you can keep a distance between 0.4 m and 1.0 m from the object you are scanning. The Artec Eva can be successfully used to scan tiny LEGO figures, human bodies and entire minivans.
Good
Can be used with Artec Studio, which is very helpful
This scanner can be used with the Artec Studio software, which is a very versatile tool. Amateurs can use this software in Autopilot mode, making the process as simple as answering a couple of simple questions about the object (shape/colour/texture) and letting the software do the rest on its own. Professionals, on the other hand, can use the “full toolbox” that allows them to manipulate and process the scanned data. These features make the software worth the hefty investment (a license costs $400 per year). There’s also a free 30-day trial version (containing all features) of this software.
Good
Very simple to set up
The initial setup procedure of this unit is surprisingly simple. After powering it up and connecting it to a computer, you just need to activate the scanner through the Artec Installation Center program on your computer. AIC can be installed together with Artec Studio or directly from the manufacturer’s website for free. After that, you can simply launch Artec Studio and begin scanning.
Good
Relatively quick scanning makes scanning living subjects easier
Even small movements can ruin a 3D scan when scanning a living subject. The Eva can scan a human face in about 20 seconds in ideal conditions, and extremities can take less than a minute, with only minor issues. Therefore, this scanner is very popular for full body scanning: in fact, it was used to create the first ever body scan of Barack Obama back in 2014.
Bad
No free software available
When you get this 3D scanner, make sure you set aside enough money to invest in software. All the available software options are quite expensive, including Artec Studio (an yearly license costs $400).
Bad
Very expensive
The Eva has a high price tag, it requires a fairly powerful laptop to function (due to the intense resources needed to process its scans), and the software that can be used with it is expensive. With a cost this high, many businesses may prefer to sacrifice portability and choose a high-end static device capable of achieving better results.
Bad
Resolution levels decrease with distance
The further away from the object you go, the more the scan resolution deteriorates, which is normal for handheld scanner. At the maximum distance of scanning distance of 1.0 m, the resolution is only 3 mm.
Bad
Requires a powerful computer
The scanner itself is so powerful that a fairly high-end computer is required to process the data it outputs. An i5 processor or higher is required, as well as a whopping 12GB of RAM. Without a 1GB dedicated video card, you'll encounter many hangups during the scanning process.
Bad
Annoying cables needed
The Eva requires a power cable and a USB cable to run. While both are long enough for simple use, they can be easily tangled, stepped on, or even scanned by mistake. Using the external Power Pack is a possible, albeit expensive, solution to this particular issue.
Bad
The structured light sensor can be dangerous
The Artec Eva is a structured light scanner,, which projects a pattern of light onto the subject and measures distortions from multiple angles to compute the 3D surface of the model. This requires a powerful light source which can cause damage if shone directly into one's eyes. If 3D scanning a person's face, for instance, it's imperative their eyes remain closed.
SPECIFICATIONS
  • Resolution at maximum scanning distance => 3 mm
  • Maximum scanning distance => 1.0 m
  • Scanning technology => Structured Light Scanning
  • Resolution at minimum scanning distance => 0.5 mm
  • Available accessories => Battery pack, Artec Eva hard case
  • File formats => OBJ, PLY, WRL, STL, AOP, ASCII, Disney PTEX, E57, XYZRGB
  • Minimum scanning distance => 0.4 m
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Top 4 High-end Gaming Monitors

7/1/2018

1 Comment

 

LG 27UD88

Whether for gaming, productivity, or photo editing work the LG27UD88 delivers stunning performance. It has a fantastic screen, elegant design, solid gaming performance and multiple connection options making it great for any purpose it needs to do.

Good
  • No issues on bright settings
    The screen can be very bright, at 320 nits, above the industry average of 240 nits. This means it can be used with no problems in well lit rooms. The screen is coated with a matte finish, preventing errant glare and reflections.
  • Great for multi-monitor setups
    This screen suits multi monitor setups particularly well, since it has almost no visible bezels.
  • Easy and intuitive settings navigation
    The settings of the monitor are adjusted using a joystick at the bottom of the monitor. It's easy to reach, precise and all the controls are displayed on the screen. The OSD menu is clear and understandable.
  • Great colors
    The screen can produce 1.07 billion colours and covers 99% of the sRGB color spectrum. This means great performance in nearly every situation, from gaming to professional photo/video color correcting and post-processing. Color accuracy is one the best among its competitors, and is on par with more expensive monitors. This monitor comes factory calibrated for accurate color accuracy, but can be further adjusted with LG’s True Color Pro calibration software.
  • Multiple display presets and modes
    Users will be able to find the best preset for their specific use of the monitor as it comes with 14 different ones. These include an sRGB preset, a preset for eased reading, for color blindness, multiple broadcasting standards and gaming presets. There are also several picture-by-picture presets, but only for two inputs at once. You can make your own presets as well and switching between them is quick and easy using the joystick at the bottom of the screen.
  • The screen seems bigger than its actual size
    The bezel is barely visible, except for the bottom part of the screen, resulting in an elegant look and an illusion that the screen is bigger than it actually is.
Bad
  • Impossible to swivel
     The monitor cannot be swiveled, since its stand is static. However, given that the screen has a really wide viewing angle, there should be no necessity to swivel the screen.
  • USB 3.0 ports are difficult to access
    This screen's two USB 3.0 ports are located on the back of the monitor, facing directly away from its body, so it may not be always easy to access them.
  • The stand may be too big to fit some tables
    This monitor's stand is quite big, so it may be too big to fit properly on some tables.
  • No picture-in-picture option
    Unfortunately, there is no picture-in-picture option, which is quite a common feature on competitors of this price range.
SPECS
  • Tilt: -5; +20
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Removable stand: Yes
  • HDMI inputs: Two 2.0
  • Vesa mount: 100 x 100
  • Response time: 5 ms
  • Brightness: 350 nits
  • Weight: 6.2 kg
  • Screen coating: Matte
  • Contrast ratio: 1:1000
  • Audio out: 3.5 mm
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Viewing angle: 178
  • Screen size: 27''
  • Height adjustment: 13 cm


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Asus ROG Swift PG348Q

The Asus ROG Swift PG348Q is a high-end, ultrawide 100 Hz gaming monitor that supports G-Sync.

Good
  • Gamer-centric features
    The Asus PG348Q comes with a rich selection of gamer-specific features, which include an FPS counter, timer, and multiple crosshair options. You can find those in the monitor’s GamePlus menu. All the elements are customizable.
  • Excellent for gaming
    The Asus ROG Swift PG348Q offers a combination of picture quality, responsiveness, and motion handling capabilities only the best gaming monitors can match. It is also equipped with a bunch of top-notch gaming features, like G-Sync, crosshair, and FPS counter.
  • Supports G-Sync
    G-Sync reduces stutter and eliminates screen-tearing as it allows the Asus PG348Q to synchronize its refresh rate to the framerate of a Nvidia GPU. The monitor supports G-Sync in the 30-100 Hz range.
  • Has a USB hub
    You can use the monitor’s integrated USB 3.0 hub for charging and interconnecting peripheral USB devices. The hub consists of a single upstream and four downstream USB 3.0 ports.
  • Lag-free
    Even while playing fast-paced FPS games, the Asus PG348Q feels highly responsive because of its low input lag of only 5,3 ms. Even though there are some faster panels available on the market, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to feel the 5,3 ms delay. Monitor’s input lag is a time delay needed to process a frame generated by a computer.
  • Has speakers
    The monitor’s pair of 6 W integrated speakers sound surprisingly good and will come in handy outside of gaming.
  • Curved display
    The monitor’s 3800R curve offers you an extra level of immersion as you can feel the panel surrounding you.
Bad
  • Needs calibration
    To achieve the best monitor’s picture quality and color accuracy you need to calibrate some of its settings. Fortunately, all the critical calibration parameters are available online.
  • Poorly situated USB ports
    Once the monitor’s back lid is closed, you can’t access its integrated USB hub.
  • Requires a beefy computer
    Only the best hardware can unleash the monitor’s full potential while running the latest AAA games on maximum graphics settings. In fact, the Asus itself suggests using ‘GTX 980 Ti or above’ for smooth gameplay.
SPECS
  • Color space: sRBG 100%
  • Panel size: 34”
  • Response time: 5 ms (GtG)
  • G-Sync: Yes, 30-100 Hz
  • HDMI: Yes, 1
  • USB: Yes, 4x USB 3.0
  • Wall mounts: VESA 100x100
  • FreeSync: No
  • Additional connectivity: 3.5mm Mini-Jack
  • Height adjustments: 0 to 115 mm
  • Tilt adjustments: +20° to -5°
  • Panel type: AH-IPS
  • Peak brightness: 309 nits
  • Color depth: 10-bit
  • Weight: 24.7 lbs (with stand)


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Acer Predator Z301CT

The Acer Predator Z301CT is a high-end gaming monitor that features a 29.5-inch ultra-wide AMVA panel. It's stand-out feature is an integrated eye-tracking module.

Good
  • Has G-Sync
    G-Sync allows the Acer Z301CT to eliminate stutter and screen tearing by synchronizing its refresh rate to the framerate of your Nvidia video card. This feature works with all the Nvidia’s graphics cards that are newer than the GTX 650Ti.
  • Has an eye tracker
    You can use the monitor's integrated Tobii eye tracker in multiple games, including Assassin's Creed: Origins, Rise of the Tomb Raider, Ghost Recon: Wildlands, and many more. Currently, there are more than 60 games and applications that support Tobii eye-tracking technology. The eye tracker itself is highly polished and accurate.
  • Features a USB 3.0 hub
    You can use the monitor’s integrated USB 3.0 hub to interconnect or charge peripheral USB devices.
  • Overclockable
    You can increase the monitor’s native refresh rate from 144 Hz to 200 Hz using the Acer’s overclocking feature. Such overclocking doesn’t possess any danger to your monitor and is simple to implement.
  • Has a curve
    The monitor’s 1800R curvature makes the overall gaming experience more immersive as you can experience the panel surrounding you.
  • Decent responsiveness
    The monitor’s high responsiveness makes it feel like it’s an actual extension of your body, as it’s input lag of only 6.8 ms is too low to be sensed even in the fast-paced games. The monitor’s input lag corresponds to the time delay needed by the monitor’s hardware to process a frame generated by a computer’s GPU.
  • Exceptional picture quality
    The Acer Z301CT offers the picture quality that only a couple of other gaming monitors can match. Its native contrast ratio, peak brightness, color accuracy, and gamma are superior to what the competitors offer. The monitor’s premium quality AMVA panel displays eye-catching images, with intensively deep blacks, rich and vivid colors, and lifelike intermediate tones and highlights. The dark scenes look amazing thanks to the monitor’s native refresh rate, that is measured at 2856:1. Colors look crisp as the Z301CT can get up to 355 nits bright. The mid tones and highlights look saturated thanks to the panel's gamma, that is only 2.3% off from being ideal. Furthermore, the monitor's overall color inaccuracies are so minor that the human eye can’t detect those.
  • Excellent motion handling
    The monitor does an excellent job of motion handling because of its low full pixel response time, integrated ULNB feature, and a highly responsive 144 Hz panel. The monitor doesn’t suffer from ghosting because its four milliseconds full pixel response time ensures that fast-moving objects don’t leave overly long traces on the screen, as it allows each of the panel's pixel to change its color within only 4 ms. The monitor’s ultra-low-motion-blur feature eliminates the motion blur as it makes the monitor strobe and behave CRT-like. The overall motion looks genuinely fluid because of the monitor’s 144 Hz panel, which refreshes so quickly, that the image transitions look perfectly smooth to the human eye.
Bad
  • Needs slight calibration
    To unleash the monitor’s full potential, you’ll need to adjust some of its settings. Fortunately, all the key calibration parameters are available on the Internet.
SPECS
  • Tilt adjustments: -5° to 25°
  • Peak brightness: 355 nits
  • Swivel: 25°
  • FreeSync: No
  • Maximum resolution: 2560x1080
  • Color space: sRBG 108.65%
  • Panel size: 29.5”
  • Native contrast ratio: 2856:1
  • Speakers: 6 W
  • USB: 5x USB 3.0
  • HDMI: 1x HDMI 1.4
  • Dimensions: 19.9”x28.08”x11.8” (with stand)
  • G-Sync: Yes
  • Input lag: 6.8 ms
  • Wall mounts: VESA 100x100


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Dell UltraSharp U3415W

An extremely immersive 34'' monitor. An excellent choice for those that want the full experience while playing their racing or flight simulation games.

Good
  • Good adjustability
    This monitor can be adjusted up or down 115cm, tilted up 21 degrees, down 5 degrees, or left/right 30 degrees. This lets you use the monitor comfortably in virtually every position.
  • Lots of ports
    With an HDMI 2.0, MHL, DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, and a DisplayPort out port for easy Daisychaining, the U3415W has lots of connectivity options. It also has 4 USB 3.0 ports for connecting a mouse, keyboard, and other peripherals to the monitor instead of the computer, allowing for easier access.
  • Designed for productivity
    The 21:9 aspect ratio, 3440x1440 resolution adds horizontal space which helps with productivity. It allows for two apps to be open at the same time without turning them into a tall, skinny rectangle where you need to scroll back and forth (or, you could have 3 tall skinny windows open at once).
  • Immersive experience
    The curved, ultrawide display really helps make the experience immersive. Any games or videos that support the resolution wrap around you, immersing you into the experience even more - especially for racing games or flight simulators.
  • Light anti-glare coating
    By using a light anti-glare (AG) coating, it prevents the screen from being too glossy, but without adding a grainy filter over the screen.
Bad
  • Not all content is 21:9 compatible
    Not all content will stretch well to fit the Ultrawide resolution. Games or videos that don't support the resolution will have vertical black bars on the left and right sides of the screen which take away the benefit of having an Ultrawide monitor.
SPECS
  • Contrast ratio: 1000:1
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440
  • Screen size: 34''


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