Crowdfunding – KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com Tech News, Reviews, and How-To's for the Non-Techie Wed, 27 Dec 2023 20:35:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cropped-LOGO-ICON-KNOW-TECHIE-FINAL01-01-COLOR-32x32.png Crowdfunding – KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com 32 32 11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in November https://knowtechie.com/10-great-crowdfunding-campaigns-november-2023/ https://knowtechie.com/10-great-crowdfunding-campaigns-november-2023/#respond Mon, 06 Nov 2023 20:40:48 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=335983 We've got everything from webcams to e-ink desktop computers this month, so check it out!

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Crowdfunding is an excellent way for innovative products to see the light of day without the restrictions placed on in-house development at large companies.

It’s also a great place to check out video games from small studios, movies, and campaigns for social good.

With all those campaigns competing for your attention, finding ones based on your interests can be tricky. Let KnowTechie do all the hard work for you with our top picks for November 2023.

Check out these 11 awesome crowdfunding campaigns this month

So… with how many crowdfunding campaigns are out there, how do you choose what to back?

Well, I use a combination of checking out their campaign page, looking to see if any of the comments on their show dissatisfied backers, and companies I’ve already had successful pledge fulfillment.

I also stick to gadget areas I know a bit about, like photography, cooking, maker tools, and writing implements. That way, I can judge whether the campaign’s aspirations are within reach.

I’m also picking campaigns with some time left to run, as it’s no fun finding out about excellent gadgets after they’ve finished.

So, with all of that out of the way, here are some of the crowdfunding campaigns I’ve found worthy of attention in November:

Obsbot Tail Air

The latest 4K webcam from Obsbot is the Tail Air PTZ, and it comes with a bunch of features that creators and remote workers will love.

We’ve used multiple Obsbot devices over the years, from the Tiny 4K, Tiny, and Me, and enjoyed the image quality overall and the AI tracking functionality. This camera has all of that and more.

For a start, it has a larger sensor with larger pixels, which captures more light overall. Focusing is now accomplished by an infrared laser, so even low-light focusing is quick and accurate.

It’s got excellent AI tracking that can be tweaked for composition, gesture control, NDI for setting up a camera system over a network, and an internal battery for 2.5 hours of streaming without wires.

Obsbot Tail Air PTZ Camera Obsbot Tail Air PTZ Camera
From $479

The Obsbot Tail Air PTZ Camera is a great option for content creators, with 4K30 or 1080p60 streaming video with PTZ control, multicam setup options, and internal batteries for 2.5hrs of wire-free video capture.

What We Like:
  • Up to 4K30 resolution webcam with AI auto-tracking
  • NDI connection for streaming over Wi-Fi or Ethernet
  • Multiple outputs including USB-C, Micro HDMI and Ethernet
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Fululy robotic cushion

Meditation, mindfulness, and other relaxation techniques rely on deep breathing, which regulates our nervous system. A different type of deep breathing happens when in close proximity to another person, but what if nobody is around?

Enter fulfuly, a robotic cushion with a quirky cloud shape that mimics deep breathing. Hug it, breathe with it, and let go of the tension you were feeling, it’s that simple.

Use it as a stress aid, after, during, and even before work so you’re always in the best frame of mind to be productive.

Fulfuly Breathing Robotic Cushion Fulfuly Breathing Robotic Cushion

Ever feel overwhelmed and like you need a hug? Hugging works partly because two people that close together start syncing breaths, helping the runaway nerves to calm down. Fulfuly does the same thing, but with a cute robotic pillow that eases you into deeper breathing.

What We Like:
  • Soothing organic breathing which induces deep breathing in the person hugging fulfuly
  • Quirky, cloud-like shape with contours to hug from any angle
  • Long battery life
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Donner Medo Portable Musical Instrument

What’s the worst part about music creation? It could be that when inspiration strikes, you’re often nowhere near an instrument to explore your idea.

With the Medo, your instrument is always at hand, with a portable, pocket-sized synthesizer that can record sounds, create loops, and help you make intricate arrangements.

Tap into your creativity wherever it strikes, and record your inspiration with gesture-based controls and RGB for immersive visual representations of your musical creations.

Donner Medo Donner Medo
$150

The Medo is a compact, portable all-in-one sampler and looper for creating musical compositions anywhere you are. It's a portable synth with gesture-based controls instead of keys, and makes a perfect gift for musician friends.

What We Like:
  • Sampler, looper, and more in one battery-powered box
  • Gesture-based controls for accessible creation
  • RGB lighting that mimics your track's rhythm and mood
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Eazeye

Eye strain and office jobs go hand-in-hand, but they don’t have to be that intertwined. Eazyeye swaps the harsh artificial LED backlight for natural light, making it less strain to look at.

Think of how much easier an eink tablet, like a Kindle, is to read books on. Now imagine that for the computer monitor that you do your daily work on. That’s the promise Eazeye claims to do and we’re excited.

Of course, the sun isn’t always out especially at this time of year. Eazeye has an LED backlight too, but with lower blue light intensity than traditional backlights.

Eazeye - Worlds First Naturally Backlit Monitor Eazeye - Worlds First Naturally Backlit Monitor

Ever got eye-strain from staring at a computer screen all day? Yeah, us too but now there's a solution. Eazeye uses the natural light levels in your room to light up the screen, so you don't get those LED backlight headaches anymore. Nice.

What We Like:
  • Naturally lit so immune from the usual issues of LED backlighting like blue light or headaches
  • Stylish design for your desktop
  • The first monitor you should really put next to the window
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Three 3D Scanner

With the rise of 3D printing and ever more realistic 3D graphics for games and render use comes a whole ecosystem of support devices.

3D scanners are part of the new peripherals, but most have glaring drawbacks, like needing a powerful (and expensive) computer to facilitate the scanning. Three changes this by integrating a CPU and GPU into the scanner.

That way, it can process the data from the DLP projector and Sony optical sensors in real-time and on-device so that you can get the scans on relatively low-powered devices like Chromebooks or smartphones.

It can scan things from the macro to the micro ranges, so whatever your project, you can get the 3D scanned objects you need.

Three - The Incredibly Capable 3D Scanner

Three solves several problems with 3D scanning, including removing the need for a powerful computer. That's because it has a built-in CPU and GPU, to run the Sony optical sensors and DLP projector that's used to scan the objects.

What We Like:
  • Flexible scanning for large objects like cars, right down to small objects like tabletop miniatures
  • Can capture the color of objects and import them into the scanned 3D object
  • Works right from your web browser so no need for app installs
Check Availability
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Monogram Keyboard

The image shows a modern, detailed mechanical keyboard with customizable keys and a rotary encoder, rendered in a 3D graphics environment.
Image: Monogram

Monogram started on Kickstarter, as Palette, a system of magnetically-connected control surfaces for creatives to use in editing programs. It’s perhaps fitting that they’re back crowdfunding for their latest device, the Monogram Keyboard.

This TKL format mechanical keyboard comes in a CNC-machined aluminum alloy case, and has a host of useful features for the creatives among us.

There’s a row of mini OLED displays above a row of function keys, that change automatically as you switch between programs so you always know where your shortcuts are. And a handy control dial for fine-control.

And because it wouldn’t be a Monogram without magnets, there’s a magnetic pogo pin connector that attaches a standalone keypad to either side of the keyboard.

Monogram Keyboard Monogram Keyboard

The Monogram Keyboard is a modular keyboard built for creators, with customizable OLED mini displays, media controls, and a control dial. It's also got magnetic module connectors, so you can expand it with the customizable Multipad for even more utility.

What We Like:
  • Modular magnetic connectors to add a Multipad to either side of the keyboard for even more customizable controls
  • Mini OLED displays that show the current control set as you change between programs
  • Gateron low-profile mechanical key switches for tactile control
  • CNC-machined case from a solid piece of aluminum alloy
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

iMicro Q3 Smartphone Microscope

iMicro Q3 fingertip microscope being held on a finger
Image: i-Seeing

Ever wondered what things lurk below micron level? You can’t see them with the naked eye, or even with a camera, but this miniature microscope attachment will let you see tiny objects.

Things like individual pollen grains, individual sub-pixels on OLED screens, and more, with up to 1,200x magnification and no distortion.

This innovative microscope attaches to your phone with nano-suction, just like how a gecko stays on the wall.

You can use it with any camera app with flashlight control, or the iSeeing app which lets you calibrate for pinpoint measurements.

iMicro Q3 Smartphone Microscope iMicro Q3 Smartphone Microscope
$36

Microscopes are usually associated with big, bulky tubes with large lenses inside but the iMicro Q3 uses a lens not much bigger than a contact lens to enhance your smartphone's camera down to single micron resolution.

Why we like it:
  • Turns your smartphone into a digital microscope
  • Explore the usually unseen world right below your eyes
  • Tiny lens so can carry wherever you go
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Anker Solix F3800

Anker is better known for smaller battery packs, but the Solix F3800 dials things up wayyyy past 11. It’s got 3.84kWh of power for roughly a day of household use, but you can expand this to up to two weeks of charge.

Two weeks! Better yet, you can wire it into your home breaker box with the Home Power Panel, and feed every socket in your home during a blackout.

It’ll even charge from solar, the grid, or other electrical sources, so you can have a whole-house backup solution for never worrying about outages ever again.

Anker Solix F3800 Anker Solix F3800
From $2,599

The Anker Solix F3800 has 3.84kWh of capacity for around a full day of power for the average home. What sets it apart is the ability to increase that to 26.9kWh or even 53.8kWh of capacity for up to two weeks of running your whole home on battery!

Why we like it:
  • Up to 53.8kWh capacity (with expansion batteries) to power your whole home for days
  • Dual 120/240V in one unit so it can work with more devices and appliances
  • Enough power to directly charge EVs or power entire RVs
  • 6,000W output or 12,000W if two units daisychained so you can even power central air conditioner units
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

T-Shirt TV

970796bedb00dcc0767241b17c8508eb original.gif?ixlib=rb 4.1

Wear your art, memes, or TikToks with this interactive T-shirt with a flexible 10-inch TV embedded into the front. It’s got up to four hours of battery life before it needs charging, and can display almost any digital files.

Use it for your NFTs (since they’re virtually worthless now), or turn it into ad-hoc advertising campaigns so your brand can shine while you walk around. Or plug in a power bank and shine all day.

T-Shirt TV T-Shirt TV

Ever thought your T-shirts were too drab? Too pedestrian? Boring? Well never worry about that again with T-Shirt TV, which adds a 10-inch screen to your tops that can show images, memes, GIFs, and more for up to four hours on a charge.

What We Like:
  • 10-inch, bright, flexible screen for displaying a wide variety of digital mediums
  • Up to four hours of battery life before needing to charge
  • Easy to clean
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Bigme AIO PC with E Ink Color Display

One of the most annoying things about staring at a computer screen all day is the headaches that some people get from the LED backlighting.

E-ink monitors use a front light to be more like reflected light from a piece of paper, and Bigme has both a monitor and an AIO PC currently up for crowdfunding.

Whichever way you go, you get a 25.3-inch kaleido three e-ink screen, with a 3K (3200×1800) resolution. The front light is adjustable in strength and color tone, to your preferences.

It’s eye-friendly, energy efficient, and great for programmers or anyone who stares at a mostly static screen all day.

The AIO PC is powered by a 12th-gen Intel Core i5, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage, running on Windows 11. That’s a great little desktop, only the size of a monitor.

Bigme AIO PC with Full Color E Ink Display Bigme AIO PC with Full Color E Ink Display
From $1,899

Order a color e-ink monitor with 3K resolution and plenty of inputs, or upgrade to an AIO computer with an Intel Core i5 and be productive from one screen, without the headaches of LED backlit screens.

Why we like it:
  • Color e-ink display with 3K resolution for productivity without the eye strain associated with LED backlights
  • Comes in monitor or AIO PC version powered by Intel Core i5 processor
  • Stylish design
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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This mechanical keyboard aims to reinvent effortless typing https://knowtechie.com/this-mechanical-keyboard-aims-to-reinvent-effortless-typing/ https://knowtechie.com/this-mechanical-keyboard-aims-to-reinvent-effortless-typing/#respond Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:45:29 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=298126 Introducing Lofree Flow: The slim, smooth mechanical keyboard is now on Kickstarter

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Fed up with massive, awkward keyboards that make your fingers ache?

Get ready to toss them aside because the Lofree Flow is taking over Kickstarter and is seeking some of that sweet crowdfunding cash.

This stylish and groundbreaking mechanical keyboard was created to prioritize comfort – and it’s making waves on the crowdfunding platform right now.

Moreover, with a low-profile design that’s tailor-made for tech enthusiasts who want simplicity and style, the Lofree Flow delivers without the extra fluff.

Editor's Pick
Lowfree Flow Mechanical Keyboard
4.5
With a low-profile design that's tailor-made for tech enthusiasts who want simplicity and style, the Lofree Flow delivers without the extra fluff.
Check Availability
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.
FeatureSpecifications
Switch TypeKailh POM Self-Lubricating Switches
DesignLow-Profile, Gasket Mount
CompatibilityMac and Windows
Connectivity OptionsWireless or Wired
Keycaps Material85% PBT (with Five-Sided Dye-Sublimation process)
Lighting EffectsRGB Sidelit
Customization OptionsHot-Swappable Functionality
Body MaterialAll-Aluminum
DimensionsSlim 10mm Thickness with a 3.9-degree Tilt
Weight568g
Battery LifeUp to 40 Hours on a Single Charge
Charging TimeFast 3-Hour Charging

Ultra-smooth typing

The Lofree Flow features Kailh POM switches that provide an ultra-smooth typing sensation due to their self-lubricating materials.

Made entirely of POM material, these switches promise increased smoothness over time as they adapt to your unique typing style.

A lowfree flow mechanical keyboard sits on the table.
A lowfree flow mechanical keyboard sits on the table.

But great switches alone aren’t enough; that’s why Lofree incorporated gasket mount technology to create an even smoother and more comfortable typing experience.

Known as the world’s first gasket-mount low-profile keyboard, the Lofree Flow promises precise, enjoyable typing without any strain or discomfort.

In addition to impressive performance, the Lofree Flow showcases stunning visuals with 85% PBT keycaps made using a “five-sided dye-sublimation” process.

Therefore, this means beautiful, durable patterns on your keycaps that are sure to impress. Plus, with RGB sidelight lighting effects, your desk setup will be transformed into an ambient, eye-catching display.

Customization

However, the Lofree Flow doesn’t skimp on customization either – its hot-swappable functionality and detachable connector base allow you to effortlessly change out switches to fit your preferences.

A lowfree flow mechanical keyboard sits on the table.
A wooden FLOW 84-Key Dual Mode Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboard is illuminated by an indoor light, powered by a 3.7V/2000miAh input and certified by 8/TM01-2010 FC(63).
A wooden table is filled with everyday carry gadgets, electronic devices, communication devices, portable communications devices, mobile phones, and office supplies, including an Apple Mac smartphone.

Designed for both Mac and Windows users, this wireless and wired keyboard boasts a fast-charging battery life of up to 40 hours – all in a slim, lightweight package.

Now is the perfect time to snag an exceptional deal on the future of mechanical keyboards by backing the Lofree Flow on Kickstarter.

Pricing and availability

Say goodbye to limitations on typing comfort and say hello to a keyboard that truly adapts to your needs. Check out the Lofree Flow mechanical keyboard on Kickstarter.

And if you decide to pull the trigger early, not only will you get your keyboard before everyone else, but you’ll be supporting the company’s crowdfuning efforts too.

And did I mention there’s special pricing for early adopters? Yup, you’ll actuallly pay cheaper than what it will normally cost when it eventually releases to the masses.

The Lofree Flow mechanical keyboard is available for backing on Kickstarter with various pricing options, with the lowest sitting around $129.

Editor's Pick
Lowfree Flow Mechanical Keyboard Lowfree Flow Mechanical Keyboard
4.5

The Lowfree Flow is a mechanical keyboard created to prioritize comfort – and it's making waves on Kickstarter right now. With a low-profile design that's tailor-made for tech enthusiasts who want simplicity and style, the Lofree Flow delivers without the extra fluff.

What We Like:
  • Ultra-smooth typing experience with self-lubricating switches
  • Low-profile design perfect for comfortable and efficient use
  • Aesthetically pleasing with durable PBT keycaps and RGB sidelit lighting effects
  • Customizable and hot-swappable, allowing users to tailor the keyboard to their preferences
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows systems
  • Long battery life of up to 40 hours on a single charge
  • Lightweight and portable, making it easy to take on the go
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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This mechanical keyboard has a 5-port hub built right into it https://knowtechie.com/this-mechanical-keyboard-has-a-5-port-hub-built-right-into-it/ https://knowtechie.com/this-mechanical-keyboard-has-a-5-port-hub-built-right-into-it/#respond Thu, 06 Apr 2023 14:01:04 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=286371 Keep an eye out for the Whatgeek Ultra-Smart 5-in-1 TKL Mechanical Keyboard Hub on Kickstarter.

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The Whatgeek Ultra-Smart 5-in-1 TKL Mechanical Keyboard Hub, jointly launched by 3inuS and Whatgeek, recently launched on Kickstarter, and it’s packed with innovative features that cater to Mac users.

The KEBOHUB EE01 is a versatile keyboard hub with five ports, 18 RGB lighting effects, and customizable keycaps and switches.

Its charging capabilities extend to multiple devices, including mice, phones, fans, and power banks. With no latency compared to Bluetooth keyboards, gamers can enjoy a seamless and immersive experience.

Mechanical keyboard hubs should come as a standard

The hub boasts a 5V/5A output and 3 USB-A 3.0 ports for data transfer. Compatible with all USB-A 3.0 and 2.0 products, a single port can provide up to 5V/1.5A output.

The lightning-fast 5Gbps transfer speed means 1GB of data takes only 5 seconds to transfer. The HDMI2.0 port ensures compatibility with 2K, 1080P, and 720P monitors, delivering top-notch visuals to complement its performance.

Users can charge devices through the USB-C and USB-A ports, avoiding the inconvenience of dead batteries. The Type-C connector offers a total output of 1.5A for USB-C1 and USB-A1 ports.

side of the keyboard showing 5 in 1 port

87-key layout

The compact 87-key layout saves space and caters to those who need to type quickly. Constructed with high-quality materials, the KEBOHUB EE01 supports up to 70 million keystrokes, surpassing many other keyboards out there.

The desk holds a computer and keyboard.

Hot-swappable switches enable easy switch replacement without the need for disassembly or desoldering. The keyboard is compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin switches, with red, blue, and brown switch options available on Kickstarter.

Each switch type caters to different user preferences, from gaming to typing and programming.

Whatgeek has collaborated on the launch of three personalized keyboards, each with its distinct style. Double-shot keycaps ensure durability, retaining their texture even after heavy use.

Individual key lighting and 18 customizable lighting effects allow users to personalize their keyboard to their preferences.

Whatgeek keyboard inside

How much is it, and where can you find it?

The Whatgeek Ultra-Smart 5-in-1 TKL Mechanical Keyboard campaign is now live on Kickstarter and has already surpassed its campaign goal.

Pricing starts at $84. Learn more via the Kickstarter page.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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The Spectrum Nano is a vibrant, versatile portable 4K display https://knowtechie.com/the-spectrum-nano-is-a-vibrant-versatile-portable-4k-display/ https://knowtechie.com/the-spectrum-nano-is-a-vibrant-versatile-portable-4k-display/#respond Fri, 09 Dec 2022 22:37:31 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=261409 The Spectrum Nano is a 15.6-inch display to take with you wherever you go, enabling multitasking and gaming wherever you are.

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If you ever need a second screen or lack the space for a proper multi-display setup, you will want to take a hard look at the new Spectrum Nano.

This portable 15.6-inch 300-nit display comes in 4K, 2K, and 1080p variants and supports up to a 165Hz refresh rate.

The display is touch-enabled and supports 10-point touch.

Connectivity comes in the form of a USB-C or HDMI connection. It supports various devices, including PCs, Macs, consoles, and Android devices.

spectrum nano 4k display on purple background
Image: KnowTechie

The Spectrum Nano has a 5000mAh battery which Tech Armory claims can last up to 5 hours per charge. It has a built-in stereo speaker and weighs just under 2 pounds (900 grams).

The Spectrum Nano accepts a Vesa mount for those interested in mounting options. The display can even charge your phone if you are in a pinch.

With 27 days left on Indigogo, this device sits at 149% of its $2,000 goal. It currently has almost $3,000, with half the backers opting for the 4K display.

The 2.5K display (165Hz refresh rate) is especially intriguing. It would strike a great balance for extending a laptop display while allowing for some serious portable gaming.

The 2.5K version is currently $290 on Indigogo as an early bird special. The 4K variant is $300, the 1080p/120Hz is $225, and the 1080p/60Hz is $200.

Learn more at Indieiegogo.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in December https://knowtechie.com/11-great-crowdfunding-campaigns-to-check-out-in-december/ https://knowtechie.com/11-great-crowdfunding-campaigns-to-check-out-in-december/#respond Mon, 05 Dec 2022 20:37:34 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=257014 We've got tiny PCs, a universal remote, and an electric motorcycle this month.

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Crowdfunding is an excellent way for innovative products to see the light of day without the restrictions placed on in-house development at large companies.

It’s also a great place to check out video games from small studios, movies, and campaigns for social good.

With all those campaigns competing for your attention, finding ones based on your interests can be tricky. Let KnowTechie do all the hard work for you with our top picks for December.

Check out these 11 awesome crowdfunding campaigns this month

So… with how many crowdfunding campaigns are out there, how do you choose what to back?

Well, I use a combination of checking out their campaign page, looking to see if any of the comments on their show dissatisfied backers, and companies I’ve already had successful pledge fulfillment.

I also stick to gadget areas I know a bit about, like photography, cooking, maker tools, and writing implements. That way, I can judge whether the campaign’s aspirations are within reach.

I’m also picking campaigns with some time left to run, as it’s no fun finding out about excellent gadgets after they’ve finished.

So, with all of that out of the way, here are some of the crowdfunding campaigns I’ve found worthy of attention in December:

SUMJet Pro – The First True Cordless Dry Cleaner

Steam cleaners are great tools to degunk our homes and smooth away wrinkles in our clothes. The big problem is that they’re mostly corded, so you can only use them when near a socket.

SUMjet Pro fixes that with a fully cordless design that can create 320f temperature steam.

Superheated Ultra-fine Mist (SUM) can steam suits, car seats, and clean surfaces you’d rather not touch, like those in your bathroom or kitchen wall.


Zeus: World’s smallest 270W GaN charger

Chargeasap is back with a tiny 270W Gallium Nitride (GaN) charger. It has three USB-C Power Delivery ports and one USB-A port with QuickCharge 3.0, AFC, VOOC, SCP, and FCP support.

That’s most of the powerful fast-charging specs in one easy-to-carry device. One USB-C port is rated to 140W, to power things like the latest 16-inch MacBook Pro.

The other two USB-C ports are rated 100W, and the USB-A is 36W max.


HEIPI: The Most Compact 3-in-1 Travel Tripod

For travel photographers, portability is key. HEIPI’s travel tripod has a three-pillar center column for more support.

It also means that you can take the center pillar out and have a second tripod on you at all times.

It’s constructed from carbon fiber, so you get the best balance of weight and stiffness for stability. HEIPI also comes with a pro-level ball head, so your shots will be supported at any angle.


Pimax Portal – World’s First Metaverse Entertainment System

Ever wanted a device that can transform based on how you want to play?

The Pimax Portal might be the closest thing so far, being able to change between a standalone VR headset, a tethered VR headset, a mobile gaming device, and a living room entertainment hub.

The Android device is powered by the Qualcomm XR2, the same chip in the Meta Quest Pro. It has a 4K LCD, or an optional QLED display with MiniLED backlight, and can output 4K at 120Hz when in docked mode.


The Skip 1s Universal Remote Control by Flirc

Trying to control your entertainment devices is tricky, with everyone needing a different remote. Flirc’s Skip 1s universal remote lets you control things with just one unit.

The software for the Skip 1s gives deep customization into user modes and looks like it works with all kinds of devices.

Drag and drop customization for every button is available, and you can customize the backlighting color.


FUELL Fllow: Ride Into the Future

FUELL and ex-Harley Davidson engineer Eric Buell are back, this time with an electric motorcycle.

The FUELL Fllow looks like a midsize motorbike, but it’s got the low center of gravity of a scooter thanks to the heavy and large 10 Kwh battery.

That battery gives it a 150+ mile range, whether you’re dodging through commuter traffic or opening it up on the highway. It has CCS fast charger capability to recharge in under thirty minutes.


Brightbin – Make your inventory smart

Do you have hobbies that involve storing parts, books, or anything else that needs an inventory? Brightbin is here to take the pain out of inventory management.

Digitally catalog your items, then let Brightbin show you a shelf to put them away on. On the flip side, you can use Brightbin software to locate the bin you stored the item in originally.


Nireeka Revenant – Full-suspension trail eMtb

This ebike has full suspension and mountain bike styling, with a 1000W hub-mounted motor. That gets a max speed of 35 MPH, and has a 50-mile range thanks to an 840 Wh battery using Samsung cells.

The frame is carbon fiber, stopping is handled by ABS hydraulic disc brakes, and the fast charger can get you back on the road in 3-5 hours.


GPD Pocket 3

Small PC form factors have a niche market, but nobody does it better than GPD.

The Pocket 3 has an 8″ screen with a 1920×1200 resolution (16:10), and either the Intel Core i7-1195G7 or Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor.

Either model supports Thunderbolt 4/USB4, WiFi 6E, has an IR camera for Windows Hello, and a pressure-sensitive stylus. You also get a 2.5GBe Ethernet port and a KVM module for controlling a server or other computer.


Retro Styled Modular IPS Display for old and new systems

Love retro gaming but not the weight of the CRTs you need to enjoy older consoles? Well, this retro-styled monitor might be the answer.

You get a 19″ shell that you can put any panel inside to create a personalized monitor. But that’s not all.

You can then add input ‘pods’ that house Component, Composite, HDMI, VGA, and MiSTer AIO for retro gaming, or a Raspberry Pi pod to turn it into a fully contained computer.


E-ink fans are going to love this tablet, which is one of the first to use the new E Ink Gallery 3 color technology.

It has a 300 ppi, just like the class-leading e-readers, but it has CMYW pigments to create saturated, colorful images.

The Bigme Galy runs on Android 11, so it has multiple productivity apps and a pressure-sensitive stylus with eraser. Perfect for annotations, writing, or sketching.


Crowdfunding is cool, but understand what you’re getting into

Getting in on a new gadget or tech before it comes to market is a neat feeling. When you back a crowdfunding project, you’re personally helping to bring something to retail availability.

That said, there are some things to keep in mind. While your pledged money to the creator is guaranteed, your reward is not.

Sometimes delays happen, and campaigns miss their delivery estimate. In rare cases, campaigns fail to live up to their promises, and you end up with nothing.

This is less common now that crowdfunding is more mature. The major crowdfunding sites have reviewing processes in place to minimize fraud, along with rules for campaigns to stay trustworthy.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in October https://knowtechie.com/11-great-crowdfunding-campaigns-to-check-out-in-october/ Thu, 20 Oct 2022 17:04:21 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=247526 AR glasses, yard cleaning robots, and more round out our picks this month.

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Crowdfunding is a cool way for innovative products to see the light of day without the restrictions placed on in-house development at large companies.

It’s also a great place to check out video games from small studios, movies, and campaigns for social good.

With all those campaigns competing for your attention, finding ones based on your interests can be tricky. Let KnowTechie do all the hard work for you with our picks of the crop for October.

Check out these 11 awesome crowdfunding campaigns this month

So… with how many crowdfunding campaigns are out there, how do you choose what to back?

Well, we use a combination of checking out their campaign page, looking to see if any of the comments on their prior campaigns show dissatisfied backers, and also companies we’ve already had successful pledge fulfillment from.

I also tend to stick to gadget areas we know a bit about, like photography, cooking, maker tools, and writing implements. That way, we can judge whether or not the campaign’s aspirations are within reach.

We also pick campaigns with some time left to run, as it’s no fun finding out about cool campaigns after they’ve finished.

So, with all of that out of the way, here are some of the crowdfunding campaigns we’ve found worthy of attention in October:

TCL NXTWEAR S XR Glasses

Augmented reality glasses are everywhere these days, and this pair from TCL looks pretty good. Housed in oversized sunglasses, the NXTWEAR S creates a virtual 140-inch screen in your field of vision.

Use them for gaming, watching movies, or for working discretely so nobody can see what you’re doing. They’re also compatible with smartphones, consoles, PC, and laptops.


Maven Filters

Filters are an essential tool in every photographer and videographer’s kit bag. The thing is, most are full of frustrations as well. Maven aims to solve all those frustrations, so you can concentrate on creating.

Their filter system uses magnets to attach to your lens, not annoying threads that stick. They’re also color-coded, so you can tell which one you’re using at a glance.


Yarbo – intelligent yard robot

Hate mowing your lawn? Who doesn’t, but now you can outsource that job to robots with this new crowdfunding campaign. Yarbo doesn’t just keep your grass at HOA-approved levels though.

You can swap out its mower module for a leafblower or a mini-snowblower. No more back-breaking snow shoveling. Bliss.


Loona – The most Intelligent Petbot

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/nNmqS0_fMxU

Know someone who’d love a robotic companion for Christmas this year? Meet Loona, the crowdfunding petbot that looks like she rolled out of a Pixar movie.

Full of personality, she loves to follow you around like a real pet. She’ll quietly amuse herself if you’re busy too, and is packed full of AI technology to make her seem more alive.


Keychron K3 Pro

Keychron’s latest custom mechanical keyboard has low-profile Gateron switches, so the keyboard takes up less vertical space on your desk.

Multitask with up to three devices via Bluetooth 5.1, and get a 1,000Hz polling rate when connected via USB-C for fast responsive typing or gaming.

The K3 Pro is also compatible with VIA and QMK, the most widely used keymapping firmware. That means you can customize every key, including on-board macro functionality.


Horizon MFi and MagSafe 3-in-1 charger

Sick of having your desk or nightstand covered in chargers? Horizon charges your iPhone, AirPods, and your Apple Watch, all from a slimline device.

It also folds out to provide a handy stand for your iPhone while charging via MagSafe wireless. MagSafe, 10W Qi for your AirPods, and the fastest charge for your Apple Watch Series 7 or 8, all in one device.


MIRROSKY

Astronomy is cool, but this telescope crowdfunding campaign is even cooler. It’s packed with smarts to help you identify celestial bodies and automatically tracks them while taking images on its integrated imager.

That’s enough resolution to image faraway nebulae, or get high-resolution snaps of the planets in our Solar System. You also get a stainless steel tripod and app control with over 100,000 objects cataloged for easy viewing.


Outisan e-Wagon

Carrying gear around is a pain, and all-terrain wagons get heavy and unwieldy quickly. Outisan’s new crowdfunding campaign brings an electric utility wagon with power assist motors in the wheels.

Those motors help on any terrain, but really come in handy when going up or down hills. Make light work of even the heaviest loads with this e-wagon.


Shelfy

Food waste is a big issue, and Shelfy wants to help. It uses photocatalytic filtering to make the contents of your fridge last longer.

No more bad odors, reduced bacteria, and food that lasts multiple times as long. That sounds like a winning combination to us.


Skate-X

What do you get when you put a bunch of skateboarders in charge of designing an e-scooter? You get the crowdfunding campaign Skate-X, and it’s gnarly.

20 mph top speed, 20-mile range, a minimalist frame designed to make it feel like carving on a skateboard, and a quality build informed by decades of experience.

You also get a 500W motor, headlights, taillights, turn signals, and both foot and handbrakes.


Rotolight NEO 3 PRO and AEOS 2 PRO

Rotolight is back, with pro versions of the two lights that set Kickstarter on fire in 2021. The Neo 3 Pro and Aeos 3 Pro dial up the features, making some of the best LED lights even better.

The Pro versions gain true aperture dimming, wireless trigger compatibility with the biggest brands, and over 100 preset light recipes.

That’s on top of the 2,500 digital filters and 16.7 million colors that you could already dial in. The result? The best small-factor LED lights just got better.


We’ve picked our favorite crowdfunding campaigns this month. It’s only a tiny cross-section of the crowdfunding space, which has something for everyone.

We hope it’s sparked some interest in the space, and we encourage you to browse for projects that might fit your interests more.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post 11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in October appeared first on KnowTechie.

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MAVEN Magnetic Filters Are Now Shipping - Order Yours Today! nonadult
11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in September https://knowtechie.com/11-great-crowdfunding-campaigns-for-september/ Thu, 29 Sep 2022 14:38:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=233789 We've got camera gear, pomodoro timers, and more this month.

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Crowdfunding is a cool way for innovative products to see the light of day without the restrictions placed on in-house development at large companies.

It’s also a great place to check out video games from small studios, movies, and campaigns for social good.

With all those campaigns competing for your attention, it can be tricky to find ones based on your interests. Let KnowTechie do all the hard work for you with our crop picks for March.

Check out these 11 awesome crowdfunding campaigns this month

So, with how many crowdfunding campaigns are out there, how do you choose what to back?

Well, I use a combination of checking out their campaign page, looking to see if any of the comments on their prior campaigns show dissatisfied backers, and also companies I’ve already had successful pledge fulfillment from.

I also tend to stick to gadget areas I know a bit about, like photography, cooking, maker tools, and writing implements. That way, I can judge whether or not the campaign’s aspirations are within reach, which adds to my decisions.

I’m also picking campaigns with some time left to run, as it’s no fun finding out about cool campaigns after they’ve finished.

So, with all of that out of the way, here are some of the crowdfunding campaigns I’ve found worthy of attention in September:

OXS Thunder 7.1.2 Gaming Sound System with Neck Speaker

Don’t want to wear headphones when gaming? OXS Thunder has you covered with a Dolby Atmos-equipped soundbar.

With ten channels, this soundbar blasts out a ton of sound. That’s five front, two up-firing, one extra bass, and two channels in a satellite neck speaker. Yes, neck speaker, in a headrest to attach to your gaming chair.


Lawna, the smart cyber mower

Anyone who’s had to cut the lawn this summer knows that’s a task better suited to robots. No more sweating under the midday sun, because the crowdfunding campaign Lawna is here to do it for you.

The fully-autonomous mower doesn’t need a perimeter wire, because it’s got AI-powered vision. No more inaccurate mapping and multiple mowing patterns to make sure every inch of your yard is trimmed.


WAHU – the tech shoes

We’ve had decades of sneaker manufacturers saying trapped air is the best thing for bounce and comfort. What if you could customize that cushioning, on a whim, at any time?

Enter WAHU. These awesome shoes have robotic pneumatics (air pressure) to customize the cushioning level to three preset options. Inbuilt sensors and machine learning learn your walk, then give you tips.

They also charge wirelessly, so no worrying about charge ports getting gunked up.


LIVALL smart bicycle helmet

Safety helmets are a must when riding your bike, especially on roads. Make your helmet even safer with Livall, which adds fall detection, phone calls, smart lighting, braking warning lights, and speakers from JBL.

The built-in speakers help accentuate traffic noises, meaning you can focus on the road while still clearly hearing your surroundings. It can even send SOS messages in an emergency. What a smart helmet.


CASIRIS A6: The Truest Color 4K Ultra-RGB Laser Projector

Short-throw laser projectors are everywhere right now, but we’ve never seen one this cheap. The Casiris 4K is rated to 2200 ANSI lumens, can project up to a 120-inch screen, and has HDR10, Dolby Atmos, and more.

Using three lasers, the projector gives 107% coverage of the BT.2020 color gamut, which is amazing. The team is already fully-funded too, after only a few days.


CAPSULE PRO: Versatile Motorized Pan and Tilt Head

More people have been getting into photography over the era of social distancing. The latest crowdfunding campaign from Miops might the next thing you need for that creative edge.

We loved the original Capsule 360, and now there’s a Pro version. Easily add pans and tilts to your timelapses, or upgrade with the Slider+ and add linear motion for even more emotion.

Everything is easily computer controlled from the iOS or Android app, and the motors are quieter, but stronger this time around.


Angry Miao CYBERBLADE

Angry Miao made their name with edgy, unobtainable custom keyboards, but now they’re edging into the audio world. Aloy’s headset in Horizon Zero Dawn inspired the CYBERBLADE TWS earbuds, and they’re every bit as futuristic.

Cyber RGB lighting, ultra-low latency wireless, a charging case that works as a dock for use with anything with USB audio output, active noise canceling, and more. They’re the future, and they’re here now.


Dragonfly – the Hyperscooter

Skateboards are cool, but they’re kinda difficult to learn how to control. What if you could have the same street-shredding fun, with an e-scooter that does all the hard work for you?

That’s the promise of the Dragonfly Hyperscooter, a four-wheeled e-scooter with a top speed of 25 mph. The four wheels and large carbon fiber platform give you stability, and the full-tilt steering system gives you all the agility you need.

The best part? You never have to touch the floor, even at a full stop.


Wicked Egg food dispensing pet toy

We love our pets, but we can’t always be around. To keep them happy when we go out, it’s time for toys, like this automatic, interactive toy and treats dispenser.

Instead of balls or toys that always do the same thing, Wicked Egg reacts differently every time. Every interaction is different, making each treat new and exciting.

Oh, and it’s also got a pre-programmed sleep mode for 30 minutes of rest after every 10 minutes of play.


Holoswim 2: AR Smart Swim Goggles

Swimming is great exercise, but you do feel cut off from the world. Holoswim 2 puts an augmented reality display into your swimming goggles, so you can track your performance.

You get 12 metrics tracked, including laps, times, calories, stroke type, and more. Those can be studied in the companion app, and areas of improvement figured out. It’s a virtual coach, in your goggles.


Lumos Firefly | The Ultimate Bike Light System

Bike lights are an essential safety feature, but they’re annoying to use. Most available ones clip onto the bike, need specialized mounts, are hard to charge, or use disposable batteries.

Not Firefly. The tiny bike lights are magnetically attached, so you only have to touch them to your bike. They sync up automatically, show braking warnings, turn signals, and more.

Oh, and they recharge via wireless charging, so no more annoying batteries.


This is a small cross-section of the current crowdfunding campaigns that are running. If they’re not to your tastes, you can probably find something more suitable by browsing Kickstarter or Indiegogo.

Just know that you might have to wait a while for your item or, in extreme cases, won’t get anything at all.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post 11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in September appeared first on KnowTechie.

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Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns in August https://knowtechie.com/check-out-these-10-awesome-crowdfunding-campaigns-in-august/ https://knowtechie.com/check-out-these-10-awesome-crowdfunding-campaigns-in-august/#respond Mon, 22 Aug 2022 18:35:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=227125 We've got fume extracting solder stations, pixel art, portable consoles and more this month.

The post Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns in August appeared first on KnowTechie.

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Crowdfunding is a cool way for innovative products to see the light of day without the restrictions placed on in-house development at large companies. It’s also a great place to check out video games from small studios, movies, and campaigns for social good.

With all those campaigns competing for your attention, finding ones based on your interests can be tricky. Let KnowTechie do all the hard work for you with our picks of the crop for August.

Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns this month

So… with how many crowdfunding campaigns are out there, how do you choose what to back?

Well, I use a combination of checking out their campaign page, looking to see if any of the comments on their prior campaigns show dissatisfied backers, and also companies I’ve already had successful pledge fulfillment from.

READ MORE: 11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in September

I also tend to stick to gadget areas I know a bit about, like photography, cooking, maker tools, and writing implements. That way, I can judge whether or not the campaign’s aspirations are within reach, which adds to my decisions.

I’m also picking campaigns with some time left to run, as it’s no fun finding out about cool campaigns after they’ve finished.

So, with all of that out of the way, here are some of the crowdfunding campaigns I’ve found worthy of attention in August:

Magfast Lux and Extreme

Charging cables suck. Especially the one devices come with, which often fray or break quickly. Magfast gives you a lifetime warranty on cables, so you can keep throwing them in your bag with abandon.

They come in USB-C to USB-C, or USB-C to Lightning, and come with an adapter for use with USB-A ports.

Then there’s Extreme, the power bank with three Qi Charging ports, five USB ports (Two C, three A), and enough power to jumpstart your car (with the accessory cable). Whew.

The other thing to know? Shipping will start in December now for Lux cables, as the campaign is already so successful they had to adjust their factory order. The Extreme power banks are scheduled to ship in March of next year.


OEPLAY 

Want your speakers to look as good as they sound? OEPLAY might be just what you’re looking for. The combination of AMT tweeters and powerful subwoofers brings clear, crisp audio with smooth bass.

That combination of speakers produces a 33Hz to 55kHz response range – more than most speakers or headphones can manage. Then they add Bluetooth 5.0 to the mix for wireless connectivity from any device. Oh, and it looks great, and can be paired for true stereo sound.


minbay Pixel Artboard

If you’ve ever wanted a dedicated device to do pixel art on, this is your time. Minbay’s Pixel Artboard is a pocketable, portable device dedicated to pixel artists. Never be far from your tools, so wherever inspiration hits you can push those pixels around.


AYANEO Air

It’s easy to forget that in the wake of the Steam Deck release, other companies have been cranking out portable Windows handsets for years.

AYANEO’s latest crowdfunding campaign, the Air, uses a 1808p OLED screen for crisp, colorful visuals. It’s powered by either the AMD Ryzen 5 5560U or the Pro model uses the Ryzen 7 5825U.

Get ready to say “cya” to joystick drift, as the Air uses the hall effect for both the triggers and joysticks. That’s when they measure the angle with magnetic fields, instead of physical parts that wear out over time. Oh, and it weighs less than the Switch OLED!


F1, World’s First Digital Soldering w/ Fume Extractor

Most people don’t have a dedicated fume cabinet at home. That’s a problem when working with solder, as the fumes contain noxious chemicals, or even lead.

The F1 aims to fix that by combining a fume extractor hood with a digitally-controlled soldering iron. The 75W soldering iron can reliably heat to a range of 50C – 480C. Pull the 360-degree tube to where you’re soldering, and hit the fan. Fumes are instantly reduced, and your health is protected.


ALuminate – The Ultimate Illuminated House Sign

Tired of delivery drivers not finding your address, especially at night? Wish they could read your house number from halfway down the block?

You want an ALuminate house sign, with its tasteful illumination and brushed metal or matte black finish. Give your delivery drivers a break, and give your house the classy sign it deserves.


JOYO: An Out-of-this-World Smart Board Game Experience

Physical board games are great, but what about adding some AI magic? The JOYO system consists of a flying UFO playing piece that serves as a console, arbiter of rules, and more.

The crowdfunding campaign reads hidden code on your board and pieces to determine how the rules work for your game. Play variants of Battleship, or test your memory, play fantasy adventures, chase ghosts, and more.


GPD WIN Max 2

GPD usually makes pocketable powerhouses of ultraportable Windows laptops. Now it’s supersized its latest UMPC, the Win Max 2.

It’s got a 10.1-inch IPS screen to play on, a keyboard you can type on comfortably, and a built-in gaming controller.

It’s powered by either the 12th gen Intel i7-1260P with Xe Graphics, or the Ryzen 7 6800U with Radeon 680M, 16GB of RAM, 1 or 2TB of NVME storage, and Windows 11. Oh, and there’s an optional LTE module, for connectivity wherever, whenever.


Afreda S6: A Fold-in-1s Reverse 3-wheel E-bike

Most e-bikes want to trim wheels, but this crowdfunding campaign for a reverse trike puts a second one at the front for smooth, stable cornering.

It’s got a 37-mile range with a 22mph max speed, tons of shock absorption, and stronger braking as it brakes on two wheels. Oh, and it unfolds in one step, in one second. That’s insane.


Wejoy touch screen 4k projector

Turn any surface into a touchscreen computer, with this portable 4K projector. Running on Android 9.0, the Wejoy has auto focus and keystone correction, and 600 lumens of brightness.

Pair it with the rechargeable interactive pen for presentations, or play any Android game you want on the wall. The optical engine is sealed for dust proofing and heat issues are a thing of the past.


These are just a small selection of the currently-available crowdfunding campaigns this month. We’ll be back next month with more crowdfunded tech, gadgets, and toys.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns in August appeared first on KnowTechie.

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This new monitor stacks two 24-inch screens on top of each other https://knowtechie.com/this-new-monitor-stacks-two-24-inch-screens-on-top-of-each-other/ https://knowtechie.com/this-new-monitor-stacks-two-24-inch-screens-on-top-of-each-other/#respond Thu, 21 Jul 2022 16:23:32 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=220071 The hinged setup should help the monitor find a place on more desks.

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Mobile Pixels is back, with another unusual monitor to help your productivity. This time, it’s a desktop monitor with a twist — two 24-inch screens stacked on each other. Is Geminos what your desk needs to help you be productive?

We’ve looked at multiple portable monitors from Mobile Pixels, all aimed at adding screens to your laptop. Geminos is different, and not just because it’s aimed at desktop use.

The flat-pack device unfolds to have two 24-inch screens, stacked and hinged. You can have them fully flat or have the bottom screen at an angle to suit your preferences.

Mobile Pixels says this stacked orientation makes it more ergonomic and takes up less space. It’s also great for reading long documents without having to scroll.

READ MORE: ASUS has a new 4K HDMI 2.1 monitor that’s perfect for gamers

You don’t just get an innovative screen setup, either. Geminos has a full HD webcam, powerful speakers, and a USB docking station in the base, which also has USB-C pass-through charging for your laptop.

That docking station also has Ethernet, SD, and microSD card readers, two HDMI ports, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Both screens are a 60Hz refresh rate and 250 nits of brightness. The whole unit weighs 20lbs and folds flat for storage or transport. It’s not as portable as the company’s other monitors, but it’s nice that the screens are protected if you do have to move it.

If Geminos looks like your kind of thing, the Kickstarter campaign is live. A few super early bird units are still available at $499, after which you’ll pay $699. That’s still a hefty discount off the eventual MSRP of $999. Mobile Pixels hopes to start shipping to backers in October.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns in July https://knowtechie.com/check-out-these-10-awesome-crowdfunding-campaigns-this-month/ https://knowtechie.com/check-out-these-10-awesome-crowdfunding-campaigns-this-month/#respond Mon, 18 Jul 2022 17:29:34 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=215285 We've got Mars dust watches, coffee roasting, and more this month.

The post Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns in July appeared first on KnowTechie.

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Crowdfunding is a really cool way for innovative products to see the light of day, without the restrictions placed on in-house development at large companies. It’s also a great place to check out video games from small studios, movies, and campaigns for social good.

With all those campaigns competing for your attention, finding ones based on your interests can be tricky. Let KnowTechie do all the hard work for you with our picks of the crop for July.

Check out these 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns this month

So… with how many crowdfunding campaigns are out there, how do you choose what to back? Well, I use a combination of checking out their campaign page, looking to see if any of the comments on their prior campaigns show dissatisfied backers and companies I’ve already had successful pledge fulfillment from.

READ MORE: 10 awesome crowdfunding campaigns in August

I also tend to stick to gadget areas I know a bit about, like photography, cooking, maker tools, and writing implements.

That way, I can judge whether or not the campaign’s aspirations are within reach, which adds to my decisions.

I’m also picking campaigns with some time left to run, as it’s no fun finding out about cool campaigns after they’ve finished.

So, with all of that out of the way, here are some of the crowdfunding campaigns I’ve found worthy of attention in July:

HPRT MT810 Wireless Portable Printer

Take all of the fuss out of portable printing with the MT810. It uses thermal transfer to print clear, smudge-free prints. Even better, it prints from an internal paper roll, so you don’t have to worry about carefully carrying paper around with you.

While it probably won’t replace a full-on printer for those that need it for more complex jobs, the MT810 fits a small niche pretty well. 

READ MORE: The HPRT MT810 is a portable printer you can take anywhere

If you frequently need printed documents but spend a lot of the time on the go, the MT810 could come in handy. You never have to worry about adding ink, and it’s completely wireless, so you don’t need any extra cables. 


Space 0 DIY electronic kits inspired by NASA

Space is cool, and the first images from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) show that it’s even cooler than previously imagined.

Build yourself some scale models of some of the coolest spacecraft, with these awesome kits. Choose from the JWST, the Solar Orbiter, the ISS, Apollo Lunar Module (with space rover), or the CubeSat NEA Scout. All made from PCB material that you solder together, learning about electronics along the way. Neat.


Loupedeck Live S streaming controller

Streamers, creatives, and those who want deeper control over their computers will love the Loupedeck Live S crowdfunding project. This tiny interface has touch-sensitive buttons and tactile dials to which you can assign almost anything.

And we mean anything. A robust plugin selection means you can control everything from OBS to Adobe products, Spotify, Voicemod, or even Philips Hue. Take control of your PC with the do-everything Loupedeck Live S.


Lucis Light Patch: Light Recovery for Bruises

Bruise like a peach? Did you know you can hasten your bruise healing with light? The Lucis light patch crowdfunding campaign gets you a yellow-light patch for fresh bruises, and a blue-light patch for older bruising. Both patches speed away the bruising, so you’ll return to your unbruised self in no time.


NuraTrue Pro with lossless audio

You don’t normally associate high fidelity with Bluetooth audio, but that may change. We loved Nura’s personalized sound when we reviewed their over-ears, and now you can get that tech in true wireless earbud form.

The NuraTrue Pro also features active noise cancellation, and Dirac Virtuo spatial audio, for even more lifelike playback. They’re one of the first devices to use Qualcomm’s latest Bluetooth 5.3 chip, which lets them use aptX Lossless audio with compatible sources. That all adds up to a better sound for you.


Hearth Display family bulletin board

The connected family needs a connected bulletin board to organize all the chaos of modern life. The Hearth Display modernizes the paper calendar, so you never miss an important event.

Create profiles for everyone in your household, then connect their existing digital calendars. Create shared to-do lists, shopping lists, and more. Display your kids’ art creations when you’re not perusing the calendar, and more.


FeiyuTech SCORP Mini gimbal

FeiyuTech is no stranger to the world of gimbals, and the SCORP Mini is their latest offering. Unlike every other gimbal, this little guy is designed to work with mirrorless cameras, action cameras, point-and-shoot, and even smartphones. That gives it more adaptability to your needs, and the fun is only beginning.

Use the magic wheel to tilt/pan/roll, or even to pull focus. It also helps control the menus, so you don’t have to fiddle with tiny buttons. With the handle design, you can use it in briefcase mode, vertical, or even underslung. The best thing? How tiny this thing is, at only 1.735lbs. That’s even while having a 2.645lbs max payload.


SunnySide solar-powered heating and cooling lunchbox

There’s nothing quite as annoying as your carefully-packed lunch spoiling before you get the chance to eat it. SunnySide wants to help, with its solar-powered self-heating and -cooling lunchbox.

Keep your food cool and fresh for up to 20 hours. Even ice cream can be kept safe and cold. If you’re eating something that should be hot, the induction tech inside can warm things back up in minutes. You can reheat things up to 167f, up to seven times, before recharging.


Nasa X Interstellar Red 3.721 watch

Space travel will always be cool, and we’re barely getting started. Watches have been around for hundreds of years and will always be cool. Why not combine the two and get a watch with actual pieces of space rock in it?

These NASA-approved timepieces have small pieces of a meteorite that came from Mars, the red planet. You can choose two automatic movements, a Sellita with a golden second hand, or a Miyota with a red second hand. The Sellita also comes in a titanium case, with a titanium bracelet as an option.


Cyberpunk mini alley

Want a dope decor piece to liven up your boring bookcase? This cyberpunk alley is *ahem* right up your alley. Put a tiny slice of a dystopian city on your shelf, so you can have neon whenever you want.

Just look at the awesome detail. A tiny arcade machine, a seedy-looking motel that probably charges by the hour, some glowing green stuff. Awesome.


These are just a small selection of the currently-available crowdfunding campaigns this month. We’ll be back next month with more crowdfunded tech, gadgets, and toys.

READ MORE: 11 great crowdfunding campaigns to check out in September

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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