• Online wine clubs conveniently deliver cases of wine right to your door and can help you learn more about wine and develop your palate. 
• Winc has straightforward ordering, reliable shipping, well-curated selections, and resources to make you a more informed wine drinker.
• It's remained the top pick over our many years of testing, and it's always in tune with the latest wine trends. 
• Read more: The best wine glasses

This content is intended for readers 21+. Please drink responsibly. If you or anyone you know is dealing with alcohol abuse, get help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) provides a free, confidential, 24/7, treatment referral, and information service.

The world of wine — with all its varietals, regions, tasting techniques, and pairing rules — can seem intimidating and difficult to navigate. Online wine clubs, however, aim to bring these barriers crashing down and make the process so easy you don't even need to leave your house. 

These monthly or quarterly subscriptions typically send you wines that fit your existing tastes while helping you expand your horizons and discover new favorites. 

"No one is born with a great palate," said Vanessa Price, a sommelier, wine writer for New York Magazine, and author of Big Macs & Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World, "they develop it over time. The more you expand your experiences with different types of wine, the more evolved your palate will become." 

Since you might not have the time or energy to do all the work, a wine club can fast-track that evolution. 

"Generally, wine clubs are great for those who want to be introduced to new things, but who may not be confident enough yet to select new things for themselves," said David Hamburger, director of special events at Acker, the oldest wine shop in America. "A good wine club should be somewhat instructive, sharing with members enough information about each wine to provide background, but also allow members the flexibility to enjoy it their own way — with a recipe, or food pairing suggestions." If you need extra guidance on how to taste or store your wine, head over to our FAQs here.

Safe and reliable shipping standards, subscription flexibility and customization, and unique, high-quality offerings are also important factors to keep in mind. 

With every service below, our bottles arrived on time and securely packaged. Member experience was also great across the board. You can easily skip shipments or cancel your subscription directly from your online account. 

Remember, an adult 21+ years old must be present to sign for the wine shipment. 

Here are the best wine subscriptions in 2021

• Best wine subscription overall: Winc
• Best for sampling: Vinebox
• Best for natural and organic wine: Plonk
• Best for sparkling wine: Mumm Napa
• Best for value: Firstleaf
• Best curation: Parcelle Wine Drop

SEE ALSO: The best wine openers and corkscrews you can buy

The best subscription overall

The modern wine club model is nearly perfect in Winc's hands, from its large and on-trend bottle variety to its streamlined browsing and customer rating system.

Pros: Wines are all based on consumer interests and trends, easy-to-navigate interface, many varietals

Cons: Wine info and notes are only online, a la carte stock goes quickly

Subscription frequency: Every month

Shipping fee: $9 for orders of three bottles or fewer; free for orders of four bottles or more

A la carte shop: Yes

As a new member at Winc, you start by taking a quick quiz that asks about your tastes and preferences. Then you're matched up with wines that align with your "Palate Profile," and from there you can create your own cart of wine selections. In addition to the suggestions presented to you, you can browse by category. The shop features clear ratings from other members and easy-to-digest descriptions of each wine.

This design provides a good balance of guidance and personalization — you get suggestions but you also have the freedom to pick out other wines that catch your eye. 

Winc works directly with vineyards and makes all the wines it sells, producing over 664 wines from 78 grape varieties and 97 regions across 12 different countries since launch. You may see some of these wines also sold at Whole Foods, Vons, and Kroger stores. Since Winc uses subscriber data and ratings to inform new wine production, most of the wine you see will line right up with emerging trends. 

On the downside, this rapid production model means it can be difficult to re-purchase some of your favorites, so it's best not to get too attached to a particular bottle. 

I've tried Winc a few times over the last couple of years and always found something I liked while further developing my tastes and preferences. It's through Winc that I've grown to appreciate Chenin Blanc from South Africa and how I realized Touriga Nacional, a dry red wine popular in Portugal, is not so popular with my taste buds. 

You can only see each wine's tasting notes and descriptions online, which is slightly inconvenient as you try out your monthly shipment. However, the online-first system ultimately works in your favor because you'll have your entire order history and personal notes all in one place to reference later.   

Since the wines are based on your preferences, there aren't any seasonal or holiday offerings.

Read our full review of Winc here.

The best subscription for sampling

Vinebox packages European wines in sleek and distinctive single-serving glasses so you can try nine different kinds without committing to whole bottles.

Pros: Good sampling size, memorable packaging, useful info cards

Cons: Can't always find or buy the full bottle in the shop, sells out frequently 

Subscription frequency: Every 3 months 

Shipping fee: Free 

A la carte shop: Yes 

It's easy to distinguish Vinebox from the pack: you get no less than nine wines, neatly packed into individual glass tubes and accompanied by a well-designed informational booklet, all stored in sturdy yet gift-worthy packaging. 

Each quarter's box is pre-curated so you can't customize it to your tastes, but you'll have plenty of fun sipping and sampling each wine. The best part is that you won't feel bad opening and finishing a whole "bottle" because it's only a single serving. Vinebox's design is great for casual wine drinkers who hate commitment, plus it's convenient and practical because you don't even need a bottle opener or corkscrew to enjoy your drink. 

If you do happen to fall in love with one of the samples, you can make use of the $15 credit given to you each quarter. This can be used towards a purchase of the full-sized version. You may also want to gift this unique and beautiful box to a friend whose wine preferences are eclectic or unclear — with so many varietals packed into every shipment, they're bound to enjoy at least one.

The particular box I received featured all light and medium-bodied wines, which I just so happen to enjoy. But it would've been even better to see some full-bodied wines represented, for additional variety and range. 

Vinebox has a popular seasonal offering that only comes around the holidays, an advent calendar called 12 Nights of Wine. The limited-quantity box costs $129 and contains 12 glasses of wine, and it usually sells out, so be on the lookout in the winter. 

Read our full review of Vinebox here.

The best subscription for natural wine

For natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, you can rely on Plonk to take care of the expert vetting, thoughtful curation, and spot-on food pairing recommendations.

Pros: Only natural wine offerings, pre-curated, easy to skip shipments or cancel your subscription 

Cons: Pricey, cannot be personalized

Subscription frequency: Every one or two months

Shipping fee: Free

A la carte shop: Yes 

Plonk, which is British derogatory slang for cheap, low-quality wine, provides wines that are anything but. The online club focuses exclusively on natural wines that are grown with organic, biodynamic, and sustainable vineyard practices, meaning they don't contain pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or commercial additives (like colorants or artificial sugars). There's also an impressive selection of sulfite-free and unfiltered bottles. 

If you're interested in the specific distinctions among the terms "natural,""organic," and "biodynamic," founder Etty Klein breaks them down here.

Plonk prides itself on selecting and importing wines from small, boutique winemakers and lesser-known wine regions, flouting big industry names to give you a carefully vetted selection. While other online wine subscriptions may offer natural and sustainable options, few can boast both the convenience and range of Plonk's one-stop natural shop. 

When you sign up, you have your choice of an all-red, all-white, or mixed variety box, with either four, six, or 12 bottles per shipment. What the included informational printout lacks in glitzy presentation, at least compared to other services, it makes up for in precise tasting notes and ultra-specific food pairings courtesy of Food52. For example, one of my favorite Plonk discoveries, a 2019 Pinot Noir from Margaret River, Western Australia, should be enjoyed with stuffed peppers with lamb, orzo, and halloumi cheese. 

Plonk has seasonal offerings throughout the year, including a Thanksgiving bundle and a sparkling wine sampler around the holidays. 

The best subscription for sparkling wine

If you like celebrating with a bubbly drink, Mumm Napa has more than enough variety with its quarterly wine club. It uses French techniques to make its delicious wines and offers discounts, exclusive events, and free tastings for its members. 

Pros: Great variety and high-quality production of sparkling wine, informative booklet included, many membership perks 

Cons: Total annual price is expensive, may not be suitable if you're seeking sparkling wines made from different producers 

Subscription frequency: Every 3 months

Shipping fee: Varies based on location 

A la carte shop: Yes 

Mumm Napa has roots that go back to the 1800s with the French Champagne house G. H. Mumm & Cie. The parent company of Mumm Napa, Mumm is one of the largest producers of Champagne globally. Its Napa Valley vineyard continues to use traditional Champagne-making techniques to make its sparkling wines, the best of which are showcased in the Club Vivant subscriptions.

There are currently two different clubs, the DVX and the Collector's Edition. The DVX subscription is for passionate Mumm Napa fans and includes six bottles of the winery's signature DVX series of rosés and bruts. This club ranges from $350-$800 per shipment and only ships two times a year.

The Collector's Edition is a little more accessible and meant for people who want to enjoy bubbly more regularly — which is what I tested. The Collector's Edition ships quarterly and costs $200-$275 per shipment, depending on the bottle variety. It contains six full-sized bottles per shipment, including the winery's signature DVX annual release wine and limited production wines. You'll also get a detailed pamphlet of notes for each wine. 

I loved the sparkling Pinot Noir and the Brut Reserve, and the pairing suggestions (like truffle popcorn with the Brut Reserve) were helpful and spot-on. I also appreciated the general variety that the club provided, from the sparkling rosé to the sparkling chardonnay. I have more experience with still wines, but Mumm Napa's carefully produced assortment showed me that sparkling can be just as diverse and fun. It also gave me an excuse to celebrate exciting moments in my life, no matter how big or small. 

In addition to the actual wines, there are perks accessible to both DVX and Collector's Edition members like 20% off Mumm Napa sparkling and still wines, 20% off gift shop purchases, and 30% off club selection re-orders. You'll also get access to exclusive wines and invitations to virtual events. The membership is even more worth it if you live close to Napa — once a month, you can enjoy a complimentary select tasting for up to four people (note: this may be temporarily unavailable due to restrictions from the novel coronavirus pandemic).

The best subscription for value

You'll never have to pay more than $15 a bottle at Firstleaf, where the quality and personalization are top-notch.

Pros: Flexibility to swap out pre-selected bottles in your order, attractive intro offer, good overall value

Cons: May take a few boxes/rounds of ratings for the system to understand more specific preferences

Subscription frequency: Every one, two, or three months 

Shipping fee: $9.95 

A la carte shop: Yes 

Like Winc, Firstleaf has you start out with a quiz so it can better understand your preferences.  When you're finished, it serves up six wines it thinks you'll like, and you can read about each one and decide whether you want to make any swaps. However, you only have six swaps per shipment. So, Firstleaf is that nice "Goldilocks" service where you have a bit of control, but you're still steered in the right direction. 

To draw you in, Firstleaf has a very competitive introductory offer of $39.95 for six wines, including shipping. Afterward, the price goes up to $80, plus $9.95 shipping, but you're still only paying $15 for each bottle, many of which are industry award winners.

After you've tried every wine in your monthly shipment, you can rate them online. This step is important because Firstleaf will use your ratings to become smarter and hone in on an even better curation for you next month. As your wine knowledge and tastes evolve, so too will the service. 

I've had the chance to try Firstleaf a few times in the last couple of years, and it's always been reliable. I appreciate that I don't have to do quite so much work in picking out the bottles and that the main effort only comes afterward, once I've tried everything. 

On top of the existing value of the service, there's a strong referral program: if you share Firstleaf with a friend, they'll get $40 and you'll get $40. 

Firstleaf has seasonal offerings, typically around the holidays, for wines that pair well with fall and winter foods. 

Read our full review of Firstleaf here. 

The best subscription curation

Parcelle Wine Drop combines a truly unique selection of bottles with an informative yet unpretentious wine education from Michelin-starred sommeliers.

Pros: Pre-curated, unique variety, beautiful info cards, impressive expertise

Cons: Not personalized, could buy the bottles individually for less

Subscription frequency: Every month

Shipping fee: Free

A la carte shop: Yes

I love Parcelle's Wine Drop because it has the feel of a cool and exclusive local club but it ships nationwide. Parcelle is based in New York City and enlists the curation and expertise of Michelin-starred sommeliers like the former wine directors of Eleven Madison Park and Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare. 

The experience indeed feels like you're asking for wine recs at a restaurant. It's arguably even better because your three wines also come with beautifully illustrated info cards and a copy of Parcelle Press, a mini journal that is, again, visually stunning. 

Founder Grant Reynolds told Insider Reviews, "The Wine Drop is our shortlist of our favorite wines to have around the house at that time of year. Nothing too fancy but always smart, a bit different, and from small producers focusing on making wines unique to the place they are from."

If you prefer more customization, you'll probably enjoy one of our other picks more, but if you want to leave it up to the pros, try Wine Drop. All three wines I received were hits, and they helped me realize a new love for orange wine. 

Depending on the wine, the total cost of the individual bottles could come out to less than $95. The Wine Drop I received during September, for example, was $85. In other months, the total may be more. While fluctuating prices may be a dealbreaker for some, I found Wine Drop's tight curation and immersive experience to be compelling enough reasons to continue my subscription. 

Each month's Wine Drop has a different theme so the selection is curated and intentional. For example, February 2021's trio focuses on underdogs and oft-forgotten wines of various regions.

What else we recommend

Eater Wine Club: We always look to Eater to find local restaurants and bar recs, and now it's making use of its expertise and community connections to curate a monthly wine club. The new club, which launched in late 2020 and sends you four bottles of wine every month, has already featured cool, memorable themes like Greek wines and celebration-worthy wines that aren't Champagne. I loved that the roster of monthly curators and wine experts hailed from all over the country so that even in the midst of a pandemic, it felt like I was traveling to and exploring a new food and wine scene. As a member, you'll also be invited to a virtual tasting with each month's curator and receive an exclusive newsletter. 

SommSelect: An impressive roster of sommeliers picks out the wines in this Sonoma-based club. I've been trying The Explore 4, which is built around a monthly theme. The first box I received contained wines from all over the world: Swartland (South Africa), Northern Piedmont (Italy), Southern Rhône Valley (France), and the Finger Lakes (New York). The accompanying booklet was among the best produced and most helpful of all the clubs I've tried so far, filled with useful information about each wine and a glossary that instantly deepened my wine knowledge. 

What else we considered

Usual Wines: Usual Wines' single-serving beaker bottles are certainly eye-catching and memorable. However, the company only offers its subscriptions in red, rosé, and brut, and these wines don't change month-to-month. On the plus side, its wines contain no added sugars or sulfites, and the grapes come from sustainable farms. If you're looking for a straightforward subscription you don't really have to think about, Usual Wines is a good candidate. Otherwise, our picks above provide better opportunities for education and discovery. 

Acker Wines: Acker has wine clubs for a variety of budgets and levels of enthusiasm, from the $89/month Access Club to the $999/month JK Club for fine and rare wines. Acker's Access Club seems promising for wine amateurs, but it's geographically limited to New York City residents. The next club level up jumps to $299/quarter for three bottles, which may be inaccessible for many shoppers.  

Elicit Wine Project: Elicit Wine Project helps incubate and launch cool, innovative wine brands, so if you're tired of seeing the same stuffy labels, you'll like shopping here and putting together your own subscription box. The downside is that there aren't many varietals to choose from right now. Perhaps as the service grows, we'll see a better variety. 

What we look forward to testing

Picked by Wine.com: Long a reliable place to shop a huge variety of wines, Wine.com now has its own personalized club for the people who get instantly overwhelmed when they land on the site. You set your preferences for wine type and price range, and you'll be assigned to your very own personal sommelier, who will pick out six wines for you every one, two, or three months. 

The Grand Tour: This club by online and brick-and-mortar shop Verve Wine takes a geographic approach to wine discovery by highlighting four bottles (usually two red and two white) from a different region each month. Why does the region matter? Well, soil, climate, and topography all affect the winemaking process and the final product.  

The Sip: This Black-owned bi-monthly subscription service focuses exclusively on sparkling wines for all your bubbly needs. In addition to three flights of luxury sparkling wine, you'll get priority access to new wine releases. It's the perfect wine club for people who are always looking for an excuse to celebrate. 

Primal Wine Club: Another natural wine club that looks promising is Primal, which offers red, white, and mixed wine clubs as well as education about the oft-confusing world of natural, biodynamic, and organic wines. The price per bottle is on par with Plonk's, so the points of differentiation we'll be looking for are curation, variety, and reliability of delivery. 

Wine FAQs

How to store wine

Do: Lay the bottle on its side in a cool dark place, preferably in a cabinet lower to the floor. 

Don't: Stand it up on the counter or leave it in direct sunlight. 

Do: Store your opened bottle in a wine fridge so it can keep a little longer. 

Don't: Store wine in a regular refrigerator. "The same qualities that keep your food fresh will not have the same effect on your wine," says Price. See our guide to the best wine coolers and fridges. 

How to taste wine

Go slow and use the right techniques. "Tasting wine to learn something about it is different from just knocking a glass back casually with friends," said Price. "Take the time to think about what you are tasting. Make sure you stick your nose in the glass and really smell the wine. When you drink it, coat your entire palate. After you swallow, think about how long the flavors and textures linger in your mouth." 

The sommelier and wine writer also recommended starting a tasting group with your friends or family. "Pick a theme and have everyone bring a bottle within that theme. For example, if you want to understand Syrah, the line-up should include a Northern Rhône (FR), Barossa Valley (AU), Stellenbosch (ZA), Paso Robles (US), and Tuscany (IT) bottling amongst others. Each person should bring their bottle wrapped so you can't see the label (don't forget to take the neck foil off, that one is an easy giveaway!), and put the wines out for everyone to taste and guess which wine is which. It's helpful to write your tasting notes down so you see how you progress over time. The entertainment value goes up even more when afterward you discuss your impressions as a group, enjoying the wines you brought with friends."

How to choose the perfect wine for a gift 

Make it personal. "The best way to gift a bottle of wine is to know a little piece about the recipient. Whether it's a birth year or wedding vintage, a favorite place, or just their personal taste, those small things will make a gifted bottle of wine far more special," says Hamburger. 

What's the difference between Champagne and sparkling wine? 

All Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. Champagne refers specifically to sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France. Because of this geographic distinction, that means there are only certain grapes — like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir — that can be used to make Champagne.

Check out our other wine guides

• The best wine glasses
• The best wine openers and corkscrews
• The best wine coolers and fridges

• The best mattresses should offer an excellent balance of comfort, support, motion isolation, and breathability.
• TheTempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress is the top all-foam mattress because it has great airflow and motion isolation. 
• The Leesa Hybrid Mattress is the top hybrid with its great edge support and motion isolation as well.  
• If you're looking for more advice, we have more in-depth guides here for various sleeping styles and mattress types.

Your mattress is the most important part of your sleep set up, so it goes without saying that you need to have the right one.

That's why I tested more than a dozen mattresses for this guide, relied on the reviews of colleagues, and consulted with Michael Breus, Ph.D., a board-certified psychologist in clinical sleep disorders and also known as "The Sleep Doctor," and Dr. Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, a lung and sleep health specialist at the Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Disorders Institute of South Florida.

I've been testing mattresses for more than four years to determine the best, and while that decision is ultimately subjective, our testing results are objective — you can read how we test mattresses here. Each mattress I tested was a Queen because it's the most popular size that people buy, and each mattress in our guide performed well in our tests, have long risk-free home trials, are easy to unbox and set up, and can be returned — although some brands will deduct certain fees.

For context, I'm a side and stomach sleeper and my wife is a back sleeper — between the two of us, we've got all the major sleeping styles covered. You can find more details of how we tested, models we tested at that missed our cut, and how to shop for a mattress at the end of our guide. 

Here are the best mattresses of 2021

• Best foam mattress:Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress
• Best hybrid mattress:Leesa Hybrid Mattress
• Best mattress for hot sleepers:Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress
• Best eco-friendly mattress:Birch Mattress
• Best spring mattress:Saatva Classic Mattress
• Best soft mattress: Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
• Best ultra-firm mattress:Airweave Mattress
• Best budget mattress:Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress

The best foam mattress

The Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress features contouring foam that cradles sleepers of all body types and sleeping styles while offering outstanding pressure relief and heat dissipation.

Pros: Great heat dissipation, outstanding motion isolation, 90-night trial, 10 inches thick with 3 layers of supportive and comforting Tempur foam that caters to all sleeping types

Cons: A shipping charge is deducted from your refund if you choose to return your bed, unimpressive edge support, no white-glove delivery

The Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress arrives in a box now like many other beds-in-a-box types, but when I tested it in fall 2020, it came in a reusable canvas bag with handles that made the bed easy to carry and set up. You just unzip the bag and pull on the other end of the bag to remove the mattress. Then, cut through the plastic and unroll. Like many foam mattresses, it had an odor that dissipated after a few hours. 

There are three foam layers: a soft and responsive comfort top layer, a firmer support layer, and finally, a supportive and durable base. For a cooler sleep, there's a polyester-blend stretch cover with moisture-wicking properties and excellent breathability. Overall, the mattress is 10 inches thick and weighs a little under 58 pounds for Queen. It's extremely light compared to all the other mattresses I've tested — for context, the AirWeave is 10 inches of foam and weighs 71 pounds, and the 11-inch Leesa Hybrid, which mixes foam and springs, weighs 115 pounds. This makes setting up or relocating the mattress a lot easier.

Sleeping on the mattress, I was struck by how the patented foam contoured to my body and offered impressive pressure relief. I was comfortable on my stomach and my side, and my wife, who is a back sleeper, also enjoyed the feel. While testing the mattress, I was able to fall asleep within a few minutes of my head hitting the pillow.

All-foam mattresses trap heat, but this was not a problem with the Cloud and I never had issues with overheating. When I visited the bathroom at night, the heat dissipated while I was away making it cool enough to fall right back asleep.

The Cloud passed my motion isolation tests, and when my rambunctious terrier jumped onto the bed in the morning, I wouldn't notice until he'd start licking my face.

On a more subjective level, the Cloud supported my back well. I suffer from lower back pain that tends to flare up when I overexert myself through exercise and sleep on an unsupportive mattress. While testing the mattress, I did engage in excessive running and weightlifting, yet I did not experience any back aggravation. If you find yourself in a similar situation, talk to your doctor first before considering a mattress switch.

There were only two negatives I found with the Cloud's performance. The first is the poor edge support. I noticed significant sinking when I sat on the edge of the bed and when I laid right on the edge, I felt like I was going to fall off. Both are issues that would only happen in certain situations, so they aren't dealbreakers. However, couples may want a King or Cal King for more space. 

Tempur-Pedic offers a 90-night trial, which is a must since sleeping on a mattress is the best way to know if it's right for you. White-glove delivery and mattress removal are available for an extra charge, and if you decide to return the Cloud, the company deducts shipping charges from your refund, which many other mattress companies do not.

The best hybrid mattress

The Leesa Hybrid Mattress has great edge support and motion isolation. The mix of memory foam and pocket springs leads to an average firmness that makes it an outstanding solution for many sleeping styles.

Pros: Average firmness that will appeal to a broad range of sleepers, the edge support and motion isolation are ideal for couples, 100-night risk-free home trial, made of foam and  pocket springs for support and breathability, 10-year warranty

Cons: Heavy, hard to move around

For about a year, the Leesa Hybrid was the main mattress I slept on when I wasn't testing others. 

The bed is 11 inches thick and features five layers: a cooling premium foam top layer, a contouring memory foam layer, and 14.5-gauge pocket springs that help with breathability sandwiched by two core foam support layers. The foam is CertiPUR-US-certified, which means it isn't made with a bunch of harmful chemicals and has low emissions. This checked out in my experience when I didn't notice much of the new bed smell after unboxing the mattress.

My wife and I appreciate that its average firmness suited our backs, stomachs, and sides, and I was especially impressed with its motion isolation — I rarely noticed when my wife got up in the night to use the restroom or let the dog out. The edge support is also great thanks to the innerspring coils that go all the way to the very edge of the bed. 

Unboxing the mattress was a task I tackled on my own, but I recommend getting help because the bed is heavy. I tested a King mattress for a previous version of this guide before I exclusively tested Queen sizes — a King is 142 pounds and a Queen is 115 pounds. Unlike the Tempur-Pedic Cloud, it may not be the best option if you relocate regularly. 

That said, you can skip the whole unboxing process with Leesa's white-glove delivery. For $150, a local shipping company will set the mattress up in your room and remove the packaging and your old bed. 

Leesa offers a 100-night risk-free trial period, which should be long enough to determine if the bed is right for you. The company recommends giving it at least 30 nights to let your body and the mattress acclimate. If you decide to keep the mattress, it's backed by a 10-year warranty. And if you decide to return it during the trial period, you receive a full refund without any return shipping costs.

Readers can score 20% off the Hybrid with our exclusive code "INSIDER" at checkout — you can read the full details here.

Read our full Leesa Hybrid Mattress review

The best mattress for hot sleepers

If you spend the night tossing and turning because you can't find a cool spot, the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress should keep you from overheating and allow you to sleep comfortably through the night.

Pros: Medium firmness that suits an array of sleeping styles, excellent motion transfer dampening, sleeps cool, 10-year warranty, white-glove delivery

Cons: Heavy, subpar edge support, expensive, shipping deducted from refund if you choose to return the mattress during the trial period

The Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress was made with hot sleepers in mind. There's an outer cover that you can unzip and toss in the wash for better hygiene, and three layers of foam that are all geared toward absorbing excessive heat and improving breathability. Additionally, the foams conform to your body contours. At the base, the mattress has 1,000+ spring coils surrounded by a supportive foam border that provide support, durability, and breathability. All this adds up to a 12-inch thick mattress. 

The PRObreeze is my current "first-string" mattress that I sleep on when I'm not testing other alternatives. As a hot sleeper, I've found it does an excellent job of keeping me from overheating. And my wife, with our little furnace of a rat terrier sleeping close to her, never complains of being too hot. Tempur-Pedic also offers a similar mattress in the series, called the LUXEbreeze, that offers an even cooler sleep at an even heftier price tag (currently $4,699) though I haven't personally tested it yet.

Between my wife and I, we exhibit just about every sleeping style and we both find this slightly-firm mattress works well for our bodies. I also don't feel when my wife or dog are moving around during the night — the motion dampening abilities are outstanding. However, the edge support could use some work. When sitting or lying on the edge, it sinks significantly.

The mattress is heavy at 123 pounds in Queen and it's hard to move around. Fortunately, Tempur-Pedic includes white-glove delivery with the purchase of the PRObreeze so professionals will install it in the room of your choice and remove your old bed. The 90-night home trial and 10-year warranty are the same as the Cloud, which means that if you decide you don't want the mattress within the trial period, a shipping charge will be deducted from your refund.

Read our full Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid review

The best eco-friendly mattress

The Birch Mattress is made of sustainable, environmentally-friendly materials and offers firm and soft comfort options so you can rest easy.

Pros: Above-average firmness, soft topper available for an extra cost, very good motion isolation, made of natural materials, Greenguard Gold certified

Cons: Pillow top is slightly smaller than the mattress and doesn't attach to it, not ideal for side sleepers without the pillow top, no white-glove delivery

From the cover to the latex and the wool, the Birch Mattress is made of eco-friendly materials. The cover is made of GOTS-certified organic cotton. Below that is a fire-retardant layer of natural wool fibers with rayon. Next, an organic wool layer offers temperature regulation and comfort.

Natural Talalay latex certified by several environmental organizations, including OEKO-Tex, makes up the next layer to provide pressure relief and support. The individually-wrapped coils also offer support and limit motion transfer while supplying edge support, and the base is organic wool batting for durability and stability. The mattress is also Greenguard Gold-certified to be free of harsh chemicals and handmade in the US. Overall, it measures 11 inches thick.

When I went to unbox the Birch, I found these materials proved hefty — 114 pounds for a Queen, to be exact. Though it didn't come with special tools or instructions (you can find instructions online), it was a standard unboxing — remove the bed from the box and unwrap and cut through the layers of plastic. Within five minutes, the mattress was resting on the bed frame. Though it dissipated within hours, there was a slight initial odor.  

The Birch Mattress on its own is firm, but for an extra cost, you can add a plush organic mattress topper to make the bed softer. I tested the mattress with the topper since I prefer a softer feel and I was much more comfortable, especially when laying on my side. Though, if you like a firmer feel, you might want to skip the topper. The topper doesn't attach to the bed and it's ever so slightly smaller than the mattress, so you might find that it'll shift sometimes.

The Birch Mattress is an excellent solution for couples thanks to its outstanding edge support and motion isolation. I performed my motion isolation test on the bed four times, and it only failed once. When I sat on the side of the bed, I felt supported, and when I laid on the very edge, I didn't feel like I was going to fall.

After testing the mattress, I gave it to my 6-foot-5, rail-thin, side-sleeping teenager with the topper installed. He deals with joint pain from constantly growing, and he appreciated that the bed helped soothe his pains. We both sleep hot, and the Birch did an adequate job of dissipating heat, but there's room for improvement. Specifically, on hotter nights, the heat-dissipating abilities of the mattress could not keep up, and it would grow uncomfortable.

Lastly, Birch provides an impressive 25-year limited warranty and a 100-night sleep trial, which includes a full refund if you're not satisfied after sleeping on the mattress for at least 30 nights.

The best spring mattress

If you prefer the support and comfort of a spring mattress, you're sure to appreciate the Saatva Classic Mattress with its three firmness options and long 180-night home trial.

Pros: 180-night home trial, three firmness levels to choose from, great edge support, free in-home delivery and mattress removal

Cons: Fees associated with returns

The difference between spring and hybrid mattresses is subtle, and both are considered innerspring mattresses. For this guide, we consider a mattress to be a spring or innerspring if it has a layer of coils as the main support system and less foam than other components, while a hybrid mattress uses a mix of foam and springs to support your body.

By this definition, the Saatva Classic Mattress is the best spring mattress. I didn't test this personally, but my colleague Kylie Joyner did and had a positive experience.

The mattress has many unique features, including two layers of coils: a base of durable steel coils and then 884 individually-wrapped, 14.5-gauge comfort coils that move and shift to your body's contours. The coils are surrounded by durable foam for extra edge support. The tufted Euro pillow top has an organic cotton cover with an antimicrobial treatment.

The mattress is available in three firmness levels: plush soft, firm, and luxury firm, which is the best-selling option and meant to be a true medium. This means you can customize the feel more than other mattresses.

Depending on your mattress height preference, you can choose from an 11.5-inch-thick and 14.5-inch-thick style. Both sizes feel and perform the same, the only difference is the 14.5-inch mattress has an extra two turns in the lower coil unit. It also weighs 10 pounds more in Queen at 120 pounds.

Saatva goes above and beyond with its home trial at 180 nights. However, if you decide you want to return the mattress, a $99 transportation fee is deducted from your refund. Another perk with Saatva is the free white-glove delivery and mattress removal included in the price of the mattress. 

Joyner tested the Saatva Classic Mattress in Luxury Firm and enjoyed it from the moment she laid down. It provided an excellent combination of support and comfort. She liked that it didn't sink like an all-foam mattress and that the support didn't waver as she got closer to the edge. Joyner noted that there was some motion transfer, but it wasn't enough to disturb her sleep when her partner rolled over in the night.

Read our full Saatva Classic Mattress review

The best soft mattress

The Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress is ideal for side sleepers who are looking for a plush-comfort bed with great heat dissipation.

Pros: Made with eco-friendly materials, 100-night risk-free trial, good edge support, excellent heat dissipation, the plush comfort is ideal for side sleepers

Cons: Held on to its new bed smell, not the best for stomach or back sleepers, failed motion transfer tests

The Nova Hybrid is one of Casper's newest and softest mattress, which is ideal for my side-sleeping body. When my muscles and joints were aching after pushing my body a little too hard running or lifting, the Nova Hybrid would cradle my body and offer pressure relief along with support in the right areas. This is thanks to the supportive foam layers with ergonomic zones that are firmer around the lower back, waist, and hips, and softer under the shoulders to help align your spine.

The mattress is made of CertiPUR-US certified foam, which is free from harsh chemicals, and the cover is partially composed of recycled bottles making them an eco-friendly alternative. There are two layers of Casper's proprietary "Airscape" foam which are meant to help with the airflow, and the topmost layer has small perforations for extra breathability.

I tend to overheat in bed, but when sleeping on the Nova Hybrid, I never felt hot, which is impressive since I tested the mattress in the summer. When I used the bathroom in the night, the spot where I was sleeping was cooler when I returned, which helped me get back to sleep faster. The base layer of the mattress features individually-wrapped coils surrounded by a firm border of foam. The border helps the bed's edge support. Overall, the mattress is 12 inches thick.

With all of the layers of foam and springs, the Nova Hybrid weighs a hefty 89 pounds and flops around as you try to move it. Fortunately, it comes with handles sewn into each corner to make it more manageable. During set up, the handles make flipping the mattress easier when it unfolded upside down — the only hiccup in the process. If you want to skip dealing with unboxing your mattress, Casper provides an in-home set up for a $149 fee, and the company's delivery partner can also remove your old mattress.

Once freed from its vacuum-sealed confines, the bed had a strong odor to it that took several days to dissipate.

The motion dampening properties also leave much to be desired. The Nova Hybrid failed my motion transfer tests, and when sharing the bed with my wife and dog, I could feel when either of them moved.

If you're interested in the Nova, Wave, or Original specifically (you can check out reviews here), use our exclusive code 'INSIDER' for $200 off any size Nova or Wave, or $100 off any size Original. 

The best ultra-firm mattress

The Airweave Mattress has a breathable and non-toxic polyethylene core that offers ultra-firm support to all parts of the bed, even the very edges.

Pros: Features a soft insert to transform the bed from incredibly firm to just firm, great heat dissipation, outstanding edge support, decent motion isolation, 100-night sleep trial, machine-washable cover

Cons: Some assembly required, hard to move around, not recommended for side sleepers

The Airweave Mattress is one of the most unique beds I've ever tested — it's modular and it requires more assembly than unrolling a vacuum-sealed log.

My Queen mattress arrived in two boxes, instead of the usual one. The modular design made it easy to carry up to my third-floor bedroom without help. Assembling the mattress was different and more involved than previous beds I've encountered too. The polyethylene core is broken into three blocks. You place these on the bottom half of the cover, seal up an inner cover, add the polyester soft layer, and zip on the top of the cover. With this level of assembly, white-glove delivery would be an attractive option. Unfortunately, Airweave does not currently offer this service.

I like that there's a soft layer insert that you can easily remove if you'd prefer an ultra-firm mattress rather than just firm. Even with the soft layer, the mattress was firmer than I'd prefer and sleeping on my side was out of the question. I mainly slept on my stomach and a little on my back when testing this mattress, and I was surprisingly comfortable in these positions. I appreciated how cool the bed slept thanks to the breathable core.

In my experience, mattresses that are less than 10 inches thick are not supportive enough, but at 8 inches thick, the Airweave surprisingly offered plenty of support. With its short stature and light weight – the Queen only weighs 71.5 pounds – you might assume the mattress would be easy to move around, but it's a beast. The blocks cause the mattress to flop around, which adds to the difficulty.

The Airweave is a great solution for anyone who loves firm mattresses. The edge support is excellent on all sides and the bed performed well in my motion transfer tests. When I dropped the bowling ball, the can rarely fell over on the first impact, but the bed is incredibly bouncy and the can would sometimes fall over upon the second bounce.

The best budget mattress

Back and stomach sleepers who are looking for a budget-friendly bed should strongly consider the Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress.

Pros: Affordable, 100-night trial, 10-year warranty, made of cooling gel memory foam, excellent motion isolation, 4 thickness options, great for back and stomach sleepers

Cons: Took a week to expand to full size, poor edge support

The Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress features one of my favorite materials to sleep on: gel memory foam. I've found it does an outstanding job of keeping my hot-sleeping body cool through the night, and the Zinus mattress was no exception.

The memory foam sinks in to comfort the contours of your body while still providing a firmer than average support. Because of this, I felt better sleeping on my stomach during testing, rather than my side. Back sleepers may also like the firmness of this model.

The mattress passed my motion transfer test with flying colors. When I was sleeping on it, my wife and dog were able to sneak into bed without jostling or waking me.

The mattress comes in Twin, Full, Queen, King, and Cal King on Amazon and more options on Zinus directly, and you can choose from four thicknesses – 8, 10, 12, and 14 inches. I tested the 14-inch Queen. In general, I've found that mattresses that are 10 inches or thinner aren't as comfortable so you should consider the thicker styles.

At under $400, you would expect compromises, and there are a few, but they are easy to look past if you want to save a few dollars. First of all, the edge support is awful. It's hard to lie on the edges and not fall off. The mattress also took a week to expand to its full size. Out of the box, it was about half its full thickness. The directions suggest it will only take 72 hours to expand – which is still longer than most — but that was not my experience. It also had an initial odor, but that went away the first night.

At 70 pounds, the mattress is easy to move around, especially since it is firmer and doesn't flop around.

Since the mattress comes with a 100-night trial, it's worth giving it a try if you're looking for a low-cost solution. And, if you decide to keep it, you're covered by a 10-year warranty.

What else we considered

We've tested dozens of mattresses over the years, and here are a few that barely missed the cut:

Casper Original ($1,095) – The Casper Original was our previous pick for the best all-foam mattress, and we still recommend it. We like the Casper Original because it works well for a wide array of sleeping styles, is made of eco-friendly materials, has excellent heat dissipation, and exhibits great motion dampening. However, it does not have good edge support. Read our full review.

Plank by Brooklyn Bedding ($999.20) – The Plank was our previous pick for the best ultra-firm mattress. I didn't test this personally but based on our writer's review, we think the Airweave Mattress is a better option because of its unique design and heat dissipation. We still think the Plank is a great bed with its two levels of firmness, exceptional edge support, and impressive motion isolation. Read our full review.

Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress ($1,799): The mattress has medium-firm support that works for all types of sleepers, and the organic latex is breathable and sleeps cool. Senior editor Jada Wong said that the mattress has great motion isolation so she doesn't feel much movement, but that the edge support is poor. Despite this, we'd still recommend the bed but suggest upgrading to a Queen for solo sleepers and a King for couples so no one falls off the side. 

Saatva Solaire Adjustable Mattress ($2,595) – As we test more air beds, we will likely give them their own category in our guide. At this point, I've only tested one and like it enough to give it an honorable mention. The Saatva Solaire has a built-in air pump controlled by a corded controller that allows you to pick from 50 firmness options for your ideal comfort level. I found it worked great, but the motion isolation left a lot to be desired. Plus, you can't find the mattress in showrooms to test it out before buying. Fortunately, there's a 120-night home trial period. Read our full review.

Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid ($1539.30) – Amerisleep offers five mattresses, AS1 through AS5, each with a specific benefit. I've tested the AS3, the company's best-selling bed, but I much prefer its softer, luxury mattress, AS5. Due to its soft feel, it's an outstanding solution for anyone who prefers softer beds. Since it sleeps hot, people who get too cold at night may also prefer this mattress. Also, it doesn't have very good edge support and failed my motion isolation tests so it's better suited for people who sleep alone. Overall, though, I like how it cradled my body.

Allswell Supreme Hybrid ($985) – This is one of the best mattresses you will find under $1,000. It features a combination of copper and graphite gel-infused memory foam and pocket coils, which give it a medium firmness that will appeal to many different types of sleepers. The edge support is great but it sleeps hot and is quite heavy. Also, it's only available online and not in showrooms.

Intellibed Matrix Grand ($6,999) – I'm still in the process of testing the Intellibed Matrix Grand so it may make it into future updates of our guide. It's the height of luxury and features seven layers of high-quality materials, including two gel layers that flex to provide localized pressure relief and to help align the spine. However, the King mattress I'm testing weighs 256 pounds so don't plan on moving it, and at 17 inches thick, it's hard to find fitted sheets that are deep enough to stay on the mattress.

Testing methodology

In addition to sleeping on each mattress for several nights, there are many tests I put each model through. I tested all but two of the mattresses mentioned above. For the Saatva Classic and Plank, I extrapolated the key performance indicators based on my colleagues' testing. The most important factors to consider are comfort, edge support, and motion isolation.

Here are the main attributes we look for and how we test them:

Comfort: This is a fairly subjective characteristic that is based on the firmness of a mattress, how hot it sleeps, and how supportive it feels. My measurement of firmness is based on testing dozens of mattresses and developing a feel for soft, average, and firm mattresses. To gauge heat dissipation, I sleep on the bed, get up for a few minutes, and return to it. I note whether or not the mattress is still hot where I was lying. A bed is supportive if it doesn't leave me with stiffness or aches in the morning after testing.

Motion isolation: If you've ever spent the night with someone who moves around a lot in their sleep, you know how important motion isolation is. Without it, your sleeping partner's movements will jostle you awake throughout the night. To test motion isolation, I place a 12-ounce can of pop in the middle of the mattress. Then I drop a 15-pound bowling ball from 4 feet above the mattress so it lands 12 inches from the can. If the can falls over time and time again the motion isolation is not very good. If the can stays upright, the bed does an excellent job of dampening motion transfer.

Edge support: To test edge support, I lay on the very edge of the bed and slowly roll off — literally. If I feel like I can roll a fair amount before actually falling, then the bed has good edge support. If I fall easily, then the edge support is not very good. I also sit on the side to put on my socks and shoes to assess how much the edge sinks.

Portability: Unless you're constantly relocating or redecorating, it's unlikely you'll need to move your mattress often so this category doesn't weigh heavily in our assessment. Still, it's nice if you can easily rotate your mattress, a task that's important for your bed's longevity. And depending on how your bed is positioned, you may need to move the mattress to put on fitted sheets. I move each mattress several times to see how heavy it feels and if it flops around making it harder to move.

Trial and warranty: I look at the details of the warranty and home trial period, whether the mattress is available in showrooms, and whether there's white-glove delivery. The only way to know if a mattress is right for you is to sleep on it for several nights, so we looked for fine print in the return policy and let you know about them.

What we're currently testing

We're constantly testing new mattresses and re-testing our top picks to determine the best ones. Here's what we're currently testing: 

Idle Latex Hybrid ($1,330): This mattress has individually-wrapped spring coils sandwiched between several foam layers so you can supposedly flip it over and sleep on both sides.  

Purple Hybrid Premier ($2,299): Purple makes one of the most comfortable seat cushions we've tried — the grid pattern is supportive and comfortable. We're interested in seeing if this translates to a mattress. 

Haven Boutique Mattress ($945): Thicker than most mattresses at 14 inches, we're curious to test if that has any effect on comfort and support.

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress ($1,198): Nectar has won a ton of mattress awards so we're curious to test this out for ourselves. It also has a 365-night trial period and a lifetime warranty — the longest we've ever seen from any mattress company.

Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress($1,599): We haven't tested many latex mattresses before so we're looking forward to testing more. This has the added benefit of being made with organic and natural materials so it'll be a good option for eco-conscious sleepers.

Level Sleep Mattress ($1,199): Many mattresses range from 12 to 13 inches thick, but this is a slim 11 inches, so it'll be curious to see if the thickness affects comfort and support.

The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress ($1,099): This is billed as a mattress that's both soft yet firm so partners with different preferences can find a middle ground. It's also owned by Resident— the same company that owns Nectar, Awara, and Level — so it'll be interesting to see how all of the brands compare. 

How to shop for a mattress

Buying a mattress no longer requires heading to a showroom and having a salesperson lurk over you as you lay on a mattress for 10 minutes to decide if it will suit you for the next decade. In fact, we put together a handy guide of what to expect if you're shopping for a mattress online at nine popular brands.

To help you shop for a mattress, we spoke with Dr. Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, a lung and sleep health specialist at PCSI.

Peña-Hernández first suggests considering your medical history. "The right mattress is the most comfortable one for each person. However, consumers should consider their medical history, like respiratory diseases, allergies, scoliosis, or sleep apnea when purchasing a mattress; so they can make an informed decision regarding what type of materials are in their mattress or what features might prove to be healthier for them," Peña-Hernández said. "Patients with COPD may benefit from mattresses that are designed for adjustable beds because elevating the head of the bed can sometimes facilitate easier breathing." 

After talking to your doctor, assess your sleeping style and preferred firmness level.

"The most common mattress problem that people report is the lack of comfortability which can result in fatigue or excessive sleepiness," Peña-Hernández said. "It's hard to keep up with the day-to-day when you're not well-rested, and ultimately, it can affect your quality of life. Chronic fatigue can even have implications for your immunity and your health. A good mattress meets the criteria for the specific person's needs and promotes a healthy, well-rested, rest."

Though every person's preferences are different, there are some patterns that certain body types and sleeping styles seem to prefer, according to Peña-Hernández.

• Side sleepers: "Vast research exists to support side sleepers benefit from medium-firm mattresses to support pressure point relief," said Peña-Hernández. "Side sleepers can experience shoulder and lower back pain if the mattress is too unsupportive."
• Back sleepers: Peña-Hernández recommends medium firmness for back sleepers. "Back sleepers should strive to maintain the natural S-curvature of the spine so the best mattress for back sleepers provides spinal support. A medium-firm mattress will help achieve this by redistributing weight and promoting healthy alignment but still contours to the body to provide cushioning where it is needed."
• Stomach sleepers: Firmer mattresses tend to benefit stomach sleepers as well as heavier folks.

In addition to the above, you should also consider bodyweight and heat dissipation.

"Individuals concerned about their weight and weight-related complications should speak to their medical provider when considering a mattress, said Peña-Hernández. "Overweight individuals should consider a thicker mattress of at least 12 inches thick or more. Thinner mattresses won't provide you with the support you need. Coil mattresses also provide a more durable construction."

Softer mattresses are generally better for petite individuals since lighter individuals (under 130 pounds) don't sink into beds as far. Breus also notes that as people get older, they would benefit  a softer bed to address pain issues. "As we age, our skin gets thinner, which means less cushion."

Firm mattresses aren't necessarily more supportive. Instead, support is based on how well the bed cradles your body and allows your spine to relax. Since different parts of your body push down more on a mattress, such as the hips and shoulders, mattresses that offer zoned support in these areas tend to be more comfortable to a broader range of individuals. These beds also tend to cost more as the construction is more specialized.

If you overheat at night, you'll want a mattress and even bedding that does an outstanding job of dissipating heat. "Hot sleepers should consider sheets and materials made of natural fibers for their breathability," said Peña-Hernández. "Bamboo, cotton, linen, and hemp are good options as well as cooling sheets, especially sheets designed to wick moisture."

What kind of mattress should you buy?

There are a handful of popular mattress types to choose from.

• Memory foam– When most people think of a bed-in-a-box, they think of memory foam mattresses. These are mattresses with multiple layers of foam that support and contour your body. However, due to the construction, all-foam mattresses also tend to trap heat.
• Latex foam– This is usually preferred by people looking for an eco-friendly foam that's cooler and more responsive than traditional memory foam.
• Hybrid– These beds combine one of the above foams with spring coils. The coils tend to help with motion transfer and edge support making them a great option for couples. The coils also help with airflow for a cooler sleep.
• Spring– Also called innerspring or coil mattresses, these are your more traditional beds. Due to the responsive coils, they offer good support, edge support, cooling, and durability. However, they are generally more expensive and mostly found in showrooms and not online.
• Pillow-top– Pillow-tops are usually associated with innerspring mattresses but can be found on any of the above options. This is the smart solution for those who like a soft, cushy feel.
• Adjustable or air beds– These beds use an air pump to adjust the firmness of your mattress to suit your needs. They are among the most expensive option but may be an ideal long-term solution since your firmness needs change with time. Couples with drastically different firmness needs would also benefit from an adjustable air bed.

What size bed should you buy?

There are six standard bed sizes. In order from smallest to largest (and usually the least to most expensive), they are:

• Twin– If you are a smaller individual who sleeps alone, a Twin (38 inches wide by 75 inches long) will serve you well.
• Twin XL – This is the same width (38 inches) as the Twin but 5 inches longer, which makes it better for tall people who sleep alone.
• Full – With the same length (75 inches) as the Twin but 16 inches wider, the Full is designed for larger folks or anyone who just wants a bit more space
• Queen– The Queen is 80 inches long by 60 inches wide, and is meant for couples who are smaller.
• King– The King is 16 inches wider than the Queen and better for larger couples. I recommend it if you are choosing a mattress with subpar edge support and you're concerned about feeling uncomfortable near the edges.
• California King– The Cal King is four inches longer but four inches narrower than the King, so it's a smart alternative for taller couples.

For context, my wife and I are both slightly taller and heavier than average, and we share a bed with a dog and a full-body pillow. Queen mattresses are simply too small and uncomfortable for us, though it's the size we test as it's the most popular. We've found a King is more ideal for our needs.

Check out our other in-depth mattress guides

• The best mattresses for side sleepers
• The best mattresses for back pain
• The best hybrid mattress
• The best foam mattresses
• The best spring mattress
• The best air mattresses
• The best mattress toppers
• The best mattress protectors
• The 9 best online delivery mattress companies
• The best pillows
• The best sheets

Read more about Insider Reviews' top mattress reviews

• Every wardrobe needs great basics that can lay the foundation for plenty of outfits.
• Brands like Everlane and Pact have taught us that high-quality basics don't have to cost so much.
• Here are the companies we come back to again and again when we need new T-shirts, jeans, and more.

We've all had those moments, standing in front of a closet full of perfectly good clothing, but still unable to find an outfit we like. In those "I-have-nothing-to-wear" moments, you pull out the basics — classic, reliable pieces you can always count on to look and feel great. The super-soft, plain-white T-shirt. The jeans that fit like a glove. The tailored blazer that makes it look like you put a lot more thought into your outfit. 

Great basics are — or, should be — the foundation of your wardrobe. When you have a few simple pieces you love, getting dressed in the morning is much easier. Just about every brand offers its own take on the basics, but these are the ones we always come back to. Combining high-quality materials, affordability, and flattering styles, these companies make the better basics you'll want to wear every day.

Keep reading for eight brands that make great, everyday basics you need in your closet:

SEE ALSO: 11 San Francisco-based clothing startups that prove New York City isn't the only capital of fashion

Everlane

Minimalist, modern pieces that go with every budget and style, Everlane is a go-to shop for high-quality basics. 

Sizing options: 00-16 for tops and pants, XXS-XXL for tees and tanks, 23-33 for denim

There's a lot of hype around Everlane, and we think it's well worth it. Prior to working at Insider, I had never bought a piece from the brand, but after hearing my teammates' consistently rave reviews, I bought two pieces that quickly became outfit go-to's.

One of my colleagues recently shared a similar sentiment after trying his first Everlane pieces, and for good reason. Everlane is strongly focused on transparency, giving consumers the cost breakdown of every item, down to the factory where the piece is made and where materials are sourced. Beyond the brand's sustainable, ethical practices, its clothes and accessories really deliver on quality and style. You'll find simple T-shirts, sweaters, work pants, and more in universally flattering fits and a wide range of colors — there's really something for everyone. 

What to buy:

Universal Standard

For modern essentials that are universally flattering on all body types, Universal Standard is a go-to. 

Sizing options: 00-40 across styles

Universal Standard was born out of two women's frustration with the lack of stylish clothing options out there for plus-size women. That's why they set out to make amazing basics that look great on all women and, more importantly, make every woman feel great in her skin.

Overall, the site boasts a modern, stylish collection full of what we'd consider staples, but if you're really looking for the basics, head to the "Foundation" section — it's full of a range of simple tanks and tees that make great base layers for any outfit. If you're not sure what you want, Universal Standard also offers the option to purchase a capsule— it's a curated collection of some of its bestselling pieces catered to your lifestyle, like workwear and activewear.

What to buy:

Pact

Pact offers up cost-conscious and environmentally friendly basics that are soft, lightweight, and simple.

Pact doesn't think being cost-conscious and environmentally conscious should be mutually exclusive. That's why the brand is committed to making super-soft, comfortable products using organic cotton in Fair Trade factories. While organic is usually synonymous with expensive, Pact's products are very affordable — leggings cost $20, T-shirts go for $25, and hoodies for $50, to give you a sense of pricing.

Pact has a wide range of products for men, women, and kids — you'll find clothing, undergarments, and even bedding — though within each category, the selection is small. For example, men can choose from three T-shirt styles and there are just four dress styles for women, all offered in a few colors and patterns. If you have trouble making decisions, you'll appreciate Pact's thoughtful selection of just the basics. 

What to buy:

DSTLD

For premium basics and trendy essentials at a surprisingly affordable price, shop DSTLD.

If your dream capsule wardrobe draws up thoughts of effortlessly chic leather jackets, premium denim, slouchy tees, and other pieces that are as cool as they are timeless, you'll love DSTLD. The direct-to-consumer model has allowed the brand to bring down prices pretty significantly, without sacrificing quality along the way. That means you can get a beautiful wool coat for $180, not far off from a price you would pay at a fast-fashion store like Zara, and a real leather jacket for $400 that would probably cost more than double if you bought it retail. All of the pieces come in a neutral palette, making them easy to mix and match, so you can perfect that "I-just-woke-up-and-threw-this-on" vibe.

What to buy:

Cuyana

For simple pieces with chic, feminine touches, Cuyana is a no-brainer.

Cuyana embodies a "less is more" ethos, advocating for a closet that's full of fewer, but better pieces. If you're wondering what better means — think beautiful pieces that are thoughtfully made every step of the way, from where the materials are sourced, to the factory where everything is put together, to what smart features are included on the product itself.

Other than clothing, we're fond of the brand's simple leather bags. While pricier than many of the other brands on this list, Cuyana prides itself on the idea that these will really be all you need (remember: fewer, better). Timeless silhouettes, beautiful colors, and simple but elegant touches make Cuyana's pieces ones you'll want to put on, especially when you're craving a look that's chic but requires minimal effort.

What to buy:

Uniqlo

Japanese brand Uniqlo is one of our favorite destinations for affordable basics.

Uniqlo has a huge selection of simple and sleek pieces that work for most occasions. From performance workout apparel to modern workwear, denim, and more, Uniqlo has pretty much everything you need to fill your wardrobe — and, it won't break the bank. 

Uniqlo makes it easy to stock up on wardrobe essentials with its affordable prices. T-shirts start at $10, denim starts at $40, and you can even pick up a warm winter jacket for less than $100. Uniqlo also frequently collaborates with fashion designers and other brands to make limited-edition collections.

What to buy:

Richer Poorer

When you want cozy, high-quality loungewear and undergarments, click over to Richer Poorer. 

There was a time when Richer Poorer was almost bankrupt. Now, the brand has a cult-like following with products that garner thousand-person waitlists. Richer Poorer's success lies in this fact: everything is seriously comfortable. We think it's some of the comfiest clothing we've ever worn. 

From cotton bralettes to fleece sweatshirts, it's all supremely soft. And, you can tell from just one wear that the pieces are high quality. Richer Poorer actually prewashes many of its pieces with silicone so that they already feel comfortable and broken-in. The T-shirts and undergarments tend to be pretty affordable, with most in the $30-40 range. The fleece sweats are on the pricier side (about $70 apiece), but they cost far less than other high-end athleisure pieces while still having a luxurious loungewear feel. 

What to buy:

Madewell

Simple, timeless basics and great denim is the name of the game at Madewell. 

Madewell is J.Crew's cool younger sister. The brand is loved for its timeless essentials, great denim, and simple pieces with modern twists. If you're looking for a one-stop-shop for your casual but still stylish uniform, Madewell should be your go-to. Tuck one of the brand's boxy T-shirts into a pair of jeans and throw on a cozy cardigan and a pair of its leather boots. Madewell has it all.

The denim is some of our favorite, and it goes on sale often. Madewell offers most jeans in three lengths: petite, regular, and tall. This makes it easy to find a perfect fit for your body. There's always a great selection of silhouettes and washes, from everyday options like skinny jeans to more trendy styles like flares and ripped pairs. The T-shirts, another basic we love, tend to be around $20 and are simple, last a long time for the price, and go with everything.

If you're looking for some more exciting pieces, Madewell has those too. You can expect lots of cool blouses, sweaters, and dresses. Madewell also frequently collaborates with other iconic style brands.

What to buy:

• The best dog dewormers should treat four of the most common intestinal parasites in dogs and should be easy to administer.
• Guaranteed to treat multiple species of hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm, and whipworm, Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer is our top pick for the best dog dewormer overall.
• This article was medically reviewed by Karie Johnson, veterinarian and co-founder of VIP Vet Visit, a mobile vet service in the south suburbs of Chicago.

Intestinal parasites are extremely common in dogs of all ages, and most can't be seen with the naked eye, which means you might not know if your dog is infected. Some worms can be transmitted to humans (children are especially vulnerable), so it's important to keep your dog parasite-free.

When choosing the best dewormer for your dog, you need to know what type of worms your dog has. If you suspect that your dog might have worms, bring them to the veterinarian for a physical exam and fecal test. Treatment is generally easy with over-the-counter dewormers for dogs. 

 You can purchase a dewormer for specific types of worms, or you can choose a broad-spectrum product that kills many different types of worms. Dewormers come in several forms including tablets, granules, powders, and liquids, so talk to your veterinarian about the option that is best for your dog. Once you know what kind of dewormer you need, take a look at our top picks for the best non-prescription dewormer for dogs.

Here are the best dog dewormers you can buy:

• Best dog dewormer overall: Excel Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer
• Best liquid dog dewormer: Nemex 2 Liquid Dewormer for Dogs
• Best dewormer for puppies: Bayer Quad Dewormer Chewable Tablets for Puppies and Small Dogs
• Best dewormer for small dogs: Sentry HC WormX Plus 7-Way Dewormer
• Best dewormer for large dogs: Durvet Triple Wormer for Medium and Large Dogs

The best dog dewormer overall

Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer (fenbendazole) is a broad-spectrum dewormer that kills four types of intestinal parasites commonly seen in dogs.

Pros: Kills four common types of worm, easy-to-mix granule formulation, safe and effective, kills two species of roundworm and hookworm

Cons: Large dogs may require more than one package, only kills one species of tapeworm and whipworm, three once-a-day doses required, not for puppies younger than 6 weeks of age

If you're looking for a quick and effective solution to intestinal parasites, a broad-spectrum dewormer may be the way to go. These dewormers contain active ingredients that kill four types of common worms, including multiple species, and generally come in an easy-to-administer form. For efficacy, convenience, and affordability, Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer is our top pick for the best dewormer for dogs overall.

Made with the active ingredient fenbendazole, Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer kills two species each of roundworm and hookworm as well as the most common species of tapeworm and whipworm.

Generally recognized as a safe and effective dewormer for dogs, it comes in an easy-to-administer granule formulation that can be sprinkled on or mixed into your dog's food and is safe for dogs and puppies 6 weeks or older. This dewormer is given once a day for three days. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends annual fecal tests to check for internal parasites at least once a year or as recommended by your veterinarian.

The best liquid dewormer for dogs

With pyrantel pamoate as the powerful active ingredient, Nemex-2 Liquid Dewormer is a safe and effective treatment for roundworms and hookworms in dogs and puppies as young as 2 weeks of age.

Pros: Highly palatable, liquid formulation is easy to administer, safe for puppies as young as 2 weeks, safe for pregnant females, good for dogs that don't like tablets

Cons: Only treats roundworms and hookworms, large dogs may require a higher dosage

Many dogs dislike taking tablets and even powdered dewormers may be difficult to disguise in your dog's food. If you're looking for an alternative, a liquid dewormer might be a good option. Nemex 2 Liquid Dewormer for Dogs is our top pick because it is approved to treat roundworms and hookworms in dogs and comes in an easy-to-administer liquid.

Nemex 2 Liquid Dewormer for Dogs only treats roundworms and hookworms, so if your dog has tapeworms or whipworms, this medication will not be effective. The active ingredient pyrantel pamoate is highly effective and widely recognized as safe. Simply add the liquid to your dog's food or feed it directly by mouth. One treatment should kill all worms. Follow up with a fecal test from your veterinarian to make sure the worms have been eliminated.

The best dewormer for puppies

Made with three powerful active ingredients, Bayer Quad Dewormer Chewable Tablets is a broad-spectrum dewormer safe for puppies and small dogs weighing at least 2 pounds and less than 25 pounds.

Pros: Three powerful active ingredients, broad-spectrum dewormer, kills four types of intestinal parasites, safe for puppies 2 pounds and over, palatable beef-flavored chewable tablet

Cons: Heavy infestations may require multiple treatments, some dogs dislike taking tablets

You may be surprised to learn that most puppies are born with worms. Fortunately, worms are generally easy to treat. Puppies should be treated with a dewormer at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks of age, followed by additional treatments as needed. Our top pick for the best dewormer for puppies is Bayer Quad Dewormer Chewable Tablets.

Specifically designed for puppies and small dogs weighing between 2 and 25 pounds, Bayer Quad Dewormer Chewable Tablets features three active ingredients— praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, and febantel — to kill four types of worms commonly seen in dogs: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. A single dose is enough to kill common worms and it comes in a highly palatable beef-flavored tablet. Follow up with a fecal test from your veterinarian to make sure the worms have been eliminated.

The best dewormer for small dogs

Fast-acting and cost-effective, this Sentry HC WormX Plus 7-Way Dewormer for Small Dogs kills seven species of roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.

Pros: Broad-spectrum dewormer, made for dogs 6 to 25 pounds, easy-to-administer tablet form, two powerful active ingredients, cost-effective

Cons: Doesn't kill whipworms, not ideal for dogs over 25 pounds, not for use in puppies younger than 12 weeks, should not be used in pregnant or nursing females

Products designed for dogs of all sizes and dosed by weight can be tricky to divide for small-breed dogs, especially if they come in tablet form. For a safe and effective dewormer designed specifically for small dogs, we recommend Sentry HC WormX Plus 7-Way Dewormer for Small Dogs.

This Sentry Dewormer is formulated specifically for small dogs 12 weeks and older that weigh between 6 and 25 pounds. The two active ingredients, pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel, quickly and effectively kill two types of tapeworms, two types of roundworms, and three types of hookworms. It comes in an easy-to-administer tablet form that can be fed whole or crushed and mixed with your dog's food. Only one dose is needed to eliminate worms. Follow up with a fecal test from your veterinarian to make sure the worms have been eliminated.

The best dewormer for large dogs

The Durvet Tripler Wormer for Medium and Large Dogs is an effective option for big dogs. 

Pros: Broad-spectrum dewormer, two powerful active ingredients, made for dogs 25 to 200 pounds, palatable chewable tablet form, easy dosing instructions, works quickly

Cons: Doesn't kill whipworms, not for dogs that weigh less than 25 pounds, not for puppies under 12 weeks of age

Large-breed dogs require different amounts of medicines, and that is definitely true for dewormers. If you purchase a regular dewormer, you may find yourself purchasing several boxes to get the right dosage for a large-breed dog. Depending what brand you choose, the costs to treat your dog could add up quickly — especially if the product requires multiple treatments.

For a fast and cost-effective solution designed specifically for medium and large breeds, we recommend Durvet Triple Wormer.

Durvet Triple Wormer features a broad-spectrum formula made with two powerful active ingredients: pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel. This product is proven to kill two species of tapeworms, two species of roundworms, and three species of hookworms.

It comes in a highly palatable chewable tablet. Simply feed it directly or mix it into your dog's food. For the maximum efficacy, repeat the dosage after two weeks. As with the other dewormers on this list, follow up with a fecal test from your veterinarian to make sure the worms have been eliminated.

What you should know about intestinal parasites in dogs

Four different types of worms commonly infect dogs and puppies: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Puppies are also commonly infected with a single-cell intestinal parasite known as coccidia. Adult dogs can become infected with coccidia as well, but many dogs develop an immunity to these parasites.

Dogs can become infected with intestinal parasites in different ways. Puppies often become infected with roundworms prior to birth or when nursing from their mother. Tapeworms can be transmitted if a dog swallows an infected flea (treating flea infestations goes hand in hand with treating tapeworm infections). Dogs can pick up hookworms and whipworms from their environment, often from the feces of infected dogs, or contaminated soil or water.

Some of the most common symptoms of worms in dogs included digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhea), gas, bloated belly (pot-bellied appearance), increased appetite, unexplained weight loss, weakness, and bloody stool or diarrhea. In puppies especially, intestinal parasite infections can cause anemia and poor growth.

The days of major influencers dominating our Instagram feeds might be over. 

That's according to brother and sister cofounders Emily and Mark Stallings, who created Casely, a phone-case brand that's amassed 209,000 followers on Instagram. This year, they made Forbes' "30 under 30" list. 

They said brands can no longer just throw products at influencers and expect to impact the e-commerce market. "In the past, companies were able to do that, but because Instagram is so saturated with brands, you have to just chip away," Emily told Business Insider.

In 2017, the year they launched the brand, they made $150,000 in sales. In 2019, they made just over $10 million. In 2020, they project to reach $25 million, according to Forbes. Emily and Mark attribute much of Casely's growth to promoting their brand through "micro-influencers," which is generally anyone with 1,000 to 10,000 followers.

"We focused on keeping that loyalty and customer satisfaction in our product quality at a high," Mark said. "Then we just leverage social media and paid social ads to scale us up from where we were."

Mark, 23, is the CEO and Emily, 26, leads creative direction and web development. They explained how they surpassed 100,000 Instagram followers and boosted sales through micro-influencers, photographers, and brand ambassadors. 

If you've used social media or influencers to grow your brand, Business Insider wants to hear from you. Please email your story to jortakales@businessinsider.com. 

SEE ALSO: The top 10 Instagram apps all entrepreneurs should use in 2020 to boost their following and get a boatload of new customers

MUST READ: How entrepreneurs use apps like Poshmark to turn side hustles selling clothes into full-time gigs earning 6 figures or more

Starting from a bedroom-operated eBay business

Mark was an entrepreneur from age 13. He started a business called Chef Bliss from his bedroom selling tech accessories on eBay. He then leveraged that into an Amazon business after taking a couple online courses on Amazing.com, a membership service that teaches business owners how to scale.

"He doesn't like to brag, but he literally had a warehouse out of our house," Emily said. 

Mark said he sold his business in 2016 (and at age 19) to his largest competitor, Systems Limited, for $250,000. That year, he saw opportunity in the tech-accessories market for a phone-case subscription model, so he put that money into his next venture, which became Casely. 

"I saw a hole in the market where women were shopping around month to month, based off of new designs that are coming up, staying with fast fashion," Mark said. 

Meanwhile, Emily was working for a healthcare marketing agency, but told her brother at dinner one night that she didn't think it was the right path for her. "I wanted to be a little bit more creative and more in control of what I was doing," she said. 

He pitched her his idea, with her as their in-house phone-case designer, and they officially launched the company in 2017. "When he said that I could just be designing, and with a phone case you can design whatever you want, every single day, I was very excited," Emily said. 

They built their Instagram presence before launching any products

Emily and Mark started Casely as an Instagram-first business, meaning their social account was live and active three months before they released any products. "We basically got our business off the ground through Instagram," Emily said. 

Emily created all the first images and content on their account, while Mark said he was on the app for about eight to 10 hours a day, responding to messages, getting feedback, and contacting people to collaborate with. "You want to be a personality or a lifestyle rather than a product," Emily said.

Casely's first posts made it clear the company's mission was to connecting its cases to fashion and millennials. One post showed a marble-pattern phone case sitting on the table of a Brooklyn coffee shop, framed by a cappuccino and potted plant. Another early post styled a turquoise phone case draped with a stone pendant necklace. 

They launched with their initial subscription model, but soon realized they'd have more success with individual product sales. "It didn't take off right away," Mark said. "I think we had 500 subscribers after the first couple months."

Based on early feedback, they realized that customers wanted to try their cases to test the quality, so they started selling cases separate from the subscription. Last year, Mark said one-off retail sales are 98 to 99% of their business. 

Customers are a part of the design process

To set their cases apart, Emily draws inspiration from anything around her, whether it's a graffiti wall in Brooklyn or a traffic cone on the street. "Every phone-case company was selling the exact same design, or some iteration of them," she said. For example, basic designs like the ubiquitous marble print or a generic floral pattern are easy to find on Amazon. Casely has its fair share of marble and floral-print cases, but they also offer a wider range of styles including shiny crocodile skin, rainbow tie-dye, and a dripping donut.  

But customer feedback is the biggest driver of what makes it into production. "We can take ideas from our customers and create them pretty quickly. It's a lot of taking their feedback and actually creating a product that they want," she said. 

For the first couple years, they focused on getting unique designs into the market and forming a group of loyal customers. The company now has three major collections: "classic" cases are based on what's trendy and stylish, "bold" has an extra-protective design, and "power" is the battery-powered charging cases. 

"We were able to use those customers' feedback to then build new products like our bold collection or power collection, which was what they were asking for," Mark said. 

Emily said that engaging with their customers generated buzz before they launched their products and really set them apart from other phone-case companies, whether it was a direct message or a comment on their posts. "We weren't just strictly selling it. We were talking about the lifestyle behind the person using that case," Emily said. 

They also started a brand-ambassador program to get their most loyal customers into one place. They'd ask ambassadors to take surveys and test out new products. "If they were happy, we knew that we could go from that and then scale it up," Mark said.

Micro-influencers are more cost-effective than larger influencers

The cofounders discovered that micro-influencers were a more effective way to get their phone cases into more hands. Instead of competing against a plethora of brands trying to reach the 1% of Instagram elite, they contacted influencers with 10,000 followers or less.

"They can create good content for a much lower cost or even for free product. That's why we've been able to populate our feed with really interesting content that hasn't been too redundant or boring," Emily said. 

Any content a micro-influencer creates, Casely can repurpose on its website, for social, and in emails. The brand does not pay micro-influencers for posts and offers them free products for posts. However, if Casely wants to obtain the rights to the content, the company pays micro-influencers $25 to $100 for five to 25 photos. 

Photographers are the unseen stars

Although they don't receive as much hype as influencers, photographers who work with influencers are an integral part of Casely's marketing strategy. They serve a double purpose: to create content and connect the brand with other influencers. 

Photographers typically have influencers modeling for them, so the influencers often repost the content they're featured in. "[Photographers] usually have connections with larger influencers, as well as micro-influencers that are just trying to get off the ground," Mark said. 

Casely started without paying photographers, targeting people who needed to build up their portfolios. The brand still works with a couple of those photographers, but now pays them, as they've grown their following alongside Casely. 

Casely sent Business Insider a document outlining its photographer and influencer strategy. 

According to the document, when Casely hires a new photographer they agree to one shoot. If it goes well, the photographer signs a three- to four-month contract that typically requires 30 photos or more per month. Payment depends on how many followers the photographer has, but typically ranges from $5 to $50 per photo.

Casely does work with larger influencers and has contracts with about 10 influencers with 30,000 to over 100,000 followers. The document said these influencers are more expensive to hire than photographers. Mark told Business Insider that Casely does not pay influencers per post on Instagram, though it will pay to obtain the rights to content. Those deals range from $500 to $1,500 for an Instagram post, Instagram story, or for five to 10 photos. 

The brand found that influencers who publish one to three posts per month have the highest return on investment. "Their followers see that the influencer actually likes our brand as opposed to just taking money for a one-off post," Mark wrote in the document. 

When Stacey Hronowski first entered the cannabis space as a consultant for a Bay-area cannabis company, she says she was taken aback at the amount of manual work that businesses were doing just to keep track of their operations.

"Even incredibly efficient founders were spending a lot of time on Google Sheets, on pen and paper, trying to keep track of their inventory," Hronowski told Insider.

That's when she started to map out the idea for a compliance tool for the cannabis industry. Hronowski founded a company called Entrc, now called Canix, to address what she saw as a gap between the strict compliance regulations that cannabis companies needed to adhere to and the tools available to help.

Canix closed a $2.5 million round on Monday to further grow operations. The company wants to become the top business-management software for cannabis companies, the founders said.

The seed round was led by Phyto Partners, Floret Ventures, Andrew Freedman (Colorado's former cannabis czar), and others. The San Francisco based company is also a Y Combinator graduate.

Cofounders Hronowski and Artem Pasyechnyk hail from the finance and software sectors. Before founding Canix, Hronowski worked as an analyst for Cowen and on platforms for companies looking to develop e-commerce marketplaces. Pasyechnyk was a software engineering manager at Facebook.

Pasyechnyk and Hronowski said their backgrounds were instrumental in building the company. It has 300 US clients and revenue is growing 12% per month, they said.

While Hronowski's background in finance has allowed the company to stay nimble and capital efficient, Pasyechnyk's experience has helped attract engineers from companies like Facebook, Square, and Coinbase.

Canix's software allows cannabis businesses — from cultivators to manufacturers to retail operators — to track their inventory, sales, compliance matters, and forecasts.

With the funding, Canix says it's planning to grow geographically while expanding its forecasting modules so that the platform can extend beyond day to day operations and help clients plan their businesses.

Canix is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform geared toward the cannabis industry.

The company says that cannabis businesses face many operational challenges, like compliance burdens and opaque data, which can't be addressed with the ERP software currently available.

Canix's software aims to address these hurdles by providing operators a way to track their inventory, sales, compliance, and forecasts. The platform is available on desktop and mobile device.

The company stared in June 2019. It has signed 300 companies onto its platform and brings in $123,000 in revenue per month.

This slide features testimonials from clients who use Canix's platform.

The company says organic growth accounts for a large portion of the company's growing client base and that around half of potential clients end up coming aboard the platform after a demo of the product.

Canix's cofounders hail from companies like Cowen, H.I.G. Capital, and Facebook. The engineering team has worked at Uber, Coinbase, and other firms.

The company says it's structured its operations in a way that's been capital efficient, spending only $75k monthly, which has let it stretch out the funding from its last seed round.

This slide outlines Canix's roadmap. By the end of 2021, the company says it plans to expand to Canada, Thailand, and other countries while adding new features to its current platform.

The cannabis ERP market in the US, in the states where adult-use marijuana is currently legal, is worth around $800 million according to Canix.

The company says its vision is to create a marketplace where cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, and distributors can connect and operate easily on one platform

The company was aiming to raise between $1.5 million and $2 million in this round. Canix closed the round on February 15 with $2.5 million.

As e-commerce demand surges, retailers are looking for solutions that will help them fulfill orders as efficiently as possible. 

For many, that means turning to robots that can help workers out in fulfillment centers. 

"I think anybody who's dealing with consumers is really busy right now with this because you've got to figure out how to get things to consumers without having the consumers come to you, as much as possible," Lisa Ellram, a professor of supply chain management at Miami University in Ohio, said in a recent interview with Insider. 

Building and maintaining a workforce in fulfillment centers has historically been a challenge for companies, as warehouse jobs aren't particularly high-paying or desirable, Ellram said. And, robots are able to handle certain tasks, like lifting heavy objects, that would be difficult or even dangerous for human workers to complete. 

A number of startups are building robotic systems to relieve this labor pressure, which has been exacerbated as the COVID-19 pandemic has simultaneously brought health and safety issues to the fore and led to a huge surge in online orders.

Several of these startups are specializing in micro-fulfillment, using robots to automate order picking and packing in spaces that are much smaller than the typical warehouse. In doing so, they hope to reduce last-mile costs for their retail partners and compete with incumbents that have already built large-scale fulfillment systems, like Amazon, Ocado, and Dematic. 

These startups are raising millions in venture capital and partnering with major retailers including Walmart, Albertsons, Nordstrom, and Gap. 

SEE ALSO: Walmart, Gap, and other retailers are turning to robotics startups and their 'cobots' to solve the biggest warehouse labor issues

Fabric is a robotics company focused on micro-fulfillment in urban centers.

In a recent interview with Insider, Chief Commercial Officer Steve Hornyak described Fabric's tech as being like a "giant vending machine" that uses robotics and AI and can "flexibly fit in a number of different places." 

Fabric can either integrate its system into its retailer partners' existing stores or real estate, or it can fulfill orders from micro warehouses that Fabric owns itself.

The idea is to be as close to potential customers as possible so as to help retailers keep last-mile delivery costs low. Fabric is pitching retailers on the ability to dedicate just portions of their existing real estate to order fulfillment. The startup could install its systems in the back of a grocery store, for example. 

On January 27, Walmart announced that Fabric was one of three startups it was working with  to grow its micro-fulfillment capabilities and cut down on delivery times.

Fabric has also partnered with FreshDirect to power grocery delivery out of a micro-fulfillment center in Washington, DC. 

Fabric, which recently moved its headquarters from Tel Aviv to New York City, has raised $136 million in venture capital. 

Kindred AI's SORT system can "see" items and pick them for specific orders.

Kindred's systems use artificial intelligence-powered machine vision and can grasp items and prepare them to be packed. 

The robots are "99% autonomous," requiring only a handful of representatives on-site to monitor performance, CEO Marin Tchakarov said in a recent interview with Insider. They're intended to alleviate warehouse labor issues by working alongside employees and making their jobs easier.

The robots are integrated into customers' existing fulfillment centers.

Acquired by British online grocery giant Ocado for about $262 million in November 2020, Kindred counts Gap Inc. and American Eagle Outfitters among its clients. 

While Kindred, which was founded in 2014, started out largely working with items like clothing in polybags, Tchakarov said that the acquisition by Ocado is an exciting opportunity to expand its capabilities into different categories. Ocado itself has developed a highly automated system for online grocery orders that it sells to other grocery chains. 

Before it was acquired by Ocado, Kindred had raised $79 million in venture capital from investors like CR2 Capital Ventures and Tencent Holdings.

Alert Innovation's small robots can pick and pack grocery orders inside a giant shelving system.

Alert Innovation's system, called Alphabot, is estimated to pick items at a rate that is as much as 10 times faster than a human can. 

In early 2020, the company revealed the Alphabot system it built in a 20,000-square-foot facility attached to a Walmart store in Salem, New Hampshire. It consists of several dozen small robots that can move vertically and horizontally along a shelving system, moving blue bins as they pack orders for delivery or pickup, Insider's Hayley Peterson reported. Workers at designated stations input a customer's order, and the system spits out the bin for that order. 

Walmart said in a recent press release that it is planning to scale its local fulfillment options and that expanding Alphabot to more locations is a key part of the plan.

The big-box retailer said that the system in Salem had helped it to improve availability for customers, speed up fulfillment, and improve efficiency for stores in the area. 

"Walmart's announcement is exciting as it's the largest deployment of automated micro-fulfillment technology announced to date by any retailer and represents a major step in the evolution of local fulfillment," Alert Innovation CEO and founder John Lert said to Insider's Áine Cain. 

Attabotics' compact fulfillment system is inspired by ant colonies.

Attabotics' system includes a network of conveyor belts that can send robotic shuttles up, down, and across its vertical structure. 

The company says that its system requires 85% less space than a traditional fulfillment center.

Attabotics has raised a total $75 million in venture funding, with the most recent round being a $50 million Series C announced in August 2020.

A company representative said that demand for its product has soared during the COVID-19 pandemic as grocers and other retailers have looked for solutions to meet exploding e-commerce demand. 

Attabotics' partners include Nordstrom, which began piloting the tech in its San Jose, California, distribution center at the beginning of 2020. The department store said in a statement to Chain Store Age at the time that partnering with tech providers like Attabotics empowers it to "continue to get customers the right product at a faster speed." 

Attabotics has also partnered with Honeywell and Microsoft. It recently announced that it is working with Food-X Technologies and Microsoft to enable AI-powered inventory management for grocers of all sizes. 

Takeoff Technologies is building micro-fulfillment centers in grocers' unused real estate.

About 80% of its picking and packing process is automated. The company says that about 800 items can be processed at a workstation operated by one person using its technology in an hour. 

Takeoff's system is meant to take up about an eighth of a typical store's space. By fitting into smaller spaces, it aims to be closer to partner retailers' customers and reduce stores' last-mile costs. 

One of Takeoff's biggest partners is Albertsons, which began using its technology in late 2019. 

"The micro-fulfillment center model is a key element in the store of the future. It combines the efficiency of automation with the ease of meeting customers when and how they want to shop," Albertsons Cos. President and CEO Vivek Sankaran said in a statement to Supermarket News at the time. 

Takeoff has also partnered with Ahold Delhaize to build micro-fulfillment centers for Stop & Shop.

The startup has raised $86 million in venture capital. Its most recent funding round was a $25 million Series C in September 2019. 

Exotec's robots, called Skypods, move bins of items as they roam around warehouses.

The Skypod robots retrieve the bins from vertical stacks and then bring them to human workers who retrieve and scan them. The company said in an informational video that the system is able to process more than 450 bins in an hour. 

Companies can add more racks and more robots to keep up with demand as they scale. 

Exotec also recently announced it has developed a robotic arm, called the Skypicker, that can be integrated directly into the Skypod system. It can grasp items and prepare four bins simultaneously, the company said.

France-based Exotec has raised $111.5 million in venture capital. Its latest round was a $90 million Series C announced in September. 

Exotec's clients include French supermarket chain Carrefour and Uniqlo's parent company Fast Retailing. 

Applications are wide open for small businesses can apply for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the financial assistance program from the federal government meant to help entrepreneurs pay rent and keep employees. 

So far, the Small Business Administration has approved $103 billion of PPP funds in the latest round. That means 1.4 million businesses have received aid since applications opened in early January, the government agency reported.

However, about 65% of the allotted $284 billion remains. Demand for these grants and loans is high, so business owners will need to prepare their applications now. 

Insider spoke with three entrepreneurs who are applying for government funding. They walked us through the application process. 

DON'T MISS PPP is now open for all applicants, and experts say the guidance is clearer this time around

SEE ALSO: How your small business can cash in on the government's $349 billion relief program so you can quickly pay rent, keep staff employed, and restructure your debt

MUST READ: 6 ways entrepreneurs can make the most of the coronavirus slowdown, from the owner of a hostel who hit record cancellations and has prepared for 3 months of lost business

How to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program: 2021 second draw

Devon Lind is the cofounder of Blender, the umbrella company of three smaller startups: Automated buying app Odermate.io, mobile rage room Smash, and live social media printing Photoboxx. Lind's company had its best year in 2019, which was quickly followed by a precipitous decline due to the pandemic. 

With in-person events on hold, about 80% of the company's revenues evaporated. Lind let go more than half of his staff, closed the startup's physical office, and pivoted to digital in an effort to create safe experiences for customers. 

Lind was recently approved for a $120,000 second draw PPP loan after receiving the same amount through last year's PPP, he said. 

Previous PPP borrowers, like Lind, can apply for the second draw as long as they have 300 or fewer employees and can demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts in the first, second, or third quarter of 2020 relative to the same period in 2019. 

He sent Insider his second draw PPP application. We've blocked out sensitive information to maintain his privacy.

Then, applicants have to review and confirm all seven disclosures.

How to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans

Note: The SBA closed applications for EIDL advances, but will provide more funding for qualified businesses that did not receive the full amount of up to $10,000.

Brent Underwood owns HK Austin, a backpacker hostel in Austin, Texas. The business lost all of its SXSW bookings, the largest festival for the hostel's business, and had to shut down for three months due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

"We have a mortgage payment, utilities, employees, and an empty building," Underwood told Business Insider. "It's devastating. We've somehow made it work for six years now, but this is looking like it may be the end."

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) offer up to $2 million in loans with an interest rate of 3.75%. Small businesses can use the money to pay for a variety of measures to keep or restore employment. Businesses applying to an EIDL are also eligible to receive an immediate cash advance up to $10,000.

Underwood applied for an EIDL, and sent Business Insider screenshots from his process. We've blocked out sensitive information to maintain his privacy.

First, applicants must verify they are eligible.

Then, the applicant fills out all of their business information, including gross revenue and cost of goods sold in 2019.

This step also asks for the type of business and number of employees.

Then, it will ask about any business or personal criminal activity.

Applicants may apply for an immediate cash advance up to $10,000, which they will receive within three business days of submitting their EIDL application, whether their loan request is accepted or not.

How to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program: 2020 first draw

Ben Walker owns a human transcription service called Transcription Outsourcing in Denver, Colorado, and he calculated that business is down at least 50% since the coronavirus outbreak. His clients include courthouses, law firms, universities, medical practices, and law enforcement — all of which are either closed or operating minimally right now. 

"I want to keep our independent contractors above water," Walker told Business Insider. "I don't want them getting evicted or losing their internet, having to go find somewhere else to work." 

Walker needs at least $85,000 in funding to cover the next two to three months of rent, utilities, and payroll. He had to lay off two part-time employees and postponed two full-time hires. But he hopes applying for government funding will enable him to keep his workers employed. "They're the ones that don't have any control over this and they rely on us to get them work," he said. 

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) offers up to $10 million to employers and independent contractors who retain workers during the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic. 

Walker sent Business Insider his PPP application ahead of filing with this financial institution. We've blocked out sensitive information to maintain his privacy.

With the world's automakers promising a mass shift to zero-emissions driving in the coming decades, the increasingly lucrative battery market is poised to reward not just established players like Panasonic and LG Chem, but a legion of startups stepping up on the global stage.

Insider spoke with the CEOs of three up-and-coming battery startups that industry experts say are in a prime position to challenge those incumbents, to find out what makes their approach worthy of attention, and how they plan to capture a piece of a market projected to be worth $129 billion by 2027. Here's what they said.

Gene Berdichevsky, CEO of Sila Nanotechnologies

Everyone but Gene Berdichevsky, was probably shocked when he dropped out of Stanford to go work at Tesla in 2004, becoming just the seventh person to join the team. But the then-20-year-old didn't care if he had to clean the bathrooms at the new company, he had to be a part of what he knew may spark an energy revolution, he told Insider.

After just under four years with Elon Musk's automaker, Berdichevsky decided it was time to start his own company — his original idea before joining Musk's outfit. During his time there, Berdichevsky acquired Tesla's taste for self-sufficiency.

The battery startup CEO knows that like Tesla, Sila Nanotechnologies must rely on itself and its experts for their technology, in a market with such immature and underdeveloped technologies.

"Whenever you're doing something new, if you're not willing to do it all yourself, you're much more likely to fail," Berdichevsky said.

Sila's business model — distinct in its space for its self-sufficient processes — is based on an original manufacturing process that runs on internally-built equipment and has relied very little on outside partners.

"We're willing to go build systems and tools and reactors that don't exist in the world, so that our scientists can try things that no one's ever tried before," Berdichevsky said. "It's that marriage between having scientists that can come up with brilliant ideas that no one has had, and the engineering to give them the tools to experiment with those ideas."

Peter Carlsson, CEO of Northvolt

Another Tesla veteran, Peter Carlsson joined the automaker in 2011 based on a "pure gut feeling." Carlsson joined Tesla as a seasoned operations and supply chain specialist, and found a company culture that refreshed his perspective on what impact a product can have when the company building it has a strong sense of mission. 

"That's a foundation that I've really tried to bring in as [we're] building Northvolt," Carlsson said. "Really driving a multicultural set of individuals that will have come here all over the world, with a common focus of making a big impact, and help us develop the most sustainable setup and the greenest battery on the planet."

The idea of building an environmentally sustainable battery eventually grew, though, and Carlsson realized that part of Northvolt's success would lie in integrating some part of the value chain to bring active material-making into its factories. In other words, instead of buying its materials from other companies and supply chains, Northvolt is sourcing and making materials itself. This self-reliance lends to the sustainability of the startup.

"One of the things that we see, is that more and more of the big battery consumers are starting to look less at batteries as a commodity, and more as a strategic direction," Carlsson said. "Replacing the combustion engine and looking at how they can optimize cell chemistry."

Douglas Campbell, CEO of Solid Power

The University of Colorado at Boulder spin-out Solid Power may only be nine years old, but its CEO is anything but wet behind the ears. Doug Campbell has spent 20 years in hardware-based technology in the energy storage, aerospace, and defense markets, he told Insider. He fully phased out of his role at satellite industry startup Roccor in January of 2019, and is now focusing his efforts on growing the business of his solid-state startup.

"Solid Power is the leading producer of all solid-state batteries today," Campbell wrote Insider. "We manufacture our multi-layer, automotive-scale cells on Solid Power's Louisville, Colorado-based roll-to-roll production line, which uses the same processes and equipment deployed in lithium-ion manufacturing."

Solid Power battery cells are composed with safety in mind. A number of steps are taken to ensure improved safety, performance, manufacturability, and cost. Solid Power's battery cells surpass lithium-ion cells in density as it stands, and according to Campbell, the startup has a plan for an additional 20% or more improvement.

"For Solid Power, 2021 will be a pivotal year as we optimize our all solid-state cell design for the automotive qualification phase," Campbell wrote. "Solid Power anticipates entering the formal automotive qualification process in early 2022 with even larger capacity all solid-state battery cells."

• A cozy set of pajamas can be the difference between a good and bad night's sleep.
• We've tested dozens of pairs of pajamas from multiple brands — these are the best.
• If you're a warm sleeper, check out our guide to the best cooling pajamas.

Some people love to curl up in bed wearing a worn-out tee and the same softball sweatpants they've been wearing since high school. And to those people I say this: Wear whatever makes you comfortable! But if you're ready to upgrade, there have never been more brands creating gorgeous pajama sets and mix-and-match pieces, so you can inject a little luxury into your bedtime routine.

We've tested multiple pairs of pajamas from dozens of brands, including cooling options, silk options, and everything in between. Ahead, we've rounded up the best places to buy pajamas, whether it's a cozy set or pieces you can mix-and-match. And while the majority of the picks on this list are identified as "pajamas for women," we believe that folks should wear whatever style of loungewear they're most comfortable in — regardless of how the industry chooses to gender the pieces. If you're looking for men's sizing, though, check out our guide to the best pajamas for men. 

Here are the best places to buy pajamas for women in 2021:

J. Crew

For super soft sets in minimal, yet cute, patterns, J. Crew is your one-stop-shop.

Sizing options: Varies by style, but most are are available in XXS-3XL

J.Crew's pajamas are reminiscent of the brand's aesthetic — preppy, yet accessible. The brand's Dreamy Cotton Pajamas are the popular style that customers reach for time and time again, and it's easy to see why. Made of soft cotton, the set is seriously cozy and warm, but lightweight enough to avoid the dreaded night sweats.

Aside from the Dreamy Cotton Pajamas, J. Crew offers up vintage-inspired silhouettes, as well as mix-and-match basics. The brand also provides sweet nightgowns for folks who like to have their legs free while they snooze. And whether you love a bright, fun print or a simple solid hue, you'll be able to find a style that suits you.

What to buy:

Aerie

Warm sleepers will love Aerie's line of cooling pajamas, which come in a range of sweet cuts and colors.

Sizing options: Varies by style, but most are available in XXS-XXL. Runs large.

Aerie's Real Soft pajamas earned a spot in our guide to best cooling pajamas for good reason. The fabric blend of viscose, cotton, and elastin allow air to flow while you sleep, so you can avoid the dreaded night sweats. And you can mix and match different sleeve and pant lengths to get the pairing that you prefer. 

But Aerie's pajamas aren't just about utility. The brand does patterns adorably, from seersucker to florals. And if you prefer a nightgown over pants, Aerie's got you covered there, too. Just note that the sizing tends to run large, which can be great for those who prefer a breezier silhouette. But you might want to size down if you prefer something true-to-size. 

What to buy:

Papinelle

With matching sets and slinky slips, Papinelle offers luxurious pajamas that are cute enough to wear in the daytime.

Sizing options: Varies by style, but most are available in XS-XL

If you're ready to add a little luxury to your pajama collection, then Papinelle is a great first stop. The brand offers a wide selection of pajama styles, from matching sets to stand-alone pieces in a range of elegant cuts. The Papinelle Classic Crop Pajamas is a gorgeous navy set with short sleeves and cropped pants that is cute enough to wear outside of your bedroom. Plus, its silk/cotton blend is airy and comfortable enough for warm sleepers to enjoy. 

The brand also boasts washable silk, which is great for those who want the feel of silk but not the temperament, and organic cotton. Its slips, nightgowns, and short sets are equally adorable, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. But if you're someone who appreciates more simple styles in their sleepwear, the perfectly oversized Washable Silk Pajamas might be a great fit for you. The one drawback? Papinelle's pajamas don't have extended sizing, which is something we hope the brand rectifies in the future. 

What to buy:

Jamby's

Jambys are gender-inclusive pajamas that include boxer-style shorts with pockets, which is a total game-changer.

Sizing options: All styles available in XS-XXL

You know those old boxer shorts and tees you typically toss on to sleep in? They just got a major upgrade. Jambys are gender-inclusive boxer-style shorts that have pockets — and are made of the softest and breathable modal French terry. The matching JamTees, which are what the brand calls the matching tops, have a touch of stretch, too, so you don't feel constricted while you snooze.

It's the details that make Jambys so great. The tee has a small, two-inch slit on both side seams, so you can sit without the shirt feeling constricting. And the shorts are swingy and breathable, so they won't get tangled between your legs. More into longer pants and tops? Jamby's also has a pair of joggers and a hoodie for you to get cozy with.

What to buy:

L.L. Bean

Cold sleepers will love L.L. Bean's cozy pajama sets, especially the brand's flannel options.

Sizing options: Varies by style, but most are available in XS-XL. The brand also offers petite, plus, tall, and regular sizing. 

If your main goal of pajamas is to be as cozy as possible, look no further than L.L. Bean. Case-in-point: The Cozy PJ set. Made from 100% breathable, soft cotton, they are cut to fit well without being  baggy. They keep you cozily warm without making you overheat.

If those aren't warm enough for you, L.L. Bean is also home to the softest flannel pajamas you could ever slip into. They're made of high-quality, Portugeuse cotton flannel that will keep you incredibly toasty. And if you're not into sets, L.L. Bean has a lot of pieces you can shop à la carte.  You may not want to wear them outside of the bedroom, but they accomplish what a lot of folks want pajamas to accomplish — they're warm and comfortable, which will help you snooze much easier. 

What to buy:

Summersalt

Although the brand is mainly known for swimwear, Summersalt has a great range of sleepwear that feels lux without the high price tags.

Sizing options: Varies by style, but most are available in XS-2XL

Just like the brand's swimwear styles, Summersalt's sleepwear choices are punchy and fun. The Cloud 9 Silky PJ Set is a perfect example of that. It's a lightweight silk set in a bright, bold stripe pattern and wide cuffs on the arms and legs. Its swingy silhouette would look just as good with a pair of sneakers as it does with your favorite pair of slippers. And the silky fabric is instantly cooling — ideal for the toasty sleepers of the world.

But even Summersalt's more minimal pajama sets have gorgeous details that make them extra special. The All Day All Night Pajamas are incredibly soft and supple, and the pajama bottoms taper so they don't get tangled in your legs. The neckline and sleeves have a delicate trim, and the drawstring waist is actually a velvet ribbon. Summersalt's range of styles ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you love a matching shorts set or a dainty nightgown. 

Check out our full review on the Cloud 9 SIlky PJ Set. 

What to buy:

Stripe & Stare

Do you like to sleep in your underwear? Then you'll love Stripe & Stare.

Sizing options: Varies by style, but most are available in S-XL.

Not everyone loves to sleep in matching shirt-and-pant sets. Some of us love to snooze in our underwear and a tank — and nothing else. For those pajama minimalists, there's Stripe & Stare. The brand has a wide range of matching Vest & Knicker sets, which is British slang for a tank top and underwear. They are soft, stretchy, and lightweight, making them perfect for snoozing.

But if you are into a "normal" pair of pajamas, Stripe & Stare delivers there, too. The brand has long pants that you can buy on their own, as well as matching sets in darling patterns. What's more? The Stripe & Stare is focused on sustainability, and creates its sleepwear with a fabric made out of ethically-sourced cellulose or wood fiber, so you can feel good about wearing them. 

What to buy:

• Portable power stations are ideal for camping trips, power outages, and whenever you need reliable power.
• The best work in all weather conditions, charge multiple devices and appliances, and have a range of plugs and ports.
• Our top pick, the Goal Zero Yeti 3000X, charges several devices at once, powers large appliances, and has a variety of charge ports.

As more electronic devices pervade every aspect of our lives, finding ways to keep them charged and functional wherever we go has become increasingly important. As a result, there are now a dizzying array of portable power stations and high-capacity battery packs on the market, making it easier than ever to never stray too far from a source of power.  

Whether you need to keep your electronic devices functioning on a weekend camping trip or are looking for an emergency power supply for use at home, there are dozens of models to choose from. Some power stations are rugged, durable, and built for the outdoors, while others are more refined and sleeker in design. By providing hours of extra juice wherever and whenever you need it, portable power stations are a convenient tool to have at your disposal, particularly in times of unexpected power outages.  

As with most tech products, sorting through all of the different portable power stations that are available can be confusing and time-consuming. To help you figure out which one best meets your needs, I tested an array of power stations currently available, and narrowed the field to the best worth owning.

At the end of this guide, I've also included some helpful tips on how to shop for a portable power station and what to consider.

Here are the best portable power stations:

• Best high-capacity portable power station:Goal Zero Yeti 3000X
• Best mid-sized portable power station:EcoFlow Delta 1300
• Best small portable power station: Anker PowerHouse
• Best budget portable power station:Jackery Explorer 160
• Best portable power station for travel:Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC Power Bank

Best overall

With its large lithium-ion battery, numerous ports, and incredible build quality, the Goal Zero Yeti 3000X is in a class of its own when it comes to portable power stations. 

Pros: Extremely high capacity, can power everything from smartphones on up to home appliances, compatible with solar panels to recharge

Cons: Very heavy and expensive

One of the true leaders in the design and construction of portable power stations, Goal Zero has been at the forefront of this market for years. That long heritage shows through in all its products, which stand head and shoulders above the competition in terms of build quality, technology, and features. The company's newest model is the Yeti 3000X, which manages to extend that lead even further, particularly amongst power stations in the high-capacity segment. 

At its core, the Yeti 3000X is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack that offers more than 3000 watt-hours of capacity. That's enough juice to recharge a typical smartphone more than 250 times or a laptop more than 60 times. But this power station is versatile enough to go well beyond just recharging other devices. It also happens to be capable of powering appliances such as a microwave for up to three hours, a mini-refrigerator up to 87 hours, or a full-sized fridge for 55. 

One of the features that sets the Yeti 3000X apart is Goal Zero's specially designed AC inverter. Capable of providing 2000 watts of power — with a surge up to 3500 watts — this component is what gives this power station the ability to run not charge my smartphone, laptop, or camera, but I could use it on appliances, lights, and even to power my TV. Other power stations include AC power outlets that allow these types of devices to be plugged into them, but very few have the battery capacity and power management to keep them running for extended periods of time. 

In addition to sporting two standard AC power outlets, the Yeti 3000X comes with plenty of other charging ports, too. Goal Zero ships this model with two standard USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and a USB-C PD (Power Delivery) port, which is also capable of charging a laptop or large tablet. It comes with a 12-volt car port and two 12-volt power pole ports, giving it the ability to power just about any kind of device imaginable, including construction tools like drills or saws. 

The large lithium-ion batteries that give the Yeti 3000X such a high capacity also adds a considerable amount of weight. This power station weighs in at just over 69 pounds, which takes away from its portability to a degree. To counter this added bulk, it comes equipped with wheels, which does make it much easier to maneuver around the garage, backyard, or campsite if you don't mind hauling it in your car.

Those same high-capacity batteries also require a substantial amount of time to recharge. When plugged into a wall outlet, the Yeti 3000X would often take up to 14 hours to replenish its onboard power supply. Using a solar panel to recharge the power station can help if you have one, though expect the recharge times to fluctuate wildly depending on the size of the panel and the amount of available sunlight. 

The Yeti 3000X is built for those who not only need a portable power station with plenty of capacity, but also one that can survive in challenging environments. Built like a tank, this is a model that professionals can turn to when they need power at a job site, although it is equally useful in emergency situations around the home. Best of all, because it isn't powered by gas, it's completely silent and doesn't produce dangerous noxious fumes. 

Best mid-sized power station

Compact and lightweight, the EcoFlow Delta 1300 is a feature-packed portable power station that offers plenty of charging ports, including six AC wall outlets.

Pros: Able to power up to 13 devices at once, still portable despite its 31-pound weight, recharges quickly
Cons: Power can drain rapidly when charging multiple devices

The EcoFlow Delta 1300 is my favorite power station when it comes to charging the most devices at once. All told, it comes equipped with no fewer than 13 individual ports, including two standard USB-A ports, two USB-A quick-charging ports, and a pair of 60-watt USB-C PD ports. Additionally, it features a 12-volt car port and six (yes, six) AC wall outlets, making it easy to keep a large number of gadgets and tools functioning at the same time. 

Powering the Delta 1300 is a 1260 watt-hour battery, which pumps out enough juice to recharge smartphones and tablets dozens of times and extend the life of a laptop by nearly 24 hours. The 1800-watt AC outlets can also power a small refrigerator, an LCD TV, a toaster, and even a hairdryer. That gives this particular battery pack a level of versatility that you won't find in most other mid-range power stations — and made it a highly useful thing to pack on car camping trips. 

Considering the size of its battery and the number of ports that it offers, the Delta 1300 is surprisingly small. Compared to other power stations in this class, it's relatively compact, making it easier to carry around. A pair of integrated heavy-duty handles aid in that process, although its 31-pound weight will still likely give you pause when having to carry it too far.

One thing to keep in mind when using this power station is that because it can charge up to 13 individual devices at once, the battery occasionally runs out of juice fairly quickly. Thankfully, I didn't really have the need to recharge that many gadgets at once, although it was nice to know I could if needed. Thankfully, to help compensate for a potentially rapid power drain, EcoFlow gives the Delta 1300 the ability to recharge itself quite fast. When plugged into a power outlet, it would often regain around 80% of its power in about an hour and would fully recharge in a little more than 90 minutes. 

The Delta 1300 is a bit pricier than other models with a similar capacity, though this is due, at least in part, to a large number of charging ports. If you don't need to power 13 devices at once, there are less expensive alternatives available. But if you're looking for the best all-around product, this is the one you'll want.

Best small power station

Sleek and small yet highly capable, the Anker PowerHouse offers a nice blend of features and functionality at a reasonable price point. 

Pros: Small and compact yet still offers a good-sized battery, lightweight for a power station

Cons: No USB-C ports

Well-known for its extensive line of battery packs for keeping smartphones charged, Anker also dipped its toe into the portable power station market. The result is the PowerHouse, a model that's well-equipped for those who need on-the-go charging from time to time, as well as a handy back-up system for use at home during a power outage. 

The PowerHouse utilizes a 434-watt-hour battery, which is a good size when it comes to straddling the line between capacity and expense. This allows the power station to recharge a smartphone more than 40 times or a laptop as much as 15 times. It's also capable of powering a CPAP machine for several nights in a row, as well as running small appliances such as a mini-refrigerator or outdoor lighting system, for short periods of time. 

Capable of charging multiple devices as once, the PowerHouse features four USB-A ports, a 12-volt car port, and a 120-watt AC outlet. That is certainly enough power plugs to accommodate most situations, but the lack of USB-C ports is somewhat limiting. With more and more devices switching to the USB-C format, it's a shame this device doesn't have at least one or two.

With an aesthetic that somewhat resembles a kitchen appliance, the PowerHouse has a clean, utilitarian design. This allows it to remain fairly inconspicuous when used around the house, although it remains durable enough to survive in the outdoors, too. Its built-in handle and 9.2-pound weight make it easy to carry, striking a good balance between durability and portability. 

If you're looking for a solidly built power station that combines good battery life, plenty of ports, and an approachable price, Anker has you covered with the PowerHouse. Its size and capacity make it a good all-around choice for most people who don't have the need to run power tools at a job site or be away from a source of power for days at a time. 

Best on a budget

Small, lightweight, and affordable, the Jackery Explorer 160 is a great option for those looking for a power station on a budget, without having to make too many compromises. 

Pros: Highly portable, can charge up to four devices at once, recharges quickly

Cons: More of a companion power charger than something to be relied on solely

If you're looking for a high-quality portable power station, without spending a lot of money, it's tough to beat the Jackery Explorer 160. It offers a nice blend of features — including a built-in LCD screen for monitoring its use — in a package that's easy to transport. While it may not have a high-capacity battery or an over-abundance of charging ports, its $150 price tag more than makes up for those discrepancies.

Equipped with 167 watt-hour battery, the Explorer 160 recharges an iPhone more than ten times or a large tablet as many as five. It even did well to extend the life of a laptop and power a digital camera and Bluetooth speaker. However, it isn't capable of running anything with a power draw of more than 100 watts, ruling out television sets, mini-fridges, and CPAP machines. 

The Explorer 160 won't overwhelm you with a large number of charging ports either, although it certainly has enough to get the job done. It features two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and an AC wall outlet. This gives it the ability to charge up to four gadgets at once, which is decent considering its price point. That said, considering how widespread USB-C is becoming, I'd have liked to see another of those ports included. 

Thanks to its low-capacity battery, the Explorer 160 recharges very quickly, requiring just five hours to go from empty to completely filled. As an added plus, the power station can be charged via AC outlet,12-volt car port, or via solar panel. And while there may be times when you wish it had just a bit more capacity, its ease of charging mostly makes this a nonissue. 

Other than its affordable price, the Explorer 160's best feature is its size. It's extremely small and easy to carry, tipping the scales at just 3.8 pounds. This makes it a great choice for use around the house, while camping, or anywhere else you might need a bit of portable power. Its built-in handle makes it a breeze to take it along with you wherever you go, ensuring you always have an ample supply of energy to keep your gadgets running. 

Best for travel

With its surprisingly large battery pack, an array of charging options, and rugged construction, the Sherpa 100AC is a portable power station designed specifically with frequent travelers in mind. 

Pros: Perfect for travelers, multiple charge ports plus it supports wireless charging, highly portable

Cons: Expensive, capacity can be an issue if it's the only battery/power source you rely on

When it comes to choosing the gear that they carry with them on the road frequent travelers, backpackers, and professional nomads are always looking to strike a balance between size, weight, and functionality. Fortunately for them, Goal Zero built a portable power solution that fits that criteria nicely, combining a sizable battery with a good number of ports in a rugged package built to survive just about anything. 

The Sherpa 100AC features a 94.7 watt-hour battery pack, which translates to 25,600 mAh. That's the highest capacity battery you're allowed to carry onto a flight, with enough juice to recharge a smartphone roughly 8 times or a laptop twice. Compared to other portable power stations that may not seem like a lot, but when you realize that this one can easily slip into a backpack, it's easy to realize its value. 

Despite the fact it's relatively small and easy to carry, the Sherpa 100AC does have enough charging options to keep you functioning for an extended period of time. The line-up includes dual USB-A ports, as well as two 60-watt USB-C Power Delivery ports, which are bi-directional so they can be used to recharge the Sherpa, too.

Additionally, Goal Zero managed to squeeze in a small AC inverter for plugging in larger devices and the top of the battery pack has an integrated Qi wireless charging pad. If your phone supports wireless charging, you can simply place it on top of the battery pack, freeing up one of the ports for another device. 

Additional features include a built-in OLED display for monitoring power usage and a special port for recharging the Sherpa via a solar panel. Keeping with the travel theme, Goal Zero also ships the power bank with four different charging cables, providing everything you need to say powered up on the road. 

The Sherpa AC100's main limiting factor is the size of its battery, which is on the small side if you plan to use it to recharge a laptop or other high-capacity devices on a regular basis. It also happens to be fairly expensive compared to battery packs with a similar capacity from other manufacturers. But where Goal Zero separates itself is with the exceptional build-quality and the components used the Sherpa's construction.

This is a power bank that feels like it could be run over by a car and keep functioning. However, this level of durability does result in a weight of about two pounds. That's quite svelte for a power station but on the hefty side for a power bank. If you don't mind the extra bulk, you'll get a power supply that's above and beyond anything else in its class. 

How to shop for a portable power station

When shopping for a portable power station, there are a number of factors to consider. First and foremost is the amount of power it can store, which is typically measured in watt-hours. The higher the number of watt-hours, the more energy you'll have at your disposal. For instance, a power station with a capacity of 150-watt hours can recharge a smartphone roughly 10 to 12 times. Meanwhile, a 1500 watt-hour battery pack will provide more than 120 recharges.  

That said, in order to achieve a higher number of watt-hours, more power cells are required. That translates to a larger and heavier power station which reduces its level of portability. It also means that it takes significantly longer to recharge the battery pack, whether from a wall outlet or a solar panel.  

The next thing you'll want to look for in a power station is the number — and type — of charging ports the power station offers. Not only will you want enough ports to accommodate all your devices, but you'll want a variety of ports, too. That includes USB-A, USB-C, and at least one AC wall outlet. Another common port is 12-volt power ports, like the so-called cigarette lighter outlets found in your car.

Many models come with built-in LCD screens that display the current power level, as well as how that power is being allocated to the various devices plugged into the charging ports. Some also offer a specialized port for connecting the power station to a solar panel, providing an alternative method of recharging while in the field. Others come equipped with built-in lights, which is an especially nice feature to have during an emergency situation. 

Check out our guide to the best battery packs

The best battery packs you can buy

• Lining trays and tins with parchment paper keeps baked goods from sticking and makes clean-up easy. 
• Parchment paper is greaseproof and water resistant, able to hold batter without absorbing liquid. 
• We picked the best parchment papers for round tins, air fryers, and more.
• Find more great kitchen buying guides and reviews here.

There are few things worse than spending hours cooking or baking only to have the final product ruined because it stuck to the pan. Lining your baking surface with parchment paper ensures a flat base and a smooth turn out. Parchment paper comes bleached or unbleached, and while both are sold commercially, the unbleached parchment is treated with fewer chemicals and just as effective as the bleached paper. Most parchment paper is oven safe between 400 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit, but you should be sure to check the products for specific instructions before use. 

Here are the best parchment papers

• Best for air fryers: Numola Air Fryer Liners
• Best pre-cut sheets: SMARTAKE Parchment Paper Baking Sheets
• Best paper rounds: Baker's Signature Parchment Paper Rounds 
• Best compostable: If You Care Parchment Baking Paper
• Best muffin liners: BAKHUK Tulip Baking Cups

Best for air fryers

Available in six sizes, the Numola Air Fryer Liners reduce food residue in standard air fryers and bamboo steamers.

What we like: Unbleached, available seven to 10 inches in diameter, perforated

Heat resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, Numola air fryer liners keep food from sticking to hot surfaces without interfering with steam circulation. Not only do the liners keep your appliance clean, but the non-stick coating prevents the bottom of fragile dumplings or buns from ripping. These sheets are available in seven to 10-inch diameters and can be used with standard air fryers or bamboo steamers. Be sure to measure the inside diameter of your cooking surface before purchasing to ensure the best fit. 

Best pre-cut sheets

SMARTAKE parchment paper sheets are convenient and versatile, creating an even rectangle to lay on a baking tray or fold into a brownie tin. 

What we like: Bulk buying options, unbleached, flat packaging

If you are looking to buy in bulk, SMARTAKE baking sheets come in packs of 120, 200, 300, and 400. All packages are flat rectangles, making the large quantities easy to store. At 12 x 16 inches, these sheets are smaller than full-size baking trays, but can be layered for length. Additionally, this size sheet can be easily shaped to fit loaf pans and rectangular cake tins. There are unbleached and bleached sheet options, both heat resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best paper rounds

Baker's Signature Parchment Paper Rounds ensure your cake has a  smooth base and easily lifts out of the tin. 

What we like: Easy lift tabs, convenient, durable 

A parchment paper round saves time and effort by providing a perfectly cut circle ideal for cakes and round loaves. The Baker's Signature rounds have lift tabs that fold up the side of the tin, creating convenient handles for turning out the baked goods. This paper is unbleached and heat resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the only round size available is nine inches in diameter.

Best compostable

This eco-friendly and durable parchment paper can be easily cut to fit standard baking pans.

What we like: Eco-friendly, long-lasting roll

If You Care uses low environmental impact manufacturing and packaging processes to make compostable paper products. The parchment paper is unbleached and made from FSC-certified wood pulp. The roll is a total of 70 square feet, and the 13-inch width fits standard baking trays. It can be easily trimmed to fit other cookware, but keep in mind it can only be used up to 428 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best muffin liners

BAKHUK Tulip Baking Cups are elegant and effective wrappers for muffins and cupcakes, shaping the cake without sticking at the edges.

What we like: Three colors, high quantity, versatile

Tulip parchment paper cups are easy and elegant baked good wrappers. This pack of 200 comes with three neutral colors and the parchment peels away from the cake smoothly, without sticking to the sides. The temperature limit, 425 degrees Fahrenheit, is lower than some other papers, but most cupcake and muffin recipes don't require higher temperatures. At three inches tall and two inches wide, these wrappers fit standard muffin tins. 

• We tested the top dishwasher detergents to determine whether they made our dishware sparkling clean.
• The Finish detergent delivers the clean dishes they promise with spotless, easy use. 

We all want clean dishes and we want them done with the least amount of effort. That's why automatic dishwashers are so prized in the kitchen. But sometimes, they don't produce the best results. Getting dishes clean in a dishwasher requires three components: a mechanical scrubbing action, thermal energy (hot water), and chemical energy (detergent). So even if your dishwasher is on its last leg, why not use the best dishwasher detergent on the market? You'll have a much better outcome and avoid that nearly endless and frustrating rewashing routine.

As I tested different automatic dishwasher detergent brands and formulas, I took into consideration price, ease of use, and, most importantly, the ability of the detergent to produce clean, spot-free dishes and glassware to come up with our top picks.

It's important to note that not every dishwasher detergent we recommend will work perfectly in every dishwasher or home. The type of hot water heater you have and its settings, as well as water hardness, can also play a big role in whether a detergent will work for you. A bit of trial and error may be required to find the best detergent for you, but these are the best ones we've found.

Here are the best dishwasher detergents of 2021

• Best dishwasher detergent overall: Finish Quantum Max Powerball Tablets
• Best budget dishwasher detergent: Kirkland Premium Dishwasher Pacs
• Best gel dishwasher detergent: Palmolive Eco+
• Best powder dishwasher detergent: Cascade Complete Powder
• Best eco-friendly dishwasher detergent: Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Dishwasher Packs

The best dishwasher detergent overall

To make your silverware and dishes shine without spots, the Finish Quantum Max Powerball Tablets are our favorite.

Note: This detergent has been discontinued by Finish. A similar product, based on our research, is the brand's Quantum Ultimate Clean & Shine Dishwasher Detergent Tablets. We will continue to update this guide with further testing.

Pros: Convenient to use, removes baked-on foods, performs well in hard water leaving no spotting, no individual wrapper to remove, mid-priced cost-per-use

Cons: Pouch packaging can overturn spilling out tablets

As I began my quest to find the best automatic dishwashing detergent, I was delighted to discover that I've been using it for years. Finish Quantum Max Powerball Tablets produced the cleanest dishes of all the ones we tried, removing even baked-on food from casserole dishes, pots, and pans.

The tablets contain a pre-treating solution, degreaser, bacteria-killing bleach, and a rinse-aid to prevent spotting on glassware.

Finish is a mid-priced cost-per-use detergent. It first hit the market in the early 1950s and is now sold in more than 40 countries around the world. Recommended by most of the leading china, glassware, and dishwasher manufacturers, Finish is manufactured by Reckitt Benckiser.

The tablets are not individually wrapped which saves time and packaging waste, but that means if you get them wet, they will start to disintegrate.

The best budget dishwasher detergent

The Kirkland Premium Dishwasher Pacs are sold in bulk at Costco to save you money while producing a bright shine for your kitchenware. 

Pros: Easy to use, leaves dishes clean and spot-free, low-cost per-use

Cons: You must be a Costco member to benefit from the savings, costs more on Amazon

Saving a few pennies each time you turn on the dishwasher can add up during the year. Kirkland Premium Dishwasher Pacs provide that savings while working well in removing grease and baked-on foods.

Glasses and dishware came out clean with little spotting thanks to the product's rinse-aid. The individual pacs are simple to use and prevent waste from adding too much detergent. They come in a pleasant lemon citrus scent and stay dry in a sturdy recyclable container.

If you are not a Costco member, however, the cost of buying from a third-party vendor negates any savings.

The best gel dishwasher detergent

The Palmolive Eco+ Gel is an affordable option that's purely made without phosphates.

Pros: Cost-conscious, environmentally-friendly, easy to use, quick-dissolving

Cons: Does not work well on heavily-soiled pots and pans

If you like to use liquid dishwasher detergent, Palmolive Eco+ Gel is one of the best. Using a gel allows you to reduce the amount of dishwasher detergent used if you are washing a load of lightly soiled dishes, and it dissolves easily. You can also use it as a pre-soak for pots and pans with burned-on food.

Produced from only raw, natural materials and enhanced with environmentally-friendly enzymes, the gel does not contain artificial colorants and preservatives. It is available in a lemon or apple-citrus scent.

The gel does a good job with regular loads but does leave residue on heavily-soiled pans and some spotting on stainless-steel pieces. It seems to work best in softer water that does not contain excessive minerals.

The best powder dishwasher detergent

If you prefer powdered dishwasher detergent, Cascade Complete Powder will leave your dishes just as clean as their liquid counterparts.

Pros: Easy to find on market shelves, inexpensive cost per load, leaves glassware free of spots

Cons: Powder can absorb moisture and become lumpy if not stored properly

When it comes to powdered formulas of automatic dishwasher detergents, Cascade Complete Powder still performs well and is one of the least expensive types of cleaning agents out there.

In particular, I like the ability to determine the amount to use based on the soil-level of the load. While powdered formulas can become lumpy if stored in a humid environment, they will dissolve well in the hot water of the dishwasher. Simply transfer the powder to a sealable plastic tub for better results.

The best eco-friendly detergent

Seventh Generation's Dishwasher Detergent Packs brilliantly washes with bio-based ingredients and is ideal for septic systems. 

Pros: Never tested on animals, uses only bio-based ingredients, environmentally-friendly with a recyclable outer pouch, great for septic systems

Cons: None to speak of

If you are looking for an environmentally-friendly dishwasher detergent from a company that is committed to the welfare of our planet, Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Packs are an excellent choice.

Produced in the United States, the packs contain no chlorine, phosphates, or synthetic fragrances. And, it's never tested on animals, so the packs have the USDA biobased certification.

They're a bit more expensive to use, but they're worth it for the peace of mind they provide in cleaning your dishware. The brand also has a wonderful lemongrass citrus cleaning spray as well to make your counters sparkle just like your dishes.

Check out our other cleaning guides

• The best floor cleaners
• The best mops
• The best dish soap
• The best disinfecting cleaners
• The best stainless steel cleaners for appliances and kitchenware
• The best drain cleaners

• Full-featured running watches offer users advanced tracking metrics not found on other trackers.
• Though many watches tout their GPS capability, few offer reliable enough connections that can benefit dedicated runners.
• Our top pick, the Suunto 7, is a feature-rich smartwatch that tracks over 70 activities and a highly accurate GPS function.  

The latest GPS running watches are like having a personal trainer on your wrist. They tell you how fast you're going and how far you've run, as well as a detailed map of your route. Some also show your heart rate, how long your stride is, and how many steps you take in a minute, effectively providing you with enough detailed information to improve, tweak, or alter your run style.

But the challenge of finding the right GPS running watch is also somewhat similar to picking out a personal trainer. It's important to choose one that specifically suits your needs and that comes pre-programmed with the features that'll benefit you and your training most.

When shopping, keep these key questions in mind: Does it meet your budget? Does it have the workout modes you're looking for? Is it the right size and weight for your wrist? Are you also looking for something with enough style to wear to a meeting or a night on the town? There's plenty to consider.

What makes this process even more difficult is the sheer number of fitness wearable companies who make their own version of a GPS running watch — and the lineup is a who's who including Garmin, Apple, Suunto, Fitbit, and Polar. Since everyone's fitness needs are a bit different, I tested options for each of these brands, plus a few others, to find the best worth owning. 

To do so, I ran a countless number of miles over the last few months, strapping a new watch to my wrist every few weeks. Below you'll find the six best GPS running watches that made the cut, as well as a bonus seventh watch that was also in the running but came up just short. 

At the end of this guide, I've also included some tips on how to shop for a GPS watch and what else I considered, as well as the testing methodology I used while reviewing each watch. 

Here are the best running watches: 

• Best overall: Suunto 7 
• Best on a budget: Garmin Forerunner 35
• Best multisport: Coros Apex
• Best for all-around fitness: Apple Watch
• Best for training feedback: Polar Vantage
• Best for battery life: Fitbit Versa 3

Best overall

The Suunto 7 is a feature-rich and highly accurate smartwatch that offers tracking for more than 70 different activities, is comfortable to wear, and offers useful training feedback anyone can benefit from.

Pros: Tons of fitness and outdoors features, accurate GPS tracking, comfortable watchband, intuitive navigation, has a unique Heatmaps feature that shows where other Suunto users are active, highly durable, battery lasts a full day even when tracking multiple activities

Cons: Sometimes has trouble connecting to the Suunto and WearOS apps, expensive

Suunto's first crack at a smartwatch was a clear winner the moment it released, and it continues to be my go-to GPS watch when I want accurate tracking while running (and biking, snowboarding, or hiking, for that matter). Though its "smartwatch" moniker may dilute how well it does as a fitness tracker, rest assured, it holds up as well as any of them.

The watch features Google's WearOS as its operating system and has a deep offering of trackable activities and feedback, all of which are accessible via the Suunto and WearOS companion apps. It is worth pointing out, however, that its reliance on two apps does create a bit of a clunky smartphone experience, but it's a small nitpick for a watch that's as dynamic as it is.

But where the 7 truly shines is as a GPS running watch. I found it to only require a few moments before establishing a GPS connection, meaning I wasn't standing around wasting much time before a run, and that it was the closest in routine accuracy to what my typical distance and time are. A light vibration notifies you of each mile completed which is always a nice nudge but not too much to disrupt any focus or momentum. 

I also enjoy running the with the 7 because of its comfortable watch band. At no time do I ever feel as though the fit is too annoying or bothersome during a run (or any workout) and it's light enough that I hardly notice it's there. The weighs in at around 2.5-ounces, most of which is in the watch face which also does well to avoid being cumbersome. The face itself isn't exactly small, so while it was fine on my wrist, anyone with smaller wrists could easily feel like it's too much. 

The lone nitpick I have is that the app experience leaves a little to be desired Using the watch requires both the Wear OS and the Suunto app, and it's easy for the watch to disconnect from your phone if you close them. It's not a deal-breaker, certainly, but something to keep in mind for anyone who enjoys having Bluetooth notifications show up on their watch. 

The Suunto 7 hardly feels like a brand's first attempt at a new watch category, and while it does lean heavily on Suunto's years of fitness-tracking experience, it still feels like something entirely fresh and innovative. You don't just have to be a runner to appreciate the 7's quality but if you are looking for one of the best GPS running watches, it doesn't get better. -- Rick Stella, health & fitness editor for Insider Reviews

Read our full review of the Suunto 7 here.

Best on a budget

If you're looking for an affordable GPS watch that doesn't compromise on quality, you really can't go wrong with the Garmin Forerunner 35.

Pros: Lots of functionality for a low-priced watch, lightweight waterproof design that stays out of the way during workouts, surprisingly good battery life

Cons: Somewhat dated look, no swimming mode, slow to lock in on GPS signal

This watch offers most of the key fitness features you're probably looking for — including an optical heart rate monitor and an accelerometer — in a lightweight, waterproof design you'll be comfortable using on a run, bike ride, or swim. Perhaps best of all, we've seen it selling for as low as $99, which is a steal considering what you're getting.

But before you get too excited, there are a few things you should know about the Forerunner 35. First off, it's been in Garmin's lineup for over four years, which is more than a lifetime for fitness tech. Secondly, in terms of style, it's a bit dated with a simple monochrome screen and a square-shaped design. If those things bother you about the 35, Garmin's newer Forerunner 45 has a round design, a color display with better resolution, and some additional features. The upgrade, however, costs an additional $100.

Budget-conscious runners will be more than happy with the dependable Forerunner 35. The watch's wrist-based heart rate monitor tracks your pulse 24/7, not just during exercise, so you'll get fairly accurate readings of what your resting heart rate is. GPS tracking was also quite reliable for distance, pace, and mapping my runs.

The Forerunner 35, however, took the longest of all the watches to lock in on a GPS signal likely because its small size means it has a tiny internal antenna. The Forerunner 35 only has a GPS sensor, while most watches these days also include GLONASS, Galileo, and/or BDS. So, if you want faster and more accurate tracking, you'll need to spend a few extra bucks for those options (the Forerunner 45 comes with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo.)

As far as trade-offs go, that's pretty much it. In addition to GPS and heart rate, the Forerunner 35 measures your running cadence, which I've found to be an essential feature for any runner trying to improve their biomechanics. I also liked that there's an option for interval training if you're looking to increase your speed. The Forerunner 35 also has a step counter; an auto lap function with easy-to-read mile splits; auto-pause, which is great if you're running in the city and hit a lot of stoplights; and the ability to add additional wireless sensors such as a chest strap heart rate monitor or a foot pod.

I've found Garmin's Connect app to be one of the best in the business, and I appreciated returning from a run and seeing all my data being quickly and clearly displayed on my iPhone. In addition to basic data such as running pace, mile splits and heart rate, the Forerunner 35 offers more advanced metrics including VO2 Max, which serious athletes use to determine their aerobic capacity. Though the ability of any watch to precisely evaluate VO2 Max is debatable, it was nice to have this data from the Forerunner 35, particularly because it said I had the lungs of a 20-year-old after I ran a grueling 10-mile virtual race.

I found the Forerunner 35 to be the easiest watch of the bunch to use. Four small but responsive buttons handle the watch's functionality and menus aren't particularly deep, so you're in and out of the settings quickly. The black-and-white, 128x128-pixel always-on display isn't fancy but it's easy to read both in bright and dim conditions. Battery life was surprisingly good for such as small watch; I could do a week or two of daily training runs before I needed to recharge it.

In the end, this "no-frills" budget watch surprised me with how much it could do and how little I missed the premium features in the more expensive watches I tested.

Best multisport

The Coros Apex is an impressive jack-of-all-trades watch that should appeal to a variety of athletes while offering a refreshing touch of style. This is a watch you won't want to take off.

Pros: Incredible battery life, a wide array of training modes, one of the best designed watches we tested with an excellent smartphone app

Cons: Dim screen, digital dial got caught on coat sleeves causing accidental mode changes

If you're looking for a GPS watch that does it all, the Coros Apex fits the bill. Initially designed with three main focuses – running, biking, and swimming – that aimed it squarely at triathletes, Coros has since added a variety of new modes to the Apex since launch that makes it suited for a wider range of sports. 

In particular, the watch is a great tool for winter sports, offering alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding, and ski touring modes that track a wealth of data for those who like to stay active during the colder months. In total, the Apex offers nearly two dozen training modes including gym cardio, mountain climbing, hiking, and customizable strength and training modes that let you build your own workouts. 

Where the Apex really shines though is for ultrarunning thanks, in part, to the watch's excellent battery life and its dedicated trail run mode. I also found it to be one of the best-designed GPS watches I've tried and it's surprisingly stylish, too.

The Apex comes in two options: a 46mm version and a 42mm version. The 46mm is $50 more than the smaller watch, but the added price is worth it since it gives you better battery life, a larger 1.2-inch color LCD screen, and comes with a snazzy titanium alloy bezel versus the stainless-steel bezel native to the 42mm watch. Overall, I liked the classic round design of the watch and the sapphire glass surface, which prevented scratching. 

The watch's black silicone band is basic but fits snugly and comfortably around my wrist thanks to stretchy elastic. Those with small wrists, however, will need to choke up considerably on the band. For my average-sized wrists, I had to use the fourth from the tightest notch to get the right fit, leaving some excess slack that needed to be tucked in.

The Apex has a simple operational set-up not unlike the Apple Watch, with just a clickable digital dial and one button to make adjustments. (Unlike the Apple Watch, there is no touchscreen.) It took a bit of trial and error since the included Quick Start Guide is nominal, but once I got the hang of the watch's Spartan controls, changing settings and viewing the extensive data pages was a breeze.

The dial occasionally got caught on coat sleeves, causing accidental mode changes though there is an auto-lock setting that helps prevent this. I also felt the screen was dim and hard to read indoors, so you'll want to turn on gesture control, which illuminates the display when you turn your wrist.

Setting the Apex up and pairing it via Bluetooth with my iPhone was also a snap thanks to Coros' well-designed app, which presents the voluminous data the Apex records in a clear manner. My only gripe is that you can only delete activities of more than a minute via the phone app, not directly from the watch, which is strange. 

The Apex offers GPS, GLONASS, or BDS to lock in your location and track distance. I achieved an initial location lock in about a minute from my backyard with a few overhanging trees. The following days from the same spot, however, it took less than 15 seconds. During test runs on the same four-mile course, the Apex said I ran around 10 seconds per mile slower than the other watches I tested, though the measured distance was fairly accurate even during runs on a track. Coros' Track Run mode, which uses a proprietary algorithm designed to produce more precise results on a track, seemed to help.

The watch has a wrist-based heart rate monitor along with an accelerometer, barometer, altimeter, and compass. My heart rate readings were fairly consistent when tested against a finger-based pulse monitor, which I've found to be more precise than wrist sensors. The Apex is water-resistant to 100 meters/328 feet and offers both Pool Swim and Open Water mode making it suited to swimmers, though I found the 46mm size to be a bit large for long swims.

I didn't mind it for long runs, however, and the impressive battery life means it's safe to use on ultra runs (i.e. anything longer than 26.2 miles). Battery life for the 46mm version is up to 100 hours in UltraMax GPS mode, up to 35 hours in full GPS mode, and up to 30 days for regular use. The longest run I used it on was ten miles, which barely dented the battery life, reducing it by just 3%. During a week of daily 4-5 mile runs and some shorter track work, the battery dropped by only 25%. 

The Coros Apex comes packed with so many additional features, I could write separate reviews on those alone. As a running watch, it shines; and as a multisport watch, it's hard to do much better.

Best for all-around fitness

The Apple Watch is the best all-around smartwatch for fitness and it's not even close. 

Pros: The best all-around fitness smartwatch on the market, intuitive interface, clear and easy-to-read always-on touchscreen display, best music integration

Cons: Many of the top-line features drain the battery significantly, GPS sometimes missed beginnings of runs, need to press two buttons to pause a workout

While it may not excel in one particular area compared to the others in this guide, the Apple Watch excels so much as a tool for improving your overall health and fitness. You'll find yourself turning to it again and again for both your workouts and everyday tasks.

I tested the Nike edition of the Apple Watch and it's the version I'd recommend as a GPS running watch for a couple of reasons. For one, Apple Watch Nike comes with Nike Run Club app pre-installed (and the app is excellent). Yes, you can still download the NRC app for free with other versions of the Apple Watch but it's more seamlessly integrated with Apple Watch Nike. 

This is especially true with the exclusive Nike watch faces for the Apple Watch, which are customizable to suit your training needs. The latest version of NRC for the Apple Watch 6 also includes a new Twilight Mode that lights up to make you more visible when running in the dark, as well as a feature called Streaks, which awards motivational badges when you run at least once a week. I also liked its lightweight and breathable Nike Sport Bands and Nike Sport Loops. 

The Apple Watch itself just continues to get better for workouts. Series 5 brought an always-on Retina display, making it easier to see all your fitness data either on a run or in the gym. Meanwhile, the recently released Apple Watch Series 6 adds a blood oxygen sensor and an always-on altimeter. 

And, as with many of Apple's products, the Watch's interface, watchOS 7, was the most user-friendly of those we tested. Apple watchOS 7 has also added several new health and fitness features to the device including sleep tracking, handwash tracking, and new workout options including Dance, Functional Strength Training, Core Training, and Cooldown.

Because the Apple Watch is a smartwatch and not just a dedicated GPS watch, it can't be overstated how much it offers for your health, fitness, and general lifestyle goals. Thanks to its large and easy-to-read 1.73-inch touchscreen, intuitive interface, and simple controls (just a digital crown and a single button), accessing its myriad smart options, whether answering a text message, checking your heart rate, or getting an ECG, is fast and easy.

If you're someone who likes to listen to music while exercising, it's hard to beat the Apple Watch paired with a set of wireless AirPods. Connecting Apple's Bluetooth earbuds to the watch is a snap and adding music to the watch via the music app on your phone is relatively painless. However, if you stream most of your music, you'll want to get the cellular version which costs more both for the device and on your monthly cell bill.

The other trade-off is how quickly the battery life drains. This happens not just for the music streaming and the Bluetooth connection, but for the always-on touchscreen display, the various smart fitness features, and, of course, its GPS tracking. The 18 hours of battery life Apple touts doesn't account for all this usage, so you'll probably have to shut most of these features off if you're using it during a marathon or an exceptionally long workout. 

I also found the way the Apple Watch initiated workouts to be a bit odd. Some of the other watches I tested notify you on the screen or via an audible or haptic alert when they achieve GPS location acquisition. Typically, this takes a few seconds or minutes depending on whether there are trees and/or buildings blocking the GPS signal. With the Apple Watch, it immediately counts down from three and then starts recording your workout data, forcing you to trust that it locked in your location. According to Apple, its watch uses assistive GPS via a connection to your iPhone/WiFi signal, so a GPS lock notification isn't necessary. 

While the Apple Watch largely seemed to produce accurate GPS results based on the data I reviewed afterward, occasionally it left off the very beginning of a run, particularly the first time I used the watch in a new area. One other quibble: To pause a run, you need to press both the digital crown and the side button at the same time on the Apple Watch, which was harder than I expected, particularly when my hands were sweaty from a run.

Otherwise, the Apple Watch surprised me with how versatile it was and how it quickly it melded seamlessly into my life, not just for my workouts but also for listening to podcasts while doing dishes, texting my wife at the grocery store and, yes, even answering the occasional phone call like Dick Tracy. This was definitely the smartest accessory of the bunch.

Best for training feedback

The Polar Vantage is like having a running coach on your wrist at all times that provides insightful feedback on your progress and cardio levels, as well as how much rest you need between workouts.

Pros: Offers in-depth feedback for tracking progress and improvements, companion app provides expert training analysis, lightweight and comfortable, incorporates rest and recovery into training input, highly accurate GPS 

Cons: Expensive, a lot of information for the casual runner

Having access to a dedicated personal trainer isn't cheap — but the benefit of their feedback is invaluable, especially for anyone looking to improve their fitness. With the Polar Vantage, that kind of in-depth analysis is available right on your wrist, with everything from adaptive performance charts and weekly productivity to how you're progressing and where you can get better. 

The execution of this is where Polar's Vantage really shines. It's highly motivating to have easy access to data that not only shows your weekly metrics like miles ran, calories burned, or your typical power zones but also your cardio load status and what your week-over-week improvement looks like. 

Even having something like the Vantage's Recovery Pro which gives you feedback on how well you're resting and how hard you should push it is a worthwhile feature. Rest and recovery don't get near the attention they should, yet it's such a huge part of one's weekly fitness. The Vantage leans on that in a way that's highly beneficial (and informative, too). There's even a Leg Recovery Test built into the watch that can inform you of how ready your legs are for rigorous exercise — for runners, this is incredibly useful.

The Vantage doesn't just deeply track running but offers similar advanced insight into cycling, as well, displaying a dynamic performance test based on each ride. Both its cycling and running features greatly benefit from an accurate GPS (it also features support for GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS) that displays a detailed map of your route when you finish. 

Even for as detailed as this watch gets into training feedback and rest and recovery, it really only scratches the surface in terms of what else it offers. There's live Strava support, individual sport profiles, personalized training guides with FitSpark, swimming metrics, breathing exercises, and in-depth running programs, to name only a few. Though its price tag is spendy at $500, it's one of the best investments you can make on a GPS running watch. -- Rick Stella, health & fitness editor for Insider Reviews

Best for battery life

Fitbit's Versa 3 is a full-featured GPS smartwatch with a battery that lasts upwards of five or six days, constant heart-rate monitoring, and fast charge capability to get it up and running again in no time. 

Pros: Long battery life, automatic activity tracking, water-resistant to 50 meters, accurate GPS, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, fast charge capability, Cardio Fitness Score gives useful training feedback

Cons: Not the most comfortable, requires manual syncing sometimes

If you're in the market for a GPS running watch with excellent battery life, look no further than the Fitbit Versa 3. Like others on this list, the Versa 3 is technically a smartwatch, though anything with the Fitbit name is going to have an impressive (and useful) amount of fitness-centric capability.

The Versa 3 comes packed with features right out of the box, allowing users to upload music to the watch, take phone calls, receive smartphone notifications, and go through guided breathing sessions, among much more. It even has its own Fitbit Pay system that allows you to use it as a payment method anywhere that accepts contactless payment (which is a huge plus during the pandemic). 

While many of its features are quite handy to anyone looking to up their fitness, where it separates itself most from the competition is with its battery life. Rated to last up to around six days, the Versa 3 isn't your typical charge-every-single-night smartwatch. Rather, it's something you can keep on you for nearly a week at a time, all while still logging any activity, tracking your sleep, and so on. 

If you use the GPS function a lot throughout the day, expect that six-day battery life range to be slightly shorter, though. I'd often get around five days, recharging the night of the fifth day, and my routine week would be at least one run per day, in addition to a strength workout, a short bike ride, or a HIIT workout. I didn't always wear it at night, though the sleep tracking won't be anything that significantly impacts the battery life should you use it. 

The companion Fitbit app centralizes all of your tracked workouts and any activity stats you amass throughout the day, and it provides a great snapshot of progress. For runners, information like this is important, especially if you're training or trying to reach a certain mile time or distance. 

It's also only $200 via the Fitbit website which firmly puts it in "affordable" territory compared to others featured in this guide. It's certainly not cheap but for everything the Versa 3 offers, the price tag is more than worth the investment, especially for anyone looking for a GPS running watch they don't have to worry about charging every single day. -- Rick Stella, health & fitness editor for Insider Reviews

Check out our guide to the best Fitbits here.

What else I considered

Garmin Forerunner 645 Music

We also tested and generally liked the Garmin Forerunner 645 Music but found the music player feature to be underwhelming. Offering a trio of GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo sensors, the Forerunner 645 Music was consistently the fastest watch at acquiring a satellite signal and the most accurate at recording pace and mapping runs. 

It also features a clear and easy-to-read color display that made viewing its fitness data a pleasure. Loading music onto the watch, however, was a frustratingly complex process and the sound quality was only so-so. The audio frequently cut-out when using the watch with a pair of wireless Apple AirPods, which was disappointing.

I recommend going with the non-music version of the Forerunner 645, which is $50 cheaper.

How to shop for a running watch

If you're in the market for a new running watch, it's likely you already know there's an endless amount of makes, models, and specs. One of the leading manufacturers of GPS watches, Garmin, has over a dozen GPS watches for running alone. Add in multi-sport watches that give you additional data for swimming, skiing, biking, hiking, and many other activities, and the search for the right GPS watch can feel overwhelming.

To help you make the right choice, we've highlighted four key things to look for when shopping for a watch:

Price

You're liable to get a bit of sticker shock when looking at GPS watches. Don't let that phase you. The higher-end models will probably have more features than you're ever going to need. Meanwhile, some fashion-forward GPS watches cost more simply because they have added bling. Set your budget, stick to it, and don't be distracted by shiny things.

Build

While most GPS watches offer some level of weather resistance, it varies depending on model and make. If you plan on using your watch for swimming, check that it's fully waterproof. At the same time, the size and weight of a watch can affect your comfort and your training.

So, while that military-grade tactical watch you've been eyeing may look impressively tough, it could also weigh a ton and slow you down.

Battery

Good battery life is important for all your gadgets but it's crucial for GPS watches. If you're running a marathon or in the midst of a long training session, the last thing you want to worry about is your watch dying on you.

The GPS tracking function alone is a serious drain on a rechargeable battery but add in things like high-resolution color touchscreens, music streaming, and other battery-sucking features, and it can't be overstated that you'll want a watch with enough juice for the long haul.

Smart features

The line between traditional GPS watches and multi-functional smartwatches is getting more and more blurry. The question is, do you really need all the features in a smartwatch, which is basically a wearable computer, if you're just using it for workouts?

On the other hand, if you're going to be wearing something on your wrist all day, why not let it help you answer emails and texts or surf the web and visit social media? The choice is yours but remember that all those smart features hike up the cost and drain the battery like crazy.

How we test running watches

Each of the running watches featured in this guide went through a series of tests to determine how well they fared across these four categories: GPS capability, comfort, features, and value. Here's how we judged each category specifically:

GPS capability: This guide hinges entirely on whether the watches featured deliver on not only offering GPS capability but how well that GPS actually works, so this was the most heavily weighted category of the bunch. To test this, we looked at how quickly the GPS connection was established when we wanted to use, its accuracy based against the field of watches tested, and whether the function included extras like a map of your running route. 

Comfort: If a running watch isn't comfortable, no matter how full-featured it is, you may have a hard time being overly motivated to put it on each time you hit the pavement. This doesn't just mean comfort when you immediately put it on, either, as we also judged how well they felt during and after we ran. 

Features: Though GPS functionality is the star of the show here, a good running watch should also offer a suite of additional features designed to further assist the user. This could include in-depth training analysis, customized workout plans, rest schedules, etc. What we looked for was how beneficial the watch could be for runners of various skill levels and whether it truly helped improve or maintain their desired level of fitness.

Value: While it's easy to think that spending more on a running watch means you're getting a better product, that's not always the case. Value among GPS running watches is more about the quality of what's offered, how intuitive it is to use, and how effective it is at allowing you to reach your fitness goals. Make no mistake, though, some of the best GPS running watches can and do cost several hundred dollars. Our goal was to sift through those and find the ones truly worth the sticker price — and each recommended watch featured fits that bill perfectly. 

• Buying refurbished doesn't have to be a risky endeavor, so long as you know what to look for.
• Below is a checklist of what to look for when buying these items, along with the most common products you can find reliably refurbished. 

It can be scary to buy refurbished items, but with certain products, from certain manufacturers, it's as good as buying brand new. 

Refurbished items are generally returns, faulty open-box products, or brand new units with minor cosmetic flaws that have been returned to "like new" quality by the manufacturer. We're a fan of them here at Insider Reviews — we've even written reviews of our personal refurb purchases from Apple and Nintendo.

Buying refurbished has its benefits. For most shoppers, the most convincing benefit is the lower cost. Depending on the item and the manufacturer, a refurbished item can cost you up to 50% less than a brand new one. Another perk is that it's a bit more environmentally friendly: you're essentially buying a recycled item.  In the end, both refurbished and new items will ideally deliver the same user experience, likely with some differences in packaging and cosmetics, so long as you do your research before adding to cart.

When determining a refurb's worthiness, it comes down to two major factors to make the judgment call: who refurbished the item and who is selling it?

The best refurb deals available right now

When shopping refurb deals, we keep an eye out for items that are discounted compared to typical refurb pricing, which is generally much less than brand new. Therefore, original prices noted are considerably less than that of items in new condition.

Who should I trust to refurbish an item?

When it comes to buying an item refurbished, there is no source more reliable than the manufacturer. Year-round, manufacturers like Dyson, Nintendo, and Apple offer refurbished goods for considerably less money than in new condition. I, personally, bought a refurbished Dyson V6 cordless stick vacuum 3 years ago during Black Friday, and not only did the item arrive looking new, but it also still performs well despite daily use. 

Manufacturer refurbs can also come with pretty hefty warranties. Dyson, for example, provides a 6- or 12-month warranty with every order, along with expert support and the promise of genuine Dyson parts in your item.

If you're a frequent online shopper, you've surely come across a few items marked as "seller-refurbished." Our advice: outside of a few exceptions, don't risk it. While you don't necessarily need to limit yourself to only buying from manufacturer storefronts, buying an item refurbished by anyone other than the manufacturer is dubious. Certain special cases like Geek Squad Certified Refurbished and Amazon Renewed are worth considering, but these have less specialized support and notably shorter warranty coverage (typically, only 90 days). 

Where can I buy refurbs from?

The easiest, most reliable places to find refurbished items for sale are from the manufacturer's storefronts. Here are a few brands that sell certified refurbs directly from their sites:

• Acer Recertified: Laptops, tablets, PCS, displays, and more
• Apple: iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, Macs, and more
• Dell Refurbished: Laptops, PCs, workstations, monitors, and more
• Dyson Outlet: Cordless stick vacuums, upright vacuums, and other home appliances
• Jabra Outlet: Headphones, earbuds, and more
• Kitchenaid: Stand mixers, blenders, and more countertop appliances
• Lenovo Outlet: Laptops
• Microsoft: Laptops, tablets, PCs, and more
• Nintendo: Nintendo consoles, controllers, and more
• Sony: Professional broadcast, production, corporate, and educational products

In addition to buying straight from the maker, many big-box retailers are also trustworthy sources to get refurbs from. Sellers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Newegg have the goods, year-round. Some manufacturers even have storefronts elsewhere, like the Jabra and Dyson storefronts on eBay. 

We also highly recommend making the purchase with a credit card, no matter where you're buying it from — there are often routes to getting extended purchase protection. Depending on your card, you can get up to a year of additional coverage on items that come with a manufacturer's warranty.

What items are usually good to buy refurbished?

Tech dominates the refurb market, but if you keep a lookout, you can often find small home appliances reliably refurbished. Vacuums (both cordless and upright), fans, heaters, stand mixers, blenders, and the like are pretty dependable refurbished, and they arrive in like-new condition.

Laptops, computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and accessories are typical to find refurbished, and they're often worth considering. Check out our buying guides to find the best option for you.

• The best laptops
• The best budget laptops
• The best over-ear headphones
• The best noise-cancelling headphones
• The best iPhones
• The best smartphones
• The best smartwatches
• The best stand mixers
• The best tablets
• The best Android tablets
• The best vacuum cleaners

What refurbs should I avoid?

As mentioned above, don't bother with refurbs done by anyone who isn't the manufacturer. The warranties never last as long, it doesn't guarantee the use of genuine parts, and the product support you receive will never be as good — if you get any at all. 

Much older generation tech is also not worth buying refurbished. It's 2020: buying a refurbished iPhone 7 is a moot investment in an item nearing obsoletion.

Finally, don't bother with anything that can't have its battery replaced, like truly wireless earbuds and headphones. It's a mixed bag getting these in any condition other than new; you'll never know the battery's remaining lifespan. With tech like tablets, smartphones, and computers, you can always bring them into a store for a battery replacement.

For Wall Street's rainmakers, the start of 2020 was a nightmare.

Mergers and acquisitions temporarily went over a cliff in the springtime as the world was met with a series of lockdowns and strict restrictions to confront the spread of the coronavirus. In the dealmaking drought in the first half of the year, global volumes collapsed to $1.2 trillion, a 41% decline from 2019, with megadeals taking the brunt of it, falling 69%, according to data from Refinitiv.

But by late summer and into the autumn, activity roared back, albeit with some notable differences — such as virtual meetings in lieu of in-person management presentations and limited celebratory fanfare for completed deals. 

When it rains, it pours, and despite a stormy start for M&A, top dealmakers at firms like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and JPMorgan managed to deliver a series of marquee deals, like S&P Global's planned $44 billion all-stock acquisition of the data firm IHS Markit, the chipmaker Nvidia's $40 billion stock-and-cash bid for its SoftBank-owned British competitor Arm Holdings, and Salesforce's $27 billion cash-and-stock deal for Slack.

Ultimately, 2020's M&A volumes were down just 5% compared with the year before. The year ended with about 50,122 deals that amounted to about $3.64 trillion in volumes, versus 2019's 50,538 deals, which resulted in about $3.82 trillion worth of activity, according to Refinitiv data.

Who are the investment bankers that thrived and executed industry-shifting transactions despite the pandemic?

To take a closer look at the people behind the numbers, Insider has partnered with MergerLinks, a financial-intelligence platform that tracks deals and individual bankers, to present our second annual edition of "The Rainmakers," a league-table ranking of the top 20 M&A bankers based on the size of the deals they orchestrated in North America last year.

MergerLinks, based in London, tracks deals and organizes league tables for bankers and lawyers. To be eligible for the ranking, which is based on the enterprise value of deals, a person must have been a lead advisor on transactions involving companies primarily based in North America. Initial public offerings and financings are not considered, nor are deals in other regions.

To determine its ranking, MergerLinks "works with over 150 advisory companies and checks over 500 sources daily to come up with its rankings, based on transactions over £100m," according to the company.

"The league tables include the dealmakers leading the transaction, based on information in publicly available documents or provided by the adviser," the company said. "The total value assigned to an individual is based on deals that were announced in 2020."

You can read more about the MergerLinks' methodology and criteria on its website.

While 2020 wasn't a bumper year for M&A, there were still a handful of megadeals. A number of the bankers placed on our ranking thanks to work credited to the same deals — occasionally advising the same client, as well as negotiating from the opposite sides of the table.

The list features some of the biggest names in investment banking, from giants like Morgan Stanley all the way down to boutiques.

While firms of all sizes made it into this ranking, the highest tiers of investment banking remain dominated by white men. One woman cracked the top 20 this year, compared with zero last year. 

Goldman Sachs had the most representation on the list, with four bankers, followed by Bank of America and Morgan Stanley, with three each.

Note: Deal sizes are sourced from MergerLinks, inclusive of net debt, and converted from British pounds to US dollars at the average 2020 exchange rate. As a result, some deal prices announced in US dollars throughout the year may not match up.

SEE ALSO: 2021 is shaping up to be a big year for M&A. Here are 12 hot trends to expect, from a SPAC buying frenzy to a jump in cross-border deals.

DON'T MISS: Goldman Sachs' Sam Britton expects more 'dream deals' like Salesforce-Slack in 2021, and reveals the next hot M&A ideas

Colin Ryan, Goldman Sachs

Title: Cohead of M&A for the Americas, global cohead of technology M&A

No. of deals: 1

Value of deals: $27 billion

Colin Ryan leads mergers and acquisitions for the Americas and M&A for technology deals at Goldman Sachs. 

He spearheaded the $27 billion cash-and-stock intended sale of the Goldman client Slack to Salesforce, which was announced at the beginning of December. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2022.

Ryan joined Goldman as an analyst in London in 1998 and relocated to San Francisco in 2005 to help build out the technology M&A group.

He was named a managing director at the firm in 2010 and partner in 2014. During his time at Goldman, he's worked on a variety of deals for clients in the US, Europe, and Asia.

Christopher Cole, Ardea Partners

Title: Chairman

No. of deals: 3

Value of deals: $31.3 billion

Ardea Partners was founded by the Goldman Sachs veteran Christopher Cole in 2016 with a focus on mergers and acquisitions in financial services.

Cole, who is chairman of Ardea Partners, was previously a chair of investment banking at Goldman, a firm where he spent three decades.

For Ardea Partners, which is based in New York City, 2020 brought some windfall dealmaking opportunities.

Indeed, the firm participated on some of the year's biggest financial institutions group deals, like advising on E-Trade's $13 billion all-stock sale to Morgan Stanley, which closed in October, and guiding Franklin Resources on Franklin Templeton's acquisition of Legg Mason for $4.5 billion in cash, which closed at the end of July.

In addition, Cole also advised Neuberger Berman Group on its announced agreement with Altimar Acquisition Corp. and Owl Rock Capital Group to form Blue Owl Capital Group, an asset manager with about $45 billion in assets under management.

Alan Hartman, Centerview Partners

Title: Partner

No. of deals: 4

Value of deals: $31.5 billion

Alan Hartman has worked on north of $800 billion worth of transactions in his nearly 30-year career, according to his company bio. The Centerview Partners healthcare banker added more than $30 billion to the tally in 2020 with a handful of deals.

He started off 2020 helping Merck spin off its women's health and biosimilars business into a standalone company and followed that up with the March acquisition of Forty Seven, an immuno-oncology treatment developer, by Gilead Sciences for nearly $5 billion. 

But the marquee deal last year for Hartman was a much larger cancer-treatment buyout by Gilead. In September he and his fellow Centerview banker Mark Robinson advised Immunomedics on its $21 billion all-cash sale to the pharma giant.

Hartman started his career as a lawyer with Skadden in 1989 before joining Merrill Lynch's M&A department in 1993. He rose to become head of M&A in the Americas but departed for Centerview in 2009 after the financial crisis, following Merrill's merger with Bank of America.

Jeff Chang, Qatalyst Partners

Title: Partner

No. of Deals: 7

Value of Deals: $35.4 billion

Jeff Chang joined Qatalyst in 2011 from Goldman Sachs, where he was a vice president in the technology, media, and telecom group.

He's advised on a variety of transactions for a bevy of tech clients. That includes the intended sale of client Pluralsight, a workforce-education website, to Vista Equity Partners for $3.5 billion. That deal was announced in December and is expected to close in the first half of 2021.

He also worked with Slack on its announced sale to Salesforce for nearly $28 billion in cash and stock. Qatalyst advised on the deal, which was announced in December, alongside Goldman.

Chang has advised other clients like Adobe in its $1.8 billion purchase of Omniture, NetSuite in its $9.4 billion sale to Oracle, and SignalFX in its $1.05 billion sale to Splunk, to name a few.

Greg Weinberger, Credit Suisse

Title: Global head of M&A

No. of deals: 6

Value of deals: $35.5 billion

Greg Weinberger landed a spot on last year's Rainmakers list thanks to his role on what became one of the most dramatic deals of the past decade— Occidental Petroleum's unsolicited $57.4 billion bid for Anadarko Petroleum, which broke up an existing deal between Chevron and Anadarko. 

This year, the veteran oil and gas dealmaker cracked the top 20 with a flurry of smaller, less acrimonious transactions. The headliner was the midsummer $13 billion all-stock acquisition of Noble Energy by Chevron, a close client of Weinberger.

But others among his haul include his advising of the shale producer Concho Resources on its all-stock sale to ConocoPhillips for $9.7 billion, as well as Parsley Energy's acquisition by Pioneer Natural Resources for $7.6 billion, another all-stock transaction that creates a Texas oil and natural-gas exploration and production juggernaut.

Weinberger was appointed sole global head of Credit Suisse's M&A group in 2019 after coheading the division since 2015. He's been with Credit Suisse nearly all of his 25 years on Wall Street.

Mathew Hein, DBO Partners

Title: Partner

No. of deals: 2

Value of deals: $36.1 billion

Mathew Hein is a partner at DBO Partners, a role he has held since 2015. He works out of the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Hein participated in two deals in 2020, according to MergerLinks, including advising the tech firm AMD on its announced acquisition of Xilinx, which produces processor technology, in an all-stock deal that was valued at $35 billion in October and would result in a combined entity valued at about $135 billion.

The other deal he worked on, according to MergerLinks, was the sale of Planview to the private-equity firm TPG Capital and the growth-equity firm TA Associates, a deal valued at $1.6 billion that closed in December.

"We had a great year last year," Hein told Insider in an interview. "Since COVID started, we've announced 11 transactions, ranging from entrepreneurial private companies up to the $35 billion AMD acquisition."

He added: "If anything, we have become more productive, and in many ways it is not harder since COVID. It's easier because we're more efficient and therefore more thoughtful. There's no expectation about getting on planes and running around airports. If we can be highly substantive and value-added in a call with the CEO or other party, this environment is quite conducive to getting things done."

Hein has been with multiple firms throughout the course of his career, including starting out as a financial analyst at Bear Stearns, according to his LinkedIn page, and then jumping to Morgan Stanley in 1995 as an associate. He was there until 1999 and returned in 2001 after a brief interlude.

Jeff Sine, The Raine Group

Title: Partner and cofounder

No. of deals: 1

Value of deals: $38.7 billion

In his 35 years as a Wall Street TMT banker, Jeff Sine has formed an array of key relationships.

His ties to SoftBank and Masayoshi Son date back to Sine's Morgan Stanley days in the '90s. But the bond with the Japanese conglomerate's CEO and founder has held firm through his eight-year run in the aughts at UBS and after he founded his boutique advisory and investment firm, The Raine Group, in 2009.

Advising SoftBank has perhaps never been a busier, more high-profile mandate. In addition to the fraught WeWork saga of 2019, Sine worked on the merger of the wireless operators Sprint and T-Mobile, a deal first imagined in 2012 when Son grabbed a controlling stake in Sprint for $22 billion. The more than $70 billion merger, announced in 2018, finally passed muster with regulators and closed in early 2020. 

After the dust settled, Sine helped SoftBank unload more than $20 billion worth of T-Mobile shares over the summer to raise cash to fund a stock buyback. 

None of these deals counted toward Sine's 2020 dealmaker ranking, but the next SoftBank megadeal did. Raine Group was tapped to help sell Arm, the British semiconductor firm owned by SoftBank, to the US chipmaker Nvidia. Along with Chris Donini, a Raine Group managing director, Sine helped fetch a roughly $40 billion price tag — $12 billion in cash and more than $21.5 billion in Nvidia stock — for Arm in a deal announced in September that is now traversing the regulatory gauntlet.

Michael Carr, Goldman Sachs

Title: Cochair of global mergers and acquisitions

No. of deals: 2

Value of deals: $38.7 billion

Michael Carr was promoted to his role as cochair of global M&A at Goldman Sachs in September. He previously served as cohead of M&A.

In 2020, Carr advised Lockheed Martin on its $4.4 billion all-cash acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne. That deal is expected to close in the second half of 2021.

Carr also advised Willis Towers Watson in its merger with Aon PLC, which resulted in a combined valuation of about $80 billion at the time of the announcement. Shareholders approved the deal in August, and it is expected to close in the first half of 2021.

Throughout his tenure at Goldman, Carr has held a variety of senior positions, including head of M&A for the Americas and, before that, cohead of the industrials and natural-resources group. Carr joined Goldman Sachs as a partner in 1998 from Salomon Brothers.

Robert Kindler, Morgan Stanley

Title: Vice chairman and global head of M&A

No. of deals: 1

Value of deals: $42.4 billion

Robert Kindler nabbed one notable deal in 2020, according to MergerLinks data, but it happened to be the largest deal of the year. 

Kindler and Morgan Stanley advised the London-based IHS Markit on its $44 billion all-stock sale to S&P Global announced in November, creating a global Wall Street data powerhouse.

Though it was the largest deal of 2020, it was about half the size of the largest deal in Kindler's 40-year career — that honor goes to the merger of Time Warner and AT&T, which clocked in at $85 billion when it closed in 2018.

Before investment banking, Kindler spent two decades as a corporate M&A attorney at Cravath, Swaine & Moore. He joined JPMorgan in 2000 to run global M&A and left six years later to join Morgan Stanley, where he's been ever since.

Sam Britton, Goldman Sachs

Title: Cohead of the global technology, media, and telecommunications group

No. of deals: 8

Value of deals: $43.4 billion

Before becoming cohead of global TMT, Sam Britton was a key player inside the bank's tech, media, and telecom group, serving as cohead of its mergers and acquisitions practice. He was appointed to his current role last month.

Last year, Britton spoke with Insider about a busy 2020 in mergers and acquisitions.

"This is a business where experience begets more activity, and there's a virtuous cycle there," Britton said in an interview in December, adding that he expected 2021 to deliver more "dream deals."

In 2020, Britton advised on a number of large deals, including the sale of the cloud-based small-business-solutions company Endurance to Clearlake Capital Group for $3 billion in cash, which closed in February. He also worked on the more than $10 billion cash-and-stock sale of his client eBay's classifieds business to Adevinta, which was announced in July.

Charlie Newton, Bank of America

Title: Cohead of healthcare investment banking in the Americas

No. of deals: 6

Value of deals: $45.3 billion

Based out of Menlo Park, California, Charlie Newton coheads Bank of America's healthcare practice and in 2020 turned in one of the most productive years in a 26-year career that includes more than $200 billion in deals. 

The headliner came at the end of the year when he advised Alexion Pharmaceuticals, a rare-disease specialist, on its December sale to AstraZeneca for $39 billion in cash and stock — the second-largest deal in Newton's career behind the $66 billion Allergan-Actavis tie-up in 2014.

A handful of more modest transactions preceded that megadeal, including Principia Biopharma's $3.7 billion sale to Sanofi and Nestlé Health Science's $2 billion acquisition of Aimmune Therapeutics, a biopharma firm with treatments for food allergies.

Before joining BofA in 2015, Newton ran Credit Suisse's US healthcare investment-banking practice for five years. Before that, he spent nearly 15 years with Morgan Stanley. 

Francois Maisonrouge, Evercore Partners

Title: Senior managing director

No. of deals: 6

Value of deals: $45.8 billion

Francois Maisonrouge has worked on an array of industry-altering healthcare deals in his 35-year career.

In 2020, he advised the pharma giant AstraZeneca on its $39 billion cash-and-stock buyout of Alexion Pharmaceuticals. He also worked on Sanofi's $3.7 billion acquisition of Principia Biopharma and Blackstone's $2 billion investment in Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, a developer of RNA interference therapeutics.

Before joining Evercore in 2007, Maisonrouge spent nearly 15 years at Credit Suisse, chairing its life-sciences practice.

Gregg Lemkau, Goldman Sachs

Title: Former cohead, global investment-banking division at Goldman Sachs; incoming CEO of MSD Partners

No. of deals: 3

Value of deals: $45.9 billion

Gregg Lemkau departed his role at Goldman Sachs at the end of 2020 to take on a position starting this spring at MSD Partners, the private-equity firm backed by Michael Dell. The firm manages about $15 billion in assets.

Lemkau was instrumental to the biggest deal of the year: S&P Global's all-stock acquisition of IHS Markit. He also worked on other deals, including the Goldman client Twitter's agreement with the investment firm Elliott Management Corp. in March and the intended $2 billion all-stock merger of Topgolf and the Goldman client Callaway.

During his time at Goldman, Lemkau held a series of senior positions in the investment bank before becoming its cohead, including cohead of global mergers and acquisitions; head of M&A for Europe, Middle East, and Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region; and cohead of the TMT group within the investment bank.

Mark Robinson, Centerview Partners

Title: Partner, global cohead of healthcare investment banking

No. of deals: 6

Value of deals: $51.1 billion

Like his fellow Centerview healthcare banker Hartman, Mark Robinson jumped to the boutique in 2009 after a long run with Merrill Lynch.

He and Hartman teamed up to take down a couple deals together in 2020, most notably the $21 billion all-cash acquisition of Immunomedics, a cancer-treatment developer, by Gilead in September. They also tag teamed the March acquisition of Forty Seven, an immuno-oncology treatment developer, by Gilead Sciences for nearly $5 billion.

Robinson also advised MyoKardia, a developer of targeted therapies for cardiovascular diseases, on its $13.1 billion all-cash acquisition by Bristol-Myers Squibb in October and Momenta Pharmaceuticals, a biotechnology company, on its $6.5 billion sale to Johnson & Johnson in August.

Anu Aiyengar, JPMorgan

Title: Global cohead of mergers and acquisitions

No. of Deals: 7

Value of Deals: $54.4 billion

As global cohead of M&A at JPMorgan, Anu Aiyengar leads a team of about 200 professionals worldwide. 

She is a cochair of the women's network within the investment bank and works actively to recruit and mentor female professionals.

This year, Aiyengar advised E-Trade on its sale to Morgan Stanley for $13 billion in an all-stock deal, which closed in October. It was a marquee financial-services deal that led to windfall profits — $81 million— in fees for her advisory group. 

She's a steady hand on a variety of deals from retail and industrials to the financial sector. Other deals she advised on include LVMH's $16.2 billion all-cash purchase of Tiffany & Co., which was announced last year and closed at the beginning of 2021, and Home Depot's acquisition of HD Supply for $8 billion, which closed in December.

Kevin Brunner, Bank of America

Title: Cohead of M&A in the America's

Deals: 18

Value of deals: $57.8 billion

Kevin Brunner was the busiest banker on our list, with MergerLinks tracking 18 deals to Bank of America's US M&A cohead last year.

Brunner, who has two decades of investment-banking experience and more than $400 billion worth of transactions in his career, notched that impressive tally of deals in part through a number of smaller buyouts involving private-equity sponsors.

Those deals included Clayton, Dubilier & Rice acquiring Epicor Software from KKR for $4.7 billion; the real-estate analytics firm RealPage selling to Thoma Bravo for $10.2 billion; and Flexera, a software service provider, selling to Thoma Bravo for $3 billion. 

The largest deal of the year for Brunner was advising the chipmaker Analog Devices on its $21 billion buyout of its rival Maxim in July.

Brunner, who cracked our list last year thanks to megadeals like the $39 billion Fiserv-First Data merger, specializes in technology, media, and financial institutions. He was promoted to cohead of M&A in the Americas in 2018.

Tyler Dickson, Citigroup

Title: Cohead of banking, capital markets, and advisory

No. of deals: 4

Value of deals: $59.9 billion

The cohead of Citi's investment-banking division, Tyler Dickson took a lead role on several marquee deals in 2020, including some notable special-purposed acquisition company mergers.

Dickson and Citi led the efforts advising Churchill Capital III, the blank-check company run by the former Citi dealmaking exec Michael Klein, in its $11 billion merger with MultiPlan, a healthcare cost management platform.

Dickson also worked with Opendoor, the digital home-selling outfit, which merged with Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings, a SPAC backed by Chamath Palihapitiya, in a $4.8 billion deal. 

But the biggest transaction for Dickson was advising S&P Global on its more than $40 billion all-stock tie-up with IHS Markit — the largest deal of the year. 

Dickson's career started in the M&A group at Salomon Brother's in 1989. He subsequently shifted to equity-capital markets and held a slew of equity-capital markets leadership positions during and after the firm's absorption by Citigroup. He was tapped to cohead Citi's revamped investment bank in 2018. 

Marco Chisari, Bank of America

Title: Global head of semiconductor investment banking

No. of deals: 3

Value of deals: $64.8 billion

A semiconductor expert with industry experience, Marco Chisari landed mandates on two chipmaking mergers worth over $20 billion last year. 

While the first half of 2020 was quiet amid the early days of the pandemic, monster deals started to reemerge in the summer. In July, Chisari helped orchestrate Analog Devices' $21 billion all-stock acquisition of Maxim. In October, he helped broker the sale of Intel's NAND memory and storage business to the South Korean company Sk Hynix for $9 billion. 

That same month, AMD announced its $35 billion acquisition of Xilinx — the third-largest deal of the year, purchased all in stock — with Chisari helping represent the target in the deal.

Chisari started his career in the industry he now orchestrates deals for. He worked at Nokia in Italy and Finland on 3G technology and then for STMicroelectronics in San Jose, California, developing chip products.

He jumped to the banking side with JPMorgan in 2005 in London. After the financial crisis, he spent seven years doing M&A and business development for Mubadala, the Emirati sovereign wealth fund. He jumped to Credit Suisse in 2016 and spent two years in tech M&A before joining BofA in 2018 to run semiconductor banking. 

Mark Edelstone, Morgan Stanley

Title: Chairman of global semiconductor investment banking

No. of deals: 4

Value of deals: $79.7 billion

Long before he was an industry-leading tech banker, Mark Edelstone was one of Wall Street's top equity analysts, routinely earning top honors in industry rankings for his semiconductor research with Morgan Stanley from 1997 to 2007.

Then he jumped ship, leaving stock research and Morgan Stanley behind for a post as a senior dealmaker at JPMorgan. After nearly six years, he boomeranged back to Morgan Stanley, and he now chairs the firm's global semiconductor banking practice, one of the most revered on Wall Street.

He landed the No. 2 spot on this year's ranking by helping Morgan Stanley land several megadeals alongside the firm's global tech M&A chief, Anthony Armstrong: the Analog Devices buyout of Maxim ($21 billion, all stock), Nvidia's acquisition of the SoftBank-backed Arm Holdings ($40 billion, cash and stock), and AMD's purchase of Xilinx ($35 billion, all stock). 

For good measure, Edelstone advised on one SPAC merger, advising Thunder Bridge II on its $1.4 billion merger with Indie Semiconductor, an automotive-chip and software company.

Anthony Armstrong, Morgan Stanley

Title: Global head of technology M&A

No. of deals: 4

Value of deals: $99.5 billion

Anthony Armstrong earns top honors in 2020 for orchestrating three of the year's largest transactions. 

With the help of Edelstone, Morgan Stanley's semiconductor banker, he led Analog Devices in its $21 billion purchase of Maxim, Xilinx in its $35 billion sale to AMD, and Nvidia in its $40 billion acquisition of the SoftBank-backed Arm Holdings. 

Additionally, Armstrong advised OSIsoft, an app developer for real-time data management, on its $5 billion sale to Aveva Group, a British technology conglomerate. 

Before joining Morgan Stanley at the end of 2015, Armstrong spent most of his career in M&A with Credit Suisse. He started his career in the late '90s at the boutique investment bank Bowles Hollowell Conner and then jumped to Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette briefly before it was absorbed by Credit Suisse in 2000. Apart from a two-year assignment leading M&A for Qatar Holding, he worked with the Swiss bank for the next 15 years, rising to cohead of M&A in the Americas.

• Apple sells four different versions of the iPad, making it difficult to know which ones are the newest. 
• The latest iPad and iPad Air launched in the fall of 2020, while the most recent iPad Pro debuted in March 2020.
• The iPad Mini model that Apple currently sells is from March 2019.
• You can also check out our iPad buying guide for more advice on which iPad to buy.

Apple has released a lot of iPads over the years, and not every retailer makes it clear which model is newest. Since Apple doesn't use numbers to differentiate new iPad generations from previous ones as it does with the iPhone, it can be difficult to know whether the iPad you're about to add to your cart is actually the latest one.

Last year was a big year for the iPad considering Apple launched three new models. It released a new version of the iPad Air that costs $599 and greatly resembles the iPad Pro, a speedier version of its entry-level $329 iPad, and a refreshed iPad Pro with a faster processor and more advanced camera system. The iPad Mini, on the other hand, was last updated in 2019. 

Here's a closer look at the latest iPad models from Apple.

10.2-inch iPad 8th generation (2020)

The standard iPad is in its 8th generation, and latest model came out in September 2020.

It boasts a 10.2-inch touchscreen, an A12 Fusion processor and an embedded M10 co-processor, as well as 32GB of storage space on the basic model. It's certainly enough to get you through your basic needs, though you may want to upgrade to a bit more storage space if you're planning on using the iPad to download a lot of videos, store many pictures, or play a lot of games.

At Apple's $329 price, this is the cheapest current iPad you can buy. We've rated it as the best iPad for most people in our buyers guide because of its affordable price, smooth performance, and great overall value. 

Like the most recent iPad Mini, the most recent iPad also offers first-generation Apple Pencil compatibility. Unfortunately, it doesn't support mouse input. 

Check out our full review of the 10.2-inch iPad. 

iPad Air 4th generation (2020)

Apple's newest iPad Air, which is now in its fourth generation, was announced in September 2020 and launched in October 2020. It has a large 10.9-inch Retina touchscreen and a powerful A14 Bionic processor, the same chip that powers the iPhone 12. 

This iPad is a middle ground between the iPad and iPad Pro. It inherits many of the iPad Pro's characteristics, like a nearly borderless screen, a more modern design with flat edges and no home button, compatibility with Apple's newest accessories, and a USB-C port instead of Lightning for charging.

With a starting price of $599, it's somewhat expensive but is generally within the price range of premium tablets from Samsung and others. This is the iPad to get if you want a tablet that's more powerful and light with a better screen compared to the regular iPad, but don't need the extras that come with the Pro model's higher price. 

Check out our full review of the iPad Air.

iPad Mini 5th generation (2019)

The most recent iPad Mini is the 5th-generation model that was released in March 2019. It features a 7.9-inch touchscreen, as well as an A12 Bionic processor and 64GB of storage in the most basic model. The chip powering the iPad Mini is the same one found in Apple's iPhone XS lineup from 2018.

You'll be well-equipped to download plenty of games and movies, and this Mini also offers compatibility with Apple's Smart Keyboard and first-generation Apple Pencil. It's more expensive than the 10.2-inch iPad at $399 — a price that some might justify for its extra portability and storage. 

Check out our full review of the iPad Mini. 

iPad Pro 4th generation (2020)

The iPad Pro is the most premium tablet in Apple's iPad series. Because it has performance that's similar to that of a laptop, the iPad Pro is priced like a laptop. The 11-inch model starts at $799, while the 12.9-inch version starts at $999.

The biggest update to come to the 2020 iPad Pro compared to the 2018 model is its LiDAR sensor. This scanner can detect depth by measuring how long it takes for light to reflect back from an object, and it's also present in Apple's iPhone 12 Pro.

Apple initially positioned its LiDAR sensor as being useful for improving the performance in augmented reality apps since it can help the device detect surfaces more quickly and accurately. But it can also be useful for photography and accessibility-oriented features that require depth sensing. 

The other big differences between the 2018 iPad Pro and the 2020 models are the new iPad Pro's faster A12Z Bionic processor and its second camera lens. The new iPad Pros have a 12-megapixel standard lens and a 10-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens for capturing a broader field of view.

And of course, the iPad Pro is designed to work well with Apple's keyboard and Pencil accessories, although these additions do drive up the overall price significantly.

Check out our full review of the iPad Pro.

Getting your child into a respectable preschool in Los Angeles starts when they're barely out of diapers, Cindy Chanin, the LA-based founder of Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring and former Ivy admissions rep who's heavily involved with LA's most sought-after private schools, told Insider. She also noted that the process, while highly competitive, is unlike anywhere else in the US.

"LA schools typically don't encourage families to take themselves or the process too seriously," Chanin said. "Instead, they value a sense of humor, a lack of pretension, and civic-mindedness." 

Creativity, the cultivation of curiosity, and learning through play are central to most of the best preschools' missions and philosophies. "Your student won't stand out if they are a get-in-line and 'keep your head down' kind of child," Chanin said. "Exuberance is rewarded."

The community also harbors a deep thread of the Reggio Emilia approach to education. 

"Reggio Emilia is a student-centered educational philosophy that is self-directed, experiential, and promoted in relationship-driven environments," Chanin said. "Community, the arts, and play are at the core of Reggio Emilia. Like the entertainment industry that drives LA's culture, schools are inspired by fun, creative kids."

In general, Chanin shared that most schools have the same admissions process: Call them up, make an appointment for a tour, and then the application will become available to you. Interviews come after applications are submitted. 

"Many top LA preschools claim that they are not as interested in your numbers or status as much as they are interested in whether you align with their philosophy and values," Chanin said. "They strive to know who you are as a parent in person, in addition to taking into account whether your child is a great fit." 

She added that every school has its own particular way of filling their classes, and that many preschool admissions directors are seeking diversity and a range of personalities. 

To find the best option for your family, Chanin selected 11 elite preschools throughout the LA area that, in her experience, offer the best programs around. Sorted by neighborhood, here's how much they cost a year and what the application process is like, according to directors.

SEE ALSO: Prestigious preschools are notorious for evaluating family values. Consultants share how to best align yours with your ideal program.

NOW READ: Parents should always write a thank you note after a preschool interview or tour. An expert shares what it should include, and 3 example letters that hit the mark.

Santa Monica: Cassidy Preschool

Cost: $16,075 to $21,580 a year

Location: 2122 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA, 90403

Notable facts: Chanin described Cassidy as "one of LA's most sought-after preschools," adding that it's "very trendy to go there." Cassidy doesn't have a mission or philosophy, she noted — they have an approach. "It takes the best of all worlds — a bit of Montessori, a bit of Waldorf, a bit of Pre-K," Chanin said. 

The admissions process: According to Chanin, it's competitive to get morning versus afternoon slots. Priority for morning spots is given to siblings, families with school-age children, and families who can't otherwise make an afternoon spot work under any circumstance. 

"We don't interview families or assess children, on principle," Luisa Donati, director of Cassidy Preschool, told Insider. "In part, this is because it's challenging to give parents the attention they deserve."

Donati added that Cassidy isn't interested in cherry-picking people they want, but creating an environment "reflective of different realities." She noted that while all schools want a good parent-partner, "a diverse community" is a chief aim at Cassidy. 

"I hope for people to be as down to earth as possible," Donati said. "Kooky and eccentric is fine, but when it comes to partnering, you have to know how to sit across the table and work together."

As for picking the right fit, the director maintained that "you can tell intuitively." 

"I keep tours small so we can have a conversation as a small group," she said. "I'm not the one holding court." Instead, she explained, the families are.

Website here.

Online application here.

Piper Preschool

Cost: $1,050 to $1,950 a month

Location: 807 Arizona Avenue, Santa Monica, CA, 90401 and 1475 Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90035

Notable facts: "We like to have fun," said Nicole Royston, Piper's LA admissions director. The school aims to help children develop "life-long friendships," she added.

"We have a community room where parents, caregivers, and families are welcome to hang out," she said. "We like families to consider the school as an extension of home." 

If you are looking for a feeder school, Piper isn't one, according to the director. 

"We have great relationships with schools, but leave the next steps for later," she said.

The admissions process: Royston said that when she meets applicants, she's looking for families and kids who want to be at Piper specifically. 

"It sounds simple, but we look for people who see themselves here," the director said.

Be aware, though, that many families do see themselves at Piper.

"People who haven't even had the baby yet call us," Royston said. "And that's okay, but it should not be stressful."

For those who are shopping around, Royston said, "We don't pressure anyone to sign a contract if they are hedging, but we do move to the next group of contracts."

Website here.

Online application here.

First Presbyterian Nursery School

Cost: $18,500 a year

Location: 1248 Second Street, Santa Monica, CA, 90401

Notable facts: First Presbyterian was started in 1959 and prides itself on its sense of continuity. Since its inception, there have been only four directors of the school, the school's website states. The nursery school is for children age two through six.

"The school is in continual dialogue with the schools in Reggio Emilia, Italy, and shares many of their theories and practices," Chanin said. 

The admissions process: You can either apply online or download the application in PDF format. When applying, you must submit an "informal family photo" along with your $75 application fee.

To stand out with admissions, Chanin suggested that parents should be well versed in the Reggio-Emilia "100 Languages of Children" approach. 

"Reggio-Emilia believes in educating children using symbolic communication methods, such as sculpture, painting, and drama," she said. "There is a focus on social-emotional learning. When you submit your admissions statement, it's a good idea to demonstrate how the approach shows up in your family life."

Website here.

Online application here.

Circle of Children

Cost:  $13,700 for five mornings a week, $11,100 for four afternoons a week

Location: 1227 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, CA, 90403

Notable facts: "Circle of Children's philosophy revolves around its belief that, 'The most important lesson a child can learn during their early years is that school is fun, interesting, and rewarding,'" Chanin said. "They emphasize matching learning activities with each child's chronological and developmental age, as well as their abilities and interests." 

The admissions process: Chanin explained that you must call the school directly for application details. To be eligible for enrollment, children must be three years old on or before December 2; a limited number of children who are at least two years and nine months by September of the school year are also eligible. 

"Emotional and social development are of paramount importance, and Circle of Children is dedicated to building self-esteem, respect for others, and a cooperative disposition," Chanin said. "Cultural awareness is important to Circle of Children, and classroom themes are often based on what is currently happening in the world." 

She added that families who demonstrate a fun, playful, and supportive attitude are attractive to this school, and that attending the parent-toddler program (called Circle Toddler) has been known to help a family solidify a spot for their child in the preschool.

Website here.

Malibu: Wagon Wheel School Malibu

Cost: $1,900 a month for a 12-month school year

Location: 28211 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA, 90265

Notable facts: Wagon Wheel School's Malibu location at the St. Aidan's Church campus is the school's second location. Their first location — in Hollywood— has had the same director, Ruth Segal, since 1977, according to Wagon Wheel's website. 

Chanin pointed out that the school emphasizes use of its outdoor spaces, including planting vegetables in the garden and free play in the yard, so that children can "engage [with] their environment and nature at large."

The admissions process: After touring the school, applications become available, Chanin said. 

"Siblings are automatically first batch when we announce acceptances," Segal told Insider. She noted that the school's diversity committee assures a mix of families, including parents from broadly varied professions.

For everyone who reaches out to the school, Segal said that admissions sets a time and is "very transparent about everything." 

Currently, Wagon Wheel conducts prospective parent Zoom tours with groups of six families. 

Website here.

Brentwood/Bel Air/Westwood: The Nest

Cost:  $16,500 to $23,000 a year

Location: 103 North Anita Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90049

Notable facts: "This is perhaps the hardest preschool to get into in LA," Chanin said, describing it as a "wonderful, tiny school in a private residential community."

"All high-profile families have their kids go there," Chanin added. The Nest takes a Montessori approach and offers weekly extracurricular classes such as yoga, music, PE, and art as part of its core program. Chanin shared that students practice "mindful meditation" each day, where children have a chance to rest and reflect.

The admissions process: Chanin shared that before enrolling at The Nest, parents and their child first must visit the school. The steps to applying include contacting the school to schedule a tour — you can use this inquiry form to start the process.

In late February, parents are notified of openings. To be admitted, The Nest's website explains that kids must be at least two years nine months and "toilet ready" by the September they start preschool.

Parent fit is critical to the preschool's director, Omid Kheiltash. "We can work with any child, but not any parent," Kheiltash told Insider. "It has to be a family fit first."

This means that your family's alignment with the school's values is important.

"Structure, boundaries, non-negotiables; we just want to make sure parents are aligned," Kheiltash said. "For instance, we believe in cultivating community amongst our parent body, but we are not a co-op. This is the child's sacred space."

The director also stressed that it's important to understand what The Nest is about. "If you are interested in play-based schools, you aren't looking at The Nest," she said. If parents crave structure for their child, then Montessori is a good fit.

Website here.

Bel Air Presbyterian Preschool

Cost: Tuition information is not publicly available

Location: 16221 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA, 90049

Notable facts: Bel Air Preschool, an independent, faith-based school, publishes this list of 22 of "LA's best private and public schools" where Bel Air children matriculate for elementary education. In 2018, the school was ranked in the top 25% of school portfolios nationwide, according to the school's website. 

The admissions process: You can request a tour by filling out this form. Once the school receives your application, it may contact you to schedule a family interview.

"To stand out and align with Bel Air Presbyterian, it's important to embrace — and demonstrate — a desire for faith-based education," Chanin said. "Unlike other schools on this list, they are very forward about preparing children for admissions at distinguished schools." 

Website here.

Beverly Hills/Hollywood: Montessori Shir-Hashirim

Cost: $27,000 a year

Location: 151 North Berendo Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90004 and 6047 Carlton Way, Los Angeles, CA, 90028

Notable facts: Shir-Hashirim's literal translation is "Song of Songs," according to the school's website, which notes that although the name of the preschool is Hebrew, they "honor many traditions."

"Montessori Shir-Hashirim has a strong academic program, including instruction in Spanish, French, and Mandarin," Chanin said. "This is paired with structured play: music, dance, karate, and drama. Students perform several plays per year." 

The admissions process: While the school usually invites parents to see a classroom in session or take a tour, no tours are currently being offered during the pandemic. New student enrollment begins in February, and at other times in the year admissions is on a rolling basis. The admission application fee is $200 (non-refundable), and if your child is admitted, there's a one-time fee per child of $1,500.

Located on two LA campuses, Chanin shared that there's stiff competition for their 16 or so open spots each year. 

"Families should demonstrate that they value childhood independence and play," she said. "The parent-toddler program does not guarantee admission to the preschool but will ground families in the Montessori approach."

Website here.

Online application here.

Center for Early Education

Cost: $22,400 to $26,930 a year

Location: 563 N. Alfred Street, West Hollywood, CA, 90048

Notable facts: According to Chanin, many LA families consider this school "the best of the best" in terms of academics and setting a kid up for success.

"Their preschool feeds into their elementary school, which is one of the most sought-after K-6 schools in LA," Chanin said. "It's also one of the most prominent feeder schools to Harvard-Westlake, Marlborough, and/or Campbell Hall for middle school and high school."

The admissions process: CCE requires families to submit their online application as their initial step. Attending an admissions open house is the second step, after which parents or guardians will complete an interview.

For CEE, diversity is "super important," according to Chanin. 

"They want their school to be reflective of the diversity of Los Angeles," she said. "Inclusion, responsibility, caring, and honesty are their core values." 

"To stand out amongst the flood of yearly applicants, who are often glittery Hollywood names (Beyoncé performed at a recent fundraiser), bring your kindness and warmth to every interaction, up to and including the very first phone call you make to them," she added.

Website here.

Online application here.

Los Feliz/Silverlake: Camelot Kids

Cost: $9,360 to $29,700

Location: 2880 Rowena Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90039

Notable facts: In addition to Camelot Kids Preschool, which is a child development center for children two to six years of age, Camelot is also introducing in 2021 the "Little Knights Toddler Program," a new parent-and-me center for tots 18 to 30 months.

Chanin pointed out that the preschool program combines two collaborative components: the preschool class plus an "enrichment component," which the website states "offers exciting and challenging activities that help children develop their sense of self."

The admissions process: Filling out the Interest Application Form is the first step, Chanin explained, noting that this form is for interest in either Camelot Kids or the Little Knights program. Once you've completed this form — along with paying a $50 nonrefundable application fee — you're generally placed on the school's waitlist.

However, Renae Plant, director of Camelot Kids, shared that things are a bit different this year.

"When COVID hit we had to reevaluate the whole way we ran a school," Plant added. "We had to let everything go and rebuild day-by-day. It will take two to three years for things to return to normal."

The process usually involves one-on-one intake with families. 

"Normally, it would be a group, kids would run around," Plant said. "A casual meet-and-greet. If you walk into Camelot, you'll know immediately if it's the right fit for your family. And it has to be the right fit for us. It's a partnership. The families have to understand our philosophy."    

As for gifts and fancy cards after your interview, which some schools expect, Plant said, "That's a bit weird." Instead, she recommended that families just be authentic and enthusiastic.

Website here.

Online application here.

Silverlake Center for Creativity

Cost:  $1,120 to $2,090 a month

Location: 1239 N. Commonwealth Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90029

Notable facts: A Reggio-inspired and research-driven preschool, Silverlake Center for Creativity (SLCC) prides itself on offering children hands-on, collaborative learning experiences — which include "messy explorations" both outdoors and indoors, according to the website — to pique kids' creativity and imagination. SLCC also values mixed-age learning and designs its classroom around this concept.

The admissions process: Tours are currently virtual, and you must complete this online form to be invited to the next one.

Chiara Angelicola, founder and director of SLCC, shared with Insider that while the school is in the midst of choosing families for its next cohort, it's still possible to get in for 2021. 

"Many families have dropped out of the applications process because of COVID," Angelicola said.

The director believes in the vital importance of a clear school philosophy and making it public. 

"At SLCC, we value a strong developmental dynamic for our mixed-age classroom that will enrich the pro-social experience of each individual child," Angelicola said. "Equally, we enroll families that believe in the results of a research-driven education. Most importantly, we want to foster an inclusive, diverse, and equitable learning environment that mirrors and protects our pluralist community in Los Angeles."

Website here.

The 18-year-old influencer Katie Feeney, who has 5 million TikTok followers, has made over $1 million from Snapchat since she began to use the app's new short-form-video feature, Spotlight, at the end of November.

Feeney's Spotlight posts are similar to what she posts on TikTok and Instagram: videos of herself unboxing products, dancing, and making funny videos with friends, some of which she repurposed from her camera roll or other social-media accounts.

When she got a notification from Snapchat that she had earned over $200,000 from her first week of posting to Spotlight, she was shocked. But now, she's earned over $1 million (it will be paid in installments). 

Feeney isn't the only Spotlight user to make over a million, though most creators are earning far less. 

When the TikTok-like feature first launched, Snap announced that it would pay out a total of $1 million a day to creators whose video adhered to its content guidelines and performed well according to its engagement algorithm. In the first six weeks after Spotlight's release, Snap paid $42 million to over 2,000 users (the company has 265 million daily active users and 100 million monthly active Spotlight users).

Snap's push into paying creators to post content mirrors a similar effort by TikTok, which launched a $1 billion fund for its users in July. So far, payouts from Snap have been larger, some creators told Insider.

"It's more lucrative," said Max Levine, COO at Amp Studios, an LA content studio that represents internet stars like Brent Rivera, Ben Azelart, and the Stokes twins. Levine said the creators he represents have been earning between four and five figures from Spotlight each week. "If your content does well, it's going to get rewarded. You're kind of incentivized that way."

Kevin Parry, a stop-motion animator and visual effects artist with 1 million followers on Instagram and TikTok, earned a four-figure payout from Spotlight. He films short vertical videos for Instagram Reels, YouTube, and TikTok, and he first began posting videos to Snapchat in December.

He said one of the videos he posted at the end of December earned $4,998, although he has not been paid out yet. Insider verified these rates with documentation provided by Parry.

Snapchat hasn't said the average rate it's paying each Spotlight creator. It's evident from what the company has shared that the majority of its users aren't getting paid millions. And it's unclear whether Snap's sizable payouts are a temporary stunt to draw attention to Spotlight or the start of a long-term commitment to invest in its creators (the company only committed to make payments through the end of last year).

Creators who have received million-dollar payouts aren't taking anything for granted. 

"This won't last forever," said Cam Casey, a 19-year-old social-media creator who has made over $3.5 million. "We are just taking advantage of it while here and just trying to do the most with it."

Read more: Snapchat is minting overnight millionaires with its TikTok competitor but creators worry the gold rush will end soon

Insider spoke with 4 top creators who earned over $1 million from using Spotlight since the feature launched in November.

For more stories like this, subscribe to Business Insider's weekly influencer newsletter.

Katie Feeney – over $1 million

Katie Feeney is a high-school senior and content creator with over 5 million TikTok followers. She uploaded her first video to Spotlight at the end of November after finding out about the feature through an in-app announcement on Snapchat.

And after a week of posting, she got a notification from Snapchat. 

"When I got the first notification that I may have earned money, I was so shocked and I didn't really think it was real," Feeney told Insider. 

But reality hit once Feeney found out that she had earned over $200,000 from her first week of posting to Spotlight, she said. Then, she started posting more videos to Snap — from repurposing TikToks to creating quick, funny new content. 

In January, Feeney said she was notified that she was on track to earn over $1 million from Spotlight. Insider confirmed these earnings with sources familiar with Snap's creator payouts.

Feeney told Insider that she has already received her first payment and will continue to be paid in chunks, ultimately adding up to the $1 million payout.

Read more about Feeney's Spotlight strategy here: How a high-school senior made over $1 million from Snapchat in 2 months

Sarah Callahan — over $1 million

Sarah Callahan (@Sarati) has around 700,000 subscribers on Snapchat and millions of followers on TikTok. She posts dance and fitness videos and comedic skits that sometimes feature her husband or dog. 

The actress, model, and fitness influencer aims to post a new video on Spotlight every five minutes. She's earned over $1 million from Snapchat videos since the feature went live.

"I have a timer and I'm posting video after video," she said. "My whole entire day I just post Spotlights. It'd be stupid of me not too."

"My biggest week was over $300,000, and there's been a couple weeks after that that have been [about] that high," she said. 

Read more about Callahan's approach to Spotlight here: A Snapchat influencer who's made over $1 million since November explains her 3 main posting strategies

Joey Rogoff – about $1.2 million

Rogoff is a TikTok creator with about 4 million followers who films prank videos, challenges, and experiments alongside his roommate and fellow creator Cam Casey. 

Since posting to Snap's Spotlight feature, Rogoff has made about $1.2 million, Insider confirmed with sources familiar with Snap's creator payouts.

But he feels it won't last.

"We are in week eight now and it's becoming saturated," Rogoff told Insider. "Now it's definitely much more difficult to get those views, which will also lead to lower payouts." 

Cam Casey – over $3.5 million

Snapchat's top earning creator is Cam Casey, who is a TikTok star with 7 million followers.

Since he began posting to Snap's Spotlight feature in December, Casey has made over $3.5 million, Insider confirmed with sources familiar with Snap's creator payouts.

"The energy goes where the money is," Casey told Insider. "I put 100% of my focus into Snapchat just because it's where the money is. We'd love to see it turn into more of a long term thing like TikTok Creator Fund."

Casey said he has been prioritizing making content for Spotlight, and he films dedicated videos for Snap several times a day. 

But there is a limit to how often a creator can post – every five minutes. In Snap's terms and conditions for Spotlight, it states that it "may also limit the number of Snaps that Creators can submit over a certain period of time" to maintain quality. 

• An air purifier can help clean your indoor air of pollutants, dust, and smoke.
• We tested and researched more than 10 air purifiers to determine the best ones for your needs and budget.
• TheBlueair Blue Pure 211+ can clean a 650-square-foot room in 15 minutes and indicates when to clean or replace filters.

An air purifier can help improve the quality of your indoor air, which can be more polluted than outside air. Things like candles, cooking grease, and cleaning products can contribute to irritants, and if you're not opening your windows 24/7, they can pollute your indoor air.

Our guide recommends air purifiers that are easy to maintain, remove a broad array of irritants, and performed well in our tests. When we examined each model, we considered its Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), noise level, long-term costs, maintenance, and filtration systems. We also noted how easy they are to use, as well as other useful features.

We explain our testing methodology here, along with other models we looked at that didn't make the cut and air-purifying techniques.

Here are the best air purifiers of 2021

• Best air purifier overall: Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier
• Best budget air purifier:Honeywell HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier
• Best wall-mounted air purifier:RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier
• Best high-end air purifier:Coway Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier
• Best ionizing air purifier:Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier

SEE ALSO: The best humidifiers you can buy

The best air purifier overall

The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier filters the air in medium-to-large rooms up to five times per hour, and it's so quiet that you won't notice it's operating.

Pros: Does an excellent job of removing dust, pollen, and smoke; indicator lets you know when to clean/replace filter; attractive appearance; easy to use

Cons: Filter replacement is expensive

The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier is designed to remove bacteria, mold, pet dander, dust, pollen, viruses, and other airborne pollutants. And, with a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 350 cubic feet per minute, it can clean the air in a 650-square foot room approximately four times in an hour. Plus, it's small and lightweight enough for you to effortlessly move it from one room to the next.

The Blue Pure 211+ has three-stage filtration: a fabric pre-filter, particle filter, and carbon filter. And, the unit tells you when it's time to clean or replace the filter. Replacing the filter can be quite pricey though it should be done every six months to ensure you continue to breathe properly filtered air. The Blue Pure 211+ is Energy Star-certified and has relatively low energy costs (using 30 to 60 watts).

Another nice feature is that it runs quietly, ranging from 31 decibels on its lowest setting and 56 on its highest — quiet enough to use in a bedroom.

Last year, the Blueair 211+ was sold out at many online retailers or were selling at marked-up prices due to the California wildfires and the novel coronavirus pandemic. The purifiers are more available now, and we never suggest buying items that are marked up if you can help it.

The best budget air purifier

If you're looking for an air purifier that offers an impressive balance of price and performance, the Honeywell HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier is your best bet.

Pros: Affordable; intuitive controls; easy to transport; does a very good job of removing smoke, dust, and pollen

Cons: Complaints of odors; might be too loud on high speed for some; expensive replacement filters

Honeywell is a trusted brand when it comes to air purifiers, and the HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier is the company's most acclaimed model. In a crowded field of expensive models, this Honeywell unit does the best job of balancing performance with price.

It has an activated carbon pre-filter, which needs to be replaced every three months, and three HEPA filters, which need to be replaced every year. A year's supply of replacement filters will cost around $70, so the operating cost is quite high. An indicator light lets you know when it's time to change the filter.

The biggest drawbacks are the high costs for filter replacement and operation.

This was also previously available on Walmart via third-party sellers, which we don't recommend as shipping dates and prices are unreliable, and return policies are dubious at best. Thankfully, the item is available via Honeywell directly now.

The best wall-mounted air purifier

The RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier can be mounted to a wall for an attractive and unobtrusive appearance.

Pros: Low filter and operating costs; silent operation; wall-mounted; outstanding at removing particulate matter; attractive appearance; five-year warranty

Cons: Expensive upfront cost

When installing an air purifier, you not only have to account for the space the unit takes up, but you also have to provide clearance around it to allow for airflow. When real estate is at a premium and appearances are important, the wall-mounted RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier addresses this.

The MinusA2 has a six-stage filter: pre-filter, medium filter, patented BioGS HEPA filter, charcoal-based activated carbon filter, optional negative ion generator, and a customized filter. The custom filter is unique in that you can choose to target toxins, odors, pet dander, or germs depending on your needs. The filter replacement kit is expensive, but you only need to budget for it every two years or so.

This is one of the larger air purifiers we've come across and can clean rooms up to 815 square feet. It's also a good option if your space is open concept — since there are fewer walls and doors, you can clean multiple rooms at once. 

This was previously only available on Amazon via a third-party seller, which we don't recommend, but it's now available on Amazon via the RabbitAir store directly. 

The best high-end air purifier

The Coway Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier barely makes any sound and adjusts the fan speed based on the air's pollution level.

Pros: Quiet; attractive design; energy-efficient; cleans the air in a 760-square-foot room in 15 minutes

Cons: Expensive filter contributes to the overall price 

The Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier is Coway's top-of-the-line model. It features two sets of filters on each side of the unit: the easy-to-clean pre-filter and the Max2 filter, which is a combined True HEPA filter and activated charcoal. When it's time to change the filters, the indicator light turns on. The Airmega 400 can monitor the air quality and adjust the fan speed to quickly filter the air.

I tested this air purifier on the main floor of my home in a centrally-located spot. Although it's designed for rooms up to 760 square feet, it still did a great job in my open, 1,400-square-foot area, filtering the air in about 15 minutes.

On Smart mode, the fan speed ramps up when I get overzealous with my meat searing in the kitchen. After a year of use, I'm just now nearing the end of the original filter's lifespan. Replacing the filters is incredibly pricey, however. 

While some recommend the Wi-Fi-enabled version, the Airmega 400S, the only real difference between the 400S and 400 is the app-connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Other than that, performance is essentially the same.

This was previously out of stock at many online retailers but it's more readily available now.

Read our full review of the Coway Airmega 400

The best ionizing air purifier

In addition to three filters, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier includes ionization, and the fan speed adjusts based on the air quality.

Pros: Automatically adjusts fan speed based on pollutants in the air; timer; four-stage filtration; eco mode

Cons: High power consumption, gets loud on high

Coway is one of the top names in air purifiers and the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier is its most popular model. It has an array of high-end features, including an air quality indicator, an auto mode that adjusts the fan speed to the air quality, and a shut-off timer.

The Mighty has a CADR of 246 cubic feet per minute for dust, 240 for pollen, and 233 for smoke, which makes it a good option for rooms of up to 460 square feet. The air goes through four filter stages: pre-filter, odor filter, true HEPA filter, and an ionizer. An ionizer electrically charges air molecules for purification; it can lower bacterial infections by removing particles in the air. But note that the effectiveness has been questioned and may emit ozone. Fortunately, any ozone exposure is minimal, and you can turn the ionizing feature off if you're concerned.

The Coway Mighty is one of three air purifiers I'm currently running in my home. My son has it in his bedroom so we can minimize our home's "teen odor index." We've had it for a year, and it does an outstanding job. And, I like how easy it is to clean the pre-filter: When the indicator light tells me it's time for cleaning, I just run a cordless handheld vacuum over it. So far, I haven't had to replace the filter, but it's pretty affordable and it lasts for a year.

If you're looking for a similar model, Coway has a newer version called the Airmega 200M. Based on our testing, the 200M is more powerful but is otherwise similar in performance to the Mighty. Depending on the color, you can sometimes find the newer Airmega 200M to be significantly cheaper than the Mighty. If you come across this, we suggest going with the cheaper of the two because the performance is so similar. We think you'll be satisfied with either.

The Mighty didn't experience discernable shipping delays or inventory issues previously and is readily available on Amazon.

What else we recommend

While researching this guide, we looked at numerous models and brands of air purifiers. Many of them just missed the cut, but are otherwise strong products in their own right. Here are five that almost made it:

Our testing methodology

When I test an air purifier, there are several things I look for such as the rate at which it cleans, noise level, and more. 

In addition to hands-on testing, I turn to other established reviewers, such as Wirecutter and Consumer Reports, for their assessments. Based on my and other experts' research and testing, and looking through the manufacturers' specs, I'm able to compare the key performance indicators of the top models.

Here are the main attributes when testing air purifiers:

CADR: Clean Air Delivery Rate is a rating developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers that is used to determine how many cubic feet of air an appliance can clean in a minute. If you multiply the CADR by 1.875, you can determine what room size the air purifier can clean four times in one hour, which is the recommended minimum number of air changes per hour (ACH). This calculation assumes an average ceiling height of 8 feet. Don't worry if this sounds confusing: We put it in easy-to-understand terms in our guide.

Noise level: A good air purifier will operate in the background without most people noticing it. Loud air purifiers are a deal-breaker. I use a sound meter positioned four feet from the air purifier and measure the decibels when the fan is at its lowest speed and highest speed. The average unit should register less than 40 decibels (like light rain) most of the time and about 60 decibels (normal conversation) on high.

Long-term costs: Air purifier filters don't last forever. They need to be replaced every 3 to 24 months, depending on the type of filter. When buying an air purifier, you need to factor in filter costs and operating expenses. Look for Energy Star-certified units if you want to save money on electricity.

Maintenance: If your filters are dirty, then they won't perform well. You need to clean your filters regularly. I prefer an air purifier that tells me when it's time for a cleaning. A cordless hand vacuum is all you need to clean most filters. You can clean some with water, but read the user's manual to make sure it's okay before doing this, and be sure to thoroughly dry the filter before using it again.

Filtration: You want a true HEPA or HEPA-type filter that can remove at least 99.97% of 0.3-micron airborne particles. The purifiers in our guide all meet this requirement. Additionally, some models have ionizers. Ionizers are controversial, but they reportedly produce negative ions that cling to air pollutants, which makes them easier to filter or vacuum up.  

What we're looking forward to testing

We'll continue to test our top picks to see how they hold up long-term. In the meantime, here are other air purifiers we're looking to test for future updates to this guide:

FrescheAir ($99.99): This is a portable air purifier and deodorizer, so it'd be interesting to see how the smaller size might affect the performance.

Rx Air 400 ($899.99): This is one of the most expensive air purifiers we've seen so it'd be great to see how the quality stacks up to others we've tested. It's also labeled as a Class II Medical Device, which other air purifiers are not.

Dyson Pure Cool TP04 Purifying Fan ($549.99): My colleagues have tested older generations of this air purifier but I have yet to test it personally. 

IQAir Atem Desk Personal HEPA Air Purifier ($399): While most air purifiers are meant for a whole room, this is meant for personal use at a desk or table. 

PURO²XYGEN P500 Air Purifier ($169.97): This is among the least expensive air purifiers we've seen so it'll be a good contender for our best budget pick. Like the RabbitAir, this has a six-stage filtration system, and it's effective in smaller spaces up to 500 square feet. It'll be interesting to see how its low price 

FAQs

Why do I need an air purifier?

Air purifiers can help clean indoor air of incense, cooking grease and smoke, and more — basically, it does what its name implies. For those with allergies, it can also help clear the air of pollen, pet dander, and more. 

According to the EPA, air purifiers outfitted with a HEPA filter are an effective way to remove particles from smoke and ash and can be particularly helpful in improving symptoms for individuals with asthma or COPD that are triggered by wildfire smoke.

Can an air purifier prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus?

If you're considering an air purifier to help protect against the novel coronavirus, according to the EPA, a portable air cleaner by itself is not enough. However, when used along with other best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention such as hand washing and social distancing, operating an air cleaner can be part of a plan to protect you and your household. 

Where do you put an air purifier? 

You'll likely want an air purifier in your bedroom, living room, or kitchen — these are common areas that get a lot of traffic, and in the case of your kitchen, might help remove smoke from cooking.

How do you use an air purifier?

Most air purifiers just need to be plugged in to start working — there's usually no installation or setup involved (unless you're trying to connect to an app). 

Place an air purifier about a foot away from the wall and plug it into a nearby outlet. If your model has an indicator light, it might say that the air is very polluted so make necessary adjustments such as opening a window or vent.  

Once the air has cleared as indicated by the air purifier, keep it running to ensure continuous cleaning. Some of the models in our guide have timers so you can set it and go about your day. 

How often do you change the filter?

This depends on the manufacturer's guidelines — some suggest every three months while others say every two years.

Can plants help clean indoor air?

Think again before filling your house with plants. A 2019 article in The Atlantic cites research showing that indoor vegetation will not remove significant pollutants from the air.

How can you keep your air clean if you don't have an air purifier?

Intense wildfires that raged in California and Oregon in 2020 burned more than 3 million acres, displaced hundreds of thousands of people, and blanketed cities hundreds of miles away from the epicenters in ash and eerie orange skies. Between wildfires and the novel coronavirus, air quality is at the forefront of many minds. 

With so many people struggling with poor indoor air quality, we spoke with Dr. Junfeng Zhang, Ph.D., Professor of Global and Environmental Health at Duke University, for advice on what you can do if you don't have an air purifier.

Dr. Zhang is particularly concerned about how individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, and other pre-existing diseases will cope with the poor air quality on the west coast, which is currently the worst in the world. "In the absence of a HEPA-based air purifier," Dr. Zhang said, "I'd suggest that people, especially those who are more susceptible/vulnerable, wear N95 face masks, even when staying indoors."

Unfortunately, true N95 masks are still hard to come by and should be reserved for medical workers but there are some more widely-available alternatives, such as KN95 masks, which can provide a decent level of filtration. The CDC has released respirator assessment results for some of these. There is a lot of misinformation and counterfeit products floating around, so be extra cautious in ensuring that you're buying from a trusted seller. 

If you are one of the lucky ones with an air purifier, remember to clean your filter thoroughly and often so it can do its job. But for an effective multi-pronged attack on pollutants, you'll want to test and improve your air. Here's how to test and improve indoor quality and a few steps you can take to clean your air more effectively:

• Clean regularly: Irritants can collect on surfaces and cause sneezing fits when disturbed. When you clean regularly — including dusting and vacuuming — you remove allergens and more. Check out our guides for the best vacuum cleaners, best robot vacuums, best budget vacuums, and best cordless vacuums.
• Ventilate: This could include installing ventilation fans in your bathroom or kitchen, or running (well-cleaned) ceiling fans. Freestanding fans can also help clean air circulating, here are the best ones. Be sure not to open windows or doors to prevent polluted air from coming inside.
• Store chemicals outside of your house: Abrasive cleaners and other harsh chemicals are often a source of irritation. Store them in your shed or garage and not where you will be exposed to them regularly.

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