Best Coding Academies: Learn To Code Online Fast

So you want to learn how to code but aren’t sure how to start? Well many years ago you’d need to go to University or a college course, but with the power of the internet and many tech startups you can now use some of the best coding academies out there.

Today we’ll be looking at 5 top platforms for learning to code a wide variety of languages including Python, C#, C++ Java, Javascript, PHP and everything in between. 

Whether you want to create the new world famous game, a piece of software, or simply get a better job in the future, learning to code can be very rewarding. 

So take the first step and sign up for one of the best coding academies we’ve reviewed below. 

Best Coding Academies

1. Code Academy  

Codeacademy.com is an online education company that offers free coding classes in a variety of different programming languages. The company was founded in 2011 by Ryan Bubinski and Zach Sims.

The platform offers coding classes in 12 programming languages including Java, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, Python, C++, Sass and mark-up languages including CSS and HTML. There is also a paid ‘pro’ option for users which offers access to realistic projects, quizzes and personalised learning plans together with live support.

 

They also offer career paths to help guide users through their required career skills, Skill Paths and courses with interactive lessons.

Courses are available for free through their online platform and promoted through YouTube, social media, LinkedIn and sponsored Google Ads.

Codeacademy is a great option for those who’re looking to build a side project, play around with programming or learn a new skill for their career.

They have an extensive range of courses from learning coding, to game development, to practical data cleaning.

They even offer a course in non-technical life skills including how to make a budget and how to choose the right health insurance. Users can put their learning into practice with tailor-made quizzes and will receive instant feedback so they know they’re on the right track.

A selection of helpful articles, community forums and informative blogs are also available for those looking to gather inspiration or find out more.

2. Free Code Camp

Free Code Camp is a non-profit organisation which provides online courses in web development. It was founded in 2014 by Quincy Larson who had a mission to help people learn coding for free.

The organisation offers interacting learning with building projects and coding challenges for many languages including JavaScript, Python and CSS to name a few.

There are over 5000 tutorials, thousands of articles, videos and interactive coding lessons all available to the public for free.

The courses offer self-paced study and take around 300 hours of learning, however learners may take as long as they need.

All certificates are also verified and upon completion of all six free Code Camp certificates, learners will receive their Full Stack Development Program Certificate, signifying approximately 1,8000 hours of coding experience.

Free Code Camp is an online platform however they have thousands of study groups all over the world. They promote their services through YouTube and Twitter.

The courses provided by the site are verified and are offer a great tool to help people learn the skills they need for their dream jobs in technology.

Over 40,000 graduates from the free Code Camp have then gone on to work at some of the world’s top tech companies including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Spotify and Apple. For those studying alone, there is also a large team of volunteers available who can help answer any questions and provide support through their online forum.

3. Team Tree House

Treehouse is an online school of technology that provides courses in design and coding. The company was founded in 2011 and is based in Portland, United States.

Teamtreehouse.com.au offer courses in web development, mobile development, game development and web design.

The courses are taught by a team of expert teachers and aimed at beginners who would like to learn coding skills to pursue a career in the technology industry.

They are designed for beginners and feature interactive quizzes, code challenges, guided learning paths and classes on technical, soft and professional skills.

Learners can walk away from the course with a Techdegree, a comprehensive certificate for those who want to move into a career in the tech industry.

Courses are available online and learners are targeted through sponsored Google Ads, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

The Treehouse program allows the student to learn practically by building 9-12 projects which can then be shared with prospective employers.

These are real-world projects with in-depth code reviews which can then be used to create a career-ready portfolio.

During the course, learners can build a network through their exclusive community of teachers, staff and students allowing for sharing of tips, feedback and advice.

There is also live support and the courses can be completed from anywhere at any time. As an added bonus learners can also trial the first seven days of the course for free.

4. Plural Sight

Pluralsight is an American online education company that offers courses in technology. The company was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Utah, United States.

Pluralsight.com offers courses in today’s most popular technologies with learning paths, expert-led content and assessments.

There are a wide variety of courses on offer for many different programming languages including Java, Angular, C#, Python, JavaScript and React.

They also offer a full library of other tech courses including IT operations, information and cyber security, professional data skills, architecture, construction, manufacturing and design and business professional skills.

Courses are available online and learners are targeted through LinkedIn, social media, sponsored Google advertisements and their popular YouTube channel with informative videos and over 57K subscribers.

Plurasight courses are a great option for those wanting to advance in their current role, stay up to date with critical topics and increase their tech skills.

It’s also an ideal tool for companies who would like their teams to learn the skills they need to improve workflow efficiency and move into more modern roles.

Their three products, Plurasight Skills, Plurasight Flow and Pluralsight ProServ help companies to easily set a plan as to how to coach, scale and develop their existing teams and create learning paths as to where they need them to be.

They also offer a free 10 day trial including assessments for current skill levels, guided learning and expert-led courses.

5. Hackr

Hackr.io is an online education company for tutorials and courses in technology. It was founded by Guarav Gupta and Saurabh Hooda in 2016.

The company offers a collection of online tutorials and courses in programming, data science, DevOps and design.

Each course type includes video tutorials and courses, structured roadmaps for learning paths and a blog with many informative posts on related topics.

Live online classrooms are also on offer for programming courses with Hackr Plus, with course options for professionals, teachers and students.

The live classrooms feature mentors with in-depth industry experience, the highest rated references and resources, group learning, assessments and quizzes, hands-on industry projects and assistance in finding a job or internship.

All Hackr classes are available online. The company promote their courses through Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and their website.

Hackr.io aggregate courses from many providers allowing users to easily find what they’re looking for all in the same place without having to search through multiple sites. Their platform is unbiased and all tutorials are voted for and submitted by community. It’s also easy to find the most suitable courses as users can filter and search by type, language, reviews and fee including free options.

There are an extensive range of courses on offer for a variety of budgets, levels, languages and mediums to suit every learner for both desktops and on the go via their App. 

Verdict

Learning to code can be a very rewarding skill whether you want to earn more money, change your career path or simply do something enjoyable in your spare time. Gone are the days of going to University to learn how to code with the invention of the best coding academies, anyone can learn a new coding language from their own home with minimal investment. 

Related: Best Chromebooks

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-coding-academies/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/10/best-coding-academies-learn-to-code-online-fast/

Best Gym Equipment Stores: Buy Online & Save Money

When it comes to choosing the best gym equipment you’re really spoilt for choice here in Australia. You’ve got the expensive brands, the cheapest Chinese alternatives and everything in between. This means retailers are often competing on price helping you get the best deals on gym equipment. 

But where do you buy the best gym equipment online? After searching for our own gear a few months ago we decided to list 5 of our top picks to consider. 

All the providers below offer a wide range of gym and fitness equipment, available to purchase online with delivery nationwide (potentially free). Larger equipment is also available with a delivery fee, such as exercise bikes, rowing machines, treadmills and more.

While other review sites like to promote the best companies based on their affiliate commissions, our top 5 best gym eCommerce stores are in no particular order and each have their own pros and (some) cons. 

And if you want to test drive one of the products, some stores offer physical retail locations while others are purely online and you’ll need to rely on reviews to  make a buying decision.

Best Gym Equipment Stores

1. Gym and Fitness

Gym and fitness is an online fitness equipment retailer who stock a range of equipment and over 40 brands.

They were first established in 2002 and have knowledgeable staff who promote a positive culture and are committed to delivering excellent customer service as well as upholding strong business relationships with suppliers to guarantee the lowest prices in fitness equipment.

They are confident they can consistently deliver these lowest prices and to prove that is the case, they offer a price matching guarantee that is straightforward and ensures no other company will offer you a better deal.

They ship Australia-wide via freight, with some items eligible for free shipping, and offer a two-day business dispatch with the promise of a free pair of Bluetooth headphones if they dispatch your item later than two business days after purchase.

Their customer service response is even quicker, with the company promising a one business day response time to any queries or questions lodged through the site.

They also offer a 14-day change of mind policy on the core range of items so that customers have time to try out their purchases for 2 weeks before deciding if they are completely happy.

The website is easy to navigate with users able to search for items via categories such as strength, cardio, recovery, function, gym flooring, commercial, play and packages, as well as by brands, deals or new additions to the website.

2. Gym Direct

Gym Direct is a retailer of gym and fitness equipment that offer both in-store and online shopping. They were established in 2007 and boast premium products at competitive prices.

They host a range of exclusive items that are only available from their company. Their showroom is located in Sydney’s south which is where items can be picked-up from immediately even if sourced online.

They ship Australia-wide and offer a shipping calculator on their website to work out shipping fees based on your postcode.

Some orders, particularly heavy items or those travelling to remote locations, will require a custom freight quote which is easy to arrange.

Orders are dispatched between 1-2 business days and tracking numbers allocated that provide customers on the details of their order including estimated delivery dates which vary based on location.

The company offers a loyalty programmed called Lion Rewards Club where customers can earn points based on referring friends, making purchases or writing reviews, which they can then spend on rewards.

As members earn more points, they will move up the membership tiers which each come with their own range of rewards; the higher the membership tier, the better the rewards. They website categories items so it is easy to customers to browse and locate the items they are after.

Categories include fitness, strength equipment, cross training, packages, sale, commercial, etc.

3. Fitness Warehouse

Fitness Warehouse offers specialty exercise and fitness equipment via its three South Australian stores and an online website.

These three stores are located in Hindmarsh, Parafield Gardens and Glenelg. The company has been around for over 30 years and their loyal customer base is a tribute to their quality products that are offered at affordable prices.

They offer a price match guarantee so customers can be assured they will always receive the lowest price for their equipment.

The products on offer are suitable for those starting a home gym as well as those looking for a more commercial set up including gyms and cross training boxes.

Customers are not expected to set up the equipment themselves as fully accredited technicians are available to deliver equipment, ensure correct installation and service the items so they are working as they should from the get-go.

The range of equipment includes strength, cardio, boxing, cross training, weightlifting and accessories such as medicine balls, foam rollers, drink bottles etc.

Supplements are also available online and in-store. It is easy to filter items online via a range of options such as price, brands and categories, as well as sort items by price, biggest saving, recently added or best selling/most popular.

There is also a link to ‘hot deals’ on the website so customers don’t miss out on awesome specials. Delivery is available Australia-wide, or customers can order online and pick-up in-store.

4. World Fitness Boxing

World Fitness is an Australian retailer of fitness equipment and accessories with an online store and brick-and-mortar store located in Cheltenham, Vic.

They have knowledgeable and friendly staff working every day who are dedicated to providing the best customer service and support including the ability to answer fitness and product-related questions and queries.

They offer an everyday lowest price guarantee and deliver Australia wide, with some items qualifying for free shipping.

Items are also able to be purchased online and picked up in-store for no extra cost. Orders purchased online are able to be tracked via the website using the item’s tracking number or your details so you can know when to expect your purchase.

The range of items available is suitable for those wanting to deck out a home gym as well as being able to suit commercial gym requirements.

They stock a range of brands and items that can be browsed through via function category and then sorted via price, bestsellers, new additions, featured or alphabetically.

Categories include strength equipment, barbells, weight plates, dumbbells, cardio equipment, boxing equipment, functional fitness, kettlebells, medicine balls, yoga and aerobics, accessories, gym gloves/belts, gym flooring/mats, floor model, supplements, and sports and leisure.

All items offer a warranty with full details outlined on the website. There is also a FAQ section that covers a range of information from shipping and delivery to payments and pre-orders.

5. Sam Fitness

Sam’s Fitness is an Australian retailer of fitness and gym equipment that was established 9 years ago.

They were the first store to bring the fitness brands of Ironmaster and Powertec to Australian customers.

They have a store in Banksmeadow, NSW, as well as an online store and have a great relationship with their clientele as a result of their excellent customer service and family-run small business vibe.

They offer a huge range of equipment to suit all styles of customers from gym owners to those looking to set up a small personal home gym.

They have items for any space as well as to suit professionals or beginners. Their items are heavy-duty and built to last.

Their website is easy to navigate with customers able to browse via item category including racks/cages/smiths, multi-gym equipment, benches/bench press, single station, bodyweight, dumbbells, barbells, weights, kettlebells and accessories.

There are also categories for discounted items so customers can nab a bargain, and customer testimonials that can inform potential customers about the previous satisfaction of customers.

There is also a blog that provides further information on a range of gym and fitness related topics such as gym inspiration, body building tips and tricks, weight training programs, diet and nutrition, articles about gym weight training and gym equipment, and videos so customers can get a good look at the equipment on offer.

Verdict

Theres dozens of gym and fitness equipment stores out there each claiming to be the best. While others compete on price and a lack of service, others offer a fully rounded service such as those 5 mentioned here. Our advice is to do your own research and decide on the best platform your buying. 

Related: Best Home Gyms

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-gym-equipment-stores/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/10/best-gym-equipment-stores-buy-online-save-money/

Best Dirt Biking Tours In Australia (5 Top Operators)

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of riding a dirt bike in a foreign place, whether that’s in another country, state or simply area you’ve never been too before. Testing your skills on new terrain, exploring new tracks, it’s all part of the fun. 

And multi day tours are even better, camping outside, sharing dinner and beers with new found friends that love dirt biking just as much as you.

Today we’ll be looking at the best dirt biking tours in Australia. From day tours to overseas expeditions, there’s a range of providers here to suit every dirt biker, young and old. 

Want your dirt biking company featured? Get in touch

Best Dirt Biking Tours In Australia

1.   Aussie Dirtbike Tours

Aussie Dirt Bike Tours provide exactly as the name suggests: Australian dirt bike tours throughout Victorian country regions.

Explore the areas of Rawson, Dargo, Briagolong, Toombon, Licola, Walhalla, Mt Selma and more with experienced guides assisting at every step of the way ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Customers can feel confident that everything they need has been taken care of, with fuel, meals and accommodation all provided.

All you need is your dirt bike, safety gear and thirst for adventure. Current tours are outlined on their website and are suited for beginners right through to experts.

Tours will present opportunities to test new skills if desired or you can cruise along at your leisure and just enjoy the scenery.

There is the option to organised a private group tour or join in with others, and tours range from one day to one week with group bookings eligible for a discount.

While there are current tours listed, they are more than happy to organised tours outside what is currently listed to match up with your ideas.

When making your booking, 20% of the full tour price is required and is non-refundable. The rest of the tour fee is required 4 weeks prior to the tour commencing. Cancellations can be made but will incur fees that vary based on how long there is between the cancellation and the tour start date.

2. Outback Adventure Treks

Outback Adventure Treks is an Australian motorbike tour company that was one of the first in Australia and has been running for 26 years.

Their tours cover regions across Australia as well as one international trip to India with prices starting at $2900 AUD.

Tours include Across Australia – East to West or West to East with an option to include the Finke Desert Race, Cape York to Cairns and vice versa, Canning Stock Route – Broome to Perth and vice versa, Uluru to Airlie Beach and vice versa, and India where customers can ride through the Himalayas and along the highest road in the world in the Ladakh region.

Tours are led by knowledgeable experts who provide a high standard of service, attending to every itinerary detail with finesse and expertise.

Tours are constantly being updated and fine tuned to adapt to the ever-changing environment and customer needs to ensure a consistently smooth and outstanding service that is guaranteed to provide excitement and irreplaceable memories.

The tours take away the stress of organising a trip yourself with experts able to provide priceless support and guidance.

Motorbikes are able to be hired if need be and mean customers do not have to worry about shipping their own bike or servicing it prior to or following the tour. All bikes are renewed each season and fitted with handguards and a bashplate.

3. Fair Dinkum Bike Tours

Fair Dinkum Bike Tours is an Australian motorbike tour company owned by motocross racing identity David Williams.

It was established 18 years ago and is committed to creating dream trail bike tours that offer the adventure of a lifetime.

The trail bike tours cover Far North Queensland and Cairns to Cape York with differing tour lengths ranging from 1 day to 8 days.

The tours include motorcycle hire, latest riding gear, meals, fuel, 4WD support (if required), bedding/accommodation when required, fully qualified guides, satellite communication, fishing on selected tours, and all National park fees.

A $1000 hire bike bond is required but will be refunded upon safe return of the motorcycle, and all hire motorcycles are current model Suzuki DRZ 400cc with company specific modifications.

Riders will need to bring safety gear as well as other items necessary for travelling such as water bottles and sunscreen.

Non-riders are welcome to travel along as well in the support truck and will be well taken care of. This is a great option for those who don’t feel comfortable on a motorcycle but want to be there for support and to enjoy the experience as well.

Tours start at $560 AUD per rider with a holding deposit of $500 required for all bookings. The remaining balance of tour cost is to be paid 30 days prior to departure of tour and while cancellations can be made, only partial refunds will be given depending on time between cancellation and tour start date.

4. Outback Motorcycle Adventures  

Outback Motorcycle Adventures is an Australian Motorbike tour company that offers tours across Central Australia.

It was established in 2017 by 2 men that are passionate about motorbikes and wish to share their love of motorbikes with others as well as share their knowledge of the unique and beautiful central Australian region that they know like their own backyard.

Tours on offer include Ultimate Simpson Crossings, ‘The Rock’ 6 day tour, Finke Desert Race Experience and the Red Centre Adventure Rallye.

Prices vary for each tour and depending on whether you bring your own bike or hire one provided. The bikes available for hire consist of fourteen 2019 model KTM 350 and 500 EXC-F motorcycle, which are maintained using Motorex oils, fitted with Dunlop tyres, and have Acerbis 15l tanks and X-factory handguards.

There is also a pricing option for those not wanting to ride but rather be part of the support crew truck.

Tours include all fuel and mechanical support, accommodation, support vehicle, lead and sweep riders and all meals and non-alcoholic drinks. Some pricing options also include flights. Payment plans are available, and a deposit must be made to secure a booking with the full balance due 30 days prior to the tour start date.

Their website offers gift vouchers which would be a perfect present for the motorbike lover in your life.

Daryl Beattie Adventures is an Australian motorbike tour company that is owned and operated by Daryl Beattie, an ex-500cc MotoGP champion.

They offer tours that explore remote corners of the Australian outback and Daryl is present on each and every tour.

Tours on offer include Africa Twin Tours (Ooraminna to Broome and Broome to Kununurra), Finke Desert Race Tour, Canning Stock Route, Madigan Line Tour and Cape York Tour.

Tours vary in degree of difficulty which allows riders to pick a tour that best suits their riding ability. Roads on the tours include bitumen, gravel, deep sand and single trail.

Tours vary in length ranging from 5 days to 13 days and start at $4950 AUD. Prices include bike hire which is a Honda Africa Twin on Africa Twin Tours and a CRF450X on the Cape York and Simpson Desert Tours.

Lead and sweep riders are provided who are experienced riders certified in First Aid and able to complete required motorbike repairs as well as carry satellite phones.

There is a support vehicle that will carry fuel, water, drinks and food for riders which is included in the tour price.

Accommodation is also provided and will be in pubs or motels at the start and finish of the tour but camping the rest of the time.

Flights and alcoholic drinks are the only aspects of the tour that riders will need to pay for outside of the tour fees.

Verdict

There are many dirt biking tour providers in Australia so it was a tricky task to narrow down to the top 5 picks for the best dirt biking tours in Australia. There are many others you could consider that offer tours both locally and internationally in countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, New Zealand and continents all over the world. 

Being based in Victoria, Aussie Dirt Bike Tours is your go to for riding in Vic, with another stand out being Daryl Beattie adventures for overseas tours.

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-dirt-biking-tours/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/10/best-dirt-biking-tours-in-australia-5-top-operators/

Best Charcoal BBQ Australia (Reviews + Ratings For 2020)

When it comes to picking the best charcoal bbq Australia has to offer there’s often the temptation to choose the cheapest most wallet friendly grill. However you definitely get what you pay for and if you want guaranteed evenly spread heat you really need to purchase something robust and reliable. 

Any grill can cook meat but if you want the best cooked meat then you need to know what you’re buying, what features are on offer and ultimately how to use the grill properly. Charcoal bbq’s are different to gas, which anyone can use. 

Best Charcoal BBQ Australia

1. Weber Original Kettle Charcoal BBQ

  • Original design

  • One-touch cleaning system

  • Removable ash catcher

  • 363cm2 cooking area

  • Heat resistant handles

Think charcoal BBQ, imagine the original Weber Kettle! The sleek domed design nobody can mistake for any other brand.

Fill the base with charcoal, light it up, put the grilling rack on, stack your meats on top and enjoy that outdoor weekend arvo with your friends and family. Savour the flavour of charcoal cooked meats instead of having to add flavour to gas cooked barbeques.

The original charcoal Weber Kettle now features a patented One Touch cleaning system which removes ash and other mess in seconds through rustproof vents in the bottom which open and close with one pull of a lever, as well as a removable aluminium ash catcher.

The two large trolley wheels tilt for easy movement and the heat-resistant steel outer and rubber lid handle keep your meats hot but your hands cool. Control airflow with the vents on the lid and the base to manage the heat and the cooking rate.

The construction from quality stainless steel is durable, built to last for years to come.

The cooking rack measures a large 363 square cms, so it’s great for entertaining.

And if you like style you can’t go past the cool shiny black finish of the bowl and lid which are made from a beautiful porcelain enamel.

The Weber Kettle requires limited assembly and comes with a 12-month warranty.

2. GRILLZ 2in1 Charcoal Smoker BBQ

  • Temperature control

  • 2 grill areas (62x31cm, 31x30cm)

  • Stainless steel design

  • Offset BBQ smoker

The 2-in-1 charcoal smoker BBQ from Grillz is a must-have if you love BBQ-ing, grilling and even smoking your outdoor meals. Having that sort of choice available is certainly a luxury and invites experimentation.

The Grillz 2-in-1 is made from a sturdy, durable and stylish chrome-coated steel. It features a very generous cooking chamber with a side firebox for containing the heated charcoal and smoking container.

There is an adjustable vent and easy to read thermometer to enable you to monitor and control the cooking temperature at all times.

You are given a choice of two grill sizes (62 x 31cms or 31 x 30 cms) which makes it perfect for small family meals or entertaining. The wooden platform at the front of the cooking plate gives you a handy spot to put condiments, utensils and plates.

The two large wheels make the BBQ easy to move around to wherever you want it to be on any given day. And the heat-resistant handle protects your hands from scalding when the BBQ is in use.

The design of the 2-in-1 ensures that your meats and vegetables will grill or smoke to perfection, retaining all their flavour and more because of the excellent heat retention and distribution properties. The air outlets provide the ventilation needed for flavour and moisture absorption.

3. Weber Smoky Joe Charcoal BBQ

  • One touch cleaning system

  • Aluminium ash catcher

  • 960cm2 cooking area

  • Portable, lightweight

Wanting something a little smaller for just the two of you to enjoy an impromptu BBQ at home or on a camping trip?

The Smokey Jo Weber is the perfect charcoal BBQ for you. With a small 960cm square cooking grill plate it fits a meal for two including veggies.

Made from heavy-duty and durable stainless steel and aluminium and finished in a lovely black porcelain enamel this is a very stylish portable kettle-style charcoal BBQ.

The Smokey Joe has a heat resistant rubber handle on the lid and the heat resistant heavy-duty steel also protects your hands when the BBQ is in use. Vents allow for easy ventilation to maximise heat control.

The removable aluminium ash catcher and the vents in the bottom allow easy One Touch cleaning of ashes and other debris and mess.

Some assembly is required before use for the first time, and the Smokey joe comes with a 12-month warranty.

Small and compact, this is an excellent choice for everyday use or for going away as it easily fits into any size car boot. Or on an apartment balcony. Enjoy the flavour of a proper charcoal BBQ any time you like and wherever you live with the Smokey Joe.

4. Weber Original Kettle Grill

  • Grand daddy of Weber

  • One-touch cleaning system

  • Lid thermometer

  • Wire rack storage

  • Heavy duty construction

This is THE ONE! The Premium Weber Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill that beats the rest. Not that the rest are inferior, but this is the best because it has all the features.

The Premium Weber kettle is made from heat-resistant heavy-duty steel so your food is kept hot but your hands are not. The two side handles are also heat-resistant. It has two large sturdy wheels for ease of movement around the backyard.

The wire rack at the bottom means that the charcoal is kept away from the base and the ash is more easily emptied when cold.

The Premium kettle also has a One Touch cleaning system which features vents in the base which open with a lever to allow ash and other mess to be quickly and easily swept out. It also has a removable ash catcher which can be emptied without mess.

The built-in thermometer gauge means you can monitor the heat inside the cooking chamber for perfect grilling of any type of food to whatever your taste happens to be. The large hinged wire cooking rack, measuring 57cms in diameter, allows for a large amount of food to be cooked at the same time – great for entertaining.

And if looks are important to you, and why not, the Weber Premium is finished in a sleek black porcelain enamel which just looks great and cleans up beautifully.

5. Hark Texas Pro Pit

  • Big daddy offset smoker

  • Charcoal or wood fired

  • Dual temperature gauge

  • Grilling or smoking

  • 7470cm2 cooking area

If you’re in the market for a BBQ and offset smoker then the Hark Texas Pro Pit is well worth a very close look. Able to be fired by wood or charcoal for optimum flavour options, the Pro Pit is truly the hero of offset smokers.

This is not a small appliance by any stretch. It is a serious cooker for a serious outdoor cook, or perhaps we should call you a chef.

You’re not someone who would ever consider cooking with gas because flavour is of the essence. And the flavours of BBQ and smoking are simply a delight to be savoured.

The Hark Texas can reach incredibly high temperatures for searing all kinds of meats. You can expand the capacity by using the chamber and firebox at the same time and removing the baffles (tuning plates) prior to grilling.

Alternatively, you can smoke or slow cook by using heat from the firebox to flow into the cooking chamber for slow indirect heating of your food. Simply regulate the heat by adjusting the air damper and baffles.

The Pro Pit has additional features such as the gasket around the main chamber doors, a handy bottle opener, and extra damper in the firebox for more air control and a fat collection bucket for mess control.

Made from heavy-duty heat-resistant steel, the Pro pit has strong tubular legs and large steel wheels for portability.

It has an impressively large cooking capacity of 7470 square cms in the cooking chamber and an additional 2091 square cms in the firebox.

This is a highly versatile 2-in-1 BBQ Smoker for the connoisseur as well as the novice who appreciate the best.

Why buy a charcoal BBQ over a Gas one?

The main difference between a gas BBQ and a charcoal (or wood) one is pretty simple: flavour.

Gas does not provide any additional flavour to food that it is being used to cook. Charcoal and wood, on the other hand, do give off distinctive flavours as they are heated up and these flavours provide the food with a distinctive flavour, mostly described as ‘smokey’.

Charcoal also provides a much better seared finish than gas due to the more direct infrared heat that charcoal gives off.

Convenience, however, is another issue to be considered. There’s no doubt that gas BBQ’s are much quicker and easier to start and clean than charcoal BBQ’s are.

Charcoal cookers have to be ‘set’, lit with fire-starters, encouraged to heat to a glow and maintained through the cooking process. And then there is the mess of the ash at the end to be cleaned up.

Gas BBQ’s simply need to be turned on and the heat is instantaneous. There is no mess to clean up afterwards. The only maintenance is to ensure that your gas bottle is filled every now and then.

So the answer is one of personal preference but were it not for the inconvenience and mess I suspect that most people would prefer to use charcoal or wood to BBQ their meat.

Are charcoal grills safe?

Charcoal grills are perfectly safe if kept well contained in the BBQ being used. BBQ’s which are well designed will have a bowl (like the Weber variety) or a deep tray to hold the charcoal, with a grill try on top to hold the food being cooked and a lid to go on top while the food is cooking.

While it is possible that sparks and hot coals might escape those features should prevent that happening, and sensible setting of the coal and watchfulness should also be observed.

Charcoal BBQ’s should not be used during total fire bans in your area. 

As with any situation involving fire and flames, including gas BBQ’s, a fire extinguisher should always be on hand, and children should not be permitted to play with the BBQ or be too near to it. 

Be sure to checkout the SA Govt’s recommendations on Barbecue safety. 

How do you use a charcoal bbq grill?

Using a charcoal BBQ is a very simple skill to learn. You will need a bag of charcoal and, ideally, a box of fire-starters.

The BBQ will generally have a bowl or tray to hold the charcoal. The base will probably have a rack on which you need to lay one to a couple of layers of the charcoal.

Do not lay down too thick a pile of charcoal – you want enough to create a good amount of radiant heat to cook the meal you have. So for steak or burgers, one layer should be enough, for a roast two layers will be needed.

To start the fire the easiest way is to spread some fire-starters through the charcoal and light them. You can use newspaper but it’s not a sure-fire or a quick way to get the charcoal to burn.

Once the charcoal is alight lay the cooking rack down and close the lid, opening the air vent enough to make sure the fire has enough air to feed the flames.

It’s really a question of keeping the fire going now until the charcoal is a nest of glowing coals producing enough radiant heat to cook the food.

And then you’re good to go.

Is too much BBQ bad for you?

There is some debate around the possibility that BBQ’ed food contains carcinogens because meat cooked on BBQ’s tend to be cooked at far higher temperatures and to a much greater degree than on a normal stovetop, leading to higher levels of ‘HCA’s’.

HCA’s are heterocyclic amines, compounds which are created in meats when cooked. As well as HCA’s there is also some who theorise that the smoke from burning fats which rise up from the coals below the meat on a BBQ might also contain carcinogens called PAH’s.

Although there is some research around these theories they are far from being established as facts, and even so, if you are at all concerned there is a theoretical response: precook your BBQ meat in the microwave and finish it off on the BBQ and you should be fine!

Or simply reduce your intake of BBQ’ed foods to say once or twice a week – the studies do indicate the risk is associated with very high intakes of BBQ’ed meats.

Verdict

There’s nothing quite like the taste of food that’s been on the charcoal grill and every summer I love to start cooking on the bbq. Gas just doesn’t have that same smoky flavour and tastes no different to cooking indoors. 

Our top picks for the bets charcoal bbq grill is the Weber brand, they’ve been around for years and offer the best range of features at an affordable price. 

If you’re looking for something high end, there’s a wide range of other more affordable (or more expensive) options from online stores such as TheBBQStore which sells a range of big smokers, barbecues and kitchens.

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-charcoal-bbq/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/10/best-charcoal-bbq-australia-reviews-ratings-for-2020/

Best Bulk Toilet Paper Deals (Reviews & Ratings For 2020)

If you’re wanting to improve your budget’s bottom line, so to speak, then buying in bulk is always a good idea, as long as you are indeed saving money by doing so. The only way to tell whether or not you are getting a good deal is by doing the sums.

Toilet paper is one necessity which can be bought in bulk. It is an essential item in the home – almost as essential some would say as water and power.

Many people obsess over it and will fret if they’re down to under 6 rolls in the house. Toilet paper is also surprisingly expensive and varied in what’s on offer.

I for one, have an Amazon order arrive at my doorstep once a month automatically ensuring I never run out of toilet roll. 

And this is an item which can be bought in bulk as it’s a non-perishable so it’s worth doing a bit of market research to find the best bulk buy to save money!

How To Choose Best Bulk Toilet Paper?

Firstly, you need to decide what your personal preferences in loo paper are. Some people can manage single-ply but the majority want at least 2-ply, if not 3, for comfort. 

Do you notice a difference between the brands which claim super-absorbency, or gentleness, or durability? And do you care about the environmental issues associated with toilet paper such that you’ll spend a little more to contribute to that cause?

Unfortunately, many of these considerations fall into the category of being unquantifiable in monetary terms and it’s left to the individual to place a value on them, but comparisons can still be done.

The Best Bulk Toilet Paper Deals

Below is a look at the best 5 bulk buy toilet paper grabs currently on offer at Amazon Australia. We’ve looked at the pro’s and con’s, done some sums and hopefully pointed you in the right direction.

It does need to be noted that the prices quoted in this article are subject to change at any time and you should confirm using the buy buttons. 

1. KLEENEX Complete Clean (45 Rolls)

best bulk toilet paper australia
  • Use with their Flushable wipes

  • Popular brand

  • Very affordable pricing

The Kleenex Complete Clean bulk buy we purchased was $19 for 45 rolls, that’s 42 cents per roll. The Amazon delivery charge would be quite expensive unless you spend a total of $39+ in the one order or sign up for Amazon prime. 

Kleenex has recently introduced a companion product, their Flushable Wipes, which they recommend being used with all their toilet tissue.

The cost of those hasn’t been factored into this review as it’s being assumed they are not an essential accompaniment to the toilet paper.

This is a 3-ply toilet tissue claiming to be at least 35% thicker than 2-ply toilet paper (that’s about the right percentage give or take).  It’s further claimed to be ultra-soft, strong and absorbent thanks to a unique ripple design.

The paper claims to be ethically sourced fibre with FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification. The paper is hypoallergenic, biodegradable and septic tank safe.

There are 90 reviews on Amazon and the consensus (over 80%) seems to be that this product is a good one, that it does its job well and the price is very good value for money.

There are some consistent concerns about it leaving residue paper ‘dust’ on clothing and the bathroom floor. Overall however it is a popular brand.

2. Quilton 3 Ply Tissue (45 Rolls)

  • Well established brand

  • Good reviews online

The Quilton 3 ply pack of 45 rolls is a bulk buy option and cost us $20.00, that’s 44.5 cents per roll. Again, Amazon charges a delivery fee (quite hefty) on orders under $39 so make sure you order two packs or signup for Amazon prime for free delivery.

The toilet paper from Quilton is branded ad as the paper that ‘loves your bum’. It has been a long-time good buy at other supermarkets but this price at Amazon is a significantly better deal.

The paper itself is a 3-ply tissue for added strength, absorbency and superior softness. It’s gently embossed and smooth and very lightly scented at the core of the roll.

The paper is sourced from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified sources, is 100% biodegradable, flushable, septic and sewer safe. The manufacturer is Australian-owned.

Out of just shy of 100 customer reviews on Amazon 88% awarded this product 5 stars. The consistent comments were that there is nothing negative to say about Quilton toilet paper. Anyone who tries it tends to then be a loyal user because it is so reliable and well-priced wherever you purchase it.

3. Cottonsoft 2 Ply Tissue (72 Rolls)

  • High absorption rate

  • Optimum strength

Cottonsoft 2 ply 72-roll pack cost us $30. Each roll has 210 sheets and each sheet measures 11x10cms. The cost per roll is a little under 42 cents.

Attributes of this toilet tissue claim to be that its 2-ply structure is of optimum strength, resistance and has a higher absorption rate and that it’s as ‘soft and gentle as a cloud’, and environmentally friendly.

 It also provides jobs for Kiwis (guessing that means our New Zealand neighbours) although the company claims to be Australian owned.

Environmental pros are that the tissue Is flushable (we’d assume all toilet papers these days meets that basic criteria) and is septic safe. It’ manufactured from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified forest resources ie sustainable resources. It is unscented and is 100% biodegradable.

There’s not a lot more information about this particular brand of toilet paper. There are no customer reviews on Amazon or elsewhere.

4. Scott Comfortplus Tissue (24 Rolls)

  • More sheets per roll

  • Cheaper price

Scott Comfortplus is a single-ply toilet paper which comes in a 24-pack and cost us only $9.82, that’s 41 cents per roll.

There are 231 sheets per roll (more than other brands). The advertising states that the rolls are ‘double rolls’ and that therefore you are buying more than what appears. But that is all a little vague and not explained any further.

The paper claims to have been tested for strength and to be ‘3X stronger’ – we are not told what it is stronger than. It claims to be a thick, plush paper designed for comfort and value.

Environmentally, the tissue is made from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) ‘responsible’ sources and is sewer and septic safe.

There are a few reviews of this toilet tissue which are not very positive, most stating that the roll is small despite the advertised ‘double roll‘ size and that the paper is very thin and unsatisfactory for the job it’s intended for. 

You also need to remember that Amazon shipping is also only free if you spend over $39. Delivery on this item on its own (ie a spend of $9.82) would set you back $24.41 unless you’re an Amazon prime member. Hardly a bargain anymore.

5. KLEENEX Double Length (40 Rolls)

  • Affordable pricing

  • Extra long rolls

Another bulk buy opportunity from Kleenex is for their double-length toilet tissue which cost us $33.33 for 40 rolls. That’s 83 cents per roll.

Delivery would be additional if purchased on its own so if you do choose this one then make sure you spend over $39 in the one spend.

Each roll has double the number of sheets as the normal 180, so we’re presuming that means the rolls are 360 sheets long. If that is true then the actual comparative price is likely to be around 41.5 cents per roll.

This paper claims to be at its best when used in conjunction with the Kleenex Flushable Wipes – sold separately.

The paper itself has a unique ripple texture for superior strength, softness and reliability.  It is hypoallergenic. The only claimed benefit of the double-length roll is that it reduces the time spent changing the roll so we can overlook that as a consideration on either side of the ledger.

Environmental claims are that it is not sourced from high conservation value rainforests. That it is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified – coming from responsible forest management sites.

In its favour are the positive reviews from a handful of satisfied customers on Amazon, but with no details, we are just noting this as a pro.

Which Toilet Paper To Buy?

Looking at prices alone the bulk buy toilet papers rank in the following order: Scott Comfortplus at 41c/roll; Cottonsoft 2-ply and Kleenex Complete both at 42 cents/roll; Quilton at 44.5cents; and Kleenex Double Length at 83 or 41.5 cents.

However, price alone is not necessarily the best determinant for value.

The best quality toilet paper appears to be the Quilton.  

It has the best customer satisfaction ratings by far and is still a very low price – only a few cents per roll above the Scott.

And looking at the reviews for Scott’s toilet tissue the recommendation would be to spend an additional few cents to buy the better paper. The other good buy is the Kleenex Complete Clean at 42 cents per roll.

The only possible negative is the comments that it tends to leave paper ‘dust’ which would rank it second to the Quilton.

However, that being said, the Kleenex Double Length at the highest price per roll on face value may be the lowest in reality if the double size rolls do indeed mean that each roll lasts as long as a single roll of the other brands’ rolls.

It has good customer feedback and may well be the best buy if the price per roll is discounted to take into account the larger size rolls, ie 41.5 cents per roll.

All of the toilet papers looked at seem to be pretty similar in terms of the environmental impact considerations, and comfort factors, except for the Scott single-ply which has a few doubtful claims around its thickness and its reviews are not good.

And another reminder about delivery charges by Amazon: if you spend less than $39 you will pay a fairly steep delivery cost so make sure you buy either more packs of the toilet paper you’ve opted for or join Amazon prime (for free delivery). 

Best buys? You probably can’t go wrong with Quilton and the Kleenex Double Length may be worth a try to see whether, in fact, the double-length rolls do last longer than the standard rolls sold by other brands.

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-bulk-toilet-paper-deals/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/10/best-bulk-toilet-paper-deals-reviews-ratings-for-2020/

Best Steering Wheel Locks (Top Picks For 2020)

The best steering wheel lock Australia has to offer can be very useful for most drivers, especially those with older cars that are easy to break into.

The strong deterrent of these locks (often from their bright colours) combined with their inability to be cro-barred, sawed or broken are what makes them a lucrative purchase.

But not all steering wheel locks are the same, and while some appear to be highly rated online they may offer limitations here in Australia.

In Australia, cars are stolen all day every day, either to be chopped up and parted out or simply to partake in a joy ride or illegal activity. In a country where car insurance is expensive, doing everything you can to minimise making a claim while also potentially lowering your monthly premiums should be top of your priority. 

Installing a steering wheel lock takes seconds and at prices under $200 they are affordable and will offer peace of mind. Most criminals won’t take a second look at your car when they see a steering wheel lock as there is literally no way to remove this, period.

Below we’ll look at five of the best steering wheel locks that money can buy here in Aus, with fast delivery direct to your door. Most are universal too, guaranteeing they will work. 

5 Best Steering Wheel Locks

1. The Original Club Steering Lock

  • One pull self locking

  • Solid steel hooks

  • Cro-moly steel resistant

  • Highly visual deterrent.

The Original Club Steering Wheel Lock brought to the market by Winner International, is the same lock that’s been available and so popular over such a long period.

The lock relies on three principles to keep thieves away from your car.

Firstly, there is the strong visual deterrent – seeing the lock on your steering wheel ill be enough to stop most would-be thieves from attempting to steal your car.

Secondly, there is the deterrent of time – a thief does not want to have to take any period of time to steal a car, especially so clearly out in the open of the steering heel area.

And thirdly is the difficulty of removing the Club Lock itself. The lock is made from Cro-Moly steel which is strongly resistant to sawing, prying, hammering and freon attacks.

It engages solid steel hooks inside the locking mechanism which are almost impossible to disengage without a key.

The Club Original Steering Wheel Lock is universal so will fit any vehicle including van and light trucks. It’s quickly and easily fitted with a single click and quickly removed by unlocking with a key.

The Club Original hasn’t changed in its design because it hasn’t needed to – the patented design is simple yet incredibly effective still.

2. LC Prime Steering Wheel Lock

  • Keyless lock

  • Hydraulic shear

  • Multi-function use

  • Twin U type lock fork design.

The LC Prime Steering Wheel Lock uses a 5-digit passcode locking/unlocking system rather than a physical key.

It fits securely on to the steering wheel of your vehicle, is tightened manually into place using the retractable arm, and then locked with the code.

Removing it is just as easy by entering the digits again to unlock it and retracting the arm to free the device from the steering wheel. The lock features a twin ‘U’ shaped fork design (padded to avoid scratching) for secure attachment to the steering wheel.

 

It takes no time at all to lock and release the lock.

The LC Prime lock is extendable and retractable for fitting and securing it to the steering wheel. It will fit most vehicles with steering diameters between 7 – 15.5 inches (18 – 39 cms).

The body of the wheel lock is made from reinforced alloy moulding which is highly resistant to tampering and breakage with tools of any kind.

The device doesn’t have a lock which can be drilled out either. And the visual deterrent to thieves is a significant part of the value of the LC Prime Steering Wheel Lock.

The lock is also useful to have in your car on its own as a self-defence weapon.

3. Oklead Baseball Anti Theft Lock

  • Unique baseball design

  • Steel construction design

  • Solid lock body

  • Highly visible, orange.

The Oklead Baseball Steering Wheel Lock (presumably called that purely because of its appearance) is another adjustable tensile lock which secures on to the steering wheel of your car to prevent thieves from driving the car away even if they do manage to start it.

This one is a little unusual from the traditional looking wheel locks. It has a single point of attachment to the steering wheel which is a wide ‘hook’ right in the centre of the lock itself. And it sits on the top of the steering wheel rather than across it.

The Oklead is made from strong steel which is highly resistant to damage by sawing or hammering or other tools.

It employs a key lock mechanism which is quick and easy to use. The body of it is solid, the hooks which are secured to the steering wheel are covered with a thickened soft plastic to avoid scratching, and the handle has an anti-slip sponge cover as well.

The bright fluoro orange colour is a strong deterrent to thieves, as is its mere presence on your steering wheel. Thieves don’t want to spend much time at all on a ‘job’ because of the greater risk of discovery and apprehension.

The Okead Steering Wheel Lock will fit any vehicle with a steering wheel thickness up to 1.5 inches.

4. The Club Twin Hooks Lock

  • Twin hook design

  • Universal fitment

  • Patented self-locking

  • Cro-moly steel construction.

Another Club steering wheel lock from Winer international, the Club Twin Hooks is an innovative variation on the Original Club lock.

The Twin Hook design has quite a few design differences from the Original Club.

The two hooks lock on to the steering wheel at two points, making it impossible for a thief to drive the car even if they do get in.

The twin hook design means that a would-be thief would need to cut through two hooks or twice through the steering wheel.

Made with Cro-Moly Alloy, the Twin Hooks is also tougher and more durable, harder to defeat with tools like saws and hammers, or bending.

And the twin hook design has a keyless self-locking feature so there’s nothing for a thief to drill out and it’s easier and quicker to use with just one pull.

And, of course, there are the deterrent aspects of using a steering wheel lock. A thief will more likely go for a car without a lock than one with a lock.

The Twin Hook lock is universal and will fit most vehicles, including vans and light trucks. It’s quite light so is easy to manage on a daily basis, or several times a day, without feeling like you’ve done serious weight training.

The Club Twin Hooks Steering Wheel Lock is a good choice.

5. Blueshyhall Auto Car Lock

  • Simple solid bar design

  • Compact size

  • Tempered steel construction

  • 2 second install.

The Blueshyhall Auto Anti-Theft Car Wheel Lock is a simple yet effective car lock design which attaches to the top of your steering wheel with a keyed clamp fitting and the handle sits on the dashboard.

As it is locked in position the steering wheel cannot be turned.

The lock relies on the car having airbags because that is a major part of how it functions if it is effectively disabled by a thief.

This is because when a thief attempts to cut through any part of the wheel lock he will engage the airbag apron which will automatically set off the car’s horn. No thief will hang around after that’s happened!

The lock is truly universal – it has a 360-degree Lock Fork which means that it can be fitted to any steering wheel, even those with particularly thick covers.

The Blueshyhall Auto Car Lock is finished in a nice-looking brown PU leatherette and is made from hardened steel for strength and durability. The leatherette means that the lock won’t scratch your dashboard or steering wheel.

 The alarm system which this locking mechanism has incorporated is truly ingenious and a step ahead of most other types of wheel locks. It seems to be (in theory at least) a sure-fire way to stop your car from being stolen even if a thief does gain entry and start trying to remove the lock.

Buying The Best Steering Wheel Locks

There are dozens of different steering wheel locks available to purchase online and through retail stores here in Australia. When it comes to choosing the best one, do you know what you’re actually looking for? 

Build Quality

Most steering wheel locks talk a big game on their sales page such as indestructible build quality. Most of these are created with industrial grade steel which is difficult to penetrate with a crowbar, saw or angle grinder. 

You should ensure your steering wheel lock is made with a high quality such as steel because other materials are weaker and can be defeated, a good example is aluminium. It’s lighter and stiffer but it’s easier to damage and break. 

You really want a model that features ‘cro-moly’ which is a much more exotic steel packed with titanium and carbon fibre. It’s often available from USA suppliers as it’s much more affordable there compared with Australia. It’s pretty much indestructible without industrial tools which a thief isn’t going to be carrying down the road. 

Of all the locks we looked at today, the Original Club vendor offers cro-moly steel as the material of choice for the build quality but if you decide to buy other brands be sure to check if it’s steel or aluminium. 

Design

A simple design with one click installation is often the preferred option for most consumers. However, a dual locking mechanism can offer increased protection and if you’ve got an expensive classic car, i’d recommend choosing such a design.

Other designs include a baseball design which fits across the top of the steering wheel. These look amazing but the wheel can be turned ever so slightly. 

Other designs offer brake locking as well although it’s rare to find such models these days with modern cars now requiring the physical keys to actually start the car. 

Whatever design you’re looking at, be sure to choose a steering wheel lock that is highly rated online and securely locks the wheel in place. 

Weight

Choosing a steering wheel lock that is lightweight can have it’s benefits but can also have a negative impact. Often lighter brands are due to their inferior materials such as aluminium which we’ve already recommended against buying. 

Choosing steel or cro-molly is the best option and with that unfortunately the weight of the steering lock will be heavier. However these should be easily lifted with two hands and suitable for both men and women. 

Visibility

Most people overlook the visibility of a steering wheel lock but it can be one of the best deterrents as thieves can easily see the lock and will probably skip your car, instead choosing a similar car with no security measures in place.

From our experience, a bright orange or yellow colour is best. Blue is another common colour but it’s far less visible, especially at night time. If given the option choose a colour that you can view at night time which includes yellow and orange. 

Unlock Mechanism

The last factor to consider when buying a steering wheel lock is the unlock mechanism and whether you’re going to choose a key which you can attach to your car keys (recommended) or a digit lock.

Digit locks often have 3 or 4 numbers which can be cracked by thieves if they have enough time in your car. For example most people choose similar numbers and often with a 3 digit lock there’s only 500-1000 combinations. 

Verdict

When it comes to choosing the best steering wheel locks Australia has to offer, you’re really spoilt for choice. One of the biggest names in the anti-car theft market is definitely The Original Club

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-steering-wheel-locks-2/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/10/best-steering-wheel-locks-top-picks-for-2020/

Best Smart Plugs Australia (Reviews + Ratings For 2020)

A high tech home doesn’t have to cost a fortune and with the invention of smart plugs, any device in your home can now be controlled via a smartphone from anywhere in the world. 

Yes, before you go out and rewire your house with crazy expensive equipment, take a look at a smart plug and how you can turn any electrical device into a smart home device within minutes. Installing one is super simple too, even a technophobe could do it.

But while installing one is simple, choosing the best one for your needs can be troublesome, especially with so many different brands and models each claiming to be the best. 

Today we’ve rounded up the best smart plugs Australia has to offer, to suit every budget and requirement. We’ve also included some tips and tricks for getting started. 

Best Smart Plugs Australia

All these plugs are designed for the Australian market. Beware of other magazines promoting US plugs which are not rated for Australia’s voltage supply. We found all these plugs available to purchase from either Amazon.com.au or Officeworks.

We haven’t included the world’s cheapest smart plugs (Wyze) as they are unavailable in Australia just yet. We’ll update you if they arrive down under. 

1. TP-Link Smart Plug HS100

  • Remote access

  • Scheduling features

  • Away mode

  • Voice control (add-on).

Compatible with Android 4.1 and higher or iOS 9 and higher the Smart Plug HS100 from TP-Link enables you to control your home devices (electronics and appliances) from a smartphone or tablet anywhere and anytime.

It does it all via WiFi through the free Kasa app. Simply insert the Smart Plug at a standard wall outlet powerpoint, download the app and you’re ready to set up a schedule for whichever of your appliances you want to control that way or to turn them on and off as you wish.

This has the potential to save you a heap of money by preventing the use of power when appliances don’t need to be on.

The app allows you to use as many Smart Plugs as you wish throughout your home. Each plug will control the appliance that’s plugged into it so you do need separate Smart Plugs for separate appliances. You can group appliances which have similar schedules or use times such as lights.

The Smart Plug lets you set up an Away Mode schedule to automatically turn appliances on and off to disguise the fact that you’re away from home.

The Plug is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa as well, allowing you to exercise Voice Control by allocating a name to each Smart Plug and addressing it by name when you’re giving it directions.

Or assigning more than one to a group for simpler commands.The Smart Plugs work any WiFi router. There’s no need for any special hub or other equipment.

2. Meross WiFi Smart Socket

  • Remote control

  • Voice control features

  • Scheduling

  • Energy monitoring via app

  • 1 purchase, 4 pack.

The Meross Smart Socket plug is a WiFi-enabled device which allows you to control your home electrical appliances with your smartphone from anywhere at any time. It is a brilliant wireless remote control for your home.

The device is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones and uses the Meross app and your home WiFi to operate.

The Smart Socket simply plugs into a standard wall powerpoint and then connects to an appliance through its power plug.

It can be voice activated through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or IFTTT.
You can set up a schedule for each appliance, or for groups of them.

The device will allow you to see the status of any connected appliance, track energy usage in real and historical time, set up timers and on/off schedules, and auto-off when a designated time period has elapsed.

The Meross nest thermostat system can be set up to detect when the house is empty and automatically turn off all appliances.

It can also be used as a smart garage door opener even when the WiFi connection is not covering that area by using Mediatek IoT chip technology.

The Meross Smart Socket systems can be purchased in a range of different packs to suit different situations, including the Smart Bulbs and Smart Garage Door Opener.

3. . TP-Link Smart Plug HS110

  • Remote access

  • Scheduling features

  • Energy monitoring

  • Voice control (add-on).

Compatible with Android 4.1 and higher or iOS 9 and higher the Smart Plug HS110 from TP-Link not only enables you to control your home electronics and appliances from a smart device but also comes with energy monitoring in real and historical time.

This has the potential to save you a heap of money by preventing the use of power when appliances don’t need to be on.

And to help you do this, the App sends you regular (weekly and/or monthly) summaries of how much energy each connected appliance is using, allowing you to change the schedule of particular appliances to reduce power consumption.It does it all via WiFi through the free Kasa app.

Insert the Smart Plug at a standard wall outlet powerpoint, download the app and you’re ready to set up a schedule for whichever of your appliances you want to control that way, or to remotely turn them on and off as you wish.

You can also set up an Away Mode schedule to automatically turn appliances such as lights on and off when you’re away from home.

You can use as many Smart Plugs as you wish throughout your home. Each plug will control the appliance that’s plugged into it.

The Plug is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa as well, allowing you to exercise Voice Control by allocating a name to each Smart Plug and addressing it by name when you’re giving it directions. Or assigning more than one to a group name for simpler commands.

The Smart Plugs work with any WiFi router. There’s no need for any special hub or other equipment.

4. Brilliant Lighting Smart Wifi Plug

  • Built-in USB charger

  • Set timers and scheduling

  • Voice control (Add-on)

Compatible with both Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT the Brilliant Lighting Smart WiFi Plug allows you to remotely control connected home appliances and devices.

Its built-in USB port also lets you charge devices where appropriate.
Using the Brilliant Lighting app or the Smart Life app and your home WiFi network, the Smart Plug connects to any standard wall socket and then remotely controls any appliance which is plugged into it using a Smartphone or tablet.

You can set schedules for particular appliances and devices or use commands to control a device instantly.

The energy savings from using a system such as this are obvious – if you purchase a few Smart Plugs and set up your hungriest appliances on the network you can ensure that they are not left on when they’re not being used.

And being able to turn the iron off after you’ve left for work is another bonus of investing a small amount of loose change in one of these plugs.

Those are just a couple of benefits – scheduling and auto-off capabilities don’t take much time to master and pay dividends.

It needs to be noted that the WiFi network has to be a standard 2.4, not a 5GHZ router. And the maximum power input is 2400W.

5. D-Link WiFi Smart Plug

  • Simple narrow design

  • Scheduling features

  • Voice controls (Add-on).

Save power and money by converting all your household appliances into smart devices with the use of a simple WiFi-enabled plug-in remote controller.These are becoming extremely popular and there are many different brands on the market.

The Smart Plug from D-Link is another one which is compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and IFTTT.

It uses your home WiFi network and the My D-Link app and works with any appliance or electronic device.

 

Simply plug it into the wall socket, and connect it to the network on your smartphone or tablet after you’ve downloaded the app.

 

Purchase as many as you need to control your most-used appliances or those which use the most power.

This is a mini plug so it’s great for tight spaces in the home, for example where there are adjacent plugs or furniture close by.

The app allows you to remotely control all connected appliances, including instant control, timer and scheduling.

Use either voice or touchpad commands. See the power status of connected devices and turn them on or off instantly.

Set lights to be on or off when you’re away on holiday. Turn your porch light on as you turn into the driveway. The benefits are countless.

The plug is compatible with Android, Chrome, iOS, macOS and Windows. It will only use 2.4GHz WiFi frequency though.

What Is a Smart Plug?

A smart plug plugs directly into a wall socket which allows you to connect your own device into, allowing you to automate the control of this.

A mini computer, the smart plug connects to your home wireless network (Wi-Fi) allowing you to control it’s features using your own smartphone or tablet.

But the beauty of connecting via wireless allows you to connect to your smart plugs from anywhere in the world, as long as your home internet is up and running. 

Some of the best uses for smart plugs is the ability to turn an appliance on before you return home from work, such as turning on the oven or boiling the kettle. 

Other uses include turning the lights on while you’re on holiday or turning your kids television off remotely. Aside from using a smartphone to control your devices, you can also schedule tasks such as turning lights on and off at set times, turning the hose pipe on to water plants or even wake up calls. 

How Does a Smart Plug Work? 

Smart plugs are bulky so be sure you’ve got somewhere to install one in your household. Often a dual plug socket can only fit one smart plug and may even cover the second socket. They don’t work well with power multi boards.

Nearly every plug we’ve mentioned today let’s you control the features via smartphone however you can also use scheduling with some of the models mentioned too. 

We call the scheduling, scenes as it let’s you program based on various factors such as atmosphere conditions, temperatures, time of day and humidity. 

To get voice control working you’ll need to pair your device with a smart home device such as Amazon Echo, Amazon Show or Google Mini. 

Newer smart plugs can also monitor your energy use and can even help with reducing your electricity bill by providing estimated consumption data and helping you turn off devices that aren’t being used, such as combining your smart plug with a smart activity sensor which tracks movement in your rooms. 

What Is the Best Smart Plug?

Choosing the best smart plug for your home is personal decision. If you simply want to control your lights or devices via a smartphone then you could make do with a standard unbranded smart plug.

If you want to integrate with devices such as Amazon Echo Show or Google Assistant, so you can say ‘Google, switch off the lights’ then you’ll need to choose a smart plug that offers such compatibility.

One of the most common smart plugs is the TP-LINK HS100 which is compatible with Echo Show as well as Google Mini and Google’s other products. For monitoring you’ll need the HS110 model instead. 

Smart plugs are the perfect idea for those who don’t wish to invest in smart light bulbs or rewiring their entire house. And given how cheap smart plugs have now become, the question is ‘when are you getting yours?’

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-smart-plugs/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/08/best-smart-plugs-australia-reviews-ratings-for-2020/

Best Coolers For Summer (Reviews + Ratings 2020)

We are always on the hunt for the best coolers for summer, researching dozens of different brands and models for the upcoming season. Living in a harsh climate such as Australia means plenty of hot days well over 40 degrees and what better way to cool down at the beach or backyard than with ice cold beverages. 

The best coolers for summer are often the ones less talked about so we’ve put together this guide of 5 of the very best that have been tested to their max on how they keep food cold, how long ice lasts and how heavy they are for carrying around. 

Whatever you need an icebox for, there will be a cooler below with your name on it, to suit every budget or use case. 

Best Coolers For Summer

1. Coleman Extreme Wheeled Cooler

  • Rust proof, leak resistant

  • Low Co2 insulation

  • Have-A-Seat Lid

An effective and efficient cooler is a must-have for a successful camping trip, or even a day out on the beach or for a barbeque. There is nothing worse than drinking warm beer and having your perishables swimming in rapidly warming water because this ice has melted away on Day 1 of your holiday or even by the time you’re ready to eat lunch!

The Coleman Extreme will never let you down like that. It’s been designed and built with technology which keeps your food and drinks cold for up to 5 days due to the extra-thick insulation material in the lid and walls. Its ice retention capabilities will insulate the cooler in outside temperatures up to 32+ degrees Celsius.

It’s also an extra-large cooler, it’s really big: 36.6 x 16.4 x 18.6cms. It can hold the equivalent of 95 cans. That’s a lot of items for an average size group of people. The cooler weighs just shy of 32g empty.

The cooler has 5 sturdy wheels and a strong tow handle for easy portability across any terrain. Lifting is not a problem with its 2 two-way handles.

Once at your destination the lid becomes a handy seat or table with 4 deep cup holders moulded into the lid for spill-safe drinking.

The cooler has a rust-proof, leak-proof channel drain in its base which empties it right down to the last drop – no need to tilt it or hold it upside down.

The Colemen Extreme is certainly one to beat the competition. It’s about as large as a cooler can comfortably be but doesn’t suffer any of the inconveniences you’d imagine might go with that size.

2. Coleman 2 Way Handles Picnic Cooler

  • Rust proof, leak resistant

  • Low Co2 insulation

  • Have-A-Seat Lid

Designed to hold the ice intact and the cold temperatures inside for much longer than other coolers on the market (up to 5 days), the Coleman Picnic Cooler is an ideal size for a picnic, an afternoon watching the game or a camping trip.

Coleman’s secret to their success is their use of polyurethane foam insulation in the walls and lid. The particularly dense PU insulation keeps ice for up to 5 days even in hot weather (guaranteed up to 32 degrees Celsius but known to be effective in higher temperatures). Use block ice rather than cubes and load it with pre-chilled items and you’ll experience even longer ice retention time.

The cooler can hold 106 cans or 66 litres. Its measurements are 72 x 40 x 44cm.

It has a leak-resistant channel drain to empty all the excess water with no need for tilting or turning it upside down.

The EZ-Clean smooth surface hinged lid turns into an extra seat (holding up to 113kg weight) or a table, with 4 moulded cup holders.

And carrying is pinch-free due to the two comfort-grip no-crush handles which fold down for a sleek profile when not being carried.

3. Klein Tools 55600 Work Cooler

  • Store valuables safe inside

  • Lid can be used as a seat

  • Established brand

This Tradesman Pro Tough Lunchbox Cooler from Klein Tools is designed with the tough conditions of the construction site and tradie in mind. Designed to keep food and drinks cool for up to 30 hours, its main compartment holds a generous 18 cans or 16 litres plus ice. Used with an ice block rather than ice cubes the cooler will keep contents cool for longer periods.

The stainless-steel rustproof lid is recessed to allow for tall 1-litre bottles to stand upright in the cooler, and it’s hinged for easy access. The lid will open to a full 180 degrees and has spaces whilst open for storing accessories like phone, keys, eating utensils, bottle openers and so on. It stays open at 90 degrees for uninterrupted access.

When the lid is closed it’s strong enough to be used as a seat and will hold up to 136kg.

The cooler is equipped with a handy carry strap which converts to a handle and holds the lid in place whilst being carried.

The exterior dimensions of the cooler are 42.5 x 31.8 x 34.3cm.

This cooler is ideal for a tradie’s long day on the job.

4. Klein Tools 55650 Cooler Tough Box

  • Store valuables safe inside

  • Lid can be used as a seat

  • Established brand

  • Optional extras can be added

From Klein Tools comes the cooler lunchbox that every tradie wants and needs for long days on the site. Built to keep food and drinks cool on the hottest of days the Tough Box holds a huge 72 cans or 40 bottles (45 litres).

Using the supplied ice-pack/block the tough box will keep contents cool, and dry, for 30+ hours. A sealing gasket ensures that the cold air is retained inside the cooler. And heavy-duty rubber latches keep the lid sealed tightly shut.

The stainless-steel lid rust-proof hinged lid stays upright with stainless-steel wire while you’re accessing the contents, and acts as a seat when closed, holding weights up to 136kg.

The handles are made from comfortable textured rubber for good grip.

The leak-resistant drain ensures that any liquid drains completely without the need for tilting.

A stainless-steel bottle opener is featured on the outside of the cooler, and the plastic freezable container is included with purchase. Side mounts hold the Klein LED work light and wireless speakers – each sold separately.

This is a BIG lunchbox which holds not only his/her lunch but also all the cold water a tradie needs for healthy hydration particularly when working in hot weather.

5. Igloo Legend Cooler

  • Cheap budget friendly

  • The ‘original cooler’

  • Simple design

Tall and skinny the Igloo Legend cooler is a great size for packing into the car behind a seat when you’re heading out for a day at the beach or the country for a picnic.

With a 24 can capacity (that’s 16 litres) it’s big enough for a day trip with the family. It will hold 2 upright litre bottles as well as other food and drinks. If you use an ice pack rather than ice-cubes you’ll fit more food and drinks in and keep them cooler for longer.

The lid turns upside down into a handy tray for holding food and a cup. Or the lid is sturdy enough to be used as a seat.

The handle is a swing-up design for easy carrying and folds down flush with the cooler wall for easy and neat stacking and packing.

The cooler’s measurements are 24.1 x 33 x 38.7 cm, and it weighs 1.77kg empty.

The Igloo Legend is designed as a personal cooler really. It doesn’t boast a large capacity or a particularly long cool time.

It is designed and intended to be used for short periods – the walls are not particularly thick or well-insulated compared to the more expensive coolers on the market.

Its price point is low and therefore it cannot really be expected to perform better than it does. But it does perform to reasonable expectations which take into account the product description by the manufacturer.

Verdict

Australia is hot and humid and choosing the best cooler for summer can be a difficult process but with our help we hope you can get a leg up on which one you should buy. The Coleman Extreme is our pick of the bunch, offering a wide range of features at an affordable price. 

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-coolers-for-summer/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/06/best-coolers-for-summer-reviews-ratings-2020/

Best Speed Ropes (Reviews + Ratings For 2020)

Gone are the days when skipping was for hardcore fitness freaks or amateur boxers. Instagrammers and Youtubers are claiming new ways to get fit from the comfort of our own homes and jumping rope is becoming a hot favourite with low entry costs and high results. 

Commonly referred to as jump rope in the United States, speed ropes can handle intensive pressure and speed that you will simply not find with a standard rope. Speed ropes are built to high standards and you can expect to pay more for that.

Newer models come with fancy stainless steel wires and other (smart ropes) count the number of jumps and your length of workout. Many have bearings on the end that allow you to customise the length of rope or weight of it for a faster or slower experience. 

So if you’re looking to increase your fitness from home or outside without investing in a gym membership, a speed rope might be what you’re looking for. Today we’ll be looking at five of the best speed ropes Australia has to offer consumers.  

Best Speed Rope

1. Beast Gear Speed Skipping Rope

  • High quality ‘beast rope’

  • Spare parts included

  • Established brand

Skipping ropes used to be a playground activity but these days it’s a fully-fledged part of the fitness armoury of many professional and non-pro athletes and keen fitness buffs. That’s because it’s a great way to get a total workout for the whole body with one simple piece of equipment and can be done pretty well anywhere.

The Speed Skipping Rope by Beast Gear is made from ultra-strong steel cable which makes it incredibly durable and long-wearing yet surprisingly lightweight.

It provides optimum weight distribution due to its flexibility and will never tangle or bend. The rope has an outdoor protector to ensure that it will endure the punishment of repeated workouts on a concrete or other outdoor surface.

This skipping rope has a unique ball-bearing system at the handles which allows for smooth, efficient rotations and for the rope to spin at an incredibly fast rate so it’s perfect for double-unders and will turn as fast as you want it to.

The rope is also adjustable to 2.8 meters to suit every user’s height, including children.

The rope comes with a free storage bag, double under guide, lifetime guarantee, and spare screws and caps.

The Beast Gear rope is designed to outlast you – see if it can!

2. P.E.Field Speed Jump Rope

  • Comfortable handles

  • Ball bearing design

  • Adjust without tools

  • Suitable for all ages

Skipping is an easy way to exercise. The whole-body movements created when skipping means you get a full workout fast and without the need for, or expense of, any fancy equipment. And jump rope skipping suits everyone young and older.

You might think that all skipping ropes are the same but that’s not true. There are differences in quite a number of aspects of the rope – in the handles, the length, the type and quality of the rope, etc.

With the versatile P. E. Field Jump Rope, you can make adjustments to suit your individualised exercise programme.

You can re-size the rope length to suit your height (up to 6’6” tall) or your jump styles without the need for ‘snipping’ any cable length. Re-sizing can be done without any tools required.

You can also alter the weight of the handles to increase your personal exercise challenge. The handles themselves are ergonomically designed with rubber-coated non-slip PP for a soft, comfortable, and sweat-proof feeling through your entire workout session.

The handles have an inbuilt ball-bearing design to give the rope an unbelievably fast 360-degree smooth spin for the fastest of jumpers. And the rope is set at a 90-degree angle to the handles for better action.

The rope itself is made from a durable PVC-coated wire cable which won’t tangle, twist or bend but, just in case, there is a spare rope supplied with purchase.

3. RDX Adjustable Leather Speed Rope

  • Can be cut down to any length

  • Established brand

  • Well balanced

Skipping is a great form of exercise because it involves almost all of your muscles especially the core, it benefits lower body strength, it’s good for developing joint and bone strength, it’s extremely time-efficient and it’s almost free after you’ve purchased a jump rope.

Choosing a good jump rope is important because you need to be able to skip comfortably for extended periods without wrist, arm, shoulder and back soreness.

Length is very significant, handle comfort and weighted balance also, what the rope is made of and the swivel of the rope at the handles should also be considered.

The RDX Pro-leather speed jump rope is a good choice. Firstly, it’s made from leather which is the material of choice for many pro skippers.

It is length adjustable by cutting to size for height, comfort and/or exercise routine. The rope starts at 9 feet and you cut to size to suit your preferences.

The handles are made from wood and designed for comfort with an ergonomic grip for reduction of undue twisting of the wrist. Weights can be added to the handles to add a challenge to your workout.

The rope is set at a 90-degree angle at the handles for a smooth and fast perpendicular swivel – perfect for speed without any wrist discomfort. The swivel can match your hardest and fastest rhythm.

The RDX leather jump rope seems to fit the bill on many levels.

4. 5BILLION Speed Jump Rope

  • Very affordable price tag

  • Established brand name

  • 3M long cable (all ages)

Lightweight and smooth, the 5BILLION speed jump rope is super-fast to match your workout speed and your double-unders, triple-unders and crossing moves with ease.

No more aching wrists, arms, elbows or legs. This rope is designed to allow you to jump for more and longer sets to get the cardio and core benefits without any pain.

The rope itself is made from 2.5mm diameter coated wire which is light, durable and perfect for high-speed skipping. The package comes with an extra cable which is 3.5 meters long and 3mm diameter to suit different users.

The rope length is easily adjusted by loosening a screw in the handle and pulling the rope through to the length you desire. The rope before any adjustment is 3m long.

The handles are weighted with a long tapered ergonomic grip which will be comfortable in every user’s hand. And the rope/handle has a 360-degree swivel ball bearing double rotation mechanism allowing for extreme flexibility of movement. This greatly reduces the risk of any soreness or aching in the hands, wrists, elbows and arms even in extended workouts.

The 5BILLION jump rope is ideal for MMA training, bodybuilders, boxers, cardio, cross fitness training, and personal training exercises.

5. WOD Nation Attack Speed Rope

  • Thin 2.2m cable for speed skills

  • Built for durability

Designed and built for speed and durability the WOD Nation Attack speed jump rope suits anyone looking to add some quick cardio and full-body workout into their fitness regime. This rope is extremely versatile.

Choose a 2.2mm cable for a maximum cardio speed drill or a 3.3mm for extra work on your upper and lower body. Both ropes are 11 foot long.

The two-rope option is great for the beginner or for the fitness maintenance athlete wanting muscle endurance training. The thicker cable sculpts the muscles and burns fat and allows a beginner to really ‘feel’ the rope.

The thinner rope provides a faster workout for greater cardio exercise. The ropes can be switched over in under a minute without any need for tools. And they can each be shortened or lengthened as well to suit height or jumping types like double-unders etc.

The ropes are made from wire cable and are PVC-coated.

The rope has a ball-bearing 360-degree swivel which provides an incredibly rapid spin.

The handles of this rope are extremely comfortable to hold, looking and feeling very similar to tennis rackets handles – super non-slip and sweat absorbent.

Jump ropes are a great way to exercise when travelling so WOD has included a travel bag with purchase.

Verdi​ct

We loved the fact that brands like Beast Gear exist to make speed skipping available to the masses. You can quickly see what we like their products and for an affordable option the, Beast Rope is a great option to consider. 

Related: Best Spin Bikes

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-speed-ropes/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/06/best-speed-ropes-reviews-ratings-for-2020/

Best Man Cave Products (Reviews + Ratings For 2020)

So you want to find the best man cave products available in Australia? We have everything you need to deck out your private room away from the spouse and kids. Use some of our recommendations to create a fantastic man cave in your own home. 

All the products below are sure to turn a boring house into something special and whether you’re looking for something different or something unique you’ll find it below. 

There are many different places you can purchase man cave products from in Australia but we found all these on Amazon which offers fast nationwide shipping. Other websites you could checkout include YellowOctopus and ManZone. 

Best Man Cave Products

1. KSports Pub Size Pool Table

  • Includes all accessories

  • Not too heavy

  • Fast assembly

Pool tables are not all equal. If you want one which will last you forever, which has a surface as smooth and soft as a baby’s bottom yet as fast and tight as a drum the KSports is for you.

This pool table is a high-quality item for a serious player who appreciates the finer details of a top-notch table.

The high-speed blue wool felt playing surface is 25mm (1 inch) thick. The table weighs 150kg making it strong and durable and giving it a long lifetime.

It’ a pub size table measuring 2.45 x 1.3 x .85 metres with 50mm extra thick legs for solid support and stability. The leg height can be adjusted by around 1 inch. The table has a ball return.

Accessories included with the table are 2 x ½ cue sticks; 1 x cross pool assist cue; 1 x score counter; 1 x set of pool balls; 1 x set of snooker balls; 1 x set of Kelly pool; 1 x wall-mountable cue stand; 1 x triangle for balls; 1 x box of chalks; 1 x table brush; and 1 x water-resistant table cover.

Assembly is required but the pack comes with detailed instructions and a link to a YouTube video.

This table will be just the thing to attract your mates for an arvo or Saturday night in your man cave – you may need them to help set the table up to start with!

2. ZJchao Electronic Dartboard

  • No need to keep score

  • Up to 4 players /game

  • Optional games

Are you wanting fun man games to play with your mates in your man cave? Or something to do as a family with your teens? Darts are a really great way to have some fun without needing much space.

It’s engaging and it’s not a kids’ game. There’s no limit to the number of players you can have and there are many variants of the game to keep everyone happy. ‘Around the Clock’ is a popular starter game as you’re learning and then you can get progressively more difficult.

The ZJchao dartboard is a bit special because it has an electronic interface which monitors where the dart hits the board, records that score and recalibrates the overall scores.

The results are all shown on an LCD, using four colours to differentiate between the players. The board also keeps score through numerous game variants described in the Instruction Booklet.

The board has an ultra-thin spider which reduces bounce outs and also allows for closer dart groupings. Plastic dart tips prevent damage to the board’s surface. The target face has a regulation standard 15” diameter.

The board comes with 6 darts and an Instruction Booklet which includes descriptions of dart game variants.

The board is battery operated (3 x AAA not included).

3. Shadow 2.0 Gaming Rocker Chair

  • Super comfy

  • No assembly needed

  • Looks sleek

Floor rocker type gaming chairs are becoming increasingly popular as a budget-friendly way to find a comfortable gaming chair. These chairs also fold up for easy storage when not in use.

The Shadow 2.0 gaming rocker chair is both compact and comfortable. It’s compatible with most major gaming devices including PS3, PS Vita, Xbox 360, Wii, Wii U, 3DS, PS4 and Xbox One.

The headrest has an integrated analogue sound system for a surround sound experience while you immerse yourself in your games.

To play PS4 or Xbox One you may need a digital to analogue converter (not included) if the necessary sound outputs aren’t available on your TV.

Given that it’s sitting on the floor this chair can handle quite heavy weights compared to pedestal gaming chairs.

No assembly is required beyond connecting it up to your TV, and it comes in a range of colours.

If you’re a grown man who likes to play games on the TV, like Xbox, then this rocking chair may be perfect for your man cave.

You’ll be super comfy, rockin’ away and lost in the game with the sound in both ears from a couple of inches away. And no interruptions. That’s what the man cave is all about, right?

4. Go Pong Beer Pong Table

  • Perfect drinking game

  • Folds away for storage

  • Sturdy, not cheap build

What on earth is beer pong I hear you ask? Well, I asked. So, I looked it up. Apparently, it’s a popular drinking game which involves one player throwing a ping-pong ball across a table (like a ping-pong table) trying to get the ball to land in a full cup of beer at the other end.

There are several cups of beer at each end of the table and a few players on each team.

The beer pong table is a must-have for a man cave. There is an undeniable connection between men, beer, man caves and drinking games.

This table includes the 6 balls you need so all you have to supply are the cups, the beer and the players.

The table is 2′ shorter than beer pong tables normally are so the game is not quite as challenging, but the smaller size makes it easier to fit it into a normal size room.

The table is 6-foot long and made from lightweight yet sturdy aluminium with a beer-proof MDF top which is easily cleaned.

The legs and top fold into a compact briefcase size with carrying handles for easy storage. And portability! Take it on family holidays as well or camping trips to add some diversion and fun.

5. vidaXL 10 Seater Casino Poker Table

  • Full size poker table

  • Choose carpet colour

  • Drink slot, dealer chip store

  • Comfortable arm rest

Whether you’re playing with real chips at a real casino, or with real money or plastic pretend chips at home, card games are fun, and poker is an especially popular favourite with the big boys.

Perhaps because there are so many variations of the game around, the pace is fast, and the stakes can get high. Luck can turn on a dime, and if you miss the best time to call it a night then you may be in trouble at home the next day!

So how better to furnish your man cave than with a casino-style poker table?

The vidaXL is a fabulous 10-seater casino table with all the features you’d want and accessories on top.

The table measures 208(L) x 107(W) x 81(H)cm. It has a casino-grade green padded felt playing surface and an extra comfortable padded leatherette armrest.

The table’s racetrack is studded with 9 built-in stainless-steel cup holders so drinks are safely held and spills are avoided. The croupier (dealer) area is equipped with a chip tray (which is removable for cleaning) which holds 500 chips.

The table is very sturdy, sitting on solid semi-circular MDF legs. It will last a long time.

Assembly is required but is not difficult.

source https://bestfive.com.au/best-man-cave-products/

source https://bestfiveau.wordpress.com/2020/01/06/best-man-cave-products-reviews-ratings-for-2020/