Top 15 highlights from 2015

15 of the best products from 2015.

2015 has been an incredible year for Gadget Girl Reviews thanks to all of you out there. We've had the opportunity to work with some great brands and companies this year who were kind enough to send us some AMAZING things to share with you all.

The way we choose our favorites is......

"Are we still using it"? 

If we are still using that product months after posting the review that speaks for itself. We've been lucky enough to bring you quite variety of gadgets this year so here are our
Top 15 reviews of 2015

NUMBER 1

Drumroll it has to be..........

Rebelite Xtreme Xflyer RC Stunt Quadcopter

Wow my other half and myself had an absolute blast videoing this and it went beyond doing a review we were completely addicted flying this day and night during the Summer months; its so much fun and so easy to fly.

If you love remote controlled products you have to get this.

Axis Aerius Worlds smallest Quadcopter

Plus I have to mention one of the latest reviews of the "Worlds smallest" Quadcopter just for being the smallest it deserves that mention and being so much fun.  

The next favorite is...DRUMROLL...your favorite...dear readers...this has been the most viewed review and video of 2015.

KitVision escape HD5W Waterproof Full HD Action camera 

with Accessories.

If you guys follow us you will know what fun we had with this, it has to be one of the best Action cams that "isn't" a Gopro.

The "remote viewing" was so much fun to see from your tablet or phone checkout our own video footage.

This also took one of the longest reviews to put together as it had so many fun aspects to it which needed to be videoed and edited. But WOW it was worth it as you guys loved it too. We actually edited "3" videos for this review; starting with video part 1 HERE if you want to catch-up.

2015 was the year of the speaker, we got sent quite a few to show you guys but 1 of them really stood out; not just for its incredible sound but its uniqueness and fantastic build quality .

Pump Air Levitating Bluetooth Speaker

The Pump Air levitating speaker...again this review took awhile to put together as we wanted to capture the floating footage at its best and I think we did that...what do you think?

KitSound Swing alarm clock radio

We also both loved this retro alarm clock radio and still using it now. The sound is fab and it looks great too, the bright red is beautiful and the batteries last ages. Kitsound are definitely a brand that really do stand out for great products.

  I am also on a mission to find the brightest and most long lasting torch/lantern as we live rurally and often have powercuts and with all our technology were also looking for the best powerbank.

ThorFire Telescopic rechargeable lantern, torch and charger

This was just brilliant, the brightness and longlastingness...(is that a word)...was fantastic. Plus its a charger.

  Thorfire WF-502B 500 lumens torch

We have alot of torches but this simple torch is so bright and even knows when its losing battery power to ramp down to low mode so it lasts longer.

 Rebelite Portable 24000mAh power bank

Best powerbank of 2016 is from Rebelite, this charged both my phone and tablet with its high 24,000mAh battery; plus it looks fab too.

Sometimes a product comes along that is just clever and you fall in love; especially when it helps your health.

DreamScience Brainwave-orientated Sleep Companion 

   by Oregon Scientific

The DreamScience is just genius its clever technology really works for anyone who has trouble sleeping or waking up plus it looks so damn sleek and cool. Checkout my full video review and post.

 We also had some great ideas for the car too!

 ChipEx Car Paint touch up system Review

I had so many paint chips on my gorgeous paintwork; that this paint has transformed and tidied up my paintwork. Thank you Chippex

DB Power 9 in 1 Digital Tyre Pressure Gauge with emergency seatbelt cutter and flashlight

 This little gadget has also given me some more millage as my tyre pressure was totally out with each other and now this has been so accurate its actually saving me money.

Sigma 50mm f1.4 EX DG HSM lens for Canon

I have to mention my latest photography toy my Sigma 50mm lens its gorgeous and now one of my favorites. The depth of field is stunning and the build quality is just gorgeous. I highly recommend this to all you bloggers, vloggers, ebayers as  product images are gorgeous.

I was also kindly sent some amazing "Non-Gadgety" products this year to show you all; so some of them deserve a mention.

Peony Artificial flowers Haul and Video Review

Oh my Goodness these are just stunning and I'm using them in so many backgrounds for my other reviews; bringing nature indoors as they look sooo real.

Bird and Butterfly Wooden Storage Trunk

This charming storage trunk, it really is beautiful and deserves a huge mention of just making your home look great. 

Plus dont forget weve really enjoyed the NEW Raspberry Pi 2 and we have been building new projects; catch-up with those below

WALLE and LUNA-Pi

Incase you missed our other Raspberry Pi 2 projects

ZX+3.14

check it out the complete build below.

Project PI #1 Introduction.

Project PI #2 Choosing the case.

Project PI #3 Introducing the new ZX 3.14.

Project PI #4 The Build 

Project PI #5 The Build is nearly finished.

2015 in summary

  Its been a great year with some great product reviews; but its also been a heartbreaking year for us here too as if you know me you will know I sadly lost my Mum suddenly 2 months ago; so you can now understand my silence for awhile.

We also lost our 15 year old dog too; who was great at reviewing the pet products we received and we will miss him lots.

So its been a tough last few months for us.

Our little ray of light however popped up suddenly online; as we weren't planning for another puppy so soon...but hey you know how it is...if it seems right you have to follow your gut.

So here's our 9 week old little German Shepherd girl Daisy!

I will be doing a proper introduction soon as Im sure she will be at our side trying to eat...er...I mean..help... with every new product.

A big thank you to all of you who are following me, that have sent emails and messages across all our social media; we love hearing from you. Plus of course a big thank you to all the brands who have kindly sent products for us to show you. 

We cannot thank you all enough as its so exciting to have the opportunity to try the latest technology and ideas.

 Looking forward to 2016

Pre-post Rebelite Watershow Bluetooth speakers video review coming soon!

Rebelite Xtreme Wireless Dancing Water show Bluetooth speakers

Okay I don't normally do a pre-post for my reviews but I'm so impressed with these rechargeable speakers; I couldn't wait to show you just a teaser.

These take music and vision to another level; how gorgeous are these...just a take a few minutes to checkout my own GIF above.
What a unique idea to use water jets and coloured LEDs to pulse in time with your music. I keep finding myself mesmerized and they are so calming too.

Full video review and loadsa pikies coming in the next few days.

I actually cant wait to show you guys my full video review.

Mums like tech too! Mothers Day gadgety Inspiration for Sunday 15th March

Mums like tech too!

Hi everyone...are you rushing round trying to decide what to get your Mum for Mothers Day on Sunday?

Shame on you leaving it so late....oops...me too ;-)

Of course chocs and flowers are the Mothers day staple but have a quick think; does she use a smart phone, tablet, kindle and/or PC then your Mum loves a bit of tech too.

So here are a variety of gadgety ideas for those Mums who love a bit of tech. These products are all items I have tried and tested and can absolutely vouch for and would love to receive as a gift. Click the links underneath to see my full photo review. There is a mix of UK and US products.

The Mecam (US)

This is a genius fun and whimsical affordable little action camera; this takes wearable tech to its best as you simply pin it on your clothes and carry on; perfect to capture fun family gatherings like parties, barbeques without having to worry about carrying a camera and missing the fun; now you simply press play and forget you wearing it.

KleverCases for Kindles (UK) 

Most of us have Kindles nowadays and I feel most Mums love a bit of peace and quiet to read a good book on their Kindle. Then treat your Mum to a fab case that looks like a stunning book cover. Klevercase's offer an amazing selection of covers for everyone's taste.

  The Single Pen Quiver for notebooks and journals. (US and UK)
I have to say every Mum Im sure, would love one of these in beautifully handmade leather.
How many times have you been without a pen or stylus when you need it. With the Quiver it slips easily onto the notebook, journal or tablet to not only keep your pen in place; but they will give your notebook an elegant old world charm feel. 

The Gerp (US) 

Next is this unique looking gadget The Gerp which suckers firmly onto your gadgets. Its sitting on my desk now what a fun gadget to use as well as being so damn useful.

  This selection comes from a 1 stop shop for all your charging needs

 Mobile Solar chargers  (UK) 

I have 3 different types of charges to take you from home to car to traveling.

First charging at home with the Premium Ultra Thin QI Wireless Phone Charging Pad Just pop your phone ontop while grabbing a coffee surfing or on the phone; I haven't stopped using mine since it arrived; its amazing and looks so elegant and sleek too.

Next charging in your car with the  QI Wireless Car Charger and Cradle which charges wirelessly while your in the car to work or traveling etc. 

Finally from this brilliant company is a rugged waterproof charger to take anywhere The holiday essential the Aqua Trek USB Waterproof 7800mAh Charger perfect if you know Mum is off traveling, camping, boating this year. I have been using all three of these gadgets above as each has its own busy place in my life and found them invaluable; I simply cannot do without these as I always need more charge on one of my many gadgets.

Photojojo iPhone and Android lens series (US)  

Does your Mum love photography like I do; then Photojojo offer these 3 amazing lenses which magnetize onto your phone. Its fun and affordable and you can really grab some amazing piks you wouldn't normally be able to. Checkout what I managed to capture last Summer.

Sensu Portable Artist brush and stylus (UK and US) 

A stylus is something so many of us use but does your Mum love art; does she sketch or paint using a tablet. Then the Sensu is perfect with a 2 in 1 normal stylus...and a...paint brush with conductive hairs so you have the real feel of painting with a brush. Plus just look how elegant and beautiful it is.

Venostech Sidecars (US) 

Does your Mum juggle with laptop, tablet and phone; then look no further surprise your Mum with one or 2 of these Sidecars. I bet she wont have seen these before so you get extra kudos for being the best pressie giver ever!

 KitSound and Kitvision (UK)

I cant go without mentioning one of my favorite gadgety companies Kitvision and Kitsound. As I said on my Valentines post their sound and vision products are affordable fun and brilliant quality....who wouldn't want to receive any of the above. Everyone enjoys music so checkout the KitSound Hive Bluetooth speaker or the mini fun buddy bee speaker which makes you smile too.

KitSound Clash On-Ear Headphones with In-Line Mic look stunning and has great sound. The Kitsound Cadet rugged Bluetooth portable speaker is perfect for camping or hiking or simply in the garden. But my favorite 2 products has to be the KitVision Splash Action cam...oh my goodness what an incredible camera as it comes with all the mounts and a waterproof case you could ever want for. Then there is the stunning Kitsound Swing radio alarmclock this is one of the most most beautiful retro radios Ive seen and matching sound quality to boot.

 Butterfly Paperweight review

For something a bit more personal checkout this beautiful paperweight from personalise.co.uk where they have a huge variety of products to make it a tad more special to say you love your Mum.

 I hope this has given you all some ideas but if you still need some Mothers day gadgety inspiration then checkout my full gadget review page for products in the UK and US. HERE

So all you Mums out there have a great day. 

I just hope my furred and feathered babies remember its Mothers Day on Sunday...sigh...!

KitSound Swing Alarm Clock FM Radio Review and video.

KitSound Swing Alarm Clock FM Radio

 I couldnt wait to show this to you guys, as I know so many of you love the retro 60's & 70's home-style products that are making a huge come back right now. We had an old record player in exactly the same colours as this adorable KitSound radio...infact I think my parents still have it.

But whatever reason you love this design, its simple clean lines and variety of colours means this adorable Swing radio will fit right into any home!

I have reviewed quite a few items from KitSound over the last year and I know I always get excellent quality sound and build. (See above) So I just couldn't wait to get my hands on this adorable radio.

At KitSound they believe your music deserves to be listened to on great quality products that doesn't cost the earth. That's why they are constantly fine-tuning their headphones, speakers etc so you can showcase your music at its best.

Click after the break for my full photo and video review of this gorgeous radio.

You have the choice of 4 colours, blue (which is more of a minty green), cream, black and red my favorite out of these four great colours.

Packaging

As usual KitSound have made the effort to produce bright, stylish, packaging so it can easily be used as a gift. They have the knack for showing a great product image and then a snippet image of how good it will look in a home.

In the box you get;

•  KitSound Swing Radio.
• Mains adapter in matching white.
• Detailed user manual.

1960's called to say they want their radio back!

Description

As soon as you set eyes on this radio you are transported back to the swinging sixties, of mini skirts and rock and roll. I really appreciate and love this retro feel.

The red leatherette casing and off-white plastic front brings timeless charm combined with its back-lit blue modern LCD screen which is elegant, bright and fun. Along with KitSound's excellent electronics and design you have a beautiful radio for any part of your home or to keep with you at all times.

At 179mm long, 72mm in depth and 115mm height the Swing is a perfect size for anyone's home. Its isn't too much in your face and isn't too small to lose sound quality. This radio is small enough to be unobtrusive yet bright enough to add a classic addition to your home. Perfect for dorms, students bedrooms, kitchens, garages infact absolutely anywhere. Bung in some batteries and take it to the park for a picnic as its both mains and battery powered....its such a clever little thing!

Main features

• Alarm Clock.
• FM Radio.
• Multifunction control panel.
• Easy to read digital display with back-light.
• Mains and Battery powered (4 x AA batteries not supplied).
• Carry handle.

Specifications

•  Frequency Response: 60Hz -18KHz
• Drivers: 65mm
• Output power: 2W
• Weight: 630g
• Size: 179mm long, 72mm in depth and 115mm height.

The front of the radio is elegant, uncluttered and framed by the most gorgeous bright red leatherette. 

This follows through onto the 2cm thick handle with neat contrasting white stitching as it would have been done all those years ago; finished off with a white plastic hinge. This swings neatly backwards when not needed so not in the way. 

The front has an easy to read 5cm x 5cm square LCD screen which when turned on has a lovely bright blue back light. Kitsound headphones not included but dont they look fab.

It has a large 1 inch long silver power-on button which has a responsive touch too; perfect for those with dexterity problems or us girls with long nails.

 Matching chrome/silver KitSound logo badge.

 Chrome Swing logo etched onto the front this gives a lovely quality feel.

The six 6.8cm chrome speaker strips gives the speaker its elegant retro design. I absolutely love this.

 Just to remind you that you also get a clock, alarm clock, date and room temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius.
Turn on the power button and you turn on your radio with the right-hand image, click again and you will get the stand-by mode on the left showing your date time and temperature.
The lovely bright blue backlight stays on for approximately 8 seconds perfect for night time music playing.

The top of the radio is where all the action is, with an off-white plastic circle of buttons set into a square that frames them.
Here you can set the time, date and the alarm where you even get to have a snooze! When on your radio screen simply click scan and it will automatically scroll through all your local radio stations, when its found one you like; simply click the preset number then set and your ready to rock! Plus you have up and down volume buttons; back, forward and skip tracks arrows when you are using your phone or MP3 player.

 The back of the Swing radio is also in the off white cream plastic and has your battery compartment, aerial and clip to keep it out the way also the speaker hole allowing the air pressure to equalize on both sides of the speaker.

 The back shows your Auxillary in port and mains 6V DC port.

Using the Auxillary-in cable (not included) you can also plug in your phone, Ipod or MP3 player and use the Swing as an external speaker. It was great to be able to listen to my own music when I didn't want to listen to the radio.

The chrome aerial adds a great finishing touch to this radio, it extends smoothly out to 14 inches high as you can see from the images above and then folds back and out the way when not in use.

Its even finished off underneath too right down to the 4 white rubber feet that are then set into white plastic feet.

Please take a few minutes to see my video mini sound clip to see just how good the sound quality is..see this baby in action.

Opinion

From getting this baby out of the box it has that excellent quality feel to it with the bright red well stitched leatherette covering the sides. This adorable radio isn't just a pretty face...its easy to set up and I didn't even need to look at the manual; the scan button does all the work for you in finding your FM channels and you only have to press the set button to save them...simples..! Each channel had perfectly crisp and clear reception with no crackles whatsoever.
The sound quality is just amazing and you can crank-up the volume to almost full; but the Swing is more comfortable if you can stay just below 27/30...anything more you can get a bit of distortion. But this can also depend on the volume of your device when listening to your phone or ipod etc.
The sound is warm and rich with crisp trebles and fab bass which I certainly wasn't expecting...so I'm a happy bunny! I also loved the extra bonus of seeing the temperature of the room its a nice added extra to the screen.

I have been enjoying just relaxing listening to the radio while surfing my favorite sites snuggled up with a hot chocolate; doesn't it make you feel homely and cosy.

I can honestly say this is one of THE best radios Ive ever owned and Ive had alot in 30 years. Im so impressed with the sound quality, I love the retro design and it looks amazing wherever I put it; either in the kitchen, bedroom, lounge, dining room, Ive even taken it outside for sounds while feeding and watching the birds it fits absolutely anywhere. Personally I feel this would make a personal statement in any home but in particular the kitchen it just seems to want to live there.

I would 100% recommend this adorable radio as everyone has loved it from kids to teens, even my parents who are in their 80's loved it. I know what my Dad wants for his birthday this year. 

This gorgeous affordable radio will make the perfect gift for anyone of any age and fit seamlessly into the design of any home. It has character and fun all of its very own.

Pro's

• Alarm Clock.
• FM Radio.
• Multifunction control panel.
• Easy to read digital display with back-light.
• Mains and Battery powered (4 x AA batteries not supplied).
• Portable and convenient.
• Practical carry handle.

Con's

• None - Except everyone wants to borrow it.

You can buy your

 KitSound Swing Portable FM radio with alarm clock

 from Amazon UK and many larger superstores

For £35

All my thanks goes to the lovely girls at KitSound Uk for sending me the Swing free of charge for an honest unbiased review. This page and my video is not sponsored and all my views and opinions are my own.

I have reviewed quite a few items from KitSound and KitVision over the last year; see HERE for my summarized gadget page from my Valentines special which has links to each of these reviews or simple scroll through my full gadget page HERE.