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Reviewed.com Weekly Roundup: April 5, 2013

We tested the Sony NEX-6 and Olympus PEN E-PL5 compact system cameras, a ludicrously overpriced Electrolux fridge, a great TV from a brand you've probably never heard of, and recommended a few good smart appliances, if you're into that kind of thing.

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The Roundup

For nearly 15 years, Reviewed.com has put thousands of products to the test, all to help consumers buy, use, and understand electronics and appliances. Here’s what we’ve been up to this week.


Sony Alpha NEX-6 Digital Camera Review

While the name may suggest Sony is taking a step backward, the NEX-6 takes just about everything that was great about the NEX-7 (our favorite compact mirrorless camera of 2012) and packs it into a smaller body at a lower price point (MSRP $999 w/ 16-50mm lens). With excellent image quality and a great design, including an XGA OLED eye-level viewfinder, the NEX-6 proves to be one of the best compact system cameras out there—just equip it with a better lens as soon as possible.


TCL FHDF3300 LED TV Review

TCL isn’t a household name in the States yet (though they did buy the naming rights to the Chinese Theater on Hollywood Boulevard). But if they keep making TVs that punch above their price point, expect to become more familiar with this brand. The 48-inch version of the FHD3300 that we tested is a steal, ringing up at under $500. Its design, interface, and picture quality were all quite good, regardless of cost. Our only gripe was the narrow viewing angle.


Olympus PEN E-PL5 Digital Camera Review

We’re in the middle of a mirrorless renaissance, and it’s fair to say that Olympus’s retro-styled PEN series paved the way. Announced in 2012, the latest member of family is the E-PL5 (MSRP $699.99 w/ lens). Olympus blessed it with much of the tech found in its top-tier OM-D E-M5. The E-PL5 inherits quick autofocus and fantastic image quality. The design feels cramped, but it’s a real performance bargain.


Electrolux EW28BS85KS Refrigerator Review

The Electrolux EW28BS85KS is one of the most expensive models we’ve tested (MSRP $3,749), yet it wins no awards. That just about sums it up. Design is its strong suit, as long as you’re a fan of the regular ol’ stainless look (the beveled shelves are a nice touch, too). As far as storing food goes, the fridge itself is quite good, but we noted some significant performance issues with the freezer that just aren’t acceptable at this price point. It cruises to a decent overall score, but we expect more from any appliance that costs this much.


How to Buy a Smart Appliance Right Now

Smart appliances still can’t do your laundry on their own, but a few good models are ready for a place in your home. If you’re ready to get a jump on building the home of the future, we recommended some of the worthy products. Overall, though, you’re better off waiting for the technology to develop before you re-equip your whole home.

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