worth it – The TechWanderer

World’s BIGGEST Phone Lens! 15,000MM Zoom – Insane or Useless?

Smartphone cameras are getting better every year, but no phone comes close to the insane zoom range of this 15,000MM lens. For reference, the world’s biggest camera lens I previously tested only reached 4,000MM—and this smartphone lens nearly quadruples that.

But is it actually usable, or is it just a gimmick? I took it out to a wildlife refuge and put it through real-world tests. Here’s what happened.

🔥 Wildlife Photography at 1,500MM Zoom

Before we max out the zoom, let’s start at 1,500MM—just 10% of what this lens can do.

✅ Sharp images—better than I expected for a budget super-zoom
✅ Great for bird photography—getting close-up shots without disturbing them
✅ Easy manual focus—but definitely shaky if you don’t stabilize it

📸 Test Results: The birds looked incredible. I was able to see details I couldn’t even spot with my 20/20 vision. But the real test? Tracking fast-moving subjects.

🏃 Following Fast-Moving Subjects at 3,000MM & 6,000MM

At 3,000MM, tracking moving subjects became harder. At 6,000MM, it was almost impossible without a tripod.

✅ Incredible reach—I could see ducks on the far end of a lake, houses on a distant hill, and even cars miles away.
❌ Stability is an issue—even minor movements cause huge shakes in the frame.
✅ Still sharp at 6,000MM—as long as I let go of the phone and let it settle.

I was shocked at how good the image quality was, but what happens when we push it even further?

🌕 Moon Shots & The 12,000MM Test

The moon was initially hard to find, but once I did, it came in incredible detail!

But at 12,000MM, something unexpected happened:

⚠️ Chromatic aberration increased – noticeable purple fringing around edges
⚠️ Focus became extremely sensitive – tiny adjustments threw off clarity
✅ Still insane detail for a budget phone lens

This is way beyond what the lens was designed for. It’s technically only supposed to reach 1,500MM, so at 12,000MM and beyond, it’s stretching the limits.

That said… I had one more test to push it to the absolute extreme.

💥 15,000MM Mega Zoom – Does It Even Work?

At full 15,000MM zoom, things got crazy.

👀 What I Could See:
✅ The road horizon disappearing around a corner miles away
✅ Distant objects I couldn’t even see with my naked eye
✅ Birds that looked microscopic at normal zoom became HUGE

But here’s the truth:

⚠️ The quality suffers at max zoom – digital zoom + optical = blurry images
⚠️ Shaky beyond belief – without a tripod, this level of zoom isn’t practical
⚠️ Not meant for this – remember, this is a 1,500MM lens, not 15,000MM

Despite all that, the fact that this is even possible with a budget smartphone lens is mind-blowing.

🏆 Who Is This Lens For?

This lens is actually useful for:

✔️ Wildlife & Bird Photography – Get clear close-ups from far away
✔️ Long-Distance Nature Shots – See horizon details your eyes can’t
✔️ Budget-friendly super zoom – Better than some $200+ DSLR lenses

But if you need extreme clarity at 15,000MM, this isn’t for you.

⚡ Final Thoughts – Should You Buy It?

I expected this lens to be trash, but instead, it blew me away.

💰 Way cheaper than pro camera lenses
📸 Better than expected quality at 1,500MM
⚠️ Shaky at extreme zoom levels

🔗 Get it here: The 15,000MM Lens (affiliate link)

Honestly? If you love wildlife photography or just want the craziest zoom on your phone, this is worth it.

Is the MacBook Pro M1 14-Inch the Ultimate Travel Laptop for 2024?

As travel becomes an integral part of many professionals’ lives, the quest for the perfect portable workstation continues. Enter the MacBook Pro M1 14-inch—Apple’s powerhouse that’s making waves for its performance and portability. After a whirlwind of travel adventures and rigorous testing, here’s a deep dive into why this laptop might just be the best travel companion you can have in 2024.

Size and Portability

One of the standout features of the 14-inch MacBook Pro M1 is its size. At nearly the same dimensions as the MacBook Air, it’s surprisingly compact, fitting comfortably into most bags without adding excessive bulk. This size strikes a balance between portability and usability, offering a screen that’s ample enough for editing and multitasking, yet compact enough to easily carry around.

Video Editing Performance

When it comes to video editing, the M1 chip’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary. The 2021 M1 Pro MacBook excels in handling demanding tasks like 4K and drone footage with ease. Its built-in video codecs allow for faster editing compared to many custom PCs, making it a powerful tool for those who need robust performance on the go. This efficiency is especially evident in rendering and exporting videos, where the M1 Pro outperforms many newer models and higher-priced options.

Why Not the M2 or M3?

While newer models like the M2 and M3 chips are available, the M1 Pro still holds its ground impressively. The 2021 M1 Pro’s architecture allows it to deliver superior performance compared to some of the more recent, lower-spec versions. Unless you need the absolute latest specs or a larger screen, the 14-inch M1 Pro remains a compelling choice for travelers and professionals alike.

Versatility for Creators

This MacBook Pro is favored by many YouTubers and video editors for good reason. It supports various creative tasks effortlessly, from music production to video editing. The seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, including AirDrop, simplifies file transfers and enhances workflow efficiency. The device’s sound quality and overall performance make it a solid choice for creative professionals who need a reliable and versatile machine.

Conclusion

In summary, the MacBook Pro M1 14-inch offers an excellent blend of performance, portability, and value. Priced around $1,000 used, it provides remarkable power for its size, making it an ideal travel laptop. If you’re looking for a machine that can handle intensive tasks while remaining compact and convenient, this MacBook Pro might be the perfect fit for your next adventure.

For those interested in exploring this laptop further, check out the MacBook Pro M1 14-inch (affiliate) to see if it meets your travel needs.

Best Travel Laptop Deal 2024: Pro Video Editing Beast // Unboxing and Review

Are you in the market for the best travel laptop in 2024? Whether you’re an avid video editor, app developer, or just someone who loves a good deal, this is the perfect find for you. I recently got my hands on what I believe is the best travel laptop Apple makes at an unbeatable price—it’s time for an upgrade!

Buy it here: MacBook Pro 2021 M1

Why I Needed a New Laptop

In less than 30 days, I’m going backpacking across Europe for a month. Naturally, I’ll need to edit YouTube videos and work on my apps during the trip. While I hope to get a few months ahead, I can’t risk going without a powerful machine. My previous laptop, a 2015 MacBook, simply can’t keep up anymore. It freezes during video editing, and doesn’t support new macOS updates—meaning I’m missing out on key features for building iOS apps. So, it was time for an upgrade.

This new machine? The 2021 MacBook Pro with the M1 chip. It’s not one of those overly expensive, $3,000 models that lose value quickly. This is a smart buy, and here’s why it’s the perfect travel laptop for creators.

Who Should Get This Laptop?

If you’re someone who travels often, edits videos, creates music, or develops apps, you might find this laptop is exactly what you need. It’s designed for high-performance tasks without the high price tag. Whether your laptop is from 2020 or earlier, upgrading to this M1 MacBook Pro will make a huge difference in your workflow.

My Previous Experience

I originally bought a 2015 MacBook Pro a couple of years ago to learn iOS app development. It worked great for that purpose and only cost me under $500. Before that, I was a Windows user, but once I switched to macOS, I fell in love with its simplicity, efficiency, and multitasking abilities.

One of the things I appreciate most about Macs is how smoothly they allow you to work with multiple desktops. Swiping between them is so intuitive, and it’s a feature I wish existed on Windows. Plus, apps like Logic Pro (professional music production software) are exclusive to macOS, which is another reason I made the switch.

Why I Chose Mac Over Windows for Travel

MacBooks just work better for creative professionals like me. For video editing, app development, and even coding, they offer a seamless experience. The build quality is top-notch, especially when it comes to the keyboard and trackpad. There’s a level of precision and comfort you just don’t find on other laptops. And let’s not forget how easy it is to transfer files between my iPhone and MacBook with AirDrop—another feature that makes Apple products ideal for travel.

While I still use a Windows desktop at home, I’m officially switching to MacBooks for my laptop needs. It’s all about portability, efficiency, and a workflow that suits my creative projects.

The Unboxing

Alright, time for the big reveal! Inside the box is a 2021 MacBook Pro with the M1 chip. I bought it refurbished, which saved me even more money. However, I was a bit disappointed to find a large scratch on the laptop’s casing. Luckily, this is just cosmetic, and I plan to get a case anyway. Despite that, the keyboard and trackpad feel incredible, and the machine is lightning fast. It booted up smoothly, though I’ll admit it took me a second to get the language settings right.

I’m really excited to put this laptop through its paces and see what kind of videos and apps I can create. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be testing it out and comparing it to my custom-built PC, which also has high-end specs.

What’s Next?

Stay tuned for more reviews and comparisons, including updates on how the M1 MacBook Pro handles heavy-duty tasks like video editing while I’m traveling. I’ll also be sharing some tips on how I’m able to backpack across Europe for a month, as well as how I’m making money while I’m there.

Want to follow along on my journey? You won’t want to miss what’s coming up next!

Check out the MacBook Pro 2021 M1 (affiliate) here: Buy Now.

Are Influencer Trips Worth It?

In recent years, influencer retreats have become increasingly popular, offering fans and aspiring creators the opportunity to meet their favorite YouTubers or influencers in exotic locations. These trips often promise unforgettable experiences, valuable education, and lifelong friendships. But the big question remains: Are these influencer trips really worth the cost?

Cost Breakdown

The first thing people think about when considering an influencer retreat is the price. Many of these trips can range from $2,000 to $3,000, not including flights. Depending on the destination, flight costs can also add up quickly. For example, a trip to Thailand with flights included might cost around $3,000 in total. Typically, meals and accommodations are covered, but extras like souvenirs or excursions could add to the overall expense. So the question is: What exactly do you get for this investment?

The Value of Education

One of the main advertised benefits of influencer retreats is the opportunity to learn directly from someone successful in your field. For instance, if you go on a retreat hosted by a YouTuber, you’re likely to receive insights into content creation, video editing, or building an audience.

From an educational perspective, the experience can be hit or miss. Some people find the educational aspect of these retreats incredibly valuable, learning how to improve their craft in ways they wouldn’t have from YouTube tutorials alone. Others, however, feel that the level of education is not as intensive as expected. You might pick up a few tips here and there, but it’s unlikely to be a full-on boot camp. To get the most out of it, you need to be proactive, ask questions, and seek out learning opportunities during the trip.

Building Connections and Lifelong Friendships

One of the most underrated aspects of these trips is the connections you make. While the educational content might be good but not groundbreaking, the relationships you form with fellow attendees often turn out to be the most valuable part of the experience.

The people who sign up for these trips are usually like-minded individuals. They share your interests, passions, and adventurous spirit. Whether it’s bonding over long hikes, vlogging adventures, or shared meals, these friendships can last well beyond the trip. In some cases, these connections lead to future collaborations, travel plans, or even lifelong friendships. Meeting people who are just as passionate about content creation or travel can motivate you to push your career further, and that’s a value you can’t always put a price on.

Unforgettable Experiences

Another big draw of influencer retreats is the experience itself. These trips often take you to stunning destinations, allowing you to explore new cultures, enjoy breathtaking views, and engage in activities that you wouldn’t typically do on your own. Imagine washing an elephant in Thailand, going island hopping in Krabi, or visiting ancient temples with a group of like-minded adventurers. These experiences create memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

The sheer fun of being in a new country, trying out new activities, and experiencing different cultures can make the trip worth it on its own. Even if you don’t learn as much as you had hoped, the combination of travel, adventure, and connection can make up for it.

A Hidden Benefit: The After-Party

One often overlooked perk of influencer retreats is the possibility of continuing the adventure after the official trip ends. Many participants are still eager to explore once the retreat is over, and smaller groups may decide to extend their stay, splitting the cost of accommodations and activities. These impromptu “after-parties” are often less structured, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace with new friends. In some cases, this can be the highlight of the trip, as it allows for even more bonding and adventure.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, are influencer trips worth it? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re hoping for a deep dive into learning and education, you might be disappointed unless you’re prepared to take an active role in your learning. However, if you’re open to the idea of making valuable connections, having unforgettable experiences, and creating lasting memories, then an influencer retreat could be a fantastic investment.

The key takeaway is that the value of these trips often lies in the intangible benefits: friendships, inspiration, and life-changing experiences. While the upfront cost might seem high, the experiences and relationships you gain can be well worth the price.

If you’re considering going on an influencer retreat, make sure it’s with someone whose content you genuinely enjoy, as that will increase the chances of connecting with like-minded people. And don’t forget, these trips aren’t guaranteed to happen year after year, so if you see one that excites you, don’t wait too long to book.

In conclusion, while the cost may seem steep at first, the unique experiences, connections, and personal growth opportunities these trips offer make them an experience worth having – at least once!

Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Glasses: 17 Reasons You Might Be Missing Out

When it comes to merging style, technology, and practicality, the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer glasses have set a new standard. Priced under $400, these glasses aren’t just a fashion statement—they are a tech powerhouse. After testing them out for a couple of weeks, I can confidently say they are one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. Below, I’ll break down 17 reasons why these smart glasses are worth every penny and why you might want to consider picking up a pair for yourself. If you’re already curious, you can check them out here.

Now, let’s dive into the 17 reasons why these glasses are an absolute game-changer:

Sleek Design: Unlike most bulky smart glasses, these are so stylish that I didn’t even realize they were smart glasses at first. They fit great and look amazing, breaking the trend of glasses that usually don’t suit me.
Transition Lenses: These glasses go from clear indoors to sunglasses outdoors, making them perfect for any situation. It’s like having two pairs of glasses in one!
Smart Features: With five built-in microphones, these glasses allow you to take calls, listen to music, and even live stream directly from the glasses.
Seamless Video Recording: Capture amazing POV footage with just a press of a button. You don’t need to pull out your phone or GoPro—just hit record and enjoy the moment. And trust me, the video quality is better than my iPhone!
Capture Moments Effortlessly: How many times have you missed capturing a special moment because you didn’t want to pull out your phone? With these glasses, you can record without being distracted or pulled out of the experience.
Perfect for Vloggers: If you’re hesitant about vlogging in public, these glasses make it easy. No need for a bulky setup—just start filming and focus on your experience.
Superior Sound Quality: The audio quality when making calls or listening to music is better than my AirPods! You can hear everything clearly, and others can hear you perfectly too.
Expands Your Creative Potential: The ease of filming with these glasses encourages you to explore new creative angles and shots that you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.
Low-Key Style: Even if you don’t need the smart features, these glasses are stylish enough to be worn as regular sunglasses. You get all the functionality with none of the bulk.
Prescription-Ready: If you wear glasses, no problem! You can get these with prescription lenses, so they can replace your everyday glasses while adding the extra features.
Perfect for Everyday Use: Whether you need sunglasses or everyday glasses, the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer has you covered with their stylish design and transition lenses.
A Treasure Find: Discovering these glasses was like stumbling upon hidden treasure. Once I knew about them, I couldn’t resist—they’re that good.
Travel-Friendly: As a travel camera, these are incredible. Imagine recording your trip hands-free while enjoying the experience fully. It’s the best of both worlds.
Affordable for What You Get: At under $400, these glasses offer much more value compared to other gadgets like GoPros or AirPods. You get video, photos, live streaming, calls, music, and more in one device.
Easy to Use: The smart features are super intuitive. Just press a button, and you’re recording or taking a call. No complicated setup or learning curve.
Versatility: Whether you’re vlogging, capturing special moments, or just listening to music, these glasses can do it all. They’re perfect for both everyday use and creative projects.
A Glimpse Into the Future: As smart glasses evolve, these Ray-Bans feel like a solid investment in the future. They combine a timeless design with cutting-edge technology, making them a great long-term buy. With so much functionality packed into one stylish pair of glasses, they’re hard to beat.

If any of these features sound like something you’d love, check out the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarers here. Whether you’re into capturing special moments, staying connected, or just want a really cool pair of glasses, these have got you covered.

Disclaimer: The links above are affiliate links so I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting this small blog!

MacBook M1 Pro vs. Custom PC: Which is Better in 2024?

If you’re in the market for a new computer in 2024, you may be torn between a MacBook M1 Pro and a custom-built PC. Both machines have their strengths, but the decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs. Let’s break down the advantages of each and help you decide which one is best for you.

Custom PC: The Ultimate Setup for Power Users

A custom-built PC gives you full control over your setup, which can be a game-changer if you work from home or need a machine capable of handling large workflows. Here are three main reasons you should consider building a desktop over getting a MacBook.

1. Customization and Upgradability

When you buy a MacBook, what you see is what you get. With a custom PC, however, you can personalize your setup from the keyboard to the speakers, and everything in between. Not only can you upgrade your components as needed, but you can also tailor the entire system to suit your workspace. For those who want the flexibility of upgrading over time, a desktop PC is a great choice.

2. Power for Large Workflows

If you’re a music producer, video editor, or work with large projects, a desktop PC with multiple monitors and tons of RAM is ideal. It allows you to tackle massive workflows with ease, and you can scale up your system as needed. Whether it’s handling 3D rendering, animations, or 4K video editing, a custom PC can offer more power for the money.

3. Gaming Performance

Let’s face it, gaming on a MacBook doesn’t come close to what a custom PC can offer. If gaming is an important factor for you, then a Windows desktop is the clear choice. With a custom PC, you can build something powerful enough to handle the latest games at high frame rates and resolutions.

For a solid custom PC setup, check out this Incredible Custom PC. (affiliate)

MacBook M1 Pro: The Mobile Productivity Powerhouse

On the other hand, the MacBook M1 Pro is an absolute beast for productivity, especially if you’re someone who values mobility. Here’s why you might choose the M1 Pro over a custom desktop PC.

1. Work From Anywhere

The biggest reason to opt for a MacBook M1 Pro is the freedom it gives you. If you don’t like being tied to one location—whether you want to work from a coffee shop or even while traveling across the globe—a laptop is essential. Having the ability to take your workstation wherever you go can significantly boost your productivity, especially if you’ve had bad experiences with Windows laptops in the past.

2. Incredible Productivity Features

The MacBook M1 Pro comes with features that make multitasking a breeze. One standout is the ability to swipe between multiple desktops effortlessly, which can greatly enhance your workflow. This feature isn’t available on Windows PCs, and even on a powerful custom desktop, it doesn’t feel as smooth or intuitive.

For video editors, the M1 Pro excels in handling modern file formats. Whether you’re editing footage from a Sony camera or a DJI drone, the MacBook M1’s built-in codecs allow you to work with multiple 4K clips at once, faster than a desktop PC at the same price point. While desktops might render files faster, the editing process on a MacBook is smoother, which makes a big difference when you’re in the middle of a project.

3. Seamless Integration with Apple Ecosystem

If you own an iPhone, the MacBook M1 Pro becomes even more valuable. The convenience of AirDrop—which lets you transfer files between devices in seconds—can’t be overstated. This feature is particularly useful for anyone creating content on their phone and transferring it to their Mac for editing.

Another major plus is access to exclusive apps like Logic Pro, a professional-grade music production software used by many of the top artists in the industry. Logic Pro is only available on Macs, making the M1 Pro the best choice for musicians or producers who want to create on the go.

For an amazing deal on the MacBook Pro M1, check it out here. (affiliate)

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a Custom PC if you need an upgradable, highly customizable setup for home use, if you regularly tackle large workflows, or if gaming is a key part of your life.
Choose a MacBook M1 Pro if you value mobility, need a high-performing laptop for video editing and music production, or want seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.

Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds?

Ultimately, both the MacBook M1 Pro and a custom PC have their strengths. If you work from home but want the flexibility of working anywhere, you may find that owning both a desktop for heavy-duty tasks and a laptop for on-the-go productivity gives you the best of both worlds.

So whether you’re working on the next big project at your desk or editing YouTube videos at your local café, there’s a machine that fits your needs. Choose wisely based on your workflow and lifestyle!

Stay tuned for more reviews on the best tech coming to you!