Best overall		Danby Diplomat Compact Refrigerator		SEE IT	If you have enough space in your office, this well-designed mini fridge is an excellent choice and will meet the needs of most who want to store food and drinks at work.
Best splurge		Rocco Super Smart Fridge		SEE IT	Although this mini fridge is very pricey and only lets you store beverages, it has a bold, stunning design that’s sure to get you noticed at work!
Best budget with a cube design		Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge		SEE IT	If you’re looking for an inexpensive, compact mini fridge for your work space, this model should meet your needs.

Companies increasingly require full-time workers to spend more days in the office, which means leaving behind the convenience of just wandering to the fridge when the mood strikes. Even just a hybrid work schedule means more commuting, and more commuting means considering costs. One of the easier ways to save money is skipping meals out and bringing your lunch from home. That means it might be an ideal time to consider keeping a mini fridge at the office, which allows you to keep your meals and drinks fresh and tasty and secure from that one coworker who acts like anything in the shared kitchen is for everyone. 

Like their full-size siblings, mini refrigerators come in different sizes (although they’re at least half the size of most standard models) and include various features. Some budget models only give you the bare minimum. And in some cases, that means excluding a freezer. But there are mini fridges that include more bells and whistles. And if you aren’t worried about price, you could even find distinctive models among the best mini fridges for offices that are designed to be noticed—almost like a work of art—much to the envy of your colleagues and associates.

• Best overall: Danby Diplomat Compact Refrigerator 
• Best value: Magic Chef MCAR32BE Compact Refrigerator
• Best splurge: Rocco Super Smart Fridge 
• Best budget with a cube design: Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge
• Best budget with a tall design: Costway Compact Refrigerator 

How we chose the best mini fridges for offices

Our recommendations for best mini fridges for offices are based on experience, analysis, and research into the best options to accommodate the most common use cases. With the exception of the splurge choice, we focused on general-purpose mini fridges rather than a beverage cooler, which is a similar but specialized appliance.

A mini fridge for your office performs much like a mini fridge in any other location: It has one purpose—keep drinks and food cold for an extended period of time. Some have a particular feature, like a built-in freezer, differentiating them from the pack, while others are more portable and easier to move around. Mini fridges can also vary some in price, so we included a more premium and cheap mini fridge to cover the widest budget range.

The best mini fridges for offices: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re an office manager or an employee, shopping for a cubicle or the mother-in-law suite that you’ve turned into a work-from-home oasis, these are our top picks for mini fridges for offices. 

Best overall: Danby Diplomat Compact Refrigerator 

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 19.3 x 33.1 x 21.9  inches
• Capacity: 4.4 cubic feet
• Weight: ‎49.6 lbs.
• Design style: Tall 

Pros

• Offers lots of storage space
• Adjustable glass shelves
• Full-width freezer
• Storage space on the interior of the door
• Includes an interior light

Cons

• Relatively pricey
• Might be a bit big for some smaller-sized office

This model is a little more expensive and a little larger than others in its class. Nevertheless, this mini fridge is worth it. For starters, it provides you with 4.4 cubic feet, which offers more capacity than many in its class. It also has adjustable glass shelves, making the interior a tad brighter. It’s smartly designed, too: The integrated door shelving allows you to store tall bottles (like water, juice, and soda). Its reversible door hinge provides more options in positioning your mini fridge in your office. It’s a small refrigerator with freezer. Plus, it has a manual defrost control and a mechanical thermostat.

Best value: Magic Chef MCAR32BE Compact Refrigerator

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 17.5 x 33.4 x 18.5 inches 
• Capacity: 3.2 cubic feet
• Weight: 49.5 lbs. 
• Design style: Tall 

Pros

• Ample storage space
• Comes with glass shelves
• Adjustable thermostat control
• Interior light

Cons

• Doesn’t include a freezer
• Might be a bit big for some smaller-sized office

If having a freezer isn’t essential, this Magic Chef brand mini is an ideal model for your office. For starters, the interior has more room to store items since it doesn’t have a freezer. It comes with an adjustable thermostat control and adjustable glass shelves, too. It also includes in-door storage, for bottles and beverages. It even has a designated spot for storing a 2-liter bottle of soda. There’s also an adjustable temperature thermostat control and an interior light. However, its tall design may be too large for tiny offices.

Best splurge: Rocco Super Smart Fridge

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 24 x 34.5 x 16 inches
• Capacity: N/A 
• Weight: 128 lbs. 
• Design style: Tall 

Pros

• Beautifully designed
• Can be controlled via a mobile app
• Great for storing beverages 
• Comes with a multi-year warranty

Cons

• Limited to storing beverages
• Pricey
• Heavier than most mini fridges

It may not be the most practical mini fridge to have in your office. For instance, it’s only for beverages. It’s also very pricey at $1,500. However, its bold design might help you make a bold impression, depending on where you place it in your C-suite or cubicle. 

One feature that makes Rocco’s Super Smart Fridge distinctive is that it has five pull-out shelves, which can be adjusted to accommodate differently-sized bottles and cans. These shelves can be separated into different “temperature zones” by pushing buttons on a control panel inside the fridge. For example, if you have white wine or red wine, it can be chilled at a different temperature than your seltzer bottles. 

There are other impressive features, too, like its model app (iOS only, for now), which allows you to adjust the temperature from your phone. If you’re into assembling smart-home systems, this is the chiller you’ll think is cool.

Best budget with a cube design: Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 18.6 x 19.4 x 17.7 inches  
• Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet
• Weight: 30 lbs. 
• Design style: Cube

Pros

• Relatively lightweight
• Compact size
• Includes a freezer compartment
• Door is reversible

Cons

• Doesn’t offer as much capacity to store items as others in its class 

If your workspace isn’t very spacious, you’ll most likely want to choose a mini fridge with a cube design since it’s smaller, more compact, and has a smaller footprint than those with tall designs. What’s nice about this Midea mini fridge is that despite having a small footprint, it still comes with a freezer compartment (which, not surprisingly, isn’t very large). It also comes with adjustable legs and a reversible door, which, again, will be important if you don’t have a large office and a lot of space to work with. Includes a mechanical temperature control and a manual defrost setting. 

Best budget with a tall design: Costway Compact Refrigerator 

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 19.5 x 34 x 19 inches 
• Capacity: 3.2 cubic feet
• Weight: 52 lbs. 
• Design style: Tall

Pros

• Separate freezer compartment
• More freezer capacity than most in its class 
• Comes with glass shelves
• Adjustable thermostat 

Cons

• Might be a bit big for some smaller-sized office

One distinctive feature is that it has a separate freezer compartment, with its own door, for chilling everything from ice cubes to ice cream. Both doors come with magnetic door seals, which helps prevent users from accidentally leaving either door open and spoiling food and drinks. It also comes with an adjustable thermostat, two removable shelves, and a built-in light.

What to consider when shopping for the best mini fridge for offices

Whether you’re set up in a spacious corner office or in a tiny cubicle that barely has room for a red stapler, you’ll want to make sure you have enough room for a mini fridge. That’s why you’ll want to check out the following features to ensure that you get the model that’s right for you:

Size and capacity 

Most mini fridges have capacities that range between 1.5 to 4 cubic feet. They also come in one of the following two design styles: 

• Cube: These models are also sometimes called countertop mini fridges. In general, they have capacities of less than 2 cubic feet, and measure between 17 and 21 inches tall.
• Tall: These mini fridge models have capacities between 3.5 and 4.5 cubic feet and measure between 30 to 35 inches tall

Freezer compartment 

Another consideration when buying a mini fridge is whether or not you need a freezer compartment. If you decide to forego the freezer, you’ll generally gain additional storage space.

Other features to consider 

When you’re in the market to buy a mini fridge for your office, don’t forget to consider the following features, too: 

• Interior light: Many models are now built with interior lights, which is nice if your office is dimly lit. 
• Temperature Control: You can use this control to adjust the fridge’s internal temperature using a built-in thermostat.
• Adjustable Shelves: This feature lets you configure your fridge to suit your specific needs best.
• Two-Door Design: Two-door mini fridges have a separate freezer that offers higher performance and can maintain lower temperatures.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best mini fridges for offices

• Best overall: Danby Diplomat Compact Refrigerator 
• Best without a freezer: Magic Chef MCAR32BE Compact Refrigerator
• Best splurge: Rocco Super Smart Fridge
• Best budget with a cube design: Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge
• Best budget with a tall design: Costway Compact Refrigerator 

If you’re considering a small refrigerator for office, you might be wondering what the best time of year to buy is. In our experience, you should always keep an eye on your prospective mini fridge model on Black Friday or Cyber Monday (in November), as well as Amazon Prime Day events. However, some experts suggest that you shouldn’t just limit your search for sales during Black Friday or Cyber Monday. In fact, they say that mini fridges sales could occur throughout November (and some suggest those sales might even begin in October). Whenever you invest, any of our picks will perfectly complement your coffee machine, ergonomic chair, headphones, and other accessories that increase your workday comfort.

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 mini fridges for offices 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		Epson Pro EX7280		SEE IT	A relatively inexpensive projector with excellent quality in daytime viewing scenarios.
Best for gaming		BenQ TK700 4K HDR Gaming Projector		SEE IT	An excellent quality projector for gaming in daylight scenarios.
Best budget		DBPOWER Native 1080P 5G 4K WiFi Projector		SEE IT	An inexpensive projector that will do a decent job for daytime viewing.

Projectors can give your home a real theater feel with a huge screen and cinema-quality visuals. Unfortunately, daylight viewing can be a challenge. For most projectors, you need a very dim or completely dark setting to optimize the image quality. In other words, if you were showing it indoors, you had to show it in a movie theater-like setting, or if you wanted to show it outdoors, you needed to wait until nighttime. But today’s projector technologies and features continue to evolve, allowing some of them to be effective in scenarios that let you project a movie when it’s not completely dark. The best projectors for daylight viewing have the power they need to upgrade your midday Price is Right viewings as well as your movie nights.

• Best overall: Epson Pro EX7280 3-Chip 3LCD WXGA Projector 
• Best outdoor: Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector
• Best for gaming: BenQ TK700 4K HDR Gaming Projector
• Best splurge: BenQ HT5550 True 4K UHD Home Theater Projector
• Best budget: DBPOWER Native 1080P 5G 4K WiFi Projector

How we chose the best projectors for daylight viewing

When considering the best projectors for daylight viewing, I relied on my own experience as a technology journalist and testing expert who has worked with and consulted many professionals in the TV and AV worlds to find out which ones they prefer. I also read various trade journals and websites and looked through forums, comments, and user reviews to see typical real-world experiences. We obviously focused on the price of the product as well as image quality, but we also considered other important specs and features, such as brightness, color, and contrast, and also what kind of technology was used to generate the image. Size and weight played a role, particularly in units meant to be portable.

The best projectors for daylight viewing: Reviews & Recommendations

Picking an outdoor movie projector and/or one for daylight viewing requires some specific considerations. The following list is our choices for the best. 

Best overall: Epson Pro EX7280 3-Chip 3LCD WXGA Projector 

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1280 x 800 
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB 
• Product dimensions: ‎11.9 x 9.3 x 3.6 inches
• Product weight: 5.7 pounds

Pros

• Rated for 4,000 lumens 
• Uses advanced 3-chip 3LCD technology for excellent color
• Has 16,000: 1 contrast ratio
• Price: $599

Cons

• Resolution might not be as detailed as others in its class.
• Can’t connect wirelessly

For a projector to compete with the sun’s power, it generally needs to have a rating of either 3,000 lumens or 1,000 ANSI lumens. By and large, you’ll need to spend more than $1,000 for such a projector. But this Epson is a great value because it has 4,000 lumens yet is priced well below $1,000. It also comes with Epson’s advanced 3-chip 3LCD technology for excellent color. It’s not perfect, though. It has lower resolution, just 1280 x 800, than other top-rated models in its class. It also doesn’t offer wireless or Bluetooth connectivity. So, you’re limited to wired connections, but that’s likely what you’ll prefer anyway for judder-free playback. 

Best outdoor: Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB-C, USB, Aux Out, Wi-Fi
• Product dimensions: 6.29 x 10.23 x 9.84 inches
• Product weight: 6.6 pounds
• Price: $979

Pros

• Provides excellent image quality in outdoor settings 
• Has a water- and dust-resistant exterior
• Includes a built-in rechargeable battery 
• Comes with a powerful speaker

Cons

• Nothing significant 

Rated at 1,000 ANSI lumens, it provides enough brightness for daytime viewing. It also has a built-in, rechargeable battery that allows five hours of projection and a built-in 40-watt, multidirectional speaker that includes Dolby Digital Plus for excellent quality audio. Additional features reinforce how this projector is designed to work in many outdoor settings: It has an IPX3 water- and dust-resistant exterior. Plus, it comes with a built-in stand, a lens cover, a camping light, a power indicator, integrated controls, and a convenient carry handle (while not a mini projector, it’s highly portable). It even has keystone correction and autofocusing capabilities.

Best for gaming: BenQ TK700 4K HDR Gaming Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Resolution: 3840 x 2160
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB 
• Product dimensions: 12.3 x 9.7 x 4.3 inches 
• Product weight: 6.8 pounds
• Price: $1,298

Pros

• Has detailed 4K resolution 
• Excellent response time, with very little lag
• Compatible with most gaming systems

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Lacks Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity

Although it’s a tad pricey, this model gives you a lot for the money, and if you’re looking for a projector for gaming, it’s ideal. That’s because you want to ensure it’s very responsive when playing. In other words, it doesn’t have any lag when playing games: it has just 16ms at 4K resolution settings. This projector is also rated at 3,200 lumens, which means it can project a bright enough image during daytime settings. What’s also nice is that this projector is designed to be compatible with various gaming consoles, including Sony PS4 and PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, and more. However, it lacks the ability to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Best splurge: BenQ HT5550 True 4K UHD Home Theater Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 3840 x 2160
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet, audio out
• Product dimensions: 23.3 x 19.5 x 11.7 inches
• Product weight: 14.3 pounds
• Price: $2,424

Pros

• Projects superb 4K resolution video
• Excellent color fidelity 
• Includes support for HDR, for better detail in darks and highlights
• Has a 100,000:1 contrast ratio

Cons

• Very expensive
• Lacks Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity

This model is very pricey, but if you’re looking for a projector that provides a great home-theater experience with exceptional 4K-quality video in daytime settings, this model is ideal. For starters, it has an 1,800 ANSI lumens rating, which means it has a very bright image that won’t wash out, even when the sun is shining. It also comes with BenQ’s cinematic color technology for rich, vivid colors. It also has HDR support and an incredibly wide contrast ratio of 100,000:1. However, it’s not perfect and does fall short in a few areas. For instance, it doesn’t include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. But if you want true 4K playback, that won’t really come into play anyway.

Best budget: DBPOWER Native 1080P 5G 4K WiFi Projector

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Specs

• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB, audio out, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Screen Mirroring
• Product dimensions: 10.2 x 9 x 4.3 inches
• Product weight: 7.17 pounds

Pros

• Very inexpensive 
• It has a 10,000:1 contrast ratio
• Wireless connectivity
• Includes keystone correction

Cons

• Image isn’t as bright as more expensive projects

Unless your projector is rated at 1,000 ANSI lumens or 3,000 lumens, you’ll have a difficult time using your projector in daytime settings since the image won’t be bright enough. However, with this inexpensive Full HD-resolution projector, rated at just 500 ANSI lumens, you can still get a relatively bright image since it comes with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, allowing you to achieve a somewhat brighter image. It can’t compete with top-rated 4K models like the XGIMI Horizon Ultra (which is 2,300 ISO lumens but $1,400 more—making it another excellent splurge option). But it will fit the bill for those shopping under $500. It also allows you to connect wirelessly with your smartphone, which can be handy. Plus, you get a 4-point keystone correction control and the ability to digitally zoom.

Features to consider when shopping for a projector for daylight viewing 

The same features you’ll look for in regular projectors are those you’ll find in projectors you’ll use for daylight viewing. However, some features will be more important during daylight viewing than others. But before we examine the important features you’ll find on various projectors, here’s a short list of abbreviations and names of projector types that are currently available in the market:

• LCD: Liquid Crystal Display projector
• DLP: Digital Light Processing projector
• LED: Light-Emitting Diode projector
• Laser: Laser projector

Now that you know what kinds of projectors are available, here are some of the features you’ll want to know about before you buy one: 

Brightness

When you’re looking for a projector to use for daytime viewing, brightness is particularly important because it needs to compete with sunlight. In other words, your projected image is always in danger of being washed out by the powerful illumination of the sun. So, to determine the brightness of a projector, look at how many lumens it’s rated at, specifically using the standard for ANSI lumens. The higher the number, the brighter the projected picture will be. But you’ll generally need a projector that has at least 3,000 lumens or 1,000 ANSI lumens.  

Resolution

As a rule of thumb, the larger the image you’re looking for your projector to create, the higher the resolution you will need. So, if your projector is 10 feet away from the screen and the resolution is in 4K (3860 x 2160), the footage will potentially look more detailed than a projected image in 1080 (1920 x 1080) projected from the same distance from the screen. However, if you move the project closer to the screen, the size of the image decreases, but the detail increases. Conversely, moving the projector further away from the screen increases the image size. 

Contrast ratio 

The contrast is the ratio of dark to light in an image or video footage, affecting how sharp, vivid, and detailed a movie appears. The technical specification is generally presented in the following format: “3000:1.” This means that the image’s whitest area is 3000 times brighter than its darkest dark. 

Throw distance 

This term refers to the distance between the projector and the image on the screen. If you have two projectors, one that has a short throw lens and one that doesn’t, a projector that uses a short throw lens (which is a projector that’s positioned anywhere from 3 to 8 feet away from the screen) can produce a larger image than one that doesn’t use such a lens. There are also projectors that come with ultra-short throw lenses (a projector positioned anywhere from 0 to 4 feet away from the screen).

Other features to consider: 

Depending on how much you’re willing to spend, you can sometimes find a projector with wide array of features that you might never use. However, although the following aren’t essential, they’re still important for most. Here are some additional features to consider: 

• Audio: Hollywood film directors often say that audio is one of the most overlooked elements of the movies they make. So, before you buy a new projector, consider what audio features are built-in and if there are ways to connect an external speaker.
• Portability: If you plan on traveling with your projector, consider its size and weight. Some models are very compact and lightweight that they can easily fit into a backpack. Also, see if it has a rechargeable battery in case you don’t have access to a power outlet. 
• Connectivity: Examine the Wi-Fi settings and wired (HDMI or other) connections on the model you want to buy. If you’re going wireless, make sure you have a good signal if you intend to stream media to your device. Wired connections allow you to hook up to a host of devices, including your laptop or a Blu-ray player.

FAQs

Final thoughts when picking from the best projectors for daylight viewing

• Best overall: Epson Pro EX7280 3-Chip 3LCD WXGA Projector 
• Best outdoor: Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector
• Best for gaming: BenQ TK700 4K HDR Gaming Projector
• Best splurge: BenQ HT5550 True 4K UHD Home Theater Projector
• Best budget: DBPOWER Native 1080P 5G 4K WiFi Projector

If you’re considering using a projector in outside settings, see if the model you intend to buy has features that make it rugged and waterproof. Some models even have water- and dust-resistant exteriors, which can help extend the life of your projector if you’re using it outdoors. Also, see if your model comes with a rechargeable battery: Even indoors, you may not always have access to a power outlet for your projector. So, a built-in rechargeable battery can be very handy in such scenarios.  

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 projectors for daylight viewing 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		Nebula Capsule Max		SEE IT	For the price, this projector offers great quality in a compact body that’s also very portable.
Best color performance		Epson EpiqVision Flex		SEE IT	You’ll find it hard to beat this price for a projector with such excellent, reliable color performance.
Best budget		VANKYO Leisure 3		SEE IT	If you’re looking for a very inexpensive projector, we’ve got the best option under $100 right here.

Looking around, you can see how we’re using more (and more affordable) projectors in our daily lives than ever before—thanks partly to the increasingly excellent projectors under $500. For example, we see them in many conference rooms for business meetings when we need to connect to our laptops to give a PowerPoint presentation. They’re also in the classrooms, at all levels of education, to show a YouTube project or a slideshow that students created using their smartphone cameras. Of course, we might still use projectors when we have friends and family over to watch the Super Bowl or the Oscars on TV via our streaming service. 

What does this mean for consumers? Well, for starters, the projector market is more competitive, which offers more choices of models and better features than ever before. You’ll also see more than a dozen major brands, along with many lesser-known, up-and-coming brands, offering a variety of models in the space. When all those brands compete for the same pool of consumers looking to buy a projector, brands are forced to be on their mark. That’s why you’ll find projectors that are easier to use, last longer, and offer better features and technologies than ever before—which is important if you’re not only thinking about resolution (from HD to 4K) but also about flexible connectivity, both wired (HDMI, USB-C, etc.) and wireless (Wi-Fi, cellular, etc.). And you’ll find all of these factors and more in our selection of the best projectors under $500.

• Best overall: Nebula Capsule Max
• Best splurge: BenQ GV30 Portable Projector 
• Best color performance: Epson EpiqVision Flex
• Best for daytime viewing: AuKing Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth
• Best budget: VANKYO Leisure 3

How we chose the best projectors under $500

When considering the best projectors under $500, I relied on my experience as a technology journalist and testing expert who has worked with and consulted many professionals in the TV and AV worlds to find out which ones they prefer. I also read the work of fellow Popular Science writers, as well as that from a variety of trade journals and websites, and I looked through forums, comments, and user reviews to see what typical real-world experiences were like. We obviously focused on the price of the product as well as image quality, but we also considered other important specs and features, such as brightness, color, and contrast, and also what kind of technology was used to generate the image. Size and weight played a role, particularly in units meant to be portable.

The best projectors under $500: Reviews & Recommendations

During the film era of the last century, projectors were a niche product sold to those who could take the time to set it up properly and read through poorly written manuals to understand how to fix it before the hot lamp burned up the movie reel. Even when things went digital about 25 years ago, projectors were either difficult to set up and understand or didn’t offer quality. 

Today, much of that has changed, partly because we’re using projectors more than we ever have before, which is, in turn, driving up demand for portable projectors. In fact, according to various market research groups, the global portable projector market, which was valued at $15.6 billion in 2021, is expected to be worth $21.7 billion by 2028. It’s also why you’ll find more models with excellent quality than ever before, including our top five picks for the best projectors under $500.  

Best overall: Nebula Capsule Max

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1280 x 720p
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Screen Mirroring
• Product dimensions: 1.6 pounds
• Product weight: ‎3.15 x 3.15 x 5.91 inches

Pros

• Lightweight and compact 
• Very portable
• Includes lots of connectivity options
• Rechargable battery

Cons

• 720p resolution might not be detailed enough for some

At first glance, this projector looks very similar to a wireless speaker. However, its first job is to project an image–and it does quite a good job at that, particularly for a budget-priced model. It might not have the highest resolution (just 720p). However, it makes up for that by producing a clear, crisp, and bright picture, which is great for watching movies, playing games, or making presentations.  

There are a few other reasons why the Anker Nebula Capsule Max is an excellent choice for a budget-priced projector. For starters, it’s lightweight and very compact, which makes it so portable that you can throw it in your backpack. It comes with a rechargeable battery, for four hours of battery life (in battery mode). That’s great if you don’t have access to a power outlet. Additionally, it comes with great connectivity, both wired and wireless. 

Best splurge: BenQ GV30

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1280 x 720p
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB-C, Wi-Fi
• Product dimensions: 3.53 pounds 
• Product weight: 4.7 x 7.7 x 7.3 inches
• Pros

• Produces bright, clear, and sharp images
• Includes 2.1 channel Bluetooth speaker, with extra bass 
• Has reliable vibrant color performance
• Portable design

Cons

• 720p resolution might not be detailed enough for some 

There’s a lot to like about this inexpensive model from BenQ, which has a long history of making digital projectors (such as our top pick for golfing simulators). It has a very nice portable design, including a handle. The projection has the ability to autofocus. It also has a built-in battery, which is rated for 2.5 hours. And there’s even a vertical keystone adjustment feature to provide a rectangular projection when your projector isn’t perfectly perpendicular to the screen. 

Best color performance: Epson EpiqVision Flex

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Specs

• Resolution: 1200 x 800p
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, USB
• Product dimensions: 11.6 x 8.3 x 3.4 inches
• Product weight: 5.3 pounds

Pros

• Can project images up to 300 inches
• Uses advanced 3-chip 3LCD technology for excellent color 
• Includes a built-in speaker

Cons

• Although it’s technically better resolution than 720p, it’s just 800p, which isn’t as high as 1080p resolution
• No wireless connectivity

Epson has a long history of producing excellent quality digital projectors at many different price points. This one is great for those on a budget. For starters, the color is excellent on this, due to Epson’s advanced 3-chip 3LCD technology for excellent color brightness without any distracting “rainbowing” effects. It’s also able to cast an image up to 300 inches, which is a big image. But it isn’t perfect: For instance, although you can connect via wired connections, such as HDMI and USB, it lacks wireless connectivity.  

Best for daytime viewing: AuKing Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Inputs and connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5, HDMI, AV, USB
• Product dimensions: 7.6 x 6.2 x 2.7 inches
• Product weight: 3.8 pounds

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Provides you with daytime viewing
• Offers a nice selection of inputs 
• Has 1080 full HD resolution

Cons

• Image quality could be better

Although it’s generally ideal to have a dark environment to use a projector, it’s not always possible. For situations when you have to compete with a daylight environment, you’ll want to have a projector that can cast a bright image. What’s nice about this AuKing projector is that it can project a relatively bright image in daylight, although pricier models designed for daylight will do it better. It also has a good selection of wired and wireless connections. 

Best budget: VANKYO Leisure 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 800 x 480
• Inputs and connectivity: HDMI, VGA, TF, AV, and USB
• Product dimensions: 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches
• Product weight: 2.1 pounds

Pros

• Very inexpensive
• Includes built-in speaker
• Very good selection of connectivity options

Cons

• Lower resolution than most in its class 
• Image is not that bright

This projector is great for those looking for a projector that costs under $200. In fact, we’ve found that this model costs just $68.99. Of course, it may not have a wide array of features that you’ll find on pricier models. But it does come with a nice selection of ways to connect, both wirelessly and wired. It also comes with a built-in speaker and is capable of streaming video via a streaming service. But the downside is that it has lower resolution than most in its class.  

What to consider when shopping for the best projectors under $500 

When you’re looking to buy a projector, even an inexpensive one, it can be confusing to figure out where to begin. That’s why it’s helpful to know what types of projectors are currently in the marketplace. So, before we examine the important features you’ll find on various projectors, here’s a short list of abbreviations and names of projector types that are currently available:

• LCD: Liquid crystal display projector
• DLP: Digital light processing projector
• LED: Light-emitting diode projector
• Laser: Laser projector

Now that you know what kinds of projectors are available, I’ve compiled a short list of important features and capabilities that you’ll want to know about before you buy one. However, you should be aware that because you’re buying a projector that costs less than $500, it’s very likely that it won’t have all the bells and whistles that you’ll find on an expensive top-of-the-line projector:   

Brightness

The brightness of a projector is measured in lumens (or ANSI lumens). The higher the number, the brighter the projected picture will be. A projector rated at 3,000 lumens will be three times as bright as one rated at 1,000 lumens. Most budget models have relatively low lumens–anywhere from 60 to 300 lumens.

Resolution

As a rule of thumb, the larger the image you’re looking for your projector to create, the higher the resolution you’re going to need. So, if your projector is 10 feet away from the screen and the resolution is in 4K (3860 x 2160), the footage will potentially look more detailed than a projected image in 1080 (1920 x 1080) projected from the same distance from the screen. However, if you move the project closer to the screen, the size of the image decreases, but the detail increases. Conversely, moving the projector further away from the screen increases the image size. 

Contrast ratio 

The contrast is the ratio of dark to light in an image or in video footage, which can affect how sharp, vivid, and detailed a movie appears. The technical specification is generally presented in the following format: “3000:1.” What this means is that the whitest area of the image is 3000 times brighter than its darkest dark. 

Throw distance 

This term refers to the distance between the projector and the image on the screen. If you have two projectors, one that has a short throw lens and one that doesn’t, a projector that uses a short throw lens (which is a projector that’s positioned anywhere from 3 to 8 feet away from the screen) can produce a larger image than one that doesn’t use such a lens. There are also projectors that come with ultra-short throw lenses (a projector positioned anywhere from 0 to 4 feet away from the screen).

Audio

More than one Hollywood film director has noted that audio is one of the most overlooked elements of the movies they make. That’s why it’s important to consider your projector’s audio. S, if your speakers seem inadequate, consider adding external speakers. (See the Final Word, below, for more on audio.)

Portability

As the name implies, consider the size and weight of the projector you want to buy. Some models are very compact and lightweight that they can easily fit into a backpack. Check the specs and determine if the model you intend to buy is portable enough for you. Also, see if it has a rechargeable battery in case you don’t have access to a power outlet. 

Connectivity

Examine the Wi-Fi settings and wired (HDMI or other) connection on the model you want to buy. If you’re going wireless, ensure you have a good signal if you intend to stream media. Wired connections allow you to hook up to a host of devices, including your laptop or a Blu-ray player. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best projectors under $500

• Best overall: Nebula Capsule Max
• Best splurge: BenQ GV30 Portable Projector 
• Best color performance: Epson EpiqVision Flex
• Best for daytime viewing: AuKing Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth
• Best budget: VANKYO Leisure 3

Since most of the models you’re looking at are budget models, it means that as far as projectors go, you’ll probably sacrifice some features. One you can address, however, is audio. A great way to improve the experience of watching movies, documentaries, home movies, and business presentations is to upgrade your projector’s sound system by connecting it to better-quality speakers (just be sure that the model you want to buy has the ability to accept external audio). Here are a few points to consider if you want to do this:

• Try connecting it to a soundbar, which can accept signal via an HDMI or 3.5mm audio out jack. It might also connect via Bluetooth.
• Get a powered outdoor speaker: If you’re having a larger type of event in your backyard where you need to crank up the volume, you can connect some sort of powered speaker to the projector (using various types of wired connections, like 3.5mm audio out cables). 
• Connect to a wireless speaker: Most wireless speakers connect via Bluetooth. Some models also have 3.5mm audio jacks (or aux in).

Whether or not you opt for an accessory to improve your projector experience, the good news is that a lower-priced model no longer means a greatly reduced visual experience if you pick one of our best budget selections.

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 projectors under $500 in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Wired security cameras is a somewhat vague, catch-all term that covers a number of types of security cameras. Often, they’re referred to as PoE security cameras, which stands for “power over Ethernet” and means that the cameras are connected by Ethernet lines for both power and for enabling the captured video footage to be downloaded. However, these cameras are also part of a system: In this case, it is an NVR, or “network video recorder,” system since the video is stored locally on a server in your house. You may also come across an older type of security camera system, called a DVR, or “digital video recorder system, which relies on coaxial cables instead of Ethernet lines. Many of these cameras are also referred to as IP cameras, which stands for “Internet Protocol,” which means they can send data over the internet, although many of these cameras simply send their video over a Local-Area Network (or LAN) instead of online. Regardless of going IP, POE, or DVR, the best wired security cameras are now significantly easier for consumers to install than they have been in the past. 

• Best overall: Lorex 4K 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras 
• Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)
• Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System
• Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System
• Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

How we chose the best wired security cameras 

I’ve written about many types of different cameras, including security cameras, for a number of publications over the years, including PCMag.com, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Popular Photography, Popular Science, Tom’s Guide, and Gearbrain. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best wired security cameras. I also looked at critical reviews, user recommendations, and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models.

To find the best ones, I carefully considered a number of factors, including specific features such as video resolution, video frame rates, night vision capability, and audio, as well as more expansive qualities, like ease of use, versatility, and smart-home compatibility.

The best wired security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Historically, wired security camera systems require you to hire a professional to install the systems. And even today, you might consider hiring a professional, since the security cameras need to be connected via Ethernet lines, which can be a bit challenging to install. You’ll find a variety of wired security cameras on this list, which should also accommodate a wide range of budgets and needs, from inexpensive models that cost as little as $40 to more feature-packed models and bundles that can cost $1,400 or more. One of our wired security camera picks should give you a steady eye on your driveway, backyard, or any room in your home and can help complement and strengthen a home security system.

Best overall: Lorex 4K with 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution at 30 fps
• Field of view: 110.4 degrees to 45 degrees (optical zoom-lens field-of-view range)
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 10.8 x 3.7 x 3.7 inches (camera)

Pros

• A rugged four-camera system designed to withstand all weather conditions
• Each camera includes an optical zoom lens
• Excellent in low light
• Color night vision
• Comes with a very large 4TB hard drive for local storage 

Cons

• Expensive
• Some consumers may need professionals to install

Although this bundle is expensive, it’s worth the price: For starters, it features four 8-megapixel rugged-and-waterproof cameras that can capture high-quality 4K resolution in low-light conditions. It also comes with advanced color night-vision capabilities to further enhance low-light video footage. Each camera comes with a 4x optical zoom lens and a very durable camera exterior (IP67 rated), which ensures protection against harsh weather conditions. The Lorex system also includes advanced people-counting analytics and heat mapping capabilities. This system also includes a large 4TB security-grade hard drive, which is designed for advanced processing and 24/7 recording capabilities.

Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution video at 25 fps (both models)
• Field of view ( E1 Outdoor): 94 to 50 degrees (horizontal) and 53 to 30 degrees (vertical)
• Field of view (RLC-823): 105 to 31 degrees (horizontal) and 55 to 17 degrees (vertical)
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes (both models)
• Size: 4.6 x 4.6 x 3.3 inches (E1 Outdoor); 7.91 x 8.58 x 8.58 inches (RLC-823A)

Pros

• Very good price for two 360-degree cameras
• Each camera includes an optical zoom lens
• Comes with smart detection and auto-tracking features
• Both models include color night vision

Cons

• Both cameras have a frame rate of just 25 frames per second for 4K video

This pair of 360-degree cameras offers a lot of value for the money. Not only do both cameras come with the ability to pan and tilt nearly 355 degrees horizontally, but each camera has an optical zoom lens that allows you to more clearly focus on the scene. Each also has 4K video resolution, to capture video footage with clearer details, which is especially important if you’re using it as an outdoor security camera. Each also comes with color night vision, two-way audio, and more.

Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution at 15 fps 
• Field of view: 123 degrees
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 6.1 x 6.0 x 5.6 inches

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Both models include color night vision
• Comes with large 2TB hard drive for local storage

Cons

• Frame rate is only 15 frames per second
• Lens is fixed, with no optical zoom

This wired security camera system bundle from Annke offers a lot of value for the money: It gives you four PoE dome cameras, which are designed to provide extra protection from the weather and the elements as well as intruders trying to tamper with the camera units. It captures video in 4K but uses H.265+ compression, which allows you to record longer videos and consume less bandwidth without losing 4K quality. The included NVR comes with a 2TB hard drive for storage but can be expanded to 10TBs. However, the camera lenses lack optical zooms, and the 4K video footage is captured at only 15 frames per second, which is lower than other systems. 

Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution (frame rate not listed) 
• Field of view: 93 degrees
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Both models include color night vision
• Offers smart detection and other smart features
• Comes with large 2TB hard drive for local storage

Cons

• Lens is fixed, with no optical zoom
• Frame rate not listed and may be less than 30 fps

There’s a lot to like about this four-camera 4K wired security camera system from Swann. The camera units capture video at 4K resolution video, which includes color night vision capability for better quality video in very low-light settings. The system is also easy to use and easy to use. What makes it smart is that it comes with face recognition, human and vehicle detection (via heat detection), as well as alerts and notifications to your phone via the Swamm Security app. The system comes with a pre-installed 2TB hard drive. However, the lens on the camera is fixed and lacks optical zoom, which makes it a bit less versatile than other systems. Also, the frame rate for the 4K video is not listed, which means it may be less than 30 frames per second.

Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 1080p resolution at 30 fps
• Field of view: 104 degrees
• Power: wired
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 2.83 x 2.83 x 5.91 inches

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Easy to set up
• Offers the option of either Wi-Fi or wired connection
• Works with Amazon Alexa
• Can store video clips on cloud or microSD memory card

Cons

• Not exclusively a wired security camera system
• System isn’t as robust as true wired PoE security systems

This very inexpensive security camera offers the option of using either an Ethernet connection or a WiFi connection. So, if you’ve never had a security camera system, you can get a feel for how both a wired and wireless security camera functions. It shoots at 1080p resolution and gives you the option of storing video clips in the cloud, starting at $3.99 a month

What to consider when buying the best wired security cameras

Most security cameras, as well as security camera systems, can be broken down into two main groups: Wireless security cameras, which as the name implies, generally connect to your home wireless network in order to store the video footage it records, as well as enabling other functions; and wired security cameras, which are connected via cables for power, storing video footage, and accessing the Internet.  

Although wired security camera systems offer some of the same features available with wireless systems, they’re a little more complicated to install, since you’ll need to run Ethernet cables to provide both power and connectivity. However, there are other features and capabilities that they do share with WiFi models:

Installation: DIY or professional

Before you buy into a wired security camera system, be sure to do some research to see if you can do it yourself, or if you’ll need to spend extra money to have a professional install the system.

Video resolution

An important factor when buying a security camera since the higher the resolution, the more detailed the video footage can be. So, as far as video resolution goes, you’ll want to make sure that you buy a system that at least can capture 1080p-resolution video. Of course, you’ll find many recent models that include features that capture 2K or 4K resolution. Be sure to also check that the cameras can catch the video at a frame rate (frames per second) that you need: 30 frames per second will provide you with smoother, less jittery video than lower frame rates (25 fps or 15 fps).

Angle of view

Another important technical specification is the angle of view, which indicates how wide or how narrow the lens is on the security camera. The higher the number, the wider the view. The lower the number, the greater the telephoto effect.  

Video recording options

A network video recorder will include a number of important options that you’ll want to check. See if you need an NVR that uses cloud storage to store video clips, or if you only need your video stored on-premise or using a local drive. There are other features to check as well, including the ability to set alerts, remote access, the ability to search video clips using artificial intelligence tools, and more.

Specific features you find important

Most wired security camera systems include some of the latest features that might be important to you, such as night vision, the ability to capture 360-degree coverage of a scene, mobile app access, and more. However, you’ll need to research and compare the features with other comparable models or systems to see if they fit your specific needs.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wired security cameras

• Best overall: Lorex 4K 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras
• Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)
• Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System
• Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System
• Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

In theory, criminals can hack into almost any type of wireless or wired security camera system. However, wired home security cameras are more difficult to compromise since they don’t need to be connected to the internet. Wired systems can simply use a local-area network to power the cameras and download video. But, there are many wired systems that offer WiFi features, too. Make sure you choose a wired security camera with plenty of built-in safety and privacy features. You want peace of mind for your home; you want to feel safe installing security cameras, too.   

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 wired security cameras of 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		Autodesk Maya		SEE IT	Considered the industry standard,  Maya allow animators and designers to create powerful animated characters in vivid worlds.
Best for digital sculpting		Zbrush		SEE IT	This versatile interface is used by film studios, game developers, toy makers, jewelry designers, automotive and aviation designers, illustrators, and more.
Best budget		Blender		SEE IT	This free software is chock full of 3D modeling features, including  character creation using modeling and sculpting, texturing, and applying  visual effects.

Over the years, the best 3D modeling software suites have been showcased in primarily two industries: the filmmaking industry, where they produce scores of fascinating computer-generated characters and amazing virtual environments, and the gaming industry, where they create incredibly realistic effects to allow users to feel immersed in the various gaming environments. Some of the top 3D software suites have been used for award-winning productions. For instance, they’ve been essential in creating some of the top blockbuster movies in the past 15 years, like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, Avatar, and Guardians of the Galaxy, to name just a few. They’ve been particularly useful in creating science fiction, action and adventure, and animated movies. 

But 3D modeling software is now being used in many other industries, too. For example, teachers and educators use 3D modeling software to produce compelling scientific concepts that engage students. In medicine, 3D modeling can produce more accurate, realistic representations, which may allow doctors to make better diagnoses, among other things. Moreover, many businesses will use this software to create virtual prototypes—and actual ones (via 3D printing). We’ve researched and selected the top 3D modeling software suites that will work for almost any digital artist’s needs or budget. 

• Best overall: Autodesk Maya
• Best budget: Blender
• Best for digital sculpting: Zbrush
• Best for motion graphics and visual effects: Cinema 4D
• Best for organic simulations and visual effects: Houdini

How we chose the best 3D modeling software

I’ve written about many types of digital-imaging and animation software, from image- and video-editing software suites, as well as mobile apps, to animation software for a number of publications, including PCMag.com, Professional Artist magazine, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Tom’s Guide, Artnews, and others. Additionally, I’ve taught digital animation and motion graphics. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best 3D modeling software. Additionally, I also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and did a lot of research to narrow down our list. 

I carefully considered several factors to find the best software suites, including ease of use, feature sets, operating system compatibility, and versatility. 

The best 3D modeling software: Reviews & Recommendations

What’s striking about the 3D modeling software market is that although our top suites offer many similar features, there is a very broad price range: Users will have to pay more than a thousand dollars a year for some software suites or several thousand dollars for a perpetual license. However, they can also download Blender, which is free for the full version! Additionally, some software makers only offer subscription options for their software, which means you can’t buy a one-time perpetual license. So, whether you’re a novice or an expert, here are our top choices for 3D modeling software:

Best overall: Autodesk Maya

SEE IT

Specs

• Pricing: $235 per month, $1,875 per year, or $5,625 for three years 
• Subscription Options: Subscription
• Free Trial: 30-day free trial
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux

Pros

• Feature-packed and very versatile
• Sophisticated animations tools
• Powerful rigging tools
• Produces outstanding simulations
• Excellent tutorials

Cons

• Very expensive
• Interface can look intimidating for beginners

Although Autodesk Maya is indeed a very expensive software suite, it is definitely one of the best 3D modeling software apps on the market. It provides a host of deep 3D modeling tools and is considered the industry standard for professional-level 3D modeling software. It also allows animators and designers to create powerful animated characters in vivid, realistic, lifelike environments. It’s known for producing very natural-looking simulations of smoke, snow, fluids, particles, or other elements using its Bifrost plug-in. Like all the top 3D software packages here, Maya (version 24.1) has recently been updated to include enhancements to the time slider, skin cluster improvements, and the ability to delete multiple display layers. One of the best monitors for CAD could also be a valuable tool.

Best budget: Blender

SEE IT

Specs

• Pricing: Free
• Subscription Options: N/A
• Free Trial: N/A
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux

Pros

• Free feature-packed open-source software
• Great for beginners 
• Interface is clean, clear and easy-to-understand
• Very versatile and customizable
• Strong community support

Cons

• Community structure of support could delay bug fixes

In the tech world, although free products are sometimes scorned as less capable and more confusing versions of those you pay for, Blender proves that free can be fabulous, which is why it’s one of the best 3D modeling software suites. In its current version (Blender 3.6 LTS), it has a much cleaner interface than past versions, but it’s packed with powerful 3D modeling modules: Character creation (using modeling and sculpting), texturing, animating (by creating an armature), applying visual effects, and rending, to name a few. It’s truly a polished, full-featured software package that will meet the needs of many creatives.

Best for digital sculpting: Zbrush

SEE IT

Specs

• Pricing: $29.91 per month  or $359 per year for a subscription, or $895 for a perpetual license
• Subscription Options: Subscription and perpetual
• Free Trial: 14-day free trial (via Maxon One trial)
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS

Pros

• Great for producing organic forms
• Very versatile
• Impressive collection of brushes
• New polygon modeling features for hard surfaces

Cons

• Software isn’t easy to learn
• Interface is somewhat unintuitive
• For best results, use a pen and tablet

If you’re wondering why Maxon ZBrush is one of the best 3D modeling software packages on the market, here’s one reason: In the same way that chiaroscuro (the treatment of light and shade in drawing and painting) made most of the iconic paintings of the Italian Renaissance come to life in 15th century, Maxon’s ZBrush allows digital artists to breathe life into digital characters, objects, and environments and sets the industry standard for digital sculpting and painting. It’s also why it’s used by film studios, game developers, toy/collectible makers, jewelry designers, automotive and aviation designers, illustrators, advertisers, and scientists. However, it’s not easy to learn, and some have found the interface to be somewhat unintuitive. But it is very versatile. For instance, you can free-form sculpt by pushing or pulling a virtual lump of clay or add various pieces of geometry to it. Or you can customize brushes to produce unique forms, shapes, textures, and paint.

Best for motion graphics and visual effects: Cinema 4D

SEE IT

Specs

• Pricing: $59.91 per month or $719 annually
• Subscription Options: Subscription
• Free Trial: 14-day free trial (via Maxon One trial)
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux

Pros

• Very versatile
• Relatively easy to use
• Great toolset for motion graphics
• Integrates very well with other software suites

Cons

• Expensive

What many creatives like about Cinema 4D is that although it’s a powerful suite that’s great for 3D modeling, animation, simulation, and rendering, it’s relatively easy to use. In part, that’s due to its very clear structure as well as its intuitive tools. It’s used for a host of creative projects. One powerful area that Cinema 4D is a great tool for is motion graphics: With its Mograph toolset, you can use a powerful palette of tools to make fantastic flying logos to amazing abstract effects. You can also use those same tools to clone numerous objects and create extruded text simply and easily. But Cinema 4D is also great for animation since it has strong texturing, lighting, and rendering capabilities. It’s also a fast, powerful, flexible, and stable toolset used in everything from motion graphics, VFX, AR and VR, and game development.

Best for organic simulations and visual effects: Houdini

SEE IT

Specs

• Pricing: $2,495 for an annual upgrade plan, or $4,495 for a perpetual license
• Subscription Options: Subscription and perpetual
• Free Trial: 30-day free trial (with Houdini Apprentice)
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux

Pros

• Powerful node-based software structure
• Produces extraordinary visual effects 
• Workflow allows changes to cascade through project 
• Education and Learning licenses are great values

Cons

• Very expensive
• Not easy to learn

One of the things that’s made this software very popular with creatives is that it has a procedural node-based structure that allows creatives to produce dramatic changes to an entire project rather quickly and easily. It’s known for producing powerful organic simulations and visual effects. For example, with Pyro FX, the software can create incredibly realistic and vivid fire and smoke simulations. It’s also quite popular for its fluid and particle simulations and destruction effects. Its new Vellum technology allows creatives to quickly and realistically simulate how grains, hair, fur, and cloth react to other objects or stresses. And, although Houdini has made a name for itself in Hollywood with its remarkable simulation technology, it can also be useful for animation and modeling, as a lighting tool, and for character rigging.

Things to consider when buying the best 3D modeling software

It can be overwhelming for novices and experts alike when buying 3D modeling software since many apps offer a wide array of capabilities. In fact, since there’s quite a bit of competition in the 3D modeling software market, if a particular feature is missing in an app today, it might appear in the very next version of the software. So, before you buy, do some research on the software that’s available, and then ask yourself the following questions:

What’s your budget?

The best 3D modeling software can be quite expensive for a few reasons. First of all, some of the subscriptions for the software are pretty steep, as are the perpetual licenses. However, some apps have stripped-down versions that provide you some core features, without all the bells and whistles. Also, if you’re a student or teacher, you might be able to get the software at a discount. Additionally, if you have an older computer system, or one that doesn’t have a lot of power, you’ll need to buy new equipment, including accessories like a Wacom pad or other drawing pad. So make sure you factor that into your budget. Want to make the virtual into something tangible? You can find 3D printers under $1,000 and under $500, based on your budget.

What do you plan on using 3D modeling software for?

Since the 3D modeling software suites include the ability to do many tasks, make sure it includes the most important functions you’ll need to do your job. At the same time, find out if they have any ease-of-use features that can make tasks easier to do. Also, are you using it in your career or just as a hobby? If you’re not going to be using it professionally, you might not have as much pressure on you to learn it quickly.

What are your skills, and does the software meet your needs?

Are you an advanced power user? Or a beginner? Or somewhere in between? Some 3D modeling software can be customized to make it easier to use. If you’re advanced, see if it allows you to customize the interface, workspace, or other sections of the app. Be sure also to examine the user manual, help sections, access to video tutorials and training, and community support, all of which can really be invaluable when you’re confused about how to accomplish a task.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 3D modeling software

• Best overall: Autodesk Maya
• Best budget: Blender
• Best for digital sculpting: Zbrush
• Best for motion graphics and visual effects: Cinema 4D
• Best for organic simulations and visual effects: Houdini

As far as software goes, the best 3D modeling software package are among the most complex types of digital imaging or visual apps on the market. So, if you’re a novice, it can be very overwhelming. But take heart: If you’re just starting and unsure which software is right for you, begin by downloading one of them (or a few of them) and take some time to learn them. (Note: For some companies, like Maxon, you’ll need to set up an account in order to download the free trial.) That should help you get a feel for how the software works and if it’s a tool that will be useful for you. At the same time, find some tutorials online to help you get started since these apps tend to be very confusing.  

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 3D modeling software 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		Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro		SEE IT	Versatile and produces excellent video.
Best with 4K resolution		Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Technology Security Camera		SEE IT	This camera can detect people, vehicles, animals, and packages.
Best budget		Wyze Cam v3		SEE IT	A cheap camera with a cheap cloud storage subscription.

Although security cameras have been around for more than 50 years, do-it-yourself wireless security cameras installed by consumers have only been available for a fraction of that time. Before that, most security cameras needed to be installed by professional technicians. However, a few factors have allowed wireless security cameras to evolve so that average consumers can install and use them: They’ve been designed to be easy to install, use, and understand; because of marketplace competition, DIY wireless security cameras are relatively inexpensive; and technology that interacts with wireless security cameras, like home wireless networks, as well as other technologies, are easier to use and works seamlessly with each other. The best wireless security cameras should fit the needs of almost every consumer and budget.

• Best overall: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro 
• Best system: SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera 
• Best with 4K-resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor WiFi 6 Technology Security Camera 
• Best without a subscription: TP-Link Tapo C310 
• Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2 
• Best budget: Wyze Cam v3

How we chose the best wireless security cameras

I’ve written about many types of different cameras, including wireless security cameras, for a number of publications over the years, including PCMag.com, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Tom’s Guide, Gearbrain, and, of course, Popular Science. I’ve also written stories on wireless security systems, video doorbells, and other related security system devices. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best outdoor security cameras. I also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models. 

To find the best security cameras, I carefully considered a number of factors, including video resolution, night vision capability, audio, ease of use, versatility, and smart home compatibility.

The best wireless security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Today, you’ll find a very wide range of wireless security cameras and smart-home security systems, which are very easy to install and use. Many of them also include cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence for detecting people, pets, and objects. They’re available at a variety of price points—from budget models that don’t require a subscription for storing and accessing video that costs as little as $30 to feature-packed models that cost more than $400. One of our picks will allow you to give you peace of mind by protecting your home, both inside and out.

Best overall: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 1080p 
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Wired only
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription) 
• Size: 12.8 x 7.8 x 8.5 inches 

Pros

• Versatile
• Excellent quality 1080p-resolution video
• Comes with dual-band WiFi
• Includes two bright adjustable LED spotlights
• Comes with a remote-activated alarm 

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Lacks support for HomeKit and Google Assistant compatibility

Although it’s a bit pricey, there’s a lot to like about this Ring wireless security camera. For starters, like the company’s many doorbell cameras, it’s easy to use and set up. However, since it needs a wired connection, you may be a bit limited when mounting this model outside your home. It produces excellent quality video, assisted by HDR features to provide video footage with better contrast and detail. That can be helpful if the location you’re setting up to monitor is dimly lit during certain times of the day. Of course, that dim setting would also benefit from the two adjustable LED floodlights included on this Ring cam, rated at 3,000 degrees Kelvin and 2,000 Lumen.

There’s a variety of other useful features that also make it worth the price, like color night vision. But it also includes additional smart features, like 3D motion detection, a customizable system, and a bird’s eye view feature, which tracks a visitor (or intruder) on your property and provides you with a record of their path. It also has clear, two-way audio and a loud siren to scare away trespassers. However, in order to access videos and enable some features, you will need to subscribe to a Ring Protect plan, which starts at $3.99 a month.   

Best system: SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera 

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Rechargeable battery 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant 
• Storage options: Cloud storage only (for both cameras)
• Size: 4 x 4 x 8.3 inches

Pros

• Lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box
• Outside cam has a very good quality video with 140 degrees field of view
• Easy to install and use
• Comes with a professional monitoring option
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant 
• Includes convenient magnetic mount

Cons

• Expensive
• Lacks support for HomeKit 

If you’re looking to install a wireless security camera and a DIY home security system along with it, the SimpliSafe 10-Piece Wireless Home Security System might be your best bet. It’s pricey but far less expensive than buying the components individually. But even more importantly, it lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box.

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

Best with 4K-resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor WiFi 6 Technology Security Camera 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 4K
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Wired power only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Storage options: Local storage
• Size: 3.0 x 3.0 x 3.4 inches

Pros 

• Versatile
• Excellent quality 4K-resolution video
• Comes with dual-band WiFi
• Includes WiFi 6 technology

Cons

• Doesn’t have a battery backup

As a brand, Lorex has been making very good quality outdoor security cameras for many years. This model is no exception. It stands out because it captures very good quality 4K-resolution video and has a very good 8-megapixel sensor that lets you shoot 8-megapixel photos with more detail and data. It also comes with WiFi 6 technology, allowing faster data transmission with a compatible router to deliver impressive 4K resolution with fast loading time. Plus, it includes 2.4/5GHz dual-band coverage for better connectivity. You can also use one of two smart-motion detection features: Person, Vehicle, and Animal detection or Package detection, although both cannot be used simultaneously. 

It’s not ideal for everyone, though. It’s hardwired, so you may be more limited in where you need to place this model. It also doesn’t have a battery backup, which can be useful for units that are wired. 

Best without a subscription: TP-Link Tapo C310 

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 2K
• Field of view: 104 degrees
• Power: Wired only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant,
• Storage options: Cloud storage or local storage 
• Size: ‎5.6 x 4.1 x 2.5 inches

Pros

• Very affordable
• Excellent 2K-resolution (2304 x 1296) video quality
• Versatile 
• Can connect wirelessly or via an ethernet connection

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit 
• Lower frame rate than other models
• Field of view isn’t as wide as other models

Not only is this one of the most affordable security cameras on the market, but it’s also great for those who want to avoid paying extra for cloud storage since you can store video locally by inserting a microSD memory card (up to 128 GB). However, it’s also very versatile since it does offer a subscription plan if you’d rather subscribe to the brand’s cloud service for storing video (Tape Care). Overall, it captures excellent-quality video. However, it has a lower frame rate (just 15 frames per second). It also comes with night vision, but it’s only in black-and-white, and not color. 

Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 130 degrees
• Power: Battery powered only
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage
• Size: 3.4 x 2.5 x 4.7 inches

Pros 

• Very versatile
• Can use either cloud or local storage
• Includes color night vision 
• Powerful Secure Plan features

Cons

• Pricey
• Need to pay extra for a cellular plan

One thing almost every outdoor security camera requires is access to your home’s wireless network. But what if you have poor reception or don’t have a WiFi network at all? If you’re one of these people, consider the Arlo Go 2. It not only lets you hook up to a WiFi network, but you can also use a cellular plan. However, if you choose the latter, you’ll have to buy both a cellular plan and SIM card. Also, it only works with Verizon, US Cellular, and T-Mobile. 

It does have color night vision and two-way talk and audio, but it’s not perfect for everyone. For instance, it provides you with the option of using cloud storage via one of Arlo’s Secure plans (plans start at $4.99), which also lets you access special features or store your videos on local storage. Still, if you use local storage, you can’t access the Secure plan features, which include 30-day video recording, person, vehicle, and animal detection (and the ability to distinguish between them), and smart activity zones, which allow you to focus motion detection on a specific area within your camera’s field of view. 

Best budget: Wyze Cam v3

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 130 degrees
• Power: Wired power only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage
• Size: 2.0 x 2.0 x 2.3 inches 

Pros 

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

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit compatibility
• Lower frame rate than other models
• May not be as sturdy as other models

This hardwired security camera is one of the cheapest on the market, but it performs very well, capturing very good quality video. It also provides you with the option of storing your videos in cloud storage or on local storage using a microSD memory card. 

But it’s not the perfect option for all users. For example, those looking for high-res video probably won’t be happy since it shoots just 1080p video. It also shoots at a lower frame rate than other models: For Daytime and Color Night Vision, the frame rate is 20 frames per second (fps), and with Night Vision with IR lights it’s a frame rate of 15fps. However, remember to consider your needs—you’re most likely not looking to produce cinema-quality video. You simply want your security camera to capture decent video. 

What to consider when buying the best wireless security camera

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

The following factors will help you figure out what’s important before you purchase a wireless security camera or wireless security camera system:  

Video resolution and field of view 

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

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

Lighting, power options, and storage

Light has always been incredibly important when it comes to capturing digital video and photos. That’s why if you need your outdoor security camera to capture better-quality video or photos, you should consider buying a model with flood lights. Such models not only allow for improved image quality, but they can also act as a deterrent to intruders.

When planning to set up your new outdoor security camera, you’ll need to think about where to install it. This is not as much of an issue for models that only use battery power. However, hardwired connections require a direct connection to your home or an outdoor outlet with a weatherproof cord. This limits where you can place it. You make up for the lack of creative control with video and audio quality, which is better in a hardwired connection. 

In addition to lighting and power options, consider whether you want your security camera to store the video it captures locally, on a cloud-based server, or perhaps both. Most store video in the cloud, which is convenient, but you’ll most often have to pay a fee to access them. So, if you don’t want to pay a fee for a cloud service, consider models that let you store them on a memory card. 

Other features to look for

Because there is a lot of competition in the industry, all security camera brands are continually updating models and adding new features. For example, many brands have introduced privacy features, such as two-factor authentication, to ensure devices are not compromised or hacked. Many brands are also making security cameras that integrate with smart-home features, such as voice technologies, like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and others. And then there are some brands that even offer professional monitoring services for an extra level of protection, but you will generally have to pay more for such services. Make sure you consider additional features that may be important to you and your family.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wireless security cameras

• Best overall: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro 
• Best system: SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera 
• Best with 4K-resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor WiFi 6 Technology Security Camera 
• Best without a subscription: TP-Link Tapo C310 
• Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2 
• Best budget: Wyze Cam v3

A wireless security camera can provide you with a way to keep a watchful eye on your home, both inside and out. But before you buy, consider the actual space you need to use the security camera or cameras for and what constellation of features on those cameras will best cover that area. If you’re living in a one-room apartment, you might only need one inexpensive security camera. But if you’re looking to oversee a more expansive environment, you may want to buy more than just one security camera. And be sure to always examine the mobile apps for all models to make sure they’re easy to use.

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 wireless security cameras 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		Ring Video Doorbell 3		SEE IT	A value-packed, feature-rich pick.
Best for apartments		Ring Peephole Cam		SEE IT	Replace your apartment peephole with this smart, discreet, powerful camera.
Best budget		Ring Video Doorbell Wired		SEE IT	Capture excellent video without sacrificing price or quality.

For the past several years, Ring doorbells have offered various popular video doorbells to help you keep a watchful eye over your home and deliveries. At every price point, from its entry-level model to its higher-priced flagship models, they are easy to use, set up quickly, and include many useful features. The company is continually adding new technologies to improve their capabilities. Many new Ring models include facial recognition, enhanced with artificial intelligence, which can identify objects in motion and distinguish between different types of objects. Specifically, the doorbell can tell if it’s a human being, an animal, or a vehicle. But Ring doesn’t only include cutting-edge tech. They’re also developing pragmatic ones, like its knock detection on its Ring Peephole Cam, which is designed for those who live in apartments, and features that help protect your system, like two-factor authentication to protect consumer data. The best Ring doorbell cameras help you know what’s going on at your front door without having to leave the couch or rush back to the house.

• Best overall: Ring Video Doorbell 3
• Best with advanced features: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
• Best for apartments: Ring Peephole Cam
• Best battery-operated: Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
• Best budget: Ring Video Doorbell Wired

How we chose the best Ring doorbells

Over the years, I’ve covered many different types of digital imaging products, including video doorbells, and have published a number of stories on video doorbells for various websites, including Tom’s Guide and Gearbrain. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best Ring doorbells. I also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models. To find the best ones, I carefully considered a number of factors, including specific features such as video resolution, product design, and audio, as well as more expansive qualities, like ease of use, versatility, and smart home compatibility.  

The best Ring doorbells: Reviews & Recommendations

All recommended doorbell video cameras, including Ring doorbells, detect motion and record video in HD resolution day or night. It’s why many consumers find them essential for their homes since these doorbells can identify possible intruders and instantly send you alerts. They also come with two-way speakers, which means you can safely interact with strangers or even scare away potential intruders. If you’re looking to upgrade your smart home and sense of security, look no further than our top picks.

Best overall: Ring Video Doorbell 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Video Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery or wired
• Storage: Cloud storage (Ring Protect subscription is required to access videos)
• Field of view: 160 degrees horizontal, 84 degrees vertical
• Integration: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Size: 5.1 x 2.4 x 1.1 in.

Pros

• Versatile
• Easy to install
• Powerful detection features
• Connects to dual-band (2.4 or 5.0 GHz) WiFi

Cons

• A bit pricey
• No local storage options and no free storage
• Not compatible with Google Assistant

One valuable quality you’ll find when you buy the Ring Video Doorbell 3 is that it is quite a versatile doorbell. It lets you power the doorbell in one of two ways—either via a rechargeable battery or by hooking it up to the wires from your previously wired doorbell. It’s also easy to install, set up, and use overall. 

It captures very good quality video at 1080p and comes with two-way audio so that you can interact with visitors via your mobile device or your computer. It also has dual-band WiFi for connectivity, and the system also integrates with Amazon Alexa or IFTTT. Admittedly, you can’t interact with it with Google Assistant or other technologies. Another feature that could be improved is its night vision, which lacks color. But, in general, it’s value-packed.

Best with advanced features: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

SEE IT

Specs

• Video Resolution: 1536p HD Video (1536 x 1536)
• Power: Wired only
• Storage: Cloud storage (Ring Protect subscription is required to access videos)
• Field of view: 150 degrees horizontal, 90 degrees vertical
• Integration: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Size: 4.5 x 1.9 x 0.9 in.

Pros

• Excellent quality video
• Higher resolution than most Ring models
• Includes color night vision
• Connects to dual-band (2.4 or 5.0 GHz) WiFi

Cons

• A bit pricey
• No local storage options and no free storage
• Not compatible with Google Assistant

If you’re looking for a step-up Ring doorbell with better overall video and image quality and additional advanced features, you’ll want to check out the Ring Doorbell Pro 2. 

It may be pricey, but it’s worth it if you want a powerful feature set. Like the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus, this Ring model provides users with more than 1080p video resolution, which it calls 1536p HD Video (1536 x 1536), or head-to-toe video, since it provides more resolution in a square aspect ratio. Plus, you can get extra features such as dual-band WiFi connectivity and color night vision. 

This model comes with 3D motion detection, which uses radar to detect the distance of an object more accurately and reduces the number of false alerts the system generates, including in dark and low-light conditions.

Best for apartments: Ring Peephole Cam

SEE IT

Specs

• Video Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery only
• Storage: Cloud storage (Ring Protect subscription is required to access videos)
• Field of view: 155 degrees horizontal, 90 degrees vertical
• Integration: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Size: 1.8 x 1.8 x 3.0 in.

Pros

• Easy to install and easy to use
• Inventive design
• Includes knock detection
• Added privacy controls

Cons

• Only has 2.4GHz WiFi connectivity
• No local storage options and no free storage
• Not compatible with Google Assistant

This unique model is ideal for those who own an apartment since it allows you to replace your existing peephole with this Ring model: Simply unscrew and remove the existing peephole on your door with the included tool. Then, you can place the camera on the outside and connect it with the rear section on the inside. All you need to do next is insert the rechargeable battery and snap the cover onto the rear section. 

What’s also nice about this model is that it also includes detection features not included in other models, like knock detection. However, it doesn’t provide as much flexibility in connectivity since it only connects with 2.4GHz WiFi.

Best battery-operated: Ring Battery Doorbell Plus

SEE IT

Specs

• Video Resolution: 1536p HD Video (1536 x 1536)
• Power: Rechargeable battery or wired
• Storage: Cloud storage (Ring Protect subscription is required to access videos)
• Field of view: 150 degrees horizontal, 150 degrees vertical
• Integration: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Size: 5.1 x 2.4 x 1.1 in.

Pros

• Versatile
• Easy to install
• Excellent quality video
• Higher resolution than most Ring models
• Includes color night vision

Cons

• Only has 2.4GHz WiFi connectivity
• No local storage options and no free storage
• Not compatible with Google Assistant

The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus is an excellent value for almost any homeowner looking for a quality battery-powered Ring doorbell since it provides you with several powerful advanced features without being very expensive. For example, it gives you a choice of power options—hardwired or battery-powered. But it’s also a standout performer: It not only has excellent video quality but, like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, it provides users with more than 1080p video resolution, which it calls 1536p HD Video (1536 x 1536) or head-to-toe video, since it provides you with more resolution in a square aspect ratio. Plus, it gives you color night vision for better image quality in very low light settings.

However, if you’re looking for top-tier connectivity, you may want to consider other Ring models since this one only has 2.4GHz WiFi connectivity.

Best budget: Ring Video Doorbell Wired

SEE IT

Specs

• Video Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired only
• Storage: Cloud storage (Ring Protect subscription is required to access videos)
• Field of view: 155 degrees horizontal, 90 degrees vertical
• Integration: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Size: 3.9 x 1.8 x 0.9 in.

Pros

• Relatively inexpensive
• Excellent quality video
• Easy to use
• Small and compact

Cons

• Only has 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
• No local storage options and no free storage
• Not compatible with Google Assistant

If you’re looking for a budget-priced smart doorbell, this model fits the bill. It captures excellent quality video at 1080p, is easy to use, and is less expensive than most models on the market. It has customizable motion settings: For instance, you can use the Ring mobile app to set up camera motion zones so that you exclude high-traffic areas and only detect motion in the areas that are important to you. 

The doorbell itself is also a bit smaller and more compact than many in class, which can be important when you don’t want to clutter up the entryway to your home. Of course, like all Ring doorbells, you will need to sign up for one of Ring’s Protect plans.

However, it’s not as versatile as some of the other Ring models, which give you a choice of powering the doorbell by either battery power or hardwiring the unit. Like other Ring doorbells, it also doesn’t integrate with Google Assistant or other smart technology systems. 

What to consider when buying the best Ring doorbell

When you’re looking to buy the best Ring doorbell for your needs, you’ll want to look beyond just the sticker price. Ring doorbells all share certain qualities: For instance, they all hook up to your home wireless network. But how they connect might differ from model to model—most Ring doorbells have dual-band WiFi (2.4 or 5.0 GHz). However, a few models only have 2.4GHz. So, when you’re looking to buy, you’ll want to determine if dual-band connectivity is important—and, of course, make sure you have a WiFi router that transmits a strong enough signal to blanket the porch. 

Here are several important factors to think about before you buy:

Power source

Each type of power source has its pros and cons. For instance, if you decide to choose a Ring model that’s only battery-powered, you may have more flexibility in where to place the doorbell, but you’ll need to make sure you remember to recharge it (although you’ll get alerts sent to you, as well). For models that require a hardwired power connection, you don’t need to worry about recharging your batteries. But you may be more limited in where you can place the doorbell. For those who want the best of both worlds, Ring makes a few models, including the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus and the Ring Video Doorbell 4, that can either run on rechargeable batteries or can be set up in a hardwired configuration.

What video resolution, features, and product designs are most important to you?

All Ring models capture video at 1080p video resolution. However, some models offer more—like the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus and Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2. Both of these models have what Ring calls “1536p HD Video” or head-to-toe video, which captures video at 1536-by-1536 resolution. That added resolution allows for clear, more detailed video footage.  

But image and video quality aren’t the only important features you’ll want to consider. For instance, there’s a whole constellation of features that are available on Ring doorbells, including motion detection, two-way audio, Amazon Alexa integration features, color night vision, and dual-band WiFi, to name just a few. So, you’ll want to look over the feature sets of each Ring model to see which one best meets your needs.

Additionally, look at the design and the actual size of the doorbell you’re considering. Although all Ring doorbells have similar designs, not all models are alike. For instance, if you live in an apartment, Ring has cleverly designed a video doorbell that’s tailor-made for apartments: The Ring Peephole Cam allows you to remove your apartment door’s existing peephole and add this model, which provides you with lots of valuable security features.

Decide on a Ring Protect plan

One additional but important decision you’ll want to make is to decide on the right Ring Protect plan for the Ring doorbell you’re buying. That’s because while you can use the doorbell without a plan, you won’t be able to access and download any recorded videos. Compare prices on the Ring website. 

FAQs

 Final thoughts on the best Ring doorbells

• Best overall: Ring Video Doorbell 3
• Best with advanced features: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
• Best for apartments: Ring Peephole Cam
• Best battery-operated: Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
• Best budget: Ring Video Doorbell Wired

For the past several years, Ring doorbells have offered a variety of popular video doorbells to choose from to help you keep a watchful eye over your porch, patio, and/or packages. At every price point, from its entry-level model to its higher-priced flagship models, they are easy to use, set up quickly, and include many useful features.

Today’s video doorbells, including Ring doorbells, offer great value for homeowners since they allow you to keep a watchful eye on your most important investment—your home—in real-time. So, whether you’re at home, at work, or on vacation, video doorbells can stream live video feeds to your mobile devices and allow you to take action on protecting your home.  

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best Ring doorbells 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		Arlo Pro 5S 2K		SEE IT	Arlo’s powerful collection of camera-based and cloud-based features makes it well worth the cost.
Best with 4K resolution		Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Technology Security Camera		SEE IT	You can choose between package detection or vehicle, person, and animal detection with this camera.
Best budget		Wyze Cam v3		SEE IT	This hardwired security camera is one of the cheapest on the market.

Over the past 8 or 10 years, the outdoor security camera market has changed dramatically. What was once a small market has become massive, with reports showing even more growth in the coming years. That’s great news for consumers; market growth means there will continue to be competition, which has kept prices for security cameras pretty low. It also forces higher-end features in commercial outdoor security cameras, such as 4K resolution image sensors and AI-enhanced capabilities, to appear more quickly on lower-end DIY models. Although there’s been plenty of focus on doorbell cameras to catch package theft and indoor cameras to ensure the pets aren’t wreaking havoc in the home, outdoor security cameras give you robust peace of mind over your entire property. The best outdoor security cameras are easy to use, smart, and include important security features like two-factor authentication to protect consumer data. 

• Best overall: Arlo Pro 5S 2K 
• Best with 4K resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Technology Security Camera 
• Best wired with lights: Eufy Security S330 Floodlight Security Camera 2 Pro
• Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2
• Best budget: Wyze Cam v3 

How we chose the best outdoor security cameras

I’ve written about many types of different cameras, including outdoor security cameras, for a number of publications over the years, including PCMag.com, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Tom’s Guide, and Gearbrain. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best outdoor security cameras. I also looked at critical reviews, user recommendations, and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models. 

To find the best ones, I carefully considered a number of factors, including specific features such as video resolution, night vision capability, and audio, as well as more expansive qualities, like ease of use, versatility, and smart home compatibility. 

The best outdoor security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

You’ll find a variety of outdoor security cameras on this list, which should also accommodate a wide range of budgets and needs, from inexpensive models that cost as little as $30 to more feature-packed models that cost closer to $300. One of our picks should give you a better eye on your driveway or backyard and can help complement and strengthen a home security system.

Best overall: Arlo Pro 5S 2K 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 2K video resolution
• Field of view: 160 degrees
• Power: Battery powered only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription)
• Size: 3.5 x 2 x 3 inches

Pros 

• Excellent video image quality
• Has color night-vision capabilities
• Includes built-in spotlight 
• Dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5 GHz)
• Better battery life

Cons

• Expensive
• Lacks support for Apple HomeKit compatibility
• Narrower field of view

Arlo included a few impressive improvements in this version of their Pro 5S 2K model, which is the successor to its popular Pro 4 model. Although they both can capture 2K-resolution video (2,560×1440), the newer model comes with a 12-bit image sensor, allowing you to shoot at a higher bit rate. That translates into better-quality video. The Pro 5S 2K also improved wireless connectivity; this version supports routers with dual-band WiFi (both 2.4GHz and 5GHz), while the Pro 4 only had the lower band—2.4GHz. 

You still get many of the great features found on the Pro 4, including its 160 degrees field of view, a 12x digital zoom, color night vision and black-and-white infrared night vision, a built-in spotlight, two-way audio, and the ability to use smart-home technologies like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. However, it lacks support for Apple HomeKit. 

Some might find this Arlo 5S 2K pricier than many others in its class. Plus, it also doesn’t offer any free cloud-based plans to access your video and photos. In order to access your videos stored in the cloud, you’ll need to sign up for one of Arlo Secure plans (starting at $4.99), which gives you the ability to access 30 days of your video recordings and provides you with additional features such as person, vehicle, and animal detection (and the ability to distinguish between them), and smart activity zones, which allow you to focus motion detection on a specific area within your camera’s field of view. The model is a bit pricey, but Arlo’s powerful collection of camera-based and cloud-based features makes it well worth the cost.

Best with 4K resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Technology Security Camera 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 4K
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Wired only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Storage options: Local storage
• Size: 3.0 x 3.0 x 3.4 inches

Pros 

• Versatile
• Excellent quality 4K video
• Comes with dual-band WiFi
• Includes WiFi 6 technology

Cons

• 140 field-of-view is narrower than other models
• Doesn’t have a battery backup

As a brand, Lorex has made very good quality outdoor security cameras for many years. This model is no exception. It stands out because it captures high-quality 4K-resolution video and has a very good 8-megapixel sensor that lets you shoot photos with more detail and data. It also comes with WiFi 6 technology, allowing faster data transmission to deliver impressive 4K resolution with fast loading time. Plus, it includes 2.4/5GHz dual-band WiFi for better connectivity. You can also use one of two smart-motion features: Person, Vehicle, and Animal Detection or Package Detection (both cannot be used simultaneously).

It’s not ideal for everyone, though. It has a 140-degree field of view, which is narrower than most in its class. It’s hardwired, so you may be more limited in where you need to place this model. It also doesn’t have a battery backup, which can be useful for units that are wired. 

Best wired with lights: Eufy Security S330 Floodlight Security Camera 2 Pro

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 2K 
• Field of view: 360 degrees (horizontal); 130 degrees (vertical)
• Power: Wired only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Storage options: Cloud storage or local storage 
• Size: 12.2 x 7.9 x 7.1 inches

Pros 

• Very versatile
• Camera can pan 360 degrees horizontally
• Lights are moveable and adjustable
• Camera comes with pan-and-tilt capabilities
• Lets you store video in either the cloud or locally

Cons

• Doesn’t have a battery backup
• Cloud storage reduces video footage to 1080p

Although image sensors have made incredible improvements over the years, you still often need a powerful light source to capture very good-quality video. That’s why this model from Eufy is an excellent buy. It captures 2K resolution video and has flood lights to make the subjects more defined and detailed, but the lighting is adjustable—for instance, you can adjust the color temperature of the lights. Also, the camera itself can pan 360 degrees horizontally so that you can see more of the setting outside your home. And the lights aren’t fixed, so you can turn and position the lights in different directions. 

It doesn’t come with a battery backup, which can be helpful if your power goes out. Also, if you use cloud storage, it will reduce the video footage to 1080p. That’s still great video resolution, and most consumers will be quite pleased with the quality and versatility of this outdoor security camera. 

Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 130 degrees
• Power: Battery powered only
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage
• Size: 3.4 x 2.5 x 4.7 inches

Pros 

• Very versatile
• Can use either cloud or local storage
• Includes color night vision 
• Powerful Secure Plan features

Cons

• Pricey
• Need to pay extra for cellular plan

One thing almost every outdoor security camera requires is access to your home’s wireless network. But what if you have poor reception or don’t have a WiFi network at all? If you’re one of these people, consider the Arlo Go 2. It not only lets you hook up to a WiFi network, but you can also use a cellular plan. However, if you choose the latter, you’ll have to buy both a cellular plan and a SIM card. Also, it only works with Verizon, U.S. Cellular, and T-Mobile. 

It does have color night vision and two-way talk and audio, but it’s not perfect for everyone. For instance, it provides you with the option of using cloud storage via one of Arlo’s Secure plans (plans start at $4.99), which also lets you access special features or store your videos on local storage. Still, if you use local storage, you can’t access the Secure plan features, which include not only 30-day video recording but also person, vehicle, and animal detection (and the ability to distinguish between them) and smart activity zones, which allow you to focus motion detection on a specific area within your camera’s field of view. 

Best budget: Wyze Cam v3 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 130 degrees
• Power: Wired
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage
• Size: 2.0 x 2.0 x 2.3 inches 

Pros 

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

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit compatibility
• Lower frame rate than other models
• May not be as sturdy as other models

This hardwired security camera is one of the cheapest on the market, performing very well and capturing very good quality video. It also provides you with the option of storing your videos in cloud storage or on local storage using a microSD memory card. 

But it’s not the perfect option for all users. Those looking for high-res video probably won’t be happy since it shoots just 1080p video. It also shoots at a lower frame rate than other models: For Daytime and Color Night Vision, the frame rate is 20 frames per second (fps), and with Night Vision with IR lights frame rate of 15fps. This means choppier video upon playback However, remember to consider your needs—you’re most likely not looking for producing cinema-quality video. You simply want your security camera to capture decent video. And for that type of video, this model fits the bill.

What to consider when buying the best outdoor security cameras

If you want to install an outdoor security camera, you’re certainly not alone. According to a 2021 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of installed surveillance cameras grew nearly 50 percent, from 47 to 70 million in the United States from 2015 to 2018.

Here are some important factors to think about before you purchase an outdoor security camera: 

Video resolution

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

Lights

Light has always been incredibly important when it comes to capturing digital video and photos. That’s why if you need your outdoor security camera to capture better-quality video or photos, you should consider buying a model with flood lights. Such models not only allow for improved image quality, but they can also act as a deterrent to intruders. 

Power options

When planning to set up your new outdoor security camera, you’ll need to think about where to install it. This is not as much of an issue for models that only use battery power. However, hardwired connections require a direct connection to your home or an outdoor outlet with a weatherproof cord. This limits where you can place it. You make up for the lack of creative control with video and audio quality, which is better in a hardwired connection. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best outdoor security cameras

• Best overall: Arlo Pro 5S 2K 
• Best with 4K resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Technology Security Camera 
• Best wired with lights: Eufy Security S330 Floodlight Security Camera 2 Pro
• Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2
• Best budget: Wyze Cam v3 

Many outdoor cameras on the market today offer 4K resolution, perfect for ultra-detailed shots. Cloud storage makes it possible to keep that footage safe, secure, and easily accessible—you’ll have to pay a subscription for it, however. Otherwise, look for an option that allows for external storage, like a microSD card. Regardless of the model you choose, an outdoor security camera is a great way to watch your entire home, whether you’re away, at work, or in your house.

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 security cameras 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		CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System		SEE IT	Provides quite a lot of power, yet runs quietly.
Best portable		EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2		SEE IT	Power and protection in any location.
Best budget		Tripp Lite AVR750U 750VA UPS		SEE IT	Lots of features for a small cost.

Losing power is never fun, but it can also seriously mess with your electronics, especially if you don’t have a battery backup. Computers, external hard drives, home WiFi networks, and more all feel the negative effects of an outage. So, it’s important to create an action plan to keep your home or your business—or both—running during these possible future blackouts. One important part of your plan should be considering battery backups—also known as an uninterruptible power supply, or UPS—which will automatically take over when the power drops or goes out entirely. But no one solution’s perfect for everyone. To help you narrow those choices, we’ve compiled a list of the five best battery backups currently available.

• Best overall: CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System
• Best portable: EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2
• Best for a network: APC UPS, 1500VA Sine Wave UPS
• Best for businesses: APC 2200VA Smart UPS with SmartConnect
• Best budget: Tripp Lite AVR750U 750VA UPS

How we chose the best battery backups

For most of the UPS models in this guide, we focused on the home user, so we selected units that were less than $300. However, for one, “Best for businesses,” we selected a more expensive model since most small business owners are likely to pay more for a more robust UPS that can handle more machines. 

Next, we prioritized UPS options that output as a clean sine waveform instead of a simulated sine waveform. This feature is important for more sensitive components, like gaming systems and audio equipment. 

We also considered many other features that we considered important; for instance, we looked for UPS models that included surge protection features, like line interactive topology, which uses an automatic voltage regulator to normalize any dips or spikes in power in active (or non-battery backup) mode. We also considered other features: How many outputs did the UPS have? How many outlets were both battery-and-surge-protected outlets? How many outlets had only surge protection? Plus, we considered USB ports and the length of the power cord. These details can sound pedantic, but they can make a huge difference in day-to-day use.

Even if you’re not prone to power outages, many UPS models also include surge protection features. An automatic voltage regulator smoothes over brownouts and spikes without needing to change your battery. It’s one of several capabilities you’ll want to look for in the best battery backups.

The best battery backups: Reviews & Recommendations

Losing power is stressful, so don’t let your offline router and computer add to it. The best battery backups can give you peace of mind that your electronics aren’t in the dark while you call the electric company. Some might need a more powerful and versatile solution—particularly if you’re looking to back up the equipment in your business. Or maybe you have computers and laptops that are particularly sensitive. And you’ll find that UPS models have a broad price range—you can buy one for under $100 or spend thousands of dollars. Here are our choices for users of all types.

Best overall: CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This strikes the best balance of features, power, outlets, and price for most people.

Specs

• Power/Watts: 1500AV/900W
• Battery & Surge Protected: 6 outlets
• Surge Protected Only: 6 outlets

Pros

• 12 outlets (6 with both battery backup and surge protection)
• Includes line interactive topology, with automatic voltage regulator
• LCD screen

Cons

• Simulated sine wave power

This mini-tower UPS from CyberPower provides quite a bit of power (900 Watts), which can power various devices—such as desktop computers, workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment. It has a multifunction LCD and includes line interactive technology, which uses an automatic voltage regulator to monitor and adjust for dips and spikes in power. Despite all of its muscle, it still runs quietly.

The UPS comes with 12 outlets—six that have booth battery backup and surge protection and six outlets that only have surge protection. It has an 8-hour recharge time and includes ports for your phones and network. But its output has a simulated sinewave waveform, which may be a problem with more sensitive computers and tech gear. Be sure to check the specs on your devices to make sure they’re combative with this UPS.  

The CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS also comes with the company’s Powerpanel personal-editing software, which allows you to monitor the UPS unit remotely.

Best portable: EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It’s one of the most portable UPS, which also comes with a pure sine wave form.

Specs

• Watts: 1,024 watts
• Power Outlets: 6 AC outlets, 4 USB-A, 2 USB-C, Car socket
• USB Ports: 4 USB ports

Pros

• Powerful
• Portable
• Lots of sockets
• Capable of charging and discharging more times than other backups
• Slick design

Cons

• Pricey

EF ECOFLOW’s 1,024-watt DELTA 2 portable power station doesn’t rely on lithium-ion batteries. Instead, it comes equipped with LiFePO4 batteries that won’t degrade as quickly with everyday use. It’s powerful enough to run appliances, so it can really come in handy on an RV or as an emergency backup during storms or other power outages. We went hands-on with the DELTA 2 and found it easy to set up and use. The unit charged up in about 80 minutes through an AC outlet but could be topped up with solar panels for a truly off-the-grid experience. We were especially impressed with the level of performance we got from the DELTA 2, given its small size and lightweight. The battery backup was easy to move around, thanks to built-in handles.

The DELTA 2 has plenty of connectivity to go with that power. You’ll find three AC outlets with grounds and three without. It offers four USB-A ports and two fast-charging USB-C ports for slinging juice into your mobile devices or tablets. The results of our testing found that the DELTA 2 wasn’t designed for any particular purpose (camping, emergency preparedness, etc.) but would work well in all of those scenarios. As such, we have no problem recommending it to anyone who wants a battery backup they can rely on to provide hours of juice for portable gadgets and appliances alike.

Best for a network: APC UPS, 1500VA Sine Wave UPS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Although it’s a bit pricey, this APC UPS offers a lot of power and clean sine wave output for even sensitive computers and devices.

Specs

• Power/Watts: 1500AV/900W
• Battery & Surge Protected: 5 outlets
• Surge Protected Only: 5 outlets

Pros

• Includes line interactive topolgy, with automatic voltage regulator
• Angled LCD to view UPS status
• Uses a pure sine wave form
• Includes a six-foot power cord

Cons

• Fewer surge-protected only outlets than other models
• Larger than others in its class

This model makes for an excellent UPS for your home network because it gives output power in a pure sine wave form. That means sensitive equipment, like networking or high-end audio gear, will work fine since output power is clean. It also offers additional connections and ports: 1Gb and coax protection and includes two USB ports—one type A and one type C. So, it’s easy to have a battery backup for the most important components in your network.

It also will regulate your system when it’s not functioning in battery backup since it has line interactive topology, with automatic voltage regulator. Another nice touch is that they’ve angled the LCD, so viewing the UPS status is easier. And it comes with a 6-foot power cord and power-management software for Windows PC (macOS uses native ‘Energy Saver’ in settings).

Best for businesses: APC 2200VA Smart UPS with SmartConnect

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This APC UPS is expensive, but ample power and advanced features make it attractive for business users. 

Specs

• Power/Watts: 2200VA / 1980W
• Battery & Surge Protected: 8 outlets
• Surge Protected Only: 2 outlets

Pros

• Cloud-enabled UPS
• Includes line interactive topology, with automatic voltage regulator
• Uses a pure sine wave form

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

One feature that stands out on the APC 2200VA is that it has APC’s SmartConnect technology, which allows your UPS to be cloud-enabled. According to the company, you can log in via a “secure portal (via any internet-connected device).” Then “you can view the status of your UPS, receive notifications, get firmware updates, and more.” So for those who might not have time to monitor or the money to have any IT department monitor the UPS, this can be quite valuable.

It also has a lot of power for hooking up many devices, including your network, into the system. You get 10 outlets, eight of which are both power-backed and surge-protected. The UPS also has both line interactive topology (via an automatic voltage regulator). It uses a clean pure sine wave form for output, which makes it compatible with most any computer or audio gear.  

Best budget: Tripp Lite AVR750U 750VA UPS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut:  A very small investment provides solid backup to protect your pricier devices.

Specs

• Power/Watts: 750AV/450W
• Battery & Surge Protected: 6 outlets
• Surge Protected Only: 6 outlets

Pros

• Inexpensive
• 12 outlets (6 with both battery backup and surge protection
• Includes line interactive topology, with automatic voltage regulator

Cons

• Simulated sine wave form (in backup mode)

If you’re on a tight budget, you might be tempted to skimp on buying a UPS for your gear. However, that would leave you vulnerable to power outages. Instead of foregoing a UPS, consider a budget-priced model, like this one from Tripp. The Tripp Lite AVR750U 750VA UPS can generate 450 watts and has 12 outlets—6 battery & surge protected and 6 surge protected only.

It also provides you with line interactive topology, with automatic voltage regulator—for regulating dips and spikes in your active system without needing to switch to battery power. According to the specs, the line-interactive battery backup can correct for “brownouts and overvoltages from 83V to 147V.” 

At this price, though, it should be a surprise that it uses a simulated sine waveform (in backup mode) and may not perform adequately with sensitive gear. However, it does include a USB port, has TEL/DSL protection, and it can mount to the wall.

What to consider when buying the best battery backups

If you’re looking to buy a UPS, you’ll find that there’s a rather large range in prices—from less than $100 to more than one thousand dollars. So, how do you choose? Use the following guide to help you make your decision. Here are some factors to consider before making your purchase:

Output

When you’re looking to buy an uninterruptible power supply, or UPS, you’re investing in a device that will deliver power to various devices, like a laptop or wireless router, and may also provide a surge protector. However, you’ll need to make sure that your supply has enough output power for the job. In general, the best battery backups can output at least 400W.

Sine wave inverter

UPS models include several different features, but you’ll want to focus on a couple, depending on what you want to back up. A sine-wave inverter allows a UPS to produce a clean sine waveform, which is the best type for power output. In contrast, some inexpensive models output a simulated sine waveform, which can be problematic for some higher-end gaming laptops and audio gear. Another key feature is to look for line interactive topology, which in some UPS models uses an automatic voltage regulator to compensate for small dips and spikes in the active power coming into your house. So, this feature acts as surge protection for your computers and system.

Endurance and outlets

A unit’s longevity depends on how powerful your UPS is, as well as how it’s configured. For budget or low-end UPS models, you’ll only be able to power devices that aren’t as powerful. Also, lower-end UPS models won’t let you run your computers and other gear as long. (This is called “run-time” and some manufacturers include this information on the product sections of their websites.) Be sure to research how much power you’ll need to run your devices in case of a blackout.

Most UPS models include several outlets that include both battery backup and surge protection and outlets that only have surge protection. Be sure you factor that in when making your battery backup plan.

Device compatibility

There are some products you won’t be able to run—such as a refrigerator or microwave, which would be too taxing on the UPS. Also, some smaller products just draw too much power. Hairdryers fit that description. 

It’s also important to remember that a UPS isn’t meant to take the place of an electric generator, which has a more robust power capacity. But for many consumer electronic devices, even monitors and power PCs, a UPS should give you the ability to run them, at least for a short time. (Again, study the features and specs of the USP models you’d like to purchase to see if they will back up your system effectively.)

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best battery backups

• Best overall: CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System
• Best portable: EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2
• Best for a network: APC UPS, 1500VA Sine Wave UPS
• Best for businesses: APC 2200VA Smart UPS with SmartConnect
• Best budget: Tripp Lite AVR750U 750VA UPS

Today, many of us are not only buying more computer gear and mobile devices for our homes, but many of us are also working more from home in hybrid-work situations. That’s why it’s more important than ever that you have a backup plan for your computers and other electronic devices. And that plan should include seeking out the best battery backups.

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 battery backups of 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		SoundAsleep Dream		SEE IT	The suede-like top provides a comfortable night’s sleep.
Best Self-Inflating		Lazery Sleep		SEE IT	Use a remote control to adjust the firmness to your liking.
Best for Camping		Coleman EasyStay 4-N-1		SEE IT	Create your ideal firmness and thickness.

Your house guests and camping trips deserve better than your old, worn-out air mattress. That beat-up bag of air can leave you feeling achy and irritable, with nothing between you and your cold uncarpeted floor but a thin sheet of deflated vinyl. Modern air mattresses can help you—and any friends and family who sleep over—avoid the tragedy of sleep deprivation.

What’s more is that now is a great time to buy an air mattress, since they’ve evolved quite a bit in recent years, and the best ones are sturdier and more versatile than models made even just a few years ago. Many have built-in pumps, and a few are great for taking on camping trips. Some of the best air mattresses tuck easily into your closet or even an emergency bag in case you need them in a pinch.

• Best overall: SoundAsleep Dream
• Best for camping: Coleman EasyStay 4-N-1
• Best self-inflating: Lazery Sleep
• Best for guests: Coleman QuickBed Airbed
• Best budget: Intex Comfort Dura-Beam

How we selected the best air mattresses

There’s a wide array of air mattresses available, which range in price from the cost of a pizza to well into the hundreds. For our recommended list of five inflatable beds, we disregarded models at the extremes of the dozens we looked at. The most expensive mattresses include superfluous features that add bulk and cost; the cheapest versions are little more than glorified pool floaties that promise little more than an uncomfortable and noisy night of restless sleep. Choosing the best air mattress can be tricky. We have selected options to fit almost any needs and budget, since prices can range from as little as $10 to more than a few hundred dollars. You don’t want to pay for features you’ll never use.

We considered key features, including how the bed inflates, how adjustable it is, and what the sleeping surface is made of—not all tops are created equal. We also focused on mainly two types of air mattress models, categorized by one of two height categories:

• Raised air mattresses: models that are 16-inches high or taller
• Standard air mattresses: models that are 12-inches high or shorter

The best air mattresses: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: SoundAsleep Dream

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A luxurious top and thick build make this one of the most comfortable air beds around.

Specs

• Weight limit: 300 lbs.-500 lbs. depending on size
• Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King
• Pump: Built-in

Pros

• Inflates in under 4 minutes
• Thick, waterproof, flocked top
• Queen air mattress is 19 inches in height
• Available in a variety of sizes

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than many other air mattresses
• Bulky at 24 pounds
• Requires breaking in to maintain maximum inflation

We were impressed with both the quality of the SoundAsleep Dream Series air mattress (and its construction) and its feature set. On top, it’s made with 15-gauge material and has a multi-layered flocked top (which has a suede-like feel to the material) for a comfortable sleeping surface. Even under a sheet, that texture makes a big difference compared to bare vinyl. 

The bottom of this mattress has a series of rubbery grips to prevent unwanted sliding. Also, the mattress relies on an internal coil-like structure to maintain its shape throughout the night. 

Overall, this air mattress provides a very easy setup process. Turn the one-click toggle on the side of the mattress to either quickly inflate or deflate it. What’s also nice is that the company says the pump was designed to be 20 percent quieter than competing pumps. But the pump is still powerful—it fully inflates the bed in 4 minutes. 

The SoundAsleep Dream Series air mattress is available in five sizes—Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, and King. Each model supports up to 500 lbs. (combined weight), except the Twin and Twin XL, which supports up to 300 lbs. (combined weight). All sizes are 18 inches in height, except the Queen, which is 19 inches. The mattress itself weighs a little over 24 lbs. and comes with a nylon carry bag, which allows you to easily and safely store or transport the deflated air mattress.

Best for camping: Coleman EasyStay 4-N-1

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Why it made the cut: Its modular design allows you to sleep on various widths and thicknesses.

Specs

• Weight limit: 300 lbs.
• Available sizes: Can be used as two Twins, King, or double-high Twin
• Pump: Not included

Pros

• Can be used in different configurations
• Strong construction—for indoors or outdoors
• Compact when not in use: Fold, roll, and store
• Relatively inexpensive

Cons

• Doesn’t include a pump for inflating or deflating the mattress
• Difficult to adjust firmness

In some ways, the Coleman EasyStay 4-N-1 is like a convertible laptop in that you can change its configuration. You can set it up as two separate Twin beds (with an 8-inch height). Push both together and use them as one King-size bed (with an 8-inch height). Or, position the two beds on top of each other and use them as a double-high twin bed (with a 16-inch height), for extra inflated support. The versatility allows this air mattress to fit in practically any tent, from thimble-like abodes to camping mansions.

The inflation system includes a Double Lock valve to help keep the mattress inflated and firm, making it less likely to sag. However, some users have mentioned that it’s difficult to adjust the firmness of the mattress; for example, because of how the valve is made, it’s difficult to release only a small amount of air to make the air mattress softer. So, be aware as you’re blowing it up.

When you’re not using the EasyStay, it has an integrated “Wrap ‘N’ Roll” storage system: All you need to do is fold, roll, and store the air bed for easy storage. However, it’s important to note that this air mattress is not sold with a pump. So, you’ll need to buy one separately.

Best self-inflating: Lazery Sleep

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Why it made the cut: Adjusting the amount of air inside the bed is dead simple thanks to a remote.

Specs

• Weight limit: 500 lbs.
• Available sizes: Twin, Queen
• Pump: Built-in

Pros

• Comes with a remote control to quickly dial in the firmness of the air mattress
• Built-in pump
• Includes a carry bag

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than many other air mattresses
• Wire on remote control is too short
• Some user reviews claim various defects—from slow leaks to non-functional pumps 

The mattress comes with a built-in pump (which claims to be 20 percent quieter than the competition), and can fully inflate in 4 minutes. It’s available in two sizes: The Twin size has a height of 18 inches and the Queen size has a height of 19 inches. Each model supports up to 500 pounds and comes with a carry bag. Also, it comes with a Sure-Grip bottom, which prevents the bed from unwanted sliding, and has an extra-thick, waterproof, flocked top, which makes it extra comfortable. The company also says the material is puncture-resistant and very durable.  

One of the downsides of most air beds is that they’re difficult to adjust exactly how firm or soft the mattress is. You can try letting a little air out of the mattress to make it softer or adding more air to make it firm, but that process is rather imprecise. However, the Lazery Sleep air mattress provides an easy way to quickly change how firm or soft your mattress is: It comes with a wired remote control with 7 settings—from Plush up to Extra Firm. Simply dial in the desired setting and the inflatable bed will adjust to that firmness. The Lazery Sleep comes with the company’s ComfortCoil Technology, which has 40 top air coils, which the company says provides “added comfort to both single sleepers and couples.”

Best for guests: Coleman QuickBed Airbed

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Why it made the cut: It’s basic, light, and packs down small so it’s easy to store.

Specs

• Weight limit: 300 lbs.-600 lbs.
• Available sizes: Twin, Full, Queen
• Pump: Not included

Pros

• Cheaper than most air mattresses in its class
• AirTight system, with a Double Lock valve, prevents sagging

Cons

• Doesn’t include a pump
• Relatively thin
• Hard to customize inflation level

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on an air mattress, the Coleman QuickBed is surprisingly capable for its price. Although it can’t “transform” into different beds, this Coleman shares a lot of features with its brand sibling, the Coleman EasyStay. It offers Coleman’s AirTight system, which includes a Double Lock valve that the company says helps keep the mattress inflated and firm, and less likely to sag. Between surprise weekend visits from the in-laws and last-minute middle school sleepovers, this air mattress is ready to provide any guest with a solid night’s sleep.

Also, like the EasyStay, the Coleman QuickBed can be used both outdoors and indoors and rolls up easily for storage. However, like the EasyStay, the QuickBed also lacks an air pump. So, you’ll need to buy one separately to inflate and deflate the mattress. It supports up to 300 lbs., has a height of 8 inches, and has a soft plush top, which allows for a more comfortable sleep. It also weighs just 5.5 pounds so it’s more portable than some of its competition.

Best budget: Intex Comfort Dura-Beam

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Why it made the cut: It offers multiple size and thickness options, and flexible inflation methods.

Specs

• Weight limit: 300 lbs.-600 lbs.
• Available sizes: Twin, Queen
• Pump: Built-in

Pros

• Less expensive than comparable models in its class
• Takes only 4 minutes to inflate
• Electric or manual pump
• Queen available in three different heights
• Indented sides (for keeping fitted sheets in place)

Cons

• Available in just two sizes

The Intex Comfort Dura-Beam air mattress has a soft flocked surface, for extra comfort. Grooves in the sides of the mattress keep your fitted sheets in place. Inside, the mattress has thousands of high-strength polyester fibers, making it durable and very stable. 

We recommended the Queen-sized Intex air mattress, which is 18 inches high. But there are several other models available. That’s the sweet spot for comfort and easy inflation. The Intex’s Queen-size model comes in three heights—Elevated (22 inches), Elevated (18 inches), which we recommend, or Mid Rise (13 inches). They all support up to 600 lbs. The Twin-size model comes in two heights—Elevated (18 inches) or Mid Rise (13 inches)—and supports 300 lbs. (combined weight). 

The Intex comes with a carrying bag, which allows you to easily and safely store or transport the deflated air mattress. There’s also a convenient compartment on the air mattress to store the electric cord so it won’t drag or flop around. To set it up and put it away, you just push the On button to turn on the 120-volt pump. You turn the knob just under the button in order to either inflate or deflate the mattress. But it’s all very nicely labeled and clear.

What to consider when buying the best air mattress

What do you need to consider when you’re looking to buy a quality air mattress? Here are some factors you’ll want to consider before making your purchase:

Price & material

By and large, most air mattresses, which have a somewhat rubbery feel to them, are actually made of plastic polymer, or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). However, some models also include a different, suede-like material (often referred to as “flocked”) on the top of the mattress, which can make the air mattress more comfortable and help keep sheets in place. And while it can be tempting to spring for a model with a long list of features, make sure you’ll actually use them before spending the cash.

Mattress type, height, dimensions, & weight

Like standard mattresses, air mattresses are available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes, although not every model comes in all four types. Most come in two thicknesses or heights: 12 inches or less (single height) or 16 inches or more (double height). Many air mattresses will also list (in their technical specifications) how heavy the product is (which can be a factor if you plan on traveling with it or using it outside, like on a camping trip).  

Built-in pump/inflation and deflation rates

Many air mattresses now come with built-in electric air pumps, which are very convenient, provided you’re near a power outlet. For instance, you might not be near an electrical socket if you plan on using your air mattress for camping. What’s nice is that many air mattress manufacturers are producing air pumps that are quieter than previous models, since some older pumps can be quite loud. Do some research to find out how quickly an air mattress with a built-in pump can inflate and then deflate. Some models state both times in their technical specifications or marketing material on their websites. Some can pump up an air mattress in just a few minutes.

Warranty & customer service

Several of the air beds we recommended come with a one-year warranty, which can be helpful if your air mattress develops a leak a few weeks after you buy it. More than a few reviews indicated they were glad the mattress they purchased had a warranty since often the company will send a replacement, free of charge. However, be sure to also check a product’s reviews for warranty problems or issues with customer service, since a bad customer service department can prevent you from receiving a replacement mattress.

Additional quick tips on buying an air mattress

• Determine who will use the air mattress and where. Will there be one or two people sleeping on the mattress? How much does that one person or both people weigh, and can the air bed support that weight? 
• Will it be used only indoors, only outdoors, or both indoors and outdoors?
• Read through reviews to see if the inflatable mattress has a history of defects.
• Study the product manual and, if it has a notice about the warranty, be sure to keep it in a safe place where you can easily find it again.
• Once you have your inflatable mattress at home, be sure to immediately open it up, inflate it and check for leaks or other defects.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air mattresses

• Best overall: SoundAsleep Dream
• Best for camping: Coleman EasyStay 4-N-1
• Best self-inflating: Lazery Sleep
• Best for guests: Coleman QuickBed Airbed
• Best budget: Intex Comfort Dura-Beam

You might think any old air mattress will do until you spend a night sinking into an uncomfortable vinyl sack that leaves you sore and tired in the morning. Putting in a little legwork to pick the best air mattress for your needs will pay off in the long run, and a model like the SoundSleep Dream will suit most any nap or night’s needs. Your hips and brain will thank you.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best air mattresses of 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		Original Prusa i3 MK3S+		SEE IT	This is a very solid mix of price, features, and ease of use.
Best easy-to-use		Anycubic Vyper		SEE IT	It’s easy to use but its open design allows for large, complex prints.
Best for kids		Toybox 3D printer		SEE IT	Easily print toys from a huge online database via app.

While it would be fun to deck out your home like a true factory full of $100,000 rapid prototype machines, it’s not as logistically simple as it is to find a fantastic 3D printer under $1,000. These machines run the gamut from simple to advanced and can make everything from essential replacement parts to fun gaming miniatures. The models in this article are all priced under a grand. However, since prices have continued to drop over the past several years, you’ll find better-performing models in this segment with more versatile features, which are also more reliable and easier to use than previous models. Here are five of the best 3D printers under $1,000 that we recommend for all of your rapid prototyping and silly manufacturing needs.

• Best overall: Original Prusa i3 MK3S+
• Best for fast printing: Bambu Lab P1P
• Best with dual extruders: Flashforge Creator Pro 2
• Best easy-to-use: Anycubic Vyper
• Best for kids: Toybox 3D Printer

How we chose the best 3D printers under $1,000

We considered several factors to compile the list of 3D printers we recommend for this guide. First of all, the model needed to be available (you’d think that went without saying, but 3D printing is hot and more approachable than ever, so you’d be surprised how quickly these go out of stock). We also looked to see if the 3D printer was well constructed for a home 3D model and easy to use, with intuitive controls and features. Additionally, we ensured that the 3D printer came with compatible software to develop and create the digital design yourself, which your print would be based on. Lastly, we considered price. Although you can spend as much as $2,000 to $10,000 (or more) on professional- or commercial-grade 3D printers, we chose printers for this guide that were less than $1,000.

The best 3D printers under $1,000: Reviews & Recommendations

In the past 12 years, 3D printers have not just come down in price, but they’ve also become easier to use for several reasons. The most notable motivation comes from the RepRap movement, which helped forge the way for the 3D-printing industry to create products that were more affordable, easy to use, and based on open-source technology. The movement also helped standardize many aspects of 3D-printing technology, which benefits all consumers and businesses. The following list includes our choices for the best model to buy if you’re looking for a 3D printer that’s less than $1,000.

Best overall: Original Prusa i3 MK3S+

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Why it made the cut: This very versatile and reliable 3D printer is for those experienced in 3D printing and those just learning.

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA, 
• Print Volume (HWD): 9.8 x 8.3 x 8.3 inches
• Connectivity: USB, SD Card
• Dimension: 19.6 x 21.6 x 15.7 inches 
• Weight: 15.4 lbs.

Pros

• Produces excellent quality prints 
• Very versatile
• Easy to Use
• Reliable

Cons

• A bit pricey

This well-built Prusa 3D printer is for just about any user, from 3D printing beginners to those who’ve been at it for years. That’s because the i3 MK3S+ reliably delivers high-quality results for most typical home users. It produces excellent quality prints with lots of detail, partly due to the 3D printer’s solid build quality, which ensures those details will render properly. Also, the i3 MK3S+ has fewer errors during the printing process than other models in its class. 

It’s not a perfect 3D printer, though. I had a few minor quibbles with the i3 MK3S+: For instance, it has a decent-sized 3.4-inch display, but it is monochrome and not a touchscreen (other models have color touchscreens). You can connect using an SD card to add your project to the machine easily enough. However, if you want to connect via WiFi, you’ll need a Raspberry Pi Zero W accessory. 

But those quibbles aside, it’s an excellent performing 3D printer overall. For instance, it’s compatible with Ultimaker Cura, an open-source slicing application for 3D printers, and Prusa’s own software, PrusaSlicer. What’s also nice about this model is you can automatically calibrate it or use the Mesh Bed Leveling process to compensate for microscopic imperfections of the print sheet. Plus, it prints pretty quietly, so it won’t disturb others around you. 

This printer has a nearly unassailable reputation among the 3D printing community, and, in our eyes, it’s very well-deserved.

Best for fast printing: Bambu Lab P1P

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Why it made the cut: It has very fast printing speed without reducing print quality.

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG 
• Print Volume (HWD): 10 x 10 x 10 inches
• Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, SD Card
• Dimension (HWD): 15.2 x 15.3 x 18 inches
• Weight: 21.3 lbs.

Pros

• Very fast printing speed
• Excellent print quality
• Easy to set up
• Can print in multiple colors

Cons

• Pricey
• A bit noisy

This model consistently clocks faster print speeds than many other consumer 3D printers. While most 3D printers produce PLA objects at a speed of 60mm/s (different materials will quicken or slow down the speed), the Lab P1P’s toolhead promises up to 500 mm/s. 

But what’s also important to note is that even though this model has a much faster printing speed, the quality of the 3D printing isn’t reduced. Such an increase in speed can be incredibly important if you’re using the Lab P1P for a small business. It also comes with a number of other advanced features, including the ability to print in different colors, vibration compensation, and a camera. Plus, it has Bambu Lab’s Automatic Material System (AMS), which communicates with the toolhead to ensure a smooth filament feed. Plus, the whole thing sets up in less than a half-hour, which isn’t true for many cheaper models that require in-depth assembly.

Best with dual extruders: Flashforge Creator Pro 2

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Why it made the cut: A reasonably priced 3D printer that includes dual extruders

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG
• Print Volume (HWD): 7.9. x 5.9 x 5.8 inches
• Connectivity: SD card, USB
• Dimension: 20.7 x 14.2 x 15.9 inches 
• Weight: 33.1 lbs.

Pros

• Dual extruders
• Anti-scrape design to prevent cross-contamination 
• Safe closed design
• Easy to use

Cons

• Slicer software could be improved
• Noisy

What sets this 3D printer apart from many models is that it comes with two independent dual extruders (IDEX). It relies on two nozzles that work simultaneously and independently, allowing you to print two colors or materials in the same piece. 

That kind of flexibility opens the door to improvements in both creativity and productivity. The 3D printer even lets you print two models simultaneously or mirror them. If you’re only printing one object, it can go up to 200mm x 148mm x 150mm. If you’re printing two objects, they’re limited to 80mm x 148mm x 150mm in mirror mode. That’s still quite a bit of space in the printing chamber.

Plus, it has an anti-scrape design to prevent cross-contamination when working in mirror or parallel modes. It’s not perfect, though: its slicer software, Flashprint, could be improved. It’s also noisy. Setup can also be tricky, but there is a ton of support information on the internet in the form of documents and videos to help with every part of the Flashforge 3D printing process.

Best easy-to-use: Anycubic Vyper

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Why it made the cut: A well-constructed, easy-to-use 3D printer that’s fast and sets up quickly

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Wood
• Print Volume (HWD): 9.6 x 9.6 x 10.2 inches 
• Connectivity: Trans-flash Card; USB (expert mode)
• Dimension: 20 x 18 x 20.3 inches 
• Weight: 22 lbs.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Prints quietly and quickly
• Large 4.3-inch LCD

Cons

• A bit pricey

The Anycubic Vyper isn’t overly basic, but it is very simple to use for a few crucial reasons. For starters, you can quickly assemble the 3D printer, so you’re up and running in less than 30 minutes. Use auto leveling, too, to avoid spending time manually adjusting the 3D printer. Plus, it comes with a large 4.3-inch touchscreen, making it easy to operate. This printer does its best to maintain advanced features without

Its dual-cooling fan system allows it to cool down rapidly, and its double-gear extrusion system reduces the chances of filament tangle. This model also prints quickly without losing any quality or detail. It also comes with its Z-axis gap elimination module, which can avoid print layer marks and ensure printing precision. 

Best for kids: Toybox 3D Printer

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Why it made the cut: This inexpensive and kid-friendly 3D printer is easy to use and small enough to fit almost anywhere

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA 
• Print Volume (HWD): 3.5 x 2.8 x 3.1 inches
• Connectivity: WiFi 
• Dimension: 9.1 x 7.4 x 7.4 inches 
• Weight: 6.6 lbs.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Quick set-up time
• Relatively inexpensive 
• One-touch 
• Comes with lots of projects

Cons

• Print volume is small
• Not as versatile as other 3D printers
• Open frame means adult supervision

This relatively inexpensive and easy-to-use 3D printer is ideal for kids, beginners, or those simply looking for a streamlined 3D printing process. Setting up generally takes just a few minutes, and then you’re ready to go—an experience we found to take less than 30 minutes in our full review. You can connect to the 3D printer’s app to browse the various projects, which you can customize and print out. You can also develop your own projects from scratch. The Toybox catalog includes access to thousands of toys, and the company expands the available selection weekly to keep things interesting.

The printer might not be for all kids, though. For example, it has a tiny print volume, so you’ll be limited to printing only small toys or parts. And although it’s targeted largely toward children, the 3D printer has an open-frame design, which means it’s not enclosed or sealed off with glass. So, if you intend to have your children use it, you’ll want to supervise to prevent them from putting their hands near the device while it’s printing. Nevertheless, it’s easy to use and fun, so if your children are creative and like to create things, this 3D printer might be a great gift for them.

Features to consider when shopping for the best 3D printer for your needs

Part of the reason that 3D printers come in all different sizes, with vastly different feature sets, and an even great variety of price points, is that many different types of people use 3D printers: For example, a designer might use it for creating a prototype, while an educator might develop a print to replicate an artifact to use in his history class, while an artist might use a 3D printer to explore the potential of working in a new medium. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. That’s why you need to take some time to consider the following features and capabilities before you buy your 3D printer.

Explore methods of 3D printing

There are a number of different processes that can be used in 3D printing. But today, the most commonly used method on consumer 3D printers is fused deposition modeling (FDM)—and all the 3D printers in this review use FDM technology: An FDM printer sends a filament of plastic (most often from a spool within the printer) through a small, heated nozzle, which then precisely lays down the thin layers of plastic on the surface of the base to construct the object. (In the 3D printer industry, FDM is also referred to as “fused filament fabrication,” or “FFF.”) An FDM 3D printer is pretty flexible, but if you’re looking for different results, you’ll want to research some other processes, such as stereolithography (SLA), which uses a resin-based method to print, or other methods.

Learn about 3D printing materials

It’s important to learn what materials you can use with your 3D printer. The filaments used in FDM 3D printers can be made of different types of material, too. Two of the most popular are polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABD), but there are others. You can buy spools of replacement filament, but just be sure the material and size are compatible with your model. Most 3D printers print in just one color, but some select models have dual extruders so that you can print with two colors.  

Analyze your 3D printing needs

When it comes to 3D printers, you’ll also want to closely examine and evaluate the features, specifications, and capabilities you think you’ll need. For example, if you’re looking to print objects that are a bit larger, you’ll want to go with a model with a larger print volume that can handle larger prints. Or maybe you’re looking to produce a lot of objects quickly. Then pay close attention to the printer’s speed. Additionally, ensure it has the connectivity options, like WiFi or Bluetooth, that allow you to work in the manner you’re expecting. 

Resolution

What is the top resolution on your 3D printer? Resolution is measured in microns (a lower number is more detailed), with the default on many printers being 200 microns. However, some can print at 100 or 50 microns. Higher resolution generally translates into smoother prints.

Is it an open frame or close frame?

3D printers that are closed are safer, but open-frame 3D printers are generally larger in size. Closed printers are ideal if you have kids or pets who might get curious during your print and reach into the printing area. Closed printers also prevent particulates and other environmental pollutants from creeping into your prints.

Are there any automated features?

More and more 3D printers are including automated features, such as auto-leveling the print bed, in order to speed up the process and to make the 3D printer easier to use. However, it’s worth checking reviews about how well these automated functions work. You may do some of the work yourself and waste time re-doing things that the automated system failed to do successfully.

Software

Are you interested in designing your 3D print yourself? If so, you’ll need software known as a “slicer” to create it. Some popular choices are PrusaSlicer, from Prucer, and Cura, from Ultimaker. Access to common and open-source utilities makes printers more versatile but can sometimes run into compatibility issues, especially after a software update.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 3D printers under $1,000

• Best overall: Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ 
• Best for fast printing: Bambu Lab P1P
• Best with dual extruders: Flashforge Creator Pro 2
• Best easy-to-use: Anycubic Vyper
• Best for kids: Toybox 3D Printer

Some scientists and environmentalists have long considered 3D printers a “greener choice.” However, like conventional inkjet and laser printers, 3D printers produce waste, mainly due to the various processes used in printing 3D objects, which are most often plastic. And adding more plastic into the environment is never a good thing. However, how sustainable your 3D printer is for the environment depends upon many factors, including the materials you use: For instance, PLA plastic is considered relatively easy to recycle and is only more biodegradable than other materials used for filaments. 

Additionally, some experts in the 3D printer industry believe some fundamental aspects of 3D printing should benefit the Earth and its environment. For example, one of the projects of the RepRap movement, which made 3D printers and technology more accessible over the past 10 years, was to create self-replicating 3D printers. In doing so, the group predicted that such self-replicating machines could benefit society overall by producing less waste in our global ecosystem. Whether you are more concerned with long-term outcomes or short-term projects, the best 3D printers under $1,000 deliver creative and consumer value.

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 3D printers under $1,000 for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Prusa Mini+		SEE IT	This advanced printer offers surprising features at this price.
Best for DIY projects		Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo		SEE IT	This model comes with a learning curve, but rewards users with excellent performance.
Best for printing large objects		Artillery Sidewinder X2		SEE IT	The printing area is almost twice as large as its competition.

The best 3D printers under $500 may be hard to imagine for people just getting started. Consumers who want to buy excellent quality 3D printers sometimes fall into the same trap: They think the more expensive the device or gadget is, the better it will be. But because the 3D printer market is still very competitive and the industry continues to evolve, you can often buy a model for less money than its slightly larger brandmate. In other words, a printer that costs $450 might have many of the same features found on a $750 model that came out a year ago. With that in mind, we’ve collected five of the best 3D printers under $500 that we recommend.

• Best overall: Prusa Mini+  
• Best for printing large objects: Artillery Sidewinder X2
• Best for DIY projects: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
• Best for fast printing: Toybox 3D Printer
• Best budget: Monoprice 140108 MP Cadet
• Best for kids: 3Doodler Create+ 3D printing pen

How we chose the best 3D printers for under $500

To compile the list of 3D printers we recommend for this guide, we considered several factors. We prioritized well-built models that will last and grow with users as their skills improve. While many of these sub-$500 models work well for beginners, we don’t want users to feel limited by them down the road. We also require a 3D printer to employ reliable, intuitive software because you can’t print if you can’t get your design to the machine. Our picks are based on a mix of real-world experience, spec comparisons, editorial reviews, user feedback, and company reputation.

The best 3D printers for under $500: Reviews & Recommendations

You don’t have to look far back to find a time when 3D printers were extremely specialized pieces of equipment beyond the reach of most casual users. That has changed in the past decade, however. That progress comes (at least in part) thanks to the RepRap movement, which helped forge the way for the 3D-printing industry to create products that were more affordable, easy to use, and based on open-source technology. The movement also helped standardize many aspects of 3D-printing technology, which benefits all consumers and businesses. The following list features our choices for the best model to buy if you’re starting out in the world of 3D printing: 

Best overall: Original Prusa Mini+ 3D Printer

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Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, 
• Print Volume (HWD): 7 x 7 x 7 inches
• Connectivity: USB drive, Ethernet
• Dimension: 15 x 13 x 15 inches
• Weight: 9.9 lbs.

Pros

• Excellent value for the price
• Easy to use
• Includes 2.8-inch color LCD
• Comes with an Ethernet port

Cons

• Print volume is smaller than Prusa’s flagship i3 MK3S+

Although the Prusa Mini+ is smaller than Prusa’s flagship i3 MK3S+, it still delivers much of the same quality and versatility. Plus it’s less expensive. So, you still get the same high-quality results when printing out objects. In some cases, you even get upgrades. For instance, Mini+ also comes with a color LCD, which is easier to use than the i3 MK3S. Insert a thumb drive with a compatible file, and the screen will show you a preview of your print. Then, just press the print button, and the machine goes on its way. It’s very simple if you want it to be.

This printer supports a ton of different printing materials, including PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, PC (Polycarbonate), CPE, PVA/BVOH, PVB, HIPS, PP (Polypropylene), Flex, nGen, Nylon, Woodfill, and other filled materials. The print head is also relatively fast, considering the size and price of this model. However, the i3 MK3S+ is larger, allowing you to build slightly large project, and it’s also compatible with many more materials than the Mini+ is. But overall, the Mini provides excellent value for the money, which is why it’s the best 3D printer overall for 3D printers under $500. 

Best for printing large objects: Artillery Sidewinder X2

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, Flexible PLA, Wood, PVA, HIPS
• Print Volume: 11.8 x 11.8 x 15.6 inches 
• Connectivity: USB, TF card, USB stick
• Dimensions: 21.65 x 15.94 x 34.25 in (with spool holder)
• Weight: 28.4 lbs.

Pros

• Provides a large print volume 
• Easy to use
• Prints quietly

Cons

• Color LCD can be a little glitchy

One of the standout features is that, for the price, it has a very large print area so that you can produce objects that are larger than a chess set piece. The build volume is 11.8 x 11.8 x 15.6 inches, providing more flexibility in creating your designs.  

3D printers can be complicated to assemble. The process can feel like a project in and of itself. Luckily, however, this printer comes 95 percent assembled and is very easy to set up. You can get up and print quickly without a lot of fuss.

It has other features that can be helpful during the 3D printing process. It has a filament runout detection and recovery system so that it will know when there’s no more filament and stop the print, but it will also resume printing once more filament is supplied to the unit. Also, if power is lost, you can resume the project from the last layer, saving time and money. Plus, it’s compatible with several different slicer apps.

Best for DIY projects: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, 
• Print Volume (HWD): 8.7 x 8.7 x 9.8 inches
• Connectivity: Micro USB, transflash memory card
• Dimension (HWD): 17.2 x 16.7 x 18.6 inches
• Weight: 21.60 lbs.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Its redesign improves the overall experience of it
• Faster than predecessor 

Cons

• Learning curve can be steep for some

Creality has a history of producing some fine 3D printers, but as many reviewers have pointed out, they can require some tweaking and maintenance to keep them printing correctly. However, that shouldn’t be a problem if you have a DIY spirit. That extra bit of elbow grease gets you a great value on a very capable printer.

The new iteration of this 3D printer includes some impressive enhancements to an already solid-performing 3D printer. It has a CR-Touch feature, for instance, which gathers the bed deviation data by touching multiple points in the bed and compensating for them accordingly, allowing for hassle-free bed leveling. It now comes with a full-metal Bowden extruder, which the company says makes for smooth feeding through the system. It also comes with a new 4.3-inch user interface, which is easier to read. Creality has also updated the build plate: The PC spring steel magnetic build plate has good adhesion to the model and enables quick removal of the print with just a slight bend of the platform.

Best for fast printing: Toybox 3D Printer

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA
• Print volume (HWD): 7 x 8 x 9 cm
• Connectivity: WiFi, web browsing, app
• Dimensions: 7.4 x 7.4 x 9.05 inches
• Weight: 15.21 lbs.

Pros

• Most toys just work as printed
• App provides plenty to print and do, giving you options to make predesigned toys as well as easily design your own
• Access—with paid subscription—to third-party intellectual property

Cons

• Could use slightly more documentation, especially during initial setup
• Not all “create” tab toys worked perfectly

If you’re looking to move fast right out of the box, look no further than the Toybox 3D printer. It comes together quickly and easily, and it only took us about 20 minutes. We had a full, working toy within 45 minutes of touching the printer post-calibration. The final pieces look impressive and feel light in your hand, yet are strong thanks to structural lattice-shaped printing. It’s a wonderful machine to enter the addicting world of 3D printers. Check out our reviewer’s other thoughts on the Toybox 3D printer.

Best budget: Monoprice MP Cadet

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, PLA Pro
• Print Volume (HWD): 3.9 x 4.1 x 3.9 inches
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, microSD card
• Dimension: 8.3 x 8.3 x 11.4 inches  
• Weight: 6.6 lbs.

Pros

• Small, compact, and lightweight
• Quick set-up time
• Comes with auto-leveling feature

Cons

• Small print volume
• Not as versatile as other models

Although there are plenty of 3D models you’ll pay a lot of money for, there are also a decent number of inexpensive 3D printers, like this model from Monoprice, which makes it a great model for beginners and students. 

The Monoprice MP Cadet has a simple but elegant interface that allows beginners to get up and running quickly. Despite its small size, it’s a solid performer: It can print relatively quickly. It’s also compatible with two slicer apps: Ultimaker Cura, an open-source slicing application for 3D printers, and Wiibuilder softare. Most of all, this printer delivers decent-quality prints consistently. However, since it’s a budget model, it’s not as versatile as some other, more feature-packed 3D printers.

Best for kids learning about 3D printing: 3Doodler Create+ 3D printing pen

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, FLEXY, Wood
• Dimension: 4.45 x 3.15 x 0.2 inches
• Weight: 0.11 lbs.

Pros

• Very easy to use and set up
• Safer than most 3D printers
• Intuitive controls
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Offers fewer features and capabilities than 3D printer

The 3Doodler Create+ Pen isn’t a 3D printer. So, it doesn’t offer the robust set of features that you’ll find on a 3D printer. However, what it is a 3D pen, and what it does do is give teens (14 years old and older) access to creating objects using a process that’s very similar to the “additive 3D printing” process found on 3D printers.

What’s nice about this pen is that it’s well-designed and includes very intuitive controls, so you’re up and running quickly. Once you’ve set it up, you can use the pen, which extrudes heated plastic like a 3D printer. One of the main differences is that your creation isn’t based on a digital CAD file. The pen comes with 15 different colors of 3Doodler Create plastic refills & a comprehensive activity guidebook.

Features to consider when shopping for the best 3D printer for your needs

While it’s always tempting to buy the biggest, baddest 3D printer on the block, that’s not always the best call. You may waste money, filament, and time getting the wrong machine. Here are some essential variables to understand and consider before you bring a 3D printer into your home workshop.

Explore methods of 3D printing

Right now, fused deposition modeling (FDM) represents the most common method for 3D printing. All the 3D printers in this roundup rely on FDM. An FDM printer relies on a small heated nozzle that lays down thin layers of plastic made of melted from a spooled filament. These machines are called fused filament fabricators or FFF. While we mostly recommend FDM 3D printers, you can also explore other technologies. Those include stereolithography (SLA), which uses a resin-based method to print, or other methods.

Learn about 3D printing materials

You’ll need filament if you want to print because you need a material. Two of the most popular are polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABD). Most 3D printers can only print one color at a time, especially at this price point, but it’s a hard rule. Before you buy tons of filament spools, make sure the type of filament you’re buying will work with your printer. You’ll need the correct size and material to make sure things go smoothly. Experimenting with different materials is fun, but wasting money on messed up prints is decidedly not.

Size

Once you know what you’ll primarily be printing, you can decide how big of a printing area you need. The largest printer on this list can handle prints up to 11.8 x 11.8 x 15.6 inches, but most are much smaller. Getting a printer that’s too large will often slow down your production process and take up unnecessary space in your home or shop. However, going too small means you’re limited in what you can print. The key is finding balance.

Resolution

Resolution is measured in microns (a lower number is more detailed), with the default on many printers being 200 microns. However, some can print at 100 or 50 microns. Generally speaking, higher resolution leads to smoother prints, but that’s not always the case. You’ll want a well-rounded machine. High-res prints won’t do you much good if they take way too long or frequently mess up.

Open or closed frame?

3D printers that are closed are safer when it comes to pets or other random objects invading your print space. Open-frame 3D printers are generally larger in size.

Software

You’re going to need software to actually send designs to the printer. These programs are called slicers, and there are several out there. You’ll want to check which titles are compatible with your machine. Some work just fine with open-source options, while others very much prefer proprietary software. Some titles include PrusaSlicer, from Prucer, and Cura, from Ultimaker. 

FAQs

Final thoughts when buying the best 3D printer

• Best overall: Prusa Mini+  
• Best for printing large objects: Artillery Sidewinder X2
• Best for DIY projects: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
• Best budget: Monoprice 140108 MP Cadet
• Best for kids: 3Doodler Create+ 3D printing pen

Just a decade ago, 3D printers under $500 weren’t very impressive or even available. Now, however, you have a ton of options available to you. Many of these machines offer advanced features and solid build quality that will churn out pieces for years to come. If you’re willing to spend some extra cash, you can upgrade to the best 3D printers under $1,000 for bigger prints, more material options, and more advanced features. But if you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or aspiring pro, any 3D printers on this list should suit your needs just fine.

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 3D printers under $500 for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best for large prints		Anycubic Kobra Max		SEE IT	With a maximum print size of  17.7 x 15.7 x 15.7 inches, it can make relatively massive objects.
Best overall		Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo		SEE IT	It definitely comes with a learning curve, but this affordable model will be useful even as your skills grow.
Best budget		Monoprice 140108 MP Cadet		SEE IT	This is a dead-simple way to get started 3D printing. Plus, it’s light enough to move around.

Even 3D printers for beginners can feel intimidating if you’re not familiar with the process. For instance, a recent 3D Printing Sentiment Index survey by Ultimaker revealed that 71 percent of professionals surveyed are aware of 3D printing. However, 29% of businesses that could potentially use 3D printing have no current familiarity with the technology. Nevertheless, engineers and entrepreneurs continue to use 3D printers in some very inventive ways: Astronauts plan to use a 3D printer on the International Space Station to print out elements of a human knee and engineers at Columbia University in New York have recently figured out how to replicate a seven-layer cheesecake. What’s encouraging is that in the last 12 years, 3D printers have also gotten more affordable.

But what exactly does a 3D printer do? Most consumer-grade 3D printers produce, or print, a three-dimensional object using a technology called “additive printing.” The process creates a three-dimensional object by building it layer upon layer using various materials, such as plastic or metal that adhere together during the process to eventually form the object. (The design of the object is based on a digital file, which is most often made using computer-aided design software, or CAD.) You’ll have to get over the initial learning curve, but watching that first print take shape can feel downright magical. The best 3D printers for beginners offer a simple setup, intuitive interfaces, and enough flexibility to grow with your skills.

• Best overall: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
• Best upgrade: Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ 
• Best for fast printing: Bambu Lab P1P
• Best for printing large objects: Anycubic Kobra Max
• Best kid-friendly: Toybox 3D Printer
• Best budget: Monoprice 140108 MP Cadet

How we chose the best 3D printers for beginners

In order to compile the list of 3D printers we recommend for this guide, we considered a number of factors. We prioritized intuitive models capable of more complex projects as your skills improve. Additionally, we made sure that the 3D printer came with compatible software, in order to develop and create the digital design yourself, which your print would be based on. Lastly, we considered price. Although you can spend as much as $2,000 to $10,000, or more, on professional- or commercial-grade 3D printers, we chose printers for this guide that were less than $1,000. Our specific picks are based on a mixture of personal experience, spec comparisons, user feedback, and editorial reviews.

The best 3D printers for beginners: Reviews & Recommendations

In the past 12 years, 3D printers have not just come down in price, but they’ve also become easier to use, for a number of reasons, most notably because of the involvement of the RepRap movement, which helped forge the way for the 3D-printing industry to create products that were more affordable, accessible, and reliant on open-source technology. The movement also helped standardize many aspects of 3D-printing technology, which benefits all consumers and businesses. While you’re at it, check out the best 3D printer filaments to put into your lovely new 3D printer.

Best overall: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It takes a little more setup than some other models, but it’s a near ideal mix of features and value for beginners.  

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, 
• Print volume (HWD): 8.7 x 8.7 x 9.8 inches
• Connectivity: Micro USB, transflash memory card
• Dimensions (HWD): 17.2 x 16.7 x 18.6 inches
• Weight: 21.60 lbs.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Its redesign improves the overall experience of it
• Faster than predecessor 

Cons

• Learning curve can be steep for some

The new iteration of this Creality 3D printer includes some impressive enhancements to an already solid-performing 3D printer. Its CR-Touch feature, for instance, gathers the bed deviation data by touching multiple points in the bed and compensating for them accordingly, allowing for hassle-free bed leveling. It now comes with a full-metal Bowden extruder, which the company says makes for smooth feeding through the system. 

Creality has also overhauled the UI: Its new 4.3-inch user interface is easier to read. It also has a new build plate: The PC spring steel magnetic build plate has good adhesion to the model, and it enables quick removal of the print with just a slight bend of the platform.

With prints measuring up to 8.7 x 8.7 x 9.8 inches, this model can easily churn out some of the most popular 3D-printed objects like fidget toys, replacement parts, and gaming miniatures.

While this isn’t the simplest model on the list (you’ll find some truly automated versions later on down the line), it isn’t prohibitively difficult to learn. Plus, it leaves room for users to sharpen their skills and improve their 3D printing process as they learn. If you’re a quick learner, too much automation can rapidly start to feel like more of a hindrance than a help.

Because Creality is one of the more popular brands in the space, it’s also very simple to find information, communities, and discussions online to help troubleshoot issues or clear up trouble spots.

Best upgrade: Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This very versatile and reliable 3D printer is for those who are experienced in 3D printing and for those just learning 

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA, 
• Print volume (HWD): 9.8 x 8.3 x 8.3 inches
• Connectivity: USB, SD Card
• Dimensions (HWD): 19.6 x 21.6 x 15.7 inches 
• Weight: 15.4 lbs.

Pros

• Produces excellent quality prints 
• Very versatile
• Easy to Use
• Reliable

Cons

• A bit pricey

This well-built Prusa 3D printer is for just about any user, from those just getting started to those who’ve been 3D printing for years. That’s because the i3 MK3S+ delivers high-quality results for most typical home users, time after time. But it’s not just reliable. It also produces excellent quality prints with lots of detail, which is partly due to the 3D printer’s very solid build quality, which ensures those details will render properly. Also, the i3 MK3S+ has fewer errors during the printing process than other models in its class. 

It’s not a perfect 3D printer, though. I had a couple of minor quibbles with the i3 MK3S+: For instance, it has a decent-sized 3.4-inch display, but the display is monochrome and not a touchscreen. (Other models have color touchscreens.) You can connect easily enough using an SD card to add your project to the machine. However, if you want to connect via Wi-Fi, you’ll need an accessory—a Raspberry Pi Zero W. 

But those quibbles aside, it’s an excellent performing 3D printer, overall. For instance, it’s compatible with Ultimaker Cura, an open-source slicing application for 3D printers, as well as Prusa’s own software, PrusaSlicer. What’s also nice about this model is you have the option to automatically calibrate it or use the Mesh Bed Leveling process to compensate for microscopic imperfections of the print sheet. Plus, it prints pretty quietly, so it won’t disturb others around you. 

Best for fast printing: Bambu Lab P1P

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It has very fast printing speed without reducing print quality.

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA, ABS, PETG 
• Print volume (HWD): 10 x 10 x 10 inches
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, SD Card
• Dimensions (HWD): 15.2 x 15.3 x 18 inches
• Weight: 21.3 lbs.

Pros

• Very fast printing speed
• Excellent print quality
• Easy to set up
• Can print in multiple colors

Cons

• Pricey
• A bit noisy

While this printer is pricier than the rest of the models on this list, it could save you considerable time. It clocks in at a little more than 8 times the speed of many consumer 3D printers. While most 3D printers produce PLA objects at a speed of 60mm/s (different materials will quicken or slow down the speed), the maximum speed of the Lab P1P’s toolhead is 500 mm/s, according to the manufacturer. But what’s also important to note is that even though this model has a much faster printing speed, the quality of the 3D printing isn’t affected. Such an increase in speed can be incredibly important if you’re using the Lab P1P for a small business. Of course, it’s also important no matter how you use it since no one really likes to waste time waiting around for 3D prints.

But it’s not just a 3D printer that prints fast. It’s also very capable, with a number of advanced features, including the ability to print in different colors, vibration compensation, and a camera. It also comes with Bambu Lab’s Automatic Material System (AMS), which communicates with the toolhead to ensure smooth filament feeding.

That fast print speed also comes with a relatively large maximum print size. So, if you’re trying to print that Iron Man helmet for your massive noggin, this could be your savior.  

Best for printing larger objects: Anycubic Kobra Max

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This model has great print volume so you can produce larger scale objects than what most consumer-grade 3D printers can create. 

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
• Print volume (HWD): 17.7 x 15.7 x 15.7 inches
• Connectivity: MicroSD card
• Dimensions (HWD): 28.4 x 28.2 x 26.2 inches
• Weight: 43 lbs.

Pros

• Its large size lets you print larger scale projects
• Includes automated features, like its 25-point auto leveling function

Cons

• Projects take longer to print
• The unit is large and heavy 

If you need to produce projects that are somewhat larger than your average-sized 3D printer can produce, you’ll want to check out this Anycubic model. In fact, its build volume is 17.7 x 15.7 x 15.7 in., which is significantly larger than most models in its class. However, one of the downsides of the larger space is that it takes longer to print your items. It also requires more work for calibrating the larger printing field and of course larger prints require more filament.

The 3D printer also comes packed with other useful features: it has a self-developed Anycubic LeviQ leveling function, which uses the printer’s 25-point smart and precise calibration system in order to compensate for the heated bed unevenness automatically. That means, according to the company, leveling and printing can be completed with just the press of a button.

Best kid-friendly: Toybox 3D Printer

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Using this printer is very intuitive, and common sense will guide you through nearly every interaction.

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA
• Print volume (HWD): 7 x 8 x 9 cm
• Connectivity: WiFi, web browsing, app
• Dimensions: 7.4 x 7.4 x 9.05 inches
• Weight: 15.21 lbs.

Pros

• Most toys just work as printed
• App provides plenty to print and do, giving you options to make predesigned toys as well as easily design your own
• Access—with paid subscription—to third-party intellectual property

Cons

• Could use slightly more documentation, especially during initial setup
• Not all “create” tab toys worked perfectly

Per Toybox themselves, this 3D printer was built to be used by children, thanks to its bevy of one-touch buttons. You, as the parent/guardian/cool babysitter, should provide some supervision, but assistance isn’t necessarily needed. There’s no need to adjust the removable print bed, loading the filament is uncomplicated, and you don’t need to use a knife to remove prints. There’s also a coordinating app for iOS and Android that lets you find things to print and make your own creations. The sense of joy, wonder, and discovery as you go through the printer and app cannot be understated—cute little messages on the bottom of boxes, playful sounds during printing, usage of your own images to make certain toys, and more. Read our full review of the Toybox 3D printer.

Best budget: Monoprice MP Cadet

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: If you’re on a budget, this small model should fit the bill.

Specs

• Materials supported: PLA, PLA Pro
• Print volume (HWD): 3.9 x 4.1 x 3.9 inches
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, microSD card
• Dimensions: 8.3 x 8.3 x 11.4 inches  
• Weight: 6.6 lbs.

Pros

• Small, compact, and lightweight
• Quick set up time
• Comes with auto leveling feature

Cons

• Small print volume
• Not as versatile as other models

Although there are plenty of 3D models that you pay a lot of money for, there are also a decent selection of 3D printers that are inexpensive, like this model from Monoprice, which makes it a great model for beginners and students. If you just want to start printing without diving into the process, this is a fast, easy option. 

Despite its small size, though, it’s a solid performer: It can print relatively quickly. It’s also compatible with Ultimaker Cura, an open source slicing application for 3D printers, as well as Wiibuilder softare. Most of all, this printer delivers decent quality prints consistently. However, it’s not as versatile as some other, more feature-packed entry-level 3D printers.

With that low price, of course, expect a few drawbacks. The primary limitation here is the print size, which tops out around four inches on each axis. At just 6.6 pounds for the whole printer, though, this is the most portable model on our list.

What to consider when shopping for the best 3D printer for your needs

Part of the reason that 3D printers come in all different sizes, with vastly different feature sets, and an even great variety of price points, is that they have many disparate uses. For example, a designer might use it for creating a prototype, while an educator might develop a print to replicate an artifact to use in his history class. An artist might use a 3D printer to explore the potential of working in a new medium. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. That’s why you need to take some time to consider the following features and capabilities before you buy your 3D printer.

Explore methods of 3D printing

There are a number of different processes that can be used in 3D printing. But today, the most commonly used method on consumer 3D printers is fused deposition modeling (FDM)—and all the 3D printers in this review use FDM technology. An FDM printer sends a filament of plastic (most often from a spool within the printer) through a small, heated nozzle, which then precisely lays down the thin layers of plastic on the surface of the base in order to construct the object. (In the 3D printer industry, FDM is also referred to as “fused filament fabrication”, or “FFF.”) An FDM 3D printer is pretty flexible, but if you’re looking for different results, you’ll want to research some of the other processes, such as stereolithography (SLA), which uses a resin-based method to print, or other methods.

Learn about 3D printing materials

It’s important to learn what materials you can use with your 3D printer: The filaments used in FDM 3D printers can be made of different types of material, too. Two of the most popular are polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABD), but there are others you can use. You can buy spools of replacement filament, but just be sure both the material and its size is compatible with your model. Most 3D printers print in just one color, but there are select models that have dual extruders, so you can print with two or more colors.  Adding colors adds complexity, however, so that’s out of the scope for beginner skills.

Analyze your 3D printing needs

When it comes to 3D printers, you’ll also want to closely examine and evaluate the features, specifications, and capabilities you think you’ll need. For example, if you’re looking to print objects that are a bit larger, you’ll want to go with a model with a larger print volume that can handle larger prints. Or maybe you’re looking to produce a lot of objects quickly. Then pay close attention to the printer’s speed. Additionally, look to make sure it has the connectivity options, like Wi-Fi, that allow you to work in the manner you’re expecting. 

There are other considerations you’ll want to consider, as well: 

• What is the top resolution on your 3D printer? Resolution is measured in microns (a lower number is more detailed), with the default on many printers being 200 microns. However, some can print at 100 or 50 microns.  
• Is it an open frame or close frame? 3D printers that are closed are safer, but open frame 3D printers are generally larger in size.
• What’s the size and the quality of the print bed? Having a good quality surface to work on is crucial since the first of your print depends upon a sturdy print bed to build the rest of the object. 
• Are there any automated features? More and more 3D printers are including automated features, such as auto leveling the print bed, in order to speed up the process and to make the 3D printer easier to use. 
• Are you interested in designing your 3D print yourself? If so, then you’ll need software, which is known as a “slicer” to create it. Some popular choices are PrusaSlicer, from Prucer, and Cura, from Ultimaker. 

FAQs

Final thoughts when buying the best 3D printer

• Best overall: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
• Best upgrade: Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ 
• Best for fast printing: Bambu Lab P1P
• Best for printing large objects: Anycubic Kobra Max
• Best budget: Monoprice 140108 MP Cadet

Some scientists and environmentalists have long considered 3D printers a “greener choice.” However, like conventional inkjet and laser printers, 3D printers do produce waste, mainly due to the various processes used in printing 3D objects, which are most often plastic. And adding more plastic into the environment is never a good thing. However, how sustainable your 3D printer is for the environment depends upon many factors, including the materials you use: For instance, PLA plastic is considered relatively easy to recycle and is only more biodegradable than other materials used for filaments. 

Additionally, some experts in the 3D printer industry believe there are some fundamental aspects of 3D printing that should be beneficial for the earth and its environment. For example, one of the projects of the RepRap movement, which made 3D printers and technology more accessible over the past 10 years, was to create self-replicating 3D printers. In doing so, the group predicted that such self-replicating machines could benefit society overall by producing less waste in our global ecosystem. 

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 3D printers for beginners 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		DJI FPV drone		SEE IT	It flies fast and far with DJI’s proven technologies.
Best for video		DJI Avata		SEE IT	The 4K camera offers exceptional stabilization for stunning shots.
Best budget		Ryze Tello		SEE IT	Get up in the air without spending a sky high amount of cash.

If you’ve seen incredible aerobatic video footage lately, there’s a good chance it was created with an FPV drone. Short for “first-person view,” FPV drones stream a live video feed back to a pilot’s headset, so it looks like they’re actually in a tiny cockpit. This view offers unprecedented control and enables high-performance feats like drone racing or truly harrowing video capture. In doing so, these FPV drones allow you to experience the world around you in ways you may never have thought possible, except perhaps in a video game. While the drone world has grown significantly in recent years, we’ve narrowed down this list of the best FPV drones to get you airborne with minimal fuss.

• Best overall: DJI FPV combo
• Best for beginners: BetaFPV Cetus Pro 
• Best for kids: DEERC D20 Mini Drone for Kids 
• Best for video: DJI Avata 
• Best budget: Ryze Tello

How we chose the best FPV drone

Although one of the key brands in the drone market has been DJI, which is also true of FPV drones as well, we just didn’t limit our search to DJI FPV drones. We studied models from other brands as well. One characteristic we looked for from all models was if the drone was easy to use. We also tried to select models that were relatively durable. However, for some, like those racing FPV drones, there might not be many models that can last a long time in that environment. But by and large, we looked for models that could survive a few crashes. Another factor in selecting the models was considering the drone’s overall design, including its structural design and ergonomics and how it operated with its mobile app and other accessories. 

The best FPV drones: Reviews & Recommendations

Drones have a rather large price range. Some more toy-like FPV drones can cost less than $100, while others can cost well over $1,000. That means you’ll want to find out not only how much money you want to spend but also what features are important to you and how you intend to be using the FPV drone. 

Best overall: DJI FPV combo

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Its mix of advanced features and ease of use make it the best pick for those who don’t mind spending some money upfront.

Specs

• Dimensions: 12.2 x 10 x 5 inches
• Weight: 1.8 lbs. 
• Video Recording Modes: 1080p resolution at 120/fps; 4K resolution at 60/fps
• Camera Resolution: 12 megapixels
• Maximum Flying Time: 20 minutes 

Pros

• Fast: Can fly as fast as 87 mph 
• Fun, easy to use, and versatile
• Shoots good quality video and photos
• Nice selection of safety features

Cons

• For the price, battery life could be better
• Not as durably constructed as some other models 

The first thing some drone races look for when buying a racing drone is its top speed. And this model clearly stands out among FPV drones as it can fly as fast as 87 mph. But the DJI FPV stands out in other ways, too. For instance, take the price: This new kit from DJI provides everything you need to start flying in truly FPV fashion: In addition to the drone, you also get the DJI FPV goggles V2 (which are comfortable to wear and use), a remote control and the new motion controller, and more. That offers you a lot of value for the money. In addition, it can fly in three different flight modes, depending on your skill level, and also comes with a number of useful safety features, including the emergency “brake and hover” mode. Simply press a button on the controller. The drone will stop and hover stably within a few seconds.

The imaging and video specs are also quite good: You can shoot video with 4K resolution (at 60 fps) or 1080 resolution (at 120 fps, which can be useful for slow-motion video) at a very wide 150° field of view. You can also shoot 12-megapixel resolution photos. Plus, the done system includes collision technology to prevent it from crashing. Overall, this DJI combo kit provides a powerful immersive experience. 

Best for beginners: BetaFPV Cetus Pro 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This is a great model to learn the basics of flying an FPV drone.

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.6 x 4.6 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 0.1 lbs. 
• Video Recording Modes: N/A 
• Camera Resolution: N/A
• Maximum Flying Time: 4-5 minutes 

Pros

• A great FPV drone to learn on
• Easy to use
• It has a sturdy design yet is lightweight
• Comes with clever features to keep you flying 

Cons

• The included VR02 FPV goggles do not support video record function. 

Although this model is meant for beginners, it includes all the necessary elements for learning how to use an FPV drone: The Cetus Pro FPV kit includes the brushless quadcopter and a LiteRadio2 SE transmitter and VR02 FPV goggles. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and it also has an emergency battery and low-battery feature to avoid crashing the drone. Plus, there’s an altitude hold function, which lets that drone auto-hover. It even has a “turtle mode.” If the FPV drone has fallen to the ground and is now upside down, you can activate the “turtle mode” via the LiteRadio2 SE transmitter, and it will flip the Cetus Pro FPV back over to allow you to resume flying. Comes with three flight modes and flies at three different speeds.

One downside is that included VR02 FPV goggles do not support video record function. However, if you want to pay more, you can buy the VR03 FPV goggles, which do support video record function. Both the resolution for VR02 and VR03 FPV goggles are 480p.

Best for kids: DEERC D20 Mini Drone for Kids 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A very inexpensive and fun FPV drone.

Specs

• Dimensions: 7 x 4.7 x 1.7 inches
• Weight: 0.1 lbs. 
• Video Recording Modes: 720p 
• Camera Resolution: 1 megapixel
• Maximum Flying Time: 10 minutes 

Pros

• Very inexpensive 
• Includes gesture control and voice commands

Cons

• Low-resolution video and photos
• Doesn’t connect with a pair of goggles 

If you’re looking for an inexpensive drone for an older child or teenager, consider this model. This mini drone comes with some useful features to help kids learn how to fly drones: It can auto-hover with its altitude hold system, and it’s easy to use with its one-key start/stop function. It also comes with 3-speed modes.  

However, some of the imaging features aren’t incredibly robust. Nevertheless, your kids might find them fun to play with. For instance, the onboard camera (which connects wirelessly to your smartphone and is where you see the streaming video) has only 720p HD video resolution. The photos are only 1280 x 720 resolution images, which is barely a 1-megapixel photo. But what is fun is that you can take photos and video clips via gesture control—if you make a victory or “V” sign with your fingers, the drone will capture a photo or video. It also has voice control: You can say “take off” or “landing” and the drone will respond accordingly.

Best for video: DJI Avata

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: When you’re looking for a FPV drone that will take better quality videos and photos 

Specs

• Dimensions: 7.1 x 7.1 x 3.1 inches
• Weight: 0.9 lbs. 
• Video Recording Modes: 2.7K resolution at 120/fps; 4K resolution at 60/fps
• Camera Resolution: 48 megapixels
• Maximum Flying Time: 18 minutes 

Pros

• Sturdy, compact construction 
• A larger sensor and more megapixels for better quality video and photos
• Includes image stabilization
• Nice selection of safety features

Cons

• Can’t fly as fast as the DJI FPV

An important question you’ll need to answer before you buy an FPV drone is what are you buying a drone for? If it’s to buy the fastest consumer FPV drone, then you’ll want to buy the DJI FPV drone. The Avata’s top speed is 60 mph, which is fast but not quite as fast as the DJI FPV, which can fly up to 87 mph. But if you’re looking to buy a drone that shoots much better video quality as well as photo quality, then the DJI Avata is the model you’ll want to consider: The Avata comes with a large, 48-megapixel 1/1.7-inch sensor, which is one of the reasons you get better quality photos and video. The lens has an f/2.8 aperture and shoots with a wide 155-degree field of view. The Avata also captures 4K video at up to 60fps or 2.7k video at up to 120fps if you want slow-motion video. 

Best budget: Ryze Tello

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: For an easy-to-use, inexpensive FPV drone that’s less than $100 

Specs

• Dimensions: 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.6 inches 
• Weight: 0.2 lbs. 
• Video Recording Modes: 720p resolution video
• Camera Resolution: 5 megapixels
• Maximum Flying Time: 13 minutes 

Pros

• Very inexpensive
• Easy to use
• Compatible with VR headsets
• Uses hand gestures

Cons

• Controller costs extra
• Imaging resolution is a bit on the low side

For those on a budget, this model might fit the bill. It’s powered with technology by DJI, so it’s still pretty full-featured for such a low-priced drone. However, it doesn’t come with a controller, which is one reason it’s so inexpensive. But you can connect it to your phone using the mobile app or a supported Bluetooth remote controller (connected to the mobile app). It’s also compatible with VR headsets. Also, if you’re interested in learning how to code, or if you’d like to have your kids learn how to code, this drone can be programmed using Scratch–MIT’s coding system for kids to learn on. However, it would be nice if it had slightly high video and still photo resolution. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best FPV drones

There are many features to consider when buying an FPV drone. But you may find it helpful to start by asking yourself some questions: Are you experienced in flying drones or FPV drones? Are you buying this drone for a beginner or a teenager? Will you use them for racing, or are you more interested in shooting video or photos? 

Controls

One key area to consider when comparing drones is figuring out how easy it is to use the controls and the drone system. Some work by connecting to your smartphone, while others come with dedicated controllers. Do some research to see which one might be the best for you. If you’re doing serious flying, a dedicated controller is an absolute must. Higher-end models allow for controller customization to fit your specific flight style.

Camera

There are also big differences in how they record and capture video or photos. Some, like the BetaFPV Cetus Pro FPV drone, are meant for you to learn how to fly these drones. In other words, it doesn’t include the capability of recording video or capturing photos, since it was designed for beginners to learn on. But other pricier models give you the ability to capture 4K resolution video and 48mm still photos. Some custom models allow for swappable camera systems so that you can attach your own GoPro or another action camera to it.

FAQs

Final thoughts when buying the best FPV drones

• Best overall: DJI FPV combo
• Best for beginners: BetaFPV Cetus Pro 
• Best for kids: DEERC D20 Mini Drone for Kids 
• Best for video: DJI Avata 
• Best budget: Ryze Tello

Have you ever wondered if you could get motion sickness, which could make you feel lightheaded or even nauseous, from using goggles with an FPV drone? The answer to this question is “Yes!” The effect is similar to what you might experience when watching a VR experience through a VR headset. One of the theories about this sickness is that it’s a fairly common side effect caused by the brain’s struggle to square what you see with what you feel—your brain might think you’re flying like Superman over a building. Still, you’re just standing in the middle of your living room. If you experience motion sickness when using an FPV drone, consider taking a break from using the goggles for 15 or 20 minutes before you try using them again.  

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 FPV drones for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		MIER Adult Lunch Box Insulated Lunch Bag		SEE IT	This versatile bag comes with two compartments, to keep food cold and dry.
Best value		Rubbermaid LunchBlox Lunch Bag		SEE IT	This budget-friendly pick is easy to carry and has room for ice packs.
Best for kids		TWELVElittle Adventure Kids Lunch Box		SEE IT	This adorable bag is insulated to keep food at the right temps and is machine washable.

For many people, the humble lunch box holds a special place in their memories. Here in the United States, they once served as pop culture objects. Simple metal boxes adorned with colorful graphics or logos evoked popular TV shows or movies, like “Star Wars” or “The Jetsons.” Throughout the 1960s up through the 1980s, many of these illustrated metal lunch boxes accompanied generations of grade school children to school.

Today, while the goal of an excellent lunch box is still the same as in years past—namely to keep work and school lunches safe, protected, and cool or warm, depending on the food—the design of the lunch box is dramatically different. In fact, most aren’t metal anymore. Instead, you can find many that have a soft, fabric, plastic or nylon exteriors, which make these lunch boxes easier to place in backpacks, briefcases and travel bags. You’ll also find many more styles and designs available. 

To help you find the best lunch box for you, we’ve put together this guide to let you know which is the best and why, along with advice on what features to look for or which ones to stay away from along with some helpful advice.

• Best overall: MIER Adult Lunch Box Insulated Lunch Bag
• Best value: Rubbermaid LunchBlox (Medium) Lunch Bag
• Best for the office: Rubbermaid LunchBlox Salad Kit
• Best cooler: A2S Complete Meal Prep Lunch Box

How we selected the best lunch boxes

There are hundreds of different lunch box models available, and they range in price from as little as a single lunch into the hundreds of dollars. However, most pricier models are more about making a fashion statement than simply finding something that would fit into most people’s budget. That is why we generally looked for lunch boxes that care more about function than fashion. If a lunch box is going to push the budget, it should come with a heap of features or accessories to make it truly useful.

Another big factor in selecting the products for this guide was that we wanted to select insulated lunch boxes, whether they were more traditional looking lunch boxes or bento-style boxes, which were first used in Japan, but have become quite popular internationally. 

We also researched models that were easy to clean and use, were durable and stain-resistant, and that were versatile as well. If the models included storage containers, we also researched and selected models with containers that didn’t leak. In the end, we surveyed dozens of models across various categories to find the ideal options for common needs.

The best lunch boxes: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: MIER Adult Lunch Box Insulated Lunch Bag

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Why it made the cut: It offers users a lot of versatility, including two separate compartments, allowing you to keep cold food cold and hot food hot, within the same lunch box.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 10.2 x 7.9 x 11 inches
• Includes a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap
• Available in black, blue steel, camouflage, dark red, and other colors

Pros:

• Double-layer design, for separately keeps hot and cold food
• Nicely designed
• Easy to clean
• Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap lets you carry in different ways

Cons:

• Might be too large for some

There’s a lot to like about this large Mier lunch box. For starters, the top “dry” section has a U-opening, which zips open and closed, for easy access and is ideal for non-seeping food, such as fruits or snacks. On the bottom, you’ll find a “cold” section, which has leak-resistant insulation, so it’s a great section to store your drinks, water, juice, or soda. 

Although it’s larger than many lunch boxes, it’s easy to carry since it has a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap, and the lunch box itself has a comfortable handle, too. In the front, you’ll also find a zipper pouch, which is great for packing utensils and napkins. There are also two small side pockets for packing other items. It comes in several colors, including black, blue steel, camouflage, dark Red, and four other colors.

Best value: Rubbermaid LunchBlox (Medium) Lunch Bag

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Why it made the cut: Both size options come at a very affordable price, which is great if you’re bringing food to work to save cash.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 5.38 x 8.75 x 8.88 inches
• Weight: 6.6 ounces
• Includes a grip handle and removable shoulder strap

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Includes removable shoulder strap

Cons:

• Some might find it a little small for their food portions

Although this lunch box is inexpensive, it’s not cheaply made. It includes insulation, to keep food fresher longer and comes with both a comfort-grip handle and removable shoulder strap, for easy carrying. There’s also an exterior pocket for carrying a water bottle or thermos.

Rubbermaid states that this lunch box is specifically designed to work with Rubbermaid lunchblox food containers and blue ice packs. However, it will hold just about any small containers that fit in its interior space. Also, if you want a smaller sized or more inexpensive version, you can buy this in a smaller size, which is just 5.38 by 8.75 by 5.88 inches and weighs just 5.3 ounces.

Best lunch box for the office: Rubbermaid LunchBlox Salad Kit

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Why it made the cut: It can go in the microwave, freezer, fridge, and pretty much anywhere else.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 4.81 x 8.75 x 8.88 inches
• Weight: 14.1 ounces
• Microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe and BPA-free

Pros:

• Very inexpensive
• Has a smart modular design
• Handy measurement guides are on the side of each container in the kit

Cons:

• Limited capacity
• Doesn’t come in different colors

This Rubbermaid salad kit comes with several containers, including one salad container (5.2 cup capacity), one toppings tray, one salad dressing container (1.8 ounces), and one medium-blue ice freezer pack. It has a nicely designed, modified Bento-box style layout, although you’ll also be stacking items on top of each other. It also includes a blue ice-freezer pack, which snaps directly onto food containers to keep salads or lunches chilled when you’re on the go. We also liked the handy measurement guides on the side of each container, which allow you to control the portion sizes of your meals.

If you get sick of salads, the containers are microwave safe so you can still feel good about bringing your food to work even if you’ve replaced your ruffage with leftover lasagna.

Best lunch box cooler: A2S Complete Meal Prep Lunch Box

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Why it made the cut: This large lunch box provides you with containers and compartments, which can be very handy if you need to prepare a meal and need to carry the ingredients with you.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 13.5 x 7.5 x 10 inches
• Weight: 2.07 pounds
• Includes containers

Pros: 

• Comes with three plastic food containers
• Includes an insulated beverage bottle
• Includes an adjustable shoulder strap

Cons:

• Relatively pricey
• Not machine washable

There are lots of places to store food and drinks in this lunch box: In the main section, you have room to place the three included, leakproof meal containers, which can be stacked on top of each other. All three meal containers are also freezer-, microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Above, there’s a smaller compartment to place fruits or snacks. Both of these compartments zip shut with a two-zipper system.

On the side, you’ll also find two slots for storing water or beverage bottles. It also comes with an insulated beverage bottle (and lid), a fork and knife, and three reusable ice packs.

Best lunch box for kids: TWELVElittle Adventure Kids Lunch Box 

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Why it made the cut: This lunch box not only has an adorable design on its exterior, but it’s water-resistant, too, to keep it looking good and for easy cleaning

Specs:

• Dimensions: 10 x 8.25 x 4 inches
• Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Machine Washable

Pros:

• Beautifully designed, water-resistant exterior
• Easy to clean
• Comes with a long detachable strap for easy carrying.

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than others targeted at kids

You might find a cheaper lunch box for your kids, but it most likely won’t be as attractive or nicely designed as this one from TWELVE Little. Inside, this comes with fully insulated extra pockets, which makes packing lunch and snacks a breeze, and it will keep all the contents cooler or warmer for longer. It also has two mesh pockets, for ice packs or other items. And this box includes a long, detachable strap for easy carrying. Additionally, the entire lunch box is machine washable, so it’s easy to throw in the wash after a yogurt-related catastrophe happens on the way to school. 

It’s not the cheapest box on the list, but it’s also not overly expensive, which is good because kids have a tendency to leave things pretty much everywhere.

What to consider when buying the best lunch boxes

To buy a good quality lunch box, you don’t need to spend a lot of money. Most we recommended are very affordable. But how do you choose? Follow our guide to help you make your decision. Here are some factors to consider before making your purchase:

Style of lunch box: Traditional or Bento

One of the first things you’ll want to figure out is what style you’ll want to use: A traditional lunch or a Bento box. A traditional lunch box opens on the front or the top of the box or bag, generally placing some of your items on top of each other. A Bento box is generally smaller and all your food is on one layer. Most Bento boxes are also divided up into sections or have containers to add into the box.

Size, exterior, design and color

You’ll also want to consider both the size of your lunch box and its exterior or shell. If you plan on bringing a lot of food, be sure your lunch box is large enough for the food you plan on carrying with you. Check the dimensions. 

Also, consider the exterior of your lunch box. Although there aren’t as many metal lunch boxes on the market as there used to be, there are a number of models that have a hard exterior, which, in some rare cases, might protect your food a little better than those with soft exteriors. But lunch boxes with softer exteriors still do a fine job of keeping your food safe. They’re also easier to fit into a bag or backpack. Plus, they’re easier to store when they’re empty.

Be sure you like the design and color of your lunch box. Also, look to see if it has a comfortable handle or includes a carrying strap, if it’s larger. And consider the overall design and color: They may not be the most important factors in your purchase, but you’ll still want to buy an attractive-looking lunch box, since you’ll be taking it with you to work or school every day.

Insulation and microwave safety

Almost all good quality lunch boxes have some type of insulation, which keeps cold food cool, or hot foot warm, even hours after you put them in. Also, see if your lunch box is microwave safe. This is particularly helpful if you use a Bento box that doesn’t have removable containers and you want to avoid transferring your food to another plate or container to warm up your meals.

Extra containers

Some lunch boxes come with removable containers, which is a nice extra and means you don’t have to search for separate containers for your food. They’re also designed to fit into your lunch box, and may include other items, like a thermos or water bottle.

Ease of cleaning

A well-designed lunch box will keep your food and drinks secure without spilling or leaking. However, if you do happen to spill something on the interior or exterior, you’ll want it to have material that is stain resistant. Moreover, look for a lunch box that’s easy to clean, since you’re bound to spill a drink or drop some food on it at some point. Depending on the type you have, check to see if it’s safe to put into the washing machine (for soft exteriors) or a dishwasher (for hard exteriors).

Durability

Look through user reviews before you buy your lunch box to see if it’s durable. It should last at least a year, perhaps longer.

FAQs

A final word on the best lunch boxes

Bringing your lunch to work or making lunch for your children and having them bring it to school is a great way to ensure that your family enjoys their lunch. It’s why you want to choose a lunch box or bag that’s well constructed and durable.

However, bringing your lunch to work or to school can also save you and your family money. According to some experts, consumers on average will spend around $11 if they eat lunch out, but will spend only $6.30 when they bring their lunch to work or school. In fact, USA Today said that consumers didn’t realize they were spending as much as $50 a week on lunch, which could be as much as $2,600 a year. So, it can really pay to buy a really nice lunch box or bag so that you keep your food safe and fresh if you commute to work or school. 

The post The best lunch boxes of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo Instant Read meat thermometer		SEE IT	This instant-read thermometer also rotates for easy usage.
Best wireless		Meater Plus Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer		SEE IT	This pick option lets you check the temperature of meat from your smartphone.
Best value		OXO Good Grips Chef's Precision Thermometer		SEE IT	This easy-to-use analog model features suggested temps for various meats.

A meat thermometer can be one of the most impactful tools to keep in your kitchen. If you don’t already have one, it’s a must. Meat is expensive and keeping close tabs on its temperature is the best way to give it the treatment it deserves. Most of the best meat thermometers are not too expensive, and they’re a great investment for all year round, for a couple of reasons. 

For starters, they’ll let you cook your meat to precisely to the right temperature, just the way you or your guests like it. But the more important reason is that you can cook your meat to the recommended temperatures that kill diseases, like salmonella or E. coli. Owning and using a good quality meat thermometer can help save your family and friends from getting sick from food poisoning.

To help you find the best meat thermometer for you, we’ve put together this guide to let you know which ones are the best and why, along with advice on important features to look for or which ones you can ignore, along with some tips and other helpful advice.

• Best overall: Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo Instant Read meat thermometer
• Best value: OXO Good Grips Chef’s Precision analog leave-in meat thermometer
• Best digital: Kizen Digital meat thermometer
• Best for oven: ThermoPro TP16 Leave-In digital meat thermometer
• Best wireless: Meater Plus Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer with Bluetooth

How we picked the best meat thermometers

To pick the best meat thermometers in this guide, we researched and chose from a variety of types, since there are a number of types available on the market. To begin, we looked at the variety of digital and analog (or non-digital) meat thermometers; in this guide you’ll find four digital models and one analog. The reason is that digital models offer more features and are more versatile than analog models.

Additionally, we selected three leave-in types of meat thermometers, which, as the name suggests, are meant to be left in the meat as you’re cooking it, over time. With these models, often it’s just part of the thermometer (metal probes) that are left inside the oven or grill. But we also selected two instant-read types of thermometers, since these are popular with many cooks. These models are not to be used inside the oven. The PopSci writers and staff have many combined years of grilling and cooking experience upon which to draw for these selections. We have collectively eaten lots of ribs.

The best meat thermometers: Reviews and recommendations

Best overall: Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo Instant Read meat thermometer

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: If you’re looking for an instant-read meat thermometer that doesn’t keep you waiting, this one may fit the bill.

Specs: 

• Temperature range: -40~482 degrees Fahrenheit / -40°C~250 degrees Celsius
• Battery Life: +4,000 hours
• Probe length: 4.5 inches 

Pros: 

• Very responsive (1 to 3 seconds)
• Designed to read at almost any angle
• Easy-to-read display
• Comes with a long 4.5-inch probe

Cons: 

• A bit pricey for an instant-read meat thermometer
• Lacks wireless capabilities

We chose this instant-read thermometer from Lavatools as our best overall, because for starters, it just doesn’t keep you waiting: This meat thermometer is very responsive, with a 1-to-3-second response time. But its results are accurate to within ±0.9 degrees F. We also like its large, two-inch, backlit display, which is very easy to read the temperature. It’s also capable of tracking maximum and minimum temperatures. 

What’s also nice is that the reading auto-rotates, so that if you need to stick it into the meat from the other side, it’s still very readable. The Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo has a nice, fold-up design, to protect the probe, and it has an IP65 splash-proof rating, which makes it a waterproof thermometer. The thermometer also comes in eight different colors and has a magnet on the back so you can slap it onto the fridge or the side of the grill when you’re not cooking.

Best value: OXO Good Grips Chef’s Precision analog leave-in meat thermometer

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Why it made the cut: If you’re cooking basic meals and don’t need a meat thermometers with lots of extra features, this analog leave-in model will provide you with accurate readings

Specs: 

• Temperature range: 120 degrees F~200 degrees F / 50~90 degrees Celsius
• Probe length: 4.5 inches 
• Markings are in both Fahrenheit and Celsius 

Pros: 

• Inexpensive 
• Markings are large and easy to read
• No batteries to change

Cons: 

• Narrow temperature range
• Fewer features than most models

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, and that includes spending money on replacing a battery for your meat thermometer, you might find that this analog dial-style OXO Good Grips Chef’s Precision leave-in meat thermometer is an ideal choice. 

It’s designed specifically for ease of use: For instance, part of the probe is shaded so you can tell exactly how far to insert it into the meat to get your temperature reading. Also, the cover of the probe cover comes with suggested temperature readings for cooking beef, lamb, ground meat, and pork medium rare, medium, or well done, as well as readings for fresh and pre-cooked ham and poultry (thigh or breast). 

Best digital: Kizen Digital meat thermometer

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Why it made the cut: What’s nice about this Kizen instant-read model is that because it’s waterproof, it easier to clean

Specs: 

• Temperature range: -58 degrees F to 572 degrees F
• Uses one CR2032 battery (two are included in the box)
• Waterproof

Pros: 

• Inexpensive
• Waterproof
• Display automatically shuts off after ten minutes

Cons:

• A little slow
• Lacks wireless capabilities

This budget-priced instant-read thermometer from Kizen has a fold-up design, which offers some protection to the probe, and a large, easy-to-read LCD. The display also automatically shuts off after 10 minutes, to conserve battery life. 

Next to the LCD, there are buttons that let you quickly change between Celsius and Fahrenheit. It does have an IP67 rating, which makes it waterproof and means you can clean it under running water. (However it’s not dishwasher safe.) This thermometer also includes a handy temperature guide, which is printed right on the unit. It also includes adhesive Velcro pads, so you can store the thermometer just about anywhere. It’s powered by one CR2032 battery, but it comes with two of these batteries in the box.

Best for oven: ThermoPro TP16 Leave-In digital meat thermometer

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Why it made the cut: Although it’s inexpensive, this ThermoPro leave-in meat thermometer offers versatile features that can be helpful when you cook your meals. 

Specs: 

• Temperature range: 32 to 572 degrees F
• Can withstand temperatures as high as 716 degrees F
• Powered by one AAA battery (included)

Pros: 

• Inexpensive
• Can withstand ovens as hot as 716 degrees F
• Comes with temperature presets
• Includes multifunction time and alarm function

Cons:

• Lacks wireless capabilities

Although it’s inexpensive, this in-oven, leave-in meat thermometer from Thermapro provides you with various presets for cooking different types of meat. It also gives you the option of entering a temperature manually. You can also program alerts to coincide with these preset temperatures, and there’s a digital kitchen timer, which lets you countdown (or count up) from 99 hours and 59 minutes. It has a wide temperature range, too from 32 to 572 degrees F (or 0 C to 300 degrees C)

This thermometer is also quite durable: It comes with a 40-inch, stainless-steel, mesh cable and a 6.5-inch food-grade stainless steel probe, which is inserted into the meat. It also has a magnetic back, which lets you attach it to a refrigerator or any metal surface. Plus, it includes an alarm. 

Best wireless: Meater Plus Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer with Bluetooth

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Why it made the cut: Great for those who like wireless technology and like to control the cooking process via a mobile app.

Specs: 

• Temperature range: The probe can measure the internal meat temperature up to 212 degrees F and an ambient or external temperature of up to 52 degrees F simultaneously.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Requires one AAA battery

Pros: 

• Easy to set up
• Allows you to set up alerts via a mobile app on your phone 
• Powered by AAA battery
• Nicely designed app

Cons: 

• Pricey
• You’ll need to use it with your mobile device, like your phone

If you really like to use mobile technology and IoT-type devices, then you might consider the Meater Plus Smart meat thermometer. There’s a lot to like: The Meater Plus meat thermometer has a range of 165 feet and connects your phone and the Meater Plus probe, which you’ve inserted into the meat, via Bluetooth.

That gives you the freedom of being able to walk away from the kitchen, and then check on the temperature simply by simply checking the mobile app on your phone (the app is compatible with iOS and Android). Of course, the company assumes you own a smartphone, since one doesn’t come with this meat thermometer.

Things to consider when buying the best meat thermometers

Once you decide to purchase a good quality meat thermometer, you’ll find that there are many models available. Use this guide to help you find the one that’s right for your needs. Here are some factors to consider before making your purchase:

Cost

Most meat thermometers cost between the price of a fast food burger meal and the finest A5 Wagyu steak around. In most cases, you don’t need to pay a lot for one unless you want to spring for a ton of advanced features that you honestly probably won’t use all that often.

Type of thermometer

Meat thermometers come in two types: Instant-read and Leave-in. Additionally, each of these types come in digital or analog (dial) versions.

Instant-read meat thermometers: Since these remain in the meat during cooking, you’ll want to insert them into the meat near the end of the approximate cooking time. (For best results, check the temperature in several spots on the meat.) By and large, the digital types are quite responsive and accurate. They’re also, in general, relatively easy to use. You’ll find analog or dial meat thermometers, although some find them a bit difficult to read and they weren’t as responsive as the digital instant-read models.

Leave-in meat thermometers: Leave-in models, which are designed to be left in the meat during cooking, often come with the most features, including alarms and built-in timers. One advantage to this type of thermometer is that you don’t need to open the oven door to get a temperature reading, since opening the oven door could alter the temperature. 

Most digital models have a cord that connects the metal probe (which is stuck into the meat) to the main unit, where you can read the temperature on a digital readout, outside of the oven or grill. There are also a variety of wireless models, which let you keep an eye on the temperature, even if you’re not near the oven or grill. Many will use a smartphone app to let you access the temperature. 

Like instant-read models, leave-in meat thermometers also come in analog or dial versions, which can be left in the meat as it cooks. Both digital and analog leave-in meat thermometers can also be used as an instant-read thermometer.

Additional features

Although you won’t find many added features on analog models, you will see them on digital versions. However, those added features may mean you’ll pay more for a meat thermometer. 

Here’s are some features to look for: 

Timers and alerts: Many digital meat thermometers include timers, which let you set how long you want to cook the meat, and an audible alert or alarm, which goes off when the meat has reached a specific temperature.  

Sensitivity: Some models are very sensitive and will display the temperature to a tenth of a degree.

Temperature range: Most models have a high temperature limit over 550 degrees F. But if you plan on cooking at high temperatures, such as deep frying, consider buying a model that can withstand very high heats (up to 700 F). 

Smart features: Some digital meat thermometers allow you to monitor the temperature via a mobile app on your phone.

Auto shutoff: This feature will turn your model off, which helps save battery life.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best meat thermometers

Whether you’re getting ready to celebrate the holidays with a big group of friends and family, or you’re just looking to cook for your immediate family, remember that having a good quality meat thermometer isn’t just about cooking meat the way your guests like it. It’s also about keeping them, and yourself, safe and healthy, since cooking your beef, chicken, or other main courses correctly means killing harmful bugs and bacteria that can cause food poisoning. 

It’s important to use a meat thermometer, even when celebrities or famous chefs are not shown using them on television. In fact, more than 48 million people in the United States become sick due to foodborne illnesses each year, with 128,000 requiring hospitalization and 3,000 dying, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To avoid having your guests, or yourself, become such a statistic, buy a meat thermometer.

The post The best meat thermometers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best handheld label maker		Dymo LabelManager 420P		SEE IT	A great all-around option for most users.
Best shipping label printer		Rollo Label Printer		SEE IT	If you ship a ton of items, this is your pick.
Best label maker for professional organizer		Brother P-touch PT-D600		SEE IT	Extra features make this extremely versatile.

In these hectic and chaotic times, we all could use a little help in keeping both our personal and business lives more organized. One sure-fire way to get the process started is to buy the best label maker. These handy little machines can help neatly label and identify just about anything in your home or office. And their functionality goes beyond that. 

For instance, use standard labels on storage containers in your kitchen. Or print out labels for all the tools and equipment around your workbench. And your kids will find lots of ways to use them, whether it’d to identify their school supplies, personal gadgets, and even their school projects. Some label makers can even print on different types of material, such as vinyl or nylon, some of which are ideal for using in outdoor settings, since they’re water-resistant or waterproof.

• Best handheld label maker: Dymo LabelManager 420P
• Best label maker for home organization: Dymo LabelManager 160 
• Best shipping label printer: Rollo Label Printer
• Best label maker for professional organizer: Brother P-touch PT-D600
• Best label maker for small business: Brother QL-1110NWB  

How we picked the best label makers

But you might be wondering “Which label maker is right for me?” It’s not surprising since this product category has a very broad price range and an even wider range of potential features. But to be sure, not every label maker will suit every task, and there are a lot of models you can choose from on the market. So, keep an eye out for specific essential features that are important to you.

Most label makers can be classified into two categories: Portable and Desktop.

Portable models are smaller, thinner, and more lightweight than desktop models, which are meant to be used in an office setting. Desktop models are also generally bigger and more versatile since they can be connected to a computer or laptop via a wired or wireless connection. However, we have seen that more portable models have started to include built-in wireless and Bluetooth options, which allow you to wirelessly connect to computers, which can then expand the type of fonts you use on your labels.

Nearly all label makers use the same printing process: thermal printing technology, instead of ink or toner. So, you won’t run out and need to buy more ink or toner. But some models are able to print on various colors of printing tape, which might also come in various sizes and materials, like vinyl.

Most portable models also have a keyboard, but not all come with a QWERTY keyboard, which arranges the letter keys in the same configuration used on a laptop keyboard. Most people like QWERTY keyboards since they’re more familiar with the arrangement of the keys. Some of the label makers can only print out monochrome labels, while others can switch ink cartridges to print in another color. And whether you work at home or travel to your office, another feature that many new label makers include is the ability to hook up to them via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or both.

Best Label Maker Reviews & Recommendations

Best handheld label maker: Dymo LabelManager 420P

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Why it made the cut: It’s not only portable, easy-to-use and includes a backlit display, but it also comes with many printing features and functions that you’ll find on larger, less portable label printers.

Specs:

• Ergonomic design allows for one-hand typing
• Comes with a clear, back-lit display
• Includes a rechargeable battery, rare on label makers

The Dymo LabelManager 420P wins our overall best handheld label marker for several different but important factors. For starters, we found that it has a very ergonomic design, which was also quite practical, since its compact form factor allows you to type your labels using just one hand. It’s also small enough to fit into a jacket or sweatshirt pocket. It’s quite portable.

Yet, despite its compact size, it’s powerful and versatile. The label maker gives you access to eight on-board fonts in seven font sizes. You also can print six types of barcodes, including UPC-E, Code 39, Code 128, EAN 13, EAN 8, and UPC-A. Plus, you have ten text styles and more than 200 symbols and clip-art images. It can also connect to a PC or Mac, if you need additional font, graphics, and barcodes. The Dymo LabelManager 420P also comes with a display, so you can preview your design before you print it out. And you have several label print sizes and tape colors to choose from. Another valuable feature, rare on label markers, is that this model comes with a rechargeable battery. This allows you to take your label maker anywhere you need to go.

However, it’s not completely flawless. Some users may not like that the keyboard isn’t a QWERTY keyboard (like you’re find on your laptop). We also felt the user interface’s design could be a bit clunky at times. It also lacks wireless or Bluetooth connectivity options. But aside from these issues, there’s a lot to like about the Dymo LabelManager 420P, since it even has a very affordable sticker price.

Best label maker for home organization: Dymo LabelManager 160 

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Why it made the cut: For those on a budget who need a very capable label maker, the Dymo LabelManager 160 should fit the bill. It’s inexpensive but still comes with lots of impressive features.

Specs:

• Ergonomic design allows for one-hand typing
• QWERTY-style keyboard
• Powered by AAA batteries

Although the Dymo LabelManager 160 is cheap, it’s still our pick for best label maker for home organization because it’s packed with a lot of features. For starters, it has a  compact form factor allows you to type your labels using just one hand. It’s also small enough to fit into a jacket or sweatshirt pocket. So, it’s quite portable. But it’s designed with a QWERTY keyboard, which makes it very intuitive. Plus, it’s quite versatile: You can choose one of six font sizes, eight text styles, as well as 4 different boxes styles and underlining.

However, you won’t be able to print barcodes, and you also won’t be able to connect to a PC or Mac, for additional font and graphics. LabelManager 160 has a display, although it’s not as large or as crisp as some pricier models. You also have several label print-sizes to choose from, 1/4 inches, 3/8 inches, and 1/2 inches, and will work with tape that comes in several different colors.

The device itself can be powered by AAA batteries, which you’ll need to buy separately. If you want an AC adapter, you’ll have to be it separately. And unfortunately, it lacks a built-in rechargeable battery.

Best shipping label printer: Rollo Label Printer

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Why it made the cut: If you do a ton of shipping, a dedicated label printer like this one will save you a ton of time and money. This one is particularly well-regarded for its speed and reliability. 

Specs:

• Prints on free UPS labels
• Connects via USB
• 2.2 pounds

If you run a business or sell tons of stuff online, then purchasing the best shipping label printer is a must. This compact box isn’t cheap, but it prints directly onto free labels you can get from shipping companies. It works with any direct printing thermal label and provides the kind of fidelity required to make sure shipping company scanners can read the information. 

It’s thermal, so it never needs a print cartridge, which will save money over time compared to the old-fashioned method of using an inkjet printer. The machine is simple to operate and has a sturdy construction that will last for years. Wireless connectivity would be nice to print labels from a phone or over wifi, but the wired connection doesn’t drop out or stop working when you need it to produce.

Best label maker for professional organizer: Brother P-touch PT-D600

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Why it made the cut: We were impressed with the color display and that it includes a larger QWERTY keyboard than most models.

Specs:

• Prints up to 1-inch wide labels
• Color LCD
• Includes a large QWERTY keyboard

Some might find this portable label maker a bit large for their taste. However, we think many will find it a pleasure to use since it pairs a larger QWERTY keyboard with a full-color display. It’s also a little pricier than the competition, but this best label maker for a professional organizer will give you a lot of value for the money: For instance, you have access to its large, on-board library of fonts, frames and symbols (which allows you to use a combination of the 14 on-board fonts, 11 font styles, 99 frames, and over 600 symbols). It can also produce labels up to roughly an inch wide (.94 inches) and you can also store up to 99 of your most-commonly used labels and reprint them by pressing just a few buttons. Those extra options can come in very handy when you’re organizing large volumes of objects.

If you want to expand your options, connect the PT-D600 to a Windows or Mac computer (via the included USB cable) and you can then use the Brother’s free P-touch Editor Label Design software. However, some might miss the fact that it lacks either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. 

Best label maker for small business: Brother QL-1110NWB  

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Why it made the cut: This label maker would be an asset to any office since it can print labels up to 4 inches wide and can connect to computers and mobile devices.

Specs:

• Prints up to 4 inches wide
• Expand by connecting to PC or Mac computer
• Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Ethernet

While this label maker is more expensive than any of our rated portable models, we still found it to be a very good value, particularly for use in an office or small-business setting. Here’s why this is the best label maker for small businesses: You can print labels up to 4 inches wide, you can many options that are ideal for printing mailing, address and postage labels for many types of packages. It also offers several connectivity options, including Bluetooth or Wireless (802. 11b/g/n) interfaces or you can connect via a wired ethernet connection. It even makes it easy to print wirelessly from mobile devices. Unlike a dedicated shipping label printer, however, you’re not limited by the size of shipping labels. 

Because its target a business, you can not only print barcodes, but you can crop and select barcodes and UPCs for printing from templates (although this feature is only available on Windows computers). Brother even has network management tools and free software development kits (SDKs) to integrate the printer into your computer network.

What to consider when buying label makers

Label makers come in many shapes, sizes, and price points. Consider the following factors before making your purchase:

Price & How You Intend To Use It

Label makers have a wide-range of prices—some cost as much as lunch, while others can cost a few hundred dollars or more. Most lower-end models are portable, while the higher-end models are most often desktop models. Those on the lower end are also generally intended for personal or home use. More expensive label desktop makers also tend to be larger, heavier, less portable and have a better build quality. They also have more features. But there are portable label makers that include features that would make them very useful in office settings. Consider how you intend to use your label maker in order to determine the type and price.

Design & Ergonomics

Most label makers are designed with keyboards, although not all have QWERTY keyboards. If they don’t include an on-board keyboard, you’ll need to connect to a mobile device, like a smartphone, or to a computer, via Wi-Fi or an ethernet connection.

Power

Many label makers come with an AC adapter. Some include rechargeable batteries, which is very convenient. Some models, though, run on AA or AAA batteries (which you’ll need to be separately). Also, a few label makers do not include an AC adapter. You have to buy it separately.

Speed

Label makers share some important elements or features with larger all-in-one inkjet and laser printers that you’ll want to consider when you want to purchase a label maker. For example, label makers often state how fast the label maker can print. For instance, they’ll state  how many inches or millimeters it can print a label in one second. That may not be important if you’re only occasionally printing out labels. But if you use it for your business, it might be a good investment to buy one that prints quickly. Many portable models can print out a one-inch label in about .5 seconds, but desktop models, which are more suited for office work can print out a one-inch label in about .25 seconds or less.

Wired vs. Wireless/Bluetooth/Network

You’ll generally find that the more expensive portable and desktop label makers tend to include the ability to connect both via a wired connection (either via USB or ethernet) or via a wireless connection (either Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or both). Cheaper models, though, might have either a wired or wireless feature, but not both.

Additional Quick Tips on Buying Label Makers

Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking for just the right label maker for your needs:

• How will you use your label maker? Is it for personal use in your home, or more for an office?
• What kind of labels will you need to print? If you only plan on printing out labels for your holiday cards or very infrequently, you may not need the most expensive and fastest label maker?
• Do you need it for your own business? In that case, having a fast printer might be very important!
• Or do you want to get creative and print out more decorative-looking labels? Then you’ll want a label maker that has some versatility.

After you read this guide, you might have some additional questions that you’ll want to write down and add to your list. That will help you better target the right label maker.

FAQs

Finals thoughts about label makers

A label maker, whether it’s a portable budget model or a feature-packed desktop model, can really help out in an organizational task, since you can create clean, easy-to-read labels for your personal office, the kitchen or your kids’ school work. Using labels created with the best label maker also helps give your entire filing system a tidy and uniform appearance.

The post Best label makers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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