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How to optimize your phone for online gaming

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If you own a mobile device, chances are you spend some of your free time playing games online. Game developers are constantly releasing mobile games, and many of them rival what’s available on PCs and consoles. However, if you’ve tried to play graphically intensive games on your smartphone or tablet, you may have noticed lag or slow performance. Before you rush out to upgrade your phone, there are several things you can do to improve the performance of your current device. With that in mind, we’ve compiled this list of tips for optimizing your phone for online gaming.

Free Up Space

Playing games on mobile devices has become increasingly popular in recent years. Classic casino games have been remade for the digital age, allowing gamers to play poker online, including popular titles versions like Texas Hold’em and Omaha Poker. That’s not all; websites like Global Poker host weekly tournaments, giving players an immersive, social experience. At the same time, gamers who enjoy battle royale games can log onto their mobile devices to battle it out in real-time in multiplayer online games like Fornite to determine who will be the last gamer standing. 

While mobile gaming gives you the freedom to take your favorite games with you on the go, you won’t have the best gaming experience if your phone performs slowly. Whether you play poker or Fortnite, freeing up space on your phone is one of the first steps you should take to improve your phone’s performance. For the best gaming experience, you should always try to have a decent amount of free space on your phone. You can free up space by deleting old pictures, videos, and apps you no longer use. Whatever games you play online, freeing up space on your phone is one of the first steps you should take to improve your phone’s performance. 

Improve Battery Life

If you plan to use your phone as your primary gaming device, you may eventually want to invest in one of the top gaming phones. Even if you own a gaming phone, battery drain can bring your gameplay to a halt. Gaming puts a lot of demands on your battery, so it’s a good idea to conserve energy whenever possible. Android devices make it easy to restrict background use and maximize the time you get from your battery. All you have to do is tap on battery in the settings menu to access Android’s battery saver option. You may also want to invest in a battery pack if you’re going to be doing a lot of gaming away from home, where you won’t have access to a plug. 

Optimizing Apps

GameBooster is a popular app for Android that can help boost your gaming experience. It optimizes the RAM, CPU, and other specs on Android devices, allowing you to get the most out of your phone. You can activate GameBooster’s different modes to prevent lag and improve your phone’s performance. Another free app is GFX Tool, which also changes hidden graphics settings on Android phones to maximize performance. 

Add a Controller

You may be used to playing games on a touch screen. However, a gaming controller might help to take your experience to the next level. Purchasing a gaming controller is especially useful if you play games that involve more than pointing and tapping. With a controller, you can hold the system in your hand, similar to the experience you’d find on a Nintendo Switch. These controllers give you more control over game play than a touch screen, allowing you to enjoy a console-like experience on your phone.

GravaStar Sirius Pro earbuds review

Wireless earbuds come in all sorts of price points but generally fall into but a few shapes and sizes. That is to say that many of them can be qualified as either having a bean shape or the AirPod-like design that features a stem.

Going a step further, most of what we see on the market are either black or white with the occasional oddball popping up. And while some of them are pretty stylish, few of them truly stand out and look truly unique.

GravaStar’s Sirius Pro, priced as low as $129.95, have a distinctly futuristic and post-apocalyptic design. They’re offered in a variety of colors, each of which looks like something you might find in a first person shooter video game.

The design of the earbuds and carrying case is really cool and different. Nearly every time I’ve had them out in public someone has noticed the case, usually asking what I’ve got on the table. The push-button release of the lid is pretty fun to show off and the war-worn look is popular among the younger demographic.

The Sirius Pro aren’t just about their looks; however, they pack a number of noteworthy features that make them a pair of well-rounded earbuds.

The earbuds are IPX5 rated for water and sweat resistance so they’ll handle a workout, run, or day in the sun without hassle. And should it rain a little bit, you’ll be okay.

There Sirius Pro earbuds pair over Bluetooth 5.2 and feature a 7.2mm dynamic driver with environmental noise cancellation to deliver a fairly loud sound without distraction. Similarly, you’ll have clear connections for calls without the other end having to deal with noisy ambient sounds.

Three modes (Gaming, Movie, and Music) offer up different audio experiences based on your needs. One has crisp, clear sound with deep bass, for instance, while another expands the sound to feel more wide at 5.1 virtual surround sound.

I’ve had no gripes with the audio on the Sirius Pro but I would have appreciated Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Were that present I would probably have a new preferred pair of earbuds for mowing grass or riding my bike.

I do feel like volume could have been just a smidge louder at the top. But, I do appreciate that as loud as I would play music, the sound was consistent and even with no distortion.

It might take a few listens to get a feel for the touch controls but once you do, they’re relatively easy to understand.

Battery life is rated at four hours per charge with the carrying case offering up three extra charges. This puts it at around 16 total hours but that will vary based on volume levels and listening modes.

I’ve seen nothing thus far to make me doubt those claims as my review pair of Sirius Pro earbuds have been charged maybe twice in the last month. Charging is done via the USB Type-C cable that comes in the box.

Speaking of the carrying case, it’s a rugged and odd one, to be sure. To use a term from today’s vernacular, they might even be a little “extra”. It’s heavy and unique and can also be used as a bottle opener. Yeah, you read that right.

The only real complaint I have with the Sirius Pro is when it comes to pulling them out of the carrying case. It takes me multiple attempts to get any solid grasp of the earbuds to remove them. I’ve taken to licking my thumb and forefinger at times.

Parting Thoughts

The GravaStar Sirius Pro are a unique package and make for an interesting option for younger listeners and mobile gamers. The design is a big part of the allure as the earbuds and case look like something you’d find in Edge of Tomorrow, Fallout, or any other war-torn environment.

The Sirius Pro sound good and have intuitive controls, but you may spend the first day or two understanding how they work. To that end, I like having different audio modes to choose from and think gamers might appreciate one dedicated to it.

The carrying case is a heavy unit that pulls double duty as a bottle opener, a bonus for some buyers. You might struggle from time to time with pulling the earbuds out but once you do, you’ll enjoy the experience.

Learn more about the Sirius Pro at GravaStar’s website where you can purchase them in a variety of colors. Choose from Matte black, Neon Green Space Gray, War-Damaged Grey, and War-Damaged Yellow.

Why is Android popular in India?

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The Android operating system was developed by Android Inc., which Google later took over in 2005. It became the best-selling operating system for mobile in 2011 and 2013 for tablets. In India, nearly 370 million people use smartphones, of which 90.67% run on the Android Operating System. The Android market is also expected to keep growing rapidly in the future. In this article, we will examine why Android is so popular in India and why users choose Android over other operating systems.

Why is Android the preferred choice?

Pexels

In the last two years, Android has become the number one operating system in the world with a 63% market share, making it the most popular operating system in the world. This is because Android has many advantages over other operating systems. Android is also more popular in developing countries like India and China than iOS or Windows because it is free to use, open-source, and available to all manufacturers.

Free 

Android, since it was launched, has been free. Google has also made it clear that it will stay free in the future. Because of this, it has caught the eye of the manufacturers. Google’s strategy has allowed companies like Samsung and Micromax to enter the premium smartphone market. Allowing hardware manufacturers to incorporate the operating system in their business cuts down the cost of a smartphone, making it more available to all. The availability of Android on several devices has led users to switch from feature phones or even other operating systems like Windows Phone or Blackberry OS (which are not available on many devices). 

Accessibility

Android opened up an array of possibilities to both device manufacturers and application developers while helping to reduce the cost of smartphones. This has made smartphones more accessible to the everyday person who cannot afford to buy an expensive smartphone. Many people cannot afford computers or have access to the internet. Now, because Android has helped reduce the price of smartphones, people can afford to buy a smartphone and have access to all the same features they would have when buying a laptop or computer. Because of this, people can access many different platforms by using their smartphones, from online shopping to gambling sites. One recommended betting site to use on an Android smartphone is 10CRIC’s Android App. This is because 10CRIC’s Android App for Online Betting and Casino is the best in India.

Open Source

Google released Android under an open-source license. This means that anybody can copy or alter its code as long as they give Google proper credit. Similarly, software developers must clearly state that any apps they develop are based on this code. Since there are no costs associated with using it and no licensing fees either, more developers will do so. This will increase competition among app developers and lead to higher-quality apps being offered at lower prices than those found in stores like Apple’s App Store and Microsoft’s Windows Store, among others.

Usability

In terms of usability, a large portion of Android users come from India due to its versatility. Among the many functionalities that Android offers are:

Personalizing one’s own phone: Android’s key strength is its ability to be highly customized. Layout changes for the Home screen, widget additions, animated wallpaper additions, and other customizing forms. Even the user interface (UI) can be modified to resemble an iPhone or a Windows phone. 

Languages: There are more than 100 languages accessible for Android OS, making it easier for people to use their smartphones in their native language. Now you do not need to speak or understand english to operate your smartphone. 

Real-time support: A newer version of Google Assistant offers real-time support rather than being automated. 

Memory: A further appealing aspect of the Robust OS is expandable memory. This allows users to store more photos or documents on their mobile devices without having to transfer them to a cloud-based system. 

Selection of hardware: Many possibilities are available if users choose the Android operating system.

App Store: There are around 3.5 million Android apps, giving users a wide variety to pick from. Android’s play store also contains more free apps than any other platform. Android also permits downloading apps from sources other than the Google Play store. Therefore, users are able to download an app if it is not listed on the play store.

Power Adaptor: The same adapter may be used for every type of Android phone and has universal, rapid, and wireless charging capabilities. The OS also supports wireless charging and provides quick charging. The wireless charging adaptor is included with the phone and does not need to be purchased separately, saving the user money.

Why does India choose Android over iOS?

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Pricing is the primary factor in the smaller IOS market that Apple controls in India compared to Android. The average wage of an Indian worker can not afford a phone with such a high price tag. Instead, they search for alternatives before selecting the best hardware. People with a deep interest in hardware specifications and style are also not in vain. Recent Samsung Galaxy s10+ specifications are comparable to those of the iPhone xs Max. Most of the above-mentioned Android usability characteristics are not supported by iOS. Additionally, Android’s cloud feature is simpler to use than IOS.

Summing it all Up

Android has become a popular name in the smartphone industry around the world. They have managed to take user experience to the next level and still keep the prices well within reach for the ordinary guy on the street. More and more app developers are using the Android operating system because it is free and can be modified as long as credit is given to Google. Android is also easy to understand, and users do not have to have any experience understanding the operating system. Users can also use their smartphones for experiences such as online gambling. Therefore, Android has become the preferred choice in India and worldwide.

Bluetti EB3A Portable Power Station: A low-cost backup for natural disasters

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As summer begins to draw to a close, fall is around the corner and with it a number of potentially devastating hurricanes. Then, not long after come ice and snow storms. Of course there’s always a risk of high wind or tornados in select parts of the country.

If you’ve ever found yourself impacted by one of these natural disasters, you know how much of a pain it can be. Being without power can feel crippling and battery life on devices becomes ever so precious.

Do yourself a favor this year, pick up a portable power station. You don’t have to spend a ton of money on one, and you’ll be glad you have it if and when the time comes.

The Bluetti EB3A Portable Power Station, priced just $240 as of today, is an excellent way to safeguard yourself against instances where power might not be available.

Bluetti EB3A Features

  • 600W AC Pure Sine Wave Inverter (1,200W surge)ï¼›
  • 268Wh Capacityï¼›
  • 430W Max. Fast Dual Charging (Solar+AC)ï¼›
  • LiFePO4 Battery with 2,500+ Life Cycles to 80%;
  • 6 Ways to Recharge (AC/Solar/Car/Generator/AC+Solar/AC+Adapter)ï¼›
  • 9 Outputs for Charging Multiple Devices at onceï¼›
  • Smart Control & Monitor in BLUETTI Appï¼›
  • 200W Max. Solar Inputï¼›
  • Easy to Carry/ Fast Charging/ Safe & Reliable/ Cost-effective

With nine different outputs to work with, the EB3A can charge multiple devices at a time. Among others, you’ll find a pair of USB Type-A ports with 15W charging, a USB Type-C (100W), a pair of AC outlets, and a car outlet. That’s good enough for a family of devices such as phones, laptops, lamps, and more.

When it comes time to charging the Bluetti EB3A has a number of options including the wall, car charger, and solar panel. Need to charge up quicker? Enjoy faster speeds with dual plug-ins.

The Bluetti EB3A isn’t designed strictly for emergency situations. Indeed, at just 10lbs, it’s quite portable. Thanks to the handle at the top, it’s not unlike carrying a small cooler with you to the beach.

Toss the power station in the trunk of your car and feel free to pack the Bluetooth speaker, blender, coffee maker, drone, and fan for your weekend getaway.

The Bluetti EB3A is backed by a two year warranty, providing 24 months of peace of mind. Learn more about the power station and other products at Bluetti’s website.

Best Hookup Sites: Top 15 Adult Dating Sites for Hookups

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We live in a fast world with so many opportunities. And one of the ways to explore your possibilities and chances is by hooking up.

Not everyone wants a serious relationship right out of the gate, and there’s not a single reason you should not enjoy a casual encounter – as long as you are respectful and stick to the basic rules of hookup culture.

So what’s the best hookup app, then?

The answer is AdultFriendFinder because it covers a lot of ground and delivers a high-quality experience for the biggest user base.

But other top hookup sites might be a better fit based on your taste, preference, and, well, kinks

So join us for a ride and check out the top 15 dating sites for all user profiles. 

Best Hookup Sites and Apps:

1. AdultFriendFinder: Best Hook Up Website Overall

Pros:

  • Hookups all the way
  • Plenty of kink variety
  • Free sign-up
  • Easy to search and find suitable matches
  • Huge user base

Cons:

  • Too many ads when used as free hookup app

AdultFriendFinder has been around since the mid-’90s. This place is older than Google itself and has adapted perfectly over decades to the latest relationship and hookup culture trends.

Let’s get this one straight – AFF is a dating app geared towards romantic get-togethers and casual relationships.

It stands out from other hookup websites because most users are extra-naughty and interested in a one-night stand or similar options.

Yes, all 90 million of them, excluding a potential fake here and there.

The platform will not connect you with other people or find matches for you. However, it offers one of the best filters and search functions for finding the exact match for your preferences and kinks. And we mean it – every kink you can imagine.

If you use the free version of the app, you’ll have to live with the ads, but you’ll still score a one-night stand faster than on any free dating site out there.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

2. Ashley Madison: Best Hook Up App for Discreet Dating

Pros

  • Discreet hookups
  • The dating app is free for women
  • No judgment about married dating
  • Great if you’re traveling

Cons:

  • A bit pricey for male users

Ashley Madison is the best hookup site if you are married and looking for an adventure with no strings attached.

You can question the business model’s moral side, but the platform is solid, offering maximum discretion and top functionality.

Ashley Madison is 100% free to use for women. On the downside, the platform is not free for men, and you have to pay up to $50 to use the service.

Yet, if you need to have a wild time while traveling or enjoy a night of wild fun in your own city to enhance your married life, this is likely the best dating site you will find.

Finally, the website does a fine job verifying profiles to remove catfishes and fake accounts, adding an extra layer of trust and safety.

>> Hook up with discreetly on Ashley Madison >>

3. Seeking: For Older Men Looking for Hookups

Pros:

  • More women than men
  • Quality search function
  • Top option for upscale dating
  • Free for women

Cons:

  • Hooking up has a transactional nature
  • Not the best solution if you’re on a budget
  • Tailored for affluent individuals

If you’re an older, wealthier man – or just a richer man regardless of age – we recommend Seeking as one of the best hookup sites.

We’re looking at an upscale dating site with 4x more women than men.

That sounds great, but you need to be loaded to use the site as a male. For high priority, you need to be a verified elite member.

For women, Seeking is a free hookup site. For men and those who feel like them, memberships cost well over $200 per month for diamond-tier members.

You will not find much romance on this platform, which is standard for online dating sites, with some misguided users complaining that communication feels much more like a transaction compared to most other hookup sites.

You could say that they simply don’t get it.

Here’s the truth: if you’re an affluent man looking for a fun girl to spoil, this is the dating app for you.

>> Find a luxury date on Seeking today >>

4. Tinder: One of the Most Popular Dating Hookup Websites

Pros:

  • Massive user base
  • Easy to use
  • Hookups galore
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Fake profile issues

When it comes to hookup sites and apps in the 21st century, Tinder is the most famous platform, bar none.

This place has over 75 million active monthly users and 6+ million subscribers. 

Chances are that you are familiar with Tinder’s swipe-based approach to matching couples. You’re presented with another user’s picture, and then you swipe left to discard or swipe right to like their profile.

The massive base of users means you can find locals in your city or while traveling. You can also find escorts.

Last year, Tinder reported crossing 65 billion matches globally, trumping even the best dating sites.

You can use the free version of Tinder with limited swipes or pay for a premium membership starting at $9.99 per month.

5. EliteSingles: Best Hook Up Site for Professionals

Pros:

  • Over 2,500 elite singles monthly
  • Above-average users
  • Personality test required
  • Advanced features

Cons:

  • Free version is limited

If you’re searching for casual hookup platforms and have above-average education, job, or income, you should consider EliteSingles.

This platform attracts doctors, lawyers, and business people, matching over 2,500 elite individuals each month.

You must take a 20-minute personality test to join the platform, significantly reducing fake accounts.

You can check the platform out for free, with limited features, or spend around $30 per month for the premium version, including unlimited messages and even staff assistance in profile creation.

6. Bumble: Best Casual Encounter Website for Women

Pros:

  • Safest option for women
  • Women initiate contact, not men
  • Intuitive design
  • More women than men

Cons:

  • Not everyone is looking for hookups

Bumble is the best dating platform for women because it offers more safety. It beats even the best free hookup sites and apps by adding features that keep the ladies safe from potential predators.

It’s no wonder that its database has more female than male members.

Bumble is among the very few sites that allow women to make the first move and ban men from initiating contact. You can still communicate with the ladies as a man, of course, just not unless you were contacted first.

The interface is easy to use, and if you’re a guy who’s not afraid of strong, successful women, you might want to give it a go. 

7. NoStringsAttached.com: One of the Most Casual Websites for Hook Up

Pros:

  • Focused on quick encounters
  • Easy to use
  • Great for affairs
  • Live chat rooms

Cons:

  • Limited free mode

NoStringsAttached.com is a standout platform for casual hookups. The website is oriented toward open-minded individuals (in every sense) and offers an intuitive, easy-to-use interface.

This site is a good option if you’re looking for an affair. It offers live chat rooms, a limited free account, and over four million users from numerous countries.

You can also check out live webcams with professional models.

>> Engage in guilt-free casual encounters on NoStringsAttached >>

8. Alt.com: Top Hook Up Website for Specific Preferences

 

Pros:

  • 2 million members
  • BDSM-oriented
  • Live cams available
  • Advanced filters

Cons:

  • Free version is too limited
  • Fake profile issues

If your kink is bondage, ALT is your hookup site, simple as that. The site is geared toward casual relationships filled with fetish fantasies and bondage.

As the leading BDSM platform in the world, ALT boasts 2+ million members, which is a very impressive figure for such a niche crowd.

Friendly advice: If you’re into plain old boring chit-chat, just skip this one.

>> Share your kinks with a hookup on Alt.com >>

9. Feeld: Hook Up Website for Open-minded Couples

Pros:

  • Open-minded couples galore
  • Couples’ accounts available
  • A platform that cares about the ethics
  • Judgment-free

Cons:

  • Facebook account required for ID verification

If you want to include your significant other in the hookup, check out Feeld, a couple-oriented hookup app with plenty of choices.

We like how inclusive and respectful the platform and its users are. It’s all about keeping an open mind and keeping everything free of judgment.

You can find people for threesomes, including all genders and orientations. The word open-minded for all is pretty well suited for this place.

>> Rekindle your passion with fellow couples on Feeld >>

10. Searchingforsingles: Best for Chatting

Pros:

  • Great for dirty talk
  • You can play the match game
  • Buy messages instead of premium membership

Cons:

  • Lack of moderation to reduce fake accounts

Searchingforsingles is the best option if you seek quality chat rooms for the exchange of explicit messages. Instead of paying full premium memberships, the site allows you to buy messages in batches.

This way, you can essentially test the platform without paying hefty monthly or yearly fees

You can also play the matching game to find your perfect hookup, similarly to the swipe left-right feature Tinder is known for.

>> Find a hot date on SearchingforSingles without fees >>

11. Grindr: Free Hook Up App for Gay Men

Pros:

  • 15+ million gay men on the platform
  • Community is up-front about their needs and preferences
  • Excellent for matching with locals

Cons:

  • Better-suited for urban regions

Grindr is the most famous hookup app for gay men in the world. And for a good reason.

This dating app features over 15 million users and does an excellent job filtering your matches and presenting you with the top local guys wherever you are.

While Grindr is more geared toward urban communities, its members have a reputation for being very upfront about what they are looking for.

12. HER: Best Free Hookup App for Lesbian Women

Pros:

  • Best hookup site for lesbian women
  • Free messages with no limit
  • 1+ million users in US alone
  • Social media accounts connected with profiles

Cons:

  • Not ideal for hookups
  • Lacking search options

HER is the top destination for queer women. With over a million users in the States alone, it’s the most popular hookup site in its niche.

We should point out that this dating site is more oriented towards social interaction than hooking up per se.

In plain terms, you can find hookups here but also casual friendships. The platform is affordable and features active social media profiles connected with every account.

13. FetLife: Open-Minded Website for Hookups

Pros:

  • Fetish hookups galore
  • LGBTQIA+ inclusive
  • Events and parties
  • Users of all ages and walks of life

Cons:

  • 3/4 of users are men

Fetlife is an interesting option if you’re into fetish hookups and kinks. It works as a social media-like website with an active, albeit male-dominated, community.

Most users are millennials or Gen Xers, but the complete user base ranges from people in their 20s all the way to their 50s.

The site is exceptionally hookup-positive and even hosts its special events. From casual coffee meet-ups to group encounters, you’re bound to find something to your liking.

14. Zoosk: One of the Best Online Hookup Sites for Young Guys

Pros:

  • Ideal for men in their 20s looking for short-term relationships
  • 35+ million users in 80+ countries
  • Diverse base of users

Cons:

  • Full features require a paid membership

Zoosk is known for short-term dating options, hookups included. Its community of 35+ million users spans 80 countries worldwide.

We’re impressed by how diverse the user base is, allowing you to find casual hookups of all kinds. If you want the full specter of features, you will have to pay for membership.

The platform is best for younger users, mostly men in their 20s. It’s not strictly hookup-oriented but is certainly geared towards short-term relationships.

15. POF: Best Dating Site for Hooking Up With Diversity

Pros:

  • Exceptional diversity
  • Large base of users
  • In business since 2003

Cons:

  • Fake account issues
  • Not explicitly a hookup site

The platform’s name is Plenty Of Fish, indicating what this dating app is about right out of the gate.

The platform has been around for almost 20 years. It’s a very diverse platform with users of all genders, races, and walks of life.

The site’s algorithm does a fine job exposing you to different kinds of people. If you’re looking to enter the hookup scene and aren’t sure what to look for, POF does a fine job of taking your interest in various directions.

The site is not explicitly a hookup app, though, which means that you might encounter people looking for a longer-term commitment

Things You Should Know About Hook Up Websites

What’s an Online Hookup?

A hookup is defined as a physical encounter between two individuals not in a dating relationship. Hookups imply that neither of the two people expects to develop anything from the relationship apart from a commonly agreed get-together.

Hookups are typically spontaneous and often associated with parties and nightlife. They are similar to one-night stands in terms of lack of any significant personal commitment. Hookups are more frequent among younger people in their experimental phases.

Are There Any Completely Free Hookup Sites?

Yes, there are, although in most cases, dating sites have free and paid sections. If you search for completely free hookup websites, you can check out Reddit R4R, for example, one of the best free dating sites online. Otherwise, AdultFriendFinder offers all the essential features in its free version.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

You can also use Ashley Madison or Seeking for free if you are female, for example. When it comes to the popular app Tinder, it’s free to use but with limited swipes. Free versions usually deliver the goods but are loaded with ads.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Older Men?

The best adult dating site for older men is Seeking. The platform is known for a community of active users looking for upscale dating. It’s one of the best adult dating sites in this department. The only possible drawback is that you will probably need to have more money to get the top experience.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Young Guys?

Zoosk is the best casual dating site for young men. The dating platform has a user base of 35 million people, mainly seeking short-term, casual romantic relationships, making it ideal for young men.

What’s the Best Hookup App for Women?

The top platform for women is Bumble because it instantly allows female users to screen potential male partners. 

As a man on this casual dating app, you cannot reach out to women and make the first move on your own. If you are a man searching for a successful woman, Bumble easily beats other dating platforms.

Are Hookup Sites Safe?

The ones recommended in this article most certainly are. But note that while you are safe on the online dating website, what happens outside the platform and during the date is outside the jurisdiction of even the top hookup websites.

Therefore, it is recommended to stay on the safe side and check the person you are considering hooking up with, whether by asking for photographic proof, checking their social media pages, meeting in public, and more.

How Can I Stay Safe During a Hookup?

There are five rules you should adhere to when meeting people for casual dating on popular hookup sites. Some of it is common sense, but it doesn’t hurt if we reiterate it.

  • Consent First, With Clear Expectations

When communicating with your potential casual dating partner through the hookup website, make sure to communicate clearly and make your expectations clear.

Always stress that it’s consent first and everything else later. You can do this in written form via chat rooms or over video chat.

  • Carry Your Own Protection & Use It

By this, we mean condoms, yes. Data shows that unprotected encounters are often a part of casual hookups and one-night stands. Yet, it’s best to stay protected to avoid future issues.

  • Use Reputable, Legit Hookup Websites

Regardless of your physical preferences and the type, shape, and form of a partner you are searching for, only use the best-in-business hookup apps. Half of the safety is in finding the best online dating site like AdultFriendFinder.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

  • Check Who You’re Hooking Up With

Verify your hookup partner. The best legit hookup sites offer a video chat feature, and we recommend taking advantage of it. It’s also not a bad idea to check the social media of your potential casual dating partner, their Facebook friends, and more.

  • Meet in Public

At least for the first date, meet in public. You can proceed with the one-night stand but make sure to first have a chat in public before proceeding any further.

Is Everyone on Best Hookup Apps Looking for a Short-Term Fling?

Yes, The majority of the user base will use a hookup website for no-strings-attached relationships. 

That’s what the hookup culture is about, and that’s what you should expect from adult hookup sites. But that’s not 100% of the user base, and some folks are also seeking serious relationships.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

Should I Be Upfront About My Preferences in a Partner?

Yes, of course, dating apps are about finding your best match, and you need to be specific on what you like and what you’re hoping to find. 

But on that same note, you need to be respectful to the user base and avoid using language that can come off as racist, fatphobic, or anything along those lines.

How Do I Find a Hookup?

Successfully finding a hookup comes down to two critical areas: your behavior and finding the right sites for casual encounters to match your needs.

On the one hand, don’t be creepy; try to post photos that represent you the best, be open and clear in communication, and preferably stay in larger, densely-populated areas. Just start with being honest, civil, and polite – it will go a long way in this scene.

On the other hand, whether you search for the best free hookup site or hookup website charging premium membership, you need to opt for the right niche and cover your kinks and preferences. 

Whether it’s discreet hookups or queer women, there’s a hookup platform for it out there.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Gay Men?

The best hookup app for gay men is Grindr. The platform has a massive community of active users looking for gay casual flings. 

Like most mainstream dating apps, Grindr is geared towards people in urban areas, with millions of users seeking casual encounters. It’s the most globally renowned hookup app for gay men.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Lesbian Women?

HER is the best hookup app for lesbian women. Initially launched as a dating site for queer women, the platform has since expanded and now caters to lesbian, queer, and bi individuals seeking relationships and casual romance.

Best Hook Up Apps and Sites – Where Do I Find Them Today?

The answer is AdultFriendFinder, the best hookup platforms that emerged as the top overall choice after our careful research. 

It’s the best option because it’s fully geared toward casual meetings and features a massive user base that allows you to find your perfect match no matter which kink you’re into. It’s easy to use, too, so you’ll have no trouble availing yourself of its advantages.

But we’re all different and special in our own way, so at least check out the summaries of our best casual dating sites.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

As always, enjoy flings without judgment and make sure to stay safe. Keep it protected, and enjoy the journey!

DUEX Max Review

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Believe it or not, the pandemic is still showing its effects across our workflow. Remote working is now routinely part of a benefits package and not something taboo that only developers and graphic designers enjoy.

With this new normal has come a wave of devices to help alleviate some of the pain points. Mobile Pixels has been a little ahead of this trend, and with the new DUEX Max portable display, the company has a compelling remote working setup.

Design

The basic makeup of the DUEX isn’t revolutionary. The Max has a 14.1-inch matte 1080P panel capable of 300-nits. The aspect ratio is 16:9 with a 60 Hertz refresh rate. The right side of the DUEX Max houses two USB-C ports. That’s it. The casing of the rest of the device is plastic and comes off with a decent balance of lightness without feeling flimsy.

Around the back is the business end of the DUEX Max. This is where you’ll find the innovative magnetic mount and hinge system. The allows for the device to travel along with your current laptop without carrying any other equipment other than a USB-C.

The backside also has three buttons. These are used to manipulate the picture quality to your liking. You can adjust color, tint, and brightness much like any other monitor.

Real-world Usage

It’s somewhat hard to visualize without the DUEX Max in hand. The monitor has a track-style mount with four large oval magnetic platforms. These are used in tandem with metal discs with a 3M adhesive backing you position on the back of your laptop.

Once attached to the back of your laptop the track system allows for the Max to slide out to align next to your existing screen. With the monitor fully extended you can also move the panel front to back to pivot for optimal positioning.

Setup is seamless as far as no software is needed. The DUEX Max uses just the USB-C standard protocols to make the display work with your operating system. No drivers or special software are required as long as you have a USB-C port. If you have an older laptop with just USB3.0, then you will have to download the driver tool from the company’s website.

Auto-rotation is also on board. Regardless of the orientation of the side of your laptop, you want the DUEX Max the screen will automatically adjust. This makes for one of the most plug-and-play options I’ve experienced with a portable monitor.

Find the magnetic system to be sore on the eyes? That’s fine too. You can use any kickstand to use the DUEX Max as well. The fully extended mode for pivoting also allows you to flip the screen all the way around from the cover when not attached.

I’ve used it both ways, and honestly not sure which I prefer. I think if I lived away from my laptop docking station more often, I’d prefer the more permanent magnetic solution. With my workflow being more desk oriented with dedicated monitors, I think my needs would make more sense to just purchase the official kickstand from DUEX to use when I travel.

Conclusion

DUEX knocked it out of the park with the Max portable monitor. The design allows for multiple angles, solutions, and positioning. Pair that with the universal plug-and-play USB-C compatibility and you’ve got yourself one of the best solutions on the market.

The last pain point might be price. At $330, the DUEX Max is pricier than other solutions, but I’d argue it’s way more flexible in use. You can get the portable monitor in four colors: Gunmetal Gray, Rio Rouge, Mallard Green, and Set Sail Blue. Head over to the Mobile Pixels website now to order yours or build a bundle that works for you.

Purchase the DUEX Max

Visible shakes up its rate plans

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Mobile service provider Visible has thrown its rate plans and offerings into a proverbial blender.

This week finds the carrier lowering the monthly price for its base rate plan and introducing a premium option. Moreover, it is doing away with its multi-line Party Pay discount program and ushering in a new referral program.

Previously, Visible was known for having a single rate plan of just $40 which included unlimited talk, text, and data. With the new change, the standard “Visible” plan is priced $30 per month and features the same package. Also included in that bundle is nationwide 5G and 4G LTE, unlimited mobile hotspot, and unlimited talk and text to Mexico and Canada.

The “Visible+” option, priced at $45 per month, adds in support for 5G Ultra Wideband, unlimited talk, text, and data roaming in Canada and Mexico, international calling to 30+ countries, and texting to 200+ countries.

The new Visible plan with unlimited data, talk, text and hotspot is just $30/mo for a single line, taxes and fees included. The new Visible+ plan is just $45/mo, all in, and includes 5G Ultra Wideband access, 50 GB of premium network experience, roaming coverage in Canada & Mexico and global calling to over 30 countries from the US.Additional information on Visible’s new plans is available on visible.com.

Perhaps most importantly, the Visible+ plan comes with “Premium Network Experience” which means the user will not see any de-prioritization in network speeds until they hit 50GB of data usage.

The standard plan is much like other MVNO rate plans in that it slows data and mobile hotspot speeds when the network becomes congested. Visible uses Verizon’s network for coverage so the tier one subscribers get precedence in those times. The Visible+ ensures plenty of high speed data is available to users without that restriction.

While Party Pay may be going away, Visible’s new referral program rewards its customers a $20 discount for each referral. Applied one referral per month, users can bank the referrals for up to 12 months.

Those who already signed up under Party Pay are able to keep their discounts in place provided they do not change their plan.

Motorola’s third generation Moto Edge is packed but not pricey

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Motorola on Thursday announced its refreshed Moto Edge handset. Priced just $500, it packs many of the best features of the flagship Edge+ but at around half the cost.

The new phone has a 6.6-inch display at 2400 x 1080 pixel resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate. The fingerprint reader is located inside of the screen and Gorilla Glass 3 protects it.

A 5,000mAh battery keeps things running for up to two days with support for 30W fast charging. It also allows for 15W wireless charging and can share its power with other devices.

In terms of cameras, the Moto Edge a 50-megapixel rear shooter with a 13-megapixel 120-degree ultra-wide and 2-megapixel macro complimenting things. The phone has a wide array of shooting modes including Dual Capture, Spot Color, Night Vision, Panorama, Pro and more. Around front you’ll find a 32-megapixel camera with its own modes.

Internally, the Moto Edge employs a MediaTek Dimensity 1050 processor with at least 6GB RAM. Storage capacity is pegged at 128GB and 256GB, depending on where one purchases the phone.

The Moto Edge runs Android 12 upon its debut, however Motorola has committed to three OS updates and four years of bi-monthly security updates. Like its other higher end models, this one comes with support for Ready For, Motorola’s software for working on larger displays and accessories.

The Moto Edge will be offered in Mineral Gray and will be sold at the three largest wireless carriers of Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. The first of the service providers expected to carry the device is T-Mobile who will price its 8GB variant at just $498.

Verizon is anticipated to sell an 8GB/256GB option with AT&T getting the 6GB/128GB model. The Moto Edge will also be sold through UScellular, Spectrum Mobile, and Visible; it’s also coming to Best Buy, Amazon, and Motorola.com.

5 Things to know before buying BLUETTI B230 or B300

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Electricity, one of the most widely used forms of energy, soon became life’s necessity once found. If there’s a power cut, even a very brief one, the consequences can be catastrophic, especially while experiencing extreme heat on summer days. 

To ease the rising electricity tension this summer, BLUETTI will have a Power Week from August 18 to August 28. Scroll down to learn more about them. 

Not just a sidekick, but a hero on its own

Not only as an expansion battery, B230 and B300 can be used as an independent power source since multiple outputs are built for versatile charging, including 1*18W USB-A QC3.0, 1*100W PD3.0 Type-C, and 1*12V/10A Cigarette Lighter. 

The MPPT within B300 allows a 200W Max. solar input. While with the T500 adapter, no need to connect with AC200MAX and AC300 power stations, the B230 and B300 can reach up to 500W AC input rate.

The magic charging box – BLUETTI D050S (DC Charging Enhancer)

B230 and B300 are qualified as power sources. However, they can be leveraged to their full potential when teamed up with the D050S. It enables more recharging methods, like 12/24V car charging, Lead-acid battery, and even AC. It can boost a 1400W Max. solar input for AC200MAX

Without the idle draw of the inverter, the discharge efficiency of such a Pure DC Solar Generator is expected to reach more than 95%. An excursionist doesn’t have to carry a whole set of BLUETTI products because one battery pack is sufficient to power hungry devices on the road. 

High Compatibility – Not just for the AC200MAX or AC300

B230 and B300 were announced with AC200MAX and AC300, respectively. Yet they are also compatible with other units like AC200, AC200P, EB150, and EB240 while connecting with D050S. Increase the overall capacity anytime to survive blackouts and other emergencies.   

LiFePO4 – The safest and most durable battery chemistry

Safety and durability have been the top priorities to consider before purchasing a power station, so BLUETTI adopts the latest LiFePO4 technology while producing solar generators in recent years. 

B230 and B300 provides better electrochemical performance, lower resistance, and more stable cathode materials compared to NCM chemistry in the market. 

More Units and Combos to Recommend During BLUETTI Power Week 2022

OnePlus 10T review

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OnePlus has become a mainstay of the Android landscape. The once upstart is now standing toe to toe with the likes of Google and Samsung with the OnePlus 10 Pro. While that covers the high end these days, the company continues to shoot for mid-range perfection with the latest OnePlus 10T.

This mid-season refresh of the OnePlus 10 series comes with myriad specs and performance boosts to justify the release. However, let’s take a deeper dive into just how that compares to the competition in this full review of the OnePlus 10T.

Design

OnePlus has kept many of the elements in the look and feel consistent with the 10 Pro. You get a similar slab design with a slightly lower resolution screen. The size of the touch panel is the same 6.7-inches and still looks great.

The back panel is plastic instead of glass, but doesn’t feel cheap; it has a grainy textured feel that will remind some of the OnePlus One’s sandstone. The rear of the 10T also houses the same designed camera array with a new 50MP sensor for the main shooter, 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens.

One thing that will immediately be missed by OnePlus faithful is the alert slider. Yep, you read that correctly, the mainstay differentiator to choose your alert profile is gone. After being present on every OP phone to date, including the 10 Pro, the company nixed it on this model to make room for extra internals.

Personally, I find this to be a negative and that every effort should be made to include the slider button. Iconic hardware features are something a brand like OnePlus has prided itself on over the years. This makes it look like the company is tone-deaf to how its fans will inevitably react to the omission.

Performance

One key philosophy that still rings true is OnePlus’ dedication to performance. The 10T is packed full of the latest tech to make sure you get an optimal device that can compete with any other Android phone. With the combination of Snapdragon 8+ Gen1 CPU, HyperBoost Gaming Engine, and 3D cooling the OnePlus 10T has gaming phone standard specs that will get you through any task.

The new mobile 8+ Gen1 from Qualcomm offers 3.2GHz of peak CPU power while also being 30% more efficient. The on-chip 5G modem also supports speeds up to 10Gbps where carriers can keep up with those speeds.

The 3D cooling system is just as interesting. Using eight dissipation channels and 3D graphite, OnePlus has created its largest cooling chamber yet. This works in tandem with the HyperBoost Gaming Engine to offer superb gaming experiences. Frame rate fluctuations, touch response, and graphics rendering are greatly improved on the 10T.

Our unit added to all this with the full 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This adds up to a total package that handled absolutely everything I could throw at it. From gaming to general messaging, I never felt the OnePlus 10T stutter or stumble once. Along with RAM management OnePlus has been able to allow for 35 simultaneous apps at one time to be open.

OxygenOS

The OnePlus 10T comes pre-installed with OxygenOS 12.1 and the company promises that OxygenOS 13 will follow later this year after it’s launched on the OnePlus 10 Pro. The current iteration is full of what I would call an amalgamation of many existing UI elements across Android.

The overall feel of 12.1 takes a huge key from what Samsung has done recently with OneUI. While this isn’t a bad thing, it’s not my personal favorite. The additional layers of settings menus change to the tiling in the notification shade, and other tweaks just add bloat to Android I don’t think is necessary and hide features honestly.

Another, “borrowed” element is the pull-down side panel. This is heavily influenced by many custom launchers like Action Launcher. Again, it’s not my cup of joe but may find this additional space to house shortcuts and widgets helpful.

Overall, even with the UI changes, Android feels relatively comfortable on the OnePlus 10T. All your apps are here and function as normal. OxygenOS might take a slight learning curve, but nothing outside the norm from any phone not running Google’s version of Android.

Battery Life and Charging

Performance and high-end specs can often translate to poor endurance. Fortunately, OnePlus doesn’t fall victim to this issue. With a 4,800mAh battery pack, the OnePlus 10T had no issues lasting me all day of normal usage. Can you game out of hours or play YouTube half the day and kill it? Yes, but in most instances, you should have no issue making it through your daily needs.

When you do need to charge on the goal, it’s a tradition that OnePlus supports some of the fastest charging in the market. The 10T can use the company’s proprietary SUPERVOOC protocol to deliver 125W of power. It’s worth noting that the adapter will technically output 160W but this is limited to 125W in the United States.

This allows for the included charger and the OnePlus 10T to regain from 1-100% charge in just 20 minutes. The additional wattage can often lead to degradation of the battery but OnePlus ensures us that the Battery Health tech included can retain 80% of the capacity up to 1,600 charge cycles.

Conclusion

OnePlus has always been a polarizing manufacturer in the Android space. They’ve continued that with some of the hardware and software decisions of the OnePlus 10T. However, this is still a fantastic device that starts at $649 for the 8GB variant.

You will get superb performance, good battery life, and a large screen at the base price point. The OnePlus 10T can be purchased from the company’s website now with orders shipping in September. But don’t forget you can get early access during certain time frames before the official retail dates.