Hey, Came from the discord server since you said we could give our opinion on this here. To me it really doesnt matter in the slightest that you get sponsors, actually it makes me quite happy. I really dont mind watching a 6 minutes long ad if it means you get either equipement or financement to boost the game, or even if it just helps you pass the month personally. Keep up the good work its nothing to worry about. Don't beat yourself over something so small and take care
Same here. You gotta make ends meet and if it takes a sponsored review to do it, go for it. Besides, you're honest about it all and that matters a lot. I'd rather you be honest and do this than just "selling out" and doing Shadow Raid Legends commercials. I've played that game and it sucks. Keep on keeping on, Michael!
Zach Izpro i bought the baseus screenbar. It costs less than 30 dollars, has less features than the benq but its good enuff. Love how it illuminates my desk and keyboard but takes no space on ur table.
We need this guy to do tutorials for aspiring game developers, I’ve been struggling massively, but he seems just good at explaining things and making it enjoyable
@@MichaelKocha Movement, its the base for everyting and most tutorials on it are pretty bad often assuming the person already has a bunch of code ready when the people that need them are as good as always just starting out.
I have been looking into this type of light for my new set up. I just bookmarked it away to find a review for later. Thanks for the review I think I am sold. If I don't find a better price on another lamp I will try to remember to use your link assuming its an affiliate link.
Hey guys. I just want to point out that this is not a sponsored video. BenQ did not pay me to make this video. They simply sent me the product for free long before the Kickstarter was even started and asked that I make a video on it. Thanks for watching. This is the last review video I'll be doing so hang tight for the next devlog.
I believe in the US it’s still considered a sponsorship, but I personally see nothing bad with having a sponsor in this or any other way, secure the bag lol 😂❤️
We totally understand dude, I don't see any problem with product placements or sponsors anyways, as they allow you to keep making this awesome game. I know there are a lot of haters, but try to look past them. Cant wait for the release, keep up the good work :P
I watched the video then saw your post on discord and thought I would share my opinion. It makes sense where you were coming from for it and I hold nothing against it(was a little weird to watch compared to your normal content), also there is no harm in having ads on your videos, most of us are used to them and those that can't stand it will pay for that subscription thing. In short im just trying to say this isn't really what I come to watch from you but if you slap a promotion in one of your videos it wouldn't be an issue at all. I hope I didn't come off too negative, hopefully it helps and keep up the good work!
Don't ever feel bad about "shilling" that is as dumb as feeling bad for having a job. You have to worry about making a living for your family. Successful Kickstarter or not you have to support yourself and there is nothing wrong with being a capitalist. You are not selling out, that is a stupid idea created by pretentious artist who thinks starvation is the optimal mode of living to create art. I know you said you were not paid for the ad but I could care less if you were. You should do what you want and if that includes taking a free lamp that you would never pay for yourself in the hopes that it helps you in any way you should do that. Regardless if it requires that you make an ad for the company.
My personal opinion, don't feel bad at all about reviews. You've got a great channel and occasionally sponsorships from products you actually are interested in and would use definitely doesn't upset me. However, it would definitely be nice to keep them as quaint as this video. Felt very down to earth and interesting, even if I probably wouldn't put a light on top of my monitor.
Good for you man! Ignore all the haters, I believe that a sponsor is definitely a good thing, as they allow you to continue doing what you love, and providing content about swords and magic.
@@jannakocha Either way, whether product placement or sponsor, it doesnt matter to me. I don't mind these kinds of videos, as it was a good review for something that many might want to purchase. I think that the people who are unsubbing dont really understand that the epic grant and kickstarter are going towards the game and team, rather than Michael's bank account. I hope you guys know that you didn't do anything wrong by posting this video. Cant wait the release of the game, keep up the good work guys. :D
Good on you. I know you aren't pumped about releasing this, but there's nothing wrong with doing sponsorships. Especially when this is your job. Wouldn't mind seeing more stuff like this, or sponsorships on the DevLogs!
I have an Elgato Streamdeck which is basically just a bunch of macros that make streaming easier. And the other one is a GoXLR which is probably the best audio investment I've ever made. It's pretty pricey but it handles all my computer's audio. Splits it into channels, has built in mic effects, faders, etc. It's really handy.
I cant find a use for auto-dimmer mode, except when the auto-dimmer green light is flashing is stops you from having any light at all, which is a peculiar feature
Yeah, honestly, since I made this video I've only ever pushed one of the buttons. The power button to turn the light on and off. All those other features are pretty useless for me at this point. Lol
not interested in the lamp, yet... Still need to buy a pc since I'm currently using a laptop, but this looks interesting! I'll probably get this once I've bought my setup.
Just got my screenbar and I like it. It is useful and space saving. However, one thing I noticed immediately after I put the light on: my glossy Logitech keyboard reflects the light straight into my eyes. So next I must find a "screenbar-compatible", non-reflective keyboard.
I mean sure. I typically have mine off most the time. It's easy to turn on and off and even when on it's not very distracting. You don't see the actual light itself.
Did you keep it with your Alienware ultra wide? i have the same monitor and was looking for a monitor light bar. I was wondering if it actually was good enough.
I know... I'm sorry. I knew everyone was going to be disappointed when I posted it. I signed up to do the promotion a while back and kept putting it off because I felt bad posting it. I don't think I'll do anymore unless they're requested.
@@MichaelKocha No worries man, you do what you gotta. As long as you, your family and your other devs are doing well, that's what matters. Edit: As long as I get my plot of ham, I'm good. ;)
I doubt you'll respond after 5 months,but I was wondering if you figured out a solution to adding the screenbar to an ultrawide. That circular buldge on my LG 34 ultrawide causing me headaches and I don't know what to do.
Mine isn't the sturdiest thing sitting on top of my ultrawide but it does stay put for the most part without anything special going on. Unfortunately I don't think light bars like this are really designed for larger, bulkier ultrawides.
Razer Ornata. I've used it for a couple years now and I'll buy another if it ever goes out. I love it. Its kind of loud but not as bad as most mechanical keyboards. I forget what switches it has, but they're not as clicky as most I've had and tried.
Sorry I missed this. It's a GoXLR. It's basically an audio mixer for an XLR microphone and I absolutely love it. It splits all my audio into channels so I can use the sliders to change my game volume vs discord vs my mic, etc. It's amazing. I use it every day.
I'm sure there are many reasons someone would prefer a desk lamp or even monitor lamp over leaving your room lights on. But sure. That's always an alternative.
For my room, the main lights are only good for illuminating everything decently, but poor for illuminating a specific area. This type of light bar illuminates my main desk area nicely, and I can't go back to how it was before I purchased it.
I cobbled it together from some scratch and dent furniture parts I found at Ikea. We built 2 of them for like $60 I think. They're not super sturdy, but I've had them for around 7 years now and they're going strong.
Seems kinda ridiculous on the price. I could just 3d print this mount and solder a strip of natural white led strips to a dimmer and call it a day for like 5 bucks.
My desk is two desktops from Ikea we got from the damaged section. They were super cheap and I've been using them for years. I just screwed on some ikea desk legs. I think both desks cost maybe $30 altogether. I put them in an L in the corner.
I brought it on a bet, I purchased it and was going to return it afterwards; but I kept it and lost the bet and hasp to pay for dinner the next time around! So, it $125 with tax and another $85 with drinks for her! F*cK! No action afterward either! So in total a $300 financial disaster!
I initially loved mine even though the controls were sluggish. After less than 15 months, it went completely out. I'm in the market for one that is more reliable. I won't buy another BenQ.
@@MichaelKocha Dude you just had a successful Kickstarter, an Epic grant, AND your devlogs are literally free advertising for your game. Don't try to play the victim looool anyway I'm out
@@mywrath2 Uh look at me, i dont like that people need to pay bills, its not fair that hes more succesfull then i, i should hate on them because reasons Nobody asked for your frickin opinon wich, given how you start throwing stuff it isnt even a good one, this man needs to pay his bills and taxes too, has to pay his team and stuff so shut up NOBODY CARES
@@mywrath2 You don't understand the whole story here. And to say "I'm not here for ads" tells me you're probably watching UA-cam with an adblocker anyway, which is what I was referring to. I was sent this product long before the Kickstarter even started and it was the first offer I'd ever had for any sort of product placement or sponsorship so I jumped at it. Then I put it off for months because I was focusing on the Kickstarter and the game. After Kickstarter I felt pretty silly for accepting the offer, but I still had the lamp and I was contractually obligated to do the review. So yeah. It's the last video like this I'll do and I already feel bad about posting it because I know that's not what my audience is expecting. But I got a free desk lamp out of this, it's not like I'm making money hand over fist here. And the Kickstarter money goes to my team and the game. Not a penny of it has or will go into my personal account. That's not what it's for. My bills are paid through UA-cam, Patreon and Twitch. If you feel its necessary to unsubscribe because I posted a video that wasn't on par with my usual content, go for it. I get it.
@Helldome, From reading your comments I think you’ve made it clear that you feel any developer that has had some success with an unfinished project does not have any need for money... I hear you, but I do not understand the logic. What I find unclear is why you clicked on a video labeled as product testing, expecting to see a Dev log.
I would be interested in knowing why. I mean, I understand that this isn't the usual content, but lots of channels post a variety of content. I used to post tutorials before I started Swords 'n Magic, imagine if I didn't branch out back then.
i really like the style of review its
1 honest
2 it feels real and unscripted (probably because it isn't)
3 its from kindred and he's persuasive
it could be not honest but ye it’s a good review
Hey, Came from the discord server since you said we could give our opinion on this here. To me it really doesnt matter in the slightest that you get sponsors, actually it makes me quite happy. I really dont mind watching a 6 minutes long ad if it means you get either equipement or financement to boost the game, or even if it just helps you pass the month personally. Keep up the good work its nothing to worry about. Don't beat yourself over something so small and take care
I agree
Same here. You gotta make ends meet and if it takes a sponsored review to do it, go for it. Besides, you're honest about it all and that matters a lot. I'd rather you be honest and do this than just "selling out" and doing Shadow Raid Legends commercials. I've played that game and it sucks. Keep on keeping on, Michael!
This would be perfect for my desk because my lamp is awkwardly placed/spaced, but $100 dollars is a lot. Great review though!
Zach Izpro i bought the baseus screenbar. It costs less than 30 dollars, has less features than the benq but its good enuff. Love how it illuminates my desk and keyboard but takes no space on ur table.
I didn't even know a monitor light bar was a thing... I can't tell you how useful that would be for me
Tell me
@@AnimeJuggz_ He can't
@@invanorm you tell me then
We need this guy to do tutorials for aspiring game developers, I’ve been struggling massively, but he seems just good at explaining things and making it enjoyable
You got it. Any suggestions on topics?
@@MichaelKocha Movement, its the base for everyting and most tutorials on it are pretty bad often assuming the person already has a bunch of code ready when the people that need them are as good as always just starting out.
I’m not even interested in buying a lamp, I’m just watching so their watch time is good lol
weird
This is the dumbest thing I've ever read.
Kindred low-key flexing with his 3 curved monitors
Lol
Lol yeah... That GoXLR cost more than both the outside monitors combined. That's the flex if there is one. Lol
I have been looking into this type of light for my new set up. I just bookmarked it away to find a review for later. Thanks for the review I think I am sold. If I don't find a better price on another lamp I will try to remember to use your link assuming its an affiliate link.
It's not so no worries. I'm glad the video helped you out!
Hey guys. I just want to point out that this is not a sponsored video. BenQ did not pay me to make this video. They simply sent me the product for free long before the Kickstarter was even started and asked that I make a video on it. Thanks for watching. This is the last review video I'll be doing so hang tight for the next devlog.
I believe in the US it’s still considered a sponsorship, but I personally see nothing bad with having a sponsor in this or any other way, secure the bag lol 😂❤️
If there are more reviews on the way, I won't complain either!
It means they lowballed you, lol. Payed for the ad with the product, which costed them around 65$
We totally understand dude, I don't see any problem with product placements or sponsors anyways, as they allow you to keep making this awesome game. I know there are a lot of haters, but try to look past them. Cant wait for the release, keep up the good work :P
I watched the video then saw your post on discord and thought I would share my opinion.
It makes sense where you were coming from for it and I hold nothing against it(was a little weird to watch compared to your normal content), also there is no harm in having ads on your videos, most of us are used to them and those that can't stand it will pay for that subscription thing.
In short im just trying to say this isn't really what I come to watch from you but if you slap a promotion in one of your videos it wouldn't be an issue at all.
I hope I didn't come off too negative, hopefully it helps and keep up the good work!
Don't ever feel bad about "shilling" that is as dumb as feeling bad for having a job. You have to worry about making a living for your family. Successful Kickstarter or not you have to support yourself and there is nothing wrong with being a capitalist. You are not selling out, that is a stupid idea created by pretentious artist who thinks starvation is the optimal mode of living to create art. I know you said you were not paid for the ad but I could care less if you were. You should do what you want and if that includes taking a free lamp that you would never pay for yourself in the hopes that it helps you in any way you should do that. Regardless if it requires that you make an ad for the company.
My personal opinion, don't feel bad at all about reviews. You've got a great channel and occasionally sponsorships from products you actually are interested in and would use definitely doesn't upset me. However, it would definitely be nice to keep them as quaint as this video. Felt very down to earth and interesting, even if I probably wouldn't put a light on top of my monitor.
Great video! You have a surprisingly good talent at tech reviewing.
Good for you man! Ignore all the haters, I believe that a sponsor is definitely a good thing, as they allow you to continue doing what you love, and providing content about swords and magic.
It isn't a sponsor though. They sent a free product to review. But it is hard to ignore the hate sometimes =/ Thanks for your support. =]
@@jannakocha Either way, whether product placement or sponsor, it doesnt matter to me. I don't mind these kinds of videos, as it was a good review for something that many might want to purchase. I think that the people who are unsubbing dont really understand that the epic grant and kickstarter are going towards the game and team, rather than Michael's bank account. I hope you guys know that you didn't do anything wrong by posting this video. Cant wait the release of the game, keep up the good work guys. :D
your review made me make the right choice for me. Cheers man. regards from England.
First non SnM related video. Well done
I didn't mean that as in I don't like SnM, I was just congratulating your first video that's not SnM based
the variable temp is a great feature
You were not dropped on your head! You were loved and spoiled 😍
Mom!... Gosh. You're so embarrassing!
First! :D (also good for you Kindred, you got a sponsor!)
Why not to take the opportunity. If the product is great, why not to share it. Every little detail which brings SnM to the final straight is great!
Good on you. I know you aren't pumped about releasing this, but there's nothing wrong with doing sponsorships. Especially when this is your job. Wouldn't mind seeing more stuff like this, or sponsorships on the DevLogs!
cool lamp
really dont mind, do whatever you like, i totally understand bud!
might get one.
hi Moz
MOZ!!!
Ayyyy moz is heree
I quite enjoyed your product review...and now I want a few of these things haha.
I realy like the review :)
Please do some more Kindred!
And let the haters gonna hate :-)
(It's always haters somewhere)
It looks interesting. for streams and face lighting
Awesome review I'm definitely looking at getting one for my own desk space!
So I'm legally blind. And well UE text is really small. As I'm currently dealing with eye strain I'll be picking one of these up, thanks
The video was great. Don't pay attention to the haters. I was curious to know what the two devices at the base of your primary monitor are?
I have an Elgato Streamdeck which is basically just a bunch of macros that make streaming easier. And the other one is a GoXLR which is probably the best audio investment I've ever made. It's pretty pricey but it handles all my computer's audio. Splits it into channels, has built in mic effects, faders, etc. It's really handy.
I cant find a use for auto-dimmer mode, except when the auto-dimmer green light is flashing is stops you from having any light at all, which is a peculiar feature
Yeah, honestly, since I made this video I've only ever pushed one of the buttons. The power button to turn the light on and off. All those other features are pretty useless for me at this point. Lol
Does it illuminate your face at all if you were talking to a camera above the monitor?
You might get a bit of ambient lighting. But it definitely doesn't light up your face unless you set it up wrong.
nice
Nice
If you have a 49" super ultrawide with a sick curve it ill fit just fine unlike my previous aliexpress screenbar...
sick dicethrone mat haha awesome to spot boardgame stuff in the wild
I was on the fence on if I was going to buy this or not. I pulled the trigger and got one on ebay for a decent price. Thanks for the review. ;)
Same 😊
not interested in the lamp, yet... Still need to buy a pc since I'm currently using a laptop, but this looks interesting! I'll probably get this once I've bought my setup.
Thanks for your review...Is this light bright enough to read and wright?
Great review, thanks!
I wouldn't mind one :3
I don't think you actually answered the question: "Would I give 100 dollars for a lamp if I didn't have it already, having in mind the mount?".
Honestly.... If I wasn't on a budget. Sure. But I'd much rather put that $100 into a better chair or a PC part upgrade if I needed those things.
yooo whats up michael :D
Just got my screenbar and I like it. It is useful and space saving. However, one thing I noticed immediately after I put the light on: my glossy Logitech keyboard reflects the light straight into my eyes. So next I must find a "screenbar-compatible", non-reflective keyboard.
What did you end up replacing your Logitech keyboard with?
@@StardustLegacyFighter Now I am using Logitech MX keys which is much less reflective than my nice, but glossy Logitech K750 solar keyboard.
Dumb question: why not just use your room’s light? You know, the one on the ceiling?
There are many situations where people would prefer a lamp. Especially at night. That's why they sell lamps. Of all kinds. Not just monitor lamps.
Some places don't have lights on the ceiling.
Does this remember the last settings used? And does this turn on automatically after a power cut?
since I think it will distract me when I'm gaming, is it good putting the screen bar on my second monitor instead of my main monitor?
I mean sure. I typically have mine off most the time. It's easy to turn on and off and even when on it's not very distracting. You don't see the actual light itself.
Did you keep it with your Alienware ultra wide? i have the same monitor and was looking for a monitor light bar. I was wondering if it actually was good enough.
I thought it was a new devlog ;(
Same
I know... I'm sorry. I knew everyone was going to be disappointed when I posted it. I signed up to do the promotion a while back and kept putting it off because I felt bad posting it. I don't think I'll do anymore unless they're requested.
@@MichaelKocha Good video tho
@@MichaelKocha it's ok lol
@@MichaelKocha No worries man, you do what you gotta. As long as you, your family and your other devs are doing well, that's what matters.
Edit: As long as I get my plot of ham, I'm good. ;)
I was hoping to see difference when light is off then when its on
Im curious if it fits with the LG 27GL83A. Its literally bezel less.
It's probably going to rest against the screen so I'd be cautious. It's not a lot of pressure, but it's definitely consistent pressure.
I doubt you'll respond after 5 months,but I was wondering if you figured out a solution to adding the screenbar to an ultrawide. That circular buldge on my LG 34 ultrawide causing me headaches and I don't know what to do.
Mine isn't the sturdiest thing sitting on top of my ultrawide but it does stay put for the most part without anything special going on. Unfortunately I don't think light bars like this are really designed for larger, bulkier ultrawides.
Razer mouspad and Logitech mouse, what a combination :p
I already have installed a logitec brio webcam on my screen’s upper side...is there a way to mount both, this light bar and my webcam?
I have a Logitech web cam, do you think I could still use it with the light bar mounted?
I'm not sure, to be honest. It would probably get in the way of the camera, but I could be wrong.
@@MichaelKocha Thanks for the reply
agree! good review.
What about frameless monitor ? Is it scratch monitor ?
I don't have a frameless monitor. But it does have a rubber pad where it would sit so it should be alright.
@@MichaelKocha thanks
What kind of Keyboard are you using.
Razer Ornata. I've used it for a couple years now and I'll buy another if it ever goes out. I love it. Its kind of loud but not as bad as most mechanical keyboards. I forget what switches it has, but they're not as clicky as most I've had and tried.
What's the device below your main screen?
Sorry I missed this. It's a GoXLR. It's basically an audio mixer for an XLR microphone and I absolutely love it. It splits all my audio into channels so I can use the sliders to change my game volume vs discord vs my mic, etc. It's amazing. I use it every day.
does it affect ur monitor with glare/reflection? or is the monitor look as normal as if there is no lamp?
No glare, but it highlights every speck of dust on your monitor. Ha ha. But it motivates you to clean more. So... Win win?
How much in the way would this be of a webcam that's also clipped on the monitor? My camera is the Logitech C920s HD Pro Webcam. Thanks.
When we were moving it around and such, the webcam didn't fit right on the same monitor. I guess it depends on how big of a monitor you have too.
Why not just leave the room lights on? Or is that a preference.
I'm sure there are many reasons someone would prefer a desk lamp or even monitor lamp over leaving your room lights on. But sure. That's always an alternative.
For my room, the main lights are only good for illuminating everything decently, but poor for illuminating a specific area.
This type of light bar illuminates my main desk area nicely, and I can't go back to how it was before I purchased it.
Cana webcam be placed, next or on top of, this?
can lightbar damge my monitor screen cause my monitor bezel is thin
No idea. It's not very heavy but I wouldn't rest it on the screen itself if I were you.
Hey what desk are you using? It looks great
I cobbled it together from some scratch and dent furniture parts I found at Ikea. We built 2 of them for like $60 I think. They're not super sturdy, but I've had them for around 7 years now and they're going strong.
I wish it was only 100, it's 300 something in Canada lol.
Dang. Sorry to hear that.
Just do your thing.
You don't have to be sorry about a review lul.
Interesting
I can finally see how dirty my keyboard is
Seems kinda ridiculous on the price. I could just 3d print this mount and solder a strip of natural white led strips to a dimmer and call it a day for like 5 bucks.
What’s the desk? Lol
My desk is two desktops from Ikea we got from the damaged section. They were super cheap and I've been using them for years. I just screwed on some ikea desk legs. I think both desks cost maybe $30 altogether. I put them in an L in the corner.
Do you plug it into your monitor or PC?
Anywhere with a USB port will power it.
@@MichaelKocha thanks I’m scared it won’t work on my Alienware monitor like yours lol
Just get the Xiaomi one...
Anyone else no get sound?
Works for me.
Work for me too
Wayy too expensive for a light bar
That's because it's the best one, although it is slightly overpriced.
I brought it on a bet, I purchased it and was going to return it afterwards; but I kept it and lost the bet and hasp to pay for dinner the next time around! So, it $125 with tax and another $85 with drinks for her! F*cK! No action afterward either! So in total a $300 financial disaster!
those monitors are really glary
Hi
I initially loved mine even though the controls were sluggish. After less than 15 months, it went completely out. I'm in the market for one that is more reliable. I won't buy another BenQ.
Oh man. Sorry to hear that. Mine is still working just fine, but if it does do out anytime soon I'll be sure to update everyone here.
Looks nasty tacking and very Chinese pass
Big oof, subbed for devlogs and SnM updates, not ads. Unsubbed
That's alright. I get it. Why would you ever want to pay a creator for their time and effort anyway? That's silly.
@@MichaelKocha Dude you just had a successful Kickstarter, an Epic grant, AND your devlogs are literally free advertising for your game. Don't try to play the victim looool anyway I'm out
@@mywrath2 Uh look at me, i dont like that people need to pay bills, its not fair that hes more succesfull then i, i should hate on them because reasons
Nobody asked for your frickin opinon wich, given how you start throwing stuff it isnt even a good one, this man needs to pay his bills and taxes too, has to pay his team and stuff so shut up
NOBODY CARES
@@mywrath2 You don't understand the whole story here. And to say "I'm not here for ads" tells me you're probably watching UA-cam with an adblocker anyway, which is what I was referring to. I was sent this product long before the Kickstarter even started and it was the first offer I'd ever had for any sort of product placement or sponsorship so I jumped at it. Then I put it off for months because I was focusing on the Kickstarter and the game. After Kickstarter I felt pretty silly for accepting the offer, but I still had the lamp and I was contractually obligated to do the review. So yeah. It's the last video like this I'll do and I already feel bad about posting it because I know that's not what my audience is expecting. But I got a free desk lamp out of this, it's not like I'm making money hand over fist here. And the Kickstarter money goes to my team and the game. Not a penny of it has or will go into my personal account. That's not what it's for. My bills are paid through UA-cam, Patreon and Twitch. If you feel its necessary to unsubscribe because I posted a video that wasn't on par with my usual content, go for it. I get it.
@Helldome, From reading your comments I think you’ve made it clear that you feel any developer that has had some success with an unfinished project does not have any need for money... I hear you, but I do not understand the logic. What I find unclear is why you clicked on a video labeled as product testing, expecting to see a Dev log.
Yikes. That's an unsubscribe for me dawg.
Why?
Rude
I would be interested in knowing why. I mean, I understand that this isn't the usual content, but lots of channels post a variety of content. I used to post tutorials before I started Swords 'n Magic, imagine if I didn't branch out back then.
@@MichaelKocha Keep up the good work, man! Bad intentioned people are louder and more likely to write a negative comment.