Lots of watch “deals” you see online aren’t really deals at all. They look like bargains because stores sell models well below their original (and unrealistic) suggested retail prices. Right now, however, Amazon has some genuinely good deals on some really handsome Citizen watches. And, if you’re a Prime subscriber, you can still get most of them with plenty of time to spare, making them one of the more perfect Father’s Day gifts. We’ve picked out some of our favorites that have really solid discounts going right now:

Citizen Men’s Sport Luxury Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch $211 (Was $356)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Weekender Garrison Field Watch $114 (Was $225)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Classic Corso Eco-Drive Watch, Chronograph $178 (Was $395)

Citizen

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Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Mens Watch $247 (Was $425)

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Sport Casual Brycen Weekender Chronograph Watch $175 (Was $375)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Corso Classic Watch in Stainless Steel with Brown Leather strap $189 (Was $325)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch, Super Titanium $287 (Was $575)

Citizen

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Citizen Watches Men’s CA0621-05L Eco-Drive $133 (Was $190)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Sport Casual Brycen Weekender Chronograph Watch $197 (Was $375)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Weekender Garrison Field Watch in Black IP Stainless Steel with Brown Leather strap $130 (Was $295)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Garrison 3-Hand Day/Date Eco-Drive Nylon Strap $144 (Was $206)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Classic Eco-Drive Leather Strap Watch $136 (Was $195)

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Citizen Eco-Drive Weekender Mens Watch, Stainless Steel with Polyurethane Strap $143 (Was $275)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Promaster Sea Automatic Polyurethane Strap Watch $305 (Was $575)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Weekender Garrison Field Watch in Stainless Steel, Black Dial $167 (Was $250)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Promaster Sailhawk Eco-Drive Watch $297 (Was $550)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Garrison 3-Hand Eco-Drive Cordura Strap $203 (Was $295)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Classic Watch in Super Titanium with Atomic Timekeeping $417 (Was $596)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Avion Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch $252 (Was $395)

Citizen

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Citizen Corso Eco-Drive Men’s Watch $256 (Was $395)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Avion Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch $210 (Was $300)

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Citizen Men’s Promaster Dive Eco-Drive Watch $275 (Was $550)

Citizen

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The post Just about every type of Citizen watch is on-sale at Amazon right now appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best wicker		Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece		SEE IT	Wicker patio furniture is a timeless, weather-enduring, and aesthetically pleasing pick to complete your outdoor space—this cushioned and sleek set certainly fits the bill.
Best metal		SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set		SEE IT	Ergonomically-designed for support and comfort, this modern set will endure any outdoor conditions without fading or weathering.
Best budget		Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set		SEE IT	Stylish patio furniture doesn’t need to break the bank—this simplistic and rust-resistant pick is durable, yet affordable.

There’s nothing quite like spending time on the patio. Not only is breathing in fresh air good for your health, but relaxing outside, or laughing with friends and family while you dine under the stars really rejuvenates your being. To be able to do it all in your own backyard is just the icing on the cake. Your particular parameters—from size to climate to your aesthetic—will determine which outdoor furniture suits your space best. The best patio furniture will enhance your outdoor space and your experience.

• Best wicker: Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece
• Best metal: SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set
• Best plastic: Keter Furniture Patio Chairs
• Best aluminum: GDF Studio Nealie Patio 4 Piece Outdoor Aluminum Chat Set
• Best budget: Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set

How we chose the best patio furniture

Shopping for the best patio furniture is an exciting time. Think of your outdoor space as an extension of your indoor space, decor-wise. Once you’ve set it up to your liking, though, be warned: Neighbors, friends, and family won’t be able to stay away. Whether you want patio dining furniture or patio lounge furniture, prefer vintage wicker patio furniture or rustic wrought iron furniture, there are plenty of options. If you like a more mix-and-match vibe, shopping for individual pieces will help execute that vision. On the other hand, if you want a one-stop-shop, there are beautiful outdoor furniture sets to give you a cohesive look. If this area is going to be a focal point in your home and you want to be able to enjoy it season after season, invest in more durable materials. With that said, if you’re on a budget, you don’t need to break the bank. Always buy what you can afford. 

The best patio furniture: Reviews & Recommendations

Best wicker: Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece

Amazon

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Natural wicker patio furniture can be very difficult to care for, and plenty expensive. And the all-weather, synthetic stuff has come a long way. Imagine having your morning coffee, reading the paper or having lunch at this dreamy set made from eco-friendly rattan—a.k.a. synthetic polyethylene wicker. It has the look of the natural stuff but is hardy enough for outdoors—has a pretty weave that can also stand up to any kind of precipitation. So can the all-weather cushions, which are detachable and machine-washable. 

Best metal: SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set

Amazon

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This high-quality metal patio furniture set is perfect for your patio, the porch, or poolside. Sure to last, the frame is made of rust-resistant painted iron, the table top is made of tempered glass, and the cushions are quick-drying. The ergonomically designed rocking chairs provide comfort and support, and the sponge cushions—offered in brown, gray, and red—are waterproof and fade-resistant. Additionally, there’s a fixed button clip to attach the cushions to the chair so there will be no sliding off of these bad boys, nor will the wind come and take them away. 

Best plastic: Keter Furniture Patio Chairs

Amazon

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If you’re a fan of mixing and matching furniture, this plastic patio furniture may work well for you. The chairs come in turquoise, gray, and white, and at 24 pounds each, they’re light enough to move around from your patio to your porch to your fire pit. The maintenance-free resin used to make these chairs is rustproof and weatherproof, so you can enjoy them year after year. As a bonus, there’s a built-in cup holder. Score! 

Best aluminum: GDF Studio Nealie Patio 4 Piece Outdoor Aluminum Chat Set

Amazon

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This gorgeous patio furniture set is perfect for lounging around with a good book or hosting happy hour with friends. It includes four pieces: a loveseat, two armchairs, and a table. The frame of the chairs is made of powder-coated aluminum, which resists rust and UV light; and the table is constructed from sturdy faux wood. Not only are the thick polyester cushions comfortable and cozy, they’re easy to clean, should one of those cocktails from happy hour spill.

Best budget: Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set

Amazon

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This inexpensive patio set is the epitome of shabby chic. The frame is made from powder-coated steel, making it durable and rust-resistant. While the bars on the seat and back of the chairs are wide to offer some comfort, they won’t be as cushy as the more expensive sets. However, if a cheap patio furniture set that will last for multiple seasons is what you’re after, this is a great option. It’s offered in black, blue, red, mint, peacock blue, and yellow. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best patio furniture

When shopping for the best patio furniture, you’ll want to take a few things into consideration.  You want pieces that fit your space. There is so much available that you can absolutely find something that enhances your yard but doesn’t take over. Ask yourself what you’ll be doing more of: lounging or dining. This will determine whether lounge chairs, a three-piece set, a patio umbrella, or a dining set is the best option. If your indoor furniture is modern, consider extending that to your outdoor domain to create a cohesive style throughout. Lastly, your climate should determine what types of materials you pick, which will then give you an idea of pricing. 

The more weatherproof and durable your furniture is, the more expensive it will be; on the upside, it will last longer. The finer materials withstand climate changes and keep pests away. Similar to your indoor furniture, outdoor furniture can be an investment, and knowing you’re buying quality that will last year after year should ease your mind (if not your wallet).

Fabric and metal

Regardless of whether you plan to put your outdoor furniture in storage during the colder months, you’ll want all-weather patio furniture to withstand all the elements. The three best materials for outdoor furniture are wood, synthetic, and metal. What you choose will be based on your style preferences and lifestyle, as some require more care than others. For something low maintenance, teak wood is your best bet, as it can withstand even the harshest environments. (To maintain its color, just apply a teak protector.) Synthetics, a.k.a. plastic furniture, are the cheapest option. All-weather wicker looks nice and is easy to clean, and metal furniture, especially aluminum, resists rust and moisture damage. An additional way to protect your outdoor furniture is to use waterproof covers when it’s not in use. 

FAQs

A final word on shopping for the best patio furniture

• Best wicker: Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece
• Best metal: SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set
• Best plastic: Keter Furniture Patio Chairs
• Best aluminum: GDF Studio Nealie Patio 4 Piece Outdoor Aluminum Chat Set
• Best budget: Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set

Shopping for the best patio furniture brings you one step closer to realizing your outdoor oasis dreams. Consider what you can afford, but know that this is an investment that could potentially last for nearly two decades! Material is key, but your aesthetic is just as important, so as long as you find something that fits your vibe and is also durable, rust-resistant, and weatherproof, you can’t go wrong. Just be sure to purchase enough seating for your friends and family, because your house is going to become the one where everyone wants to be. All that’s missing is to get one of the best patio heaters, so you can enjoy your outdoor space even when it’s colder.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best patio furniture in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best backpack chair		Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair		SEE IT	A built-in cooler and flip-over pillow let you fully relax at the beach.
Best beach hammock		Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock		SEE IT	This hammock easily folds for even easier transportation.
Best budget		Coleman Camping Chair		SEE IT	Keep it simple with this lightweight, cheap beach chair

We’ve all done it: We go to the beach, bringing only a towel. “I can shape the sand into a sort of ground chair,” we tell ourselves, but it never really works out that way. So, instead of sinking into disappointment, grab a chair. The best beach chairs will allow you to enjoy the scenery, while also being durable and portable. Whether you’re on the best beach in the Pacific or in your yard next to the baby pool, take time to find the right size, style, and type of chair to best suit your needs.

• Best backpack chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair
• Best zero-gravity chair: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero-Gravity Lounge Folding Chair
• Best beach hammock: Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock
• Best camping chair: Helinox Sunset Chair
• Best budget: Coleman Camping Chair

How we chose the best beach chairs

When you’re shopping for the best beach chair, you want to be sure to snag a chair that will bring you hours of comfort, be durable enough to last at least through the summer, and be lightweight and collapsible for easy transport. Finding the best beach gear means asking yourself how and where you will be spending your time. If you plan on camping in a rustic, wooded coastal area, it may make sense to bring a portable beach hammock or easy-to-carry camping beach chair. If you have a smaller car or will be traveling on public transportation to your beach destination, you’ll want to opt for a smaller, low-profile beach chair—all the better if it has backpack straps.

The best beach chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

Best backpack chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair

Tommy Bahama

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This Tommy Bahama beach chair is a folding chair that allows for five reclining positions, as well as a pillow for sneaky naps. The backpack beach chair’s insulated cooler bag keeps snacks cool and free of sand.

Best zero-gravity chair: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero-Gravity Lounge Folding Chair

Amazon Basics

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This sturdy zero-gravity folding chair will work at the beach, thanks to rust- and weather-resistant materials. Unlike some others, this option also includes padded armrests and a pillow to support your neck.

Best beach hammock: Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock

Best Choice Products

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This beach hammock comes with a stand, as well as a carrying case; the stand disassembles with no tools needed, so you can pack up and move it around if necessary. It comes in several colors, too, if you want to coordinate with your bathing suit.

Best camping chair: Helinox Sunset Chair

Helinox

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This camping chair packs all kinds of beach-friendly features, including UV-resistant ripstop fabric and a zippered carrying case. But it’s also only 3.5 pounds in weight, which, as for all the best camping chairs, makes it perfect for carrying around.

Best budget: Coleman Camping Chair

Coleman

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This highly rated, powder-coated, steel, low-profile Coleman chair weighs in at only 5.3 pounds. This folding chair comes with its own carrying bag for easy transportation and includes some storage options (a mesh pocket in the back, and a cup holder on the seat) as well.

Things to consider when buying the best beach chair

There are also some extra features to beach chairs that might make your day all the more relaxing, from cooler packs to cup holders and cellphone pouches. For ultimate comfort, there are even zero-gravity-style chairs, which allow you to recline and raise your feet.

Related: Grab the best beach umbrella to shade yourself from the sun’s harsh rays.

Looking for a chair and backpack combo?

A day at the beach will include, at minimum, a comfortable chair, a few snacks and drinks, and your towel. The easier it is to carry all of this, the more easy and carefree your day will be. The best backpack beach chairs include straps that make carrying your beach haul incredibly easy. Look for backpack chairs that are adjustable, allowing for reclining flat for naps, or sitting upright for eating and watching the waves. The best backpack beach chairs—these will be folding chairs—will have some fun extras built in to help you relax and minimize the overall amount of beach day packing you need to do. Look for built-in pillows, cup holders, and more; our recommendation even includes a foldable towel rack.

Looking for a chair that will be comfortable for your back?

The best beach chairs will be comfortable for all-day lounging and relaxing. So-called zero-gravity chairs distribute weight evenly and allow you to recline so that your legs are above the height of your heart. These are just about the comfiest patio chairs out there, and some of them will work just as well on the sand. In order for a zero-gravity chair to work as a folding beach chair, it must be fully collapsible and be made from durable, UV-resistant materials. Be sure to check with the manufacturer for size guides and weight limits. Some zero-gravity beach chairs even have extra features like padding, cup holders, and canopies to shade you from the sun.

Get a jealousy-inducing nap with a beach hammock

Few images conjure up quintessential relaxation more than stretching out in a hammock. While it may seem silly to bring a hammock to a crowded public beach, you’d be surprised how often you can use one on vacation: wooded beach areas, parks, lakes, and forests are all ideal for hammocks. The best beach hammock will be lightweight and easily packed, with a device that makes it easy to construct. Most portable hammocks are designed to hang between two trees, but if that doesn’t seem likely, you can find one with a stand, too. In that case, look for a stand that’s designed to be taken apart and transported. Often these stands even come with a travel bag with a shoulder strap to make carrying and moving easier. With their flexible fabric design, hammocks are a great choice if you think you might want to catch a nap. 

Looking for a chair that’s easy to carry?

For most of us, going to the beach involves lugging. You’re going to have to carry stuff—a lot of stuff—down to the sand. The best camping chairs are designed with this obstacle in mind. These have to be lightweight, because they’re going to be carried, sometimes over long distances. Nobody has to know that you’re actually reading a book on the beach, not trekking through the wilderness, in a camping beach chair. Look for camping beach chairs with tall backs; not all have this, and you’ll want to rest your head. Consider materials that are both washable and ventilated for warm summer days. 

Looking for beach chairs on a budget? 

Fortunately, there are plenty of budget folding beach chairs on the market. You’ll have to give up some features and styles; don’t bank on grabbing a zero-gravity chair or one with a high-tech folding camping frame for under $50. But there are still great options. Make sure to look for UV-resistant materials, which will keep the fabric from stretching and becoming brittle in the sun. These chairs may be affordable, but that doesn’t mean you want to replace them too often.

FAQs

Related: Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Final thoughts on the best beach chairs

• Best backpack chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair
• Best zero-gravity chair: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero-Gravity Lounge Folding Chair
• Best beach hammock: Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock
• Best camping chair: Helinox Sunset Chair
• Best budget: Coleman Camping Chair

The best beach chairs will allow you to kick back, relax, and enjoy a full day at the beach. Whether you want to indulge in a zero-gravity chair to feel like a vacationing astronaut, set up a portable hammock, or just grab something lightweight for a long walk to the shore, you’ll find something here to make your beach day great.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best beach chairs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Electronic Front Door Lock		Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt		SEE IT	Lots of advanced features make this a winner.
Best with WiFi		Schlage Encode Deadbolt Smart Lock		SEE IT	A robust mobile app offers ample control.
Best Electronic Deadbolt		Kwikset Powerbolt Electronic Keyless Entry Deadbolt		SEE IT	Never forget to lock your door again.

Keypad door locks, once popular in commercial settings, have quickly gained traction in recent years with homeowners. The devices add convenience by eliminating the need to fumble with keys to get inside, and also allow homeowners to grant access to friends and family by programming temporary passcodes.

The best keypad door locks can also make your home more secure. Some, for example, automatically lock the door when you or a family member forget to flip the bolt. For even greater control, there are smart keypad door locks that allow you to remotely lock and unlock the door, program pass codes, and even track who’s coming and going. With so many options available, it can be difficult to find the right one. In this guide, we’ll review the factors you should consider when shopping for the best keypad door lock. 

• Best electronic front door lock: Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt
• Best WiFi: Schlage Encode Deadbolt Smart Lock
• Best electronic deadbolt: Kwikset Powerbolt Electronic Keyless Entry Deadbolt
• Best without a keypad: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
• Best for a vacation rental: Ultraloq Smart Door Lock

How we chose the best keypad door locks 

We looked at a variety of factors while assessing dozens of keypad door locks options. We considered installation to determine how easily the average DIYer could set up the lock. We also evaulated how easy it was to program (and delete) codes as well as how many different codes the lock supported. 

A good keypad door lock shouldn’t require an IT pro to get it online and running, so we looked at how compatible the device was with smart devices, smart home systems, and home automation platforms—as well as ease of setup. Since most keypad door locks use a battery, we considered battery life as well; these devices are supposed to add convenience, not create more work by constantly requiring battery changes. 

Related: Best Doorbell Cameras

The best keypad door locks: Reviews & Recommendations

Best electronic front door lock: Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt

SCHLAGE

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Why it made the cut: In addition to providing the programmability that most keypad entry door locks offer, Camelot also includes attractive add-ons, including its Flex-Lock feature, which stops the bolt from accidentally locking you out. 

Specs

• WiFi Connectivity: No
• Exterior Dimensions: 4.25 x 5.5 inches
• Battery: 9-volt

Pros

• Flex-Lock feature won’t lock you out
• Various color options
• Lighted keypad
• Easy-to-open lever handle

Cons

• Can fail in extreme cold

As much as keypads can help, they can also be a hassle: Many will auto-lock you out every time the door closes. Schlange’s Camelot offering features a Flex-Lock setting, which allows the user to stop the bolt from dropping and locking you out. It takes some getting used to (a switch on the interior side needs to be flipped vertically to activate the feature), but it’s definitely very useful. Activating it will stop the door from locking while you’re making trips back and forth to the car to unload groceries—or keep the kids from locking themselves out while they’re playing in the yard. 

The lever-style handle is what perhaps makes this the best electronic front door lock: The grip makes it easy to open the door with a load of groceries in both arms with a well-placed elbow.

Like other keyless entry locks, this model comes with two pre-programmed entry codes, but you can create up to 19 different four-digit ones for guests and kids, which are easy to add and delete. It also includes other necessities, such as an override key (in case you forget the code or the battery dies) and a lighted keypad for easier visibility at night.  And, with its seven finish options, it’s easy to match this doorknob with your own personal decor.  

Best WiFi: Schlage Encode Deadbolt Smart Lock

SCHLAGE

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Why it made the cut: This smart deadbolt lock is easy to install and doesn’t require a smart home set up to work. A powerful smartphone app makes this one of the most user-friendly WiFi keypad door locks you can buy. 

Specs

• WiFi Connectivity: Yes
• Dimensions: 3 x 5 inches
• Battery: 4 AA batteries

Pros

• Does not require a smart hub
• Numerous programming options via a dedicated app
• Many finish options

Cons

• Not compatible with some popular smart home systems

Most WiFi locks require a whole-home smart hub to tap into their wireless features. Not so with this model from Schlage, which allows you to access the lock remotely without going through a smart hub middleman. 

Schlage makes connecting the lock to your network easy—a signature of the best WiFi keypad door lock. Simply scan the QR code in the lock’s battery compartment and enter your WiFi password.  It connects directly to your network, so you can access it via the Encode app or with voice commands through digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It also works with the Amazon Key delivery service, which allows you to grant access for couriers. Through the app, you can create up to 100 permanent or temporary access codes, schedule specific start and end times for each code, and get push alerts when the lock is locked or unlocked and by which user. 

The Encode comes in two different trim designs–the more decorative Camelot and the sleek Century–and four different finishes, making it relatively easy to match it to your home’s style. 

Best electronic deadbolt: Kwikset Powerbolt Electronic Keyless Entry Deadbolt

Kwikset

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Why it made the cut: Locks don’t secure anything unless they’re locked. That’s why we love the auto-locking feature that covers for those family members who forget to flip the bolt behind them. 

Specs

• WiFi Connectivity: No
• Dimensions: 4.75 x 2.75 inches
• Battery: 4 AA batteries

Pros

• Auto-lock feature
• Affordably priced
• Four batteries provide long battery life
• Nifty rekeying feature

Cons

• Interior panel is a bit oversized

Whether it’s a keypad lock or an old-fashioned manual deadbolt, no lock will work if you forget to lock it. That’s what makes this keyless deadbolt lock from Kwikset the best electronic deadbolt door lock around. It will automatically lock the door after 30 seconds, providing back-up for those absent-minded family members. As with other keypad door locks, the Powerbolt allows you to program multiple user codes (up to six) and then delete them as needed. 

While the attraction of devices like this is taking keys out of the equation, one of the top features of this lock is its manual key backup. It also lets you easily rekey the lock if the event the key gets lost or stolen: Just insert an included tool called the SmartKey and rotate the cylinder to remove and swap it with another Kwikset lock. 

At just 4.75 by 2.75 inches, the Kwikset is also more compact than most of its competition. That’s thanks to a five-button design with two numbers on each (for instance the 1 and 2 share a button) as opposed to the requisite 10. 

Best without a keypad: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock

August Home

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Why it made the cut: By making installation an easy 10-minute job that virtually anyone can handle, August’s smart lock is perhaps the most user-friendly model on the market. 

Specs

• WiFi Connectivity: Yes
• Dimensions: 2.8 inches in diameter
• Battery: 2 CR123 batteries (included)

Pros

• Easy installation
• Works with most smart devices and home automation systems
• Small profile

Cons

• Expensive
• Relatively short battery life

The beauty of this innovative smart lock from August Home Store is a design that requires virtually no installation at all. There’s no need to remove your old lock: Simply attach the device over the top of the existing deadbolt inside your home–it’s compatible with most models–then connect it to your WiFi or smart home system. This all takes around 10 minutes. 

You can operate it with a mobile app, most voice assistants, and smart home software such as Apple HomeKit and Samsung SmartThings, and most home automation platforms like those from Logitech and Simplisafe. Unlike previous versions, which required a bridge to connect to the home network, this model features built-in Wi-Fi that eliminates the extra clutter. 

This fourth generation of August’s Wi-Fi smart lock is also trimmer than its predecessors: just 2.8 inches in diameter and 1.8 inches deep. The low-profile design also has other advantages. It installs only on the door’s interior, so there’s no need to worry about matching with your home’s exterior. And, since it doesn’t require any lock changing and is easy to uninstall, it’s one of the only smart door lock options that’s suitable for renters.

Best for a vacation rental: Ultraloq Smart Door Lock

ULTRALOQ

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Why it made the cut: Being able to change lock passcodes from afar and track who is accessing the property are…well…key features that perfectly suit the needs of someone renting vacation property remotely. 

Specs

• WiFi Connectivity: Yes
• Exterior Dimensions: 3 inches x 3 inches
• Battery: 2 CR12

Pros

• Can change access codes remotely via the app
• Records access log
• Can lock and unlock remotely
• Compatible with digital assistants

 Cons

• Some plastic parts

With the ability to change all of its settings from a remote location, the Ultraloq Smart Door Lock is probably the best keypad door lock for a vacation rental—especially for those managing properties from afar. While other door locks require the user to program and delete access codes directly from the lock, this one allows you to make changes from its compatible smartphone app, enabling you to give codes to renters, then delete them after they leave. You can also remotely lock and unlock the door. 

The lock connects via WiFi and is compatible with most digital assistants. It also has other useful features that should appeal to those renting out a property, including a complete log of when the lock was locked and unlocked and by whom. It also has an auto-lock feature, preventing irresponsible renters from leaving your property open when they leave. 

The Ultraloq Smart Door Lock features a compact design. It uses a circular code configuration that makes the outdoor panel smaller than other keypad door locks at just 3 inches by 3 inches. There’s also a mechanical key override in case you forget the code. 

What to consider before buying the best keypad door locks

Connectivity

More and more keypad door locks have smart capability, meaning they can connect to WiFi or a smart home hub. Smart keypads give you greater control over the lock, allowing you to lock and unlock the locks remotely, add and remove user codes, access user logs, and even set when codes are and aren’t active.

Battery life

Most but not all keypad door locks run off of batteries. Battery life depends on the keypad lock as well as how often it is used. When shopping for a keypad door lock, consider where it will be used and how often, then check the model’s estimated battery life to determine if it’s right for the job. Many electronic keyless locks will run for between 3 and 5 years on one set of batteries while others may last less than a year. While features such as auto-locking are nice to have, they do put more of a strain on the batteries. 

Extra security features

While some keypads offer a basic setup that allows you to open a lock with a code, others offer features to enhance protection. This includes automatic locking, which flips the lock after about 30 seconds to ensure that you or a family member doesn’t accidentally leave a door unlocked. Some door locks will also disable the keypad after a set number of failed attempts or even set off an alarm to scare away would-be intruders. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best keypad door locks

• Best electronic front door lock: Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt
• Best WiFi: Schlage Encode Deadbolt Smart Lock
• Best electronic deadbolt: Kwikset Powerbolt Electronic Keyless Entry Deadbolt
• Best without a keypad: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
• Best for a vacation rental: Ultraloq Smart Door Lock

If you’re looking to upgrade the locks on your front door, it’s tough to beat the quality and functionality the Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt offers. It gives you added control with the ability to program numerous passcodes while also including a useful Flex Lock feature that helps ensure your door is locked when it should be. If your budget allows you to make the leap into a smart keypad door lock, Schlage’s Encode Deadbolt Smart Lock is easy to set up and is supported by a robust app that gives you refined control over access to your home.  

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best keypad door locks of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best grinder		Santa Cruz Shredder		SEE IT	This aircraft-grade aluminum grinder granulates the stickiest of the icky.
Best infuser system		Levo C		SEE IT	Create cannabis-rich oils for homemade edibles in an easy and low-key process.
Best handheld vaporizer		Pax Mini		SEE IT	An intuitive ingestion device that’s discreet and direct.

So you want to smoke weed—either for medicinal or recreational purposes—and you’re looking for a place to start. Sure, you could walk into that headshop down the street, but they most definitely sell counterfeit Puff Bars, and you feel a little claustrophobic surrounded by all that expensive glass. Plus, the college kid behind the counter is a little bit too close in age to your own kid. Thankfully, we at Popular Science share how science shows up in our everyday life, and cannabis and its extracts are quite scientific. Consider this an essentials list of what you’ll want to keep on hand for your next sesh, or what to buy to get started. Move over bar cart, cannabis cabinet has entered the chat!

Remember that every state has different laws regarding cannabis use, so check them out before using. Once you can hit “Add To Cart” with confidence, we’ve cultivated Spotify playlist for both sativa and indica strains to help make sure every hit is a hit.

• Best rolling tray: Santa Cruz Shredder Hemp Rolling Tray with Spout
• Best rolling papers: Blazy Susan Rolling Papers
• Best cones: Edie Parker Crush Cones in Excite Mint
• Best handheld vaporizer: Pax Mini
• Best for concentrates: Puffco Peak Pro
• Best splurge: Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid
• Best waterpipe: Session Goods Bong
• Best pipe: Laundry Day Tanjun pipe
• Best hemp wick: Twisted Bee 100% Organic Hemp Wick
• Best lighter: Clipper Lighter
• Best joint holder: The Clinger
• Best grinder: Santa Cruz Shredder
• Best cleaner: Grand Master Smoke
• Best 510 battery: Ooze Twist Slim Pen 2.0
• Best infuser system: Levo C

Best rolling tray: Santa Cruz Shredder Hemp Rolling Tray with Spout

Santa Cruz Shredder

SEE IT

Learning how to roll a joint is a journey all its own, but procuring a solid rolling tray is an essential first step. You can use it as a surface to stuff your cones and pack handheld vaporizers or bowls without getting cannabis everywhere, thanks to high curved edges that prevent mess. A spout makes it easy to put any leftover ground cannabis back into your grinder or storage container. We like this one from Santa Cruz Shredder that has both, and is made of biodegradable hemp. If you’re looking for rolling tray that doubles as decor, we love this glass Keith Haring rolling tray from Higher Standards that could pass as a catch-all plate in your foyer. 

Best rolling papers: Blazy Susan Rolling Papers

Blazy Susan

SEE IT

The Blazy Susan rolling papers are fun to look at, thanks to their bright pink hue, but they’re also some of the best rolling papers on the market. They’re vegan, non-GMO, and made from high-quality wood pulp. They also burn slowly and evenly, which prevents canoeing. We recommend starting with 1 ¼-inch papers if you’re new to rolling (and we won’t judge you if you pick up some pre-rolled cones, in case of difficulties or time constraints). And if you are inviting like-minded friends over for a social smoke, grab one of the company’s namesake spinning rolling trays (available in colorful plastic and limited edition woods), with its specialized inserts and cuts for every manner of supplies, accessories, and end products.

Best cones: Edie Parker Crush Cones in Excite Mint

Edie Parker Flower

SEE IT

These aren’t your average cones. These cones from Edie Parker come in a variety of flavors, including peach, grape, strawberry, and banana. We’re personally huge fans of the mint flavor for a cool fresh taste while taking a hit. Simply pack your ground cannabis into the cone, ignite, find the flavor pearl in the filter tip, crush, and inhale. They also are great to pull out and pass around at a party. Of course, if you don’t need a fun flavor with your joint, we love Blazy Susan’s cones. We’re fans of the Shorty size, which makes for a perfect joint for yourself when you’re seshing alone. 

Best handheld vaporizer: PAX Mini

PAX

SEE IT

There are many benefits to vaporizing cannabis compared to igniting it. Vaporizers use convection, conduction, and sometimes even both to heat your weed to release those sweet terpenes and cannabinoids. The result is better for your lungs and provides a more consistent flavor and aroma. It’s also less stinky than other means of ingestion. You can use the already vaped bud (ABV) in edibles since the vaporizing process decarboxylates, or decarbs, the cannabis. The PAX Mini is our favorite handheld vaporizer and one of the easiest to use. Simply click the top once, wait until the purple light turns green, and inhale. You won’t have to worry about temperature either—the PAX Mini will cool down when not in use and heat up when it’s picked back up. Concentrates might not be your jam (yet!), but the PAX Plus comes with a concentrate chamber to enjoy the wax, shatter, or budder of your choice. Speaking of …

Best for concentrates: Puffco Peak Pro

PuffCo

SEE IT

Dabbing is cool because it involves torches and fire, but it’s also dangerous for just that reason. The Puffco Peak Pro solves that by ditching the fire, making for a more approachable and beginner-friendly device. The instruction manual is easy to read and follow—you don’t have to be a dabbing expert to use the Peak Pro. It’s also Bluetooth-app enabled for customized temperature and color settings. If you’re looking for something more handheld that’s less expensive, the company’s Proxy Travel Pipe is for you. Its silicone body is shatterproof and comes with a pocket for tools, like a loading tool or a cotton swab for cleaning. 

Best splurge: Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid

Storz & Bickel

SEE IT

The Rolls Royce of tabletop vaporizers, the Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid is absolutely worth its almost $700 price tag, thanks to its high-quality materials and workmanship that gives you a long service life. The Volcano Classic is cheaper (and just as good), but the temperature dial doesn’t list the actual temperature. The Hybrid changes that, letting you know exactly when it’s warm enough for use. You can choose to ingest via the included Tube Kit (which is a hookah-type hose) or the classic Valve Balloon. If you have an Android phone, you can control the Volcano Hybrid with your phone using the S&B app. We personally only bring out the Volcano Hybrid on special occasions, and it definitely makes for a conversation starter among stoners. 

Best waterpipe: Session Goods Bong

Session Goods

SEE IT

Waterpipes are usually … kind of ugly. Not the Session Goods Bong, which is modern, durable, and easy to clean. The included cleaning caps and mouth cover prevent spills when you’re cleaning—just fill it with some isopropyl alcohol and a little salt, shake, and you’re all good. The bong itself is made of sturdy borosilicate glass, and a silicon foot cover hides your nasty bong water, acts as a water line, and protects your piece. Two included bowls—small and large—let you choose how much you want to consume. Plus, nine colors let you coordinate your bong to your living room color story. And who doesn’t love color coordination?

Best pipe: Laundry Day Tanjun pipe

Laundry Day

SEE IT

Pipes are a great introductory tool for beginners, but they aren’t always the prettiest. Laundry’s Day’s Tanjun—and their other collection of smokeware—is meant to be displayed on your coffee table and ogled when passed among friends. It has all the pipe basics—bowl, carb, mouthpiece—and is made of borosilicate glass for toughness. Use the pipe as an incense holder when it’s not in use. 

Best hemp wick: Twisted Bee 100% Organic Hemp Wick

Twisted Bee

SEE IT

It’s fine to light a bowl with a lighter, but sometimes you don’t want to breathe in the butane it emits. The smoke is much hotter when using a lighter, and it burns off more cannabinoids and terpenes. Hemp wicks solve this problem by being a flame conduit, which creates a cleaner flavor and a more flavorful hit. This one from Twisted Bee uses organic hemp with a natural beeswax coating that doesn’t interfere with your flower’s flavor. You can even use it for crafting. Since you get 200 feet of it, you won’t have to worry about running out. 

Best lighter: Clipper Lighter

Clipper

SEE IT

Sure, everyone is familiar with the BIC lighter for ignition needs. Step up to a Clipper, which is windproof, water-resistant, and refillable, making it more friendly to the earth compared to its lighter brethren. You can also replace the flint, and there’s a poking tool for packing down hand-rolled cigarettes. Plus, the Clipper wheel is easier to strike compared to BIC lighters.  

Best joint holder: The Clinger

The Clinger

SEE IT

I personally have dug into my ludicrously capacious bag, the eyes of the group on me, searching for a lighter that is evading my clutches. It’s a humbling experience—one that you don’t have to go through with The Clinger, which is smell-proof, crush-proof, holds a king-sized joint, and hugs your lighter like it’s their friend. It can hold a BIC or a Clipper lighter and fits easily in your pocket. You won’t have to worry about digging for a lighter or accidentally smashing a joint ever again.

Best grinder: Santa Cruz Shredder

Santa Cruz Shredder

SEE IT

This grinder is made of solid aircraft-grade aluminum and has a scratch-free finish for long-lasting use. Thirty-two diamond-shaped sharp teeth pulverize even the stickiest cannabis to make a fluffy and even grind. We recommend a three-piece grinder that separates the flower from the kief, the potent trichomes that have broken away and separated from the flower. You can use those the add a little zhuzh to your joints and bowls. A magnetic lock system protects your cannabis from moisture and spillage, meaning you can take it to and fro without any worries. It’s a pricey grinder, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Best cleaner: Grand Master Smoke

Grandmaster Smoke

SEE IT

You can use isopropyl alcohol and a little salt to clean your pieces. However, we’re also fond of Grand Master Smoke. This cleaner has taken the crustiest bongs and turned them good as new. Simply pour the liquid into a large container or leakproof bag, add your piece, wait 1-3 hours (try soaking overnight for heavily used pieces), drain out the excess liquid from the piece, rinse with warm water, and you’re done! It also helps deodorize your pieces so they aren’t so stinky. And no one wants to hit from a stinky bong!

Best 510 battery: Ooze Twist Slim Pen 2.0

Ooze

SEE IT

I’ve certainly used 510 batteries that work, but aren’t made of quality materials. And who keeps track of that proprietary charger that they all come with? The Ooze Slim Pen can be charged using this proprietary charger, but you can also use a micro USB cable. (Which you probably have a million of around your house). You can draw the pen in two ways: by pressing the button down and inhaling, or just by inhaling thanks to auto draw. It shuts off after 12 minutes of inactivity, saving you battery in the long run. And, you can adjust the voltage for a customized experience

Best infuser system: Levo C

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

SEE IT

One of the knocks against making homemade edibles—beyond the ever-growing number of high-quality premade options—is infusing oil or butter with your flower, which can be a smelly operation. Levo’s C is a countertop appliance makes the process easy. All you need to do is fill its herb pod with bud (up to one ounce) and the glass basin with oil or butter (up to one liter). Once your ingredients are set, you place the glass basin onto the Levo C’s heating pad, select a time and temperature, and wait for the infusion to complete. Making infused oil or butter using this method won’t be quicker than a traditional method, but the results will be more consistent since the temperature will be regulated. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about standing around and stirring the flower constantly to ensure a proper result.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cannabis essentials for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

There are some summer days when it’s just too hot to do anything. Sure, you could go set up a backyard pool, but that involves moving your body. Instead, stay comfortable indoors with a new Amazon Fire TV, which is up to 30% off.

Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV $309.99 (Was $449.99)

Amazon

SEE IT

This TV is the Goldilocks of smart TVs: it’s not too big, and it’s not too small. Support for 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus means you can watch nature documentaries and comedies in vivid clarity. Even better, you don’t even need cable since you can stream live TV on your device. The 4-Series doesn’t support hands-free voice control, but you can use the remote to summon Alexa to check the weather or launch your streaming apps. Four HDMI inputs allow you to connect your favorite gaming consoles and audio equipment, like this JBL soundbar that’s 25% off.

There’s no shortage of televisions, but these Fire TVs combine quality with price. The one thing worth sweating is whether you’ll miss these deals, so snag one before it’s too late.

Here are some other choice Fire-compatible products that are on sale:

• Amazon Fire TV 75″ Omni QLED Series 4K UHD smart TV $899.99 (Was $1,099.99)
• Amazon Fire TV 43″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV $259.99 (Was $369.99)
• Amazon Fire TV 55″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV $379.99 (Was $519.99)
• INSIGNIA 24-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV $99.99 (Was $189.99)
• INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV $169.99 (Was $199.99)
• INSIGNIA 42-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV $159.99 (Was $199.99)

The post Get cool savings on hot TVs with up to 30% off select Amazon Fire models appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

If you’re in North America right now, there’s a decent chance wildfire smoke is affecting you. Here in New York, the air quality is rather awful, so many people are rushing to buy air purifiers. While we have recommended some of the best air purifiers, we know price is a consideration. And while many retailers rush to apply misleading “discounts” to air purifier models, there are some deals out there to be had if you know where to look.

We haven’t personally tested every model on this list, but the selections presented here represent discounts below the products’ usual prices. And we’ve stuck to reputable brands with solid reputations because you definitely want your air purifier to actually purify the air if you’re going to shell out your cash to get it.

LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Bedroom $39 w/ coupon (Was $49)

Levoit

SEE IT

This very simple air purifier relies on a dual-filter HEPA system to pull particulates out of the air. It can handle a roughly 130-square-foot space and operates extremely quietly. With the coupon applied, this is the cheapest it has been in some time. So, if you’re looking for a simple, quiet solution to clean up the air in your office or bedroom, this is a solid deal.

BISSELL® air280 Max WiFi Connected Smart Air Purifier with HEPA & Carbon Filter Large Room $189 (Was $299)

Bissell

SEE IT

If you want a larger model that will handle a much bigger space, Bissell’s whole-home solution is considerably cheaper now than a month ago. It can handle spaces up to 1,350 square feet with one air change per hour. Put it in a smaller room, and it’ll refresh the air even more often.

More air purifier deals

We expect a lot of people are buying a lot of air purifiers right now, so these deals might not hang around as long as the smoke in the air. iI you see something you want in stock, we say snag it.

• Dyson – Pure Cool Purifying Fan TP01 $329 (was $429)
• Shark HP102PET Clean Sense Air Purifier for Home $149 (was $239)
• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Home Large Room Up to 1900 Ft $154 (was $189)
• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Home Large Room, Smart WiFi $399 (with coupon, was $499)
• hOmeLabs 4-in-1 Compact Air Purifier $26.99 (was $69.99)
• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Home Large Room, Covers Up to 3175 Sq. Ft $269 (was $299)
• Filtrete Air Purifier, Large Room with True HEPA Filter $108 (was $179)
• Nuwave Oxypure Air Purifier Pro for Extra Large Room $549 (was $599)
• Shark HE402 Air Purifier 4 True HEPA Cleans up to 1000 Sq. Ft $219 (was $349)
• Honeywell HHT270 Air Purifier, Small Rooms $40 (was $65)
• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Bedroom Home $42 (was $49)
• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Home Large Room $269 (with coupon, was $299)
• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Home Large Room Bedroom Up to 1110 Ft $118 (was $139)
• LG – PuriCare 818 Sq. Ft. Smart HEPA AeroTower Air Purifying Fan $299 (was $549)
• Blueair – Blue Pure 211i Max 635 Sq. Ft HEPASilent Smart Extra-Large Room Air Purifier $279 (was $349)
• Insignia™ – 497 Sq. Ft. HEPA Air Purifier $169 (was $249)
• Levoit – PlasmaPro 400s Smart 403 Sq. Ft True HEPA Air Purifier $249 (was $289)
• Filtrete – 310 Sq. Ft. Smart Air Purifier for Large Rooms $199 (was $349)
• Filtrete – 150 Sq. Ft. Smart Air Purifier for Medium Rooms $149 (was $284)

The post These air purifiers are actually on sale right now at Amazon and Best Buy appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Waterpik WP-660 Water Flosser		SEE IT	A comprehensive option that will work for most mouths.
Best for Braces		Belmint Water Flosser		SEE IT	Swappable heads handle tricky jobs.
Best for Travel		Oral-B Cordless Portable Oral Irrigator		SEE IT	A built-in battery makes it great on the go.

Some of us find joy in gum maintenance, but for those who don’t, a water flosser can make taking care of your mouth less of a chore. Studies show that flossing prevents gum disease and improves overall oral health. We know it’s important, but it’s not everyone’s favorite activity. One way to make flossing more efficient, convenient, effective, and pleasant? The water flosser. 

Instead of using a string to get in between your teeth, water flossers are oral irrigators that use high-pressure water streams to remove plaque, bacteria, and food from your gums. Think of it as a pressure washer for your mouth. In order to help you pick the best option for you, we selected five of the best water flossers on the market so you can improve your oral hygiene and make your dentist proud.

• Best overall: Waterpik WP-660 Water Flosser 
• Best for braces: Belmint Water Flosser
• Best for kids: Waterpik Water Flosser for Kids
• Best for travel: Oral-B Cordless Portable Oral Irrigator
• Best budget: H2ofloss Dental Water Flosser

How we chose the best water flossers

Pressure is paramount when choosing the best water flosser. We want to ensure that your water flosser has enough intensity to blast that plaque, without causing discomfort. We also looked at key features such as reservoir size and portability, so you have options depending on your needs.

We considered a wide swath of information, including outside reviews to determine the models for inclusion. We analyzed products for their tip types, so that we could offer you suggestions for different types of use. Finally, we looked at the value for the price. We don’t want to recommend a bunch of products that are absurdly pricey if they’re not going to make you smile.

The best water flossers: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Waterpik WP-660 Water Flosser

Waterpik

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is the most professional-grade quality on the market, with clinical studies to back it up.

Specs

• 10 pressure settings
• 7 tips
• 1.5-minute reservoir

Pros

• Has ADA seal of approval
• Suitable for braces and dental work
• Comes with multiple brush tips

Cons

• Not cordless 
• Yes

The Waterpik is basically a one-stop shop for all things gum health. It features 7 color-coded flossing tips for a variety of needs. Advanced pressure control offers 10 customizable settings to suit your mouth. A dishwasher-safe, 22 oz reservoir for 90 seconds of flossing time. 

There are also some features that improve the overall experience outside of the specific cleaning chops. A power switch on the wand makes it easy to handle. A one minute timer makes sure you’re getting in enough scrubbing time. It offers two modes: Floss and Hydro Pulse Massage, for gum stimulation. 

This flosser is suitable for braces, implants, and other dental work. Plus, the tips rotate 360 degrees so you get a total clean. It’s also clinically proven to remove 99.9% of plaque by more than 70 scientific research studies. It has everything you need.

Best for braces: Belmint Water Flosser

Belmint

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This water flosser has eight brush tip attachments, making it useful during all stages of your orthodontic journey.

Specs:

• 8 tips
• 10 pressure settings
• 3-minute reservoir

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Multiple flossing tips
• Large water tank capacity
• Adjustable pressure settings
• Great for deep gum cleaning

Cons

• Loud
• Requires a power outlet

Adding features without adding dollar signs, this multifunctional water flosser is perfect for a mouth full of braces. It has a 600ml water tank for several minutes of continuous flossing, and features 10 pressure settings so you can easily adjust to a lower pressure when you get your braces tightened. 

With up to 1700 pulses per minute, it’s also powerful enough to blast those food particles out (a must when dealing with chunky braces). 

This water flosser includes: 3 Classic Jet Tips, 1 Orthodontic Tip, 1 Dental Tip, 1 Periodontal Tip, 1 Tongue Cleaner, and 1 Toothbrush. While braces aren’t super pleasant, at least your flossing can be. Switching tips is an extremely simple process you can do on the fly.

Best for kids: Waterpik Water Flosser for Kids

Waterpik

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It comes with a brush attachment for braces and 20 fun stickers to decorate their new hygiene toy.

Specs

• 3 pressure settings
• 2 tips
• 1 minute reservoir

Pros

• Comes with brush head attachment for braces
• Small design for small mouths
• Great pressure
• Travel-friendly
• Fairly priced

Cons

• Might be too small for older kids/teenagers
• No power button on wand

Convincing kids to floss can be tricky. This model is small enough to easily fit into a young mouth, but powerful enough to effectively remove plaque, build up, and food particles, this water flosser for kids is a great product your child will actually want to use.

The Waterpik Water Flosser for kids comes with a 15-ounce water capacity, three pressure settings, an orthodontic tip for children with braces, and a classic jet tip for general use. It also has 20 fun removable stickers labels for kids to decorate their flosser to help encourage them to actually use it.

Because it’s so tiny (5.4 x 4.4 x 6.8 inches), it’s also super easy to travel with. This is a huge bonus to keep your kids flossing on vacations, at camp, and at grandma’s house.

Best for travel: Oral-B Cordless Portable Oral Irrigator

Oral-B

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Lightweight, portable, and cordless, this water flosser is great for ensuring your gums get adequate care on the road.

Specs:

• 3 flossing modes
• 2 tips
• 4-ounce reservoir

Pros

• Cordless
• Lightweight
• Good for sensitive gums
• Water reservoir is easy to access
• Long battery life

Cons

• Pricey
• Small reservoir, needs to be refilled more often
• No carry case included

This cordless water flosser from Oral-B features unique nozzle technology for maximum cleaning power. The cordless handle houses a long-lasting, rechargeable battery for portable use and comes with a stationary charger, which makes it a convenient option when you’re traveling.

Besides convenience, we chose this flosser for its multiple stream settings (multi-jet, focused, and rotational) and customizable flossing modes (intense, medium, or sensitive). The 90-degree nozzles make it easier to access hard-to-reach areas, providing a more comprehensive clean.

While the reservoir is pretty small (4 ounces), it makes it a lighter-weight option for taking with you on the go.

Best budget: H2ofloss Dental Water Flosser

H2ofloss

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This upgraded version now offers less noise than previous models, and customizable settings at a great price point.

Specs

• 6 pressure settings
• 12 tips
• 2.5 minute reservoir

Pros

• Quieter than previous models
• Budget-friendly
• Comes with enough tips for the whole family
• Overheat protection feature
• Customizable, good for braces and dental work

Cons

• May leak
• No On/Off switch on handle

HF-9 is the newest, most upgraded model from H2ofloss; it’s a much quieter system with a smoother operation than its predecessor. It also features 6 pressure settings, ranging from 5-110 PSI to better suit your needs.

With 1200 pulses/minute, this frequency is forceful enough to do the job without causing pain or discomfort. The water flosser also comes with overheat protection function, it will automatically stop working when overheated to promote a safer experience.

With 12 multifunctional tips (4 jet tips, 2 tongue cleaning tips, 2 orthodontic tips, 2 periodontal tips, and 2 nasal tips), this flosser is easy to customize and can be used with braces, implants, crowns, or periodontal pockets. All of this at a really great price point.

Things to consider before buying a water flosser

If you’re new to water flossing, it can be overwhelming to decide on which product is best for you. Here’s what to look for:

Type

Before you begin shopping for a water flosser, you may want to know the types of flossers on the market so you can choose the best product for your intended use.

Countertop: These are usually the bulkiest options because they tend to come with the most features. Since they’ll primarily be staying put on your countertop, they are not best for travel or easy portability, but are great for a range of pressures and options. 

Cordless: These are generally best for travel and on the go use, or if you don’t have a lot of counter space to spare. They might not have as much power and pressure as the traditional countertop, but they are great for convenience.

Flossing toothbrush: Just as the name suggests, this is a water flosser-toothbrush combo. It has water flossing capabilities on the brush head so you can get an all-in-one experience.

Water pressure

This affects how powerful your water stream will be. Depending on your gum sensitivity, too much pressure might be uncomfortable and could even cause bleeding. You want to make sure you purchase a water flosser with enough pressure to be effective, without causing pain. This can be tricky since there’s no hard metric companies offer to judge that’s easy to compare, but the different types of tips can give you a hint about what to expect.

Reservoir capacity

While some water flossers feature reservoirs with enough space to last 60 seconds of flossing time, others may be smaller or bigger depending on the model. How long the water lasts also varies depending on attachments and pressure.

Portability

If you intend to travel with your water flosser, you’ll want a product that’s compact and easy enough to move around. Look for cordless models, and/or products that come with cases.

Tip type

There are several brush heads depending on your needs: Regular, Orthodontic (for braces), Plaque Fighting (great for more severe cases of plaque) and Toothbrush tips are the most common.

FAQs

A final word about the best water flossers

• Best overall: Waterpik WP-660 Water Flosser 
• Best for braces: Belmint Water Flosser
• Best for kids: Waterpik Water Flosser for Kids
• Best for travel: Oral-B Cordless Portable Oral Irrigator
• Best budget: H2ofloss Dental Water Flosser

Water flossing is an effective alternative to traditional flossing to reduce plaque and help prevent gingivitis. The Waterpik, specifically, is our best overall recommendation since it received the American Dental Association seal of approval.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Best overall		Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller		SEE IT	No application is required for this wide-range tabletop bug repellent, which offers over five hours of protection with each charge.
Best for babies		Cutter Family Mosquito Wipes		SEE IT	These towelettes make putting on bug repellent quick and easy and give parents greater application control for small kids that want more playtime.
Best budget		OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent		SEE IT	This aerosol spray doesn’t feel greasy or oily upon application.

Whether we’re in the middle of nature or in the comfort of our own homes, biting bugs can wreak havoc on humans and pets, so effective insect repellant is the first defense. It’s a proactive way to keep the rude critters away before these scores of Davids leave their mark on our sensitive Goliath skin … or do even more serious damage. But it can be overwhelming to browse through rows of sprays, lotions, wipes, bracelets, and even electronic bug control options. We’re here to help you find the best insect repellents that really, genuinely work.

• Best overall: Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
• Best picaridin: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
• Best for babies: Cutter Mosquito Wipes
• Best premium: Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System
• Best for dogs: Wondercide Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray
• Best budget: OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent

How we chose the best insect repellents

What do solar generators, tents, and coolers have in common? They’re all things you enjoy outdoors—or at least you should enjoy outdoors, insect adversaries allowing. That’s why we’d argue that effective repellent is one of the most important things you can pack on a camping trip—without it, you’d be itchy, uncomfortable, and putting yourself at risk of getting a bug from a bug. We turned to reviews, recommendations, and user testing to find the best insect repellents.

The best insect repellents: Reviews & Recommendations

The best insect repellents will help you reduce your calamine lotion and anti-itch cream use. Here are the ones we found:

Best overall: Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller

Thermacell

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: No application is required for this wide-range tabletop bug repellent.

Specs

• Volume: .33 fluid ounces
• Form: Liquid
• Scent: No
• Active ingredient: Metofluthrin

Pros

• No application
• Long-range coverage
• Rechargeable

Cons

• Reviews say refills tend to deplete quickly

This rechargeable mosquito repeller from Thermacell gives you a 20-foot protection zone. Its refills are long-lasting (from 12 to 40 hours), and the spray-free design makes for a more comfortable gathering. One charge gets you 5.5 hours of continuous mosquito protection. The metofluthrin-based repellent is scent-free and has been independently tested and EPA-reviewed for safety. Additionally, it’s covered by a two-year warranty that can be extended an extra year with item registration.

Best picaridin: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

Sawyer Products

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Why it made the cut: Get 14 hours of protection against bugs with this non-greasy, non-scented lotion bug repellent.

Specs

• Volume: 4 fluid ounces
• Form: Lotion
• Scent: No
• Active ingredient: Picaridin

Pros

• Long-lasting
• Scent-free
• Repels ticks

Cons

• Spray not as effective as lotion

This bug repellent is completely fragrance-free and offers a stronger defense against biting flies than most DEET products. The lotion offers longer-lasting protection on skin, while the pump spray lingers longer on clothing. The lotion protects from mosquitos for up to 14 hours and provides eight hours of protection against flies and gnats. The spray provides 12 hours of protection against mosquitos and the same level of protection against flies and gnats. It is non-greasy and dries quickly. Additionally, it won’t damage synthetic coatings, and you can use the spray on clothing, backpacks, and more.

Best for babies: Cutter Mosquito Wipes

Cutter

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Why it made the cut: These wipes make putting on bug repellent quick and easy for more playtime.

Specs

• Volume: N/A
• Form: Wipes
• Scent: Yes
• Active ingredient: DEET

Pros

• Non-greasy
• Clean scent
• Easy-to-use

Cons

• Only 15 wipes

These wipes use a 7.15 percent DEET-based formula to keep mosquitoes away. They’ve got a cooling, clean scent, and don’t feel sticky, greasy, or oily on the skin. You can use them on your face, ears, and neck, which usually go untreated. A resealable packet keeps them moist and allows you to take them on the go. They repel against mosquitoes, deer ticks, gnats, biting flies, fleas, and chiggers. You can use it on children two months and older. And, DEET will not damage nylon, cotton, or wool, but it can damage some synthetic fabrics. You’ll have to buy multiple packages for heavy use since each pack only contains 15 wipes.

Best premium: Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System

Thermacell

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get on-demand protection season after season with this yard system.

Specs

• Volume: N/A
• Form: Liquid
• Scent: No
• Active ingredient: Metofluthrin

Pros

• Wide coverage
• Customizable placement
• Effective

Cons

• Expensive

Protect your entire backyard from mosquitos this summer with the LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System. You can choose between three, four, or five repellers to place around your property lines, and each kit includes a smart hub, mounts, 24-foot cables, and ground stakes. The amount you receive of each depends on the size of the kit you purchase. Each repellent can last for 40 hours and uses scent-free, heat-activated metofluthrin as its active ingredient. The Smart Hub connects multiple repellers and can be controlled using the LIV+ app. The kits are expensive to purchase (it ranges from $699-$899) and the refills are pricey too—as a six-pack is $120. However, if you want to eradicate bugs from your outdoor entertainment spaces, it might be a worthy investment.

Best for dogs: Wondercide Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray

Wondercide

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This plant-based insect repellent smells great and keeps your pooch pest-free.

Specs

• Volume: 4 fluid ounces; 16 fluid ounces; 32 fluid ounces, 1 gallon
• Form: Spray
• Scent: Yes: Lemongrass; peppermint; rosemary; cedarwood
• Active ingredient: Essential oils

Pros

• Not harmful to your pet
• Wide variety of sizes
• Plant-based

Cons

• The scent might irritate skin

This flea and tick control is so much more than an insect killer. It uses pet-safe plant-based essential oils to combat pests at all stages of their life cycle. As an added bonus, it won’t harm birds, bees, and butterflies that eat insects that have been treated with the product. You can use it on your pooch, or you can use it on yourself. If your pet has sensitive skin—especially cats—the scent might irritate your pet. Bathe your pet in soap and discontinue use if your pet experiences a negative reaction.

Best budget: OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent

OFF!

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This long-lasting, non-greasy insect repellent comes in a two-pack for more bang for your buck.

Specs

• Volume: 4 fluid ounces
• Form: Aerosol
• Scent: Lemon
• Active ingredient: DEET

Pros

• High DEET concentration
• Non-greasy feel
• Scent not overpowering

Cons

• Propellant can leave a white residue on clothes

This DEET OFF insect repellent approaches the maximum level of protection with a concentration of 25 percent, and it’s especially effective at repelling deadly and/or annoying mosquitoes, along with ticks, biting flies, gnats, and chiggers for long periods of time. Its powder-dry insect-repelling formula protects without feeling oily or greasy, and its lemon scent is light and pleasant. Use caution when spraying on or near fabrics, as its included propellant can leave a white residue. It can be washed off easily, however.

What to consider when buying the best insect repellents

So how do you go about choosing the best insect repellent your money can buy? There’s a wide variety, which vary in effectiveness, application style, and whether their effects are scientifically proven. (Mosquito repellent bracelets, for example, are an option but experts are not unanimously sold on their effectiveness.) 

Before settling on any product, it’s important to read the label and look for one of three key ingredients: DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and picaridin. Some experts are less than enthusiastic about natural insect repellents, like citronella, because their active ingredients aren’t as effective. That doesn’t make them useless, but they’re not ideal as a primary protector; they’re best used in tandem with the stronger stuff. Also, beware of products that combine sunscreen and bug repellent. Since sunscreen has to be reapplied every few hours, you’ll risk overexposing yourself to the chemicals in repellent.

When applying insect control, be sure you cover only exposed body parts, using only the recommended dose. Keep it away from cuts and bruises and, when using it on your face, rub it in using your hands and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and ears. At the end of the day, wash it off using soap and water, and if you’ve sprayed it onto your clothing, keep them in a separate wash pile. The best insect repellent is also often some pretty harsh stuff: it can damage leather, vinyl, and some synthetics, so proceed with caution when applying bug spray directly to fabric.

DEET vs. picaridin

DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, in case you needed to know for a Jeopardy! question or bar trivia) is the most widely used active ingredient in insect repellent, and it offers a strong defense against mosquitoes, ticks, and some flies. The amount used in most products ranges between 10 percent and 100 percent, with a protection time of two hours to 10. The level of protection maxes out at a concentration of 30 percent, with higher levels only increasing the protection time. Control-release DEET can keep working for up to 12 hours.

DEET, which was developed by the United States Army during the 1940s, is perfectly safe to use if you follow the instructions that come with it. It’s considered the old faithful of the best insect repellent, but you have to be sure to handle it carefully and keep it away from your sunglasses and trekking pole grips since it doesn’t always mix well with plastics. It can also cause some temporary numbness in your lips if it comes into contact with them, so be careful when applying.

Picaridin is the synthetic version of a repellent found in pepper plants, and it’s often mentioned alongside DEET as a prime active ingredient in insect repellent. The maximum protection of picaridin is reached at 20 percent concentration, with spray and lotion forms providing different lengths of protection. In insect repellent spray, it can keep you covered against mosquitoes and ticks for 12 hours and flies for eight. In lotion form, it can protect you from mosquitoes and ticks for 14 hours and flies for eight.

Picaridin has a few advantages over the older competitor, DEET. When dealing with mosquitoes and ticks, picaridin is similarly effective as DEET, and it’s actually a bit more effective on flies. Picaridin also has less of an odor, and when used in the best insect repellent, it doesn’t do any damage to plastics and other synthetics.

Can kids use insect repellent?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, insect repellent used on children should not contain any more than a 30 percent concentration of DEET, and insect repellent shouldn’t be used at all on babies younger than two months. Picaridin is also generally safe to use on children, though it can irritate their eyes and skin. To avoid exposing kids to these fairly serious chemicals, you might want to consider an alternative like essential oil insect repellent, but keep in mind that repellents with plant oils as a main active ingredient offer fewer hours of protection than DEET and picaridin products.

To further protect babies from the effects of bugs outdoors, cover their strollers with netting. When applying the best insect repellent to children, adults should follow the same safety guidelines when applying it to themselves.

How do I protect my pets from insects?

Collars, pills, chewables, and drops provide pets with varying levels of pest protection. DEET can be toxic to dogs, especially in large quantities, so it’s best to avoid using DEET insect repellent on dogs, or even on yourself if you’re hanging out with a dog. (They do like to lick skin, remember.) Natural bug repellent is a safer option, but some essential oils are harmful to dogs, so it’s a good idea to check with your veterinarian before using any of them.

The safe list for dogs generally includes citrus, soybean oil, and geranium oil, and you can apply those to their coat or collar. Another option is filling your yard with plants like basil, catnip, lavender, lemon balm, peppermint, and rosemary as a mosquito repellent for dogs. But dog owners beware: Plants such as geranium, citronella, and garlic can be dangerous if eaten by dogs, and if you have a cat, essential oils can be especially toxic, causing an upset stomach and damage to the liver and central nervous system.

How much will you have to pay for bug protection?

The best insect repellent won’t set you back very much—if it’s designed for humans. Solid options can be found for under $10. But specially formulated bug control for pets tends to be a bit more expensive; it can even approach the $100 range. Home systems can also get pricey, and can go for around $600-$700 dollars.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best insect repellents

The best insect repellent is likely to include one of the two power ingredients, those being DEET and picaridin. It doesn’t take a high concentration of either to maximize bug control, but the higher the concentration, the longer you’ll be protected. Natural insect repellent is an alternative to these, but they’re not always as effective. Since DEET poses a danger to dogs, natural bug repellents are a better pet option, but you have to be careful to stay away from toxic plants and essential oils that might threaten their health.

The post The best insect repellents of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The MOJO M2 Performance Wireless Gaming Mouse will keep your wrist comfortable with a 70-hour battery life, and it’s on sale for $49.99.

Whether you’re a casual gamer enjoying quick gaming sessions or a hardcore enthusiast embarking on non-stop marathon rounds, the gaming experience can vary greatly. But no matter what, the time spent on the computer can result in wrists, hands, and arms working overtime, requiring a high-quality mouse to keep up. The MOJO M2 Performance Wireless Gaming Mouse is a great contender in bringing comfort to your wrist whenever you gear up to play another round on the computer.

The redesigned ergonomic structure of the MOJO M2 caters to dedicated gamers seeking a mouse with a harmonious blend of weight distribution, exceptional performance, and unmatched comfort. By keeping your arm more relaxed, you’ll reduce your wrist’s rotation and give it a break during gameplay, helping to maintain optimal control and prevent damage and straining on your wrist.

And with a lag-free 2.4GHz wireless connection, 16K DPI optical sensor, and highly customizable software, you’ll have comfort and a competitive edge. Whether engaged in an intense FPS battle or a fast-paced MOBA match, the M2’s wireless functionality will allow you to move and react swiftly without any input delay.

Battery life is always a concern when it comes to wireless gaming peripherals. With its energy-efficient design, the MOJO M2 can last up to an impressive 70 hours on a single charge, allowing you the freedom to enjoy extended gaming sessions without the need for frequent recharging. When it’s time to power up, connect the USB charging cable, and you’ll be ready to go again.

The MOJO M2 also offers six programmable buttons, allowing you to customize your gaming experience. With the ability to assign functions to these buttons, you can quickly execute complex actions, giving you an advantage over your opponents. Create custom macros and shortcuts to streamline your gameplay and gain a competitive edge.

The MOJO M2 Performance Wireless Gaming Mouse is available at best-on-web pricing of only $49.99 (reg. $59). So whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive esports enthusiast, the MOJO M2 is an excellent choice that won’t break the bank.

Prices subject to change.

The post Elevate your gameplay and pay only $49.99 for this wireless ergonomic gaming mouse appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		AmScope Beginner Microscope STEM Kit		SEE IT	An excellent kit filled with tools to help kids explore the world close-up.
Best for 10-year-olds		OMAX-MD82ES10		SEE IT	A high-quality microscope that will let kids feel like full-fledged researchers.
Best for young kids		Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kids Microscope		SEE IT	A great option for curious toddlers that want to get up close and personal with household objects.

When most people think of microscopes they think of labs, schools, and serious research facilities—they don’t think about kids. But there are plenty of great options when it comes to fostering an interest in science at home. If you have a curious kid looking for a fun activity that revolves around exploration and learning, a microscope is a great option for an exciting gift. Before you inspire your little scientist to get up close and personal, however, it’s important to understand which make and model will be right for their interests and maturity level. We’ll walk you through some of the features to look out for and recommend some of the best microscopes for kids on the market.

• Best overall: AmScope Beginner Microscope STEM Kit
• Best for 10-year-olds: OMAX-MD8 2ES10
• Best for young kids: Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kids Microscope
• Best portable: Carson MicroBrite Plus Pocket Microscope
• Best kit: Omano JuniorScope Science Kit 
• Best budget: National Geographic STEM Kit

How we chose the best microscopes for kids

To select the best microscopes for kids of all ages, we paid particular attention to each model’s durability and magnification power. Children under seven won’t be able to use the features a more advanced microscope will offer, and older children might be disappointed by more rudimentary features made for younger kids, so we looked at light sources, stereo/compound power, and other technical specs to ensure a range of options to suit the spectrum of budding biologists. Finally, we searched for products with special features or science kits so your kids could start a scientific adventure the minute they open the box. We compiled our personal research and experience with online user impressions and critical consensus to select the best microscopes for kids.

The best microscopes for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

There are a lot of ’scopes to scope, so here are the ones whose profiles we choose to magnify.

Best overall: AmScope Beginner Microscope STEM Kit

AmScope

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Why it made the cut: With a 52-piece set that kids can use right out of the box, this microscope is a great introduction to full-scale STEM research.

Specs

• Magnification: 120x-1200x
• Age Range: 8+
• Dimensions: 15.75 x 14.57 x 5.12 inches 
• Light Source: LED

Pros 

• Accessory kit 
• Adjustable magnification
• Carrying case included

Cons 

• Not suitable for younger kids

This beginner kit from AmScope includes a power monocular compound microscope with a color filter wheel, magnification ranging from 120x-1200x, LED light illumination, and a stain-resistant metal frame. Inside the ABS carrying case, you’ll also find a pair of tweezers, collecting vials, a Petri dish, prepared slides, Eosin dye, and more. You’ll even find a shrimp hatchery with Brine Shrimp eggs, so your kid can start their first science project immediately. If you’re looking for even more fun, grab AmScope’s World of the Microscope book, which includes additional projects and activities. This kit is recommended to be used under adult supervision and is unsuitable for preschool-aged kids. 

Best for 10-year-olds: OMAX-MD82ES10

OMAX

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Why it made the cut: A professional digital microscope that will give older kids the confidence and training to go further in their STEM journey. 

Specs

• Magnification: 40x-2000x
• Age Range: 10+
• Dimensions: 9.06 x 7.09 x 12.99 inches 
• Light Source: LED

Pros 

• Professional quality 
• Built-in 1.3MP Camera 
• Swiveling binocular head 
• Impressive Magnification

Cons 

• Pricey
• Not suitable for younger kids

If you’re looking for one of the best digital microscopes for kids or the classroom, this option from OMAX is more advanced lab equipment than a lot of starter kits. It features eight levels of magnification: 40x, 80x, 100x, 200x, 400x, 800x, 1000x, and 2000x, making it the most powerful microscope on our list. It’s strong enough to show your budding biologist protozoa, cell walls, bacteria, and more. This digital compound microscope can connect via USB to Mac and Windows computers, and the built-in camera can take pictures and record videos of your findings so your kid can share their discoveries at the next family gathering. 

If you’re not ready to spend that multifunctional model money but want a digital microscope, consider this wireless model from Skybasic with 50x-1000x magnification and WiFi connectivity. 

Best for young kids: Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kids Microscope 

Educational Insights

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Why it made the cut: The GeoSafari Jr. Kids Microscope is a great way to introduce science and discovery to young children; it’s constructed with small hands in mind encouraging independent learning without sacrificing functionality. 

Specs

• Magnification: 2.5x-8x
• Age Range: 3-6
• Dimensions: 1.12 x 8.1 x 10 inches 
• Light Source: LED

Pros 

• Inexpensive 
• Binocular eyepieces suitable for kids 
• Comes with 12 prepared slides 
• Large viewing area

Cons 

• Won’t be as fun for older siblings 

This microscope from GeoSafari Jr. is an incredible way to introduce your kids to a wonderful new world full of zoomed-in discoveries. It’s designed explicitly with preschool-aged children in mind and features a large focus knob to help kids get used to magnification, starting with 2.5x and expanding to 8x. Two large eyepieces are comfortable and easy to use, eliminating the need to coordinate closing one eye. A push-button LED light and large viewing plate make this microscope easy to use; kids can independently place household objects and outdoor finds within view, plus, you can help them use the 12 included slide plates for a more advanced experience. One of the best for 5-year-olds, My First Microscope comes in two bright colorways, is made from lightweight yet durable plastic, and is battery operated so you can take it outdoors on a nice day. 

Best portable: Carson MicroBrite Plus Pocket Microscope

Carson

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Why it made the cut: Weighing only 0.15 pounds, this pocket microscope is a great way for kids to get closer to nature during hikes, camping trips, and other outdoor adventures. 

Specs

• Magnification: 60x-120x
• Age Range: 6+
• Dimensions: 3.5 x 0.79 x 1.97 inches 
• Light Source: LED

Pros 

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Magnification power 

Cons 

• Works best on flat object 
• Can be hard to use for little kids

This compact pocket microscope is an excellent way to explore the outdoors with your kids. While a little trickier to operate than some models made specifically for kids, it’s a great option for looking at leaves, insects, flowers, and more. An aspheric lens forces light rays to converge at a single focal point, allowing for more precise imaging aided by a bright LED light. With a magnification power range between 60x-120x, you’ll see some incredible detail, though it’s recommended that your kids start at the lowest magnification and work their way up. Using the MicroBrite to look at relatively flat objects resting on a flat surface is best, especially for kids still working on keeping a steady hand.  

Best kit: Omano JuniorScope Science Kit

Omano

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A microscope is a great gift, but the JuniorScope Science Kit comes with five fun experiment cards that will keep your kids entertained after they inspect what they find around the house.

Specs

• Magnification: 40x-400x
• Age Range: 6+
• Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 14 inches 
• Light Source: LED

Pros 

• Comes with experiments 
• Good value 
• Suitable for a wide age range

Cons 

• Larger objects can be challenging to view 

This microscope kit from JuniorScope comes with three magnification levels, a glass lens, dimmable LED lighting, and a large EZ focus knob allows kids to operate the magnification levels independently. The full kit includes five fun experiment cards that will walk your kids through different ways to inspect various specimens, including insects, human bodies, plants, and crime scenes. Alongside the cards, this kit includes forceps, a Petri dish, dropper, test tube, blank slides, prepared slides, lens paper, and more. Look no further if you want a complete kit to guide a scientifically-minded kid. 

Best budget: National Geographic STEM Kit

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A full microscope kit for under $40 that includes mineral chips, prepared plates, a lab guide, and more.

Specs

• Magnification: 40x-400x
• Age Range: 6+
• Dimensions: 12.05 x 11.05 x 6.81 
• Light Source: LED

Pros 

• Inexpensive
• Comes with tools and activities 
• Soft eyepiece 

Cons 

• Build feels a little cheap

This kit from National Geographic is an affordable way to gift a microscope, equipment, and built-in experiments. The microscope itself features a soft eyepiece, large focus knob, and fixed lens, while the full kit comes with six plant slides, six blank slides, slide case, lab guide, pipette, tweezers, specimen dish, and more. It also comes with six mineral chips, including Pyrite, Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Blue Clacite, Geode, and Green Fluorite. We can confirm that adults and children alike will enjoy getting close to these sparkly rocks. The National Geographic STEM kit delivers a full gift set without breaking the bank. 

What to consider when buying the best microscopes for kids

Just because kids can use these microscopes, that doesn’t mean their construction is completely different from lab-level models. They are still tools that come with technical specifications, and it’s important to understand how they work so you can confidently choose the right one for your young scientist. 

Magnification and eyepiece

Microscopes are designed to zoom in on organisms and other matter, but the magnification power will differ across various models. Generally speaking, the younger the child, the lower the magnification power should be because powerful optics can be more difficult to operate. Microscopes with a 5X to 400X magnification power will be great for younger kids. Higher magnification, above 400x, should typically be reserved for kids over eight. These optics are also directly related to eyepiece type. A monocular eyepiece is used by one eye and can magnify up to 1000X. A binocular microscope supports more powerful magnification and uses both eyes, reducing eye strain. 

Traditional or digital 

You’ll likely see the words “traditional” and “digital” used to describe two different microscope types. A traditional model is probably best if you’re looking for an at-home microscope. A digital unit looks at the plate using a camera, projecting the image onto a screen—helpful for classroom settings or larger families with lots of young kids reluctant to take turns, but not the typical kitchen table use case. 

Stereo or compound

Stereo and compound, also known as high or low power, describe the materials the microscope is designed to inspect. Stereo microscopes are considered low power and are great for exploring small surfaces in more three-dimensional detail: think coins, seashells, and rocks. Compound, high-power microscopes will give you a better look at living organisms, like plant matter, and rely on super small sections of the material to be put on a plate for closer inspection. 

Longevity and durability  

Traditionally, microscopes use small halogen or fluorescent bulbs to illuminate their subjects. If finding replacement bulbs fills you with dread, consider LED options, which are powerful, bright, and last for years. 

Of course, the light source won’t matter if your microscope is made from fragile material and placed in the hands of a well-intentioned yet clumsy kid. Look for strong metals or thick, durable plastics. For kids under 5, grab a model with special safety features—like rubberized grips, padding around the eyepiece, rounded edges, and other features designed to be operated by small, inexperienced fingers. Of course, you can worry less about child-friendly design and more about magnification for older kids. 

Accessories and kits 

Ensure your microscope has all the tools necessary for full functionality; appropriate accessories might include plates, Petri dishes, pipettes, tweezers, etc. If you are gifting a microscope but are unsure how to use it in a fun, engaging way, go for a microscope kit with additional accessories. These kits typically include a variety of experiments or guides to get your scientific explorer started. As they grow, you can get them a telescope under $500 to look at the larger aspects of our universe.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best microscopes for kids

• Best overall: AmScope Beginner Microscope STEM Kit
• Best for 10-year-olds: OMAX-MD8 2ES10
• Best for young kids: Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kids Microscope
• Best portable: Carson MicroBrite Plus Pocket Microscope
• Best kit: Omano JuniorScope Science Kit 
• Best budget: National Geographic STEM Kit

Shopping for the best microscope for kids shouldn’t be a process of trial and error, especially if you know what will suit the age of your little STEM explorer. As long as you don’t buy anything too advanced for smaller kids or too rudimentary for late-elementary to middle school students, you’re on track to deliver an amazing gift that will provide entertainment and learning. Consider the technical specs, pay particular attention to magnification, and think about any extra accessories that could go a long way. You’ll be conducting scientific research experiments with your future doctor/environmental scientist/zoologist/biologist/botanist in no time. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission 

to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best microscopes for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine		SEE IT	This model is a solid, mechanical sewing machine that offers automated functioning for multiple sewing purposes.
Best Budget		Brother LX3817 Sewing Machine		SEE IT	Here’s a mechanical model that won’t stress the wallet while it offers versatile functioning and ease of use.
Best Computerized		Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine		SEE IT	A computerized machine with 165 built-in stitch options along with push-button stitch selection and automated functions.

A great Brother sewing machine meets the needs of the user and provides years of dependable service. Brother Industries Ltd. (the company that manufactures Brother sewing machines) traces its history back more than 100 years. In 1908, Kanekichi Yasui founded the Yasui Sewing Machine Company, working at his home in Nagoya, Japan. He repaired industrial sewing machines and manufactured machine parts for local use. When Yasui’s sons inherited his company, they changed the name to Yasui Brothers’ Sewing Machine Company, and the company title was eventually shortened to Brother.

Throughout its 114-year history, Brother Industries has developed into a global leader in sewing machine design, innovation, and manufacturing. Currently, the company offers one of the most advanced line-ups of innovative machinery for home-sewing pursuits. Its models include reliable sewing machines for basic projects and state-of-the-art, computerized models designed for advanced embroidery, quilting, and crafting. Consumers rely on the best Brother sewing machines to provide quality, value, and features for both utilitarian and creative purposes. Here are our picks of the best Brother sewing machines in the company’s impressive line-up.

• Best overall: Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
• Best computerized: Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine
• Best for embroidery: Brother SE1900 Sewing and Embroidery Machine
• Best for beginners: Brother CP60X Computerized Sewing Machine
• Best for quilting: Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine
• Best budget: Brother LX3817 Sewing Machine

How we chose the best Brother sewing machines

We drew on personal experience, peer suggestions, and public opinion in selecting six Brother sewing machines for our recommendations. We then narrowed it down to 11 different models and accessed the in-depth product details and specifications available on the Brother-USA company website. Then, we selected Brother products that are easily available and read the product descriptions, user impressions, and FAQs on retailer sites. Knowing that various readers bring an array of needs, preferences, and monetary resources to the search, we tried to assemble a diverse assortment of Brother sewing machines for our list.

We considered both computerized and mechanical sewing machines. Although the computerized models exhibit advanced technological features, many users prefer simple operating procedures and easy maintenance of mechanical machines. Additionally, we looked for both computerized and mechanical models that provide automated processes such as needle threading and buttonhole making, as these features make sewing easier and more pleasurable.

The best Brother sewing machines: Reviews & Recommendations

As a guiding principle, we searched for Brother sewing machines to meet the needs of beginning sewers, those who engage in basic sewing projects, and those with more advanced skills and experience in quilting, crafting, and fashion design. We endeavored to present Brother machines that meet the requirements of these various types of sewists. 

Best overall: Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

Brother

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Why it made the cut: The Brother XM2701 sewing machine offers versatility as it provides automated features and numerous built-in stitches for advanced sewists, along with ease of operation for beginners. 

Specs

• Weight: 12.6 pounds
• Product dimensions: 12.1 x 5.9 x 15.3 inches
• Number of built-in stitches: 27

Pros

• Automatic buttonhole function
• Automatic needle threader
• Both decorative and straight built-in stitches
• 6 interchangeable feet included

Cons  

• Not computerized

The Brother XM2701 sewing machine is easy to operate, making it a viable choice for beginners. On the other hand, it boasts a wide array of stitch options and automated features that appeal to experienced sewing enthusiasts. Stitch options include multiple decorative and quilting stitches along with basic, straight stitches for seams and basting. With 27 built-in stitches and 63 stitch functions, users can create crafts, fashions, home decor items, and quilts. 

Although not a computerized machine, the XM2701 offers several automated features to make sewing projects go more smoothly and quickly. For example, the automatic needle threader eliminates the frustration and eye strain of threading the needle by hand. An automatic, 1-step buttonhole function saves time and ensures consistent, professional-looking results. Additionally, the task of winding the bobbin is an automatic process.

Several convenient features make the XM2701 a popular and versatile sewing machine. The jam-resistant, drop-in bobbin is located on the top of the machine to speed up the sewing process. An LED light brightly lights the work area. The free arm feature also makes it easy to manipulate the fabric when sewing cuffs, sleeves, and pants. 

The XM2701 model includes six interchangeable feet to accomplish multiple sewing tasks: Buttonhole foot; Zipper foot; Zigzag foot; Narrow hemmer; Blind stitch; and Button-sewing foot.

Best computerized: Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Brother

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Why it made the cut: With computerized, push-button stitch selection and automatic functioning, the Brother XR9550 sewing machine offers advanced features for quilters, crafters, and hobbyists, as well as sewing artists. 

Specs

• Weight: 10.14 pounds
• Product dimensions: 20 x 13.5 x 17.9 inches 
• Number of built-in stitches: 165

Pros

• Extra-wide sewing surface for large projects
• Push-button stitch selection, including decorative stitches and alphanumeric fonts
• Automatic needle threader
• Protective hard case included

Cons

• Not the best choice for beginners

For the avid sewist who is ready to take their craft to a more sophisticated level, the Brother XR 9550 computerized sewing machine provides numerous features to spark the imagination and facilitate creative success. The machine offers 165 built-in stitches. These include utilitarian and decorative stitches along with heirloom stitches. Choose from among eight different buttonhole styles, and the machine will automatically sew a tailored buttonhole around any button. For monogramming and personalizing projects, a selection of 55 alphanumeric stitches facilitates automatically sewing letters, numbers, and symbols onto fabrics. 

Numerous features of this machine provide ease of operation, taking the stress and frustration out of sewing. The built-in stitches are clearly marked on the front of the machine. Simply push a button for the computerized stitch-selection function, and a backlit LCD display shows the appropriate choice. Additionally, this machine includes an automatic needle threader and a jam-resistant, top drop-in bobbin.

Quilters appreciate the drop-feed feature that facilitates free-sewing for quilting. The work surface is illuminated with a bright LED light, and the extra-wide table allows quilters to handle bulky fabrics and large projects. Alternatively, sewists can use the free arm to sew sleeves, cuffs, and trouser legs.

The XR9550 includes seven interchangeable sewing feet along with accessories: Zigzag foot; Buttonhole foot; Button-sewing foot; Overcasting foot; Blind stitch foot; Monogramming foot; Quilting foot; Protective, hard cover; and an Instructional DVD.

Best for embroidery: Brother SE1900 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Brother

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Why it made the cut: Sewists can achieve artist-quality results in creative DIY projects by choosing from 138 built-in embroidery designs in the Brother SE1900 sewing and embroidery machine.

Specs

• Weight: 22.1 pounds
• Product dimensions: 23.19 x 11.54 x 13.43 inches 
• Number of built-in stitches: 138 embroidery designs + 240 built-in stitches

Pros

• Large number of built-in embroidery designs and stitches
• Built-in memory for imported embroidery designs
• Built-in memory for personal, custom-designed stitches
• LCD touchscreen display

Cons

• Not the best choice for beginners

Take your sewing and crafting projects to the artist level with the Brother SE1900 computerized sewing and embroidery machine. Select from among 138 built-in embroidery designs and see them displayed on the large-size, full-color, LCD touchscreen. Alternatively, users can import new designs and save them to the machine. Additionally, the machine can combine designs and store them in its memory. Measuring 5 inches by 7 inches, the embroidery field provides ample versatility for creative sewists. A hoop is included to facilitate larger embroidery designs, so users are limited only by their imaginations.  

The 240 built-in stitches inspire customizing many crafting, quilting, and garment-making activities. Among the stitch options, the SE1900 offers 11 built-in fonts for monogramming and personalizing the original projects. Additionally, 10 styles of buttonhole stitches facilitate automatic sewing of precisely sized buttonholes.

Several convenient features of this computerized machine take the effort and frustration out of sewing pursuits. The advanced, automatic needle threader eliminates threading the needle by hand. Instead, the thread inserts precisely through the eye of the needle with a simple press of a lever. The jam-resistant feature facilitates a consistent thread feed from the top drop-in bobbin, preventing the work delays that come with tangled threads. With a maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute and labor-saving features for smooth operation, sewing on the SE1900 is an enjoyable and inspiring experience.

To facilitate a broad array of sewing tasks, this machine includes eight interchangeable sewing feet: Blind stitch foot; Buttonhole foot; Button fitting foot; Zipper foot; Zigzag foot; Monogramming foot; and Overcasting foot.

Best for beginners: Brother CP60X Computerized Sewing Machine

Brother

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Why it made the cut: The easy-to-use Brother CP60X computerized sewing machine is a top choice for beginners to embark on a learning adventure in sewing, quilting, and crafting.

Specs

• Weight: 14 pounds
• Product dimensions: 16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches 
• Number of built-in stitches: 60

Pros

• Utilitarian and decorative stitches built in
• Automatic needle threader
• Durable metal frame
• Capable of sewing denim and thick fabrics

Cons

• Not capable of monogramming

Use the Brother CP60X computerized sewing machine to embark on a lifelong hobby of sewing, crafting, and quilting. It offers straightforward, easy-to-use operating procedures, suitable for beginning sewers. An array of 60 built-in stitch options is prominently displayed on the front of the machine. Choose by simply pressing a button, and the information shows up on the clearly visible LCD screen. In addition to decorative and heirloom stitches, the machine offers a selection of seven auto-size, buttonhole stitches. 

With a fixed needle bar, this machine is particularly well-suited for beginning sewers. The needle remains fixed in place to ensure clean stitching and even seam lines. Additionally, the 2-step, automatic needle threader accurately pushes the thread through the eye of the needle. It saves time and frustration so that beginners can enjoy their sewing activities. 

The CP60X is a versatile sewing machine for multiple purposes. With its heavy-duty frame and exceptionally smooth feed system, the machine handles denim and other thick fabrics without snagging. A favorite feature of quilters, the drop-feed system allows free-motion sewing. Additionally, the machine facilitates free-arm sewing for constructing shirts, cuffs, and trousers. 

This CP60X provides an ample collection of accessories to get started with a sewing hobby. These include a 3-piece needle set, bobbins and a bobbin cover, a quilt guide, and a bilingual instruction manual. The included supply of seven interchangeable feet facilitates multiple types of sewing tasks: Blind stitch foot; Zigzag foot; Buttonhole foot; Button sewing foot; Overcasting foot; Zipper foot; and Monogramming foot (used for decorative stitches only).

Best for quilting: Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Brother

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Why it made the cut: With built-in stitches for utilitarian and decorative applications, automatic features, and an extra-wide table that accommodates quilts, the Brother XR3774 is a standout machine for quilters.

Specs

• Weight: 15.87 pounds
• Product dimensions: 15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches 
• Number of built-in stitches: 37

Pros

• Wide work surface for bulky quilts and large sewing projects
• One-step buttonhole function
• Automatic needle threader
• Jam-resistant, drop-in bobbin

Cons

• Not computerized

Here’s a mechanical sewing machine with automated features and a large workspace for bulky projects. The large throat area and the extra-wide work table make the Brother XR3774 sewing and quilting machine a viable choice for quilters. For projects other than quilts, sewists may utilize the free arm. This feature facilitates sewing sleeves, cuffs, trousers, and skinny jeans. 

In addition to providing ample space for quilting, this machine offers ease-of-use through several automated functions. The 1-step buttonhole stitch automatically turns out perfectly sized buttonholes. An automatic needle threading system eliminates the frustrating task of threading the needle by hand. Simply press a lever on the side of the machine and the thread inserts precisely through the eye of the needle. Additionally, the top drop-in bobbin winds automatically, and it’s jam-resistant to ensure a smooth, continuous feed of thread. 

The XR3774 includes 37 built-in stitches that produce 74 stitch functions when applied to various sewing tasks. These include both utilitarian and decorative stitch options for multiple sewing and quilting purposes. The 37 pre-set stitches are prominently displayed on the front of the machine. Select a unique stitch pattern by simply turning a dial to the appropriate number. 

This machine includes an ample supply of accessories to facilitate varied sewing and quilting activities: Walking foot; Blind stitch foot; Zigzag foot; Zipper foot; Buttonhole foot; Button sewing foot; Spring-action quilting foot; Narrow hem foot; Wide table, detachable work surface; Hard cover to protect the machine when not in use; and an Instructional DVD. Here are more of our picks for the best sewing machines for quilting.

Best budget: Brother LX3817 Sewing Machine

Brother

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Why it made the cut: The Brother LX3817 is an affordable machine for the sewing hobbyist, offering ease of operation and versatile features for basic sewing tasks and creative projects.

Specs

• Weight: 10.36 pounds
• Product dimensions: 17x 7 x 14 inches 
• Number of built-in stitches: 17

Pros

• 17 built-in stitches
• 4-step buttonhole function
• LED light for well-lit workspace
• Jam resistant bobbin

Cons 

• Not computerized
• Not as many built-in stitches as other machines

Available at a budget-friendly price, the LX3817 sewing machine provides an array of features to suit the needs of beginners, as well as experienced sewing hobbyists. It’s a full-size machine with 17 built-in stitch options. These include straight stitches, zigzag stitches, blind hem stitch, and couching stitches. The stitch choices are clearly marked on the selection dial, located on the front of the machine. Simply turn the dial to choose the desired stitch patterns for constructing garments, sewing crafts, and embellishing home decor creations. 

In addition to the 17 stitch options, the LX3817 provides a 4-step buttonhole function. With a quick turn of the dial, users may select the appropriate stitches to produce consistent, auto-size buttonholes, lending a professional look to finished projects. 

Several features make this machine a pleasure to use. The work area is well-lit with an LED light and the bobbin cover is transparent for visually monitoring the thread supply. The jam-resistant feature means that the thread on the drop-in bobbin does not become entangled. A convenient control dial lets users adjust the upper tension to avoid loose stitches or fabric puckering. The machine’s design also facilitates free-arm sewing for cuffs, sleeves, and trouser legs. 

This machine includes four interchangeable feet: Zigzag foot; Zipper foot; Buttonhole foot; and Button-sewing foot. The LX3817 includes all necessary parts to ensure success on multiple sewing and crafting projects, including: Darning plate; Bobbin cover; Bobbins; Set of 3 needles; and an Instructional DVD.

What to consider when buying the best Brother sewing machines

With many options to choose from, it can be daunting for any consumer to select the most appropriate Brother sewing machine for their purposes. Here are several factors to consider before making a selection:

Computerized or mechanical?

Brother Industries manufactures both mechanical and computerized sewing machines. The mechanical models tend to be easier to operate and maintain. They’re durable and reliable, offering basic sewing features for beginners and hobbyists. As an added bonus, many of the mechanical models include automatic functions for ease of use. On the other hand, some sewists prefer the advanced technological capabilities of computerized sewing machines. Especially for embroidery, crafting, and quilting projects, computerized machines can’t be beat.

Built-in stitches

As a standard feature, all Brother sewing machines include varying arrays of built-in stitches. These range in style from straight, utilitarian designs for basting and sewing seams to complex, decorative stitches for the artistic embellishment of garments, quilts, home decor, and crafts. The built-in stitches offered by the Brother sewing machines reviewed here range from as few as 17 to as many as 240 options. Advanced, computerized machines include alphanumeric fonts among their built-in stitches to facilitate monogramming and customization of sewing projects. Additionally, the Brother sewing-and-embroidery machines include built-in embroidery designs with memory capability for importing or creating additional options. 

Automatic features

In addition to computerized and mechanical operating systems, shoppers might consider the availability of automatic functions on various Brother sewing machines. These features make the machines easier to use and increase the enjoyment of sewing as a pleasurable activity. Many of the Brother machines offer automatic needle threading. This function saves time, frustration, and eye strain, eliminating the need to thread the needle by hand. Additionally, including a 4-step or 1-step buttonhole function is a time-saver for sewists as it tailors a buttonhole of the precise size and shape for every button.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Brother sewing machines

• Best overall: Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
• Best computerized: Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine
• Best for embroidery: Brother SE1900 Sewing and Embroidery Machine
• Best for beginners: Brother CP60X Computerized Sewing Machine
• Best for quilting: Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine
• Best budget: Brother LX3817 Sewing Machine

Many sewists appreciate the straightforward operating procedures and simplified maintenance of a non-computerized sewing machine such as the Brother XM2701 model. It’s a popular, mechanical machine that provides an ample selection of built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, and buttonhole making. Overall, the XM2701 offers value and versatility for multiple sewing and crafting activities.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Brother sewing machines in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best budget		Bissell Zing		SEE IT	The Bissell Zing is a durable, no-nonsense corded vacuum with a long reach.
Best overall		Dyson V11 Torque Drive		SEE IT	The Dyson V11 Torque Drive is an incredible vacuum with a serious price tag.
Best for carpet		Shark Cordless Pet Plus with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal		SEE IT	The Shark Cordless Pet Plus digs deep for pet hair and dander, but will also get deep dirt out of carpets.

Cleaning technology has improved by leaps and bounds in the smart home era—we have app-enabled cleaning devices and self-emptying robot vacuums—but finding a vacuum for stairs remains a serious challenge. Household staircases are typically very high-traffic areas and can build up dust and debris quickly—especially if you have pets or kids in the mix. There are tons of vacuums on the market designed to make your day-to-day vacuuming routine as easy and streamlined as possible—but we’ve taken it upon ourselves to test and research some of the absolute S-tier options to help pick out the best vacuums for stairs.

• Best overall: Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Handheld Portable Vacuum Cleaner
• Best for hardwood: Bissell Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum (3061)
• Best for carpet: Shark Cordless Pet Plus with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
• Best lightweight: Eureka RapidClean Pro
• Best for pet hair: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum
• Best cordless: Samsung Jet 90
• Best budget: Bissell Zing Bagless Canister Vacuum (2156A)

How we chose the best vacuums for stairs

There are thousands upon thousands of highly rated vacuums on the market—which made narrowing our list down to just seven picks quite a feat. We wanted to choose a set of vacuums that worked for various lifestyles and household needs, including carpeted and hardwood flooring, homes with pets and kids, and winding or unconventionally shaped staircases.

To make our selections, we looked at hundreds of high-quality consumer reviews to learn about the little details that manufacturer descriptions don’t tell you, as well as tapping into our own testing to hone in on the absolute best of the bunch. We focused on crucial features like weight and bulk, suction power, and battery life for cordless models. We also kept budget in mind, examining vacuums at various price points to see where a little extra money makes a big difference and where it buys flashy features you don’t necessarily need.

The best vacuum for stairs: Reviews & Recommendations

The best vacuums for stairs will depend on your specific lifestyle and household—which is why we’ve included a spectrum of different vacuums to suit a variety of needs and budgets best. Read on to find the best vacuum for your household.

Best overall: Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Handheld Portable Vacuum Cleaner

Dyson

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Why it made the cut: The Dyson V11 Torque Drive might be pricey, but it’s slim, ultra-lightweight, and offers superior suction power that makes it worth every penny.

Specs

• Form factor: Stick
• Capacity: 0.2 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and hardwood floors
• Weight: 6.68 pounds
• Battery life: 60 minutes

Pros

• Features up to an hour of run time
• Includes various options to best suit different flooring
• Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver

Cons

• You have to hold down the power button
• Very expensive

A longtime favorite for its sleek, powerful, and wildly expensive vacuums, the latest Dyson V11 series is leagues ahead of the company’s original stick vacuum design—and happens to be one of the very best vacuum cleaners on the market right now. Of the two models available, we like the Dyson V11 Torque Drive, which features an LCD digital display that monitors performance and battery life.

The V11 Torque Drive has more than twice the suction power of similar cordless vacuums and offers an hour of run time between charges, making it a decent option for all flooring types and square footage. The cutting-edge stick vacuum also weighs in at less than 7 pounds, allowing for easy maneuverability on staircases and beyond. 

It isn’t perfect, though. Like most other Dyson models, the V11 requires holding the power button down rather than simply flipping a switch. It’s a minor annoyance that might sour you on spending hundreds of dollars on it.

Speaking of which, the main drawback for the V11 Torque Drive and its screenless cousin, the V11 Animal—any Dyson product, for that matter—is the price. Depending on the retailer, the Dyson Torque Drive costs $699.99 or more. That’s a lot more money than most vacuums. You definitely get a higher class of product but it will be a serious barrier for most people.

Best for hardwood: Bissell Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum (3061)

Bissell

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Why it made the cut: The Bissell Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum has impressive suction, a lightweight design, and a removable handheld mode, which makes it great for cleaning stairs.

Specs

• Form factor: Stick
• Capacity: 0.26 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and hard floors
• Weight: 5.8 pounds
• Battery life: 20 minutes

Pros

• Super lightweight design for superior ease of use
• Great price point for the quality
• Converts to a handheld vacuum

Cons

• Poor battery life
• Does not include a wall mount or stand

The Bissell Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum ranks high in our books for delivering solid suction for a basic cordless vacuum. Though it costs less than $150, the Featherweight Cordless offers a lightweight, ergonomic design similar to more expensive models from other brands. The powerful suction and lightweight design make this vacuum great for hardwood and laminate flooring.

It’s also quite versatile, with the ability to convert from a stick vacuum to handheld mode that can get into the nooks and crannies of your staircase without having to lug the whole frame up and down. That said, at just 5.8 pounds, the full-sized vacuum is extremely easy to maneuver.

The only big downside to consider is its terrible battery life. At just 20 minutes per charge, you won’t cover very much ground in one sitting. It also lacks any wall mount or stand, which can make charging trickier than it needs to be.

Best for carpet: Shark Cordless Pet Plus with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal

Shark

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Why it made the cut: Designed to trap allergens like dust and pet dander, the Shark Cordless Pet Plus digs deep into carpets for the best clean possible.

Specs

• Form factor: Stick
• Capacity: 0.21 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and hard floors
• Weight: 7.17 pounds
• Battery life: 40 minutes

Pros

• Anti-allergen seal
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Converts to a handheld vacuum

Cons

• Not as powerful as other stick vacuums
• Top-heavy design

The Shark Cordless Pet Plus features an “anti-allergen seal” to ensure 99.9 percent of allergens it sucks up, including particles of dust and pet dander, stay trapped in the vacuum. Its brush roll features long panels called “powerfins” rather than traditional brush bristles, which Shark claims can help the vacuum dig dirt out of carpet. They also prevent the vacuum from getting jammed up with pet hair and other debris that can accumulate in carpets or rugs.

Studies suggest carpets can harbor more dust and allergens than non-carpeted flooring and might even decrease the air quality in the home or office space. As such, the Pet Plus should be a well-appointed option for ensuring minimal particles are able to escape into the air.

Customers tend to praise the Shark adamantly, but some note that the lightweight design feels a bit top-heavy while in use. This might make the maneuverability on stairs slightly more difficult while getting used to the vacuum’s unique shape and design.

Best lightweight: Eureka RapidClean Pro

Eureka

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Why it made the cut: The Eureka RapidClean Pro is among the lightest vacuums on our radar, and features a proprietary “swivel steering” feature that makes it especially maneuverable.

Specs

• Form factor: Stick
• Capacity: 0.18 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and hard floors
• Weight: 5.26 pounds
• Battery life: 40 minutes

Pros

• Great price point for the quality
• Compact, ultra-lightweight design
• Very quick 40-minute recharge time
• Combo floor vac and handheld

Cons

• The suction power could be improved
• Harder to repair than other vacuums

Eureka RapidClean Pro is a game-changer for those looking for an ultra-lightweight design that can easily go up and down the stairs without feeling like you’re doing a workout. The 5-pound vacuum is easy to carry and converts into a handheld mode to maximize mobility. Off the stairs, the RapidClean Pro features a special “swivel steering” head that allows for better maneuvering as you clean.

The RapidClean Pro’s 40-minute battery life is strictly average, but it only needs 40 minutes to recharge, which means you can rapidly clean large spaces.

One thing to note, especially if you plan to keep this vac around for a while. According to customer reviews, replacement parts can be hard to come by and often cost nearly as much as a new vacuum, so don’t expect to get a decade out of this one.

Best for pet hair: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser features a “triple-level” filtration system and motorized brush tool that works to remove embedded hair and dirt.

Specs

• Form factor: Handheld
• Capacity: 0.18 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and upholstery
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Battery life: 17 minutes

Pros

• Includes a variety of tools for carpets, upholstery, and hardwood flooring
• “Triple-level” filtration system
• Features a surprisingly large dustbin for a handheld

Cons

• Terrible battery life
• Handheld vacuum isn’t ideal for whole-house cleaning

Pet owners must work harder to ensure their floors stay clean and free of dander and debris—there’s no way around it. Thankfully, brands like Bissell cater specifically to those with furry friends at home who don’t want to settle for less than the best in cleaning technology. The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser features great features for picking up hair and dander, including a motorized brush tool that digs them out of carpet and upholstery seamlessly and a “triple-level filtration” system that traps allergens in its bag. Of course, powerful suction is also a major weapon for cleaning all dirt and dust, whether you have pets or not.

Customers rave over the quality and suction power that this small but mighty hand vacuum offers, but reviews lament the short battery life—a mere 17 minutes between charges. If you’re looking for a full-size vacuum that also works well on stairs, check out our “best for carpets” pick, the Shark Cordless Pet Plus, which has similar pet-friendly features.

Best cordless: Samsung Jet 90

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The high-tech Samsung Jet 90 offers next-level innovation and convenience.

Specs

• Form factor: Stick
• Capacity: .21 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and hard floors
• Weight: 6.87 pounds
• Battery Life: 60 minutes

Pros

• Great battery life
• Dual replaceable batteries 
• Auto-empty dustbin

Cons

• Requires more assembly than the average vacuum
• Very expensive

The Samsung Jet 90 was made to outperform the average vacuum and do so stylishly. It feels like every element of the vacuum has a special feature: There’s an auto-empty dust bin for easy disposal, a five-layer filtration system that keeps 99.999 percent of allergens out of the air, and an advanced turbo-action brush head that allows for quick and easy cleaning on multiple surfaces at once (great for staircases with runners or carpet).

While it generally excels, some features stand out more than others. The Jet 90 features a charging stand that can recharge two batteries, so you can recharge and replace one to extend its long battery life. (It only comes with one battery, so you’ll need to buy a second to make that happen.)

Like the Dyson V11 Torque Drive, the Jet 90 costs a lot more than most of the competition, but it’s hard to ignore that it improves conventional cordless stick vacuum design in many ways.

Best budget: Bissell Zing Bagless Canister Vacuum (2156A)

Bissell

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Why it made the cut: The Bissell Zing Canister Vacuum might not offer the same bells and whistles as more expensive models on the list, but it’s powerful for its price and features a hose that makes navigating staircases simple.

Specs

• Form factor: Canister
• Capacity: 0.53 gallons
• Surface recommendation: Carpet and hard floors
• Weight: 10.23 pounds
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Incredible price point for the quality
• Features very good suction power
• The canister is large and easy to clean

Cons

• Heavier than other vacuums on the list
• Doesn’t include spinning brush attachment

The Bissell Zing Lightweight is one of the best budget-friendly vacuums for stairs that we’ve come across. The large canister-style vacuum, which stores dirt in a large, wheeled-base, and features a hose for sucking up dirt, offers incredible suction power and durability that should last for years without requiring maintenance or replacement parts. Additionally, the dirt cup filters and post-motor filter help to capture particles before they hit the air. Its filters can also be hand-washed and reused for years without worrying about the quality or efficiency waning.

Between the corded power solution and heavy canister design, the Zing is not the most convenient solution for stairs. With a generous 15-foot power cable and a 4-foot, 8-inch hose, you have a lot of room to maneuver. Plus, the corded design also means that you won’t have to wait around for your vacuum to charge or worry about replacing a battery, long-term.

Customers love the Bissell Zing for its surprisingly high-quality design and reliability at such a low price but notice it lacked certain attachments, including a spinning brush. As such, the vacuum head sits directly on the floor, making it difficult to pick up larger debris or crumbs.

Things to consider when buying a new vacuum for stairs

Having a robot vacuum is great … until it pleads for help in the form of beeps and/or an automated voice message from a very nice robot person. When shopping for a vacuum with stairs in mind, you’ll want to check a handful of factors to ensure you purchase something that’s right for your particular needs and routines.

Weight

The first thing you’ll want to consider is whether you’ll feel comfortable carrying your vacuum up and down the stairs regularly. Some of the bestselling upright vacuums can weigh up to 20 pounds, which might not sound like that much. Still, it’s enough to make things difficult when you pick it up and put it down repeatedly on each step, not to mention the possibility that it might slip as you clean, especially on winding staircases. 

If you’re cleaning a lot of stairs, we recommend getting a lightweight vacuum that you can easily carry. If you have a large vacuum already that works for you, you could always get a handheld vacuum specifically for the stairs and other hard-to-reach places. Upright vacuums, though heavier, usually offer significant sucking power and are much more effective for carpeted surfaces, so we generally wouldn’t recommend them as your primary cleaner.

Corded or cordless?

You’ll also want to decide whether you want to opt for a cordless vacuum or something that plugs into the wall. Many modern vacuum cleaners feature cordless designs that make vacuuming the staircase much easier and safer than having to watch under your feet for a cord. 

That said, most cordless vacuum cleaners have terrible battery life. Many last under an hour on a single charge and take many hours to fully recharge. Based on our testing, a good option should last at least 40 minutes. While you may not need them to last all that long, there’s nothing worse than having your vacuum die on you mid-clean.

Corded vacuums also tend to last much longer than their cordless counterparts. Most cordless models feature rechargeable internal batteries, which will last many years but can’t be easily replaced when they lose the ability to hold a charge.

Cleaning hardwood vs. cleaning carpet

Vacuuming rugs and carpeted areas require an entirely different approach than vacuuming hardwood flooring. Carpets require more suction power to clean deeply and require a vacuum that can trap common household allergens, such as dust and pet dander, which get trapped out of sight in the depths of the textile.

Attachments

Vacuum attachments might seem like a frivolous add-on or freebie, but they can be useful tools to help you clean parts of your home that might be otherwise inaccessible. The most common vacuum attachments include:

• Extension wand: a slim, elongated attachment that makes getting into hard-to-reach places much more feasible.
• Upholstery tool: a wide-mouthed piece that targets upholstered items and fabrics like mattresses or furniture.
• Crevice wand: similar to the extension wand, the crevice wand has an angled opening that allows you to suck debris from tight edges and window sills.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best vacuums for stairs

• Best overall: Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Handheld Portable Vacuum Cleaner
• Best for hardwood: Bissell Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum (3061)
• Best for carpet: Shark Cordless Pet Plus with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
• Best lightweight: Eureka RapidClean Pro
• Best for pet hair: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum
• Best cordless: Samsung Jet 90
• Best budget: Bissell Zing Bagless Canister Vacuum (2156A)

Although they tend to be on the pricey end, there’s a reason that Dyson vacuums have a cult-like following: They really are some of the best on the market for their maneuverability and suction power alone. The Dyson V11 Torque Drive will make vacuuming stairs (and the rest of the household) a breeze—even if you have a carpeted staircase or share your home with pets.

That said, you don’t need to spend nearly $1,000 on a vacuum cleaner to get your house spic and span. I have personally owned the Bissell Zing, our budget pick, for over a decade, and it’s never required any maintenance. There may be better vacuums out there, but you can do the job with nearly any vacuum if you put your mind to it.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission 

to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best vacuums for stairs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Steelcase Gesture Chair		SEE IT	Adjust the seat depth, arms, height, and recline on this ergonomic office chair.
Best premium		Herman Miller Aeron Chair		SEE IT	A tried-and-true office staple for 20 years, this chair is a serious but rewarding investment for desk workers who spend long hours sitting down.
Best for tall people		SIHOO M18 Ergonomic Office Chair		SEE IT	This chair is designed with a multi-dimensional headset and adjustable lumbar support for big and tall people.

Sitting in a cheaply designed office or desk chair can lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain, poor circulation, increased fatigue, lack of concentration, and digestive issues—but an ergonomic office chair can help. Whether you’re working with a makeshift setup at home or the company chairs just aren’t cutting it, an upgraded seat is one of those office essentials that can make a difference in your general well-being and overall health, especially over time. And there isn’t one ergonomic chair to rule them all, so we have created this guide to help you identify what fit and features will work best for your body. From extra lumbar support to kneeling chairs, we’ve got you covered; say goodbye to cramps, creaks, and crankiness with one of the best ergonomic chairs to improve your posture, comfort, and, ultimately, your mood.

• Best overall: Steelcase Gesture Chair
• Best premium: Herman Miller Aeron Chair
• Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair
• Best for tall person: SIHOO M18 Ergonomic Office Chair
• Best drafting chair: Flash Furniture Mid-Back Drafting Chair
• Best kneeling chair: Varier Original Kneeling Chair
• Best under $400: HON Ignition 2.0

How we chose the best ergonomic chairs

To find the best ergonomic chairs on the market, we looked to long-respected brands, including Herman Miller and Steelcase, as well as new solutions. Our list reflects qualities people look for in a computer chair, such as one designed with sustainable materials, or just a good office chair to help relieve back pain. We also considered user reviews, functionality and adjustability, aesthetics, and price in compiling our list.

The best ergonomic chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

Office workers spend more than 73 percent of the workday sitting, according to a 2022 study. Prolonged chair time can lead to neck and back pain and decrease energy and productivity. While it’s still a good idea to decrease the time sitting, ergonomic desk chairs can make the experience easier on your body and help with back support. While you can do a few things to prevent harmful effects from long hours of sitting down, one of the best ways to support your joints and muscles is to invest in the best ergonomic chair for your body. 

Best overall: Steelcase Gesture Chair  

Steelcase

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Polyester, steel
• Weight: 78 pounds
• Weight capacity: 400 pounds

Pros

• Designed with technology that mirrors the movements of your spine
• Reclines into four positions
• Elegant design

Cons

• Expensive
• Users say the chair can be hard
• Little lumbar support

The Steelcase Gesture Chair is, perhaps, the best ergonomic chair on the market. It’s fully adjustable and easy to maneuver. You can move the seat depth forward or backward, change the tilt tension, and move the seat up or down, all using simple built-in knobs. The seat has four recline lock positions, and its wheels work on carpet flooring. The armrests can be rotated 360 degrees, and the 3D Liveback support technology is designed to mimic the movements of your spine as you change positions. The seat cushion is the perfect blend of soft yet structured, with a flexible perimeter to relieve pressure points. A 12-year warranty will keep you and your chair in business for many days to come, plus it’s available in well over 50 fabric and color options so that you can maintain the perfect home office aesthetic along with a complementary computer desk.

Best premium: Herman Miller Aeron Chair

Herman Miller

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Elastomeric, polyester, polyurethane, aluminum 
• Weight: 43 pounds 
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds

Pros

• Industry standard-bearer
• Comes in three sizes to suit different heights and weights
• Designed with adjustable lumbar support

Cons

• Expensive
• May not work in more traditional settings

The Aeron Chair by Herman Miller is the best for an ergonomic mesh office chair (and ergonomic office chair, to be honest). It is just as supportive as other high-end models, with increased breathability and moisture control. It comes in three sizes—A, B, and C—corresponding to various height and weight ranges. Once you select the right size, you can add on additional features such as fully adjustable arms, a tilt limiter/seat angler, adjustable Posturefit support, and quiet castor options. Manipulate the lumbar support to best suit your back. A tried-and-true office staple for 20 years, this chair is designed for desk workers who spend long hours sitting down, making it a great addition to an ergonomic desk. 

Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair

Jen McCaffery

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Intermix mesh, aluminum
• Weight: 29 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds

Pros

• Made from recycled materials 
• Sleek design
• Lightweight
• Comfort adjustment dial added

Cons

• Lumbar support is a separate purchase
• Supports less weight capacity than other ergonomic chairs

Mesh is a standard feature in office chairs. But Steelcase elevates the breathable weave with a proprietary textile called Intermix in its new Karman Chair. The name is inspired by the weightlessness of the Kármán Line, where the Earth’s atmosphere meets space. The material in this new offering from Steelcase chairs combines yarn and filaments together to create a weave that responds to your body. 

The Karman is designed with a mechanism that automatically senses your weight to provide the right support for your back when you recline. It also features a new comfort dial that adjusts the tension by up to 20 percent. Users can also customize the chair when ordering, choosing between height adjustability, 4-way adjustable arms, or an armless model. You can also purchase a cushion for extra lumbar support for an extra $57. 

The Karman Chair is also designed with sustainability in mind. At 29 pounds, this chair is lighter than many options on the market. It is made from 25 percent recycled and 75 percent recyclable material. Design enthusiasts will also appreciate the ability to choose between 13 colorways and several frame finishes.

Best for tall person: SIHOO M18 Ergonomic Office Chair

SIHOO

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Polyurethane, steel
• Weight: 42.5 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds

Pros

• Designed with adjustable headrest
• Provides lumbar support you can adjust
• Very affordable

Cons

• May not work for very tall or heavy people

Finding comfortable seating can be particularly challenging if you’re tall. SIHOO has designed a chair for people from  5’6″ to 6’2″ that you can adjust to fit every part of your body. This chair is designed with a headrest that’s multidimensional, allowing you to adjust the support of your neck. If you’re looking for a lumbar support office chair, you can also fine-tune the degree of support with a dial. The SiHOO M18’s sleek design and eye-catching colorways (like orange) also allow it to double as a gaming chair. And for all the support it provides, it comes in at a very budget-friendly price.

Best drafting chair: Flash Furniture Mid-Back Drafting Chair

Flash Furniture

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Plastic, plywood, mesh, foam, metal 
• Weight: 33 pounds
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds

Pros

• Provides lumbar support
• Height-adjustable
• Affordable
• Comes in 12 colorways

Cons

• No head support
• Not made with sustainable materials

This mid-back drafting chair has all the essential features every ergonomic chair needs and more. A ventilated curved back supports the spine, and the waterfall edge relieves pressure on the thighs. Plus, there is a height-adjustable chrome foot ring. A tilt lever can lock the chair into an upright position or allow for some rocking, while the tilt tension knob controls resistance. The seat can be raised up to 30 inches from the floor, and the dual caster wheels are easy to move with. When you rest your elbows on the padded flip-up arms, you can help increase circulation—or you can flip them up to create a larger seating area. It comes in a variety of colorways, and you can even find a more traditional office chair counterpart should you need an additional model.

Best kneeling chair: Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair  

Varier

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Birch, fabric
• Weight: 13.97 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Pros

• Classic design
• Lightweight
• Made with sustainable materials

Cons

• No back or neck support
• Not ideal for larger people

The Variable Balans was designed by Peter Opsvik, a significant designer and part of popularizing and implementing the ergonomic kneeling chair in homes and offices. Made from high-quality, flexible wood, this chair is exquisitely designed to support your body and relieve pressure. Unlike many other models, note that this unit does not need an additional crossbar—a testament to the thorough engineering that went into the design. It weighs under 14 pounds and comes in eight different colors to complement your style. This chair certainly finds strength in simplicity, allowing you to find your balance and improve back pain. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a desk chair with no wheels. If you’re not sure a desk stool is for you, but you want to try an ergonomic kneeling chair before committing to a higher-end model, check out the Office Star Kneeling Chair to get started or find more top-rated kneeling chairs.

Best under $400: HON Ignition 2.0

HON

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Plastic 
• Weight: 42 pounds 
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Pros

• Fully adjustable
• Affordable
• Provides lumbar support

Cons

• No neck support
• Not made from recycled materials

The HON Ignition 2.0 is a budget ergonomic chair that has many of the adjustable features valued in high-end chairs. It has a breathable mesh back, as well as customizable back recline, height, and seat positioning. The armrests are also fully adjustable to move up, down, towards, and away from your body. It even has an option for lumbar support, which can be moved up or down depending on your lower back’s comfort needs. While it may not be as plush as some of the other models listed here, it should do the trick when elevating a regular office chair. If this price point is still just a little too high for you, take a look at this budget ergonomic chair from Modway, which also has select adjustable features, including armrests, seat height, and tilt.

Things to consider when shopping for the best ergonomic chairs

The best ergonomic chair will support your neck, shoulders, arms, and back, keeping your spine aligned and your joints in the proper position. A great chair should keep you comfortable even during a long workday and help prevent additional strain from sitting for extended periods. While shopping, keep in mind any bad habits you’re trying to change—like posture—as well as any particular areas where you want extra support. You’ll also want to think about your work and find a chair that complements your desk or workspace. Knowing where to get started on your search can be a bit tricky, so we’ve compiled the best ergonomic chairs to help you get started.  

Adjustability

The best ergonomic chair needs to be able to support your body weight, height, and alignment needs over time. To achieve long-term functionality and comfort, invest in a chair that will keep your computer monitor at eye level, your wrists straight, your hands at or below elbow level, your knees in line with your hips, and your feet flat on the floor or footrest. With that in mind, getting a chair with an adjustable seat height is critical. It’s also important that you’re able to adjust your armrests back and forth, as it will lead to optimal hand and elbow placement regardless of limb length, especially if you tend to lean forward. In this position, without an armrest, your back muscles have to do all the work to keep you upright, which will, of course, lead to further strain. You can even go a step further and look for 360-degree rotation, which is particularly great for those who can’t hold the perfect sitting position all day long (we’re looking at you, crossed-legged sitters and hunched-over hand writers). 

We recommend grabbing a model with additional seat depth, back support, or reclining tension customization for maximum comfort. Many desk chairs will allow you to push back and recline, which can be good for relieving stress and pressure throughout your back and hips. Adjustable tension means you won’t have to continuously push back in order to retain that reclined position, resulting in a more comfortable, relaxing experience overall. These extra features will help you address your spine’s specific needs.

Breathability

Ergonomic mesh office chairs are an excellent way to get the support you need without overheating. They can also be easier to get in and out of, which is particularly helpful for those with hip or knee pain. Additionally, mesh chairs are lighter, less bulky, and easier to clean than other fabrics. A high-quality model should be light and springy with just the right amount of flexibility, almost like sitting in a hammock.

While some mesh chairs can be expensive, we think it’s worth it to invest. Low-quality mesh design can create more problems than it solves; your weight won’t be evenly distributed if the mesh is too stiff. If the mesh sags, your back and bottom won’t have enough support. Durable, pliable mesh should be able to lightly contour the body, lifting it from the seat and supporting it from behind without giving way or sinking. If extra airflow and a lightweight design are what you seek, but the high price point of quality, full-mesh models are a deterrent, try looking for a chair that boasts a mesh back and upholstered seat for the best of both worlds.  

Back support

For most of us, back pain has a lot to do with our posture and sitting positions. If you tend to slump forward, creating an exaggerated curve in your spine, chances are your lower back and hips will be stiff long before the end of your workday. To offset the effects of poor posture, look for a chair with additional lumbar support, which will often take the form of a cushion or indentation that contours to your lower back and creates a slight arch, making it harder for you to slouch forward. Take a look at the back of any chair you’re considering and look for that signature S-curve shape. If you see something with a flat back or bowl instead, you might want to consider another option. 

Drafting chairs

Those with specialized professions that don’t utilize a typical desk can benefit greatly from a well-designed drafting chair. The principles behind healthy sitting are still the same for those who use higher work surfaces, including standing desks, so you might need a few additional features to keep your spine in alignment. 

Seat height-adjustability is super important when it comes to drafting chairs; make sure you go for a flexible model with a pneumatic gas lift for easy adjustments. Equally important is the inclusion of a sturdy 360-degree footrest ring. With a drafting chair, there is no chance your feet will be able to rest on the floor, at least not while working at a tall desk; however, the best way to alleviate pain and pressure is to keep your feet flat on a surface squarely underneath your knees. Adjustable tilt tension can also be a key player when it comes to sitting comfortably in your drafting chair. Being up high means more support or resistance might be useful when you want to lean back. Finally, be sure to pay attention to all the features of a regular ergonomic office chair, i.e., armrests, lumbar support, and other customizable options.

Kneeling chairs

Just like active-sitting chairs, kneeling chairs force you to engage your muscles in order to stay upright; they are the quickest way to strengthen your core and improve posture, which, as previously mentioned, is one of the best things you can do to relieve back pain. The best ergonomic chair forgoes any back support and evenly disperses your weight between your spine, thighs, and shins for a sitting experience that is just as comfortable as a traditional model while naturally encouraging better posture. Cushy pads protect your knees and shins, so aside from getting used to your new, healthy sitting position for a few days, you shouldn’t feel any discomfort or pain. After a few weeks of continuous use, you’re likely to notice some sizable changes when it comes to the way you sit. 

There are a few options for kneeling chairs—if you want even more flexibility when it comes to sitting positions, opt for a kneeling rocking chair, which will let you put your feet flat on the floor and recline. If you aren’t sure you’re ready to go totally backless, you can look for one that offers additional mid- or high-spine support. You can even find kneeling chairs that come with casters so you can easily maneuver around your ergonomic workstation. Just keep in mind that you cannot adjust the seat height on a kneeling chair, so make sure you measure your desk height and purchase accordingly. They also can pair well with certain portable desks.

Price

The best ergonomic chairs often come with a high price point, for a reason—these models are built to last for years without degrading or losing their support over time. Practically every part of a solid ergonomic chair is adjustable, which also accounts for cost. However, there are undoubtedly several chairs out there that are more affordable. Make sure you look at the specs of budget ergonomic chairs, checking in on adjustability and lumbar support first. Typically the first thing you sacrifice with a less pricey option is the number of customizable features, like armrests, seat tilt, and more. That doesn’t mean that the chair won’t do a good job supporting your spine, but it does mean that you might sacrifice a little bit of overall comfort. Another way to get a quality chair is to buy used. Though you will probably sacrifice any included warranty, many high-quality, pre-owned chairs are resold through office liquidators and more; this way, you can get an expensive chair for practically half the price.

FAQs

Final thoughts on shopping for the best ergonomic chairs

• Best overall: Steelcase Gesture Chair
• Best premium: Herman Miller Aeron Chair
• Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair
• Best for tall person: SIHOO M18 Ergonomic Office Chair
• Best drafting chair: Flash Furniture Mid-Back Drafting Chair
• Best kneeling chair: Varier Original Kneeling Chair
• Best under $400: HON Ignition 2.0

You should now be well on your way to finding the best ergonomic chair for you and your workstation. Always look for adjustable features and ensure the chair you’re interested in will provide lumbar support for your lower back. Also, keep in mind that making a sound investment in your physical health is never a bad idea, so try your best to find a well-constructed model that will stand up to the test of time—your back will thank you. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best ergonomic chairs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Temtop M2000 2nd		SEE IT	The ability to test many things in one device, with consistent results and audible alerts, makes this monitor our top pick.
Best Smart		Atmotube Pro Portable		SEE IT	Impressive accuracy, and handy app alerts, help this keychain-sized monitor work well across a wide variety of temperatures and humidity.
Best Indoor Outdoor		Davis Instruments AirLink		SEE IT	This multienvironment-friendly unit offers easy-to-read graphs and charts, Weatherlink.com integration, and compatibility with Davis weather stations.

Nothing beats a breath of fresh air, but air can be contaminated by chemicals, soot, wildfire smoke, and other forest fire byproducts, making an air quality monitor a valuable tool. Even those with the best noses can have difficulty telling how good their local air is, especially with odorless gasses and “Volatile Organic Compounds” (VOCs) from products or processes lurking, so what are you to do? You could call in an air quality professional … or you can begin to do your own tracking with one of our picks for best air quality monitors.

• Best overall: Temtop M2000 2nd
• Best smart: Atmotube Pro Portable
• Best indoor outdoor: Davis Instruments AirLink
• Best portable: Sensirion SPS30
• Best budget: Temtop P20

How we selected the best air quality monitors

Largely, selecting the best air quality monitors was more a matter of hitting the research shelves than the shopping cart button. With such a product, the customer sentiment and manufacturer-supplied specs really mean a lot less than in-depth product analysis from researchers and experts that were able to compare consumer-facing products with laboratory-grade equipment. This results in a thin product selection, but I was able to identify five air quality monitors that I can confidently recommend.

The best air quality monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

What is the best air quality monitor? The best air quality monitors have been tested from official sources and come in various shapes, styles, and working methods. While the Temtop M2000 2nd Generation is the top pick for air quality monitor, due to its ease of use and robust testing ability, our four other monitors might be right for you depending on your circumstances. In any event, these five air quality monitors have both proper testing and current availability in the market.

Best overall: Temtop M2000 2nd Generation

Temtop

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Temtop M2000 2nd Generation tests for a wide variety of pollutants, has built-in calibration, and includes an audible alarm.

Specs

• Measures: CO2, HCHO (formaldehyde), PM2.5/PM10, Temp., Humidity
• AQ-SPEC report: High consistency
• Type: Handheld 

Pros

• Tests many things all in one device
• High consistency across many devices
• Has an audible alarm for when levels rise too high
• Tried and tested by several school systems

Cons

• Doesn’t work in temperatures below freezing

The Temtop M2000 2nd Generation is a relatively easily operated handheld air quality monitor that has been widely used. It has been used by the New York State Education Department, and the United Federation of Teachers has used it to measure carbon dioxide levels in schools in efforts to fight Covid-19.

The 2nd Generation product improves upon the original Temtop M2000 by adding a data export feature. This is really useful because, as mentioned by the AQ-SPEC report, where the Temtop M2000 2nd Generation suffers losses in accuracy, it makes up for it with high levels of consistency. Even across multiple Temtops, the reading levels should be consistently similar in the same situation. This means that you can pinpoint exactly when contaminant levels have started rising, even if you have to have a replacement device.

I’m also particularly pleased that it attempts a calibration system. While the accuracy, consistency, and difficulty for average users feel a bit daunting, the system’s overall capabilities are more than enough to begin with. Part of the calibration process being that you leave the device outside for lengthy periods is also annoying but manageable.

In reality, the main concern is the device’s limited capabilities during the colder months. Without being able to function below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the supposed “indoor-outdoor” nature of the device is cut off for many months of the year for those of us too far North or South of the equator. Luckily, in-home monitoring will still work year-round.

Finally, if you like the look of the M2000 2nd Generation, but are looking for something quite a bit cheaper, our budget choice also comes from Temtop. The Temtop P20 has reduced features but also a reduced price tag.

Best smart: Atmotube Pro Portable 

Atmotube

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Atmotube Pro attaches directly to your backpack or belt clip and alerts your phone directly when there’s a problem.

Specs

• Measures: PM1/PM2.5/PM10, VOCs, Temp., Humidity, Barometric Pressure
• AQ-SPEC report: High accuracy, high precision
• Type: Wearable

Pros

• Impressive accuracy counts
• Handy app alerts
• Works well across a wide variety of temperatures and humidities
• Keychain size

Cons

• Shorter battery life than hoped for

The Atmotube Pro Portable is a keychain-size air quality monitor that won’t take up much space and can be put just about anywhere or come with you. All of the data collected will be at your fingertips via the Atmo app, available free for Android and iOS devices.

The app will give you your personal stats, access to personal and global maps, and a personalized series of articles to help you understand air quality. You can also export your device’s data as a CSV file for further analysis.

According to the Atmotube’s AQ-SPEC results, the device is quite accurate, ranging from 86% to 98% across various conditions. The AQ-SPEC report also notes that the device is highly consistent across various environmental conditions, saying that heat and humidity had “minimal effect” on the device’s precision. Despite its small size, the Atmotube Pro delivers at a high level.

One of the bigger disappointments with the Atmotube Pro is the battery life. As expected of such a small device, the battery is also quite tiny. When the device is set to take measurements only once every 30 minutes, you can squeeze about a week out of the little battery. However, when you crank that up just a notch, the battery dies much more quickly. This is very unfortunate when using a device that, by its very nature, you want to set up and forget about. Fortunately, if the device isn’t meant to be mobile, you can keep it plugged into the charger while it is running.

Best indoor outdoor: Davis Instruments AirLink

Davis Instruments

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Why it made the cut: The AirLink is made for both indoor and outdoor usage, provides beautiful charts, and works well with other Davis Instruments systems.

Specs

• Measures: AQI, Temp., Humidity, Dew Point, Heat Index
• AQ-SPEC report: Highly accurate for PM1.0/PM2.5, but not for PM10, consistent
• Type: Indoor or outdoor

Pros

• Weatherlink.com integration
• Easy-to-read graphs and charts
• Installs easily both indoors and out
• Integrates into your Davis weather station

Cons

• Poor PM10 reading

The Davis Instruments AirLink comes with a heavy-duty body that can be conveniently placed in indoor or outdoor environments. If you want it in your house, place the machine on a desk or table. It has four safety feet to reduce the chances of it sliding off smooth surfaces. Alternatively, mount it outside (near an outlet) and attach the provided weather-resistant cover.

If you’re into more than just air quality monitoring, you’ll really appreciate the extra things the AirLink tracks, such as dew point and heat index. You’ll also be happy to note that it will connect with weatherlink.com and can integrate with your other Davis weather station products. These services are also available on your phone via the WeatherLink app.

I really appreciate that the output looks professional but still feels closer to what you might expect from a cable weather station than what your average lab coat wearer would be reading. The only thing I was disappointed with is that, as per the AirLink’s AQ-SPEC report, the PM10 readings weren’t too accurate. Really, though, this is just a small trade-off for a good home system and typical consumers will be more than happy with this machine.

Best portable: Sensirion SPS30

SENSIRION

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Sensirion SPS30 is a no-frills machine dedicated to particulate matter testing.

Specs

• Measures: PM1.0/PM2.5/PM4.0/PM10
• AQ-SPEC report: High precision
• Type: Portable

Pros

• Small size
• 8-year lifetime
• Long-term stability and contamination-resistance
• Moddable

Cons

• Drab UI makes interpreting data difficult

If you want to feel like you’re really in the lab, the Sensirion SPS30 might be right up your alley. Right from the moment I opened the company’s product introduction video, I felt instantly reintroduced to the lab environment I once came from.

Where this really shines is the Sensirion SPS30’s great moddability. For example, some users are soldering them on bikes for CanAirIO, a citizen science project dedicated to building a citizen network for monitoring air quality worldwide. The simple USB port connection and loads of data quickly generated by the device lend it to lots of projects. Other possibilities include pairing it with air conditioners, smart home devices, HVAC equipment, and more.

Where this “lab environment feel” really doesn’t shine is the UI. If you’ve ever worked with in-company software or any niche data-collection devices, you probably already know what I mean. You sure get a lot of data, but it isn’t going to look beautiful or come easy to read. Check out the company’s demonstration video for an up-close look at the graphs provided by the machine before deciding whether to purchase.

As for the Sensirion SPS30’s AQ-SPEC report, the key thing to know is that the device is highly precise across temperatures and humidity levels. While PM1.0 and PM2.5 levels were highly accurately measured in field and laboratory testing, PM10 levels were shown to be highly inaccurate in the field trials.

Best budget: Temtop P20

Temtop

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This budget solution will take care of all of your basic air quality monitoring needs.

Specs

• Measures: PM2.5, Temp., Humidity
• AQ-SPEC report: Higher precision at low temperatures
• Type: Desktop or mountable

Pros

• Highly accessible interface
• Everything needed for wall mounting included
• Can double as a nice desk or wall clock
• Exportable data

Cons

• Limited pollutants measured, but still great for price
• Low battery life

Considering that a laboratory-grade air quality tester can cost thousands of dollars, it would seem impossible to make a competitive one in the two-digit range. However, with Temtop’s P20, that isn’t true.

The Temtop P20 can measure PM2.5 pollutants. While it’d be nice to measure other pollutants or even other sizes of particulate matter, doing one thing well is quite impressive for the budget tier. The P20’s AQ-SPEC report tells us that the machine’s precision is most accurate when the local temperature is lower. That being said, the measurements indicate an accuracy of over 90% for most conditions at 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

You’ll probably enjoy having the Temtop P20 around, as it is also a rather nice LCD screen clock. To take a bit of the mystery out of the reading counts, a cute smiley face interprets the PM2.5 levels as good, fair, or poor. Another smiley face interprets your local humidity levels in a similar manner.

While the device can be mounted on the wall and includes the screws needed to do so, I recommend using the back stand and using it as a desk monitor. On the wall, the numbers, time, and smiley faces will probably prove somewhat tricky to see clearly. This will also help you keep it plugged into a charger because the battery only lasts for about 6-8 hours on a single charge.

Finally, those of you interested in data will rejoice. Much like the Temtop M2000 2nd Generation, our top choice of air quality monitor, the Temtop P20 has USB connectivity to export the collected data in CSV format. 

Things to consider before buying the best air quality monitors

One thing to note from the current research is that air quality monitors for public usage are still an emerging market. As such, there are a lot of claims about accuracy that are either demonstrably false or haven’t been thoroughly checked by scientists or any actual regulatory board. With all of this in mind, here are the key things to remember when buying an air quality monitor:

Target pollutant

In a fantasy world, an air quality monitor could sniff out any potential harm in the air and let you know. Unfortunately, air quality monitors in the real world must be designed to target specific contaminants. While it is never a mystery what pollutants an air quality monitor tracks—as they are nearly always prominently displayed in the specs and ads—you may find yourself overwhelmed with a few new terms. Here’s a quick mini-guide to get you up to speed on air pollution vocab:

PM: PM stands for “particulate matter” and measurements of it can tell you how many liquid or solid particles of varying sizes are in your air. The particles are measured in microns, given after the “PM.” For example, PM2.5 tests for the amount of particles that are approximately 2.5 microns in your air. The makers of the Atmotube report that PM1 particles are typically emissions from factories and vehicles, PM2.5 particles usually come from fires and combustion, and PM10 particles are from pollen, mold, and fine bits of old plants and insects. You’ll find that PM2.5 is a common measurement taken by portable air purifiers.

AQI: This stands for Air Quality Index and is a popular, but somewhat outdated, method for measuring air quality. Essentially, the AQI measures pollutant levels for a wide variety of substances, gives them each a score from 0-500, and reports the highest one. It doesn’t matter if only one pollutant is high or if several are, only the top one is getting reported. Still, the data is historically known and the conversions for each pollutant can still be useful. If you want to play around with the system, a handy AQI calculator is available for you.

VOCs: These are “Volatile Organic Compounds” and largely come from human sources. The EPA warns that sources of these contaminants include household cleaners, building materials, and standard office equipment. They also have found that these pollutants are consistently found in much higher concentrations in indoor settings. VOCs are a big part of why our recommended floor cleaners focused so heavily on ingredients. Certain high-end air purifiers, such as the Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde, are specifically equipped with sensors attuned to these byproducts we bring into our homes as we upgrade furnishings and electronics, etc.

Scientific usage

Before making any purchase of something as important as an air quality monitor, be sure to check out how the product is perceived by experts. That can be as simple as running a Google search with “site:.edu” or “site:.gov” followed by the product name or trawling through the depths of the “Air Quality Sensor Performance Evaluation Center” (AQ-SPEC) website.

AQ-SPEC provides comprehensive data on air sensors after real-world field trials. While AQ-SPEC reports explicitly state that they are not an endorsement of a particular monitor, the evaluations are free for the manufacturer if the sensors are “low-cost” and meet basic selection criteria. As a result, simply bothering to submit a sensor for an AQ-SPEC report is a sign of a manufacturer’s good faith in their product.

All of the air quality monitors on our list have a detailed AQ-SPEC report. Unfortunately, these reports can be a bit dense and read more like a Ph.D. journal submission than a consumer-facing report. I’ve attempted to condense these reports down into the relevant bits, but if you’ve got any interest, you’re highly encouraged to parse through them yourself as well.

Accuracy & consistency

Accuracy and consistency feel very similar at a glance but affect our perceptions of an air quality monitor in big ways. As you might be able to gather from a recent analysis by the Berkeley Lab, accuracy is going to be difficult to maintain. However, high consistency will make these machines still quite valuable sources of information for your home.

Part of this comes down to calibration, which laboratory equipment undergoes frequently. Take the humble pH machine, for example. Back in my lab days, I remember calibrating this machine nearly every day I would use it, using specialized liquid solutions. Now imagine calibrating something that measures air … at home. It appears that cheap calibration is on the way, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be easy or reliably done by the average person.

The result is that we have to expect some loss of accuracy when high-quality calibration isn’t feasible. Depending on what is being measured, this might not necessarily be too much of a problem. For example, your home thermometer is likely about 1 degree off, but it is still enough to tell you that you have a fever. The key is getting something accurate enough for your purposes.

Perhaps more important is consistency. While several consumer-grade air quality monitors have a bias, especially after being run for multiple days, if that bias is consistent, we can still get extremely useful information. For example, if your reading for Carbon Dioxide suddenly skyrockets above what you are used to getting, you know you have a problem.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air quality monitors

• Best overall: Temtop M2000 2nd
• Best smart: Atmotube Pro Portable
• Best indoor outdoor: Davis Instruments AirLink
• Best portable: Sensirion SPS30
• Best budget: Temtop P20

Getting a high-quality air quality monitor doesn’t have to be for laboratory professionals alone. While the world of personal air quality monitoring is still emerging, there are still some great products out there. Combining the most stringent testing circumstances with ready commercial availability produced a list of exactly these five air quality monitors, so we’re sure customers will find satisfaction from something on this list.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best air quality monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Electric Toothbrush		SEE IT	With multiple speeds, intensities, and a built-in timer, customize your tooth care.
Best sustainable		Suri Sustainable Electric Toothbrush		SEE IT	This beautiful sonic toothbrush is built with plant-based heads, replaceable parts, and comes with a UV travel case for easy disinfection.
Best for kids		quip Kids Electric Toothbrush		SEE IT	The quip provides simple functions with a handle design that helps you control your brushing.

Electric toothbrushes take some guesswork out of caring for your pearly whites. These battery-operated brushes vibrate or spin to clear plaque. All you have to do is hold the toothbrush at the right angle and apply gentle pressure. Some may have extra features like power settings, pulse settings, or smart features that measure bristle pressure. Some include a travel case that can be taken on the road. With these and other things in mind, we’ll guide you through the basics and share our recommendations for the best electric toothbrushes. 

• Best overall: Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Electric Toothbrush
• Best sustainable: Suri Sustainable Electric Toothbrush
• Best water-flosser combo: Waterpik Sonic-Fusion Professional Flossing Electric Toothbrush
• Best for kids: quip Kids Electric Toothbrush
• Best for braces: Oral-B Pro 1000 CrossAction Electric Toothbrush
• Best budget: Gleem Battery Power Electric Toothbrush

How we chose the best electric toothbrushes

I’m a big fan of electric toothbrushes and have used a number over the years. When I pick an electric toothbrush, I look at the following four factors: 

• Modes: Does the brush have enough modes for adequate cleaning? A single mode could work as long as it’s strong enough for most users. However, extra modes could offer broader functionality for those focused on keeping great dental hygiene. We preferred brands that offered options.

• Bristle action: Does the vibration or oscillation effectively maintain contact with the teeth and help remove plaque? This is an important consideration we factored into our picks.

• Battery life: Most people need at least a few days’ worth of battery life between charges, especially if they travel. I looked for models that give users the freedom to brush away from a cord or extra batteries. 

• Performance: Does the brush clean well? Do the settings work together with the brush head design to remove plaque effectively? I looked for brushes where the whole package sums to strong performance.

The best electric toothbrushes: Reviews & Recommendations

Most electric toothbrushes include a built-in timer that runs for the American Dental Association (ADA) recommended two minutes. Your toothbrush’s timer may include notifications every 30 seconds to tell you when to change brushing locations. But the features, and price, can increase as far as you feel comfortable. Here are our picks to help you separate the best from the rest.

Best overall: Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Electric Toothbrush

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This Philips model has features that let you customize the brushing experience and protective features like a pressure sensor, making it one of the best electric toothbrush models on the market.

Specs

• Speeds: 3
• Intensities: 3
• Power source: Built-in, rechargeable battery

Pros

• Built-in pressure gauge helps protect gums and enamel
• Up to 3 weeks of battery life, depending on brush settings
• Quadracer timer alerts you to move to different tooth quadrants

Cons 

• A few units have shown poor durability

The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Electric Toothbrush strikes a balance between extra features and price. It includes three speed settings and three intensities, allowing users to customize their brushing experience. 

It also includes a built-in pressure gauge that triggers an orange light if you’re pressing too hard. This feature helps protect gums and enamel from damage. The Philips electric toothbrush’s built-in Quadracer timer runs for two minutes and includes thirty-second alerts, so you know when to change areas on the teeth. Finally, we love the long battery life this brush has. 

Sadly, this model does have a few reports citing units with poor durability. A few have had button durability issues, while others had problems with brush heads falling off. While these issues are uncommon, they are worth noting.

Best sustainable: Suri Sustainable Electric Toothbrush

Suri

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This elegant toothbrush is designed with plant-based heads and recyclable parts. It provides 33,000 sonic vibrations per minute and a UV travel case disinfects the brush.

Specs

• Speeds: 1
• Intensities: 2
• Power source: Built-in, rechargeable battery

Pros

• Made with plant-based and recyclable parts
• Beautiful design
• 40-hour battery life
• Comes with UV cleaning case

Cons

• Can only replace parts from company

Brushing your teeth is one of the non-negotiables of life, but like taking out the garbage, it’s not typically a highlight of the day. But the Suri Electric Toothbrush elevated the experience for me. Created with the idea that “our daily rituals should be in harmony with our planet,” the toothbrush features plant-based heads and bristles and an aluminum body that can be taken apart so any parts that stop working can be repaired. Unlike bulkier options on the market, its design is sleek and appealing. It comes in three colors (Midnight Black, Sea Mist, and Winter Fern), and Suri provides a magnetic mirror mount for your bathroom.  

Although Suri has designed its toothbrush for sustainability, the device doesn’t skimp on useful tech. Its 33,000 sonic vibrations per minute tickled my mouth and made me look forward to brushing. With both a cleaning and polishing mode, the brush has a two-minute timer and haptic feedback every 30 seconds to let you know when to move on to another section of your mouth. Afterward, my mouth felt like I had gotten a professional cleaning.

What really makes the Suri stand out, however, is its travel case, which features UV-C light that disinfects your toothbrush within one minute. Like the mirror mount and the USB charging stand, the case design is thoughtful and sleek enough to easily tuck into a backpack, carry-on, or purse, for that matter. The brush also recharges within four hours and provides an impressive up to 40 hours of battery life. 

You might expect a premium price for a toothbrush made with sustainable materials and the latest tech. Thankfully, though, the Suri is priced in the same range or is less expensive than many other sonic toothbrushes on the market. — Jen McCaffery

Best water-flosser combo: Waterpik Sonic-Fusion Professional Flossing Electric Toothbrush

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The SonicFusion saves space and time by employing a water flosser and electric toothbrush combo—the power of two devices rolled into one. 

Specs 

• Speeds: 3
• Intensities: 10
• Power source: Built-in, rechargeable battery

Pros

• 10 pressure settings to clean sensitive teeth
• Built-in timer with 30-second pacer
• Works on brush, floss, and combo modes

Cons

• May require a surge protector

The Waterpik Sonic-Fusion Professional Flossing Electric Toothbrush has a head that functions as a toothbrush, water flosser, or both at the same time. With 10 pressure settings, even people with sensitive teeth can find a setting that water flosses without irritation. 

A bestseller for many years, the SonicFusion also includes many of the same high-end features found with other electric toothbrushes, like a two-minute timer, a 30-second pacer, and a travel case. You can even add mouthwash to the reservoir for extra dental treatment while you brush and floss. 

Watch out for power surges while you use this device. Surges have been known to cause this flosser to stop functioning. However, a responsive customer service team can help fix this known issue if this happens. 

Best for kids: quip Kids Electric Toothbrush

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The quip electric toothbrush gets bonus points for a simple design that kids love and a decluttering holder that parents appreciate—definitely the best electric toothbrush for kids.

Specs  

• Speeds: 1
• Intensities: 1
• Power source: AAA batteries

Pros

• Rubberized handle grip for better control
• Storage container declutters bathroom counters
• Charge lasts three months

Cons

• Relatively pricey replacement heads
• Batteries not rechargeable

The quip Kids Electric Toothbrush excels at brushing with the basics. This kid-sized brush has only one setting and one intensity, providing kids with the very basics without any additional confusing features. A rubberized handle helps little hands stay in control as they learn good oral hygiene. 

Regarding storage, the quip Electric Toothbrush includes a holder that attaches to the mirror to save counter space. It runs on three AAA batteries, potentially running up to three months (but it never hurts to keep some rechargeable batteries handy). 

A downside of this brush is that the replacement heads get pricey fairly quickly, whether you get them by subscription or at an alternative seller. This means this kid’s toothbrush might not be as affordable in the long run. 

Best for braces: Oral-B Pro 1000 CrossAction Electric Toothbrush

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Pro 1000 made the cut for its ease of use and the effectiveness of its oscillating action when cleaning orthodontic braces.

Specs

• Speeds: 1
• Intensities: 1
• Power source: Built-in, rechargeable battery

Pros

• Compatible with a wide range of Oral-B replacement toothbrush heads
• Bristle and head design cup the tooth for better cleaning coverage
• Built-in 2-minute timer

Cons 

• Timer doesn’t automatically shut off the toothbrush
• Only one mode

The best electric toothbrush for braces, the Oral-B Pro 1000 CrossAction, uses an oscillating action with vibration. It’s a slightly different action from most toothbrushes, but it works well for moving under and around braces. This model is also compatible with many of Oral-B’s brush heads. 

The Oral-B Electric Toothbrush keeps things simple with one mode and a single intensity. A timer offers thirty-second warnings when it’s time to change the area of your mouth you’re brushing. However, the toothbrush doesn’t automatically turn off when two minutes are up. A longer vibration signals the end of the cycle, but the toothbrush continues to vibrate, so you do have to remember to turn this toothbrush off manually.

Best budget: Gleem Battery Power Electric Toothbrush

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Gleem looks and functions like a more expensive electric toothbrush, yet it has just the right features to keep it at an affordable price. 

Specs 

• Speeds: 1
• Intensities: 1 
• Power source: Disposable AAA batteries 

Pros

• Simple, 1-speed design
• Memory function lets you stop the cleaning and pick up where you left off
• Compact traveling case

Cons

• Strong vibrations in the handle

The Gleem Electric Toothbrush cuts brushing down to the basics. It has one speed, one intensity, and a built-in timer. The only extra feature is a memory function that remembers where you were in the last brushing cycle so that you can pick up where you left off. It’s powered by disposable AAA batteries, making it a good option for travelers or those looking to save on counter space. The slim travel case is an appealing bonus. 

We love this affordable electric toothbrush, especially for travel. However, be warned that it has strong handle vibrations that may interfere with the vibrating head. 

Things to consider before buying an electric toothbrush

Battery type and run time

Electric toothbrushes usually have either a built-in, rechargeable battery or they use disposable batteries. The better battery type is largely a matter of personal preference. However, if you have an older bathroom that does not have an electrical outlet, a model with disposable batteries could be more practical.

Run times for either battery type vary from two days to several months. Battery life is affected by the settings used too. If you use a toothbrush at the highest vibration setting and brush three times a day, you’ll go through your battery faster than if you brush gently and only twice a day. Longer battery life and run times make brushing less of a hassle, especially when traveling. 

Smart features

Smart electric toothbrushes connect to an app via WiFi or Bluetooth. These toothbrushes use the app to time each brush session and may even automatically place orders for replacement heads. 

Some models track the areas of your mouth that have been brushed and make recommendations for areas that you consistently miss. There are also smart toothbrushes that can gauge the pressure applied to your teeth. These extra features can help you improve your brushing skills. However, they add dollars to the toothbrush’s price. 

Bristle motion and type

The bristles of an electric toothbrush come in the same varieties as manual toothbrushes: they vary by stiffnesses, shape, size, and configuration. Consider how the different bristle and head designs affect the performance. 

For example, electric toothbrushes with larger heads cover more area but might be too big for a child’s mouth. Others may include rubber components that buff while brushing. Consider what kind of cleaning you want the brush to do, and whether the extra features will help you with your oral health care.

Some designs, like electric toothbrush/water flosser combos, let you brush and floss with the same machine. If you’re considering a water flosser as part of your routine, these combos can save you time and money.

Cleaning modes

Some people prefer to stick to the basics and focus on a single cleaning mode. Others prefer to customize their brushing experience. Electric toothbrushes with several speeds or pulse settings let users find brushing motions that feel good for them and provide the best results for their specific oral hygiene needs.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best electric toothbrushes

• Best overall: Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Electric Toothbrush
• Best sustainable: Suri Electric Toothbrush
• Best water-flosser combo: Waterpik Sonic-Fusion Professional Flossing Electric Toothbrush
• Best for kids: quip Kids Electric Toothbrush
• Best for braces: Oral-B Pro 1000 CrossAction Electric Toothbrush
• Best affordable: Gleem Battery Power Electric Toothbrush

The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Electric Toothbrush offers the best mix of features and functionality. It’s got just enough extras to give you options but isn’t so loaded with features that you feel like you’re waving a magic wand in your mouth. If you want an upgrade that cuts down on bathroom appliances, the Waterpik Sonic-Fusion Professional Flossing Electric Toothbrush brushes, flosses, and applies mouthwash. It has a higher price point and a storage commitment but makes up for it by excelling at providing all-in-one home tooth care.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best electric toothbrushes of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for large rooms		Mila Smart Air Purifier		SEE IT	This all-purpose smart air purifier adapts to room size and comes with a carbon monoxide detector and sleep and white noise modes.
Best HEPA		Coway Tower True HEPA Air Purifier		SEE IT	This HEPA model features four layers of filtration in a stylish design.
Best for allergies		InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier		SEE IT	Certified to keep you safe from dangerous levels of ozone gas.

Air purifiers suck in pollen, dust, smoke, other allergens, and even viruses—pummeling them and then circulating clean, filtered air. It sounds simple enough, but not all purifiers are created equal, and there isn’t one that’s right for every person. Your particular environment and the size of your home are huge factors in choosing the best option for you. Is allergy season wreaking havoc on your sinuses? Do you live in a smoggy city? Has wildfire smoke been wafting through, blanketing everything in an unnatural haze? In short, even the finest filters aren’t guaranteed to fix all that ails you and your home. But if you’re wondering whether air purifiers are really worth it … we think so. They can help distribute cleaner air, and that’s always a good thing, considering the link between air quality and health. So, read on as we clear the air on what we think are the best air purifiers.

• Best overall: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde
• Best for large rooms: Mila Smart Air Purifier
• Best for small rooms: LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Bedroom
• Best for quiet: Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max
• Best HEPA: Coway Tower True HEPA Air Purifier
• Best with UV light: Germ Guardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier
• Best for allergies: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier
• Best for smoke: Alen BreatheSmart 75i
• Best portable: WYND Smart Plus Personal Portable Air Purifier
• Best budget: LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home, Core 300

How we chose the best air purifiers

As pet owners and parents, we’ve experienced our fair share of smells and toxins—and that’s just from inside the house. To create this list of the best air purifiers, we relied on peer recommendations, critical reviews, online research, user impressions, and plentiful personal testing. We also examined what each air purifier claims to eliminate from the air, HEPA square footage, and MERV ratings.

The best air purifiers: Reviews & Recommendations

Pollen, pet dander, smells, smoke, germs, and other airborne goblins are no match for the best air purifiers. This list includes quiet air purifiers, ones that double as humidifiers, and even ones that claim they can help with a majority of airborne pathogens.

Best overall: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde

Tony Ware

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This three-in-one smart device automatically adapts to changes in air quality and humidity.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 400 square feet
• Dimensions: 36.66 x 11.02 x 12.23 inches
• App connectivity: Yes
• Max decibels (dB): 59.8 dB

Pros

• Connectivity with Siri and Alexa
• Three products in one
• Air quality reporting

Cons

• Expensive

Between its TikTok- and Insta-famous Airwrap multistyler to its line of powerful vacuums, Dyson has made a name for itself in sucking—which we don’t mean negatively. The Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde proves yet again that Sir James Dyson really knows what he’s doing when it comes to pushing air out and in. This air purifier uses an intelligent sensing system and Air Multiplier technology to purify, humidify, and cool the air. You don’t even need to touch the stylish, distinctive unit—it automatically senses and reacts to changes in air quality and humidity (we’ve watched one enthusiastically spring to life time and time again after a particularly aggressive sauté session in the kitchen). It even features a solid-state sensor to detect and destroy formaldehyde emitted by household items—a boon if you’re in a newly renovated/refurbished space, as fresh carpet and new mattresses are emitting odd things.

You don’t have to worry about airborne baddies getting re-released into the air since the entire purifier-humidifier is fully sealed to the HEPA H13 standard. If you love numbers, neat tech, and data, this machine will tickle your brain when it reports your air quality in real time on the LCD screen and DysonLink app (which you can use to tweak/schedule usage). The filters are low-maintenance and easy to replace, and the machine features a deep-clean cycle to get rid of mineral build-up and bacteria that may be lurking in the water system. Although it’s almost $1,000, you’re getting three devices for the cost of one. Talk about smart.

Best for large rooms: Mila Smart Air Purifier

Mila

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This mold- and carbon monoxide-detecting air purifier comes in different filter configurations for custom air purification.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 1,000 square feet 
• Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 15 inches
• App connectivity: Yes
• Max decibels (dB): 62 dB but lowers to 24 dB while in room

Pros

• Stylist
• Small
• Carbon monoxide, mold detection, and white noise machine built-in

Cons

• Reviews note excessive air quality notifications

This classy, app-controllable large room air purifier adapts to the size of whatever room it’s placed in. It also looks great in any room it’s placed in. The filter has 45 square feet of HEPA, and with 447 CADR, it’s effective in rooms up to 1,000 square feet. Additional features include a sleep mode and white noise so that it won’t interfere with your sleeping habits. The device also features a carbon monoxide detector. It will monitor your room’s humidity and let you know if it detects any mold. If you’re not a fan of notifications, disable them if you go with the Mila—reviewers note that the Mila app sends lots of alerts.

Best for small rooms: LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Bedroom

Levoit

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Take this lightweight, compact air purifier from room to room to experience dual-filter, three-stage filtration in your entire home.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 161 square feet
• Dimensions: 6.69 x 6.69 x 10.43 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Max decibels (dB): 52 dB

Pros

• Aromatherapy
• Dual-filter, three-stage filtration
• Specifically targets hay fever

Cons

• Not for large homes

The Levoit promises to help relieve allergies, congestion, and sneezing and is our pick for the best small air purifier. Although we can’t vouch for the unit’s specific efficacy against rhinitis, we can vouch for the fact that it has three filters (one more than most other units): HEPA for dust, pollen, and dander; carbon for odors; and polyester for lint and hair. One fun additional feature is that this one has an aromatherapy option if you’d like a little lavender to help lull you to sleep at night.

Best for quiet: Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max

Tony Ware

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Particles down to .1 microns are no match for this quiet-but-powerful air purifier.

Specs

• Recommended room size: Up to 929 square feet
• Dimensions: 19 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches
• App connectivity: Yes
• Max decibels (dB): 50 dB

Pros

• Removes particles down to .1 micron
• Stylish
• App connectivity

Cons

• Reviews note occasional problems with auto-sensing

Blueair makes svelte cylinders with Scandinavian style packed with highly effective electrostatic and mechanical filtration. The Blue Pure 311i Max is HEPASilent but deadly … against microbes in the air. This stylish, small air purifier features five fan speeds and a one-touch auto mode with a fine particles (PM 2.5) sensor to monitor concentration and adjust speed according. This air purifier can clean a 387-square-foot room in 12.5 minutes and a 929-square-foot space in 30 minutes (there are both larger and smaller models, so something for every home). And, it snags all those particles (99.97% of them down to 0.1 micron) all nearly undetected, clocking in at 23 dB on low/night mode—louder than a quiet natural area with no wind but softer than a whisper. And it never runs above 50dB, which makes it QuietMark certified and perfect for a bedroom, TV room, any room … plus it’s only 8 pounds, so it’s easy to move around while you decide between your study and your yoga studio (or realize it’s easiest to buy two).

Is it working? We barely hear it. But we also don’t hear ourselves sneezing and wheezing and complaining about our watery eyes, so we’re going with yes. If we need more confirmation, we can look at a five-color LED that changes according to Air Quality Index (AQI), or we can reference an app that gives insight into indoor vs. outdoor pollution and lets you control mode, tweak LED Brightness, set a schedule, and more (assuming the 311i Max and your phone are connected to WiFi). And if we don’t want it to be working, Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility let us turn it off with voice commands if our phone isn’t convenient. While some reviews note that the auto-sensing feature is not as accurate as they hoped, we’ve observed the Blue Pure 311i Max react firsthand thanks to a low smoke-point cooking oil incident or two. It was lively even from across a loft apartment—and helped with the post-coming odors. And the washable pre-filter fabric cover (shown above in “Stockholm Fog” color, quietly complementing some audio-video gear) meshed effortlessly with the decor to boot.

Best HEPA: Coway Tower True HEPA Air Purifier

Coway

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Why it made the cut: Stylish-meets-powerful with this True HEPA air purifier that features four levels of filtration.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 330 square feet
• Dimensions: 10.5 × 32.7 × 10.7 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Max decibels (dB): 52 dB

Pros

• Real-time air sensing
• Washable pre-filter
• Air quality indicator

Cons

• Noisier compared to other air purifiers

Multiple fan speeds, a timer, an air-quality assessor, and a filter-replacement indicator light make this the best HEPA air purifier—not just quiet and effective, but user-friendly. At just under $200, it’s neither cheap nor exorbitant for an air purifier, and it’s also aesthetically pleasing. Reviewers note that this air purifier is noisier than most.

Best with UV light: Germ Guardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier

Germ Guardian

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Why it made the cut: This quiet air purifier uses CARB-compliant UVC light and titanium dioxide to reduce airborne bacteria, viruses, and mold spores.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 153 square feet
• Dimensions: 10.25 x 6.75 x 21.5 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Max decibels (dB): 61.2 dB

Pros

• Quiet
• Reduces odors
• Pre-filter traps allergens

Cons

• UV light can be bad for the environment

UVC light (the most destructive of all the UVs) in an air purifier works as a UVGI—ultraviolet germicidal irradiation—disinfection method by attacking the DNA of cells floating through the air, like mold spores, viruses, and bacteria. (This means, like all other filters, it cannot do anything for particles that have settled into fabric). An activated charcoal filter reduces odors. The 22-inch purifier filters air four times per hour at maximum speed in rooms up to 153 square feet. The four fan speeds, whisper-quiet operation, and CARB compliance make this air purifier an especially good pick for allergy sufferers. California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliance means you can rest easy about its environmental footprint.

Best for allergies: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier

InvisiClean

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Why it made the cut: CARB compliance plus four levels of air purification equals an exorcism for your sneezes.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 319 square feet
• Dimensions: 12.34 x 6.25 x 17.75 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Max decibels (dB): 55 dB

Pros

• Four fan speeds
• Quiet
• CARB compliant

Cons

• No auto-sensing

The four fan speeds, whisper-quiet operation, and CARB compliance make this air purifier an especially good pick for allergy sufferers. The California Air Resources Board requires purifiers to produce .050 parts per million of ozone or less, so any device with this certification keeps you safe from unsafe gas levels.

Best for smoke: Alen BreatheSmart 75i

Alen

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Why it made the cut: Detailed air quality indicators, a B7-Pure filter, and a CADR of 347 mean that this air purifier will stop smoke in its tracks.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 1300 square feet
• Dimensions: 12 x 19 x 27 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Max decibels (dB): 51 dB

Pros

• 8 colorways
• Quickly cleans large rooms
• Auto-adjusts based on air quality

Cons

• Expensive
• Little warranty

This is an easy pick for the best air purifier for smoke, thanks to its CADR of 347 (out of 450). Thanks to automatic air-quality detection, when any type of smoke is present, the unit will kick up to turbo. When no irritants are present, the device goes into energy-saving mode. Five air quality colors give you a more detailed visual indicator of air quality—other air purifiers only include three color indicators.

Best portable: WYND Smart Plus Personal Portable Air Purifier

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Take clean air onto the airplane or into the office with this water bottle-sized air purifier developed by NASA and MIT engineers.

Specs

• Recommended room size: N/A
• Dimensions: 9.57 x 8.62 x 4.33 inches
• App connectivity: Yes
• Max decibels (dB): 55 dB

Pros

• Small
• iOS/Android app
• Medical-grade filter

Cons

• Expensive for size

This small-but-mighty air purifier designed by NASA and MIT engineers fits in a cup holder and can purify the air in a car in under 15 minutes—that’s eight liters of air per second. And that comes in handy in a world of wildfires and other pollutants you might encounter as you travel—something we know from experience, as one accompanied three passengers in a Honda CR-V through the smoke-heavy American West during fall 2021. And, if you like numbers, the WYND air purifier connects to an iOS/Android app to track real-time hyperlocalized data on dust and other particulates. It also enables you to switch between different purifier presets, like auto and night, control other WYND devices, and alerts you when encountering poor air quality. The included desktop kickstand accessory lets you position the air purifier to direct a clean bubble toward your face (as shown above), giving your nose and lungs instant access to medical-grade filtered air in an office or elsewhere.

Best budget: LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home, Core 300

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: This compact air purifier tackles smoke, dust, pollen, bacteria, and viruses without hurting your wallet.

Specs

• Recommended room size: 219 square feet
• Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 16.25 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Max decibels (dB): 50 dB

Pros

• Filter life indicator
• Timer
• Quiet

Cons

• Louder than other air purifiers

This cheap air purifier targets smoke, dust, and pollen, along with some bacteria and viruses. Four specialty replacement filters include a pet-allergy option and a toxin absorber for particularly smoky or smoggy areas. Like higher-end air purifiers that are more expensive, this Levoit air purifier features timer settings and a sleep mode. And the display lights can be turned off to ensure a pitch-black room when sleeping. Although the air purifier is louder than some competitors, it resembles a whooshing fan at its highest setting—if you can deal with that, this air purifier is for you.

What to consider when buying the best air purifiers

The best air purifier for you might not be the one your best friend or neighbor loves. You want a HEPA filter with a high MERV rating that’s designed to cover the amount of space you have in your particular room or dwelling. Beyond that, consider whether you want other features like pathogen-killing UV light, smart controls, and/or odor elimination. Do you need the best air purifier for pets or perhaps something portable? Air purifiers for mold or models to get rid of smoke? Air filters work only on airborne particles. To get at anything that’s settled into upholstery or rugs, you’ll need a handy vacuum, a helpful robot, or something else that offers deep-clean suction.

Size of space

There’s an alphabet soup to make sense of when choosing the best air purifier for your home. ACH (air changes per hour) correlates to the airflow of your device. It’s calculated based on the volume of your space, ceiling height, and how many cubic feet per minute the device can cover. It’s independent of other factors, e.g., the filter’s efficacy—to calculate that you need the CADR (clean air delivery rate) rating; because a HEPA filter is more efficient, its CADR rating may be lower, which is deceptive.

The most important thing to note is that an air purifier’s efficacy cannot be calculated based on square footage alone. You can find handy calculators online to determine the proper purifier for your needs, but here’s what to consider with any device: Will it successfully rid your home of odors with carbon or other comparable filters? Is it a good choice for pet owners? Does it feature UV light? Read the fine print.

HEPA

You’ve likely heard of high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filters. They are a type of pleated air filter that, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, “can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of .3 microns.” The smaller the particle, the more penetrating and nefarious it can be. So when you’re shopping for air purifiers, check out their filters’ MERV (minimum efficiency reporting values) rating. The higher the MERV rating, the better it is at trapping the tiniest particles.

Suppose it’s the coronavirus that has you shopping for purifiers. In that case, it should be said that though a HEPA filter should be able to catch a virus of that size, there’s no conclusive proof that an air purifier can kill airborne COVID-19-carrying air droplets. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that any room housing a coronavirus patient “should be exhausted directly to the outside, or be filtered through a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter directly before recirculation.”

If your main concern about your indoor air quality is lingering food or cigarette smoke odors, make sure the model you’re considering specifically targets fumes and other volatile organic compounds. HEPA filters aren’t good at eliminating odors on their own.

The HEPA filter was initially designed to capture radioactive particles when the atomic bomb was being developed because it can capture 99.97 percent of particles as small as .3 microns, which can evade other types of filters. (This is sometimes referred to as “true HEPA,” as European HEPA standards are required to trap only 85 percent of particles.) It works by ensnaring, sieving, and rerouting irritating particles.

A HEPA air purifier is considered the gold standard, but it does have limitations. Any particle smaller than .3 microns—for example, some viruses and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) like aerosols, ammonia, and other toxins—will slip right through. Changing your filter often enough is key. A HEPA filter does a great job of capturing mold. If you don’t change the filter, the purifier can redistribute that mold back into the air.

Allergies

The best air purifiers for allergies depend on what your particular triggers are because different filters work on different-sized particles. Pet hair and pollen are large particles, dust is medium-sized, and smoke is small. A combination HEPA-carbon filter is your best bet for filtering the maximum number of irritants to help reduce your allergies.

The addition of an ionizer and UV light, if you’re comfortable with it, adds a belt to your proverbial suspenders. Because UV light does create ozone particles, we recommend choosing an air purifier with UV light that’s approved for sale in California.

Smoke

Pollutants—like smoke and soot—can aggravate asthma, irritate your eyes, and stress your lungs and heart. An intuitive HEPA purifier with multiple fan speeds, maximum air circulation, and zero ozone output is the best one for allergy sufferers and people who are sensitive to smoke. The best air purifiers for smoke have a higher CADR rating. This means your device will be better at eliminating smoke and its odor, whether you’re talking about cigarettes, cannabis, or wildfires.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air purifiers

• Best overall: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde
• Best for large rooms: Mila Smart Air Purifier
• Best for small rooms: LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Bedroom
• Best for quiet: Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max
• Best HEPA: Coway Tower True HEPA Air Purifier
• Best with UV light: Germ Guardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier
• Best for allergies: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier
• Best for smoke: Alen BreatheSmart 75i
• Best portable: WYND Smart Plus Personal Portable Air Purifier
• Best budget: LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home, Core 300

In almost every category, the best air purifiers have a true HEPA filter and a carbon filter. Together, they get you the most coverage regarding the breadth of pollutants the purifier will attack. Beyond that, the most important qualities are energy efficiency and picking the right model for the size of your room. Everything else—design, whether the device is app-enabled, UV lighting—is just gravy.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best air purifiers for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Motorola MG7700		SEE IT	Comcast approved, this modem-router combo is quick to set up and the right bandwidth for most high-speed customers.
Best Netgear		NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V		SEE IT	Supporting up to 30 devices and a shared storage device, this is a robust reliable home internet hub.
Best 600 Mbps for Cable Internet		ARRIS SURFboard SBG7400ACS		SEE IT	Approved for Xfinity, with built-in virus protection features, this is a stable east-to-setup option.

When you sign up for Comcast’s Xfinity internet service, you’ll be presented with a choice that seems almost trivial but will turn out to be one of the most critical parts of your customer experience: Rent a modem/router combo from Comcast or go out and buy your own. At first, it might feel like a no-brainer to go with the Comcast-provided choice. You know it will work well with what you have and the quoted price is never too expensive. However, the math is clear: you’re probably going to be a Comcast customer for many years, so buying your own modem and router will be cheaper. It can be scary to go out and finally make the purchase, though, because you don’t know if the equipment you’re looking at will work with Comcast. That’s why we’ve worked hard to put your fears to rest and come up with this list of the best routers for Comcast.

• Best overall: Motorola MG7700 Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo 
• Best Netgear: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V
• Best 600 Mbps for cable internet: ARRIS SURFboard SBG7400ACS
• Best Wi-Fi: Amazon eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Router
• Best budget: TP-Link Archer A7

How we chose the best routers for Comcast

Getting one of the best routers for Comcast is typically a two-step process. First, you need to identify what kind of router you want. Are you going budget? Is Netgear best? Or are you searching for the best portable Wi-Fi? Whatever you’re looking for, there is probably a great router that works with Comcast in the list. This brings us to the second step: verifying that the router works with Comcast internet. This is done in a variety of ways, including researching the wide diversity of customer experiences, manufacturer claims, and product certifications. When combined, these two steps will lead you to one of our best routers for Comcast, just like they informed our list.

The best routers for Comcast: Reviews & Recommendations

The best routers for Comcast are ones that pick up on the key needs of consumers today, while also conferring some advantages of their own. It is tempting to fall into the trap of thinking that only DOCSIS 3.1, Wi-Fi 6E, multi-gigabyte-supporting routers are the best, but the reality is that a more measured approach is best. No over-the-top router built today will actually be the router of choice in the far future it imagines. Instead, our recommendations focus on the best routers for Comcast that will work great in 2023 and beyond … but not so far beyond that we enter a future beyond our current understanding.

Best overall: Motorola MG7700

Motorola

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A Comcast Xfinity-approved modem-router combo that has all you need for quality internet quickly.

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: Supports internet plans up to 800 Mbps
• Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 5

Pros

• Comcast approved
• Quick Setup
• Right speed for most high-speed customers
• 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports

Cons

• Connectivity issues in large homes

The Motorola MG7700 is an upgrade to the very successful MG7550. As far as Wi-Fi routers for your home go, this one will prove to be a top competitor for the modern era. Serving up to 800 Mbps service plans and coming with four Ethernet ports ready to serve the gigabit generation, you should be happy for quite some time.

The MG7700 is only approved to work with Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, which works out in your favor as a Comcast customer. You’ll find that setup is generally quite quick, with only a power cord and your coaxial cable needing to be plugged in before following a few simple steps to secure your connection. Plus, if you do run into any problems, your customer support tech from Comcast Xfinity will likely be at least somewhat familiar with the MG7700 and can give you some pro tips about working with the device.

The Motorola MG7700 works best in medium-sized homes, with those in large homes finding some trouble connecting in the far corners of their home. For these customers, the Wi-Fi 6/DOCSIS 3.1 Motorola MG8725 might work better, but for the average person in the here and now the MG7700 will more than suffice.

Best Netgear: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V

NETGEAR

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is a tried-and-true Netgear with the perfect balance between reliable performance and price.

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: Certified for 800 Mbps Xfinity Cable (1,900 Mbps theoretical maximum)
• Wi-Fi range: Suitable for 1,800 sq. ft. homes

Pros

• Supports up to 30 devices
• Shared storage drive
• 4 gigabit Ethernet ports
• Access to Comcast Voice (VoIP)

Cons

• Older model

The NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V is a robust model that has not only stood the test of time but still competes as one of the best routers of today.

A manufacturing sticker tells us that the C7100V is “100% Certified Compatible” with cable internet from Xfinity up to 800 Mbps, while the actual speed that it can reach is somewhat faster. This should be enough for most consumers by itself, but the four gigabit Ethernet ports certainly aren’t reducing the value either.

Next, we have the access to Comcast Voice, a VoIP system signified by the “V” at the end of the product model. While VoIP is certainly nothing new, we aren’t into turning down well-tuned extras.

Speaking of being nothing new, the C7100V isn’t exactly the new kid on the block. When models have been out for a few years, you have the advantage of knowing exactly what you are going to get and the markdowns in price that come with time. The trade-off, of course, is lowered future longevity and the potential for reduced support from the manufacturer coming on the horizon. In all, with the C7100V you know you’re getting a modem-router combo that won’t break down easily and should still be worth something in a few years.

Best 600 Mbps for cable internet: ARRIS SURFboard SBG7400ACS

ARRIS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is a recommended for 600 Mbps router that is capable of so much more.

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: Approved for 600 Mbps cable, with 1000 Mbps download
• DOCSIS: 3.0

Pros

• Approved for Comcast Xfinity
• Built-in McAfee protection
• 4 gigabit Ethernet ports
• Password-free connection via WPS

Cons

• Tricky installation
• Not compatible with DSL or fiber

ARRIS’s SURFboard SBG7400AC2 is a DOCSIS 3.0 router that is suggested for cable internet plans of around 600 Mbps. Again, that’s cable plans (it won’t work with DSL or fiber) and that is a suggestion. In many instances, this product is capable of much higher speeds, such as via the Ethernet ports that can give you a full gigabit connection.

One interesting feature that comes with the SURFboard SBG7400AC2 is access to McAfee Secure Home Internet, part of the McAfee Secure Home Platform. When enabled, it provides McAfee-level security to all devices connected to your network, controlled via an associated app. You can control the security via Alexa or Google Assistant, set parental controls, and even set it to prevent your devices from accessing the internet while you’re away from home for an even higher level of security. For those of you seeing another McAfee product in your lives as a hassle, you’ll be happy to know that this part of the router is optional.

Getting connected to the router with your device is also quite easy. The small button below the status lights, labeled “WPS,” can be pressed to connect applicable phones and other devices. No having to give your password out and no lengthy password typing. A win-win for sure.

The initial setup feels like the main drawback with this router, as the provided instructions are a tad confusing and the SURFboard Manager app isn’t as user-friendly as we’d like. Still, once it works the SURFboard SBG7400AC2 provides a lot for the right niche it serves.

Best Wi-Fi: Amazon eero 6e Mesh Wi-Fi Router

Eero

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Why it made the cut: Amazon’s eero Mesh Wi-Fi Router sets up quickly to provide whole-home internet coverage.

Specs

• Modem combo: No
• Wi-Fi range: Supports 2,000 sq. ft. area
• Max Speed: Supports internet plans up to 2.3Gbps

Pros

• Tiny and lightweight
• 2 gigabit Ethernet ports
• Amazon Alexa support
• Stay secure with auto-updates

Cons

• No modem combo

If you’re looking for a pure router, no modem combo, to help distribute internet power throughout your home, Amazon’s own eero 6e Pro Mesh Wi-Fi Router is the perfect device to do so with. As a mesh router, it packs a lot of power in a tiny size and can help you destroy those pockets of your home that are currently just filling one or fewer internet bars on your phone.

The eero Mesh is an Amazon product, so there is no surprise that it comes with Alexa support. Here, Alexa can give you control over the access individual devices have to your Wi-Fi network, meaning your naughty child’s late-night Fortnite session can be shut down with a single sentence.

The eero Mesh is not expensive, with the three-pack option coming in at about the price of the modem-router combos on this list. This is a good thing because the only downside to this system is that in real homes it often isn’t meeting up to the 2,000 square foot coverage area suggested by eero. Too many customers are reporting difficulties using the product through their walls or just outside their home, suggesting a weak signal. Instead, give every room its own happy cube of Wi-Fi-fed internet joy.

Best budget: TP-Link Archer A7

TP-Link

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The TP-Link AC1750 Archer A7 provides Alexa support, a VPN server, parental control, and more at a price point anyone can afford.

Specs

• Modem combo: No
• Max speed: Supports plans up to 300 Mbps (1750 Mbps theoretical maximum)
• Wi-Fi range: Suitable for 2,500 sq. ft. home

Pros

• Competitive pricing
• 4 gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 gigabit WAN port
• Award-winning customer satisfaction
• Built-in Alexa and parental control support

Cons

• Old model
• No modem combo

Finally, we get to the TP-Link Archer A7, which is a reliable older router without the modem combo. If you’re truly looking for the best routers for Comcast, as opposed to modem-router combos, and are on a budget this is the go-to pick that should satisfy you for quite some time.

What you might not be expecting from an older, budget router is the Alexa support and robust parental controls, which can set time limits and filtering levels. The router even has a VPN to secure your web-browsing privacy just an extra bit more.

Much like our commentary with the NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V, there are certain pros and cons when it comes to getting an older router. With the Archer A7, you do get the satisfaction of knowing that the product you’re buying is a two-time winner of a customer satisfaction award from JD Power—the same group known for rating the best cars positively. If it were only to have a modem tied in with it, it could likely still be a high-ranking contender in its own right.

What to consider when buying the best routers for Comcast

So, you’ve followed the two-step approach outlined above and have arrived at a decent-looking router for Comcast. How do you evaluate it from here? A lot of the decision-making process from here comes down to stats and the nearly unlimited wealth of knowledge that comes from the huge Comcast user base. Numbers and individual experiences can tell you a lot about the short-term functioning of a router, but there is nothing like the masses to show you if a router outperforms the rest in the long run.

The next thing you should consider is possibly the biggest question you’ll face when getting a router for Comcast. A question so important, that it will divide the acceptable range of products for you to buy into two parts. So, what is this oh-so-essential question?

Max speed: Routers are rated on the max speed they can deliver. If that speed is higher than the internet speed Comcast is giving you, you’re overpaying for your router. However, if the speed is lower, you’re overpaying for your internet. Every. Single. Month. The recommendation is fairly straightforward and simple: Find the perfect internet speed for you, then buy a router that has a max speed somewhat above that speed. Getting a router with a bit extra leaves you some growing room as your internet package expands, as well.

For modem-router combo users, the next thing you’ll need to consider is DOCSIS. Standing for “Data Over Cable Services Interface Specification,” this factor affects your speed by determining how well the aforementioned “internet juice” can travel from the modem part of the combo to the router part.

In 2022, you’ll only need to select from DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. If you want to skip the technical details, we can simplify this selection by saying that DOCSIS 3.0 will be fine for average internet users of the current age but DOCSIS 3.1 is better for top-of-the-line internet speeds and equipment and is more “futureproofed.” In the years that come, we can expect that the basic standard will switch from DOCSIS 3.0 to DOCSIS 3.1.

Now, onto the fine details. DOCSIS 3.0 is capable of 200 Mbps upload speeds and up to 1 Gbps download speeds. In a world where most Americans don’t have gigabit internet yet, it will do fine. However, as coverage expands and competition drives prices cheaper, this will rapidly change. DOCSIS 3.1 has 2 Gbps upload and 10 Gbps download speeds. To put that in comprehensible terms: FromSoftware’s Elden Ring is 60GB. With DOCSIS 3.1 and fast enough internet, you could theoretically download Elden Ring in just 6 seconds. The best gaming routers of tomorrow will certainly be DOCSIS 3.1 routers.

Wi-Fi standard: There are three Wi-Fi standards you are likely to hear about while router shopping. From most to least common, they are: Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, and Wi-Fi 6E. Much like DOCSIS 3.0 above, Wi-Fi 5 is going to be fine for the vast majority of you. It isn’t until you get to faster internet speeds or want a dozen or so devices connected to the router at once that you will want something better. Let’s look at these future-thinking options now:

We’ve explained Wi-Fi 6 in detail before, but here are the key facts: Wi-Fi 6 just started to appear in 2019 and is made to handle the faster, multi-gigabit internet speeds we are commonly starting to see. More importantly, it is able to handle a much larger number of smart devices at once. Think about your home filled with you and your spouse browsing through your phones while doing work on your laptops, with the addition of your teen and about a dozen of their friends doing a group project on just about as many phones and laptops. This is the future Wi-Fi 6 will have us prepared for.

Wi-Fi 6 routers also tend to have next-generation security protocols, like WPA3, and an extended Wi-Fi range.

Wi-Fi 6E is even newer than Wi-Fi 6, with the E standing for “Enhanced.” It uses technology that few devices today can actually take advantage of. Understanding Wi-Fi 6E in detail is worth it for the futurist but, in the here and now, there is such a thing as being too prepared. If you want something to last far into the future, one of our picks for the best Wi-Fi 6 routers should be more than enough.

Wi-Fi range: Wi-Fi range is quite a bit more simple to understand than the above. This is the range that you can get Wi-Fi signal from the router. The only time this calculation can get complicated to understand is if you have a multi-story home (at which point you might want to look at our suggestions for best Wi-Fi extenders). The range is a direct point A to point B count, so you might have to study up on your Pythagoras.

The last thing to consider is that walls, electronic devices, and certain other materials in between your device and the router can weaken the signal somewhat. Like a lot of stats in the tech product world, more is better, but just enough will suffice.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best routers for Comcast

• Best overall: Motorola MG7700 Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo 
• Best Netgear: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V
• Best 600 Mbps for cable internet: ARRIS SURFboard SBG7400ACS
• Best Wi-Fi: Amazon eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Router
• Best budget: TP-Link Archer A7

At the end of the day, the most important thing when buying your own router for Comcast is making sure you end up with both a router and a modem, have a router that is compatible with Comcast, and are able to enjoy the speeds provided. All of our best routers for Comcast are suitable for Comcast and many have modems, too. Nearly everyone will be happy using the Motorola MG7700 with their Comcast Xfinity internet.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best routers for Comcast in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Real Relax Favor 03 Massage Chair		SEE IT	Feel like you’re floating on a cloud in this zero-gravity massage chair.
Best stylish		Esright Massage Recliner Chair		SEE IT	A stylish recliner and useful massage chair.
Best for tall people		Human Touch Super Novo		SEE IT	This expensive chair has ample room for people up to 6’9″.

Ditch the standard recliner and get yourself a great massage chair that does much more than rock back and forth. With multiple options, heat functions, muscle compression, and soothing vibrations, a massage chair is a therapeutic throne. New styles, sizes, and price points let you slide a quality chair into just about any living space. Go big with a large chair that feels like a bear hug, or keep it simple with one disguised as a typical piece of living room furniture. Melt away all the stress of the modern world with the best massage chairs you’ll look forward to using.

• Best overall: Real Relax Favor 03 ADV Massage Chair
• Best stylish: Esright Massage Recliner Chair
• Best for small spaces: CirC – Premium SL Track Heated Massage Chair
• Best for tall people: Human Touch Super Novo
• Best budget: BestMassage Recliner Chair

How we chose the best massage chairs

You should feel like you’re in a tropical paradise in a massage chair—not sitting in the middle of a mall an arm’s reach away from a lotion kiosk and sportscar raffle. It should be equal parts functional and stylish: you want something that will look good in your living room and make your back feel like it’s being pummeled into blissful oblivion. We looked at reviews, recommendations, user impressions, and what’s used in spas to guide our search. And, we did the incredibly difficult and not-at-all relaxing work of trying out a few—all in a hard day’s work of product testing.

The best massage chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

Ready to ease aching muscles with the touch of a button? When picking one, think about size and cost first. New features like zero gravity tilt and foot massagers can be worth the extra money. And look for a style that works for the room. A big chair looks fine in a man cave but may look out of place in the dining room.

Best overall: Real Relax Favor 03 Massage Chair

Real Relax

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This easy-to-use zero-gravity massage chair includes voice controls and Bluetooth connectivity to truly sit down and relax.

Specs

• Dimensions: 52 x 27 x 43 inches
• Capacity: 400 lbs.
• Reclining angle: Around 145 degrees
• Controller: LCD screen; voice control

Pros

• Voice control
• Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity
• Intuitive controls

Cons

• Heavy

The Real Relax massage chair is great for full-body massages. Eight massage rollers and 50 airbags are strategically placed to hit the right spot. It’s particularly good at massaging and rolling calves and feet. The controls are intuitive. Switch between six auto programs, heating, reclining, and leg compression quickly using your voice or the large LCD remote controller. The zero-gravity tilt—which can recline up to 145 degrees—turns this chair into a cloud of comfort, and the chair can handle up to 400 pounds.

This chair also comes with Bluetooth speakers and smartphone connectivity in order to jam to your favorite music or play spa tunes to set the mood. But even without those extras, this is one of the best zero-gravity massage chairs and it costs a little over $1,000. Not a bad deal for what you’re getting. Reviewers note that it takes at least two sets of hands to get the chair inside when it’s delivered. Post-assembly, it’s easy to move thanks to two built-in wheels.

Best stylish: Esright Massage Recliner Chair

Esright

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: At first glance, this massage chair looks like a recliner, making it an inconspicuous addition to living room relaxation.

Specs

• Dimensions: 35.8 x 33.5 x 43.2 inches
• Capacity: 330 lbs.
• Reclining angle: 150 degrees
• Controller: Remote

Pros

• Side pocket
• Resembles a recliner
• Cup holder

Cons

• Difficult to close the footrest

If you don’t want a big professional massage machine taking up space in your home, but still want a good massage chair, the Esright Massage Recliner Chair is a great solution: It looks like a standard faux leather recliner you’d buy at the furniture store. Eight modes of vibration target lower-back pain and the heating function keeps your body comfortable and cozy on cold nights. The chair is also a genuine recliner and swivel chair, featuring a 150-degree reclining angle, 360 degrees of rotation, and rocking capabilities, making it ideal for a home theater. It even includes a cup holder and a side pocket for beverages and magazines.

Assembly is easy and it’s not too heavy. While it doesn’t pack the same powerful punch as a zero-gravity massage chair, this recliner is an affordable chair with a great sense of style. Reviewers note that it takes some strength to close the footrest, which is controlled by a pull handle between the seat cushion and armrest.

Best for small spaces: CirC – Premium SL Track Heated Massage Chair

Synca Wellness

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This ergonomic, retrofuturistic chair is perfect for small spaces and apartments thanks to its compact design.

Specs

• Dimensions: 40 x 21.75 x 37
• Capacity: 250 lbs.
• Reclining angle: N/A
• Controller: Remote

Pros

• Ambient lighting
• Ergonomic
• No assembly required

Cons

• Not for tall people

Not all massage chairs are big and bulky. The CirC massage chair is a compact 22 inches wide. It’s great for anyone smaller than 5’10’’ and the lack of armrests means it can fit well in corners and near walls. It uses rollers and SL track massage technology to focus on your back and neck. There are no vibration functions and it doesn’t recline, but for a simple, lightweight massage chair, this is great for apartments and small spaces. It has lumbar heating and the chair massage feels good, even for a straight-back model. It’s also an ergonomic chair, meaning you aren’t sacrificing comfort for style. It makes for a nice reading chair, thanks to the built-in ambient lighting. The chair doesn’t need assembling and the fabric cover is replaceable. Those taller than 5’10’’ will need something bigger, so take a close look at the size before buying. 

Best for tall people: Human Touch Super Novo

Human Touch

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A larger seat and adjustable massage roller widths make this one a great option for taller or larger people.

Specs

• Dimensions: ‎63″D x 34″W x 46″H
• Capacity: 285 lbs.
• Controller: LCD screen

Pros

• Zero-gravity
• Bluetooth capabilities
• Customizable

Cons

• The control panel interface could be more user-friendly

Zero-gravity massage chairs usually have small seat widths that feel cramped and uncomfortable for some people. The Human Touch Novo, however, offers a wider sitting area and an extended length in order to accommodate bigger and taller bodies. Despite its extra room, this chair still offers all the bells and whistles you’d expect, with many premium features you won’t find on cheaper models. The built-in Bluetooth speakers come from Altec Lansing, so they provide more fidelity while you get your rub on. An assortment of 38 different programs allows users to customize their routines. Each program simulates the hands of an actual massage therapist by changing up the pressure, direction, and intensity based on the desired effect.

Because this is a zero gravity chair, it reclines all the way back. Once you’re fully lounged, the chair can stretch out your legs and back to relieve the feeling of pressure that can build up over the course of the day. Of course, this is one of the biggest chairs on the list and it’s also the most expensive. But, if your body takes up a lot of room, you’ll need a serious massage chair. This one fits the bill.

Best budget: BestMassage Recliner Chair

BestMassage

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This optoin features capabilities of more expensive models at a fraction of the price.

Specs

• Dimensions: 39.8 x 27 x 34 inches
• Capacity: 275 lbs.
• Reclining angle: Up to 160 degrees
• Controller: Remote

Pros

• Easy assembly
• Eight modes of vibration
• Color options

Cons

• Tall people might find it a bit small

For less than $150, the BestMassage Recliner Chair does a pretty good job at rubbing away lower back pain. It’s not designed to tackle shoulders and it won’t compress your legs for increased blood flow, but for the same price as a non-massaging chair, why not go for the one with the robotic fingers? It has a two-point massage system and eight modes of vibration. It comes in seven durable and easy-to-clean colors. Even in the reclined position, it feels sturdy and comfortable. If you don’t mind giving up the bells and whistles of zero-gravity massage chairs, this simple recliner has the vibration power to make it one step better than a traditional living room chair. Assembly only takes two minutes and does not require any tools to build. Some reviewers note that people taller than 6 feet might find this chair too small for them.

What to consider when buying the best massage chairs

If you’ve never owned a heated massage chair, it may seem like an intimidating purchase. With varying sizes, features, and cost, how do you know what chair is the best for your home, your budget, and your body? Before bouncing your muscles into bliss, understand how these luxury chairs work and know what to look for when choosing a massage chair.

Function

The key selling point of any massage chair is its ability to rub you the right way. Larger versions will typically have a wide assortment of massage options. Shiatsu massage chair functions mean the chair will come with “fingers” that will move in a circular motion, mimicking the touch and feel of human hands. A rolling massage simply means your body will be treated to a rolling pin that travels up and down the body, mashing any muscles in its path.

Smaller massage recliners that look more like regular furniture will generally focus on your lower back. These are the cheapest massage chairs, but the rollers and fingers won’t travel down to your feet and may miss your neck and shoulders depending on your height and seating position. The bigger chairs can work on your entire body, head to toe. They can also pinpoint specific areas, like calves or shoulders. Full-body massage chairs are not cheap, and they are not small. Before you pursue this option, make sure you have the space and the budget for a top-to-bottom robotic masseuse. 

Should you buy a zero-gravity massage chair?

When shopping for the best massage chair, you’ll come across a zero-gravity feature. These large chairs can recline and raise your legs above your chest. The result is a feeling of weightlessness that feels incredible. (But truth be told, you’ll still be well aware of gravity, so don’t expect a 100-percent accurate feeling of floating into space.) 

Zero-gravity massage chairs will be big and look more like a spaceship escape pod seat than a chic piece of home decor. But for a more blissful experience, these chairs can’t be beat. And once you’ve felt the luxury of a horizontal chair massage, you’ll never want to use another chair, or bed, ever again.  

Size and assembly

While a simple, low-cost chair will be somewhat easy to move into position, the big zero-gravity massage chairs are bulky and heavy. Moving these 300-pound beasts around a carpeted living room or down a flight of stairs requires strength and patience. You’ll need a good shoulder rub after setting up a large massage chair. 

Many of the big chairs will have small wheels on the rear legs so the chair can be tilted and pushed. But even with the helpful wheels, these chairs can be tricky to maneuver. You’ll need two people to get everything in the right place. Measure your space before you buy, and give yourself a lot of wiggle room for reclining. 

The massage chair will usually arrive in one or two shipping boxes. Assembling isn’t too difficult, but give yourself a free afternoon or weekend to put it all together. You can pay extra for professional assembly, which can save time and frustration.

Budget

An affordable heated massage chair may cost between $100 and $200. These models are good at targeting lower back muscles. But once you enter the full-body massage chair market with its broader functionality, expect to pay $1,000 or more. 

These chairs are loaded with high-tech features such as heating and cooling elements, air cushions for better blood flow, and even smartphone apps to help you manage your relaxation. Some will come with LED lights and speakers. And they are more powerful, with deeper muscle penetration than the budget-priced massage chairs. Is all of that massage power worth it? Yes, if you want a total spa experience. But keep in mind that it won’t last forever. The moving parts will wear out and the electronics will begin to fail. And unless you’re a professional massage chair repair mechanic, once the chair breaks, it’s broken for good. After a few years of use, it may be time to buy another chair. 

Medical benefits

A massage chair is more than just a fancy piece of novelty furniture. They are genuine helping hands. When muscles contract and stiffen up, they can put pressure on nearby nerves. The result is pain. Massaging loosens the muscles up and decreases the pressure around the nerve. The result is nirvana. 

Massage chairs are great for the common aches and pains we all feel after a stressful day (or year, or decade). If you have chronic muscle pain, though, talk to your doctor. For inflammatory disorders and severe back pain, a heated chair message may not be the cure-all you’re hoping for. Massage chairs are designed for relaxing, but aren’t a replacement for medical treatment. 

Air cushions in the legs and feet area of the chair help your circulation and add to the feeling of relaxation. For best blood flow, choose a chair that has multiple massage modes instead of simple vibrations. The more variety, the better the blood flow.  

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best massage chairs

• Best overall: Real Relax Favor 03 ADV Massage Chair
• Best stylish: Esright Massage Recliner Chair
• Best for small spaces: CirC – Premium SL Track Heated Massage Chair
• Best for tall people: Human Touch Super Novo
• Best budget: BestMassage Recliner Chair

These high-tech pieces of furniture offer powerful kneading, rubbing, and pulsating pressures to teach your muscles a lesson in relaxation. Some chairs will also use air cushions to massage calves and hips. And don’t forget the feet. A good massage chair should have dedicated rollers and vibrations to soothe weary feet. Look one that hits the spot and won’t break your bank account. With the best massage chair, your home will become a sanctuary of tranquility.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best massage chairs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best infrared		BOTARO Maxxus Saunas Seattle Infrared Sauna		SEE IT	Double-paneled walls constructed with reforested Canadian Hemlock wood planks.
Best indoor		SereneLife Full Size Portable Steam Sauna		SEE IT	Everything you need for a sauna experience in the comfort of your own home.
Best tent		Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna		SEE IT	Dual front pockets are perfect for holding a phone, tablet, book, and more.

Saunas can provide many health benefits, including detoxification, improved circulation, stress and pain relief, weight loss, and more and general relaxation depending on the person. But it’s not always convenient to get to the spa or gym for a sauna session. Not to mention, those visits can get expensive. But fortunately, you can get all of the benefits of the sauna without ever having to leave your house, thanks to portable saunas, outdoor saunas, or home saunas, which have been growing in popularity in recent years.

Home saunas tend to use one of two different methods to achieve sweat-inducing temperatures. First, there is traditional steam, which heats the air around you to bring up your body heat. With portable saunas, this steam is typically generated by an external steamer pot that feeds into a sauna tent. The second employs infrared technology that uses electromagnetic radiation to warm your body directly rather than heating the air. This type of heat penetrates deeper into the body and is believed to impact and heal deep tissue.

Whichever you decide on, it’s essential to know what you’re buying—which is why we’ve gone ahead and done the research to compile a list of the best home saunas on the market today.

• Best infrared sauna: BOTARO Maxxus Saunas Seattle Infrared Sauna
• Best sauna tent: Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna
• Best indoor sauna: SereneLife Full Size Portable Steam Sauna
• Best 2-person sauna: Dynamic Andora Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna

How we picked the best home saunas

We chose two high-end infrared models for those who have the space to commit to a full sauna setup and three budget-friendly steamer pot options with collapsible storage that practically anyone can use in their homes. Not everyone can spring for the luxury models.

We surveyed dozens of models with dense online research to find picks that would strike the right balance of features, simplicity, and price. We considered outside opinions as well as known and often-reported issues.

The entries on this list have been well-received by users at virtually every level.

The best home saunas: Reviews & Recommendations

Best infrared sauna: BOTARO Maxxus Saunas Seattle Infrared Sauna

BOTARO

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This low EMF infrared carbon option operates more efficiently than ceramic heaters and maintains safer temperatures than traditional rock and water steam.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 41.3 x 47.2 x 74.8 inches
• Weight: 230 pounds
• Materials:  100% Canadian Reforested hemlock Wood

Pros:

• Double-paneled Canadian Hemlock wood
• Six total heating panels
• MP3 connection and built-in speakers

Cons:

• Not quite big enough for two people
• Requires dedicated space

The BOTARO Maxxus Saunas Seattle Infrared Sauna is the best infrared sauna and the closest thing you’ll get to a spa experience in your own house. This sauna pairs double-paneled, reforested Canadian hemlock wood with low EMF infrared carbon materials for maximum energy efficiency. Unlike ceramic heaters, you’ll never have to replace the six heating panels—of which there are two located on the rear wall, one on each side wall, one under the bench, and one on the floor.

It also operates at a maximum temperature of 140 degrees, which is safer than the 200-degree temps traditional rock and water saunas can create,. Though it does take some space to set up, the sauna plugs into any dedicated 15 amp 110-volt outlet, and no special wiring is required. It can also be installed just about anywhere, including on carpeted floors, basements, master baths, or the garage.

Though the sauna is marketed as accommodating two people, you may find that it’s a better fit for just one. But that’s a small concession when considering the added bells and whistles, such as an MP3 aux connection, built-in speakers, and an interior reading lamp.

Best sauna tent: Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna

Durasage

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With a ceramic steam generator and chair, this sauna kit includes everything you need to set up and enjoy a complete spa experience at home.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 33 x 31.5 x 41 inches
• Weight: 15.72 pounds
• Materials: Polyester, PVC

Pros:

• Dual pockets and zippered openings
• Extra space than most portable saunas
• Produces steam up to 212 degrees

Cons:

• Can take a while to heat up

Read a book, flip through a magazine, or scroll on your phone during a sweat session with the Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna, thanks to dual pockets and two zippered openings that allow you to keep both hands free for other things. Unlike competitor products, this sauna tent is slightly larger to provide a roomier fit.You can even put a towel over the top hole and sit on the floor for a completely immersive sauna experience.

The powerful 1.8-liter steam generator uses a plastic reservoir and ceramic heating element to vaporize water up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, creating an internal temperature ranging from 110 to 115 degrees. It takes about 15 minutes to start producing steam from the time the unit is plugged in and turned on; however, customers report that it works great once you allow the sauna to heat up entirely. The steam generator hose could be slightly longer, so it could sit on the side instead of behind the sauna, but it’s not a deal breaker.

Best indoor sauna: SereneLife Full Size Portable Steam Sauna

SereneLife

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You’ll love this large-capacity, full-size sauna with a collapsable design that can be easily folded into a closet for storage when not in use.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 35.4 x 35.4 x 70.9 inches
• Weight: 27.8 pounds
• Materials: Cloth, plastic

Pros:

• Easy access, full-sized design
• Fully collapsable for easy storage
• Energy-efficient

Cons:

• Not tall enough to fully stand up
• No internal zipper

Unlike portable saunas that require the user to sit on a chair with a hole to poke their head out, the SereneLife Full Size Portable Steam Sauna is large enough that you can fit your entire body inside with an easy-access “sit-in” design. Yet, it still includes a small window and convenient hand access zippers, so you can use your phone or read a book or magazine while getting your sweat on. When you’re finished, the unit is collapsible and can be easily stored in a closet.

With a 1600 watt high-power heating element and four-liter capacity steamer, this sauna is also energy efficient while having the ability to reach the maximum temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit quickly. Additionally, the included wired remote control makes it simple to set the timer and heat settings from inside or outside the unit.

Despite its full size, some users may find it challenging to stand up and get out of, particularly since you cannot open the zipper from the inside. It’s also worth noting that there is no on/off switch, so you have to plug and unplug the back of the sauna to turn it on.

Best 2-person sauna: Dynamic Andora Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna

Dynamic

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A variety of unique features and easy assembly sets this premium, natural, reforested Canadian hemlock wood home sauna apart from the pack.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 47 x 43.1 x 74.4 inches
• Weight: 319 pounds
• Materials: Natural reforested Canadian hemlock wood

Pros:

• Control panel with LED display
• Tempered glass door and side windows
• Fully assembles within on hour

Cons:

• Pricier than comparable models
• Small gap at the bottom of the glass door

Despite its extra-large size, this large, 2-person sauna assembles in just one hour, which is faster than an Ikea coffee table. .

But it’s the special touches that really take this home sauna above and beyond, such as a wide, clear tempered glass door with side windows, built-in MP3 aux connection with speakers, and a soft touch control panel with an LED display that sets temperature and time. It also features 10 different ambient light settings, a towel rack, a magazine rack, and a water holder.

Yes, the price tag is a bit steeper than similar models—but its features and build quality go a long way in justifying its price. It can reach a maximum temperature of a wonderfully uncomfortable 140 degrees. 

Things to consider before buying a home sauna

When deciding whether a home sauna is the right fit for you, there are several considerations to factor in.

Size

First, you must ask yourself if you have the space in your home to use and store this type of product. If you live in a small house or apartment, a collapsible portage sauna tent that works with a steamer pot is almost certainly your best bet. Full-sized models can take up as much space as small rooms, while collapsible models can easily fit in a closet or under a bed when they’re not in use.

Materials

If you’re fortunate to have extra space in a basement, garage, or master bath and are serious about sweating, you may want to consider a full-sized unit constructed out of natural reforested Canadian hemlock wood. The tents typically employ insulated fabric to keep in heat and prevent liquid from soaking through.

Heating method

If space and expense are not an issue, the type of heating method is another component that can weigh into your home sauna buying decision. Both traditional steam and low EMF far infrared both have their pros and cons. An infrared sauna will give you more of a cleansing effect when it comes to the material you’re sweating out. However, because these units do heat the body with radiation, it’s important to check the EMF levels the saunas are emitting.

In addition to ensuring that the body doesn’t take on too much radiation, this type of sauna may not be suitable for people with certain types of heart conditions or hypotension. That said, it’s a good rule of thumb to check with your doctor before starting any kind of new health regimen.

FAQs

Final thoughts on finding the best home saunas

• Best infrared sauna: BOTARO Maxxus Saunas Seattle Infrared Sauna
• Best sauna tent: Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna
• Best indoor sauna: SereneLife Full Size Portable Steam Sauna
• Best 2-person sauna: Dynamic Andora Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna

It should come as no surprise that our pick for the overall best home sauna is the BOTARO Maxxus Saunas Seattle Infrared Sauna, which is the closest thing to a genuine spa experience without having to leave your house. Yet, it doesn’t come with quite as high of a price tag as the Dynamic two-person home sauna.

That said, we understand that not everyone has the space or the budget for a complete home sauna setup, which is why our second pick is the Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna. Not only does it achieve the primary goal—which is to make you sweat—but when not in use, it conveniently folds up for easy storage.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

Read next: Best Inflatable Pools

The post The best home saunas of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.