Losing a wallet and/or keys is a humbling experience. You tear through your home, lifting things up and putting them down, only to realize that they were in a hoodie pocket this whole time. As if! And you’re not alone in this ritual, which is why trackers make great gifts to yourself or someone you love. They help keep track of those everyday carries—along with all the new tech and toys someone snagged for Black Friday/Cyber Monday—and can be the perfect stocking stuffer thanks to this Tile Bluetooth tracker deal at Amazon.

Tile Starter Pack (Mate/Slim) $29.49 (Was $54.99)

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Tile’s Mate and Slim help you find two of the most important things to have on your person: your keys and your wallet. Use the Tile app (For iOS and Android) to ping your Tile when it’s in range, or ask your smart home device to find it for you. You can also view its location on a map and add your contact information to the Tile Network so someone can contact you if they find your lost item. It has IP67-rated water resistance in case it faces a quick dip in a puddle.

Here are more Tile deals you’ll find enticing:

• Tile Performance Pack 2-pack (1 Pro, 1 Slim) $47.99 (Was $64.99)
• Tile Sticker 1-Pack $19.99 (Was $29.99)
• Tile Mate 1-Pack (Black) $16.49 (Was $24.99)
• Tile Slim 1-Pack $20.49 (Was $34.99)
• Tile Mate 2-Pack $34.99 (Was $47.99)
• Tile Pro 2-Pack (Black/White) $43.99 (Was $59.99)
• Tile Mate 3-Pack $52.49 (Was $69.99)
• Tile Pro 1-Pack $24.99 (Was $34.99)
• Tile Sticker 2-Pack $37.99 (Was $54.99)

Prefer Apple native tech? AirTags aren’t as deeply discounted right now, but they are equally handy.

The post Keep track of your keys, wallet, and other Cyber Monday purchases with up to 46% off Tile trackers appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The holidays are stressful. Good thing having sex and/or masturbating reduces stress and helps you sleep. So drop what you’re doing and get on the gift of getting off with these Cyber Monday sex toy deals at Amazon.

Womanizer OG $159.99 (Was $199)

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Our best overall sex toy pick, the Womanizer OG has lots of intensity levels, can be used for clitoral stimulation or on your G-spot, and its Smart Silent tech keeps things discreet. The Womanizer OG takes all that is good in a bullet vibrator and all that is good in a clitoral stimulation toy and combines it into a versatile, wunderbar vibrator that you can use on multiple erogenous zones. Twelve levels of Pleasure Air intensity and three vibration modes separately can lead you to all kinds of new highs. You’ll want to buy it over and over and over until the neighbors complain … about all the packages on the porch.

Lubricant deals

• selfmade Intimacy Serum $14 with 50% off coupon
• Nécessaire The Sex Gel $20 (Was $25)
• Hello Cake Toy Wonder $15.19 (Was $18.99)
• Playground Date Night, Natural, Water-Based Personal Lubricant $20 (Was $25)
• Playground Mini Escape, Natural, Water-Based Personal Lubricant $20 (Was $25)
• Playground Love Sesh, Natural, Water-Based Personal Lubricant $20 (Was $25)
• Hello Cake Silicone Lube $14.40 (Was $18)

Toy deals

• We-Vibe Chorus Couples Vibrator $167.20 (Was $199)
• Womanizer Wave 2in1 Stimulation Showerhead $95.20 (Was $119)
• Womanizer Starlet 2 $39 (Was $49)
• Hello Cake Male Stroker Dual Entrances $15.98 (Was $19.98)
• Hello Cake Spin Stroker $44.80 (Was $56)
• Hello Cake Flutter Vibe $27.98 (Was $34.98)
• Hello Cake Buzzy Butt $29.98 (Was $31.99)
• Hello Cake Pretty Big Dil $22.40 (Was $28)
• Hello Cake Oral Stroker $15.98 (Was $20)
• Hello Cake Tush Pops $25.60 (Was $32.99)
• Hello Cake Little Sucker $23.98 (Was $29.98)
• Hello Cake Little Massager $23.99 (Was $29.99)
• Hello Cake Silicone Penis Ring $18.39 (Was $22.99)
• Hello Cake Vibrating Stroker $23.98 (Was $29.98)
• Hello Cake Vibrating Cock Ring $28.79 (Was $35.99)

The post Sneak away for some arousing browsing … of the best Cyber Monday sex toy deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The holidays are filled with lots of green things. Pine trees. Holly. Mistletoe. The holidays can also be stressful, leading us to indulge in a different bit of greenery to relax. Our favorite vaporizer from PAX is $90 off so you can toke it and have some green of the currency kind left in your pocket.

PAX Plus Vaporizer $160 (Was $250)

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The PAX Plus is a cannabis essential 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 Plus will cool down when not in use and heat up when it’s picked back up. It also comes with a concentrate chamber to enjoy the wax, shatter, or budder of your choice. 

More cannabis deals

• Omura Series X Complete Bundle w/ X1 Vaporizer, Home Fill System and 4 Flowerstick packs $112.99 (Was $169.99)
• LEVO C-Large Batch Herbal Oil Infusion Machine $199 (Was $249)
• Viking Factory Large Wooden Box Tray Set $27.99 (Was $39.99)
• Storz & Bickel Volcano Classic $359.25 (Was $479)
• PuffCo Peak $199 (Was $269)
• Blazy Shorty Pink Pre-Rolled Cones $13.22 (Was $16.50)
• Dad Grass Tincture Trio Bundle $179 (Was $195)
• ZIG-ZAG–Terpene-Infused Hemp Cones $15.88 (Was $19.85)
• ZIG-ZAG-Natural Hemp Wraps $12.61 (Was $16.88)
• Raw Unrefined Classic 1.25 1 1/4 Size Cigarette Rolling Papers, 50 Count (Pack of 6) $6.50 (Was $9.99)
• RAW Natural Unrefined Pre-Rolled Filter Tips-1 Bag of 200 Tips $8.44 (Was $12.99)

The post Our favorite cannabis vaporizer is $90 off for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The sun is setting earlier, giving you a longer chance to get a view of the night sky. You can see stars, planets, meteors, and more with this Celestron telescope deal at Amazon for Cyber Monday.

Celestron-AstroMaster 114EQ Newtonian Telescope-Reflector Telescope for Beginners $199.96 (Was $319.95)

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This telescope is great for older kids who want to learn more about the sky or someone with a budding interest in the stars. It’s just as user-friendly as it is powerful, and the package includes 2 eyepieces (20mm and 10mm), a full-height tripod, and a StarPointer red dot finderscope. You also get a free download of Starry Night, a software program that helps you learn about what’s in the atmosphere. I’ve personally seen the moon through a telescope and it is indeed super, super, super cool.

• CELESTRON StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $298.99 (Was $479.95)
• Celestron-NexStar 127SLT Computerized Telescope $492.79 (Was $699.95)
• Celestron-NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope $518.16 (Was $639.95)
• Celestron-PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope $132.58 (Was $219.95)
• Celestron-70mm Travel Scope $72.07 (Was $109.95)
• Celestron-AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope $126.65 (Was $189.95)
• Celestron-PowerSeeker 50AZ Telescope $47.99 (Was $63.95)
• Celestron–StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $319.99 (Was $469.95)
• Celestron-AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope $239.20 (Was $349.95)
• Celestron-50mm Travel Scope $50.96 (Was $74.95)
• Celestron–76mm Signature Series FirstScope $52.94 (Was $71.95)

If you’re thinking to yourself, “How can I support one of my favorite 151-year-old brands while fulfilling my desire to own a telescope of my own?”, it’s your lucky day. Our telescope, made in collaboration with Celestron, is up to $100 off this Cyber Monday.

POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope $149.95 with coupon (Was $239.95)

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This telescope under $500 is a beginner-friendly model with an even friendlier price. The short tub provides a relatively loose view of celestial objects, so beginners won’t get frustrated trying to find specific areas. Plus, the short tube design keeps it small and light, so this is a great scope to keep as a backup for quick jaunts out into dark sky country without lots of gear.

• Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 100AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $269.95 with coupon (Was $349.95)
• Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 5” Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $499.95 with coupon (Was $599.95)

The post This editor-approved telescope is on sale for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Appliances make for excellent gifts around the holidays. Need to impress the in-laws you’re meeting for the first time? Here is a nice immersion blender! Is there a White Elephant around the corner? Three words: Hot dog toaster. You can always get something for yourself, too. No matter whose kitchen and home game needs upgrading, you can find the perfect gift with these steep Shark and Ninja deals at Amazon for Cyber Monday.

Ninja GR101 Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle $79.99 (Was $139.99)

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Bring the barbecue inside with this grill-griddle combo that would make George Foreman envious. It can reach up to 500 degrees and its perforated mesh lid eliminates smoke and reduces splatter. The removable grill and griddle plates are easy to clean, and the mesh lid is dishwasher safe. It’s a great investment since a Big Mac is $7 now.

• Ninja CFP301 DualBrew Pro Specialty 12-Cup Drip Maker with Glass Carafe $149.99 (was $229.99)
• Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System $179.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ninja DCT401 12-in-1 Double Oven $249.99 (Was $329.99)
• Ninja C59500 Foodi NeverStick Premium 10-Piece Cookware Set $279.99 (Was $379.99)
• Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System $179.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ninja OO101 Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven $399.99 (Was $600.95)
• Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven $249.99 (Was $349.99)

Shark WD201 HydroVac Cordless Pro XL 3-in-1 Vacuum, Mop & Self-Cleaning System $199.99 (Was $359.99)

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This cordless 3-in-1 device vacuums, mops, and cleans itself. You can use it on hard floors, area rugs, tiles, and laminate. The included multi-surface concentrate eliminates and prevents odors. The water tank is designed to separate liquid from solids to quickly and easily empty the tank. And placing the HydroVac on its dock after every use activates self-clean mode so you don’t even have to think about it.

• Shark IZ361H Pet Plus Anti-Allergen Cordless Stick Vacuum $199.99 (Was $329.99)
• Shark HP232 Clean Sense Air Purifier MAX with Odor Neutralizer Technology $189.99 (Was $299.99)
• Shark HP102 Clean Sense Air Purifier $129.99 (Was $179.99)
• Shark IW1111 Detect Pro Cordless Vacuum $259.99 (Was $379.99)
• Shark RV2310AE Matrix Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum $299.99 (Was $499.99)

The post Don’t wait to save 40% on Shark vacuums and Ninja kitchen gear for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Holiday travel means your family’s germs have a chance of making themselves home when the celebration is over. Amazon has deals on air purifiers from our favorite brands this Cyber Monday to obliterate unwelcome microscopic company so you can focus on reuniting with your loved ones.

PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier $154.99 (Was $229)

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Our favorite air purifier for mold, the PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier covers a massive 1,115 square feet and includes a powerful HEPA 14 air filter, which is ten times more powerful than HEPA 13. What you get is a hospital-grade air purifier under $200 that removes 99.99% of fine particles down to .1 microns in size. Mold? Other things in the air that cause allergies? Sorry, you won’t find any here. It’s third-party lab tested and certified, meaning you’re getting a scientifically-developed air purifier from scientists and virologists at Harvard, MIT, Johns Hopkins, and Oxford universities that are backed up by other scientists. You can also get a two-pack to put one in the bedroom and another in the living room.

BLUEAIR deals

• BLUEAIR Pure Mini Max $49.99 (Was $69.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 211i Max $243.92 (Was $349.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 211+ Auto $288.99 (Was $339.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 311i Max $159.99 (Was $229.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 311i+ Max $203.92 (Was $299.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 411a Max $97.99 (Was $139.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 411i Max $118.99 (Was $169.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 511 $69.99 (Was $99.99)

Levoit deals

• LEVOIT Core Mini Air Purifier $39.99 (Was $49.99)
• LEVOIT Core 200S Air Purifier $76.49 (Was $89.99)
• LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier $84.99 (Was $99.99)
• LEVOIT Core 400 Air Purifier $186.99 (Was $219.99)
• LEVOIT Vital 100S Air Purifier $109.99 (Was $139.99)
• LEVOIT 200S Air Purifier $159.99 (Was $189.99)

Molekule deals

• Molekule Air Mini+ $249.99 (Was $359.99)
• Molekule Air Pro $649.99 (Was $1,014.99)

NuWave deals

• Nuwave OxyPure Smart Air Purifier $499.99 (Was $599.99)
• Nuwave Air Purifier for Large Room $616.24 (Was $724.99)
• Nuwave OxyPure ZERO Smart Air Purifier $339.99 (Was $399.99)
• Nuwave Portable Air Purifier $117.29 (Was $137.99)
• NuWave OxyPure ZERO E500 $297.48 (Was $349.99)
• Nuwave Oxypure Air Purifier $89.99 (Was $119.99)

Miscellaneous deals

• Germ Guardian Air Purifier with HEPA 13 Pet Filter $119.87 (Was $264.99)
• PHILIPS Air Purifier 800 Series $89.99 (Was $139.99)
• VEVA Air Purifier Large Room $79.99 (Was $166.99)
• Shark HP102PK2 Clean Sense Air Purifier for Home $249.99 (Was $377)

The post Editor-approved: This air purifier is at its lowest price of the year for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

According to the ASPCA, 6.3 million pets are adopted each year. Chances are that your dog or cat could be a strange amalgamation of different breeds. Find out your pet’s ancestry with these pet DNA tests, on sale at Amazon for Black Friday.

Wisdom Panel Complete: Comprehensive Cat DNA Test Kit $90.99 (Was $129.99)

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This test identifies more than 70 breeds and populations. For your cat’s health, the company runs 45 genetic health tests to see if they are at risk for any genetic conditions. If you’re curious about why your cat looks the way they look, Wisdom Panel also runs more than 25 trait tests to track down where they got their physical features. There’s also a version for dogs if you want to test your pooch.

• Basepaws Cat DNA Test Kit 2 Pack- Comprehensive Breed $142.50 (Was $208)
• Basepaws Dog DNA Test $71.20 (Was $89)
• DNA My Dog Essential Test–Breed ID Test $61 (Was $79.99)
• Embark Breed & Health Kit-Dog DNA Test $127 (Was $199)
• Embark Breed Identification Kit $99 (Was $129)
• Orivet Genopet Dog DNA Test $75.95 (Was $94.94)
• Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry $69 (Was $99)
• Koko DNA Test for Dogs Advanced $90.99 (Was $129.99)

In case you’re curious about your own DNA, here are some test kits for humans:

• 23andMe Ancestry Service-DNA Test Kit with Personalized Genetic Reports $79 (Was $119)
• 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service $99 (Was $229)
• 23andMe+ Premium Membership Bundle $129 (Was $299)
• AncestryDNA Genetic Test Kit $59 (Was $99)
• AncestryDNA Genetic Test Kit + 3-Month Ancestry World Explorer Membership $109 (Was $149)
• tellmeGen Advanced DNA Test $69.99 (Was $123)

The post Shop pet DNA kits at Amazon for Black Friday and find your dog or cat’s origin story appeared first on Popular Science.

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

LEGOs aren’t just for kids anymore. With complex, masterful builds for a bouquet of flowers, a bonsai tree, and even the London skyline, you can do something with your hands that’s not scrolling through TikTok on your phone for hours. With these sets, you get a piece of decor that you painstakingly built yourself. You can get into a new hobby without going bankrupt with these LEGO Black Friday deals at Amazon.

LEGO Star Wars Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing Fighter $32.39 (Was $49.99)

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If you are a Luke Skywalker fan, you’ll appreciate this set with an X-Wing Fighter you can build for Luke himself, Princess Leia, General Dodonna, and R2-D2. The set comes with step-by-step, illustrated instructions so it feels less like building Ikea furniture.

More building blocks of a LEGO collection

• LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Express–Collectors’ Edition 76405 $349.99 (Was $499.99)
• LEGO Star Wars Tenoo Jedi Temple $27.99 (Was $39.99)
• LEGO Icons Santa’s Visit $92.99 (Was $99.99)
• LEGO Ideas BTS Dynamite $64.99 (Was $99.99)
• LEGO Friends Sea Rescue Boat $55.99 (Was $79.99)
• LEGO Friends Newsroom Van $21.99 (Was $29.99)
• LEGO Monkie Kid: Monkie Kid’s Cloud $40.99 (Was $59.99)
• LEGO Icons Bonsai Tree Building Set $39.99 (Was $49.99)
• LEGO Icons Flower Bouquet $47.99 (Was $59.99)
• LEGO Architecture London Skyline Collection $32.55 (Was $39.99)

And here are some Playmobil playsets

• Playmobil Scooby-DOO! Mystery Machine $31.99 (Was $64.99)
• Playmobil Large Farm $107.23 (Was $129.99)
• Playmobil Spinosaurus $64.30 (Was $69.99)
• Playmobil Farmhouse with Outdoor Area $59.50 (Was $69.95)
• Playmobil Recycling Truck-2023 Version $26.99 (Was $39.99)
• Playmobil Dino Rise T-Rex: Battle of The Giants $43.40 (Was $89.99)

The post Shop the best LEGO and Playmobil Black Friday deals at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The holidays are a stressful time. There are too many people coming in and out of your home, bringing their own personal crust and dust that you’re left to clean once they leave. Thankfully, Amazon is already offering Roomba robovacs up to 42% off before Black Friday to lend you a valuable hand to vacuum the floors—some even mop, too.

iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ Self-Emptying 2-in-1 Robot-Vacuum with Optional Mopping $499 (Was $799)

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The iRobot Roomba j5+ has the same vacuum tech as the company’s j7+ robovac (currently sold out) but with more flexibility. You can choose to only run the vacuum, or you can vacuum and mop with a quick bin swap. The j5+ also avoids obstacles like pet waste and cords to prevent a robovac-adjacent accident and empties itself for up to 60 days. You can control it via the iRobot Home app (for iOS and Android) or with Amazon Alexa and Siri.

Here are more Roomba deals that won’t suck all the money out of your bank account:

• iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum $159 (Was $274.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum and Mop $349 (Was $479.75)
• iRobot Roomba Combo i5 Robot Vacuum & Mop $229 (Was $349.99)
• iRobot Braava Jet M6 (6110) Ultimate Robot Mop $299 (Was $449.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j5 Robot $348.99 (Was $599.99)
• iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum & Braava Jet m6 (6112) Robot Mop Bundle $899 (Was $1,249)
• iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO (3550) Robot Vacuum and Braava Jet m6 (6113) Robot Mop Bundle $598.99 (Was $899.99)

The post Shop Roomba deals at Amazon this Black Friday and save up to 42% appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Black Friday is the time to get a big deal on a pair of pricey headphones you’ve lusted after for months. You can get up to a whopping 51-percent off Beats headphones at Amazon before Thanksgiving with this Black Friday deal at Amazon.

Apple Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones $169.95 (Was $349.99)

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Get up to 40 hours of total battery life with the Apple Beats Studio Pro headphones. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency modes let you choose how to listen. Lossless audio and three built-in sound profiles let you customize what you want to hear. They also pair with a single touch for Android and Apple products.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones $328 (Was $399.99)

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The Sony WH-1000XM5—the leveled-up cousin of the Sony WH-1000XM4—is also on sale for $328, down from $399.99. That’s the lowest price we’ve seen it, and you’d be remiss not to snag one of the best Bluetooth headphones out there.

Here are more headphone deals from Sennheiser, Bose, and more you should tune into:

• Apple Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds $149.95 (Was $249.95)
• Beats Studio Pro with AppleCare+ for Headphones (2 Years)-Black $194.95 (Was $378.99)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 650 $279 (Was $499.95)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones $149.95 (Was $229.25)
• Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones, Over-Ear Headphones $199 (Was $329)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds $249 (Was $299)
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $199 (Was $279)
• JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless Headphones-Black, Small $29.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Tune Flex-True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Black), Small $49.95 (Was $99.95)
• SHOKZ OpenRun Mini-Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones $89.95 (Was $129.95)
• Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone, Black $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Marshall Minor III True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, Black $89.99 (Was $129.99)
  

The post Shop headphones from Beats, Sony, and more during Amazon Black Friday and save up to 51% appeared first on Popular Science.

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Shopping for the person in your life who longs for tresses that would make Fabio envious? We love the Dyson Airwrap for that. It provides salon-worthy curls at home and the patented Coanda airflow gently dries hair for less damage compared to other heat tools. It went out of stock for a bit after blowing up on TikTok, but the price has discouraged some from hitting “add to cart.” It’s $100 off for Black Friday at Amazon, meaning the love in your life can finally get the show pony hair they’ve wished for.

Dyson Airwrap $499 (Was $599.99)

SEE IT

The Dyson Airwrap is a drawer’s worth of tools in one handy device. It includes attachments to curl, shape, dry, and hide flyaways. The round brush is our personal favorite attachment since it gives us Cindy Crawford-esque bounce and shine.

Here are more Black Friday Dyson deals at Amazon:

Dyson vacuum deals

• Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner $299 (Was $359)
• Dyson V11 Cordless Stick Vaccum, Large, Nickel/Blue $349 (Was $569.99)
• Dyson V11 Extra Cordless Vacuum Cleaner-Nickel/Red, Large $419.99 (Was $599.99)
• Dyson V11 Plus Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Nickel/Purple, Large $499.99 (Was $719.99)
• Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Purple/Purple, Large $748.99 (Was $949.99)

Dyson air purifier and fan deals

• Dyson Cool Tower Fan AM07, White/Silver, Large $249.99 (Was $369.99)
• Dyson Hot+Cool AM09 Jet Focus heater and fan, White/Silver $299.99 (Was $469.99)
• Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater AM09 Black/Nickel, Large
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Gen1 HP10 $449.99 (Was $599.99)
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP07 Air Purifier, Heater, and Fan-White/Silver, Large $549.99 (Was $749.99)
• Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04 $799 (Was $999.99)
• Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Link Purifier Heater Fan HP02 $440.99 (Was $629.99)

Dyson hair styling tool deals

• Dyson Hair Straightener $399.99 with $100 off coupon (Was $499.99)
• Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $299.99 (Was $399.99)

The post Shop at Amazon for Black Friday and get $100 off the incredibly giftable Dyson Airwrap appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We know that going to the gym is going to be on your New Year’s resolutions list. Working out is great for endorphins and getting your heart rate up, but leaving your house in the dark, cold early morning or equally dark, cold evening is a bummer, to say the least. Bring the gym to your place with this massive Black Friday deal on Echelon, Peloton, NordicTrack, Hydrow Rowing, and other exercise equipment at Amazon.

Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike $359.99 (Was $999.99)

SEE IT

You get a free 30-day trial of Echelon Premiere with this bike, giving you access to 3,000 live and on-demand classes on the Echelon Fit app (for iOS and Android). This bike was built with performance and comfort in mind, with ergonomic handlebars and six seat position levels. The tablet mount flips 180 degrees so you can get a gym membership worth of workouts in one piece of equipment.

• Echelon EX-15 Smart Connect Fitness Bike $399.99 (Was $500)
• Echelon EX5-S Smart Connect Fitness Bike $699.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• Echelon Fitness Stride Auto-Fold Smart Treadmill $999.99 (Was $1,299.99)

Peloton deals

• Original Peloton Bike $1,095 (Was $1,445)
• Peloton Bike+ $1,995 (Was $2,495)
• Peloton Guide AI-Powered Personal Strength Training Device For Your TV $95 (Was $195)
• Peloton Altos Cycling Shoes for Bike and Bike+ $101.50 (Was $145)
• Peloton Bike Mat $45 (Was $75)

Hydrow deals

• Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine with 16″ HD Touchscreen $1,445 (Was $1,895)
• Hydrow Rowing Machine with Immersive 22″ HD Rotating Screen $1,745 (Was $2,945)
• Hydrow Multi-Use Workout Mat $68 (Was $80)

NordicTrack deals

• NordicTrack T Series 8.5S $1,290 (Was $1,599)
• NordicTrack T Series 6.5S $679 (Was $799)

XTERRA deals

• XTERRA Fitness Folding Exercise Bike $110.49 (Was $179.99)
• XTERRA Fitness UB120 Upright Bike $66.49 (Was $97.99)
• XTERRA Fitness Dual Action Air Bike $419.99 (Was $499)
• XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill $314.99 (Was $393.78)
• XTERRA Fitness TR260 Folding Treadmill $491.50 (Was $578.24)
• XTERRA Fitness WalkSlim Treadmill $509.99 (Was $599.99)

The post Shop the best fitness gear during Amazon Black Friday with up 64% of savings appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Shark and Ninja are known for creating well-priced products that perform better than their expensive competitors. They also changed the appliance game. I personally remember when the Ninja Creami was all over my TikTok For You page, with lots of creators making protein ice cream just by freezing some Fairlife. Whether you’re living that lactose life or not, you can save on Shark and Ninja products, like a vacuum to clean up after family visits you, at Amazon this Black Friday.

Shark AI Ultra Voice Control Robot Vacuum with Matrix Clean Navigation $299.99 (Was $599.99)

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The smart robovac can be controlled using the SharkClean app (for iOS and Android) or your voice. It has Matrix Clean tech, which leaves no crumb left behind by passing over unclean areas multiple times. The bagless, self-emptying base holds up to 60 days of dirt, and a self-cleaning brushroll picks up more hair lingering in your home. 360-degree LiDAR vision maps your home so the robovac can detect and avoid objects in its path, day or night.

• Shark S3501 Steam Pocket Mop Hard Floor Cleaner $53.99 (Was $89.99)
• Shark HD112BRN HyperAIR Hair Blow Dryer with Alligator Clips $145.86 (Was $247.97)
• Shark Scrub + Steam Blaster $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Shark HZ3002 Stratos Ultralight Corded Stick Vacuum $199.99 (Was $299.99)
• Shark HP201 Clean Sense Air Purifier MAX for Home $169.99 (Was $329.99)
• Shark RV2620WD AI Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop $249.99 (Was $449.99)
• Shark IX141 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum with XL Dust Cup $149.99 (Was $259.99)

Ninja OO101 Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven $399.99 (Was $600.95)

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If you handle the cooking in your house, consider this outdoor oven your new bestie. This bundle includes a Pizza Peel to make (surprise!) pizza, an oven cover to protect your precious new toy from the elements, an outdoor stand, and pellets. It has eight functions in one, with settings like Pizza, Max Roast, Specialty Roast, Broil, Bake, Smoker, and Dehydrate to keep your creative chef brain quite content with all the new recipes you can make. Best of all, there’s no flame involved. Save the fire for the digital Yule log.

• Ninja DCM201 14 Cup, Programmable Coffee Maker XL Pro with Permanent Filter $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ninja K32014 Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System, 9 Piece Knife Block Set with Built-in Sharpener $129.99 (Was $199)
• Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System with 72 oz Blending & Food Processing Pitcher $139.99 (Was $239.99)
• Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker $79.99 (Was $129.99)
• Ninja CW202GY Foodi NeverStick PossiblePot $75 (Was $129.99)
• Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Ninja CW102RD Foodi NeverStick PossiblePan, Premium Set with 4-Quart Capacity Pan $84.99 (Was $129.99)

Looking for more appliance deals? Check out these sales from Insant Pot, KitchenAid, and more.

The post Shop these major Shark and Ninja appliance discounts at Amazon for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Having a lukewarm beverage is one of the largest party fouls at a holiday shindig. There’s always a shortage of ice! There’s so much schmoozing happening that our hot boozy beverage becomes tepid! We give thanks if you didn’t experience this at turkey dinner and want to make sure it doesn’t happen when Christmas ham or any other festive favorites roll around. Keep your drinks hot and/or cold all night all year with this Yeti tumbler and insulated koozie deal at Amazon.

YETI Rambler 16 oz. Colster Tall Can Insulator for Tallboys & 16 oz. Cans $15 (Was $30)

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This stainless steel, vacuum-insulated Tall Colster is great for anything that involves a 16-ounce can: a holiday work party; meeting the parents for the first time; a winter football tailgate; and more. It’s dishwasher-safe and can accommodate a Liquid Death pounder can.

Here are more Yeti deals happening for Amazon Black Friday:

• YETI Rambler 14 oz Vacuum Insulated Mug $21 (Was $30)
• YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L, Nordic Purple $161 (Was $230)
• YETI Lowlands Blanket $140 (Was $200)
• YETI Boomer 4, Stainless Steel, Non-Slip Dog Bowl $28 (Was $40)
• YETI Rambler Half Gallon Jug $70 (Was $100)
• YETI Rambler 64 oz Bottle, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Chug Cap $45.50 (Was $65)
• YETI Rambler Gallon Jug $91 (Was $130)
• YETI Rambler 26 oz Straw Cup, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Straw Lid, Stainless $26.25 (Was $36.81)
• YETI Rambler 16 oz Stackable Pint, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with MagSlider Lid $22.50 (Was $30)

The post Sip, sip, hooray: Shop the best Yeti Black Friday deals at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best for skiing		Outdoor Research Men's Snowcrew Pants		SEE IT	These pants are maximally waterproof, so you can spend all day on the mountain without worrying whether or not you’ll stay dry.
Best for women		Stio Women's Doublecharge Insulated Pant		SEE IT	This design is both comfortable and stretchy for ample range of motion.
Best budget		Arctix Men's Snow Sports Cargo Pants		SEE IT	ThermaTech insulation keeps you warm in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Snow pants are the ultimate winter weather accessory: They keep you warm, don’t encumber movement, and fit right on top of the clothes you’re already wearing (meaning, if you live in a snowy area, you’d be remiss not to own a pair). Whether you’re backcountry skiing, flying down the slopes on a snowboard, or walking the kids to school in a blizzard (uphill … both ways), insulated pants are the way to go to prepare for the inevitable frigid days. Owning the right winter gear can make the outdoors bearable in icy temperatures, so you don’t need to sit inside all season long. While you might be imagining the vibrantly colored snow gear popularized in the ’60s and ’70s, there have been some serious strides in snow pants design, with breathability, insulation, and style innovations. But that also means it’s easy to become overwhelmed with choice, and it’s often unclear which pair will be best for you. The best snow pants are designed with waterproofing and warmth and comfortable wandering in mind.

• Best overall: The North Face Freedom Snow Pants
• Best for skiing: Outdoor Research Men’s Snowcrew Pants
• Best for snowboarding: Burton Men’s Insulated Covert Ski/Snowboarding Pant
• Best for women: Stio Women’s Doublecharge Insulated Pant
• Best for mountaineering: Arc’Teryx Alpha SV Men’s Bib
• Best ski bib: Stio Men’s Environ Bib
• Best for kids: Arctix Kids Insulated Snow Bib Overalls
• Best budget: Arctix Mens Snow Sports Cargo Pants

How we chose the best snow pants

The best snow pants should keep you warm with enough space to move around for action-packed activities (or just breaking out a snow blower or snow shovel). With that in mind, we looked at critical reviews, peer recommendations, performed user testing, and conducted heavy research to narrow down our options.

The best snow pants: Reviews & Recommendations

When it comes to finding the best pair of snow pants for you this winter, it’s important to consider a few specific factors: fit, versatility, breathability, and price. With those categories in mind, we’ve pinpointed the best snow pants for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoes, and various other outdoor activities available today.

Best overall: The North Face Freedom Snow Pants

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Breathable and waterproof, these insulated snow pants will keep you warm through snowball fights to shredding gnar.

Specs

• Size range: XS-2XL
• Inseam: Short (30″), Regular (32″), Long (34″)
• Pockets: Hook and loop cargo pocket, zip hand pockets, side-entry zip pocket
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros

• Gaiters keep snow out of boots
• Lots of storage
• Breathable, waterproof fabric

Cons

• The short inseam is long at 30 inches

With waterproof fabric and plenty of storage (and air vents), these North Face insulated snow pants are the perfect fit for any winter activity. Recycled insulated lining keeps you warm even if you fall in wet snow, and gaiters with tough elastic keep snow out of your boots and pant legs.

Best for skiing: Outdoor Research Men’s Snowcrew Pants

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Windproofing and seam taping mean you’ll stay warm as you zip down the mountain.

Specs

• Size range: S-3XL
• Inseam: 29.5 inches (short); 30 inches (regular); 33.5 inches (tall)
• Pockets: Zip hand pockets
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros

• Durable
• Inner thigh vents for temperature control
• Reinforced scuff guards

Cons

• Zippers prone to snagging when closing pockets

Whether it’s a sunny winter’s day or the snow is coming down hard, these ski snow pants will get through a full day on the mountain, with no adjustments required. Waterproof fabric, combined with a breathable shell, makes them both reliable and comfortable. Stretch gaiters stop the snow from sneaking in, and reinforced scuff guards provide additional durability. A beacon pocket is designed specifically to include an avalanche beacon for peak safety. These pants prove you don’t have to sacrifice mobility and range of motion for style and durability.

Best for snowboarding: Burton Men’s Insulated Covert Ski/Snowboarding Pant

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A “just right” fit and a jacket-to-pant attachment system keep snow out for more time outdoors.

Specs

• Size range: 2XS-3XL
• Inseam: 30.5-34.5 inches
• Pockets: Zippered hand warmer pockets, zippered thigh pocket
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros

• Tapered seams
• Not too tight, not too baggy
• Vents for breathability

Cons

• Waist runs small
• Reviews note that the crotch is tight

These men’s snowboarding pants are not kidding around: created for those of us who like to leave it all on the field (or, more accurately, on the slopes), the Burton Men’s Insulated Covert Ski/Snowboarding Pant are meant to maximize performance, no matter the weather. They’re also designed to be more fitted and stylish for men who want to look fly while flying down the slopes. Breathable, mesh-lined fabric cut to provide an excellent fit makes for an unencumbered ride, while fully tapered seams keep the chill out.

Best for women: Stio Women’s Doublecharge Insulated Pant

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Fitted, flexible, and GORE-TEX 2L insulation allows these pants to outlast every snow bro on the mountain.

Specs

• Size range: XS-XL
• Inseam: 32 inches
• Pockets: Hand pockets, zippered cargo pocket
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros

• No-snag inner thigh vents
• Fitted and flexible
• Snow-proof gaiters

Cons

• Limited size range

These women’s snowboarding pants do everything the men’s pants do and then some. Toeing the line between fitted and flexible, they’re also waterproof and boast hidden inner thigh vents, articulated knees, and expandable snow-proof gaiters. Combined with the Smartwool Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottom, these pants proved up to the task of keeping these legs warm even during a January jaunt in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. However, if you don’t like a low-waisted fit, these might not be the right pants for you.

Best for mountaineering: Arc’Teryx Alpha SV Men’s Bib

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Why it made the cut: You’ll be warm sans puff when you splurge on these sporty snow pants.

Specs

• Size range: S-XL
• Inseam: 31.5-33 inches
• Pockets: Two zippered thigh pockets
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros

• Made for severe weather conditions
• Easy to move in
• Lightweight

Cons

• Limited size range
• Expensive

If you’re looking for something that’s built for hardcore outdoor activities like ice climbing and alpine exploring, there’s no better place to look than Arc’Teryx. The company’s Alpha SV Men’s Bib is made of durable GORE-TEX for extreme waterproofing and windproofing while maintaining breathability. Locking severe weather out without locking sweat in, the bib is built for climbing and alpine-focused systems with a warm base layer, which also means you won’t have to figure out how to get into a harness with your gear on. An articulated fit moves with you as you traverse up the mountain, removable knee pads provide impact protection, and an embedded RECCO reflector could aid in search and rescue if that movement is curtailed (our editor has an Alpha jacket he swears by, and while he really doesn’t want to get caught in an avalanche, he likes feeling prepared). It’s a splurge, but something for this level of technical performance is worth the dough.

Best ski bib: Stio Men’s Environ Bib

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Why it made the cut: This ski bib is machine washable and breathable, making your snow days less of a headache.

Specs

• Size range: S-2XL
• Inseam: 30-34 inches
• Pockets: Zippered handwarmer pockets, zippered thigh pocket
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros

• Outseam vents
• Moisture wicking
• Machine washable

Cons

• Expensive

This high-waisted, suspender-snappin’ Stio bib works for snowboarding and skiing, so if you’re just dipping your toes into the world of bibs, this is a great place to start. Its high-tech fabric actually repels moisture for all-day warmth, and if you work up a sweat, outseam venting allow for extra breathability.

Best for kids: Arctix Kids Insulated Snow Bib Overalls

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Why it made the cut: Reinforcements on ankles, scruff guards, and hems prevent wear and tear for seasons of use.

Specs

• Size range: XS-XL
• Inseam: 21-30
• Pockets: Zippered hand warmer pocket
• Waterproof: Water-resistant

Pros

• Husky sizes included
• Machine washable
• Lightweight and low-bulk

Cons

• Not completely waterproof

Kids are notorious for growing quickly and bulldozing through clothes. A range of sizes and inseams means there’s something that will fit your child, and its wallet-friendly price point means it won’t cost a fortune to replace. However, this affordable ski bib is reinforced on the ankles, scruff guards, and hems to prevent tears and rips. An O-ring helps hold important items like gloves and keys, and ThermaTech insulation keeps them warm sans bulk. A variety of colors means your kid can be the most stylish child on the ski lift.

Best budget: Arctix Men’s Snow Sports Cargo Pants

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Why it made the cut: You don’t need to break the bank to find a quality pair of warm, durable snow pants.

Specs

• Size range: S-4XL
• Inseam: Short (30 inches), regular (32 inches), long (34 inches)
• Pockets: Cargo pockets, zippered hand warmer pockets
• Waterproof: Water-resistant

Pros

• Wide size range
• Machine washable
• Adjustable waist

Cons

• Not completely waterproof

Available in both men’s and women’s styles, these incredibly budget-friendly snow pants keep you warm in temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to 85 grams of ThermaTech insulation. Articulated knees allow for the full range of motion, plus boot zippers and gaiters seal out snow.

What to consider when buying the best snow pants

At this point, you might wonder: Is there a difference between snow pants and ski pants? While both will work on the slopes, there are important differences when it comes to fit—namely, ski pants are more fitted, while snow pants are baggier, and thus allow for more movement. With that in mind, we’ve curated the best snow pants money can buy (and if you’re wondering what else to wear to keep warm, check out our guides to the best heated vests, best heated insoles, and best heated socks). Here’s what else to look for in your search for the best snow pants:

You’ll want a pair fit for backcountry skiing

When you’re shopping for snow pants, it’s important to take note of reputable, trustworthy brands, and that’s because they’ve done the work to establish a legacy of clothing design backed by research and reviews. Case in point: Outdoor Research, founded in 1981 by bonafide outdoorsman Ron Gregg. For this winter sport, you’ll want to prioritize protection, comfort, and durability, so that you can focus on skiing and rely on your snow gear sans stress.

What if you partake in more than one winter sport?

We get it: Not everyone is born on one side of the skiing versus snowboarding debate and, regardless, some people want to dip their toes in both sports (to which we say, the more, the merrier). Obviously, there is ideal winter gear for each sport, but that doesn’t mean that more versatile outdoor apparel doesn’t exist. On the contrary, there are plenty of brands that offer snow pants for the avid generalist—but, sometimes, that means you’ll be shelling out for the perfect pair.

How to measure your body for snow pants

It’s like finding the perfect pair of jeans: the waist and hip measurements are key, and when your performance depends, in part, on the shape and material of your gear, you want it all to fit just right.

When to consider a ski bib instead of snow pants

We know what you’re thinking: Are snow bibs actually better than snow pants? The answer is, of course, that everyone has their preference—and there is no end-all-be-all answer to this conundrum. So, if you’re feeling indecisive about this all-important gear decision, just know that you’re not alone. The basic difference is this: ski bibs are like overalls (they definitely won’t fall down, but they might hamper movement) while snow pants are, well, pants (they totally could fall down if they don’t fit correctly). You’ve likely tried on both types of garments in your lifetime, so use that prior knowledge to decide and leave the tags on until you’re sure. Et voila! Crisis averted.

Budget

You know as well as we do: not everyone wants to spend $500 on a pair of pants, even if they have the means to do so. Of course, like most purchases, you get what you pay for when it comes to winter clothing—and when you want a good deal, you might miss out on things like high-tech performance fabric, or extra features like thigh vents and hidden pockets. Luckily, that won’t really deter you on the slopes—but it could mean that some snow is able to sneak in, and your gear isn’t as waterproof as it could be. That said, it feels really good to save upwards of $300, right?

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best snow pants

• Best overall: The North Face Freedom Snow Pants
• Best for skiing: Outdoor Research Men’s Snowcrew Pants
• Best for snowboarding: Burton Men’s Insulated Covert Ski/Snowboarding Pant
• Best for women: Stio Women’s Doublecharge Insulated Pant
• Best for mountaineering: Arc’Teryx Alpha SV Men’s Bib
• Best ski bib: Stio Men’s Environ Bib
• Best for kids: Arctix Kids Insulated Snow Bib Overalls
• Best budget: Arctix Mens Snow Sports Cargo Pants

Snow pants, like the best snow boots, are an essential piece of winter gear if you’re headed to the slopes, and they also come in handy around the neighborhood when a big storm hits (think: you’re sledding down the hill or walking the dog in 2 feet of snow, and you don’t want to get soaked). When you’re shopping for the best snow pants, it’s important to consider your options and figure out what features matter most to you, like fit or material. Find a pair that you love enough, and you might actually be sad to say goodbye to winter. You never know!

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 snow pants 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		Blink Mini		SEE IT	A small camera packed with features like motion detection.
Best system		SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System		SEE IT	Expand from protecting just one room with this system.
Best budget		WYZE Cam v3		SEE IT	Simple, cheap, easy.

Indoor security cameras can be invaluable if you’re curious about what happens when you’re not home. How are your pets when it’s your day to go to work? Are the children revolting against the babysitter? You can ponder about it and give yourself a heart attack or simply set up a camera and see for yourself. We don’t think setting one up will reveal new horrors to you, but we do think you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have an eye on your home when you’re not there. Extra features like motion detection, voice assistant compatibility, and cloud storage allow you to get the most out of your new indoor viewpoint. Ensure your house is a shenanigan-free place with the best indoor security cameras.

• Best overall: Blink Mini
• Best system: SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera
• Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

How we chose the best indoor security cameras

I’ve previously written about the commercial security industry in a past life, so I know what features to look out for when purchasing a DIY model. I also edit/oversee the majority of smart home coverage here at the ye olde PopSci Gear desk (#subjectmatterexpert). To choose the best indoor security cameras, I looked at reviews, recommendations, did heavy research, and looked at past home security coverage for inspo.

The best indoor security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Some of these cameras do double duty and can work outdoors, but any of these models is made to keep a careful, watchful eye over your hearth and home.

Best overall: Blink Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired
• Viewing angle: 110 degrees diagonal
• Storage: Cloud storage

Pros

• Two-way audio
• Day and night HD video
• Motion detection

Cons

• Needs more cameras for more comprehensive coverage

The Blink Mini is a practical, wired palm-sized cube packed with features outside its $35 price tag. If you want the most approachable way to get 1080p livestream video with infrared night vision into your Alexa-maintained (or IFTTT-automated) monitoring routine, this is the best minimalist model to pick. It’s incredibly compact and features motion detection and two-way audio. More cameras, restricted to available wall sockets, might be required for the most comprehensive, widescreen coverage, but it’s not a heavy lift at this price. It also doesn’t feature the same audio triggers as Ring devices and only saves clips to the cloud. If you’d like a device with a 360-degree view, consider the Blink Mini Pan-Tilt Camera.

Best system: SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery 
• Viewing angle: 90 degrees
• Storage: Cloud storage only

Pros

• Lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box
• Outside cam has a very good quality video with 90 degrees field of view
• Easy to install and use
• Comes with a professional monitoring option
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant 
• Includes convenient magnetic mount

Cons

• Expensive
• Lacks support for HomeKit 

If you’re looking to install an indoor security camera and a DIY home security system along with it, the SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System might be your best bet. It’s pricey but far less expensive than buying the components individually. But even more importantly, it lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box.

The kit includes a 1080p camera, a base station, keypad, two motion sensors, and four entry sensors. All the components, including the cameras, connect to the base station, generating a loud siren to scare off intruders. Although the inside security camera isn’t the most robust model, the outside camera offers very good quality video with color night vision. What’s also nice is that the SimpliSafe mobile app (for iOS and Android) is nicely designed to let you effectively interact with your entire setup, and it comes with the option of including a professional monitoring system. However, for the price, it would be nice if both cameras had the option to store videos locally. 

Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 4K
• Power: Wireless
• Viewing angle: 180 degrees
• Storage: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage (sold separately)

Pros 

• Compatible with major smart technologies
• Cloud subscriptions are relatively inexpensive
• Color night vision is very good

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit compatibility
• May not be as sturdy as other models

This wireless, weather-resistant security camera isn’t one of the cheapest on the market, but it captures excellent 4K video. It also provides you with the option of storing your videos in cloud storage or on local storage using a microSD memory card. 

Two cameras are included in this bundle, and you can use them indoors and outdoors. You can see faces, license plates, and there’s even color night vision. WiFi isn’t required to use, thanks to the Arlo Smart Hub. A 180-degree field of view catches everything happening in the room. And, with an Arlo Secure Plan, you can receive notifications for people, vehicles, packages, or ward off unwanted indoor guests by triggering the siren.

Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees diagonal, 110 degrees horizontal, 57 degrees vertical
• Storage: Cloud (available with subscription)

Pros

• Robust app
• Lots of accessories and integrations
• Indoor- and outdoor-friendly

Cons

• Strategic placement is important
• Some features require Ring’s cloud plan

When you hear the brand Ring, you may immediately think about doorbell cams, which is understandable. But this Ring is more versatile, at home on any flat surface or wall. This Ring Stick Up Cam Battery has 1080p video with a 110-degree horizontal/57-degree vertical field of view, so strategic placement is important. And some features require paying for Ring’s cloud plan, but it’s a quickly up-and-running value with a robust app, particularly great for folks who already have Alexa devices (Amazon now owns Ring). And, because it’s an Amazon product, there are copious accessories (such as solar panels) for those inclined to upgrade.

Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees
• Storage: microSD card

Pros

• Two-way audio
• IP65 weather resistance
• Continuous recording with microSD card

Cons

• Lacks removable battery

While it won’t win awards for aesthetics (unless you have fond memories of playing with building blocks as a child), the WYZE Cam exceeds in inexpensive efficiency as long as you don’t mind dedicating some in-home space. The WYZE outdoor security camera is weather-resistant for deployment around your home (network) perimeter, but it’s also easily detachable with a “Travel Mode” that allows you to take the camera with you to record video directly to your phone without WiFi. There are sacrifices—like the lack of a removable battery, so you have to dismount the entire camera for charging—but it’s magnetically connected, so that’s just a simple twist.

What to consider when buying the best indoor security cameras

Easy-to-install indoor security cameras capture just “standard” HD all the way up to 4K, storing video locally or in the cloud, permanently or temporarily. Some are part of entire home security systems.

Wireless security cameras continue to evolve at a dizzying pace, with many models coming with better connectivity and cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve a host of features. However, if you’re new to these types of cameras, it can be confusing to figure out which features, specs, and capabilities are important for you and your home security cameras. 

Here is what you should look for when you purchase an indoor security camera: 

Video resolution and field of view 

You’ll see 1080p, 2K, or 4K resolutions in indoor security cameras. A higher resolution means you’ll get a crisper image. It will also fill up your local or cloud storage faster. That’s a problem if your subscription plan or card has a fixed limit to its capacity. If you’re trying to balance subscription costs for cloud storage with what resolution you’ll need, consider how detailed of a picture you’ll need. If you need more detail, go with a higher resolution. 

You’ll also want to check a security camera’s field of view specification, which is measured in degrees and tells you how much of a particular scene your security camera is capturing. The higher the FOV number indicates a wider lens and lets you see more of a particular scene in front of your house.  

Power options and storage

When setting up a new indoor security camera, you must consider where to install it. If it’s a light bulb camera, it has obvious restrictions. But you can post the wireless, battery-powered models we recommend anywhere. Wired options, however, require a nearby outlet.

Most indoor security cameras store video in the cloud, which is convenient, but you’ll most often have to pay a fee to access them. So, if you don’t want to pay a fee for a cloud service, consider models that let you store them on a memory card. 

Other features to look for

Many brands have introduced privacy features like two-factor authentication to ensure devices are not compromised or hacked. Many brands are also making security cameras that integrate with smart home features and connections to voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and others. Some brands even offer professional monitoring services for extra protection with a subscription.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best indoor security cameras

• Best overall: Blink Mini
• Best system: SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera
• Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

You may not be able to have eyes in the back of your head, but you can have eyes in your own home. Look for an indoor security camera with a wide frame of view to capture it all, and consider wireless options so placement isn’t a problem. If you’d like to compile a highlight reel of all that’s happened in your home, you can take that video from the cloud or a microSD card and use some editing magic to make it happen. Regardless, you won’t need to sleep with one eye open. Or maybe you will, since you discovered what the dog does when you’re not around.

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 indoor security cameras 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 overall		Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze		SEE IT	Choose from seven filters dedicated to tackling one problem.
Best for pets		BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier		SEE IT	An option that’s as powerful as it is stylish.
Best budget		Levoit Core 300		SEE IT	You’ll want to put this budget-friendly pick in every room.

If you suffer from allergies, an air purifier can be your saving grace. There are already so many things that affect the air quality of your home, like smoke. Pollen, dust, and other indoor particulate matter are just the icing on the cake of things that make you sneeze or put your air purifier into overdrive. Puffy eyes and sniffly noses can leave you saying “gesundheit,” and you can only bless yourself so many times before you start to believe that maybe you’ve been cursed. There’s also only so much allergy medicine you can take before you start hallucinating and get a visit from the Hat Man. Life doesn’t have to be sneezy, runny, hoarse, and itchy, however. The best air purifiers for allergies eliminate pet dander, airborne allergens, and pathogens, letting you breathe easily without the help of medication.

• Best overall: Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze
• Best with cooling: Dyson Pure Cool Link
• Best for pets: BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier
• Best with UV light: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier
• Best smart: Coway Airmega 250S
• Best budget: Levoit Core 300

How we chose the best air purifiers for allergies

All of us on the PopSci gear desk live in highly polluted cities (New York, D.C., and Pittsburgh, specifically) and own pets whom we adore dearly. We love where we live and the animals we call our fur children, who we treat just like real children. But one thing we don’t love: When the pollen count skyrockets, our pets decide to release more dander than usual, and existence feels like a hazy, miserable, (hay) fever dream.

We’ve written about air purifiers before and even delved into those that take mold out of the air. We considered factors like HEPA filtration, efficiency, smart-home features, design, and room coverage. Air purifiers work best when they’re out of sight and out of mind. You’re already worried about what’s in the air—you don’t want to worry about how well your air purifier is removing the gunk out of it.

The best air purifiers for allergies: Reviews & Recommendations

You want your Air Quality Index (AQI) like how The Youths are choosing the rise of their jeans: low. One of our choices will let you drop it* (*the amount of dust, pet dander, and pollen chilling out in your home) like it’s hot. You may have outgrown trends from the early 2000s, but you’ll never tire of retiring from your allergy era.

Best overall: Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 15 inches
• Weight: 12 lbs.
• Coverage area: 920 square feet

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Clean look
• Lots of customization

Cons

• Expensive

Instead of offering one filter that does everything OK, the Mila lets you choose from seven filters, each aimed at solving a particular need. We’re a fan of the Big Sneeze, which is made to fight allergy triggers like pollen, dander, and dust. It has a HEPA 13 filter with a powerful clean air delivery rate (CADR) of 416 cubic feet per hour. That gives you fully circulated air in a 920-square-foot room every 30 minutes.

The unit also has eight environmental sensors, including CO2 and humidity sensors. It’s literally as quiet as a library, thanks to its 24-decibel output. It’s also super sensitive: the air purifier kicked into high gear when I sprayed an aerosol air freshener in the room.

Mila’s app is where this connected smart-home device shines, however. Available for Android and iOS, the app gives you more preset modes like Bubble Boy (which keeps the AQI as low as possible, no matter the setting), sleep, white noise, energy save, Turndown Service, and child lock. We also love the app’s included local pollen forecasts from the National Allergy Bureau to stay in the know of elevated allergen levels. The air purifier is also incredibly stylish. Its cube shape gives “technologically advanced fancy marshmallow” compared to “bleak, unaesthetic cylinder” like many others on the market. The Mila is expensive, but you get lots of perks and flexibility.

Best with cooling: Dyson Pure Cool Link

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 7.7 x 4.3 x 4.01 inches
• Weight: 7.9 lbs.
• Coverage area: Up to 999 square feet

Pros

• Does double duty
• App provides detailed air quality reports
• Sleek

Cons

• Expensive

The Dyson Pure Cool Link excels at both purifying the air and providing a satisfying breeze. Its filtration system works quickly to clean a large area of all airborne allergens, including pollen, bacteria, and both human and pet dander. Expect all contaminants to be filtered out down to 0.3 microns. An activated carbon layer filters out paint fumes, smoke from tobacco and cooking, and nasty odors. Using the MyDyson app (available on Google Play and App Store) you can get real-time insights on air quality with detailed metrics.

You can even sync it up to an Amazon Alexa device and operate it using voice controls. Its fan is almost as powerful, with 10 different speeds, and automatic shut-off in the event that it’s knocked over. It also oscillates, and its bladeless design makes it safe for smaller humans and furry friends alike. The only downside here is almost ubiquitous with all other Dyson products: the cost. 

Best for pets: BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.3 x 14.7 x 25 inches
• Weight: 18.25 lbs.
• Coverage area: Up to 1,582 square feet

Pros

• Commercial-grade
• Pet-specific filter
• Stylish

Cons

• Heavy
• Difficult to move

Don’t lets its pretty exterior fool you; this pet dander-demolishing air purifier means business. It has three levels of filtration: A pre-filter, an activated carbon filter (good for getting rid of pet smells), and a HEPA 13 filter. H13 and H14-level filters are considered hospital-grade, meaning you’re getting the purest air possible. The Pet Pro filter specifically captures 99.97% of .3 microns and is smaller, and its added Zeolite layer is better for capturing and controlling pet odors compared to traditional carbon filters. You only need to change the filter every six months, and doing so is incredibly easy.

We also love that it is whisper-quiet, takes very little energy to run, and cleans the air fast. It is a beautiful air filter, but it’s heavy and hard to move from room to room. Consider parking this air purifier in one place.

Best with UV light: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 12.34 x 6.25 x 17.75 inches
• Weight: 8.9 lbs
• Coverage area: Up to 1,094 square feet

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 who are looking for something with UV light. In this case, a UV-C light neutralizes any airborne pathogens that the filter doesn’t catch. 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 smart: Coway Airmega 250S

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.3 x 18.5 x 19.7 inches
• Weight: 20.5 lbs.
• Coverage area: Up to 930 square feet

Pros

• Stylish
• Easy-to-monitor LED lights
• Pulls even the small particles out of the air

Cons

• Noisy on higher fan speeds
• Expensive

This retro-inspired air purifier packs some seriously advanced tech. The touch panel at the top is easy to read and use. Plus, it’s not crowded with unnecessary settings: you just get an on/off button, and switches that control fan speed and different operational modes. Speaking of turning on, a long LED light flashes one of four colors for an instant read on air quality. If the light is blue, your air is so fresh and so clean. If it’s red, you might want to turn (the air purifier) up.

It can cycle 930 square feet of air in 30 minutes and can clean smaller rooms even faster than that. A multi-layered filtration system gets rid of mold, dust, pet dander, food smells, allergens, and even viruses—talk about a multi-hyphenate. Changing the filter is easy: simply open it up and slide a new one in. Practically everything with this air purifier, from its touch panel to the Coway IoCare app (available for Android and iOS devices), is user-friendly, which justifies its high price and occasional noisiness when running at high speeds.

Best budget: Levoit Core 300

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 16.25 inches
• Weight: 7.48 lbs.
• Coverage area: 219 square feet

Pros

• Lightweight
• Inconspicuous
• Incredibly quiet

Cons

• Have to pay more for a WiFi-enabled model
• Small coverage area compared to others on this list

This sub-$100 air purifier packs a punch well beyond its price. It’s incredibly quiet, easy to use, and lightweight for moving around the house. I’ve sneezed far less after running it in my living room and bedroom for the past two years. Its touch panel comes with three airflow presets (I, II, III), a quiet mode, a timer, a child lock, and a “lights off” button that turns off the panel lights without shutting down the air purifier. Each filter lasts for six months, and they come in a two-pack, so you only need to order them once a year. I’ve purchased this air purifier twice and would buy it again for every room in my apartment. I’ve used the general filter that comes with it and have had no problems, but the toxin absorber filter (sold separately) is a perfect match for mold catching. If you’re looking to pay extra for a WiFi-enabled model, it’s your lucky day.

What to consider when buying the best air purifiers for allergies

Looking at nature should make you cry because you’re moved by its astounding beauty, not because you’ve been ambushed by pollen. It’s also awful when you go inside to get some respite from that mulberry tree tackling your olfactory receptors, and you’re somehow still sneezing. Here’s what you should know when bringing home air purifiers for allergies:

Maintenance

Air purifiers generally require very little maintenance. If you have a pet, you’ll need to vacuum any excess hair stuck outside the filter. You’ll have to change the filter itself every six months. Most air purifiers will alert you when it’s time to change your filter, giving you the perfect opportunity to set up autoship so that they come to your door without having to think.

Filtration

HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air.” They remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria down to .3 microns. Make sure your filter is a HEPA 13 or HEPA 14 for maximum filter power. Additionally, some models are compatible with filters that tackle specific problems, like pet dander or fumes.

Efficiency and coverage

Look at the clean air delivery rate (CADR) of the model you’re considering. Per Energy Star, the higher the CADR, the larger the area it can purify. If you want to put an air purifier in one small room, you can get away with something with a lower CADR. However, if you live in a home or have a large room you want to purify, you’ll need a higher CADR. You can use an air purifier with a lower CADR in a large room, but it will take longer to fully filter the air. Also, if you have a high ceiling, you’ll need an air purifier with a higher CADR.

Tech

Smart air purifiers give you convenience and advanced metrics, but sometimes you gotta keep it simple, sunshine. Air purifiers with apps give you more specific numbers on the air quality in your home. If you just want something that filters the air—no bells, no whistles, just a simple air purifier that’s like a regular cup of coffee—look for a model that at least has controls for airflow, a timer, and a sleep mode.

Design

You worked hard to make your house a home. Don’t let your air purifier ruin the vibes you have cultivated over many months (and even years in some instances). However, don’t choose an air purifier just because it’s a pretty face. Make sure it works just as hard as those that look more utilitarian.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air purifiers for allergies

• Best overall: Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze
• Best with cooling: Dyson Pure Cool Link
• Best for pets: BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier
• Best smart: Coway Airmega 250S
• Best budget: Levoit Core 300

There’s no need to cry over spilled pollen, loose dust, and floating dander with an air purifier made specifically for allergies. Make sure you choose one that’s appropriately sized for your home, and let the device take care of the rest. HEPA 13 or HEPA 14 filters will give you the airborne purity you desire, and special add-ons like carbon filters can tackle odors and other pain points in your home. You’ll see clearly after using one of the best air purifiers for allergies.

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 allergies 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		Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle		SEE IT	Sip two ways with this stylish, colorful bottle.
Best tumbler		Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter		SEE IT	Water stays cold all day in this trendy cup.
Best budget		Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle		SEE IT	A cheap classic that gets the job done.

A water bottle is a gym must-have. Cacti can survive on small amounts of water, sure, but you’re no succulent; you are a meaty flesh bag whose body is 60% H2O. If flowers wilt when they’re not watered, you surely will, too. Staying hydrated is incredibly important for all levels of activity, from a leisurely stroll on the treadmill to an intense leg day. Plus, you don’t need to hit up the water fountain for small, unsatisfactory sips (and potentially communal germs) when you have an entire receptacle filled with water from your house. Depending on your gym, the water fountain might have a low flow rate and a thin layer of lime build-up on the spout—both unideal and a little grody. Your best bet is to BYOGWB (Bring Your Own Gym Water Bottle) and hope the gym has a WFwaBF (Water Fountain with a Bottle Filler). The best water bottles for the gym crush thirst, just like how you crush your PRs, you *strong* meaty flesh bag.

• Best overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best for running: Nathan Quick Squeeze Insulated Water Bottle
• Best tumbler: Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw Lid
• Best gallon water bottle: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best self-cleaning: LARQ Movement PureVis
• Best budget: Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

How we chose the best water bottles for the gym

It is a joke in my household that Wednesdays are off-limits for social activities, as it’s Barre Wednesday: the one day I week that I travel to my Pure Barre location of choice and take an evening Classic class with my favorite instructor, Amanda. Instructor Amanda kicks my ass in a way that keeps Writer Amanda from biting her handlers in a fit of rage. (They would need a rabies shot series if she gets chomp in.)

I’ve Burpee’d my way through the occasional HIIT class, mastered the Stairmaster, and even tried Bikram yoga. And although the hot yoga was a one-time deal, an insulated water bottle was a constant companion in my journey to sweaty, definitely not-culty enlightenment.

I made a few criteria based on my own gym/workout class experience. Each bottle is at least 32 ounces because 16-24 ounces is simply insufficient water for a 45-minute cardio or strength workout. Each bottle needed to have a handle or carry loop for convenience. A built-in straw and a wide mouth were minor considerations since both are nice to have but not necessities. Many bottles made the brave journey to barre class for on-the-ground testing, but only a few made the final cut.

The best water bottles for the gym: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’re headed to the gym for your hot girl walk, or you lost your last trusty gym water bottle and need to bring in a new recruit, one of our con-sip-erations should make you feel like you’ve found gold at the bottom of the well.

Best overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Hand-wash cup; dishwasher safe-lif
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 24 hours cold

Pros

• Lightweight when filled
• Spout doesn’t touch sweaty hands
• Really fun to use

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe

Like most products, I first heard of the Owala FreeSip water bottle on TikTok. Account after account raved about the bottle’s FreeSip spout, which lets you sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt it back for a classic swig. After testing it myself, I concluded it’s worth the hype.

The temperature retention is fabulous. Water stays cold all day, and ice cubes aren’t melted away after a few hours. The wide mouth easily accommodates a handful of ice cubes and makes cleaning seem like less of a chore. A push-to-open lid protects the spout from your own germy, sweaty hands, and the carrying loop doubles as a lock, so you don’t have accidental spills if you throw it into your gym bag like I do.

The FreeSip cap is the crown jewel of this canteen. The outer rim doesn’t hit your nose when swigging, and the cap doesn’t get in your face if you decide to take a long chug. I was also expecting a face full of water from the spout design, but the sip portion does not seem to affect the spout. The sip portion is seamless to drink out of—there’s no weird tugging like other sports bottles with straws. Using the bottle is just plain fun. The “click” of the lid opening and the design of the FreeSip spout tickle my brain in a way that makes me drink more water.

Although it’s not completely dishwasher safe—it’s recommended you hand-wash the bottle portion to maintain the finish—its inherent fun and ease of use easily outshines this minor downside.

Best for running: Nathan Quick Squeeze Insulated Water Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Double-wall insulated plastic
• Dishwasher safe: No
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: Unknown

Pros

• Ergonomic grip
• Extra storage
• No slip grip

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe

If you prefer running on the indoor track instead of on a treadmill, a handheld running water bottle helps keep hydration at arm’s length—literally. This one from Nathan is made to fit ergonomically in your hand, and it’s easy to squeeze to get that sweet, sweet water out of the nozzle and into your thirsty gullet. Double-wall insulation keeps your water/electrolyte drink cool, and a zippered front pocket holds your smartphone, cards, keys, and a good-luck trinket. It’s not dishwasher-safe, which is a bummer considering all of the nooks and crannies in the lid.

Best tumbler: Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: 18/8 Stainless steel; copper lining
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 16 hours cold

Pros

• Great temperature retention
• Fits in car cup holders
• Easy-to-hold handle

Cons

• Not spill proof

Testing the Pelican Porter made me understand the Stanley Quencher hype. Although the Quencher is a great tumbler, the Pelican Porter edges it out. It will keep drinks cold for 16 hours, compared to the Quencher’s 11-hour chill rate. This longevity is thanks to a copper lining that works with double-wall vacuum insulation to prevent thermal loss. It’s not completely spill-proof—one accidental kick from a passerby will lead to a certain disaster—but a splash-resistant lid prevents any waterworks on the drive to the gym. You can sip from the strong Tritan plastic drinking straw or rotate the lid for some chug action, although I prefer the straw. Something primal and childlike awoke deep in me as soon as I grabbed the Pelican Porter’s handle. I hope it also makes you feel like a big hydrated adult baby.

Best insulated: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: 18/8 stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 24 hours cold

Pros

• Lightweight when filled up
• Moveable handle
• Lid comes apart for easy cleaning

Cons

• Dents easily

It’s a close race between the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw Lid and the Yeti Rambler with Straw Lid for the title of best insulated water bottle for the gym. The Hydro Flask ranks superior thanks to its lid, which comes apart completely—no more moldy, nasty caps—and is dishwasher-safe. It’s also lightweight when filled up, and the moveable handle on the lid makes it better to carry from leg press to rowing machine to exercise bike, etc. It has a wide mouth to make it easy to clean and fill with ice, and the cap is leakproof when closed. A plastic ledge-like protrusion helps you flip the straw up without having to touch the mouthpiece, earning brownie points in the sanitary category. It is the water bottle I personally reach most for when I’m doing barre, since I can flip the straw up and carry it around while going from barre to floor to mat.

Best gallon water bottle: Yeti Gallon Jug

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: 18/8 stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 24+ hours cold

Pros

• Study handle
• Clever lid to store spout cap
• Double-wall vacuum insulation

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy when filled

If you’re a person who drinks a gallon of water a day, the Yeti Gallon Jug is one of the nicest gallon water bottles you can find. It will keep your water cold all day, even if the bottle has sat in your hot car. It’s made of durable stainless steel and features vacuum insulation so that it will keep liquids hot or cold for several hours. It also keeps your bottle from sweating, so gym floors are safe from condensation.

The Gallon Jug’s lid features a sturdy metal handle with soft grip padding. The lid also contains a neat magnetic design, so users can store the cap when the spout is open. You can also screw the entire lid off for easy cleaning and refills, although some reviews note it’s hard to remove because of the lid’s large diameter.

Like all Yeti’s other stainless steel bottles, the Gallon Jug is BPA-free and dishwasher safe. It weighs 4.5 pounds before putting water in it, or over 12 pounds full. This is not the weight you intend to lift while at the gym. Still, it is far and away the nicest water bottle of this size.

Best self-cleaning: LARQ Movement PureVis

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Bottle is dishwasher safe; cap it not
• BPA free: Yes
• Temperature retention: N/A

Pros

• Lightweight
• Self-cleaning
• Lightweight compared to other water bottles

Cons

• Non-insulated
• No wide mouth
• Expensive

I tested and reviewed the insulated LARQ PureVis bottle and was impressed at its ability to keep water cold and make a noticeable difference in how it tasted after hitting it with the PureVis UV-C light. If the LARQ insulated PureVis bottle is the nerdy, well-read smartypants of the family, then the uninsulated PureVis Movement bottle is the sporty one who will get a scholarship playing D1 field hockey and eventually join the U.S. Olympic team. It’s called the Movement bottle since it’s uninsulated, making it even lighter than the insulated version. Both bottles use the same technology in the cap. Simply press a button to activate the PureVis tech, which eliminates 99% of bio-contaminants like E.coli. If you’re bad at remembering to drink water, the LARQ, unfortunately, doesn’t have a built-in water tracker or sip reminder. However, it automatically cleans itself every two hours, and one charge powers the bottle for a month, giving you at least two fewer things to think about.

Best budget: Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Tritan plastic
• Dishwasher safe: Top rack safe
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: N/A

Pros

• Completely leakproof
• No frills
• Incredibly lightweight

Cons

• Non-insulated
• Wide mouth leads to a faceful of water

The Nalgene water bottle is a classic for a reason. Nalgene bottles have carried me from field hockey games to marching band practice when I was in high school, and they still have a place in my cupboard despite the objectively fancier options I have. They’re impact-resistant, leakproof, and are top-rack safe. Plus, Tritan plastic is BPA/BPS free if you’re cutting back on microplastics.

If you choose a wide-mouth Nalgene, I highly recommend getting an Easy Sipper. It’s a circular disk with a small hole that sits right inside the bottle to prevent getting a faceful of water when taking a sip. Although buying an accessory when you could buy a narrow-mouth bottle from the jump seems silly, wide-mouth bottles are easier to fill at bottle-filling stations. Being able to add ice is also a major perk. I’ve even filled mine and frozen them overnight so I’d have icy water after school. If you do that, just make sure to leave some room at the top since ice expands.

What to consider when buying the best water bottles for the gym

You may not need to drink 8 cups of water a day, but staying hydrated is a must while working out. Here is what you should keep in mind before adding to your water bottle collection:

Durability

Water bottles get dropped by sweaty hands, kicked by walkers deep in their favorite podcast and not paying attention, or fall over due to the mysterious forces of gravity.

Stainless steel can get dented and scratched, but it’s pretty resilient. Stainless steel can also handle sudden temperature changes. However, you should not freeze them since low freezer temperatures can damage the surface of the water bottle.

Tritan plastic water bottles are generally more scratch-resistant and won’t ding, but are by no means indestructible. Both materials are generally resistant to the wear and tear of everyday life.

Material

Speaking of material, you’ll want bottles made of stainless steel or Tritan plastic. You’ll want to skip glass entirely since broken shards and people lifting in their socks don’t mix.

Stainless steel water bottles are popular because they’re light and durable. They’re usually made from 18/8 stainless steel, which refers to its 18% chromium and 8% nickel elemental composition. Many stainless steel bottles are vacuum-insulated to create a sealed buffer between the liquid in the container and the environment outside the bottle, which reduces conduction and keeps liquids cold for several hours. If you’re looking for even more thermal retention, consider a bottle with copper lining.

Reusable plastic water bottles give you a balance of durability and affordability. High-quality plastic bottles can be more resistant to superficial wear and tear and generally lack insulation.

When buying plastic, make sure to get a plastic water bottle that’s made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is light and ultra-durable. Some studies suggest that containers made from plastics with bisphenol A, or BPA, can seep into what’s stored in the container and cause adverse health effects.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best water bottles for the gym

• Best overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best for running: Nathan Quick Squeeze Insulated Water Bottle
• Best tumbler: Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
• Best gallon water bottle: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best self-cleaning: LARQ Movement PureVis
• Best budget: Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

You can bring any water bottle into the gym, but why not bring one that inspires you and #sparksjoy? Find one in your favorite color with handy features like a carry loop, vacuum insulation, and a touch-free cap for more sanitary sipping. The most important thing is making sure to stay hydrated while pumping iron, putting in rounds with the heavy bag, etc. You should sip some water from your new bottle and get some reps in.

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 water bottles for the gym in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Fenix PD36R 1600 Lumen USB Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight		SEE IT	Rugged enough for outdoor use but still delivering ample brightness and surprisingly easy to handle, with a compact size of just 5.3 inches long and about an inch in diameter.
Best for worksites		Greenworks 24V Cordless High-Intensity LED Flashlight Kit		SEE IT	Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 23 hours of light on a single charge and ergonomically designed, so it’s comfortable and convenient on a worksite no matter how long the job.
Brightest		Olight Warrior X Pro Tactical Flashlight		SEE IT	A worthy choice if you’re looking for the brightest flashlights you can buy and are willing to pay for them.

Descending into a dark basement to flip a breaker or finding the keys you dropped in your car is a lot easier with the help of a flashlight. That little light in your smartphone isn’t bright enough, and you can save your phone’s battery for making phone calls, texting friends, and updating your Instagram. Gone are the days of large clunky flashlights with weak incandescent bulbs. Today’s models come with rechargeable batteries and bright LED lights capable of illuminating objects hundreds of feet away. Unlike the flashlights of yesteryear, modern flashlights are small enough to fit in your pocket and weigh next to nothing. The best flashlights will illuminate your search so you can choose the model that will light up the darkness when you need it.

• Best overall: Fenix PD36R 1600 Lumen USB Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight
• Best for worksites: Greenworks 24V Cordless High-Intensity LED Flashlight Kit
• Brightest: Olight Warrior X Pro Tactical Flashlight
• Best EDC: Wuben Tactical EDC Flashlight
• Best pen: Streamlight Stylus Pro Pen Light
• Best headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 325
• Best budget: ThruNite Archer LED Flashlight

How we chose the best flashlights

As an avid camper and one who lives in a rural area prone to power outages, I find myself traipsing around the dark quite often, so I know a thing or two about flashlights. I considered a few important criteria in researching more than a dozen flashlights for this article. Brightness, of course, is key.

However, I didn’t just consider flashlights with exceptional brightness. While a 1,000-plus lumen output is great when searching for a missing person or pet, it’s too bright for close-quarters use inside a house or tent. With that in mind, I chose models that offered multiple modes that would allow them to be used both indoors and outdoors. 

They should be able to endure a fair amount of abuse, so I chose models with rugged anodized aluminum construction and waterproof ratings. For rechargeable models that come equipped with batteries, I chose those with at least 3,000 mAh (milliamp per hour) batteries that can last for many hours on moderate light settings. While cost was not a major factor, I did include lights for those budget-conscious users, as well as expensive high-end models. 

The best flashlights: Reviews & Recommendations

For many people, your smartphone is the only flashlight you might think you need. But you should probably conserve phone battery if you’re in the kind of situation where you really need to use a flashlight (and you don’t want to drop that expensive phone trying to fish it out of your pocket in the dark, cracking the screen). From late-night dog walks to trips to the basement breaker when the electricity goes out, a flashlight can keep you seeing clearly. One of our choices should rescue you from stumbling over your own feet.

Best overall: Fenix PD36R 1600 Lumen USB Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight

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Specs

• Max lumens: 1,600
• Dimensions: 5.33 inches in diameter and 1.04 inches long
• Weight: 3 ounces

Pros

• Ample 1,600 lumens of brightness
• Rugged IP68 rating
• Long run time

Cons

• Expensive
• May be overkill for some

Sure, the PD36 is one of the pricier flashlights on the market, but if you’re serious about having a good flashlight, it’s worth it. The PD36’s runtime is nothing short of phenomenal. Expect more than four days’ worth of battery life on a single charge at the light’s lowest setting, which is still a very usable 30 lumens. That means you can get hours and hours out of this flashlight before needing to charge it. We also like the fact that the flashlight is rechargeable via USB-C, which can add five hours of battery life to the flashlight with just 10 minutes of charge time.

There’s also a broad range of modes with the flashlight, ranging from its energy-saving 30-lumen mode all the way up to a headlight-like 1,600 lumens, which is bright enough to light up objects more than 900 feet away. While using the PD36R at max brightness will drain the battery fairly quickly, you can still get three hours at that level. 

The flashlight is also rugged enough for outdoor use, thanks to an IP68 rating that allows it to withstand being submerged in up to 6.5 feet of water for 30 minutes without suffering damage. Despite its ample brightness, it is still surprisingly easy to handle, with a compact size of just 5.3 inches long and about an inch in diameter.

Best for worksites: Greenworks 24V Cordless High-Intensity LED Flashlight Kit

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Specs

• Max lumens: 200
• Dimensions: ‎3.21 inches by 2.61 inches by 4.17 inches
• Weight: 15.6 ounces

Pros

• Provides up to 23 hours of power
• Pivoting head adjusts to where you need light
• Energy efficient
• Ergonomically designed

Cons

• Doesn’t provide bright light
• Not waterproof

Low light is handy when fixing a tire or checking a fusebox—just enough to illuminate what you need across a wide field without being blinding. Greenworks’ Cordless High-Intensity LED Flashlight Kit provides up to 200 lumens of light when needed. The 24-volt flashlight is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 23 hours of light on a single charge. It’s also ergonomically designed, so it’s comfortable to hold when you’re on a worksite. On your off hours, this flashlight is also great for hiking.

Brightest: Olight Warrior X Pro Tactical Flashlight

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Specs

• Max lumens: 2,100
• Dimensions: 1.5 inches in diameter by 5.9 inches long
• Weight: 8.4 ounces

Pros

• Can project up to 500 meters
• Compact size and lightweight make it suitable for camping
• Rugged waterproof construction

Cons

• Minimum brightness of 300 lumens is high
• Too bright for everyday use

With its 2,100-lumen output and ability to throw a beam 500 meters away, the Olight is probably overkill for most people not part of a search-and-rescue team. That said, the Warrior is a worthy choice if you’re looking for the brightest flashlights you can buy and are willing to pay for them. 

Despite that extraordinary brightness, the Olight manages to stay surprisingly compact. It measures just 1.5 inches in diameter at the business end and a hair under 6 inches long with a weight of fewer than 9 ounces. That small size, coupled with an IP68 rating, makes the Olight Warrior a worthy companion for hunting trips or backwoods camping adventures. 

Just keep in mind that all that brightness significantly strains the Warrior’s 5,000-mAh rechargeable battery. Don’t expect to get more than a couple of hours at 2,100 lumens. With a minimum brightness of 300 lumens, the Warrior is simply too bright for applications that require dimmer lighting, such as illuminating the inside of a tent or the area under a car hood. Regardless, keep this flashlight topped up with the best power banks.

Best EDC: Wuben Tactical EDC Flashlight

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Specs

• Max lumens: 1,200
• Dimensions: 1.7 inches in diameter by 6.9 inches long
  Weight: 1.7 ounces

Pros

• Compact size suitable for carrying in a pocket
• Anodized aluminum construction
• Fast USB-C charging

Cons

• Uses smaller capacity batteries than other flashlights
• Easy to misplace

For a flashlight to qualify as an EDC (everyday-carry flashlight), it’s got to be compact enough to fit into a pocket comfortably. Measuring less than 5 inches long and just an inch in diameter, Wuben’s EDC option fits the mold. And for those whose pockets are occupied, it also comes with a lanyard and pocket clip.

Some EDC flashlights are compact but don’t produce enough brightness to make them worth carrying. Wuben has no problems in this department, producing an impressive 1,200 lumens despite its small size. It comes with five light modes, including four light levels, along with a strobe and SOS mode. We also like the USB-C charging port on this flashlight, which allows it to charge from zero to full power in less than an hour. A handy indicator lets you know when the battery drops below 15 percent. 

A flashlight banging around in a pants pocket or backpack all day long every day should be sturdy, and this one is, with its anodized aircraft-grade aluminum body and waterproof construction. 

Best pen: Streamlight Stylus Pro Pen Light

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Specs

• Max lumens: 100
• Dimensions: 0.6 inches in diameter by 5.3 inches long
• Weight: 1.7 ounces

Pros

• Compact size suitable for carrying in a pocket
• Durable aluminum construction
• Multiple color options

Cons

• Expensive for a penlight
• Not super high-power

Pen flashlights are built for convenience with a small profile that makes them easy to slide into a pants pocket or even a breast pocket on a button-down shirt. Though this design makes them convenient to carry, these flashlights usually put out wimpy brightness. That’s not the case with the Streamlight Stylus Pro. Despite having a diameter of about 1/2 inch and a total length of 5.3 inches—about the size of a marker—it produces 100 lumens. 

This small light is also surprisingly tough, thanks to its anodized aluminum housing and unbreakable polycarbonate lens. This construction makes the flashlight water-resistant and capable of absorbing impacts of up to 2 meters without taking damage. It also has a convenient tail cap switch that makes it easy to operate while pointing the flashlight at the subject. The Stylus Pro gets a respectable eight hours of battery life from its 2 AAA batteries and comes in six color options.

Best headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 325

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Specs

• Max lumens: ‎325 Lumen
• Dimensions: ‎2.05 x 1.97 x 8.27 inches
• Weight: 1.7 ounces

Pros

• Lightweight
• Sits flat and is stable on the head
• Charges via microUSB
• Material is moisture-wicking

Cons

• Hard to open the charger

If heavy headlamps make night hikes a headache, consider the BioLite HeadLamp 325, a lightweight light in the dark. It only weighs 1.7 ounces and doesn’t bounce around while running or doing a cartwheel. The headlamp charges via microUSB—an incredibly common charger you likely already have around the house. A rear reflective strip alerts those behind you that you’re there, and an articulating front bezel allows you to angle the light where you need it with just one hand. 

We recently took it on a trip to Arizona and were pleased with how its moisture-wicking fabric kept our forehead comfortable during nighttime jaunts to the bathroom or campfire. Plus, it laid flat to our heads—something we can’t say with other headlamps we’ve tried.

We named its beefier cousin, the BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro, as the best headlamp for hiking. If you’re more of a casual wanderer or just need something to illuminate the way to take out the trash, the HeadLamp 325 packs a powerful, portable punch.

Best budget: ThruNite Archer LED Flashlight

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Specs

• Max lumens: 500
• Dimensions: 1.7 inches in diameter by 6.9 inches long
• Weight: 1.7 ounces

Pros

• More affordable than high-end tactical flashlights
• Waterproof construction
• Enough brightness for most needs

Cons

• Does not use a rechargeable battery
• Not ideal for professional use

When assessing flashlights, we tend to get hung up on lumens and battery life. The fact is most people don’t need a flashlight that approaches car headlight levels of brightness. The ThruNite Archer’s 500 lumens are enough to cast a beam of light the length of a football field or light up a small room, more than enough for most people’s needs. Three light levels, along with firefly mode and strobe, add versatility. And while you won’t be able to go off-grid for weeks and weeks with this flashlight, its max runtime of 15 days on two AA batteries suits most applications. 

In terms of construction, it’s compact at less than 7 inches long and 1.7 inches in diameter and weighs just 1.7 ounces. It’s also waterproof up to one meter and ruggedly constructed of anodized steel to resist impacts. Most importantly, the Archer is a quarter of the cost of other tactical flashlights, making it a great option for those looking for a more affordable option.

What to consider when buying the best flashlights

Here is what you should know before buying the best flashlights:

Brightness

Lumens measure how bright a flashlight is. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the flashlight will be, although the shape of the reflector and lens will determine just how far that light will be cast. Flashlight brightness usually ranges from around 100 lumens for small penlights up to 2,000 or more lumens for the brightest flashlights. As few as 200 lumens is plenty of light for illuminating the dark space under a kitchen sink or even a fuse box, but you’ll need a minimum of 1,000 lumens if you want to illuminate large open spaces such as a campsite. 

Battery life

Whether your flashlight is rechargeable or takes disposable batteries, it won’t stay lit forever. At some point, you’ll need to recharge it or load new batteries. Battery capacity is measured in milliamp hours (mAh). A good mAh for batteries is 3,000, which is enough to keep the light running all night long. Some rechargeable batteries offer 5,000 mAh, which is ideal for higher-lumen flashlights that use more power.

Size

Flashlights come in a variety of sizes, but most measure around 6 inches long and 2 inches in diameter. Smaller EDC (every day carry) flashlights are smaller, allowing the user to wear them on their person throughout the day. These flashlights are typically more compact than a standard tactical flashlight.

Weather protection

Since flashlights are often used outdoors, they need to have some protection from the elements. Flashlights come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which indicates how impervious they are to dust and water. The IP rating is typically followed by two numbers, one that indicates its ability to resist water and the other its ability to resist dust. An IP rating of 68 indicates the flashlight is impervious to dust and can be submerged in water.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best flashlights

• Best overall: Fenix PD36R 1600 Lumen USB Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight
• Best for worksites: Greenworks 24V Cordless High-Intensity LED Flashlight Kit
• Brightest: Olight Warrior X Pro Tactical Flashlight
• Best EDC: Wuben Tactical EDC Flashlight
• Best pen: Streamlight Stylus Pro Pen Light
• Best headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 325
• Best budget: ThruNite Archer LED Flashlight

Given the broad price differences in flashlights, it’s important to consider how you plan to use the light before shopping for one. If you need one to use around the house in the event of a power outage or popped breaker, then an affordable model that produces a few 100 lumens is adequate. Those planning to use a flashlight to illuminate the outdoors at night for camping, hiking, or hunting, should consider investing in a more expensive flashlight with an IP86 weather rating and at least a 1,000-lumen output.

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 flashlights in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We’re coming up on the most wonderful time of year: winter, when everything breaks because of the cold. You’ll have just the tool for the job with this 192-piece DeWalt tool kit that 44% on Amazon, right before the big Black Friday rush. It’s no wonder we named it one of the best gifts for DIYers.

DEWALT 192-Piece Mechanics Tool Set $154.99 (Was $277.99)

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This mechanics tool set includes three 72-tooth Quick Release ratches, 15 accessories, 42 1/4-inch drive sockets, 44 3/8-inch drive sockets, 40 1/2-inch drive sockets, 3 3/8-inch spark plug sockets, 17 3/8-inch drive bit sockets, and 28 hex keys. Hand-stamped markings let you find what you need quickly. A polished chrome vanadium finish means they’re corrosion-resistant, and DirectTorque tech prevents fasteners from rounding after heavy use. The included durable, hard carrying case is the cherry on top of this utilitarian cupcake.

Here are more DeWalt tool deals that spark our interest:

• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Battery, 5 Ah, 2-Pack $149 (Was $259)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill, Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit $149 (Was $229)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, Cordless, Tool Only $99 (Was $205)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver, 1/2 Inch, 2 Speed, XR 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included $99 (Was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 460 MWO Engine, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Bare Tool Only $99 (Was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Oscillating Tool Kit, 3-Speed $118.90 (Was $219)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum, Tool Only $118.45 (Was $159)
• DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece $9.97 (Was $16.99)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench Kit $279 (Was $325.99)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Orbital Sander, 12,000 OPM, Brushless Motor for Extra Long Run Time, Bare Tool Only $92.90 (Was $179)

The post Only a tool would pass up 44% savings on this DeWalt mechanics tool set before Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier		SEE IT	A H14 hospital-grade filter helps filter 99.99% of microscopic nasties.
Best splurge		Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet		SEE IT	This big boi leaves little debris in the air and can recreate the feeling of a natural breeze indoors.
Best budget		Levoit Core 300		SEE IT	A sub-$100 choice that punches above its price.

If you’re trying to prevent mold from messing with your lungs, there are air purifiers that are made just for that. Mold has been around for millions of years, and it’s not a stretch to say it’s already in your home or the buildings you enter. You find mold in places that encounter a lot of contact with water, like roofs, windows, and pipes. Mold can also be found on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood products, dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery. Although that’s an overwhelming number of possible things that can become moldy, you can take quick action. It’s easy to remove on non-porous surfaces and food—a simple wipe down or journey to the trash can fix that. However, it’s hard to remove in the air, which is not the best news since mold can cause respiratory issues or a skin rash. However, the best air purifiers for mold let you breathe easy, no longer worrying about the air in your home.

• Best overall: PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier
• Best smart: MILA Air Purifier with Overreactor filter
• Best for large rooms: Shark HP302 NeverChange Air Purifier MAX
• Best splurge: Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Extra Large
• Best budget: Levoit Core 300

How we chose the best air purifiers for mold

We’ve written about air purifiers before, so we took what we knew about them and went a bit further with testing. We weren’t looking at its ability to prevent mold, since that’s what dehumidifiers are for. We looked for features like HEPA filtration and the percentage of micro-sized particles it can trap. In order to find the best air purifiers for mold, we also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted first-hand research.

The best air purifiers for mold: Reviews & Recommendations

When it comes to AQI (the Air Quality Index), it’s like the game of Limbo: How low can you go? Keeping particulates out of our body is the goal of these selections, as mold is only good in blue cheese, penicillin, and tempeh—and that’s only if you’re not allergic or intolerant to any of them. Leave the fuzziness to those old raspberries in your fridge, not your lungs (OK, clear out the raspberries, too).

Best overall: PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier

SEE IT

Specs

• Recommended room size: 1,115 square feet
• Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 14.25 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Weight: 8 lbs.

Pros

• Detects air quality in home
• Powerful H14 HEPA filter
• Science-backed

Cons

• Replacement filters are expensive

The PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier covers a massive 1,115 square feet and includes a powerful HEPA 14 air filter, which is ten times more powerful than HEPA 13. What you get is a hospital-grade air purifier under $200 that removes 99.99% of fine particles down to .1 microns in size. Mold? Sorry, you won’t find any here. It’s third-party lab tested and certified, meaning you’re getting a scientifically-developed air purifier from scientists and virologists at Harvard, MIT, Johns Hopkins, and Oxford universities that are backed up by other scientists.

A smart particle sensor monitors air quality and increases power if polluted air is detected. A flat, touch-controlled panel includes settings for timer, fan speed, a sleep mode that turns off all lights on the unit, filter replacement indicator, and child lock. It’s incredibly quiet even when running at its highest speed, and they’re incredibly intuitive to use. The replacement filters are a little expensive, but we think it’s a price worth paying.

Best smart: MILA Air Purifier with Overreactor filter

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Specs

• Recommended room size: 560 square feet
• Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 15 inches
• App connectivity: Yes
• Weight: 12 lbs.

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Clean look
• Lots of customization

Cons

• Expensive

If you’re looking for an air purifier that is a bit more customizable, consider the Mila. Instead of offering one filter that does everything OK, the Mila gives you seven filters, each aimed at solving a particular need. We’re a fan of the Overreactor, which eliminates food odors, formaldehyde from furniture and flooring, and almost 98 percent of nine types of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Plus, the integrated hospital-grade HEPA 14 filter with modified granular carbon gives new meaning to “fresh air.”

The unit also has eight environmental sensors, including CO2 and humidity sensors, which are important for mold prevention. It’s literally as quiet as a library, thanks to its 24-decibel output. It’s also super sensitive: the air purifier kicked into high gear when I sprayed an aerosol air freshener in the room.

Mila’s app is where this connected smart-home device shines, however. Available for Android and iOS, the app gives you more preset modes like Bubble Boy (which keeps the AQI as low as possible, no matter the setting), sleep, white noise, energy save, Turndown Service, and child lock. The air purifier is also incredibly stylish. Its cube shape gives “technologically advanced fancy marshmallow” compared to “bleak, unaesthetic cylinder” like many others on the market. The Mila is expensive, but you get lots of perks and flexibility.

Best for large rooms: Shark HP302 NeverChange Air Purifier MAX

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Specs

• Recommended room size: 1,400 square feet
• Dimensions: 13.2 x 13.2 x 22.5 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Weight: 12.27 lbs.

Pros

• Checks air quality
• Four levels of filtration
• Built-in odor neutralizer

Cons

• Large compared to other air purifiers

If you want to keep mold out of the air but want something that can cover a wide area, or you want to purify multiple rooms at once, the Shark HP302 NeverChange Air Purifier MAX has the largest square footage of coverage out of all the air purifiers we tested. A five-year HEPA filter means you don’t have to worry about reordering one shortly after purchasing. The filter itself can trap 99.98% of particles of all sizes, and debris defense protection prevents build-up fox maximum performance. We especially love its included odor neutralizer that releases a fresh scent in your home. It’s something we’ve seen implemented in the company’s Stratos Cordless Vacuum; we loved how it performed with the vacuum, and we’re happy it’s in this air purifier.

Clean Sense IQ constantly adjusts power based on air quality throughout your home, which you can see when tapping the Air Info symbol on the touch panel. Speaking of, if you’re not in the mood for auto mode, the touch panel includes settings for timer, brightness control, and fan speed. It’s taller compared to other air purifiers, but it’s a small price to pay for never having to change the filter.

Best splurge: Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Extra Large

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Specs

• Recommended room size: Over 1,000 square feet
• Dimensions: 30.47 x 23.37 x 17.32 inches
• App connectivity: Yes
• Weight: 26.2 lbs.

Pros

• Remote control included
• Pre-programmed turn-off
• Quiet at full power
• Wheels to easily move around

Cons

• Expensive

This extra-large air purifier from Dyson resembles a dish antenna, but don’t let its unconventional shape fool you. This large format device means business. It projects air over 32 feet, easily purifies large spaces, and has adjustable airflow. If you’d like to conjure a spring wind in the comfort of your own home, consider this a breath of fresh air thanks to Breeze Mode, which brings the outdoor breeze feeling inside. The H13 filter can last up to 5 years, and a hygienic replacement mechanism lets you replace it in one click, relatively germ-free. The purifier itself is acoustically engineered to operate quietly, even when it’s working to the max.

It comes with a remote—hello, convenience—and can also be controlled using the MyDyson app (available for Android and iOS). Do Not Disturb mode purifies the air while using the quietest settings and dims the display so you can get the darkest environment for the best sleep. It’s pricey, but being able to emulate fresh air in your own home is priceless. Scooting around your silly-shaped air purifier on its included hidden wheels? That is some Smart House tech I can get behind.

Best budget: Levoit Core 300

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Specs

• Recommended room size: 219 square feet
• Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 16.25 inches
• App connectivity: No
• Weight: 7.48 lbs.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Inconspicuous
• Incredibly quiet

Cons

• Have to pay more for WiFi-enabled model

This sub-$100 air purifier packs a punch well beyond its price. It’s incredibly quiet, easy to use, and lightweight for moving around the house. Its touch panel comes with three airflow presets (I, II, III), a quiet mode, a timer, a child lock, and a “lights off” button that turns off the panel lights without shutting down the air purifier. Each filter lasts for six months, and they come in a two-pack so you only need to order them once a year. I’ve purchased this air purifier twice and would buy it again for every room in my apartment. I’ve used the general filter that comes with it and have had no problems, but the toxin absorber filter (sold separately) is a perfect match for mold catching. If you’re looking to pay extra for a WiFi-enabled model, it’s your lucky day.

What to consider when buying the best air purifiers for mold

Mold exposure can lead to a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing or wheezing, burning eyes, or rash. People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions like shortness of breath or chest tightness. Immunocompromised people and people with chronic lung disease may get lung infections from mold. With all this considered, it’s important to find an air purifier that works. Here’s what features you should consider before hitting “add to cart”:

Size of space

Most air purifiers are designed to clean the air in a single room. Because of this, many models include a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) to show how fast it can purify the air in the room. The higher the CADR, the larger area an air purifier is able to clean. Generally, you should look for an air purifier with a CADR of 2/3 the square footage of a space. If you’re looking to put an air purifier in a 100-square-foot room, you’ll need a minimum CADR of 65, per Energy Star.

HEPA

HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air” and has been used since World War II. That’s pretty neat. If you’re looking for a filter specifically for mold, look for H13 or H14 HEPA filters. They’re the highest tier of filtration and are considered medical or hospital grade.

Additionally, if you don’t want to think about filter speed or changing settings as air quality changes, consider an air purifier with sensors that increase the amount of air filtered for you. A higher fan speed for a longer time increases the amount of clean air in your home.

Mold prevention

The best air purifiers for mold only filter out spores already in the air. The CDC recommends keeping humidity levels no higher than 50% in your home to prevent mold. An air conditioner or dehumidifier can help, and you can buy a humidity meter to monitor levels in your home. Fix any roof, wall, or plumbing leaks, and add mold inhibitors to paint or use a mold-inhibiting primer before painting. You should also dry out your home 24-28 hours after a flood and remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried right away.

Bathrooms and basements often harbor the most mold since they get moist easily when not built properly. Surface mold growth, like on the tile or in the caulk, is easy to clean. Use a mold-killing cleaner or remove the caulk and replace it with the highest quality caulking you can find. However, removing mold growing behind the shower is a job for a contractor, unless you are the handyperson in your home.

Should you test your home for mold? The CDC says no since the health effects of mold are different in everyone. Good mold sampling is often expensive, and there are no set standards for acceptable kinds and qualities of mold in homes. Color also isn’t an indication of mold danger. Save your money to remove any mold in your home and keep it at bay.

So, should you be constantly vigilant of mold? According to the CDC, probably not. There is a little mold everywhere. Molds that may be toxigenic—a.k.a., they produce toxins, specifically mycotoxins—are as hazardous as the common molds in your home. There are few reports that toxigenic molds in homes can cause pulmonary hemorrhage or memory loss. A link between the two has not been proven, and these reports are rare.

If you have asthma, are allergic to mold, are immune-compromised, or have chronic lung disease, talk to your doctor about what you can do to protect yourself against mold.

Smart capabilities

Some air purifiers can be controlled via an app that gives you deeper insights into the air in your home. Some have internal sensors that detect the air quality in your home and adjust the filter speed accordingly. However, these features can hike up the price.

If you get annoyed with air purifiers beeping when the air quality is poor, look for something that lets you turn the signal off, or consider a model that is beep-free. You already can’t stand when you set the fire alarm off while you’re cooking. You don’t need any more unnecessary beeping in your life.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air purifiers for mold

• Best overall: PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier
• Best smart: MILA Air Purifier with Overreactor filter
• Best for large rooms: Shark HP302 NeverChange Air Purifier MAX
• Best splurge: Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Extra Large
• Best budget: Levoit Core 300

You can stop mold on surfaces with a quick wipe of a powerful cleaner. Mold in the air is a different story. When looking for an air purifier made specifically for getting rid of this particular allergen, ensure it comes with a hospital-grade H14 HEPA filter to get all the lung irritants out of the air. Keep in mind the size of your space to maximize its efficacy and fun add-on features like app control. You can breathe easily, knowing that your lungs will be relatively mold-free with the right pick.

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 mold 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		Womanizer OG		SEE IT	Get the best of both worlds with clitoral and G-spot stimulation.
Best for beginners		MysteryVibe Poco		SEE IT	Easy-to-locate buttons takes the mystery out of changing settings.
Best budget		plusOne Fluttering Arouser		SEE IT	Ten different settings, vibration, and a fluttering arouser adds up to eye-fluttering orgasms.

There’s no shame in having a sex toy in your nightstand. Masturbation plays a big role in your sexual health—it’s even good for your mental and physical health! Your body releases endorphins (hormones that block pain and make you feel good) when you orgasm. Orgasms also help you sleep better, reduce stress, and can strengthen your pelvic and anal muscles. Plus, sex toys and masturbation are an excellent way to be in touch with your body and embrace what gives you pleasure. The best sex toys will leave you feeling confident and empowered over and over and over …

• Best overall: Womanizer OG
• Best for phalluses: Arcwave Ion 
• Best for vulvas: Satisfyer Pro 2 Gen 3 Air Pulse Toy
• Best for couples: We-Vibe Chorus
• Best for anal: Lovehoney Rump Workout Silicone Butt Plug Training Set
• Best rated: Magic Wand Rechargeable Massager
• Best for beginners: MysteryVibe Poco
• Best discreet: Womanizer Wave
• Best budget: plusOne Fluttering Arouser

How we chose the best sex toys

In order to find the best sex toys, we looked at reviews, recommendations, and … did lots and lots of personal testing. I’ve written about salacious things in the past, so I have no shame in my coworkers knowing too much about my personal life. Someone’s gotta do the testing, after all! Additionally, we looked at versatility in both features, use, and the kinds of bodies they can be used on. In this case, we do believe a toy that is a jack of all trades might be best, but there’s also nothing wrong with being a master of none.  

Also, everything on this list is body-safe, meaning it is non-toxic and non-porous. You don’t want any bacteria going near the thin, delicate skin around your genitals and in your body. 

The best sex toys: Reviews & Recommendations

Astroglide Sexologist Dr. Jess O’ Reilly says, “Sex toy use is associated with a range of benefits including increased sexual functioning and sexual pleasure. Those who use sexual accouterments, such as sex toys and lube, report higher sexual functioning and greater sexual satisfaction.” Masturbation is also a great way to relieve stress and help relieve period cramps. 

Everybody (and every body) is different when it comes to pleasure—one of our recommendations should butter your biscuit (get your mind out of the gutter, it’s a real turn of phrase!). 

Best overall: Womanizer OG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This feature-packed vibe has lots of intensity levels, can be used for clitoral stimulation or on your G-spot, and its Smart Silent tech keeps things discreet. 

Specs

• Settings: 12 intensity levels; 3 vibration levels
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Pleasure point: Clitoral, G-spot
• Battery life: 2 hours

Pros

• Waterproof
• Can be used for multiple kinds of stimulation
• Quiet

Cons

• Limited flexibility
• Controls can be finicky

The Womanizer OG takes all that is good in a bullet vibrator and all that is good in a clit stimulation toy and combines it into a versatile, wunderbar vibrator that you can use on multiple erogenous zones. Yes, it’s marketed as a G-spot stimulation, but we also loved its capabilities as a clit suction toy. Being able to control the 12 levels of Pleasure Air intensity and three vibration modes separately can lead you to all kinds of new highs when other toys only scratch the surface. The Afterglow feature—which senses your orgasm and gradually reverts back to its lowest setting—is a lovely touch, and helps bring you down from a potentially intense body high, like your lover rubbing your back and holding you after … well, you get it. 

The vibe itself isn’t super flexible, meaning you can’t change the angle of the head, and the controls can be a little confusing— the short and long presses are super important in changing the features, and it’s easy to go into a different mode than you wanted. However, this is a small qualm when you consider the multitude of possibilities on how—and where—you can use this toy. 

Best for phalluses: Arcwave Ion 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Arcwave Ion gives you a hand in achieving maximum phallic stimulation. 

Specs

• Settings: 8 intensity levels
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Pleasure point: Phallus
• Battery life: 70 minutes on full power

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Intuitive controls
• Smart Silence tech

Cons

• Could be a little intense for newbies

When you think of phallus masturbators, a device that resembles a flashlight tends to come to mind. There’s nothing wrong with that, but there’s a sleeker way to beat off. The Arcwave Ion (made by the same people who make the Womanizer OG) kind of looks like a stapler, but it’s infinitely easier to clean than closed-end strokers—simply twist and rinse under the faucet after use. The Ion works by focusing pulsating air pressure the frenulum, the band of tissue on the underside of the penis toward that head that is packed with sensitive Pacinian pleasure receptors. A DryTech stick inside the Ion uses silica to wick away moisture, and vents on the lid encourage air flow, so you won’t be stuck with a musty stroker when you pull it out for use. Multiple reviews note a bit of a learning curve when first using the Ion, but boy, you’ll be happy when you get over it. If you’re new to using a stroker, try out a Tenga Egg, which is an analog stroker (you power it, buddy). If you like it, step up to the Ion. 

Best for vulvas: Satisfyer Pro 2 Gen 3 Air Pulse Toy

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It’s like oral without the oral (and you can actually get somewhere when using it). 

Specs

• Settings: 11 pressure wave settings; 12 vibration programs
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Pleasure point: Clitoral
• Battery life: 90 minutes

Pros

• Easy-to-clean silicone
• App control
• Great cost for features

Cons

• Need to change Bluetooth settings so neighbors don’t know your business

Sure, using a good ol’ bullet vibrator will get the job done, but what about something that blows the project out of the water? The Satisfyer Pro 2 Gen 3 Air Pulse Toy has a long name, but it yields fast-acting feel-good feelings. In fact, you might even be done using it after saying the name. Air-pulse stimulation and vibration simulate oral sex, and Liquid Air technology mimics pulsing water. Put it together and you get a device that makes reviewers say, “It couldn’t be named any better because it will definitely satisfy!”

We love that it also comes with a Bluetooth app to customize vibration patterns, access remote controls, or play music. However, one reviewer notes that the name of the toy pops up on the list of available Bluetooth devices. Some may be none the wiser, but do take time to change the device’s name in the Bluetooth settings. 

Best for couples: We-Vibe Chorus

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: G-spot, clitoral, and phallus stimulation all at once? Heck yes. 

Specs

• Settings: 10 pattern modes
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Pleasure point: G-spot, clitoral, phallic
• Battery life: 90 minutes

Pros

• Comes with a remote control
• Quiet
• Sleek charging case

Cons

• Hard to get clitoral stimulation in some positions
• App interface wonky 

The Beatles’ “Come Together” makes great points about … coming together. Achieve that harmony with the WeVibe Chorus, which stimulates the G-spot, clitoris, AND penis. A remote control means you don’t have to reach anywhere to change the settings, and it also allows someone else to control it in the bedroom or over long distances. Touch-sense modes let your movements control the vibrations, and Squeeze Remote tech lets you use your own body to change intensity—the vibration gets stronger as you squeeze. 

With all new things, there is a bit of a learning curve. It can be hard to get a good angle on your G-spot while trying to get the toy to touch your clitoris. And, it may achieve a different kind of premature exit based on positioning. The app interface can be a little confusing, and leaving it could stop the vibrator from doing its thing, which is a bummer in the heat of the moment. After futzing around, WeVibe Chorus should be a welcome addition to your sex life. 

Best for anal: Lovehoney Rump Workout Silicone Butt Plug Training Set

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This butt plug set helps you ease into anal with three beginner-friendly plugs equipped with an essential flared base. 

Specs

• Settings: N/A
• Waterproof?: N/A
• Pleasure point: P-spot
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Great introduction to anal
• Different sizes for versatility

Cons

• More for beginners

Anal doesn’t have to be daunting. If you’ve always wanted to try it and don’t know where to start, consider this Butt Plug training set from Lovehoney. A tapered tip, lengthy neck, and T-bar are all must-haves when it comes to looking for a butt plug—and these three have them all. All three are easy to clean and are made of body-safe silicone for peace of mind as you play. “Start small and work your way up to the desired size and stimulation,” says plusOne Director of Product Development Megan O’Connell.

The small plug is 3 inches long and 2.5 inches in girth; the medium is 3.5 inches long and 3 inches in girth; and the large is 4.5 inches long and 4 inches in girth. And if you don’t like it, Lovehoney has a 100-day money-back guarantee. Being able to try something out and getting a refund if you don’t like it? Sounds good to us. 

If you’re looking for something more advanced, check out the LELO Hugo Butt Plug. It’s remote-controlled and vibrates.

Best rated: Magic Wand Rechargeable Massager

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The classic remains a classic thanks to buzzy vibration modes and a bevy of separate attachments, making it a true multi-hyphenate. 

Specs

• Settings: 4 speeds, 4 patterns
• Waterproof?: No
• Pleasure point: Anywhere
• Battery life: 180 minutes

Pros

• Great battery life
• A classic made rechargeable
• Doubles as a percussion massager

Cons

• Not everyone’s cup of tea
• Not waterproof

When you think of “sex toy,” the Magic Wand most likely comes to mind. This wand has been around since 1968, and with that history comes with great responsibility. Considering that the Magic Wand has been used in scientific studies, we’ve come to the conclusion that yeah: it’s pretty legit. And it’s also pretty no-nonsense. You only get four vibration speeds and four vibration patterns. But it lasts for a marathon 180 minutes, which blows the battery life out of every single sex toy on this list. 

The Magic Wand might not be everyone’s cup of tea: it can be a little too intense for you if you don’t like big, buzzy, bed-vibrating sex toys. But, you can always use it for its original use: as a percussion massager.

Best for beginners: MysteryVibe Poco

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A foldable design and easy-to-press buttons makes this a great buy for someone looking for their first sex toy. 

Specs

• Settings: 8 presets; 16 intensities
• Waterproof?: Only showerproof
• Pleasure point: G-spot, but can be used for clitoral stimulation
• Battery life: 90 minutes

Pros

• Designed to mimic fingers
• Easy-to-use app
• Super customizable

Cons

• Have to keep app on in order to stay connected to the vibe

The MysteryVibe Poco’s small size (under 6 inches in length and 1.5 inches at the base) makes it an excellent choice for beginners who are looking for something they can use by themselves, with a partner, and on different parts of the body. It’s designed to mimic fingers—an ode to the OG way of getting off—and includes 16 different intensities for all kinds of moods. It’s showerproof and also super portable, making it perfect to bring on a trip with your lover or pack on a sleepover. Like other Bluetooth-connected toys, your vibe might turn out when you try to leave the app. 

Best discreet: Womanizer Wave

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Instead of your regular showerhead, this showerhead and clitorial stimulator in one was designed for erogenous zones. 

Specs

• Settings: N/A
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Pleasure point: All over
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Looks like a regular showerhead
• Saves water
• Easy installation

Cons

• Not for anyone who doesn’t want to incorporate toys into daily life.

“Discovering masturbation via the showerhead” is a common trope in coming-of-age movies, but it’s also one that many of us have done in real life. It’s an easy, cheap, accessible way to experiment with masturbation. The showerhead has grown up, thanks to the Womanizer Wave, which is made for water-pressure clitoral stimulation. Believe it or not, it also saves water thanks to EcoSmart tech without sacrificing performance. The Wave is also easy to hold in your hand (you can’t say the same for your heavy showerhead). You can change between the three different water jets—PowderRain, PleasureJet, and PleasureWhirl—with the touch of a button. The Womanizer Wave system is easy to swap in and out—however, it might be even easier to accept that your showerhead was made for masturbation and let no one be none the wiser.

Best budget: plusOne Fluttering Arouser

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You don’t have to spend $100 to “invite a little pleasure” into your life. 

Specs

• Settings: 10 vibration speeds
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Pleasure point: Clitoral
• Battery life: 1.5 hours of use

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Cheap and good quality
• Rechargeable

Cons

• Might not scratch the itch for those who are suction toy stans

“Cheap” tends to get lumped with “poor quality.” And, vibrators under $50 may not be rechargeable. The plusOne rejects those notions with soft, smooth high-quality silicone that yields 1.5 hours of power on a single charge. It combines a fluttering tongue with vibration for extra stimulation and arousal. You just need some warm water and mild soap to clean. And, it’s truly waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about damaging the device when using it in the shower.

However, if suction toys are your jam, you might not get your rocks off with the Fluttering Arouser, since it uses a silicone tongue and vibration. In that case, we recommend the Lovehoney X ROMP Switch Clitoral Suction Stimulator, which has six intensity levels and is less than $35.

What to consider when buying the best sex toys

The world is your oyster when sex toy shopping. However, all sex toys are not built the same. And, like the partnered sex many of us had in college, when a sex toy is bad, it’s bad! Here’s what to look for when looking for a sex toy.

What do you like?

Where do you like to be touched? And how do you like to be touched? Answering those questions can lead you to a perfect match. For example, a vibrating phallus sleeve is going to feel different than a cock ring. Maybe vibration isn’t your style and a stroker sounds more pleasurable to use.  

Experimentation

With this said, sex toys are a great way to try something new. Check to see if the site you’re buying from has a money-back guarantee. Sometimes, you can get a refund if you decide that a toy isn’t making you see fireworks and enter a new dimension. 

What if the vibe isn’t your vibe? Aka, sex toy recycling

Most retailers won’t accept your used sex toys if you change your mind, however. The good news is, there’s a way to not let it sit sad and unused in your nightstand drawer. 

“Should you need to dispose of a product with a lithium-ion battery, the battery should be disposed of in accordance with the local laws and regulations,” Connell says. 

This means its final resting place is not in your home trash can.

“If possible, please recycle it,” adds plusOne Director of Industrial Design Emily Gasta. “Users should not take out or replace the battery by themselves; doing so may damage the product.”

You also don’t want to recycle a used sex toy. Read up on how to clean your sex toys based on what they’re made out of. And if you really want to get rid of it, you can gift it to a treasured and trusted friend (after sanitizing and sterilizing, of course), or you can gift it away on a site like Squeaky Clean Toys, which is like eBay for sex toys. 

Lube up

Not all lubes are made the same, either. You’ll want to use silicone lube like the Shine Silicon lube from Maude on glass toys, when you’re getting frisky in the water, or when you’re just using your hands. However, do not use silicone lube with silicone toys—that will damage them. Instead, use a water-based lube like tried-and-true-blue Astroglide. We also have to recommend Astroglide because of its rocket-science roots. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best sex toys

• Best overall: Womanizer OG
• Best for phalluses: Arcwave Ion 
• Best for vulvas: Satisfyer Pro 2 Gen 3 Air Pulse Toy
• Best for couples: We-Vibe Chorus
• Best for anal: Lovehoney Rump Workout Silicone Butt Plug Trainng Set
• Best rated: Hitachi Magic Wand Rechargeable Massager
• Best for beginners: MysteryVibe Poco
• Best discreet: Womanizer Wave
• Best budget: plusOne Fluttering Arouser

Sex toys are fun to use, but they’re also an important part of sexual wellness and building confidence. There’s something for everybody when looking for the best sex toys—and the majority of them can be used on almost every body. Shut the blinds, clear 20 minutes off your schedule, and get to work!

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 sex toys of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Tools are often incredibly expensive, which makes Black Friday and the surrounding shopping season a welcome reprieve. This early Black Friday deal at Amazon lets you get a DeWalt cordless drill driver for almost 40% off. And taking advantage of it is as easy as clicking “add to cart.”

DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver (Battery and Charger Included) $99 (Was $159)

SEE IT

A drill driver is perfect for assembling furniture in a flash or for making a hole for a desk grommet, one of our fave ways to manage cables for desks. This kit includes a drill driver, a charger, 2 1.3 Ah batteries, and a contractor bag to store all your goodies, both new and old alike.

We also love this DeWalt 10-piece Cordless Power tool set that’s $200 off and Mechanics Tool Set that’s almost $40 off. Grab all the stuff to put into that contractor bag.

Here are more tool deals from Craftsman, DeWalt, and more:

• DEWALT 20V MAX Orbital Sander $94.56 (Was $111.99)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Heat Gun $99 (Was $148.01)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Drill And Grinder Kit, Power Tool Set $269.10 (Was $295.99)
• Ryobi 18V Multi Tool $59.94 (Was $79)
• Ryobi P601 One+ 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router (Battery Not Included–Tool Only) $52.99 (Was $76.99)
• RYOBI – ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 4-Mode 1/2 in. High Torque Impact Wrench (Tool Only) $144.80 (Was $219.99)
• HURRICANE 6-in-1 Wire Stripper $9.99 (Was $19.99)
• Craftsman 308-Piece Mechanic Tool Set $219 (Was $319)
• Craftsman Impact Wrench $179 (Was $229)
• CRAFTSMAN V20 RP Cordless Jig Saw $99 (Was $149.99)

The post Amazon’s early Black Friday tool deal saves you almost 40% on a DeWalt Drill Driver appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The temperature is dropping, but you don’t need to mourn the balminess of summer just yet. Heated clothing like gloves, jackets, and vests bring you the warmth of the sun when daylight saving time robs of us a precious hour of light. Even if you’re expecting a warmer winter thanks to El Niño, heated clothing can help with aches, pain, inflammation, and circulation issues like Raynaud’s Syndrome. Amazon is offering up to 23% off heated clothing just in time before Black Friday.

iHood Heated Jacket with Detachable Hood $114.99 (Was $149.99)

SEE IT

This heated jacket from iHood has plenty of pockets and can be worn for all kinds of chilly outdoor activities. An easy-to-use switch control allows you to choose between three different heating areas and three heat settings, giving you ultimate control of your personal warmth. The jacket is also water- and windproof, and scrape-resistant. The shape of your brim keeps the rain and snow out, and a flap that zips from the bottom of the jacket helps keep snow out of your bottom when you’re skiing.

If you’re looking for more warmth once you get back inside, an electric blanket will do the trick. We love the HomeMate Heated Blanket Electric Throw, which is $29.99 and 25% off. It has five heat settings, turns off automatically, and is made from soft flannel and sherpa.

Here are more deals on heated jackets, vests, and gloves to stay warm in even the coldest conditions:

• ANTARCTICA GEAR Women’s Heated Vest $84.99 (Was $99.99)
• ANTARCTICA GEAR Heated Jacket for Men and Women $119.99 (Was $149.99)
• ORORO Women’s Slim Fit Heated Jacket $159.99 (Was $199.99)
• ORORO Men’s Soft Shell Heated Jacket with Detachable Hood and Battery Pack $159.99 (Was $199.99)
• ORORO Men’s Heated Fleece Jacket Full Zip with Battery Pack $149.99 (Was $189.99)
• PROSmart Polar Fleece Heated Vest $79.98 (Was $99.99)
• Dr. Prepare Unisex Heated Vest $44.99 (Was $79.99)
• Electric Heated Socks with APP Control $69.99 (Was $79.99)
• Volt Tatra Men’s Rechargeable Heated Gloves $86.72 (Was $179.95)
• Thermrup Far Infrared Heated Scarf $39.95 (Was $44.95)

The post Cozy up to 23% of savings on heated vests, jackets, and gloves before Black Friday chills at Amazon 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 cats		FEANDREA Cat Tree for Large Cats		SEE IT	This cushy condo for big cats  is designed with anti-tipping technology for extra safety.
Best wooden		Vesper Modern Cat Tree		SEE IT	This eco-friendly modern design comes with a sisal scratching mat and memory-foam bed.
Best budget		AmazonBasics Cat Condo Tree Tower with Hammock Bed		SEE IT	Help your kitty get away from it all in this affordable hammock bed made with plush carpeting.

A cat tree is a wonderful way to keep your cat occupied, especially if they have a fondness for high places. The majority also come equipped with scratching posts, which keep claws away from your beloved sofa. If your cat hides in closets and under beds, a cat tree house with covered shelters will provide them a sense of security and personal space. And all these options come stacked in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Do you need a towering kitty castle, or a cozy perch for a cat that just wants to loaf? Does your interior aesthetic call for a modern cat tower? From kitten to couch potato, we’ll go over the best cat tree for you and your feline’s specific needs.

• Best overall: Armarkat 77-inch Faux Fleece Cat Tree & Condo
• Best small: Frisco 32-inch Real Carpet Wooden Cat Tree
• Best for large cats: FEANDREA Cat Tree for Large Cats
• Best wooden: Vesper Modern Cat Tree
• Best budget: AmazonBasics Cat Condo Tree Tower with Hammock Bed

How we chose the best cat trees

When we’re not vacuuming up all the pet hair our cats leave behind (or letting a robot do it), we enjoy wrangling them from all the places they should not be. Cat hiding habits can be separated into two categories: tree dweller or bush dweller. A cat who is a tree dweller enjoys heights like shelves and windowsills, while bush dweller cats prefer low, hidden spaces, like under the bed. Our final picks ultimately have something for the most adventurous tree dweller to the coziest, most elusive bush dweller. Additionally, we looked at critical reviews and peer recommendations and conducted heavy research.

The best cat trees: Reviews & Recommendations

Does your cat enjoy scaling your cabinets and bookshelves? Do they spend every morning surveying their domain from the top of the refrigerator? Do they like hiding amongst the sweaters on your closet shelves? One of our picks should fit your feline’s hiding, climbing, and scratching preferences.

Best overall: Armarkat 77-inch Faux Fleece Cat Tree & Condo

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 36 x 31 x 77 inches
• Weight: 58 lbs.
• Max holding weight: 80 lbs.

Pros

• Tall
• Lots of things to keep kitty entertained
• Sturdy and durable

Cons

• Not suited for small rooms

The Armarkat stands over six feet high and boasts 10 scratching posts, six platforms, and two comfy condos. This feline fortress is built to handle the more exuberant kitty personalities, with a weight capacity of 80 pounds and a sturdy plywood structure. Your cat can govern from the highest perch of this large cat tree or spend all day snoozing in the privacy of a faux fleece cube.

Best small: Frisco 32-inch Real Carpet Wooden Cat Tree

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 32 inches
• Weight: 29 lbs.
• Max holding weight: 50 lbs.

Pros

• Compact
• Multi-level
• Comes fully assembled
• Household-grade carpet

Cons

• Have to remove loose fuzzies upon opening
• Reviews note loose staples

The Frisco Cat Tree is a double-decker tower for your cat to stretch out on. This wooden cat tower is built to last all nine lives, with a handcrafted solid wood structure and two heavy-duty sisal rope posts. It’s wrapped in plush, household-grade carpet with a familiar texture that every cat can enjoy. This small cat tree comes fully assembled with two luxurious platforms and a hanging toy. The base of this tree measures 20 inches on both sides.

Best for large cats: FEANDREA Cat Tree for Large Cats

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 33 inches
• Weight: 22.4 lbs.
• Max holding weight: 44 lbs.

Pros

• Large perch
• Included anti-toppling wall attachment
• Easy to assemble
• Removeable and washable cushions and coverings

Cons

• Pillow at the top of perch not attached

The FEANDREA Cat Tree is a welcoming abode that won’t budge under pressure. The roomy cat condos and oversized plush perch provide ample space for big cat naps. Each post is wrapped in natural sisal rope and reinforced with battens at the tree’s base. It also includes an anti-toppling wall attachment if you are super wary of tipping.

Best wooden: Vesper Modern Cat Tree

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 22.1 x 22.1 x 47.9 inches
• Weight: 40.5 lbs.
• Max holding weight: 45 lbs.

Pros

• Replacement parts offered
• Lots of enticing nooks, crannies, and perches
• Machine washable components

Cons

• A little difficult to assemble

This cat tower is made with laminated MDF board and comes in three attractive shades: warm walnut, natural oak, and classic black. With a tall observation platform, cozy cat cube, and seagrass scratching posts, this modern cat tree will keep your cat occupied while complimenting your meticulously curated apartment. The sisal scratching mat and memory foam beds are easily removable for easy washing. Vesper Trees are built for lifelong use, and replacement parts for scratching poles, cushions, carpets, and toys are available.

Best budget: AmazonBasics Cat Condo Tree Tower with Hammock Bed

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 15.8 x 15.8 x 19.7 Inches
• Weight: 9 lbs.
• Max holding weight: 30 lbs.

Pros

• Secure base
• Dangling ball toy is replaceable
• Assembly takes minutes

Cons

• Hammock too snug for a chonky cat

This tower includes plush carpeting, an elevated hammock cat bed, two pillars wrapped in natural jute rope, and a hanging toy. The Amazon Basics cat tower is super easy to assemble and has a 15.7-inch base, but remember that this condo is best for small and medium-sized cats and might be too snug for a larger breed.

What to consider when buying the best cat trees

There are a few features to keep in mind when shopping for your new cat tree. It is a good idea to designate a space in your home for your cat and keep the limitations of that space in mind. Sprawling homes can accommodate a large cat tree, but a tight apartment might require a more compact design. Then, you will want to consider your cat’s activity level. Rambunctious kittens love to clamber up multilevel towers, but they are not as accessible for older cats; a cat with mobility issues will need a shorter model with wide platforms rather than a high-rise cat condo.

If your cat loves to scratch, it is important to choose a tower with a scratching post that they can’t wait to sink their needle-sharp nails into. The best cat tree will include a scratching material that you know your kitty loves, whether it’s sisal rope, jute, cardboard, or wood. And if your tabby loves to spread out, their dream tower will include ample space for afternoon catnaps. There’s a lot to choose from when it comes to pet products, so let’s break it down some more.

What’s the best for active cats?

The majority of house cats spend all day inside, and they need a place to exert their bundles of energy. If you’re looking to entertain a cat that seems hellbent on toppling your bookshelves, a tall cat tree is an easy way to redirect their attention. If you have multiple cats, a large cat tower can accommodate three to four felines and prevent territorial scuffles. Tall cat towers are also a good way to stimulate and challenge curious kittens.

The most important features to keep in mind when shopping for tall cat trees are durability and weight capacity. Yours will have to handle high-speed cat leaps, and you don’t want the tower to wobble or tip. If you have enough room for a larger cat tower, you will also want to ensure that it offers an assortment of interactive elements. The best cat tower will have scratching pads, a variety of perches, toy attachments, and condos to hide in.

What if I’m looking for a smaller cat tree?

If you live in an apartment or smaller home, you might not have room for a kitty skyscraper. Small cat towers are a great way to designate a spot for your furry friend without sacrificing precious living room space. Does your cat spend all day lounging by the window? The majority of small cat perches are window-level, which makes them perfectly suited for hours of cat contemplation. Although small cat towers are lower to the ground, you will still want one that won’t sway when jumped on. The best small cat tree will have a sturdy base, resilient scratching posts, and soft platforms for maximum relaxation.

What’s the best for larger breeds?

Your Maine coon might not fit on a regular cat perch, but that doesn’t mean he has to miss out on the fun. There are a variety of cat tower designs available that are built to lodge bigger cats. If your cat weighs over 15 pounds, their tower should be uniquely constructed to handle that extra fluff. When selecting cat towers for large breeds, you should ensure that the platforms are wide enough for them to fully recline and that they contain spare padding for optimal comfort. The best way to avoid tipping is with a two-pillar design, which prevents trees from leaning to one side.

What if I prefer a more modern design?

We know that your décor vision might not include a carpeted cat tower. Wooden designs are a sleek solution for those who prefer a more minimal aesthetic. Traditional designs might cause unwanted visual clutter, while a modern cat tower can blend seamlessly into a contemporary layout. Wooden designs may not be covered in plush fabric, but they are easier to clean and attract less hair. The best wooden cat tree will fit your modern style without compromising on kitty comfort.

What can I get for under $30?

We know that cat furniture can run you into the triple digits, especially if you’re shopping for a complex tower or a contemporary design. Luckily, there are options available for inexpensive single-platform trees. Cheap cat towers are sometimes made with flimsier materials, so you will want to ensure that what you pick is sturdy and claw-proof. The best cat tree on a budget will have durable construction, a soft bed, and tough scratching posts.

FAQs

Final thoughts on finding the best cat trees

• Best overall: Armarkat 77-inch Faux Fleece Cat Tree & Condo
• Best small: Frisco 32-inch Real Carpet Wooden Cat Tree
• Best for large cats: FEANDREA Cat Tree for Large Cats
• Best wooden: Vesper Modern Cat Tree
• Best budget: AmazonBasics Cat Condo Tree Tower with Hammock Bed

Cat towers are a smart solution for pet parents looking to keep their cats occupied and relaxed. The right cat products can resolve a scratching habit and entertain your pet while you’re away. From jungle-gym climbing trees to glossy wooden condos, the best cat tower will help your kitty feel truly at 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 cat trees 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 overall		SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post		SEE IT	Sisal fibers and a wide base means this scratching post can handle it all.
Best cat tree		Vesper Cat Tree		SEE IT	Your cat can perch, hide, or scratch.
Best budget		Catit Cat Scratcher Boards with Catnip		SEE IT	Cardboard easily entices a cat, and also makes for a cheap scratching material.

Cats need to scratch, so the secret to keeping your stuff safe is giving them a scratching post they’ll want to sink their claws into even more. Felines are notoriously finicky animals, though, so it can be a little tough figuring out what they’ll want to scratch at. Your sectional may actually be a no-loveseat because your whiskered friend(s) keep tearing it up, but the right piece of cat furniture can be as attractive as white fur on a black sweater. Combined with some catnip, crunchies, and coaxing, and your pet will be purring in no time. The best cat scratching posts are designed for almost every cat and décor, and some are so cool that you might end up liking them as much as your cat.

• Best overall: SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post
• Best cactus-shaped: PetnPurr Cactus Cat Scratching Post With Teaser Ball
• Best cat tree: Vesper Cat Tree 
• Best combination: ScratchMe Cat Scratcher Post & Board
• Best budget: Catit Cat Scratcher Boards with Catnip

How we chose the best cat scratching posts

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 31 million households in the U.S. own a cat. That’s a lot of places for a cat tree. To find the best cat scratching posts, we looked at critical reviews and peer recommendations, performed a hefty amount of research, and conducted user testing with our own fur-ends. We made sure they were durable, sturdy, and enticing to cats. You want to get them away from your furniture, after all.

The best cat scratching posts: Reviews & Recommendations

A cat scratching post is a great gift for the cat owner in your life. They’re also perfect if your precious pet is a little too good at their job at the biscuit factory. Don’t stop your cat’s need to scratch; per the Humane Society, it helps them express emotions, allows them to mark objects with their scent, removes the dead part of their nails, and lets them get a good stretch in. One of our picks is a suitable choice for making your feline smile, just like the Cheshire Cat.

Best overall: SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 32 x 16 x 15.75 inches
• Materials: Sisal; wood
• Weight: 16 lbs.

Pros

• Durable
• Sisal is longlasting
• Post doubles as a perch
• Wide bottom prevents wobbling

Cons

• Use depends on if cat likes it

If you’re looking for a great sisal scratching post that you won’t have to replace anytime soon, the SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post is the one for you. Its handsome design is backed up by strong, durable material, and, as an added bonus, your cat will look very elegant perched on top of it.

Best cactus-shaped: PetnPurr Cactus Cat Scratching Post With Teaser Ball

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 15.7 x 15.7 x 26.5 inches
• Materials: Sisal
• Weight: 6.5 lbs

Pros

• Stylish
• Easy to assemble
• Built-in toy

Cons

• Reviews note that sisal rope frays easily

This cactus cat scratching post will blend in purrrfectly (sorry) with your houseplants while giving your cat a place to play, scratch, and relax. The built-in teaser ball is a nice little addition, and the base of the platform is sturdy enough to let your cat climb the cactus and channel that inner jungle cat. 

Best cat tree: Vesper Cat Tree

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 22.1 x 22.1 x 47.8 inches
• Materials: Sisal, engineered wood
• Weight: 40.5 lbs.

Pros

• Included dangling sisal toy
• Places to perch and hide
• Memory foam cushions

Cons

• Expensive

Available in a variety of sizes and colors, this well-constructed cat tree sets itself apart with its modern design. Memory foam cushions offer the ultimate in cat comfort, and multiple perches make it ideal if you have more than one cat. As a bonus, almost every model comes with a fun dangling sisal toy. Not sold on this one? Check out more of our favorite cat tree picks.

Best combination: ScratchMe Cat Scratcher Post & Board

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Specs

• Dimensions: 17.32 x 17.32 x 6.11 inches
• Materials: Cardboard
• Weight: 4.5 lbs.

Pros

• Made with recycled cardboard
• Doubles as a bed
• Can accommodate multiple cats

Cons

• Cardboard doesn’t last as long as sisal

Made with 100 percent recycled cardboard, this is a great pet product for the eco-conscious cat owner who is also looking for a cat bed. Although cardboard doesn’t last as long as sisal, this cat product is well-made and won’t get torn to pieces overnight. Its circular design is perfect for cats that love to curl up while they nap, and it’s big enough to accommodate one large cat or two smaller ones. 

Best budget: Catit Cat Scratcher Boards with Catnip

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 17.5 x 7.5 x 2.87 inches
• Materials: Cardboard, paper
• Weight: 1 lb.

Pros

• Cheap and easy to replace
• Enough room for even the biggest of stretches
• Also doubles as a lounge

Cons

• Cardboard doesn’t last as long as sisal

Cardboard attracts cats just like light entices moths. This no-frills cat scratcher board is a great option if you’re trying to save money. It’s big enough for even a large cat to lounge on and inexpensive enough that you won’t break the bank when you inevitably have to replace it. Another plus: it’s recyclable, too.

Things to consider when shopping for the best cat scratching posts

You know all those cute little things your cat does that make them so special and unique? Well, not only is destroying your furniture and clogging the vacuum with pet hair probably not one of them, but neither is how picky they can be when you’re trying to find them the best cat scratching post. Just as it can take trying a few different brands of food to find something they’ll eat, finding a scratching post can require a little trial and error. The best cat scratching post is the one your cat loves using.

Fortunately (or unfortunately, as the case may be), you may already have the most important piece of information you’ll need to help guide your search for these cat supplies. After all, If you’re reading this article, there’s a good chance your cat already went to town on something they weren’t supposed to. Luckily, the material and the texture of your (formally) beautiful sofa can tell you a lot about what your cat likes to scratch at. So, if you can find something that’s similar, you and your cat will be very happy. 

Finding a cat scratching post with as many lives as your cat

The marks of a great scratching post (besides the ones your cat makes!) are durability and design. Most cats love to scratch at sisal, and a high-quality cat scratching post will be made of sisal fabric as opposed to sisal rope. Sisal fabric lasts longer than rope and will become softer the more your cat uses it. Conversely, when sisal rope breaks down, the fibers become sharp and dislodged, creating a texture your cat will turn its nose up at. Sisal scratching posts need to withstand aggressive pawing, so look for ones with sturdy bases. For obvious reasons, you don’t want your cat to be able to knock it down, so look for one that’s a little on the heavier side, especially if you have a big cat that loves to scratch.

Tame your cat’s claws with a funky cactus cat scratching post

Looking for a cat scratching post that also doubles as a conversation piece? Who can say why, but there’s something particularly adorable about a cat going to war with a cactus. In addition to providing your cat with all the benefits of a regular scratching post (exercise, relaxation, territory-marking), cactus scratching posts add a touch of green to any living space that can be relaxing for humans, too. Cactus scratching posts are all the rage right now, so watch out for inferior pet products that have been rushed to market to keep up with demand. Look for models with a durable base that are made with high-quality sisal fabric. Cactus scratching posts may be a bit of a novelty, but the best ones will work and hold up just as well as any standard model. 

A tree your cat will love (no fire department necessary)

Cat trees (also known as cat condos) are designed to satisfy a variety of your cat’s needs in one place. Amenities include scratching posts, perching areas, built-in toys, and boxes for your cat to hide in when you have to use the vacuum cleaner. Like that of their human counterparts, cat real estate runs the gamut from modest one-bedrooms to enormous mansions. Factors to consider when shopping for a cat tree include size (seriously, some cat trees are huge), durability, and style. After all, cat trees are usually much bigger than standard scratching posts, so you’re going to want your cat’s new home-within-a-home to match your own décor. 

Scratch, nap, repeat

Scratching and napping are among a cat’s greatest pleasures, but if you live in a small apartment, you might not have room for a towering cat condo. Not to worry, though! Almost every home has space for a combination cat scratching post and bed. These are an excellent choice if you’ve noticed that your cat tends to scratch where they sleep, or you’re just trying to reclaim your bed as your own. The cat scratching material will attract your cat like a magnet, and once they realize they can curl up and nap there, it will likely become their new favorite hangout. 

Save your furniture and some cash at the same time

Budget cat scratching posts are usually made out of low-grade cardboard or sisal rope as opposed to compressed cardboard or sisal fabric. Inexpensive designs are a great option when you’re low on cash (perhaps because you just paid to have the couch reupholstered), but they probably won’t last as long as a more expensive version. They will almost certainly lack the bells and whistles of a cat condo, but they may suit your cat just fine if they aren’t picky about where they scratch. Keep an eye out for cheap material that looks like it might dislodge and pose a hazard to your cat. And if you’re buying a cheap vertical cat scratching post, make sure the base is heavy enough that your cat can’t knock it down. 

If you’ve implemented a scratching post and need a new couch, some say that velvet is a pet-friendly material, as it hides scratches easily and has no threads to snag. It lacks the woven, tactile feel cats love, so it can also deter them from scratching. This is only backed up by testimonials, so do keep that in mind. If you can’t buy an entirely new couch, see if you can at least buy a new couch cover.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cat scratching posts

• Best overall: SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post
• Best cactus-shaped: PetnPurr Cactus Cat Scratching Post With Teaser Ball
• Best cat tree: Vesper Cat Tree 
• Best combination: ScratchMe Cat Scratcher Post & Board
• Best budget: Catit Cat Scratcher Boards with Catnip

The best cat scratching post is the one your cat loves to scratch at, whether it’s the $50 SmartCat Ultimate scratching post or a $6.99 piece of cardboard. Different cats like to scratch at different surfaces and in different directions, so keep an eye out for how your cat is already scratching to get an idea of what to buy for them. More expensive sisal scratching posts will last longer than cheaper ones, but none of them will last forever. Extra features like built-in toys and cubes for them to climb in are fun, but not essential. Scratching is a basic need for cats, and a basic but well-made post will often do the trick for them.

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 cat scratching posts 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		Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard		SEE IT	Connect it to your work laptop, personal computer, and phone with the push of a button.
Best for gaming		Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard		SEE IT	The Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard combines mechanical keyboard aesthetics sans cords.
Best budget		Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard		SEE IT	This wallet-friendly wireless keyboard is compact and easily connects to your laptop.

Whether you spend your time gaming into the night, working from home, or a little bit of both, your wireless keyboard has been there through it all. The best wireless keyboards can be a convenient switch that eases movement and alleviates wrist strain. Wireless keyboards also minimize desk clutter—a perk for gamers looking to curate an impressive, stream-worthy battlestation. As we spend more time working remotely, it’s important to choose computer accessories that increase productivity and comfort. There are a lot of options out there for wireless keyboards, but we’ll help you find the perfect one for your gaming or office needs. It’s time to free yourself from cords by finding the best wireless keyboard for your needs.

• Best overall: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
• Best ergonomic: Logitech Wave Keys
• Best for gaming: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
• Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard With Touch ID
• Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

How we chose the best wireless keyboards

As journalists, our entire job is typing. Our top choices for the best wireless keyboards are based on personal testing, research, recommendations, reviews, and user impressions. We looked carefully at all specs and perspectives—key types and travel, etc.—until we found the ones that fit every typing scenario.

The best wireless keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

These wireless keyboards are ready to tackle that manuscript draft you’ve been working on for years, and the game level you’re having a hard time beating. Putting words together and demolishing cartoon villains is hard, but choosing the best wireless keyboards is easy.

Best overall: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This Bluetooth keyboard easily connects to an Apple device, PC, and even your phone.

Specs

• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 10.9 x 4.9 x 0.6 inches
• Weight: 0.90 pounds

Pros

• Quiet typing
• Fast connection
• Portable

Cons

• Computer needs a Bluetooth connection to work
• Keys not backlit

Logitech’s versatile keyboard has three pairing channels that you can switch between at the touch of a button, meaning you don’t have to fuss over Bluetooth pairing every time you swap devices. The K380 comes with pre-installed AAA alkaline batteries and has an expected battery life of two years (though we’d recommend replacing them with rechargeables eventually). Depending on your usage, you won’t have to worry about power until it’s time to replace the batteries. Similar to ergonomic keyboards, the K380 has sculpted keys that mirror the shape of your fingertips, a design choice that makes for fluid and quiet typing. This Bluetooth keyboard is a convenient and modern solution that won’t hold you back. And yes, it also comes in pink.

Best ergonomic: Logitech Wave Keys

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Why it made the cut: This ergonomic keyboard takes the weight off your wrists with pain-free connectivity.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB receiver, Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 9.17 x 17.95 x 1.89 inches
• Weight: 2.15 pounds

Pros

• Compatible with PC and macOS
• Connects via USB receiver or Bluetooth
• Built-in wrist rest

Cons

• Wrist support cannot be removed
• Keys not backlit

The ergonomist-approved Logitech Wave Keys keyboard is made for relaxing and natural typing posture. Its namesake feature is a gentle slope that begins raising at the D key and declining to the L key. You’d think this would make the keyboard more difficult to type on, but it actually feels incredibly comfortable to use, even after several hours of continuous typing. The keyboard’s wrist rest, which for better or wise is physically attached to the keyboard and non-removable, provides enough padding and elevation to position both hands perfectly.

We prefer this ergonomic keyboard design to those with two separate sets of keys with a large gap in between them because learning to type on it comfortably takes time. This Logitech wireless keyboard is fully compatible with macOS and PC and connects with a USB receiver or Bluetooth. We conducted our tests on a MacBook Pro using both the receiver and Bluetooth and never had an issue with connectivity or lag while typing. We wish some more premium features like backlighting for the keys was present, but that disappointment is far outweighed by the feeling of comfortably typing on these keys.

Best gaming: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

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Why it made the cut: This tenkeyless keyboard combines mechanical keyboard aesthetics with gamer-friendly features.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB receiver, Bluetooth
• Dimensions: ‎15.2 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches
• Weight: 1.79 pounds

Pros

• Can charge and play simultaneously
• Low profile

Cons

• Expensive

The Logitech G915 is a high-performance mechanical keyboard that will take your gaming marathons to the next level (which is why it’s our best overall wireless mechanical keyboard). This keyboard features low-profile mechanical gaming switches, an incredible battery life, and fully customizable RGB lighting with LightSync. The G915 is light yet durable, with an aluminum alloy top case and a steel-reinforced base. This keyboard also comes with three options for switches—Clicky, Tactile, and Linear—and five programmable G-keys. It takes a mere three hours to fully recharge and is fully functional while charging via micro USB.

Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard With Touch ID

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Why it made the cut: This white wireless keyboard is an example of Apple’s penchant for turning its devices into an ecosystem.

Specs

• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 0.16–0.43 x 16.48 x 4.52 inches
• Weight: 0.53 pounds

Pros

• Automatic pairing
• No extra configuration
• Touch ID button

Cons

• Keys not backlit
• Price

It should come as no surprise that the best keyboard to use with a Mac is made by Apple itself, despite its high price, lack of backlit keys, and proprietary charging port. The reason for the Magic Keyboard’s dominance is the Touch ID button built into the keyboard. This allows you to unlock your Mac using a fingerprint rather than a password and can be used for authentication throughout several different actions on the computer. If you do anything that requires entering a password once your computer is unlocked, be it changing a system setting, making a purchase from the Mac App Store, or installing a new app, Touch ID will save you time. Just ensure you have a Lightning cable when it comes time to charge it.

To its credit, the keyboard does look very nice, with comfortable-feeling square keys and an aluminum frame that feels much more luxe than the typical plastic keyboard. Another benefit to using an Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is that the function row keys on top offer quick access to volume and media controls or system features like Spotlight, Siri, and Control Center. Apple offers the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID as a full-sized keyboard complete with a separate number pad (shown above) or a more svelte version roughly a third shorter. While this is undeniably the best keyboard for the Mac, we have a guide to alternatives worth considering.

Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Usability doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, and this full-size wireless keyboard is proof.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB receiver
• Dimensions: 6.5 x 1.75 x 15.56 inches
• Weight: 1.75 pounds

Pros

• Good tactile feel
• Small and compact

Cons

• Keys not backlit

This wireless keyboard from Logitech is reliable, sturdy, and customizable. It comes with six hotkeys and twelve programmable F-keys, and the USB receiver can connect up to six unifying devices to one receiver. The K360 is a real trooper—its two pre-installed batteries provide up to three years of use. Worried about security while working wirelessly? This keyboard protects your keystrokes with 128-bit encryption. Although this keyboard is technically compatible with Mac, it is much better suited for Windows users.

What to consider when buying the best wireless keyboards

There are a few things to factor in when searching for the best wireless keyboard. If you’re looking to update your work-from-home computer gear, you’ll want to keep style, portability, and ergonomics in mind. When you’re working all day at a desk, a wireless ergonomic keyboard can improve your typing posture and lower muscle strain. Is the local coffee shop your version of a home office? When working on the go, a wrist pad can add bulk, and a lightweight, portable keyboard will be a sleeker and more compact choice. Portability is also important for those using a Bluetooth keyboard to connect to tablets and laptops. Still a little unsure? We’ll walk you through the specifics so you can snag a good wireless keyboard.

Connectivity

A major consideration is how your keyboard will connect to your device. Some devices utilize a 2.4 GHz radio frequency with a USB adapter, while others have Bluetooth pairing. If you’re someone who doesn’t want extra computer gear and needs to connect to multiple devices, you might opt for a Bluetooth keyboard. Can’t decide? You’re in luck—a lot of keyboards are both USB- and Bluetooth-capable.

Ergonomic wireless keyboards vs. flat wireless keyboards

If you use a standard flat keyboard, chances are you type in some unnatural positions. A wireless ergonomic keyboard combines cordless freedom and smart design in order to provide a seamless typing experience. With split keyboards, curved structures, and slanted wrist pads, ergonomic keyboards enable your hands and fingers to rest at a natural angle. If you’re noticing pain after a long work week, it might be time to choose a computer keyboard with a gentler design. Go all-in by adding an ergonomic mouse to your setup.

Some people find that a lot of ergonomic keyboards look clunky or awkward. Fortunately, the best ergonomic keyboards retain style while providing that much-needed wrist relief.

Use case

Gamers might be apprehensive about latency in wireless keyboards, but the truth is that wireless gaming equipment has evolved past the days of lag. The best wireless gaming keyboard will have an imperceptible delay with the same features you love—mechanical switches, RGB backlighting, and quick response time. Standard peripherals might restrict your fluidity and tether you to one position, while wireless allows you to sit back and relax.

Gamers should look for a keyboard that is engineered to handle intense gaming sessions and equipped with customizable G-keys.

Portability

When you’re multitasking and on the move, a full-size keyboard can hold you down. With a portable Bluetooth keyboard, you can switch between devices with ease and travel without extra weight or tangled cables. The best Bluetooth keyboards are universally compatible with most devices and compact—perfect for those who hunker down with a laptop, tablet, and iPad. You’ll want to look for a lightweight and durable design with a long-lasting battery.

Whether you’re traveling to the office or a different corner of the living room, you need a slim keyboard that can handle the journey.

Operating system

Mac users, we didn’t forget you. You don’t always have to buy from Apple, as the majority of USB and Bluetooth keyboards are compatible with Mac computers, but you will want to make sure that any keyboard you choose fully supports Mac’s native keyboard layout. The best wireless keyboards for Mac seamlessly connect to multiple Apple devices and last for months between charges.

Budget

We know that wireless keyboards can get pretty expensive, but there are some amazing, affordable options that don’t compromise on quality. If you’re searching for a budget-friendly wireless keyboard, you will want to make sure it is compatible with your system. Keep in mind that cheaper wireless keyboards might not be equipped with simultaneous Bluetooth and USB connections.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wireless keyboards

• Best overall: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
• Best ergonomic: Logitech Wave Keys
• Best for gaming: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
• Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard With TouchID
• Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

The most important part of selecting a good wireless keyboard is ensuring that it is right for your lifestyle. The best part of switching is how many options there are out there, whether you’re looking for a sophisticated wireless mechanical keyboard or a weightless Bluetooth companion. Enjoy your newfound freedom from wires.

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.

Related: How to recycle electronics

The post The best wireless keyboards in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Nanit Pro-Smart Baby Monitor		SEE IT	This high-definition video baby monitor features sleep tracking and night vision.
Best for vitals tracking		Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor		SEE IT	A wearable smart sock allows parents to keep track of their baby’s vitals.
Best stylish		Lollipop Baby Monitor		SEE IT	This baby monitor connects through an app and can detect crying, see in night vision, track sleep quality, and play lullabies and white noise.

People sometimes complain that modern parents are too nervous and overprotective and that parenting “back in our day” was a more relaxed and hands-off endeavor. But anyone with a newborn knows that the early days are a time of incredible joy … and intense neuroses. And if those supposedly “lax” parents of years past had access to the kind of technology we have now, we bet they’d be just as excited to use the best baby monitors.

In fact, in addition to being a practical and convenient way to check in on little ones, baby monitors give parents the freedom to take care of their other duties with peace of mind: They’re always just one cry, coo, or cough away from being by their baby’s side. Understanding your family’s living situation and personal preferences is key to picking the best baby monitor camera and baby items for you, so here are some things to take into consideration.

• Best overall: Nanit Pro – Smart Baby Monitor
• Best audio-only: Motorola Audio Baby Monitor
• Best stylish: Lollipop Baby Monitor
• Best for vitals tracking: Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor
• Best budget: VTech DM221-2 Audio Baby Monitor

How we chose the best baby monitors

Being responsible for an entire living being is no easy feat—which means baby monitors have to be up to the challenge. Our selections are based on personal testing (we’re parents ourselves), research, reviews, recommendations, and user impressions from babies and parents—you’d be surprised to know who is more opinionated.

The best baby monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

With Wi-Fi capabilities and even built-in cameras, the best baby monitors will give you peace of mind as your little one slumbers peacefully in their crib. Here are our picks.

Best overall: Nanit Pro – Smart Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This overhead baby camera uses computer vision for accurate sleep, sound, and motion tracking, and sends alerts about your baby to your favorite device.

Specs

• Range: N/A
• Batteries: N/A
• HSA/FSA Eligible: Yes
• Video: Yes
• Phone-compatible: Yes

Pros

• 1080p camera
• Breathing band included
• Personalized sleep coaching

Cons

• Video history and data only free for one year

An award-winning, innovative baby monitor, the Nanit offers an impressive variety of video capabilities including 1080p HD bird’s-eye view, night vision, sleep tracking, sound and motion notifications, and temperature and humidity checks. You can even talk back to your baby, thanks to two-way audio. The Nanit Pro is compatible with iOS, Android, Kindle Fire, and Echo Show, which allow you to get sound, sleep, and motion alerts delivered to your devices. FSA/HSA approval gives you peace of mind when it comes to safety certification, and the included Breathing Ware gives you sensor-free motion monitoring for accuracy. Be aware that the Nanit includes a free one-year subscription to your video history and data, but after that, you’ll have to pay for access.

Best audio-only: Motorola Audio Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This audio-only baby monitor doesn’t lack features, which include app connectivity, a built-in nightlight, and a high-sensitivity microphone.

Specs

• Range: 900 feet
• Batteries: Yes, rechargeable
• HSA/FSA Eligible: No
• Video: No
• Phone-compatible: Yes via app

Pros

• App compatible
• Download playable audio for baby
• Built-in nightlight

Cons

• Three-hour battery life

This audio baby monitor is a great option, as it’s powered by traditional radio connectivity up to 900 feet. Plus, it uses smart technology to connect to an app via Wi-Fi. A high-sensitivity microphone picks up even the slightest sound and can record and analyze noise to determine sleep quality. Two-way radio functionality allows parents to talk to and soothe a child through the monitor. You can also download songs and stories to play for your baby, as well as monitor room temperature and turn on a nightlight. Downloading the Hubble app on your device gives you access to sleep data and soundtracking.

Best stylish: Lollipop Baby Monitor with True Crying Detection

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This flexible baby monitor packs motion and sound sensing in its compact, whimsical design.

Specs

• Range: N/A
• Batteries: N/A
• HSA/FSA Eligible: No
• Video: Yes
• Phone-compatible: Yes

Pros

• Mounts anywhere
• App connectivity

Cons

• Sleep tracking and continuous recording only free for 30 days

This unique-looking baby monitor comes in vivid pastels and is made out of flexible non-toxic silicone. The camera is encased in a round white built-in speaker that gives the device the look of a cute cartoon eyeball. Loaded with smart capabilities, it connects through an Android/iOS app and can accurately detect crying, see in night vision, track sleep quality, and play lullabies and white noise. Although the monitor offers sleep tracking and continuous video recording, it’s only free for 30 days—you’ll need to buy a subscription to Lollipop Care to get that functionality year-round.

Best for vitals tracking: Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This smart sock tracks important vitals like oxygen levels and heart rate, along with sleep quality indicators for in-depth data on your baby.

Specs

• Range: 100 feet
• Batteries: N/A
• HSA/FSA Eligible: Yes
• Video: No
• Phone-compatible: Yes

Pros

• Vitals tracking
• Smartphone alerts
• Sock is sturdy and comfortable

Cons

• Expensive for a wearable children will eventually grow out of

Owlet’s smart baby monitor has advanced features which allow parents to track a baby’s vital signs and sleep quality indicators—including heart rate, oxygen levels, wakings, sleep state, movement, and more—with a wearable smart sock. Set up the base station within 100 feet of the baby’s crib and Bluetooth technology will transmit pulse rate and blood oxygen levels. The base station will glow depending on the levels reported, and parents will get alerts on their smartphones. The system can also measure room temperature and humidity levels. The company also offers the Dream Sock Plus, which tracks vitals for children up to five. And, the coordinating app includes sleep prompts and a digital sleep coach to help the wee one go to bed.

Best budget: VTech DM221-2 Audio Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You don’t need to shell out a lot of cash for a monitor that features customizable volume, two-way audio, and vibrating sound alerts.

Specs

• Range: 1,000 feet
• Batteries: 6 AAA batteries (Included)
• HSA/FSA Eligible: No
• Video: No
• Phone-compatible: No

Pros

• 16-hour battery life
• 5-level sound indicator
• Vibrating sound alerts

Cons

• Battery takes 11 hours to fully charge

This highly rated baby monitor has a range of up to 1,000 feet and provides parents with a vibrating sound alert and LED-light visual when it detects sound. Additional features include a talk-back intercom that allows parents to soothe their baby, as well as a night-light feature and customizable volume. You can also choose to hear sounds from the baby unit all the time, or only hear sounds that exceed a certain level. The parent monitor can adjust the microphone sensitivity of the baby unit, and a belt clip on the parent unit lets you take it anywhere in the house.

What to consider when buying the best baby monitors

Gone are the days when monitors were little more than CB radios delivering crackling noises that might be your child crying or might just be static interference. The best baby monitors are essential, and are much more sophisticated and allow for more technology integration, mobile device usage, stat monitoring, and much more.

Knowing your own needs is important—for example, if you have a small living space, an audio-only model may suffice—and will ensure you get a device that does what it intends and works with your parenting style. Here are some of the variables to keep in mind as you research.

Video vs. audio

Opting for a baby monitor with a high-quality video camera along with traditional audio allows for immediate peace of mind: You can literally see and hear your baby in real-time. The best baby monitors offer high-def video, a wide-screen camera for optimal viewing, night vision, and an alert system if the little one is moving too much. Some cameras offer pivoting to change views, while others are stationary.

A video baby monitor gives parents access and control so they can relax (or, you know, get laundry done). Higher-end models even utilize HD video to obtain data that can then be analyzed to offer sleep-tracking guidance. Apps can take sleep footage and replay it in a timelapse reel, allowing you to observe your baby’s sleeping patterns.

While audio-only devices might seem old-fashioned compared to their shiny new video competitors, they still get the job done. One major advantage of these types of baby products is that they’re generally cost-effective. Some audio-only options even combine older radio technology with newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as some neat bonus features, like a two-way radio, temperature monitoring, sleep analysis, and the ability to download soothing songs and stories to play for your child through the app

It’s important when buying any monitor, but particularly a radio-based one, to consider the frequency range: You need to be sure the signal reaches anywhere you plan to go, potentially even outside. The best baby monitors have rechargeable batteries with a good lifespan. When fully charged and within range, audio monitors can be very reliable, especially if you have spotty Wi-Fi in your home. Hybrid audio-only baby monitors combine older radio technology with the ability to connect via Wi-Fi and smartphones, which gives you more modes of use.

Design

If you don’t want your baby’s room to look like the surveillance hub at a casino, there are styles that combine form and function. Some baby monitors take the necessary camera feature and playfully turn the shape into a friendly robot; others try to minimize size and use rounded organic shapes in bright colors and soft silicone material.

While enjoying the look of the monitor is important, obviously nothing is more crucial than safety and functionality. The best baby monitors offer all the features you want and still look good.

Sleep stats

For the sleep-deprived tech-savvy parent, being able to study your baby’s patterns with the hope of improving them is a pretty cool feature. By gathering digital sound files, high-definition video, and temperature, humidity, and vitals info, apps can provide helpful guidance to get the baby (and you) to sleep. A smartphone app then relays detailed charts and information to help kiddos stay healthy and sleep soundly. Some monitors that provide sleep analysis do this through audio only, some through audio and video, and others include a wearable component to monitor the baby’s oxygen and breathing.

Vitals tracking

Your particular parenting needs will determine which features matter to you. For example, baby monitors that track vitals can measure a baby’s pulse rate and blood oxygen levels via wearables like a sock or blanket wrap, or other non-wearable gadgets. The data is then sent to the product’s base station, which keeps parents informed with real-time updates and alerts in case any abnormalities are detected.

No device will ever replace good parenting, so think of a vitals-tracking monitor as an extra protection measure, like wearing a high-tech belt with suspenders. Especially because technological errors can occur—like server crashes or the wearable getting placed in the wrong position—parents could potentially receive inaccurate results or false alerts. So they should only ever be used as an addition to—not a substitution for—good parenting.

Budget

There are a variety of baby monitors available with a budget in mind. In general, you can get simple video monitors that include one small camera and a transportable parent unit to see and hear your baby (including night vision) and monitor the temperature. However, most video monitors with higher ratings are over this price point. Most monitors in the audio-only category are under $50.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best baby monitors

• Best overall: Nanit Pro – Smart Baby Monitor
• Best audio-only: Motorola Audio Baby Monitor
• Best stylish: Lollipop Baby Monitor
• Best for vitals tracking: Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor
• Best budget: VTech DM221-2 Audio Baby Monitor

Technology has been rapidly changing the baby-monitor market. The best options provide you with a reliable and secure way to check in on your baby to be sure of their safety. With loads of choices, you can go big or small, high-tech or low—but whatever you decide, you’ve now got some of the best baby monitors currently on the market to choose from—so you and your little one can catch some much deserved Z’s.

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 baby monitors 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 overall		Pure Enrichment PureRelief Radiance Deluxe Heated Blanket		SEE IT	Two controllers and a luxurious mink-inspired fabric make this a cozy addition to your couch.
Best cordless		Cozee Portable Battery Powered Heated Blanket		SEE IT	Stay warm at football games, tailgates, and more, sans cords.
Best budget		Sunbeam Premium Soft Velvet Plush Electric Heated Throw Blanket		SEE IT	Just the basics, done incredibly well.

Electric blankets are a great way to stay warm without running up the heat bill. If you’re the person in your house who wears at least three layers on them at all times, they can also keep you warm without having to put on half of your coat closet at once. They’re also a surefire way to get a cat on your lap, thanks to their enticing coziness that makes felines go feral. Cordless and smart electric blankets allow you to bring all that heated goodness with you to football games and other chilly outdoor events. They also can be controlled with your phone for ultimate temperature customization. Some even have two controllers so you and your blanket partner can set your perfect temperature. The best electric blankets let you sleep, watch TV, and read a book without having to turn up the thermostat. 

• Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Radiance Deluxe Heated Blanket
• Best wearable: Westinghouse Electric Snuggle Throw Blankets with Foot Pocket
• Best smart: Warmee Smart Heated Blanket
• Best cordless: Cozee Portable Battery Powered Heated Blanket
• Best for couples: Westinghouse Electric Blanket
• Best budget: Sunbeam Premium Soft Velvet Plush Electric Heated Throw Blanket

How we chose the best electric blankets

I hate to brag, but I am PopSci’s resident reporter on all things warm and heated. I’ve worked on stories about heated clothing, heated gloves, heated socks, hand warmers … if it involves heating up something, my freezing hands have probably touched it in some way, shape, or form. I also am a girlie who runs cold, so I also have personal experience to pull from. To separate the tepid from the truly warm, we combined this first-hand testing with critical reviews and user recommendations.

The best electric blankets: Reviews & Recommendations

It’s a tough life, testing all this, but I’m … warming up to it. And whether you’re wearing your own personal electric blanket around the house or sharing one with your honey on the couch, one of our picks can help heat up your night, too, with far less hassle than lugging around that infrared heater.  

Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Radiance Deluxe Heated Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King
• Heat settings: 10 heat settings between 87°F-105°F
• Timer: Turns off automatically after 10 hours
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Two controllers for Queen and King sizes
• Lots of heat settings
• Soft 

Cons

• Long auto turn-off time

If you want a blanket that’s a worthy addition or even replacement for your space heater, look no further than this luxe heated blanket from Pure Enrichment. It heats up in only five minutes, and a 5’9 cord means you can use it from plenty of spots in your home, from the couch to the bed to your office chair. Four different size options mean there’s a blanket for all heights. If you’re a fan of sleeping with an electric blanket, an easy-to-read LCD display and 10-second auto-controller lights prevent late-night fumbling. A 10-hour auto shut-off means you don’t have to worry about causing a fire if you sleep in. When it’s time to wash your blanket, simply throw it in the washer. Its anti-pill mink fabric keeps it soft wash after wash. This blanket was a favorite among all the people and pets in the house, thanks to its snuggliness and heat. 

Best wearable: Westinghouse Electric Snuggle Throw Blankets with Foot Pocket

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: One size (70 x 50 inches)
• Heat settings: 6 heating levels
• Timer: 2-10 hours
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Built-in pouch for feet
• Overheat protection
• Can be worn multiple ways

Cons

• Heavy

Do you remember the Snuggie, everyone’s favorite white elephant gift for a hot minute? We certainly do. And we also wish it came with more features. The Westinghouse Electric Snuggle builds upon the legacy of wearable blankets with souped-up additions. You can wear it like a robe, in front of you like a traditional blanket, or you can ditch the sleeves completely and use it as a regular throw. A pocket for your feet keeps your tootsies toasty, and six heating settings give you lots of temperature choices to pick from. You can adjust the length of the auto turn-off timer, and built-in overheat protection means you’re the only thing warming up—not your entire apartment. This blanket is better for lounging—it’s a little too heavy to wear while walking around the house.   

Best smart: Warmee Smart Heated Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King
• Heat settings: 5 levels
• Timer: 30-minute increments from 30 minutes to 10 hours; One-hour increments from 10-12 hours
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Works with multiple voice assistants and phone operating systems
• Thin wire
• Has a luxe, plush feel

Cons

• Need WiFi and app to control blanket

Ditch the controller completely with the Warmee Smart Heated Blanket. It has thin wire, meaning you won’t feel the heating elements as you’re using it. Also, the blanket itself is incredibly plushy and has a good weight to it. You can also control the blanket via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or via app (iOS and Android). Plus, we’re a huge fan of the time increment choices and heat settings. If your internet is out, you sadly won’t be able to activate the heat settings—this blanket only works when connected to WiFi. It’s also rather expensive compared to other blankets on this list. If you want the connectivity, however, we think it’s worth it.   

Best cordless: Cozee Portable Battery Powered Heated Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: One size (60×60 inches)
• Heat settings: Three heat levels (Low, medium, high)
• Timer: 2-3 hours, depending on heat settings
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Wireless
• Battery does double-duty as a phone charger
• Soft lining

Cons

• Limited heat settings
• One size

This battery-powered heated blanket is a great solution for keeping cozy without a wired controller or your phone, making it the best cordless heated throw blanket. The blanket is controlled using a square-shaped hub that doubles as the blanket’s battery. The electric blanket includes cables to charge this battery at home or in the car, as well as two USB cords so you can even charge your phone. At a high setting, the cordless heated blanket can only stay warm for two hours, which may be an issue depending on your intended use. We wish it came in more sizes, but its 60 x 60-inch throw size is flexible. 

Best for couples: Westinghouse Electric Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: Throw, Twin, Full, Queen, King
• Heat settings: 10 heat levels
• Timer: Adjustable timer with 12-hour shut-off
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Two controllers
• Lots of heat and time settings
• Machine washable

Cons

• Takes 20 minutes to heat up 

There are small quarrels you experience in a partnership: How cold should we run the AC? Who is taking too much of the bedspread at night? Whose Netflix show gets watched this time? Agree on just doing your own thing with this Westinghouse electric blanket, which includes two controllers so each person can set the blanket to their ideal temperature and time. It’s machine washable, dryer-safe, and is one of our favorite heated throw blankets. Ten heat levels let you get incredibly close to your ideal temperature. It automatically shuts off after 12 hours, and the timer increases incrementally so that you can use the auto shut-off feature whenever. Finally, some harmony in your home. 

Best budget: Sunbeam Premium Soft Velvet Plush Electric Heated Throw Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: One size (50 x 60 inches)
• Heat settings: Three heat settings
• Timer: Three-hour auto shut-off
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Soft fleece
• Machine washable
• Reversible

Cons

• Heavy cord is cumbersome

If the situation is getting desperate and high heating bills have your wallet hurting, this budget-friendly blanket has everything you need to keep you warm. Three heat settings make choosing a temperature easy, and a three-hour auto-off feature is just the right amount of time to get comfortable. You can throw it in the wash and not think about the water bill. Hopefully, the savings from this blanket will help cover that. 

What to consider when buying the best electric blankets

Not all electric blankets are made alike. Here’s what you should look for before making your pick.

Heat settings

Some electric blankets have tiered settings: low, medium, and high. Others let you choose almost to the exact degree. If you’re OK with general settings, consider a controller with the former. The latter will let you customize how hot you’d like your blanket to get. 

Who is using the blanket?

If you plan on sharing the blanket with someone, dual controllers will help keep both parties under the blanket comfortable. However, if it’s just you, you can take up as much blanket as you want—and make it as hot as you want. 

Cords vs. cordless

Electric blankets either have a combination of controller, app control, or outlet plug. Take the Warmee versus the Cozee, for example. The Warmee is controlled via an app but includes an outlet plug. The Cozee is completely cordless and is controlled by a box-shaped battery that has buttons for all temperature and time controls. If a jumble of wires is not your jam, consider something completely cordless like the Cozee. If you are fine with an outlet plug but not a physical controller, consider something like the Warmee. Consider your preferences and then look for what kind of wires your electric blanket includes.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best electric blankets

• Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw
• Best wearable: Westinghouse Electric Snuggle Throw Blankets with Foot Pocket
• Best smart: Warmee Smart Heated Blanket
• Best cordless: Cozee Portable Battery Powered Heated Blanket
• Best for couples: Westinghouse Electric Blanket
• Best budget: Sunbeam Premium Soft Velvet Plush Electric Heated Throw Blanket

If things are getting chilly in your house, you might not need to turn up the heat, grab another blanket, or put on a sweatshirt over your long sleeve. Simply grab one of the best heated electric blankets, set it to your favorite temperature, and enjoy almost immediate heat. You can rely on one of these soft and smart throws to keep you warm, snuggly, and comfortable. 

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 blankets to keep you cozy in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Sure, you’ve amassed a variety of heated clothing to keep you warm while shoveling snow, but your back is silently screaming at you to stop being a cheap masochist and buy yourself something beefier. Thankfully, you can do just that while staying true to your thrifty nature with 15 percent off Greenworks tools for winter and beyond.

Greenworks 80V 20″ Brushless Snow Thrower, 5.0Ah Battery $314 (Was $499.99)

SEE IT

Greenworks makes some of our favorite snow blowers, and this one is no exception. Compared to its wired cousin, the 13 Amp 20-Inch Corded Snow Blower, an 80V battery provide more efficiency and better performance. A 12-inch clearing depth and 20-inch clearing width help you clear your driveway or sidewalk in no time; a brushless motor helps you do so without waking up the entire neighborhood. And, a 180-degree rotating chute helps you displace the snow where you want it.

If you really can’t let go of that shovel, consider meeting in the middle with the Greenworks 80V 12″ Brushless Snow Shovel. A 25-foot throwing distance means you won’t have to recover with a heating pad on your shoulders afterward.

Grab these winter tools before the sale ends—and before everyone else gets the good idea to save their back this year.

Here are more Greenworks tool deals if you’re looking for something for right now:

• Greenworks 80V (180 MPH / 610 CFM / 75+ Compatible Tools) Cordless Brushless Backpack Blower $339.99 (Was $399.99)
• Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless (PUSH) Lawn Mower $467.49 (Was $549.99)
• Greenworks 1800 PSI (1.1 GPM) Electric Pressure Washer $118.99 (Was $139.99)
• Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Drill Impact Driver Combo Kit $97.49 (Was $129.99)
• Greenworks 1700 PSI 1.2 GPM Pressure Washer (Upright Hand-Carry) $118.99 (Was $139.99)
• Greenworks 80V 20’’ 3KW BRUSHLESS Chain Saw, Tool Only $339.99 (Was $399.99)
• Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Drill Kit $84.99 (Was $99.99)
• Greenworks 24V Angle Grinder Brushless Cordless $93.49 (Was $109.99)
• Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit $101.99 (Was $119.99)

The post Save on Greenworks snow blowers and winter tools before Black Friday at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

You’ve made your list and checked it twice, and now it’s time to wait for the holiday packages to arrive at your doorstep. However, someone else in the neighborhood could get a case of sticky fingers and snatch up that present you bought for yourself, your parent, or your precious pet. Prevent would-be porch pirates from stealing your hard-earned holiday magic with this Blink Whole Home Bundle at Amazon.

Blink Whole Home Bundle $101.98 (Was $214.97)

SEE IT

If you’re looking to give the gift of security or simply want to upgrade your current system, the Blink Whole Home bundle makes it easy. It includes a Blink video doorbell, Blink Mini, Sync Module 2, and Blink Outdoor 4 camera. Between the doorbell’s motion and chime app alerts to the outdoor camera’s weatherproofing and Alexa integration, you can rest easy knowing who has been naughty or nice at your doorstep.

Prime shipping means you can get this bundle fast—take advantage of this deal before it walks away with these savings in hand.

Here are more Blink deals we’re keeping our eyes on:

• Blink Outdoor (3rd Gen) $89.99 (Was $179.99)
• Blink Mini Pan-Tilt Camera $29.99 (Was $59.99)
• Blink Wired Floodlight Camera $49.99 (Was $99.99)
• Blink Outdoor 3rd Gen + Floodlight—wireless $83.99 (Was $139.98)
• Blink Video Doorbell + 2 Outdoor (3rd Gen) camera system $119.98 (Was $239.98)
• Blink Outdoor (3rd Gen) + Solar Panel Charging Mount $77.99 (Was $129.98)

The post Protect your home with this Blink security bundle early Black Friday deal at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best jacket		Gobi Grit Men's Heated Work Jacket		SEE IT	Working outside doesn’t mean you have to be chilly while you do it.
Best vest		ORORO Men's Lightweight Heated Vest		SEE IT	This vest heats up fast to get you warm quick.
Best slippers		Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slippers		SEE IT	Perfect for walking the dog or fetching the morning paper.

If the temperatures are dropping and layers aren’t cutting it, consider upping your cozy game with heated clothing. Heated clothing provides covert, fireside-esque warmth while remaining sleek and lightweight. Clothing that uses thermal lining relies on your own body heat to create warmth. Heated clothing uses a network of small, heat-conducting flexible wires powered by a detachable, rechargeable battery. Both the wires and the rechargeable batteries are slim and hardly noticeable. Wearing a piece of heated clothing should feel just like wearing a regular jacket, vest, or pair of gloves. A button—usually on the glove’s cuff or front of the jacket—lets you control the temperature. The best heated clothing keeps you warm and comfy even when outside feels like the Arctic Circle.

• Best jacket: Gobi Grit Men’s Heated Work Jacket
• Best vest: ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest
• Best gloves: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Gloves
• Best socks: Gobi Tread Heated Socks
• Best slippers: Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slippers
• Best blanket: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap
• Best hand warmers: HotHands Hand Warmer

How we chose the best heated clothing

It’s highly unlikely you can go the entire winter without going outside. Eventually, you’ll have to walk away from one of the best space heaters. However, just because you must stand out in the cold doesn’t mean you should freeze. We looked at our past heated gear coverage, rounded up our favorites, and tested new options. We also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted heavy research to separate the tepid from the hot.

The best heated clothing: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’ve considered wearing something, it most likely comes in heated form. One of our choices will channel your inner Heat Miser when you’re about to turn into Mr. Snow.

Best jacket: Gobi Grit Men’s Heated Work Jacket

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Cotton with nylon lining
• Max temp: 140 degrees
• Heat settings: 3
• Battery life: Up to 9 hours

Pros

• 5 heating zones provide full coverage
• Big, durable jacket with inner lining
• Decent battery life

Cons

• Fewer heat settings than other options

If you’re working outside in cold weather, not simply enduring it, you need something heavier than a shell, a fleece, or a hoodie. The Gobi Grit heated workwear jacket offers a heavier layer of electric warmth, ensuring you are ready to spend a full day in the cold. When things get rough, you can turn on the heat, which should last between 4.5 and 9 hours, depending on the setting. The company also makes heated hoodies for when you are enduring the cold. And, if you’re looking for something in a specific style, check out our other favorite heated jackets.

Best vest: ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Temperature settings: Low (100°F), Medium (120°F), High (130°F)
• Battery life: 10 hours

Pros

• Quick heating
• Machine washable
• Zippered pockets

Cons

• Might be too tight to fit under bulkier jackets
• Only a 10-degree difference between medium and high settings

This heated vest for men is tailored neatly to the body and is machine washable. In seconds, the heating elements warm up the vest, which can be adjusted according to your comfort. It even includes a USB charging port within the vest battery that you can use for your cell phone. If you’re looking for a heated vest for a specific activity, like riding your motorcycle, check out our complete list of heated vests.

Best gloves: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Gloves

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Soft lambskin and polyester; cotton inner layer
• Temperature range: 113°F (low)-150°F (high)
• Battery life: 2200 mAh
• Sizes: XS-3X
• Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive index finger and thumb, anti-slip material on palms

Pros

• Soft and flexible
• Anti-slip
• Versatile
• Warm even without heating element turned on

Cons

• Not as effective in temperatures below 10°F
• Not waterproof

Savior’s rechargeable heated gloves provide the best, most versatile protection from the cold that we’ve felt in a pair of gloves. They are well suited for a variety of outdoor adventures and reasonably priced, to boot.

In a field full of very similar products from companies with little reputation, they serve as a good example of what to look for in a pair of heated gloves. First and foremost, they’re quite warm with or without the heat turned on. They have three temperature settings, water-resistance and windproofing, heating elements that cover the back of your hand and fingertips, and touchscreen-sensitive material. Meanwhile, a leather palm ensures you won’t lose your grip when you need it the most.

They’re a bit thick but still flexible enough to shift gears on a bicycle or hold ski poles. One personal complaint about these heated gloves is that the “on” indicator light is oddly bright when it’s on in the dark—but we’ve always had issues with bright lights in darkness being distracting.

All in all, it’s exactly what you’re looking for, and you don’t need to spend too much to get it.

Best socks: Gobi Tread Heated Socks

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Specs

• Material: Cotton
• Power level settings: Low, medium, high (113°F-140°F)
• Approximate heat time: 12 hours
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros

• Separate keychain remote
• Slim battery pack
• Long-lasting

Cons

• Expensive

With a range of heat settings from a balmy 113 degrees to a toasty 140, these machine-washable heated socks from Gobi can last up to 12 hours on the lowest charge. The toes are designed with their own individual heat zone to keep your pinky from feeling frozen, plus the slim battery is hardly noticeable in its calf pocket or while wearing tight pants. Our favorite feature is the remote, which lets you change the heat settings without bending over. Consider our other favorite heated socks if you want to stock up on multiple pairs.

Best slippers: Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slipper

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Specs

• Levels of heat: High, medium, and low
• Power: Two included USB 5V VB550 batteries
• Sizes: Small-3XL

Pros

• Lasts for up to 12 hours on a single charge
• Provides three levels of heat
• Comes in multiple sizes for men and women
• Can wear indoors and outside

Cons

• Only come in one color
• Heating pad may not provide a lot of warmth

Volt is one of the first brands to design heated slippers, and the company has continued to innovate since coming out with its first pair 10 years ago. These comfy slippers are heated with included rechargeable batteries. They provide three heat levels (high, medium, and low) and can last up to 12 hours on a single full charge. Best of all, you can wear them indoors or outside. The previous iteration had a faux fur lining—although we loved the extra snuggliness, the new version ditches the bulky, a-little-too-hot fur for soft fleece that doesn’t make your feet feel like a sauna. You can also get insole warmers (even battery-powered ones) to turn any house shoe into a heated slipper.

Best wearable electric blanket: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap

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Specs

• Fabric type: Plush Fabric
• Heat Settings: 3
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros 

• Affordable  
• Hands-free design 
• Heats up quickly

Cons 

• Control panel is bulky and can be uncomfortable
• Variations in heat

As a wearable heated blanket, the Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap lets you stay warm while your hands can type, scroll on your phone, or flip between TV channels. It sits on your shoulders just like a shawl with the added luxury of heat, which you can control through three different settings. And it’s available in 10 different designs to suit your unique style and fashion sense. It’s also fully reversible with an ultra-soft beige plush fabric on the reverse side. 

The 2-hour auto shut-off prevents overheating. Fully machine washable, this wearable heated blanket provides warmth and comfort to relax anywhere in your home. This blanket would suit teens in particular because of the range of colors and styles. Like our top budget pick, also made by Beautyrest, the controller can become quite hot if covered. Simply unplug to machine wash and keep your new favorite blanket clean. Need something a bit less wearable and a bit more shareable? Check out our other heated blanket picks.

Best hand warmers: HotHands Hand Warmer

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Specs

• Reusable: No
• Temperature range: 140-160°F
• Duration: Up to 10 hours

Pros

• Easy to use
• Long-lasting
• Provides consistent heat

Cons

• Not reusable
• Takes 15-30 minutes to heat up

Want to save money on a handy choice from above? Any gloves are heated gloves with these disposable hand warmers from HotHands—a budget-friendly staple for keeping warm. All you need to do is shake the pack vigorously for a couple of seconds, triggering a safe chemical reaction that will lead to up to 10 hours of consistent heat in 15 to 30 minutes. Keep them in your glovebox or purse so you’ll never be caught with cold hands. If you’re looking for something reusable, we have an entire list for you.

Things to consider when buying the best heated clothing

With an entire closet’s-worth of options to choose from, what should you know when clicking “add to cart”? Here’s the short of it so you can spend more time exploring in your new hot digs:

Charging times

Heated clothing requires the use of a lithium-ion battery to power the heating elements. And, like other portable batteries and power banks, they take a bit of time to reach 100 percent. Prepare accordingly if you’re going to spend all day hitting the slopes or all night cheering in the stands. Most batteries in heated clothing also double as a portable charger in a pinch. We love killing two birds with one stone.

Machine washability

“Heated elements” plus “water” must equal “disaster” when it comes to heated clothing, right? Wrong! Most heated clothing can be washed—emphasis on the “most.” Read the care label before throwing the item in the wash, and make sure to remove the rechargeable batteries. You most definitely don’t want to run those through the washer.

Temperature

A piece of heated clothing that’s too hot leads to a sweaty person, which is not good when exposed to cold temperatures. You want to limit sweating since rapidly evaporating perspiration chills you … not exactly what you want when you’re wearing heated clothing to stay warm.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heated clothing

• Best jacket: Gobi Grit Men’s Heated Work Jacket
• Best vest: ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest
• Best gloves: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Gloves
• Best socks: Gobi Tread Heated Socks
• Best slippers: Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slippers
• Best blanket: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap
• Best hand warmers: HotHands Hand Warmer

If you’d rather not look like Randy in that one scene from A Christmas Story, consider some heated clothing for more warmth with fewer layers. The heated elements and batteries in heated clothing are thin and discreet—no one would know you’re wearing a heated jacket or vest unless you told them. And, with incredible choices like these, you’ll want to tell the entire world how cozy you are.

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 heated clothing in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best budget		HotHands Warmers		SEE IT	Just shake-and-go to get warmth on-the-go with this wallet-friendly hand warmers.
Best rechargeable		OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmer		SEE IT	Get up to 15 hours of warmth in just five seconds.
Best for hunting		Hunter Safety System Heated Muff		SEE IT	This fleeced-line muff that contains heat coils that can stay active for up to five hours.

If you’re someone whose extremities suffer in the cold, think about investing in hand warmers. Have you ever tried tying your shoes, finding your car keys, or getting out your credit card when you can’t feel your fingers? Not fun. Cold weather can lead to poor circulation, which can, in turn, lead to uselessly frigid hands and frozen fingers. Hand warmers are a great way to keep you comfortable for hours at a time so you can get on with your life and stop desperately puffing warm air into cupped palms. They’re discreet, effective, and super portable, making them suitable for use on the go. They’re also great for camping, hiking, ice skating, and hockey, as well as non-sporting events like watching holiday parades, tailgating, waiting in line for the newest iPhone, you name it. You’ve probably used disposable hand warmers if you’ve ever gone skiing, but there are more long-lasting products we think you’ll want to see. The best hand warmers help you say goodbye to tripling up on gloves just to walk to the grocery store.

• Best overall: HotSnapZ Reusable Hand Warmers
• Best reusable long-lasting warmers: Zippo Hand Warmer
• Best rechargeable: OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmer
• Best for skiing: Snow Deer Heated Gloves
• Best for hunting: Hunter Safety System Heated Muff
• Best budget: HotHands Warmers

How we chose the best hand warmers

We didn’t want to leave you with cold feet looking for the best hand warmers, especially if you’re trying to prevent frostbite or pack your emergency car kit. We looked at critical reviews, under recommendations, and conducted heavy research to find the best hand warmers.

The best hand warmers: Reviews & Recommendations

Hand warmers are just one of the many things you can bring with you on an outdoor adventure to keep you warm. From football games to fall hikes, one of our choices should stop frozen fingers before they happen.

Best overall: HotSnapZ Reusable Hand Warmers

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Specs

• Reusable: Yes
• Duration: 30-40 minutes
• Temperature range: 115-120°F

Pros

• Reusable
• Last 200-300 uses
• Instant heat

Cons

• Doesn’t last as long as other options on this list

These HotSnapz hand warmers produce instant heat without using electricity or other conducting material. They last for 30 to 40 minutes, so they’re the perfect companion for a brisk morning walk or a quick errand. After your first use, simply boil them for 10 to 15 minutes; (we recommend fixing yourself a cup of tea with some of the water while you wait), let cool, then snap the internal metal disk and soak up the heat.

Best reusable long-lasting warmers: Zippo Hand Warmer

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Specs

• Reusable: Yes
• Duration: 6-12 hours
• Temperature range: N/A

Pros

• Refillable and reusable
• Long-lasting
• Flameless warmth

Cons

• Not TSA-friendly

Zippo hand warmers are the way to go if you think a refillable option is right for you. Zippo makes both a six- and 12-hour model in various colors and styles; each comes with a protective case, lighter fluid funnel, and detailed safety guide. You can also easily purchase additional lighter fuel when you need to refill.

Best rechargeable: OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmer

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Specs

• Reusable: Yes
• Duration: Up to 15 hours
• Temperature range: Up to 131°F

Pros

• Safe on skin
• Can be used as a power bank
• All-day warming

Cons

• Casing scratches easily

This rechargeable hand warmer helps you stay toasty all day. It lasts between eight to 15 hours with a full battery from just three-and-a-half hours of charging time. Simply plug the device into a USB-C or micro USB-compatible charger. Adjust the heat by selecting one of the three levels based on the outside temperature, calculated for 5, 32, and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Bonus: This one is safe on the skin.

Best for skiing: Snow Deer Heated Gloves

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Specs

• Reusable: Yes
• Duration: 2.5-6 hours depending on settings
• Temperature range: Up to 150°F

Pros

• Water-resistant
• Can use with phone
• Soft lining inside glove

Cons

• Palm runs small

These rechargeable heated gloves come in five sizes, from small to XX-Large. They’re perfect for a day on the mountain and stay warm between two-and-a-half to six hours. There are three temperature settings, starting at 100 degrees Fahrenheit and going all the way up to 150 degrees. Durable and water-resistant, these are also equipped with touch sensors so you can still use your phone. For more options, here’s our list of the best heated gloves.

Best for hunting: Hunter Safety System Heated Muff

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Specs

• Reusable: Yes
• Duration: N/A
• Temperature range: N/A

Pros

• Storage pockets
• Soft lining
• Ergonomic

Cons

• Power bank not included

Looking for the best hand warmers for hunting? This muff from Hunter Safety System does, in fact, come heated, though you can also purchase a model sans extra heat. The interior is lined with fleece that contains heat coils that can stay active for up to five hours. You’ll need to charge and connect your own power bank, which can easily slide into the designated built-in pocket. Keep in mind that this model is less water-resistant than others, so if you foresee rain during an all-day hunt, look for something that is guaranteed waterproof.

Best budget: HotHands Warmers

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Specs

• Reusable: No
• Duration: Up to 10 hours
• Temperature range: 140-160°F

Pros

• Easy to use
• Long-lasting
• Provides consistent heat

Cons

• Not reusable
• Takes 15-30 minutes to heat up

These disposable hand warmers from HotHands are a staple when it comes to keeping warm. All you need to do is shake the pack vigorously for a couple of seconds, triggering a safe chemical reaction that will lead to up to 10 hours of consistent heat in 15 to 30 minutes.

Things to consider when looking for the best hand warmers

The best hand warmers are designed to keep you toasty throughout the duration of your outdoor activity. Some are reusable, some are rechargeable, and some are disposable, perfect if you want to toss them in the trash after you hit the slopes or get a drink après ski. We’ve broken down the various types of hand warmers out there and also provided some of our favorite options below.

Let’s start with the basics: chemically activated, reusable hand warmers

Reusable hand warmers are a fantastic way to keep cozy in cold weather. They eliminate the need to run out to store for replacements, plus, they can be easily shared. There are a few popular types of reusable hand warmers, differentiated by heating mechanism.

Some reusable pairs look like ice/heat packs found in first aid kits. These are chemically activated. Inside each pack is a metal disk that needs to be snapped or bent to release a heat-generating compound. Inside, sodium acetate (a food-safe ingredient found in salt), water, and energy mix to form solid crystals. This process produces an exothermic reaction, raising the pack’s temperature to roughly 130 degrees Fahrenheit in under 10 seconds. After a pack’s first use, you’ll need to boil the hand warmers for approximately 10 minutes before using them again, effectively reactivating the chemicals and returning the sodium acetate to its liquid form. These typically last between 30 minutes to an hour, though you can extend the heating time by adding extra packs or keeping them in coat pockets. If you’re an athlete, you can use them for additional relief on sore muscles. They are safe on the skin, but of course, take precautions when handling hot objects.

What are the best hand warmers for longevity?

If you need more than an hour of heat time but like the idea of simple reusable hand warmers without worrying about recharging, lighter-fuel-based models are the best option for you. Yes, we understand that filling something with lighter fluid, activating it, and stuffing it in your pockets seems a little outlandish, but trust us when we say you’ll keep warm all day.

Much like a regular lighter, these hand warmers, once filled with fuel, use a catalytic burner to generate heat. (Unlike a regular burner, you won’t see any external flames.) To ignite, hold a flame to it for roughly 10 seconds. Doing so will create a small internal furnace that can burn anywhere from six to 12 hours, depending on the model. Remember, once the warmer is ignited, you won’t be able to stop the heat until it naturally burns off. You can, however, place the hand warmer on a fireproof surface once you’re done using it and let it naturally smolder out.

Refillable hand warmers are not meant to be applied directly to the skin; most come with a small pouch into which you can place the warmer and then hold or slip into a coat pocket. Due to the delicate nature of the fill material, a.k.a. flammable fluid, we don’t recommend using these for intense sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or hockey. We do, however, recommend them for long hikes, camping trips, cold offices, and cross-country car rides. There’s nothing worse than driving through Colorado in the middle of winter when your heat is broken.

Consider rechargeable hand warmers

If you’re ready to get a little more high-tech, plenty of rechargeable hand warmers are out there. These typically use electricity and a lithium-ion battery to generate heat. The models might be slightly thicker than refillable options, but they don’t differ too much in overall size, so they’ll still fit nicely in pockets or gloves.

The pros of rechargeables include long-lasting warmth with the ability to heat between two to eight hours. Plus, if you’re done with your outdoor activity or sufficiently warmed up, you can simply turn off the device. Many have heat-customization settings and the ability to charge other electronic devices simultaneously. You just have to remember to charge them. Simply plug in the hand warmer when not in use, and you’ll never be left out in the cold.

While we love a rechargeable option, there are a few cons you should know about. Rechargeable hand warmers are susceptible to water damage, so it’s probably best to keep them away from snow and sleet. Also, heat consistency can be a bit sporadic depending on the temperature outside. The overall heating time can also be affected by the cold, impacting the battery lifespan. Overall, we consider these to be minor impediments because a rechargeable warmer’s heating time is guaranteed to be longer than a chemically activated option, and the custom control is far greater than a lighter fluid-filled hand warmer.

Do you plan on hitting the slopes?

One of the most common reasons to purchase hand warmers is to keep your fingers from freezing while on the mountains. Though there are some amazing regular ski and winter gloves out there (heated, featured above, and not heated), it doesn’t hurt to have a little extra warmth, especially if you’re outside shredding all day. Hand warmers for skiers or snowboarders usually need to fit inside the glove rather than slide inside a coat pocket; they also need to be relatively flexible or small if you’re skiing with poles.

Though certainly non-traditional, it’s worth looking for glove/hand-warmer hybrids. Heated gloves use the same lithium-ion battery technology as the rechargeable ones listed above, but the active heaters are fit to the glove, so you can maintain grip and flexibility without maneuvering around a large chunk of plastic and metal. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the snow because these gloves are designed with an outer waterproof shell, which protects the batteries from any liquid damage.

Our second favorite option for skiing is the disposable hand warmer from brands like HotHands or Little Hotties. We’ll dive deeper into disposable hand warmers when we talk about our favorite budget pick, but these are a good option to keep in the back of your brain when thinking about ski-appropriate heating options. And when you’re done skiing, you can slip into a pair of heated slippers, or shoes with heated insoles, for warmth and comfort in the lodge.

Do you need something classic for hunting?

While muffs aren’t going to help much if your hands need to be out and at the ready, they’re a traditional way to stay cozy in a blind or tree stand. Muffs are, of course, reusable and can be adjusted to fit your frame. They’re made from many materials, including fur, shearling, or synthetic fabric. The outer layer will often be water-resistant and windproof, so you won’t need to worry about inclement weather. Some muffs even have special internal pockets for extra hand warmers to slide in, and others come with external pockets or shell pockets, so not only will your hands stay warm, but you’ll also get some additional storage space. A muff’s durability and reliability make it a great choice for hunters everywhere. We recommend bringing this and maybe one or two disposable hand warmers along with you, just in case you need even more warmth on those brisk early mornings.

Best budget hand warmers: What you get for under $20

Luckily, hand warmers don’t tend to be prohibitively expensive, unless you’re looking for high-end gloves or a really large rechargeable battery. That being said, reusable options will be more expensive than disposable ones, though disposable ones may be less cost-effective over time, depending on how you use them. If you want a more budget-friendly reusable hand warmer, the first thing to look for is brand reputation and clear safety guidelines; this is especially true if you go for something chemically activated or lighter-fluid-based. Disposable hand warmers are likely to be the cheapest option and work great for almost any outdoor activity; They’re thin and flexible, and they slide easily into gloves or pockets.