• Electric lawn mowers can offer a number of advantages over gas-powered motors, including low maintenance and push-button start.
• Our top pick, the EGO Power+ 2101 56-V 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower, has the power of a gas model with the convenience of electric power.
• For more on lawn mowers, check out our guides to the best lawn mowers and the best riding lawn mowers.
  

Springtime is almost here, and a durable and versatile lawn mower will ensure your grass is evenly trimmed just in time for your trees' full bloom. Electric lawn mowers are a practical alternative to gas mowers, especially if you have minimal storage space and don't want to deal with the hassle of storing gasoline and oil. Electric mowers also tend to weigh much less than their gas-powered counterparts, so they can also be easier to transport and use.

Their push-button start is a peak advantage. The fact that I wouldn't have to deal with a pull-cord, an engine that is reluctant to turn over, or gas that had simply gone bad was one of the driving factors behind my first electric mower purchase. I have nerve damage in both hands, so a lightweight mower that was easy to start turned out to be the perfect solution for my small yard. And unlike gas-powered lawn mowers, the electric variants are quieter and do not pollute.

The mowers on this list come in battery-powered or corded design. The corded mowers are really suitable for smaller yards because you will need to use an extension cord to run the mower, while the battery-powered models are a bit more versatile, though you'll find that battery life varies. If you have a large yard or an incline, keeping two sets of batteries charged and ready may be necessary if you want to mow the entire space in one session. Keep in mind that electric mowers may not be as powerful as gas versions, and the cut quality may be inconsistent, and they really aren't suitable for bigger jobs.

We included the electric lawn mowers below based on a number of factors, including versatility, power, battery life, features, and overall performance. They're available at a variety of price points, so you should be able to find something that works for your budget and needs.

Here are the best electric lawn mowers of 2021

• Best electric lawn mower overall: EGO Power+ 2101 56-V 21-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
• Best electric mulching lawn mower: DeWalt 20-Inch 20V Cordless Lawn Mower
• Best budget electric lawn mower: Greenworks 20-Inch 12-Amp Corded Lawn Mower
• Best electric riding lawn mower: Ryobi 38-Inch Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower

The best electric lawn mower overall

The EGO Power+ 2101 56-V 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower produces plenty of power, a push-button start, and a bagger for versatility.

Pros: Powerful motor, quiet operation, rapid-charging battery, foldable upright storage, headlights, five-year tool warranty, three-year battery warranty (kits only)

Cons: Batteries are expensive to replace (or stock spares)

The Ego Power+ 2101 56-V 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower offers the performance of gas but in a convenient cordless electric design. The mower will run for up to 45 minutes on a single charge and, its 3-in-1 function (mulching, bagging, and side discharge) makes it our top pick.  Its functionality isn't limited to its multipurpose capabilities. The push-button start is easy to operate and incredibly convenient, and the LED headlights allow you to mow anytime, provided you have no qualms about disrupting your neighbors after dark.

 The Ego Power+ 2101 also has six-position cutting height adjustments, so you can quickly progress through your mowing, meaning fewer trips around the yard. It even folds up in just seconds and can be stored upright, saving you valuable garage or shed space. At roughly 74 pounds, it's relatively easy to maneuver. This mower comes with great warranty options, including five-year tool protection and up to three years on the battery, which is slightly on the generous side compared with others.

The best electric mulching lawn mower

The DeWalt 20-Inch 20-V Cordless Lawn Mower offers mulching, bagging, and rear discharge options, making it easy to use.

Pros: Powerful brushless motor, easy height adjustment, folding handle for transport and storage

Cons: Limited battery capacity, slow to charge (2.5 hours)

When it comes to mulching, the DeWalt 20-Inch 20-V Cordless Lawn Mower offers top performance and plenty of features that make it easy to use.

Mulching your grass allows you to reuse those clippings in a practical way, returning nutrients to your lawn and making for healthier grass in the process. This mower has a mulching feature, but you can also use the bagger or discharge clippings out of the back of the mower. In short, you can use this mower in a variety of ways, depending on the chore.

The brand claims that the battery life lets you cut up to a quarter-acre per charge, which is probably about right, but keep in mind that run time out of the box is only 25 minutes, and it's only going to drop from there. With a brushless motor with high-power output, this mower is ideal for smaller areas and jobs. It also takes two and a half hours to charge.

As for power, we can't quite be sure of the output of this mower because it bears two 20-volt batteries, which often dampens the power. Ultimately, this mower probably runs somewhere a little south of 200 watts. Again, this is a good mower for a small lawn.

Adjusting this mower is easy, with a single-lever adjustment system. With deck heights from 1.5 to 3.4 inches, you can tackle uneven ground with the higher setting or set the deck low for a fine, low cut. The folding handle and lift handles make the mower easy to transport, but you can also hang it from the handles to get it off the ground and free up floor space in your shed or garage.

This mower comes with a three-year limited warranty, a one-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee, which is all about the standard for a machine like this.

The best budget electric lawn mower

The Greenworks 20-Inch 12-Amp Corded Lawn Mower cuts the cost compared to other electric ones, without cutting down its versatile trimmer options.

Pros: Seven-position height adjustment, foldable handles, four-year warranty

Cons: Corded design limits reach

Electric mowers don't have to be costly, and the Greenworks 20-Inch Corded Lawn Mower is proof of that. This mower, offered at a budget-friendly price, still has plenty of bells and whistles and puts in an impressive performance. Its 20-inch steel deck offers durability, and the 12-amp, 120-volt motor (effectively 1440 watts) is powerful enough for easy mowing.

This mower includes three-in-one mulching, side discharge, and rear bag functions. It also offers a seven-position height adjustment, allowing you to choose cutting heights between 1.5 and 3.75 inches. The push-button start makes for easy operation, and foldable handles allow for convenient storage or transportation.

This mower weighs just 56 pounds, so it's relatively easy to push. While it's a fairly basic design, this mower is suitable for homeowners or renters with smaller lawns, provided there's access to a power outlet. It comes with a limited four-year warranty on batteries and tools.

The best electric riding lawn mower

The Ryobi 38-Inch Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower is a hands-on option that still reaps the benefits of a traditional gas-powered ride-on.

Pros: Excellent battery power, full of features, capable of large jobs

Cons: Requires more storage space than push mowers, higher price point

The Ryobi 38-Inch Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower is a quality piece of equipment that pairs durable construction with the benefits of electric power. The steel frame houses a generous 38-inch blade deck, and three high-torque brushless motors provide maximized cutting power.

Assessing power is a little bit trickier here because Ryobi doesn't offer the same information that the other brands featured within this guide do, but the 48-volt battery can last about 2 hours or 2 acres of mowing time on a single charge, so you can get plenty of work done, quickly.

This mower is full of features that you're sure to love. The seat is adjustable for your comfort, and the control panel is conveniently located for accessibility. The 12-point deck height adjustment gives you nuanced control over your mowing height, and its LED headlights allow for evening work. Enjoy cruise control and USB charging, while a cup holder and cell phone holder round out this machine's excellent design.

This mower offers plenty of advantages over traditional gas-powered variants. It has no carbon emissions, and with no belts, spark plugs, or filters, it's a low-maintenance option. It's backed by a three-year warranty, also coming with a middle-of-the-road three-year warranty for personal use and a 90-day warranty for businesses (including rentals).

If you're looking for an alternative to gas-powered riding mowers, the Ryobi is reliable, powerful, and quiet.

Check out our other outdoors equipment buying guides and roundups

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• The best riding lawn mowers
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• The best gardening tools for beginners
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• Here are the best engines we've covered in the past 2 years after checking out over 100 cars

The travel industry, battered by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, is hoping for a better 2021. 

But in the meantime, the business world has largely adapted to a remote or hybrid workplace, calling into question the future of corporate travel.

"Business travel is the form of travel that people miss the least and is not going to come back like before," Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky wrote in the company's annual travel report, released on January 28. "Still, connecting in real life still matters, and much of the void left by the old business travel will be replaced by new business travel."

To Chesky, this new form of business travel involves remote workers that dispersed far and wide during the pandemic traveling "to hubs to spend time with their co-workers, often staying longer than just a few nights."

Read more: Business trips could become a thing of the past as the pandemic pushes CEOs to ask themselves what warrants a flight and what could've been a Zoom call

Airbnb's competitors in the hotel industry are a bit more optimistic about the future of business travel— and in a way, they have to be. Before the pandemic, business transient travelers accounted for as much as 60% of business for major hotel chains like Hilton. They provided reliable occupancy year-round as well as during the workweek, and hotel executives say these travelers also tended to be among their most loyal. 

About 30% of total travel spending in 2019 was allocated to business travel, accounting for about $334.2 billion in spending, according to the US Travel Association. 

Insider spoke to nine executives at leading hotel companies including Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and Four Seasons. They shared their outlook on the future of business travel in 2021 and beyond, and detailed their plans — including pre-event COVID-19 testing, work-from-hotel packages, and enhanced cleaning protocols — to appeal to travelers' evolving needs.

Most said that it would take more broadly distributed vaccines for the travel industry to fully recover, and that it's likely leisure travel would return well before business travel does. 

Here's what else they had to say: 

SEE ALSO: Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky predicts a wildly different future of travel and living, and it sounds pretty great

Stephanie Linnartz, group president of consumer operations, technology, and emerging businesses at Marriott International, said the company is offering on-site testing at select US hotels.

Linnartz said that business travel's revival relies on consumers feeling confident about the risks posed by the coronavirus. 

Marriott's new testing program, intended for professionals planning group meetings at certain select properties, entails a couple of options, including "self-administered COVID-19 tests taken by the guest prior to travel, COVID-19 testing administered by a third-party testing provider on site at the hotel, daily and/or pre-arrival health screening questions via a dedicated mobile application and daily temperature checks to enter the event area," Linnartz said.

She added that the company is optimistic that bookings will rise as vaccine distribution ramps up. 

"We need a vaccine that works, enough of the population to take it, and a clear pathway forward to see the end in sight for the virus," she said. 

In the meantime, Marriott has bolstered its cleaning protocols and leaned into contactless tech like mobile and web check-in systems and mobile keys through the company's Bonvoy app. 

In an initiative specifically geared towards remote workers, Marriott rolled out a "Work Anywhere" program, which offers daily, overnight, or multinight stays and emphasizes quiet environments and fast WiFi. 

"We fully expect that our customers will be eager to travel and connect with each other as soon as it is safe to do so," said Danny Hughes, executive vice president and president for the Americas at Hilton.

Hughes said that before the pandemic, business transient travelers made up as much as 60% of Hilton's business. Leisure travelers accounted for another 20%, while group travel made up the remaining 20%. 

"Today of course, our hotels are doing everything they can to attract every type of traveler," he said. 

During the pandemic, Hilton has rolled out enhanced cleaning procedures called Hilton CleanStay, as well as additional protocols for events.

"We are also building programs, like WorkSpaces by Hilton, that give those who are used to being on the road a way to get out of their homes and work in different spaces," Hughes said. 

The marketing for WorkSpaces by Hilton, available at select hotels in the US, UK, and Canada, emphasizes the availability of a "clean, convenient and distraction-free workspace."

He said that iterating on programs like these, in addition to widespread vaccine distribution and "common-sense best practices," would be key to the industry's recovery. 

Best Western's Dorothy Dowling says that while the chain is starting to see an uptick in small group business travel, it's not expecting events like conventions and trade shows to return until late 2022.

Dowling, who is senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Best Western, says that business travelers are a "vital piece" of the company's customer segment. 

She said that while smaller groups, like salespeople and executives, are starting to travel to visit clients, the largest segment in business travel — group events — will take some time to come back. Some may never come back at all. 

"By the end of 2022, we believe business travel will be close to 2019 levels, but we do anticipate a structural decline in business travel of up to 10%," Dowling said. 

While virtual meetings have allowed for some interpersonal connection, she said that there are some aspects of business networking that are best conducted face-to-face.

"When you are just starting out with a partner, client, customer, or colleague, it's critical to spend time with them in-person. As a result, we are confident that business travel will return," she said, adding that international business travel will likely take longer.

The company is emphasizing its cleaning protocols and communication with customers while vaccines continue to be distributed around the world.

"Herd immunity through vaccine distribution is top of mind throughout the hotel industry," she said.

Kimberly Wilson, senior vice president of global sales for Preferred Hotels & Resorts, says the pandemic "has forced the industry to review and address standards across the board," from programming to cleanliness.

Wilson said Preferred Hotels & Resorts is seeing "green shoots of recovery" and that measures like revamped cleaning regimens, health passports, vaccines, pre-flight testing, and the rise of on-property testing will begin to restore consumers' confidence in safely traveling for business. 

The company is working with hotels in its portfolio to develop more flexible pricing structures that could appeal to cost-conscious organizations as they begin to plan for more business travel going forward. 

Wilson said the company is expecting business travel to regain some steam by the latter half of 2021, though health and safety measures will continue to be important. 

"It is important that the optics of small to mid-size business gatherings are not problematic for the individual and the company that they represent, which means that every corporate trip and event has to be heavily scrutinized at the planning stage," she said. 

"Business travelers need to feel confident that a meaningful resumption of their work does not mean a significant increase to personal safety concerns or the potential impact of travel on families and local communities when they return home."

Dream Hotels CEO Jay Stein says the company "cannot survive" without business travelers.

Stein said he expects business travel demand to remain soft through the spring while vaccines continue to be distributed.

And, he said, demand currently varies widely by business sector; the entertainment industry is traveling to safely create content, for example, while many in tech and finance have adapted to a virtual work environment. 

"The virtual work environment is not a total negative for our space either. The virtual work environment has enticed some to take their virtual office to hotels," Stein said. "Travelers may also use their company's corporate negotiated rates for blended business-leisure, aka 'bleisure' travel, which is something some markets saw a lot of over the holiday season."

Stein is optimistic that even if virtual work becomes permanent, there will be times when a business will want to have its employees travel, like having candidates fly in for interviews, onboarding new employees, and bringing employees together for semi-annual gatherings. 

All of these gatherings spell opportunity for Dream Hotels, he said. 

But first, widespread vaccines and therapeutics will need to restore travelers' confidence. 

"We need employees, corporations and their legal teams to feel comfortable that the pandemic is behind us," Stein said. "A strong global economy will certainly help as well."

"The worldwide rollout of the vaccines for COVID-19 is extremely encouraging, and a major milestone for our industry, for the economy and for people around the world," Mark Vondrasek, chief commercial officer at Hyatt, said.

Vondrasek said Hyatt has seized opportunity during the "work from everywhere" trend. 

It rolled out a "Work from Hyatt" program that encourages workers to bring their families and work remotely from resorts in the US, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and South America. 

"The Work from Hyatt package was born out of listening to our World of Hyatt members who told us, don't try to pull me toward the traditional trip I took in the past. Right now, I want a different kind of trip, one where I can do work but when I'm done, step outside and enjoy a nice location," Vondrasek said. 

It also rolled out a similar daily offering called "Office for the Day," available at select hotels in the Americas and Asia-Pacific, and "The Great Relocate," for stays of a month or longer.  

Vondrasek said that there is a "strong pent-up demand for travel," and that Hyatt expects leisure travel to return first, followed by business travel, and then groups. 

Radisson's AngeLis Davidson says business travelers are extremely important for the hotel chain since — in normal times — they provide occupancy year-round and during the week.

"Business travelers are repeat travelers that are engaged with our brands and our loyalty program, Radisson Rewards," Davidson, who is senior director of corporate sales for the Americas at Radisson Hotel Group, said. 

Travelers who work in "essential" business sectors, like healthcare, transportation, and logistics have continued to travel during the pandemic. But the company doesn't expect business travel to begin picking up until the second quarter of 2021.

That acceleration also depends on the return of a sense of normalcy, with companies bringing employees back to offices, and on the mass distribution of vaccines reigniting confidence in travelers. 

"We anticipate that as companies reopen offices and bring employees back in phases, business travel will gradually return," she said. 

Davidson added that Radisson has implemented a 20-step cleaning protocol in partnership with SGS, the Swiss inspection and testing company. The hotel chain has an additional 10-step process for meeting and event spaces. 

"The travel and hospitality industry were the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and may take the longest to recover," said Ben Trodd, senior vice president of hotel sales and marketing at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

At the same time, Trodd said, there will always be a need for in-person meetings. 

He's anticipating that increased "bleisure" travel, or trips that combine business and leisure, will continue to be a strong trend.

To meet that demand, Four Seasons launched a program called Extend Your Stay, which gives travelers who are staying at a Four Seasons property for 30 days or longer access to benefits like private fitness sessions, personal concierge services, and consultations with chefs and spa experts who can help them craft a wellness plan. 

For the small business events that are happening at its hotels, Four Seasons has increased its AV and tech capabilities, helped clients to better meld in-person and virtual meetings, and moved towards the individual packaging of meals. 

"At a global level, it is difficult to say when business and leisure travel will return to pre-pandemic levels, as recovery so far has seemed to be one step forward and two steps back," he said. "And while we cannot predict the future, our company remains confident as we begin to see the global rollout of vaccination programs and rapid testing initiatives."

Jeff Doane, chief commercial officer for North and Central America at Accor, said it'll take "a vaccine and time" for demand in business travel to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Doane said that business travel accounts for more than 20% off Accor's business, and that he expects that segment to grow further as people blend their business and leisure travel. 

He added that business travelers are also among the company's most loyal customers, and many are members of its "Accor Live Limitless" loyalty program. 

Still, Doane said he is more optimistic than some of the forecasts out there.

"Systems like Zoom and Microsoft Teams serve a certain purpose in terms of replacing shorter meetings and conference calls, but there is significant and irreplaceable value from face-to-face meetings," he said. "I believe most people are already beginning to recognize this and travel for business will rebound more quickly than what is generally being projected at this time."

Doane said that once travelers feel "a general sense of safety with respect to the pandemic," the industry "will be off to the races." 

• Today's best budget laptops offer more value than ever, bringing solid performance and premium designs at an affordable price.
• Our pick for the overall best cheap laptop is the Google Pixelbook Go, which offers smooth performance, a great typing experience, and a 1080p webcam for hundreds of dollars less than many flagship devices.
• We'll be testing more models throughout 2021, including new inexpensive Chromebooks that were announced at CES 2021.
• Read more: The best laptops of 2021

The smartphone may be the hub of our digital lives, but the computer still plays a key role, especially now that many of us are continuing to work and socialize from home. 

It used to be that if you want a laptop with power and features, you would need to spend more than $1,000. While you still have to spend upwards of $1,000 for the best features and performance, budget laptops are more than capable of everyday tasks. Those who just want a machine for basic web browsing and word processing can find a promising laptop in the $300-$700 range. That's all thanks to improvements in processors, graphics, and other chipsets, as well as standardization in features like USB and HDMI.

Of course, this is not to say all budget laptops are great — some are definitely better than average, while others aren't worth your hard-earned cash. There are a few important factors you need to consider before making a purchase, such as operating system preferences, size, and above all else: what you intend to use it for.

For this guide, we consider a "budget" laptop to be a laptop that costs about $650 or less — we aimed to recommend those that fall below $500. However, if you can afford to spend more than that, you will be able to get something more powerful and arguably better than the computers on this list.

Here are the best cheap laptops:

• Best budget laptop overall: Google Pixelbook Go
• Best budget Chromebook: Samsung Chromebook 4+
• Best budget gaming laptop: Dell G3 15
• Best budget 2-in-1 laptop: Lenovo IdeaPad 5 14

The best budget laptop overall

The Google Pixelbook Go's ease of use, excellent keyboard, and long battery life make it a top choice for those who prioritize simplicity in a laptop. 

Pros: Excellent keyboard, long battery life, 1080p webcam, decent screen

Cons: Upgrade options are expensive, no biometric login

Google's Pixelbook Go is one of the priciest options on this list, but there's a good reason why. It nearly matches premium laptops that are almost double its price in a few ways, particularly when it comes to keyboard quality, general ease-of-use, and battery life.  

Google's "Hush" keyboard is part of what makes the Pixelbook Go stand out, offering a comfortable yet unobtrusive typing experience that even rivals that of Lenovo's laptops, as our full review mentions. It even has a 1080p webcam, a rare find even on laptops that cost over $1,000. That's especially important now that we're spending more time video conferencing and socializing virtually.

The base model comes with an Intel Core m3 processor (CPU), 8GB of memory (RAM), and a Full HD (1080p) touch screen. You'll also get two USB-C ports, and Google says it should last for 12 hours on a single charge.

Like other Google laptops that have come before it, the Pixelbook Go is a Chromebook — meaning it's designed for those who primarily use their laptops for web browsing, note taking, and other light tasks like streaming YouTube or Netflix. It runs on Google's Chrome OS, a lightweight interface optimized for security and speed that's designed to work best with an Internet connection. You can, however, access Google Play Store apps and save documents, spreadsheets, emails, and other data for offline use. 

Sadly, the Pixelbook Go doesn't have the same 2-in-1 design as its pricier Pixelbook predecessor, so it doesn't double as a tablet. It also doesn't have any biometric login options like a fingerprint scanner, which is now fairly common on most laptops. But it's perfect for anyone in need of a fast, lightweight laptop for basic productivity and entertainment.

The best budget Chromebook

The 15-inch Samsung Chromebook 4+ crams an insane amount of value into its below $300 list price, with hardware and features found in laptops twice its price and within a good-looking package.

Pros: Decent display, long battery life, lots of ports

Cons: Small local storage, low amount of RAM, no top-firing speakers

Anyone looking to get the absolute most value possible out of a Chromebook that might look a bit more premium in ways than even our top pick, we suggest the 15-inch Samsung Chromebook 4+. There's no question that this Chromebook makes for a close second to our former top pick,  Acer Chromebook 15, as the best budget laptop period.

Samsung's Chromebook 4+ is a sharp, slight 15-inch laptop that's wrapped in a platinum-colored plastic frame featuring a 15.6-inch, 1080p screen, with power from an Intel Celeron CPU supported by 4GB of RAM and a 32GB SSD. That's expanded upon by two USB-C ports, one USB 3.0 port, and a microSD card reader — as well as Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 4.0 — for wireless connections.

This all comes driven by a battery that can reportedly last up to 10 hours and 30 minutes per outing. Finally, we love the addition of Google Assistant for voice-based search queries and other assistive tasks. While lacking biometric security and more local storage, this laptop leaves nothing else off the table. — Joe Osborne

The best budget gaming laptop

The Dell G3 15 is an affordable gaming laptop with the latest Nvidia GeForce discrete graphics.

Pros: Compact design, specs on par with more expensive models

Cons: Shallow keyboard and touchpad, dim screen

If you enjoy gaming, but don't want to shell out $1,000 for a gaming PC, the Dell G3 15 might be a decent option for you. The laptop has multiple configurations, but the base model is around $700, and it comes with Nvidia discrete graphics. 

A few factors make the G3 15 a solid option for gamers. The base model comes with an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650GPU, a 10th-generation  Intel Core i5 CPU, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB solid state drive. Those are solid specs that should be able to smoothly run most games you want to play, though you'll want something more powerful if you're trying to run more demanding tasks like VR. 

You can also upgrade to a version that has 16GB of RAM, an Nvidia GeForce GTX  1660 GPU and 512GB of storage for about $970.

At 5.2 pounds, the G3 15 is lighter and more compact than most budget gaming laptops. 

In terms of ports, you have a power jack, an HDMI 2.0 port, an RJ-45 port, one USB 3.1 port, two  USB 2.0 port, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack. That will allow you to plug in a TV, as well as most peripherals you might want to use. 

However, for a computer of this price, you'll be missing out on some features of higher-end gaming rigs. For example, reviewers found the display to be a bit dim, and the colors to be washed out. The keyboard and touchpad are also a bit shallow, something that might be important if you'll be spending a lot of time gaming.

The best budget 2-in-1 laptop

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 offers solid specifications and a flexible design that allows it to double as a laptop and a tablet at a price that's hundreds of dollars below the $1,000 mark.

Pros: Great value, good performance, durable and attractive design

Cons: Dim and lackluster display

With a convertible design, recent six-core processors from AMD, and a 14-inch 1,920 x 1,080 touch screen, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 14 is a solid choice for anyone in need of a general purpose laptop.

It received high marks in reviews from PCMag, LaptopMag, and Digital Trends for its solid performance, excellent value, and high build quality for a laptop of its price. Lenovo's IdeaPad Flex 5 also comes with a few extra features that are less common on notebooks in this price range, such as a fingerprint reader and webcam privacy shutter. 

For less than $600, you get an AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor, which just launched about one year ago so it isn't very old, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. While it's a great value for the price, that doesn't mean it's perfect. The biggest common complaint among reviewers is that the display is too dim and lackluster.

Other budget laptops we considered

• Acer Predator Helios 300: It's impressive to see as sophisticated a gaming rig as the Acer Predator Helios 300 clock in under $1000. At 5.1 pounds, it's more portable than a lot of gaming laptops and produces a very high refresh rate for many games, and an excellent keyboard and touchpad. It holds its own against much pricier gaming laptops in real-world gaming tests. However, while $955 is cheap among capable gaming PCs, we felt it was too close to the $1000 mark to name the Predator Helios 300 a top budget pick.
• Asus VivoBook F510UA: The Asus VivoBook is far from the cheapest laptop on this list, but if you're looking for something with the look and feel of an ultrabook, the VivoBook gives you good bang for your buck. It's thin and light, at just 3.57 pounds, and with a Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM, it performs about on par with more expensive competitors in benchmark tests. However, it lacks some key features that our cheaper recommendations have, including a touchscreen and all-day battery life.
• Acer Aspire E 15: The Acer Aspire E is a bit more expensive than some of our top picks, but it offers excellent value for its price tag. It has a ton of ports, almost 9 hours of battery life, and beats most of its competition in benchmark tests. But a bulky plastic design, lack of a touchscreen, and somewhat washed-out display keeps us from recommending the Aspire E as the best value for your money.
• Lenovo Ideapad 320: For folks on a very tight budget, Lenovo's Ideapad 320 is one of the cheapest Windows laptops you can buy. It comes with an Intel Core i3 CPU, 4GB RAM, and a 1TB hard drive — usable, but not great specs. And with an Ethernet port, HDMI, headphone jack, USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 port, it should have enough ports for most people's accessory needs. That said, if you can afford something better, we recommend going for that instead. The 1,366 x 768-pixel display is quite low-resolution, and the battery only lasted a measly 4 hours in battery tests.
• Microsoft Surface Laptop Go: Microsoft has earned a reputation for making classy-looking laptops that rival the design of Apple's devices, and that's one of the reasons Microsoft's budget-laptop stands out. The Surface Laptop Go is a less expensive version of Microsoft's main laptop that comes with some compromises, like a low-resolution screen and no keyboard backlighting. But, for $549, you're still getting an Intel Core i5 processor, which should offer plenty of power for general productivity and web browsing, particularly for those who prefer Windows over Chrome OS. However, unless you really only want a computer for light web browsing and don't plan on saving much locally on the laptop itself, we'd recommend spending at least $649.99 for the mid-tier version with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. While Microsoft's laptop is worth pointing out, we felt the ones highlighted in this guide provided for value overall.

Budget laptops we look forward to testing

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2: Samsung's original Galaxy Chromebook from last year's CES had an attention-grabbing design that's uncommon for a Chromebook, but its high price and short battery life limited its appeal. Now, Samsung has addressed those criticisms with the Galaxy Chromebook 2, a revamped version of its Google-powered laptop that comes at a cheaper starting price of $549.99 compared to the previous model's $999.99 price tag. With a premium design, 13.3-inch QLED touch screen, and hopefully longer battery life, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 seems like it could be a promising option for those on a budget.

Acer Chromebook Spin 14: Powered by the latest AMD's latest mobile processors and offering 10 hours of battery life according to Acer's claims, the new Acer Chromebook Spin 14 has potential to become one of our top picks for a budget laptop in 2021. It features a 14-inch 1,920 x 1,080 touchscreen and aluminum build that could make it a compelling choice as a general-purpose laptop. It's launching in March 2021 starting at $479.99.

How to buy a budget laptop

There are a variety of factors you should consider when purchasing a laptop, particularly how much you want to spend and what types of tasks you intend to use it for. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision. 

Operating system: There are a few major computer operating systems out there. You're probably most familiar with Windows, as it's by far the most-used operating system, but there's also Apple's macOS, which is found on the company's Mac computers (we didn't include any Macs because they didn't meet our price requirement for a budget laptop). And, the newest, there's Google's Chrome OS, which is targeted to those with basic computer needs revolves around Google's web-based apps (Chrome OS relies heavily on cloud computing, meaning that a lot of the processes happen online).

Specs and features: Some computers are more powerful than others. Things like the processor and amount of memory (RAM) will dictate how quickly your computer runs, while the amount of storage indicates how many files you can keep on your computer at once. There are also other factors, like the graphics chipset being employed. The type of software you run could also dictate how well a laptop's components perform; for example, Google's Chrome browser is notorious for being a memory hog.

The features have also improved. Premium components like a touchscreen and high-speed ports, like USB 3.0 and USB-C, have trickled down from high-end laptops to budget models. As you research, look for these or if the laptop is still utilizing older tech.

Size: Laptops come in a range of different physical sizes, however, the smaller ones generally sit in the 10- to 11-inch range, while the larger ones can get as big as 17-inches. That's handy for watching movies, but it comes at the cost of portability.

We rounded up the best sales and deals happening online today, including savings at Shop Disney, Totes, Paula's Choice, and more.

Deals in this story are subject to change throughout the day. The prices listed reflect the deal at the time of publication. For even more deals and savings across the web, check our roundups for the best Presidents' Day and Valentine's Day sales, and Business Insider Coupons.

The best deals available right now

The best sales and discounts happening right now

Get up to 50% off from Backcountry

Shop the Backcountry Winter Yard sale now.

Now through February 28, you can save up to 50% on a selection of winter gear and apparel. The sale includes (but isn't limited to) great brands like Patagonia, Black Diamond, The North Face, and many more. For some of our favorites in the sale, you can read more about the sale here.

Get 20% off sitewide from Nest Bedding

Shop the Nest Bedding Presidents' Day sale now.

For the month of February, Nest Bedding is offering 20% off sitewide with promo code PREzzzDAY. The start-up makes one of our top foam mattress picks, along with a ton of other bedding and furniture for your home. The sale will last a while, but make sure to not miss out on the big discounts before the end of February.

Buy one Ampere wireless charger, get another one free.

Shop the Ampere Valentine's Day sale now.

From now through February 14, Ampere's HyperCube and Unravel wireless chargers are buy one, get one free with promo code ShareYourLove applied at checkout. The brand's Full Circle is our best overall pick in our guide to the best wireless charging battery pack. Though that specific model isn't included in the sale, if you're in need of a charging mat or station, this is an excellent chance to save.

Get 40% off sweet treats from Too Faced

Shop the Too Faced Sweet Treats sale now.

For a short time, Too Faced is offering 40% off its sweet treats. The sale includes products peach-scented eyeshadows, chocolate bar palettes, and a ton of lipsticks and glosses. Included in the sale is our pick for the best colorful daily eyeshadow palette, the Just Peachy Mattes palette. The discounts end February 5.

Buy one, get one free from YesGlasses

Shop the YesGlasses Winter Flash Sale now.

From now through February 5, YesGlasses is offering shoppers up to $80 in savings with its BOGO promotion. The brand sells affordable frames for everyone in the family, with some styles as low as $39 to start. After testing, we liked the YesGlasses ordering experience, though we found its framers to be lower quality than pricier brands. Whether you're replacing a broken pair or just like having a variety of frames to choose from, this short-lived sale is a great chance to stock up on some stylish new glasses.

Buy one, get one plush for $5 from Shop Disney.

Shop the BOGO sale from Shop Disney now.

Whether you have a little one who loves stuffies or a partner nostalgic for Disney, the BOGO sale from Shop Disney is a great chance to shop. Right now, you can buy one plush to get the second for only $5, making a pair as cheap as $18. It's a sale in good time for Valentine's Day, so you can pair your chocolate and flowers with their favorite Disney character. Sales from Shop Disney are exceedingly rare, so don't miss out on this chance to save.

Get 40% off all umbrellas from Totes.

Shop the Flash Sale from Totes now.

Now through February 6, Totes is offering shoppers 40% off all of its umbrellas with promo code 40RAIN applied at checkout. It's a rare, seasonally-appropriate sale. Totes makes great umbrellas that have made it into our top 10 inexpensive umbrella picks. The sale ends soon, so if you're in need of something to stay dry, this sale is an absolute must. 

Get 50% off a 7-night stay at Kanuhura Maldives from Travelzoo

Shop the Travelzoo discount now.

Now through October 2022, Travelzoo members can get $2000 off a weeklong stay for 2 at the Kanuhura Maldives, a 5-star luxury hotel. If you're looking to bring the whole family, you can even bring up to 2 kids under age 11 free of charge, making this discount even more worth it. Though travel may not seem like your top priority this year, this is an excellent deal with flexible booking dates — it's also fully refundable. The Kanuhura Maldives has a 9.4/10 rating on Booking.com and a 5/5 on Trip Advisor. 

Get 30% off your entire order from GlassesUSA

Shop the Glasses USA Insider sale now. 

Now through February 1, you can get 30% off your entire order of eyeglasses and sunglasses when you use promo code INSIDER30; shipping is also free. They're one of our favorite places to buy glasses online and with how often they hold sales and deals, it's a great place to find frames for less. 

Get up to $375 off mattresses from Leesa

Shop the Leesa Annual Winter Sale now.

Leesa is offering shoppers up to $375 off mattresses and up to $877 off bundles during its Annual Winter Sale going on now. We've tested and loved most of Leesa's lineup of mattresses. The Hybrid is evenour top pick for best hybrid mattress, with its cooling top and responsive springs. Sales from the start-up aren't exactly rare, but right now is still a good chance to save a big chunk of change on a sleep game-changer.

Get up to 40% off Valentine's flowers from 1-800-Flowers

Shop the 1-800-Flowers Valentine's Day sale now.

Just over a month is left before the big day, but it's never too early to plan ahead for Valentine's Day, especially with deals this good. Right now, flowers and gifts including bouquets, plushes, gift baskets, and more are up to 40% off, no code necessary. The retailer is one of our favorite online flower delivery services, especially for last-minute shoppers.

Get up to 50% off at Lo & Sons

Shop the Lo & Sons Winter Sale now.

Thoughtfully designed and durably constructed, bags from Lo & Sons are popular for a reason. Right now, select bags are up to 50% off, including the Catalina and the O.G. that we cover in our review. Even if travel isn't in your plans for 2021, this sale is so good it may be worth investing in a bag that you'll love using. 

• Roku devices are available at many retailers, including Roku's online store,Amazon,Walmart, andBest Buy.
• Some stores even carry exclusive models you can't find anywhere else.
• Deals vary depending on which store you choose, and each retailer offers different perks.   
• See also:The best streaming devices you can buy

Roku makes devices that can turn your regular TV into a smart TV. Roku players are affordable and easy to set up, which makes them a convenient option to enhance your entertainment experience and replace your outdated cable equipment. 

Once connected to your TV and internet, a Roku player acts as a one-stop media hub, offering access to a large selection of streaming services and various entertainment channels. You can watch your favorite shows and movies on popular platforms, like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Apple TV, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and many more. 

Roku is also a very inclusive platform since the company is not in support of any particular ecosystem or streaming provider. Most Roku devices even work with separate Alexa, Google assistant, and Siri products, proving that they are one of the most flexible and versatile streaming options. 

There are many different Roku sticks and boxes to choose from, and you can find most of the lineup at major stores like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, as well as the Roku online store. There are some exclusive models, however, that can only be found at specific retailers. With many stores offering different perks, prices, and exclusives, buying the optimal Roku device for the best price might be trickier than you think. 

With that in mind, we've made a list of top Roku retailers and deals to inform you about all the Roku products they offer, along with details on current discounts and store policies.

Walmart

Walmart offers the biggest selection of Roku devices, including 2 exclusive models, and you can get shipping perks if you sign up for Walmart+.

If you're planning to buy a Roku device, Walmart might be the best place to go as they offer the most variety, along with both online and brick-and-mortar options. Apart from the standard lineup of Roku products, Walmart also sells two exclusive models that are only available in its retail and online stores: the Roku Express+ and the Roku Ultra LT.

The Roku Express+ provides the same streaming experience as the standard Roku Express, but comes with a better remote that enables voice control. Meanwhile, the Roku Ultra LT is a cheaper version of the Roku Ultra with some missing features. Unlike the more expensive Ultra, the Ultra LT lacks Dolby Vision support and it doesn't have a USB port. The remote is also missing customizable buttons.

You can buy Roku devices from Walmart's retail locations or from the company's online store. Free two-day shipping is available on purchases of $35 or more. If you subscribe to Walmart+, free shipping is available with no minimum purchase requirement, and select items are available for "fast as same-day" delivery.

Walmart has a 30-day return policy on Roku devices, and you have the option to return online orders to a retail location. Walmart also gives you the option of purchasing a two or three year protection plan by Allstate. There's also an option to get your Roku installed by an expert for an additional $79 fee. Since Roku's devices are very simple to set up, however, we don't recommend you pay for this option.

Best Buy

Best Buy offers an exclusive Roku Stick, and the retailer lets you earn points with purchases that you can redeem for future discounts. 

Best Buy is another great retailer to buy Roku devices from online or via a brick-and-mortar location. On top of selling all the Roku models available, they also carry the Best Buy exclusive Roku Streaming Stick + Headphone Edition. 

This Roku product, as you can guess from its name, is the same streaming device as the Streaming Stick + but it's bundled with a more advanced voice remote, which has a private listening feature, and headphones to pair with. This feature allows buyers to listen to streaming titles privately without disturbing others. 

Best Buy offers competitive prices, but if you want to order your device online rather than going to a physical store, you might have to pay a shipping fee. Free shipping is offered on select products, but this perk is not currently available for every Roku device.

Moreover, unlike most other retailers that offer a 30-day refund period, Best Buy's policy accepts returns within 15 days of purchase. Customers can ship online orders back with a pre-paid lable or return them to a store location. Best Buy also offers its own Geek Squad protection program to provide a warranty for your device for two or four years. 

If you use a Best Buy credit card for your purchase you may be eligible for low monthly payments on your Roku, and you can get 5% back in rewards. There's also the free My Best Buy program which allows members to earn points with every purchase. If you bank enough points, you can redeem gift cards for future purchases. 

Amazon

If you're a Prime member, Amazon is an ideal place to buy a wide assortment of Roku products with fast, free shipping.

Although Amazon doesn't offer any exclusive Roku devices, you can buy all of the standard Roku models with the ease of one-click shopping. It also offers very competitive prices and free standard shipping on orders totalling $25 or more. 

With an Amazon Prime membership you can get your Roku delivered in as little as one day for free, and Amazon gives each customer the option to return items within 30 days after they're delivered. 

The retailer also offers an optional two-year or three-year protection plan for each Roku product. The cost of the protection plan varies by duration and device, but the prices range between $1.99 and $21.99.

Besides these perks, if you own an Amazon Prime Store Card, Amazon Visa credit card, or Amazon American Express credit card you can get back 5% back on purchases.

Roku

Roku's store doesn't sell exclusive models, but the company offers free ground shipping and a rotating selection of special offers.

In addition to major retailers, Roku products are also sold directly from Roku's online store. Though Roku doesn't carry any exclusive devices and it doesn't have any physical retail locations, the company sells all of the standard Roku models.

You won't find any reward programs or store cards via Roku like you would through Best Buy, Amazon, or Walmart, but the Roku Store does provide free ground shipping (three to seven business days) on all orders, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Likewise, Roku has special offers from time to time on select products.

You can browse Roku's entire selection via the Roku online store here. 

For more streaming coverage and recommendations, be sure to check out our various buying guides for streaming devices and services:

• The best streaming sticks and devices in 2021
• The best streaming services you can sign up for in 2021
• The best music streaming service you can subscribe to in 2021

• With the right snow shovel, you can clear your porch, walkways, driveways, and more easily. 
• TheDMOS Alpha Expedition Shovel is the best shovel with a serrated blade that cuts into high piles of snow and easy disassembly.
• If you're looking to move a ton of snow with minimal effort, read our guide to the best snow blowers.

When a big snowstorm hits, the thought of going out to shovel snow probably isn't too appealing. But someone's got to do it, and with the proper snow shovel, removing snow from your stoop, driveway, deck, and walkways will be faster and easier. You'll also reduce the chance of injury. 

Each of our top picks takes a different approach to snow removal. To chip through thick ice or cut large blocks of snow, try the DMOS Alpha Expedition Shovel. To clear driveways, you're better off with a snow pusher. We've even got an electric option that's a cross between a snow blower and a shovel. You can read more about how to choose the best shovel, and safety tips here. 

Here are the best snow shovels in 2021

• Best overall: DMOS Alpha Expedition Shovel
• Best ergonomic: Snow Joe Shovelution Snow Shovel
• Best electric: Toro Power Shovel Electric Snow Thrower
• Best compact: Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel
• Best snow pusher: Manplow REV42 Revolution Snow Pusher

SEE ALSO: The best ice scrapers for your car to keep your windshield clean

The best overall

When fully assembled, the collapsible DMOS Alpha Expedition Shovel is as capable as any classic snow shovel, easily tossing scoop after scoop of snow. 

Pros: Collapses for stowing, serrated blades cuts into packed snow, lightweight but rugged

Cons: Can become heavy once it lifts up a lot of snow 

The DMOS Alpha Expedition Shovel is a clever and capable tool that can help you move snow all day long. It's a newer version of the original Alpha I'd tested using stronger aircraft-grade aluminum so it's a tad heavier, but it is otherwise very similar.

I feel comfortable naming this as our overall pick because Alpha is the best snow shovel I have ever used, and it's still one of my go-to shovels. The slender, serrated edge of the shovel's blade cuts into all sorts of snow with ease, lifting fresh powder, heavy slush, and icy chunks alike. The long handle makes lifting effortless and tosses large scoops of snow, while the all-metal construction ensures that the shaft won't bend or break and the scoop won't crack or buckle.

Despite the rugged appearance, the Alpha Expedition only weighs 4 pounds 6 ounces. But once you scoop up a large pile of snow, it can become much heavier to avoid overexerting yourself.

The secret here is the shovel's collapsible and detachable handle. The shaft telescopes out to a generous 61.5 inches, giving taller users plenty of length for proper leverage, and it can be shortened down twice for users of differing heights. 

Though this shovel isn't cheap, the durable construction ensures it lasts for years.

The best ergonomic snow shovel

The ingenious two-handle design of the Snow Joe Shovelution Shovel can reduce back strain when compared to a traditional snow shovel and speed up the snow clearing process.

Pros: Reduces back strain, speeds up the snow-removal process 

Cons: Initial use is awkward until you get used to it

Shoveling snow can lead to a sore lower back. The Shovelution Shovel has a unique design that helps reduce the strain from shoveling and scooping up piles of snow.

Essentially, it's a regular snow shovel with a straight handle and an 18-inch shovel blade that's curved to help you collect loads of snow. But right above the main handle is a spring-assisted handle that helps counterbalance the weight of each shovel full of snow.

By keeping one hand on the main shaft and another on the secondary handle, the Shovelution Snow Shovel allows you to stand up straighter as you work and reduces the strain put on the back's lumbar region.

The spring-action second handle also helps you fling aside heavy snow with less effort and with reduced shock at the end of each toss. This limits the strain on your joints, muscles, and skeletal system, so you don't wind up with a sore back after shoveling. 

Senior editor Jada Wong has used her Shovelution for a year to remove snow that's about a foot deep around her driveway, walkway, porch, and deck with much less effort and back pain than with traditional shovels. She said the second handle seems flimsy at first and takes getting used to, but it's ultimately a much better shoveling experience. 

The best electric snow shovel

The Toro Power Shovel Electric Snow Thrower can clear snowfall of up to a half-foot deep with a single pass, and you never even have to lift it off the ground.

Pros: Minimizes effort and backache, quickly clears shallower snowfall, lightweight

Cons: Can't handle deep or wet/heavy snow

I've used the Toro Power Shovel Electric Snow Thrower to move snow piles as high as six inches off my driveway, stoop, and sidewalk. This electric shovel can help you clear an area quickly and with much less effort than a traditional shovel requires. But with snow any deeper than that, or with snow that's particularly wet and heavy, it can get jammed up.

The Toro Power Shovel Electric Snow Thrower is ideal for people who live in areas that get moderate snowstorms a few times per season. As noted, it can't really handle deep snow but for light precipitation, it clears the stuff right down to the pavement, pushing along easily without the strain that manual shoveling places on the knees, arms, and back.

This electric shovel is best suited to mid-sized properties, as it tosses snow a distance of about 20 feet. If you have a large driveway or patio, some of that snow is going to fall right back onto it so you'll be doubling up on work. For sidewalks, stoops, or smaller and medium-sized driveways, it's a great tool. The thrower cuts a 12-inch swath as it moves along, so you can clear a 1,000 square foot area covered by four inches of snow in about 20 minutes.

Check out our buying guide on the best snow blowers.

The best compact snow shovel

The Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel weighs less than 1.5 pounds and folds down to just over 2 feet long, making it perfect for storing in the trunk of a car.

Pros: Compact size ideal for storage in car or closet, adjustable handle length, low price point

Cons: Too small for serious shoveling jobs

Sometimes a snowstorm can happen out of nowhere, so it's a good idea to keep the Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel in your car in addition to an ice scraper.

This compact and multipurpose shovel can be stowed in the trunk or backseat. It's lightweight at around 1.3 pounds and it can adjust from 25 to 32 inches in length, allowing for comfortable use by people of various heights.

The blade is smaller than most traditional snow shovels, but it can still scoop enough snow to clear the stoop and steps outside your home, carve out a narrow walking path, or help dig your car tires out of the snow.

Because this shovel is so compact, don't expect to use it for large snow-clearing jobs. The handle is quite short and it will be rough on your back. Think of this as more of an emergency-preparedness tool than an everyday shovel.

The best snow pusher

The extra-wide blade of the Manplow REV42 Revolution Snow Pusher can clear 42-inch swaths of sidewalk, driveway, patio, and more in a single pass.

Pros: Clears huge swath in one pass, the reversible blade extends the working life, will not damage terrain

Cons: Not effective with deep snow, not meant for scooping

The Manplow REV42 Revolution Snow Pusher is not technically a snow shovel because it's not designed to lift and toss scoops of snow. Instead, it is an extra-wide tool for clearing a 42-inch swath of snow in a single pass.

The broad blade is designed not to damage terrain, so you can use the REV42 on cobblestone, brick, wood, and more as long as it's smooth — it's easy to get jammed up on uneven heights. Yet it's rugged enough to shove heavy loads of snow aside without bending your body. In fact, it's probably not recommended to scoop up any snow because it'll be very heavy.

For quickly clearing most driveways and walkways, it's hard to beat a big snow pusher like this. If the snow piles up more than seven or eight inches high, the REV42 becomes less effective, as snow can spill over the top of the blade.

That said, for most suburban homes or for clearing swaths of city sidewalks, the Manplow REV42 Revolution Snow Pusher is a great alternative to a more traditional shovel. And thanks to its clever reversible blade, it will serve you for years, too: When the edge of the pusher becomes too worn down and uneven to be effective, just remove the blade, flip it upside down, and enjoy a like-new snow tool.

FAQs about snow shovels

How to choose the right shovel

Consider your physical shape: If you have any physical issues due to age, injury, or illness, then opt for a tool that uses wheels, focused leverage, or even a motor to help minimize the effort needed to move that snow. The ergonomic snow shovel and electric snow shovel we recommend above should be your first picks.

Take factors like snowfall, terrain, and area size into account: If you're healthy, a more traditional snow shovel might be fine, but you still need to consider the volume of snowfall you'll be facing and the terrain at hand.

Even a fit person can be overwhelmed by hours of shoveling and should consider an efficient tool, even if it costs more. Keep in mind that a bigger shovel is not always better — a shovel that's too wide for your narrow stoop might be counterproductive, for example.

Tips and tricks for shoveling snow 

• Before the snow falls, lay down some salt or ice melt on the area you'd need to shovel to prevent ice from forming. 
• If safe to do so, shovel while it's snowing, before the snow accumulates into a heavier and more solid mass. Shoveling snow in layers, rather than all at once, also reduces stress on your body. 
• Use your legs — not your back — when shoveling to reduce the chance of injury. 

Check out our other winter storm-related buying guides

• The best snow blowers
• The best snow and ice melt
• The best winter boots for men
• The best winter boots for women

• A pair of gloves makes a huge difference on a cold winter day, allowing your hands to stay warm no matter how frigid it is outside.
• Our top pick, the Ozero Thermal -30°F Suede Winter Gloves, are affordable, offer unisex sizing, and keep your hands warm even when temperatures drop below zero.
• If you prefer mittens as your hand-warming method of choice, check out our guide on the best mittens.

With winter well underway, you've likely had to pull on your gloves to leave the house at lease once — whether it's to run errands, shovel the driveway, or participate in some outdoor activities. If those cheap knit gloves you've had for ages are looking a little worse for wear, it's time to consider picking out a dependable pair of winter gloves. 

Winter gloves come in many varieties, including thermal, waterproof, and tech-friendly, so it's important to pick out a pair that fits your intended use. Whether you're planning a fun ski trip, taking work calls for long hours in the elements, or you just need something warm enough to handle quick trips outside, these are the gloves that will keep frostbite at bay.

We did the research to find the best winter gloves you can buy to keep your hands nice and toasty for this year's winter and for many more winters to come. 

Here are the best winter gloves:

• Best unisex overall: Ozero Thermal -30°F Suede Leather Winter Gloves
• Best gloves in men's sizing: Carhartt Men's W.P. Waterproof Insulated Gloves
• Best gloves in women's sizing: The North Face Women's Etip Gloves
• Best gloves for outdoor activity: Flylow John Henry Gloves
• Best work gloves: Ergodyne ProFlex 817WP Thermal Waterproof Utility Gloves
• Best affordable gloves in women's sizing: IL Caldo Thick Warmer Weather Gloves
• Best Gore-Tex gloves: Burton Gore-Tex Gloves

Best unisex gloves overall

If you are looking for thermal gloves that are affordable and warm, the Ozero Thermal -30°F Suede Leather Winter Gloves are your best bet.

Pros: Affordable, warm, true to size, waterproof, unisex, good grip

Cons: Fingers of gloves may be slightly too long for those with small hands

Sizing options: S-XL

The Ozero Thermal -30°F Suede Leather Winter Gloves feature five layers of materials to keep your hands warm and dry in below-freezing temperatures. The outer layers of polar fleece and waterproof TPU provide thermal retention and moisture-wicking, while the middle firm sponge layer keeps the shape of the glove intact.

The inner layers include Heatlok insulated cotton and TR thermal cotton, which both ensure your hands stay warm  — even when the temperature drops down to  -20°F. The gloves also feature a windproof cuff at the wrist that prevents cold air from creeping inside.

The deerskin suede leather gloves are made with a solid grip, so they're the perfect winter accessory for partaking in cold weather activities or even just driving on a brisk winter morning. The gloves come in sizes small to extra large, so they should fit hands of all sizes.

Best gloves in men's sizing

The Carhartt Men's W.P. Waterproof Insulated Gloves are an affordable pair of gloves that are insulated, waterproof, and made to last. 

Pros: Affordable, waterproof, insulated, moisture-wicking

Cons: Slightly too bulky for working outside with small materials

Sizing options: S-XXL

There's a reason why the clothing brand Carhartt is synonymous with durable outdoor apparel, as it has been producing high-quality outerwear and accessories since 1889. Carhartt's Men's W.P. Waterproof Insulated Gloves are no exception to the rule.

The gloves are made with a long-lasting polytex shell that features a FastDry lining to wick away moisture as you use them, so you can say goodbye to sweaty palms.

One thing to keep in mind: Some users say they aren't the most practical option if you plan on working outdoors in cold temperatures, because they are too bulky to pick up small items such as nuts and bolts.

Best gloves in women's sizing

The North Face Women's Etip Gloves will keep your hands warm and let you use your phone at the same time.

Pros: Tech-friendly, warm, good grip, variety of colors to choose from

Cons: Not waterproof

Sizing options: XS-L

If you want to be able to check your phone without removing your gloves, try The North Face Etip Gloves. These tech-friendly gloves are perfect for those who still like to stay connected while enjoying the great outdoors.

Your hands will stay warm and toasty as you scroll through Facebook, thanks to the gloves' five-finger touch capability. The gloves also feature extra silicone grip on the palm, so your hands won't slip as you scroll, ski, or shovel.

The sturdy gloves use a lock clip system, so you can store them together and you'll never have to worry about losing one. There are several colors to choose from including purple, gray, and pink.

Read our full review of the North Face Etip Gloves here.

Best for outdoor activities

The unisex Flylow John Henry Gloves are breathable, durable, and will keep your hands warm and dry during winter adventures or outdoor chores alike.

Pros: Breathable, water-resistant, durable construction, leather palms for rock scrambles or cold-weather belaying, stretchy wrist for big hands

Cons: Not touchscreen compatible, run small

Flylow gloves have a bit of a cult following in mountain towns, thanks to their comfortable fit and quality construction. The brand's unisex John Henry Gloves are one of the best options out there for early morning uphill skiing, winter running, and snowshoeing.

The stretchy woven material on the back of the hand allows these gloves to be breathable without letting the cold in. The palms and thumb joint are constructed of pre-treated pigskin leather which not only helps insulate your hands but also adds a layer of durability if you have to scramble over rocks on a winter trail run.

Water-resistance is key when looking at thermal gloves for winter sports. The problem: Many waterproofing materials compromise the breathability of fabric. While Flylow's John Henry gloves aren't technically waterproof, the treated leather provides a barrier between your hands and the snow, so they have to get repeatedly soaked before that icy water penetrates to your hands.

Generally, the John Henrys will keep your hands warm when you're in single digit temps — and after that, they can be used as an (albeit bulky) liner in big thermal mitts. People with large hands will love the stretchy wrist opening to more easily get their big mitts into, as well as the leather pull tab to help slide the gloves on. We recommend sizing up as they run a bit small. — Rachael Shultz

Best work gloves

If your job requires you to work outdoors during the winter, the Ergodyne ProFlex 817WP Thermal Waterproof Utility Gloves have the dexterity you need.

Pros: Waterproof, insulated, breathable liner, extra cushioning

Cons: Tricky sizing

Sizing options: S-XXL. Some users have noted that sizing was not consistent and recommend checking the size chart before buying.

Made with 40g 3M Thinsulate insulation and a Hipora water and windproof breathable liner, the Ergodyne ProFlex 817WP Thermal Waterproof Utility Gloves are highly-rated gloves for those who work outside in the cold winter months.

The padded spandex back and neoprene knuckle pad offer cushioning for extra comfort, while the terrycloth panel on the thumb allows you to wipe sweat from your brow as you work. The flexible gloves have the full range of dexterity that you need when you are on the job. They are also touchscreen-capable on the thumb and index fingers.

Best affordable women's gloves

Super warm gloves don't have to be super bulky, and the Il Caldo Thick Winter Drive Gloves prove it.

Pros: Warm, machine-washable, touchscreen tips

Cons: These gloves are warm enough for city life, but certainly not suited for the Arctic Circle

Sizing options: One size fits most

Just because the weather has taken a turn for the worse doesn't mean that your sense of style has to do the same. Il Caldo's Thick Winter Drive Gloves are not only extremely warm, but also quite elegant.

Lined with both cotton and wool, these gloves are surprisingly warm and fantastic at insulating your hands against the snow and wind. There are a number of different styles available, but all feature unique details that allow these gloves to stand a cut above the rest when it comes to aesthetics. Whether it comes in the form of faux fur lining or the touchscreen finger tips, the Il Caldo offerings combine form with function.

Thanks to the wool and cotton construction, you can run these gloves through the wash without worrying about ripping them to shreds. I was pleasantly surprised to find that even after a few cycles, these gloves did not shrink, nor did they lose their ability to keep my hands cozy. The gloves also feature touchscreen tips, though, like many other gloves, this functionality is somewhat touch and go (no pun intended). — Lulu Chang

Best Gore-Tex gloves

If you're looking to survive subzero conditions with all your fingers intact, Burton Gore-Tex gloves are the way to go.

The best invention of the last few decades may just be Gore-Tex. The waterproof, breathable fabric has the unique ability to block liquids while allowing water vapor to pass through, making for a dry, comfortable environment. When it comes to keeping your hands cozy and protected in seriously harsh conditions (wind, snow, sleet), one of the best options is the Burton Gore-Tex glove.

Pros: Incredibly warm, waterproof yet breathable, Sticky Icky palm technology allows for great grip

Cons: None to speak of

Sizing options: S-XL

Gore-Tex makes up the membrane of this glove, which ensures that it's waterproof, but Burton also includes an integrated Thermocore layer of insulation for extra warmth. The outside of the glove is made from a double layer of DryRide Ultrashell fabric, which is windproof and waterproof, but will still let your hands breathe.

If you're looking to do work in these gloves, that's possible too thanks to the Sticky Icky technology in the palms that allow you to grip onto ski poles, shovels, or your significant other's hand.

One of my favorite things about the Burton Gore-Tex glove is that it's essentially three gloves in one. The fleece liner on the interior of the glove is removable, which means that you can either wear just the fleece, just the outer shell, or put them both together for days when it's especially chilly out. If you opt to wear the fleece on its own, you can take advantage of its touchscreen technology (though to be fair, I've often had trouble using my smartphone without fully de-gloving).

Sizes are available from extra small to extra large, so folks of all genders will be able to buy and enjoy a pair. — Lulu Chang

Check out our other buying guides for cold-weather gear

The best winter coats in men's sizing

The best winter coats in women's sizing

The best beanies

The best places to buy scarves online

The best places to buy winter hats for everyone

The best mittens you can buy

The best snow pants for everyone

• Spring may be around the corner, but it's still the season of unpredictable winter storms
• A good pair of winter boots can keep your feet warm and dry as long as the snow sticks around
• The UGG Adirondack III Boots are our top pick, The UGG Adirondack III Boots are our top pick, but there are other boots we recommend, too
• If you're looking for men's sizes, check out our guide to the best winter boots for men.

When you think of "winter boots," it's likely you think of thick-soled, lace-up boots that are perfect for stomping through the snow. But anyone who has lived in the suburbs or a major city knows that not everyone needs winter boots that are so technically-focused. The most important things in a winter boot are style, warmth, comfort, and its ability to protect your feet from the elements. 

After all, we know that not everyone needs heavy-duty boots that can take on sub-zero temperatures and six-foot snowbanks, but we also know that there are plenty of people who are looking for a great pair of snow boots who won't be satisfied with a cute pair that can't handle more than a light flurry. And with the unpredictability of winter storms, you may find you need one of each type. With that in mind, we've rounded up our top boot picks, below.

Here are the best winter boots for women in 2021:

• Best winter boots overall: UGG Adirondack III Boots
• Best tall winter boots: Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots
• Best slip-on snow boots: LaCrosse Women's Alpha Thermal Boots
• Best tough winter boots: Columbia Bugaboot IV Winter Boots
• Best stylish winter boots: Sorel Slimpack II Lace Boots
• Best mid-calf winter boots: Columbia Heavenly Omni-Heat Lace-Up Boots

Updated on 1/5/2020 by Maria Del Russo: Updated prices, links, and sizing information. Added the LaCrosse Women's Alpha Thermal Boots as our best slip-on snow boots pick. We're currently in the process of testing more boots for this guide, so make sure to check back soon. 

SEE ALSO: The best winter boots for men

The best winter boots overall

The UGG Adirondack III Boots are super cute winter boots that can handle extreme cold and deep snow without any problems.

Pros: Waterproof, pure wool lining, made for very cold temperatures, good traction, Vibram sole

Cons: None to speak of

Sizing options: 5-12

UGG makes super stylish boots, and the Adirondack III boots are made for intense cold and tons of snow. With these boots on your feet, you'll be ready to brave anything winter throws at you.

The boots are made of waterproof leather and they have a super cozy insulating wool lining that's as fuzzy as it is warm. You can roll the tops down to expose the wool for style, or flip them back up to keep more of your ankle and lower calf warm.

The Vibram outsole is strong and provides great traction on icy surfaces, plus, these boots can handle extremely cold temperatures as low as -20°C, which is -4°F. You can buy the Adirondack boots in a few different colors, including white, black, and brown.

When I first put an older version of these boots on, I was impressed by how light, warm, and cute they were. By all rights, they should be clunky, but they're not. UGG's boots look cute enough to pair with skinny jeans or leggings all winter long in even the snobbiest of cities.

These boots are tough enough to handle rural areas with tons of snow, too, so you really can't go wrong with them. In my mind, they're the perfect boots for just about everyone. The only downside is the high price, but they'll last you for years. After a full winter of use, mine are still going strong.

The best tall winter boots

The Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots are absolutely perfect for stomping through snowbanks and tackling intense winter conditions in style.

Pros: Tall boots, extra warm, rated for cold temperatures, good grip, comfortable, many color options

Cons: None to speak of

Sizing options: 5-11

When the winter winds blow up a crazy snowstorm and you have 6 feet of snow to contend with in sub-zero temperatures, you need some serious winter boots that will keep more than just your feet warm. Sorel's Joan of Arctic Boots are just the ticket.

These boots are nearly a foot tall, so they'll keep your entire calf warm and dry even in deep snow. The suede leather shaft is fully waterproof and a faux fur cuff finishes the boots off in style. They lace up from a sturdy vulcanized rubber section that covers your toes and keeps them dry.

Sorel says these boots can handle temperatures as low as -25°F or -32°C. The tread on the bottom is grippy and good for ice and snow. You can even get them in a number of different colors and styles if faux fur isn't your thing or you don't want leather.

When I first took them out of the box, I thought these boots would be super clunky and bulky, but looks are deceiving. Once they were on my feet, they looked great. I can easily see these boots being perfect for both the city and the country because they are super stylish yet rugged enough to take on serious snow.

The best slip-on snow boots

Avoid fussing with laces with the LaCrosse Women's Alpha Thermal Boots, which have incredibly warm insulation and a reliable outsole to keep you safe and dry in nasty weather.

Pros: Easy to slip on, waterproof, insulted down to -40°F, reliable outsoles to prevent slipping, lightweight, comfortable footbed, wide calf

Cons: Potentially too warm to wear at a restaurant or office

Sizing options: 5-11

All of the boots on our list will keep your feet warm and dry in snow and slush alike. But if you have to trudge through calf-deep powder to shovel your car or just run to the mailbox in wintry conditions, it's a serious pain to lace up your heavy-duty boots. LaCrosse's Women's Alpha Thermal Boots are ideal for winter activities where function is the driving factor. The upper is made from thick, waterproof rubber and neoprene for keeping snow, ice, and rain out up to your knees. 

Without laces, these boots offer protection against the element for people whose dexterity might be limited — or when you're running out the door to ski or grocery shop. The soft, neoprene upper has an adjustable gusset to expand or size down for varying calf size.

The inside is lined with fleece to keep your feet warm down to a whopping -40°. The boots are outfitted with a seriously grippy, thick-lugged outsole which helps minimize slipping on ice and keeps snow from clumping underfoot. At $160, these boots aren't a budget pick. But their versatile design and the durability of everything LaCrosse makes mean one pair will last years. — Rachael Schultz

The best light but tough winter boots

The Columbia Bugaboot IV Winter Boots protect your feet from the fierce cold of winter and wet icy slush puddles — plus, they're light on your feet.

Pros: Lightweight, very warm, rated for low temperatures, relatively affordable

Cons: A bit bulky, not the most attractive boots you'll ever see

Sizing options: 5-12

When you think about tough gear that'll last you through an epic snowstorm, chances are, Columbia comes to mind. The company's coats, boots, shoes, and other gear are known for being of the highest quality. Columbia's Bugaboot IV Winter Boots are no exception.

I tested an older version of these popular and very highly rated winter boots and came away impressed by how light and toasty warm they were. By the look of them, I expected these boots to be as heavy and awkward to wear as the old winter boots I used to wear to survive the brutal winters in upstate New York (right across from the Canadian border, so we're talking 6 feet of snow and -30 windchills here). Imagine my surprise when they turned out to be light and nimble like a good pair of hiking boots.

The secret is in their design: Columbia used a mix of waterproof leather and textiles on the uppers to keep out all the snow, slush, and wet of winter without adding any unnecessary weight. The 200 grams of insulation inside keep your feet piping hot, too. These boots are so cozy that Columbia says they can handle temperatures as low as -25°F or -32°C. 

Of course, it's not just the uppers that keep these boots light, it's also the special Techlite midsole and the Omni-Grip outsole that keep the weight down. Both are lightweight and specially designed for great comfort, stability, and traction on slippery surfaces. 

These are the kind of boots I'd want on my feet during the cold nasty winters in snowy climates. They're perfect for walks through the snowy woods, shoveling out your driveway, and heading out to the grocery store. They obviously will not win any beauty contests and those who have more mild winters or live in cities where style is more important than strength won't need tough boots like these.

However, for anyone who needs a super warm, waterproof, stable, and lightweight pair of winter boots that are ready for action, these are the ones I'd recommend.

The best stylish winter boots with a small heel

The Sorel Slimpack II Lace Boots are fully waterproof, slim, and cute with a slight heel and fun color options.

Pros: Slight heel, good traction, waterproof, slim, comfortable, warm

Cons: Not as rugged or warm as some

Sizing options: 5-11

If you don't want to wear clunky winter boots all the time, you may want a lighter, slimmer pair for days when there's less snow on the ground. These Slimpack Lace II boots from Sorel deliver. They have the distinctive duck boot design you see on many winter boots and rain boots, but Sorel adds cute little design elements like wool accents and fun laces to make them stand out.

The full-grain leather upper is fully waterproof as is the vulcanized rubber part that wraps around the lower part of your foot. You can splash in the rain or stomp through slush puddles in these boots without getting wet. The wool felt collar around the top of the boot adds warmth and style to the basic boots. Inside the boots, there's a nice microfleece lining that will keep your feet warm but not sweltering.

These are comfortable, breathable boots that Sorel says are best for heavy rain instead of snow. However, if you wear them with a nice thick pair of socks, they are perfect for cold winter days and a few feet of snow. The waterproof construction and the grippy outsole offer good traction on ice.

These boots even have a little heel that's just under two inches, which I appreciate as a 5-foot-2 lady. I love these Sorel boots and I wear them whenever it rains. In the winter, I wear them on days with light snow because they're both nice-looking and practical for the city streets.

If you need heavy-duty winter boots for extreme cold and snow, check out our other more rugged picks.

The best mid-calf winter boots

The Columbia Heavenly Omni-Heat Boots are super cozy and fully waterproof mid-calf winter boots that feel like light slippers on your feet.

Pros: Warm, comfortable, good traction, rated for very cold temperatures, higher rise

Cons: None

Sizing options: 5-12

If the other Columbia boots in our guide are just too clunky and rugged for your tastes, you'll love these Heavenly Omni-Heat boots. First things first: These boots look way cuter in person than they do online. When I put an older version of these boots on the first time, I knew I could easily wear them with skinny jeans or a dress and tights in the city without shame. Columbia has a bunch of fun colors, too, so you can buy the pair that'll look best with your style.

Believe it or not, these boots are just as warm, waterproof, and comfortable as the chunkier Bugaboots. The waterproof woven textile uppers hit your leg mid-calf and boast a cute faux fur lining that peeks out at the top and along the sides where you lace the boots up. They'll keep your feet and legs warm even in a foot or two of snow.

Columbia's Omni-Tech waterproof seam-sealed membrane keeps water, slush, and snow out of your boots while the 200 grams of insulation inside keep your feet and legs super warm. Just like the Bugaboots, these can withstand temperatures as cold as -25°F or -32°C, thanks to the Omni-Heat reflective lining.

These boots will fare just as well on the snowy city streets as they will in the driveway shoveling snow or out walking on snowy paths. I consider these boots to be the perfect stylish alternative for colder climates where you still need serious boots.

Other winter boots we love

• L.L. Bean Shearling-Lined Bean Boots ($229): L.L.Bean's boots are quintessential winter gear for a reason: They're extremely high quality. These classic duck-style Bean Boots are lined with real sheepskin shearling to keep your feet extra warm even in the cold winters of Maine where these boots are made.
• Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boot ($79.95): Although it isn't technically a winter boot, this stylish boot does an amazing job at keeping your feet dry and supported. It has amazing cushioning, and grippy outsoles to keep you sure-footed in the most slippery conditions. 
• Doc Marten 1460 Collar ($169.95):With their thick, rubber soles and amazing traction, Doc Martens are an ideal winter boot for people who aren't traipsing over snowy cliffs. They're not the boots you want to take on a hike through the woods, but they're perfect for those who live in the city and just need a sturdy shoe to get you to and from the subway. The shearling adds a nice touch, although you'll want to wear thick socks with these on particularly frigid days. 
• Timberland 6-inch Premium Waterproof Boots ($170): These boots have light PrimaLoft eco insulation to retain warmth and are made of responsibly sourced, waterproof leather on the outer. The footbed is comfortable, shock-absorbing, and has great traction on slippery surfaces. I bought these for slushy winter weather when I lived in New York City, but they're still my go-to boots after a snowstorm in my new home of Colorado. — Rachael Schultz

Check out our other winter gear guides

The best winter coats for women

The best winter coats for men

The best places to buy scarves online

The best thermal gloves

The best mittens

The best snow pants

• A quality snow blower should efficiently clear snow, require minimal effort, and last through many winters.
• Our top choice is the Toro Power Clear 821 QZE Gas Snow Blower because it can match your pace and effortlessly handles all types of snow.
• If you're not quite ready to buy a snow blower but still need to clear snow, check out our guide to the best snow shovels.

When winter is in full swing and snowstorms are frequent, it's time to pull out the right tool for the job — the snow blower. This type of snow-removal equipment clears snow quickly with minimal effort, making it a must-have for anyone who lives in a place where snowdrifts are common.

To find the best snow blowers, we researched and combed through hundreds of buyer and expert ratings and reviews of dozens of models. Our guide features throwers that have a track record of performance, durability, and, ease of use. If you're not sure where to start, jump to the bottom of this guide to read up on what to consider when buying a snow blower. 

Here are the best snow blowers in 2021

• Best overall: Toro Power Clear 821 QZE Gas Snow Blower
• Best on a budget: WEN 5662 Snow Blaster Electric Snow Thrower
• Best single-stage: Toro Power Clear 721 E Gas Snow Blower
• Best cordless electric: EGO SNT2102 Cordless Electric Snow Blower
• Best space-saving: Toro Power Shovel Electric Snow Thrower

The best snow blower overall

If you want to remove snow from flat, paved surfaces as quickly and effortlessly as possible, the Toro Power Clear 821 QZE Gas Snow Blower is the best.

Pros: Electric start, moves at your pace, handles wet snow well, two-year full warranty

Cons: May have trouble with uneven surfaces

There are a few features that make the Toro Power Clear 821 QZE Gas Snow Blower stand out. It has an electric push-to-start button, which helps contribute to its simplicity, and it also has a powerful engine that allows you to easily slice through even the thickest snow. 

Its powerful engine allows it to send snow up to 40 ft away. The self-propelled power system moves the snow blower at your walking speed, while also keeping it in constant contact with the ground. A quick-shoot trigger switch allows you to adjust the chute direction and angle. The clearing width is 21 inches and the snow cut depth is 9 inches.

The snow blower is also very lightweight at only 96 pounds. It is specifically designed to be easy to store; the front handle folds down to lessen the amount of space it takes up in your home. 

Customer reviews note that the equipment is easy to use, lightweight, and easily storable, and the snow blower is adept at removing both heavy and wet snow.

The best on a budget

The WEN 5662 Snow Blaster Electric Snow Thrower is ideal for homeowners who are tired of shoveling and want a simple, affordable unit that clears walks and small paved driveways.

Pros: Affordable, lightweight, no need for gas, easy to assemble

Cons: Clogs if the snow is too wet, have to mind the cord (not included)

The WEN 5662 Snow Blaster Electric Snow Thrower is an electric, single-stage blower that relies on electricity provided by an extension cord. So, if you have a long driveway, this may not be a reasonable solution. But, for small jobs, it can be great with its 18-inch clearing width and 13.5-amp engine that is supposed to clear 490 pounds of snow per minute. The thrower only weighs about 39 pounds and is backed by a two-year warranty.

The WEN can handle even large snow piles with ease, and it's quieter than a gas model. It's compact enough to store in a small garage or shed, and it's effective at clearing deep snow in one pass. If the snow is too wet or heavy, however, this machine tends to struggle, and the chute can get clogged. One annoying feature may be the safety switch that requires resetting when it turns off.

The best single-stage snow blower

The Toro Power Clear 721 E Gas Snow Blower is lightweight, self-propelled, and has a "guaranteed to start" warranty for the first two years.

Pros: Compact, lightweight, easy to maneuver, self-propelled, two-year full "Guaranteed to Start" warranty

Cons: Not meant for heavy snowfalls, manual chute adjustment

At 87 pounds, the Toro Power Clear 721 E Gas Snow Blower is incredibly light for a gas-powered snow blower. This, along with the Power Propel self-propel system, make this single-stage unit easy to move around.

Another cool feature is the Toro "Guaranteed to Start" warranty, which states that the blower will start on the first or second pull every time in the first two years. If not, the company will fix it for free. The hard-plastic body has a 21-inch width, and the tough plastic auger makes constant contact with the surface for efficient clearing.

Though this model may have trouble with larger quantities of snow, it's maneuverability makes it great for tight driveways and regular maintenance. It also won't get clogged or bogged down by heavy, wet snow thanks to its tough auger. Be mindful, however, if you have any gravel paths or rocky terrain as single-stage snow blowers can throw rocks and other small objects that may get pulled in.

The best cordless electric snow blower

If you don't want to bother with gas and snow in your area is measured in inches instead of feet, then the EGO Cordless Electric Snow Blower is your best bet.

Pros: Runs quiet, no need for gas, features headlights, easy to assemble and store, lightweight

Cons: Not self-propelled, only runs for about 30-45 minutes at a time (but charges quickly)

For a battery-powered snow blower, the EGO Power+ Snow Blower can do a lot. It has a 21-inch clearing width and can handle snow up to 10 inches deep.

There are also two bright LED lights that will help you clear your drive before taking off for work in the morning. The SNT2102 comes with two 5.0 Ah batteries. The batteries last up to 45 minutes, and the charger takes 45 minutes to charge each battery. So, you may want to consider picking up extra batteries if you have a lot of area to clear.

Because it's battery-powered, it's much quieter than its gas counterparts. You also won't have to deal with fumes or refilling the tank. The push-button start is also quite the luxury for those accustomed to yanking pull cords to no avail season after season.

The best space-saving snow blower

The Toro Power Shovel Electric Snow Thrower is about the size of a standard snow shovel, but it has the power to clear snow up to six inches deep with its powerful auger.

Pros: Won't take up much space, clears moderate snowfall with ease, thin enough to use on steps, throws snow up to 20 feet

Cons: Must remain plugged in, can't handle deep snow, can't direct where snow is thrown

The Toro Power Shovel is a wonderful snow-clearing tool for a variety of applications. If you live in an area that receives only moderate snowfall a few times a year, it might be the only snow blower you need. It handles snowfall of up to six inches with ease, plus its small footprint makes it agile enough to clear steps — something a full-size snowblower will never be able to do. That ability alone makes it worth its pretty affordable price tag, in our opinion. If you have a full-sized blower, consider adding this one to your toolkit for detail work.

Its small size also makes it easy to store, and it's electric so you don't have to worry about keeping a full gas can around or being caught without when an unexpected storm hits. Being tethered to an outlet can be limiting, though, so make sure to invest in a good weather-safe extension cord. We don't recommend clearing large swaths of snow with this machine, so a good 100-footer should do just fine.

The Power Shovel has a strong auger that can move up to 300 pounds of snow per minute, throwing it up to 20 feet. One downside to this compact machine is that it throws the snow directly out in front of you, and there's no way to direct the snow elsewhere. We suggest strategically determining your snow clearing path so you don't end up accidentally reburying the stairs you just cleared.

What to consider when buying a snow blower

When buying a snow blower, you should first consider where you want the power to come from. There are three main sources: gas, corded electric, and cordless electric or battery.

• Gas snow blowers are the most popular, most powerful, and most expensive option. They also typically need more maintenance than the other two options.
• Corded electric blowers are generally the least expensive and don't pollute, but just like a corded lawnmower, you have to mind the cord as you work, and it's not recommended for longer driveways due to the inherent cord-length limitations.
• Battery power avoids the cord problem, but batteries only last for so long before they need to be recharged. You can buy extra batteries so that you have enough to complete your job, but they are usually quite expensive.

Snow blowers are either single-stage, two-stage, or three-stage.

• A single-stage snow blower (also referred to as a snow thrower) has an auger that moves very fast and sends the snow flying out of the chute in one step.
• Two-stage blowers have augers that feed the snow into the chute where a propeller throws the snow.
• Three-stage blowers have augers that feed the snow into the center where it is chopped up and fed into the propeller.

Snow blowers with multiple stages tend to cost more, but they can also handle heavier-duty jobs and throw the snow farther.

Check out more great winter guides

• The best snow shovels
• The best snow and ice melt
• The best winter boots for men
• The best winter boots for women

• Having a stocked emergency kit helps you stay prepared in the event of an unexpected natural disaster, power outage, or storm. 
• Many pre-assembled kits are designed for specific uses such as handling natural disasters or holding up in severe weather. 
• Our top pick, the Sustain Supply Co. 72-Hour Survival Kit, covers vitals like water, sustenance, first aid, and warmth, and has plenty of redundancies.

Editor's note: With inventories in constant flux, we're keeping up with providing links to products and goods that are in stock and priced appropriately as best we can. Some recommendations may link to products that are currently out of stock, available via a third party, or aren't able to ship for several weeks. 

Though it's unlikely you'll find yourself in a situation calling for an emergency preparedness kit, preparedness is the operative word. Should a disaster strike in the form of an earthquake, tornado, civil unrest, a major storm, or something similar, you might find yourself cut off from outside help, relying on your wits and whatever rations and supplies you have on hand.

If this does happen, rations with a multi-year shelf life and any supplies included in a first aid kit like light sources, fire-starting tools, and other such essentials could be literal lifesavers. But remember, buying an emergency kit is only the first step in readying yourself and your household to respond to a crisis properly.

It's important to remember that being in a stressful situation impacts your problem-solving, so it's vital to take the purchase of an emergency kit seriously and to know exactly what's in it. If you already own one, take some time to make an inventory list of what's included and where exactly it is in the kit. We also recommend storing some cash and some specific first aid items a family member might need.

Above all, you need the kit to allow you to be self-sufficient for whatever amount of time you're relying on it. With that in mind, we compiled the following guide to the best emergency kits currently available. Though we've not been able to legitimately test each one during an emergency situation, we've included picks that have been deeply researched or that we've been able to spend even a little bit of time with in person. 

Here are the best emergency kits:

• Best emergency kit overall: Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 72-Hour Emergency Survival Kit
• Best for natural disasters: Black Hawk Survival 2-Person Deluxe Survival Kit
• Best for severe weather: Complete Earthquake Bag
• Best budget: Ready America 2-Person 3-Day Emergency Kit
• Best portable: Monoki First Aid Survival Kit

Best overall

The carefully curated Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 72-Hour Emergency Survival Kit overs basic needs and offers redundancies in critical areas such as hydration and warmth.

Pros: Thoughtful and comprehensive curation, included rations actually taste good, comes with plenty of water and its own filtration system

Cons: Quite expensive compared to other options

I chose the Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 72-Hour Emergency Survival Kit as my family's emergency preparedness kit because after looking at many different options, it seemed to be the most thoughtfully curated option. There is simply nothing in this kit that feels superfluous, and there's no glaring omission, either.

Many survival kits have items like toothbrushes and hair combs that may make mornings more pleasant but aren't entirely imperative for survival during an emergency. In other words, that means they're just extra weight. The Comfort4 kit is stocked almost exactly as I'd have built a kit from scratch.

When I got the founder of Sustain Supply Co. on the phone, I learned how they pulled that off. Brent Stern explained that they used Amazon analytics to determine which prep/survival products people tended to buy at the same time and then made the leading choices of discerning shoppers the products they included in the kit.

Thus, the Comfort4 comes stocked with foods that may have a 30-year shelf life and that actually taste good once rehydrated and cooked. It includes more emergency drinking water than you'll find in almost any other emergency kit, too. The kit also has all the basics, like first aid supplies, fire starters, emergency blankets, a razor-sharp knife, and more.

But there's another reason I chose the Sustain Supply Co. Four-72 Emergency Survival Kit both for my own home as well as for the top pick on this list: redundancy. The kit comes with two lanterns, two flashlights, and multiple chemical snap lights (AKA glow sticks). As noted, it comes with a lot of drinking water, but it also has a water filter included. It has enough fire starting supplies to make more than enough fires for the three days for which the kit is designed to sustain four adults.

Yes, it's expensive but your safety is priceless. And though it's on the heavy side, if you're with other adults, you can spread the weight around or pass the backpack from person to person as needed.

Best for natural disasters

Black Hawk Survival's 2-Person Deluxe Survival Kit offers a versatile collection of emergency essentials like food and water but also comes stocked with crucial extras like waterproof matches, emergency sleeping bags, and N95 safety masks. 

Pros: Enough supplies to support two people for up to 72 hours, everything comes packaged into seal top bags, can come in a roller bag-style kit or a waterproof dry bag

Cons: Seal top bags don't come pre-labeled, so you'll have to dig through the kit when you first get it to see where everything is 

Fully stocked emergency kits aren't exactly inexpensive, so the one you buy should not only have enough contents to support multiple people, but it should hold-up across multiple use cases, too. Black Hawk Survival's aptly named 2-Person Deluxe Survival Kit does exactly this, and even comes packed in an easy-to-haul, easy-to-store wheel bag. 

The kit is split into seven basic categories: Food and water, light and communication, shelter and warmth, hygiene and sanitation, first aid, tools, and other (think notepads, small pencils, infectious waste bags, etc.). Doing it in this way not only assures that you can quickly glance at the list to make sure you're covered for literally anything, but if you keep a running checklist, you're able to replenish contents more easily.

Black Hawk Survival sends the bag with everything mostly separated into seal top bags and grouped together accordingly; the water is in its own bag, as are the food bars and utensils, toothbrush and toothpaste, and so on. However, the bags aren't labeled, so you may want to take a Sharpie to each one when you first open the kit.

As mentioned above, this kit excels in terms of versatility. It functions well as a quick go-bag but also can support two people over the course of 72 hours in the event of a natural disaster, massive power outage, or anything in between. There's even a deck of playing cards that depict various survival skills intended to educate you but also give you something to do during any downtime. 

At $205, it's certainly not cheap but few comprehensively stocked emergency kits like this are (and you don't want to skimp on something intended to save your life). It's worth the investment and has more use cases than you'll (hopefully) know what to do with it. -- Rick Stella, health and fitness editor for Insider Reviews

Best for severe weather

The Complete Earthquake Bag is designed to keep you safe and prepared during natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes, and features enough supplies to support at least four people. 

Pros: Packed in a roller bag-style duffle, has enough capacity to support up to four people for several days, contains a large first aid kit, comes with mylar sleeping bags, food and water included is good for up to five years

Cons: Bag isn't waterproof which would make it susceptible to damage in the event of a flood

If the natural disaster most likely to ravage your hometown is an earthquake, hurricane, or flood, this is the kit for you. Featuring enough supplies for up to four people (variations of the kit can serve up to six, too), the Complete Earthquake Bag is a literal life-saver. 
The kit packs all of its supplies into a portable duffle bag that features an extending handle and roller wheels, making it easy to grab and go (and using it like a roller bag is preferred when the bag is full of contents, too). 

Along with a standard 107-piece first aid kit, it also features hygiene kits, a water carrier, 40 purification tablets, several high-calorie food bars, a 30-hour candle, and a hand-crank flashlight that also acts as a phone charger and radio. There are even hand warmers and emergency ponchos, as well as waterproof matches and four mylar sleeping bags. 

Auxillary items like goggles, a sewing kit, nylon rope, and leather-palmed gloves are also included, allowing the kit to offer respite in a variety of environments and emergencies. Though the bag comes packed full with the included contents, there's still some room to include a few extras of your own. This could include personal medication, additional food, or extra pairs of socks, and the like. 

Don't let the price tag scare you away either. For everything that's included, and how important it is to be this prepared in the event of a natural disaster, the Complete Earthquake Bag is an incredible value. 

Best budget

The Ready America 2-Person 3-Day Emergency Kit has the basics you'll need to shelter in place or cover some ground for a few days.

Pros: Great low price, high visibility backpack, covers basic needs

Cons: Lacking several key items, the backpack itself is low quality

There are some notable items missing from the Ready America 2-Person 3-Day Emergency Kit. It lacks a flashlight or lantern, with the only light source being two chemical light sticks. There's also no blade or tool of any sort and it lacks fire-starting gear — not even a lighter or a pack of matches.

But here's the thing: The basic necessities needed for survival don't actually include a light source, a cutting tool, or even fire. They amount to hydration, nutrition, and protection from the elements, and this low-cost emergency prep kit has you and one other adult covered on those fronts.

The pair of emergency blankets and ponchos keep you relatively warm and dry even in harsh environs, the food and water rations keep you sufficiently nourished, and the first aid kit helps with most minor medical issues. 

Although it's basic, the Ready America 2-Person 3-Day Emergency Kit is sufficient to check the "Prepared" box off your household to-do list. I recommend you go ahead and add a light, a pocketknife, and some storm matches, though.

Best portable

A first aid kit that's portable makes it much easier to grab and go in times of need, and the 241-piece Monoki First Aid Survival Kit is easily stored in a backpack, large bag, or can even be carried with little trouble.

Pros: Features 241 pieces of first aid kit supplies, comes in an easy-to-transport waterproof case, a great companion to a larger emergency kit

Cons: Doesn't feature long-term emergency support supplies like food or water

A cumbersome first aid kit can sometimes make it hard to easily take it while on-the-go. With the Monoki First Aid Survival Kit, not only is it a highly portable emergency kit but it doesn't sacrifice any of the gear you'd need to rely on it in times of an emergency.

At 241 total pieces, this kit includes everything from medical gloves and bandages to a small pocketknife and multi-tool. There's even a pocket-sized flashlight, a compass, and a fire starter kit. Extra items like cotton swabs, fishing line, tweezers, safety pins, and a first aid blanket are also included.

The kit manages to stay small enough to fit into a roughly 8-inch by 5-inch waterproof container that easily fits into backpacks, bags, or gloveboxes (it's small enough to carry, too). This does mean it won't feature any extended support gear like emergency shelters, sleeping bags, or food and water.

Monoki's First Aid Survival Kit is inexpensive, too, costing just $36. So, not only does it pack the first aid supplies you'd need in the event of an emergency but it's a great value, as well. -- Rick Stella

More Insider Reviews preparedness resources

On Christmas Day, Virgilio Bento had a lot to celebrate.

His company, SWORD Health, had officially closed its latest funding round on the holiday to the tune of $25 million. It was the maximum amount he wanted to raise for the company's Series B that came less than a year after its public launch in the US. Transformation Capital led the round, which also included existing investors Khosla Ventures and Founders Fund.

SWORD Health is just one of several startups hoping to reimagine physical therapy for a virtual world. It uses motion-tracking technology paired with treatment plans from credentialed doctors or physical therapists to provide remote-first relief for patients experiencing musculoskeletal conditions such as neck or shoulder pain.

The startup launched in the US in January 2020 after deploying its services in Europe and Australia, Bento told Insider. The timing, just prior to nationwide lockdowns in the US meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus, was both a benefit and a challenge, Bento said.

At first, the company grew rapidly as more patients were shut out of traditional physical therapy clinics. Shortly after, companies began reviewing the benefits they offered in the name of cost-cutting and SWORD, which makes profits based on large contracts with employers, suffered.

"COVID was a tailwind because it reinforced the need for patients to receive care at home, but it also had headwinds," Bento said. "The self-insured employers stopped their search for new solutions, so there was a deceleration in the second quarter."

Once the dust had settled, however, SWORD rebounded and then some, Bento said. The resulting growth, which Bento said includes the company's 75% success rate in signing deals with companies they've pitched, was what caught investors' eyes when he started thinking about ways to sustain the growth beyond the coronavirus pandemic.

"We saw this big growth in the third and fourth quarters, and we understood that the operational needs would require additional funding to deliver in the first and second quarters this year," Bento said. "We knew we should raise again by the end of the year, and we took that decision forward in a very fast process."

Bento is based on Portugal and met with investors entirely remotely in what he called an "incredibly efficient" fundraising process. Although he said he missed the face-to-face time with his new lead investor, Transformation Capital, he predicted that he would replicate the earlier stages of the process even in a post-COVID-19 world.

SWORD Health  shared a copy of the presentation it used to win over investors remotely to raise $25 million in Series B funding. 

SEE ALSO: SIGN UP HERE: Hear from healthcare's biggest VCs on the future of digital health, biotech, and startups

SWORD Health is a startup that provides virtual physical therapy care.

Founder and CEO Virgilio Bento focused on reinventing technology for physical therapy while he was getting his doctorate in electrical engineering. He had witnessed the industry's stagnation and low-tech solutions after his brother woke from a 12-month coma and required physical therapy care.

Private investors have been keen to invest in startups like SWORD, which are typically referred to as MSK companies. Bento said the interest is a result of increased spending and rising costs in the industry.

SWORD Health works with insurance companies and employers to provide care to employees at no cost to them. It earns money through its contracts with employers. The below slide highlights the range of expenses self-insured employers take on, with musculoskeletal care ranking higher than mental health and cancer care costs combined.

SWORD Health uses motion-tracking devices to monitor patients' progress virtually. The remote monitoring aspect has been a key area of investment for VCs during the coronavirus pandemic.

SWORD Health patients have access to credentialed doctors and physical therapists to address a range of physical therapy conditions, such as neck or wrist pain. Bento said it is one of just a few companies that can compete with what he called the "gold standard" of in-person physical therapy.

SWORD Health first launched in Europe and Australia prior to entering the US market in January 2020. Bento declined to specify its valuation or number of customers in the US.

SWORD competes with companies like Hinge Health, another MSK startup that has been popular with VCs. Bento said that SWORD's differentiating factors are that it treats multiple conditions instead of focusing on just a few and that it works with licensed doctors and therapists instead of nondescript health coaches. Hinge Health is modeled similarly, but primarily focuses on chronic back and joint pain compared to SWORD's wider range of conditions.

Bento said that, when compared to in-person physical therapy, SWORD Health patients recovered 8 weeks faster on average in a company-published study. He said it could be due to the relatively flexible nature of remote care that patients can easily fit into their schedules.

You can find the full study here.

The company is eyeing other areas of growth, Bento said, that could benefit from the technology he has developed. That was a key reason he decided to work with Transformation Capital, he said, which could help identify new areas for SWORD to grow into.

Bento said he wanted a lead investor on the round that had expertise in the industry and could help the company grow as a board member. Currently, SWORD serves a wide range of patients, whether they are rehabbing in post-operative care or managing chronic conditions. He said he knew Transformation Capital was a good fit when he left the meeting having learned something new instead of having to educate VCs on his company's market.

Bento said he pitched up to 10 investors a day during the fundraising process, which he conducted entirely remotely. He said it helped make the process more efficient, but he missed the in-person aspects of getting to know major investors and adding the "human touch" element to the pitch process. In his virtual presentation, Bento opted to include testimonials from SWORD patients to help prove the personalized impact SWORD has had on their lives.

He said his existing investors, such as Khosla Ventures and Founders Fund, were eager to invest above their pro rata rights after having seen the outcomes from the time it had operated in the US.

Even as a young company, SWORD's retention and engagement have remained high among its patients, but also his investors. Bento said the most challenging part of the fundraising process was getting all the investors on board with a lower round. The only new investor was Transformation, he said, because the existing investors easily filled the remaining positions in the round.

To date, SWORD's outcomes have been favorable both to patients and their employers. By decreasing pain, time in surgery, and other factors related to musculoskeletal pain, SWORD also saves companies money by boosting employee productivity.

"You are working through this rollercoaster of starting a company with this person," Bento said. "Spending time with leading investors is important, and I missed that."

Bento said he is actively looking at ways to grow SWORD Health's services by broadening the scope of what its therapists can treat, but also in adding tools for the companies it works with to better manage costs associated with musculoskeletal care.

Transformation Capital managing director Todd Cozzens joined SWORD Health's board of directors as part of the funding round. The executive team has several digital health industry executives, including former employees at Virta Health, Artemis, and Rally Health. Bento has also brought on senior leaders from buzzy tech companies like Airbnb and Uber to help SWORD grow quickly.

Bento said the market for virtual musculoskeletal care is at an inflection point, and VCs are betting on which companies they think could win a majority of that market in the coming years.

• Winter may seem to be winding down, but unexpected storms may have you on the hunt for boots
• The Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV Omni Cold-Weather Boots are our top pick, but there are others to consider, too
• If you're looking for women's sizing for boots, check out our guide to the best winter boots for women.

Boots have to provide two qualities to be suitable for use during the winter: insulation and water-resistance. If your boots can't keep your feet warm and they can't keep your feet dry, then they're just not suitable for wintertime use.

And of those two imperative qualities, waterproofing is the most important factor. Once your socks grow sodden after snow, slush, or rain inundate your footwear, the insulation properties of the boots are no longer of much importance. It's no coincidence that most of the boots on our list have the word "waterproof" right in the product title.

That said, what someone living in the country looks for in a winter boot may be totally different than someone living in the city. Because of that, we've tested a number of boots, and round up our top picks, below. 

Here are the best winter boots for men:

• Best overall: Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV Omni Cold-Weather Boots
  
• Best classic: L.L.Bean 10-inch Shearling-Lined Bean Boots
• Best for rough terrain: Columbia's Daska Pass III Titanium Outdry Extreme Boots
• Best stylish: Red Wing Heritage Classic Moc Toe Boots
• Best rubber boots: Muck Boots Arctic Sport
• Best affordable boots for work: Ever Boots Ultra Dry Insulated Waterproof Work Boots
• Best low-cost: Kamik Men's Alborg Cold Weather Boots
• Best for wearing around town: Timberland White Ledge Waterproof Boots

SEE ALSO: The best men's hiking boots you can buy

Best winter boots overall

With the Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV Omni Cold-Weather Boots on your feet, you are going to be toasty warm even when the weather isn't, thanks to the advanced insulation and lightweight design.

Pros: Amazing insulation quality, reliably waterproof, good traction on snow, ice, and varied terrain

Cons: Too warm for use except in winter, rather large and bulky

The Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV Omni Cold-Weather Boots will keep your feet dry if you stand in a stream or puddle. Seriously, you could just step right into the water, and provided it didn't crest the impressive seven-inch rise of the shaft, your feet would not get wet. And were the stream or puddle into which you stepped freezing cold, your feet would stay nice and warm, too. That's because these exceptionally well-made winter boots come with 200-gram insulation and an Omni-Heat reflective lining that radiates your own body heat right back at you.

You know those metallic emergency blankets (also called space blankets) that people wrap themselves in after an accident or after running a marathon? Columbia's Omni-Heat technology uses much the same approach. The lining consists of multiple little dots of a radiant metallic material that reflects your foot's warmth back into the boot instead of absorbing it and drawing the warmth away from your extremities.

And to top it off (or... bottom it off, to be more precise) these boots have an outsole featuring excellent traction that's lightweight and offers plenty of energy return. The boots are an ideal choice for winter treks, whether you're hiking across miles of woodland terrain or simply plodding across town on a cold wintry morning.

Best classic winter boots

L.L.Bean's shearling-lined 10-inch boots are the warmest of the bunch, but any of the Bean Boots will serve you well through both fall and winter, and they go with most outfits.

Pros: Sturdy, high-end leather and rubber, steel shank for support, not outrageously priced, hand-stitched

Cons: Maybe not the most fashion-forward boots you'll come across this season (or next), but their beauty lies in their utilitarianism

L.L.Bean's boots were introduced in 1912, and haven't changed much since. That's because they haven't had to.

Leon Leonwood Bean did generations of anglers and hunters a serious solid by tacking together these remarkably warm and dry boots. The Bean Boots went on to become the genesis of his stardom more than a century ago. Today, you'll find them everywhere from the backwoods of Maine to the boroughs of the Big Apple.

While many of L.L.Bean's products are being made offshore these days, the company continues to craft a select few of its products stateside, including the beloved Bean Boots.

Constructed using rubber bottoms and soles, a steel shank, full-grain leather uppers, and 3M Thinsulate, these boots have hardly changed since the start. Of course, there was no 3M nor Thinsulate in the early 20th century, but the design, the leather, and the rubber have all remained the same.

One thing that has changed in L.L.Bean's boot game is variety. There are more than 30 styles of Bean Boots to choose from with an array of linings so there's a pair for each season.

These boots are part of the history of exploration and expedition themselves, having gone to war for the United States Army and forayed both poles. They are also storied to have found their way onto Ernest Hemingway's feet, who, according to GQ, even went so far as to recommend them himself.

The endorsements don't stop there. Popular Mechanics discussed The Never-Ending Greatness of L.L.Bean's Boots, and GQ has sung L.L.Bean's praise for years. One staff member here at Insider Inc. made a pair of these boots last more than 30 years. Here's proof.

Unfortunately, L.L.Bean's lifetime guarantee was discontinued, and purchases only come with a one-year warranty from here on out. We're sad to see this longstanding tradition go, but will still stand by Bean's boots unless the quality itself starts to drop. — Owen Burke

Best winter boots for rough terrain

Columbia's Daska Pass III Titanium Outdry Extreme boots are reliably waterproof in snow, sleet, or rain, feature a grippy Vibram outsole, and come in a high-top design for added coverage and support. 

Pros: Fully waterproof, features a grippy Vibram outsole, its full grain leather upper is both durable and breathable, high-top design offers added ankle support

Cons: May take some time to fully break-in

Sizing options: 8—11.5

Columbia Sportswear may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of technical winter boots, but its Daska Pass III Titanium Outdry Extreme boots are some of the most impressive I've tested. Not only are they fully waterproof, capable of managing everything from hikes in the pouring rain to treks through deep powder, but they're made of durable, full-grain leather that's surprisingly breathable.
Their impenetrable waterproofing is thanks to the brand's in-house construction tech called OutDry — a lightweight, breathable membrane that works extremely well to keep all moisture out. This means no more wet hiking socks. You could fully submerge your foot with these on and still stay bone dry.

The other feature that keeps me coming back to these boots is its ultra-grippy, Vibram outsole. Winter hiking, no matter how hard the trail, can produce its fair share of slips and spills, but the tread pattern and traction native to the outsole does well to improve stability and grips even the slickest of terrain. The overall design of the boot itself also promotes added support in the ankle. And since they are manufactured using a full-grain leather upper, rubber overlays, and metal lace loops, they're highly durable and able to last for at least a few seasons of consistent use. — Rick Stella

Best stylish winter boots

Red Wing is known by many as one of the longest-running leather boot designers in the United States, and the Heritage 6-inch Moc Toe is an iconic and dependable workhorse boot. 

Pros: Trendy, rugged, waterproof, tough soles

Cons: Breaking them in can be a painful chore (but well worth the agony)

I've been testing out a pair of Red Wing's Heritage Moc Toes this year as the weather's been getting cooler, and I get the feeling that they may well outlast me. It might be the leather, which is almost unbearably tough to start (my ankles have the blisters and abrasions to prove it) but softens just enough over time without compromising the stitching at all.

These aren't the kind of boots I'd want to wear on a winter hike, but they're just right for trotting around town while still keeping a semblance of fashion about you.

With humble turn-of-the-twentieth-century beginnings in a small Minnesota town from which it took its name, Red Wing has been sourcing leather to make its boots from a nearby tanning factory that the company bought in the 1970s.

The fashion experts at Esquire call them a work boot "for the weekend" to be worn running errands or heading out on the town. AskMen swears by them, too, but warns that there may be a hellacious break-in period.

All in all, you can't go wrong with any pair of Red Wings, but the classic eight-inch 877s are an icon in and of themselves. — Owen Burke

Best rubber boots for winter

Soft, heavily insulated, and easy to pop on and off, Muck Boots' Arctic Sport boots are great for work and play all winter long.

Pros: Waterproof, lightweight, suitable for multi-season use, tall neoprene shaft, ideal for wading across shallow streams, well-insulated with fleece and thermal foam

Cons: Lining is not removable and can get hot, especially with sweaty feet, not ideal on slick or black ice with little or no snow cover, no laces for those who require ankle support

Muck Boots are a popular choice for all seasons and terrains, but the Arctic Sport boots are designed with an additional 2mm of thermal foam atop 8mm of neoprene, earning a broad comfort rating between -40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

They're great for shoveling the driveway or running to the store while keeping you and your clothes muck-free. They'll also suffice for a light hike, and are excellent on any flatland adventures.

The Arctic Sport boots are also fleece-lined, completely waterproof right to the top, and incorporate a breathable "airmesh" lining, keeping your feet dry from within and without.

The lightweight rubber sole is reparable, so if you find a fissure after a few seasons of wear and tear, a quick patch job will have them ship-shape in short order.

The tall shaft of the boot is 14.5 inches when measured from the arch, making these boots great for light wading in shallow streams.

Weighing between two and two-and-a-half pounds, the Arctic Sport is extremely lightweight for any boot, let alone a lined, waterproof one with a reinforced toe, or "bumper."

All in all, Muck Boots' Arctic Sports might be a bit cumbersome for romping around town for any length of time, but they're fully serviceable for dipping out of the house. — Owen Burke

Best affordable winter work boots

When there's work to be done, the Ever Boots Ultra Dry Insulated Waterproof Work Boots ensure the winter weather won't slow you down. 

Pros: Great price point, reliable waterproofing, classic work boot look

Cons: Sizes run too large, break-in period required

A good work boot helps you accomplish your tasks without you even knowing it's there. Work boots need to be supportive and protective yet lightweight enough for the long hours required at the construction site, the farm, or the landscaping job. They need to keep your feet warm and dry in the winter, but not be so heavily insulated as to make feet sweat when your body temperature is raised. And of course, work boots need to be tough enough to endure the abuse that comes with the toughest jobs.

The Ever Boots Ultra Dry Insulated Waterproof Work Boots score high marks when tested against every one of the aforementioned standards, and they even have one more attribute worth noting: They look great. While aesthetics might have little effect on how well you get your work done, you might as well choose a work boot that looks good, right?

Made with full-grain leather, these boots are a great choice for workers in areas where winter precipitation can be heavy. Beyond that waterproof leather, they have watertight stitches, water-resistant laces, and a seal added along the sole to help make sure no snowmelt, rain, or slush ever soaks through to your feet.

A gear tester with AllThingsWaterproof called the Ever Boots Ultra Dry Insulated Waterproof Work Boots "ideal for construction, landscaping, gardening" and more, while a MyWorkWear writer noted the affordable price and the "high-quality materials and exceptional workmanship."

Consider stepping down a half-size because, in our experience, these boots tend to run large.

Best low-cost winter boots

As a great budget winter boot option, you'll get at least a couple of seasons out of Kamik's sturdy, reliable, faux-fur-lined winter boots.

Pros: Affordable, wide selection, over a century of shoemaking experience

Cons: Not the most durable boots in the world, but great at this price range

Kamik has been making affordable winter boots in Canada since 1898, and for the past 25 years, Kamik has been striving toward sustainability. The company has its own boot and recycling programs and 73% of its goods are North-American-made.

A removable polyester felt liner keeps things toasty inside while a faux-shearling collar helps to seal in the heat. Kamik claims that the boots are rated down to -58 degrees Fahrenheit, but, frankly, if you're entering temperatures anywhere in that range, you may want to invest a little more in a higher-tech boot.

The downfall of many a cheap boot — apart from poor lower-to-upper binding — is riveted eyelets, which are wont to pop off in short order. Kamik only makes a handful of boots this way, though. Our pick, the Alborg Cold Weather boot has D-ring eyelets sewn on with leather patches, which should hold up at least a couple of seasons.

Around the web, OutdoorGearLab and Switchback Travel both recommend Kamik boots as a budget option. — Owen Burke

Best affordable winter boots for wearing around town

Who said winter boots can't be handsome and stylish? The Timberland White Ledge Waterproof Boots keep your feet warm, dry, and supported, plus they look great.

Pros: Classic stylish looks, out of the box comfort, built to last for years

Cons: Sole too thin for some uses/users, narrow toe box

There is an elegant simplicity to the Timberland White Ledge Waterproof Boots. They are made almost entirely of full-grain leather with a dark oiled finish that only gets better looking with age. The eyelets and hooks are brass colored and will also take on a faint patina as the seasons roll by. 

These boots will look right at home whether you're wearing them with coveralls as you conduct highway repairs on a freezing winter morning or at the bottom of a pair of designer jeans as you make your way into the lodge to grab a coffee or cocktail.

The White Ledge boots have a multidirectional lug pattern on the sole, providing you plenty of grip when you're trekking along the trail, climbing a hill with a steep grade, or standing in one spot while working. The breathable dual-density EVA footbed provides support and helps to prevent your foot from overheating, while a generously padded collar and tongue help ensure these boots are comfortable the very first time you slip them on.

You can treat these boots like hardware for work or for hiking, but you might also consider reserving them for winter nights out on the town.

The professional gear writers are effusive, with a review on BootBomb.com calling them ideal for use on "slippery slopes" or "muddy riverbanks" while also noting their "fine looking design." A tester from Today's Camping Gear called them breathable and comfortable and appreciated their moderate weight.

Check out our other winter gear guides

Robinhood, the popular stock-trading app in the middle of the GameStop stock saga has been dominating all the headlines in recent days. On Sunday night, Tesla CEO Elon Musk unexpectedly interviewed CEO Vlad Tenev on the new audio app Clubhouse. And on Monday, the Wall Street Journal reported Robinhood raised another $2.4 billion from shareholders, days after investors already poured $1 billion into the company.

Founded in 2013, Robinhood was last privately valued at $11.7 billion following a $660 million Series G fundraising round that closed in September. The company's investors include Andreessen Horowitz, Alphabet's venture arm GV (formerly Google Ventures), Index Ventures, DST Global, and Sequoia Capital, according to PitchBook. 

With plenty of cash on hand, Robinhood has been on a hiring spree, with nearly 150 available positions on its career site ranging from product engineering to marketing. A company spokesperson declined to comment.

So how much does Robinhood pay its employees? 

To gain insight, Business Insider poured over data showing how much Robinhood pays the workers it hired from overseas in the third quarter of 2020. Employers have to disclose to the federal government how much they pay employees through the H-1B visa program, a key part of how Silicon Valley recruits employees, and that information is published regularly by the Office of Foreign Labor Certification. 

While this is salary data only — it does not include other compensation, such as stock or bonuses — and only includes a subset of Robinhood's employee base, it still gives rare insight into what the firm pays. 

Take a look at how much some of Robinhood's over 1,820 workers make annually:

Robinhood paid software engineers in California a salary range of $121,000 to $252,000 a year.

Of the 35 positions for which Robinhood hired an employee from overseas in the third quarter, 20 were software engineers. The engineering roles are all in Menlo Park, California, about 30 miles south of San Francisco.

The pay scale varied widely for this title, between $121,000 to $252,000. Notably, a senior software engineer is making less than the highest range for a software engineer without the senior title:

Software engineer: $121,000 - $252,000

Senior software engineer: $170,000

A data scientist at Robinhood can make up to $236,000 a year.

Robinhood hired four overseas workers with the job title "data scientist" or "data analyst," with a salary range between $129,000 and $236,000. 

Robinhood included an upper bound of what a data scientist could be paid so we included that number here as well.

So, what does a statistician do for a living? According to a recent job posting, the day-to-day responsibilities involve developing insights around key metrics that drive the company's success and working with partners to identify and track analysis, guidance, reports, and dashboards.

Data scientist: $174,000, up to $236,000

Data analyst: $129,000, up to $167,000

A product manager at Robinhood makes $167,000 a year in California.

A product manager for Robinhood's growth team is expected to work with data scientists, marketing, research, and design teams to drive marketing experiments across TV, online, and offline channels, according to a recent job description.

The job requires at least three years of experience building consumer products and "passion for financial products and improving people's financial lives." 

Product manager, Growth: $167,000

An engineering manager can make up to $326,000 a year working at Robinhood.

Engineering managers at Robinhood are paid handsomely with a starting salary of $183,000. 

The labor data also showed what the earning potential could be if Robinhood offered at the top of the salary range, with $326,000 being the highest reported potential salary.

Engineering manager, Data engineering: $252,000, up to $326,000

Engineering manager, Search and analytics platform: $222,000, up to $287,000

Engineering manager, Discovery: $183,000, up to $260,000

Engineering manager, Data infrastructure: $238,000, up to $322,000

The lowest reported salary at Robinhood is $117,00 a year.

The lowest reported salary for an overseas worker at Robinhood still ranked in the six-figures.

Benchmarking insights and strategy associate: $117,000

• Ice melt is an essential part of your winter inventory if you live anywhere it snows.
• Quality ice melts work quickly, keep ice from refreezing, are effective in temperatures well below zero, and won't damage your property (or the environment). 
• Green Gobbler's 96% Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt is the option that suits most people's needs. It handles ice in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, can be used in solid form or mixed with warm water to create an ice-blasting spray, and is easier on concrete than many of its competitors.

Shovels, snowblowers, and plows might take care of snow, but they're no match for ice. While it's up to you whether or not to salt your driveway, cities often require residents to keep the public walkways in front of their residences safe and ice-free to prevent slip-and-fall accidents.

Regardless of your area's population density, if you live anywhere it happens to snow, it's always a good idea to have some ice melt on hand.

We've researched dozens of snow and ice melts to bring you our top five recommendations based on performance in extreme temperatures, versatility, affordability, pet-friendliness, and environmental impact. For further information on the different salts used in ice melts, and which ones are best suited to your particular needs and climate, check out our explainer here. 

Here are the best snow and ice melts in 2021

• Best overall: Green Gobbler 96% Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets
• Best with color: Blue Heat Snow and Ice Melter
• Best on a budget: Snow Joe Professional Strength Calcium Chloride Pellets
• Best for long-lasting coverage: Pellets of Fire Snow & Ice Melter
• Best for pets and the environment: Play Safe Ice Blocker

The best overall

Whether you live in an arctic tundra or an area that just gets an occasional snowfall, the Green Gobbler 96% Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets will work quickly to make your driveway and sidewalk safer.

Pros: Melts ice in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, acts quickly, has a variety of alternate uses

Cons: Has trouble with thick ice, can damage plants and grass if overused

There are a few features that make the Green Gobbler 96% Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets special. First, of the many types of ice melters, calcium chloride is effective in the lowest temps. Green Gobbler claims its pellets work in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Secondly, you can use this melter in solid form or mix it with warm water (2.5 pounds of pellets per gallon of water) to create a sprayable defense against ice.

As I was researching ice melting salts for personal use, Green Gobbler sent me pellets to test, but unfortunately, they arrived a couple of days after our only significant snowfall so far that season, and I'd already removed the snow and ice. But I was impressed with how quickly it melted the remaining snow when I applied just a minimal amount.

The bucket did come with the wrong label on it. Instead of ice melt, it stated that the product was "Dust Down Pro." The ingredients, however, were the same. Calcium chloride is a multi-use product that is also effective for keeping the dust down along unpaved drives, so once winter is over, you might consider using your leftover pellets for dust control.

The best with color

If you have a hard time telling where you have and have not spread salt, the blue color of Blue Heat Snow and Ice Melter will help.

Pros: Light-blue tint for easy visibility, effective in temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit, acts quickly

Cons: Harmful to pets if ingested

In addition to its blue coloration, Blue Heat Snow and Ice Melter is unique because it consists of a blend of salts: calcium chloride, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, and ferric chloride.

We weren't able to find the specific percentages of each, but at least at one time, the label listed the calcium chloride content as 52%, which is enough to lower the minimum effective temperature of these pellets to -25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Since Blue Heat is a blend, it exhibits the advantages of each of the individual salts while minimizing potential damage to concrete, plants, and animals. And, the coloration helps you avoid spreading melter in areas where it could be harmful.

The best on a budget

The Snow Joe Professional Strength Calcium Chloride Pellets provide a great balance between affordability, versatility, and performance.

Pros: Affordable, multiple uses, effective in temps as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit

Cons: Seals on bags are sometimes ineffective

Like our top pick, the Snow Joe Calcium Chloride Pellets are almost completely comprised of pure calcium chloride. The concentration is just slightly lower at 94% instead of 96%. So, Snow Joe only rates it as effective to -25 degrees Fahrenheit, which should be good enough for just about anywhere.

The pellets are designed to generate heat for up to 24 hours upon coming into contact with snow and ice. Cost per pound, it's also the most affordable option on our list. The resealable bag is also user-friendly and easy to store, though, it might come loose, so you may want to invest in a lidded bucket to contain the pellets after opening the bag.

The best for long-lasting coverage

The Pellets of Fire Snow & Ice Melter removes frozen water from a variety of surfaces and keeps it dry for days.

Pros: A little bit goes a long way, works on many surface types, prevents refreezing

Cons: Harmful to pets, the lid of the bucket is a bit cumbersome to open and may arrive cracked.

The Pellets of Fire Snow & Ice Melter is made by Dart Seasonal Products of New Jersey, which also makes Blue Heat. The main differences between them are Pellets of Fire isn't blue, and has a much higher CaCl2 content (up to 90%) according to its Material Safety Data Sheet. This makes it effective at lower temperatures: -25 degrees Fahrenheit and above.

It does not attack concrete either. Cost per pound, it's a little pricey, but you do not need to use as much to have as strong of an effect as other salts. It sticks around to prevent refreezing and gets the job done even when used in small amounts. It comes in a bucket, which is also easy to store. 

Just use caution when around pets as the pellets may cause discomfort for dogs if it gets stuck in their paws.

The best for pets and the environment

If you are looking for a salt that goes easy on your concrete and vehicles, and won't harm pets, Play Safe's Ice Blocker is your best bet.

Pros: More environmentally-friendly than most salts, effectively melts ice, 100% satisfaction guarantee

Cons: Expensive, may still cause mild irritation to dogs' paws, doesn't work well in extreme cold

Play Safe's Ice Blocker is different from our other options in that it doesn't contain calcium chloride. Instead, it's mainly made of calcium magnesium acetate, which is known for being a more environmentally-friendly salt.

However, it's more of an ice-preventer and isn't very effective in temperatures below -15 degrees Fahrenheit.

It comes in a user-friendly jug and the organic ingredients reduce damage to concrete, metal, and vehicles.

And, if you're in need of a proper ice melt in a pinch, consider the next-best option, Road Runner's Pet-Friendly Ice Melt. Just note that while it won't cause dogs as much pain as other options, it may still irritate their paws, so use it with caution.

How to choose the right ice melt

There are essentially six different salts that are used as ice melt. Each has its pros and cons. Most brands use a combination of two or more salts, but the right type of salt will depend on the climate you live in and how you plan on using it.

Here are the main types of salts and what they are good for:

• Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is one of the most popular options because it works quickly in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The problem is it can damage plants and grass if you use too much.
• Magnesium chloride is considered environmentally friendly and better than most for use around pets. It lowers water's freezing point to -13 degrees Fahrenheit. The downside is that it could damage your concrete, asphalt, and plants.
• Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is less corrosive than salts with chloride, but it's only effective in temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit and above.
• Rock salt is great because it's inexpensive, but it's problematic in a number of ways: it's damaging to just about any surface, lethal if pets ingest it, and doesn't work in low temps.
• Potassium chloride is considered safer for pets but is bad for plants and grass, and only works in temperatures 25 degrees Fahrenheit and above.
• Urea/carbonyl diamide is probably the safest option for pets and the environment, but it isn't very effective when used for de-icing.

Based on our research, calcium chloride is the best salt overall, though it's a good idea to mix things up over the course of the season. Also, make a point of only applying the salt in the precise spots where you want to remove snow and ice.

After it has done the job, remove any salt that is left over. This will minimize harmful runoff and dangers to pets and kids.

Will ice melt ruin my driveway?

Loading your driveway with salt is inevitably going to do some damage, but one way you can ameliorate the damage is by avoiding using ice melt that contains rock salt and/or calcium chloride, which react with concrete and make it flake.

Is ice melt safe for pets?

Ice melt can hurt animals' paws, and if you have a pet (or someone whose pet might enter the vicinity), it's best to use a calcium-chloride-free pet-safe option like Play Safe Ice Blocker, which we recommend above.

Check out our other buying guides for winter gear

The best snow blowers

The best snow shovel

The best winter boots for men

The best winter boots for women

Silver jumped almost 12% on Monday to an eight-year high, while the largest silver-backed exchange-traded fund, the iShares Silver Trust (SLV), posted a record $1 billion in inflows on Friday.

"Prices have moved up nearly 16% since Thursday with no 'normal' reasons that could justify this price action," Tyler Broda, an RBC Capital Markets analyst, said in a February 1 research note.

Read more:Global stocks jump as retail investors shift focus to silver after a massive short-seller squeeze

Analysts at RBC Capital Markets said Google search trends for silver had substantially picked up since Thursday and that the price action would likely bring more interest.

The recent moves are believed to be from retail investors piling into the market in another effort to squeeze Wall Street, with the hashtag #silversqueeze trending on Twitter Monday.

This development follows on from last week, when investors from the Reddit forum Wall Street Bets bid up shares in the video-game retailer GameStop by more than 200% in the hope it would affect hedge funds and short sellers who had bet on the price falling.

Now some Wall Street Bets members are encouraging others to buy silver based on the belief that major institutions are betting the price will fall.

But some members and analysts are more skeptical and say institutional investors and funds might be behind the recent volatility in the silver price.

Read more:Day traders drive silver to an 8-year high, but not all Redditors are convinced the 'silver squeeze' will work

"Though there are pro-silver posts on WallStreetBets, the 'top post' on the subject is against the trade, claiming that by 'going long on silver, you would be directly putting money into the pockets of the EXACT HEDGE FUNDS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF $GME,'"Connor Campbell, a financial analyst at Spreadex, said. "The same poster also stated that the short squeeze was 'a hedge-fund co-ordinated attack so they can keep fighting the $GME fight.'"

Some users even said investment banks, and the hedge fund Citadel Advisors, were the biggest holders of the iShares Silver ETF, which recently had record inflows.

"The potential for a sharp move to cause tumult in various markets, including options markets, should not be discounted, similar to some of the knock-on effects from GameStop," Broda said. "World precious metals markets have developed over millennia, which makes this market more robust in our view, than a small cap company with deteriorating prospects."

Read more:Bank of America warns of 3 looming catalysts that could send the bull market crashing in 2021 – and shares how to position for the 'big change' as the Wall Street Bets crowd fights against the system

The RBC Capital Markets analysts say silver will benefit, as the monetary-policy backdrop is shifting and society may experience inflation for the first time in a decade, Broda said. They also said the gold-silver ratio, in which silver generally outperforms in times of stronger precious-metal markets, recently eclipsed the long-term average.

We listed the four stocks the analysts said would benefit from the rise in silver prices and rated as "buy."

1. AngloGold Ashanti

Ticker:AU

Sector: Basic materials

Target price: $38

Target-price upside: 73%

Market capitalization: $9.2 billion

Commentary: N/A

Source: RBC Capital Markets

2. Polymetal International

Ticker:POLY

Sector: Precious metals and mining

Target price:£22.75

Target-price upside: 49%

Market capitalization: $10.2 billion

Commentary:"Polymetal has seen its share of silver fall as it's built its gold production, but is still positively exposed."

Source: RBC Capital Markets

3. Sibanye-Stillwater

Ticker:SBSW

Sector: Basic materials

Target price: $25

Target-price upside: 73%

Market capitalization: $11.4 billion

Commentary: N/A

Source: RBC Capital Markets

4. Hochschild Mining

Ticker:HCHDF

Sector: Basic materials

Target price:£3

Target-price upside: 32%

Market capitalization: $1.6 billion

Commentary:"Hochschild Mining with latent capacity and large land packages but limited reserves, sees the most theoretical upside from stronger silver prices."

Source: RBC Capital Markets

Read more:

• As Redditors flood the stock market, UBS breaks down 6 options strategies investors can use right now to protect their portfolios
• MORGAN STANLEY: Buy these 8 stocks set to completely crush their upcoming Q4 earnings

• Top-quality lawn mowers are powerful enough to cut your grass to a uniform height on the first sweep, will last for years to come, and make an often tedious chore more enjoyable.
• The Honda HRX217VKA 21-Inch 200cc Select Drive Lawn Mower is our top pick because its self-propelled mechanism allows you to finish the lawn at your own speed.
• See also: The best riding mowers, The best string trimmers

There's something almost meditative about spending an hour or two each week pushing the mower around the yard. The drone of the motor drowns out your thoughts as you work on a task with a clearly defined objective: make your lawn look its best.

Of course, the deciding factor between an almost relaxing experience and one filled with frustration is often the quality of the lawn mower you have.

How to shop for a lawn mower

In the following guide, we focus on walk-behind mowers since the majority of lawns are serviced perfectly well by these machines. However, if you have a lawn that is larger than half an acre, you may want a riding mower.

If you have a yard that is above a quarter or half an acre, consider a self-propelled model. This basically means you do less pushing. Self-propelled mowers are especially helpful on hills. Also, pay special attention to blade size. Look for a mower with a blade that's at least 20 inches long if you have a larger yard. Conversely, if you have many narrow areas to mow, a smaller deck — the area in which the blade spins around — is best.

Lastly, pay close attention to model numbers. Many brands have dozens of models with only slight differences. If you've done your research and have your heart set on XYZ Company's 12345, be sure you don't pick up the 12456. If you follow our links, you can ensure you are getting the right model.

While researching the best lawn mowers, we examined hundreds of expert and buyer ratings and reviews of dozens of models. The mowers included in our guide are fairly low maintenance, enjoyable to use, make quick work of your lawn, and will last you for several years.

Also, check out our guide to the best string trimmers to get into any edges or tight spots your mower may miss.

Here are the best lawn mowers of 2021

• Best lawn mower overall: Honda HRX217VKA 21-Inch 200cc Select Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
• Best electric lawn mower: EGO Power+ 2101 56-V 21-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
• Best corded electric lawn mower: Greenworks 25022 12 Amp Corded Lawn Mower
• Best affordable lawn mower: Sun Joe 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
• Best lawn mower for large yards: Toro Recycler SmartStow 20339 22-Inch Self-Propelled Mower

The best lawn mower overall

The Honda HRX217VKA 21-Inch 200cc Select Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower can handle different terrain and grasses with its two-blade cutting system and its effortlessly-powerful engine.

Pros: Durable, two-blade cutting system, 190cc engine, rear-wheel drive, five-year warranty

Cons: Tedious cutting height adjustment

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of the Honda HRX217VKA 21-Inch 200cc Select Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, we should point out that the model numbers HRX217VKA and HRX217K5VKA are used interchangeably by Honda to refer to this lawn mower, and there do not appear to be any differences between the two. That said, the best adjective to describe the HRX217VKA is "powerful."

The 190cc engine allows you to mow at a decent clip, and it starts more easily and runs more efficiently than most side-valve engines. Also, the rear-wheel drive makes it so you can mow inclines and hills effortlessly.

There are more features than we have space to cover here, but we would be remiss if we didn't touch on the Versamow system. This system allows you to choose how much grass is mulched and how much is bagged depending on your yard's conditions. It also lets you shred leaves so you no longer need to use your leaf blower.

Though it's crafted for tough terrain, Honda has you covered with a five-year warranty in case anything goes awry. 

The best electric lawn mower

The EGO Power+ 2101 56-V 21-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower to cut fossil fuels — and your grass — with its push-button, powerful motor.

Pros: Easy to operate, good for the environment, excellent customer service, folds up for easy storage, powerful motor, rapid-charging battery, five-year tool warranty, three-year battery warranty (kits only)

Cons: Battery only lasts for an hour at most

EGO has two 21-inch-deck, 56-volt lithium-ion cordless battery mowers that are quite popular and share a number of similarities: the LM2101 and the LM2102SP. The major differences between the two are that the LM2102SP is self-propelled, has a larger-capacity 7.5Ah battery, and costs $100 more. For the purposes of this review, we're going to focus on the features they share.

The EGO 21-inch handles side discharge, bagging, and mulching. It is designed for use in all weather, and even features LED headlights for when you're mowing in heavily-shaded areas or after dark. There are six deck heights to pick from, and adjustments are made with a single lever. EGO backs the quality of their mowers with a five-year tool warranty, as well as up to three-year protection on the battery (for kits only).

The best corded electric lawn mower

Say goodbye to constant recharging with the Greenworks 20-inch 12 Amp Corded Lawn Mower, the hassle-free option that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Pros: Lightweight for easy maneuverability, good for the environment, four-year warranty

Cons: The cord can get in the way

The Greenworks 20-inch 12 Amp Corded Lawn Mower has a lot of features that can make your mowing experience enjoyable. Since it is corded, you don't need to stop to recharge a battery or gas up. It's a three-in-one that has mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging capabilities. There are seven cutting height positions ranging from 1.5 to 3.75 inches, and you can adjust the height with a single lever. Plus, the 10-inch rear wheels, 7-inch front wheels, and 56-pound size make it easy to push around the yard.

For the past three years, I have used the Greenworks 22502 Corded Lawn Mower on our quarter-acre lawn. We particularly like how easy it is to adjust the blade height, and it's surprisingly light. There are just a couple of negatives we have noticed. We live in the Pacific Northwest where mowing wet grass is unavoidable. When the grass is wet, it does not feed into the bag of this mower easily. Also, we had to replace the cord after my teenager ran over it with the mower. So, cord control is important and takes a little planning. It's a great choice that comes with a four-year warranty on tools and the battery, too.

The best affordable lawn mower

The Sun Joe 14-inch Electric Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly option and equally ideal for smaller yards.

Pros: Inexpensive, lightest mower on our list, good for the environment, two-year warranty

Cons: limited height adjustments, only good for basic lawn care, somewhat flimsy build

When you first lay eyes on the Sun Joe 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower, you may be struck by how small it is. At 29 pounds, it weighs almost half as much as the next lightest mower on our list. This makes it easy to maneuver, but it does raise questions of durability. To ensure this budget option doesn't last a short while, the company offers a two-year limited warranty as a clutch for your mower.

Fortunately, the Snow Joe + Sun Joe Company backs the quality of the mower with a full two-year warranty. With a 14-inch blade, this mower is meant for yards that are a quarter-acre or smaller, and the 16-inch deck makes it easy to get into tight spots.

The Sun Joe model has similar benefits to an electric mower (no fossil fuels, lightweight, etc.), but there are only three height positions with the lowest scraping the ground. And, due to its 14-inch blade, it takes longer to mow a lawn.

The best lawn mower for large yards

The Toro Recycler SmartStow 20339 22-Inch Self-Propelled Mower is optimal for larger yards with its expansive cutting width and self-propelling abilities.

Pros: Self-propelled, two-year warranty, 163cc engine, steel deck provides more durability than plastic options, comes with bagger, easy to maneuver with a variable-speed front-wheel drive, no oil change required

Cons: Gas-powered

If you have yards of land to mow, the Toro Recycler SmartStow 20339 22-inch Self-Propelled Mower is your new go-to backyard essential. With mowing and mulching capabilities, it can tackle your blades of grass with easy-grip ease, and stores upright as a convenient space-saver. And, if you want to go from mow to mulch (or vice versa), the quick-connect bagging system has you covered. 

Its powerful 163cc engine doesn't require priming or choking to start, and there's no need for oil changes. It can even withstand tough terrain with 11-inch rear wheels, too. Not only will it smooth out the ground you're working with but it will also trim your grass to perfection with the Recycler cutting technology, plus its 22-inch cutting deck — the all-in-one feature that will save you precious time and energy for a large lot.

There are nine cutting positions, and Toro backs this mower with a two-year "guaranteed-to-start" warranty. It's a great versatile backyard staple that's also fitting for tighter spaces, thanks to the mower's variable-speed front-wheel drive.

Check out our other outdoors equipment guides and roundups

• The best electric lawn mowers
• The best riding lawn mowers
• The best string trimmers and weed wackers
• The best gardening and landscaping tools
• The best garden hoses
• The best leaf blowers
• The best snow blowers
• The best snow shovels
• The best rakes
• The best sprinklers
• Here are the best engines we've covered in the past 2 years after checking out over 100 cars

• If you're looking for an affordable gift for her, here's a list of 52 options under $50. 
• Whether for the holidays, a birthday, or just because, she'll love any of these thoughtful picks. 
• Looking for more inspiration? Check out our full list of gift guides for all kinds of ideas.

Gift-giving isn't always easy, though it seems like it would be. Just buy them something that aligns with their interests, right? Eh, it's not always so simple. If she's interested in tech, there are a million options to choose from. Same goes for beauty products, kitchen gadgets, books, subscriptions, and so on. It also depends on who you're shopping for, whether it be your sister, mom, partner, or friend.

To make it easier, we've put together a list of over 50 great gifts under $50 that we think she'll love, no matter the occasion. And in case you're shopping for a last-minute gift, most of these items are available with expedited shipping, and some should arrive within a few days' time.

52 gift ideas for her, all under $50:

This list includes a Sponsored Product that has been suggested by Under Armour. It also meets our editorial criteria in terms of quality and value.*

A Kindle case that looks like her favorite book

KleverCase Kindle Paperwhite Case, available at Amazon, $29.95

You'll find many classic book covers cleverly printed onto Kindle cases, along with one that looks like an unmarked leather-bound book. All she has to do is pop it on her e-reader.

An all-purpose tote with a detachable wristlet

Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote and Wristlet, available at Nordstrom, $49

Your first thought may be that a plain tote is sort of a boring gift — but hear us out! This one is reversible and features a detachable wristlet, which basically means you're getting three different bags for $50. It's a utilitarian gift with a fashion-friendly twist.

A workout tee for all seasons

Women's UA Tech Twist V-Neck, available at Under Armour, $14.99

This bestselling workout shirt from Under Armour will keep them moving, dry, and cool with four-way stretch construction and quick-drying, sweat-wicking fabric. Its looser fit encourages comfort during workouts, and it comes in 20 colors. It's a solid, dependable choice for apparel, but if they're in the market for accessories or gear instead, check out Under Armour's gift guide.

*Sponsored by Under Armour

An exceptionally useful set of silicone container lids

Five Two Airtight Silicone Lids, available at Food52, $40

If she enjoys cooking, chances are she's probably spent a good amount of time battling with her Tupperware drawer to find the right container and lid for her leftovers. These silicone lids have saved me over and over again and I recommend them to everyone — all you have to do is pop one over a bowl or baking dish and you get an airtight seal for easy storage in the fridge.

A portable charger that also lights up the bottom of her bag

SOI Smart Handbag Light and Charger, available at Uncommon Goods, $35.95

No more frantically searching for gum or lip balm at the bottom of her giant tote bag — this little light can be attached to her keychain or even a zipper on her bag so she can easily see everything in its depths. It can also charge her phone.

A relaxing Himalayan salt lamp

Himalayan Glow Large Salt Lamp, available at Amazon, from $11.18

There's nothing quite as calming as the warm glow of a pink salt lamp. This sits on my list of all-time best gifts I've ever received — turning it on each night creates a relaxing vibe in my living room and helps me let go of the day's stress.

A clever attachment that holds her AirPods

Elago AirPods Wrist Fit Adapter, available at Amazon, $8.49

The frustrating thing about using AirPods is figuring out where to store them. This small attachment goes around any watch's wristband and features two grippy holes that hold each AirPod.

A subscription to Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime gift subscription, three months, $39

Amazon Prime opens up a whole new world of access, be it to fast two-day shipping or any of the other 25-plus perks you'll get with a membership. If you know she doesn't have one yet, this is a smart gift — but in the case she does, she'll get to use the $39 on anything she wants or needs from the site.

An Alexa-enabled smart plug

Alexa-Enabled Smart Plug, available at Amazon, $24.99

This voice-controlled smart plug allows her to control lights, chargers, and whatever else she wants through Alexa simply by plugging her devices into these outlets. She can also just use the Alexa app to turn the outlets on and off if she doesn't have an Echo or want to use her voice.

A highly coveted candle

Diptyque Baies Candle, available at Bloomingdales, $36

Diptyque candles are about as chic and beloved as they come among candle lovers. The Baies scent is the company's signature, with warming and sophisticated notes of rose and blackcurrant. This candle is best gifted to partners or very good friends. 

An inexpensive accessory for her phone

PopSockets, available at Amazon, from $9 

PopSocket Grips are an inexpensive but extremely useful gift she'll be happy to have. She can pop them on the back of her phone, Kindle, iPad, or any other device to create a comfortable grip that allows her to hold her device one-handed.

A monthly book subscription

Book of the Month, three months, starting at $49.99

Each month, this service curates five book choices — some of them early release — from which she'll choose her favorite. The service will send the book directly to her, and she can also skip a month if she's behind on her reading.

An adjustable rolling pin

Joseph Joseph Adjustable Rolling Pin, available at Amazon, from $24.92

Anyone who loves to bake will appreciate this adjustable rolling pin that allows for more precision in the thickness of dough. All she'll have to do is remove or add the different sized rings and let them guide her.

Really nice socks she's bound to want more of

Bombas Quarter Socks 4-pack, available at Bombas, $45.60

Bombas makes the best socks out there. Yes, they're pricey, but you don't know how worth it nice socks are until you try a pair yourself. There are no uncomfortable toe seams to give her blisters, and the special honeycomb stitching around the middle of the foot actually provides a bit of arch support.

A letter board she can leave notes or cute phrases on

Felt Like Sharing Felt Letter Board, available at Amazon, from $20.95

Sporting events, holidays, parties — there are a ton of occasions during which these come in handy, but she'll love being able to play around with it day to day at home with her favorite lyrics, phrases, or even messages to roommates. Choose from tons of felt colors (I'm partial to the light blue; it's the one I use at home!). 

A pretty place to keep her phone

Bedside Smartphone Vase, available at Uncommon Goods, $32

This bedside vase is a fun way to spruce up her night stand, whether with fresh or faux flowers. It also works beautifully in the kitchen if she likes to follow recipes using her phone.

A comfy tee that goes with everything

The Box Cut Pocket Tee, available at Everlane, $18

Skip the boring pajamas — get her something she'll want to wear every day. This cozy short-sleeve T-shirt from Everlane is as great for running errands as it is for wearing to work, depending on how she styles it. It also comes in a few other color options. 

The newest Amazon Echo Dot

Echo Dot (4rd Generation), available at Amazon, $44.99

If she loves to blast music, talk on the phone, and have control over the home, this Alexa-powered speaker could be just what she needs. The most recent iteration of Amazon's signature smart speaker has a new spherical shape that adds a modern feel to any room.

A wine saver for open bottles

Vacu Vin Wine Saver, available at Amazon, $11.89

Sometimes you just can't finish the bottle of wine. That's when the Vacu Vin comes in. It's a simple, small gadget that removes the oxygen from your open bottle and gives it an airtight seal to preserve the freshness and prevent oxidation.

A custom phone case with photos of you together

Custom Phone Case, available at Casetify, from $55

Upload all your favorite photos together (or choose any other sort of theme) to create the ultimate personalized gift. You can choose pretty much any model of phone, and organize the photos in a ton of different layouts.

A cold brew maker

Takeya Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker, available at Amazon, $15.99

Caffeine lovers who can't get enough of their favorite drink tend to spend a lot of money at coffee shops to get their fix. Make it easier for her to drink cold brew at home with this simple-to-use brewing pitcher. Read a full review here from one of our reporters who swears by this one.

A perfume subscription

Scentbird subscription, three months for $44

If she loves to switch up her scents, Scentbird is an affordable service that lets her choose a month's supply of perfume from thousands of well-known and new fragrances. With a three-month subscription, she can switch it up each month or stick to the ones she knows and loves.

A popular cookbook she's probably seen on Instagram

'Dessert Person' by Claire Saffitz, available at Target, $24.40

Whether she's new to the kitchen or it's her favorite room in the house, Claire Saffitz's new cookbook will guide her through tons of easy-to-make desserts.

The Insider Reviews team has also loved "Indian-ish: Recipes and Antics from a Modern American Family" by Priya Krishna, which is chock full of Indian-American and nontraditional recipes like Roti Pizza and Saag Feta.

A compact set of gardening accessories

Gardener's Tool Seat, available at Uncommon Goods, $40

Whether she has a plot at a community garden in the city or her very own vegetable garden in her backyard, this compact set of tools and a comfy stool are easy for her to carry around and store (plus they detach).

A trendy candle she's probably already got her eyes on

Otherland Candles available at Otherland, $36

Otherland's candles make one of the best gifts you can give for any occasion, if you ask us. They come beautifully packaged, and they feature scents that are complex and rich.

A flexible herb garden for the home

Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden, available at Uncommon Goods, $20

These mason jar planters can be set up in so many ways — from the window sill to the kitchen counter. They're great for anyone who loves cooking with fresh herbs, especially if they live in cold climates where their outdoor herb gardens don't grow for half the year.

A way for her to share and pass down memories and traditions

My Life Story So Far, available at Uncommon Goods, $30

This book is sort of like a guided journal for her to record her memories, accomplishments, and experiences. No matter her age, it's something she'll undoubtedly enjoy keeping track of and sharing with others.

A natural body scrub

Coco Rose Exfoliating Body Scrub, available at Sephora, $36

Pamper her with this coconut and rose infused body scrub that gently exfoliates. It'll leave her skin feeling soft and moisturized – not to mention she'll smell of coconut and roses wherever she goes.

A tablet for easy entertainment

Fire 7 Tablet with Alexa, available at Best Buy, $39.99

Great for traveling or lounging at home, the Amazon Fire 7 Tablet is an affordable way to stay connected to all her favorite apps, games, and streaming services on a larger screen than what her phone has to offer.

A plush, cozy throw

Bliss Plush Throw, available at Nordstrom, $39.50

There's nothing quite like wrapping yourself up in a warm, snuggly blanket on a cold night in. This plush throw comes in a ton of colors to match any decor.

A fashion-friendly belt bag

Herschel Belt Bag, available at Bloomingdales, from $31.99

Belt bags (aka fanny packs) are making a comeback, and we're not mad about it. They're convenient, practical, and a simple way to add a stylish pop to any outfit.

An excellent cookbook for entertainers

Platters and Boards: Beautiful, Casual Spreads for Every Occasion, available at Amazon, $19.29

If having people over is more of a pleasure than a chore for her, she'll adore this cookbook full of clever recipe ideas for casual entertaining.

A smart way for her to stay organized while traveling

Travel Cord Roll, available at Uncommon Goods, $20

Frequent travelers need a way to keep all their cords and cables organized. This leather roll-up organizer has eight slots for cords and headphones plus a pouch where your charger base can fit.

A wireless and waterproof speaker

VicTsing Wireless Waterproof Speaker, available at Amazon, $25.98

A favorite of Amazon shoppers, this water-resistant, portable Bluetooth speaker works for everything from her daily shower concert to a trip to the beach.

A wintry candle in a reusable blown glass vessel

Lafco Feu de Bois candle, available at Bluemercury, $42

Lafco candles are some of the most intentionally designed and developed that you'll ever come across — from the hand-blown glass that makes up the reusable container, to the soy wax base that took the founder and his team years to perfect. Every scent Lafco makes is phenomenal, but the Feu de Bois (which smells warm and wintry like a burning fire) is a seasonal favorite. I highly recommend this one for in-laws and parents you'd like to impress.

A simple knitting kit for beginners

Braille Beanie Knitting Kit, available at We Are Knitters, $44

Whether she's new to knitting or a long-time pro, this crafty beanie kit has everything she needs — from the yarn, to the needles, and of course, the instructions.

A clever way to collect accomplishments and hopes

Birthstone Wishing Balls, available at Uncommon Goods, $32

These wishing balls come with a strip of paper for every week in the year on which she can write everything from her hopes and dreams to the things she's proud of accomplishing over the past seven days. You don't have to go for her birthstone — you could easily just choose her favorite color.

A comfy neck pillow for trains and planes

Trtl Neck Pillow, available at Amazon, $29.99

If she travels a lot (or has bad travel anxiety), the gift of comfort is one she'll undoubtedly appreciate. This is the one our team swears by — you can read a review here.

A guide full of inspiration for her future adventures

The Bucket List, available at Anthropologie and Amazon, from $28.99

This worldwide bucket list won't cure her wanderlust, but it'll definitely provide her inspiration and fodder for planning her travels.

A set of tinted lip balms

Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment, available at Nordstrom, $24

If her beauty preferences tend to be more on the natural side, it's likely she loves a good tinted lip balm. Fresh makes some of the best — the color options are universally flattering and the easy, and the formula is smooth, hydrating, and buttery.

A dainty pair of hoops that are anything but average

Shooting Star Open Hoop Earrings, available at Maison Miru, $39

It seems like everyone on our team has a pair of these open hoops. Their horseshoe shape is just different enough to set them apart, while a tiny, twinkly cubic zirconia catches the light just enough to add a bit of sparkle.

A customizable box of candy for adults

Four-Piece Candy Bento Box, available at Sugarfina, $36

Satisfy her sweet tooth with a custom box of candy. Sugarfina's candies are distinctly "adult"— but she'll still feel like a kid when she digs into a box of rosé gummies.

An armband that holds her phone on runs or at the gym

Tribe Water-Resistant Arm Band, available at Amazon, $14.98

If she loves to run or spends a lot of time at the gym, this top-rated arm band will definitely be a lifesaver for her. Just make sure you know what model phone she carries as you may have to check different brands for different phone sizes. 

A makeup and skincare subscription

Birchbox three month gift subscription, $45

Birchbox is a skincare and makeup subscription that sends tons of beauty samples for her to test out and play around with. If she loves any of them, she can easily buy the full-sized version through the service. You can opt to give a longer subscription if you'd like. 

A picture frame for Instax Mini photos

Polaroid Cube Picture Frame, available at Urban Outfitters, $12

This cube picture frame is meant to hold photos from a Polaroid camera, but even if neither of you have one, it would still be a sweet gift to print out some photos of you together in the proper dimensions. 

A convenient yoga mat carrier

Manduka Go Play Yoga Mat Bag, available at Amazon, $28.44

If she's a fitness enthusiast who frequents local yoga classes, a carrying strap will make her life much easier (especially if she walks or takes the subway to her class).

A puzzle of her heroines

Nevertheless She Persisted Puzzle, available at Uncommon Goods, $18

This puzzle features illustrations of both prominent and lesser-known women who have shaped and changed the course of history.

A portable external battery

Anker PowerCore 10,000mAh External Battery, available at Amazon, $19.99

A good external battery is one of those practical gifts she probably needs but won't buy herself. Treat her to a good one that holds enough juice to charge her iPhone three times, or her Galaxy twice over.

A massager to melt away tension

Zyllion Shiatsu Massager, available at Amazon, $49.95

This shiatsu massager is, to date, one of the best things I've ever bought. It kneads away tension and stress in the back and shoulders, and can even be used on sore leg muscles after a workout. She'll be thanking you for years to come.

A personalized ring with a special meaning

Memoire Ring, available at GLDN, $49

A ring can signify many things like marriage, partnership, and friendship. You can commemorate your special bond with her by engraving this ring with an important date, name, initials, words, or even Roman numerals. 

A planner to help her stay organized

All-In-One Planner, available at Ivory Paper Co., $46.55

Working out your day, month, and year can sometimes feel overwhelming, but this planner makes life easier with its neat and straightforward layout. Plus, you can pick the start date and length of the planner and even add her name for a more personal touch. 

Reusable produce bags

Reusable mesh produce bags (5-pack), available at Amazon, $8.97

If she's an avid grocery shopper who opts for eco-friendly products, she'll appreciate this functional and sustainable set of mesh produce bags. The color-coded tags and drawstrings are an added bonus that'll help keep things organized.

• The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is an iconic property featuring indoor canals with gondolas. 
• The huge, all-suite hotel has implemented impressive and thorough new COVID-19 protocols. 
• I recently booked an entry-level room for $127, plus taxes and daily resort fees.
• Read more: Is it safe to stay in a hotel right now? An infectious disease doctor, a cleaning expert, and hotel reps all share what you should know before you check-in.

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is one of the most instantly-recognizable resorts on the Las Vegas Strip. Drawing inspiration from Italy, it's best known for its indoor canals and gondola rides, modeled off its namesake city. However, its vast interiors show off an array of architectural styles and swathes of Renaissance-era aesthetics, and the hotel is one of the most visually impressive in a city of decadent hotels. 

The massive complex it's part of also includes sister property, The Palazzo, and together, they form the world's second-largest hotel. The Venetian and Palazzo together have just over 7,000 rooms and suites. The resort also houses The Grand Canal Shoppes, four theaters, numerous nightclubs, a day club, dozens of restaurants, the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum, and convention facilities. 

Since The Venetian is a high-end, all-suite property, prices for entry-level rooms often tend to be slightly higher than many of its resort rivals. Typically, even low season prices tend to be in the region of $150 per night. However, due to the pandemic, rates have dropped recently at luxury hotels across the country, and The Venetian has seen a small dip in starting rates. 

I recently came across a standard room for $127 per night (before taxes and fees), offering strong value considering a Luxury King Suite is the entry-level accomodation. I had visited the hotel some years previously, so had a level of familiarity, but I was especially curious to see how the resort was operating given the new COVID-19 restrictions. 

The state of Nevada had imposed strict COVID protocols across all Vegas hotels and resorts, but each property has some room to interpret and implement these rules. I was keen to see how The Venetian would live up to the extensive policies outlined on its website, as well as how its procedures would stack up to other popular, high-end options like The Wynn, which I had also recently stayed at. 

I visited over a relatively busy holiday period and even dined out in one of the restaurants to get a feel for the safety levels. Overall, I had a very positive experience. Most of the amenities outside of the theaters were open and were operating with reassuring levels of COVID safety. Even at less than full steam, The Venetian has its opulent interior design to marvel at and was a comfortable, fun stay that I would definitely recommend. 

• The first impression
• The room
• On-site amenities
• What's nearby
• What others say
• What you need to know
• COVID-19 policies 
• The bottom line
• Book The Venetian Resort Las Vegas starting at $127 per night

Keep reading to see why I was so impressed by the Venetian Las Vegas.

The visual spectacle that The Venetian aims to provide began as soon as I walked through the doors of the main entrance. Grandiose architecture loomed above me at every turn, with elaborate flourishes and painted ceiling murals as far as I could see. Gleaming marble floors were framed with works of classical art and a huge golden water feature included classical musicians playing opera arias around it. 

Security was checking the temperature of everyone coming into the complex, and the staff, who were all masked, were making sure that everyone was complying with the state's COVID-19 protocols, including social distancing and mask-wearing. Safely inside, the front desk was a short walk through corridors that looked like a recreation of St. Mark's Cathedral — though the designer shopfronts mixed in were a firm reminder I was in Vegas. 

I arrived around noon. While the official check-in time is 3 p.m., I correctly assumed that due to the presumably low, pandemic-era occupancy rate my room would be ready early. There was a short line, with just one or two groups being checked in before me, and I was attended to almost immediately.

The front desk staff, as you might expect from one of the largest hotels in the world, were a blur of polite efficiency. They were obviously used to checking in large volumes of incoming guests while trying to keep lines as short as possible. I had my keys in my hand with a primer on the openings and closures of the resort within minutes.

The staff efficiently explained that, as with other big resort hotels, the theaters and live entertainment venues would be closed, with restaurants open for indoor dining at 25% capacity to leave room for social distancing. The casino floor had been modified with plastic screens (as had the front desk), and masks were required in all public spaces when guests were not eating or drinking. 

I was also handed a map of the resort complex, which turned out to be a real boon given the sheer size of The Venetian and its attached sister property. It was a short walk across the casino floor to the guest elevators. 

Before being allowed into the elevator banks, security was having all guests swipe their key at a remote keycard sensor. They ensured that all guests were wearing masks, and there was a PPE station with free hand sanitizer and spare surgical masks. Signage reminding people not to take the elevator with people not in their party was prevalent. 

The elevators were handily organized by floor groupings, which made things feel even safer. It also meant that the wait for an elevator, another potential bottleneck in these large Vegas resorts, was very short. The efficiency and diligence of the entire staff was impressive.

I notice right away that my suite did not have a seal on the door like many hotel companies are doing right now, but it nonetheless felt and smelled very clean as I entered. My entry-level Luxury King Suite was located on the 32nd floor which gave me slightly better views than some of the rooms on lower floors.

The size of the suite was immediately impressive. At 650 square feet, its dimensions were as big, if not bigger, than many junior suites in other city center hotels. Another pleasing feature was the split-level design of the room. The bathroom and bedroom were on the level I entered on, while two steps led to a separate living room area below. This is quite a rarity in hotel room design, and it significantly elevated the look and feel of the room. 

There was a regal appeal to the room, thanks to its gold color palette with purple accents. It had a more traditional look than many Vegas hotels, though it still included appreciated modern design touches. Most of the furniture was dark wood and wrought ironwork separated the sleeping and living areas. 

Two armchairs, a sofa, and a desk made up the living room, along with a large, period-effect oil painting. The thick gold and purple curtains on decorative rods were classy, and the fact that they were electric and remote-controlled brought them up to date. The windows let in a good amount of natural daylight and featured nice views across the valley. 

Although the room came without any robes or slippers, it did have its own PPE in the form of complimentary hand sanitizer and a mask. 

The bed was a luxurious, oversized, pillow-topped King that made for an excellent night's sleep. I did not hear any ambient noise either from outside or from the hotel itself, and the clamor of the casino below did not infiltrate, though I can't say for sure what rooms on lower floors would be like. The bed was framed by a large, padded headboard and a footstool, along with bedside lights that came down from the ceiling. 

The room's minibar was fully stocked with items that would be automatically charged to the room if moved. However, there was no fridge space for guest use, which could be unfortunate for those trying to save leftovers from in-room dining.

The bathroom was easily one of the most impressive of any entry-level room I have booked. A deep and decadent Roman-style bathtub was complemented by a glass-walled, walk-in shower. The twin sinks boasted dappled, black marble countertops with the resort's branded products as toiletries.  

This was an incredibly comfortable, well-appointed suite, especially for an entry-level room, and even more so for the lower price I was able to snag. The design and aesthetic is more traditional than some of the newer Las Vegas hotels, but it's hard to imagine it offending anyone's tastes. Most of the fittings feel high end but are visually fairly neutral. 

Couples and solo travelers alike could easily live in this space for a few days without having to leave, and I felt the standard room type was more than sufficient for most traveler's needs. However, for those who are seeking an upgrade, there are a few other suite types to consider.

If all you need is an extra bed, you can pay the same price as my Luxury King but opt for a Twin Queen room. To really take it up a notch, Premier Suites clock in at around 1,000 square feet and start around $229 per night currently. From there, suites go up incrementally in size and price all the way to the Penthouse and Presidential suites, which come in at $1,500 per night to start for floor-to-ceiling views of the city, multiple bedrooms, and serious perks like access to Prestige Club Lounge, a limo to and from the airport, and VIP concierge services.

The Venetian is one of the world's largest hotels and has a wide range of amenities befitting its status, which makes the $45 daily resort feel more than worth it. Most of these were operational during my stay, although many had reduced capacities in adherence with new COVID-19 protocols. 

The resort's interior design is almost an amenity in itself. Many tourists, whether they're staying at the hotel or not, come to do a form of sightseeing to take in the impressive replicas of the Doge Palace façade, the Rialto Bridge, and the Campanile di San Marco tower. The Venetian's famous indoor gondola rides seemed as popular as ever, with visitors lining up to cruise the facsimiles of the world's best-known canals.

The huge casino floor had been comprehensively fitted with plastic screens between seats and between gamblers and croupiers. Similarly, alternate seats at the slot machines were marked as out of use, in order to maintain social distancing. Guests were allowed to remove their masks to drink and smoke, something to bear in mind when considering spending time on the floor. 

Sadly none of the resort's theaters were open and all live entertainment was suspended. The main swimming pool in The Venetian was also closed, but guests could use the heated pool in The Palazzo, which had plenty of room to spread out when I stopped by. The exercise rooms and spas were open, with limited capacity to maintain distancing and hygiene. 

All of the buffets in the city were closed, but all of the dining outlets in the resort were operating at some level. The food courts were open as usual all day, albeit with reduced seating. For restaurants, a reservation was required and seating was reduced to 25% capacity. 

I ate dinner at the wonderful Majordomo, which offers a contemporary Korean menu under the banner of celebrity chef David Chang. As well as great food, the service was impeccable, with masked servers observing the highest standards of hygiene. I was somewhat reticent to eat indoors, but my fears were more than allayed by the well-followed protocols. 

I also ate at the on-site Black Tap, famous for its excellent gastropub-style food and elaborate milkshakes. The Venetian also boasts signature restaurants such as Matteo's (Italian), Mott 32 (Chinese), and Bouchon (French).

For those who wish to steer clear of dining out right now, room service was also available, though it was on the expensive side, with an American Breakfast of eggs, a protein, potatoes, and juice or coffee costing $35 before tip and fees.

Almost all of the retail units in The Grand Canal Shoppes were open, featuring storefronts ranging from designer names to small gift shops.  

Overall, The Venetian was doing a good job of maintaining health and safety standards across all its amenities while also letting guests relax in ways as close as possible to regular times. The reduced foot traffic helped with distancing and even in the busiest periods throughout the weekend, it didn't feel crowded. There was plenty of PPE available to guests for free and ample signage to remind guests to distance.

The resort is slightly north of the center of The Strip, but forms a natural center of its own as so many people flock to shop and marvel at the interiors. It's easy to explore most of the Las Vegas Strip on foot from here.

Just across Las Vegas Boulevard is the Caesar's Palace complex, and sights that are also walkable include the Eiffel Tower of the Paris resort and the Bellagio fountains, as well as the High Roller Observation Wheel at The Linq. 

If visitors want to take the monorail, it's not too far to walk to the nearest stop at Harrah's/The Linq, and downtown bus services stop just outside The Venetian.

Check flight prices to Las Vegas on Expedia

The Venetian receives a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor and is ranked 32 out of 282 hotels in Las Vegas, with just under 31,000 reviews.

Guests love the size and standards of the suites, as well as the casino itself. Of course, the grand interiors of the hotel are a major draw too. The room rates are generally held to be very reasonable and many people mention the reassuring amount of cleaning that is visible throughout the resort right now. Comments such as this are typical: "The hotel was amazing and a pleasure to stay at. From the moment you step foot on the property everything is clean with beautiful architecture. The room is very spacious with comfortable bedding and a beautiful bathroom."

However, some guests feel that the size of the resort is a little overwhelming and that can especially affect the timings of room service. Additionally, the popularity of this resort and the fact that it draws visitors who aren't even staying at the hotel may make some travelers extra anxious during the pandemic. 

Read reviews, compare prices, and book the Venetian Las Vegas on Trip Advisor

Who stays here: Many guests choose this as their first Vegas experience, as it includes everything you want in a typical Vegas hotel, including the spectacle of the decor, the large casino floor, and numerous on-site shops and restaurants.

We like: The re-creation of some of Italy's most beautiful sights is seriously impressive and worth a visit alone. 

We love (don't miss this feature!): The split-level suite design with sunken living spaces are unusual and really elevate the feel of entry-level accommodations.  

We think you should know: It is a large resort complex, so prepare to do a fair amount of walking.   

We'd do this differently next time: Swim in the heated pool at adjoining sister property, The Palazzo. 

The Venetian has property-wide "Venetian Clean" COVID policies in place, which you can find here.

In summary:

• The state of Nevada requires face coverings or masks to be worn, indoors and outdoors, at all times. These are required for all visitors, unless they are actively eating, drinking or smoking. This includes all public areas throughout the resort, such as hotel hallways, elevators and the casino floor. Complimentary masks are available at thermal scanning stations at every resort entrance.
• Guests are not permitted to have their masks down while walking the resort or casino floor.
• At this time, reservations are required to dine-in at all restaurants.
• At restaurants and lounges, party size is limited to a maximum of four per table.
• Seating throughout the resort, including casinos, bars, lounges, restaurants, and pools, has been arranged to allow for physical distancing and state-mandated capacity limits. Space is limited and availability is not guaranteed.
• Thermal scanners are placed at every entrance to The Venetian Resort and Sands Expo, providing non-invasive temperature checks upon arrival.
• Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have increased the frequency of routine cleaning in public spaces and heart-of-house back areas, and revised our cleaning protocols for guest suites, meeting or exceeding CDC guidelines. Throughout the resort, hundreds of individual sanitization stations that include hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes have been installed.
• We have also adjusted our air conditioning systems to operate at maximum ventilation and maximum exhaust to improve ambient air quality.

I felt very reassured by the public cleaning protocols that I saw around the resort, including high-touch surfaces being cleaned almost constantly. Entry points were staffed, thermal screening was in effect, and all guests were checked. Masks were worn everywhere and there were plenty of stations with complimentary sanitizer and masks available.

After experiencing it first-hand, I would thoroughly recommend staying at The Venetian. The all-suite set up of the resort meant that even my entry-level, split-level room was impressive, and the accommodations were as comfortable as any I've experienced in Las Vegas. Not to mention the grandeur of the iconic interiors, including the indoor canals, gondolas, and replicas of notable Venetian draws. The current starting room rate of $127 per night only adds to the appeal.

While not every amenity is currently open, most are operating at a level that still makes for an enjoyable stay with plenty to keep you busy. The resort implemented new COVID-19 protocols exceptionally well, with a strong visible cleaning presence, free PPE available to guests throughout the resort, masks required, enforced social distancing, and temperature screenings at all of the entrances.

I felt similarly reassured at the restaurants that I experienced, and they were following new guidelines very strictly, making for an indoor dining environment that was as safe as it could have been. Overall, I had good peace of mind and was able to relax and enjoy my stay.

Rates at The Venetian might be slightly higher than some of its nearby competitors, but given the room sizes and overall impeccable standards, it's well worth the price.

Book a room at the Venetian Las Vegas starting at $127 per night

• A mattress can only offer so much support so you'll also need a bed frame to pair with it.
• We like bed frames from Zinus, Casper, and more, and are constantly testing new ones to recommend.
• If you're looking for a great mattress, check out our guide to the best mattresses.

A mattress is arguably the most important part of your bed, but the bed frame comes in at a close second. It often gets overlooked but it plays a big role in how your mattress's support is distributed and how your space looks and feels.

There are about a million bed frames out there, but once you get past the construction, it comes down to the overall look. A velvet bed frame looks understated yet luxurious, while a canopy frame looks like something out of a fairy tale.

That's why we researched popular brands and polled our colleagues to see what bed frames they use and love to curate our guide to the best bed frames. 

Here are the best bed frames in 2021

• Best platform bed frame: Zinus Lottie Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame
• Best bed frame on a budget: Zinus Shawn 14-inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame
• Best adjustable bed frame: Reverie 9T Adjustable Foundation
• Best canopy bed frame: DHP Rosedale Metal Canopy Bed Frame
• Best modular bed frame:Floyd Platform Bed

SEE ALSO: The best mattress you can buy

The best platform bed frame

The Zinus Lottie Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame is classic and sturdy, and has a convenient pocket behind the headboard that holds everything for the bed frame.

The Zinus Lottie Bed Frame has a classic look and sturdy builds — something we've come to appreciate from an affordable brand like Zinus. 

While some bed frames don't include a headboard, this one does. All the parts, including the meta frame, legs, and wooden slats conveniently fit into a large pocket behind it and are shipped that way as well for convenience. Senior editor Jada Wong, who's had this bed frame for three years, found the pocket to be especially helpful when moving — there was no way any of the parts could get lost.

The bed frame is available in Twin, Full, Queen, and King sizes. The King frame sits 14 inches off the ground for extra storage space. The frame is eight inches off the ground for the other sizes.

Overall, the Zinus can blend quietly into the background of a loud bedroom or hold its own as the centerpiece of an otherwise neutral room. The sturdiness and easy setup are two major pluses, and the strong mattress support and soft upholstery complement each other, creating an overall high-quality bed frame.

The best bed frame on a budget

The Zinus SmartBase Mattress Foundation is affordable, sturdy, and requires no assembly. It's a no-frills bed frame at a price that can't be beaten.

While inexpensive prices for big-ticket items can sometimes raise eyebrows, we've had enough positive experiences with Zinus to know that price is nothing but a number. 

In fact, senior reporter Connie Chen used the Zinus SmartBase Mattress Foundation for almost two years and loved the sturdy support, easy assembly, and ample storage underneath for her tiny NYC bedroom. 

The bed frame is made with strong steel, and anything larger than a Full comes as two pieces that you just snap together for easy assembly. It also gives you 13 inches of clearance, so you can easily store things underneath your bed.  

The steel frame eliminates the need for an extra box spring and can support spring, memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses.  

There are no bells and whistles so you can get a super minimalist style or add a headboard of your choice to jazz it up a bit.

Read our full review of the Zinus bed frame here

The best adjustable bed frame

The Reverie Adjustable Base can help you get in and out of bed easier, sleep more comfortably, give you a massage, charge your devices, and more.

For those with limited mobility, the Reverie 9T Adjustable Foundation can help you sleep more comfortably.

You can set the legs at three different heights (8.25, 5.25, or 3 inches) to get in and out of bed easier, and the remote control can elevate your head, feet, or both to an optimal position for sleeping, watching TV, reading, or eliminating snoring. The remote control comes with presets for Flat, Anti-Snore, and Zero Gravity.  The frame also features lumbar support, which can be adjusted to best suit your needs.

When it comes to appearances, the foundation is sleek and the gray upholstery complements the slighter darker gray wood on the lower half of the frame and legs. There's also an LED nightlight under the bed.

The Reverie has a massaging feature with four functions and 10 intensities. Most other beds that offer built-in massage only offer two or three massage functions and around five intensities. While it's not quite like having an in-house masseuse, it's a fun feature.

As for the additional tech elements, the Reverie has can charge compatible smartphones wirelessly while also charging the remote via the built-in USB port. You can also program your bed via a companion smartphone app.

And should anything go wrong with your bed, it comes with a 20-year limited warranty. — Lulu Chang

The best canopy bed frame

The DHP Rosedale Metal Canopy Bed Frame adds glamour and romance to an otherwise utilitarian essential. 

The DHP Rosedale Metal Canopy Bed Frame, available in three colors, will give your space an old-fashioned glamour. You can drape the frame with your favorite curtains, upholstery, lights, and much more, change up the design with the seasons, or just use it as-is for a more minimalist look.

This four-poster canopied bed frame has sleek X-shaped accents in the headboard and footboard and is crafted out of sturdy metal so don't think that this frame is just for looks. There are also multiple support bars underneath it to hold your mattress in place.

The frame doesn't come with a foundation or box spring, so you might want to consider adding one on.

The best modular bed frame

Thanks to its customizable, modular design, you can take The Floyd Platform Bed to future homes and through mattress upgrades with little fuss. 

The bed frame from buzzy direct-to-consumer home brand Floyd looks stylish and modern, but also allows for a lot of customizability. You can choose from four different wood and color combinations, and add a headboard or under-bed storage. It's made in the US from FSC-certified wood and powder-coated steel. But we don't only love it for its style. 

Thanks to the modular design, if you upgrade your mattress size down the line, all you have to do is add panels and supports instead of buying a whole new frame. 

The frame is lightweight yet supportive and sturdy, plus the optional under-bed storage is perfect for keeping extra bedding, linens, and clothing. 

Editor Caitlin Petreycik is testing the Floyd Platform Bed and loved the straightforward, tool-free assembly process. However, she notes that the boxes and panels are heavy, and it would help to have a second person for assembly. Make sure you assemble the frame in the general area where you'd ultimately like to place it — otherwise, you'll have to grab it where the wooden planks are joined in order to move it. 

In case the frame isn't for you, there's a 30-day free return policy, as well as a 10-year warranty. —Connie Chen

Other bed frames we're testing

Thuma Bed Frame ($695+): This direct-to-consumer brand's bed frame is sturdy, simple to build, and beautifully made — though it's one of the more expensive frames we've tested. The style is on the modern and minimalist side, and it has a low profile platform that still has a nine-inch clearance for storage. Its headboard, while comfortable and supportive, is a bit short for our tastes. 

Read our full review of the Thuma Bed Frame

Saatva Santorini Bed Frame ($1,295+): Low-key yet luxurious, the velvet Santorini bed frame can complement any room decor and bedding. Senior editor Jada Wong has been testing this bed frame for the past few months and hasn't had issues with stability or durability, though the frame's thin legs are prone to shifting and squeaking if they're not on top of a carpet or rug. Assembly is non-existent as it comes with free white-glove delivery, but that also means that disassembly for a move can be confusing. 

Casper frame and foundation ($250+): While best known for being the original bed-in-a-box brand, Casper also has bed frames. You'll need both the frame and the foundation here for optimal support. The frame is made of 100% recycled steel and has solid wood slats so it's very simple. Best of all, the frame can be assembled and disassembled in just minutes without tools. When a former freelance reporter tested the set, she was able to sleep on my newly assembled bed within 15 minutes.  

How do I pick the right bed frame?

Here are some handy tips to help you find the right bed frame:

• Find the right height: Bed frame heights are usually around 13 or 14 inches, though they can certainly differ. Be sure to check if the frame also comes with or needs a foundation or box spring because that'll add a few inches once you put your mattress on time, and make sure you consider your mattress height as well.
• Figure out what style you want: Because your bed setup is the highlight of any space, the design of your frame plays a big role in your choice. Once you get past the construction of a bed frame, it's mostly about aesthetics so you have plenty of options whether you want something minimal or elaborate. 
• Check the assembly: Most bed frames require some sort of assembly but if you're not handy or aren't able to assemble items yourself, check what your new bed frame will need. Some brands offer free white glove and assembly so that's something to consider if you feel comfortable.

Check out more great bedding guides

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In such a low interest-rate environment, investors can be forgiven for not having inflation concerns at the forefront of their minds. 

But, with broad economic growth set to rebound this year, oil's recovery from historic lows and key indicators heralding the return of rising price pressures, Morgan Stanley argues investors need to be gearing their portfolios to a new inflationary environment.

Strong nominal growth will be broadly supportive of earnings, and so investors should look for companies with strong pricing power. This allows companies to translate rising price levels into increased profit margins, the firm said in a note published Monday, 

Moreover, a reflationary period tends to favor value companies over growth firms - that is, those stocks that are lagging the performance of the broader market and have room to rally. Right now, those candidates in that bracket that have "positive pricing power dynamics with attractive valuations should be in something of a sweet spot," the firm noted.

The reflation argument has come under a little scrutiny in 2021, with the S&P defensive index outperforming the cyclical index 15% in the past three months, and bond yields have retreated from their recent highs.

But, Morgan Stanley argues that this is a delay, as opposed to an impairment, and markets appear to reflect a consensus that inflation is going to accelerate. One longer-term gauge of market-based inflation expectations has picked up sharply. The so-called "breakeven inflation rate" - or the difference between the US 10-yr Treasury yield and its inflation-linked equivalent - has risen to around 2.1%, from closer to 1.70% three months ago.

The global inflation surprise index is already at a 2-year high and the US equivalent is close to a 10-year peak. This indicator has historically moved closely in line with actual US consumer inflation, the note said.

It's not just the US either. Eurozone inflation is weak, but consumer prices are rising quickly in some of the bloc's biggest economies, including Germany, France and Spain, which points to a pickup across the bloc. The French 10-year breakeven inflation rate is now around 6.35 basis points, a fraction of that of its US peer, but up from closer to 3.77 basis points just three months ago, according to French government data.

When inflation picks up, it becomes important to invest in stocks that have pricing power, Morgan Stanley said.

At the moment, this may not appear a challenge, as strong nominal growth is good for aggregate corporate profits, but in an inflationary environment, the divide between companies with, and without, pricing power widens, the note added.

This means that some companies will not be able to pass on increasing input costs to customers, ultimately limiting their ability to improve their profitability margins.

These are the 12 stocks in Europe that Morgan Stanley says have the double-whammy of having room to rally but also the room to raise prices as economic growth improves:

Vodafone

• Ticker: LON: VOD
• Market cap: $47.1 bln
• Sector: Communications

Infineon

• Ticker: ETR: IFX
• Market cap: $53.2 bln
• Sector: Semiconductors

STMicroelectronics

• Ticker: EPA: STM
• Market cap: $36.5 bln
• Semiconductors/electronics

ArcelorMittal

• Ticker: AMS: MT
• Market cap: $24.1 bln
• Sector: Materials

Aperam

• Ticker: AMS: APAM
• Market cap: $3.7 bln
• Sector: Materials

Drax

• Ticker: LON: DRX
• Market cap: $2.03 bln
• Sector: Utilities

ITV

• Ticker: LON: ITV
• Market cap: $5.9 bln
• Sector: Media and Entertainment

Michelin

• Ticker: EPA: ML
• Market cap: $24.0 bln
• Sector: Autos and components

Daimler

• Ticker: ETR: DAI
• Market cap: $74.7 bln
• Sector: Autos and components

Standard Life Aberdeen

• Ticker: LON: SLA
• Market cap: $9.6 bln
• Sector: Diversified Financials

Meggitt

• Ticker: LON: MGGT
• Market cap: $4.3 bln
• Sector: Capital Goods

Zurich Insurance

• Ticker: SWX: ZURN
• Market cap: $62.3 bln
• Sector: Insurance