Google Home Mini vs Amazon Echo Dot Reviewed

Table of Content

• Can Google Home and Alexa Work Together?
• Why is Google Home Mini better than Amazon Echo Dot?
• Shop it: Echo Dot (3rd gen), $35 (was $ , amazon.com
• Google Home Mini vs. Amazon Echo Dot: Hardware
• Amazon Echo speakers

If you have more than one user account, the Nest Mini can even differentiate who is talking by the sound of their voice . But the Google portion of the Nest Mini isn’t quite as capable as we’d like. And while it has some smart-home integrations and third-party Actions comparable to Alexa’s Skills, it has fewer of either than Alexa does, though it continues to improve.

Both are really unobtrusive additions to your household decor, especially since the Echo Dot moved away from its all-plastic design with this third-generation offering. And while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, we did find the Echo Dot had a more appealing overall design. AptX is a codec used for transmitting audio wirelessly with Bluetooth. It is developed by Qualcomm, and supports 16-bit audio at a bit rate of 384kbps. Wi-Fi 6, released in 2019, is based on the IEEE 802.11ax wireless LAN standard.

Can Google Home and Alexa Work Together?

Keep in mind that, with both Alexa and Google Assistant, third-party speaker manufacturers are increasingly choosing to integrate the voice helpers into their own products. With Google Assistant, your Google Home can control your Philips Hue lightbulbs, Honeywell thermostat, Nest security camera, and smart TV (as long as it's compatible). Check out our roundup of things Google Assistant can do for more info, or head to the Google Assistant partners page for all the brands Google Home can work with.

The Echo Dot has a circular ring around the top edge that can be spotted more easily from a distance than the Google Home Mini's collection of four dots on top of the speaker. There are distinct differences in how each speaker—the Echo Dot, left, and Google Home Mini—lights up when given a command. The bigger the screen size is, the better the user experience. If you have a second speaker of the same type, you can pair them together to create a stereo sound setup.

Why is Google Home Mini better than Amazon Echo Dot?

Google Home devices are powered by the Google Assistant, a voice-activated assistant that can perform various tasks, such as providing weather information or setting reminders. Grant Clauser is the senior editor for the smart-home and audio/video categories. He has been reporting on technology since 1999 and has been an invited speaker at events including CES and CEDIA. He has completed certification classes from THX, ISF, and Control4.

It also has a 3.5 mm output jack to connect to a non-wireless audio system with a cable. I have one wired into my home theater receiver, which plays through a 7.2 speaker system. For example, its integration with the Nest Learning Thermostat lets you say “Hey Google, make it warmer” to raise the temperature. With Alexa, you need to say “Alexa, turn living room Nest to XX degrees,” and if you vary your language it simply won’t work.

Shop it: Echo Dot (3rd gen), $35 (was $ , amazon.com

Set next to one another, it’s apparent that the new spherical shape of the Echo Dot makes it look larger than the Nest Mini — nearly double its height. Despite this, it’s a refreshing design change that we appreciate. Both of them do the basic stuff like alarm, timer and weather just fine.

Alexa and the Echo Dot, of course, have similar versions of each of these. Again, your location may determine what other music services you'll be able to access on your Google Home. Remember, each device can stream music with a simple voice command, as long as you say the right wake word.

Power (Winner – Google Home Mini)

Now in its third generation, the Echo Dot doesn't have the best audio quality in the range, so it's best suited for rooms where music playback won’t be its primary function. That said, you can pair it up with a Bluetooth speaker or another audio device using an AUX jack connection, making it a cost-effective upgrade you can make to any aging Hi-Fi system. This way, you can control the different features and a string of voice commands that will benefit most from each device.

You could also simply pair your phone with a speaker as you would a non-smart Bluetooth speaker. However, having to use your phone to control the music defeats the purpose of owning a voice-controlled speaker in the first place. Besides, you can get a much better-sounding Bluetooth speaker for that price. We threw each speaker some rock tracks and some folk and found that the Home Mini is the undeniable victor of the two smart speakers. The Echo Dot can be used to listen to music but we wouldn't advise it. Vocals are edgy, bass is non-existent and it doesn't go very loud.

Music Streaming Options for Alexa and Google Home

You’ll really hear the difference when streaming music, but even calls sound better with the Dot. The Mini produces a slightly tinny sound that can make it difficult to make out what the person on the other line is saying. The 4th Gen Dot sounds significantly louder than the Nest Mini. But the Echo Dot’s microphones simply aren’t as sensitive to voice commands.

Best On-Demand Streaming Services 2022 If you’re looking for great on-demand content, check out our top five best streaming services... Because of the speaker configurations inside the Echo Dot, it sounds better than the Nest Mini. And as far as music, they're both pretty comparable to each other. Now, looking at a smart home, essentially pick your assistant. But as far as the device hardware, the Echo Dot did get an upgrade this year, where the Nest Mini is still running on 2019 hardware.

Born and raised in Canberra, Australia, Christian moved to the U.S. in 2012 to study music production. That same year, he started writing about consumer tech, having been interested in gadgets and all things tech his whole life. After Christian received his Bachelor's Degree of Science in Music Technology, he moved to California, winding up in the San Francisco Bay Area — right next door to the Silicon Valley. Since then, his writing has appeared in Digital Trends, TechRadar, Reviewed, and more.

Yet, Google Assistant also offers more complex custom Routine options. In 2019, Google revamped its Nest brand with a new focus on privacy — some compatibility partnerships ended, some continued, and some were stuck in development limbo for the foreseeable future. This has slowly worked itself out over time, but Nest compatibility is simply more limited, and you’ll need to study each smart device carefully to make sure it’s compatible with the Nest Mini. Google’s designers have even spent time crafting Nest Mini’s circular power adapter, which fits neatly in the hand and protrudes from the wall far less than the Echo Dot’s power supply. There are even clips on the power cable to tidy up any slack. These are small touches, yes, but they demonstrate a level of design detail and care that’s the hallmark of a great device.

Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard that allows data transfers between devices placed in close proximity, using short-wavelength, ultra-high frequency radio waves. It offers higher transfer rates, improved reliability, and improved power consumption. More microphones result in better sound quality and enable the device to filter out background noise. The difference is pretty clear -- the new, third-gen Echo Dot is simply a more powerful speaker than before. For my tastes, it easily offers enough oomph for casual listening in your kitchen or at your bedside -- and if you need more, you can still hook it up to a larger audio setup like you could before. Stay updated on the latest products and services anytime, anywhere.

11 Popular Natural Remedies for the Common Cold

Table of Content

• Know the home remedies that are pediatrician-approved.
• Tailored cancer medicines for children
• Clothing Items For Winter That Are Cute And Warm
• Ways To Tell If You Have Eczema (And The Best Products To Treat It)
• Related to Cold, Flu, & Cough

Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To avoid contaminating your hands, cough or sneeze into a tissue or into the inner crook of your elbow. Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission.

Theraflu ExpressMax Capletshave a specially formulated coating that provides an instant warming sensation, signalling that relief is on the way. BDO is the world’s largest and most comprehensive online health resource specifically targeted to African Americans. BDO understands that the uniqueness of Black culture - our heritage and our traditions - plays a role in our health.

Know the home remedies that are pediatrician-approved.

Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for a slightly longer time. Over-the-counter cold and cough medications in young children. OTC cold and cough medications may cause serious and even life-threatening side effects in children. Talk with your child's doctor before giving any medications. Natural home remedies are always comforting and can be soothing even if they don’t actually cure you..

Some commercially made mouthwashes include it as an ingredient. Bone broth is also naturally high in protein and minerals like sodium and potassium. Drinking broth is a good way to replenish these nutrients while you have the flu. Drinking water and other fluids is even more important when you have the flu. This is true whether you have a respiratory flu or a stomach flu. We’ll review 10 natural remedies and explain how to use them, and why they can help.

Tailored cancer medicines for children

When that happens, I turn to a good probiotic like this one or this one as one of the home remedies for cold, flu, and headache. "Those most susceptible to the adverse effects are the most vulnerable among us, including small children and the elderly," McBride added. While these aren't the only groups who could consider natural remedies, they're perhaps more likely to notice the bad effects of the pharmaceuticals. This is the main reason we didn't include this supplement in our main list of cold and flu remedies. As McBride noted, it's crucial to get your vitamin D levels checked before taking high doses of it.

While these drinks may not clear up your cold entirely, they can help you get the vitamin C that your immune system needs. Getting enough vitamin C can relieve upper respiratory tract infections. Most otherwise healthy people recover from the flu within a few days or weeks of the symptoms appearing. Resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking over-the-counter medications can help alleviate the symptoms. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C are known to boost your immune system and protect you with cold and cough causing viruses. Eating amla, orange or adding lemon to your water in winter will do a great deal in protecting you against cold and cough.

Clothing Items For Winter That Are Cute And Warm

But often you want the increase blood flow because it warms the infected area and helps secretions carry germs out of your body. Gargling with salt water may help prevent upper respiratory infections. For example, it may ease sore throat pain and nasal congestion. A sore throat is often the natural result of inflammation created when your immune system is fighting off a virus lodged in your upper airways. The swelling and pain can make it more difficult to swallow food and stay hydrated.

Indoor air can get dry from heating and air conditioning use. Using a humidifier to add humidity in your home and workplace might help reduce flu viruses in the air. There is some concern that ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of "blood-thinning" drugs such as warfarin or aspirin. In one study involving 146 people, participants received either a garlic supplement or a placebo for 12 weeks between November and February. People who took garlic reduced the risk of catching a cold by more than half.

With the change in weather, it’s sinus, cold, and flu season. You are more prone to acquire a cold in the winter than in other seasons. I’m going to share some cold/flu home cures with you today. These are home treatments that will help you recover quicker from a cold or flu while also strengthening your immune system. In this article, we will discuss some home remedies for cold and flu that ultimately cause a headache.

If you want to avoid getting sick altogether, you can take steps to proactively strengthen your immune system, like eating healthy, sleeping well, and exercising. More research needs to be done on the potential cold-fighting benefits of garlic. In the meantime, adding more garlic to your diet probably won’t hurt. Chicken soup may not be a cure-all, but it’s a great choice when you’re sick. Keep reading to see what cold and flu remedies you can conjure up at home.

Natural Treatment Tips for Colds and Flu

Search the terms “common cold” and “brandy” online, and you’ll find thousands of entries in which people have spoken highly of brandy as a tried-and-true cold remedy. Salt water has antiseptic properties that can also reduce inflammation, so you might want to reach for it if you feel a sore throat coming on. Home remedies can help reduce symptoms so you can be more comfortable and rest more easily while you have the flu — and rest has a big impact on getting better faster. You can also get dehydrated if you aren’t eating or drinking normally.

Your body is craving rest to help it recover from your sickness. Because of this, Scuderi said he encourages rest when anyone is feeling sick . Antivirals– Use prescribed medications to treat the flu virus.

The "tripledemic" of flu, RSV and COVID-19 has boosted the sales of OTC treatments and remedies amidst rising prices in recent months. Dec. 22—Several bullets were found inside a home in Kennedy Park Wednesday night after reports of gunfire in the area. "We want to be sure that Maine people are safe heading into the holiday weekend," Mills said in a statement issued Thursday evening. Patel also said it's important for parents to seek medical attention when necessary for a child so there is not a delay in the correct treatment.

Any of these highly contagious winter viruses can significantly disrupt your day-to-day, so it's crucial to think ahead. Treating a viral infection isn't just about symptom relief but also about balancing your immune system so you can heal quickly and efficiently — and natural remedies can help. TryTheraflu Multi-Symptom Severe Cold Hot Liquid Powderto help battle your cold and flu symptoms in one power-packed beverage. Simply dissolve the contents of one packet into a cup of hot water and sip while hot.

Nonetheless, the viruses continue to circulate throughout the year in the U.S. Some symptoms of the flu in kids warrant medical attention. Learn when to call the doctor and when to visit the ER for the flu.

You can also try these kid-friendly flu home remedies to give relief. Here is a look at 11 of the more popular natural remedies for the prevention and treatment of the common cold. In addition to these remedies, certain foods may also help to boost the immune system and additional remedies may be recommended for cough relief and post-nasal drip. Along with chicken soup, vitamin C is a common go-to for treating colds and flu. This vitamin provides support for your immune system and has been found to effectively reduce respiratory tract infections. Oregano oil has long been hailed for its anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties.

The 11 Best Cold and Flu Natural Home Remedies, Treatments, and Tips 1MD Nutrition

Table of Content

• Is It COVID, The Flu Or RSV? Here's How To Tell.
• Products and Services
• Salt Water Gargling

"Any time you see a Facebook, TikTok or Instagram post that is claiming to have a treatment for a common cold or a cure, scroll to the bottom and look to see what the source of that information is," he said. "And go backwards and be an internet sleuth, and make sure it's legit." Some social media posts share information about symptoms of both viruses, while others contain information about home remedies, which doctors warn can be dangerous. As parents and caregivers try to cope with the spread of flu, RSV and COVID-19 in what health experts are calling a "tripledemic," some may look online for treatment and prevention tips. The seasonality of influenza activity in temperate zones seems to suggest that influenza viruses prefer colder environments.

Thorough and frequent hand-washing is an effective way to prevent many common infections. Or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water aren't readily available. But antibodies against flu viruses you've encountered in the past can't protect you from new influenza subtypes that can be very different immunologically from what you had before. Flu viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes or talks.

Is It COVID, The Flu Or RSV? Here's How To Tell.

We’ve discovered that they help us stay healthy or reduce the intensity of the disease. A must-have natural cold or flu cure after learning home remedies for cold, flu, and headache. Research on the herb’s effectiveness in fighting the common cold and flu has been mixed.

For instance, Zicam is another super popular zinc supplement in lozenge form but has some controversial food coloring, plus corn syrup, sucralose, and sucrose. (I also looked at Nature's Way, which looked quite promising, but the ingredient list included sorbitol and mannitol, sugar alcohols that may cause digestive distress). For an over-the-counter option, Gil-Flores likes Live Better Manuka Honey Cough & Throat Syrup, which uses manuka honey as its main ingredient and remains affordable. "This syrup can work as a cough suppressant and may provide soothing comfort for the chest and throat." Break up mucus by rubbing a bit of camphor or menthol salve around – not in!

Products and Services

Remedy now offers assessment by the pharmacist to guide you in testing and, if eligible, treatment. In the U.S., influenza activity peaks between December and February. Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils. For example, a person in the U.S. may be more likely to develop the flu in the summer if they contracted the infection on a recent trip to a country in the Southern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, influenza activity peaks between April and September.

McBride also holds a BS in microbiology and has taken specialty courses in neurology, immunology, kinesiology, and clinical biofeedback. McBride practices as a ND out of Four Moons Spa in Encinitas, CA. "Because herbs are powerful and should be respected as the wonders they are, it's important to seek out knowledgeable professionals," said McBride. "High dosing herbs can change your body's biochemistry and alter your microbiome, or the flora and organisms living within your gut." "Natural" is a vague term, and one thrown around without much thought.

Salt Water Gargling

Flying with cold or flu congestion can temporarily damage your eardrums as a result of pressure changes during takeoff and landing. If you must fly, use a decongestant and carry a nasal spray with you to use just before takeoff and landing. Chewing gum and swallowing frequently can also help relieve pressure. Gargle with half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces warm water, four times daily. Probiotics are “friendly” bacteria and yeast that are found in your body, some foods, and supplements. They can help keep your gut and immune system healthy, and probiotics may reduce your chance of getting sick with an upper respiratory infection.

The use of neti pots and nasal irrigation can be traced back thousands of years to Ayurvedic medicine. Much like gargling with salt water, nasal rinsing may help remove some virus and mucus from your body, while reducing the swelling that can cause congestion. One study published in 2019 showed that this process may help shorten the duration of illness as well as reduce the potential transmission of germs to others. In some studies, elderberry, a common ingredient in cold and flu syrups, particularly those aimed at young children, shortened the duration of symptoms when taken in advance of or immediately at the start of an illness. Elderberries contain potent antioxidants and chemicals known as anthocyanins, which have been shown in lab experiments to help immune function.

The problem is that many of these zinc studies have had flaws, so better-quality studies are needed. Zinc lozenges may work by blocking the cold virus from replicating or by impairing the ability of the cold virus to enter cells in the nose and throat. Zinc lozenges are often found in health stores, online, and in some drug stores marketed as cold remedies. A number of studies have found that zinc helped to reduce the duration of cold symptoms, especially if people started taking it within 24 hours after cold symptoms appear.

Breathing in steam from a warm pot of water can help soothe your nose, sinuses, throat, and lungs. Steam inhalation or steam therapy uses water vapor to help loosen mucous congestion. Colder, outdoor temperatures generally lower humidity in the air.

Honey is the ideal natural swap for dextromethorphan, the active ingredient in most OTC cough syrups. Sipping water, herbal teas, juice, warm water with honey and lemon, or broth helps to relieve a sore throat, loosen congestion and prevent dehydration. The main differences between a flu and a cold are how bad the symptoms are and how long you have them for. Influenza thrives and spreads more easily in dry environments. Creating more humidity in your home may reduce your exposure to this flu-causing virus.

Raw garlic, fresh ginger, and raw honey are also potent virus fighters. Not to be overlooked… Make sure you’re drinking clean, pure water! With over 2,100 identified pollutants, municipal water is likely not pure, and even some well water contains unwanted dissolved particles. Fermented foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, kombucha, and pickles, in addition to bone broth, bring helpful bacteria to our digestive tract.

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A common reminder of this fact is that arsenic is technically natural. And she's certainly right that sufficient levels of vitamin D are important in helping our immune system mount an appropriate response to bacterial and viral exposure. But if you already have sufficient levels of the vitamin, over-supplementationcan cause stomach distress, vomiting, and too-high blood levels of calcium which can cause confusion, heart rhythm problems, and kidney damage. Dr. Firouzi also explains that from this perspective, "ginger reduces the Kapha dosha in the Pranavaha Srotas, according to Ayurveda. In other words, it can help clear phlegm in the sinuses and lungs." Flu shots are available at Piedmont’s urgent care locations, primary care offices and Piedmont QuickCare at Walgreens locations.

Avoid alcohol, coffee and caffeinated sodas, which can make dehydration worse. Honey contains antimicrobial and antibacterial compounds that support your immune system in fighting infections. In addition to this, honey serves as a powerful cough suppressant, reducing the severity and persistence of coughs during the night. Essential oils are great home remedies for cold and flu—you just have to know which ones to use. I’ve found that inhaling eucalyptus, bergamot, thyme, and thieves oils either by simply smelling them from the bottle or using a diffuser are especially effective when fighting a cold or the flu.