Hands-on reviews · Researched recommendations
Recommendations grounded in real experience
Some of my recommendations come from products and services I’ve personally bought, used, or hired, from camera gear to a new roof. Others are carefully researched picks I haven’t tested yet. Every one is clearly labeled, so you always know which is which.
Two ways to explore
Explore what matters to you
Looking for a product or hiring a service? Choose a path to find honest reviews and recommendations.
Product Reviews
Honest reviews of products I’ve bought and used myself, plus carefully researched picks. Each one is clearly labeled Tested or Researched, so you always know where my recommendation comes from.
Service Experiences
Real experiences with the companies and people I’ve hired, what the process was really like, and whether I’d hire them again.
Featured reviews
Start with these
Victiv 74" Camera Tripod Review
A great-value 74″ tripod for creators who shoot with both cameras and smartphones, and steady even outdoors in the wind.
New Roof Installation
Don’t wait for leaks. Replacing an aging roof early saved me stress, and Romero Construction made it easy.
Gutter Replacement Review
Stronger new gutters and guards that keep out leaves and pine needles, installed by a team I’d hire again.
Trust & transparency
How recommendations work
Clear labels tell you where each recommendation comes from, and how this site earns money.
I used it myself
I bought the product or hired the service myself and share what actually happened, pros and cons included.
Carefully researched
I compared specs, features, and trusted sources but haven’t used it yet. If I test it later, the label changes to Tested.
How I earn
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. It never changes what I recommend.
Meet the reviewer
Why I Started Online Consumer Connect
I’m Ritchie Short, and I’ve worked with technology since 1983, including 20 years as an Information Technology Specialist. Over the years, friends, family, and coworkers have come to me with questions about what to buy and whether it’s worth it.
I use what I recommend. My everyday gear includes computers, printers, photography equipment, and ham radio equipment, and I installed a new radio in my own car. When I need a product or a service, from gear to home projects like new gutters and a new roof, I do my homework first and then share what I learn. Online Consumer Connect is where I pass those answers on to you.
My promise is simple: I tell you what I actually experienced, the good and the bad. When I’ve used a product or hired a service myself, it’s labeled Tested or Hired. When I haven’t used something personally, I research it carefully before I recommend it, and it’s labeled a Researched Pick. That way, you always know exactly where my recommendation comes from.
— Ritchie Short
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