Induction Cooktops: The Key to Modern Cooking

induction cooktops

Induction cooktops are electric cooktops that use copper coils to produce magnetic current via the electromagnetic field. An induction cooktop is now an integral part of any modern kitchen. The quick heating process, seamless cooking experience, and sleek designs make them popular kitchen items. These cooktops offer the appropriate amount of energy due to the presence of electromagnetic coils. You do not have to worry about the gas while using induction cooktops.

How Does An Induction Cooktop Work?

Induction cooktops have an electromagnetic field underneath the ceramic plates. This electromagnetic field heats up the vessels with electricity and is responsible for generating heat and cooking your food. Induction cooktops are deemed as the safest as they transfer electricity uniformly and effectively than electric cooktops. We recommend you read through our buying guide to find the perfect cooktop. This will help you in making an informed purchase.

Are Induction Cooktops Worth It?

Faster Cooking

Induction cooktops can cook your meals faster than other cooktops. This is because of the rapid response from the electromagnetic cycle. It saves your time and effort. You can boil water in less than 3 minutes on an induction cooktop.

Energy Efficient

Induction cooktops have energy-efficient operations because they don’t lose much heat during the cooking process. Research suggests that 80 to 90-percent of electromagnetic energy is directly transferred to the inside contents of the pan. The other cooktop variants like electric or gas cooktops can have more fuel wastage while cooking.

Safer

Safety is an important benefit that you get with all induction cooktops. The burners of these cooktops do not get extremely hot. The heat is passed to the pan and the food. You can cool down the pan and the burner in just a few minutes by turning off the knob. This prevents the chances of skin burns or other mishappenings.

Mess-free

Mess-free cooking keeps your kitchen space tidy and attractive. Cooking on an induction cooktop doesn’t leave any mess, as it leaves no residue. No food sticks to the glass surface of these cooktops and you can clean them with just a simple wipe-down. We recommend you clean your cooktop after every cooking session.

Factors to Consider Before Buying an Induction Cooktop

Size of the Cooktop

Induction cooktops can be built-in or stand-alone. You can go for portable ones, like Empava 36 Inch Electric Stove after checking their reviews and features. Built-in inductions cooktops scale higher and look chic and classy. The size majorly varies depending on the number of burners. You should go with a 3 or 4 burner induction cooktop if you’re someone with a bigger family. A 90 cm cooktop usually consists of five burners in one.

Cookware

Only a specific category of cookware made of magnetic materials are compatible with these cooktops. You can bring a magnet near the base of your pot to check if your existing range would be compatible or not. The cooktop cookware is most likely to work if the magnet sticks. Read our blog to find the best cookware for induction cooktops.

Controls

It is good to look for convenient controls in your induction cooktop. The portable models are easy to set up and use. Portable induction cooktops like Duxtop 9620LS LCD Portable also provide you with a convenient cooking experience. They come with controls like different cooking modes of boiling, heating, and frying, touch panels, and child lock.

Timer

Most units come with a timer, for example, Rosewill Induction Cooker. Going with these units would be a better choice as the cooktop will auto-shut when the timer goes off. You can set the timer for minutes or hours at your convenience.

Settings Lock

This is a useful feature and easy to initiate. Its job is to make sure that your settings do not change after you switch ‘On’ the induction cooktop. This will allow you to be in control of your cooking if you or your kids accidentally press another button.

Cost

The cost of induction cooktops generally carries between USD 150 and USD 500. These cooktops are slowly becoming a kitchen essential. They have become a great buy because they come with various speed, efficiency, and energy-saving features.

Voltage and Consumption Display

You can find many models that display the current and voltage at the time of cooking. Some cooktops also show the energy consumed on their panel. This makes them ideal for places with voltage problems. The reviews of Empava IDC12B2 show that this model comes with 9 temperature level settings to let you make accurate and easy temperature changes.

Do Induction Cooktops Use a Lot of Electricity?

The answer is No. Induction cooktops are energy-efficient kitchen gadgets that do not use a lot of electricity while cooking. You can easily find induction cooktops with 1500 watts to 3000 watts of power. These cooktops do not have a high running cost because they have the ability to cook your meals faster.

Can You Use Paper Towel on Induction Cooktops?

The answer is Yes. You can use a paper towel to clean unwanted spills or mess. Make sure you do not end up scratching the glass of your cooktop while cleaning. You can also use a soft damp cloth for cleaning your cooktop.

Do Induction Cooktops Break Easily?

Induction cooktops have a durable glass-ceramic surface on the top that is not prone to breakage with regular usage. The glass can only break when you use it roughly or drop a heavy object. We recommend you do not leave the hot lid on the glass. Read our blog to know how long an induction cooktop lasts.

Conclusion

The compact nature and advanced design of induction cooktops like EcoTouch Induction Cooktop have proved to be far more superior than conventional cooktops. They save your cooking time and are responsive to use. We suggest you go for induction cooktops for a sublime experience if you want to purchase a good cooktop.

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Choose Between Gas Vs Battery Chainsaw

Gas Vs Battery Chainsaw

Chainsaws are cutting devices that use a rotating chain drive coupled with a sharp set of teeth. Electricity, batteries, or gas can power this device. It’s challenging to decide between a gas vs battery-powered chainsaw. The battery-powered tool is suitable because of its convenience. Chainsaws powered by gas are still available, but many professionals are switching to battery-powered models. Gas chainsaws are perfect for heavy-duty work and powerful performance.

Pros of Battery Chainsaws

Portable

Models like Greenworks 40V are portable and easy to carry. It has a weight of 6 pounds. It has a 2.0Ah power battery that delivers fade-free power. They provide multiple cutting positions via a wraparound handle for simplicity of use.

Silent

Battery chainsaws like DEWALT Chainsaw reviews are good. It is more silent than other gas variants. These tools also have quieter operations that aid in a harmonious environment. Make sure you choose the model that follows the quiet working mechanism.

Ergonomic

A model like CRAFTSMAN 41AY4216791 is not exhausted fumes with the battery chainsaw. This results in a cleaner and healthier environment. They are also compact and lightweight. They weigh around 8-10 lbs and are easy to maneuver. You can carry them around with little effort.

Lower Vibrations

Battery chainsaws offer instant torque and get more work done. The vibrations are also less and you can accomplish your job without getting tired. The intensity of the vibrations depends on the chainsaw size. Having the right chainsaw size will help you in getting the job done.

Interchangeable Batteries

Many battery-powered chainsaws have interchangeable batteries. You can interchange the batteries if they’re of the same manufacturer.

Hassle-free Use

The battery models are easy to use and require little maintenance. You don’t have to mix the gas or get refueling done. You also do not need to worry about bad fuel or spark plugs. The reviews of Seesii Cordless Electric Chainsaw is positive because it is a lightweight model that weighs just 2.4 pounds.

Cons of Battery Chainsaws

Less Sturdy

The battery-powered electric chainsaws are less sturdy. They are not good for heavy-duty cutting or extensive usage.

Needs Charging

Your battery might run out in the middle of your work. Many people buy spare batteries to avoid this situation. Finding charging outlets can be tricky sometimes. You cannot operate your saw from remote locations.

Pros of Gas Chainsaws

Powerful

You don’t have to worry about the power of these machines. They perform to the best of their abilities. They are equipped with a high-power engine that generates effective torque for cutting large tree trunks.

Variety of bar lengths

Gas saws can come with a variety of bar lengths to fit your job’s needs. They provide multiple cutting positions via a wraparound handle for simplicity of use.

Heavy-duty Work

Gas-powered chainsaws are more useful for accomplishing intensive tasks, like cutting giant trees and branches. These machines are ideal for heavy-duty work.

Variety

Gas chainsaws offer great variety. A lot of products with different features are available for your convenience. You get options in bar length, engine, as well as in many more things if you’re going for a gas-powered chainsaw.

Cons of Gas Chainsaws

Heavyweight

Gas-powered chainsaws like COOCHEER 62CC Chain are heavier than compared the battery-powered variants. They aren’t easy to carry around. Make sure you check the weight of your selected model before buying.

Higher Initial Cost

The upfront costs involved in a gas-powered chainsaw are huge. The running cost and maintenance cost is also more in gas-powered models. You should use chainsaw oils to prevent your chainsaw blade from getting damaged.

Less Ergonomic

Gas-powered chainsaws produce fumes and are noisier. The engine housing also produces vibrations while working, which makes the overall operation less efficient.

Requires Extra Care

You need to be more careful while using your gas-powered chainsaw like 20″ Chainsaw 62CC 2-Cycle Gas chainsaw. We recommend you follow the exact guidelines from the manufacturer.

Conclusion

In choosing between gas vs battery chainsaw, consider your usage, budget, and requirements. The battery-powered model is a more advanced version with higher portability and better maneuverability, but it lacks power. Powerful gas models need more maintenance, but are more expensive.

You should go with a battery-powered chainsaw if you want a more compact and lightweight chainsaw and can compromise the power of the machine. Read our buying guide to buy the best chainsaw model.

BestViewsReviews rates and ranks hundreds of top-selling chainsaws and best miter saws based on convenience, build quality, and ease of use.

The Absolute Chainsaw Chains Guide

chainsaw chains

The chain is the crucial element of a chainsaw device. This part demands special attention and regular maintenance to function well. The chainsaw chain varies on the basis of its size, type, and various other factors. You can find different chains like full chisel, semi-chisel, and low profile chains that solve different purposes. The specifications of the product can change with the varying usage. Measuring the chain and finding the best replacement might seem like an easy task, but the process of measurement isn’t that straightforward. You should consider a few pointers while replacing your chainsaw chain.

Features to Look for While Replacing Your Chainsaw Chains

Carbide Chain

This robust and durable material helps your chainsaw accomplish intensive tasks easily. Chains engineered from carbide can endure harsher environments. They do not wear out easily and are usually on the higher end of its cost. Workplaces that have a rougher environment should prefer carbide chainsaws.

Built-in Lubrication

Some chainsaws are designed in a way where they remain lubricated throughout the process. The grooves in the chain ensure that the lubricant stays on the teeth and ensures smooth operations. We suggest you take a look at the information guide of the Chainsaws if you are on the lookout for the best chainsaw.

Self-Sharpening Chainsaw Chain

Chain sharpening is a time-consuming process but one that has to be regularly done. Some chainsaws maintain their sharpness over prolonged usage with the help of their self-sharp mechanism. Understanding the parts of the Chainsaw and knowing how to reset the chainsaw chain will help in maintaining the chain and troubleshooting minor problems that might arise due to continuous use.

Low Vibration Chainsaw Chain

More vibrations account for more discomfort as intense vibrations may tire the sawyer easily. Complications like pain, numbness, and sensations may occur in the hands if your chain vibrates frequently. You can lessen the vibrations by introducing some space between the guide bar and the chain. It is good to prefer low-vibration chains while choosing the right chainsaw chain.

The reviews of Oregon S40 AdvanceCut suggest it as one of the best-selling chainsaw accessories in the market. It has a 3/8 inch low-profile pitch and offers smooth and fast operation with minimum kickback.

Parameters to Consider While Measuring Chainsaw Chains

Gauge

The main use of a gauge is to measure the thickness of the drive links. Drive links are the parts where the chainsaw enters the guide bars. Matching the right thickness will help it fit perfectly on the guide bar. The gauge value is usually mentioned on the guide bar.

Pitch

This parameter is the measure of how close the links are in a chain. You get the value of the pitch when you divide the distance between three rivets by two. This value is also mentioned on the guide bar.

The Oregon Poulan D70 has got good reviews for its easy compatibility with other models like Homelite, McCulloch, Poul, Echo – CS-452, CS-550EVL, and others.

Length

The number of drive links on your chainsaw is its length. You will have to count the number of links manually to obtain the value of the length. You can go with chains like BLACK+DECKER RC800 if you want a chain to fit perfectly with the 8 inches chainsaw.

Are There Different Grades of Chainsaw Chains?

Chainsaw chains like the high-quality Oregon R34 Advance come in different types based on cutter type and chain sequence. The cutters are mainly of three types; semi-chisel, chisel, and low-profile cutters. Chain sequence is the spacing provided between the cutters on the chain. The sequence can be standard, semi-skip, or fully skip. You can go with a full skip chain sequence to obtain clean and efficient cuts.

Does the Number of Links in a Chainsaw Chains Matter?

The answer is Yes. The higher number of links will result in more tension of chain during the operation. You can look for a fewer number of links to prevent excessive stretching. The bar length and chain type can help you know the number of links on your chain. A bar measuring 16″ in length may require 66 drive links. Reviews of Husqvarna 531300439 show that this model has the high-build quality and 72 links.

How Long Should Chainsaw Chains Last Before Sharpening?

A chainsaw chain often comes with high durability and can easily last for 5 to 7 years. Your chainsaw chain can also last for up to a decade or more if you are using it occasionally and with proper maintenance. You should consider replacing your chain once you reach the sharpening limit.

How Often Should You Sharpen Chainsaw Chains?

You should consider sharpening your chainsaw chain after several uses, but it depends on your usage too. The thumb rule is to sharpen your chains whenever they go dull while cutting. Some chains require sharpening after 8 to 10 uses while others work great for the complete season.

Conclusion

It is imperative to use the right chain whether you are looking for an electric or gas-powered chainsaw or other outdoor tools like leaf blowers. A wrong size chain may derail from the guide bar or may result in frequent kickbacks. This might be injurious to you. Using the right kind of chain will ensure that your chainsaw is in good condition. You can go through our blog to know all about chainsaw chains.

BestViewsReviews rates and reviews hundreds of chainsaw accessories on the basis of quality, durability, and convenience.

DEWALT Flexvolt 60V Chainsaw Review

DEWALT Flexvolt 60V

The DEWALT Flexvolt 60V chainsaw is a versatile outdoor tool that is used for cutting wood and firebreaks. It is a portable gadget that uses a cutting chain with a set of teeth that runs on a dedicated guide bar. There are different types of chainsaws, including gas-powered, electric-powered, and cordless, battery-operated machines. The battery-operated models are great for their quiet and effective operations. The gas-powered models use a 2-stroke engine with a volume ranging from 30 to 120 cm3.

This blog gives a detailed review of the DEWALT Flexvolt 60V chainsaw. It will help you understand the features and benefits of this model. Take a quick peek into the history to understand this chainsaw, better.

History of DEWALT Chainsaws: A Quick Peek

It started in 1922 with Raymond E. DeWalt building a radial arm saw to cut through wood and trees for various purposes. A radial saw is a piece of equipment that consists circular chainsaw mounted on top of the horizontal arm. This product gained popularity leading to the start of DeWalt Inc. in 1947. It was sold to American Machine and Co. which was later sold again to Black & Decker.

DeWalt stands as one of the superior commercial chainsaw brands today. They specialize in their flagship product of chainsaws as well as an array of hand tools like pliers, wrenches, top-quality reciprocating saws, and best-selling circular saws.

DEWALT Flexvolt 60V Chainsaw: Honest Review

Battery

The Flexvolt Chainsaw 60V comes with batteries that can adjust their volt between 20V and 60V, depending on the cutting and power requirement. The Dewalt battery-powered chainsaws are effective and efficient. You can check a model like top-reviewed WEN 40417 that can work for 4 hours without interruption.

Grip

The grip of the BLACK+DECKER Chainsaw in making vertical cuts on the log or wood is excellent. A vertical grip requires bucking spikes that let you slide the saw back and forth. The quality of the bucking spikes in such chainsaws is superior.

Performance

DEWALT Flexvolt 60V takes just 6 seconds to cut a log of wood that is 8 inches long. The chainsaw has great efficiency with an average of 0.40 cuts per watt-hour. The reviews of Oregon CS1500 are positive about its performance. It has a built-in oiling system that reduces chain friction and increases the saw run time.

Run Time

The run time of DEWALT Flexvolt 60V is good with a large tank capacity. The DEWALT Flexvolt models come with 2.0Ah and 3.0 Ah batteries that can easily last anywhere between 3 to 6 years. You can check Seesii Cordless Electric Pruning Chain Saw is a best-selling model that will last you 4 to 5 years.

Impressions and Cutting Speed

The chainsaw bar of DEWALT Flexvolt 60V can cut through any girth of wood easily and in no time. It is important to choose the right chainsaw size according to your cutting requirements to ensure a good cutting speed. You can also consider other models after reading customer reviews of RLSOO Battery Powered Cordless Chainsaw. Our genuine reviews show that this chainsaw model features efficient brushless motors.

Buying the right chainsaw model can be a little difficult task. Read our informative buying guide that will help you make an informed buying decision.

What’s Great in DEWALT Flexvolt 60V?

  • Great for professionals and landscape pros
  • Features a low kickback
  • Comes with a sharp 16-inch saw
  • Auto oiling mechanism that efficiently allows the saw to function for years
  • A strong engaging chain brake is powerful enough to stop the saw cutting at 60V
  • Comes with a warranty of 3 years
  • Chain quality is ‘Oregon 90’ which is one of the best qualities available
  • Efficient chain tensioning and bar tightening knob
  • Quiet, ergonomic, and lightweight design
  • Comes with a coast-down brake for convenient handling and fast cutting
  • Generous handles to increase comfort
  • The tank brim is wide for easy pouring of oil

What’s Not Great in DEWALT Flexvolt 60V?

  • The cap of the fuel tank goes deep when tightened
  • It may spill some fuel if filled to the brim
  • The side cover is enclosed collects wood chips and results in clogging

Our Final Verdict

The brand DEWALT Flexvolt 60V chainsaw has a good cutting speed and impressive run-time. It also comes with a few problems like the deep tightening of the fuel knob and enclosed side cover. The feature of adjusting between 20V and 60V gives it unparalleled flexibility. Other brands like ECHO also offer high-quality professional chainsaws that come with top ratings and excellent customer reviews. Read our blog for the best ECHO chainsaws review.

BestViewsReviews helps you find the best miter saws and top-rated power pole saws on the market by rating and reviewing them on the basis of quality, convenience, and durability. Get unbiased, honest reviews of products before you buy.

External Hard Drives: All Your Questions Answered

external hard drive

External hard drives are external storage devices that can transfer and store files, documents, and various data from laptops and keep them safe. It is an effective backup device and comes with storage capacities ranging from 500 GB to 1 TB or more. The problem of overloading laptops or computers is way too common. A hands-on solution to this is an external hard drive. It also allows you to create extra storage for computers that are short on storage capacities. External hard drives also allow you to share information between systems easily. You can read through our blog External Hard Drive for Mac if you are a mac user and want to know more mac specific information.

Benefits of Having an External Hard Drive

Storage Capacity

External hard drives offer a large capacity making it convenient to store heavy files and data much effectively as compared to flash drives. You can easily get hard drives with a storage capacity of up to 10 TB or even more for professional use.

Backup Drive

An external hard drive offers you a convenient way of backing up your data. You can keep your large files safely in these drives. External drives provide secure and one-stop backup to all the crucial data which might be at risk due to windows malfunctioning or cybercrimes.

Improved Performance

External drives offer a good speed while transferring data. They are quite easy to use and do not require any special software to start functioning. These devices are flexible and are compatible with all kinds of operating systems without any difficulty.

Portability

External hard drives are compact devices that can be carried around conveniently. This means that you can carry your important files and crucial data to your meetings or presentation easily. Many hard drives are designed to slip in your pockets with ease.

Longer Life

External hard drives have higher durability and longer life than other storage devices. These storage units can easily last for up to 5 years. The average lifespan of most hard drives is a minimum of 3 years. This allows you to keep your data in the same drive for a long time. External hard drives are also quite affordable as compared to the amount of storage they provide for your crucial data.

Can I Download Software Into my Computer Using an External Hard Drive?

You can download and install software using an external hard drive. This can only be done once the software has been downloaded and you are about to run it. You can go to download and change the storage location of the software and place it in the external folder. Downloading and installing any software through one external drive might not allow you to use that software on a different workstation. You may require other special software for that.

Can I Download Games into an External Hard Drive?

Yes, you can download and install the games into an external hard drive but there are certain limitations to it.

  • The games will load slower than usual if the speed of the external hard drive is lesser than the internal drive speed.
  • You won’t be able to play the game whenever the external hard drive containing the game is not connected to your laptop
  • If the external hard drive is damaged, then you will have to install the games again
  • The game will crash and you will have to start all over again if the external drive gets disconnected in between the play mode.

How Long Does an External Hard Drive Last?

An external hard drive like Toshiba Canvio Advance lasts for around 3-5 years. This durability depends on many factors like the quality of the hard drive, make, and model. Brands also play an important role in durability. It is important to keep your drives protected from physical damage. We recommend you replace the hard drives every couple of years to protect the data.

What If the External Hard Drive Fails?

An external hard drive fails because of many factors. There could be read/write failures or internal defects. In such cases, the hard drive needs to be repaired before any data transfer is attempted.

Can I Use a USB Stick as an External Hard Drive?

The answer is Yes. You can use a USB stick as an external hard drive, provided the USB is connected to the laptop. The USB stick helps you can perform all functions that an external hard drive does like saving, downloading, and deleting. Read our blog to know everything about photosticks.

What is the Difference Between a Flash Drive and an External Hard Drive?

Mechanism

External hard drives use electro-mechanical data that makes them sustainable to damage, unlike flash drives that are non-volatile memory and prone to damage.

Storage Capacity

External hard drives have a larger storage capacity as compared to flash drives. External hard drives come in capacity between 500 GB and 10 TB or more, whereas flash drives are available in capacities of between 2 GB and 56 GB or more. The reviews of WD Elements Portable External Hard Drive show that it comes with a massive capacity of 2TB.

Portability

A flash drive is a tiny device that can fit in any compact space, making them convenient, portable, and ergonomic. External hard drives also offer the same except they are a bit heavier and bigger than flash drives.

What is the Best External Hard Drive?

An external hard drive that is secure, speedy, efficient, sturdy, and ergonomic is the best. Reviews of WD 10TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive suggest it as one of the best external hard drives. This drive comes with a massive memory of 10 TB with exceptional compatibility and a secure backup mechanism. You can transfer your data quickly in this hard drive model.

You can also look for other options like the top-ranking WD 4TB Gaming Drive that is compatible with PS4 devices to offer you a seamless gaming experience. This model has got good reviews for 4 TB storage capacity and lightweight design weighing just 0.57 pounds. It is a must-have storage device for you, especially if you are a gamer.

The other high-quality drive is Toshiba HDTB410XK3AA that has got excellent reviews for its sleek profile design with a matte. This drive has 1 TB of storage capacity that is ideal for personal, gaming, and business use. It uses USB 2.0 for quick data transfer and requires no external AC power cord for its setup.

Conclusion

It is important to have a good hard drive as most of the professional and personal lives revolve around digital and electronic media. These drives can store massive data keeping them safe and secure. You can carry these storage units everywhere with you. The versatile features and ergonomic design make external hard drives one of the best back-ups to go for as far as data is concerned.

BestViewsReviews rates and reviews hundreds of top-selling photosticks and high-quality internal hard drives on the basis of durability, performance, and quality.

Immersion Blender: A Complete Guide

immersion blender

An immersion blender is a convenient, handy kitchen tool that you can use to blend, and mix soups, sauces, and other liquids. It is a compact size model, that lets you blend even small food contents with ease. You can mix your food ingredients without pouring them into a blender jar. This device has powerful and sharp rotating blades that give you rich smoothies and it can also crush frozen ice.

An immersion blender is an indispensable appliance for the kitchen. It allows you to make creative & finger-licking recipes in just some minutes.

What is an Immersion Blender Used for?

An immersion blender can be used in the kitchen in innumerable ways. It can make your cream frothier and can give your smoothie a better consistency. You can use this device for making tomato purees, favorite pasta, and beating eggs. It saves you cooking time and makes your blending task easier.

You can try a lot of lip-smacking recipes using immersion blenders. Read our blog on immersion blender recipes to learn more.

Immersion blenders can churn and blend large amounts of liquids. It differs from the standard blender. The standard blender requires a set pot for starting the process. Immersion bender can be put inside any pot. You no longer have to transfer hot and messy liquids into any other container with immersion blenders.

What are the Benefits of Buying an Immersion Blender?

The immersion or stick blender can provide you with the creamy texture of coffee that is tough to achieve by manual whisking. Hand Immersion blender whips your dishes quickly and is convenient to handle. Take a look at some of its benefits.

Compact size

This blender is lightweight and easy to carry around. It has a compact size and robust build quality. You can store this device in your kitchen drawers even if you have constrained kitchen space.

Easy to Clean

An immersion blender is easy to clean and all the attachments can be simply washed by water. The wand can be regularly rinsed after each use. Some blenders are dishwasher-safe that let you wash them with ease without scrubbing.

Controls

This blender comes with various controls to maintain and manage its speed. Many models come with 8-speed controls while others can offer up to 15-speed settings.

Grip

Immersion blenders usually have a high gripping handle. Some models also feature extra attachments to strengthen your grip. They offer a soft, padded hold and a sturdy grip that doesn’t strain your hands.

There are chances that you might get confused between immersion blenders and hand mixers while making your purchase. Go through our blog on immersion blenders vs hand mixers to make an informed purchase.

Things to Consider While Buying an Immersion Blender

Accessories

Immersion blenders, especially the new models, come with many special attachments. These additional accessories make your blending process simpler. The models with extra attachments are multi-functional gadgets, but they can cost a little higher than other standard variants.

Cost

The range can begin anywhere from USD 20. High-end models can cost as high as USD 80. Such models come with extra accessories and features.

Warranty

A product can fail to perform as per the company’s claims. It’s better to go for products with a warranty period to ensure longevity and high performance.

Material of an Immersion Blender

Blade shafts made of stainless steel are more powerful, consistent, and durable. You should go with stainless steel models for high durability. Such models are less prone to cracks and breakage on the vessel.

Power and Speed

Power and speed are important considerations for any electrical appliance. Depending on your needs, you can go for a more powerful version. An output of 200W is typically enough for performing the necessary tasks. Most variants only come with two speed settings- low and high.

Buy Immersion Blender

Amazon Basics Multi-Speed Immersion Blender

Amazon Basics Multi-Speed Immersion Hand Blender can make soups, smoothies, sauces, and more. This blender can froth, whip, and blend food and beverages quickly and easily. Its compact, as well as ergonomic design, allows you to reach into cups, pots, pitchers, and bowls. The powerful 300 Watt DC motor of this blender provides longevity, smooth as well as quiet operation.

Hamilton Beach 59765 Immersion Hand Blender

Hamilton Beach 59765 Immersion Hand Blender lets you blend, mix, whip, puree, and chop with one 2-speed kitchen multi-tool. Its 225 Watt Motor is powerful enough for all your blending, mixing, as well as chopping needs. The hand mixer’s blending wand, whisk, and chopping bowl attachments of this blender are dishwasher safe.

COLAZE Immersion Hand Blender

The customer reviews of COLAZE Immersion Hand Blender show that it is made of non-toxic and BPA-free materials that make it safe to use. The 800W powerful motor of this device helps blend smoothly and quickly. The built-in noise reduction technology of this blender avoids the discomfort caused by excessive noise during blending.

KOIOS oxasmart

KOIOS oxasmart’s reviews claim that its fixed rotary construction provides high-speed rotation. It offers a golden cross Blade, anti-adhesion, and stronger corrosion resistance. The stainless blade of this blender is partially covered by a bell shape stainless housing that keeps splashing to a minimum to keep you and your kitchen spotless.

MegaWise 5-in-1 Immersion Hand Blender

MegaWise 5-in-1 Immersion Hand Blender is made of high-quality stainless steel that offers extended durability. This blender comes with an 800w motor that provides optimal blending performance. It also features 12 speed settings that allow you to adjust it according to the requirements.

We have also prepared a list of the top 5 portable blenders that you can consider buying. These blenders are compact in size and won’t even take up much space in your kitchen.

Conclusion

Immersion blenders are one of the most important kitchen gadgets to have. They are a powerful tool as well as can help you with the preparation of various dishes. An immersion blender uses a rotating blade to blend ingredients that you can place in a container that sits in the blender. Buying a good kitchen appliance like an immersion blender or hand mixer will help you transform the consistency of your favorite blender recipes.

BestViewsReviews rates and reviews hundreds of immersion blenders and stand mixers on the basis of their noise level, size, and build quality.

Mechanics of a Cordless Leaf Blower

Cordless-leaf-blower

A leaf blower is a mechanical device that blows out high-pressure air through a nozzle to wipe out leaves and grass debris. This device can come in electrical and gasoline variants. The gasoline variant uses 2 stroke or 4 stroke engines. The electrical models are equipped with electric motors for the constant propulsion of air.

The cordless leaf blower is a battery-operated model of electrical leaf blowers. This device uses up to 4Ah of battery for providing smooth cleaning operations. Many models include fast charging options. This allows you to fully charge your machine in less than 60 minutes. Using a cordless model is easier than using an electric-corded variant. You can read through our blog for the best leaf blowers.

How Does a Cordless Leaf Blower work?

The cordless leaf blower like EGO Power+ LB5302 operates on a rechargeable battery. This machine works almost similar to a corded model, but it frees you from the hassle of long electric cords. You do not require to check electrical outlets or power plugs before using this device.

This gardening tool works on the concept of centrifugal force, which means, the push that originates from the center is exerted towards the corners. It has spinning blades attached to the fan. The narrow tunnel forces out the air at blazing speed through the nozzle.

How to Start a Cordless Leaf Blower?

A cordless leaf blower like Greenworks 40V is easy to use and start. You can simply turn ON your blower for efficient cleaning. Make sure the battery of your leaf blower is fully charged. The charging time can vary with different brands and models. You should know the run time of your blower before using it.

The SnapFresh Leaf Blower is easy to use and can work for 30-min under full power in gear 1 and 15-min in gear 2. It has got excellent reviews for its speed of 130 miles per hour.

Points to Keep in Mind While Using Cordless Leaf Blower

Weather

It is better to use the best cordless blower on the days when the wind is in the same direction in which you want to blow them. You can also prefer to blow leaf debris in hotter temperatures when there is less or no wind.

Wet Leaves

Wet leaves are tough to remove with the help of a leaf blower. They might stick to the ground and not move. Look for models that can remove wet leaves with ease. The top-quality K I M O blower is a perfect machine for removing wet leaves and snow. It runs at  20000 RPM and takes only 60 minutes for a full charge.

Space

Map out the place where you want your leaves to be. Blowing your leaves randomly without having a fixed place in mind can be a futile attempt. It’s better to plan the space beforehand. It will ease your cleaning process and will require less effort.

Angle

Position your blower at a horizontal level rather than at a steep vertical angle. Move the leaves back and forth to remove them.

How to Test the Ignition Coil?

The process is simple and easy to perform. Follow these steps for testing the coil.

  • All the essential components are located near the motor. Open the motor cover by using a screwdriver.
  • Remove the parts and memorize how they were initially placed. It will help you recall the circuitry when you reassemble them
  • Disconnect the wire on the spark plug by detaching it from other parts. Make sure you do not cut any wire
  • Hold the insulated part of the wire against the chassis. Crack the engine simultaneously to detect any spark. If the spark is visible, the ignition coil is working.

Conclusion

A leaf blower can transform your outdoor spaces, making them ideal for relaxation and exercise. You can become adept at using these blowers with practice and patience. It is always a good idea to purchase a cordless leaf blower. You should choose a branded model that offers quiet and efficient operation.

Buying the best leaf blowers can be confusing. Check our ultimate leaf blower buying guide to make an informed purchase.

BestViewsReviews rates and ranks hundreds of best leaf blowers & vacuums on the basis of airflow capacity, noise, and ease of use.

All about Hand Mixer: An Informative Guide

Hand Mixer

A hand mixer is a handheld kitchen appliance that is used to mix and combine food ingredients. It is used for stirring, whisking, and beating. This device is available in manual and electric models and consists of circular rotating blades. It follows a gear-driven mechanism for rotating blades. The electric models have speed settings, from low, medium, and high, while manual mixers require manual operations.

What is a Hand Mixer Used For?

A hand mixer can make your cooking tasks easier. You can use this gadget for cooking consistent yummy food like perfect pizza doughs or a double chocolate chip cookie batter. This is an incredible addition to your kitchen space and lets you prepare a variety of dishes at your home comfort. It is ideal for everyday baking, whipping creams, as well as making salad dressings.

How Do Hand Mixers Work?

A hand mixer uses its whisks to beat and whip your food. This appliance has a lot of parts that work in symphony to provide you with the perfect dish. After the mixer is switched on, the beaters that are attached to the housing start working. The motor works according to the different speed adjustments. A cooling fan ensures that the motor doesn’t get overheated.

What Are The Different Hand Mixer Attachments?

A variety of attachments are available in the market for hand mixers with their unique purposes. The different types of attachments are flat beaters, single whisks, straight and twisted wire beaters, blending rods, and dough hooks. Make sure you buy the right attachment. A wrong attachment with a wrong ingredient can give you unsatisfactory results and can ruin your dish.

A whisk attachment can also help you with your mayonnaise-making process and quicken your cake baking. Dough hooks are perfect for kneading dough. A blending rod can help you with quick recipes like shakes and smoothies and can be used as a substitute for an immersion blender.

It can be confusing to decide between hand blender vs hand mixer. Read our blog to know what to choose and why.

What are the Types of Hand Mixer?

Hand mixers have different types; the Single-blade, the Double-Blade, the Electric, and the Cordless Hand Mixer.

Single Blade Hand Mixer

The single-blade mixer has a single rotating blade that is ideal for chopping nuts and whipping eggs and creams. This model is easy to store and use. The blade accessories are sharp but are not suitable for a large batch of cake mixes.

Double Blade Hand Mixer

The double-blade hand mixer is the popular mixer type. It can be used for mixing cake batter, whipping creams, and for other heavy mixing tasks. It has sharp blades that are mostly made of metal, in a traditional wire whip shape.

Electric Hand Mixer

The electric hand mixer uses an electric motor for rotating whisks or blades. This model has speed settings to adjust rotating blades. The speed can vary from low, medium, and high. The Cuisinart HM-90S Power has 220 watts of power and comes with an easy-to-clean design and dishwasher-safe parts.

Cordless Mixer

The cordless hand mixers are battery-powered gadgets that usually have a runtime from 20 minutes to 30 minutes. It saves you from the hassle of wires and plugs, but you need to charge it for a minimum of 2 hours for 100% backup. This device is convenient and portable but runs on low voltage and power. It is good for whipping creams and eggs. You can read through our blog to find the top 5 cordless hand mixers for your kitchen.

What to Consider While Buying Hand Mixers?

Weight

You may take longer to beat your batter because of clumps or air bubbles. Holding a heavy mixer for more than 10 minutes can be painful for your hands. The ideal weight of a hand mixer is 650 grams. It’s imperative to go with a model like LILPARTNER Mixer that comes with a sturdy built and a powerful motor to do the task efficiently. Reviews show that this mixer comes with 5 stainless steel accessories.  

Base of the Mixer

The base of the mixer is important while storing. A curvier or a heavier base can result in the toppling of your mixer. It’s better to keep in mind the shape of the mixer before you buy. The AXUF Hand Mixer Electric has got good reviews for its ergonomic handle design that offers a comfortable grip.

Cost

The cost can range from USD 20 to USD 100 depending on the quality and features. Go with models that come with a good warranty period. You should also consider your usage. If you use your mixer frequently, go with high-end models that come with high capacity and power. You can buy the Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer for just $20.99.

Cleaning

Attachments having thin and simple designs are easy to clean. The food doesn’t get stuck in mixers that have a seamless body design. Cleaning such models is easy, you only have to wipe them down. You can also consider models that have dishwasher-safe parts. Reviews of SHARDOR Hand Mixer Electric show that this model is simple and easy to clean.

Conclusion

A hand mixer is easily available in the market and using them can be interesting. It is a baker’s favorite appliance and lets you prepare your cake batter in seconds. Make sure you use them with the right technique and method. Read our blog to know the top hand mixer recipes that you must try.

BestViewsReviews rates and ranks hundreds of hand mixers and stand mixers on the basis of portability, noise level, and overall performance.

Hand Mixer and Few Popular Recipes

Hand mixer recipes

A Hand mixer is a versatile appliance that can whip a variety of dishes. This appliance consists of a set of beaters that run through a gear-driven system. It is quick and easy to operate and helps you cook tasty dishes. It whips, beats, and mixes ingredients for various hand mixer recipes. An efficient hand mixer is perfect for folding heavy creams but the high-end models can even knead the dough and handle thick cookie batters.

This blog covers some popular hand mixer recipes that you must try at least once. Read our blog to know more.

Popular Recipe 1: Orange Pumpkin Chiffon Dessert Recipe

This recipe gives a taste of classic pumpkin pie with a little flavor of orange. It won’t take you more than 20 minutes for cooking. The overall preparation time can be around 1 hour.

Follow the Steps

  • Take a small saucepan to hold orange juice
  • Sprinkle some gelatin and heat up for 1 minute
  • Add pumpkin with 1/2 cup sugar, milk, salt, and ginger. You can also add orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg for added flavor
  • Stir on low heat flame slowly to dissolve sugar and gelatin
  • Whisk egg yolks in a small bowl. Heat it with continuous stirring for 2 minutes and then keep it in the refrigerator for chilling.
  • Once the mixture is chilled, combine it with sugar at low heat in a saucepan. Use a hand mixer to beat at low speed for about 12 to 15 minutes.
  • Remove from heat flame and beat at high speed. Add vanilla into the mixture.
  • Now, refrigerate it for 1 hour and then your dessert is ready to serve.

Popular Recipe 2:Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Cream cheese mashed potatoes is a healthy and nutritional dish with 185 calories, 9g of fat, and 25g carbs. You can make this dish in just 20 minutes and add melted butter as an optional ingredient. It is good to use a high-quality hand mixer for this recipe. Reviews of Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick mark it as one of the best-selling hand mixers in the market.

Follow The Steps

  • Take 8 pounds of russet potatoes. Peel and cube them to prepare them for boiling with little water.
  • Once boiled, let them cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Beat cream cheese with the help of a hand mixer. Add melted butter, salt, and pepper to the mixture and continue beating for a smooth paste.
  • Now add potatoes and beat for a few more minutes.
  • Your dish is ready. You can sprinkle some green onions on the top before serving.

Popular Recipe 3: Shredded Chicken Recipe

Shredded chicken is a versatile dish and can be used as an accompaniment to your sandwiches, salads, tacos, and more. The process of shredding chicken with a fork is quite cumbersome process. This process becomes easy and rapid with a Hand Mixer like Lord Eagle Hand Mixer at home.

  • Start by tearing the chicken apart from your hands.
  • Put the pieces in a bowl and get your mixer started at a low speed.
  • Let the paddles do their work and you’ll get the shredded product within a few minutes.
  • Repeat the process for the remaining chicken.

LILPARTNER Hand Mixer has got good reviews for its 5 variable speed settings and a powerful 450-watt motor. You can use this mixer to whisk, mix and knead your foot items.  

Popular Recipe 4: Cream Butter and Sugar Hand Mixer Recipes

The mixed butter and sugar batter is used on top of cakes and cookies and serves as a base for frostings. To get this batter ready, repeat the following steps. 

  • Fill a large mixing bowl with softened butter and sugar.
  • At medium speed, turn your hand mixer on for a few minutes. Turn the butter, yellow and fluffy.
  • Keep repeating this process by consistently mixing the contents together and scraping the sides of the bowl with a spatula.

You can also use cordless hand mixers for this recipe. Read our blog to find the top 5 cordless hand mixers for your kitchen.

How to Whip Cream with a Hand Mixer?

A hand mixer like Breville BHM800SIL lets you add a homemade whipped cream on the top of your favorite strawberries. Follow the below-listed steps.

  • Buy cream with high-fat content.
  • Add the cream, vanilla extract, and a little sugar as per your liking. If you wish to have your cream without any added flavors, you can skip vanilla.
  • Get your hand mixer running with the appropriate attachments (preferably, whisk beaters) and whip the cream till it gets firm.
  • Make sure to keep your mixer at medium speed, moving it around in circles.
  • Your cream should take a stiff shape after 4 minutes. 

Reviews of AXUF Hand Mixer Electric mixer show that this model is efficient, fast, and easy to operate. It comes with 5 wider & longer safe attachments that are made of food-grade 304-stainless steel material.  

The Bottom Line

A hand mixer is capable of preparing many things. All the hand mixer recipes mentioned above are easy to prepare and merely take a few minutes. The results are lip-smacking and delicious. This valuable appliance can make your life easy. Mixers are popular with people who like to experiment with food but it can be confusing to decide between hand mixers vs hand blenders. Read our blog to know what to choose and why.

BestViewsReviews rates and ranks hundreds of hand mixers and stand mixers on the basis of build quality, portability, and design.

The Only TV Buying Guide You Will Ever Need

tv buying guide

A TV is a must-have device for your home entertainment. The right TV unit improves your picture experience and gives you convenient, hands-free control. The market has tons of brands and models with zillions of functions incorporated into one unit. TV sets are available in a variety of types, sizes, and technology. However, choosing the right TV model depends on various factors. The primary factors include budget, features, space availability, and TV type. Our TV buying guide will also help you know how to choose the right TV size.

TV Buying Guide: Types of TVs

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) TV

TV screens and laptop screens commonly use LCD panels. A screen of this type blocks out light. There is clear and opaque picture quality. The LCD screens have a panel that comprises certain blocks. There are liquid crystals inside these blocks. The brighter the panels, the greater the voltage. The screens do not produce their own light, so they are illuminated by external light sources, such as fluorescent bulbs.

LED TV

LED TVs use the same concept as LCD, except instead of fluorescent lights, they use an array of LED diodes. They are smaller in size and easily fit into the TV panel. That is why most of the top-rated TVs you see nowadays have flat-screen displays.

LED TVs are majorly divided into two types. One is the direct LED that has the LED lights directly behind the screen. The other is the edge-lit LED that has diodes in the frame of the TV that illuminates the center of the screen. One of the best, under this technology, is Sony A80J 65 Inch TV.

Plasma TV

Plasma TV has a layer of gas that is constricted between two glass surfaces stuck together. The electricity passes and these gases illuminate the pixels to form an image. They offer a better picture quality than LED TVs. These TVs are usually available with bigger screens like a 40-inch or a 60-inch display.

OLED TV

OLED stands for organic light-emitting diodes, that illuminate the screen with organic materials like carbon. The presence of such materials lights the screen directly, without any backlight. The top-quality OLED TV produces more sharp and crisp images that you don’t get in standard TVs.

A review of LG OLED55CXPUA Alexa Built-In is positive because it offers a massive 120 Hz refresh rate. This TV offers clear picture quality, excellent contrast, and a great viewing experience.

Curved TV

Curved TVs deliver an immersive experience as their curved display matches your peripheral vision. Such TVs are expensive and found in the form of smaller screens like smartwatches.

QLED or Quantum Dot  TV

Quantum dot is a common technology in LCD or LED. QLED TVs contain nanocrystals that allow light to pass. It breaks down the light waves to produce white light. White light contains all the light waves of the spectrum and that is why it produces richer light and a clear image. It is usually present in the form of a layer behind the backlight.

TV buying guide to help you know how to pick TV Screen Resolution?

High Definition (HD)

The most common resolution has been HD resolution or 1920 x1080p pixels. These are quite common in standard LED or LCD TVs. The reviews of SAMSUNG Smart TV are good because it offers a picture resolution of 4K.

4K Ultra HD

Smart TVs have built-in 4K ultra HD resolution offering 3840×2160 pixels. It is also known as ultra HD resolution. These TVs enable sharp images, and finer details even for smaller objects on the screen. The viewing experience will be incredible with a 4K resolution, especially if you opt for a large screen like a 65-inch display. The reviews of model Sony A8H are positive for its HDR technology and Alexa compatibility.

Ultra HD

A top-rated model like Sony X900H has Ultra HD videos are a major feature on every OTT platform like Amazon Prime, Netflix, etc. This high-definition feature is becoming more common with Blu-ray discs.

8K

8K is a fairly new concept and consists of 8000 pixels. It is a succeeding technology to the dominant 4K. TVs exhibiting 8K are expensive and have yet to take over the market. It is the highest resolution that exists to date.

TV Buying Guide to help you choose the right TV Accessories 

Antenna

Antennas are a necessity for smart TVs for viewing local channels. The antenna detects the local channels and allows them to lock in with the TV system. Smart TVs already have a built-in system to detect local channels. An antenna acts as a booster for the TV to catch the local channels with ease.

TV Mounts and Stands

TV mounts and stands are common today. Wall mounts may restrict the movement of your TV set, especially, when you want to redo the positioning of your furniture. In such cases, you can use TV mount stands. Specific stands come for specific TV designs and offer mobility to your TV sets.

Speakers and Sound Bars

TVs come with a built-in simple stereo Hi-Fi system facilitating the addition of external speakers with ease. These systems can enable wireless or wired speakers including amplifiers. You can prefer soundbars for an elevated listening experience. A soundbar with 2.1 channels is enough for a surround system.

Remotes

A universal remote is compatible with all kinds of TV sets. They are majorly divided into an infrared remote control, voice-over remote control, and radio remote control. The smart TVs have a voice-over remote control that is compatible with your voice commands. 

TV Buying Guide: Frequently Asked Questions

Which TV Would Best Suit Your Budget?

A standard 4K resolution TV with a screen size of 55 inches is common in households. Such models come with HDR viewing, 4K resolution, or 3480×2160 pixels. Their HDMI ports and built-in Wi-Fi connections provide enhanced compatibility and a better viewing experience. They usually cost somewhere between USD 270 and USD 600.

Which Type of TV Should You Buy?

The best kind of TV to settle for now is LED-LCD TV. These TVs have perfect color contrast and support full HD resolution. They include many features, offer a great viewing experience, and cost relatively low. You can also read our blog to learn how to pick the best small smart TV.

What is the Concept of the HDMI Connection?

HDMI connections are made to transmit 720 and 1080 frame-rate video. Different models require different kinds of cables. The high-speed 4.1 HDMI cable is required for a 4K OLED TV. Always go for TVs that offer more HDMI ports. Many newer TV sets also come with HDMI 2.0 format.

Conclusion: an exclusive TV Buying Guide

Smart TVs allow you to stream online content with ease. The majority of them support OTT platforms and offer content in HD format. TVs today range from budget-friendly models to exclusive and expensive models. You should choose the model that offers you smart features without exceeding your budget limit. Deciding between LCD LED Vs OLED TV can be tough, but not with our comparison guide.

BestViewsReviews rates and ranks hundreds of top-quality TVs and soundbars based on build quality, convenience, and overall performance.