About Perspective Gadgets
Hi, I’m Gary, a retired Chartered Civil Engineer (B.Sc., C.Eng., MICE) with over 40 years’ experience designing, evaluating, and managing complex infrastructure projects.
One moment early in my career really stayed with me. I was working with Greek engineers in Athens when my UK-based manager joined a meeting and said, “You’re barking up the wrong tree.”
The room went silent. Dogs? Trees? We were supposed to be discussing a bridge.
That experience taught me an important lesson: technical expertise is useless if it isn’t communicated clearly. Throughout my career, I learned that when people come from different backgrounds — or when technology meets everyday users — clarity, simplicity, and plain language matter more than clever phrases or complex explanations.
My work was rarely about theory alone. It was about ensuring systems worked reliably in the real world — under imperfect conditions, with real users, real constraints, and real consequences if things failed.
In retirement, I created Perspective Gadgets to apply that same practical, no-nonsense engineering mindset to consumer technology — especially for people who want technology to work simply, safely, and reliably, without unnecessary complexity.
Why This Site Exists
Most technology reviews are written for enthusiasts who enjoy jargon, specifications, and constant upgrades.
Many everyday users — particularly those in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond — want answers to different questions:
- Will this actually work in my home?
- Is it worth the money over time?
- Can I set it up without frustration?
- Will it still be supported in a few years?
After years of helping friends and family navigate smart home devices, energy-saving gadgets, and safety technology, I realised there was a gap between marketing claims and practical reality. Perspective Gadgets exists to close that gap.
My Approach
Every product I review or recommend is evaluated using the same principles I relied on during my engineering career:
Does it work in real conditions?
Not in a laboratory or a promotional video, but in real homes with real Wi-Fi, real walls, and everyday users.
Is it worth the money over time?
I look beyond the purchase price to consider reliability, support, durability, and long-term value.
Can normal people use it easily?
If a product is difficult to install, confusing to use, or requires specialist knowledge, I say so clearly.
Is it likely to be supported in the future?
I pay attention to manufacturer track records and product longevity, not just new features.
No product is perfect. I always include both strengths and limitations, and I clearly state when a review is based on personal testing versus detailed research.
How I Create Content
Transparency matters.
Personal Testing
When I have personally bought and used a product, I state this clearly. My assessments are based on real-world use over time, including setup experience, reliability, and practical day-to-day performance.
Research-Based Reviews
For products I have not personally tested, I conduct structured research: analysing specifications, reviewing large numbers of verified customer reviews to identify consistent patterns, consulting independent expert sources, and comparing alternatives across price ranges.
I always distinguish between first-hand experience and research-based analysis so readers can make informed decisions.
My Background & Qualifications
Education & Professional Status
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Civil Engineering
- Chartered Engineer (C.Eng.), Engineering Council UK Reg No 322902
- Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers (MICE) you can check my membership here with this link to the Institution of Civil Engineers.
Professional Experience
- Over 40 years in civil engineering and infrastructure systems
- Evaluating how things perform, how reliable they are, and whether they offer long-term value
- Career focused on translating complex systems into clear, actionable guidance for non-technical audiences
These same skills apply directly to assessing whether consumer technology will deliver on its promises in everyday life.
What I Focus On
Perspective Gadgets covers practical technology that solves real problems, including:
- Smart Home Devices that genuinely simplify daily life
- Energy-Saving Technology that offers realistic long-term value
- Home & Personal Safety Products designed to improve confidence and peace of mind
- Everyday Gadgets that prioritise usability over novelty
Transparency & Affiliate Disclosure
Perspective Gadgets participates in affiliate marketing programs.
If you click a product link and make a qualifying purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
My commitment to readers:
- Recommendations are never influenced by commission rates
- I include both advantages and drawbacks
- I clearly state when I have not personally tested a product
- I prioritise usefulness and long-term value over hype
You can read full details on my Affiliate Disclosure page.
Get In Touch
I welcome questions, suggestions, and corrections.
Email: gary@perspectivegadgets.com or contact me through my Contact Page.
I read messages personally and usually reply within 24–48 hours.
I’m happy to help with:
- Questions about products I’ve reviewed
- Suggestions for future topics
- Corrections if information has changed
My Promise to You
Technology should make life easier — not more complicated.
Every article on Perspective Gadgets is written with one simple question in mind:
Would I confidently recommend this to my own friends or family?
If the answer is no, I won’t recommend it here.
Thank you for visiting, and I hope my perspective helps you make confident, informed decisions.
Gary
Chartered Civil Engineer (Retired)
B.Sc.(Hons), C.Eng., MICE
Perspective Gadgets
Last updated: January 2026