Windows Vista: Disabling Services


Recommended Posts

I am not responsible for what you do to your Vista installation.

I suggest we use this thread to suggest to each other which services can be turned off, because we do not need them. This is a work in progress. I did not follow this post 100% and neither should you. Change services according to your computer config. If you do not have one of these services, chances are you already disabled the option in 'Turn Windows features on or off' or you are running a different edition of Windows Vista. Setting an Automatic service to Disabled will make sure it will not start when you boot up. Setting a Manual service to Disabled has no effect on performance and will only stop Vista from launching the service when it the OS believes it is needed.

Note: the default options are for Vista Ultimate. Some are obviously different.

A good application for saving presets of your services is: http://p-nand-q.com/download/pserv_cpl.html

Start > services.msc > Enter

Winkey + R > services.msc > Enter

Application Experience - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Application Information - Default: Manual (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Application Layer Gateway Service - Default: Manual

- Used for certain software services | If this service is started already, leave on Manual (Safe) | If it is not, set to Disabled

Application Management - Default: Manual

- If you don't "deploy software through Group Policy", Set to Disabled

Background Intelligent Transfer Service - Default: Automatic (Delayed Start) (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is (unless you don't use Windows Update)

Base Filtering Engine - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Disabling this service reduces security of the OS (needed for firewall, some unusual protocols, remote access, and internet connection sharing), Safe: Leave as is

Block Level Backup Engine Service - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service

Certificate Propagation - Default: Manual

- If you don't use Smart Cards, Safe: Set to Disabled

CNG Key Isolation - Default: Manual

- This service may be needed if you are on Wired/Wireless Lan Autoconfig Since and will be using EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol), Otherwise: Set to Disabled

COM+ Event System - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Responsible for many things including the Backup and Restore Center, Safe: Leave as is

COM+ System Application - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service

Computer Browser - Default: Automatic

- If you aren't on a network, Safe: Set to Disabled

Cryptographic Services - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Needed for some connections/websites (Microsoft/Windows Update?), confirms signatures of windows files, Safe: Leave as is

DCOM Server Process Launcher - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Desktop Window Manager Session Manager - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use the advanced Aero Glass transparency interface, Safe: Set to Disabled

DFS Replication - Default: Manual

- If you aren't on a network, Safe: Set to Disabled

DHCP Client - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Typically needed for most Internet Connections (maybe not if you have a static IP), Safe: Leave as is

Diagnostic Policy Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't care for Windows finding solutions to problems (including fixing internet connection problems in vista and ie7), Safe: Set to Disabled

Diagnostic Service Host - Default: Manual

- If you don't care for Windows finding solutions to problems, Safe: Set to Disabled

Diagnostic System Host - Default: Manual (Started)

- If you don't care for Windows finding solutions to problems, Safe: Set to Disabled

Distributed Link Tracking Client - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't have links between NTFS Files, Safe: Set to Disabled

Distributed Transaction Coordinator - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service (Set to Disabled)

DNS Client - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Needed once in a while, Safe: Leave as is

Extensible Authentication Protocol - Default: Manual

- Disabling this service reduces security of the OS (needed for firewall, some unusual protocols, remote access, and internet connection sharing), Safe: Leave as is

Fax - Default: Manual

- If you don't use a fax or a scanner, Safe: Set to Disabled

Function Discovery Provider Host - Default: Manual (Started)

- If not on a network (needed for certain uncommon network components), Safe: Set to Disabled

Function Discovery Resource Publication - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If not on a network (needed for certain uncommon network components), Safe: Set to Disabled

Group Policy Client - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is (can technically be disabled if not used, will look into possible problems later)

Health Key and Certificate Management - Default: Manual

- Safe: Set to Disabled

Human Interface Device Access - Default: Manual

- If you don't use the extra buttons on your keyboard or use the software for it, Safe: Set to Disabled

IKE and AuthIP IPsec Keying Modules - Default: Automatic

- Safe: Set to Disabled

Infrared Monitor service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't have/use infrared, Safe: Set to Disabled

Interactive Services Detection - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service (Set to Disabled)

Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) - Default: Disabled

- Possibly not needed (will look into), Safe: Leave as is

IP Helper - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't want IPv6 support, Safe: Set to Disabled

IPsec Policy Agent - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Possibly not needed (will look into), Safe: Leave as is

KtmRM for Distributed Transaction Coordinator - Default: Automatic (Delayed Start)

- Possibly not needed (will look into), Safe: Leave as is

Link-Layer Topology Discovery Mapper - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service

Microsoft .Net Framework NGEN v.20.50727_X64/X86 - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Microsoft iSCSI Initiator Service - Default: Manual

- If you don't use iSCSI, Safe: Set to Disabled

Microsoft Software Shadow Copy Provider - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service

Multimedia Class Scheduler - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Needed for Windows Audio, Safe: Leave as is

Net.Tcp Port Sharing Service - Default: Disabled

- Safe: Leave as is

Netlogon - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service (Set to Disabled)

Network Access Protection Agent - Default: Manual

- Safe: Set to Disabled

Network Connections - Default: Manual (Started)

- Unless you aren't using the internet, Safe: Leave as is

Network List Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Unless you aren't using the internet, Safe: Leave as is

Network Location Awareness - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Unless you aren't using the internet, Safe: Leave as is

Network Store Interface Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Unless you aren't using the internet, Safe: Leave as is

Offline Files - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Unless you use them, Safe: Set to Disabled

Parental Controls - Default: Manual

- Unless you use them, Safe: Set to Disabled

Peer Name Resolution Protocol - Default: Manual

- Unless you use Windows Meetings, Safe: Set to Disabled

Peer Networking Grouping - Default: Manual

- Unless you use such applications, Safe: Set to Disabled

Peer Networking Identity Manger - Default: Manual

- Safe: Set to Disabled

Performance Logs & Alerts - Default: Manual

- Needed for many features of Windows, Safe: Leave as is

Plug and Play - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Unless you don't connect various devices often, Safe: Leave as is

PnP-X IP Bus Enumerator - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service (Set to Disabled)

PNRP Machine Name Publication Service - Default: Manual

- Safe: Set to Disabled

Portable Device Enumerator Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you do not own a portable device, Safe: Set to Disabled

Print Spooler - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If no printer (including virtual ones) is present on the computer, Safe: Set to Disabled

Problem Reports and Solutions Control Panel Support - Default: Manual

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled

Program Compatibility Assistant Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use the Program Compatibility Assistant, Safe: Set to Disabled

Protected Storage - Default: Manual

- If you don't save passwords, Safe: Set to Disabled

Quality Windows Audio Video Experience - Default: Manual

- If you don't need it, Safe: Set to Disabled

ReadyBoost - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use USB drives as a memory boost, Safe: Set to Disabled

Remote Access Auto Connection Manager - Default: Manual

- If you won't be connecting to your computer remotely, Safe: Set to Disabled

Remote Access Connection Manger - Default: Manual (Started)

- If you won't be connecting to your computer remotely, Safe: Set to Disabled

Remote Procedure Call (RPC) - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Vital, Safe: Leave as is

Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator - Default: Manual

- Possibly not needed (will look into), Safe: Leave as is

Remote Registry - Default: Manual

- Recommended: Set to Disabled

Routing and Remote Access - Default: Disabled

- Typically not needed, Safe: Leave as is

Secondary Logon - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you are only running vista with one user, Safe: Set to Disabled

Security Accounts Manager - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use Global Policy Editor, Safe: Set to Disabled

Security Center - Default: Automatic (Delayed Start) (Started)

- If you don't use the Security Center, Safe: Set to Disabled

Server - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't plan to send files or print them over a network, Safe: Set to Disabled

Shell Hardware Detection - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use Autoplay, Safe: Set to Disabled

SL UI Notification Service - Default: Manual

- Not required on most setups (needed for Tablet Input Panel) but may break the control panel, Safe: Leave as is

Smart Card - Default: Manual

- If you don't use Smart Cards, Safe: Set to Disabled

Smart Card Removal Policy - Default: Manual

- If you don't use Smart Cards, Safe: Set to Disabled

SNMP Trap - Default: Manual

- If not on a network with SNMP, Safe: Set to Disabled

Software Licensing - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Needed for the Control Panel and other parts of Windows to function (Tablet Input Panel for Tablets), Safe: Leave as is

SSDP Discovery - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't have such devices, Set to Disabled

Superfetch - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

System Event Notification Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Typically not needed (event log may display an error if disabled) Safe: Leave as is

Table PC Input Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't have a tablet PC, Safe: Set to Disabled

Task Scheduler - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Needed for various Windows and 3rd Party Programs, Safe: Leave as is

TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you won't be sharing files between computers, Set to Disabled

Telephony - Default: Manual (Started)

- Needed for dial-up and certain DSL connections, Safe: Leave as is

Terminal Services - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't plan to administer remote computers, Safe: Set to Disabled

Terminal Services Configuration - Default: Manual

- If you don't plan to administer remote computers, Safe: Set to Disabled

Terminal Services UserMode Port Redirector - Default: Manual

- If you don't plan to administer remote computers, Safe: Set to Disabled

Themes - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you are using Windows Classic, Safe: Set to Disabled

Thread Ordering Server - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

TPM Base Services - Default: Manual

- Used for hardware certificates, Safe: Leave as is

UPnP Device Host - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use UPnP, Safe: Set to Disabled

User Profile Service - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Virtual Disk - Default: Manual

- Since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service

Volume Shadow Copy - Default: Manual

- Needed for some integrated backups, since this service is on manual and does not start, it may be needed at some point, but it isn't a critical service

WebClient - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use web folders, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Audio - Default: Automatic (Started

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Audio Endpoint Builder - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Backup - Default: Manual

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled, Recommended: Leave as is

Windows CardSpace - Default: Manual

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Color System - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Connect Now - Config Registrat - Default: Manual

- Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Defender - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled, Recommended: Leave as is

Windows Driver Foundation - User-mode Driver Framework - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Error Reporting Service - Default: Automatic

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled, Recommended: Leave as is

Windows Event Collector - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Event Log - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Firewall - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled, Recommended: Leave as is

Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) - Default: Manual

- If you don't have a scanner/camera, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Installer - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Management Instrumentation - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Media Center Extender Service - Default: Disabled

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Media Center Receiver Service - Default: Manual

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Media Center Scheduler Service - Default: Manual

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Media Center Service Launcher - Default: Automatic (Delayed Start) (Started)

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service - Default: Manual

- If no portable device is owned, Set to Disabled

Windows Modules Installer - Default: Manual

- Certain Windows Updates require it, Safe: Leave as is

Windows Presentation Foundation Font Cache 3.0.0.0 - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Windows Remote Management (WS-Management) - Default: Manual

- If you don't plan to administer remote computers, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Search - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled, Recommended: Leave as is

Windows Time - Default: Automatic (Started)

- If you don't plan to sync the clock with a server, Safe: Set to Disabled

Windows Update - Default: Automatic (Delayed Start) (Started)

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled, Recommended: Leave as is

WinHTTP Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Service - Default: Manual

- Almost always not needed, Safe: Set to Disabled

Wired/WLAN AutoConfig - Default: Manual

- If you don't use it, Safe: Set to Disabled

WMI Performance Adapter - Default: Manual

- Safe: Leave as is

Workstation - Default: Automatic (Started)

- Unless you are having a major lag during boot time or if you plan on being on a LAN, Safe: Leave as is

Please inform me about mistakes, what you have found and what you would change :)

Edited by Slimy
Link to comment
https://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/513758-windows-vista-disabling-services/
Share on other sites

I was considering doing that and showing everyone what I disable, but there really is no point. Everyone uses their computer for different things and therefore uses different services. The point of this thread is for anyone to be able to go through the list making their own decisions for each service, based on how they use their computer :)

You could add my At-A-Glance screenshot of how I've set up my services - it turned out very safe and stable for me :)

Those who don't want to read through the entire post for the recommended settings can determine with a simple look at the screenshot if it's safe to turn off that service.

The list is sorted alphabetically by startup type - the first group is "Automatic", the second is "Disabled" and the third is "Manual".

vista-dienste.png

There are some services that don't appear if you don't have the hardware for it, like infrared. I don't have that one either so one less thing for me to disable. I've safely disabled things like Fax, Print Spooler and anything Smart Card related but everything else I've left alone.

There are some services that don't appear if you don't have the hardware for it, like infrared.

Hmm, I didn't know that. I just assumed everything was installed just in case you would be making a hardware upgrade...

I guess my list isn't as complete as I thought it was :pinch:

You could add my At-A-Glance screenshot of how I've set up my services - it turned out very safe and stable for me :)

Those who don't want to read through the entire post for the recommended settings can determine with a simple look at the screenshot if it's safe to turn off that service.

The list is sorted alphabetically by startup type - the first group is "Automatic", the second is "Disabled" and the third is "Manual".

vista-dienste.png

What language is that screenshot in? German?

How many languages is Vista RTM currently available in?

What language is that screenshot in? German?

How many languages is Vista RTM currently available in?

Yes, it's German. I'd say that the Rtm is currently avaiable in English, German and Japanese, just like the RCs, and other languages will take a while to appear. Translating an entire OS takes its time.

  • 3 weeks later...
  • 2 weeks later...

if services are on manual they do not really need to be disabled seeing as they are not active until something needs to use that service therefore not using any resources. Microsoft have actually done a great job on minimizing it down to only what is needed for a typical system, not much needs to be changed.

anyone know which services depend "Help and Support" in the taskbar? it does not work in mine now :(

Go to the Services control panel, right-click on the?"Help and Support" service and select "Properties". On the last tab you can see what services this one depends on. Check that they're not deactivated.

Thanks for the list, Slimy. It's been really useful. I've turned off everything possible. I only have the necessary things to make my system work and connect to the internet. I didn't see much performance difference, but boot time is a lot shorter.

I want to post my settings here to discuss and to give people an idea what can be safely turned off, but I don't know how I can do it easily. How can I export my services settings as a list so I can copy and paste here?

This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Posts

    • Likely nothing will be done in corporate America, there have been countless Tesla self-driving incidents. Then again, there have also been countless human operated incidents. It's literally daily news here in Canada, to the extent that it's now odd if we get a day where a collision doesn't get announced on the radio throughout the day...
    • SKG Hand Massager with Heat OS500 hands on by Steven Parker I was offered the chance to test out the SKG Hand Massager with Heat OS500, and full disclosure, they let me keep it regardless of my findings. Anyway, I jumped at the chance due to my long hours sitting at my desk, mousing around. Apologies for the knife cut across the top of the box; that was my doing, being a bit too heavy-handed with opening up the outer packaging. First up, what's in the box: SKG Hand Massager with Heat OS500 1x Type-C charging cable User Manual 1-Year Warranty (card) In short, everything you need to get started. According to the official Amazon listing, here are the key features: Full-Hand Air Compression: OS500 wraps your fingers, palm, and wrist with multi-chamber air compression for a complete hand relaxation experience. The extended massage chamber helps cover more of the hand and wrist area than standard palm-only hand massagers Palm Kneading with 6 Modes & 6 Intensities: Built-in palm kneading rollers add a hands-on massage feel, while 6 preset modes and 6 pressure levels let you choose the comfort level that fits your day—from gentle relaxation to a firmer full-hand massage 3 Heat Levels with Cooling Fan: Choose from 104°F, 113°F or 122°F warmth to suit different seasons and comfort preferences. The built-in cooling fan helps reduce stuffiness during heated sessions, keeping your hand feeling fresh and comfortable Easy Visual Display & Smart Timer: The digital image display clearly shows massage area, mode, intensity, heat level, and remaining time at a glance. Select 10, 15, or 20-minute sessions for quick office breaks, evening relaxation, or everyday hand care Rechargeable, Cordless & Comfortable: A 3000mAh battery supports over 90 minutes of full-function use on a full charge, with convenient USB-C charging. The soft inner lining, smooth ABS/PU finish, and premium black-gold design make OS500 ideal for home, office, or gifting With all that out of the way, here are my own findings. I gave it a try on both left and right hands, and as you can maybe see from the above YouTube Short, (sorry for the shaky video), my whole hand fits in, but my wrist barely enters the Hand Massager. I was able to push through a bit more with my fingertips extending out the other end to get a bit of massaging on the start of my wrist. Usage For some reason, there is a strap that is very difficult to fasten to my wrist with one hand. I am not sure what function it has, and it isn't mentioned in the user manual. The only thing I could find was in the product images that claimed "wrist precision". Unlike the Bob and Brad Hand Massager, this device does not massage the wrist anyway, even though a "wrist mode" is mentioned, which must be for smaller hands than I have, as it is mainly intended for the hand and fingers. In addition, for its steeper price, there are no disposable gloves provided in the box, which is a bit of an issue considering the internal cover (which appears to be elasticated nylon) cannot be removed for washing; so you are left with only one choice: always thoroughly wash your hands before using it. I can imagine this thing getting a bit grimy after a period of use, and that is a bit of a shame. With that said, the buttons on the device, from left to right, do the following: Heat button: 3-level heat control at 104°F, 113°F, or 122°F Mode button: Auto mode Circular mode Soothing mode Relax mode Palm and fingers mode Palm and wrist mode Intensity button: from (First-time users) 15Ka, 25Ka, 35Ka, 45Ka, 55Ka, 60Ka (Intensive relief) Knead button: on or off (6 pressure levels) Power button: Long-press to turn on or off Cooling button: turn on or off the cooling fan Also, in the product imagery, it states there are 36 "custom modes," but nowhere is it listed what these modes are. I can only imagine that they mean a combination of all of the above settings in different intensity levels. The device itself seems to rely on a single "kneading" mechanism located at the palm area of the hand, which spins when in use, and the other massage features are mainly utilized through the air sacs, increasing and decreasing at various levels on the hand and fingers. I am not sure it offered too much relief for someone who is typing and operating a mouse for hours at a time; further testing may be required. It does feel nice, though. Finally, you may be wondering how this fits into the scope of a tech website? Well, let me tell you something: sometimes I sit for up to 15 hours working on Neowin, and although I take breaks in between, it takes a toll on my body. I think in the immediate absence of a partner to apply relief, a good massager like this Hand Massager can shed the strains of the day in just a couple of 15-minute bursts. On the official website, this has an MSRP of $99.99, but luckily for our readers, it is selling at $10 off for just $89.99 right now on Amazon. SKG Hand Massager with Heat OS500 for $89.99 (with $10 off coupon), $99.99 MSRP For me, this gets a thumbs hands(?) down. However, it could be improved by making it so that the protective covering could be removed and thrown into the washing machine, or get yourself some disposable gloves to use with it. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
    • Thanks for the info, but I'm still not sure if I need this....
    • We check out the SKG PS700 Neck Massager by Steven Parker I was offered the chance to test out the SKG PS700 Neck Massager, and full disclosure, they let me keep it regardless of my findings. Anyway, I jumped at the chance due to my long hours sitting at my desk; I figured it could offer some neck pain relief. What's in the box: SKG PS700-2 Neck Massager Rechargeable Battery (inside massager) Type-C USB cable User Manual Quick Start guide 1-Year Warranty In short, everything you need to get started. According to the official listing, here are the key features: Biomimetic Kneading & High Torque Motor: Designed with innovative biomimetic kneading heads that perfectly simulate the touch of human hands. Powered by a high-torque motor, this massager delivers powerful and precise deep tissue relief to effectively target stiff neck muscles and release built-up tension Soothing Heat & Integrated Sound Relaxation: Experience the ultimate Relaxationation with our dual-action approach. The soothing heat function gently warms your neck, while the built-in sound Relaxation provides calming audio tracks, helping you achieve a state of mindfulness and mental tranquility during your physical massage Cordless Convenience & Travel-Ready & Father's Day Gifts: Crafted for maximum portability and ease of use. Its lightweight, cordless design allows you to enjoy a premium massage anywhere without the hassle of tangled wires-whether you're taking a quick break at your desk or winding down at home Versatile Relief for Home & Office: An essential wellness companion for office workers, gamers, frequent travelers, or anyone looking to integrate mindfulness into their daily routine. It seamlessly fits into your lifestyle, providing instant neck relief whenever and wherever you need it Safe & Premium Materials: Manufactured with high-quality, skin-friendly materials to ensure a safe and comfortable experience without irritation. SKG backs this device with dedicated customer service, making it a thoughtful tech-health gift for family and friends App & Bluetooth Music Control: Connect via Bluetooth to control your massage settings through the dedicated app and enjoy your favorite music during your massage session for a fully customizable and immersive relaxation experience Red Light Warmth Technology: Features advanced red light warmth technology that penetrates deep into neck muscles to enhance blood circulation and provide soothing comfort while relieving muscle tension and stiffness Design With all that out of the way, here are my own findings. SKG does not say what materials are used to make the neck massager. However, on the product website, it mentions "soft-touch silicone" with what looks like PU leather cushioning, with the rest being mostly made up of plastics. On the inside of the massager, there are two "biomimetic kneading heads" that are motorized for the different styles of massage, which are not actually listed at all in the paper user manual, but the standard included modes are: De-stress mode, Mediation mode, Relax mode, Shiatsu mode. The massager looks quite premium and is actually very comfortable to wear. This massager is small and light enough to go anywhere, as it doesn't get in the way of anything, so I was able to use it in the chair while writing this review. Unlike the back massager, SKG does not warn in the user guide not to use it for more than 30 minutes a day (or two 15-minute sessions). However, there is a long laundry list of important safeguards to consider before and during the use of the device, and it is warned that the neck massager is not waterproof. It also includes a 1,400mAh battery with a rated power of 14W and input of 5V, which is the standard for up to USB 3.0 power (although the Amperage is not mentioned at all). SKG does not say how long it takes to charge, but a quick calculation at 2A (if that is what it is) would mean it would take roughly 1.5 hrs to charge from empty. In any case, the light around the button changes from orange to green on a full charge. In addition, it is not possible to use the device while it is charging. On the right of the neck massager is the On/Off and modes button, which also acts as a joystick. You can operate all the modes directly from the power button, as well as the app, which I'll get into a bit later: Push up: Short press to adjust Heat levels On/Off button: long press Mode Switching: Short press (while in operation) ➕ Push left: increase Music volume ➖ push right: decrease Music volume Push down: Short-press to turn Music on or off The massager defaults to De-stress mode, and it is not stated anywhere if the neck massager has overheat protection. This time around, regarding heat, the only detail I could find is that it has "triple action soothing heat." The temperature stages are not listed anywhere in the paper manual, Amazon listing, or official website. The heat levels can be adjusted through the app or directly on the device using the joystick button. Usage There's also the SKG Health app, which makes using the massager far easier than feeling around for the button on the side of your neck. If the app is stopped, you are required to log in with a verification code over email, which I am not too pleased with, as this means it will only work that way for however long SKG decides to support it through said app. However, I was not able to get the app to connect to the OS500, which I have reported back to my contact. Bluetooth appeared to be working on the neck massager as it became available to pair with my phone, but the SKG app failed to discover it. Before I forget, there's also a switch next to the USB charging port to deactivate and activate the Voice Prompt, which, when enabled, audibly tells the user when switching intensities, modes, or connecting to the app and informs when the massages start and are completed. That said, on to my likes and dislikes, which are listed below. What I didn't like Unable to connect the Neck Massager to the app Use through the mobile app relies on continued support from SKG What I liked Can be used without the app Cordless use Light and comfortable to wear Heat is also quite comfortable Where to buy: According to the official website, this has an MSRP of $249.99, but is currently $50 (on Amazon). To sweeten the deal a bit more, there's also an in-page coupon that knocks a further $20 off the price. SKG PS700-2 Neck Massager for $179.99 on Amazon (was $199.99) Apply the in-page $20 off coupon for the final price of $179.99 Just like the back massager, this gets a confused thumbs up (due to the cost). However, I cannot rate it through app usage as it failed to connect. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
    • This Samsung T7 external SSD deal lasts less than a day by Sayan Sen Recently we had covered some nice deals of internal NVMe SSDs which include the 4TB TeamGroup G50 for only $400, the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB for just $243, as well as the Samsung 990 PRO 1TB for $370. If however you require an external SSD for portability and quick data transfers and have a budget of less than $200 the Samsung T7 1TB model is currently on a limited time deal at just $190, it's lowest price in nearly three months. The deal ends today so you better hurry if you need one (purchase link below). The T7 weighs in at just 72 grams meaning it should be fairly easy to carry around helping in the portability department. Via its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface the T7 promises sequential read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s and writes of 1000 MB/s. It is also fairly robust with a drop protection of up to 2 meters, though bear in mind that this is not waterproof. For that you will have to choose the rugged T7 Shield. The technical specifications of the Samsung T7 1TB are given in the table below: Specification Value Model Code (1TB) MU-PC1T0T / MU-PC1T0H Interface USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) Dimensions (W × H × D) 85 × 57 × 8 mm Weight 72 g Sequential Read Speed Up to 1,050 MB/s Sequential Write Speed Up to 1,000 MB/s Drop Resistance Up to 2 m (6.6 ft) Encryption AES 256-bit hardware encryption Operating Temperature 0°C to 60°C Non-Operating Temperature -40°C to 85°C Humidity 5% to 95% (non-condensing) Shock Resistance 1,500 G, duration 0.5 ms, 3-axis (non-operating) Vibration Resistance 20–2,000 Hz, 20 G (non-operating) Get it at the link below: Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive, MU-PC1T0T/AM, Gray: $189.98 (Sold and Shipped by Amazon US) Good to know This Amazon deal is U.S. specific, and not available in other regions unless specified. We only use first-party seller links (at the time of article publishing); ensure that you purchase from a first-party seller link only. Check out Today's Deals on Amazon | or our recent tech deals. Become a Prime member (for Students or SNAP) via Neowin Get Prime Access - Prime for half price (for qualifying Medicaid, EBT, SNAP) Subscribe to Prime Video, Audible Plus, Music Unlimited or Kindle Unlimited via Neowin As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
  • Recent Achievements

    • Dedicated
      Almohandis earned a badge
      Dedicated
    • Dedicated
      JuvenileDelinquent earned a badge
      Dedicated
    • First Post
      DrWankel earned a badge
      First Post
    • Reacting Well
      DrWankel earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Week One Done
      Supreme Spray LV earned a badge
      Week One Done
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      505
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      184
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      85
    4. 4
      Michael Scrip
      78
    5. 5
      Steven P.
      76
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!