Reviewed.com Weekly Roundup: August 17

p. Every day, we push technology to the edges of its capabilities for the sake of the informed purchase. While that old dusty platitude “a fool and his money are soon parted” may seem rather hackneyed, we all work to turn that fool into an educated buyer. Not that we, dear reader, presume to call you a fool. Quite the contrary—for you had the good sense to consult us before accidentally burning $1700 on an boat-anchor or paperweight. Here’s what we’ve been up to this week.

Sharp Aquos LC-80LE844U

Is bigger better? While we're always grappling with that classic question, this 80-inch TV from Sharp has definitely asked it the loudest. It's so big it's been hard to put in perspective—literally. In fact, we almost needed to use a fisheye lens to take a picture of it. While this monstrosity isn't without its downsides, 80 inches should get your attention. Besides a De Kooning, is the most conspicuous consumption you can put in your house.

Samsung FE710DRS/XXA Flex Duo

People don't usually get excited about an oven—unless they're redoing their kitchen and have money to burn. However, the technology in Samsung's new hotbox can pique anyone's interest. With a removable ceramic divider and dual convection fans, this oven can toggle between a larger single cavity and two smaller ones. If you're nearing midlife and need a convertible, we recommend this one as a practical choice that won't break the bank like a Porsche.

Samsung HMX-W300

If you don't feel comfortable taking your iPhone underwater (you shouldn't), but are planning on grabbing a red watch cap and aqualung and making for the coast, this waterproof camcorder from Samsung will let you compete with Cousteau and Cameron. It's a simple design without manual controls, but for those who want to spend less than $200 to capture the life aquatic, this is for you. Oh, and watch out. It's shark week.

Canon SX260 HS

While it's going to take a lot for people to put their iPhones back in their pockets and pick up a point and shoot, this Canon might be able to do it. This camera reproduces images with accurate color, low noise and excellent sharpness—doing way more photographically than your phone can. If you're a serious photographer looking for something light to carry around, read our praise for this little fixed-lens: probably the best travel-zoom of the year.

Maytag MDC4809PAB

For those who don't feel like renovating their kitchen, this Maytag dishwasher can get those dishes clean without being installed into the cabinetry. Despite its portability, it still boasts full capacity and is pretty efficient. Design-wise, this is a no-frills dishwasher with a sturdy, fake wood countertop and a sleek black look that can certainly compete with those stainless steel appliances for a place in the home.