Best overall		Gerber Gear Fire Starter		SEE IT	With added features that can keep you prepared while you’re in the wilderness.
Best for fire pits		GreenSpark Firestarters		SEE IT	If you’re not outdoors, use this fire starter as tinder.
Best budget		ust Sparkie Fire Starter		SEE IT	A cheap innovation that’s also nifty.

You can try holding a lighter to a log and waiting, but a fire starter will make your life much simpler. To build a blaze, you need to start small, then add your larger pieces of wood until you have a large fire. The problem is getting that first spark isn’t easy if you’re working in windy or wet conditions. Matches and lighters are no match for these particular elements. Fire starters, however, make fire building infinitely less frustrating. The best fire starters are portable, easy to use, and handy in all sorts of environmental conditions.

• Best overall: Gerber Gear Fire Starter
• Best ferro rod: Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set
• Best for fire pits: GreenSpark Firestarters
• Best for camping: Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL
• Expert pick: überleben Zünden Fire Starter
• Best budget: ust Sparkie Fire Starter

How we chose the best fire starters

A fire starter can refer to the strikers and rods used to start a fire or the small, flammable objects you can light to encourage your kindling and such to catch flames. We decided to focus on the strikers and rods, with one exception. Our focus is based on “what came first: chicken or the egg” logic: Without a striker and rod fire starter, you cannot use the “small, flammable object” fire starter, especially out in the woods. Additionally, anything can be a “small, flammable object” fire starter technically, from pork rinds and Doritos to a cotton ball. To find the best firestarters, we looked at reviews, recommendations, and conducted heavy research to separate the ones that sparked our interest from those that were a little dim. I’m also a proud former Girl Scout and pride myself on my fire-starting and building abilities.

The best fire starters: Reviews & Recommendations

A fire starter is a handy camping gadget that can do double duty when you’re at home. And, if you have a backyard fire pit, you don’t have to worry about finding a lighter that you can use safely. One of our picks should get your fire going.

Best overall: Gerber Gear Fire Starter

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Specs

• Material: Ferro rod, steel striker, nylon cord, plastic
• Waterproof?: Yes, IPX4
• Lifespan: N/A
• Size: 8 x 6 x 1 inches
• Price: $25

Pros

• Bonus features
• Portable
• Easy-to-use

Cons

• Lanyard could be better

Maximize your backpack storage with this fire starter—the cargo shorts of camping gear. The ferro rod is compact, and an included handle gives you a great grip. Plus, the material itself is easy to work with. The included steel striker has directions right on it, so you’ll never forget how to use it. Bonus features like built-in storage for tinder and a 100-decibel emergency whistle make this choice stand out from the pack. If you’re thinking, “What about using the lanyard as tinder in case?” you’ll be out of luck. It’s not recommended for that, although some fire starters do have that feature. All in all, it’s a well-designed fire starter we feel comfortable stowing in our glovebox or side pocket. You can also buy it directly from Gerber.

Best ferro rod: Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set

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Specs

• Material: Ferrocerium, steel, nylon, jute
• Waterproof?: N/A
• Lifespan: Around 20,000
• Size: 3.94 x 0.43 x 0.45 inches
• Price: $23

Pros

• Paracord can be used as tinder
• Packable
• Steel striker can be sharpened for continued use

Cons

• Some reviews say it’s best for experienced outdoorspeople

If you’re looking for a long-lasting fire starter, consider this simple Wolf and Grizzly fire set your dream come true. Its curved steel striker can nestle against the ferro rod to create a compact profile, meaning you don’t have to worry about bulk. If you’re out of tinder, you can use a knife or the striker to access the jute inside the parachord lanyard. Its 20,000-strike lifespan means you’ll pass it on before reaching its expiration date. And, you can resharpen its steel striker like you do with a multitool, meaning it’s less likely to need replacing. Some reviews say it’s best for outdoorsy folk, but others disagree, blaming it on user error. Regardless, you’ll be glad to have this ferro rod with you while camping.

Best for fire pits: GreenSpark Firestarters

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Specs

• Material: Wood wool, palm wax
• Waterproof?: Yes
• Lifespan: 8-10 minutes in fire
• Size: 1-inch
• Price: $22

Pros

• Compact
• Can use in multiple settings
• Eco-friendly materials

Cons

• Must be dry to light

Here is that exception we were talking about earlier. Based on what you’re lighting, it might feel more comfortable just to use a match or lighter to ignite a fireplace. All those sparks flying create a safety hazard; you don’t want to set off your smoke alarm when you don’t have to. Instead, you’ll need a fire starter that acts as tinder to help your larger pieces of wood catch fire. This eco-friendly fire starter is made from salvaged pine trees and technically never expire. They’re waterproof, but you must ensure they’re dry before lighting. If they do come into contact with water, they take around 10 minutes to be usable. You can also use them in wood stoves, grills, fire pits, and more.

Best for camping: Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL

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Specs

• Material: anodized aluminum body, ferrocerium rod, tungsten carbide striker
• Waterproof?: Works when wet
• Lifespan: 3,000 strikes
• Size: ‎3.65 x 0.43 x 0.43 inches
• Price: $32

Pros

• Flammable lanyard
• Small enough to put on keychain
• Very compact

Cons

• Might be too small for large hands

Packing light is no problem with the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL. This extra small fire starter creates a shower of sparks that supercedes its size. Its included striker screws on, meaning you won’t have to take apart your meticulously packed backpack looking for a single part. It’s also .5 ounces, meaning you can use that extra weight to bring a thicker sleeping pad. The ferro rod is replaceable, and you can use the included lanyard as tinder in emergencies. You can even use it when wet. Whether in your pack or emergency kit, the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL will perform in all kinds of conditions. If you have large hands, it may be a little cumbersome to use.

Expert pick: überleben Zünden Fire Starter

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Specs

• Material: Natural wood, ferrocenium
• Waterproof?: Works when wet
• Lifespan: 12,000-15,000 depending on length
• Size: ‎4.8 x 0.66 x 0.95 inches or ‎7.24 x 2.32 x 1.06 inches
• Price: $16

Pros

• Comes in different lengths
• Reliable and durable
• Works when wet

Cons

• Reviews note rod separating from the handle

“Last year, a Canadian friend recommended the überleben range of ferro rods and firestarters to me, and they have been worth every penny,” says Richard Prideaux, lead instructor for Original Outdoors, a UK-based outdoor skills training provider. “I carry an überleben Zünden with me on courses and trips where lighting a fire with natural materials is either likely or maybe necessary. They produce a good shower of sparks and have a good length/diameter ratio, and it hasn’t let me down yet.”

This ferro rod also comes in different thicknesses, which helps if you’re green behind the ears when it comes to using a ferro rod and striker.

“A beginner should look for reliability and ease of use in a fire starter,” he says. “If you are going to go somewhere that lighting a fire will become a safety issue then you should be focusing on equipment that will give you that fire reliably and repeatedly in a short space of time. A wider ferro rod will often give a better shower of sparks and be easier to use, but there will be a weight penalty, and some users may find it awkward to hold. A dedicated striker attachment is good to have as it means you can use the ferro rod without requiring additional equipment.”

Best budget: ust Sparkie Fire Starter

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Specs

• Material: Flint, plastic
• Waterproof?: Works in wet conditions
• Lifespan: More than 100 strikes
• Size: 6 x 5 x 2 inches
• Price: $11

Pros

• Works in adverse weather conditions
• Can use one-handed
• Lightweight

Cons

• Not the most long-lasting fire starter

Lighting a fire doesn’t get much easier or cheaper than this, folks. You can operate the ust Sparkie with one hand. Simply press a button to expose the flint bar and press down toward your tinder. Bam! That’s it! All for around $10! However, it only lasts for around 100 sparks. If you have some extra change to spend and love the Sparkie concept—or you’re a more experienced camper—consider upgrading to the BlastMatch, its beefier older sibling, which lasts for 4,000 strikes. This is a flint-based fire starter, so you also won’t get as much longevity compared to a ferro rod.

What to consider when buying the best fire starters

Fire starters are not a one-size-fits-all object. They have a common goal of helping tinder catch aflame, but you might be better off with one over another based on features. Some are better for casual, indoor use, while others are more ruff and rugged. Here’s how to separate the duds and phonies from the fabulous fire starters:

Types of fire starters

There are three main types of fire starters: Flint and steel, Ferrocerium rods (ferro rods), and magnesium bars.

The flint and steel combo is the tryest and true-est of all the fire starter options. The “flint” can be any hard, sedimentary rock like quartz and chert. The steel striker is heat-treated. You can even use any metal that has a high amount of carbon in it, like old rake teeth and garage door springs. When the striker comes in contact with the flint, tiny particles released from the metal oxidize and ignite when exposed to oxygen. Sparks from flint and steel can be dull, but this fire starter is the easiest to find. You’ll get the best results if you use it with char cloth.

Ferrocerium rods, or ferro rods, produce incredibly hot sparks and make quick work of lighting dry tinder. If you don’t have a striker on hand, you can use the back of a knife. Ferro rods are less uniform compared to flint and steel. They’re made with different metals—particularly cerium, lanthanum, and iron—and the percent of each affects its performance. A softer ferro rod doesn’t have a long shelf life, but it’s easier to use and produces more sparks. When using a ferro rod, any dry, highly flammable material, like birch bark, cotton, and tiny sticks, makes for excellent tinder.

Magnesium bars come with a ferro rod attached to the top. You shave off parts of the magnesium bar onto the nearby tinder pile, which will ignite when it comes into contact with a spark from the ferro rod. It takes a large amount of magnesium to create a flame that lasts long enough to light nearby tinder, so we recommend just sticking with a ferro rod. Outdoor skills trainer Richard Prideaux says he uses a ferro rod over flint and steel in “99.5 percent of situations.”

“A ferro rod is easier to use, lighter, smaller, and produces a more consistent shower of sparks at a higher temperature,” he says.

Activity

If you’re car camping, van lifing, or just hanging out in a camper or RV, you can get away with a heavier fire starter, since pack weight isn’t a concern. However, backpackers will want to choose something light, like the Exacto nanoStriker. Extra ounces add up to pounds, which is more weight to bear on the hike. This is important, especially if your hike is over days, not hours.

If you’re looking for something to help light your fireplace or grill, the world is your smoked oyster. Like the car camping/RV/camper camp, you can simply bring out what you want to use. You can also use a utility lighter—something those camping, unfortunately, don’t have the luxury to bring along.

Ease of use

As Prideaux mentioned in our expert pick, user-friendliness is important. Some fire starters, like the ust Sparkie, only need a downward push to create sparks. Flint and steel and ferro rods require a bit more finesse, although the former is more difficult to use than the latter. If you’re a beginner, consider a wide ferro rod, the Sparkie, or even an electric lighter. If you’re well-versed in the language of the outdoors, you can forage for your own flint … or you can just buy one that’s more technical (e.g., a compact fire starter built for backpacking).

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best fire starters

• Best overall: Gerber Gear Fire Starter
• Best ferro rod: Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set
• Best for fire pits: GreenSpark Firestarters
• Best for camping: Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL
• Expert pick: überleben Zünden Fire Starter
• Best budget: ust Sparkie Fire Starter

A fire starter isn’t a one-trick pony. You can use it on camping trips, in your own backyard, and even in your own home if your butane lighter is nowhere to be found. Plus, they can be a perfect addition to your emergency kit. They’re built to last and are generally inexpensive. Don’t wait until the moment you need one to click “add to cart.”

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 fire starters for camping and fire pits, according to experts appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0		SEE IT	It’s simple to light, easy to store, and eradicates smoke.
Best large		Tiki Fire Pit		SEE IT	Gather up to 10 people around this ample fire pit for superior s’mores.
Best for patios		BioLite Fire Pit+		SEE IT	The mesh sides offer a unique view of the flames inside and nice radiant heat.

Smokeless fire pits solve an age-old problem: No matter where you sit around the camp fire, smoke always seems to blow in your face. The solution? Get rid of the smoke completely. These metal containers are built to control the flame and make it easy to start and finish. Not only do they make firing up easier, but they can also add a touch of class or a bit of flash to your patio, camp area, or backyard. A solid fire pit can turn a boring patio or backyard into a great place to spend an evening. Consider this your burn book, a list of the best smokeless fire pits.

• Best overall: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
• Best for patios: BioLite Fire Pit+
• Best large: Tiki Fire Pit
• Best stainless steel: Breeo X Series 24
• Best portable: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0
• Best budget: Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit
• Best under $100: Blue Sky Outdoor Living Ridge

How we chose the best smokeless fire pits

We started with a list of more than 30 models from hands-on testing and critical consensus before narrowing our options to the best we could find. The four main factors we considered were ease and effectiveness of use, aesthetics, value for price, and unique features. Our list represents our top choices, a couple for those who aren’t looking to spend as much money, and some situation-specific choices. During our tests, we burned a variety of different woods and burned under various weather conditions.

After all, everyone’s needs when it comes to a fire pit are different, and it’s important to consider how and where you plan to use your fire pit before you buy it. The “best” is not always the “best for you.” Our list should help you avoid getting more fire pit than you really need, as every one of our picks is recommended.

The best smokeless fire pits: Reviews & Recommendations

Smokeless fire pits contain and elevate fires. Their design allows air to flow in such a way that it minimizes (and in some cases fully eliminates) smoke. There are different looks and focuses among our choices, so line up your desires as best you can with our recommendations.

Best overall: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

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Specs

• Weight: 28.25 lbs
• Height: 18.5 in
• Material: Stainless steel
• Structure: Single-piece construction
• Price: $249

Pros

• Excellent single-piece construction
• Well-controlled fires with efficient burn
• Light for the size and quality
• Attractive, simple silhouette
• Excellent smoke reduction

Cons

• The aesthetic doesn’t necessarily fit with some more casual backyards
• Outside gets very hot

It’s no secret that we think the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is excellent. In fact, we think it’s the best choice on the market for a smokeless fire pit. The first point for the Solo Stove Bonfire is performance. It heats up quickly and burns efficiently with a stunningly small amount of smoke. The aesthetic is particular: It’s not quite industrial, but it does have a shiny, smooth finish that doesn’t scream “tiki bar” or “family gathering” like some other models, and it’s not uniquely edgy in its stylings. It may not help bring certain patio looks together, but it also doesn’t stand out or bring attention to itself. The look is very “elevated comfort food outdoor cafe.”

Among the mid-sized models we recommend, the Bonfire 2.0 is one of the more portable (though look further down for the real portable star). Twenty-eight pounds is quite light for this category, and while the Bonfire 2.0 doesn’t collapse or disassemble to make it easier to transport, you can use a cloth carrying card to make things a bit easier for a beach trip or some light camping. Wood pellets are best in the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0—that’s true of most circular-basin fire pits—but small firewood also works extremely well. The interior volume of the pit isn’t particularly large, but the burn is so efficient and controlled that the fires tend to outperform the amount of fuel.

The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 comes at a semi-premium price, but its durable construction guarantees its long-term value. Unless your fire pit needs are particularly portable or particularly large, this is the one to get, the best overall smokeless fire pit.

Best for patios: BioLite Fire Pit+

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Specs

• Weight: 19.8 lbs
• Height: 15.8 in
• Material: Stainless steel
• Structure: Two-piece self-assembly with foldable legs
• Price: $249

Pros

• Bluetooth-enabled, battery-powered fan keeps fires going
• Cool, see-through design
• Foldable legs make storage easier
• Battery is USB rechargeable
• App allows control of the flame size
• Sized for commercial firewood logs

Cons

• Foldable legs aren’t particularly durable
• The aesthetic is specific enough to not be everyone’s cup of tea
• Rectangular design requires a more specific space arrangement than circular models

The BioLite Fire Pit+ is one of the most unique-looking fire pits on the market, with some interesting tech features. It’s an excellent overall fire pit and a contender for best overall, but it landed in best-for-patio because of its big, open flame, cool look, and innovations. The smoke elimination is not quite as good as a few other models, but it makes up for that.

Let’s look at those innovations first. One of its chief innovations is mesh side panels that allow more heat to radiate out and make the fire easy to observe. This does require a bit more work maintaining the Fire Pit+, but it is worth it for the cool view and unique shadows that are interesting and calming when sitting around the fire pit. Another great feature that really contributes to the comfort at a backyard gathering, and is absent on any other model, is the Bluetooth-enabled, app-controlled, battery-powered fan which controls airflow and can make the flames in the Fire Pit+ larger or small at will. This is simply something that isn’t seen elsewhere and really sets the Fire Pit+ apart. The battery pack, which is removable and charged via USB, gives the Fire Pit+ a retro-futuristic look, but it can be easily hidden on the least-seen side in a patio set-up if needed.

The biggest mark against the Fire Pit+ is the double-edged sword that is its legs. The foldable legs make moving and storing the Fire Pit+ much easier than some other models, but they’re also a bit less strong and stable than the circular or thicker-legged bases that competitors have. This means you can’t overfill the Fire Pit+ with firewood (it can fit standard commercial logs). That’s good advice in general with a fire pit, but particularly vital advice for the Fire Pit+.

The Fire Pit+ offers a unique look, unique control, and an overall very good performance, making it the best patio smokeless fire pit among our recommended ones, and a great complement to patio heaters.

Best large: Tiki Fire Pit

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Specs

• Weight: 45 lbs
• Height: 18.75 in
• Material: Stainless steel
• Structure: Single-piece construction
• Price: $295

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Nice, classic design
• Lots of space for fuel inside
• Perfect size for a larger patio

Cons

• Heavy
• Works better with wood pellets which can be more expensive than firewood
• Not intended to be portable; you can’t easily take it to the beach or camping

Most fire pits on this list are great for four-to-six people. The Tiki Fire Pit is much larger and is a better choice if your patio seating is couches and lounges for 8-10 rather than chairs. Additionally, the Tiki Fire Pit has a classic Tiki design, which may be just what you’re looking for in your backyard paradise.

The benefits of the Tiki Fire Pit’s size are the amount of fuel it can use and the length of burn your fire is going to get. Stronger, longer fires mean less time spent tending the flames during your evening get-togethers. Smoke elimination is very good thanks to the airflow design, and the small, strong legs lift the pit enough for performance while not detracting from the pleasing, rounded throwback style. 

The drawback is this fire pit is really not meant for moving around. Forty-five pounds is a lot, and it is large, meaning you will most likely need two people and plenty of space in a truck or van if you want to take this party starter to the beach. Honestly, the Tiki Fire Pit is much better served finding a permanent home on your patio. However, with that heft comes a lot of durability, so the included weather-resistant cover is probably enough to protect your fire pit outside of an extreme situation. 

If your lifestyle means bigger is better, the Tike Fire Pit is probably the better choice among our recommendations, making it the best large smokeless fire pit as far as we’re concerned.

Best stainless steel: Breeo X Series 24

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Specs

• Weight: 62 lbs
• Height: 14.75 in
• Material: Corten steel (also available in stainless steel)
• Structure: Single-piece construction
• Price: $599

Pros

• Extremely strong and durable
• Sleek look that blends in well with a lot of decor
• Excellent fire control and smoke elimination

Cons

• Expensive
• Extremely heavy

If construction and materials really matter to you, and you want a fire pit that might become an heirloom to pass down to your children, break out the wallet for the Breeo X Series 24. This beautiful, sturdy, heavy, and durable fire pit is not one to travel; the 62 pounds of metal means it doesn’t want to go to the beach or a campground. However, at home you’re not going to get a longer-lasting, better-put-together fire pit.

The “24” in Breeo X Series 24 refers to the diameter of the fire pit’s interior—a considerable amount of space, larger even than the interior of the Tiki Fire Pit. There are 19-inch and even larger models as well. The legs of the Breeo X Series 24 are built-in and incredibly stable. The interior wall sucks up air and creates a wonderful, even secondary flame that shoots out the small holes just below the top of the rim. Visually, the Breeo X Series makes one of the nicest flames on the market.

The price tag is almost as heavy as the pit itself. The Breeo X Series is a premium product at a premium price—two or three times more than a lot of our other recommended models. If you have the means to splurge and believe in buying a product that will last a lifetime, the value is there, even if the initial cost is high.

Big, bold, and built to last, the Breeo X Series 24 is a beast and a beauty in one. For that reason, it’s the best corten steel smokeless fire pit we can recommend.

Best portable: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0

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Specs

• Weight: 15 lbs
• Height: 15 in
• Material: stainless steel
• Structure: single-piece construction
• Price: $199

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• Good flame control and smoke elimination
• Includes a carrying case
• Sleek and strong design

Cons

• Portable but not collapsible; still need a vehicle to transport longer distances
• Grilling requires additional accessories for best results

If you want a multi-purpose fire pit, portability is really important. We know it ourselves, so we have a guide if this category is the one you are exclusively considering. For those looking at a wider range of options, the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 is the little sibling of our best overall smokeless fire pit and the best portable smokeless fire pit on the market. Smaller, lighter, and more portable—but no less efficient—the Ranger is a much easier carry than the Bonfire without sacrificing any of the quality.

The Ranger really sings when you add in grilling accessories. The Solo Stove product line’s design gives you a simple, flat top that placing any flat wire grill means producing nice results (though you’ll want to very carefully clean the inside of your fire pit later, as food can create some sticky burnt messes). Some official grilling accessories are available, as well as skewers for s’mores or hot dogs if you look at Solo Stove’s offerings. (However, we recommend a dedicated grill if you’re into cookouts more than casual entertaining.)

For a portable model, the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 isn’t particularly light. It’s not meant for trekking but more drive-to-the-national-park-or-beach style portable use. The included carrying case is probably enough for inside storage, but outside storage will need a thicker, more protective case (which is also available to purchase).

If you’re planning to head out with your fire pit a lot, we can heartily recommend the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 as the best portable smokeless fire pit on the market.

Best budget: Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit

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Specs

• Weight: 33 pounds
• Height: 18 in
• Material: Stainless steel
• Structure: Two-piece construction
• Price: $152

Pros

• Two-piece design lets it travel smaller
• Easy to set up
• Good airflow for smoke elimination
• Matte black coloration makes it blend in easily

Cons

• The silhouette is a bit industrial
• Clean-up is tougher than with some other brands

You’ll need firewood once you’ve purchased your pit, so buying something that leaves you with some cash left over isn’t a bad plan. For those a bit more thrifty, Inno Stage offers a line of fire pits that don’t quite match the higher-cost models for performance or style but more than do the job for a very reasonable cost.

Inno Stage’s design involves two pieces. When assembled, the larger piece sits on the smaller piece, which acts as the ash pan. For travel or storage, the smaller piece is turned upside down and slots into the larger piece’s basin, taking up less space and becoming easier to carry. This is the most convenient feature of the Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit, but it also results in less efficient burn.

In terms of looks, the Inno Stage is not the most beautiful fire pit. It has a bit of a utilitarian and industrial look, which doesn’t make it a star of the backyard. There’s a trio of options for the finish: chrome, matte black, and faux terracotta. The last is our suggestion; it softens the look a bit. There are also multiple sizes (four in all) depending on your needs.

If you need a highly functional, well-priced fire pit or just want to dip your toe into the world of fire pits without committing too many funds, the Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit is your best entry point. It’s inexpensive enough to upgrade later without feeling regretful and functional enough to use it for a long time, squeezing every ounce of use out of what we consider the best-value smokeless fire pit.

Best under $100: Blue Sky Outdoor Living Ridge

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Specs

• Weight: 23.4 lbs
• Height: 12.49 in
• Material: Steel
• Structure: Two-piece construction
• Price: $79

Pros

• One piece tucks into the other for portability
• Assembly is quick
• Low price

Cons

• Not quite as efficient burn as other models
• Non-stainless steel means it’s a bit less durable and a bit harder to clean

Sometimes, price is the most important factor. If you want to get into the smokeless fire pit game for less than $100, choose the Blue Sky Outdoor Living Ridge. This two-piece smokeless fire pit has a similar tuck-in-and-carry construction as our best value option, the Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit, but an even lower base price. 

The design of the Ridge doesn’t allow air to flow as efficiently as higher-end models, meaning the smoke elimination is less impressive. However, it’s still an incredible improvement over typical fire pits. The matte black finish to the Ridge means it’s unobtrusive, but it’s also not a particularly attractive fire pit. Weight and size make the Ridge easy to move, and you’ll probably want to store it inside and bring it out to use it rather than leave it as patio furniture.

What to consider when choosing a smokeless fire pit

Smokeless fire pits offer a focal point for your patio set-up, allowing you to enjoy cooler days and nights in a comfortable and stylish way. To that end, picking the perfect smokeless fire pit means considering smoke elimination effectiveness, style, size, and durability.

Smoke elimination

When it comes to smoke elimination, all of these models will do an excellent job of minimizing the amount of smoke produced but the fire. This is due to airflow design, which allows for more complete combustion. Smokeless fire pits will have secondary fires popping out of the interior wall of the fire pit’s basin, using up more oxygen and producing very little smoke. The best models do this most efficiently, but even our recommended value and budget models do a great job.

Most of the design elements of smokeless fire pits are utilitarian due to wanting to offer the best possible airflow efficiency. The nicer models are sleep and round, while the budget models tend to have more edges or corners. A few of our models took their look more into consideration: the Tiki Fire Pit and the BioLite Fire Pit+ chief among them. Make sure you like the look of your fire pit if you’re planning to use it when entertaining guests. No matter how great the fire is, if the pit feels out of place and clashes with the motif you’re trying to achieve, you’ll be disappointed with your purchase.

Size

Most of the smokeless fire pits we recommend are medium-sized, built to be used with a smaller circle of people, maybe no more than 6. Portable models are best with 2 or 4. Larger models exist that can accommodate 8-10 people around them, but you’re looking at completely non-portable models at that point. In terms of warmth radius, most of these fire pits will be nice and toasty within 8 feet, but some of the smaller models will need a tighter formation.

Materials and durability

Lastly, durability is important as you want to be using your smokeless fire pit long term. Stainless steel is the material of choice. It holds up well to use and elements and is the easiest to clean. Some steel composite low-end models exist but should probably be avoided.

Fuel

While this list is entirely dedicated to wood-burning fire pits, you can also get propane-powered models that are much easier to get started. Check out our list of the best propane fire pits for options.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best smokeless fire pits

• Best overall: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
• Best for patios: BioLite Fire Pit+
• Best large: Tiki Fire Pit
• Best stainless steel: Breeo X Series 24
• Best portable: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0
• Best budget: Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit
• Best under $100: Blue Sky Outdoor Living Ridge

If you’re looking for a fire pit, smokeless is the way to go. There’s enough variety in the marketplace, with quality throughout, that choosing a model based on your particular needs is more involved than simply choosing the “best” model. From portable to large-scale patio-only models, our recommendations should make sure that your nights are toasty, your shadows flicker, and you enjoy fire whenever you wish.

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 smokeless fire pits for 2024 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.

Memorial Day is officially less than a month away, meaning it’s finally time to turn your current pool from “green, leafy, dead animal stew” to “clear, chloric, and classy.” I know you don’t want to interact with the sludge shellacking the entirety of your pool. Thanks to this Aiper pool vacuum deal at Amazon, you don’t have to.

Aiper Seagull Pro Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum $598.75 (Was $899.99)

SEE IT

This rechargeable and cordless pool vacuum has four motors and a gyroscope. The internal gyroscope provides smart navigation that allows the Seagull Pro to map the floor and walls of a pool. The powerful motors offer 130GPM (gallons per minute) of suction while bottom brushes sweep out leaves, dirt, and other debris. It cleans up to 3,200 square feet in the three hours of battery power it gets from each charge. All that together equals a robot that makes cleaning your pool a hands-off experience.

If you’re looking for a cheaper robotic pool cleaner, our budget pick, the Aiper Seagull SE, is 20 percent off. Also, you can get an additional $40 coupon with one easy click. Combined, you save almost $100 on an already price-friendly pool vacuum.

Here are more cool pool deals, just in time for summer:

• (2024 New) Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner $559.89 (Was $699.99)
• (2024 Upgraded) Aiper Scuba S1 Pool Vacuum for Inground Pools $578.79 (Was $699.99)
• Aiper Scuba SE Robotic Pool Cleaner $119.98 with $80 coupon (Was $199.98)
• Aiper Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner $159 (Was $299.99)
• Aiper Seagull 1000 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner $274.16 (Was $349.99)
• Polaris NEO Robotic Pool Cleaner $685 (Was $772.83)
• Clorox Pool & Spa XtraBlue 3” Swimming Pool Chlorinating Tablets $39.99 (Was $69.99)

The post Start your Memorial Day prep with up to 33% off Aiper pool vacuums 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 oscillating		NewAir AF-600 Outdoor Misting Fan		SEE IT	This burly fan turns to throw cool air and mist in a wide pattern. It’s great for larger groups or covering more area.
Best overall		Geek Aire Battery Operated Misting Fan		SEE IT	This powerful outdoor misting fan can work both on your back porch and easily travel to a campsite or jobsite.
Best battery-operated		RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit		SEE IT	No plug or electricity? No problem. This battery-operated portable mister has an adjustable fan, misting control, and a quiet pump for a cool that can go with you anywhere.

You can’t air condition the outdoors, but an outdoor misting fan provides the next best thing. These devices push cool air carrying clean mist across large spaces in order to keep everyone chill. Whether you prefer a wall-mounted option or a portable pick, here are the best ourdoor misting fans on the market.

• Best overall: Geek Aire Battery Operated Misting Fan
• Best battery-operated: RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit
• Best oscillating: NewAir AF-600 Outdoor Misting Fan
• Best handheld: HandFan Portable Handheld Misting Fan
• Best wall-mounted: HydroMist 18-inch Shrouded Oscillating Fan
• Best budget: HOMENOTE Fan Misting Kit for a Cool Patio Breeze

How we chose the best outdoor misting fans 

A standard fan can create a nice breeze, but it can’t match the cooling power that comes from a misting fan. For this list, we’ve relied on a combination of personal experience, consumer feedback, editorial reviews, expert opinions, and spec comparisons. The list started with more than two dozen options, some of which are still great, but didn’t quite make the list. We prioritized durability, versatility, and overall effectiveness when it came to make our decisions.

The best outdoor misting fans: Reviews & Recommendations

When it comes to cooling off, not everyone can afford an above-ground pool (and they’re not very portable, anyway). Luckily, there’s an outdoor misting fan for every occasion. Depending on your budget and needs, options like a budget-friendly misting fan conversion kit or a cordless misting fan are perfect for a camping trip. For more consistent use, misting fans that use a garden hose and electrical cord are the play. And for high-end outdoor entertainment areas that look like a Caribbean all-inclusive, you can have professionally installed outdoor oscillating fans, just like restaurants use. 

Best overall: Geek Aire Battery Operated Misting Fan

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 10.5 inches D x 19.3 inches W x 29.5 inches H 
• Weight: 23.4 pounds
• Power: One lithium-ion battery
• Water supply: Tank
• Price: $299

Pros

• Self-contained unit with tank
• Powerful
• Portable

Cons

• Some users say the battery doesn’t work well

Looking for an all-around cooling solution that you can use on the back porch and take camping? Consider the Geek Aire Battery Operated Misting Fan. This water mister provides an impressive 1500CFM (cubic feet of airflow per minute). Plus, you can rotate the fan up to 74 degrees for maximum cooling. It’s also equipped with two nozzles and a self-contained water tank that can spray mist up to 11.5 feet away. 

Powered by a detachable lithium-ion battery, this fan can provide continuous airflow for 3 to 23 hours, depending on whether you bring backup batteries. The included battery can also charge your other devices. This outside fan also comes with four casters that make it easy to move around your patio or job site but also locks to stay in place. Made of durable metal, this option is also a waterproof outdoor fan and can also be easily disassembled.

Best battery-operated: RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 15.75 inches H x 13 inches W x 10.4 inches D
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Water supply: Hose or bucket (not included)
• Price: $129

Pros

• Provides two separate speeds and misting levels
• Quiet
• Backed by a 3-year warranty

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately

The RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Bucket Top Misting Fan can be attached to a standard five-gallon bucket (not included) and powered with a rechargeable 18V battery (included). This portable misting fan offers an adjustable fan head with two separate high/low switches to adjust both the fan speed and the water flow. Use it on a full water bucket, or with a garden hose sitting on a level, hard surface for more flexibility (garden hose adapter included), and enjoy up to three hours of refreshment. The 1.3-amp 18V lithium-ion battery is included along with its six-hour charger.

Best oscillating: NewAir AF-600 Outdoor Misting Fan 

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 16.54 inches D x 20.28 inches W x 55.91 inches H
• Weight: 21.6 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Water supply: Garden hose
• Price: $149

Pros

• Powerful
• Three speeds
• Easily portable 
• Comes with safety features

Cons

• Some users say some of the components arrived damaged
• Power cord is short

With three fan speeds (the highest being 2,800 CFM, or cubic feet per minute), the NewAir AF-600 Outdoor Misting Fan cools 600 feet of outdoor space—that’s a patio that’s around 24 feet by 25 feet. This outdoor cooling fan can be used with or without the misting feature, adding more flexibility; this is especially helpful in outdoor dining areas where mist can cool down the food too. The all-metal design adds season-long durability, and the brown finish blends with outdoor furnishings. The wide-angle oscillation movement and an adjustable fan head allow for more cooling coverage. This large outdoor fan is 56 inches high and includes a garden hose connection. Finally, this outdoor mister features an inline GFCI electrical supply for added safety. 

Best handheld: HandFan Portable Handheld Misting Fan

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 1.57 inches D x 4.13 inches W x 8.07 inches H
• Weight: 6.7 ounces
• Power: Battery 
• Water supply: Internal tank
• Price: $23

Pros

• Provides three speeds
• Doubles as a facial steamer
• Lightweight and ideal for travel

Cons

• Doesn’t provide lots of cooling power
• Only covers a small space

When it’s hot outside, but you’ve got things to do and don’t have time to relax on the porch, HandFan’s Portable HandHeld Misting Fan can be handy. At 6.7 ounces, the plastic fan is lightweight but still provides three fan speeds. It’s foldable, so you can easily set it up on your desk or in a fitness class to provide some respite from the heat. The HandFan also comes with a clip so that you can attach it to a stroller or golf cart on a hot day.

This device is also designed with a 17-milliliter (.57-ounce) tank that you can fill with water, turning the device into a mister, personal humidifier, or facial steamer. The HandFan also comes with a USB cable that allows you to recharge it with a USB plug, PC, power bank, or car charger. And its compact size makes it easy to tuck into a carry-on bag when you’re traveling somewhere tropical.

Best wall-mounted: HydroMist 18-inch Shrouded Oscillating Fan

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 17 inches D x 20 inches W x 25 inches H
• Weight: 27.8 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Water supply: Hose and pump
• Price: $449

Pros

• Powerful
• Five misting nozzles to adjust flow
• Made from durable metal

Cons

• Pump and water supply line must be purchased separately
• May need professional to assemble

The HydroMist 18-inch Shrouded Oscillating Fan is a smaller version of its 24-inch misting fan preferred by restaurants. With several metal finishes, it complements your backyard oasis. This outdoor hanging fan features three settings to move air: 3500, 4200, and 5100 CFM. You’ll feel it, but your hair shouldn’t move. In addition to airflow settings, this unit includes five misting nozzles creating the finest mist on the market. The mounted fan requires a 3/8-inch high-pressure water supply line and a 1000 psi (pounds per square inch) water pump, both purchased separately. It can be installed by an experienced DIYer, though you might prefer to hire this job out.

Best budget: HOMENOTE Fan Misting Kit for a Cool Patio Breeze

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 7.2 inches D x 1.77 inches W x 7 inches H
• Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Power: Corded electric
• Water supply: Outdoor faucet or garden hose and tube
• Price: $17

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Works with a variety of fans
• Good for cooling pets

Cons

• Temporary solution
• Misting power determined by water flow

The Homenote Fan Misting Kit attaches to an existing stand fan with zip ties (included) and an outdoor water faucet (not included) to make a misting fan for under $20. The outdoor misting system features a preassembled unit with five removable misting nozzles in a ring that attaches to your existing fan with zip ties. The ring is connected to a black 16-foot-long tube that connects directly to an outdoor water faucet or another garden hose, and the flow of the water is controlled by the faucet’s pressure (with no way to adjust the flow at the fan). This is an excellent option for those needing an outdoor patio fan for occasional use, like during a temporary heat wave, or to cool off pets briefly during the summer.

Things to consider about the best outdoor misting fans

The basic concept of the science of cooling starts with an electric fan and a water supply (most likely a water hose). Outdoor misting fans take tiny water droplets and emit them through nozzles directly into the fan’s airflow. Using the thermal concepts of convection, conduction, and evaporation (remember those from your high school science class), a fan with water mist creates a cooler outdoor environment. 

When water droplets move through the air, each removes heat; this is called convection. The opposite is felt when hot air blows in your convection oven, producing even baking. Of course, people don’t like to bake, evenly or not, while sitting on the patio. Thankfully, the water from your hose is cooler than the temperature of your skin (about 98 degrees ). So when it hits your skin, it feels cooler; this is conduction. Finally, the fine water mist evaporates off your skin, giving you a cooling effect; this is evaporation, which is why it’s such a great way to stay cool without AC.

Portability

Not that long ago, misting fans were only for commercial installations, like restaurants with outdoor dining areas. Now backyard BBQ kings can find a full range of outdoor misting fans on the market to extend the comfortable cookout season. For those needing a portable misting fan, consider one that needs only an outdoor water supply and an electrical outlet. Ideally, portable fans are used on your deck, patio, or in your yard for temporary cooling relief from the heat. If you’re looking for maximum portability, then a neck fan might be the call.

Charging

Sometimes you end up somewhere quite hot away from home, like at a tailgating party. That’s when a battery-operated portable misting fan might fit your needs. It utilizes a rechargeable battery pack, cutting the cords. The fan unit is designed to sit on top of a five-gallon bucket, which you can fill with water before you leave home if it has a tight enough top. In addition, many support a garden hose as an alternate water source. 

Oscillation

Outdoor oscillating fans bring that circulating pleasure you’ve come to know indoors and transport it to the wider areas of your yard that need relief. A fan head moves from side to side in a sweeping motion, offering more cooling coverage. These types of units can be attached to a stand or mounted to the wall.

Your space

If your home features a well-defined outdoor area, like an outdoor kitchen or covered patio, a wall-mounted misting fan might be your go-to product. Ideally, use this type of fan in an area with a roof to protect the fan unit, which is mounted to the wall and will require both a water and electrical supply line to operate. Also needed will be a water pump to increase the water pressure, producing the finest water mist. There’s more involved, but this is a big step-up from the portable units. 

Price

For those who don’t plan on spending much time outdoors, consider a DIY conversion kit to transform any outdoor-friendly fan into a misting one. These kits are easy to test drive if you’re not ready to dive deep into the misting lifestyle. And this might be the best option for pet owners during the summer, as dogs need a cool place to hide out from the heat, but you might not want to spend hundreds. Just add a cooling mist to an area with shade and a concrete patio, and you can keep your best buddy happier outdoors if you’re away. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on choosing the best outdoor misting fans

• Best overall: Geek Aire Battery Operated Misting Fan
• Best battery-operated: RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit
• Best oscillating: NewAir AF-600 Outdoor Misting Fan
• Best handheld: HandFan Portable Handheld Misting Fan
• Best wall-mounted: HydroMist 18-inch Shrouded Oscillating Fan
• Best budget: HOMENOTE Fan Misting Kit for a Cool Patio Breeze

If you want to extend your outdoor enjoyment this summer, consider the best outdoor misting fan for your needs and your budget. With options ranging from using an existing outdoor cooling fan and a $20 conversion kit to professional units requiring a water pump, you can cool your outdoor environment this summer for you and your guests by tens of degrees. Don’t forget, your pets and plants will also benefit from a cooler outdoor environment. Who knows, your orchid plant might bloom again. If you’re still hot, go check out these tips for cooling down until your package arrives.

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 outdoor misting fans for staying cool in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

I am currently obsessed with all things mini right now. Look at this video of someone mopping their very tiny kitchen with a tiny heavy-duty mop. And here’s a miniature plant room complete with real wood floors, something I will never have in my own lifetime. Don’t even get me started on Mini Brands reveal videos and my personal favorite, Poppin Cookin’ “meals.” Not everything teensy tiny happens to be usable, however. That’s not the case with this Craftsman mini chainsaw, which is perfect for trimming smaller trees and shrubs. Why bring out the unwieldy big guy when you can get the job done with something lighter and less cumbersome?

CRAFTSMAN V20 Mini Chainsaw, 10 inch, Battery and Charger Included $119.99 (Was $169)

SEE IT

This cordless chainsaw has a V20* MAX 2.0AH lithium-ion battery, so you don’t have to worry about it crapping out when in the middle of a cut. Although we joke about it being a mini chainsaw, dainty it is not: its 10-inch bar and chain can cut material that’s eight inches thick. An auto-oiling feature allows for continuous lubrication, and bolt lock chain tensioning gives you consistent bar clamping. You can also use the integrated hook to hang it directly on a VERSATRACK wall organization system (sold separately). Sure, it won’t take down a Redwood, but it can slice through a cursed Bradford Pear like butter.

More Craftsman garden and lawn power tool deals:

• CRAFTSMAN V20 WEEDWACKER String Trimmer & Edger, Cordless $82.98 (Was $119)
• CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Edger Lawn Tool, Cordless Lawn Edger with Battery & Charger Included $129 (Was $159)
• CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Cordless Electric Pruner, Battery & Charger Included $99 (Was $149)
• CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 20 inch, Battery and Charger Included $99 (Was $139)
• CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX* Axial Leaf Blower Kit $82.98 (Was $139)

The post Tackle tiny trees with 30% off this mini Craftsman chainsaw 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 pool parties		Intex Party Island Flamingo		SEE IT	This fun model comes with a built-in cooler and four cup holders.
Best unicorn		Jasonwell Giant Unicorn Pool Float		SEE IT	Designed to hold up to 400 pounds, this allows for quick inflation.
Best for dogs		SwimWays Paddle Paws Dog Raft		SEE IT	This model is designed for small to medium dogs and is reinforced with claw-friendly fabric.

As we head into another sizzling summer, many of us are gearing up for our favorite hot-weather activities. One of the best ways to have fun and keep cool is to go for a dip in a refreshing pool. However, no poolside hang is complete without a leisurely float to lounge around on. These days, you can find fun inflatable pool toys in just about any shape or size, and some even come with special features. Considering the many options available, here’s a wet, hot guide to help you find your new favorite swimming pool float. Whether you’re searching for the best pool floats for yourself, your friends, your kids, or even your dog, these are the coolest pool inflatables for every sunbather. 

• Best overall: Aqua Campania Ultimate 2-in-1 Recliner 
• Best foam: Frontgate Resort Pool Float 
• Best for pool parties: Intex Party Island Flamingo 
• Best unicorn: Jasonwell Giant Unicorn Pool Float
• Best for babies: Laycol Baby Pool Float Ring
• Best for dogs: SwimWays Paddle Paws Dog Raft

How we chose the best pool floats

We looked at product reviews and consumer impressions to determine what floats a pool-goers boat when it comes to the best pool floats. After reviewing the specs—including dimensions, weight limits, cupholders, and other luxuries—we narrowed down our list to the inflatables that most float our … boat? Nay, our bodies.

The best pool floats: Reviews & Recommendations

While it may seem like a simple purchase, there are a few things to think about before clicking “add to cart.” First, determine how many people might be using the float at once, then make some executive decisions about size, style, and functionality. After all, there are pool chair floats, unicorn pool floats, and giant pool floats, just to name a few types. Quality, price, and safety—especially for babies, kids, and pets—are a few other very important considerations.

Best overall: Aqua Campania Ultimate 2-in-1 Recliner 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This versatile chair can accommodate different lounging vibes.

Specs

• Cupholders: Yes
• Weight limit: 250 lbs.
• Dimensions: 3.25 x 16.5 x 13.85 inches

Pros

• Detachable caddy
• Adjustable backrest
• Inflates easily

Cons

• Needs pump to fill

This reclining lounger from Aqua Campania is everything you need for a perfect pool day. The backrest can be positioned at a 60-degree angle for a little support, or lay the back completely flat to achieve a successful full-body tan. The Campania pool chair float comes with a detachable caddy for snacks, extra drinks, or personal items so you won’t be left wanting on the water. It can support up to 250 pounds and is easily inflated with a two-valve locking system. 

Best foam float: Frontgate Resort Pool Float

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This foam float was designed to last more than one pool season.

Specs

• Cupholders: No
• Weight limit: 350 lbs.
• Dimensions: 74 x 26 x 2 inches

Pros

• Thick
• Resists peeling and cracking
• Incredibly buoyant

Cons

• Expensive

This pool float is truly top of the line when it comes to peace and relaxation on the perfect pool day. The 2-inch, closed-cell foam is thin enough to keep you afloat but light enough for easy transport. Unlike traditional floats, this product uses PVC coating on top of the foam to reduce erosion caused by chlorine and sun exposure while keeping things plush. This foam pool float is available in eight solid colors, or be bold and select from two fun prints. While this product might be a bit more expensive than other inflatable pool floats, it will last longer and provide additional comfort. 

Best for pool parties: Intex Party Island Flamingo 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The more really is the merrier when it comes to this party-friendly pool float.

Specs

• Cupholders: Yes
• Weight limit: 880 lbs.
• Dimensions: 166 x 147 x 73 inches

Pros

• Lots of room for drinks and beverages
• Repair kit
• Boarding platform

Cons

• Need a large pool to use

This isn’t just a pool float—it’s a pool island, capable of supporting 880 pounds and measuring 166 inches by 147 inches by 73 inches. This Intex pink flamingo float comes with four cup holders, a built-in cooler, a detachable boarding platform, and a mesh bottom to let in cooling water. It’s even equipped with an anchor bag, rope, and repair kit just in case you need some extra support and stability. If the giant pool floats are too big for your pool, consider taking them to a nearby lake.

Best unicorn: Jasonwell Giant Unicorn Pool Float

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This mystical pool float puts the “fun” in “functional.”

Specs

• Cupholders: No
• Weight limit: 400 lbs.
• Dimensions: 114.17 x 55.12 x 47.24

Pros

• Fits two people
• Easy to inflate

Cons

• Leaks air easily

Make a splash with this giant unicorn pool float, designed to support up to 400 pounds (typically up to two people) at a time. It measures 144 inches by 55 inches by 47 inches when fully inflated, which you can achieve using a hairdryer, hand pump, or electric pump. Make sure you bring out the waterproof camera because you’ll definitely be bombarded with picture requests. 

Best baby pool float: Laycol Baby Pool Float Ring

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This pool float helps your baby learn to swim while protecting them from the sun.

Specs

• Cupholders: No
• Weight limit: 48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.5 x 10.5 x 2 inches

Pros

• 5-point safety protection
• Easy to remove

Cons

• Reviews note flip potential

Suitable for children under 36 months old, this baby pool float will support your little one’s first ventures into the water this summer. It has a double-layered air chamber, wide sides, a raised front, abdomen/back support, and a five-point safety belt to keep your baby right side up. Buckle in your guppy on their back or front so they can experiment with different ways to “swim.” You’ll be able to pull them around through the water easily while they kick and splash around. This float ring comes in three sizes and colors—each includes a removable canopy to protect little ones’ sensitive, soft skin from the sun. 

Best dog pool float: SwimWays Paddle Paws Dog Raft

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This dog-friendly pool float lets the family pooch cool off in the pool.

Specs

• Cupholders: No
• Weight limit: 200 lbs.
• Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 16.25 inches

Pros

• Paw- and claw-friendly
• Reusable carrying bag included

Cons

• Reviewers note flimsy air valve

Keep your fur baby happy with this inflatable dog raft from SwimWays. It’s available in two sizes, supporting dogs under and over 65 pounds. Made from claw-friendly mesh, this dog pool float features inserts that allow just enough water to seep in and cool down your pet. An innerspring design around the edge provides extra stability, and reinforced fabric protects the float from popping. Best of all, Fido’s float folds down flat, easily fitting in your pool bag without any hassle. 

What to consider when buying the best pool floats

Imagine yourself on the perfect summer day, dipping your toes into a freshly inflated pool with a frosty beverage in hand, a patio umbrella nearby to shade you when you take a break from the sun, a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to soundtrack your fun, and your favorite people by your side. Now, ponder the best pool float to complete this picture. If you’re having trouble visualizing, ask yourself the following questions to help turn this daydream into reality. 

Number of people on the float

First and foremost, you’ll need to decide how many people you’re hoping to pack on. Are you looking for a relaxing tube for one? A double-wide recliner built for two? Or a massive party float to hold a group of friends? Before you buy, double-check the product’s size specs to ensure you’re getting the dimensions you need, that way, you can safely select your favorite design and avoid any surprises when unboxing.

Statement pool toys

The best thing about pool floats is the veritable feast of eye-catching options. Hello, perfect pool day selfie! While there are several classy, solid-color options, summer is all about fun, and your float should inspire smiles. From llamas to pizza slices, giant pineapples to classic convertibles, there is truly something for everyone—including the fan-favorite unicorn pool float. 

Cupholders

If you’re looking to spend an entire day bobbing along the water, you’re going to need sustenance, which in turn means you’ll need a place to put your snacks. Instead of heading towards dry land to get some grub, grab a reclining pool float chair that comes with a food and beverage holder. That way, you won’t have to waste a second of aquatic fun to replenish and rehydrate. 

Safety

If you are headed to the pool with your baby in tow, and you know they aren’t ready for arm floaties, think about grabbing an inflatable ring, so you and your little one can enjoy the water together. Safety is of the utmost importance, so look for a no-flip float made from non-toxic material that’s equipped with safety belts to keep your tiny tot securely above water. In addition, make sure your little water bug has enough mobility to stay comfortable, but not so much room to move that they can accidentally fall out of the float. Products with raised edges and multiple straps are a great way to let your water baby splash around safely.

Foam vs. inflatable

Most inflatable pool floats are made from PVC plastic, which is great for buoyancy, dry-time, and easy inflation. However, some find that the material in inflatable pool floats can get too hot if left in the sun or that it irritates their skin over time—this is especially true for classic inner tubes and full-body recliners. Luckily, there are a few solutions. Some companies offer custom covers made from nylon or waterproof fabrics. Also, check out some of the amazing foam floats available. While foam floats tend to be pricier, they don’t require any inflation, are gentle on the skin, and provide soft, squishy support for maximum comfort. Plus, there’s no risk of popping and sinking. Even with an accidental puncture, foam pool floats are not likely to sink.

Pets

What’s cuter than a puppy lounging on a pool float? Not much! If your dog enjoys the water but isn’t keen to spend the day swimming, think about giving your four-legged friend their very own float as a special summer treat. Essentially a buoyant dog bed, dog pool floats are a fun way for you and your furry best friend to relax on the water. As long as you select a product made from durable material that can support your dog’s weight, nothing should get in the way of a perfect summer day alongside your canine BFF. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best pool floats

• Best overall: Aqua Campania Ultimate 2-in-1 Recliner 
• Best foam: Frontgate Resort Pool Float 
• Best for pool parties: Intex Party Island Flamingo 
• Best unicorn: Jasonwell Giant Unicorn Pool Float
• Best for babies: Laycol Baby Pool Float Ring
• Best for dogs: SwimWays Paddle Paws Dog Raft

Finding the best pool float for your perfect summer day shouldn’t be too difficult once you know what you want. First, make sure it can safely support any person or pet who will climb aboard, then think about any additions or aesthetic features. If you’re shopping for kids or preparing for a pool party, look for a silly or fun style. If you are looking for yourself and prioritize comfort above all else, think about purchasing a long-lasting foam float or a reclining pool chair float. Above all, make sure to select the best pool float for bringing a smile to your face whenever you’re ready to take a dip.

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 pool floats for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Summer is just around the corner, which means now is the time to get all the gear you’ll need for late-night outdoor hangs. Ninja is doing its part by offering the steepest discount yet on its Ninja Woodfire Pro XL. While smaller than a traditional grill, the Woodfire Pro XL excels in other ways—namely portability and price—that help it stay competitive.

Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker $339.99 (Was $399.99)

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This is an electric grill, which means you won’t have to lug around a propane tank or charcoal briquettes when you want to use it. Multiple heating elements below the grill’s grates keep temps consistent, while a knob on the left hand side allows you to switch between grill, smoke, air crisp, and bake settings. If you’re new to grilling, you can make use of the Woodfire Pro XL’s meat probes, which allow you to set a desired internal temperature before you insert them into your meat. The grill will beep when the meat has reached its target temperature and is ready to be removed. All of this functionality comes in a grill that’s small and light enough to be stored in a closet or garage shelf during the off season.

Other great deals for outdoor enthusiasts

• Ninja GR101 Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle $99.99 (was $139.99)
• Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill $169.99 (Was $279.99)
• Ninja IG651 Foodi Smart XL Pro 7-in-1 Indoor Grill/Griddle Combo $229.99 (Was $369.99)
• ThermoPro Twin TempSpike Wireless Meat Thermometer $109.99 (Was $179.99)
• OXO Good Grips Grilling Prep and Carry System $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• OXO Good Grips Hot Clean Grill Brush $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• OXO Good Grips Grilling 3pc Set $26.39 (Was $32.95)
• OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Grilling Skewers $11.99 (Was $14.95)

The post Get ready for summer with a $60 discount on Ninja’s Woodfire Pro XL outdoor grill & smoker appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		RTIC Soft Pack Cooler		SEE IT	The RTIC cooler offers an ideal balance of price and quality.
Best backpack		Yeti Hopper M20		SEE IT	The padded backpack straps make this cooler a breeze to carry.
Best budget		Arctic Zone Insulated Tote Cooler Bag		SEE IT	The budget choice offers a 30 can capacity for $40.

Gone are the days of only finding small, flimsy, poorly insulated soft coolers. Now, a much wider variety of soft-shelled coolers rival their rigid counterparts in ice retention while offering a much more portable, versatile alternative. They range from compact lunch size to all-day capacity, with various carrying capacities to save your shoulders. So whether you are headed to the beach, keeping groceries cool for the drive home, or out in the woods where you’ll need a camping cooler, the best soft coolers keep your items cool and safe. 

• Best overall: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler
• Best tote: Hydro Flask Day Escape Cooler Tote
• Best backpack: Yeti Hopper M20
• Best large capacity: Engel HD30
• Most durable: Yeti Hopper Flip
• Best budget: Arctic Zone Insulated Tote Cooler Bag

How we chose the best soft coolers

When selecting the best soft coolers, we aimed to choose various sizes and carrying styles suitable for all sorts of activities and needs. Ice retention and durability were two of the most important factors, as a cooler isn’t much good if it doesn’t keep things cold. We also evaluated closure types, opening sizes, and any additional pockets or features that the coolers may offer. Finally, we chose coolers at various price points while still ensuring quality products across the board. 

The best soft coolers: Reviews & Recommendations

A soft cooler is the way to go if you’re looking for a lightweight cooler to keep things cold, whether taking tasty treats to a friend’s party, going short-term camping, or even taking your foldable kayak out. These options are ideal for various activities and situations, so you can find one below that fits your needs. 

Best overall: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler

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Specs

• Capacity: 12 liters/20 cans (also available in 12, 30, or 40-can capacity)
• Closure type: Zipper
• Promised ice retention: 2 days 
• Empty weight: 3 pounds
• Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.75 x 15.5 inches

Pros

• Good balance of price and quality
• Floats
• Available in multiple colors and sizes
• Lots of handles

Cons

• Outside pocket is small and tight
• Narrow interior

The RTIC Soft Pack Cooler earns our top spot because it is reasonably priced while offering plenty of quality. It uses thick walls of closed-cell foam to keep things cool and is effective for a few days if you properly prime it. It features a removable padded shoulder strap, built-in carrying handles, and handles on the sides, offering plenty of ways to move the cooler around. 

This soft-sided cooler is quite durable. The exterior fabric is tear—and puncture-resistant, and the interior is puncture-resistant and waterproof to prevent leaks. The waterproof zipper also prevents leaks while keeping it sealed up tight to keep the cold air inside. The entire cooler floats, making it an ideal choice for any activities on the water. A small pocket on the front is the perfect place to store essentials, though it is a bit tight, so you won’t be able to store bulky things in there.

We really like the RTIC cooler’s wide mouth, making it easier to access your food and drinks. Unfortunately, the tall and narrow design takes some away from that easy access, but it’s still better than other options. It comes in four sizes and a range of colors, so you can choose one that best fits your needs and style. 

Best tote: Hydro Flask Day Escape Cooler Tote

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Specs

• Capacity: 26 liters (also available as 18-liter)
• Closure type: Zipper
• Promised ice retention: 36 hours
• Empty weight: 3 pounds
• Dimensions: 10.4 x 23.9 x 14.97 inches

Pros

• Lightweight when empty
• Fully leakproof
• Laser-cut gear attachment loops
• BPA-Free
• Comfortable strap

Cons

• Exterior pocket is mesh with no zipper

You likely know Hydro Flask for its insulated water bottles, but it also makes some excellent coolers. The Day Escape Cooler Tote is a lightweight yet large soft cooler, offering a 26-liter capacity. It’s also available in an 18-liter size if you want something smaller. When empty, it weighs just three pounds. It’s rigid enough that it holds its shape when you are loading or unloading, but it can compress slightly when empty to save space. 

The zipper on the Day Escape Cooler is a TRU Zip zipper, which is toothless, silent, and IP67-rated to prevent leaks. Getting it started the first few times is tricky, but it slides smoothly after that. The interior features a food-grade liner and is BPA-free. It’s waterproof and free of any folds or tight corners that might trap debris or liquid, making it easy to clean. There is an exterior pocket, but unfortunately, it’s made of mesh, so it won’t keep debris out, and there’s no zipper to keep things secure. 

The exterior of this cooler bag is made of a 600D polyester shell, which cuts down on weight and is very durable. There are handles on the sides, an adjustable and padded shoulder strap, and carrying handles. I haven’t had to carry it terribly far, but it’s comfortable for a short trek to the beach, at least. Hydro Flask promises 36 hours of ice retention, which isn’t as long as other soft coolers but impressive for its being lightweight. I left stuff in it overnight, and it was still plenty cold the next day, even with a small amount of ice.

Best backpack: Yeti Hopper M20

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Specs

• Capacity: 20 liters (also available in 12-liter capacity)
• Closure type: Magnetic
• Promised ice retention: Not provided 
• Empty weight: 5.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 9.9 x 15.3 x 18.1 inches

Pros

• Waterproof
• Unique magnetic closure
• Very comfortable and easy to carry
• Lots of attachment points

Cons

• Top is challenging to buckle closed
• Expensive

Even with padded shoulder straps, soft coolers can be a pain to carry. If you need to take a cooler on a hike, you’ll be grateful to have a backpack version. The Yeti Hopper M20 is the best backpack cooler available thanks to its range of features and level of quality. The straps are nicely padded, making it comfortable to carry even when loaded. There’s even a chest strap to keep is secure on your body even during serious hikes. Lots of attachment points allow you to add accessories or clip on keys or bottle openers and handles on the sides and top for extra carrying options.

One unique feature of the M20 is the leak-resistant magnetic closure instead of a zipper. It makes it easier to open and close without keeping on top of lubrication, and you don’t have to worry about the zipper breaking. It snaps closed audibly, so you can trust it’s sealed up. Then, you fold it and use the two buckles to lock it down. Getting the buckles closed is a little challenging, but pushing the air out of the cooler helps a lot. Plus, the whole thing is extremely durable and can withstand punctures, abrasions, and UV rays. 

As expected from a Yeti, it stays cold for a long time. We forgot to unload it after taking it to the beach and definitely did not properly prime the cooler beforehand (threw in room-temperature items and only two ice packs), yet there was still some ice a few days later. It will definitely stay cold for a long time with proper prep and the correct amount of ice. As you might guess, the Hopper M20 is expensive at around $300. But the durable design, comfortable backpack-carrying style, effective insulation, and magnetic closure make it stand out and worthy of our best splurge.

Best large capacity: Engel HD30 

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Specs

• Capacity: 30 liters
• Closure type: Zipper
• Promised ice retention: 3 days
• Empty weight: 4.5 Pounds
• Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 18 inches

Pros

• Comfortable shoulder strap
• Large capacity
• Durable
• Vacuum valve aids in keeping things cold

Cons

• Exterior pocket isn’t waterproof

The Engel HD30 is the way to go when you need lots of room. This soft cooler offers 30 liters of storage space yet weighs only 4.5 pounds when empty. Of course, as a larger cooler, it isn’t the easiest to carry, especially when packed full. But the shoulder strap is well padded, and the additional grab and side handles also give you carrying options. 

The Engel HD30 offers extremely effective insulation, keeping your food safe for up to three days. That’s partly thanks to the waterproof and air-resistant zipper that keeps the cold air in and warm air out. There’s also a unique vacuum valve, which allows you to use your household vacuum hose to suck out excess air between the insulation and outer waterproof layers.

The HD30 is incredibly durable and made of 840 denier fibers, which provides abrasion-resistant performance. There are six nylon daisy chains across the bag for attaching keys and other accessories, along with D rings near the top that can be used as tie-down points to keep it secure in the back of a pickup truck. A zippered pocket on the front is the perfect place to store a phone or some extra snacks, though it isn’t waterproof. 

Most durable: Yeti Hopper Flip 12

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Specs

• Capacity: 12 liters (also available in 8 or 18-liter versions)
• Closure type: Zipper
• Promised ice retention: 3 days
• Empty weight: 3 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.3 x 10.7 x 12.0 inches

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Wide opening
• Effective insulation
• Floats

Cons

• Expensive

Yeti is well known for its excellent coolers (like our best overall cooler with wheels), and the Hopper Flip is no exception. Available in 8, 12, or 18-liter capacities in a variety of colors, the Hopper Flip offers a wide opening for easy access and visibility. The wide opening and seamless interior make cleaning easier since there are no nooks or crannies to hide food or liquid. 

Both the interior and exterior are treated to be mildew resistant, extending the life of the cooler even if you forget to clean it out for a few days. The exterior withstands punctures, abrasions, and UV rays so that it will look nicer for longer, even with rugged adventures. It is waterproof and leakproof, with excellent insulation to keep your items cold for up to three days. 

The Hopper Flip features a well-padded shoulder strap for more comfortable carrying, as well as handles on the lid and sides. Daisy chains on the front and back make it easy to attach accessories or tie it down in your vehicle. As is true of all things Yeti, it is a premium product and on the expensive side. But you are getting a lot of quality and durability for that price, so we think it’s worth it for those who want a long-lasting, versatile, soft cooler (and that’s why the 18-liter size is the best overall pick in our best cooler bags). 

Best budget: Arctic Zone Insulated Tote Cooler Bag

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Specs

• Capacity: 30 liters
• Closure type: Zipper
• Promised ice retention: 3 days
• Empty weight: 1.78 pounds
• Dimensions: 22.00 x 10.00 x 14.50 inches

Pros

• Microban lining prevents odors
• Very lightweight
• More packable than other options
• Affordable

Cons

• Zipper isn’t leakproof

You don’t need to spend a small fortune to have a good soft cooler. The Arctic Zone Insulated Tote comes in under $40 but offers a 30-liter capacity with an exterior zip pocket. Despite the large capacity, it only weighs 1.78 pounds, making it the lightest soft cooler on our list. It isn’t rigid like some other options, so is somewhat collapsible, which may benefit some. 

The interior of this Arctic Zone tote measures 16.75 by 7.75 by 13.25 inches, which allows for some larger items. The interior lining is leakproof and features Microban antimicrobial protection to prevent odors should you forget to clean it out right away (or store stinky things in it). The base is extra thick so that the cold air doesn’t seep out, and it promises up to three days of ice retention. 

On the exterior you’ll find a padded shoulder strap with side carrying handles as well. A zippered pocket on the exterior stores keys and other essentials. Unfortunately, the zipper isn’t leakproof, and some report that it isn’t very durable, so it may not last as long as other coolers on our list. But the Arctic Zone Insulated Tote will get the job done if you just need a simple soft cooler that doesn’t take up much room for kids’ sporting events or car camping trips. 

What to consider when shopping for the best soft coolers

When shopping for a soft cooler, it’s important first to consider what you will be using the cooler for. A quick day trip has quite different requirements than a week-long vacation. Likewise, keeping some drinks cool is a lot different than keeping raw meat cold enough to be safe to eat. Knowing the primary purpose of the cooler will help you narrow in on the most important of the following factors: 

Capacity 

Choosing the right cooler capacity will ensure you have plenty of room for your food, drinks, and ice. Cooler capacity is frequently listed in reference to the number of cans it can fit. Some companies also list capacity in terms of quarts or liters. You’ll also want to keep in mind that the shape of the items you need to store in the cooler, as well as the shape of the cooler itself, will impact the practical capacity. 

What size is best depends on what you will be using the cooler for. You can get away with small coolers for short outings or lunch purposes, while multi-day trips will require quite a lot of room. 

Shape and structure

Nowadays, most soft coolers offer a rigid structure, keeping their shape even when empty. There are also collapsable coolers that allow you to pack them down. There aren’t a ton of options for these, but they are convenient for road trips or other times when space is limited. 

In terms of shape, some will offer a fully rectangular shape, which can make it easier to pack and access things at the bottom of the cooler. Others may have a narrower top compared to the base, making it difficult to access things at the bottom and limiting the size and shape of containers that can be stored at the top.  

Carrying style

Most soft coolers use a shoulder strap or hand straps for carrying. Ideally, the straps should have some padding, as even smaller coolers can get quite heavy when filled up. The shoulder strap works well for short distances, but can be challenging for walking a ways. If you know you’ll carry the cooler for longer distances, a backpack soft cooler may make more sense, as it distributes the weight more evenly and keeps the cooler out of the way while walking. 

Weight

While the soft cooler will inevitably be heavy when you fill it up, the empty weight is also important to consider. If it’s on the heavy side before you put things in it, that’s not a great sign. Weight becomes more important if you need to hike or walk with the cooler, so, in general, lightweight is better. 

Cutting down on weight does have a downside, though, usually resulting in less insulation or rigidity. There’s a balance to be had, to be sure. 

Compartments, extra pockets, and attachment points

Some (though not many) coolers will offer compartments inside to keep your items organized, which is helpful if you have lots of things to store. Certain offerings will also feature exterior pockets, making it easier to store items that don’t need to be in the cooler, such as utensils or even keys and phones. Finally, some utilize attachment points to attach items with straps or to connect accessories that you can purchase separately. 

Ice retention

Of course, none of the above features matter if the cooler doesn’t keep your items cold. Most manufacturers will promise some ice retention, but remember that those numbers are for very specific conditions. In the real world, how you prep the cooler, how often you open it, if there’s direct sunlight, and the ambient temperature will all impact how long the ice lasts. 

How much ice retention you need depends on what you use the cooler for. If you only use the cooler to transport your lunch to work or groceries home from the store, days’ worth of ice retention is overkill, and you’ll be spending money on something you don’t need. However, if you plan on taking the cooler on long camping trips or beach days in the hot sun, superb insulation for long ice retention will be a must. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best soft coolers

• Best overall: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler
• Best tote: Hydro Flask Day Escape Cooler Tote
• Best backpack: Yeti Hopper M20
• Best large capacity: Engel HD30
• Most durable: Yeti Hopper Flip
• Best budget: Arctic Zone Insulated Tote Cooler Bag

Gone are the days when your options for keeping things cool were flimsy insulated coolers, brittle styrofoam coolers, or heavy ice chests. There is certainly no shortage of high-quality soft coolers available these days, with options for just about every purpose under the sun. What is best depends on what you intend to store in it, where you need to take it, and how you prefer to carry it. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best soft coolers for chilling out in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Anker Soundcore 3		SEE IT	A well-rounded speaker with a solid build that won’t break the bank.
Best for a party		Tribit XSound Mega		SEE IT	A speaker equipped with flashy features for a fraction of the price.
Best for travel		JBL Clip 4		SEE IT	A super portable speaker  designed to move with you thanks to its carabiner-like design.

There is no shortage of Bluetooth speakers under $100, even $50, which can make choosing the right one for your listening needs particularly difficult. While you’d think a less expensive option might not boast outstanding audio quality or unbeatable battery life, there are many models that are going to deliver exactly what you need when it comes to wire-free listening. Hone in on your top priorities and search accordingly. Do you need something waterproof? A speaker that will clip onto a backpack? Or maybe something extra bass to bump at a party? When it comes to the best budget Bluetooth speakers, it’s okay to focus on one or two central features so you get the most bang for your buck. Here are picks for speakers that can fit your needs and your budget.

• Best overall: Anker Soundcore 3
• Best for bass: Sony SRS-XB100
• Best waterproof: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best for travel: JBL Clip 4
• Best budget: Oontz Angle 3
• Best party speaker: Tribit XSound Mega
• Best for (viewing) parties: EarFun UBOOM L
• Best smart speaker: Amazon Echo (4th Gen.)

How we chose the best budget Bluetooth speakers

Many of the speakers recommended here have been personally tested by myself or our team, which is why we confidently recommend this selection. We retested some of our personal favorites and compared them to new units from other reputable brands with a focus on sound quality. While smaller portable speakers can’t deliver audio that’s as precise as premium stereo or multi-channel models, we made sure to pick products that preserve the integrity of our favorite albums. To further pare down the list, we only looked at speakers that currently retail for under $115, primarily focusing on those around $50, while paying particular attention to durability, portability, and battery life. Then, we considered special features like onboard controls, EQ customization, and connectivity to bring you the best of the best when it comes to affordable Bluetooth speakers. 

The best budget Bluetooth speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

If you visit my apartment, you will immediately see a veritable wall of Bluetooth speakers, large and small. I have what some may call a deep enthusiasm for portable sound that doesn’t require equally deep pockets or corners. And I’ve found that the best cheap Bluetooth speakers don’t have to sound dinky. In fact, many options provide solid sound for less. While shopping, consider your top priorities for your budget-friendly speaker. Do you emphasize battery life, portability, water resistance, or sound quality? Once you can answer this question, you can pick out an excellent speaker from our picks without spending a fortune.

Best overall: Anker Soundcore 3

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Why it made the cut: The Soundcore 3 is a well-rounded, budget-friendly Bluetooth speaker with an impressive 24 hours of battery life and the option to boost the bass without distortion. 

Specs 

• Battery Life: 24 hours 
• Bluetooth Range: Up to 66 feet
• IP Rating: IPX7
• Size: 6.9 x 2.4 x 2.2 inches  

Pros

• Excellent Battery Life 
• Sound Quality 
• Bass Up technology 
• Customizable EQ 

Cons

• Simplistic design
• Voice assistant capability is lacking

The Soundcore 3 is a robust, portable Bluetooth speaker that won’t cost an arm and a leg, making it the best budget Bluetooth speaker overall. Available in four colors, this powerful unit utilizes 16 watts of power to push dual 1.5-inch drivers with titanium diaphragms. Meanwhile, dual passive radiators combine with improved BassUp technology to analyze music in real-time and work to punch up the low-end during your favorite bass-driven songs. Alongside BassUp, there are three additional preset EQs you can choose from, or customize your own using the Soundcore app. The treble on the Soundcore 3 stretches all the way up to 40kHz. Bluetooth 5.0 offers a consistently stable connection and PartyCast compatibility means you can link up to 100 Soundcore speakers for a truly impressive array of sound. To get a full battery faster, this speaker charges via USB-C, and the 24-hour battery life beats more expensive models. While $55 isn’t the steepest cost if you needed a replacement, an IPX7 rating means you won’t have to worry about water damage if you get caught in the rain or drop it in the pool. And if you’re definitely planning to fill a patio with friends, there’s also the Anker Soundcore Glow Mini, an outdoor-friendly speaker that offers 360-degree sound, a pulsing LED halo, and IPX7—all for less than $50.

Best for bass: Sony SRS-XB100

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Why it made the cut: The SRS-XB100 is a compact, portable waterproof speaker that automatically boosts the bass for party-worthy sound wherever you are. 

Specs

• Battery Life: 16 hours 
• Bluetooth Range: Up to 32 feet
• IP Rating: IP67
• Size: 3.43 x 3.43 x 4.41 inches 

Pros

• Removable strap
• UV coating 
• Five cool colorways
• Extra Bass 

Cons

• Extra bass isn’t adjustable 

If you’re looking for a compact speaker that weighs less than 1 pound and costs less than $50 but doesn’t sacrifice bass-booming sound, then the SRS-XB100 is the best bass Bluetooth speaker for you. With a 20Hz – 20kHz frequency response and a dedicated passive radiator to reinforce low-end, your music won’t be found lacking when it comes to heart-thumping beats. An IP67 rating means it’s protected from water and debris, so you can toss it into your beach bag without worrying about sand getting into the speaker grill. Available in five modern colors, each unit comes with a matching multiway strap, so you can easily carry the speaker if you run out of room in your backpack, or hang it up for easy access at a pool party. With an extra XB100 speaker, you can enable stereo mode, and a USB-C port means you can charge quickly to keep the party going all night long. And the integrated microphone means you can have a conference call from the campfire.

Best waterproof: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3

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Specs

• Battery life: 14 hours
• Bluetooth range: 131 feet
• IP rating: IP67
• Size: 3.68 x 3.68 x 4.02 inches

Pros

• Easily portable 
• Can be submerged for up to 30 minutes 
• Impressive volume 

Cons

• No microphone 
• No USB-C charging

The WONDERBOOM 3 from Ultimate Ears is a great option for any listener who needs the perfect shower speaker or pool-party pal. The unique design is an immediate eye-catcher, and the sound quality is genuinely impressive for its size. Power by two active drivers and two passive radiators, coverage is pretty great with solid reproduction across the lows, mids, and highs. Granted, it doesn’t have the heart-pounding bass a larger speaker would, but will certainly do for poolside, lakefront, or river raft listening.  Plus, it can be paired with a second WONDERBOOM for even better stereo sound. An Outdoor Boost button at the bottom of the speaker adjusts the sound to suit your environment better.

If you’ve ever seen a picture before of the WONDERBOOM 3, chances are it’s bobbing around in a pool or being sprayed with water from a rogue splash. This is, yes, because of target ads, but also because this tiny but mighty speaker is genuinely well-suited for “aquatic” listening. The IP67 rating means it’s essentially waterproof. Specifically, you can submerge this model in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. It’s okay to accidentally drop this speaker in the pool, bathtub, or ocean. This rating also means it’s also protected from dust and debris. 

Build-wise, you get a stable rubber loop at the top of the speaker that can easily clip to a backpack or make for easier carrying. You’ll also get large, easy-to-use onboard controls, so you won’t have to get your pruney wet fingers all over your smartphone just to change the volume or skip a song. The WONDERBOOM 3 comes in four fun colors, including “Hot Pink” and “Performance Blue.” (And, if you dig the aesthetic and budget becomes less of a concern, the new, admittedly much more expensive EPICBOOM brings a lot more bass and even more battery to the party, while remaining floatable.)

Best for travel: JBL Clip 4

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Specs

• Battery life: 10 hours
• Bluetooth range: 32 feet
• IP rating: IP67

Pros

• Excellent design
• USB-C charging
• Good volume

Cons

• No fast charge 
• No wired connectivity

The JBL Clip 4 is a small speaker designed to keep you connected wherever your travels take you. Weighing just over half a pound, with an integrated carabiner clip, you can attach this speaker to your backpack, suitcase, bike handle, lunch box, belt loop, etc. There are rubberized grips on the speaker’s backside to increase stability, and the textured wrap covering most of the speaker is easy to hold onto. All in all, this is the easiest speaker to grab and go if you’re hiking or cycling; plus, it has an IP67 rating, so you can even attach it to your shower rod, beach tent, or foldable kayak (yes, it’s a thing).

Sound quality is pretty solid for such a small unit thanks to an impressive dynamic driver; plus, it can get loud for a 5-watt output (JBL knows how to build a potent party speaker and sensational shower speaker). Yes, it’s a little lacking in low-end, but that’s par for the course. Overall, this little guy sounds great. Sound can be controlled by five onboard buttons and charges via USB-C. 

If you don’t want to play the $80 market price for the Clip 4, check out early models, like the Clip 3, which are still available for just under $50.

Best budget: Oontz Angle 3

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Why it made the cut: With an impressive connectivity range, solid battery life, and thousands of positive user reviews, the Oontz Angle 3 is one of the best budget Bluetooth speakers for those looking to spend less than $35.

Specs 

• Battery Life: 14 hours 
• Bluetooth Range: Approx. 100 feet 
• IP Rating: IPX5
• Size: 5.3 x 2.8 x 2.6 inches

Pros

• Extended Connectivity Range
• Price
• Stereo Drivers

Cons

• Not fully environment-proof 
• Limited onboard controls 
• Sound quality is just okay

While the Angle 3 isn’t touting many bells and whistles, it will have what you need to take tunes with you on the go. It’s got 10 watts that power acoustic stereo drivers, as well as a passive radiator—all wrapped up in 10 different colorways. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, this wedge-like speaker delivers a strong connection across 100 feet and is compatible with most current devices. With its IPX5 rating, you won’t want to toss this model into the pool, but you don’t need to worry about a few splashes or drops of rain. While the volume is certainly there, don’t expect a lot when it comes to wide stereo, booming bass, or true clarity across mids and highs. It’ll do the trick for lite listening on the go, but it won’t necessarily stand up to other, more expensive models. That being said, if you just need something that’s far preferable to silence, the Angle 3 should do the trick.

Best party speaker: Tribit XSound Mega

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Why it made the cut: Boosted bass, additional EQ presents, and a veritable light show deliver a high-end listening experience at a reasonable price. 

Specs

• Battery Life: 20 hours 
• Bluetooth Range: Up to 98 feet
• IP Rating: IPX7
• Size: 10.66 x 3.42 x 3.14 inches 

Pros: 

• 3 listening modes 
• Dual charging/powerbank ports  
• Music-activated lighting 
• Carrying strap 

Cons: 

• Some distortion at high volumes 
• Pricier

If you’re having a gathering with more people you’re going to want more sound, and that may mean spending a little more, so here’s the best Bluetooth party speaker if your budget can stretch slightly above $100. The Tribit XSound Mega, released in early January, follows the waterproof, outdoor-friendly, ultraportable XSound Go models with a similar form factor but significant upgrades when it comes to sound quality and visual appeal. 

Right out of the box, the Mega feels sleeker than some of its contemporaries with a texturized rubber surface that’s easy to grip, a black speaker grill, a discrete brand label, and smooth, integrated onboard controls. These seven intuitive buttons control power, Bluetooth pairing, play/pause, volume down, volume up, light adjustment, and EQ adjustment. Directly underneath the EQ Mode button are three indicators that will tell you which mode has been triggered: options include XBass, Music, and Audiobooks. At the back of the speaker is a rubber panel housing USB-A and USB-C ports for charging/using the 8000mAh battery as a powerbank to top off other devices, plus an AUX input. The included carrying strap is black and grey with silver hardware and two small carabiners easily clip onto the discrete embedded handles, which certainly helps shoulder the speaker’s 2.2 pounds. The visual pièce de résistance is the frame of LEDs that surrounds the front face of the speaker—a rainbow gradient of light that slowly cycles through colors while you pair your device. 

Bluetooth 5.0 pairing is simple and easy, following the standard protocol of most speakers. The Mega is also equipped with NFC (Near-Field Communication), this is the same technology that allows you to tap your phone at a point-of-purchase to use ApplePay or Android Pay. NFC eliminates the need to push buttons and scroll through settings by allowing you to simply tap your speaker and phone together to establish a secure connection. Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t equipped any of their phones with controllable NFC modes, so you can only take advantage of this function if you have an Android or another device running Windows 10 or higher. The final pairing option you can consider is Broadcast Mode, which will allow you to link more than 100 XSound Megas together for a boost in volume or stereo playback. 

When it comes to sound quality, this Tribit speaker has the thump if not exactly the clarity and soundstage of comparable models, like the JBL Charge 5. An impressive 30 watts power a driver with a pure titanium diaphragm, which combines with two passive radiators to reproduce low frequencies to 45Hz and high frequencies up to 14kHz. Audiobook mode successfully isolates the dulcet tones of Jim Dale, who you might recognize as the reader of the Harry Potter series, though the audio can get a little muddy if you are listening to a music- or sound design-heavy podcast. However, Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan’s sultry vocals and staccato keys on “Come Undone” are smooth and clear when Music mode is triggered. The low-end on Subtrakt’s “Wildfire” is big and bold when XBass is engaged, delivering a party-appropriate level of “thump” to get things going without overpowering the vocals. The volume can reach over 100 dB but some distortion does occur when pushed to its max, though that is to be expected from a speaker of this size. 

One of our favorite features is the light display, which flashes in time with the beat of whatever you are playing. You can select from different options: a continuous oval of rainbow lacing glowing around the speaker grill’s perimeter; colors pulsing rhythmically in a symmetrical left/right or top/bottom pair, almost mimicking the metering you’d see on a recording studio console or DAW; or a circuit traveling the display track changing color, speeding up and slowing down in time with the beat. You can also forgo the light display altogether, but a 20-hour battery life keeps all that flair from fading fast.

While this model is a bit more expensive than other budget-friendly models, you will certainly get what you pay for when it comes to audio quality and special features.

Best for (viewing) parties: EarFun UBOOM L

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Why it made the cut: Its wide, rich sound, surprising for a speaker this size, delivers a powerful listening experience at a reasonable price. 

Specs

• Battery Life: 16 hours 
• Bluetooth Range: up to 50 feet
• IP Rating: IP67
• Size: 8.27 x 3.07 x 2.83 inches 

Pros 

• Video mode 
• Aux connection available 
• Stereo Pairing

Cons 

• Short charging cable 
• Only available in black

The UBOOM L from EarFun is a budget-friendly Bluetooth speaker that delivers surprisingly impressive sound. While the texturized black grill, rubber trim, and raised buttons resemble its predecessors and contemporaries (like the Treblab HD77 or JBL Flip 5), its price:performance helps this compact speaker stand out in the sub-$100 crowd. Two 14-watt, 55mm drivers and dual passive radiators support potent but balanced playback across the full frequency range. Bluetooth 5.0 supports a stable connection for up to 100 feet of distance. Multiple devices can connect to the UBOOM L, so you can easily pass along the party playlist responsibilities; to really kick things up a notch, you can easily create a stereo pair using two UBOOM Ls, widening coverage and essentially doubling volume (great for gatherings). Three listening modes are available: Indoor, Outdoor, and Video—the most unique of the bunch. Using digital signal processing (DSP) technology, Indoor mode focuses on sonic clarity and depth, while Outdoor mode boosts volume and low-end bump. Video mode supports low-latency playback with lag reduced to 150ms, making it an excellent solution to greatly improve sound when watching movies and TV shows from a laptop or other device with smaller internal speakers. A built-in microphone makes hands-free calls an option, and an IP67 rating means the appropriately portable speaker is protected from dirt and water damage when you take it to the pool or on a trek.

Best smart speaker: Amazon Echo (4th Gen.)

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Why it made the cut: For under $100, the 4th-gen. Amazon Echo is the perfect at-home speaker with a built-in microphone, impressive sound quality, and multiple connectivity options. 

Specs

• Battery Life: Not rechargeable 
• Bluetooth Range: 30 feet
• IP Rating: None
• Size: 5.7 x 5.7 x 5.2 inches

Pros

• Sound quality 
• Auxiliary port 
• Built-in mic 

Cons

• Not portable 
• Not waterproof 

While the Amazon Echo is not a speaker you can take with you on the go, it is the best option for indoor listening if you’re assembling a smart-home system around Alexa. Like its Echo predecessors, the 4th-generation model is easy to use and compatible with many smart devices, doubling as a smart home hub for those who have smart lights, switches, doorbells, locks, and more. Even without the extra fixtures, Amazon’s voice assistant Alexa can help you set up timers, reminders, check the weather, call your family and friends, or call up your favorite playlists. The built-in microphone and speaker capabilities make for streamlined, hands-free communication. Installing more than one Echo in your home means you can program and sync multiroom music.

Available in three sleek colorways, the Echo will not only look good but sound good, with dual front-firing 0.8-inch tweeters and surprising bass thanks to a 3.0-inch neodymium woofer. These three drivers combine to deliver a satisfying thump and improved clarity, plus they support Dolby Audio (but not Dolby Atmos). Wi-Fi enabled, you can cast music from your phone if you’re on the same network or let it take direct advantage of connected services like Amazon Music HD, Audible, or Spotify Connect if you want to reserve your Bluetooth for another device.  

The Echo orb is equipped with onboard controls that will allow you to control volume, mute the microphone, or skip tracks. An LED ring at the base of the speakers will illuminate when Alexa has been activated and glow red when the microphone is muted. At the back of the speaker, you’ll find a power input port and an aux port for analog connections. The Echo is not a portable speaker, so it will need to stay plugged in at all times, though the Bluetooth 5.0 connection means you can play from just about any smart device in your home (and most rooms, depending on the layout of your walls).

Here are other options we think sound like a good investment:

• Best battery life: Tribit XSound Go
• Best ultraportable: JBL GO 3
• Best compact connected speaker: Echo Dot (5th Gen)
• Best to strap on a bike: Tribit StormBox Micro 2
• Best with RGB lights: TREBLAB HD-Mini

Things to consider before buying the best budget Bluetooth speakers

In order to find the best budget Bluetooth speaker for you, think about what features will be a defining factor in your final decision. Are you prioritizing battery life? Volume? Portability? When it comes to inexpensive speakers, you might not have all the fancy features of a high-end model at your fingertips, but as long as you know what you want to focus on, you’ll be satisfied. 

What should a budget Bluetooth speaker sound like? 

Sound quality is typically a top priority, no matter what kind of speaker you’re looking at. While we cannot expect a 6-inch speaker to carry the same sonic weight as a set of premium monitors, you can still make smart choices if you value sound above the rest. 

First and foremost, if you want better sound you’ll have to sacrifice a little bit of portability. That’s because larger units are generally more equipped to maintain consistent, distortion-free audio even as you turn the volume up (a common critique of compact speakers is that though they can get pretty loud, the audio quality significantly degrades with each decibel). Bigger speakers also have more room for well-designed subwoofers, which provide an accurate low end that won’t totally overpower the mids and highs, making for a more satisfying mix.  

If you really want booming bass but can’t upgrade when it comes to size, many smaller units now come equipped with “bass boosting” technology that uses digital signal processing to put an emphasis on low-end frequencies that bumps without any rattle. While this can be a major pro for parties or at-home workout playlists, beware of speakers that use these boosts to overcompensate for a lack of clarity throughout other frequencies. 

To learn more about where your new speaker will succeed or fall short when it comes to audio quality, look at the frequency response. Measured in hertz and kilohertz, this range lets you know the range of frequencies (lows, mids, and highs) the speaker will support. More often than not, you’ll see a response range from 20Hz – 20kHz, which are the limits of human hearing for both highs and lows. This is certainly an ideal range; however, just because the model boasts a wide range doesn’t mean it won’t suffer from dips and peaks around specific frequencies. For a really in-depth understanding of the speaker’s success at accurately reproducing audio, you can take a look at a frequency response graph for the product, often created with audio testing by a third party.  

For more information about volume, check out the speaker’s specs to find a maximum decibel level, notated as dB. If you are primarily playing music inside, you won’t need to go over 100 dB and we don’t even recommend listening at that level, as it’s akin to listening to a jackhammer at close range. On the other hand, if you’re hosting an outdoor party with many people in attendance, you could think about increasing the volume to 115 dB, which is concert-level; music at this volume will cover a large area, but you wouldn’t want anyone standing too close. Generally speaking, we are satisfied with Bluetooth speakers that maintain good sound quality at 85 dB for larger gatherings. As I write, I am happily listening to music at 74 dB and really don’t require any more volume. 

What’s the deal with codecs and connectivity?

While options can be limited when it comes to budget speakers, we recommend looking for gear that supports the most recent version of Bluetooth you can find (at the moment that’s anything in the 5.0 range). A Bluetooth 5.1 or 5.2 and especially 5.3 or 5.4 speaker will have a more stable connection, which makes it easier to support brand-specific features like allowing more than one person to connect and control the speaker at a time. Bluetooth 4.0 will still function just fine with most devices, but you may miss out on some range, stability, and special features like multiuser pairing. 

A Bluetooth codec describes the way in which your digital audio data is encoded and decoded from a source device to your speaker or headphones. To get the most from these high-speed transfers both your receiver and transmitter need to be equipped with the same codecs. The most common codec to see is SBC, which is supported by every Bluetooth speaker. While not the highest quality codec, it’s a virtually universal, reliable way to transfer data. If you’re an iOS user looking for higher quality, consider a speaker with AAC, or Advanced Audio Coding. If you have an Android smartdevice, select a speaker with aptX/aptX HD/aptX Adaptive (or LDAC) support for faster transfer rates that preserve more data. 

One final thing to keep in mind when considering connectivity is Bluetooth range. This describes how far you can wander away from your device before the sound starts to get fuzzy and eventually you get disconnected. If you plan to never leave your speaker’s side, you’ll probably be fine with a connectivity range under 30 feet. However, if you’re listening to music outdoors, need to go inside, and you don’t want to leave your phone unattended, then look for a speaker with a range above 35 feet. 

What kind of special features should you look for?

Typically, the best budget Bluetooth speakers lack high-flying special features, though this isn’t always the case. If a Bluetooth speaker provides custom EQ options via an app or onboard control, that is a major win. Custom equalization will give you way more control over your sound and is particularly helpful if you are listening to various types of media—as you certainly won’t need to boost the bass when you’re listening to Terry Gross on “Fresh Air.” Some inexpensive models are starting to roll out visual features first employed by higher-end models, like bold colorways or LED panels that pulse to the beat. 

Another prime feature to look for is the elusive onboard microphone that will let you conduct phone calls or speak to voice assistants like Siri or Alexa without having to pick up your device. 

What is the bare minimum when it comes to battery life? 

Luckily, one of the things budget Bluetooth speakers rarely sacrifice is battery life. Even at a lower price, it’s unlikely you’ll come across a model that has less than a 10-hour charge and many can do even better. For infrequent listening at moderate volume, 10 hours of playback could last you up to a week; however, the louder you play your music, the faster battery life will be depleted. If a speaker boasts 13 hours of consistent playback, you may get something closer to 7-10 hours if you’re blasting EDM all night long. Party throwers and party-goers should look for a model that boasts a battery that can last over 12 hours. 

How do you know if your budget Bluetooth speaker is actually waterproof? 

The only way to guarantee your speaker is waterproof (or dustproof) is to look at its IP rating. If you’ve ever purchased a portable speaker before or checked out one of our other reviews, you’ll know that IP rating is one of the most important specs to check out before buying. This is especially true if you know you want to prioritize outdoor use. If you want a speaker to safely take you to the beach or into the shower—make sure you investigate how well it’s already protected from the elements.

IP stands for “Ingress Protection,” which tells you just how fortified an electronic device is against dirt, dust, and water. These ratings are typically composed of two numbers, or one number and an X. We often cite the Wonderboom 2, a tried-and-true favorite, when it comes to durability. The Wonderboom 2 has an IP67 rating. The first digit describes particle protection, the second liquid. The “6” indicates it can keep out most dust and dirt particles, while the “7” means it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes before any damage occurs, making it a great option for poolside tunes. The higher the number, the more protected your speakers will be from debris and water. This is why you can often find the Wonderboom poolside, or hanging off a showerhead. 

You may find an IP that replaces particle protection with an “X,” written as IPX7, for example. An “X” in place of any number means no data is available for that substance, or rather that the unit is not protected from that substance. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on selecting the best budget Bluetooth speakers

• Best overall: Anker Soundcore 3
• Best for bass: Sony SRS-XB100
• Best waterproof: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best for travel: JBL Clip 4
• Best budget: Oontz Angle 3
• Best party speaker: Tribit XSound Mega
• Best for (viewing) parties: EarFun UBOOM L
• Best smart speaker: Amazon Echo (4th Gen.)

You don’t need to go above and beyond your means to find the best budget Bluetooth speakers that will satisfy your sonic needs. There are plenty of options out there that you can take with you to the park, beach, or nearest house party without breaking the bank. Generally speaking, an inexpensive speaker won’t have all the bells and whistles a fancier model might, but you can still tune into your favorite audiobooks, podcasts, and playlists—which, at the end of the day, is all a Bluetooth speaker is designed to do.

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 budget Bluetooth speakers in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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April showers have been fairly relentless lately, at least here at PopSci HQ. That means we’ll soon be neck-deep in yard work. Luckily, Amazon has Greenworks battery-powered tools for some of the lowest prices we’ve seen right now before the season starts. The sales include common yard tools like lawnmowers, string trimmers, and leaf blowers, but it also extends to more traditional tools like saws and heat guns. There are a ton of options and they’re all part of the integrated Greenworks system, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility.

Greenworks 2 x 24V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower + Blower (320 CFM) + 12″ String Trimmer, (2) 5.0Ah Batteries and Charger Included $486 (was $609)

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This package is a great way to revamp your entire yard tool arsenal in one handy package. It includes a self-propelled lawnmower, a blower, a string trimmer, two batteries, and a charger. It’s great to have a second backup battery and you don’t really need much else to handle your basic yard maintenance. Plus the batteries work across the Greenworks ecosystem, so you can add tools a la carte as you go.

Greenworks lawnmower deals

• Greenworks 80V 21” Brushless (Self-Propelled) Cordless Electric Lawn Mower + (580 CFM) Axial Leaf Blower (75+ Compatible Tools), 4.0Ah Battery and 60 Minute Rapid Charger $552 (was $833)
• Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $224 (was $299)
• Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower + 40V Sweeper (150 MPH), 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $287 (was $358)
• Greenworks 80V 25″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Dual Blade Lawn Mower (LED Headlight + Aluminum Handles), 4.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included $679 (was $799)
• Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), (2) 2.0Ah Batteries and 30 Minute Rapid Charger Included $384 (was $499)
• Greenworks 40V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 5.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $382 (was $449)
• Greenworks 40V 20″ Twin Blade Mower, 4.0Ah + 2.0Ah Battery $322 (was $435)

Greenworks pressure washer deals

• Greenworks 2000 PSI (13 Amp) Electric Pressure Washer $161 (was $189)
• Greenworks 1600 PSI (1.2 GPM) Electric Pressure Washer $93 (was $109)
• Greenworks 3000 PSI Pressure Washer (2.0 GPM Max) with Foam Cannon $424 (was $499)
• Greenworks 24V (600 PSI) Portable Power Cleaner, 4.0Ah USB Battery and Charger Included $149 (was $189)
• Greenworks 24V (600 PSI) Portable Power Cleaner, 4.0Ah USB Battery and Charger Included $149 (was $189)

Greenworks chainsaw and cutting tool deals

• Greenworks 80V 18″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Great For Tree Felling, Limbing, Pruning, and Firewood) / 75+ Compatible Tools), 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included $274 (was $349)
• Greenworks 24V 6″ Brushless Mini Chainsaw, Small Cordless Handheld Saw (Great For Tree Branches, Pruning, and Camping), 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $139 (was $159)
• Greenworks 40V 8″ Polesaw + Pole Hedge, 2.0Ah Battery (Gen 1) $175 (was $219)
• Greenworks 80V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Great For Tree Felling, Limbing, Pruning, and Firewood), 75+ Compatible Tools, 2.5Ah Battery and Charger Included $280 (was $329)
• Greenworks 24V 10″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw (Great For Storm Clean-Up, Pruning, and Firewood / 125+ Compatible Tools), 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $104 (was $139)
• Greenworks 40V 8″ Pole Saw, 2.0Ah Battery (Gen 1) $168 (was $229)
• Greenworks 24V Brushless 4-1/2″ Compact Circular Saw (6,500 RPM). Tool Only $84 (was $99)
• Greenworks Pro 80V 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $254 (was $299)
• Greenworks 40V 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $159 (was $199)
• Greenworks 24V Brushless 1″ Compact Reciprocating Saw (3,000 SPM), 2.0Ah Battery and Compact Charger Included $101 (was $119)
• Greenworks Pro 80V 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $254 (was $299)

More Greenworks tool deals

• Greenworks 40V 8″ Brushless Edger, 4.0Ah USB Battery and Charger Included $223 (was $279)
• Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $113 (was $138)
• Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Brushless String Trimmer + Leaf Blower Combo, 2Ah Battery and Charger Included $299 (was $399)
• Greenworks 40V (165 MPH / 660 CFM / 75+ Compatible Tools) Cordless Brushless Backpack Leaf Blower, 8.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $297 (was $349)
• Greenworks 40V (160 MPH / 700 CFM / 75+ Compatible Tools) Cordless Brushless Axial Leaf Blower, 8.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $223 (was $279)
• Greenworks 40V (3 Gallon) Cordless Wet / Dry Shop Vacuum + Accessories, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $159 (was $199)
• Greenworks 40V Cordless Tire Inflator, 160 PSI Portable Air Compressor, 2 Power Sources, Auto Shut Off, for Car, Bicycle, Motorcycle, Air Boat, Inflatables, Tool Only $89 (was $109)
• Greenworks 24V Cordless Heat Gun, Deflector Nozzle、Concentrator Nozzle And Flat Nozzle High Temperature Of 1000℉, Bare Tool $67 (was $79)
• Greenworks 24V LED Spot Light Kit with 2Ah Battery and Charger $79 (was $99)
• Greenworks 24V MAX Cordless Brushless Drill + Impact Combo Kit, (2) 2.0Ah Batteries, (1) Charger, and Bag Included $101 (was $149)

The post Get Greenworks battery-powered lawnmowers and tools for their cheapest prices ever at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Gordini Forge Heated Glove		SEE IT	Gordini’s heated leather gloves bring the heat, along with touchscreen-friendly fingertips and a removable battery.
Best for cycling		Sealskinz Waterproof Heated Cycle Glove		SEE IT	The Sealskinz heated cycle glove offers maximum protection from the elements.
Best for work		Volt Resistance Work 7v Leather Heated Gloves		SEE IT	Volt Resistance’s Work 7v Leather Heated Gloves have extra padding and cold-weather protection.

If you, like me, still enjoy spending time outdoors in below-freezing temperatures, you’ve probably considered purchasing heated gloves. I resisted for years, relying instead on chemical hand warmers and plastic bags. But, since winters seem to be getting colder and I start feeling the chill in my bones quicker than ever, I finally decided to see what all the hubbub was about. In the dead of winter, you want to keep your fingers toasty for a long time, whether you’re working up a sweat or just trekking out to the store. The best heated gloves are comfortable without impeding manual dexterity in your fingers, so you can ski, cycle, or do whatever you want in the freezing cold.

• Best overall: Gordini Forge Heated Gloves
• Best for cycling: Sealskinz Waterproof Heated Cycle Glove
• Best for motorcycling: Kemimoto Heated Gloves
• Best for work: Volt Resistance Work 7v Leather Heated Gloves
• Best for fingertips: Savior Thick Electric Heated Mittens
• Best for skiing: Akaso Heated Ski Gloves
• Best thin: Sun Will Heated Glove Liners
• Best budget: Hot Hands Heated Fleece Glove/Mittens 

How we chose the best heated gloves

Living in New York City, I do not own a car, and while I have nothing against the city’s subway system, I prefer my bicycle as my mode of transportation. I ride/commute all year long, even through the winter. The only thing that keeps me off the bike is an active blizzard. I’ve also been lucky enough to spend months at a time cycling or trekking in remote mountain environments, like the Pamirs in Tajikistan and the Karakorum in northern Pakistan. I’ve been testing and writing about outdoor gear for over a decade for a variety of outlets, including HuffPost, BBC Travel, and Adventure Cycling. I am on a perpetual quest for cold-weather gear that works well and makes me forget that I’m even wearing it.

I tested these battery-operated heated gloves by using them like any other pair: taking them out on a bike ride or two. Cycling actively tests a glove’s grip, warmth, and wind resistance. You get to know a pair of gloves very well when you have a sustained stream of frigid wind blowing on your hands. I specifically noted how easy it was for me to operate my bike, the glove’s flexibility, and, when appropriate, their water resistance.

The best heated gloves: Reviews & Recommendations

As an outdoor and adventure lover whose hands and feet get cold easily, I feel as if I’ve spent an inordinate amount of time (and money) trying out a wide range of gear and techniques. While I admit to occasionally resorting to the wool socks and plastic bags on my feet method of combating freezing temperatures (I should try heated socks), my glove choices trend toward the more high-tech, as maintaining mobility and grippiness is almost as important as keeping warm. Here are some of the best heated gloves we’ve found for a variety of outdoor activities, and they’re a big step up from basic hand warmers in your mittens.

Best overall: Gordini Forge Heated Gloves

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Why it made the cut: These Gordini gloves are made for warmth and have all the features we could want for a cold day out.

Specs

• Heating elements:  Far-infrared fiber
• Temperature range: 113°F (low) – 150°F (high)
• Power source: 7.4-volt rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
• Battery life: 2200 mAh
• Material: Polyester
• Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive index finger and thumb, synthetic leather on palms
• Sizes: M/L, L/XL

Pros

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

Cons

• Expensive

Gordini’s rechargeable heated gloves provide the best, most versatile protection from the cold that we’ve felt in a pair of gloves. The company has been in the outdoor biz since 1956, meaning they have the track record to back up their performance.

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. You can also connect it to the clim8 app (for iOS and Android) to track battery life and customize your gloves’ temperature.

They’re a bit on the thick side but still flexible enough for shifting gears on a bicycle or holding ski poles. Gordini also sells the Forge in women’s so everyone can have warm hands while traversing the snow.

Best for cycling: Sealskinz Waterproof Heated Cycle Glove

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Made specifically for cycling, the Sealskinz waterproof heated cycle gloves keep your hands dry like no other.

Specs

• Heating elements: Carbon fiber
• Temperature range: N/A
• Power source: 4-volt polymer rechargeable batteries
• Battery life: 2200mAh
• Material: Soft goatskin leather and polyester, Primaloft synthetic insulation
• Special features: Waterproof, reflective details
• Sizes: XS-XXL

Pros

• Lifetime product and waterproof guarantee
• Designed specifically for cycling
• Lightweight

Cons

• Expensive
• Sizing runs small so make sure to purchase a size larger than normal

I first learned about Sealskinz products on an uncharacteristically cold, windy, and rainy group bicycle ride across the French countryside. Of the fifteen of us on the ride, all but one of us ended up with painful frozen fingers. The one guy whose hands were fine had a pair of Sealskinz waterproof gloves. I bought my own pair soon thereafter.

Many cold-weather cycling gloves do remain waterproof under sustained wet conditions, but Sealskinz’s cycling gloves keep your hands dry no matter how long you stay out. I have biked through rain, snow, and sleet storms (driving, relentless sleet for up to an hour), and very little moisture permeated the three-layer bonded construction. It features an insulation layer and a reflective layer that directs the body heat you’re generating back into the glove, keeping you extra warm. The integrated heating element produces heat for up to six hours.

A properly heated cycling glove is, in general, a rare find. Most heated gloves, while plenty warm, are often too bulky for gear-shifting and make braking cumbersome. They may also make it hard to grip your handlebars long-term properly. Sealskinz’s cycling gloves have a cycling-friendly design with a leather palm, enabling a better grip, and plenty of reflective details. (You can never have too many when commuting on dark, winter mornings.) In so many ways, it is the perfect winter cycling glove.

Best for motorcycling: Kemimoto Heated Gloves

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Why it made the cut: Kemimoto’s heated gloves are very warm and durable, making them an excellent choice for motorcycle rides in the blustery cold.

Specs

• Heating elements: Thin wires woven into fabric
• Power source: 7.4V rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
• Battery life: 2500mAh 
• Material: Faux leather
• Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive fingertips, waterproof
• Sizes: S-XL

Pros

• Long-lasting heat—up to 9 hours on lowest setting
• 3 heating levels
• Good price

Cons

• Thick

Kemimoto’s heated gloves really emphasize the “heated” facet of the heated glove. They feature 2,500MaH batteries that can last up to nine hours on the lowest setting. Kemimoto gloves offer three heating levels.

Looking at the glove itself, it features a water- and windproof outer layer. The wrist buckle and velcro closure at the cuff allow for a secure fit that will block out a cold wind no matter how fast you’re going. These feature an anti-grip palm and have protective knuckle guards and reflective coating.

Best for work: Volt Resistance Work 7v Leather Heated Gloves

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Why it made the cut: Volt Resistance’s 7v Work gloves are much more durable and made for working outside in extreme cold.

Specs

• Heating elements: “Zero layer” heat system: Thin wires bonded to the lining fabric
• Power source: 7.4-volt rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
• Battery life: 2500 mAh
• Heat settings: 4
• Material: Leather, tricot lining
• Special features: Extra leather on palm for durability
• Sizes: S-XXL

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Padded palms for added comfort
• Heats entire hand

Cons

• A bit bulky around the fingers

I grew up in northern Ohio near Lake Erie. My dad did a lot of work outside, including many wood-cutting expeditions to my Grandparents’ woods to procure fuel for our wood-burning stove. He had this amazing pair of yellow leather, fleece-lined work gloves that he’d wear on these trips. I liked to wear them around the house because I was fascinated with how they’d molded themselves into the exact shape of his hands and with how small my own hands felt inside them.

Constructed from durable yellow-stained leather with padded, reinforced palms, these heated work gloves from Volt Resistance remind me of the ones my dad wore. Heating wires extend through the entire glove, including the fingers, thumbs, and palms to provide full coverage across your hand. There’s a clear window on the back of the glove near the wrist that clearly shows how much power remains in the batteries. 

I bought a pair for my dad last Christmas. His review: “Wow, what will they think of next? You know, back in the day, we just put plastic bags on our hands under our gloves. These are definitely way better than that.”

Best for fingertips: Savior Thick Electric Heated Mittens

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Why it made the cut: If you’re a mitten person, this heated version from Savior is the warmest pair we’ve found. 

Specs

• Heating elements:  Far infrared fiber heating wires
• Power source: 7.4-volt rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
• Battery life: 2200 mAh
• Material: Polyester, neoprene, cotton
• Special Features: Touchscreen-sensitive fingertips
• Sizes: XXS-XXL

Pros

• Great for winter sports
• Soft and flexible
• Lightweight

Cons

• Battery is bulky at the base

This updated version of Savior’s heated mittens has double the heated wires and elements in the thumb area as the previous model. My thumbs are always the first of my digits to be affected by the cold, but these kept me warm during an ice canyon tour and skating on Mildred Lake in Jasper, Alberta, in February.

I wouldn’t use these for cycling or any other activity where flexibility and dexterity are super important. Still, they’re cozier than most gloves and a perfect fit for low-key outdoor events.

Best for skiing: Akaso Heated Gloves

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Why it made the cut: The anti-slip surface of these splashproof and breathable Akaso gloves makes them perfect for gripping ski poles.

Specs

• Heating elements: Carbon fiber heating panels
• Power source: 7.4V rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
• Battery life: 3200mAh 
• Heating levels: 3
• Material: Faux leather, cotton
• Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive fingertips, waterproof
• Sizes: S-XL

Pros

• Splash proof
• Breathable
• Reflective strip
• Warm up quickly

Cons

• Limited long-term waterproofing

Featuring a layer of 3M Thinsulate material that retains heat 1.5 times better than down, anti-slip gripping material on the palms, and a cuff drawstring to secure them around your wrist, these Akaso heated gloves offer the right kind of protection for skiers and snowboarders.

Carbon fiber heating panels cover the back of the hand, fingers, and thumb (not the palm). The heating elements are covered by water-repellent nylon and the 3M Thinsulate, which keeps your hands warm with or without the electric heat on. They’re warm and comfortable in good weather but don’t fare as well in the rain or snow. With a steady stream of precipitation, you will eventually feel moisture penetrate the outer layer and start to pool inside the glove. That said, they’re perfect for clear, sunny, ski days.

Best thin: Sun Will Heated Glove Liners

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Why it made the cut: These heated glove liners from Sun Will are so light you’ll almost forget you have them on.

Specs

• Heating elements: Far infrared fiber heating wires
• Power source: 7.4-volt rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
• Battery life: 2200 mAh
• Material: Polyester, lycra, fleece
• Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive fingertips
• Sizes: XXS-XXL

Pros:

• Thin and light
• Soft
• Can wear under another pair of gloves
• Great for arthritis and blood circulation

Cons:

• Not as durable as thicker, bulkier gloves

Made from lycra and fleece, these gloves are intended to fit close to your hand and be worn under a waterproof glove shell when needed. If you already have a favorite pair of waterproof gloves you wear while hiking or skiing, add these as an underlayer on particularly blustery days. You can, of course, also wear them on their own. 

Thin heated gloves are also especially useful if you suffer from chronically cold hands, even when indoors. They’re excellent for stimulating blood circulation, whether you need to warm up from the cold or need help with symptoms caused by arthritis or Raynaud’s Syndrome.

Best budget: Hot Hands Heated Fleece Glove/Mittens

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Why it made the cut: If you want to keep your hands warm without spending much money, a pair of cheap gloves and hand warmers will do the trick.

Specs

• Heating elements: iron powder, salt, water, activated carbon. Oxygen reacts with the iron and salt to form iron oxide, which releases heat
• Power source: Chemical air-activated hand warmers
• Battery life: N/A
• Heating levels: N/A
• Material: Fleece, leather palm
• Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive fingertips
• Sizes: M/L-L/XL

Pros

• No batteries or charging required
• Inexpensive
• TSA approved
• Made in USA

Cons

• Not very breathable
• Not waterproof

Chemical hand warmers are the original, low-tech way to keep your hands (and feet) warm while out in adverse conditions. Working on outdoor TV productions in cold weather, we buy them in bulk and dole them out to cast and crew like candy. Any actor you see filming outside on a blustery day very likely has a hand warmer shoved into each of their pockets.

These fleece hybrid glove/mittens from Hot Hands, one of the biggest names in hand warmers, have a handy pocket to insert a warmer and hold them in place. Each individually sealed warmer is air-activated when removed from its package and stays warm for 10 hours. That’s as long as you’ll get from any battery-powered heated glove. On the other hand, you’ll have to buy more hand warmers after using the single pair that comes with the gloves. A box of 40 additional warmers costs about $22.00, though, so you’re still spending less than you would on our top pick.

The gloves themselves are the kind with fingers and a foldable mitten you can pull over your fingers when needed. They’re made from toasty warm fleece with a TruGrip leather palm. Are they as warm as our other picks? No. Do they offer the same wind and water resistance? Not really. But they’re very affordable, and those hand warmers will keep you warm in a pinch.

What to consider when buying heated gloves

While the majority of heated gloves available offer similar features, each one feels slightly different than the others and performs differently when worn out in the elements. Everyone also has their own personal criteria when evaluating apparel. I personally look for a pair of gloves that I don’t have to think about too much while I’m out in the cold. With that in mind, here are some things you should look for when buying your next pair of heated gloves.

How do heated gloves work?

Heated clothing has ultra-thin metal wires or fibers built into it that warm up when electricity passes through them. These wires or far-infrared fibers, most commonly made from carbon or a metal composite, are woven or fused directly into or onto an internal fabric layer. The voltage of batteries used in heating clothing like the best heated slippers and best heated insoles and best heated vests is low enough that there is no chance of electrical shock.

Fit and size

To ensure your glove provides maximum warmth without restricting manual dexterity, you should measure your hand and make sure you get the right size. Gloves are not one-size-fits-all. Moreover, the measurements for each size vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so that you may require a medium from one brand and a large one from another.

In a properly fitted glove, your fingertips should reach just shy of the end of the glove—about a ¼ to 3/8 of an inch—so you have a full range of movement. The wrist portion of the glove should run far enough up your arm to tuck into or extend over a jacket sleeve, preventing cold air from getting under it.

Most manufacturers will have a size chart on their websites, showing you how to measure your hand and find the right size with each brand.

Waterproofing

To waterproof or not to waterproof? That is the question. Waterproofing measures generally make clothing less breathable so that body sweat will get trapped inside. In other words, your waterproof gloves may soak up sweat and start to smell more quickly than a less water-resistant pair. On the other hand, you don’t want to get completely soaked and end up with gloves full of water. 

Many heated gloves have a waterproof fabric on the outside part of the glove and something breathable on the palm area, giving you the best of both options (kind of like how packable rain jackets sometimes have strategically more breathable panels). Breathable fabric on the underside of your hand reduces the chances of sweat building up in your palms, which could affect your ability to grip a ski pole or climbing rope. Having waterproof fabric on the outside of your gloves—the part that is most often exposed directly to snow and rain—means excess water won’t be able to penetrate the glove. As a general rule, if you’re likely to find yourself outside when it’s actively snowing or raining, go with a waterproof option.  

Battery life

Most heated gloves are powered by 7.4-volt rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which usually last between 2 and 8 hours, depending on the temperature setting and other factors. Rather than presenting battery life estimates, which can vary quite a bit, we recommend looking at the raw battery capacity, measured in milliamp hours (mAh), which should give you a general idea of how long it should last compared to other gloves.

Some, but not all, heated gloves feature removable, replaceable battery packs. If you plan on being outside for extended periods of time, we recommend choosing gloves with replaceable batteries so you can swap them out as needed.

Touchscreen capability 

Gloves and smartphones don’t always get along. Between the padding and materials, capacitive touchscreens don’t pick up taps and swipes as easily when your fingers are covered. Having to take a glove off while in inclement weather in order to use your phone is annoying at best, and excruciating in extreme cold.

Some gloves have an outer layer over your fingertips with a special material made from copper fiber conductive yarn, making it easier to use a touchscreen without removing your gloves. Essentially, the copper in the fabric allows the gloves to interact with the electrical current produced by touchscreens. Most commonly, the material is used only on the tips of one or two fingers in a small enough area that overall warmth isn’t really affected. 

At this point, these features are fairly common, but you should check for them when picking a cheaper glove or something from a less technical brand.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heated gloves

• Best overall: Gordini Forge Heated Gloves
• Best for cycling: Sealskinz Waterproof Heated Cycle Glove
• Best for motorcycling: Kemimoto Heated Gloves
• Best for work: Volt Resistance Work 7v Leather Heated Gloves
• Best for fingertips: Savior Thick Electric Heated Mittens
• Best for skiing: Akaso Heated Ski Gloves
• Best thin: Sun Will Heated Glove Liners
• Best budget: Hot Hands Heated Fleece Glove/Mittens 

Heated gloves are great when you need to work or want to play out in extremely cold weather. By giving these naturally warm gloves a nice, battery-powered boost, you can keep your hands toasty for hours on end. There are plenty of extra warm gloves out there, though, so you have tons of options.

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 gloves in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator		SEE IT	This 46-pound generator provides plenty of power and runs quietly.
Best high-capacity		Generac 7706 GP18000EFI Portable Generator		SEE IT	A five-gallon fuel tank gives it a nine-hour run time at half capacity.
Best solar		Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator		SEE IT	A pair of solar panels make this an ideal solution for true off-grid experiences.

A portable generator is useful in a wide variety of situations. For camping, it can help keep your RV or van conversion fully juiced and your devices topped off. At home, it’s easy to move into place when the utility power goes out. It provides the electricity necessary to use power tools at off-grid worksites. And it’s generally essential whenever and wherever you need power but don’t have access to a plug. Portable generators come in various forms, ranging from very small portable power stations to exceptionally large (yet still mobile) gas generators. Whatever the case, the best portable generators are relatively easy to move, durable, and dependable, and we’ve tested a bunch of them to determine which are your top picks for various purposes.

• Best overall: Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator
• Best high capacity: Generac 7706 GP18000EFI Portable Generator
• Best solar: Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator
• Best for RVs: Champion Power Equipment 200988 4500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
• Best for home backup: Westinghouse 9500 Portable Generator
• Best budget: Craftsman C0010020 2,200 Watt Portable Generator
• Best dual fuel: DuroMax XP 13000HX Dual Fuel Portable Generator
• Most portable: Bluetti AC180 Portable Power Station

How we chose the best portable generators

I am what is commonly referred to as a “gear junkie” in that I am borderline obsessive about testing a wide range of tech tools, particularly those relevant to the outdoors and varying home DIY projects. Portable power generators not only rank among those tech tools in and of themselves but have also been essential to charging all the other electricity-hungry items like phones, the best MacBooks, the best travel drones, power tools, the best electric bikes, and my trusty van conversion, not to mention an RV or home when the lights go out. I’ve also written guides about the best solar generators and inverter generators for PopSci.

That being the case, I’ve had the opportunity to test out generators of every variety, and I’ve combined that experience with insight from other PopSci writers who have tried everything from small, straightforward power stations the size of a shoebox to big, feature-rich behemoths designed to power a small army. Accordingly, I know which generators provide plenty of juice and which fizzle out under a full power load. Armed with this knowledge, I have spent over a decade reviewing generators and other equipment for outlets like Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, the Daily Beast, Thrillist, and more. Occasionally, I’ve arrived at split decisions for certain categories, so to break the tie, I’ve looked to input from my fellow experts as well as reviews from real-world buyers. 

The best portable generators: Reviews & Recommendations

The picks below span a range of sizes, intended uses, and budgets. Some are small and lightweight and designed for appropriately smaller power demands, while others are big on both size and output. All, however, are portable in some capacity, whether because they’re compact and easy to carry or equipped with mobility aids like wheels and handles. 

Best overall: Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator

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Why it made the cut: Super portable, durable, and intuitive to use, this is an outstandingly versatile, go-anywhere generator. 

Specs

• Wattage: 2,200 peak/1,800 running
• Power source: Gas
• Weight: 46.5 pounds
• Price: $1,299

Pros

• Highly portable
• Rugged durability
• Very quiet

Cons

• Only moderate power output

It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that Honda has topped our list. The company has been making outstanding generators for a long time, and the EU2200i is the perfect representation of how the brand manages to do a little bit of everything just right. 

Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry thanks to its sturdy handle, this is about as portable as generators can get. While its 2,200W output isn’t exactly going to replace an electrical line, it’s still a solid amount to keep an RV air conditioner going, power the hungriest of power tools, or keep your fridge and a few other essentials going during a blackout. The 20- and 30-amp outlets allow you to use a typical AC plug or larger RV plug, and it’s equipped with an array of safety features to make sure nothing goes awry. 

It’s also incredibly durable. I’ve hauled mine along through many camping trips, and I’m not exactly gentle with my outdoor gear. And thanks to its quiet operation, you can enjoy electrification in peace. 

Best high-capacity: Generac 7706 GP18000EFI Portable Generator

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Why it made the cut: With its exceptionally high wattage and reliable operation, it will handle whatever job you throw at it.

Specs

• Wattage: 25,000 peak/18,000 running
• Power source: Gas
• Weight: 439 pounds
• Price: $3,999

Pros

• Super high power output
• Reliable operation
• Sturdy handle and wheels

Cons

• Extremely heavy

When only the utmost power will suffice, look no further than the Generac 18000EFI. With its massive 18,000W running output, this monster will easily power a whole house, large-scale job worksite, or multiple RVs. Admittedly, its 439-pound heft takes a lot of liberty with the “portable” distinction, but its sturdy handle and wheels and well-balanced weight make it fairly easy to maneuver around. 

With its massive 5-gallon fuel tank, it will run for up to 9 hours on a 50 percent load, and an hour meter tracks usage and displays how much operating time it has left. Seven outlets spanning 20-50 amps provide plenty of high power port options, and it’s equipped with circuit breakers and other essential safety features. Powerful and reliable, this generator will deliver on pretty much any and all power needs. 

Best solar: Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator

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Why it made the cut: Great portability, solid capacity, and lightning-fast charging make this the best mid-sized solar generator on the market. 

Specs

• Wattage: 4,000 peak/2,000 running
• Power source: Solar or wall
• Weight: 9.92 lbs
• Price: $1,249

Pros

• Supremely portable
• Extremely fast charging
• Plenty of ports

Cons

• Not intended for rugged use

Solar power generators have become a big hit as of late with the van life crowd in particular, and we’re a fan of Jackery. The Jackery 1000 Plus is the best mid-sized option out there thanks to its perfect fusion of input/output capability, paramount portability, and generally well-considered design elements. With 1,264 watt-hour capacity and 2,000W output, it’s the perfect choice for packing along on a camping trip or placing at the heart of your van conversion. Capable of charging in under two hours via a wall outlet or solar panel array, it has one of the fastest charge speeds around.

A number of smart design choices elevates its portability. Lightweight, perfectly squared, with a fold-flat handle, it’s easy to move, store, or build into a van conversion. It’s also expandable thanks to Jackery’s new add-on batteries, which essentially means you can bring along as much or as little power as you need. Jackery has also added the ability to monitor and adjust settings via an app, which makes it easier to use in general. 

Best for RVs: Champion Power Equipment 200988 4500 Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator

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Why it made the cut: High portability, high power output, quiet operation, and dual fuel functionality make this a must for avid RVers. 

Specs

• Wattage: 4,500 peak/3,150 running
• Power source: Gas or propane
• Weight: 97 pounds
• Price: $1,359

Pros

• Dual fuel versatility
• Higher-end wattage
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Somewhat heavy

The Champion 200988 hits the sweet spot for RV generators by pretty much every metric. It runs on both gas and propane, making it easy to find fuel when out in the wild. Its 4,500W output is more than enough to power almost any RV—even with the air conditioner turned on. It’s relatively quiet, so it won’t ruin the outdoorsy mood. And it offers straightforward, intuitive operation. 

What’s more, it’s exceedingly rare to find a generator that delivers so much wattage in such a portable package. Compact, squared off for easy packing, and equipped with sturdy handles and wheels, it’s easy to bring along in the RV. While its weight is just under 100 pounds, not exactly featherlight, it’s also not unmanageably heavy. And while I prefer the dual-fuel version, there are also single-fuel gas and propane options that feature a remote start, allowing you to switch it on or off without leaving the comfort of your camper.  

Best for home backup: Westinghouse 9500 Portable Generator

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Why it made the cut: Powerful, remote starting, and relatively mobile, this is the perfect generator to wheel into place when the power goes out.

Specs

• Wattage: 9,500 peak/7,500 running
• Power source: Gas 
• Weight: 196 pounds
• Price: $899

Pros

• High wattage
• Remote starting
• Long lifespan

Cons

• Pretty heavy

When the lights go out at home, the Westinghouse 9500 is a solid backup in every way you could want it to be. It’s certainly not light, but its handles and wheels make it easy to maneuver into place—my 70-year-old mother carts hers around with no problems. Its above-average wattage is plenty strong for most household demands, and its 6.6-gallon tank allows for an admirable 11-hour runtime. A remote starter allows you to switch it on without braving the storm. And Westinghouse generators are built solid, typically lasting through many years of use without issue.

It’s also equipped with plenty of smart safety features. Circuit breakers, low-oil auto shutdown, and rubber covers over the plugs reduce the potential for various risks. A (sold separately) smart switch allows it to switch on automatically when utility power goes out. And it’s relatively quiet, producing roughly the same decibels as a vacuum cleaner. For all practical purposes, it’s exactly what you want from a home backup generator. 

Best budget: Craftsman C0010020 2,200 Watt Portable Generator

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Why it made the cut: Good specs and great portability in a low-cost package make this an outstanding budget pick.

Specs

• Wattage: 2,200 peak/1,700 running
• Power source: Gas 
• Weight: 46.3 pounds
• Price: $510

Pros

• Very portable
• Parallel capable
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Not for high-power use

The great thing about the Craftsman C0010020 is that it does a little bit of everything right, and it does it without breaking the bank. While its modest wattage probably isn’t going to keep an entire house or RV going, it’s plenty to keep a few essentials like the fridge, lights, and key devices powered—or even a lower-draw air conditioner. It’s parallel capable, meaning you can chain it to a second generator to double the output when you need more juice. It’s also lightweight, quiet, and dependably built. 

There are other generators out there in the $500 neighborhood, but if they deliver on all the promises above, I haven’t seen them.

Best dual-fuel: DuroMax XP 13000HX Dual-Fuel Portable Generator

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Why it made the cut: High power output, intuitive operation, and relative mobility translate into dual-fuel excellence.

Specs

• Wattage: 13,000 peak/10,500 running on gas – 12,350 peak/9,975 running on propane
• Power source: Gas and propane
• Weight: 240 pounds
• Price: $1,599

Pros

• Dual fuel versatility
• Very high power output
• Helpful data display

Cons

• Very heavy

The main benefit of a dual-fuel generator is in the name: the availability of two fuel options, which can be essential in an emergency situation. The DuroMax XP 13000HX delivers that versatility along with outstanding power output, intuitive operation, and reliable, long-lasting durability. I’m also a big fan of the data display, which provides useful information like voltage, hours of operation, and even a countdown to the recommended maintenance. A CO2 safety switch also detects carbon monoxide and then shuts the generator down if the levels become dangerous. 

This is definitely one of the heavier generators on the list, but it’s equipped with strong handles and smooth-rolling wheels that make it easy to move around. It also boasts a super-heavy duty 50 amp outlet, so in other words, this thing is a true beast. 

Most portable: Bluetti AC180 Portable Power Station

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Why it made the cut: As portable as they come with great stats all around, this is the definition of go-anywhere power. 

Specs

• Wattage: 2,700 peak/1,800 running
• Power source: Solar or wall plug
• Weight: 37.4 pounds
• Price: $599

Pros

• Extremely portable
• Solid power stats
• Plenty of outlets

Cons

• Dual solar inputs would be nice

If you’re looking for an ultra-portable box of on-the-go power, the Bluetti AC180 is it. The lightest and most compact on our list, it still has solid power chops thanks to its 1,152Wh capacity and ability to temporarily crank up its power output as high as 2,700W via the brand’s app. That capacity can be expanded via Bluetti’s new add-on batteries, and it can be fully charged within an hour. 

While adding a second solar input wouldn’t hurt, if you’re looking for a reliable box of power that you can bring along pretty much anywhere with ease, you’ve found it.

What to consider when shopping for the best portable generators

A portable generator tends to be a pretty big investment not only financially but in that it’s a piece of equipment that you plan to rely on—potentially in emergency situations—for many years to come. This being the case, there are several key considerations to remember when choosing the right one for your needs: 

Power output

First and foremost, you need a generator that will meet your electricity needs. When shopping for generators, you’ll typically see output expressed via two numbers, both of which are measured in watts (W). “Running” or “rated” output is the typical amount of watts produced at any given time, while “Peak” output is the amount it can produce in momentary surges, while switching on a power tool or air conditioner, for example. Read the wattage requirements for the various things you expect to power, total them up, and then look for a generator that delivers the appropriate output. Generally speaking, if you’re just looking to keep a few devices charged, 2,000W is the most you’ll need. For power tools, RVs, or a refrigerator, you should aim toward 4,000W. If you expect to be powering a full home, however, you will want at least 7,500W.

Fuel type and capacity

Generators almost always run on either gas, solar power, or, in the case of dual-fuel models, a combination of gas and propane. Which is right for you depends on considerations like access and the environment. Gas is typically the most convenient option as it can be acquired pretty much anywhere, though it pollutes more and tends to deliver louder operation. Adding the propane option provides greater versatility, which can be helpful if you’re out in the wild or in the event of an emergency, and it also produces less harmful emissions. (We love it in our grills, so why not our generators?) Solar is an environmentally friendly, nearly silent fuel, but it relies on the availability of sunshine and can’t deliver the same level of wattage as fossil fuels.

Next you need to consider capacity. The larger the fuel tank or battery capacity, the longer a generator will provide power, but it also increases the weight. If you plan on using your generator at home, a larger model that can be wheeled around is a fine choice. If you’ll be packing your generator along on camping trips, however, you’ll probably need to compromise some capacity in favor of lighter portability. 

Starting type

With gas or propane-fueled generators, you’ll almost always have the option to use a recoil cord and an electric starter, as it’s fairly standard for generators to come with both these days. The cord requires a lot of physical effort but will allow you to start the generator under any condition, while the electric start fires things up at the push of a button, though it won’t work if the internal battery is drained. Some models offer remote starters that you can fire up from the comfort of your home or RV. This isn’t really a consideration with solar generators as they tend to be plug-and-play.

Operating noise

Generators can be extremely loud, so volume should be a consideration if you don’t want to bother the neighbors at home or disrupt the peace and quiet while camping. While there are exceptions, typically speaking, the larger and more powerful a generator is, the louder it gets. The best portable generators tend to boast heavy shielding to reduce noise, though this only helps up to a point. 

If noise isn’t much of a concern, then go big and go loud. But if you want to minimize the racket, choose a smaller model, a dual-fuel that uses propane (which is somewhat quieter than gas), or the near-silence of solar.

Plugs

If a particular model doesn’t have the plugs you need, then it’s not much use to you. Most mid-large-sized generators come with AC outlets of 20-amp and 30-amp ratings, which will allow you to plug in most devices and RVs. Smaller units, especially solar, frequently don’t include a 30 amp port, so they might not work for your RV needs. If you’re looking for true max power output, you’ll need one of the few and far between generators with a 50-amp plug. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best portable generators

• Best overall: Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator
• Best high capacity: Generac 7706 GP18000EFI Portable Generator
• Best solar: Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator
• Best for RVs: Champion Power Equipment 200988 4500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
• Best for home backup: Westinghouse 9500 Portable Generator
• Best budget: Craftsman C0010020 2,200 Watt Portable Generator
• Best dual fuel: DuroMax XP 13000HX Dual Fuel Portable Generator
• Most portable: Bluetti AC180 Portable Power Station

A good portable generator can not only be useful when camping or off-grid, but it can be vital and even life-saving in an emergency. While theoretically, you want as big a generator as possible, you also want one that’s actually portable, so get a model suited to your needs rather than the largest you can find. Bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to mobility. Try to strike the balance between the two appropriate to your circumstances. 

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 portable generators in 2024, 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		JBL Boombox 3		SEE IT	JBL’s Boombox 3 hits the sweet spot between portability, battery life, additional features, and cost.
Best With Lights		JBL PartyBox 110		SEE IT	JBL’s PartyBox 110 is a big, bass-thumping speaker with lights that impress as much as its sound.
Best Budget:		Tribit XSound Mega		SEE IT	The Tribit XSound Mega shares many of the features as some other picks but at a way lower cost.

Party speakers may be the most misunderstood mainstream category in the audio world. Contrary to popular belief, party speakers aren’t limited to bass-heavy Bluetooth models. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with bassy Bluetooth speakers. Don’t worry, we’re going to recommend you some how-low-can-you-go options. However, a party speaker, to us at least, can be an all-in-one PA system, a practice amp that doubles as a speaker, a speaker that lights up the room just with dance music or that adds in equally kinetic LEDs. The best party speakers can be a concert for one or for everyone, and they can be found in selections for every type of celebration.

• Best overall: JBL Boombox 3
• Best portable: Sony SRS-XG300
• Best with lights: JBL PartyBox 110
• Best for outdoor party: Rocksteady Stadium Travel Combo 
• Best for house party performances: JBL EON ONE Compact Personal PA
• Best for guitarists: Positive Grid Spark MINI
• Best for gamers: GravaStar Mars Pro
• Best Wi-Fi speaker: Sonos Move 2 
• Best budget: Tribit XSound Mega

How we chose the best party speakers

This speaker category is extremely broad, so we took a fairly granular approach when choosing our recommendations. A mix of hands-on testing and research lead us to a list of speakers that range from pint-sized to powerful, covering common and niche needs. Special attention was paid to bass performance, connectivity options, durability, expandability, and portability. The right party speaker for you will depend on whether you’re throwing backyard cookouts or basement ragers, are looking for something that sits on a desk or a deck, need something to provide a solo gaming soundtrack or that might require guests to wear earplugs. We don’t judge. Well, we do judge some things, like audio quality and connectivity. But parties aren’t the time for critical listening, so what we recommend by the pool or for a DJ is very different than what we’d look for in our best powered speakers or best bookshelf speakers for music lovers. We’ve also been mindful of how much these speakers cost, with recommendations ranging from under $60 to $530.

The best party speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

We’ve cut through the noise to present speakers to suit everybody’s needs. You saw our overall methodology above and can find more information on our key considerations later in this story. Now, let’s get the party started.

Best overall: JBL Boombox 3

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 8.6 inches
• Power source: Battery power (up to 24 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth
• IP rating: IP67

Pros

• Massive bass driver
• Can be connected with up to 99 other JBL speakers
• Excellent battery life

Cons

• Big and heavy for a portable speaker

JBL’s Boombox 3 pushes the limits of what you can expect from a portable Bluetooth speaker. The subwoofer in its three-way speaker configuration is larger than the ones you’ll find on some desktop speakers or compact monitors, so you should expect loud, thunderous sound. You won’t just hear the drop on EDM tracks, you’ll literally feel it radiate down to 40Hz if the speaker’s 160 watts are cranked all the way up. In fact, the only way you’ll get a louder, bigger bass around the same size is by picking up something like JBL’s PartyBox 110, which we’ll introduce in more detail below.

The Boombox 3’s large size comes with one big pro—beyond great sound, of course—and a necessary con. In the plus column, this speaker can last up to 24 hours on a single charge, easily enough time to get you through a proper rager. JBL says the amount of battery life you’ll get ultimately depends on your listening volume, which is true, but the Boombox 3 should still last all night (literally) even when it’s being maxed out. That said, a big battery and large drivers contribute to this speaker’s 22-inch width and nearly 15-pound weight. This speaker is portable, but it’ll need someone willing to lug it around—luckily, it’s equipped with a sturdy molded handle.

JBL has gotten around this by designing the Boombox 3 with support for its PartyBoost feature, which allows you to link it with up to 99 other JBL speakers. Several JBL speakers support this feature, so you could use the Boombox 3 as your main party speaker, then spread a couple of smaller models around the periphery of your party space to blanket more ground (for example, you could put several lava-lamp-like JBL Pulse 5 speakers around to visualize the vibe). We can’t think of a room—or entire floor, frankly—that this speaker wouldn’t blanket in loud sound on its own, however.

If your parties take place outdoors, the JBL Boombox 3 is a great choice thanks to its IP67 rating (for a detailed explanation of IP, check out our considerations at the bottom of this feature). This Boombox 3 can get splashed, rained on, spilled on, or even dunked underneath the water for several minutes without skipping a beat. And it can stand up to dust or sand. Durability is definitely not an issue. The speaker shown above has taken a licking and kept on kicking … or maybe that’s taken a kicking and kept on ticking, as it got hit by a soccer ball while providing the soundtrack to a high-intensity practice on the field pictured. If its size and weight (and $449 price) don’t intimidate you, the JBL Boombox 3’s bass performance, battery life, and durability are a pretty unbeatable combination.

Best portable: Sony SRS-XG300

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 2.7 inches (2x)
• Power source: Battery (up to 25 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth
• IP rating: IP67

Pros

• Mega Bass button for even more low end
• Exceptional audio quality
• Best battery life for a portable party speaker

Cons

• Very few devices can take full advantage of this speaker’s audio potential

Sony has been making party speakers for half a decade, but the SRS-XG300 is the first time it seems to take this category very seriously. It’s completely overhauled the look of its party speakers, with a mesh covering that screams sophistication, with LED rings that surround its pair of 2.7-inch bass drivers with a subtle glow rather than a garish one. And the unobtrusive handle conveniently slides in and out of the top, an aesthetically pleasing marriage of form and function. Put simply, the SRS-XG300 speaker looks sophisticated during the day but a little more fun at night. The LEDs can be turned off using Sony’s app or a button on the backside of this party speaker so you can ignore them entirely.

That may be a good idea if you plan on stretching the SRS-XG300’s battery to its 25-hour maximum. Sony is so confident in this portable Bluetooth speaker’s battery capacity that it built a USB-A port into it, so it doubles as a power bank. In our tests, this speaker could put out a tremendous amount of bass, but it never distorted, even at high volumes. If you want a little more oomph, the speaker’s Mega Bass button boosts low-end frequencies, but never to the point that the midrange and treble get completely drowned out. If your playlist is full of bass-heavy music, turning on this setting to see how you like it won’t hurt.

The SRS-XG300 supports a Sony feature called Party Connect, which allows you to pair up to 100 speakers to play music simultaneously. This was one of our favorite features of JBL’s Boombox 3, and it remains impressive here. We can’t see any reason you’d need more than one of these speakers to fuel your beach, backyard, or basement party, but it’s nice to have the option.

You can connect any smartphone, tablet, or computer to the SRS-XG300 wirelessly over Bluetooth, but to get the most out of it, you’ll need a device that supports the LDAC codec, which allows you to stream music at a very high—nearly CD quality—bitrate. This isn’t necessarily important at a party unless you host audiophiles exclusively. Still, it’s worth pointing out since Sony’s speaker is one of the few Bluetooth models that support this feature. But it’s also worth pointing out that only select digital audio players and smartphones support this protocol (nothing Apple, which is why we lean toward this being the best portable Bluetooth speaker for Android users). You can use any Bluetooth-enabled device to connect via more traditional lossy codecs, and you also have the option to connect a device using a 3.5mm cable, thanks to its AUX input.

If the most important part of your party is taking top-notch tunes conveniently from one place to another without hitting pause, Sony’s SRS-XG300 is the clear choice.

Best with lights: JBL PartyBox 110

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 5.25-inches (2x)
• Power source: Battery (up to 12 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth, AUX in, 1/4-inch inputs (2x)
• IP rating: IPX4

Pros

• Massive
• Doubles as a dual-input PA system
• Can be used portably in a pinch

Cons

• Overkill in most cases

There’s no getting around the fact that the JBL PartyBox 110 is a big party speaker, but if you have enough space and need to entertain a large crew with live music or a pre-made mix, it’s the ideal choice. You can read more about this large speaker in our full review, but it’s ultimately a treat for both the eyes and ears. The PartyBox 110 occupies an interesting place in JBL’s party speaker lineup, sitting between our approved entry-level PartyBox, the Encore Essential, and the much larger PartyBox 1000 (a behemoth of a speaker we’ve auditioned and enjoyed). It’s also much more than a typical Bluetooth speaker, party-friendly or otherwise.

The big LEDs surrounding the PartyBox 110’s pair of bass drivers turn the front of this speaker into a big figure eight. These lights can be programmed to a handful of patterns—including synced to the beat—or turned off entirely to preserve battery life. Yes, despite the amount of air it’s pushing and the show it bestows, the PartyBox 110 can run for up to 12 hours without being plugged into an outlet. It’s also one of the only speakers in its size class to have an IP4X rating, which means it can be splashed with water without incident.

It may not support JBL’s PartyBoost, but two of these speakers can be paired together wirelessly. This makes sense when you realize the PartyBox 110 has a pair of 1/4-inch audio inputs designed for a microphone and instrument. Connecting these speakers together will double the number of inputs, giving you greater flexibility when setting up come competitive karaoke.

If you only plan on using this speaker with prerecorded music, you’ll be treated to loud, room-shaking sound at the highest volume levels. PA-style party speakers are known for their bass performance, but JBL built a Bass Boost button onto the top of the PartyBox 110 to really drive the point home for lovers of lower frequencies. Let’s face it, the PartyBox 110 isn’t necessary for the average cocktail party or even cookout, but having the extra power in your back pocket won’t hurt if it becomes necessary.

Best for outdoor patio party: Rocksteady Stadium Travel Combo 

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 5.1-inches
• Power source: Battery (Up to 16 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth, 2.5mm
• IP rating: N/A

Pros

• Modular assignable-channel speaker system
• Discrete dedicated subwoofer
• Unlimited speakers can be connected
• Portability

Cons

• You have to keep track of/charge multiple speakers

By now, most people are familiar with a 2.1 speaker system in a home theater environment, which indicates Left and Right speakers paired with a dedicated subwoofer to push the lows higher. Now the Rocksteady Stadium Travel Combo lets you take it into the great outdoors. All three touch-controlled speakers connect to one another via a Bluetooth 5.0 mesh network, which means you can place them anywhere you’d like so long as they’re within 100 feet of one another. This will allow you to cover a larger area without turning the volume knob to 11. Pick up four 6-inch-tall multidriver rectangles and turn your patio into a quadraphonic quarter. There’s a mid-bass driver and passive radiator paired with the tweeter in each. Still, for the deepest bass experience, you’ll want to keep the discrete front-firing subwoofer (or subwoofers) near a wall so the sound gets reinforced by reverberations.

Many party speakers we recommend can be chained to play simultaneously in mono, but Rocksteady designed its hardware exclusively to be immersive—letting you assign each as Left/Right/Dual channel. Because of that, you can pair an unlimited number of speakers in various multidirectional configurations, though hitting this theoretical limit—or lack thereof—probably won’t be necessary. We like the modularity of the Stadium Mode system, but it isn’t waterproof, which can be a problem if your outdoor area has a pool. If that’s the case, a cadre of UE’s WONDERBOOM 3 mini-speakers may be a better pick; these $99 floatable orbs produce surprisingly loud 360-degree sound, can be linked via PartyBoost and, being dustproof, are also one of the best speakers to take with you to the beach.

The only real downside to getting a multispeaker system is that you’ll need to monitor multiple pieces of audio hardware at all times. Every speaker needs to be charged separately, which can require some juggling if your place doesn’t have too many outlets. Luckily, battery life is rated at 16 hours, and the speakers are USB-C Quick Charge equipped. If that isn’t an issue, we can recommend taking Rocksteady’s Stadium Travel Combo to any outdoor party you’re hosting or attending.

Best for house party performances: JBL EON ONE Compact Personal PA

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 8-inch woofer
• Power source: Battery (Up to 12 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth, AUX in, 1/4-inch input, mic/line input (2x)
• IP rating: N/A

Pros

• Simple setup
• Easy-to-use controls
• Portable
• On-unit 4-channel mixer with EQ and effects
• Built-in microphone preamps
• Phantom power

Cons

• Can be too quiet for loud practices
• Reverb effect is subtle for those looking for washed-out sound

The JBL EON ONE Compact Personal PA offers musicians and DJs an easy-to-setup audio solution for smaller performance situations. Weighing just under 18 pounds, packing a 12-hour swappable rechargeable battery, the speaker is light enough to carry to and from smaller gigs and fits easily in the trunk or backseat of most cars. 

The onboard 4-channel mixer offers two XLR/TRS combo jacks, one 1/4-inch guitar input, and a 1/8-inch aux input for dialing in the mix. If you’re using a condenser microphone, the unit also comes equipped with phantom power. The EON ONE Compact Personal PA’s four-channel configuration provides the flexibility to create a balanced mix of guitars, vocals, and backing tracks from the controls on the speaker itself or via the JBL app. Connect your phone via Bluetooth to access Lexicon and dbx-inspired 4-band EQ, reverb, chorus, and delay (with quick-recall presets), plus control the volume or stream music wirelessly. 

The unit can sit vertically or horizontally and provides a built-in pole mount socket for elevated placements. This flexibility allows the system to thrive in various settings, as a monitor or for broadcast, even when space is tight. Two USB 3.0 ports let you high-speed charge tablets, phones, and bus-powered DJ devices—perfect if you mix digital formats. According to JBL, a 1/4-inch (6.3mm) passthrough lets you connect up to four speakers and extend your mix to larger crowds. [We only got one speaker, so we couldn’t try this out.] 

The EON ONE Compact can reach 112 dB and the 8-inch bass driver hits 37.5 Hz, though it isn’t ideal for louder rock shows. However, it is a great option for solo and acoustic gigs and smaller gatherings where you want a bigger sound without a big hassle.

Best for guitarists: Positive Grid Spark MINI

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 2-inches (2x)
• Power source: Battery (Up to 8 hours)
• Expandable: No
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth, AUX input, 1/4-inch input
• IP rating: N/A

Pros

• Ultra-portable guitar amp
• Ability to switch between 10,000 tones
• Smart Jam Live mode

Cons

• Only worthwhile for musicians

The Positive Grid Spark MINI was designed for musicians who don’t just want to attend a party; they want to amp up the entertainment at a party. However, its support for Bluetooth and the presence of an AUX input allow you to kick out other people’s jams too. As a 3.3-pound practice amp, the Spark MINI is surprisingly capable. Battery-powered and DSP-based, it has a single 1/4-inch input to plug in almost any electric instrument with a standard cable and get a far more robust tone than you might expect looking at the compact cube. You can add accompaniment (drums and bass) by pairing the speaker to your phone to play a backing track (or use your phone to learn with the Positive Grid app’s auto chords feature). Knobs on top of the Spark MINI let you independently adjust the volume of your music and that amazing new electric guitar you just picked up till you get the right mix (though the MINI plays nicely with acoustic guitar and bass, as well). You can even select your tone from an online library of over 10,000 sculpted through Positive Grid’s BIAS tone engine and shared through its app. It’s like carrying a Marshall stack or AMPEG cabinet … in a backpack.

Suppose you’re a solo musician going to a small get-together. In that case, the Positive Grid Spark MINI is way more practical to lug around than the other PA-capable party speaker we recommend. And with its 8-hour battery life, it will satisfy all but the most out-there jam-band fans. With just two 2-inch drivers and a passive radiator, it won’t earn the party speaker seal of approval as just a Bluetooth speaker, but it’s nice to have a near-field option if you’re in a small space with a handful of friends. Just avoid water (or a spilled beer) with this one. However, none of these downsides are dealbreakers because the Spark MINI is capable of its main task. One of this party speaker’s underrated features is its Line Out, which allows you to connect the amp to a larger PA. If you like a specific guitar tone from Positive Grid’s library and show up to a party with a larger system, you can use your preferred effects with a lot of additional volume.

When you’re not entertaining guests, you can connect this amp directly to your computer using its USB-C port and use it as an interface to record your instrument with your own custom guitar tone using the PreSonus Studio One digital audio workstation software that comes with it. Everybody likes going to a party with live music, but bringing all the equipment necessary for it at the last minute is not always practical. With the Positive Grid Spark MINI, it’s possible to fit everything you need for a “gig” in the back seat of a small car, making it a lot more reasonable.

Willing to trade a little space for more physical tone controls and more room-filling sound? The “full-sized” 40W Positive Grid Spark is still plenty portable, whether you’re ascending a stairway to heaven, speeding down a highway to hell, or taking friends and family on any other number of musical detours.

Best for gamers: GravaStar Mars Pro

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 2.76 inches (2x)
• Power source: Battery (Up to 15 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth
• IP rating: IPX7

Pros

• Intricate design
• Stereo pairing support
• Two subwoofers

Cons

• Limited connectivity options

GravaStar’s Mars Pro proves there ain’t no party like a LAN party. OK, most of our competitive gaming is done remotely, but we like listening to big beats and bouncy bands with our big broadband. This 7.5-inch-tall wireless party speaker is relatively small but has multiple drivers, a big bass radiator, and 25W to deliver lots of low-end. Its distinctive, futuristic look will fit into a party hosted in a game room or bring an out-of-this-world vibe anywhere with a rechargeable battery that lasts 15-20 hours. That’s doubly true if you put a pair next to one another and connect them to listen in true stereo. Still, you must applaud the industrial engineering in this speaker’s zinc alloy body. There are multiple designs and colorways, a touch-responsive volume strip, and it even has LED accents all over it that would make it eye-catching on a livestream as you blast competitors and tunes.

As far as features go, you can’t plug an instrument into it or connect it to dozens of speakers simultaneously (just the one other for true L/R channels). Still, none of those options are absolutely necessary. If anything, pairing them down allowed GravaStar to focus more on audio quality and aesthetics, including making the Mars Pro IPX7—or effectively waterproof. Our only disappointment is that the only way to connect devices to this speaker is over Bluetooth 5.0. To be fair, that’s the universal wireless connectivity standard for all of the best portable speakers. However, it would have been nice to see an AUX in jack as a backup, especially with something that sits nicely next to a computer.

If that doesn’t bother you, the GravaStar Mars Pro is an excellent party speaker for smaller rooms. If anything, your guests may spend a few seconds searching around for the sound source when you start to play music from what they might have thought was an extremely detailed model. That party trick alone may make the Mars Pro worth the price of admission.

Best Wi-Fi speaker: Sonos Move 2 

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 3.5-inches
• Power source: Battery (Up to 24 hours)
• Expandable: Yes
• Connectivity options: Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth
• IP rating: IP65

Pros

• Sonos’ ecosystem is strong
• Excellent range
• Amazon Alexa and Sonos Assistant compatible

Cons

• Price

The Sonos Move 2 comes hot on the heels of the Era 100 and Era 300, Sonos’ next-generation connected speakers, and inherits many of the same great traits. One of the Move 2’s biggest selling points is its Wi-Fi connectivity, which has two distinct advantages over Bluetooth: Longer range and the ability to stream higher-resolution music files. If you have the option to be on the same Wi-Fi network as the Move 2, that’s the connectivity option we recommend.

The Move 2 isn’t Sonos’ only portable speaker, but the diminutive Roam is too small to be used as a party speaker—especially given its price. The Move 2 is a lot larger, but the extra volume allowed Sonos to use better audio hardware. Sonos’ advancements in amp and driver technology shine through, as does the company’s tasteful use of EQ. Music never sounded too bassy or treble forward, it was, cliche as it sounds, just right. The Move 2 also supports TruePlay, a feature that allows it to automatically adjust its sound using its built-in microphone to determine the size and shape of the room it’s in.

This is the only party speaker we recommend in this roundup that supports Amazon Alexa, as well as the Sonos Assistant, allowing you to use it hands-free. Sonos allows you to link streaming services through its app, so you can call up playlists or make them up on the fly without touching your phone. This feature requires an active Wi-Fi connection, so consider that if you plan on bringing the Move 2 to a beach. On a related note, this speaker has an IP56 rating, so it can get splashed with water without incident, but don’t submerge it under water.

The Sonos Move s is an excellent portable wireless speaker for all occasions, but its bigger size and louder sound do make it especially useful for a party. The Move 2’s batter is also 13 hours longer than the first-generation, so it’ll keep the party going all night long. Taking a Sonos speaker by the pool or beach is extremely appealing. Our only concern with recommending the Sonos Move 2 is its $450 price, which is steep.

If you’re happy with the way Sonos speakers sound, the Move 2 is absolutely worthwhile, and it’s the best option if you’re looking for a party speaker with a Wi-Fi connection. Only planning to have people gather inside and want to fill an entire room with multidirectional music from one standalone speaker? The new Era 300 has an original acoustic design optimized for Dolby Atmos and the captivating gradients of spatial audio.

Best budget: Tribit XSound Mega

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Specs

• Bass driver size: 1.5-inches (2x)
• Power source: Battery: (Up to 20 hours)
• Expandable: No
• Connectivity options: Bluetooth
• IP rating: IPX7

Pros

• Ultra-portable, with an included shoulder strap
• Battery lasts a long time relative to its size
• Price

Cons

• Smaller speakers make less sound

If you’ve spent your party budget on a venue, food, and drinks, there’s still bound to be enough in the bank for Tribit’s XSound Mega. The beach-bag-friendly speaker has two 1.5-inch bass drivers, which will pump out a reasonable amount of sound, given their size. If you’re hosting a small gathering at home or outdoors, it’ll be sufficient but don’t expect miracles at a big backyard bash.

We named this the top party pick in our guide to the best budget Bluetooth speakers because of its battery life, multiple listening modes, built-in LEDs, and carrying strap. The fact that Tribit equipped it with a USB-A port, which allows you to use it as a power bank, was a welcome feature. We found the speaker’s XBass mode added an appreciable amount of low-frequency response but found the XSound Mega distorted a little at high volumes. It never ruined the song, but the distortion was present. Alternatively, the speaker’s LEDs were surprisingly sophisticated, pulsing rhythmically as the music played.

The Tribit XSound Mega is a little barebones compared to some of our other recommendations, but it also costs under $100. You’re getting a lot of value for your money with this party speaker, which has several of the same core features as our other recommendations in a smaller, less expensive package.

What to consider when shopping for the party speakers

Bass driver

Party music is typically all about that bass—though midrange and treble shouldn’t be dismissed!—so it makes sense to focus on a party speaker’s woofer, the driver that determines how low (in the frequency range) you can go. The bigger the woofer, the more sound it can produce. The biggest impediment to bass performance is often size of the speaker itself, since a driver can only be as big as the case it’s in—though custom waveguides and well-implemented DSP can produce some surprising results. To ensure you get more bounce to the ounce, however, we’ve only chosen party speakers with larger bass drivers for this reason.

Power source

Some party speakers need to be connected to an outlet at all times because they consume too much power to run on a battery for a long period of time—if at all. The tradeoff between a smaller, less powerful party speaker and a large, high-powered one is real, but in many cases, the answer is clear. If you host large basement parties where there’s no chance of disturbing the neighbors, a plugged-in party speaker makes sense. For smaller get-togethers—especially those in the outdoors—a portable party speaker makes more sense.

Expandability

Some speaker makers allow you to daisy chain multiple speakers together, so you can play the same music in different places or listen in true stereo. In some cases, this feature is literally called PartyBoost mode. If the parties you throw take place indoors and outdoors, or you have to cover a lot of ground and don’t want a single huge speaker, expandability is key.

Connectivity

All of the party speakers we’re recommending support Bluetooth, the universal wireless standard that allows you to connect your phone, tablet, or computer to countless tech accessories. But even a universal standard has variants, so you’ll want to make sure the Bluetooth version of your source and speaker are in line (Bluetooth 5.3 devices are the most current, but there are plenty of 4.x devices floating around that still function perfectly well). Some have the option of connecting to your device over Wi-Fi, which offers a better range, a more stable signal, and higher-fidelity streaming. If you want to go old school, a 3.5mm AUX input will let you connect your source to the party speaker directly, which offers the highest level of fidelity—assuming you’re playing lossless music—but means your device is literally tethered to the speaker.

IP rating

A speaker’s IP (Ingress Protection) rating determines its durability against dust and water. Our recommendations range from having no IP rating to an IPX7 rating, which means they can be fully submerged underwater for up to 30 minutes without the risk of damage. This feature won’t matter if you keep your speaker indoors—so long as nobody spills a drink on it—but is extremely important if you host outdoor gatherings.

FAQs

Final thoughts on choosing the best party speakers

• Best overall: JBL Boombox 3
• Best portable: Sony SRS-XG300
• Best with lights: JBL PartyBox 110
• Best for outdoor party: Rocksteady Stadium Travel Combo 
• Best for house party performances: JBL EON ONE Compact Personal PA
• Best for guitarists: Positive Grid Spark MINI
• Best for gamers: GravaStar Mars Pro
• Best Wi-Fi speaker: Sonos Move 2 
• Best budget: Tribit XSound Mega

Whether you throw a couple of casual get-togethers yearly or host the weekly event friends look forward to throughout the week, having a party speaker is key to everyone having a good time. No party is complete without music; you can be the hero by providing it. We’re especially pleased that companies have begun taking this speaker style seriously rather than chalking it up as a gimmick and slapping unnecessary features onto previously available models that just blurt farty bass. Any of our speaker recommendations will get the job done; now it’s your task to create the perfect playlist.

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 party speakers in 2024, 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		Yeti Gallon Jug		SEE IT	Yeti’s stainless steel gallon water jug is rugged and cleverly designed.
Best insulated		Hydro Flask Oasis		SEE IT	Hydro Flask’s 1-gallon Oasis can quench a big thirst after a long day.
Best motivational		Fidus Motivational Water Bottle		SEE IT	The Fidus motivational water bottle has markings to help you hit your hydration goals.

The gallon water bottle is the ultimate hydration vessel. Carrying 128 ounces of liquid, these giant vessels are the perfect companion for balmy beach days, backcountry hikes, and sweaty gym sessions. They’ve also recently grown popular as a way to push yourself to drink more water every day. If your average 40-ounce water bottle just isn’t cutting it, an absolutely immense gallon bottle will ensure you never feel parched again. Chances are, you’ll have plenty left over to share with your friends and family after you absolutely crush those hydration goals. Here are the best gallon water bottles for aspirational drinkers, fitness obsessives, and anyone who wants to catch the big water bottle wave.

• Best overall: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Oasis
• Best for the gym: Coleman One Gallon Beverage Cooler
• Best motivational: Fidus Motivational Water Bottle
• Best budget: Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle

How we chose the best gallon water bottles

I consider myself an outdoorsy guy, so I spend a lot of time at the beach, in the mountains, and far away from clean running water. I was particularly excited to look into gallon water bottles since I’ve been thinking about picking one up myself. To make our selections, I performed hands-on testing and did hours of research, surveying critical viewpoints from water-obsessed coworkers alongside user impressions before settling on our picks.

At Popular Science, I cover a little bit of everything. I’ve researched all kinds of products, from the best energy-efficient air conditioners to the best smoke detectors. Before PopSci, I wrote about and reviewed gadgets for over 10 years for sites like iMore, XDA Developers, and CNN Underscored. 

The best gallon water bottles: Reviews & Recommendations

The type of gallon water bottle you buy depends on how you plan to use it. If you want to keep liquids hot or cold, a stainless steel bottle that’s vacuum insulated is your best option. Otherwise, plastic bottles tend to be more affordable and weigh less. Since there aren’t that many trustworthy brands making gallon water bottles, we feel confident that one of these picks is the best option for you.

Best overall: Yeti Rambler Gallon Jug

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Yeti Gallon Jug features tough stainless steel construction and double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks icy cold all day long.

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Height: 15 inches
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Clever magnetic lid to store spout cap
• Double-wall insulation
• Sturdy handle

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

The Yeti Gallon Jug will keep your water cold if you’re out in the field and away from refills. 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 surfaces are safe from condensation.

The Gallon Jug’s lid features a sturdy metal handle with soft grip padding, making it easier to carry on long hauls. 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. It’s a clever design that reinforces Yeti’s attention to the small details.

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. That’s heavy on a hike. Still, it is far and away the nicest water bottle of this size.

Best insulated: Hydro Flask Oasis

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Why it made the cut: The Hydro Flask Oasis is big and heavy, but it’ll keep your liquids cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Height: 14.8 inches
• Weight: 4.96 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Easy grip base
• Double-wall insulation
• Keeps liquids cold for up to 24 hours

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

Like our top pick, the Hydro Flask Oasis is a large, heavy stainless steel bottle with double-wall vacuum insulation that ensures liquids stay cold. Hydro Flask claims water stays chilled in the Oasis for up to 24 hours, making it the perfect companion for the summer months. It’s also rated for hot liquids and keeps coffee, tea, or soup hot for up to 12 hours. It’s an excellent option for skiers who want a piping hot cup of joe after a long day on the slopes.

In addition to its superior insulation, we like the Oasis’ beveled base, which makes it easier to grab and pour. It’s a nice touch that you won’t find elsewhere. On the other hand, the Oasis’ lid doesn’t provide a place to store the spout cap, and the plastic handle isn’t as durable or easy to hold.

Like the Yeti Rambler, the Hydro Flask Oasis weighs nearly 5 pounds and pushes 13 pounds when filled with water. The weight isn’t a significant hurdle if you’re keeping hydrated at home, but the Oasis’ weight could be an issue on a camping trip or climbing up a mountain when every ounce counts.

Best for the gym: Coleman One-Gallon Beverage Cooler

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Coleman One-Gallon Beverage Cooler features a simple flip-top spout, insulation, and a classic design you remember from childhood.

Specs

• Material: Plastic
• Height: 12.8 inches
• Weight: N/A
• Dishwasher safe: No
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Sturdy design
• Insulation
• Flip-top spout

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe

If you played sports as a kid, you may remember the Coleman gallon jug. Your coach may have brought it along to keep your whole team hydrated, but now it’s just for you.

The fact of the matter is that Coleman still makes a great bottle, and it’s specifically the perfect option for the gym. It has a leakproof lid, flip-top spout, and insulation to keep liquids cold. It’s also incredibly durable and features a handle that makes the Coleman Chiller easy to carry. It’s a simple, classic design that will keep you hydrated through every workout step.

Best motivational: Fidus Motivational Water Bottle

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: For people buying a big water bottle to drink more water, the Fidus Motivational water bottle gives you regular hydration goals.

Specs

• Material: Plastic
• Height: 13.8 inches
• Weight: 0.83 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Paracord handle
• Button cap
• Available in several colors

Cons

• No insulation

Drinking a gallon of water in a single day is hard work. As we mentioned, you don’t actually need to do it to stay healthily hydrated. But if you want to, this water bottle from Fidus is a trendy Tritan plastic water bottle with markers and motivational quotes to keep you on track to hit that daily goal. 

The 1-gallon water bottle from Fidus features eight motivational quotes to keep users focused and energized about hitting their water intake goals. It also features a cap that covers the spout and straw, so it’ll stay shielded from dust and particles throughout the day, and comes with a detachable paracord handle for easier carrying. Who doesn’t like a bit of encouragement?

Best budget: Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle offers a basic bottle at an affordable price.

Specs

• Material: Plastic
• Height: 13.8 inches
• Weight: 1.15 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Silicone straw
• Button cap

Cons

• No insulation

The Simple Modern 1-gallon bottle is, just like the brand name implies, a simple gallon water bottle. The dishwasher-safe Tritan plastic bottle comes in a variety of colors, including some calming color gradients like the green-to-purple “Tropical Seas,” and warm coral-to-cyan “Havana.” The best part of the Simple Modern bottle is its lid, which features a silicone mouthpiece with a lockable cover to keep it from getting dirty between sips. Press, Flip, Hydrate. Simple!

What to consider when buying the best gallon water bottles

So let’s get one thing out of the way: You don’t actually need to drink 8 cups of water every day. Giant water bottles have recently seen a surge in popularity, as people see them as a means of motivating themselves to drink more water. While you should never deny yourself water if you’re thirsty, it turns out that you don’t need to push yourself to drink that much.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t good reasons to carry around an absolutely gigantic jug of water. If you frequently go camping or spend long stretches of time away from a clean water source, it pays to bring a lot of water along. 

There aren’t as many manufacturers making gallon water bottles as the standard 32-ounce and 40-ounce options, so there isn’t as much room to get picky about style and design. That said, it still pays to know the essentials of water bottle construction so you can tell the best gallon water bottles from the knockoffs. Once you know where to look—and what to look for—in a gallon water bottle, you’ll find options that offer excellent durability, insulation, and clever designs for comfortable transportation and enhanced hydration.

Material

Most water bottles, no matter the size, are made of durable plastic or stainless steel. You may also find gallon jars made from shatter-resistant glass, but it’s fairly uncommon among bottles made for daily drinking.

Stainless steel water bottles are popular because they’re light but durable. They’re usually made from 18/8 stainless steel, which refers to its elemental composition—18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is considered food safe and is resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Many stainless steel bottles are also vacuum insulated (like the best insulated water bottles) or designed to create a sealed buffer between the liquid in the container and the environment outside the bottle, which reduces conduction and keeps liquids hot or cold for several hours. 

Reusable plastic water bottles offer a great balance of durability and affordability. High-quality plastic bottles are arguably more resistant to superficial wear and tear, though they generally lack stainless steel’s insulation. There is far more variability among the material to make plastic water bottles than there is among stainless steel water bottles. 

When buying plastic, make sure to get a plastic water bottle that’s made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is light, ultra-durable, and safe. 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, so avoid plastic bottles unless the manufacturer specifies that they use a BPA-free material.

Durability

The gallon water bottle you buy will likely be by your side day and night, so it needs to withstand the pitfalls of everyday use. Stainless steel can get dented and scratched, but it’s pretty resilient over the long run and should last for several years. Stainless steel can also handle sudden temperature changes, making them more versatile than other materials on this list.

Tritan plastic water bottles are generally more scratch-resistant and won’t ding, but are by no means indestructible. Both materials are strong enough to withstand everyday wear and tear, even hiking or running. However, if you’re likely to drop your bottle off a cliff (or off a car’s roof), maybe go with stainless steel.

Weight

Here’s where things get a little tricky. There’s no way around the fact that our stainless steel picks are heavy. When filled up with water, they feel like small kettlebells. We don’t feel like their weight disqualifies them from consideration because, well … a gallon of water is always going to feel heavy. (Remember: A gallon of water weighs approximately 8 pounds.) That said, if you really want to minimize your bottle’s weight, a plastic bottle will generally weigh less than a stainless steel one.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best gallon water bottles

• Best overall: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Oasis
• Best for the gym: Coleman One Gallon Beverage Cooler
• Best motivational: Fidus Motivational Water Bottle
• Best budget: Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle

Gallon water bottles are for people who either won’t have access to a water source for a while or need to hit a specific intake goal. Otherwise, their size and weight make them too cumbersome for most people. If you want something easier to manage, you’re better off checking out our picks for the best water bottles. And if you’ve got young ones, there’s our guide to the best kids’ water bottles.

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 gallon water bottles in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best portable		WaterLily Turbine		SEE IT	This model is small enough to carry with you into the wild.
Best overall		Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine		SEE IT	This reliable model can power a small home all on its own.
Best budget		Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator		SEE IT	Install it on your pipes and get up to 10W of power.

Hydroelectric generators produce electricity by harnessing the force of running water. This may seem like a novelty or impractical for home use, but you’d be surprised. While hydropower—or the use of the kinetic energy of running water to generate power—has been in use since ancient times, it is most associated these days with massive industrial damming projects, like the Oahe Dam and the Hoover Dam in the United States. But, hydropower can exist on an extremely small scale.

The benefits are obvious: you can generate power from an available resource—running water (with some models, even the water in your home’s pipes). In addition to possibly lowering your energy bills, allowing you to run additional electrical equipment, and potentially providing other benefits, utilizing hydro can take the pressure off the electricity grid, provide electricity if living off-the-grid, and offer backup power in the event of a blackout. Regarding sustainability, generating your own hydropower can reduce your use of fossil fuels and, consequently, your carbon footprint. According to the Department of Energy, about 7 percent of the nation’s electricity (and 37 percent of its renewable electricity) comes from hydropower—but with your own generator, you may be able to help those numbers grow, even slightly. Better yet, unlike large-scale hydroelectric projects, which can be extremely damaging to river ecology, small-scale hydro has relatively minimal effects on the immediate environment. Here are our picks for the best hydroelectric generators.

• Best overall: Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine
• Best value: Energy Systems and Design Watter Buddy
• Best portable: WaterLily Turbine
• Best budget: ​​Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator
• Best lightweight: Beduan Micro Water Turbine Generator 
• Best off-grid: PowerSpout TRG
• Best small: Suneco 500W Hydro Turbine

How we chose the best hydroelectric generators

We looked through about a dozen models to find the top hydroelectric generators. Admittedly, there aren’t a ton of options in the middle. There are a few larger-scale, ultimately stationary models that require a good amount of flow but can usually power a home, as well as tiny models that are best for producing small amounts of power. But we did find a couple of relevant models that—while maybe not meeting all your power needs—can provide extra energy and are particularly useful in a camping or off-grid setting. 

When purchasing a hydroelectric generator, sustainability is primarily in the concept: if you have running water near you, you can access a freely available resource to produce, potentially, a lot of electricity. Again, unlike with massive industrial hydro projects, effects near you should be minimal, and you can take pressure off the grid or other less sustainable energy sources. If you want to get deeply technical about it, you can calculate hydropower that you produce, and compare it to grid power, estimating both the relative cost and carbon impact of the energy you use.

The best hydroelectric generators: Recommendations & Reviews

If you’re on this page, then you likely know exactly what you’re looking for because these are somewhat complex machines that require lots of infrastructure to go with them. We’ve selected the best to fit specific uses, but products always overlap.

Best overall: Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is an extremely well-built machine that—even with low head—can reliably power a small home with steady water flow.

Specs

• Rated at 1500W output (but can reach 2000W)
• Largely self-cleaning
• Made in USA

Pros

• Provides ample power
• Very sturdy

Cons

• Expensive
• Additional components required

If you live near a decent, steady source of running water, this high-quality machine can, once installed, probably provide consistent power for your home year-round. Your electricity bills will be negligible, you will not have to worry about the weather (as you do for solar or wind power), and you can sustainably produce consistent electricity with limited environmental impact.

ABS Alaskan, the maker of this machine, has been making high-quality alternative energy devices for over 30 years, geared toward the conditions in Alaska—a state with over 12,000 rivers—but applicable all over. The Scott Hydro Turbine, with a 1500-watt output, can almost certainly provide the energy you need for your home. While it requires a steady flow of water, it only needs a 20-foot drop in “head” (a term explained in our “Things to consider …” section near the bottom)—relatively small given the power provided. Once installed, it’s very easy to maintain—it is effectively self-cleaning, using the water flow, with only three rotating components.

On the con side, these units are pricey, and installation does take some work, requiring a relatively simple water diversion and a small shelter to protect the unit. You’ll also need an electric connection kit, not to mention batteries (if intending to store power). But once it’s up and running, it can provide lasting, sustainable power for years.

Best value: Energy Systems and Design Watter Buddy

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: For a modest price and small size, the Watter Buddy can provide a non-insubstantial 200W of power.

Specs

• Type: Generates DC power via rectifier
• Weight: 8 lbs

Pros

• Lightweight
• Multiple nozzle sizes provided to match flow

Cons

• Likely cannot provide all your power needs

The Watter Buddy is an innovative machine from Energy Systems and Design, a Canadian company providing off-grid hydro solutions for four decades. While the company produces a couple of larger (and more expensive models), the Watter Buddy meets you in the middle. For a modest price, it can provide a considerable amount—though probably not all—of your power needs. But don’t discount 200W. Whether you need supplementary off-grid power, are looking for electricity for a small workshop, or have other relevant needs, with steady water flow, this machine can do a lot—potentially lessening your reliance on a traditional electric generator. And you don’t have to be off-grid—this can even be effectively used with traditional household pipes.

This product is convenient in a few other ways. Multiple nozzle sizes allow you to match the flow you use to generate power easily. A built-in rectifier converts from AC to DC power, allowing electricity produced to be easily sent to batteries or compatible devices. Finally, its very small size allows you to move it around conveniently as needed.

Best portable: WaterLily Turbine

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The WaterLily Turbine is easy to set up and use anywhere you can access running water, providing charge capabilities for both 12V and USB devices.

Specs

• Produces up to 2A (on 12V output); or up to 3A (via USB output)
• 10 ft. charge cord
• 1 km/h minimum water flow required

Pros

• Can charge cellphones, battery banks, lights, and more
• Under 3 lbs.

Cons

• Likely can’t provide for all power needs

For something easily transportable but extremely reliable, check out the WaterLily Turbine. This innovative little device can be set up virtually anywhere you have running water, producing (at highest power) up to 15 W. With good flow, a small device (cellphone, camera, etc.) should charge at roughly the same rate as it would if plugged into a traditional wall outlet. The WaterLily also offers unique accessories, including its WindLily attachment, which allows you to convert the device to harvest wind energy, and its SolarLily panels, which allows for a solar harvesting component like the best solar generators.

In terms of sustainability, again, a small hydroelectric generator has the virtue of harnessing natural flow with minimal ecological impacts. According to the company, using a WaterLily can provide the equivalent power of 50 AA batteries in a day. The company also looks to promote its values by collaborating with organizations that help deploy WaterLily turbines in the developing world.

Best budget: Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: For a very affordable price, this small Yosoo generator reliably generates up to 10 W of power and can be used on your household pipes.

Specs

• 12V, 10W output
• 3.2 oz
• Made in China

Pros

• Very affordable
• Reliable, steady

Cons

• Provides very limited power

The Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator is a small, handy device that neatly hooks up to the pipes in your home. For an extremely affordable price, you can use water that, in most cases, should flow through your pipes anyway to generate a little extra electricity. It’s not useful for big devices, but it can provide additional capacity for lightning, charging for phones or other devices, or similar uses that require comparable power.

While this generator may not make a huge difference if you’re tied into the grid, it can be very handy if you live off-grid, where every little bit of power matters. Keep some lights on, charge up your phone or radio, or fulfill other needs based on existing water flow. 

Best lightweight: Beduan Micro Water Turbine Generator

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is another small, inexpensive, and simple option that can provide some extra power in your home.

Specs

• 3.17 oz
• 12 V, 10 W
• 0.5” G thread

Pros

• Very light
• Affordable
• Easy to install

Cons

• Provides limited power
• Can be noisy

This small device from Beduan provides another handy way to generate a little extra power from water running through a pipe, like a shower or through a hose. Its recommended water flow for full power is about 26 L/min, and with 10 W, you can provide a little extra power to charge a small device or power a light. While that certainly won’t be enough to run your washing machine or fridge, it can still be helpful—again, especially in off-grid situations, where power may be limited.

In practice, this little device from Beduan can make a handy addendum to your stock of energy-efficient tech. It makes up for its limitations by being both extremely affordable, as well as lightweight and easy to install.

Best off-grid: PowerSpout TRG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is a high-caliber model that comes in high-head, medium-head, and low-head options, with the capacity to provide substantial off-grid power.

Specs

• Head range is 6.6 to 100 feet
• Maximum flow 254 gpm
• 16.9×16.1×13.8”

Pros

• Customizable to different types of flows
• Relatively affordable given power provided

Cons

• Can be challenging to set up

PowerSpout is a New Zealand-based company that offers an assortment of hydroelectric generators. We’ve linked to their medium-head option here, but they also make a high-head and low-head model. This variety is great, allowing you to carefully select the right model for your given conditions. Bear in mind, though, that setup can be tricky, and it is best to buy from a dealer.

The PowerSpout TRG is a high-quality machine that—for a pretty modest price—can generate 1.6 kW daily with adequate flow. The company even notes that “stacking” units is an option for generating additional power. The turbine will come with pretty much everything you need for setup, and by ordering from a dealer, you can go over your system specs to be sure you are prepared to easily get it up and running. While these are ideal for off-grid setups, they can be ordered such that the system voltage can easily be tied into the grid. In short, a great model for all situations.

Best small: Suneco 500W Hydro Turbine

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Why it made the cut: If your water flow has decent head, this fairly small turbine can produce a decent amount of power that can cut down your electricity budget or provide extra off-grid power.

Specs

• Rated for 12-18 m. head
• Output: 500 W
• Weight: 27 kgs.

Pros

• Consistent, fairly substantial power
• Good safety protection

Cons

• Requires considerable head to generate power

Suneco Hydro has been developing micro hydro turbines since 1991—and they have several options. The 500W hydro turbine is a modest size that slots in right in the middle; it’s not too large or expensive but is substantial enough to make a difference in terms of power provided.

This particular model, weighing in at 27 kgs., is small enough that you can most likely set it up yourself. While it requires a somewhat considerable 12 m. of head to generate power, if you have the setting for it, it can make a great option for an on or off-grid property. However, it should be noted that Suneco Hydro is based in China, which can mean longer shipping times, and may potentially involve more challenges when working with customer service.

What to consider when shopping for a hydroelectric generator

Many factors go into choosing the ideal hydroelectric generator. How bulky is the generator? Is it portable? How much water does it require to run? How much power does it generate? Where can it be run? Can you set it up yourself? Depending on your needs—whether you want it for the home, a workshop, or for use when out in the backcountry—you will probably hone in on particular products.

Size

Hydropower comes in many sizes. According to the Bureau of Reclamation, for instance, the Hoover Dam generates 4 billion kilowatt-hours annually. On the far opposite end of the spectrum is pico hydro, which can generate up to 5 kW of electricity. The next most substantial type of hydro is micro hydropower, which generates up to 100 kW of electricity. (Hydropower continues up in size after that—encompassing mini hydro, which produces 100 kW to 1 MW of electricity, small hydro, and so on—but virtually any system for use on an individual scale will fall into the micro or pico category.) 

Keep your needs in mind. If you’re looking for something to use while camping, you’ll want to focus on the smallest and lightest end of the spectrum; if you want to power your house from the creek that runs through your property, you may need a sizable generator. 

Water source

While hydropower is conventionally associated with large rivers, any flow of water can potentially produce hydropower. The output could possibly offer more power than you think. Two terms are useful to know to understand how to calculate hydropower’s potential output. “Head” denotes the height gradient over which water moves from input to output; “flow” is the amount of water going through the system. These two numbers can be used to calculate the rough power output of a system.

How does the water source come in? Naturally, heavier running water over steeper terrain generates more power. If you have a substantial stream on your property, it’s very possible that you can generate a considerable amount of electricity from it. But hydropower can work even on a tiny scale. For instance, some systems are built to run off the water in your pipes. When looking for a personal hydro system, give consideration to the source of the water—and also consider seasonal factors, like whether a stream tends to dry up in the summer.

Generator type

According to the Department of Energy, “reaction” and “impulse” turbines are the two main classes of hydro turbines. Hydropower is not terribly complicated, but for the purposes of home use, you mainly need to determine what fits your particular setting.

The main difference between the two is that reaction turbines generate energy based on water pressure, while impulse turbines generate energy based on water velocity. Impulse turbines are best with high head and low flow (while reaction turbines are the inverse). Impulse turbines are more common in microhydro settings, although propeller turbines are a type of reaction turbine that can be used for microhydro.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best hydroelectric generators

• Best overall: Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine
• Best value: Energy Systems and Design Watter Buddy
• Best portable: WaterLily Turbine
• Best budget: ​​Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator
• Best lightweight: Beduan Micro Water Turbine Generator 
• Best off-grid: PowerSpout TRG
• Best small: Suneco 500W Hydro Turbine

If you’re looking for a serious way to generate consistent hydropower from a decent amount of flowing water on your property, check out the Scott Hydro 1500 W Water Turbine. If you’re looking for a smaller and more portable option, the WaterLily Turbine is a great choice.

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 hydroelectric generators for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The weather is (finally) warming up, and, if you’re on the East Coast, drying out after an entire weeks-worth of rain. That’s perfect if you’ve tried to get perfectly pruned lawns only to be thwarted by precipitation. If your plans for neighborhood glory require better equipment, consider hitting Amazon for these fresh deals from Greenworks.

Greenworks 80V 21” Brushless Cordless Electric Lawn Mower + Axial Leaf Blower $552.49 (Was $833.99)

SEE IT

This combo kit comes with a four-year warranty and long runtimes on both the push mower and leaf blower. The cordless mower can be used to mulch, bag excess grass in the rear, or spit the clippings out on the side. The blower is powerful and can even assist in cleaning up leftover grass and leaves. You won’t want to miss this deal if you’re trying to upgrade your personal landscaping equipment.

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Best overall		Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through		SEE IT	High volume tires, a 250-watt mid-drive motor, and a pin-based anti-theft system helped the Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through grab the top spot.
Best design		Civilized Cycles Model 1		SEE IT	The Model 1’s passenger seat, U-shaped frame, and 750-watt motor make it a feast for the eyes and ready for the road.
Best budget		RadCity 5 Plus Electric Commuter Bike		SEE IT	The RadCity 5’s sub-$2,000 price tag put it in another league when it comes to overall value without many sacrifices.

I started using an electric commuter bike out of necessity. I live in the suburbs of D.C., where our Metro lines occasionally close for weeks or months for train track and station upgrades. And driving into the city can cost $20 or more each way, thanks to toll roads and hot lanes. That’s before paying to park. My potential commuting costs made buying an e-bike seem downright economical, but what I wasn’t expecting was how riding turned my commute into something fun that helped me de-stress after crappy work days. The power assistance from e-bikes helps close the gap between your fitness and the distance between your home and workplace. They can transform routine parts of your day into workout sessions, and they’re eco-friendlier than driving a gas car solo. The key is to find the best electric commuter bikes within your budget that you want to ride and can handle the distance and terrain of your commute. 

• Best overall: Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through
• Best design: Civilized Cycles Model 1
• Best all-terrain: Ride1Up Rift
• Best for women: LeMond Dutch 
• Best splurge: Riese & Müller Homage4
• Best budget: RadCity 5 Plus Electric Commuter Bike
• Also worth considering: Orbea Diem 20

How we selected the best electric commuter bikes

As a long-time bike commuter, I have lugged laptops and changes of clothes through suburban streets, paved trails, wooden bridges, and city bike lanes in scorching humidity, unexpected rain, and bitter cold. I even broke my arm once, but that’s a cautionary tale about trying to outperform a personal record to the office. In addition to my riding and testing, I’ve tapped the PopSci team’s collective experiences, plus expert and customer reviews, to pull together this list. 

The best electric commuter bikes: Reviews & Recommendations

Any electric bike is a potential commuter, but some features help make the daily to and fro more comfortable. Fenders keep road filth and water from going up your back (a real thing), and chain guards keep pants and legs from getting greasy (or worse, stuck). Racks offer a less sweaty alternative to hauling your work necessaries in a backpack. Check out our tips for how to carry stuff on your bike, whether it’s a packed lunch, laptop, or just clothes to change into post-ride. Fitness or occasional cyclists may never have bothered with lights, but they are essential for commuters. You’ll need them to see in the dark of winter, and they help cars see you on busy roads. We prioritized bikes with integrated lights, fenders, and racks so the bike is prepped for all-weather riding without splurging on additional after-market accessories.  

Best overall: Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through

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Specs

• Motor: 250w mid-drive motor
• Battery: 710Wh capacity
• Riding range: Up to 90 miles
• Class: 3
• Top speed: 28 mph
• Bike weight: 58 pounds
• Carrying capacity: 300 pounds

Pros

• Integrated front headlight and rear lights
• Internal cable management
• Front suspension fork
• Front and rear fenders
• Built-in rear rack holds up to 59 pounds 
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• 11-speed drivetrain
• App offers additional controls
• Anti-theft local built-in to motor that unlocks with PIN or connected phone
• Four frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Multiple colors offered

Cons

• Magnetic battery charger can be difficult to connect
• Integrated battery is removable, but can be hard to get in and out
• Specialized’s apps come and go

Specialized is an American company that has been making bicycles since 1974 and has launched several e-bike models under the Vado name. For a while, the company marketed the e-bike line with the phrase, “It’s you, but better,” which captures how riding the Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through feels. The latest iteration of the Turbo Vado features an upright riding position on high-volume 650b tires, which helps smooth out road unpleasantries when coupled with the front suspension fork.

The Turbo Vado 4.0 looks more like a thick bicycle than an e-bike. There’s no black box bolted onto the frame. The battery is discreetly tucked into the downtube, and the powerful 250w mid-drive motor is housed between the pedals, which helps keep the weight in the center of the bike for agile handling. This Class 3 bike relies on a Brose motor tuned to proprietary Specialized standards that get the rider up to top speed in a snap without requiring much effort. The bike has three levels of pedal assist—eco, sport, and turbo—and an 11-speed drivetrain. There’s no throttle, but you don’t need one. 

The Turbo Vado isn’t cheap at the usual retail price of $4,000. However, the extra dollars go to higher-quality grips, saddle, a very sturdy kickstand with a foot, and technology. The motor includes an anti-theft device that only allows power when unlocked by a PIN or an authorized phone. The Bluetooth connectivity allows the bike to be updated over the air and connected with my Garmin watch to track my rides, though I’m not sure which device initiated the connection. Though a rider can rely exclusively on the very bright handlebar display to control the Turbo Vado, Specialized apps unlock additional features like the ability to input your route and automatically budget battery power so it lasts the whole ride.  As far as range, the website says up to 90 miles, but the farthest I’ve gotten on one charge is 50-ish miles using mostly eco mode. Still, that’s on the longer side of ranges. 

This brings me to some downsides. Specialized spends time developing its apps, but that leads to multiples in app stores, and sometimes they switch which one you need to use with your bike. For example, the company sunsetted the Mission Control app for one called just Specialized. Another grumble is charging. You can charge the bike with the battery in or out, but either way, it can be awkward to get the magnetic charger to align with the little pins. The battery can be removed, but it requires unlocking with a key, releasing a lever, and unhooking it from a bar you can never see. That’s not even as awkward as reinstalling it. 

The full-size Turbo Vado weighs about 58 pounds, depending on which of the four frames fits you. If you’re looking for something lighter weight, Specialized also offers a Turbo Vado SL 4.0 Step-through that only weighs 36 pounds. The tradeoff is skinnier wheels, no front suspension, and a smaller battery capacity. 

Best design: Civilized Cycles Model 1

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Specs

• Motor: 750w high torque mid-drive
• Battery: 48V 10.5 Ah
• Riding range: Up to 30 miles
• Class: 2 or 3
• Top speed: 28 mph
• Bike weight: 90 pounds
• Carrying capacity: 400 pounds

Pros

• Integrated lights with self-dimming sensors
• Turn signals
• Front fender plus covered back wheel
• Air-based suspension plus front suspension fork
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Built-in passenger seat for one adult or two children
• Built-in locking pannier storage up to 80-liter capacity
• Pedal assist and throttle modes
• Gel rider saddle
• Built-in lock points on footrests 
• Power system has a PIN code
• Available in red, black, or silver 

Cons

• Not the best for riders under 5’6”
• Very heavy

The deliberate design of the Civilized Cycle Model 1 challenged how I thought about e-bikes. While technically a bicycle, the Model 1 is best suited for someone who wants a Vespa or a scooter without the hassle and cost of getting a license and insurance. With a $5,000 price tag, the Model 1 is less a bike and more a vehicle that replaces a car for short errands. Much like a car, it has a seat for a passenger and two expandable panniers ready to carry about 80 liters of cargo. These built-ins allow for impromptu outings. Adding a passenger to a typical e-bike is a no-go, and unexpected cargo can be challenging. 

The magic of the Model 1 is the air suspension, which is by far some of the best cushioning I’ve experienced on any e-bike. With my husband in the passenger seat, I tested the Model 1 on a ride through Brooklyn. It took me a bit to adjust to how the Model 1 handled the weight of my passenger over the rear wheel. Still, the throttle assist on the 750w motor and hydraulic brakes made starting from stops and accelerating through turns effortless, even when I slammed on the brakes for a school bus that dumped a bunch of kids into the bike lane. We floated over potholes and the random bumps and cracks in the road without walking funny after.

Model 1 includes other high-end details for frequent riders, like USB charge ports, lock points in the footrests, a covered chain, and a PIN code for the power system. However, the Model 1 has some downsides, especially for smaller riders. Technically, my average height of 5’4” fell short of the suggested rider size of 5’6” to 6’4”, and I was on my tippy toes to adjust the suspension. The U-shape frame let me put my foot down quickly to stabilize the bike at stops, but there was some pedal dancing to get back in the saddle. It also weighs roughly 90 pounds and measures almost 80 inches from nose to tail, so it’s best for someone with a ground-floor garage or storage. (If you have more stairs than you have space and have a short commute in a dense urban area, consider a folding bike like the LECTRIC XL Lite.) The Model 1 also only has a 30-mile range, which is low for its price point, but it’s perfectly appointed for a quick grocery run or short trip for two. 

Best all-terrain: Ride1Up Rift

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Specs

• Motor: 750w rear hub
• Battery: 48V 20 Ah
• Riding range: 45 to 60 miles
• Class: 2 or 3
• Top speed: 20 mph using a throttle or 28 mph with pedal assist
• Bike weight: 84.5 pounds 
• Carrying capacity: 350 pounds

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Integrated front and rear lights
• Front and rear fenders
• Built-in rear rack holds up to 150 pounds
• Four piston hydraulic brakes with cutoff sensor
• Front suspension fork
• Gel saddle

Cons

• Wide turning radius
• Noisy chain
• Very heavy

The Ride1Up Rift may be the right choice for anyone who needs all-terrain capability or wants a commuter to pull double-duty on dirt paths on the weekends. It has many features that make riding to work more convenient, like metal front and rear fenders and integrated lights. The welded-on rear rack can carry up to 150 pounds, which means the bike could also carry a passenger (and the company sells a kit for that).

The Rift is a monster of a bike with four-inch wide fat tires that come in either a step-through or step-over frame to accommodate riders from 5’1” to 6’5”. If you’ve never dabbled in fat tire bikes, the volume absorbs road chatter while increasing traction on dodgy surfaces like mud, sand, or snow. They enhance the stability of the ride but add weight. So does the massive battery integrated into the downtube. However, the 750w rear hub motor produces enough torque to move this 85-pound beast around, easily making it up steep hills in the PopSci test. Levels one and two still required some rider effort, but pedaling was just for looks at levels four and five. The wide turning radius takes some getting used to.

The Rift arrives as a Class 2 e-bike but can be unlocked to achieve Class 3’s higher top speed.  A well-organized display on the handlebar clarifies which of the five pedal assist levels you’re in, trip time, and power consumption. The range is 45 to 60 miles, though full power assistance or carting around a passenger will whittle that down. Still, at under $2,000, the Rift packs a lot of power and versatility in a bike that can handle on and off-roading. 

Best for women: LeMond Dutch

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Specs

• Motor: 250w rear hub
• Battery: 36V 250w capacity
• Riding range: 40 to 70 miles
• Class: 2
• Top speed: 20 mph
• Bike weight: 27 pounds
• Capacity weight: 250 pounds

Pros

• Integrated head and rear lights
• Internal cable management
• Front and rear fenders
• 11-speed drivetrain
• All carbon fiber frame
• Mahle My SmartBike app
• Three frame sizes: S, M, L
• Three colors: Ice blue, noir, rosa

Cons

• No rack included
• No handlebar adjustments due to the monocoque design
• Minimal on-bike control could be challenging for color-blind riders

Once upon a time, what made a woman’s bike was whether the top tube sloped down instead of going straight across. While traditional bicycle manufacturers have lines dedicated to women’s geometry, most e-bikes address this with step-through frames or by putting women’s touchpoints like differently shaped grips or saddles on e-bikes that are otherwise identical to the default model. I compiled this list with mostly step-through models not to focus on women’s needs but because commuting often involves so much stopping that you want a frame that lets you put a foot down easily for balance. So, without a dearth of women-centric e-bikes, I offer a model that focuses on one of the main challenges to my sister riders: e-bike weight.

The LeMond Dutch is a gorgeous, minimalist e-bike that tips the scales at a meager 27 pounds. How? The Dutch’s frame, fork, stem, seatpost, and handlebar are all made of carbon fiber, a premium material that accounts for a considerable part of the $5,500 price tag. Less weight matters: An entirely different range of people can move this bike around, whether to get it up stairs, onto a car rack, or to change a flat. The three frame options accommodate rides from 5’2” to 6’5”.

This is a stealth Class 1 e-bike, concealing its motor within the sleek frame and a complete lack of display screen. Instead, users get information from a single button with a light-up ring that changes colors to indicate assist level and battery life or the Mahle My SmartBike app. Such a different interface takes getting used to, and may be oddly difficult for some color-blind riders to determine which mode they’re in.

This e-bike’s chic design borrows its upright riding posture and swept-back handlebars from traditional Dutch commuter bikes and considerable input from American cycling legend Greg LeMond. The result is a comfortable ride that handles like an analog bicycle with just enough power from the three levels of assist to go 40 to 70 miles. One important note: The battery is not removable.

Best splurge: Riese & Müller Homage4

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Specs

• Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX smart system
• Battery: Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh, upgradable to dual battery configuration
• Riding range: Up to 100 miles with dual batteries
• Class: 3
• Top speed: 28 mph
• Bike weight: 65 pounds
• Capacity weight: 330 pounds

Pros

• Adjustable air suspension
• Hydraulic disc brakes with option for Boasch’s ABS 2.0 system
• Upgradable cockpit options
• 11-speed drivetrain
• Flow app
• Three frame sizes: 49 cm, 54 cm, 58 cm
• Two colors: deep sea blue metallic and pearl white

Cons

• High entry price
• Proprietary parts can be hard to replace

Riese & Müller Homage4 offers a full-suspension Class 3 e-bike that looks like it rolled in from the future. This German-designed bike starts at $8,239 and features high-end, high-quality components with a dizzying amount of configurable upgrades, including a comfort package, alternate cockpit options, a carbon belt drive, and a dual battery configuration that extends the riding range to 100 miles. 

Bosch components help supercharge the Homage4, from the powerful Bosch Performance Line CX smart system motor that provides up to 85 Nm of torque for pedal assistance to optional ABS 2.0 brakes for maximum stopping power without skidding out. Bosch’s Flow app offers additional features like ride information, an e-bike alarm and tracking (with a subscription), and the ability to update the e-bike through Bluetooth. 

While I’ve mainly talked about what’s under the proverbial hood, the Homage4 looks like it’s been molded from one piece metal—even the rear rack. Like all e-bikes, getting used to the shifting systems and peculiarities takes a moment, but Riese & Müller regularly put out bikes with steady, smooth transitions and cloud-like suspensions. PopSci recently tested out some new models on a ride through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on the outskirts of Las Vegas, which handled like a dream through turns and climbed 1,500 feet of elevation with no problems on auto-assist—a seamless, satisfying setting that varies mode based on rider effort.

Best budget: RadCity 5 Plus Electric Commuter Bike

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Specs

• Motor: 750w hub
• Battery: 48V 14Ah
• Riding range: 28 to 50 miles
• Class: 2
• Top speed: 20 mph
• Bike weight: 65 pounds
• Carrying capacity: 275 pounds

Pros

• Integrated LED headlight and rear light
• Front and rear fenders
• Rear rack holds up to 59 pounds
• Additional mounting points for accessories
• Front suspension fork
• Five levels of pedal assist plus throttle
• Available in gray, white, orange

Cons

• Lots of wires around handlebars
• Displays can be hard to read in bright sunlight
• Heavy

Rad Power Bikes specializes in delivering value-oriented e-bikes that are fun to ride and durable. The company recently released a special edition of the RadCity 5 Plus Electric Commuter Bike in “tiger orange” that makes some refinements to previous models. 

The 5 Plus supplies an upright, comfortable ride with slightly swept-back handles to offer easy steering of the powerful 750w motor. The five pedal assist levels and throttle for an extra boost are paired with hydraulic brakes for easy stopping in any weather. Even if you don’t want to go for the bright orange, the RadCity team accents the 27.5-inch high-volume tires with reflective striping to enhance visibility, and the LED head and tail lights are standard. The built-in rear rack can carry more weight—59 pounds—than previous versions and additional mounting points if you want to purchase other accessories like baskets instead of panniers. The Class 2 ride maxes out at 20 mph with a good range of 28 to 50 miles, depending on how much you rely on assistance. Riders as short as 4’8” can comfortably ride the step-through frame, while those over 6” can fit the high step. 

If the RadCity 5 Plus were a car, it would be a sensible sedan at the exceptionally reasonable price of $1,700. That said, there’s not a lot sexy about the 5 Plus. It’ll get you there and do a good job. Some riders and reviewers complain about the well-organized but abundant wires on the handlebars and control screens that are hard to read in bright sun, but ultimately, these are minor issues. At about 65 pounds, the aluminum frame is also on the heavy side. 

Also worth considering: Orbea Diem 20

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Specs

• Motor: 250w mid-drive motor
• Battery: 630Wh capacity (internal)
• Riding range: Up to 90 miles
• Class: 3
• Top speed: 28 mph
• Bike weight: 52 pounds
• Carrying capacity: 300 pounds

Pros

• Wraparound LED lights
• Four size options
• 85 Nm of torque
• Long range
• Bottle cage battery storage
• USB-C port for phone charging
• Airtag holder
• Weight-absorbing carbon fiber fork
• Steady increase when engaging pedal assistance

Cons

• Battery upgrade at the point of sale can get pricey

Spanish bike manufacturer Orbea set high expectations for its Diem line of commuter e-bikes by branding it with the tagline “The New A to B”—a declaration that this could be a body-moving benchmark for urban journeys. But our time with the Diem and its reception as the 2024 Cycling World Show’s “Product of the Year” (as well as its iF DESIGN AWARD 2024) prove it’s not just hype. Its long-range, powerful motor, optional low-maintenance belt drive with automatic shifting (there’s also a cheaper traditional chain drive model), plus thoughtful safety features like integrated position/alert lights make it an excellent choice for commuters looking to ditch their car or public transportation for short-distance trips to and from the office several times per week.

We rode through urban and suburban sections of Düsseldorf, Germany, on a Diem 20 (the mid-tier model, with Shimano’s Nexus Inter-5 internal gears, a Gates belt drive, and a max speed of 28MPH). From grassy parks by the riverside to well-trafficked streets at rush hour, we couldn’t find anything significant to complain about, no matter the terrain’s menu del dia. The bicycle was comfortable to ride, with a carbon fork and patented “Diamond Glide” frame geometry that absorb vibrations while aiding handling. In addition, it had a seat whose height could be adjusted on the fly by squeezing the lever. We made these adjustments over a dozen times during our ride, and they ensured consistent comfort regardless of the landscape’s incline.

The Diem 20 has a Shimano EP600 motor with three levels of pedal assist (ECO/TRAIL/BOOST), and the level you’re at is indicated by the LED color next to the speed increase and decrease buttons. Within minutes, it became second nature to cycle between these modes, keeping track of them in our head and looking down only for confirmation. We also rode the Diem 20 without pedal assistant enabled to confirm it was a smooth ride when propelled by legs alone. It was, so commuters who want the flexibility of pedal assist only when necessary to climb steep inclines will still be treated to a luxurious ride. And the Shimano disc brakes made sure the bike stopped as smoothly as it accelerated.

Orbea opted not to build a screen into any e-bike in the Diem line. Instead, you can pair the bike to your smartphone using an app, mount your device using a proprietary case developed by Orbea to clip into an area on the Diem’s handlebars, and monitor its battery life, your distance traveled, and other stats through that system. The bicycle has a USB-C port, so you can connect your phone to keep its battery topped up during longer rides. Another high-tech choice was including a secret slot for an AirTag, so you can keep track of your bicycle’s whereabouts when you chain it to a pole on the street.

One of the Diem line’s core tenants is the ability to customize the bicycle at the point of sale. Orbea offers the Diem 10, 20, and 30 in four sizes, three colors, and two battery capacities each. Note that bumping up from the stock battery to a longer-lasting one can increase its price by up to $1,000. You can extend the ride time of any Diem bike by stashing an extra battery in its bottle holder, which is neat if you’re going on a 200+ mile trip and want to use pedal assistance nearly the whole time.

Orbea’s Diem e-bike is ideal for city dwellers frustrated at wasting hours a week in cramped trains or stuck in traffic just to move two or three miles. It offers newcomers and electric vehicle experts alike the freedom to come and go as they please on an aesthetically pleasing e-bike that will make a regular ride feel anything but routine. — Brandt Ranj

Worth a look if you need a small bike for tykes: SUPER73-K1D

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Who doesn’t remember pulling up to the first day of grade school on their sweet new e-trainer? Me, for one, but how times have changed. But with this electric balance bike, you can do just that with rad ’80s BMX style. Built for ages 4-8, this three-mode twist-throttle e-bike for kids lets young riders get up to speed with the two-wheel world in more ways than one, boosting confidence and mph (up to 15) as time passes. It’s a great choice once little ones have graduated from the passenger seat of their parents’ commuter bike but still think running a few errands is fun. And the moto-style saddle is made to grow into and adventure out on, as the empowering ride can go off-road just like the Irvine, Calif.-based company’s electric motorbikes for adults. 

What to consider when searching for the best electric commuter bikes

E-bikes can cost anywhere from $1,000 to more than $10,000; however, plenty of well-outfitted models fall between $2,000 and $3,000. Expect to see more premium features in the $4,000 and $6,000 price range. And before you make a purchase, check to see if your state offers tax credits or rebates for electric bikes, like Colorado, Maine, Vermont, Minnesota, and Washington. 

Comparing models—even by the same brand—requires looking at the specs of many different components. Why? Bikes aren’t made from top to bottom by a single manufacturer: One company may make the frame, while another makes the brakes, another handles the shifter, and still another builds the motor. 

For e-bikes, more expensive models usually have larger battery capacity, more powerful engines, and frames and components made of higher-quality, often lighter-weight materials. We’ve tried reducing the complexity of this list by relying on well-established electric bike manufacturers and traditional bicycle companies. 

Pedal assist vs. throttle

Electric bikes make excellent commuting vehicles because the additional power they provide riders helps make it easier to go up hills, cover long distances, and go at higher speeds. That extra boost comes from a pedal assist system (PAS) or a throttle. A PAS e-bike is like riding a regular, old-school, analog bicycle, except you feel like you have superpowers. Controls on the handlebars dial in on the levels of assistance while sensors detect how fast or hard you’re pedaling. An e-bike with a throttle system rides more like a scooter or a moped—pedaling is optional. With a twist or press of the button, you’re lurching forward from a stop or getting help to go up a hill.

Classes

Most states regulate electric bicycles like regular bicycles, which means no registration, licensing, or insurance requirements like a motor vehicle requires. (Check out the non-profit advocacy group People for Bikes’ guides for state laws.) However, which class an e-bike falls under also determines other operating rules, like minimum age for riders and helmet requirements. Here’s a breakdown:

• Class 1: a PAS motor that stops assistance at 20 mph.
• Class 2: a throttle motor that stops assistance at 20 mph.
• Class 3: a PAS motor that stops assistance at 28 mph. 

Specific paths, trails, or parks may prohibit e-bikes or specific classes (usually the faster Class 3). Check the rules of any part of your commute (or if you’re taking an electric mountain bike out for an adventure). 

Just to make it more confusing, some bike manufacturers blur the lines between these classes or ship a bike at Class 1 that can be “unlocked” to a Class 3. But remember: 20 mph on a bike is really fast, especially if you need to stop frequently for street intersections or traffic lights. 

Riding range and battery life

The first step in picking an electric bike for commuting is knowing the distance of your route (and back) and a rough idea of the terrain. Every e-bike publishes an estimated range for how long batteries will last, but “estimate” is the keyword. Your weight, your cargo, the number and steepness of hills, and the assist level affect how long a battery lasts. In other words, an e-bike riding along a flat patch on the lowest assist level can go much farther than when it’s going uphill on the highest assist level. Find a bike range that includes the back and forth of your ride to work with miles to spare, or you might run out of juice. 

A caution: Cranking throttles to the max is super fun but burns through battery power fast—especially if you’re not pedaling. This leads to straightforward advice: A higher-capacity battery is better, even when heavier. 

Size and weight

One of the main downfalls of electric bikes is their size and weight. An average e-bike will be between 50 and 60 pounds and feature an extended wheelbase to ensure a stable ride. That heft can be challenging for smaller riders or anyone who needs to maneuver it up and down stairs, onto a car rack, or into an elevator. Carbon fiber and other premium materials can shave a lightweight e-bike down to about 30 pounds, but they drive the price up. Consider where you’ll store the bike and whether you have the muscle power to get it there. Think about a folding electric bike for something smaller and easier to stow. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best electric commuter bikes

• Best overall: Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through
• Best design: Civilized Cycles Model 1
• Best all-terrain: Ride1Up Rift
• Best for women: LeMond Dutch 
• Best splurge: Riese & Müller Homage4
• Best budget: RadCity 5 Plus Electric Commuter Bike
• Also worth considering: Orbea Diem 20

Much like cars, there’s an e-bike model for nearly every type of rider, ranging from people who haven’t touched a pedal since childhood to longtime, hardcore cyclists. If tooling around occasionally is your thing, a budget electric bike may work, but for commuting, we recommend investing in one of our picks above, which can withstand the wear and tear of regular riding in all sorts of weather.

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 commuter bikes for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Weber Genesis EX-325S		SEE IT	The gas-powered, gold standard for smart grills.
Best pellet		Traeger Grills Pro Series 575		SEE IT	A (meat) smoker’s dream appliance.
Best budget		Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro		SEE IT	Portability and functionality from a smart grill that’ll set you back under $500.

Many of us have made the leap to having at least a few key smart home accessories inside our home, but how about one that lives outside: a smart grill. It’s hard to beat a smart home gadget that can help deliver perfectly cooked food without second-guessing yourself or constantly reaching for a thermometer. Or requiring standing in the cold! As you’d expect, the main feature of these grills is Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity to your phone via an app, which allows you to monitor the temperature of your grill wirelessly to prevent overcooking from wherever you are in or around the house. Some of the grills come with meat probes, so you can also check in on the exact state of your cook, which is enormously helpful to amateur and pro grillers alike. The best smart grills will work well even if you don’t use their wireless features but are enhanced by them.

• Best overall: Weber Genesis EX-325S
• Best charcoal: Kamado Joe Konnekted Joe
• Best pellet: Traeger Grills Pro Series 575
• Best for large family: Weber Genesis SPX-435
• Best budget: Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro

How we chose the best smart grills

When compiling this collection of smart grills, we considered their size, fuel type, functionality, and cost. We also consulted our guides to the best gas, charcoal, and kamado grills, drawing upon the research conducted during their construction.

The best smart grills: Reviews & Recommendations

Embedding Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth into grills doesn’t revolutionize cooking with radiant heat, but it does take some heat off the cook. Whether you want to upgrade your old grill to a smart model or set up a cooker for the very first time, expertly make long cooks like brisket or just avoid sitting around waiting for the grill to warm up, you’ll find what you need here.

Best overall: Weber Genesis EX-325S

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Specs

• Size: 35.5 x 30.75 x 31 Inches
• Weight: 188 pounds
• Fuel: Gas
• Price: $1,079.00

Pros

• Large cooking area
• Side wings
• Easily accessible temperature gauge

Cons

• Price

Weber’s Genesis EX-325S offers everything you’d need in a smart grill, especially if you’re cooking for a bigger crowd. The larger gas grill has three burners, so you can create hot and cool zones to avoid overcooking your food, plus one “sear station,” which can get super hot to hasten caramelization. An expandable top grate gives you ample space to toast buns or keep foods warm while you cook the rest. The EX-325S’ two integrated side tables are wide enough to accommodate what you’re cooking, plus whatever other grilling tools and accessories you may need for your cook. A screen on the side of the grill shows its current temperature, while meat probes located underneath can be inserted into thicker cuts so you can monitor them as they cook.

These features make the EX-325S a fine grill whether you care about smart features or not, but it also supports Weber Connect, the company’s digital platform available on iOS or Android devices. Connectivity is available through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and once you’ve paired your smartphone to the grill, you can monitor its temperature and check on the meat probes you’re using. You can’t control the grill’s temperature through your phone, but can monitor it. This is the most important functionality when cooking, so it’s great to see Weber build it directly into its grills.

Weber’s Genesis EX-325S is one of the best gas grills you can get, and its smart functionality pushes it over the top. You will have to pay for its power, but it’s worth the cost if you cook often.

Best charcoal: Kamado Joe Konnekted Joe

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Specs

• Size: 29 x 47 x 48 inches
• Weight: 175 pounds
• Fuel: Charocal
• Price: $1,699

Pros

• Automatic fire starter
• Full ceramic build
• Surprising control for a charcoal grill

Cons

• Heavy
• Price

The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe has taken to Mortal Kombat naming conventions when it komes to its included features. It doesn’t have a control board; it has a Kontrol Board. It doesn’t have a top vent to maintain air settings during opening and closing the dome; it has a Kontrol Tower top vent. It also has an automatic fire starter. No misspellings there. Between its Wi-Fi app connectivity, multiple cooking modes, digital fan, and Kontrolled temperature settings, you can reach precise cooking enlightenment.

It has space for 13 burgers, four whole chickens, or two pork shoulders. Or several pounds of red bell peppers. It’s your call. It clocks in at 175 pounds, but it stands on wheels, so you can move it if you need to. The digital controls are great if you are just getting into smoking, as that can be a sweaty and stressful manual process. Maintaining a temperature of 250 degrees over 18 hours for a brisket is much easier when you have an app. While traditionalists might disagree with that assessment, we just wanna eat. Relax, because it also has a classic mode that allows you to manage the temperature manually. So yeah, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe has something for everyone, no matter your level of grill expertise, and makes a delicious addition to a smart home (just make sure you’ve got a Wi-Fi router with enough range to reach the patio).

Best pellet: Traeger Grills Pro Series 575

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Specs

• Size: 27 x 41 x 53 Inches
• Weight: 124 pounds
• Fuel: Wood pellets
• Price: $799.99

Pros

• Ample cooking space
• 500-degree maximum temperature
• Pellet hopper management feature

Cons

• You still need to add wood pellets

If you don’t mind the maintenance required for using a smoker, Traeger Grills’ Pro 575 is the smart version you’ve been waiting for. Sure, there are innovative devices that bring the smoker experience indoors, but this is a proper grill with upgraded features. The smoker is large enough to accommodate 24 burgers, five rib racks, or four chickens, plus some space for sides if you use its top rack. What’s more, the pellet grill can get up to 500 degrees, which is suitable for baking, too. A built-in meat probe allows you to monitor the temperature of larger cuts of meat. The smoker was updated with a new design that Traeger says is better at heating the grill more quickly and improving the quality of its smoke. The smoker’s temperature can be monitored and adjusted using a panel on its right-hand side.

To enable the Pro 575’s smart features, you’ll need to download its app to your iOS and/or Android device. The app will allow you to monitor and adjust the smoker’s temperature, check the status of your meat probes, and set a cooking timer. You’ll receive a notification on your device when the meat probe gets up to your specified temperature, or the timer goes off. You can also switch this pellet grill’s cooking mode from super smoke to keep warm, or shut it down entirely. The most important smart feature is arguably the ability to see how full this grill’s pellet hopper is. If you’ve got an all-day cook (think brisket), you’ll want to be sure the hopper always has enough fuel, and this feature can save you from having to check manually. You’ll still need to add your own fuel—and be sure you have pellets on hand—but this feature makes using it more convenient. The Pro 575 is the best value introduction to Traeger’s line of pellet grills and may one day lead you to the flagship Timberline—the best splurge and a grill we found to be straight WiFire.

Best for large family: Weber Genesis SPX-435

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Specs

• Size: 31 x 68.5 x 63 inches
• Weight: 227 pounds
• Fuel: Gas
• Price: $2,099

Pros

• Massive cooking area
• Four cooking zones
• Side burner

Cons

• Price

Weber’s Genesis SPX-435 is the super-sized version of our top smart grill pick, which means it has all of the same smart functionality—temperature monitoring and meat probe monitoring—as its smaller sibling. Where the Genesis SPX-435 stands out is its size, which is immense. This is a four-burner grill with 994 square inches of cooking space, which means you should be able to cook roughly eight racks of ribs, 32 burgers, or six chickens on it simultaneously.

Need more space? Say no more. The SPX-435 has an additional side burner, which you can use to cook food in a pan. Having four burners allows you to create even more hot and cool cooking zones, and using the sear zone can get you the char and grill marks you desire. All of this power comes at a cost—this is the most expensive smart grill we’re recommending—but it’s a necessity if you’re cooking for a huge crowd during summer parties and tailgates. Don’t worry; we have plenty of less expensive gas grill recommendations, too. If you’re looking to upgrade to a smart grill with substantial space for cooking, Weber’s SPX-435 is our top pick.

Best budget: Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro

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Specs

• Size: 22.28 x 20.03 x 15.82 inches
• Weight: 38.9 pounds
• Fuel: Electric
• Price: $449.99

Pros

• Portability
• Multifunctionality
• Price

Cons

• May not be large enough

Ninja’s OG951 Woodfire Pro is our least expensive smart grill recommendation, but it’s also the only one you can reasonably carry around with you. The electrically powered smart grill can be plugged in anywhere there’s an outlet but can impart smoky flavor into your food by burning wood pellets from a hopper built into a side pocket. A fan built into the top of the grill circulates the smoke to ensure even exposure. You don’t have to use the wood pellets if you don’t want to—the grill’s heating elements are electric—but it’s nice to have the option. Speaking of options, the OG951 has seven cooking modes, which range from grill and smoke to bake and dehydrate. If you want to cook outdoors while camping, the OG951 covers all your bases.

Ninja allows you to connect to its smart grill over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth through its Pro Connect app on iOS and Android. The app allows you to monitor its temperature, change its cooking mode, enable or disable wood pellet burning, set a timer, control the grill temperature, and set up a meat probe. If you’re cooking a specific cut of meat, you can program the meat probes using presets that’ll control the grill’s temperature and other settings for you to ensure a proper cook with minimal maintenance. If you’d like a smart grill but don’t have enough room for a full-sized one (or you’ve fully embraced van-life), Ninja’s OG951 is the ideal choice.

What to consider when shopping for the best smart grill

We’ve been hibernating with smart ovens for years, and now it’s time to feel the sun again. It’s hard to beat a smart home gadget that can help deliver perfectly cooked food without second-guessing yourself or constantly reaching for a thermometer.

Size

Smart grills aren’t small or light, but that’s the price for a tool that allows you to cook for an entire family all in one shot. Most of our recommendations weigh over 100 pounds (one clocks in north of 200) and sit on wheels that allow you to move them around. We have a portable option if you’d like smart functionality from a grill you can take anywhere.

Fuel source

Smart grills can run on gas, pellets, charcoal, and even electricity. Each of these fuels has its own pros and cons, but one isn’t inherently better than the other. Smart grills that run on pellets and charcoal will impart a naturally smokey flavor to whatever you’re cooking but require you to feed them with additional fuel continually. This can get taxing on especially long cooks. Gas smart grills won’t require as much maintenance but will require you to monitor how much propane is left.

You’ll have to refill the tank once or twice a summer, depending on how often you use it. An electric smart grill won’t be as powerful as the other types, but it only requires an outlet to work. This gives you much greater flexibility when cooking. Neither a gas nor electric grill will give your cooks a smokey flavor on their own; you’ll have to find alternative ways to get that effect.

Smart features

The “smart” features that set these grills apart from their analog brethren come down to sending information from the grill to your smartphone. This includes how hot the grill is and, if you use the included meat probes, the current temperature of your cooks. It’s crucial to know this information as, without it, you can easily over or undercook your food when not paying attention. While these smart features are icing on the cake (or bark on the brisket, as it were), they don’t get in the way of a grill’s core functionality. In some cases, you’ll also be able to adjust the temperature of your grill using your phone, which can be helpful if you’re in another room in your home.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best smart grills

• Best overall: Weber Genesis EX-325S
• Best charcoal: Kamado Joe Konnekted Joe
• Best pellet: Traeger Grills Pro Series 575
• Best for large family: Weber Genesis SPX-435
• Best budget: Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro

Using a smart grill won’t automatically turn you into a pitmaster, but can soften the learning curve of more complicated dishes like brisket or prime rib. Messing up an expensive cut of meat is deeply dissatisfying on multiple levels, so having a grill that can help you keep track of a cook in real-time can be a legitimate help. A smart grill is a worthy upgrade for long-time grillers who want to fine-tune their recipes with surgical precision, as well as those who want to start their grilling journey with a little extra help.

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 smart grills for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus		SEE IT	This is a solid all-around mix of features and affordability.
Best for camping		Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core		SEE IT	This powerful pack is easy to transport to a site.
Best for homes		EcoFlow Delta Pro		SEE IT	This is the pick if you need lots of scalable capacity.

You don’t want to wait until you need a solar generator to buy one. Whether you’re trying to live the van life, prepare for emergencies, or just bring some creature comforts with you when you go camping. Whatever the case, few things are as useful in today’s tech-driven world as a source of reliable, renewable power. The best solar generators can reliably and sustainably meet various energy needs, and we have tested and compared the best models to find which one fits your needs.

• Best overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
• Still great: Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro
• Best high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro
• Best for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar Generator
• Best for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core
• Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200 Max
• Fastest charging: EcoFlow Delta 2 Max
• Best for homes: EcoFlow Delta Pro
• Best budget: Jackery Explorer 300

How we chose the best solar generators

As an avid outdoorsman, I’ve had the opportunity to test an extremely wide range of outdoor gear, including mobile and off-grid electrification equipment like solar-powered generators, as well as inverter and dual-fuel generators. These became particularly essential when the pandemic forced my travels to become domestic rather than international, which prompted me to outfit a van for long-term road-tripping. 

To bring my work along for the ride, I needed a constant power source to charge my laptop, a portable fridge, lighting, and a myriad of devices and tools … even the best electric bikes. As a result, I’ve tried all the leading portable power stations (and plenty that aren’t leading, too), so I know precisely what separates the best from the blah. I’ve written all about it (and other outdoor tech) for publications, including the Daily Beast, Thrillist, the Manual, and more. There were cases when my own opinion resulted in a tie, and I, therefore, looked to reviews from actual customers to determine which solar generators delivered the most satisfaction to the most users.

The best solar generators: Reviews & Recommendations

The solar generators on this list span a wide range of budgets, from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. They span several use cases, from camping to a backup for your home. Only you know all the factors that make one of these the best solar generator for you, but we think that one of these will get the job done.

Best overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus

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Why it made the cut: It offers just about everything from our previous best overall pick with the added benefits of LiFePO4 battery power.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 2,042.8Wh (expandable up to 24,000Wh)
• Output capacity: 6,000w
• Dimensions: 18.6 x 14.7 x 14.1 inches
• Weight: 61 pounds
• Price: $2,199

Pros

• Charges quickly
• Very high output that can run power-hungry devices
• Built-in wheels and handle
• Clear display
• Four AC outlets
• Expandable with extra batteries
• Long life batteries

Cons

• Heavy
• Slightly less capacity than our previous pick

As new solar generators hit the market, many come toting new lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries instead of the familiar lithium-ion batteries that came before. LiFePO4 offers a few advantages, including a much longer lifespan as you charge and discharge them. They’re also safer and often faster to charge. They do typically add some weight, however. Just about all of those modifiers apply here in the form of the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus can power current-hungry devices at up to 6000w, so even if you want to power a welder, you can. The battery will only last you about a half hour doing this (we tried it), but it does work, and that’s more than many other models can say. I also got to test the Explorer 2000 Plus during a real power outage. It kept our router running for several hours to maintain connectivity.

This model has 2kWh of storage built-in, but you can expand that capacity with extra external daisy-chained batteries. It gives a total max storage of up to 24kWh—enough for a serious off-grid job. The optional solar panels charge the battery quickly and efficiently. Jackery claims roughly two hours of charging time via the optional solar panels, and I found it took more like 2.5 hours, but that includes battling some passing clouds. With two straight hours of direct sun, it could likely get the job done.

At 61 pounds, this is considerably heavier than the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, which weighs nearly 20 pounds less. But, the integrated wheels, handle, and chunky grips to either side of the box make it very easy to lug around. Everyone in my family could easily set it in the back of my wife’s Honda Civic.

The switch to LiFePo4 also means that this unit will last a long time before the battery degrades beyond its usable range. The company claims it will take 4,000 cycles before the battery life degrades to 70 percent. We obviously haven’t had time to test that yet, but that is the nature of LiFePo4, so it will almost certainly last longer than a lithium-ion model at least.

Still great: Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This Jackery solar generator delivers the best blend of capacity, input/output capability, portability, and durability.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 2,160Wh
• Input capacity: 1,200W
• Output capacity: 2,200W (4,400W surge)
• Dimensions: 15.1 x 10.5 x 12.1 inches
• Weight: 43 lbs
• Price: $2,498

Pros

• Fast charging and outstanding capacity
• Durable and easy to use
• Plenty of ports
• Can connect to six 200W solar panels

Cons

• Heavy for its size

The biggest portable power station from Jackery, a leading solar generator manufacturer, the Explorer 2000 Pro offers a tremendous 2,160 watt-hours of power, making it capable of charging a full camping setup for a few days. When plugged into six 200W solar panels, an upgrade over the four-panel setup available on the Jackery Explorer 1500, you can fully charge this portable power station in just 2-2.5 hours. That’s less than half the time of the smaller model.

On top of all that, it’s extremely user-friendly. Numerous output ports ensure that you can plug in a wide range of devices and electrical equipment. Its functions are highly intuitive, and the digital display is easy to understand. Like other Jackery generators, it’s incredibly durable, too. The one potential downside is its weight: At 43 pounds, it’s a bit heavy for its size. Even so, for all the power you can store, and the rapid-charging time, the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro will keep the lights on wherever you need power.

For more on the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, check out our full review.

Best high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro

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Specs

• Storage capacity: 3,024Wh
• Output capacity: 3,000W
• Dimensions: 18.6 x 14.1 x 14.7 inches
• Weight: 63.9 pounds
• Price: $2,799

Pros

• Ample power storage for long trips or outages
• Sturdy handles and wheels make it easy to move
• Smooth design makes it easy to load and unload
• High peak output for power-intensive tasks
• Lots of ports for connectivity

Cons

• 200W solar panels can be klunky
• Relatively pricey

This is the big sibling to our best overall pick. Inside the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro, you’ll find 3,024Wh of power storage, which is enough to power even large devices for extended periods of time. It can charge a high-end smartphone more than 100 times on a single charge. It can also power full-on appliances in an RV or emergency situation.

Despite its large capacity, we learned firsthand that the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro is relatively easy to move around. Sturdy handles molded into its case make it easy to pick up, while an extending handle and wheels make it easy to roll around at the campsite or any other location.

It can charge in less than three hours from a standard outlet or, under optimal conditions with the 200W solar panels, it can fill up as quickly as eight hours. That full solar array can get large and unwieldy, but a smaller setup can still provide ample charging if you don’t need to max out the capacity daily.

This portable power station offers the best of everything we loved about the Explorer 2000 Pro, there’s just more of it. When you’re living the van life, powering an RV, or trying to ride out a power outage, more is definitely better if you can justify the extra cost.

Best for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar Generator

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Why it made the cut: High capacity and fast charging make this long-lasting battery a solid everyday driver.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 2,048Wh
• Output capacity: 2,400W
• Dimensions: 20.67 x 9.84 x 15.55 inches
• Weight: 67.3 pounds
• Price: $1,999

Pros

• Charges up to 80% in less than two hours
• Solid output and storage capacity
• Optional battery pack doubles capacity
• LiFePO4 batteries survive more charge cycles than traditional models
• Plenty of ports
• Built-in handle and wheels for transport

Cons

• Heavy for its capacity
• No USB-C in for charging

Anker has equipped its massive portable power station with LiFePO4 batteries, which stand up much better to repeat charging and discharging over the long term than common lithium-ion cells. Anker claims it can charge and discharge up to 3,000 times before it reaches 80% battery health compared to 500 in a similar lithium-ion setup. While I haven’t had the chance to run it through 3,000 cycles, LiFePO4 batteries have a well-earned reputation for longevity. 

Regarding overall performance, the Anker 767 does everything you’d want a unit with these specs to do. The bad weather has given me [Executive Gear Editor Stan Horaczek] ample chances, unfortunately, to test it in real-world situations. 

The built-in battery offers a 2048Wh capacity and pumps out up to 2,400W. It does so through four standard AC outlets, an RV outlet, two 120W car outlets, two 12W USB-A ports, and three 100W USB-C ports. 

I used it during a blackout to keep our Wi-Fi running while charging my family’s devices. Filling a phone from zero barely makes a dent in the power station’s capacity, and it ran the router for several hours with plenty of juice left. 

In another instance, it powered our small meat freezer for four hours before the power came back on with some juice still left in the tank. It does what it promises. 

There are a few nice extra touches as well. Built-in wheels and an extendable handle allow it to roll like carry-on luggage. Unfortunately, those are necessary inclusions because it weighs a hefty 67.3 pounds. It’s manageable but definitely heavy compared to its competition. 

The Anker 767 is compatible with the company’s 200W solar panels, which fold up for easy transportation. I mostly charged the unit through my home’s AC power, a surprisingly quick process. The 767 Portable Power Station can go from flat to more than 80% charge in less than a half hour with sufficient power. It takes about two hours to get it fully juiced. 

Anker also offers a mobile app that connects to the power station via Bluetooth if you want to control it without actually going over and touching it.

Best for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Thanks to its outstanding portability, high storage capacity, and Yeti’s famous durability, the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core is great for packing along for camping or van-living. 

Specs

• Storage capacity: 983Wh
• Input capacity: 600W
• Output capacity: 1,200W (2,400W surge)
• Dimensions: 9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inches
• Weight: 31.68 lbs
• Price: $1,198.95

Pros

• Highly portable
• Incredible durability
• Rapid recharge rate
• Plenty of plugs

Cons

• Expensive for its size/capacity

Yeti is long-renowned for making some of the best outdoor gear money can buy, so when the company launched its Goal Zero line of solar generators, it was no surprise that they turned out to be awesome. While the whole line is great, the 1000 Core model’s balance between capacity and portability makes it perfect for taking on the road and going camping.

While the 1000 Core has a third less capacity than our top pick, it charges up faster, making it a great option for rapid solar replenishment. That said, its capacity is no slouch, offering 82 phone charges, 20 for a laptop, or upwards of 15 hours for a portable fridge (depending on wattage). Suffice to say, it’s more than capable of powering your basic camping gear.

Beyond its charging capabilities, the Goal Zero 1000 Core excels at camping thanks to its hearty build quality. Built super tough—like pretty much everything Yeti makes—its exterior shell provides solid protection.

The biggest issue it presents is the cost. Like pretty much everything Yeti produces, its price tag isn’t small. While there are other 1000-level solar generators for less, this one offers a great balance of power storage and portability.

For more on the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core, check out our full review.

Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200 Max

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Thanks to its high solo capacity and ability to daisy-chain with additional batteries, the Bluetti AC200 Max is perfect for bringing power off the grid.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 2,048Wh standalone, expandable up to 8,192Wh
• Input capacity: 1,400W
• Output capacity: 2,200W (4,800W surge)
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches
• Weight: 61.9 lbs
• Price: $1,999

Pros

• Massive capacity
• Daisy-chain capability
• Lightning-fast input capacity
• 30A RV plug and two wireless charging pads
• Surprisingly affordable for what it offers

Cons

• Pretty heavy
• Fan can get loud, especially in hot weather

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a solar generator better suited for living off the grid for an extended period than the Bluetti AC200 Max. It boasts a substantial 2,048Wh capacity, allowing you to power your whole life off it longer than most portable generators. Even better, you can daisy-chain multiple Bluetti batteries, expanding its capacity to a massive 8.192Wh. That’s flat-out enormous and translates into the ability to power a full-sized fridge for over a day or several hours of air conditioning. For the more modest needs of people who are used to living off a generator, it will last for a very long time.

At the same time, the AC200 Max has an outstanding input capacity of 1,400W. That means you can plug in a pretty hefty array of solar panels to replenish its stores quickly. This allows you to keep your off-grid setup going with little to no interruption. It also features some specialty charging options, including a 30A plug, which lets you plug it directly into an RV, and multiple wireless charging pads for smaller devices.

Fastest charging: EcoFlow Delta 2 Max

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Why it made the cut: Whether it’s solar or AC power, you can get 80% of a charge in an hour or less.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 2048Wh (expandable to 6,000Wh)
• Output capacity: 3,400W
• Dimensions: 19.8 x 9.5 x 12.01
• Weight: 50.71 lbs
• Price: $2,000

Pros

• Very fast charging over solar or mains
• Relatively compact
• Not as heavy as we might have expected
• Long-lasting batteries
• Scalable by connecting two extra batteries
• Advanced temperature management for safety

Cons

• Solar panels are pricy
• Still heavier than non-LiFePo4 models

Plug this 2048Wh battery pack into up to 1,000 watts of solar panels, and you can get an 80 percent charge in just 43 minutes. That’s blisteringly fast compared to other models. Plug the unit into the wall and you’ll go from zero to 80 percent in just 1.1 hours, which is still fairly speedy when it comes to soaking up electricity. That extra time can make a huge difference if you only have limited opportunities to top off your solar generator. We managed to get above 80 percent in just under an hour without perfect sun conditions here in Upstate New York.

In addition to its quick charging skills, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max offers an impressive array of connectivity, including six AC outlets, which is more than many larger models offer. That’s good if you want to run many devices or chargers simultaneously. If you need more capacity, you can add two extra external batteries to give it a total storage of 6Wh.

At 51 pounds, this isn’t the lightest solar generator in its category, but like the other EcoFlow generators, it has chunky handles on top that make it easy to lug around. Everyone in my family could easily get it in and out of the back of our Honda CR-V without issue. Though, it doesn’t have wheels, so you will have to actually carry it around or put it on a cart.

Ultimately, this feels like a very high-end device. The fast charging is wonderful. The display is clear and relatively bright (though it could be brighter). And it offers a wide array of connectivity.

Best for homes: EcoFlow Delta Pro

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The EcoFlow Delta Pro delivers the standalone and expandable power capacity necessary to power your entire home.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 3,600Wh standalone, expandable up to 25,000Wh
• Input capacity: 6,500W
• Output capacity: 3,600W (7,200W surge)
• Dimensions: 25 x 11.2 x 16.4 inches
• Weight: 99 lbs
• Price: $3,699

Pros

• Enormous capacity
• Daisy-chain capability
• 30A RV plug
• Lightning-fast input capacity
• Wi-Fi and Smartphone connectivity

Cons

• Very heavy
• Expensive

If you’re looking for the best solar generator for home backup in the event of a power outage, the EcoFlow Delta Pro stands apart from the pack, thanks to an unrivaled power and output capacity. The Delta Pro alone packs a 3,600Wh wallop, and you can expand that to 25,000Wh by chaining it to extra EcoFlow batteries and generators. That’s a ton of power and it has the substantial output capacity necessary to power an entire house worth of electronics when you need it to.

The Delta Pro also offers a companion app for iOS and Android that allows you to monitor energy usage, customize its operation, and monitor and manage a number of other elements.

While it’s not overly large for what it does, the Delta Pro is a heavy piece of equipment. It has wheels, so it is technically portable, but this is meant to be put down in a home or other semi-permanent site. Given its size and power, it’s also a much more expensive device, especially if you’re springing for the add-ons. As the best solar power generator to provide backup power for your entire home, however, it’s worth every penny. 

Best budget: Jackery Explorer 300

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: With its reasonable capacity, compact size, and solid build quality at a low price, the Jackery Explorer 300 is a great budget pick.

Specs

• Storage capacity: 293Wh
• Input capacity: 90W
• Output capacity: 300W (500W surge)
• Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.2 x 7.8 in
• Weight: 7.1 lbs
• Price: $250

Pros

• Affordable
• Durable
• Portable
• Reasonable capacity

Cons

• No flashlight
• Slower input capacity

Though it isn’t quite as impressive as our top picks for best overall and best high-capacity, Jackery’s smaller Explorer 300 solar generator is super compact and lightweight with a decent power capacity for its price. Less a mobile power station than an upscale power bank, the 7-pound Jackery Explorer 300 provides plenty of portable recharges for your devices when you’re camping, on a job site, driving, or just need some power and don’t have convenient access to an outlet. Its modest 293Wh capacity isn’t huge, but it’s enough to provide 31 phone charges, 15 for a camera, 6 for the average drone, 2.5 for a laptop, or a few hours of operation for a minifridge or TV. A built-in flashlight would have upped its camping game somewhat, but at $300 (and often considerably less if you catch it discounted), this highly portable little power station does a lot for a little.

We tested this portable power station for several months, and it came in handy numerous times, especially during the winter when power outages abound. At one point, we had it powering two phones, a MacBook, and a small light.

The built-in handle makes it very easy to lug around. It feels like carrying a lunch box. The screen is easy to read, and the whole package seems fairly durable. Our review unit hasn’t taken any dramatic tumbles yet, but it has gotten banged around in car trunks, duffle bags, and other less-than-luxurious accommodations with no issues. If you catch one of these on sale, get it and stick it in a cabinet. You’ll be extremely glad to have it around when the need arises.

What to consider before buying the best solar generators

Over the past few years, solar generators have exploded onto the market. There are now dozens of different brands that largely look more or less the same at a glance. The fact is there are only a few standouts amidst a sea of knockoffs. Here’s what to look for to ensure you’re getting a great one:

How much power can it store?

A portable solar generator comes in an extremely wide range of sizes, but a generator’s size doesn’t automatically make it capable of storing a lot of power. In fact, most are disappointingly limited and unable to store much more juice than a portable charger.

To properly check a generator’s storage, you must look at its capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh). One watt-hour is the equivalent of 1 watt flowing over the course of an hour. The best solar generators offer capacities of several hundred and sometimes several thousand watt-hours. That doesn’t mean, however, that it will provide power for several hundred or several thousand hours. Any generator will ultimately last a different amount of time, depending on what’s plugged into it.

It’s easy to predict how long a generator will last when you use it to power one thing. For example, if you were to power a 100-watt bulb using a power station with a capacity of 500 watt-hours, it would stay lit for five continuous hours. Add a portable fridge that requires 50 watts per hour, your phone which uses 18, a mini-fan that uses three … you get the picture. The more capacity, the better.

Charging capability

No solar generator will hold a charge forever, so you want one capable of charging as quickly and easily as possible. This is where we put the “renewable” into “renewable energy.”

All of the power stations included in this roundup can be charged by connecting them to solar panels (hence the designation “solar generators”). Still, you also want to look for the ability to charge via other sources like wall outlets and your vehicle’s 12-volt plug. This ensures that you can charge up whether you’re off-grid in the sun, plugged in while preparing at home, or using your dash socket on the go.

You must also monitor a model’s charging input capacity, measured in watts (W). For example, a solar-powered generator with a max input of 100W can take in a continuous flow of up to 100 watts, which is about the minimum that you’ll reasonably want to look for. Most of the generators below have input capacities of at least a few hundred watts when charging via solar, so a few 50- to 200-watt solar panels will max them out.

Output capability

Solar generators need to keep the power coming in and going out. The best solar generators can simultaneously charge all your intended devices via whatever plugs are necessary.

Any portable power station worth your money will have a high output capacity so you can charge many devices, even if they require a lot of juice. A generator’s maximum output should be much higher than its max input. While a particular model might only be capable of taking in a few hundred watts at any given moment, it will usually put out exponentially more. At a minimum, you’ll want a generator that can put out 300 watts at a time, though you’ll want at least 500 for larger tasks.

The best solar generators should also offer a variety of output plugs, including AC outlets, USB-A, USB-C, and even 12-volt DC outlets like the one in your vehicle dash. This ensures you can charge several devices simultaneously regardless of their plug. The number of ports you’ll need will vary depending on how many devices you need to power, but it should have at least a couple of AC outlets and a few USB-A ports.

Portability

While portable battery sources have been around for a while now, over the past several decades, they’ve been pretty heavy, unwieldy things. One of the most exciting aspects of the latest generation of solar generators is that they’ve become much more physically compact. 

Suppose you plan on taking a generator camping or working it into a van conversion where every square inch matters; well, size and weight become major considerations. All of the products we’ve recommended are about the size of one or two shoeboxes—three at the most. The lightest is about the weight of a 24-pack of soda, while the heaviest is 100 pounds. Most fall somewhere between 30-60 pounds.

If you’re using your generator as a more or less stationary source of backup power at home, portability isn’t a huge issue. Still, we generally recommend keeping weight and size in mind; You never know when you’ll need it for something other than a backup. (Plus, who wants to lug around something heavy and awkward if they don’t have to?) 

Another consideration regarding portability involves the necessity for accessories, which can impact how easy it is to move and use your generator. Some generators, for example, require a lot of removable battery packs, which can be a hassle when you’re on the go or packing a vehicle. All of the inclusions on our list require some accessories—you can’t get solar power without connecting cables and solar panels—but they work well with minimal add-ons.

Durability

As with any product you expect to last, durability and all-around quality craftsmanship are essential. This is especially true if you plan on lugging your generator around on camping and road trips. Many subpar power stations are made from cheap components and flimsy plastic that doesn’t feel like it will hold up under the rigors of the road.

Durability isn’t something you can determine by reading a spec sheet off the internet. You’ve actually got to take the generator out, use it a bunch, and see how it holds up. I’ve verified the durability of these recommendations via a combination of my own actual field tests and reviews culled from countless real product owners.

Related: Best electric generators

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best solar generators

• Best overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
• Still great: Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro
• Best high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro
• Best for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar Generator
• Best for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core
• Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200 Max
• Fastest charging: EcoFlow Delta 2 Max
• Best for homes: EcoFlow Delta Pro
• Best budget: Jackery Explorer 300

We’re living in a “golden age” for portable solar generators. When I was a kid, and my family was playing around with solar gear while camping in the ‘90s, the technology couldn’t charge many devices, so it wasn’t all that practical. 

By contrast, the solar generators we’ve recommended here are incredibly useful. I’ve relied on them to power my work and day-to-day needs while road-tripping nationwide. They’re also great when the power goes out. When a windstorm cut the power at my house for a couple of days, I was still working, watching my stories, and keeping the lights on. 

We haven’t even scratched the surface in terms of the potential offered by portable, reliable, renewable, relatively affordable power. What we can do now is already incredible. The potential for what may come next, though, is truly mind-blowing.

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 solar generators for 2024, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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