|
Jake Gold |
|
|
|
Hi. I work here. I'm the digital janitor. If something is broken or needs improvement feel free to send me a message!
|
Jake Gold's Answers |
| Is the Ipad any good? |
|
|
The latest iPad (3rd gen) is amazing. You have to see the screen to believe it. They packed so many damn pixels in such a small screen.
|
||
| What is the best laptop for software development under $2000? |
|
|
Here's a really great option.
|
||
| What is the best laptop for gaming under $3000? |
|
|
A good option if you want something a bit smaller than the usual 17-inchers.
|
||
| What is the best laptop for Gaming? |
|
|
This is a great higher-end choice. Should run most things these days.
|
||
| what is the best gaming laptop under $1000? |
|
|
Highly recommend these ASUS laptops they're making now.
|
||
| What headset is good for gaming under $100? |
|
|
Love these things. Great for gaming. Very comfortable and the mic is awesome.
|
||
| Need a new headset for gaming, anyone with a good idea? |
|
|
I have two of these and they're great for gaming. The mic is especially good. It's comfortable. The cable is that really nice rope-style, though it can get a bit twisted up.
|
||
| What is the best gaming laptop if you have a tight budget under $1000? |
|
|
Probably what I'd buy for gaming or any other task where CPU/GPU performance is paramount and you're limited to $1000. It's got nearly top-end specs on both CPU (Intel Core i7-2670QM @ 2.20GHz) and GPU (NVIDIA 540M). If it had a different brand (like Dell or HP) it'd cost 2x but be no better. It should run most modern games at high resolutions, but not everything.
|
||
| More RAM or an SSD? |
|
|
An SSD will make the most noticeable difference. With 6GB of RAM you shouldn't even be maxing out your RAM usage even with most modern games. Where a lot of extra RAM helps is exactly where an SSD will also help: disk access times.
When the OS has a lot of free RAM it will cache files from disk, making accessing them nearly instant. With an SSD though you're turning your disk into memory (Flash memory). It's not nearly as fast as system memory, but it's a heck of a lot faster than a hard drive especially when accessing a lot of random little files. Game start times, loading new maps, etc are all dramatically better with an SSD. Memory is so cheap now though that you probably should just do both if you can. Add another 2GB of memory and get an SSD. |
| Is there a big difference with HDMI vs DVI-D? |
|
|
DVI-D doesn't do audio. Other than that, for video purposes, they're essentially equal. They both support any resolution you would run on a single monitor, etc.
You can use HDMI or DVI-D for connecting a computer up to a monitor. If you're connecting a computer to a TV you probably want to use HDMI so you can use the TV's speakers. You won't notice any difference using an HDMI->DVI cable vs HDMI->HDMI. |
| Which laptop brands are best known for their durability/shock resistance under $1000? |
|
|
ThinkPad X1's are "MILSPEC" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Militar...), but actually all the ThinkPad's tend to be quite durable.
Hard drives tend to be the weak link in laptop durability, because they have very sensitive moving parts. You can mitigate that a lot by buying a solid state drive. Most laptops sold today will have an SSD option, and that's probably what you'll want. The ThinkPad X1 Core i3 w/SSD is going to go a bit over $1000, but if you shop around you can probably get it for close to that and it's probably the best option. |
||
| what is better battlefield3 or mw3 cant decide? |
|
|
I play quite a few multiplayer FPS games/modes and started playing Call of Duty for a while and found it remarkably boring. Then I played Battlefield and was really impressed. The maps are really interesting and the guns are very cool. Overall I don't think it makes a truly great deathmatch-style FPS game, but it's definitely good entertainment.
|
| Have an ACER Netbook that was given to me. It will not work on the battery. Only works on A/C. Does that sound like a battery problem or is it more? |
|
|
This is very normal. Batteries wear out and they need to be replaced. If it happens too quickly (less than a year or two) it may be a manufacturing defect, otherwise you probably just need to buy a new one.
You can also just take the battery out and just use the laptop on AC power only. I did that for years with an old laptop that I had hooked up to my TV. |
| What's a great 4 player co-op game under $10? |
|
|
Believe it or not Quake1 (which is on Steam) is super fun coop mulitplayer.
|
||
| What can I do to get better at a FPS? |
|
|
Play better FPS games. The most popular FPS games today (Battlefield & Call of Duty) suck compared to Quake1/2/3, Urban Terror, Quake Live, (and yes, Steven, even Counter-Strike).
Really. They do. I've been playing multiplayer FPS games for 15+ years (since 1996 Quake QTest release). Technologically the new games are amazing, but the actual game play is far worse than the older games. They're fun, but not nearly as skill-based and fast-paced. An example of the kind of intense fun possible: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DreDIhnK-co Take a spin on Quake Live (http:///www.quakelive.com/) -- It's free -- and see if you don't find it a better competitive game playing experience. Or...just grab the n00b tube in Call of Duty and camp like everyone else. |
| Best college student discount for a notebook computer under $600? |
|
|
I think Apple refurbished laptop might be a good option. I think the student discount works on refurb, but sorry, not 100% sure.
|
| What is the best PC headset (mic included) under $100? |
|
|
I've got two Logitech G35's. One for home and one at my office. The sound is really clear and so is the mic on the other end. They're fairly well constructed: I've had them for around a year and half and they look and feel new.
USB is definitely the way to go these days. There's no interference or other humming problems caused by your computer that you sometimes have with analog headsets. |
||
| Is the Sony HDR-XR160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder worth it? |
|
|
I have bought multiple Sony Handycams, including an HDR-CX160. I believe the only difference between the CX160 and HR160 is Flash memory VS HD storage. Video quality and other features are the same.
I bought mine last March. I've used it on vacation, at home, and for some work stuff. it's super lightweight and the quality is excellent. The stabilization is pretty remarkable even at full zoom. Here's a video someone uploaded to YouTube. Of course the quality once it's been converted by YouTube is going to suffer (and this link is only 720p by default), but you can get an idea for the zoom/clarity/stability: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pofOFOAP9HM&hd=... I'm very happy with mine, and would definitely buy another Handycam (making it my 4th) in a few years. |
||
| Which linux should I get if I am college student with programming experience. |
|
|
Linux from Scratch is a good learning tool. Arch Linux or Slackware as well.
If you just want a nice Linux development environment any of the major options will be fine. Ubuntu is definitely the most popular modern distribution. Been running Linux almost exclusively for 15 years. I run Ubuntu on my desktop and CentOS on servers. |
||
| Best HD Video Camera under $500? |
|
|
Highly recommend Sony Handycams. I love mine. It's small enough that it's easy to use without feeling ridiculous. The stabilization is remarkable. Super lightweight.
|
||
| What monitor can I get that has 2ms response time under $150? |
|
|
Might not make it quite under $150, but very close. Bought a couple ASUS LCDs and they're quite good for the price. Probably the best brand when you're looking for an inexpensive option.
|
||
| Best Smartphone For Software Customization under $500? |
|
|
It's around $800 unlocked probably, but with a plan you can get it for a few hundred. It's definitely the best Android phone out today and it has significantly better hardware than even the the iPhone 4S (faster processor, more memory, etc).
It also runs the latest Android OS: Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich", which is far better than older versions of Android. Best alternative to the iPhone. |
||
| What is the best laptop for gaming under $1500? |
|
|
17" + Intel Core i7-2630QM processor + NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560M.
|
||
| What is the best wireless mouse and keyboard set under $100? |
|
|
Great option. I've bought three of them. Cheap + good range.
|
||
| Best harness for a small dog with back problems? |
|
|
These are awesome. They're really well made. They're a little expensive I suppose ($50), but not considering how long they'll last and how useful they are.
The best part is the handle on the top that allows you to safely and securely pick up your little doggie. Can't recommend these highly enough. |
||
| What is your carry preference under $1000? |
|
|
Doesn't get a lot better than the Kahr PM9. A 9mm in the smallest package available, from a reliable and quality gun maker.
|
||
| Whats the best software for creating a website? |
|
|
They're easy to use and the sites come out looking good.
|
||
| What's the best TV/Internet/Phone package; Verizon FiOS, or Optimum? |
|
|
Anyone who can get FiOS should get it. It's only available in limited areas and it's awesome.
|
| toshiba l755d s 5227 |
|
|
Do you have a question about the Toshiba L755D-S5227?
|
| best device / program to create TV viewing thru the internet |
|
|
Cheaper than an Apple TV and support for "Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, Crackle, Pandora, and much more"
|
||
| DSL modem disconnects contunually |
|
|
It could be a problem with wiring. If so, you'll have to bug your phone company.
|
| Video editing software under $75? |
|
|
You can probably get Windows Live Movie Maker for free from Microsoft. It's a very basic movie editor. I think it's free for Windows 7 users.
|
||
| Thouhts about Toshiba Thrive |
|
|
I'd go with the Kindle Fire, unless you specifically need something that it doesn't have. It's shipping in a couple weeks.
http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Color-Multi-touch-Dis... |
| What is a good over-the-ear headphone with volume control built into the headset under $50? |
|
|
I'd go with the Sennheiser PC 131's. They're high quality and have a volume/mic control. It also has a built-in mic, which is nice if you Skype or play games with voice chat.
|
||
| Will the Kindle Fire be better than the iPad? |
|
|
The Kindle Fire is 7" vs the iPad's 10", so it's substantially smaller. That's going to make it a lot less fun to watch video content unless you're pretty close to it.
Overall it's a great competitor to the iPad and it's *much* cheaper, but I don't think you can call it "better". |
| Is the Apple Iphone 4S a good phone? |
|
|
The two top smartphones right now are the iPhone 4S (running Apple's IOS) and the Samsung Galaxy S II [1].
They're both amazing pieces of technology, and you'll probably be happy with either one. For me, I appreciate the polish and simplicity of Apple's products so I'm sticking with iPhones for the foreseeable future. Also, the iPhone has Siri [2], their voice AI interface. If that's something you'll use, you probably want to go with the iPhone 4S. It doesn't run on any phone other than the iPhone 4S (not even the iPhone 4). 1. http://www.samsung.com/global/microsite/galaxys2/h... 2. http://www.apple.com/iphone/features/siri.html |
| What is the best home phone my 89 year old grandmother under $25? |
|
|
This is a good option. It has a big bright light that flashes when it rings and the buttons are HUGE.
|
||
| What is the best vacuum to buy for hardwood floors and carpet under $250? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best iPod for video? |
|
|
Think this is a good option these days, especially if you want a watch attachment.
|
||
| What's the best dual iPad and iPhone dock with speakers under $100? |
|
|
This is the one I use at home, I have a different one at work, but I can't remember what it is.
|
||
| What is the best walkie talkie set under $100? |
|
|
testing
|
||
| Dakine vs. RVCA backpack? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best board games for adults? |
|
|
I love playing Yahtzee it's so damn fun!
|
||
| What is the best VPN? |
|
|
Do you want to know a VPN "concentrator" for connecting an office or something? Can you clarify your question a bit?
|
| Best 13" Laptop for Business, multimedia and low req gaming? |
|
|
I'd probably go with this Dell Latitude. I'm a bit of a Dell fanboy I suppose. They tend to always work quite well with Linux (which I run exclusively). A Vostro would be fine too. I suppose it's just a matter of configuring them both and seeing which gets you to best price:performance.
|
||
| What is the best quality digital camcorder under $1000? |
|
|
I was ready to spend about the same, but ended up with this camera. I've been nothing but happy with it.
|
||
| Scariest Movie Ever? |
|
|
Scary is relative. I don't think I've been genuinely scared by a movie since I was 12 years old. This one is entertaining. It's a remake of "Let the Right One In" and quite well done in my opinion.
|
||
| Good beginner's RC helicopter for learning to do tricks under $150? |
|
|
I haven't tried this one, but it seems like a good bet. A bit more than $150, so hoping there's something a bit cheaper to get started on.
|
||
| What is the best handsoap? |
|
|
This is the stuff I buy. Works very well. I also like Cetaphil, but that isn't "natural".
|
||
| What is the cheapest PC I can buy that can handle Final Fantasy XIV under $250? |
|
|
The system requirements are here http://www.finalfantasyxiv.com/media/recom/na/pc.h...
|
| What are the best FPS games for Linux? |
|
|
It's still really fun to play. It was very far ahead of its time, so it holds up really well even now. Still people playing multiplayer too.
|
||
| What is the best wireless keyboard/mouse for a PC connected to an HDTV under $50? |
|
|
I just purchased this myself. Works great and it's *CHEAP*. Full keyboard + mouse both of good quality for under $30. Not as cool as some of the wireless keybaord/mouse combo devices but a simple solution that works well.
|
||
| What is the best handgun for a woman? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best laptop for development/entertainment under under $1000? |
|
|
For a lot of people the Air is more than enough for all their needs. Not going to work for a game developer, but for most kinds of development it's more than enough.
|
||
| What's the best office chair with good back support under $300? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the most reliable microwave? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best idea management (innovation support) software? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best book ever? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best used car under $5000? |
|
|
Retired police cars are pretty much the best value you can find. The Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor or "P71". It's a 4.6 liter V8 so not a small engine, but the V8 is rather efficient given its output. You should get between 17 - 22 mpg, which isn't great if you have a long commute. For people with a short commute it still works pretty well.
The best part is repairs are rare and very cheap. Resale value is pretty solid (because you can buy them so cheap to start with). They tend not to lose much value. They tend to run until 175k miles without much work on them. The sweet spot is probably to buy a 2001-2004 in the 80-100k range for $2500 - $4500. |
| What is the best video card? |
|
|
For the money the GTX 460 is a very good deal. Combined with a recent processor and decent amount of RAM it can handle any modern game very well. It's well priced and a good choice.
|
||
| What is the best iPod headphones? |
|
|
The ER-4P are like the Aeron chair of earbuds. Expensive, but last 5+ years, so the math is simple: $300 / 5 years = $60/year to have the best possible listening experience. The ER-4P is specifically made for iPod-like devices.
|
||
| What is the best laptop for military use? |
|
|
That's a no-brainer. The "Toughbook" line is used by police and military in very large numbers. It's "ruggedized" laptop that is spill-proof and able to take a pounding.
|
||
| What is the best rifle for first time shooters? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best shotgun for a newbie when travelling in an rv? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best shotgun for a newbie when travelling in an rv? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best 42" 1080p LCD HDTV 120Hz+ under $500? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best camera for filming documentaries under $1,000? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best HD video camera for under $500? |
|
|
I knew I wanted it a Sony Handycam based on their reputation and owning one previously. This seems to be the best option for the price. It has the "Exmor R" CMOS sensor which is good for low light conditions and the quality is exceptional.
It has a built in USB cable which makes it really easy to plug in wherever you are (no more searching for the damn cable). It's remarkably light, which is surprising when you see the quality and how long the battery lasts. The most amazing thing is the steadiness of the image even when fully zoomed. It's far better than the human eye, which makes it great for outdoor situations. Overall I'm very happy with it. Totally worth the money. |
||
| What is the best folding custom or semi-custom knife under $500? |
|
|
test
|
| What is the laptop with the best durability both internal and external (Basically built to last)? |
|
|
No budget? Do you want a "hardened" laptop like the ones soldiers and cops use or just a regular laptop that's really well made?
|
| What is the best portable camcorder under $500? |
|
|
Just bought this camera for my wife's birthday (the CX160 was just released). Totally love it. It's amazingly steady even on full zoom (which is far better than the human eye). Super light. I bought a small hard case for it (doesn't come with any case). Highly recommended.
|
||
| What is the best quality "army" boots under $100? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best 22LR pistol for everyday plinking under $250? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best 22LR pistol for everyday plinking under $250? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best 22LR pistol for everyday plinking under $250? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the best home audio system for under $2,000? |
|
|
|
||
| What is the most accurate scale that displays both kilograms and pounds under $50? |
|
|
I went with this one based on reviews on Amazon...not feeling very confident though. I'll update when I get it. Consistency seems to be the biggest problem with low cost scales.
|
||
| What is the best tablet for under $600? |
|
|
The XOOM has hardware specs that are actually superior to even the iPad 2 in most ways. The part that's lacking is software (OS and Apps). It's probably the best alternative, but really not all that competitive as far as the user experience goes.
|
||
Jake Gold's Questions |
|
|
Followed by 28 people |
|
Following 45 people |
|
Points by Topic |
| 264 points in Technology |
| 90 points in Cameras |
| 254 points in Computers |
| 132 points in Games |
| 91 points in Headphones |
| 66 points in PC Hardware |
| 64 points in Smartphones |
| 106 points in Software |
| 60 points in Tablets |
| 66 points in Televisions |
Recent Visitors |
|
Visitor from
Ukraine
2 seconds ago
|
|
|
Visitor from
Ukraine
3 seconds ago
|
|
|
Visitor from
Ukraine
4 seconds ago
|
|
Visitor from
China
5 seconds ago
|
|
Visitor from
Mountain View, CA
6 seconds ago
|
