The holiday season is just around the corner, and early birds looking for a head start on their gift shopping are in for a treat. Apple enthusiasts and tech-savvy shoppers, in particular, have something to rejoice about with the remarkable deal on the Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Intel Core i5 4GB 500GB HDD in silver, now available as a refurbished model for just $235.97, down from its regular price of $349 and over $100 off.

The refurbished 2012 Apple MacBook Pro is an excellent contender for tech-loving individuals who need an updated, high-performance device. With a massive 500GB HDD storage capacity and a 2.5GHz processor, this laptop can easily handle large files and multitask. Simultaneously, its 13.3″ screen flaunts a remarkable 1366×768 Retina display, delivering impeccable clarity to all your visuals, such as images, photos, and videos. Whether working from home or needing a portable vessel for personal projects, this laptop helps users accomplish their goals and makes a great practical gift. 

Weighing only 4.5 pounds, the MacBook Pro is sleek, lightweight, and easy to carry, making it a perfect portable device for work or entertainment. It is compatible with various power ports and expansions, making connecting to multiple devices and peripherals easy.

The Intel Core i5 processor also performs quickly, making multitasking a breeze. This MacBook can handle everything, whether you’re working on a presentation, editing photos, or streaming your favorite TV shows. The laptop’s 4.8 out of 5-star customer reviews back up its high performance and eco-friendliness at an affordable price.

Take advantage of this limited-time deal with no coupon code needed and treat your loved one (or yourself) to an upgrade.

While the refurbished Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ usually sells for $349, you can purchase it today for only $235.97. Don’t wait long; the offer ends on October 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

Prices subject to change.

The post Start your holiday shopping early with this refurbished 13.3″ MacBook Pro, now under $250 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Hundreds of years before Google Maps and other apps like it made navigation as easy as looking at your smartphone, explorers found their way around the planet by the light of the moon and stars, or by shadows cast by the sun. Today, humans rely on electronic devices, not their instincts or the study of celestial bodies. And of course before the smartphone came along, people also used maps printed on dead trees. But kids born recently aren’t using paper maps at all; instead they just punch in an address to receive a route to get where they’re going.

Off-roading champion Emily Miller wanted to teach others what she learned from years of navigating with a ruler, pencil, compass, and topographical map. With that in mind, she created the Rebelle Rally, the longest off-road time-distance navigational rally in the United States. The idea of a navigational rally might not be novel, but this one is: All competitors are required to disable any digital navigational aids on their vehicle and seal up their electronic devices (mobile phones, AirTags, tablets, laptops, and more) for the duration. It’s a test of driving precision and navigation skills, not a speed race pell-mell across the desert. 

Over eight days, Rebelle Rally competitors are shut off from the world, sleeping in tents near ghost towns and rock faces instead of hotels and cities. This year, the rally’s course started in Mammoth Lakes, California, crossed into Nevada, and finished in the southeast corner of California at the majestic Glamis Dunes. The only news participants hear is their daily standings in the competition—there’s no endless scrolling of social media feeds. Plotting latitude and longitude points requires one’s full attention, and by the end of a 10-hour day spent hunting checkpoints, there’s no need for entertainment. The competitors are wiped out physically and mentally, heading for their tents to sleep.

I just completed my second year of the rally; I was sponsored by Hyundai and we operated a Santa Cruz with a 1.5-inch lift in the front and a 1-inch lift in the back. We had off-road accessories (traction boards, shovels, and a spare tire) mounted to a custom Rally Innovations rack to help us along. This is what it’s like to compete at this crossroads of analog and high-tech. 

Analog navigation

Now entering its ninth year, the Rebelle Rally just wrapped up its most recent competition with 65 teams of two women each; the all-female event concluded on October 20. Each morning, the teams were alerted that it’s time to get going by the gentle clanging sound of a cowbell at 5 a.m. Many teams are already up by that point, the sounds of tent zippers tearing the fabric of the silence even before that.

Each day, a race official distributes a list of 20 or more checkpoints to the teams long before dawn. Then teams plot latitude and longitude points along with distances and headings on their paper maps. On-the-ground checkpoints are marked with flags (mandatory green checkpoints, the easiest), or poles (blue checkpoints, which are more difficult to find) or invisible geofenced areas (black checkpoints, requiring precision within 200-300 meters to avoid a penalty). 

Once a team drives to the checkpoint and sees the flag, or sees what they believe to be the spot, one of the competitors clicks on a satellite tracker that displays the exact latitude and longitude point where the signal is traced. A company called YB Tracking and the Iridium satellite network track the competitors to keep them safe; the staff knows exactly where each car is, even if the teams themselves are lost. 

Teams also participate in enduro segments, which are a series of checkpoints that include time checks along the route and require intense focus and concentration to stay at the average dictated speed, which may change frequently. To prepare for these on-time sections, competitors use mathematical formulas to calculate the seconds and minutes of each segment in the precise roadbook based on the distance and speed. 

Using a solar-powered calculator and a basic stopwatch, we found our way. 

Green power takes the gold

After seven days of full-time driving plus the half-day prologue, it was a team called the Limestone Legends that took first place in a Rivian R1T all-electric pickup truck. Not only was it the first time an all-electric vehicle earned the gold medal in the Rebelle Rally, the second place vehicle was a hybrid: a Jeep Wrangler 4xe. Rivian has been a strong supporter of the Rebelle Rally starting in October 2020 with a pre-production model of an R1T, which became the first fully electric truck to ever compete in the event. 

Charging up an EV in the middle of the desert is a challenge. While gas-powered cars are fueled up by a tanker that travels from base camp to base camp with the rally, it’s not as easy to provide a boost for batteries that way. So, the Rebelle Rally partnered with Renewable Innovations to provide hydrogen-powered EV charging to the Rivian and Jeep 4xe models each day. 

Each base camp embraced green energy too, mobilizing a 53-foot mobile Renewable Innovations semi with high-density solar panels combined with “follow-the-sun” smart flowers on each side to collectively deliver 50 kilowatts of peak power for base camp. 

While our phones and navigation systems were unavailable by design, my team did have a Nextbase dash cam in the car so we could capture the beauty of the off-road trails in California and Nevada. It came in handy when we witnessed a crash—a Mitsubishi crossover tried to pass us and the full-size SUV in front of us on the left. We handed over our camera’s memory card to the police, providing an airtight record of what happened. And luckily, no one was seriously hurt. 

The post At this epic off-roading event, traditional map skills and an EV win the day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best budget		Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap		SEE IT	This budget-friendly microwaveable option comes in four varieties including several filled with herbs and flowers.
Best overall		Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad		SEE IT	The super comfy heating pad has six levels of temperature and automatic shutoff after 2 hours for safety.
Best for cramps		Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad		SEE IT	Sunbeam’s battery-powered portable heating pad provides targeted relief for cramps, and back and neck pain.

If you’ve got tense, sore, or injured muscles, consider heating pads before you reach for aspirin. They stimulate blood flow, help muscles relax, and offer fast pain relief. They come in different shapes and sizes to fit various areas of the body. Different types of heating pads, like weighted and microwaveable models, feature designs that fit certain needs and preferences. If you have problem areas, some models can mold to or specifically fit the shoulders, neck, or lower back. In addition, some heating pads can shape themselves to most areas of the body, so you can use the same one even if you’ve got many different sore spots. So get ready for some heat, and look at the best heating pads, along with tips on choosing the right one for your aching body.  

• Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad
• Best for cramps: Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad
• Best for arthritis: Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad
• Best for neck and shoulders: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder
• Best moist: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief
• Best weighted: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Weighted Body Pad
• Best eco-friendly: Caylee’s Creations Microwavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack
• Best budget: Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

How we chose the best heating pads

At PopSci, we have an affinity for products that help keep readers warm, from the best heated clothing to the best electric garage heaters to the cousin of heating pads, the best heated blankets. In compiling our list of the best heating pads, we looked for options that served various needs, from arthritis and neck and back pain, to heating pads that just help keep people warm. We looked for heating pads from trusted brands like Sunbeam and Carex. We also considered user reviews in making our recommendations.

The best heating pads: Reviews & Recommendations

Both heat and cold can help soothe aches and pains. Heat attracts more blood flow and nutrients to the affected areas, helping to provide relief, according to WebMD. Heating pads can offer different types of heat, control features, and designs that make some pads more helpful under certain circumstances. For example, there’s dry heat, and there’s moist heat. Both types of heat are helpful, but there’s evidence that moist heat’s ability to penetrate soft tissue faster can boost the pad’s effectiveness. So, if you’re looking for the best heating pad for cramps, arthritis, neck and shoulders, or general muscle pains, our recommendations have you covered.

Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad

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Specs

• Material: Microplush polyester, plastic
• Heat range: 105-140℉
• Size: 24 inches L x 20 inches W 
• Weight: 1.9 pounds

Pros

• Cozy
• Six temperature settings
• Provides dry and moist heat therapy
• Automatic shutoff after 2 hours

Cons

• Some users said it stopped working consistently

Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad is a cross between a super comfy blanket and a heating pad you can fine-tune to your preferences. Made of microplush, this heating pad provides six heat levels, which you can adjust using an ergonomic LCD controller. It’s designed to heat up instantly, and you can select between 105-140℉ of heat. You can also switch between dry and moist heat by dampening the pad. And automatically shuts off after 2 hours, should you doze off.

At just 1.9 pounds, this heating pad is lightweight, but its dimensions of 20 by 24 inches provide plenty of coverage for neck, shoulders, back, and legs. It provides plenty of warmth and relief for muscle soreness and joint pain. Plus, it’s machine-washable.

Best for cramps: Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad

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Specs

• Material: Micromink (double-sided polyester), lithium-ion battery
• Heat range: Low to high
• Size: 12 inches L x 9.5 inches W
• Weight: One pound

Pros

• Portable
• Modern design
• Operates at 60 hertz
• Works on multiple parts of the body
• Machine-washable cover

Cons

• Battery may run out

Looking for targeted relief from cramps? Sunbeam’s Cordless Heat Pad is designed with a microplush covering that measures 12 inches by 9.5 inches, and strap that adjusts up to 55 inches. This heating pad provides three levels of heat and is battery-powered so that you can wear it around your home. The lithium-ion battery also runs for up to 4 hours on a single charge and runs at a frequency of 60 hertz. You can also use it on your back, neck, shoulders, and legs. Once you’re feeling better, the cover is removable and machine-washable.

Best for arthritis: Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad

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Specs

• Material: Fleece, plastic
• Heat range: 50 to 165°F
• Size: 14 inches W x 27 inches L  
• Weight: N/A

Pros

• Temperature goes higher than some other options
• Shuts off after 25 minutes
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Some users say you can’t return it

The Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad heats quickly and reaches temperatures between 150 to 165°F. The intense, moist heat is delivered by a large 14- by 27-inch pad. With three heat settings and an automatic 25-minute shutoff feature, this portable heating pad relieves pain but keeps you safe, too.

Best for neck and shoulders: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder

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Specs

• Material: Micromink, plastic
• Heat range: Max of 176°F
• Size: 22 inches L x 19 inches W
• Weight: 2.7 pounds

Pros

• Fits to your shoulders and neck
• Very soft
• Close fit

Cons

• Some users say the heat is uneven
• Cord is bulky

The Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder features an extra-tall, adjustable collar to cover the entire back of the neck and into the scalp. In total, this pad measures 22 by 19 inches, making it large enough for men and women. The Sunbeam also includes four heating settings and a removable, washable cover made of soft micromink. Meanwhile, you can keep your feet warm with some of the best heated insoles or best heated slippers.

Best moist: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief

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Specs

• Material: Polyester, vinyl
• Heat range: 110 to 160°F
• Size: 12 inches x 15 inches
• Weight: One pound

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Easy to clean

Cons

• May not cover as much of the body as other options
• Not as cozy as other picks

If you’re looking for an inexpensive heating pad that provides moist heat, consider the Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief. At 12 inches by 15 inches, this electric heating pad can help provide relief to a smaller area than some other heating pads. But you can adjust the temperature in the three settings, ranging from 110 to 160°F. Designed to help with arthritis, shoulder, neck, and back pain, this heating pad is also equipped with a sponge insert to provide moist heat in addition to dry heat. Plus, you can remove the cover to wash it.

Best weighted: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Body Pad

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Specs

• Material: Micromink, glass beads
• Heat range: 105-140℉
• Size: ‎32 inches L x 21 inches W
• Weight: 6 pounds

Pros

• Weighted blanket and heating pad in one
• Plush
• Non-toxic
• More attractive than other options

Cons

• Some users had problems getting it to heat up
• Glass beads may bunch

The Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Body Pad is made of a diamond quilted mink. Each diamond contains non-toxic beads that help the pad conform to the shape of your shoulders, leg, or back. The quilting maintains an even distribution of the beads, so there’s no pooling. That also maintains the pad’s contouring so it can better reach tight, sore muscles. Want to explore the psychological benefits of weighted blankets minus the heat? We’ve got a guide for that, too.

Best eco-friendly: Caylee’s Creations Microweavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack

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Specs

• Material: Cotton and corn
• Heat range: N/A
• Size: 7.5 inches W x 11 inches L; 5.25 inches W x 17.25 inches L
• Weight: 2.8 pounds

Pros

• Made of natural materials
• Microwaveable
• Provides both heat and cold therapy

Cons

• Can’t adjust temperature
• May not be the best solution for arthritis or chronic pain

If you’re looking for a low-tech heating pad that’s made from natural materials, consider Caylee’s Creations Microwavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack. Yes, you read that right: corn-filled. When you heat one of these heating pads up in the microwave, it smells like popcorn. If you want cold relief instead, you can just pop this heating pad in the freezer. It’s available in two sizes (7.5 inches wide by 11 inches long and 5.25 inches wide by 17.5 inches long), and you can choose from 25 colorways and designs, including polka dot, plaid, and camo. And the 100 percent cotton cover is removable for washing.

Best budget: Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Nylon handles, natural filling (herbs, flowers)
• Heat range: N/A
• Size: ‎23 inches L x 4.25 inches W
• Weight: 2 pounds

Pros

• Comes in four versions (unscented, Balance Orange, Bliss Pink, Fresh Green)
• Provides both hot and cold therapy
• Inexpensive

Cons

• May not provide heat and cold consistently

The Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap contains an organic filling of grains and herbs that holds heat or cold. Pop it in the microwave to create moist heat, or store it in the freezer for a cooling wrap to treat swelling or injury. Handles on either end help it stay in place, or press the heating pad into the skin for deeper heat penetration.

What to consider before buying a heating pad

Whether you’re looking for a comfy heating pad to wrap your tired muscles in after a long, cold run, or you’d like to reduce tension in your neck, our recommendations can help address your needs. To find the option that’s the best for you, consider these factors:

Levels of heat

Heating pads with multiple or adjustable heat settings give you more control over your heat therapy. Areas of the body that don’t have a lot of soft tissue, like the ankle, may need less heat than the thigh, for example, where there’s ample soft tissue to disperse the heat. Of course, there are also comfort preferences and heat tolerance that may necessitate temperature adjustment. And those with a single heat setting may need closer monitoring to ensure the temperature stays comfortable. 

Location of pain and fit

Back pain, specifically low-back pain, causes more global disability than all other pain sources. Heat can help, whether that pain comes from overuse or stems from a chronic condition. Heating pads designed for back pain may be a simple rectangle shape that molds to the body. This type works for the back, but also for general pain in other areas of the body. 

Other designs fit like a vest or jacket, allowing freedom of movement with the arms. These electric heating pads aren’t usually battery-powered. Consequently, you can’t walk around while wearing one, but the pad will fit and stay in place better. However, these close-fitting designs can cause overheating, so pay attention to how you feel. Red skin, lightheadedness, or an upset stomach could indicate that you or your skin are overheating, and it’s time to take the pad off.

That said, a rectangle isn’t always the best shape for the body’s curves. Shoulder and neck pain are common complaints that may not get the heat they need from a standard rectangular heating pad. 

To address that need, neck-and-shoulder heating pads are made in the shape of the neck and/or shoulders with a collar and body that drapes across the shoulders and partially down the back. Some are for the neck only, and others are shoulders only. However, the magical ones do both at once. Look for a model that fits your body size and drapes far enough down the body to reach your problem areas.

Moist vs. dry heat

Heat is heat, right? Wrong. Moisture can help the heat penetrate deeper into the soft tissues and amplify the effects. The most efficient and consistent moist heating pads absorb moisture from the air, heat it, and let it penetrate the body. They don’t run out of moisture and keep heat exposure consistent. 

Look for models with adjustable temperature settings. Moist heat feels hotter and can easily burn the skin. Moist heating pads can also welcome mold and mildew if they aren’t maintained properly. Make sure that it is completely dry before putting it away.

Electric vs. microwaveable

Microwavable heating pads have two key benefits. First, they don’t require an electrical cord. You can manipulate the pad and adjust it to the body without wrestling with a cord. A lack of cord also lets you walk around with it in place. 

The second benefit is that some microwaveable heating pads offer moist heat. Some models allow you to put a small bowl of water in the microwave with the heating pad. The water releases steam, which the pad absorbs. It then releases that moisture against your body, letting the steam penetrate deeper into the tissue. 

The downside of these pads is that you have to be careful with them initially as they may be very hot, but they lose their heat relatively quickly. At that point, you’ll have to reheat them, but it’s a small price to pay for mobile heat.

Safety

It’s important to note that heating pads, when not used properly, can cause a burn or be a fire hazard. Safety features like an automatic shut-off and an internal thermometer prevent heating pad burns and fire. Some models feature a timer that shuts the heat off after 20 to 30 minutes, while others turn off once they reach a certain temperature. However, safety also requires that the user follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

As far as safe use, don’t lay on a heating pad, which can trap heat against your body and potentially cause a burn or start a fire. Do not place the pad directly on your skin, and make sure you don’t fall asleep with one, even if it has an automatic shut-off feature. 

Weight

Weighted heating pads do a couple of things that other models don’t. First, they offer a better fit against the body. If there’s a gap between the pad and the body, heat cannot penetrate as well, and you might not get all of the benefits. Weighted models mold to the body and stay in place more readily, so you get a good fit no matter the pad’s placement. 

Second, weight and pressure have also been shown to help relieve anxiety. These heating pads can act as a mini weighted blanket while providing relaxing heat. It’s kind of a win-win situation—a better fit and relaxing heat all in one. If you’re looking for a DIY heating pad, you can fill an old sock with rice and heat it in the microwave, or warm towels. Just be careful of the heat when you first handle a homemade heating pad.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heating pads

• Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad
• Best for cramps: Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad
• Best for arthritis: Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad
• Best for neck and shoulders: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder
• Best moist: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief
• Best weighted: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Weighted Body Pad
• Best eco-friendly: Caylee’s Creations Microwavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack
• Best budget: Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

Sweet relief is only a button touch away when you’ve got the best heating pad waiting for you. Whether it’s a moist heating pad, electric model, or microwavable, there’s a model that will fit your body and budget. Make sure it’s got safety features, even heat distribution, and the coverage your aching body needs. Now, it’s time to sit down, turn on the heat, and relax.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best heating pads in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best bundle		Pale Blue Home Conversion Kit		SEE IT	Take a comprehensive approach to battery power for your home with this kit that includes rechargeable AA, AAA, D, and 9V batteries, plus two USB chargers.
Best Overall		Energizer Recharge Universal Rechargeable Batteries		SEE IT	These pioneering recycled batteries can be charged up to 1,000 times and are also available in AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V sizes.
Best USB-Rechargeable		Keeppower USB Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries		SEE IT	The included USB charger makes it easy to charge four batteries on the go.

There are some significant reasons to consider making the easy upgrade from using regular batteries to buying rechargeable batteries … easy unless you hate a good value. With the best rechargeable batteries good for hundreds or even thousands of charge cycles, making that switch could save you a lot of money over time. Follow our recommendations and say goodbye to the days when you’d need one or two batteries but be forced to rush to a store to get a big, expensive, single-use pack just to get your remote back up and running. Additionally, you can recycle your rechargeable batteries. Kinder for your budget and the planet? Sign us up. If it sounds like the best rechargeable batteries are a good proposition all around, that’s because they are, so we rounded up our recommendations, along with some chargers.

• Best overall: Energizer Recharge Universal AA Batteries
• Best bundle: Pale Blue Home Conversion Kit
• Best long-lasting: Panasonic eneloop AA Batteries
• Best value: AmazonBasics Performance AA Batteries
• Best USB-rechargeable: Keeppower USB Rechargeable Li-ion AA Batteries
• Best with charger: Duracell Ion Speed 4000 Battery Charger with Batteries
• Best AA: Pale Blue AA Battery Pack
• Best AAA: Duracell AAA Battery
• Best 9V: EBL 9V Battery and Charger
• Best C: Energizer C Battery
• Best D: Tenergy High Capacity D Battery
• Best 12V: Optima 12V Batteries RedTop

Why should I use rechargeable batteries?

On the whole, rechargeable batteries cost almost twice as much as regular batteries. However, when you consider that rechargeable batteries can be charged and recharged for years, it’s a worthwhile investment. Our winner, the Panasonic Eneloop can be charged a whopping 2,100 times. Yes, battery charging capabilities diminish over time, but the life cycle of a set of batteries will pay off after a mere handful of uses.

Then there are the issues of sustainability. According to the Sierra Club, if you use your rechargeable batteries for 150 cycles or more, the investment won’t simply be money-smart but environmentally friendly. Plus, it keeps single-use batteries out of landfills, considering less than 10 percent are recycled.

How we chose the best rechargeable batteries

To select the best rechargeable batteries, we identified the longest-lasting products with the most minimal environmental impact. We looked for rechargeable batteries that could spring into action even when stored in a drawer for years, as well as options that come equipped with the latest conveniences like USB charging that can be done directly to the battery with any compatible cable.

Differences can be very small, so it is important to look into the details. In terms of criteria, we prioritized the following:

Recharge cycles: The number of times a battery can be recharged is a key feature, though it is one that is sometimes overlooked. The comparison between expected life and cost gives a better view of value than price alone. It was an important factor in our choices.

Amp hours: If you have two batteries of the same type, but one has double the Ah (amp hours) of the other, it will run a device for twice as long. Not having to change batteries as often is simply more convenient so we have tried to choose rechargeable batteries that maximize this aspect.

Brand: Duracell, Energizer, and Panasonic dominate the rechargeable battery market. These are high-quality products, most of which are very affordable. Amazon Basics’ rechargeable batteries are also highly regarded. There are cheaper options, and we are keen to find bargains, but in this case, we have chosen to steer clear of no-name brands. Although it would be unfair to generalize, they frequently lack the performance and durability of big-name brands.

The best rechargeable batteries: Reviews & Recommendations

While regular batteries drain over time until they’re bricks, rechargeable batteries are much more energy-efficient and hold a consistent charge throughout the battery lifespan. Using rechargeable batteries keeps more in your wallet and less in landfills, so making the switch can make a difference in your household and beyond. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you.

Best overall: Energizer Recharge Universal AA Batteries

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Why they made the cut: Energizer came up with the world’s first battery made with other recycled batteries.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,000 times
• Capacity: Up to 2,000 mAh
• Sold in: 4, 8, 16, and combo packs
• Also available in: AAA, C, D, 9V sizes

Pros

• Made with recycled batteries
• Charge lasts 12 months in storage
• Up to 5 years of usable battery life

Cons

• Not pre-charged
• Some chargers only charge pairs
• Sensitive to overcharging

Energizer was the first to the market with a line of rechargeable batteries made with recycled materials—4 percent of the components inside are previously used batteries. These Energizer rechargeable batteries are made of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), are more environmentally friendly, and can be charged up to 1,000 times at up to 2,000 mAh. They are available in quantities of four, eight, 16, and combo packs and also come in AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V sizes. While these particular rechargeable batteries do not come pre-charged and ready to use like some others in this round-up, once they are powered up, the charge lasts up to one year in storage, and you can also expect up to five years of usable battery life. One minor drawback is some customers have reported that this product can be sensitive to overcharging, so it’s best if they’re not plugged in to charge and left overnight.

Best bundle: Pale Blue Home Conversion Kit

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Why it made the cut: Pale Blue’s home conversion kit provides the main batteries any household will need, plus two USB chargers to keep them ready to go.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged? No
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,000
• Capacity: 1,560 mAh 
• Sold in: Kit, with 12 AAA, eight AA, four D, four 9V batteries, and two USB chargers with four prongs
• Also available in: AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, and AA and AAA combo kit

Pros

• Kit comes with 28 batteries for comprehensive approach
• Charges in under two hours
• Comes with two four-pronged USB chargers
• You can buy comprehensive kit or individual batteries

Cons

• Expensive
• Must have USB-compatible plug for chargers to work

Tired of having to root around for a battery when your alarm clock or flashlight stops working? Pale Blue’s Home Conversion Kit provides the power you need—AAA, AA, 9V, and D batteries—all in one kit, letting you take a more holistic approach. The Utah-based company’s batteries charge up to five times faster than NiMH batteries. The batteries also come with a micro-USB charging port that lets you charge four batteries at a time. And their 1,000-charge cycles put them in line with other top long-lasting rechargeable batteries.

The company also invests in sustainability, donating a portion of its proceeds to 1 Percent for the Planet. That said, if you don’t use a lot of batteries, this set is expensive and may lead to additional waste.

Best long-lasting: Panasonic eneloop AA Batteries

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Why they made the cut: A reliable choice even if you put a pack in a drawer and forget about it for a long time.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 2,100 times
• Capacity: Up to 800 mAh
• Sold in: 4, 8, and combo packs
• Also available in: AAA, C, D sizes

Pros

• Can be used worldwide
• Thousands of charge cycles
• Holds 70 percent charge after 10 years

Cons

• Company advises against third-party chargers
• Can get hot
• A short circuit can expel gas

Panasonic’s eneloop line of rechargeable NiMH batteries is pre-charged at the factory by the wonders of solar power, which is one thoughtful choice you can make as a consumer when looking for the best rechargeable batteries for your needs. If you’re guilty of just throwing your batteries in a drawer and rarely using them, let alone charging them, you can have the satisfaction of knowing that these claim to hold up to 70 percent charge even after 10 years. You will rarely have to think about replacing these batteries, even if you feel like you are a pretty frequent user of gear that requires them. The eneloop batteries are designed to be able to be charged up to 2,100 times and recharged even if they have only been partially drained of their energy. They’re the ones that can be trusted to take a nap for the longest time, making them good candidates to sleep inside your flashlights.

Best value: AmazonBasics AA Performance Batteries

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Why they made the cut: At around $1.45 each, these batteries offer great value for a bulk buyer.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,000 times
• Capacity: Up to 2,000 mAh
• Sold in: 4, 8, 16, 24 packs
• Also available in: AAA, C, D, 9V sizes

Pros

• Priced to move
• Useful quantity
• Holds up to 80 percent charge after two years

Cons

• Can fall apart
• Reported lower-than-advertised charging cycles
• Lower capacity than previous models

Smart shoppers may already know that buying goods in bulk quantities when they are available is a great way to get a price break on items that you want to pick up, but this always bears repeating when you’re ready to spend money. And with 24 NiMH batteries that can be charged up to 1,000 times each, this mega-pack from AmazonBasics will set you up for many years to come if you’re an average or even a prolific battery user with a lot of different gadgets that run on batteries. Priced at around $1.45 for each battery, you may even purchase some spares to share with family or friends if that’s just a few too many to conceive of having at one time. Another idea to consider is to preload gifts to those loved ones with these batteries, which are charged straight out of the package and ready to use.

Best USB-rechargeable: Keeppower USB Rechargeable Li-ion AA Batteries

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Why they made the cut: Hassle-free micro-USB charging port on the battery makes this a serious universal choice.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: No
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,000 times
• Capacity: Up to 2,260 mAh
• Sold in: 4-pack

Pros

• Plugs into any USB port for charging
• Blue light on battery indicates charge
• Charges in 90 minutes

Cons

• No cover for USB port
• Micro-USB cables a challenge for big hands
• Can short circuit

Keeppower’s USB Rechargeable Batteries are made of lithium-ion, which can store more energy than nickel-metal hydride batteries. This model can be charged at least 1,000 times and will last most people for many years. They are made to retain up to 90 percent power after one year and come with micro-USB ports built right into the batteries, so you don’t need to pop them into an external charger (nor do you always have to worry where said charger may actually be hiding in your house). A single battery can be charged with any micro-USB cable connected to a powered USB port, and the pack comes with a 4-in-1 charging cable (LED lights on top of the batteries indicate charging progress).

It’s important to note that while USB rechargeable batteries offer a lot of convenience, this variety of batteries also poses an inherent risk of short-circuiting, and some users have reported that this has happened to them, presumably at a most inconvenient time. You may want to consider keeping an eye on these to be mindful not to overcharge and minimize the chance of having some unwanted outcome.

Best with charger: Duracell Ion Speed 4000 Battery Charger with Batteries

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Why they made the cut: You don’t have to wait all day for these batteries to be powered up.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 400 times
• Capacity: Up to 2,400 mAh
• Sold in: 4-pack
• Also available in: AAA

Pros

• Powers up in 1-2.5 hours
• Charger works with any brand of battery
• Lasts for up to 10 years in storage

Cons

• Can only be charged 400 times
• Charger works with just two or four batteries at a time
• Can get hot while charging

Duracell rechargeable batteries last up to 10 years, so you can have a reasonable amount of confidence that you can open up an old pack and they won’t be duds. The included pre-charged NiMH rechargeable batteries are known to store less energy as compared to their lithium-ion counterparts, and they can only be charged about 400 times, which is a lot less than some of its leading competitors on the market. But the 4000 mW charger, which you can use for two or four batteries at a time (in matched size pairs), can get batteries up to 90 percent capacity within an hour, and it smartly powers off once the charge is completed, preventing potential problems that can arise in batteries when they are overcharged. Plus, it’s compatible with all rechargeable AA and AAA NiMH batteries. And suppose you’re a practical gift giver during the holiday season. In that case, this rechargeable batteries-charger set could also definitely make for a great stocking stuffer at a cost of about $20.

Best AA: Pale Blue AA Battery Pack

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Why they made the cut: Pale Blue’s batteries are designed with lithium-ion that charges five times faster than some other rechargeable batteries.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: No
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,000 times
• Capacity: Up to 1,560 mAh
• Sold in: 4, 6, 8, and 12 packs
• Also available in: Home Conversion Kit, AAA, C, D, 9V, AA and AAA combo kit

Pros

• Charges in under two hours
• Comes with a four-pronged USB charger
• Company makes kits so you can buy a set

Cons

• Expensive
• Must have a USB-compatible plug for the charger to work

If you’re looking to take a more holistic approach to saving energy, Pale Blue AA batteries may be a good start. The lithium ion batteries charge up to five times faster than NiMH batteries. The batteries also come with a micro-USB charging port that lets you charge four batteries at a time. And their 1,000 charge cycles put them in line with other top long-lasting rechargeable batteries. 

Pale Blue has developed an entire line of batteries that includes AA, AAA, C, D, and PV batteries, in addition to its Home Conversion Kit above. That said, if you’re just looking for a few batteries, this set is expensive.

Best AAA: Duracell AAA Battery

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Why they made the cut: Duracell’s batteries stand out for their high capacity when compared to other leading brands. As a result, they’ll power devices for longer before they need to be recharged.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 400
• Capacity: 900 mAh
• Sold in: 2-pack, 4-pack, and 4-pack with charger
• Also available in: AA, C, D

Pros

• High capacity for their size
• 10-year shelf life
• Leak-proof design

Cons

• Low recharging cycles

Although Duracell was by no means the first rechargeable battery maker, the company is perhaps the best known. A key claim is how long they will run between charges, which depends on the milliamp-hour capacity. While rivals typically deliver 800 mAh or 850 mAh, the Duracell AAA rechargeable batteries are rated at 900 mAh.

If long-term storage is a consideration, Duracell’s AAA batteries will hold a full charge for up to a year and are guaranteed to last up to 10 years uncharged, making them the best rechargeable AAA batteries. However, that life could be dramatically reduced in use, as they can only be recharged 400 times.

Best 9V: EBL 9V Battery and Charger

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Why they made the cut: EBL 9V batteries are the best rechargeable 9V batteries because they have excellent durability, and a range of safety features that make them the ideal choice for smoke alarms, metal detectors, and walkie-talkies.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,200
• Capacity: 600 mAh
• Sold in: 4-pack
• Also available in: AA, AAA, C, D

Pros

• Unrivaled service life
• Pre-charged
• No memory effect

Cons

• Occasional reports of faulty chargers

9V rechargeable batteries like these from EBL are often used in devices like smoke alarms or portable testing and medical equipment where it is inconvenient to change batteries frequently. In these situations, the fact that lithium-ion chemistry holds a charge better than NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) batteries is a definite advantage.

These batteries are also extremely durable and capable of recharging up to 1,200 times. While a charger is included, any 9V PP3 size charger should work. The EBL 9V rechargeable batteries are also very safe, with overload, overcharging, and overheating protection. And they have low discharge in storage, holding 75 percent of capacity if unused for 3 years.

While these batteries are pre-charged, it’s only to 20 percent. According to the manufacturer, this is for shipping safety. They will actually take 3-5 charges to reach full capacity, but as lithium-ion has no memory effect, this has no impact on performance or service life.

Best C: Energizer C Battery

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Why they made the cut: Energizer is one of the world’s best-known battery brands, and their rechargeable C batteries reflect the company’s reputation for performance, reliability, safety, and value.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Unknown, though typically 500 – 600
• Capacity:  2,500 mAh
• Sold in: 1-pack, 2-pack
• Also available in: AA, AAA, C, D, 9V

Pros

• Use 7 percent recycled battery material
• Pre-charged
• Very affordable

Cons

• Relatively short life, though normal for C-cell batteries

Although C cells are one of the less common battery sizes, they are still found in flashlights, some bicycle headlights, and numerous toys. These are devices where you want to maximize run time, and the 2,500 mAh power of the Energizer rechargeable C battery can provide many hours of continuous power.

Although we were unable to find specific information, C-cell rechargeable batteries can typically be recharged 500 times. While they will hold a charge for a month in storage, shelf life is quite short at around 3 years. The NiMH battery chemistry can be disposed of safely but is notoriously difficult to recycle. Energizer’s use of 7 percent recycled battery material makes them the current world leaders.

Best D: Tenergy High Capacity D Battery

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Why they made the cut: The best rechargeable D batteries from Tenergy deliver class-leading performance for devices that have high power requirements, and those that have lower demands but over extended periods.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Up to 1,o00
• Capacity:  10,000 mAh
• Sold in: 4-, 8-, and 16-packs 
• Also available in: AA, AAA, C, D, 9V

Pros

• Consistent high output
• UL-certified for safety
• Competitive pricing

Cons

• Modest shelf life

Tenergy’s D cell rechargeable batteries are designed for what is called high-drain applications. In other words, devices like powerful flashlights make big energy demands. Many other brands are in the 3,000 to 5,000 mAh range, whereas these batteries provide 10,000 mAh. This also makes the Tenergy D cell rechargeable battery a good choice for lower drain but long-term applications such as field cameras, which might run a week or more unattended.

In addition, this battery has the ability to be recharged up to 1,000 times, with relatively low self-discharge. That said, the shelf life is only around three years. Nevertheless, Tenergy D rechargeable batteries represent good value when compared with other high-drain rivals.

Best 12V: Optima 12V Batteries RedTop

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Why it made the cut: The durable, high-capacity Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery from Optima provides consistent all-weather starting for cars, SUVs, and trucks, and aside from occasional recharging requires zero maintenance, making these the best rechargeable 12V batteries.

Specs

• Comes pre-charged: Yes
• Charge cycles: Typically 350 plus
• Capacity: 800 CCA (Cold cranking amps)
• Sold in: 1
• Also available in: N/A

Pros

• Suitable for a wide variety of vehicles
• 100-minute standby
• Spill-proof design

Cons

• Premium price

Most people will recognize 12V batteries as the one that starts their vehicle, and the Optima 12V battery is one of the best currently available. ‘Deep Cycle’ versions of 12V rechargeable batteries can be used to power a range of items, from forklifts to other electric vehicles. These batteries typically provide 30Ah (30,000 mAh) capacity and cost around $1,000.

The Optima 12V battery is made with lead-acid technology but uses Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) internally so there’s no fluid to spill if it gets tipped over, and it never needs to be topped up. AGM also offers excellent vibration resistance, which is particularly useful for off-road vehicles. Additionally, the Optima provides a 100-minute standby, which means it can deliver 12V power to any suitable appliance or device for that period before needing to be recharged.

The best chargers for rechargeable batteries

Best overall: Nitecore Digicharger D4 Battery Charger

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Why it made the cut: This universal charger works with lithium-ion and NiMH AA, AAA, and C batteries. 

Specs

• Dimensions: ‎5.4 inches long x 3.7 inches wide x 1.4 inches high
• Weight: 0.4 pounds
• Volts: 240V

Pros

• Works with a wide range of batteries
• Made with fire-retardant material for safety
• Compact and portable

Cons

• May reset

If you’d prefer to have one device to recharge your batteries, the Nitecord Digicharger is a strong all-around choice. With the ability to charge most types of rechargeable batteries on the market, this smart device can sense the battery type and charge four batteries at once. This charger is also made with fire retardant materials and automatic shutoff when the maximum charge is reached. 

Best budget: Energizer Rechargeable AA and AAA Battery Charger

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Why it made the cut: This recharger from a trusted name works with both AA and AAA batteries.

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.33 x 2.68 x 9.65 inches
• Weight: 0.64 pounds

Pros

• Can charge up to 4 batteries at once
• Fast charging
• Great for travel

Cons

• Long charge time

This portable, plug-in charger from Energizer is easy to take with you. Able to charge up to four AAA batteries at once, this device works with AA NiMH batteries as well across a range of brands. The batteries will fully recharge in four hours; then the charger turns off automatically for safety. A light and audio signal will indicate when the full charge is reached.

What to consider when shopping for the best rechargeable batteries

When you’re considering what the best rechargeable batteries for your needs will be, take a moment to think practically about what sizes and quantities you should have for all the battery-powered gear that you keep around the house, in the garage, in the car, etc.

Note how many charge cycles are associated with the product you want to purchase. You may also think about if you want to get a small or large charger to go with your rechargeable batteries, depending on how many you need at once, or if you want just to buy a brand of rechargeables that have USB ports right on the batteries, so you can use any USB charger to give them a jolt. Here’s more of what to consider before making your selections.

Chemistry

NiCad: Most early rechargeable batteries were Nickel Cadmium (NiCad). However, cadmium is toxic, and batteries are considered hazardous waste. NiCad batteries also suffer from what’s called ‘memory effect.’ They don’t discharge completely, so each recharge is less effective, thus shortening useful life.

NiMH: Nickel Metal Hydride were the next round of batteries. They can store more energy, are not considered toxic waste, are cheaper, and suffer negligible memory effects. The majority of AA, AAA, C, and D cell rechargeable batteries available today are NiMH.

Li-ion: Lithium-ion is a more recent technology in batteries, though it is now widely available. The batteries are also non-hazardous, are capable of storing more energy than NiMH, and have no memory effect at all. However, they are more expensive and less tolerant of temperature variations.

Flow Batteries: Currently under development, this technology allows for an instantly rechargeable battery by swapping out the electrolyte fluid inside. It’s a bit like emptying a bucket of dirty water and filling it up with clean. Flow batteries are a very fast alternative to typical electric vehicle charging, but are unlikely to be practical for small rechargeable types.

Volts (V) and amps hours (Ah)

In most cases, voltage is of little concern. AA, AAA, C, and D rechargeable batteries all produce 1.2 volts. It’s simply a question of inserting the required number of batteries into the device. With other rechargeable battery types, voltage is normally made clear by the description, 9V, 12V, etc.

Amp-hours, or milliamp-hours (mAh) in the case of smaller batteries, can best be described as the amount of ‘fuel’ available. For example, with two otherwise identical AA batteries, one might be rated 900 mAh, the other 2,000 mAh. Although they are both putting out the same voltage, the latter will deliver the same level of performance for much longer before it needs to be recharged.

Recharge cycles

All batteries degrade eventually, but the speed with which they do so is an important consideration. The usual figure for comparison is the number of times a battery can be recharged. Again using AAs, as a guide, one brand might be rated as rechargeable several hundred times, while another could recharge a couple of thousand times. The latter, though initially more expensive, might actually work out to be a better value.

Although NiMH batteries have almost no memory effect, the amount of charge they hold does diminish if they are not used and recharged regularly. It is called self-discharge. In a typical example, manufacturer figures state that by the time the battery is a year old it will only retain 90 percent of its charge. By the time it is five years old, that figure has diminished to 75 percent.

Pre-charging

Some rechargeable batteries come pre-charged, while others need to be charged before using for the first time. Pre-charged rechargeable batteries are usually labeled as such on the package. If you don’t pick up pre-charged batteries, consider whether you have an appropriate charger at home or whether you should pick up a starter kit that includes one.

Lifespan

The sad truth is that rechargeable batteries start to degrade over time, meaning they can’t hold as much energy as they did initially. The rechargeable batteries we’re recommending can all be topped up roughly 1,000 times before needing to be replaced, which means they’ll last several years before you recycle them.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best rechargeable batteries

• Best overall: Energizer Recharge Universal AA Batteries
• Best bundle: Pale Blue Home Conversion Kit
• Best long-lasting: Panasonic eneloop AA Batteries
• Best value: AmazonBasics Performance AA Batteries
• Best USB-rechargeable: Keeppower USB Rechargeable Li-ion AA Batteries
• Best with charger: Duracell Ion Speed 4000 Battery Charger with Batteries
• Best AA: Pale Blue AA Battery Pack
• Best AAA: Duracell AAA Battery
• Best 9V: EBL 9V Battery and Charger
• Best C: Energizer C Battery
• Best D: Tenergy High Capacity D Battery
• Best 12V: Optima 12V Batteries RedTop

Time and money are valuable commodities, and rechargeable batteries help you save both. Factor in the bonus of being friendlier to the planet, and you’ve got an undeniably smart buy—a convenient, long-lasting investment that’s there when you need it. Stock up on the best rechargeable batteries, and the main thought you might have is how nice it is not to have to think about them.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best rechargeable batteries for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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

How we chose the best heated clothing

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

The best heated clothing: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best jacket: Gobi Grit Men’s Heated Work Jacket

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Fewer heat settings than other options

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

Best vest: ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest

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Specs

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

Pros

• Quick heating
• Machine washable
• Zippered pockets

Cons

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

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

Best gloves: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Gloves

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

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

Best socks: Gobi Tread Heated Socks

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Expensive

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

Best slippers: Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slipper

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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Specs

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

Pros 

• Affordable  
• Hands-free design 
• Heats up quickly

Cons 

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

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

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

Best hand warmers: HotHands Hand Warmer

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

Things to consider when buying the best heated clothing

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

Charging times

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

Machine washability

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

Temperature

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

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heated clothing

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

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

Why trust us

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

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

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

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With its 19 feet-long torpedo-shaped body and long teeth the newly-described Lorrainosaurus was a fearsome mega predator. The fossilized remains of a 170-million-year-old marine reptile is the oldest-known pliosaur and dates back to the Jurassic era. The discovery is described in a study published October 16 in the journal Scientific Reports.

[Related: Millions of years ago, marine reptiles may have used Nevada as a birthing ground.]

Pliosaurs were members of a group of ocean-dwelling reptiles that are closely related to the more famous long-necked plesiosaurs. Unlike their cousins, these pliosaurs had short necks and massive skulls. From snout to tail, it was likely about 19 feet long and very little is known about the plesiosaurs from this time.

“Famous examples, such as Pliosaurus and Kronosaurus–some of the world’s largest pliosaurs–were absolutely enormous with body-lengths exceeding 10m [32 feet]. They were ecological equivalents of today’s killer whales and would have eaten a range of prey including squid-like cephalopods, large fish and other marine reptiles. These have all been found as preserved gut contents,” study co-author and Uppsala University paleontologist Benjamin Kear said in a statement.

Pliosaurs first emerged over 200 million years ago and remained relatively small players in marine ecosystems. Following a landmark restructuring of the marine predator ecosystem in the early to middle Jurassic era (about 175 to 171 million years ago) they reached apex predator status.

“This event profoundly affected many marine reptile groups and brought mega predatory pliosaurids to dominance over ‘fish-like’ ichthyosaurs, ancient marine crocodile relatives, and other large-bodied predatory plesiosaurs,” study co-author and paleobiologist at the Institute of Paleobiology of the Polish Academy of Sciences Daniel Madzia said in a statement.

The fossils in this study were originally found in 1983 in northeastern France, but were recently analyzed by an international team of paleontologists who identified this new pliosaur genus called Lorrainosaurus. The teeth and bones represent what was once a complete skeleton that decomposed and was spread along the ancient seafloor by scavengers and ocean currents. 

[Related: The planet’s first filter feeder could be this extinct marine reptile.]

“Lorrainosaurus was one of the first truly huge pliosaurs. It gave rise to a dynasty of marine reptile mega-predators that ruled the oceans for around 80 million years,” Sven Sachs, a study co-author and paleontologist from the Naturkunde-Museum Bielefeld in Germany, said in a statement.

Other than a short report published in 1994, these fossils remained obscure until the team reevaluated the specimens. Finding Lorrainosaurus’ remains indicates that the reign of gigantic mega-predatory pliosaurs likely began earlier than paleontologists previously thought. These giants were also locally responsive to the major ecological changes in the marine environments that covered present day Europe during the early Middle Jurassic.

“Lorrainosaurus is thus a critical addition to our knowledge of ancient marine reptiles from a time in the Age of Dinosaurs that has as yet been incompletely understood,” said Kear.

The post This Jurassic-era ‘sea murderer’ was among the first of its kind appeared first on Popular Science.

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Against all odds and expectations, both Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 are still going strong after nearly half a century of hurtling through—and far past—the solar system. To help boost the potential for the probes’ continued operations, engineers at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory have beamed out two software updates across the billions of miles separating them from the historic spacecraft. If successful, the pair of interstellar travelers could gain at least another five years’ worth of life, if not more.

On October 20, NASA announced plans to transmit a software patch to protect Voyager 1 and 2 against a glitch that occurred within the former’s system last year. In May 2022, NASA started noticing inaccurate readings coming from Voyager 1’s attitude articulation and control system (AACS). A few months later, engineers determined the AACS was accidentally writing commands into memory instead of actually performing them.

Although engineers successfully resolved an original data issue within Voyager 1 in 2022, the new patch will hopefully ensure such a problem won’t arise again in either probe. Receiving the patch will take over 18 hours to reach transmitters; Voyager 2 will get the patch first to serve as a “testbed for its twin” in case of unintended consequences like accidentally overwriting essential code. Given Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 are respectively 15 billion and 12 billion miles from Earth, engineers consider the farther craft’s data more valuable, as it still remains the farthest traveling human-made object. The NASA-JPL team will issue a command on October 28 to test the patch’s efficacy.

[Related: The secret to Voyagers’ spectacular space odyssey.]

The second planned tune-up for Voyager 1 and 2 involves the small thrusters responsible for controlling the probes’ communication antennas. According to NASA, spacecraft can generally rotate in three directions—left and right, up and down, as well as wheellike around a central axis. During these movements, propellant automatically flows through incredibly narrow “inlet tubes” to maintain the antennas’ contact with Earth.

But each time the propellant is used, miniscule residue can stick within the inlet tubings—while not much at first, that buildup is becoming problematic after the Voyager probes’ (many) decades’ of life. To slow the speed of buildup, engineers have edited the probes’ operational commands to allow both craft the ability to rotate nearly 1 degree farther in each available direction. This will reduce how often their thrusters need to fire. When engineers do need to enable thrusters, they now plan to fire them for longer periods of time, thus reducing the overall number of usages. 

[Related: How is Voyager’s vintage technology still flying?]

“This far into the mission, the engineering team is being faced with a lot of challenges for which we just don’t have a playbook,” Linda Spilker, Voyager mission project scientist, said via NASA’s update. “But they continue to come up with creative solutions.”

Experts estimate both the fuel lines and software adjustments could extend the Voyager program’s lifespan by another five years. According to NASA, however, “additional steps in the coming years to extend the lifetime of the thrusters even more.”

The post Voyager probes get virtual tune-up to keep decades-long missions going and going appeared first on Popular Science.

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Tech support scams are some of the most common methods of fraud, particularly targeting older demographics. Usually imitating a legitimate company’s customer service or IT department, tech support scammers trick victims into granting access to their computers, which they then use to extract payments. Last year, over 32,000 victims reported a cumulative loss of nearly $806.5 million stemming from just such fraud schemes. At least some reprieve may be coming for consumers, thanks to a collaborative effort by Microsoft, Amazon, and the Indian government.

On October 19, India’s Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) announced the completion of Operation Chakra-II, which involved 76 raids targeting illegal call centers located within several states across the country. According to an official CBI post on X, cyber criminals impersonated both Amazon and Microsoft customer support representatives, impacting over 2,000 customers—mostly in the US, but also in Australia, Canada, Germany, Spain, and the UK.

[Related: Fakes, rumors, and scams: PopSci’s fall issue is unreal.]

The scammers in question used a combination of cold calls and pop-up ads claiming to detect technical issues on a the victims’ computers and instructing them to call a toll-free number. After a variable amount of cajoling, scammers were then sometimes granted remote access to an individual’s computer. Then, they convinced some users to pay hundreds of dollars for unnecessary services under the “pretense of non-existing problems,” per the CBI.

In a blog post last week, Amazon confirmed Operation Chakra-II marked the first time the company collaborated with Microsoft to combat tech support fraud. “We are pleased to join forces with Microsoft, and we believe actionable partnerships like these are critical in helping protect consumers from impersonation scams,” Kathy Sheehan, vice president and associate general counsel of Amazon’s Business Conduct & Ethics, said via the announcement. Sheehan went on to stress “we cannot win this fight alone,” and encouraged other Big Tech industry heavyweights to “join us as a united front against criminal activity.”

“We firmly believe that partnerships like these are not only necessary but pivotal in creating a safer online ecosystem and in extending our protective reach to a larger number of individuals,” Amy Hogan-Burney, Microsoft’s Associate General Counsel for Microsoft Cybersecurity Policy & Protection, echoed in a separate statement.

Microsoft currently hosts a site reviewing the most popular versions of tech support scams, along with providing users with means to report and combat bad actors. According to a tutorial video from the Microsoft Security team, Microsoft reiterates that no reputable tech company will ever contact users via phone, email, or text message claiming to detect issues with a device. 

As Microsoft’s video also explains, scammers often also rely on scare tactics to pressure victims into falling prey to their schemes. Once access is granted to a device, the con artists can plant malware or even steal users’ personal information. Both regularly checking for devices’ software updates, as well as reporting fraud attempts can help deter and combat scammers.

In addition to tried-and-true scamming techniques, fraud rings are increasingly turning to more sophisticated methods while targeting victims. Earlier this year, a mother in Arizona reported scammers utilized AI voice-cloning technology to mimic her daughter’s voice while attempting to extract a fake kidnapping ransom.

The post Scammers busted in India for impersonating Amazon and Microsoft tech support appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Meta, possibly in an effort to convince people it’s a transparent company, just equipped Instagram with a new feature that lets users know what it learns about them through other websites. Unfortunately, getting that information is not as easy as Meta wants you to believe.

Other than what you post and how you interact with the platform, Instagram’s parent company also gathers data about you through other sites and organizations that use the company’s products and services. That means that if you buy something from a vendor that uses Meta Pixel on their website, for example, Instagram will know about it. 

With this new feature, you can see who’s sharing your information, delete the data already in Instagram’s hands, and prevent any future sharing. That may sound like a lot of work, but we tried it and made mistakes so you don’t have to. 

How to find out what other sites share with Instagram about you

You can learn all the hot gossip other sites tell Meta about you on the Activity off-Meta technologies menu. This option was once only available to Facebook users, but it’s now an integral part of the company’s Account Center, which includes Instagram. 

[Related: How to make your social media posts truly private]

1. On the Instagram app, open your profile by tapping the silhouette of a person in the bottom right corner of your screen. Go to the hamburger menu (three lines) in the top right corner, choose Settings and privacy, and then Accounts Center. 

On the web, log into Instagram, click More in the bottom left corner of your screen, and go to Settings. There, click Accounts Center. 

2. From here on out, the options are the same no matter if you are on your phone or your computer. Go to Your information and permissions and then to Your activity off Meta technologies. 

On the next screen, you’ll be able to learn a bit more about the type of data Instagram receives from third parties when you interact with them. This data can be a number of things, such as when you opened an app, logged into it using Facebook or Instagram, added an item to your cart, bought something, or even made a donation. Meta says this information doesn’t include health or financial data, or other sensitive details like date of birth or passwords.  

3. Under the What you can do heading, go to Recent activity to see all the sites sharing your information with Instagram. You may need to enter your Instagram password to continue. You’ll see a list of companies, and you can click each one to learn more details. 

Here’s the tricky part, though: when you click the number of interactions the company has shared with Meta, you won’t see a detailed account of the interactions the site shared with Instagram. Instead, you’ll see more information and a button you can hit to Download activity details.

You’d think that by that they mean downloading only the details of your interactions with other apps and websites, but you’d be wrong. You’ll actually need to request to download a file that contains your entire Instagram account information, and you still won’t find what exactly other sites shared about you. 

4. This leaves you with nothing to do except cut the data flow off at the source. Back in the Recent activity menu, you can click or tap Clear previous activity or Disconnect specific activity. The first one will remove everything Instagram has on you from third parties, but it won’t prevent the same sites from continuing to share information in the future.

To do a thorough job, start by choosing Disconnect specific activity and picking a site you want to cut off. It’s counterintuitive to start here, as it’s the second option, but clearing the activity will prevent you from disconnecting third parties, as their names and the option to disconnect will disappear. That means you’ll need to wait until they appear on the menu again to block them once and for all. 

5. The next screen will show you a list of the websites sharing data with Instagram. Select the ones you want to sever ties with by checking the circle next to their name, then hit Continue. 

6. The next screen will show you more information about severing ties between that third party activity and your account, including the fact that doing so might log you out of that external website if you used your Instagram account to log in. It also clarifies that you’ll still see ads from the site, albeit less personalized, and Meta will continue to receive information, but it just won’t be associated with you. Hit Confirm when you’re done and repeat the process with all the sites you don’t want sharing your data. 

[Related: How to go incognito on these 6 popular apps]

Back on the Recent activity menu, you can also tap on the name of a company and select Disconnect. This, of course, requires you to disconnect sites one by one, which is not as efficient as doing it by hitting the Disconnect specific activity button.   

Keep in mind that disconnecting these sites doesn’t mean they won’t keep sharing information with Instagram—it just means the data will be anonymized, so not tied to you specifically. This is something a lot of companies do to protect users’ privacy, but it’s also worth knowing there are studies claiming data can never be truly anonymized, especially when certain data points, like location, are involved

7. Now it’s time to delete what Instagram already has on you by clicking or tapping Clear previous activity. Continue by choosing your account and hitting Clear. Confirm your choice again by selecting Clear previous activity. 

As you can see, Instagram’s new way of managing third-party activity is, well, disappointing. Navigating the new menu is incredibly frustrating, as it’s mined with dark patterns, and even after doing a deep dive, we still don’t know what third-party websites shared about us, and we couldn’t prevent them from sharing more information in the future. Certainly not the best experience.

The post How to see which websites are sharing your data with Instagram appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum		SEE IT	This 3-in-1 model lets you mulch, vacuum, and blow your leaves with one powerful tool.
Best gas		Landworks Mini Wood Chipper Shredder Mulcher		SEE IT	If you need to chop wood, this machine can handle branches up to 3 inches in diameter.
Best budget		BLACK+DECKER 3 in 1 Electric Leaf Blower		SEE IT	This option is great for homeowners looking for a basic, wallet-friendly mulcher.

Fall is gorgeous, but it’s also a grueling period for yard work, so a good leaf mulcher can come in handy. As stunning foliage falls from the trees, homeowners are faced with the Sisyphean task of clearing their yard of endlessly dropping debris. This step of lawn maintenance, important in preventing disease from hijacking your grass under the cover of wet leaves during the winter months, will be much easier if you have appropriate outdoor power equipment for the job. We’re here to help you identify the best leaf mulchers to clear your lawn and dispose of autumn debris.

• Best overall: WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum
• Best electric: WORX 12 Amp 3-in-1 Electric Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum
• Best gas: Landworks Mini Wood Chipper Shredder Mulcher
• Best standalone: SuperHandy Leaf Mulcher
• Best heavy-duty: Patriot Products 14 Amp Electric Wood Chipper/Leaf Shredder
• Best budget: BLACK+DECKER 3 in 1 Electric Leaf Blower

How we chose the best leaf mulchers

Depending on your location, leaf disposal can be tricky. Some towns have a service for leaf pickup, but it often comes with a fee attached and the responsibility of tracking down a specific type of leaf bag. Other towns have a set location for residents to drop off their bagged leaves, which can be difficult if you don’t have a pickup truck to transport the hefty bags. 

A better option? Make leaf mulching a part of your yard maintenance. The process simply involves loading the leaves into a leaf shredder that cuts them up into tiny pieces, greatly reducing the heft of the load. Once shredded, leaves can be mulched around your plants and trees to retain moisture, protect from frost, and suppress weeds. 

Once you find the best leaf mulcher for your lawn care, disposing of leaves is a breeze. In compiling our recommendations, we looked at top brands and weighed a range of factors, including versatility, power, mulch ratio, ease of use, and price.

The best leaf mulchers: Reviews & Recommendations

Like any piece of outdoor power equipment, like a cordless leaf blower, an overwhelming number of leaf mulchers with different features are available for purchase. A little bit of research can ensure that your machine is tailored to your specific lawn care needs and worthy of space in your storage shed. We’ve gathered our recommendations and provided some tips below to consider when making your purchase.

Best overall: WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Handheld
• Power: Corded electric
• Voltage: 120V
• Mulch ratio: 16:1
• Weight: 9 lbs.

Pros

• Powerful
• Contains mulcher, blower, and vacuum
• Affordable

Cons

• Heavy
• Some users had problems with attachments

Why invest in three different tools when you can blow your leaves, mulch, and vacuum with one device? WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum is lightweight at 9 pounds, and changes functions with the turn of a dial. The lightweight, handheld tool features a metal impeller with a shredder blade that provides a 16:1 leaves-to-mulch ratio. Once the mulch is collected, the bag is easy to detach for removal. This tool also provides a powerful 600 CFM (cubic feet per minute) for leaf blowing and switches between two speeds. So ditch the rake and dispense with your leaves quickly and easily with this versatile option.

Best electric: WORX 12 Amp 3-in-1 Electric Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Handheld
• Power: Corded electric
• Voltage: 120V
• Mulch ratio: 18:1
• Weight: 9.3 lbs.

Pros

• Versatile with mulcher, blower, and vacuum
• Handheld
• High mulch ratio
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Some users say suction is weak

This corded electric three-in-one model is lightweight but powerful. A simple switch quickly flips from blower to vacuum to mulching mode, and two speeds are available to accommodate different functions. It boasts an 18:1 mulching ratio, consolidating 18 bags of leaves into just one. As an electric device, this model is muted and environmentally friendly. 

Best gas: Landworks Mini Wood Chipper Shredder Mulcher

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Standalone
• Power: Gas
• Voltage: N/A
• Mulch ratio: 15:1
• Weight: 9.3 lbs.

Pros

• Can handle heavy branches
• Powerful engine
• Professional quality

Cons

• Expensive
• No other tools
• Not environmentally friendly

This Landworks machine has a mulching ratio of 15:1, and is able to tackle branches of up to 3 inches in diameter. You can adjust the discharge chute anywhere between 90 to 145 degrees for easy and efficient disposal. The 7HP engine takes 87 octane gas with no ethanol. This mulcher doesn’t have the versatility but can handle harder jobs.

Best standalone: SuperHandy Leaf Mulcher

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Standalone
• Power: Electric
• Voltage: 120V
• Mulch ratio: 17:1
• Weight: 46.5 lbs.

Pros

• Can handle branches, leaves, and grass
• Environmentally friendly
• Affordable
• High mulch ratio

Cons

• Some users said it gets clogged
• May not last long

The SuperHandy Leaf Mulcher is a smaller version of the SuperHandy Wood Chipper. While the mulcher can’t handle the sizable branches that the Wood Chipper can, it comes at a fraction of the price and is perfect for yearly leaf maintenance. It has a high 17:1 mulching ratio, and its electric belt-driven motor is quiet and eco-friendly. 

Best heavy-duty: Patriot Products 14 Amp Electric Wood Chipper/Leaf Shredder

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Standalone
• Power: Corded electric
• Voltage: 110V
• Mulch ratio: N/A
• Weight: 95 lbs.

Pros

• Chops branches up to 2 ½ inches in diameter
• Environmentally friendly
• Affordable

Cons

• Only one function
• Heavy

This Patriot Products wood chipper/leaf shredder offers versatile performance for various levels of yard maintenance. A larger piece of outdoor power equipment, this electric mulcher remains smooth and quiet as it shreds leaves and chips branches up to 2 ½ inches in diameter. Simply slide your debris into the top of the feeder, and the mulch spits out the side.

Best budget: BLACK+DECKER 3 in 1 Electric Leaf Blower

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Handheld
• Power: Corded electric
• Voltage: 120V
• Mulch ratio: 10:1
• Weight: 8.1 pounds

Pros

• Easy on the wallet
• Includes mulcher, vacuum, and blower
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Low mulch ratio
• Some users say it didn’t last long

This blower has options for more attachments, but even the bare-bones model is a blower, vacuum, and mulcher all in one. The corded electric blower is lightweight and easy to use, and it shreds 10 bags of leaves into one. This option is great for homeowners looking for a basic, wallet-friendly mulcher. 

Things to consider when buying the best leaf mulchers

With so many variations of leaf mulchers available, first narrow your options down by deciding what style mulching machine you’re looking for: handheld or stand-alone. Stand-alone mulchers are stationary machines into which you feed collected leaves for shredding. You can carry a handheld machine around the yard, and vacuum leaves straight into the machine. Handheld mulchers usually function as a leaf blower as well.

Also, think about what power source is best for you. A gas-powered mulcher is an excellent choice if you want more power and want to avoid plugging in the device or charging batteries, but that comes at the cost of a heavier machine. An electric or battery-powered mulcher leaves you at the mercy of your power source (so maybe keep a portable power station handy)—but can be significantly lighter and easier to maneuver. 

Lastly, pay attention to the mulching ratio of your leaf shredder. The mulch ratio basically tells you how much the shredder will cut down your leaves: the highest ratio of 18:1 will reduce 18 bags of leaves to fit into one bag. When choosing the best leaf mulchers for your needs, consider how many bags of leaves you typically have in the fall and what you plan to do with them after they’re shredded—larger shreds are fine for mulching around your trees, while smaller shreds are better for composting.

Electric vs. gas

A handheld mulching machine gives you the benefit of turning the two steps of gathering the leaves and then mulching them into one step. Most models can blow, vacuum, and shred, so one swift trip around the yard completes the entire cleanup. 

Electric leaf mulchers are significantly lighter than their gas-powered counterparts. Collecting leaves is done with relative ease, and while you’ll need a battery or connection to a power source, you can use a long extension cord or keep an extra battery charging.

For extended use without a power cord or having to stop and recharge batteries, gas-powered mulchers keep going for a lot longer than an electric model. Gas-powered models tend to be more expensive than electric, but you get what you pay for with more power and faster cleanup—just remember to keep extra gas in the shed so you can start with a full tank. 

Handheld vs. standalone leaf mulchers

The majority of the best leaf mulchers are handheld and come with blower and vacuum functions, but a standalone leaf mulcher has only one function: shred leaves. This is perfect for handling heavier loads, and if you go for a higher-end model, you’re ultimately purchasing a wood chipper that can even deal with small tree limbs. We found smaller and heavy-duty models for more extreme yard work. 

Versatility

If you’re willing to fork over some more green for a more versatile machine, a heavier-duty leaf shredder can reduce twigs, branches, and acorns. This is optimal for cleaning up debris after storms and heavy winds knock limbs into your yard. These powerful devices can make yard maintenance quick and efficient and leave you with aesthetically pleasing mulch for your landscaping.

Price

If your fall yard maintenance tends to be a small and simple job, the best leaf mulcher for you shouldn’t have to break the bank. While cheap mulchers often coincide with a smaller capacity for collection and a less powerful engine, we’ve found inexpensive models on the market that are still strong and efficient. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best leaf mulchers

• Best overall: WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum
• Best electric: WORX 12 Amp 3-in-1 Electric Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum
• Best gas: Landworks Mini Wood Chipper Shredder Mulcher
• Best standalone SuperHandy Leaf Mulcher
• Best heavy-duty: Patriot Products 14 Amp Electric Wood Chipper/Leaf Shredder
• Best budget: Black + Decker 3 in 1 Electric Leaf Blower

Finding the best leaf mulcher to clean up your lawn this fall will take a lot of heavy lifting, and raking, off your shoulders. The 3-in-1 models are especially efficient and can operate as a leaf blower, vacuum, and mulcher all in one. Removing the bed of leaves from your yard is an essential part of your yard maintenance schedule, as it keeps the leaves from molding and suffocating your lawn or becoming a breeding ground for debris. Find yourself the best leaf mulcher for your needs, and in no time, you’ll have your yard cleaned up and ready for next spring.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best leaf mulchers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Ace 3		SEE IT	It’s made specifically for children.
Best for style		Fitbit Luxe		SEE IT	Its good looks make it appealing to a wide audience.
Best for teens		Inspire 3		SEE IT	Get slightly older kids some more advanced features.

Fitbits for kids can be a great way to encourage children to develop healthy habits and active lifestyles from an early age. Beyond serving as motivational tools to get moving, they also help you monitor how much exercise your child is getting. Some even offer kid-specific features to gamify movement, making it fun to get active. Fitbits don’t just monitor exercise, though. They can help keep track of stress levels, monitor heart rate, store music, receive phone notifications, and even track sleep. No matter your child’s age, there’s something for them on our list of the best Fitbits for kids. 

• Best overall: Ace 3
• Best for teens: Inspire 3
• Best for style: Fitbit Luxe
• Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

How we chose the best Fitbits for kids

When selecting the best Fitbits for kids, we started by comparing the entire Fitbit lineup, many of which we have actually reviewed. We focused on models offering kid-friendly features, reasonable pricing, and designs that appeal to a younger crowd. While one model is specifically made for kids, other models can appeal to slightly older children and teens with different needs. We also included a Fiitbit alternative if you want a budget-friendly fitness tracker outside the Fitbit brand.

The best Fitbits for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

A Fitbit, one of the leading brands of activity trackers, can motivate your child to get the recommended daily amount of exercise. According to the Centers for Disease Control, kids from ages 6 to 17 need about 60 minutes of physical movement per day to stay healthy. Fitbits can easily help track those minutes to ensure adequate movement. Below are the best Fitbits for kids, no matter what their current level of activity may be.

Best overall: Ace 3

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With a touchscreen display, eight days of battery life, impressive memory, and Parent and Kid View, this is the obvious choice for most young ones.

Specs

• Ages: 6+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 8 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• 8 days of battery life
• Bedtime and alarms
• Parent and Kid View
• Water-resistant 
• Interchangeable bands 

Cons

• Pricey for young kids
• No heart rate monitoring

The only Fitbit specifically made for children, the Ace 3 has many great features relevant to young ones. With eight days of battery life, a touchscreen display, bedtime alerts, reminders to move, a step counter, and gentle alarms to wake your kids up, this Fitbit comes fully stocked.

One of the most kid-friendly aspects of the Ace 3 is the fun virtual badges, animated clock faces, and personalized avatars that add a healthy sense of competition and play to their activity. Your kids can also personalize their Fitbit with interchangeable accessories, like Minions bands, for an added fee. 

There’s both parent and kid view, and it’s also water-resistant up to 164 feet, so they can even wear it while swimming. It’s by no means cheap, but with all the bells and whistles, we think it’s worth the investment. 

Best for teens: Inspire 3

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Easy to use and accessible for teens with a one-year premium trial included, this is a great starter tracker for young adults looking to track calories, heart rate, steps, and more at home and at school.

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 10 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Easy to use and accessible
• Affordable 
• Up to 10 days of battery
• Six-month Fitbit Premium membership included
• Competitive games

Cons

• Screen may be hard to read in the sunlight
• Band wears after some time

The Inspire 3 is Fitbit’s most accessible and easy-to-use fitness tracker, which makes it a solid option for teens. New Fitbit users get a six-month free trial of Fitbit Premium so they can have access to guided meditations, exercises, and accountability to make their fitness and health journey even easier. 

The Inspire 3 connects to a smartphone, providing call, text, and app notifications right on your teen’s wrist. That means they won’t have as much of an excuse for ignoring your calls or texts. Come nighttime, it offers a sleep mode to pause notifications and turns the screen off so that their sleep isn’t interrupted.

With its sleek design and simple interface, Inspire 3 is a great starter Fitbit for tracking steps, heart rate, distance, calories, food logging, menstrual health, sleep, and more. The battery lasts up to 10 days, and there are even fun games in the app like Get Fit Bingo, for more competitive-minded teens.

Best for style: Fitbit Luxe

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Why it made the cut: Fashion-forward and stylish, the Fitbit Luxe features a menstrual health tracker, several stress management tools, and sleep aids useful for teens.

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 5 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Call/text notifications 
• Connects to phone GPS to track pace and distance
• Menstrual health tracker
• Stylish design
• Stress management features

Cons

• Pricey
• Website says the battery lasts five days, but depletes quicker depending on use

Swimproof, slim, and fashion-forward, the Fitbit Luxe is the perfect tracker for teens who want to be more hands-on (or is that wrists-on?) with their health. It not only takes care of all-day tracking but also connects to a phone’s GPS to track pace and distance and allows wearers to stay connected with friends via call and text notifications. 

If your teenager has periods, they can track ovulation, record period symptoms, and log flow with the built-in menstrual health tracker, which can help them feel informed about their menstrual health. It also has several stress-management features, such as guided breathing, to help with mood and stress levels. We want to note that teenage girls have enough societal pressure, and we love that Fitbit’s team is committed to helping teenage girls stay healthy and happy without focusing on striving for perfection.

It’s not the cheapest option, but the Special Edition gorjana Soft Gold Stainless Steel Parker Link Bracelet doubles as a bracelet that goes with every outfit, making the perfect birthday or holiday gift!

Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6

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Why it made the cut: This Fitbit with GPS can track over 40 workouts, including swimming, and has a built-in GPS system for more accurate location and distance information during workouts. 

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 7 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Comfortable to wear 24/7
• Built-in GPS with access to Google Maps
• Bigger touchscreen display 
• Heart rate tracker
• Built-in YouTube Music controls

Cons

• Music controls require a subscription
• Expensive compared to other options

Fitbit’s most advanced fitness and health tracker yet, this Fitbit with GPS comes with tons of elite features in a slim and lightweight design. It features an on-wrist ECG app, step tracker, calorie tracker, automatic exercise recognition, swim-tracking, and sleep monitoring. It also allows your kids to set goals and buzzes when they hit certain heart rate zones. Plus, the main draw: built-in GPS for tracking routes and workouts.

The built-in GPS allows for much more accurate data related to distance and pace during workouts. The Charge 6 also comes with Google Maps, which provides turn-by-turn directions right on their wrist, giving you peace of mind that your child won’t get lost on a run or bike ride.

Fitbit also included YouTube Music controls on the Charge 6, though you will need a subscription to access that feature.

Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

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Why it made the cut: This budget-friendly Fitbit alternative offers accurate heart rate data, movement goals, and a vibrant display without the subscription fee.

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 18 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Long battery life
• Accurate heart rate data
• No subscription required to access all features
• Affordable

Cons

• Touchscreen is finicky
• Lack of buttons takes time to get used to

While Fitbit makes some excellent fitness trackers, you’ll need a subscription to access all features and data. For many, that makes Fitbits for kids a less-than-ideal choice. The Amazfit Band 7 is a great alternative in part thanks to the lack of a subscription but also due to the initial budget-friendly price. You’ll spend less upfront and overtime with this cheap fitness tracker.

Despite the low price, the Band 7 has a lot to offer. Amazfit promises up to 18 days of battery life, and during my testing, I got 16 days or so with a daily workout. Of course, actual battery life heavily depends on how you use the watch and if you have the always-on display on, but it is still impressive for the price. It also charges quickly, so you can get back to tracking movement in no time.

The built-in BioTracker 3.0 PPG biometric sensor tracks heart rate and blood oxygen levels. I found the heart rate data to be very accurate during runs and weightlifting sessions, even when compared to more expensive hiking and Garmin watches. The watch uses that information to calculate VO2 Max, stress levels, and to track sleep. It also provides a PAI, or Personal Activity Intelligence, score, which gives you a picture of how active you are and what your activity level should be for you as an individual.

The Amazfit Band 7 can track 120 different workout types. That includes basics like running, cycling, and yoga but also more obscure things like kite-flying, jumping rope, and badminton. No matter what your child is into, there’s a good chance this fitness tracker can track it. It also pairs with a phone so that your kid can receive phone notifications on their wrist.

Check out our full review to learn more about the Amazfit Band 7.

What to consider when shopping for the best Fitbits for kids

The best Fitbits for kids will fall into the fitness tracker category due to the inherent lower price and slim design. While many of these options share features, there are still some key things to consider before purchasing a device for your child.

A quick note on the term “Fitbit”

For some people, the term “Fitbit” has taken on a more general meaning—it’s a catch-all that references any fitness tracker. It’s like how we often call plastic storage bags Ziploc bags. In reality, Fitbit is a specific brand that’s owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company. We’re keeping this list almost entirely specific to that brand because the company makes a lot of excellent devices, but have included an alternative as well.

Battery life

Battery life is a key component of any device for kids. If their fitness tracker needs to be charged daily, there’s a good chance it won’t actually be worn very much. Most Fitbits promise a battery life of up to five days, but actual battery life is dependent on how your child is using the watch and what types of settings and features are turned on. You’ll want to consider how responsible your kid is—or how much you want to be hands-on with charging—and choose a watch with a battery life that matches.

Features

While Fitbit products have commonalities, some trackers come with unique features. It’s important to identify what you want to get out of your Fitbit. Do you want a hybrid tracker and smartwatch that can sync with a smartphone and offer more complex functionality? Or do you want simple fitness tracking? Do you need GPS built in? How important are stress management tools?

Sleep tracking may also be an important feature for your child. The Sleep Foundation says that sleep not only helps your child’s energy levels but also impacts a slew of other important developmental areas such as memory, focus, mood, learning, motor skill development, and overall happiness.

Luckily, Fitbit has a tool to help you narrow in on the best option for your particular needs. Take the company’s Fitbit quiz to help you make your decision. 

Budget

How much are you looking to spend? While some budget Fitbits are around $80, they can go all the way up to several hundred, depending on features and frills like GPS tracking and smartwatch capabilities. The kid-specific Ace is one of Fitbit’s cheaper models, which makes sense since kids are prone to breaking and losing gadgets on the regular. Buying a kid a $250 smartwatch can be a real gamble. 

Style

Your Fitbit’s style should reflect your child’s age and development. Some Fitbits, like the Ace 3, are meant for small children around six years, and others are meant for older teens, like the Inspire 3 or Luxe. A kid won’t wear something if they hate the way it looks.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Fitbits for kids

• Best overall: Ace 3
• Best for teens: Inspire 3
• Best for style: Fitbit Luxe
• Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

More focused on fitness than the average smartwatches for kids, Fitbits for kids are a great tool to make healthy living a convenient part of your child’s daily life. From fun incentives, cool features, and built-in tracking, teaching your child how to have agency over their health has never been easier. Hopefully, this article helps you narrow down the best Fitbits for kids so you can find the one that is right for your child.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best Fitbits for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		DeWalt Corded Electric Handheld Leaf Blower		SEE IT	No need to fuel this pick up with gas—it runs on electricity alone and can clear out up to 450 cubic feet per minute.
Best cordless		Worx Nitro 40V PRO LEAFJET Cordless Leaf Blower		SEE IT	Clear away debris and leaves without the hassle of a tangled cord or short battery life.
Best budget		BLACK+DECKER Leaf Blower & Leaf Vacuum		SEE IT	Get both a blower and a mulcher for the price of one (or less) without sacrificing power. This pick blows at up to 250 miles per hour for no-fuss cleaning.

A great leaf blower makes you want to wake up on a fall day and get to work. It makes you wish your yard was a few acres bigger so you can use your favorite power tool more. But who wants to bother with a leaf blower rental? And trying to borrow a neighbor’s noisy, old leaf blower can feel like pulling teeth. The wrong leaf blower can make you want to pick up a rake to move the few leaves that fell on your front lawn. Purchasing your own leaf blower can have higher upfront costs than renting, but it will save you plenty of headaches—there’s no need to pick up and drop it off, and you don’t have to worry about handling a leaf blower you hate. Effectiveness isn’t the only measure of a blower. If you want to be a good neighbor, you’ll also want to consider just how loud your lawn equipment is, as some communities ban the use of certain kinds of leaf blowers to reduce noise pollution. Here’s how to find the best leaf blower for you.

• Best overall: DeWALT Cordless XR Leaf Blower
• Best cordless: Worx Nitro 40V PRO LEAFJET Cordless Leaf Blower
• Best rechargeable: RYOBI Brushless Cordless Jet Fan Leaf Blower
• Best handheld: CRAFTSMAN Cordless Leaf Blower
• Best backpack: ECHO Gas Backpack Blower
• Best budget: BLACK+DECKER Leaf Blower & Leaf Vacuum

How we chose the best leaf blowers

We looked to product reviews, consumer impressions, and warranted advice from our landscape-loving dads, who are very proud of their yard tools. You deserved to be just as jazzed about a storage shed packed with your own collection of backyard tools as they are.

The best leaf blowers: Reviews & Recommendations

Looking for a tool to move leaves can be stressful, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered—you don’t have to go back to raking leaves. This guide will take you through the main points to consider while buying a leaf blower while offering up our leaf blower reviews. You can save that stress for when it’s time to choose a snowblower.

Best overall: DeWALT Cordless XR Leaf Blower

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Why it made the cut: This professional-grade leaf blower brings crisp landscaping to your backyard.

Specs

• Weight: 5.43 lbs.
• Power source: Battery
• Electric or gas: Electric
• Air speed: 125 MPH

Pros

• Part of DeWalt’s tool ecosystem
• Brushless motor
• Lightweight

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a battery

DeWALT’s cordless leaf blower offers an excellent combination of both power—courtesy of its 20V motor—and cost. This battery-powered model can push out air at up to 125 miles per hour, covering an area of 450 cubic feet per minute. A flat concentrator nozzle helps blow away heavier debris. This leaf blower runs on a battery, but DeWALT doesn’t include one with the box; you’ll have to pick one up separately. If you have another DeWALT power tool, there’s a good chance its battery is compatible with this leaf blower, which is one reason to stay within the company’s ecosystem. The company does offer a bundle with a battery and charger for an additional $50 in case you’re totally new to DeWALT power tools, or want a spare.

Best cordless: Worx Nitro 40V PRO LEAFJET Cordless Leaf Blower

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Why it made the cut: This lightweight cordless leafblower is designed with an efficient brushless motor, yet provides plenty of power, courtesy of two 20-volt batteries.  

Specs

• Weight: 6.6 lbs.
• Power source: Battery
• Electric or gas: Electric
• Air speed: 165 MPH

Pros

• Designed with two powerful batteries
• Features 620 CFM blower and has high capacity
• Comes with charger

Cons

• Somer users had issues with battery performance

The WORX Nitro Leaf Blower provides plenty of performance for a lightweight, cordless tool. It’s designed with a brushless motor that allows it to run longer and provides quite a bit of power. The two included lithium-ion batteries provide 40 volts of power and 165 MPH of blowing speed. The controls allow you to toggle between four speed settings and the blower also features dual air intakes. The batteries charge to full capacity in two hours, and this blower is compatible with other WORX tools. I also found it useful for blowing away spiderwebs.

Best rechargeable: RYOBI Brushless Cordless Jet Fan Leaf Blower

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Why it made the cut: This lightweight, quiet leaf blower packs a powerful punch.

Specs

• Weight: 8.08 lbs.
• Power source: Battery
• Electric or gas: Electric
• Air speed: 125 MPH

Pros

• Quiet
• Light
• Brushless motor

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately

This Ryobi leaf blower buzzes along at 125 MPH and is fairly quiet at only 59 decibels. The cordless blower has a battery life approaching half an hour without using turbo mode. It weighs less than 10 pounds, meaning you can teach Junior how to help out in the yard without risking a hospital trip. Don’t let its weight and quietness fool you—this leaf blower runs at 550 CFM, or cubic feet per minute, and rivals the power of many gas-powered leaf blowers. This means you can clean the yard and driveway faster than Junior tries to bail out of their yard duties. Not today, Junior!

Best handheld: CRAFTSMAN Cordless Leaf Blower

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Why it made the cut: A large, translucent fuel tank takes the guesswork out of filling up this leaf blower.

Specs

• Weight: 8 lbs.
• Power source: Battery
• Electric or gas: Electric
• Air speed: 100 MPH

Pros

• Completely wireless
• Powerful
• Includes multiple batteries and charger

Cons

• Not for heavy use

This CRAFTSMAN leaf blower is relatively lightweight, runs on a battery, and includes all of the necessary charging accessories. With a maximum speed of 100 MPH, this leaf blower will offer respectable performance given its size. You’ll only be able to get through roughly a quarter of an acre of land per cleaning session off a single fully charged battery, but the bundle we’re recommending comes with two. If you have a larger backyard, it would be wise to invest in a more heavy-duty leaf blower.

Best backpack: ECHO Gas Backpack Blower

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Why it made the cut: This powerful leaf blower takes the strain off your hands to make yard work a breeze.

Specs

• Weight: 29 lbs.
• Power source: Engine
• Electric or gas: Gas
• Air speed: 234 MPH

Pros

• Powerful
• Covers lots of ground
• No tingly hands from vibrations

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive

This ECHO leaf blower blows 234 MPH and has an airflow capacity of 765 CFM, which makes it perfect for those with plenty of acres to cover or who landscape on the side. Keep in mind that it weighs 29 pounds, though, so it might be cumbersome to wear for long periods of time. However, the comfortable straps help ease the burden on your shoulders. Although this leaf blower packs a hefty price tag, reviewers note its longevity and power, meaning this investment purchase pays for itself.

Best budget: BLACK+DECKER Leaf Blower & Leaf Vacuum

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Why it made the cut: This versatile piece of equipment vacuum leaves not the cash in your wallet.

Specs

• Weight: 8.1 lbs.
• Power source: Corded
• Electric or gas: Electric
• Air speed: 250 MPH

Pros

• Three tools in one
• Easy leaf disposal

Cons

• Needs practice to handle

This Black+Decker leaf blower provides leaf blowing and vacuuming and a bag for mulching. Twelve amps of power deliver up to 250 MPH of blowing speed. You can conveniently grind down up to 16 bags of mulch into one with this leaf blower vacuum. Reviewers note that it works on small debris, but be aware that it takes a bit of practice to handle—vacuuming too fast will clog the tube. It’s quiet despite its power, meaning you won’t alert the entire neighborhood that you’re doing yard work. Two disposable bags are included for fast clean-up.

What to consider when buying the best leaf blowers

Walking into a home and garden store can be overwhelming, between the high ceilings and bounty of charcoal grills. How can you focus on picking out the best leaf blower when there are at least 20 varieties of riding lawn mower five feet away? We’ve done all the work for you, so leave the choice paralysis for the chip aisle at the grocery store.

Power source

When considering the best leaf blower, you’ll first need to decide between gas, electric, and battery-powered models. Gas models are generally more powerful than electric models and freedom from a cord means they can go just about anywhere. However, they are considerably noisier, heavier than electric models, and put out pollution tied to fossil fuels. Electric models are lighter than gas and can provide the kind of power that will cover a large swath of jobs—however, their mobility is limited to about 100 feet of an outlet (give or take one of the best extension cords). Battery-powered models spare users from the maintenance required of gas blowers but have less power. The biggest mark against battery-powered leaf blowers is that batteries generally only last up to an hour. That means big jobs will take much longer, as you’ll need to recharge. (Of course, you can also check out the best solar generators so you can take a portable power station around with you to keep a steady rotation of charging battery packs.)

Power

To gauge the power of a blower, you’ll want to look at the cubic feet per minute (CFM) rating and promised miles per hour (MPH). The higher CFM, the more leaves you’ll be able to blow away at one time. The higher the MPH, the easier it will be to move heavier debris or wet leaves.

Once you get through that basic consideration, you might want to consider other features like vacuuming and mulching features, which store and shred yard waste. For professional-grade yard maintenance across multiple acres, you’ll want to consider backpack models that pack extra power, or even wheeled models. Keep in mind though, that wheeled models come with their own drawbacks, like a lack of features and considerably high noise levels.

Cordless vs. corded

When it comes to convenience, cordless leaf blowers are at the top of the pack. They dispense with the need for gas and maintenance required by gas-powered blowers as well as their noisiness. A cordless blower also tends to be fairly light and allows you to go wherever you need without worrying if you’re close to an outlet. However, even the best cordless blower doesn’t tend to have the same power as its gas-powered brethren and with a battery life of around one hour, you may have to charge once or twice before finishing your chores or consider investing in a second battery.

Corded leaf blowers are ideal for backyards that provide access to outlets at 100 feet of your work zone. They provide power nearly as strong as gas-powered motors and are generally much lighter.

Electric vs. gas

Gas leaf blowers feature high power and the convenience of not having a cord. However, they require regular maintenance, and two-stroke engines featured in the majority of gas blowers require mixing gas and oil. Try to look for four-stroke engines instead to do away with the need for mixing gas and oil and to reduce emissions. Another drawback to gas leaf blowers is their sound level—it’s often recommended to wear hearing protection when operating them. Most models also weigh about 10 pounds, which might be disqualifying for some users. Electric leaf blowers offer the convenience of a button-press start and do away with the noise and environmental pollution of gas blowers.

Backpack vs. handheld

Backpack leaf blowers arm users with power twice that of their handheld competitors. The tradeoff is the drawbacks associated with gas engines—maintenance, fuel mixing, noise pollution, and air pollution. They offer way more power than folks with a small front yard or even a sizable backyard need. But if you’re dealing with major acreage that has to be maintained meticulously and quickly, you may want to consider a backpack blower. Handheld leaf blowers are good for cleaning up your driveway, but the vibrations might make your hands hurt if used for an extended period of time.

Price range

A budget leaf blower will give you what you need to deal with your sidewalk and moderately sized yard. You’ll be able to find decent corded models for around $100. In some cases, you’ll find deals that get you models with useful features like mulching and vacuuming. Just expect lower CFM rates, which means you might have to spend longer blowing.

FAQs

Finals thoughts on the best leaf blowers

• Best overall: DeWALT Cordless XR Leaf Blower
• Best rechargeable: RYOBI Brushless Cordless Jet Fan Leaf Blower
• Best handheld: CRAFTSMAN Cordless Leaf Blower
• Best cordless: Worx Nitro 40V PRO LEAFJET Cordless Leaf Blower
• Best backpack: ECHO Gas Backpack Blower
• Best budget: BLACK+DECKER Leaf Blower & Leaf Vacuum

When buying a leaf blower, your first major consideration should be the demands of the property you are tending. Do you have access to power outlets? Do you have acres or a small backyard? This will tell you whether it’s worth buying a larger gas-powered model, or if you can stick with a corded or wireless model. From there, you’ll want to consider what kind of power tool owner you are. Are you someone who likes maintaining your landscaping tools, checking the engine, and mixing gas? Or do you simply want to plug something in or charge a battery?

Your environment also comes into play when considering how much power you’ll need. Are you dealing with debris other than leaves? Do you have close neighbors who will object to loud engine noise? Once you’ve reached this conclusion, you’ll want to set a price range. Remember that CFM rating will tell you how many leaves your tool can move at once, and MPH will tell you how it can handle heavier debris. Now you’re well on your way to finding the best blower for your home.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best leaf blowers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Fitbit Versa 4		SEE IT	The Versa 4 is the company’s most well-rounded smartwatch.
Best fitness tracker		Fitbit Charge 6		SEE IT	The Charge 6 offers advanced data-driven insights to help you optimize your workouts.
Best budget		Fitbit Inspire 3		SEE IT	The Inspire 3 is a low-cost fitness tracker for people who just want the basics.

For many tech and health enthusiasts, Fitbits are the first devices that come to mind when you say “fitness tracker.” In some circles, the company had briefly achieved that level of cultural ubiquity where people referred to all fitness trackers as “Fitbits.” The market is now saturated—with options from Garmin, Apple, Polar, and Amazfit, just to name a few—but there are still plenty of reasons to choose devices made by Fitbit. These fitness trackers and watches deliver outstanding levels of functionality, each with its own particular benefits. With so many types of Fitbits—not to mention multiple generations of each version—it might not be readily apparent which one makes the most sense for you. To that end, we’re looking at the top options for a range of intentions so you can work out (or even sleep) with confidence, knowing that these are truly the best Fitbits.

• Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4
• Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2
• Best for women: Fitbit Luxe
• Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2
• Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3
• Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

How we chose the best Fitbits

I selected these Fitbits like I do ebikes and gear for van-lifers (such as solar generators): through first-hand testing and input from real buyers. I tested these alongside fitness trackers from Fitbit and other leading brands, such as the Polar Ignite 2 Plus and the Garmin Venu 2 Plus. While testing, I looked to determine core functionality like tracker accuracy and battery, as well as the relative ease of use

The Fitbit versions that didn’t make the cut were not always significantly different from those included above, but our picks stood out for a reason. You can choose yours from these Fitbit reviews, knowing that these truly are the best options available right now.

The best Fitbits: Reviews & Recommendations

While the features offered by the various models tend to overlap—most build up from a base of 20 health and fitness metrics—each individual package tailors itself to a specific set of needs or parameters. Plenty of people want access to this data but don’t need the battery life for the backcountry and don’t necessarily want the bulk of a sensor-packed hiking/multisport watch. To that end, here are the best Fitbits for most people.

Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4

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Why it made the cut: With its broad range of fitness tracking capabilities, smartwatch functions, and lower price, the Versa 4 is a balanced fitness watch that plays to Fitbit’s strengths.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: Yes
• Battery life: 6 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Plenty of fitness tracking functions
• Detailed sleep-tracking information
• Wide range of smart features

Cons

• Higher price than most Fitbits
• Relatively short battery life

For all practical purposes, the Fitbit Versa 4 can do everything that most users want from their fitness tracker. It provides info about steps, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, calories burned, and sleep tracking. It’s also water-resistant down to 50 meters, in case you’re a swimmer. It even buzzes to let you know when you’ve entered your personalized target heart rate for exercise, which it refers to as your “active zone.”

At the same time, the Versa 4 includes plenty of smart functions. You can use it to take calls and receive notifications from your phone or ask Alexa about the weather. Fitbit also features an app ecosystem that’s smaller than iOS or Android but includes apps for music, payments, and more. The Versa 4 and more powerful Sense watch bring a lot of value to the table, but the Versa does so at a lower price, making it a slightly more accessible pick. If you’re looking for a less expensive version, read our review of the Fitbit Versa 3.

Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6

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Why it made the cut: With its expansive suite of fitness trackers and detailed workout insights, the Charge 6 is a gym rat’s best friend.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: Yes
• Battery life: 7 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Provides access to Google Maps, Wallet, and YouTube Music
• Stress management tools
• Provides recommendations for workouts, mindfulness, and challenges

Cons

• Subscription required for advanced insights
• Reply to calls and texts function for Android only

If you’re looking for the utmost in fitness-tracking power, the Fitbit Charge 6 delivers. With a full range of fitness and health tracking options, it records all the stats you need. What makes it stand out, however, is its workout intensity map, which leverages GPS and various physical data points to highlight when you’re getting the most and least out of your workout. Between workouts, it sends guidance to maintain mindfulness and workout optimization.

Though it’s primarily fitness-focused, it also features a smattering of basic smart functions that allow you to manage payments plus receive calls, texts, and calendar notifications. It also offers access to Google features such as YouTube Music controls, Google Wallet, and Google Maps. Some of these functions only work with Android phones, however.

The one drawback to the Charge 6—like all Fitbit devices—is its reliance on a subscription. Like the Whoop 4.0 and other recent high-end fitness trackers, Fitbit gates off many of its most detailed workout insights unless you pay for its Premium membership. You get six months of free access to see if it’s worth the $9.99 a month, but you should probably decide whether or not you’re even open to such an arrangement in the first place.

Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2

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Why it made the cut: The Sense 2 is a sleek, powerful smartwatch with advanced fitness-tracking capabilities.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: Yes
• Battery life: 6 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Fitbit’s largest suite of smart apps
• Includes ECG monitoring and EDA Scan for tracking heart health and stress
• Works with Alexa

Cons

• The most expensive Fitbit
• Relatively short battery life
• Large

If you want a fitness tracker that really leans into smart features, the sleek Fitbit Sense 2 delivers. With the largest suite of smart apps on any Fitbit device, as well as most of the key fitness and health tracking functions, it is the most powerful Fitbit we recommend. Most notably, the Sense includes an ECG for detecting heart health, as well as an EDA Scan app that monitors electrodermal activity and then provides a graph of how your body responds to stress. It is also the only Fitbit to come with a 6-month free trial of the guided meditation app Calm to support any stress management goals you might have.

Given all that, it’s worth noting that the Sense is the second most expensive device you can get from Fitbit right now. If you want all the features, the Sense may be the best choice, but it is bigger and more expensive than most of the pack.

Best for women: Fitbit Luxe

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Why it made the cut: The Fitbit Luxe is a great option if you want a fitness tracker that can double as a piece of jewelry. 

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: 5 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Stylish design
• Heart tracking
• Stress management tools included

Cons

• Need to connect to phone for GPS
• Doesn’t let you play music

If you’re looking for a fitness tracker that looks more like a bracelet than a military-grade smartwatch, the Fitbit Luxe is a good option. The slim design, polished stainless steel case, and bands available in a range of hues make this an option that works for both work and working out, and one of the best Fitbit watches for women. The Luxe also tracks heart rate, sleep, and breathing rate, plus provides some stress management tools. You can also text and receive call notifications, but you can’t access music or make calls. 

This tracker is water-resistant up to 50 meters, and has a battery life of up to five days. Unfortunately, you’ll need to connect to the GPS in your phone to see your pace in real-time, as it doesn’t offer built-in GPS. It won’t be the best option for those serious about accurate pace and mileage information as a result, but it does help keep the cost and size down.

Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This sleek watch can double as a sophisticated timepiece and a high-end fitness tracker. 

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: 24 hours
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Tracks heart rhythms 
• Comes with emergency SOS system
• Sophisticated design
• Available with 4G LTE service as well

Cons

• Only works for Android users

Google bought Fitbit in November 2019, and some of Fitbit’s fitness trackers feature the integration of the parent company’s features. Conversely, Google’s Pixel Watch 2 uses Fitbit’s tracking technology to monitor activity, calories burned, and sleep patterns. It also provides in-depth tracking of the heart rhythm with the ECG feature and can track skin temperature. Additionally, it has an SOS feature that allows users to contact 911 in case of an emergency. And the Android-compatible device pairs with Google’s Wear OS system, Pixel phones, and Pixel buds for running.

This Fitbit for men also allows users to get turn-by-turn guidance from Google Maps, make contactless payments, and receive calendar alerts. You can opt for a Bluetooth version if you want to keep your phone on you for notifications or spend $50 more for the 4G LTE version. But beyond the device’s functionality, it’s also a timepiece that looks great on the wrist with its domed design and AMOLED touchscreen display. Plus, it comes in a variety of color options, so you can choose one that fits your style best.

Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3

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Why it made the cut: With all the essential fitness tracking capabilities, the Inspire 3 gives you the features you need at a more affordable price.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: Up to 10 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• 20 fitness functions
• Long battery life
• Long premium trial

Cons

• Limited smartphone notifications
• Small, hard-to-read screen

If you just need a basic fitness tracker, try the Fitbit Inspire 3. It tracks all the basics—steps, calories, heart rate, etc. It also has more advanced features than other trackers, including active zone alert, cardio fitness scores, and a “daily readiness score” to make sure you let your body recover between workouts.

That said, this cheap Fitbit is very much an essentialist fitness tracker. It has some smartwatch functionality, including notifications for calls, text, and social media. It also offers stress management features and menstrual health tracking. These features require looking at the Inspire 3’s tiny screen, which isn’t ideal for anything beyond the quickest of glances. This is definitely a tracker for people who actively want to avoid the “smart features” and stay focused on working out. Looking to save a few dollars with an older version? Read our review of the Fitbit Inspire 2.

Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

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Why it made the cut: Arguably the most feature-rich fitness tracker designed specifically for kids, the Ace 3 helps keep your little one moving.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: No
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: Up to 8 days
• Premium membership: Not included

Pros

• Parent View safety feature
• Incentivizes fitness in kids
• Bedtime reminders and sleep tracking

Cons

• Single wristband size doesn’t fit all wrists
• Some users have reported durability issues with the buckle

There aren’t too many quality fitness trackers designed specifically for kids, so the Fitbit Ace 3 is incredibly useful and the best Fitbit for kids. It primarily tracks steps and sleep but can also set challenges to keep kids motivated and active. You can also set reminders to prompt children to get up, move, stretch, or sleep at specific times. Its features are comparatively very limited beyond the basics, but it is water-resistant for up to 50 meters, so it is durable and can stay on in the pool.

The Ace 3 supports the Fitbit app, which features separate viewing modes for parents and kids when you activate the Family Account mode. In Parent View mode, parents can monitor their kid’s activity and approve any connections in the Fitbit social community. Meanwhile, Kid View presents a child-friendly version of the fitness tracker experience, with access to stats, badges, personalized avatars, and challenges. Like many of the best smartwatches for kids, it’s cute but quite feature-packed.

What to consider before buying a Fitbit

Each Fitbit variety offers its unique features and benefits, so it’s important to keep a few things in mind when choosing which is the best one for you and whether that’s the latest Fitbit or old Fitbit models. These are, for the most part, the same considerations to keep in mind when picking any fitness tracker or fitness watch. 

Health goals

To judge any fitness tracker, you must know how you plan to use it. Are you looking to track your high-impact workouts or simply ensure you get your steps in? Monitor heart health or blood oxygen levels? Or maybe sleep tracking and monitoring mindfulness? Different Fitbits come with varying feature sets that will accommodate different goals. Often, more complex trackers will be larger, more complicated, and more expensive. Finding the right balance among those three factors will set you up to use your Fitbit to the fullest.

Cost

Fitbits come in many shapes and sizes, meaning some are more expensive than others. Some models cost as little as $60. Others get as high as $400. Again, you want to find a balance between feature-set and price that works for you, but it’s also generally important to keep your budget in mind as you shop.

Smart functions

While some Fitbits act as fairly basic fitness trackers, others are much more elaborate smartwatches. Which is right for you depends on whether or not you need all those smarts.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Fitbits

• Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4
• Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2
• Best for women: Fitbit Luxe
• Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2
• Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3
• Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

The best Fitbit for you comes down to one of two factors: whether you want a smartwatch or a fitness tracker and your budget. The core fitness tracking features are largely consistent among most models. Hence, you need to consider whether you care about smartphone-related lifestyle features and the advanced fitness analytics that come with Fitbit’s premium subscription. Ultimately, most Fitbits are great so long as their features and your expectations are in sync.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best Fitbits for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best wearable		Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap		SEE IT	Don’t pretend like you don’t want that wrapped around you.
Best battery-powered		The Cozee Battery Operated Cordless Heated Blanket		SEE IT	A dedicated battery pack provides warmth without the grid.
Best overall		Sunbeam Royal Luxe Heated Blanket		SEE IT	It’s comfortable, durable, and easy to use.

On cold nights, there’s nothing more comforting than getting into a pre-warmed bed thanks to a heated blanket. Heated blankets, sometimes called electric blankets, are just like a regular soft blanket but with wires inside that provide heat when supplied with current. You can even get wireless battery-powered options that allow you to stay warm all night long without the hassle of tangling cords. Whether you opt for smaller single sizes, which are often better at dispersing heat, or share the experience with a large blanket made for two, we have sourced the best heated blankets for you.

• Best overall: Sunbeam Royal Luxe Heated Blanket
• Best battery-powered: The Cozee Battery Operated Cordless Heated Blanket
• Best for couples: Perfect Fit Ultra Soft Plush Electric Blanket
• Best wearable: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap 
• Best budget: Beautyrest Brushed Long Fur Electric Throw

How we chose the best heated blankets

The writers and editors at Popular Science have decades of combined experience in writing about, reviewing, and recommending products across a wide variety of categories. For this list of the best heated blankets, we relied on spec comparisons, personal experience, editorial reviews, and user feedback. We prioritize reliability here at Popular Science, so we emphasized models that promise to last several years. While we haven’t tested them for years to guarantee durability, we prioritize brands with solid reputations and models built with long-lasting materials.

The best heated blankets: Reviews & Recommendations

Our picks for the best heated blankets promise to keep you toasty even when it’s cold outside and drafty in your home. Plus, they’re more convenient than sleeping in even the best, most comfortable heated gloves, socks, insoles, and vests. If you want to snuggle up for sound sleep and feel cozy without touching the thermostat or fiddling with a space heater, you can relax under the warmth of one of our top picks. 

Best overall: Sunbeam Royal Luxe Heated Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Fabric type: Polyester microfiber
• Heat Settings: 12
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros 

• Dual controllers
• Easy to use
• Soft, cozy fabric

Cons 

• Thin fabric means you can feel the wires inside

Available in a range of colors—including beige, blue, red, and gray—this blanket scored top marks for comfort and durability. To machine wash, simply unplug the remote and toss the blanket in your washer and dryer. 

The dual controllers and large Queen size make it a good choice for couples sharing a bed. You’ll both be able to adjust the temperature and turn it on or off if your partner falls asleep before you. The control remote is also bright and easy to use, even in the middle of the night. It evenly distributes heat to prevent overheating, and the blanket material, although warm, isn’t too heavy. It comes with a five-year limited warranty for peace of mind. The automatic 12-hour shutoff was the longest shut-off from the blankets tested and means you can fall asleep knowing it will turn off by itself. This is our top choice to help you get a restful (and warm) night’s sleep.

Best battery-powered: The Cozee Battery Operated Cordless Heated Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Fabric type: Polyester & Polyester Blend
• Heat Settings: 5
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros 

• Totally portable  
• Wireless 
• Modern design

Cons 

• Battery life is poor on high setting

Instead of a bulky controller plugged into the wall, this portable heated blanket comes with a rechargeable large-capacity battery, not unlike a power brick you’d use to charge your phone. The blanket heats up in just five seconds, providing warmth when you need it most. It folds down to fit any 10 inches by 8 inches space, perfect for stowing in the car or a backpack on the road. 

Once heated, expect 2-8 hours of use, plenty of time to fall asleep soundly. The material is lightweight, machine-washable, and soft to the touch. Although this blanket would work well in bed, it excels as a portable option to keep you warm at sporting events, when traveling, or especially camping or staying in an RV. In fact, it makes a great present for anyone who loves warm gear gifts. However, the five heat settings don’t offer too much variation, and it’s worth keeping in mind that the highest setting will drain the battery considerably. Lower price options are available if a wireless design is not your priority.

Best for couples: Perfect Fit Ultra Soft Plush Electric Blanket

SEE IT

Specs

• Fabric type: Polyester Blend micro plush
• Heat Settings: 10
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros 

• Very large size  
• Individual controls 
• Small wires and even heat distribution

Cons 

• Expensive

It’s a perfect solution for couples with different sleep styles and preferences. It features separate heating zones and individualized controls, and you can change the temperature silently so as not to wake your sleeping partner. The separate controls mean you can both choose your ideal temperature and sleep soundly. You can also adjust this temperature throughout the night for individualized comfort.

A large, easy-to-grasp dial-style controller and a non-slip bottom make this a very accessible device. If you forget to turn it off, an automatic shut-off at 10 hours will keep you safe. This blanket doesn’t feel overly hot to the touch and doesn’t get hot zones as the heat is evenly distributed. It also features very small wires that cannot be felt through the blanket for ultimate comfort while you both sleep. Choose from three colors—sage green, red, or beige—to complement your bedding.

Best wearable: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros 

• Affordable  
• Hands-free design 
• Heats up quickly

Cons 

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

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

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

Best budget: Beautyrest Brushed Long Fur Electric Throw

SEE IT

Specs

• Fabric type: 100% Polyester
• Heat Settings: 3
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros 

• Affordable price point 
• Furry fabric offers extra warmth

Cons 

• Only one size (oversize throw) available 
• Controller overheats if covered by the blanket

The heating wires are laid throughout this throw in an “S” pattern, evenly distributing heat. Although only available in one size, the oversized 50 inches by 60 inches, it’s perfect for one person to keep warm. Expect heat ranges of 85 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, although the long fur provides additional warmth as well. You’ll be limited to just three heat settings, but this heated blanket still offers good value for money at such a reasonable price. 

The two-hour auto shut-off provides peace of mind, although if you like to snuggle up while you watch TV before bed, you might need to reset it to keep you warm as you sleep. Some reviewers complained that the lifespan was short, which you should remember when researching heated to buy. As this blanket is on the smaller side, it could be a great option for keeping warm on the couch instead of at bedtime.

Things to consider before buying the best heated blankets 

While we’re happy to recommend specific models, we also like to provide some insight into what we consider the essential features that come with your new heated blanket. Here are some features and specs to look for while you’re shopping.

Safety

You might prefer the reassuring heavy feel of a weighted blanket instead of a heated blanket; after all, they don’t suit everyone. If you prefer to sleep wrapped up in a ball or your temperature fluctuates dramatically during the night, a heated blanket might not suit your needs. It’s also important to keep a few safety precautions in mind:

Damaged or frayed wires can make heated blankets unsafe. Get into the habit of checking them regularly and rolling rather than folding your blanket for storage. You should also choose a model with an automatic shut-off to prevent overheating. 

Heat settings 

The more heat settings your heated blanket has, the more you can customize it to your unique (and changing) needs. Depending on the weather, your other blankets and bedding, or the season, adjust the heat setting to suit your sleep habits best. You might also prefer to choose a heated throw blanket over one that you sleep with. 

Pets 

It’s not advised to use heated blankets with pets as they can become overheated and may chew or claw through the wires.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heated blankets

• Best overall: Sunbeam Royal Luxe Heated Blanket
• Best budget: Beautyrest Brushed Long Fur Electric Throw
• Best battery-powered: The Cozee Battery Operated Cordless Heated Blanket
• Best for couples: Perfect Fit Ultra Soft Plush Electric Blanket
• Best wearable: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap 

Heated blankets can be a great way to stay warm on chilly nights, save money on your heating bills, or just make your bed extra snuggly and cozy. If you share a bed with someone else, buying an extra large heated blanket is a good idea and ensures you both have access to the controls to individualize your sleep space to your comfort level. Even if you don’t like to fall asleep with your heated blanket on, you can still opt for a wearable blanket to keep warm around the house or use a heated blanket to warm up your sheets before you slip out of your comfy heated slippers and into bed.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best heated blankets of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best for skiing		Thermic C-Pack Set		SEE IT	The perfect boot warmer for skiers and snowboarders alike.
Easiest to trim		Thermrup Electric Heated Insole Foot Warmers		SEE IT	Consistent warmth and a custom fit.
Best customizable		Hotronic Foot Warmer S4+ Universal		SEE IT	Easily attach to your existing insoles with a long-lasting battery.

There’s nothing worse than heading home early from what should be a great snow day because all the heat has left your toes or having a tough time focusing at work because all you can think about is the cold creeping into your insoles. You might be dreaming of the space heater waiting for you at home, but you need a solution now. Heated insoles can quickly and comfortably take out any unwelcome chills that come your way. These impressively compact creations can be found in various sizes and suited to various activities. Some heated shoe insoles are disposable, some are powered by rechargeable batteries, and some are even water-resistant (we’re looking at you fellow frequent foot-sweaters). Plus, most models are designed to minimize bulk or extra padding, so you won’t have to worry about your toes being squished. The best heated insoles are a great way to stay warm and stay active even when the temperature starts to drop.

• Best overall: Thermacell Original Heated Insoles
• Best for ski boots: Thermic C-Pack Set
• Best high-temperature: Riomza Rechargeable Heated Insoles
• Best toe warmers: HotHands Heat Max Toe Warmers
• Easiest to trim: Thermrup Electric Heated Insole Foot Warmers
• Best customizable: Hotronic S4+ Universal Foot Warmer
• Best budget: HotHands Insole Foot Warmers

How we chose the best heated insoles

We’ve reviewed plenty of heated tech, but we’re practically experts in the realm of electric clothes. We looked at critical reviews, user recommendations, performed personal testing, and conducted heavy research to back our findings. The scientific method! It’s great!

The best heated insoles: Reviews & Recommendations

Heated shoe inserts are safe and easy to use; as long as you follow all included directions, you don’t need to worry about any damage to your skin, socks, or shoes. This makes them the perfect companion for many shoe types, including ski boots, hiking shoes, running sneakers, and more. Any one of our picks will be sure to toast up those tootsies.

Best overall: Thermacell Original Heated Insoles

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These bright red insoles have a matching remote so you can control the temperature and turn it on and off without bending over or taking off your shoes.

Specs

• Weight: .75 lbs.
• Material: Polyurethane
• Power source: Battery powered
• Heat range: 100°F-111°F

Pros

• Remote control
• Shock absorbent
• Retains it shape well

Cons

• Can accidentally control a different pair of heated insoles with universal remote

Although Thermacell is known for its mosquito-repelling tech, they aren’t a one-trick pony with these battery-operated inserts. The wireless, remote-controlled insoles can heat between 100°F-111°F—there’s also a No Heat setting in case you end up indoors. Polyurethane foam allows for even heat conduction and shock resistance for comfortable wear all day. No more cold feet this winter—just ensure you stay far enough from someone else wearing these insoles, as you can control their pair thanks to the universal remote.

Best for ski boots: Thermic C-Pack Set

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These long-lasting heated insoles provide 17 hours of heat for warm feet all day on the slopes.

Specs

• Weight: .75 lbs.
• Material: Polyurethane
• Power source: Battery powered
• Heat range: Unknown

Pros

• Bluetooth enabled to control from phone
• Can use with existing insoles
• Ultra-fine heat elements for comfort

Cons

• Expensive

This set from Thermic are the best heated insoles for ski boots on the market. The batteries provide up to 17 hours of heat, perfect for overnight trips, and they can fit underneath the strap of your ski boot to increase your mobility and keep you comfortable. There are three heat settings—low, medium, and high—that you can control via Bluetooth from your phone. Plus, the heating element can be used with your existing insoles or arch supports without issue. If this high-end model’s price point isn’t right for you, Thermic has many other options for you to peruse.

Best high-temperature: Riomza Rechargeable Heated Insoles

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These inserts reach up to 150°F—as Paris Hilton would say, “That’s hot!”

Specs

• Weight: .75 lbs.
• Material: Carbon fiber
• Power source: Battery powered
• Heat range: 104°F-150°F

Pros

• Trimmable
• Comes with a wireless remote control with LED display
• Quickly heats up

Cons

• Heels thick to fit battery

These heated shoe insoles have three different temperature settings easily controlled with an included remote. The highest setting can reach up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. They come in three sizes that are easily trimmable to fit your shoe. Perhaps best of all, the battery for these guys sits inside the heel, so you don’t need to worry about strapping it elsewhere on your body—perfect for work or hunting—though this does tend to add a tiny bit of weight.

Best toe warmers: HotHands Heat Max Toe Warmers

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These single-use toe warmers stop stinky feet and are perfect to throw in your car for warm feet at a hands’ reach.

Specs

• Weight: Entire package is 2.2 lbs.
• Material: Iron powder, water, salt, activated charcoal, and wood fiber
• Power source: Air-activated
• Heat range: 100°F-115°F

Pros

• Thin
• Odor-absorbing
• Ingredients don’t hurt the environment

Cons

• You’re bound to come across a dud pair of warmers
• Can’t control temperature

These toe warmers from HotHands are our go-to when we need a little bit of extra insulation in our shoes. All you need to do is remove them from the pack and shake them for up to eight hours of heat. They are super thin so that you won’t feel any extra bulk, and they contain odor-absorbing activated charcoal, so if you do start to sweat, you won’t notice any stink.

Easiest to trim: Thermrup Electric Heated Insole Foot Warmers

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get insoles for the whole family—with peace of mind that they’ll fit—with these lightweight, battery-operated inserts.

Specs

• Weight: .62 lbs.
• Material: Nylon, EVA foam
• Power source: Battery powered
• Heat range: Unknown

Pros

• Comfortable
• Washable
• Even heat distribution

Cons

• Short battery life compared to other insoles on our list

These heated insoles from Warmfits can last for up to four hours. The included cable connects to the battery, which can be charged using rechargeable batteries. Plus, you can cut the soles to fit your shoes and relax, knowing they’re made from comfortable EVA foam.

Best customizable: Hotronic S4+ Universal Foot Warmer

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get the perfect fit with these insoles that can last you from 2.5-25 hours.

Specs

• Weight: 1 lb.
• Material: Polyurethane
• Power source: Battery powered
• Heat range: Uknown

Pros

• Last up to 21 hours, depending on heat setting
• Switch design prevents accidental turn-off
• Wiring is thin and not noticeable

Cons

• Expensive

These heated insoles for shoes from Hotronic are all you need for custom heat. Though it does include insoles, it also has two separate heating elements that can attach to the toe of your own orthotic, with four heat settings. The batteries can last up to 21 hours, depending on the heat output, in cold climates with temperatures that can get as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best budget: HotHands Insole Foot Warmers

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These feet warmers stick to the bottom of your socked feet and are cheap—and easy—to keep around.

Specs

• Weight: Entire package is 2 lbs.
• Material: Iron powder, water, salt, and wood fiber
• Power source: Air-activated
• Heat range: 100°F-115°F

Pros

• Long-lasting
• Won’t budge
• Natural heat

Cons

• You’re bound to come across a dud pair of warmers
• Can’t control temperature

HotHands heated insoles are air-activated, safely made, and can last for up to nine hours. They’re great for winter sports and outdoor activities like tailgating, yard work, dog walks, and more.

What to consider when buying the best heated insoles

To find the best heated insoles for you, think about how often you’ll be using them, what kinds of outdoor activities you’ll be doing, and the temperatures you’re expecting. Do you need something that will last for hours, or do you want to prioritize heat settings? Do you already wear shoe supports and need something customizable? Are you looking for something disposable and budget-friendly? We’ve created this guide to help you answer those questions and get one step closer to warm feet.

Need the perfect boot warmer for your ski trip?

Perhaps the most popular reason for purchasing heated insoles is skiing. Using a heated insole can extend your time on the mountain by preventing pain and cramping caused by the cold.

If you’re looking for a warming insole to slip inside your ski boot, ensure you get one that you can customize to fit the room inside the boot, particularly around the toe box. You’ll also want a boot warmer that will last more than a couple of runs; if you’re looking for a full day of skiing, go for a unit that has at least five to six hours of battery life. We also recommend grabbing an insole with a water-resistant battery pack. Even though your feet are likely protected from the snow by your ski pants, there is still a chance moisture will sneak in; waterproof or resistant insoles will prevent damage over time, as well as keep you safe.

If you’re entirely new to rechargeable insoles, you should know that most models come with an external battery that can attach to your shoe or be placed in a pack to wrap around your leg or ankle. They require a set of wires to plug the insole into the battery. If you’re using a heated insole for skiing, make sure you select a pair with super durable wires that won’t stretch or snap if you take a tumble. Of course, when you go inside, you can change into your heated slippers to keep your feet warm and cozy.

Will you be outside in below-freezing temperatures?

Maybe you aren’t a winter sports fanatic, and you need something for everyday use because you live in a freezing locale. If this is the case, the most important thing to consider is the included heat settings.

Many heated insoles will come with a few heat levels; some need to be manually set; others can be controlled via remote. Remember, when you use the highest heat setting on any insole, you will decrease the battery life faster than a cooler heat setting. You’ll still be able to squeeze out a couple of hours with consistent heat, but you might not be able to make it through a winter trek before the battery dies. It’s a good idea to take the insoles out for a little test drive before committing to more prolonged activities like hikes or an errand marathon. That way, you can figure out which setting is right for you, keeping your feet warm, not sweaty. However, it’s recommended you wear socks with your heated insoles to absorb any potential sweat.

Are you constantly scrunching up your toes to get the blood flowing?

While evenly dispersed heat is never a bad thing, some people need to target specific areas in order to get the relief they need. Just like your fingers get chilly before your palms, your toes are usually the first part of your feet to feel the effects of extreme cold. How many times have you found yourself standing outside desperately wiggling your toes, scrunching them up, or jumping up and down just to try and feel them again? If this sounds like you, and you have good circulation elsewhere, maybe all you need is a set of really great toe warmers.

Toe warmers are significantly smaller than insoles, making them a little more susceptible to moving around or getting scrunched up in the shoe; they also have a bit more trouble connecting to a battery via wires (which are connected to the heel in most insoles). This is why we actually recommend sticking to a disposable, adhesive toe warmer. You’ll get the heat you need, for an extended period of time, without breaking the bank or struggling to flatten them out at the end of the day.

What are the best heated insoles that will last for hours on camping our hunting trips?

Some winter activities require you to be outside in the cold for long periods of time. Hunting, camping, and trekking can leave you feeling frozen, especially if you haven’t prepared properly. Similar to prioritizing heat over longevity, if you need the maximum amount of battery life out of your heated insoles, you might need to sacrifice the highest temperatures or a variety of temperature settings. However, not having tons of levels to choose from means more concentrated, evenly dispersed heat that won’t get cooler with each passing hour as the battery’s energy fades.

You can also look for extra features to keep your heated insoles lasting longer. The best heated insoles for long days will include batteries you can charge in the car. This means you can charge on the way to your trip or activity while also keeping the option open for a quick boost.

Do you want to stay warm but keep your current insoles?

Orthotics and insoles are extremely common and used by people of all ages to support their arches, relieve strain, cushion calluses, and minimize symptoms of tendinitis. More serious conditions are often treated with custom-molded insoles prescribed by podiatrists. If you already have insoles you love, but find yourself needing a little bit of extra warmth, there are options out there.

Some heated insoles come in a pack, and some sell their parts separately. This is great for folks who have orthotics but need a heating element. The packs will instruct you where to place the protected element on your insole, typically on the toe area, and how to connect all necessary cables or wires. You generally won’t need to do anything else; any individual heating element will be safe for you to use without adding anything extra. However, do not try to remove the heating element embedded in traditional heated insoles; this could be dangerous and result in injury. If you tend to get cold easily, you should also check a pair of heated hand warmers or heated gloves.

Best budget heated insoles

You don’t need to spend a ton of money on heated insoles, especially if you only need them a few days out of the year. You can easily address frigid feet for well under $45. Disposable foot warmers work great and are a better fit for tighter budgets. Most of them just need a quick shake to combine the chemicals inside before you adhere them to the bottom of your shoe. Disposable insoles have a three- to four-year shelf life, so you don’t have to use them right away. This makes them great for a couple of winter vacations.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heated insoles

• Best overall: Thermacell Original Heated Insoles
• Best for ski boots: Thermic C-Pack Set
• Best high-temperature: Riomza Rechargeable Heated Insoles
• Best toe warmers: HotHands Heat Max Toe Warmers
• Easiest to trim: Thermrup Electric Heated Insole Foot Warmers
• Best customizable: Hotronic S4+ Universal Foot Warmer
• Best budget: HotHands Insole Foot Warmers

The best heated insoles are going to keep your feet warm so you can enjoy your favorite winter activities. From rechargeable to disposable, these foot warmers are a great way to relieve any pain or discomfort you feel during the coldest time of the year. Consider how much time you’ll be spending outside, how much extra heat you need, and what you’ll be doing while wearing your new foot warmers. Once you can answer these questions, you’ll be ready to purchase a great pair of heated insoles.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best heated insoles of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

It’s a little slice of Mars right here on Earth. The volcanoes of the dry and arid Atacama desert in Argentina and Chile climb roughly 20,000 feet above sea level, with blistering winds, parched conditions, and freezing temperatures. However, a team of biologists who discovered a living two ounce leaf-eared mouse three years ago, have now found multiple mummified mice in these extreme conditions. The findings are described in a study published October 23 in the journal Current Biology.

[Related: Male mice are utterly terrified of bananas.]

“The most surprising thing about our discovery is that mammals could be living on the summits of volcanoes in such an inhospitable, Mars-like environment,” study co-author and University of Nebraska, Lincoln evolutionary biologist Jay Storz said in a statement. “Well-trained mountain climbers can tolerate such extreme elevations during a one-day summit attempt, but the fact that mice are actually living at such elevations demonstrates that we have underestimated the physiological tolerances of small mammals.”

Finding freeze-dried mummy mice

As far back as the 1970s and 1980s, archaeologists reported seeing mouse cadavers at these extreme heights. The assumption was that they naturally must have hitched a ride up the summit with the Incas. These sites are considered sacred to the Inca and the belief was that they could have been brought up along with firewood up the slopes or potentially were offered up as sacrifices.

“You can’t fault the archaeologists for thinking this way, because what other explanation is there?” said Storz. “Nothing could be living up there, so they had to have been brought there.”

Inadvertently, doubts on the mice as hitchhikers theory were cast early in 2020. Storz and his friend and fellow mountaineer Mario Pérez Mamani, captured a live specimen of leaf-eared mouse atop the 22,000-foot peak of Llullaillaco, a volcano on Chile-Argentina border. 

Along with the discovery of more live mice, they’ve now found 13 mouse mummies on the summits of three neighboring volcanoes—Salín, Púlar, and Copiapo—all close to four miles above sea level.

“These are basically freeze-dried, mummified mice,” Storz said.

It’s all relative

The frozen in time state also helped preserve their DNA and crucial genetic information. Alongside collaborators from the University of Montana, Storz compared the genetic variation among the leaf-eared mice collected in the lowlands, midlands, and highlands of Atacama Desert. This cross-habitat zone analysis can help trace the evolutionary history of animal populations that are separated by physical barriers, distance, or altitude.

[Related: 1,000-year-old mummy with full head of hair and intact jaw found in Peru.]

The team questioned whether the mummified mice living on top of the Andes Mountains may be a different subpopulation of the leaf-eared rodent that has a colonization history that differs from their more low-land dwelling peers. According to Storz, they found that the mice from the summits and those from the flanks or the base of the volcanoes in the surrounding desert are “one big happy family.”

Two pairs of the leaf-eared mummies found on Salín were also closely related, possibly siblings or parents and offspring. Along with the discovery of the live mouse burrows, the equal ratio of males to females found among the mummies, also points to the leaf-eared mouse living in and not just touring these summits. 

‘How in God’s name is anything living up there?’

Puna de Atacama is among Earth’s most inhospitable places and NASA has visited the Atacama to practice for future missions on Mars. Its less than 0.6 inches of annual rainfall make it a good analogue for the Red Planet and a rovers designed to dig in Martian soil to search for microbial life have been tested here. 

“Even at the base of the volcanoes, the mice are living in an extreme, Martian environment. And then, on the summits of the volcanoes, it’s even more so. It feels like outer space,” said Storz. “It just boggles the mind that any kind of animal, let alone a warm-blooded mammal, could be surviving and functioning in that environment. When you experience it all firsthand, it even further impresses upon you: How in God’s name is anything living up there?”

To learn more, Storz and team have established laboratory colonies of leaf-eared mice that were collected from various altitudes. They acclimated each group to conditions that simulate the Puna de Atacama, hoping to pinpoint the physiological adaptations that the rodents cope with life at the extreme. They’re are also continuing mountaineering surveys of small mammals living on high Andean peaks in Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile.

They believe it possible that avoiding predators such as birds of prey, foxes, mountain lions, and smaller cats could be what’s driving the mice to live here. 

“But why they’re ascending to these extreme elevations is still a mystery,” Stoz said.

The post How did mummified mice end up on volcanoes in the Atacama Desert? appeared first on Popular Science.

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It wasn’t too many years ago that an 86-inch TV wasn’t just expensive; it was almost impossible to get. Right now, however, Best Buy has the LG 86” Class UR7800 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV for just $899. That’s $100 cheaper than you can even get at the big price club stores that require an annual subscription. That’s a lot of TV for not a lot of money.

LG 86” Class UR7800 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $899 (was $1,249)

SEE IT

This TV is a very solid deal even for its retail price, but at $899, it’s an absolute steal. It offers full 4K resolution and a powerful image processor to upscale all your older content into UHD. You get three HDMI ports, full HDR compatibility, and LG’s own WebOS operating system. It’s not the latest and greatest, but it’s huge, bright, and offers Filmmaker Mode to help movies look exactly as their directors intended. Imagine hanging this on your wall and watching Suits while all those other suckers battle it out for TVs on Black Friday.

More TV deals

• Toshiba – 65″ Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $369 (was $529)
• TCL – 65″ Class Q5 Q-Class 4K QLED HDR Smart TV with Google TV $399 (was $599)
• Samsung – 75″ Class TU690T Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV $629 (was $749)
• LG – 65″ Class C3 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,599 (was $2,499)
• LG – 77″ Class C3 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $2,499 (was $3,499)
• Samsung – 65″ Class S90C OLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $1,599 (was $2,599)
• LG – 65″ Class B3 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,299 (was $2,399)
• LG – 65” Class UQ70 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $449 (was $599)
• Samsung – 65” Class Q80C QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $1,199 (was $1,499)
• Samsung – 65″ Class Q60C QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $849 (was $999)
• Hisense – 75″ Class A6 Series LED 4K UHD HDR LED Google TV $499 (was $649)

The post Get an 86-inch 4K LG TV cheaper than ever with Best Buy’s early Black Friday deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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Our bodies are incredibly adept at reacting to stressors, fighting to keep our biological systems balanced whenever we encounter a new shock or threat. But this equilibrium act has limits, and new research suggests that traumatic weather events can set our hormones awry long term. 

In December 2004, a colossal tsunami hit the coast of Indonesia, killing more than 230,000 people. The disaster devastated communities, and many of those who survived reported symptoms of post-traumatic stress. But the health effects extend far beyond those initial weeks, months, or even years. More than a decade later, the tsunami continues to have health consequences for survivors, according to new research published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 

As part of a larger project that aims to survey the wave’s long-term effects, scientists joined collaborators in Indonesia in 2018 to study the primary stress hormone cortisol. By sampling the molecule from the hair of adults, the researchers found that women who survived the tsunami had lower cortisol levels compared to those who did not live through the disaster. This pattern, researchers say, indicates a type of hormonal “burnout” in response to repeated stressors. The findings emphasize how the trauma of natural disasters and extreme weather events—which will only increase in frequency with climate change—can have extended effects on our well-being far after initial events. 

The authors of the new work homed in on a specific regulatory system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls our levels of cortisol, among other hormones. Normally, cortisol rises as part of a healthy response to stressors, and lowers again when that stress has passed. But when faced with repeated high levels of stress, the HPA axis can experience “burnout,” which can lead to “longer term inability to mount the healthy response you want to react to your daily stressors,” says the study’s first author, Ralph Lawton, currently a doctoral student in health policy and economics at Harvard University. In other words, repeated high levels of stress can wear out your HPA axis, leaving it unable to produce adequate cortisol moving forward. 

[Related: The biggest tool we have to fight climate anxiety is community]

To conduct this research, they collected hair from more than 600 individuals from communities badly affected by the 2004 tsunami, and quantified the cortisol located in the 1.2 inches of hair closest to the scalp. HPA axis burnout was seen most strongly in women who were exposed to the tsunami’s direct impacts—their hair cortisol levels were 30 percent lower than counterparts not similarly exposed. It’s not that there wasn’t an effect in men, Lawton clarifies, but in their analyses the effect in men wasn’t statistically significant, so they can’t say for sure. 

“The consequences of large-scale disasters for stress have been established, but only over the short term,” says Duncan Thomas, an economist at Duke University and one of the leads of the new research. “But I’m not aware of a long term study that’s been able to show that they persist,” he says, “which is really the important contribution of our work.” 

But the long arm of health effects brought on by the tsunami is not surprising to Arun Karlamangla, a professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, who was not involved in this new research but has collaborated with several of the authors. There is plenty of evidence, for example, that traumatic and stressful events in childhood can affect the function of the HPA axis and cortisol levels of individuals well into adulthood, twenty years or more later, he says.

[Related on PopSci+: Stress can literally kill you. Here’s how.]

Having cortisol levels that are too low is significant for health, says Lawton. It’s associated with lethargy, feeling less resilient and adaptable to daily stressors, and difficulty processing anxiety and stress. And these study participants who have lower cortisol levels in their hair also tended to report poorer perceptions of their own health, says Thomas. Karlamangla also notes that cortisol is also important for memory and learning.

Natural disasters and extreme weather events will only become more frequent with climate change, and it’s possible that many of the long term effects that arise will be similar to those from this tsunami. In that way this research could be broadly applicable to the “long term effects of climate change,” Thomas says. These findings reiterate the need for resources to be funneled toward interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, he says. Those should be made accessible to local communities—in their own languages—in the aftermath of disaster, he says. In the future, intervening this way will not only improve immediate outcomes for people, “it’s probably going to pay dividends long term.”

The post Natural disasters can burn out our hormonal systems for years appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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

How we chose the best hand warmers

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

The best hand warmers: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best overall: HotSnapZ Reusable Hand Warmers

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

• Reusable
• Last 200-300 uses
• Instant heat

Cons

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

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

Best reusable long-lasting warmers: Zippo Hand Warmer

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

• Refillable and reusable
• Long-lasting
• Flameless warmth

Cons

• Not TSA-friendly

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

Best rechargeable: OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmer

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Casing scratches easily

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

Best for skiing: Snow Deer Heated Gloves

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Palm runs small

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

Best for hunting: Hunter Safety System Heated Muff

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

• Storage pockets
• Soft lining
• Ergonomic

Cons

• Power bank not included

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

Best budget: HotHands Warmers

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

Things to consider when looking for the best hand warmers

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

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

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

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

What are the best hand warmers for longevity?

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

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

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

Consider rechargeable hand warmers

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

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

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

Do you plan on hitting the slopes?

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

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

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

Do you need something classic for hunting?

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

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

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

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best hand warmers

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

The best hand warmers for you fit your lifestyle and needs. If you’re active in short bursts, a reusable, chemically activated option might be right for you. If you’re going on longer camping trips with no electricity in sight, grab a refillable, lighter-fuel-based model. If you’re constantly going numb in the fingertips and need something reliable and reusable, reach for the rechargeable one. And if you just need something to get you out and about or on the slopes with all-day protection from the cold, consider a disposable model. No matter what, stay bundled out there.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best hand warmers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Lasko 5775 Electric 1500W Ceramic Space Heater Tower		SEE IT	With 1,500 watts of heating power and multiple settings, this heater can tailor the temperature of your space.
Best for large rooms		Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater		SEE IT	This quiet-running, powerful pick can warm even large spaces with a range of 50 to 85 degrees.
Best electric		Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP07		SEE IT	This HEPA-approved Dyson space heater can also act as a purifier and fan for year-round functionality.

If you’re tired of stockpiling blankets, extra socks, and heated slippers to keep you warm, it might be time to consider getting a space heater. These powerful appliances are a great way to get cozy without installing a complicated heating system. If your radiator just isn’t cutting it or someone insists on keeping a window open to freshen the room up, a space heater could be the perfect solution. The best space heaters are designed specifically to warm up spaces both small and large; they should be portable, effective, and fast-acting.

Buying a space heater is a worthwhile investment, but you want to make sure you look at all the information available about each product to determine which will be right for you and your space. To get you started, we’ve created this brief guide to help you learn more about these lean, mean, cold-fighting machines. Get ready to cozy up with your favorite books without reaching for your hat and gloves with the best space heaters.

• Best overall: Lasko 5775 Electric 1500W Ceramic Space Heater Tower
• Best for large rooms: Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater
• Best energy saving: De’Longhi Oil-Filled Radiator Space Heater
• Best for bedrooms: Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater
• Best electric: Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP07
• Best wall heater: Dreo Smart Wall Heater
• Best budget: Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater

How we chose the best space heaters

To select the best space heaters that will stave off even the worst winter chills and frigid breezes, we compared over 50 products—looking at reviews, wattage, heat type, bonus features, and brands. From high-tech options like the Dyson Pure Hot + Cool to an energy-efficient oil-filled radiator, these space heaters can suit a variety of needs and spaces. Whether you have a massive room that needs high-wattage heating or are trying to warm up your apartment on a budget, we compared reviews and specs to choose only reliable and quality heaters.

The best space heaters: Reviews & Recommendations

The best space heaters can help you stay warm while you wait for your landlord to turn the radiators on. If you’re always cold, they provide an extra layer of warmth and comfort to your office, living room, bedroom, or garage. We’ve narrowed down some of the cozy space heaters on the market—at least one should melt your winter blues.

Best overall: Lasko 5775 Electric 1500W Ceramic Space Heater Tower

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Why it made the cut: If you’re looking for a high-quality space heater on a budget, look no further than this tower heater from Lasko.

Specs

• Watts: 1500 watts
• Dimensions: 23.5 x 8.5 x 7.5 inch.
• Heating type: Convection

Pros

• Easy to use
• Degree increments
• Remote control

Cons

• Noisy compared to other heaters

Space heaters can get pricey. Get something that’s budget-friendly—and high-quality—with this Lasko 5775 Electric 1500W Ceramic Space Heater Tower. It’s from the same company as our best overall pick, just at a lower price point. Like pricier options, this one is 1500W with low, high, and thermostat-controlled settings. Built-in safety precautions include cool-touch housing and overheat protection. Plus, an auto-off timer gives you peace of mind if you forget to turn this appliance off. Although it doesn’t have a remote control, it does include an easy-to-read selection pad, carry handle, and six-foot cord for easy transport from room to room.

Best for large rooms: Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater

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Why it made the cut: This pick is well-equipped to heat larger spaces like living rooms, large bedrooms, studios, or garages with its high wattage and high temp settings.

Specs

• Wattage: 1,500 watts
• Dimensions: 13 x 12.5 x 17 inch.
• Heating type: Radiant

Pros

• 12-hour automatic shut-off
• 50 to 85-degree heat range
• Heats large spaces

Cons

• Heavier and less portable

This radiant, infrared heater (its big brother is our best overall pick in this category) heats up big spaces easily and efficiently. With 1,500 watts of power and a heat output temperature of up to 85 degrees, perfect for large rooms, you can stay warm without needing to get up close. It has a 12-hour automatic shut-off timer, remote control, tip-over protection, a 72-inch electric cord, and caster wheels for maximum mobility.

Best energy saving: De’Longhi Oil-Filled Radiator Space Heater

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Why it made the cut: Unlike the other space heaters on this list, the De’Longhi pick uses oil to maintain its heat for an energy-efficient and quiet-running design.

Specs

• Wattage: 1,500 watts
• Dimensions: 27.76 x 18.5 x 7.1 inch.
• Heating type: Radiant

Pros

• Portable design with wheels
• Energy-efficient
• Quiet heating

Cons

• Pricier than some other models

This energy-efficient space heater will stay hot even after turning it off, extending its heating power without sucking up electricity. Additionally, you can select eco-mode, optimizing power usage with a built-in thermostat for additional energy saving. It has 1,500 watts of power, automatic shutoff to prevent overheating, and thermal slots that funnel hot air while maintaining a low surface temperature so you won’t be at risk of burning yourself.

Best for bedrooms: Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater

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Why it made the cut: This small space heater has safety features like tip-over protection, cool-touch base, and automatic shut-off, which make it a great pick for smaller spaces.

Specs

• Watts: 750 watts
• Dimensions: 11.7 x 9.3 x 12 inch.
• Heating type: Convection

Pros

• Compact design
• Bonus safety features
• Auto climate control

Cons

• Less wattage than other options

The Vornado VH10 is a great space heater that comes equipped with thoughtful, extra safety features. It boasts tip-over protection, a cool-touch case, and automatic safety shut-off. It also has a timer and auto-climate control, which senses how much heat and circulation is required to maintain the set temperature. With two quiet heat settings at 750 and 1,200 watts, as well as a fan-only option, you will be comfortably basking at home, worry-free.

Best electric: Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP07

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Why it made the cut: For those who want a multifunction device that can be used year-round, the Dyson Pure Hot + Cool does just that. It filters your air for allergens and dust with a HEPA-certified filter, heats in cooler months, and can act as a fan once the temperatures rise back up.

Specs

• Watts: 1500 watts
• Dimensions: 9.76 x 8.07 x 30.08 inch.
• Heating type: Convection

Pros

• HEPA Filter
• Captures allergens
• Sleek and aesthetic design

Cons

• Expensive for a “space heater”
• May be less effective than other models

The Dyson Pure Hot + Cool Air Purifier is a dream with all the high-tech, special features needed to heat and purify an entire room simultaneously (why another one of their models is our top overall pick for home air purifiers). This multifunction feat of engineering treats and projects air, cooling or heating it as needed. It offers 350-degree oscillation, a sealed HEPA filter to trap 99.7 percent of allergens, and voice-control compatibility with Alexa. Equipped with three intelligent sensors, this air purifier, cooling fan, and space heater will also monitor pollution events in real time, alerting you to any problematic airborne particles or gases via the Dyson app. The heater/fan has 10 speed settings, Bluetooth connectivity, quiet operation, and multiple additional settings.

Best wall heater: Dreo Smart Wall Heater

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Why it made the cut: DIY your own home heating system with this easy-to-install wall-mounted heater that can be controlled via a smart assistant or app.

Specs

• Wattage: 1,500 watts
• Dimensions: 4 x 20 x 13 inch.
• Heating type: Radiant

Pros

• App and smart assistant connectivity
• Easy to install
• Quiet

Cons

• Might not be the best at heating enclosed outdoor spaces

If your current heating system isn’t cutting it, consider adding this heater, which looks just like an AC unit but is mounted to your wall instead of a window. 120-degree wide oscillation heating distributes warm air evenly from ceiling to floor to quickly heat the room. You can schedule room heating hours to match when you leave for work or return from walking the dog. Access heater settings via the Dreo app (for iOS and Android) or via your Alexa or Google Home device. Its LED panel automatically adjusts, so you don’t have to worry about the light messing with your sleep. Mounting the wall heater is just as easy as using it. Simply follow the included drilling guide and simple instructions, and you’re done. No more chilly nights worrying about causing a fire hazard.

Best budget: Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater

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Why it made the cut: This classic-design tower heater can fit in just about any space—and with an oscillating function and impressive wattage, it can heat up a room quickly and efficiently.

Specs

• Wattage: 1,500 watts
• Dimensions: 21.63 x 7.1 x 7.9 inch.
• Heating type: Convection

Pros

• 8-hour auto-off timer
• Slim design
• High wattage

Cons

• Only two heat settings

This Lasko ceramic tower heater has a footprint of less than eight square inches but boasts 1,500 watts of heating power, making it ideal for warming up cold rooms in a hurry without taking up too much space. It includes a number of safety features like an 8-hour auto-shutoff timer, overheat protection, and a cool-touch exterior. Its widespread oscillation and adjustable thermostat make it a flexible choice that allows users to custom-tailor their heating experience. The heater’s cable is 72 inches in length, making this model a good choice for rooms with few outlets; plus, the unit includes a multifunction remote control for added convenience.

What to consider when picking the best space heaters

There are six things you should consider to find the best space heater for your needs. Think about what type of personal heater you want, how much space you’re trying to warm, how much power your heater will need, what the safety features are, and finally, what special features might be available. If you can get specific about your requirements, you won’t have any trouble finding a reliable, long-lasting unit you’re happy with.

What type of space heater best fits your needs?

There are three main types of heating, with a few subcategories you should know about.

Convection heating is the most common and efficient type for single-room use. These space heaters work by circulating currents across an element, such as an electric coil or oil, which are often blown out and drawn back in using a fan. Some models don’t include a fan, relying on natural airflow; this method is quieter but takes longer to heat an entire room. Ceramic heaters borrow from this method, using an internal, self-regulating ceramic element and fan to heat a room quickly.

Radiant heating is excellent for warming a targeted area like your bed or desk chair. They heat up almost instantaneously using quartz or other metals and a reflector to direct heat, though some will implement a fan. Infrared heaters are very similar, using infrared quartz bulbs to generate radiating heat. Unlike convection heating, this method will not warm up the air, making it better for targeted warmth. That said, it will heat a room if left on for a long time.

Micathermic heating is an efficient combination of convection and radiant processes. A micathermic heater radiates warmth off of a panel that is then circulated naturally throughout the room. To do this, these space heaters need to be reasonably large, but most models can be mounted on the wall to save space if necessary. Because micathermic heaters don’t use a fan, they are quiet and clean; they don’t circulate dust or pet dander, which makes them great for those who are allergy-prone or have asthma. Portable radiator heaters use micathermic methods to generate heat via oil encased inside.

How big of a room are you trying to heat?

While it’s clear that radiant heaters are best for targeted use and convection or micathermic models might be best for larger areas, there’s more to understand when it comes to room size and heater specs.

When it comes to heating, wattage is king. For space heaters, you want to have 10 watts of power per square foot; this is especially true if your portable heater is the primary source of warmth. If you have super tall ceilings, over 8 feet high, you’ll want to multiply your space’s total square footage by the ceiling height and 1.25. For rooms lacking insulation, add an extra 2 watts to the equation. If you just need a little extra blast of heat here and there, you can relax on the wattage rule, but only slightly.

If you have a lot of ground to cover, it can be hard to find a supplementary heater that will keep you and any guests cozy for hours at a time. Infrared heaters are a bit more flexible because they warm up people and objects; while small models won’t do much, a large infrared heater can cover a larger room because it will target objects as well as people. Below you can find our favorite model.

How much energy will your space heater use?

Using a space heater regularly can suck up a lot of power, so it’s essential to look for energy-efficient models that won’t cause your electric bill to skyrocket. If you want to figure out how much your heater will cost you look up how much you currently pay for electricity per kilowatt-hour (this info is often listed on your monthly bill), determine the amount of time your space heater will be on, and calculate the kilowatts used per hour by dividing the maximum wattage by 1,000. Finally, multiply all three together, and that’s your average cost per day.

Unfortunately, at this time, the United States Environmental Protection Agency hasn’t given any existing space heater an Energy Star rating, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look for models with energy-efficient features. First things first: Don’t buy a space heater that has more wattage than you need. Just because it’s powerful doesn’t mean it’s the best space heater for you. Oil-filled radiator heaters are a great option for energy-efficient heating in a tinier area because they remain hot for a time, even after they are turned off. Secondly, consider investing in a model that includes a built-in thermostat and multiple output settings. This will conserve energy over time because the heater won’t be overcompensating when the temperature in the room changes. Timed heat settings and automatic shutoff can also aid efficiency, especially if you tend to forget to shut off appliances. Some heaters will come with an auto-eco setting designed to monitor room temperature and suggest a lower output temperature to heat the room, keeping it warm but not hot.

What extra features make the best space heater?

Once you’ve figured out the size, specs, and safety settings you need to narrow down your selection, you can focus on the fun bonuses that make the best space heater. We’ve already mentioned a few helpful features, including a thermostat function, auto-eco mode, and timer settings. Another popular bonus feature is the inclusion of a remote for easy control. This is going to be a lifesaver for those times you get perfectly comfortable, all snuggled up in bed before remembering to turn the heater on. It gets better: Some space heaters are considered “smart,” which means they can connect via WiFi to your phone, providing a stream of information regarding your space’s air quality, humidity, and more. Some smart models come with a night-time mode to quiet noisy fans, HEPA filters for air purification, and dual-cooling systems that utilize the fan function, bypassing the heat generator. Of course, the more special features you tack on, the higher the price but depending on the frequency of use and overall efficiency of various models, you could end up saving money over time. Higher-quality products experience fewer breakdowns and don’t need to be replaced as often, plus who wouldn’t want to control their space heater using a voice assistant like Alexa? One step closer to building your fully equipped smart house.

What safety features should you keep in mind?

We cannot overstate how important safety features are when it comes to space heaters. These powerful appliances are one of the leading causes of house fires in America, and while we want you to be warm, we certainly don’t want you to be that warm. Luckily, newer models are frequently equipped with safety features that will keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s way.

You need to select a model with a shutoff sensor triggered if the unit starts to overheat or tip over. This small but significant add-on is imperative to keep things safe. You should also consider purchasing a model with a long extension cord, even if you don’t think you’ll need it. Why? Space heaters need to be directly plugged into the wall; a long cord means you can easily resist the temptation to plug it into existing power strips or extension cords for “just a minute.” Consider a model that has a cool-to-the-touch outer layer or handle so you can avoid any accidental burns. Finally, look for certifications from the Underwriters Laboratory and Intertek Group for added reassurance that your model meets safety standards.

While built-in features are important, there are also a few rules you’ll have to follow: as stated, never use power/extension cords to plug in your heater; never put one on a rug or elevated surface; unless specified otherwise, you won’t want to put a space heater near the kitchen or bathroom; and keep them out of reach/away from young kids or pets.

What brand best suits your needs?

There are some great brands out there dedicated to supplying safe space heaters worldwide, and we certainly have a few favorites. Vornado, Dyson, and De’Longhi are staples in the space heater game. Vornado has been around since 1930 and manufactures top-of-the-line space heaters, air purifiers, fans, humidifiers, and more. Likewise, Dyson was founded in 1991 by James Dyson and, today, not only manufactures high-end home staples—such as space heaters, washing machines, robot vacuums, and blowdryers—but also invests in research projects to improve medical equipment—such as ventilators, digital monitors, and electric vehicles.

The Italian company De’Longhi was incorporated in 1950 and is known for excellence in design when it comes to small home appliances such as espresso machines, portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers, space heaters, and more. De’Longhi has been the recipient of multiple awards and certifications for its dedication to high-end engineering, design, and production.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best space heaters

• Best overall: Lasko 5775 Electric 1500W Ceramic Space Heater Tower
• Best for large rooms: Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater
• Best energy saving: De’Longhi Oil-Filled Radiator Space Heater
• Best for bedrooms: Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater
• Best electric: Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP07
• Best wall heater: Dreo Smart Wall Heater
• Best budget: Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater

Space heaters are a great way to save space, stay warm, and snuggle up safely during cold times. Choose the best space heater for you by examining safety settings, power specs, heater type, and any additional features you find exciting. As long as you know what your space needs, we’re confident you can find the right tiny furnace to keep you from constantly re-wearing your favorite heated socks or heated slippers around the house. Give your puffy coat a break by taking it off indoors as you slowly sink into the warmth of your new space heater.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best space heaters in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The term “smokeless fire pit” almost sounds like an oxymoron. We love a controlled blaze for the light, the shadow, the warmth, and the crackle a fire provides to add a feeling of coziness and comfort to any conversation or gathering. But it’s not all s’mores and scary stories. It always feels like smoke blows right in your face, leaving you with stinging eyes and a nose full of soot no matter where you sit. And that’s if you can get it lit. Building a fire on the ground is tough, and you need a clear, safe space. Luckily, a quality fire pit can mitigate these issues.

These metal containers are built to control the flame and make it easy to start and finish. Not only do they make firing up easier, but they can also add a touch of class or a bit of flash to your patio, camp area, or backyard. A solid fire pit can turn a boring patio or backyard into a great place to spend an evening. Consider this your burn book, a list of the best smokeless fire pits of 2023.

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

How we chose the best smokeless fire pits

We started with a list of more than 30 models from hands-on testing and critical consensus before narrowing our options to the best we could find. The four main factors we considered were ease and effectiveness of use, aesthetics, value for price, and unique features. Our list represents our top choices, a couple for those who aren’t looking to spend as much money, and some situation-specific choices. After all, everyone’s needs when it comes to a fire pit are different, and it’s important to consider how and where you plan to use your fire pit before you buy it. The “best” is not always the “best for you.” Our list should help you avoid getting more fire pit than you really need, as every one of our picks is recommended.

The best smokeless fire pits: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best overall: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

Best for patios: BioLite Fire Pit+

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

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

Best large: Tiki Fire Pit

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

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

Best stainless steel: Breeo X Series 24

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Expensive
• Extremely heavy

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

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

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

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

Best portable: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

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

Best value: Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

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

Best under $100: Blue Sky Outdoor Living Ridge

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

What to consider when choosing a smokeless fire pit

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

Smoke elimination

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

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

Size

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

Materials and durability

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

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best smokeless fire pits

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

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

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best smokeless fire pits for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Razer Huntsman V2 TKL		SEE IT	Razer’s super-responsive optical switches and sound-dampening foam make the Huntsman V2 TKL a surprisingly quiet keyboard.
Best wireless		Logitech G915 Lightspeed		SEE IT	The Logitech G915 Lightspeed TKL is thin, sleek, and flashy.
Best for gaming		SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL		SEE IT	The SteelSeries Apex Pro uses magnetic fields that create switches with adjustable actuation.

Tenkeyless, or TKL, keyboards are the “goldilocks” size for most people. Striking a balance between standard, 104-key keyboards and compact 60% designs, the TKL looks and feels just full-size boards, but with the number pad sliced off the right side. The balance between easy typing and a smaller desk footprint makes TKL keyboards an ideal option for gamers, writers, or programmers looking to free up their desk space without sacrificing helpful navigational keys. Though not as widespread as the full-size board, there’s a large number of TKL keyboards out there, especially for gaming. In many cases, you can even find TKL versions of popular full-size models. All those options, though, make comparing and shopping a bit of a chore. Luckily, our best TKL keyboards guide has everything you need to get something great.

• Best overall: Razer Huntsman V2 TKL
• Best for gaming: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL
• Best wireless: Logitech G915 Lightspeed
• Best with hot-swappable switches: Drop CTRL
• Best for Mac: Keychron K8
• Best budget: Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series

How we picked the best TKL keyboards

After a lifetime of PC gaming, several years as a professional writer, and dabbling in game development and media production, I’ve touched more keyboards than I can count. I’m also keenly aware a great gaming keyboard may not be a great choice for office work, for example, and there are features programmers need that writers would never touch. Our list of the best TKL keyboards reflects my own professional and personal experiences, and the understanding that some tasks require different keyboard features.

We found our selections for the best TKL keyboards through hands-on testing, research, and reviews from colleagues and trusted sources. They were judged on several factors, including price, durability, ergonomics, connection options, and typing experience. We also considered each product’s viability for playing games, writing, and programming.

The best TKL keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you’ve had a crash course in keyboard-picking, let’s look at the best TKL keyboards you can buy right now. As we mentioned, many of these models are intended for gaming-focused PCs, but all of them are strong picks for any type of typist.

Best overall: Razer Huntsman V2 TKL

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Razer Huntsman V2 TKL is one of those rare “jack-of-all-trades” devices that manages to (mostly) overcome the “master-of-none” curse. 

Specs

• Switches: Razer Click or Razer Linear optical switches
• Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT
• Connectivity: Wired USB
• Backlighting: RGB per-key
• Volume Roller: No
• Special features: Extremely high 8000Hz polling, Detachable wrist rest
• Price: $138

Pros 

• Smooth, responsive typing experience
• Sound-damping foam for quiet keystrokes
• Full macro programming for each key
• Includes wrist pad

Cons 

• Larger keys have a slight wobble
• High polling rate modes may impact CPU performance

The Huntsman V2 TKL is a surprisingly balanced gaming keyboard that works well for gaming, productivity, and everyday typing. Like most gaming keyboards, you can configure any key, customize RGB lighting, and program macros using Razer’s Synapse 3 desktop app. The PBT doubleshot keycaps ensure that its lettering will never fade. It even ships with a detachable wrist pad. 

But its best feature is the super-responsive typing performance. This wired keyboard features Razer’s proprietary optical switches, with the choice of either Razer Click switches for clicky (but not clacky) stab feedback, or second-gen Razer Linear switches that offer a quick, silent press. The kicker, which makes it stand out for non-gamers, is its built-in sound-dampening foam that reduces the typing noise that makes mechanical keyboards hard to use considerately in the workplace.

The Huntsman V2 also features the ability to set an ultra-high 8,000Hz polling rate, which Razer has added to some of its esports-facing gear. Polling rate, like refresh rate for TVs and monitors, refers to the number of times your mouse or keyboard sends signals to your PC. Standard 1,000Hz polling sends a signal approximately once a millisecond (ms). At 8,000Hz, Razer claims the Huntmans V2 can send signals with only 0.2ms of input lag. That higher performance comes at a cost, however: Using that high setting can lightly tax your PC in a way that using most keyboards simply does not. 

Luckily, you don’t have to use 8,000Hz polling to enjoy using the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL. It is simply a snappy, easy-typing keyboard that can work wonders for anybody.

Best for gaming: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: SteelSeries’ Apex Pro TKL can be customized to match your specific gaming preferences and playstyle.

Specs

• Switches: SteelSeries OmniPoint 
• Keycaps: ABS
• Connectivity: Wired USB
• Backlighting: RGB Per-key
• Volume roller: Yes
• Special features: OLED display, detachable wrist rest, USB passthrough
• Price: $146

Pros

• Adjustable actuation switches
• Detachable magnetic wrist rest
• Customizable OLED display

Cons 

• ABS keycaps can wear out, long-term
• Expensive

The SteelSeries’ Apex Pro is truly unique. Rather than picking a mechanical key type to create a specific feel, the Apex Pro features proprietary OmniPoint switches with adjustable resistance and actuation. Using SteelSeries’ Engine configuration software, you can change the feel of most keys whenever you want to fit your personal preferences for different tasks. The linear-style keys have a unique feel, which may be an acquired taste, but offer incredible utility for those who want to tinker and figure out exactly what they like.

The Apex Pro TKL also features a robust suite of luxury features for a TKL keyboard. It has a dedicated volume wheel for quick sound adjustments, USB passthrough, a detachable wrist rest, and an integrated OLED screen used to control the keyboard’s settings and can even display useful info for some games and apps. As with most gaming keyboards, SteelSeries Engine allows you to store multiple configuration profiles, adjust its RGB lighting, and more.

Frankly, many of the keyboards on this list are made for gaming, so if the Apex Pro’s unique approach seems risky, there are definitely plenty of great options. You aren’t going to find any keyboard quite like this one, though.

Best wireless: Logitech G915 Lightspeed

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Logitech G915’s sleek wireless design saves even more desk space than the average TKL keyboard.

Specs

• Switches: Logitech low-profile GL (tactile, linear, or clicky)
• Keycaps: ABS 
• Connectivity: 2.4GHz wireless via USB dongle, Bluetooth, or USB Wired
• Backlighting: RGB Per-key
• Volume roller: Yes
• Special features: Volume roller, 5 dedicated macro keys, hot-swap among up multiple wireless connections
• Price: $189

Pros 

• Long battery life, even with RGB turned on
• Low-profile switches feel good, even with less travel
• Multiple connection options

Cons 

• Limited macro support
• Expensive

For a mechanical gaming keyboard, the Logitech G915 Lightspeed looks shockingly sleek. A thin, 22mm slate covered with low-profile switches—it achieves an Apple-Esque futuristic look that stands out as sharp and exciting. 

Low-profile switches are shorter, which means they offer less “travel” or distance from unpressed to fully pressed down. Among mechanical keyboards, less travel usually equates to a less comfortable typing feel, but Logitech’s proprietary low-profile GL switches find a sweet spot between laptop keyboard quickness and a satisfying press.

The “lightspeed” in the Logitech G915’s name refers to Logitech’s proprietary wireless technology. It connects to your PC using a 2.4 GHz “Lightspeed” connection via a USB dongle but also supports Bluetooth wireless for non-gaming applications. As for battery life, you can expect around 40 hours of use on a single charge as long as you keep the per-key RGB lighting on, and turning it off will naturally boost your use time.

Ultimately, the Logitech G915 Lightspeed is an outstanding wireless mechanical gaming keyboard that defies convention and looks good doing it. Whether it’s worth over $200—an extremely high price for a TKL—is up to you.

Best with hot-swappable switches: Drop CTRL

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Drop CTRL offers a fantastic typing experience out of the box, but allows for enthusiast customization.

Specs

• Switches: Halo Clear or Halo True; Hailua Speed; Cherry MX
• Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT
• Connectivity: Wired USB
• Backlighting: RGB Per-Key
• Volume roller: No
• Special features: Dual USB-C connectors, removable feet
• Price: $270

Pros 

• Swappable switches
• PBT keycaps
• Great typing feel whether or not you bring your own switches

Cons 

• Cumbersome macro programming

Drop, a social marketplace for deals and user-requested gear designs, has a lot to offer for enthusiast keyboard fans. If you like to build your own keyboards, or modify them with custom keycaps and switches, it has a wealth of resources to purchase. Not all keyboards are built to let you “hot-swap” or install new switches without taking your keyboard apart. As you might expect, Drop’s pre-built options do, and they make it pretty easy.

As an enthusiast’s keyboard, the CTRL is more focused on aesthetics and pure typing feel, rather than other features. Unlike the gaming keyboards on this list, you can only customize your configuration using a clunky web-based tool.

Still, the Drop CTRL has an incredible typing feel, even if you don’t touch the switches. You have the option to play around, but you’re getting a winner even if you don’t touch a thing.

Best for Mac: Keychron K8

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Keychron K8 supports many devices and operating systems that other mechanical keyboards often overlook.

Specs

• Switches: Gateron G Pro, Gatreon Optical
• Keycaps: ABS
• Connectivity: Bluetooth wireless or wired USB
• Backlighting: RGB (15 patterns), or white
• Volume roller: No
• Special features: wireless connection to multiple devices, keycaps for Mac and Windows layouts
• Price: $80

Pros 

• Options for quieter mechanical switches
• Adjustable typing angle
• Supports Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, iPad, and Android.
• Hot-swappable switches (on some models)

Cons 

• No macro support
• Limited functionality on mobile devices

Apple sells a compact version of its Magic Keyboard but there are better options out there for Mac typists. If you want to go mechanical on Mac, the Keychron K8 lets you replace those chiclet keys with something that has a little more travel. 

Its sleek and simple design will fit perfectly in any office. Meanwhile, there’s a wide array of configurations for sale, ensuring you can buy a keyboard that fits your preferences. There are Keychron K8 models with six types of mechanical and optical switches, optional switch hot-swapping support, and RGB or white-only backlighting.

We wouldn’t restrict the Keychron K8 to just Mac users, however. It’s also a decent all-rounder for Windows, and even has partial support for Linux, iOS, iPad, and Android devices. It’s a simple keyboard, without any notable special features, but a good typing feel and a great, sub-$100 price.

Best budget: Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Corsair K70 Champion Series packs high-end specs and features at a mid-range price.

Specs

• Switches: Cherry MX
• Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT
• Connectivity: Wired USB
• Backlighting: RGB per-key
• Volume roller: Yes
• Special features: Esports “tournament mode,” media keys, 8,000Hz polling
• Price: $109

Pros

• 8000Hz polling rate
• Dedicated “Tournament Mode” switch
• Media keys and volume roller aren’t common on TKLs

Cons

• Esports specialization may not be for everyone

The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is not the cheapest best TKL keyboard you can find, but it is a very strong value for its price. It features lots of little amenities, ranging from common TKL upgrades like PBT keycaps and customizable RGB lighting, to less common flourishes like built-in media buttons and a volume roller.

The Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series is an esports keyboard, not just a gaming keyboard, so it also has features like 8,000Hz polling and a tournament mode switch, which temporarily turns off custom macros and other features that may interfere during official competitive play. That may seem frivolous for some, but its other quality-of-life features are novel and great for any gamer.

What to consider before buying the best TKL keyboards

The best TKL keyboards don’t vary that much from other keyboard form factors, so picking your next one won’t be much different than picking the best gaming keyboard or wireless mechanical keyboard. The most important question is whether you actually want a TKL design. The Tenkeyless falls right in the middle between 60 percent keyboards and full-size models and usually has around 87 keys. In terms of saving space, they are much narrower than a full-size keyboard but aren’t as small as a compact design. On the other hand, they retain the full-size keyboard’s spacing, so they’re arguably easier to navigate. If you like the way your full-size keyboard feels, but can confidently say you never use your Numpad, then switching to a TKL is probably a good move. 

Picking your switches

When picking a keyboard, any shape or size, it’s important to think about typing feel, which means thinking about how your keys work. Like many keyboard enthusiasts, we tend to prefer mechanical keyboards, which use a physical spring and switch to operate the keys. As a gaming-focused keyboard sub-genre, you’ll find that the vast majority of TKLs features mechanical keys.

When you pick a mechanical keyboard, you often also need to pick the kind of key switches it uses. The switch you choose will impact how much force you need to use to activate and/or fully depress a key, as well as how far down you need to press a key to actuate it, or send a signal from the keyboard to your device. There are also differences in feel and even sound that enthusiasts may prefer.

Key switch types are normally color-coded. While the nuances vary from switch manufacturer to manufacturer, there are three core categories: Linear (often “Red”), Tactile (“Brown”), or Clicky (“Blue”). Linear switches usually have the lightest touch and provide very little tactile response when you click them, so they’re preferred for competitive gaming. The tactile is the balanced option, emphasizing the “bump” you feel when actuating each key. Clicky switches are similar to tactile switches, but with a stronger emphasis on making a loud “clang” with each tap. There are many, many more options beyond these core three but most major manufacturers will offer at least one, if not all three, of these options.

In recent years, we’ve also started to see an influx in optical gaming keyboards, which use a laser to complete a circuit that actuates each key you press down. Manufacturers claim that optical keyboards minimize the already imperceivable amount of input lag in other keyboards. Companies also claim the switches may last longer.

We can’t tell you what switch will feel right. If you can’t head out to a store to try some keyboards with different switches, we recommend tactile switches for people who want a nice typing feel across gaming and work, or Red switches if you’re a competitive player who wants controls with a hair-trigger.

Connectivity

Even among TKLs, you will have the option to choose whether you want a wired or wireless keyboard. Wired keyboards are easy to set up, and never lose power. Wireless keyboards, however, give you more flexibility and keep your desk cable-free.

If you decide to get a wireless keyboard, make sure you look for one with strong battery life and connection options. For office work, any Bluetooth keyboard will do fine, but gamers will want to make sure and get a keyboard that comes with a 2.4GhZ wireless dongle, which ensures a more stable connection with minimal input lag. There are some competitive purists who will insist that you need a wired keyboard for gaming. In our experience, that is not the case.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best TKL keyboards

• Best overall: Razer Huntsman V2 TKL
• Best for gaming: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL
• Best wireless: Logitech G915 Lightspeed
• Best with hot-swappable switches: Drop CTRL
• Best for Mac: Keychron K8
• Best budget: Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series

If you can part with your number pad, the best TKL keyboards offer a great balance between the wide functionality of a full keyboard and the space-saving efficiency of more compact designs. It is a smart way to free up some desk space or complement a mobile work setup.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best TKL keyboards of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

This article was originally feature do The Conversation.

Preparing a bowl of chicken soup for a loved one when they’re sick has been a common practice throughout the world for centuries. Today, generations from virtually every culture swear to the benefits of chicken soup. In the U.S., the dish is typically made with noodles, but different cultures prepare the soothing remedy their own way.

Chicken soup as a therapy can be traced back to 60 A.D. and Pedanius Dioscorides, an army surgeon who served under the Roman emperor Nero, and whose five-volume medical encyclopedia was consulted by early healers for more than a millennium. But the origins of chicken soup go back thousands of years earlier, to ancient China.

So, with cold and flu season in full swing, it’s worth asking: Is there any science to back the belief that it helps? Or does chicken soup serve as just a comforting placebo, that is, providing psychological benefit while we’re sick, without an actual therapeutic benefit?

As a registered dietitian and professor of dietetics and nutrition, I’m well aware of the appeal of chicken soup: the warmth of the broth and the rich, savory flavors of the chicken, vegetables and noodles. What gives the soup that distinctive taste is “umami”—the fifth category of taste sensations, along with sweet, salty, sour and bitter. It is often described as having a “meaty” taste.

Improved appetite, better digestion

All that makes sense, because amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and the amino acid glutamate is found in foods with the umami taste. Not all umami foods are meat or poultry, however; cheese, mushrooms, miso and soy sauce have it too.

Studies show that taste, it turns out, is critical to the healing properties of chicken soup. When I see patients with upper respiratory illnesses, I notice many of them are suddenly eating less or not eating at all. This is because acute illnesses ignite an inflammatory response that can decrease your appetite. Not feeling like eating means you’re unlikely to get the nutrition you need, which is hardly an optimal recipe for immune health and recovery from illness.

But evidence suggests that the umami taste in chicken soup may help spur a bigger appetite. Participants in one study said they felt hungrier after their first taste of a soup with umami flavor added in by researchers.

Other studies say umami may also improve nutrient digestion. Once our brains sense umami through the taste receptors on our tongues, our bodies prime our digestive tracts to absorb protein more easily.

This can reduce gastrointestinal symptoms, which many people experience when they’re under the weather. Although most people don’t associate upper respiratory infections with gastrointestinal symptoms, research in children has found that the flu virus increased abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea symptoms.

May reduce inflammation and stuffy nose

Inflammation is part of the body’s natural response to injury or illness; inflammation occurs when white blood cells migrate to inflamed tissue to assist with healing. When this inflammatory process occurs in the upper airway, it results in common cold and flu symptoms, such as a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, coughing and thickened mucus.

Conversely, lower white blood cell activity in the nasal passages can reduce inflammation. And interestingly, research shows that chicken soup can in fact lower the number of white blood cells traveling to inflamed tissues. It does this by directly inhibiting the ability of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, to travel to the inflamed tissue.

Key ingredients

To truly understand the soothing and healing effects of chicken soup, it’s important to consider the soup’s ingredients. Not all chicken soups are packed with nutritious healing properties. For instance, the ultraprocessed canned versions of chicken soup, both with and without noodles, lack many of the antioxidants found in homemade versions. Most canned versions of chicken soup are nearly devoid of hearty vegetables.

The core nutrients in homemade versions of the soup are what set these varieties apart from canned versions. Chicken provides the body with a complete source of protein to combat infection. Vegetables supply a wide array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. If prepared the American way, noodles provide an easily digestible source of carbohydrate that your body uses for energy and recovery.

Even the warmth of chicken soup can help. Drinking the liquid and inhaling the vapors increase the temperature of nasal and respiratory passages, which loosens the thick mucus that often accompanies respiratory illnesses. Compared with hot water alone, studies show chicken soup is more effective at loosening mucus.

The herbs and spices sometimes used in chicken soup, such as pepper and garlic, also loosen mucus. The broth, which contains water and electrolytes, helps with rehydration.

So, to maximize the health benefits of chicken soup, I recommend a homemade variety, which can be prepared with carrots, celery, fresh garlic, herbs and spices, to name a few ingredients. But if you need a more convenient option, look at the ingredients and nutrition facts label, and choose soups with a variety of vegetables over an ultraprocessed, nutrient-depleted kind.

In short, the latest science suggests that chicken soup—though not an out-and-out cure for colds and flu—really helps with healing. Looks like Grandma was right again.

The post Does chicken soup really help when you’re sick? appeared first on Popular Science.

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

“I always build things,” says Dan Hryhorcoff. 

Case in point: Hryhorcoff has constructed an absolutely delightful giant bumper car, a project that he says began during the pandemic. The rest of us may have baked bread as COVID came down the pike, but Hryhorcoff, who lives in northeastern Pennsylvania and has also built a submarine, constructed an enormous blue bumper car. It gets its propulsion from a repurposed Chevrolet engine and is street-legal. 

Before he constructed the big bumper car, Hryhorcoff had made a different vehicle, starting on it around 2013 or so. “When I retired, I decided I kind of wanted to build a car,” he recalls. For that project, he chose to focus on a 1950s pedal car for children called a Murray “sad face.” “I decided to copy that and make a large one.” (Those Murray models have a front that does indeed look like a sad face, but anyone who sees Hryhorcoff’s work will probably smile.) 

Creating that big red vehicle provided him with further experience working with fiberglass, a material he had also worked with when building the submarine. “I had a lot of fun with that [Murray car] at car shows and things, and it got a lot of attention from a broad audience,” he says.

“Then COVID hit,” he adds. He wanted a new project. His thinking? “Another car project would be good.” 

Building the big bumper car

He settled on a bumper car. To get the source material he needed for the project, he turned to an amusement park in Elysburg, Pennsylvania called Knoebels, and the bumper cars they have there. Specifically, he focused on the 1953-model bumper car that was made by a company called Lusse. He liked that it had a “Chevrolet pickup truck sorta look” from the 1950s. 

“I decided to copy one of those,” he says. Spending some eight hours at Knoebels gave him the chance to get the information he needed. “I measured, and took photos, and made templates, and whatever I needed to, to copy the car as well as I can.” He chose to make his version of the car double the size of the base model. As the Scranton Times-Tribune noted in a story about Hryhorcoff in July, the bumper car ride at Knoebels dates back to the immediate post-World-War-II era.

[Related: This Florida teen is making a business out of rebuilding old-school auto tech]

Inside, the big bumper car’s power plant comes from a Chevrolet Aveo. “I took the front of the Aveo, and chopped it off, and put that in the back of the bumper car,” he explains. “And the front of the bumper car is a motorcycle wheel.” That single wheel up front means it can turn very sharply. The exterior is made out of fiberglass. All told, it measures 13 feet long, 7 feet wide, and 5.5 feet tall, making it twice the size of a regular bumper car. A pole in the back mimics the way actual bumper cars get their electricity, except this one connects to nothing. 

A project like this would likely be a bumpy ride for anyone without the experience that Hryhorcoff, 72, brings to the table. “I learned to run a lathe when I was 13 years old, with my dad, and he was kind of a jack-of-all-trades,” he recalls. (A lathe is a tool for forming metal into a round shape, and a wood lathe is the kind of equipment you could use to make a baseball bat.) He built a go-cart, tinkered with lawn mowers, and learned about auto repair in a garage. His interest, as he describes it, was “all around mechanical.” 

He spent four years after high school in the Navy in the early 1970s, where he worked stateside and repaired radios for F-4 jets, and then studied mechanical engineering at Penn State. After working for a drilling company, he started his own machine shop called Justus Machine. 

Always diving into something new

The submarine he built came from plans for a K350 model purchased from George Kittredge, and is called Persistence. “I knew I was building something that wasn’t gonna kill me, if I build it correctly,” he says. (Watch a video of the sub in action here.) That sub has gone as deep as 540 feet with no one on board, Hryhorcoff says, and he’s taken it down himself to about 150 feet deep. 

[Related: How does a jet engine work? By running hot enough to melt its own innards.]

Hryhorcoff describes himself as an engineer, not an artist, and prefers to follow plans and undertake projects in which he knows any challenges he might face are surmountable. “Any project I’ve ever chose was a project that I knew I can get through it, but I had something new to learn in the process,” he says. “There were always some unknowns.” But those unknowns, he adds, were within the realm of doable for him and his equipment, even if he had to learn new stuff along the way.

“I’d rather big projects, rather than a dozen little ones,” he adds. 

Watch a short video about Hryhorcoff and this project, below:

The post This giant bumper car is street-legal and enormously delightful appeared first on Popular Science.

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The moon is our closest neighbor in space and the only celestial body humans have set foot on, yet we are still learning about it. In fact, Earth’s moon might actually be 40 million years older than scientists previously believed. By conducting an atom-by-atom analysis on crystals that were brought back by Apollo astronauts in 1972, a team of geochemists and plenary scientists now calculate that the igneous orb is at least 4.46 billion years old. The findings are described in a study published today in the journal Geochemical Perspectives Letters.

Intertwined fates

Heck is a curator for the meteorite collection at the Field Museum in Chicago and a professor at the University of Chicago. He says that studying the moon also helps us understand our own planet because of the topographical differences.

“Earth’s surface is much, much younger because there’s so much geologic activity [here] from volcanism and weathering,” explains Heck. “The moon’s surface is essentially an archive of solar system dynamics. This is a record that we don’t have on Earth, but our planet’s evolution is tied to these impacts that happened in the early solar system.”

A historical perspective

In the study, the team looked at moon dust brought back by the Apollo 17 crew. The 1972 lunar landing included NASA geologist Harrison Schmidt, who collected multiple rocks to study back on Earth. His samples contain very small crystals that were created billions of years ago and can help indicate when the moon was formed.

The energy created by the impact from the object that struck Earth and created the moon melted the rock that eventually became the lunar surface. That offers a clue to the elements that existed on the celestial body since its emergence versus the ones that appeared much later. For example, zirconium, a silver metal found on both the Earth and the moon, could not form and survive on the molten lunar surface: Any zircon crystals that are currently present on the moon must have formed after the magma ocean cooled. Determining the age of these structures can thus reveal the minimum possible age for the moon, assuming that they emerged right after the impact.

Looking atom by atom

Researchers have previously suggested that the moon is older than estimated, but this new study is the first to use an analytical method called atom probe tomography to pinpoint the age from the oldest known lunar crystal retrieved by humans.

“In atom probe tomography, we start by sharpening a piece of the lunar sample into a very sharp tip using a focused ion beam microscope, almost like a very fancy pencil sharpener,” study co-author and planetary scientist Jennika Greer said in a statement. “Then, we use UV lasers to evaporate atoms from the surface of that tip. The atoms travel through a mass spectrometer, and how fast they move tells us how heavy they are, which in turn tells us what they’re made of.”

This atom-by-atom analysis revealed how much of the zircon crystals had undergone radioactive decay—a process where atoms that have an unstable configuration shed some protons and neutrons. They then transform into different elements, like how uranium decays into lead. Based on the amount of conversion and the known half-lives of different chemical isotopes, experts can estimate the age of the sample.

“Radiometric dating works a little bit like an hourglass,” Heck said in a statement. “In an hourglass, sand flows from one glass bulb to another, with the passage of time indicated by the accumulation of sand in the lower bulb. Radiometric dating works similarly by counting the number of parent atoms and the number of daughter atoms they have transformed to. The passage of time can then be calculated because the transformation rate is known.”

The team working with the Apollo 17 sample found that the proportion of lead isotopes (the daughter atoms created during the decay) indicated that the crystals were about 4.46 billion years old, so the moon must at least be that old too. While this puts the moon’s age back 40 million years, that’s still a very short time compared to the universe’s roughly 13.7 billion-year history. 

“It’s amazing being able to have proof that the rock you’re holding is the oldest bit of the moon we’ve found so far. It’s an anchor point for so many questions about the Earth. When you know how old something is, you can better understand what has happened to it in its history,” Greer said.

From Apollo to Artemis

In future studies, clues pulled from these decades-old samples could be pooled with those from samples taken by upcoming Artemis lunar missions. Artemis III is scheduled for 2025 and will land on and explore the lunar South Pole. The Apollo 17 mission collected samples from the Taurus-Littrow valley on the eastern edge of Mare Serenitatis, so crystals from a different region of the moon could yield unimaginable discoveries. 

[Related: Scientists have new moon rocks for the first time in nearly 50 years]

“I am convinced that there is older stuff on the moon—we just haven’t found it yet. I even think we have older zircons in the Apollo samples. This is really the power of sample return,” says Heck. 

A mixture of new samples and future advances in technology could further anchor the timeline of how our solar system was formed and beyond.  “Maybe in 50 or 100 years or even later, new generations of scientists will have the tools we can only dream about today to address scientific questions we can’t even think about today,” says Heck. “These templates are a legacy for future generations.”

The post The moon is 40 million years older than we thought, according to crystals collected by Apollo astronauts appeared first on Popular Science.

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This story was originally published by Grist. Sign up for Grist’s weekly newsletter here.

The Roman Empire fell more than 1,500 years ago, but its grip on the popular imagination is still strong, as evidenced by a recent trend on TikTok. Women started filming the men in their lives to document their answers to a simple question: How often do you think about the Roman Empire? 

“I guess, technically, like every day,” one boyfriend said, as his girlfriend wheezed out an astonished “What?” He wasn’t the only one, as an avalanche of Twitter posts, Instagram Reels, and news articles made clear. While driving on a highway, some men couldn’t help but think about the extensive network of roads the Romans built, some of which are still in use today. They pondered the system of aqueducts, built with concrete that could harden underwater.

There are a lot of reasons why people are fascinated by the rise and fall of ancient empires, gender dynamics aside. Part of what’s driving that interest is the question: How could something so big and so advanced fail? And, more pressingly: Could something similar happen to us? Between rampaging wildfires, a rise in political violence, and the public’s trust in government at record lows, it doesn’t seem so far-fetched that America could go up in smoke.

Theories of breakdown driven by climate change have proliferated in recent years, encouraged by the likes of Jared Diamond’s 2005 book Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed. The Roman Empire, for example, unraveled during a spasm of volcanic explosions, which led to a period of cooling that precipitated the first pandemic of bubonic plague. The decline of the ancient Maya in Central America has been linked with a major drought. Angkor Wat’s downfall, in modern-day Cambodia, has been pinned on a period of wild swings between drought and monsoon floods. So if minor forms of climate change spelled the collapse of these great societies, how are we supposed to survive the much more radical shifts of today? 

Focusing too closely on catastrophe can result in a skewed view of the past—it overlooks societies that navigated an environmental disaster and made it through intact. A review of the literature in 2021 found 77 percent of studies that analyzed the interplay between climate change and societies emphasized catastrophe, while only 10 percent focused on resilience. Historians, anthropologists, and archaeologists have recently tried to fill in that gap. The latest entry is a study that analyzes 150 crises from different time periods and regions, going off a comprehensive dataset that covers more than 5,000 years of human history, back to the Neolithic period. Environmental forces often play a critical role in the fall of societies, the study found, but they can’t do it alone.

Researchers with the Complexity Science Hub, an organization based in Vienna, Austria, that uses mathematical models to understand the dynamics of complex systems, found plenty of examples of societies that made it through famines, cold snaps, and other forms of environmental stress. Several Mesoamerican cities, including the Zapotec settlements of Mitla and Yagul in modern-day Oaxaca, “not only survived but thrived within the same drought conditions” that contributed to the fall of the Maya civilization in the 8th century. And the Maya, before that point, had weathered five earlier droughts and continued to grow.

The new research, published in a peer-reviewed biological sciences journal from The Royal Society last month, suggests that resilience is an ability that societies can gain and lose over time. Researchers found that a stable society can withstand even a dramatic climate shock, whereas a small shock can lead to chaos in a vulnerable one.

The finding is in line with other research, such as a study in Nature in 2021 that analyzed 2,000 years’ worth of Chinese history, untangling the relationship between climate disruptions and the collapse of dynasties. It found that major volcanic eruptions, which often cause cooler summers and weaker monsoons, hurting crops, contributed to the rise of warfare. But it wasn’t the size of the eruption that mattered most: Dynasties survived some of the biggest, climate-disrupting eruptions, including the Tambora eruption of 1815 in present-day Indonesia and the Huaynaputina eruption of 1600 in what’s now Peru.

What matters most, the Complexity Science Hub’s study posits, is inequality and political polarization. Declining living standards tend to lead to dissatisfaction among the general population, while wealthy elites compete for prestigious positions. As pressures rise and society fractures, the government loses legitimacy, making it harder to address challenges collectively. “Inequality is one of history’s greatest villains,” said Daniel Hoyer, a co-author of the study and a historian who studies complex systems. “It really leads to and is at the heart of a lot of other issues.”

On the flipside, however, cooperation can give societies that extra boost they need to withstand environmental threats. “This is why culture matters so much,” Hoyer said. “You need to have social cohesion, you need to have that level of cooperation, to do things that scale—to make reforms, to make adaptations, whether that’s divesting from fossil fuels or changing the way that food systems work.”

It’s reasonable to wonder how neatly the lessons from ancient societies apply to today, when the technology is such that you can fly halfway around the world in a day or outsource the painful task of writing a college essay to ChatGPT. “What can the modern world learn from, for example, the Mayan city states or 17th century Amsterdam?” said Dagomar Degroot, an environmental historian at Georgetown University. The way Degroot sees it, historians can pin down the time-tested strategies as a starting point for policies to help us survive climate change today—a task he’s currently working on with the United Nations Development Programme.

Degroot has identified a number of ways that societies adapted to a changing environment across millennia: Migration allows people to move to more fruitful landscapes; flexible governments learn from past disasters and adopt policies to prevent the same thing from happening again; establishing trade networks makes communities less sensitive to changes in temperature or precipitation. Societies that have greater socioeconomic equality, or that at least provide support for their poorest people, are also more resilient, Degroot said.

By these measures, the United States isn’t exactly on that path to success. According to a standard called the Gini coefficient—where 0 is perfect equality and 1 is complete inequality—the U.S. scores poorly for a rich country, at 0.38 on the scale, beaten out by Norway (0.29) and Switzerland (0.32) but better than Mexico (0.42). Inequality is “out of control,” Hoyer said. “It’s not just that we’re not handling it well. We’re handling it poorly in exactly the same way that so many societies in the past have handled things poorly.”

One of the major voices behind that theme is Peter Turchin, one of the co-authors on Hoyer’s study, a Russian-American scientist who studies complex systems. Once an ecologist analyzing the rise and fall of pine beetle populations, Turchin switched fields in the late 1990s and started to apply a mathematical framework to the rise and fall of human populations instead. Around 2010, he predicted that unrest in America would start getting serious around 2020. Then, right on schedule, the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, a reminder that modern society isn’t immune to the great disasters that shaped the past. “America Is Headed Toward Collapse,” declared the headline of an article in The Atlantic this summer, excerpted from Turchin’s book End Times: Elites, Counter-Elites, and the Path of Political Disintegration. 

The barrage of climate catastrophes, gun violence, and terrorist attacks in the headlines are enough to make you consider packing up and trying to live off the land. A recent viral video posed the question: “So is everyone else’s friend group talking about buying some land and having a homestead together where everyone grows separate crops, [where] we can all help each other out and have a supportive community, because our society that we live in feels like it’s crumbling beneath our feet?”

By Turchin’s account, America has been at the brink of collapse twice already, once during the Civil War and again during the Great Depression. It’s not always clear how “collapse” differs from societal change more generally. Some historians define it as a loss of political complexity, while others focus on population decline or whether a society’s culture was maintained. “A lot of people prefer the term ‘decline,’” Degroot said, “in part because historical examples of the collapse of complex societies really refer to a process that took place over sometimes centuries” and would perhaps even go unnoticed by people alive at the time. Living through a period of societal collapse might feel different from what you imagined, just like living through a pandemic did — possibly less like a zombie movie, and more like boring, everyday life once you get accustomed to it.

The Complexity Science Hub’s study suggests that collapse itself could be considered an adaptation in particularly dire situations. “There is this general idea that collapse is scary, and it’s bad, and that’s what we need to avoid,” Hoyer said. “There’s a lot of truth in that, especially because collapse involves violence and destruction and unrest.” But if the way your society is set up is making everyone’s lives miserable, they might be better off with a new system. For example, archaeological evidence shows that after the Roman Empire lost control of the British Isles, people became larger and healthier, according to Degroot. “In no way would collapse automatically be something that would be devastating for those who survived—in fact, often, probably the opposite,” he said.

Of course, there’s no guarantee that a better system will replace the vulnerable, unequal one after a collapse. “You still have to do the work of putting in the reforms, and having the support of those in power, to be able to actually set and reinforce these kinds of revisions,” Hoyer said. “So I would argue, if that’s the case, let’s just do that without the violence to begin with.”

This article originally appeared in Grist at https://grist.org/culture/climate-change-societal-collapse-explained/

Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Learn more at Grist.org

The post Climate change has toppled some civilizations but not others. Why? appeared first on Popular Science.

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NASA plans to return humans to the moon in 2025 with the Artemis III mission. Before that, the space agency will conduct a vital preliminary mission in November 2024, when the Artemis II mission flies a crew of astronauts in lunar orbit for the first time since the 1970s. But the “important first step” toward those goals, as NASA put it in a recent blog post, is the planned launch of the IM-1 mission carrying the NOVA-C lunar lander in a few weeks. It will attempt to land several NASA science experiments near Malapert A, a crater in the southern lunar polar region. Those studies could help NASA prepare for astronaut operations in the area in 2025. 

Unlike the Artemis missions, though, NOVA-C isn’t a big NASA project. Instead, the truck-sized craft designed to ferry small payloads to the lunar surface was built, and will be operated by, the small Texas-based company Intuitive Machines. 

If it succeeds in landing near the lunar south pole, NOVA-C will be the first US soft landing on the moon since the 1970s, and the first ever commercial landing on the moon that hasn’t crashed or failed. So why is a small spacecraft built by a relatively small company a key part of NASA’s big moon program?

“There is a pattern that we have now seen of NASA trying to move to more commercial solutions and services, rather than do it all on their own,” says Wendy Whitman Cobb, a space policy expert and instructor at the US Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. It’s much like NASA’s Commercial Crew and Cargo programs, which contracted with SpaceX to fly astronauts and supplies to the International Space Station aboard its Dragon space capsules. 

[Related: Why do all these countries want to go to the moon right now?]

Now NASA is turning to commercial companies to prepare the way for humanity’s return to the moon. Intuitive Machines was one of the first companies to receive a contract—for $77 million— under NASA Commercial Lunar Payload Services, or CLPS program, back in 2019. NASA designed CLPS to fund private sector companies interested in building small, relatively inexpensive spacecraft to fly experiments and rovers to the moon, allowing NASA to simply purchase room on the spacecraft rather than developing and operating it themselves. 

In the case of NOVA-C, five NASA payloads will ride along with devices from universities including Louisiana State and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. ”The NASA payloads will focus on demonstrating communication, navigation and precision landing technologies, and gathering scientific data about rocket plume and lunar surface interactions, as well as space weather and lunar surface interactions affecting radio astronomy,” the space agency wrote in a blog post about the mission. 

“We don’t still don’t know a lot about the moon,” Whitman Cobb adds. The moon has variable gravity depending on where there are more metallic materials. “Finding out where those places are, how lunar dust is going to kick up when you’re trying to land or take off—all of these things are really key.”

That’s why NASA is sending payloads to ride along with NOVA-C. But the reason NOVA-C is landing where it is, about 300 kilometers from the south pole, has more to do with how the whole world is now thinking about the moon.

NOVA-C was originally destined to land in the Oceanus Procellarum, one of the large, dark areas known as mares, or “seas,” on the lunar surface. But in May, NASA and Intuitive Machines announced the change in plans and the new target near the south pole. 

[Related: We finally have a detailed map of water on the moon]

”The decision to move from the original landing site in Oceanus Procellarum was based on a need to learn more about terrain and communications near the lunar South Pole,” NASA announced in a blog post at the time. “Landing near Malapert A also will help mission planners understand how to communicate and send data  back to Earth from a location that is low on the lunar horizon.”

The reasons NASA wants to land near the lunar south pole with Artemis, and why the recent and successful Chandrayaan 3 mission of India, and the failed Russian Luna 25 mission, both targeted the lunar south pole are twofold: research and resources, according to Richard Carlson, a lunar geologist who retired from the Carnegie Institute for Science in 2021.  

“Both north and south polar regions have permanently shadowed craters where water has been detected from orbit,” he says. ”The real question is whether that water is a one micron surface coating of water on a few grains, or whether it’s a substantial abundance of water. Water of course being useful for a lot of things, from drinking water to turning it into hydrogen and oxygen, which is rocket fuel.”

The other motivation for going to the south pole is that it’s geologically very different from where the Apollo missions landed, according to Carlson. “They all landed on a pretty small portion of the moon on the Earth facing side of the moon on the nice flat mares, and that’s a rather unusual part of the moon geologically,” he says. ”If you think of studying the Earth this way, the Apollo lunar program would have basically landed on, let’s say, just North America, and that’s it.”

The lunar south polar region is much more geologically varied, with tall mountains and ridges, as well as rocks dug out from deep within the moon and scattered over the region by impact craters billions of years ago, Carlson says. But of course, such a landscape has its downsides for spacecraft coming from Earth. 

“You look at the pictures of the places that they selected [for Artemis III] and I wouldn’t want to land there. I mean, they’re really rough,” he says. “If we land on a rock, the spacecraft is going to fall over.” Sending small, uncrewed craft like NOVA-C to the moon’s south polar ahead of Artemis astronauts will test how difficult landing there really is. 

After all, as Witman Cobb notes, touching down anywhere on the moon is really hard. Before the failed Luna 25 landing on August 21, there were two failed commercial lunar landings. The Israeli company SpaceIL saw its Beresheet lander crash land in 2019, while the Hakuto-R M1 lander from Japanese company ispace crashed in April. 

”We haven’t seen a commercial company be successful in landing on the moon yet,” Whitman Cobb says. ”That’s really fascinating when you think about our capability of landing humans on the moon in the 1960s, and 1970s. That today, with all of the technology that we now have, this is still a really, really difficult thing to do.”

The post This private lander could be the first US machine on the moon this century appeared first on Popular Science.

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As television shows become available online, there’s less of a need to watch your favorites on a set schedule. But if you choose to cut the cord entirely, you’ll miss out on live channels, such as news and sports. Luckily, you can still watch live TV on your computer. You have two options: Plug a TV tuner device—which catches broadcasts like an antenna does—into a USB port, or stream shows through your web browser.

Plug in a TV tuner

Network channels, including NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox, PBS, and local stations, air for free. All you need to watch them is an antenna to snag the broadcasts and a device to share them with your computer. The latter, called a TV tuner, can come in the form of a dongle or a larger box that plugs into any spare USB port.

Tuners come with bundled software that helps you navigate. When you’re getting started, these built-in applications will install the necessary drivers, scan for available channels, and display them on your computer screen. Then you can click through your options.

Once you’ve finished installation, the bundled software will help you receive channels, browse program guides, and make recordings. However, you can also download alternative applications, such as Kodi and Plex, to do the same tasks. Kodi is free but has a slightly more complicated setup, while Plex has a simpler process but requires a Plex Pass subscription that costs $5 per month, $40 a year, or $120 for lifetime access. Plex also has a handy “discover” feature that lets you track down anything you want to watch.

Buying a tuner

When you go shopping for tuner hardware, first look for compatibility with your computer’s operating system. Also consider whether the device includes extras like a bundled remote control. If you choose a model that comes with two or more integrated tuners, you’ll be able to record one channel while watching another, record two shows at once, or create a picture-in-picture effect with two channels.

We’d recommend the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD ($80 on Amazon), though it only works with Windows machines. It includes two tuners, which lets you view or record two shows at once. Once you plug it into a spare USB port, the supplied software will take over, which makes the setup process extremely easy.

Buying an antenna

If you’ve already wired your home with a TV antenna, you can connect it to your new tuner and be good to go. If not, you’ll need to purchase an antenna to catch the TV signals flying through the air. Unfortunately there’s no easy way to figure out how many channels an antenna will catch—many factors make a difference, including the presence of surrounding buildings and nearby hills, and the distance between your home and the closest tower. You’ll just have to buy the hardware and try it out, so make sure the seller has a good returns policy, in case the reception is poor. If you live in a place where structures are few and far between, you may also want to check out our review team’s roundup of the best TV antennas for rural areas.

One of our favorite options is the Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro ($70 on Amazon), which boasts a sleek-looking design and a 65-mile range. Because it’s multi-directional, you don’t need to point it in a specific direction, so you can lay it flat or mount it to a wall. It’s meant to be used indoors, but it works great wherever you put it.

[Related: The best TV antennas]

Another choice we’d recommend is the 1byone Digital Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna ($18 on Amazon), which is cheaper than the Mohu but has a smaller range—it only connects to transmission towers within 50 miles.

Once you’ve purchased your new gear, connect the antenna to the tuner, then the tuner to your laptop. Finally, download the free installer software (if necessary) and launch the application. It will walk you through the process of bringing up live TV channels on your laptop.

Stream channels online

Don’t want to buy new hardware? You can still watch live TV through your web browser. While services like Netflix focus on on-demand programs, other services include a live component so you can watch broadcasts—such as sports—as they happen.

If you’re only interested in watching a few channels in particular, head to the websites for those companies. Many of them—including ABC, Fox, and NBC—let you stream directly from their sites. However, there’s a catch: Different channels have different rules, and some require that you already have a TV provider or similar subscription (you have to sign in to confirm those credentials before watching). For example, you can watch CBS shows live only if you have a Paramount Plus subscription, which costs $6 per month and still includes ads.

Monthly online TV services

To get more than one channel at once, including premium options, you’ll need to subscribe to a monthly service like Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, or Sling TV. All of these options provide a strong connection and easy setup, but they differ in the channels they offer. For example, YouTube TV doesn’t have a great spread of sports channels, while Sling TV has two plans that contain different stations but doesn’t focus on local ones. Before you invest in any subscription, test out that service’s free trial (they all offer one) to get a feel for the experience and make sure it includes the TV channels you want to watch. Here’s some more information that should help you choose.

Hulu offers four plans that include live TV, and the cheapest is $75.99 a month, but it does not allow you to access Hulu’s regular on-demand library—it’s live stuff only. You can spend $1 more ($76.99 per month) to add access to Hulu’s streaming library, Disney Plus, and ESPN Plus, all with ads. You can also pay more for additional features, such as premium channels like Showtime and Max (formerly HBO).

[Related: Watch anything you want without signing up for every streaming service]

With a slightly lower price of of $72.99 a month, YouTube TV offers access to more than 100 live channels, but you will need to enter your ZIP code to see what’s available in your area. For an additional $2 to $30 a month, you can bolt on extra ones, including NFL RedZone and Showtime. It also gives you an unlimited amount of free cloud DVR storage, so you can record as much content as you want and store it on YouTube’s servers.

Sling TV focuses on premium cable channels rather than local networks like ABC, CBS, and Fox, although you may be able to get some local channels, depending on your area. Prices start at $40 a month for a pack of 32 channels, and you can increase your subscription fee to add more. You can watch on a variety of devices besides your computer, including a smartphone or an Apple TV. Sling also offers a cloud DVR service, but you’ll have to pay an additional $5 a month to save recordings in the cloud.

Cable subscriptions

If you already pay for a cable subscription, this may be the easiest way to tune into live television on your computer. All you need are your username and password.

Take Comcast’s Xfinity Stream service. It gives subscribers access to more than 250 channels. Just navigate to the Xfinity Stream site, log in with your credentials, and start watching. DirecTV offers similar services, and you can access it through a web browser.

This story has been updated. It was originally published in 2019.

The post How to watch TV on a computer, even if it’s live appeared first on Popular Science.

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The latest iPads, like the iPad Pro M2, offer incredible speed and visual clarity that make them a favorite for work, school, and everything in between. However, to take full advantage of everything an iPad offers, you’ll need the right iPad apps. Your work and lifestyle will influence the apps that offer the most convenience and functionality for you. We’ve put together a list of the best iPad apps in a range of categories, from those that keep you organized to apps for editing, drawing, and taking notes.

1. Best for note-taking: Microsoft OneNote

OneNote, made by Microsoft, offers excellent note-taking features that stand out for ease of use and top-notch organizational features. The app is available in free and paid versions that come with Microsoft Office 2019 or a Microsoft 365 subscription. (Office 2019 costs $149.99 and Microsoft 365 costs $9.99 for a monthly subscription or $99.99 annually with a yearly subscription) The free version can do everything the paid version can except for storing files locally on Windows and a few stickers, which are pictures that offer another way to express yourself visually.  

The app’s organizational structure includes Notebooks, which break down into Sections, Pages, and Sub-Pages. The Notebooks display as colored tabs on the left of the screen, giving you easy access. The app takes a freeform approach to writing by allowing you to write anywhere on the page, like you would on a piece of physical paper. It automatically opens in text mode to type using an iPad keyboard or the on-screen one, but you can easily change to “draw” and use an Apple pencil to sketch pictures or leave handwritten notes. You can then tag lines of text so you can search for them later. 

A huge pro for OneNote for the iPad is the ability to draw along with taking text notes. You can add sketches, handwritten notes, or graphs to and over the top of text. The ability to draw around and through text within the same document is unique and separates OneNote from heavy competition by popular note-taking apps like Evernote and Joplin. You can also add attachments anywhere in the text so they show up where you need them to. 

2. Best for drawing: Pixelmator Pro

Among the many drawing apps for iPad, Pixelmator Pro rises to the top for its balance of simplicity, versatility, and price. The app offers over 100 brushes, pencils, and other tools that will let you build variety into your sketches. You can paint with watercolor or use sponge brushes to build texture in sketches in ways you can’t when drawing on paper without a bucket full of supplies. 

Pixelmator also has a photo editing system, which includes features that you can add to original drawings. For example, you can use layers, apply effects, and fine-tune colors to build depth and character to your work. You can also add shapes from Pixelmator’s library or add text with varying effects. Beyond drawing, the latest version also lets you work with RAW images, edit PDFs, and create iPhone 15 mockups.

[Related: How to unlock the hidden, more powerful camera on the iPhone 15]

We also like that you can easily export your drawings in different formats and send them directly to cloud storage like Dropbox or Google Drive. Overall, the app puts incredible creative power into your hands and gives you multiple ways to share your creations on other devices. However, the learning curve can be steep for those with little graphic experience. Pixelmator Pro doesn’t have a huge library or tutorials, so some learning will have to come from trial and error. 

Pixelmator Pro is available on iOS and iPadOS.

3. Best for planning: Todoist

Todoist falls somewhere between the ultimate to-do list and project management. This cloud-based service syncs with any device on which you have the app, so you can access your lists from your iPad or a desktop as long as both have the app. An incredibly well-designed interface makes it easy to use despite the fact that it’s packed with features. 

You can schedule due dates, create tasks, and build lists. You can organize projects by tasks and subtasks. There are options to manually reorder tasks or set sorting options for the project. And Todoist lets you add labels so you can search among your projects later on. 

Plus, you can share it with multiple users, which is where the project management aspect comes in. The free version lets users organize five personal projects, provides space for 5MB file uploads, and keeps one week of activity history. The pro version, which costs $4 per month billed yearly, offers 300 personal projects, 100MB file uploads, and unlimited history with task reminders and task duration options. Businesses may want the business subscription, which costs $6 per month billed yearly, to get 500 team projects, unlimited collaborators, and the option to limit access and control with admin and member roles.

[Related: How to use split screen on iPad and conquer multitasking]

With the paid version, you can assign people tasks or add due dates, making it a robust way to manage a family schedule or small business team. Todoist is powerful, and the free version works well for personal organization. However, if you want to manage a family or small business using Todoist, it’s worth upgrading to either of the paid versions.

Todoist is available on iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and Android.

4. Best for photo editing: Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Lightroom is a top choice when it comes to photo editing power. You upload your photos to Adobe’s Cloud, and once there, they’re available to edit on an iPad. The iPad version of Lightroom isn’t quite as robust as the desktop version, but it still offers excellent photo editing tools. You can download it for free with in-app purchases to unlock the features you need. The monthly prices for premium upgrades range from $4.99 to $49.99 per month. 

The app now has more advanced photo editing features like local adjustments, lens-profile-based corrections, and noise reduction, too. We like the local adjustments feature, which is fairly new to the iPad version. With this feature, you can select an oval or linear area in which to apply your edits rather than to the entire image. You’ve got 17 adjustment features to apply within the area, like graduated or radial filters and softness and strength adjustments. Of course, there are more traditional editing tools like photo adjusters and adjustments for clarity and shadows. You’ve also got the option to shoot photos directly in the app, which is more tempting now that iPads come with higher-quality cameras.

The downside with the app is that there currently aren’t great options to batch-edit a large number of photos, say for a wedding, which is odd considering that the features are geared more toward pros than beginners. But for individual photos, you can do everything you need from your iPad and send them to the desktop app when you’re done.

Adobe Lightroom is available for iOS, iPadOS, and Android.

5. Best for calendar: Google Calendar

Google Calendar’s versatility and collaboration options make it one of the best iPad apps for those who have a Google account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to get one, and it’s worth considering for the range of features this calendar offers. 

You can create several calendars and view them separately or together. Organize a family calendar with your spouse and children or keep one for extended family to coordinate events. Google Calendar can be particularly helpful when working with teams because everyone can share their work calendars and schedule meetings using the app. There are options to create tasks, reminders, and recurring events. Within each, you can set times, invite participants, change colors, and add locations. Plus, you can share specific events if you don’t want to share your entire calendar. 

[Related: 5 Google Calendar tips to ensure you never miss a date]

All of that is with the free version, which, really, is all most people need unless you’re working with a large team. The premium version offers analytics and insights as well as the ability to schedule appointments or allow others to schedule appointments with you. Plus, you can sync all of your calendars to keep your life organized in one space.

Google Calendar is available on iOS, iPadOS, and Android.

The post The best iPad apps for making the most of your device appeared first on Popular Science.

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No one likes slow WiFi—it’s right up there with creaking doors and leaking taps as one of the most frustrating household problems. To increase your WiFi speed back to where it should be, try making these tweaks to your router and other devices.

We’ve already covered some of the hardware upgrades you can invest in to remove dead spots and boost your home upload and download speeds. So in this guide, we’ll focus on software fixes and changes you can make to your existing gear. If those adjustments don’t work, switching to a mesh network or buying a WiFi extender can also improve your wireless internet speed.

Upgrade your router software

Just like your laptop and cell phone, routers run their own software. In this case, it’s called firmware because it’s so tightly tied to the hardware—the manufacturer installs and configures it before shipping the device. Companies don’t often issue updates for their routers’ firmware, but many do make new versions of their software available for download. These updates fix bugs and may also include performance upgrades, as well as extra support for newer devices on the market.

The best way to find new firmware for your router is to head to the manufacturer’s website or the internet service provider that gave you the router. If you can’t find a download link, run a web search using “firmware” followed by your router’s make and model.

The exact process for installing firmware varies from router to router. Typically, you open the device settings on your computer and look for the option that lets you install an update from a downloaded file (often a ZIP archive) on your hard drive. The downloaded package usually includes installation instructions, but if you’re still not sure how to do it, consult the router instruction manual or look up the instructions online.

Change the wireless channel

Here’s another trick to try with a slow router: change the wireless channel it uses. This means slightly adjusting the wireless frequency that your WiFi signal is broadcast on. Your router should have a setting that lets you modify the channel, likely listed under a heading like Wireless or Advanced. If you can’t find it immediately, look up instructions online or in the router manual.

Most routers use channel 6 by default. Change this to 1 or 11 (to minimize interference with channel 6), and you might notice better WiFi performance. All of your connected devices will also need to connect to this new channel, but the majority of your gear will do so automatically, with no need to adjust the WiFi name or password. You might have to play around a bit before you arrive at the best channel, but stick to 1, 6, or 11 for the best chance of getting the fastest speeds.

[Related: 6 router settings you should change right now]

In a related trick, some more advanced routers offer two frequency bands: the standard 2.4GHz band and the faster 5GHz band. These bands follow the same principle as the channels mentioned above, but when you switch bands, you’re shifting the frequency much further. That means WiFi-enabled devices you connect to different bands won’t interfere with each other.

If your router supports dual bands (check your model’s documentation for details), you’ll usually see two different WiFi networks you can connect to. Divide your devices across both networks, depending on the speed and range each piece of hardware needs from your WiFi. For example, the 5GHz band typically offers faster speeds but shorter range, so devices closer to your router should use that one. It’ll stream your Spotify tunes more reliably to your gaming console, but it’s not as good at blasting through walls and doors as the older 2.4GHz standard. Use the latter for devices you move around your home, such as phones, or those located farther away from the router, and you should see increased WiFi speeds on all your devices.

Not every router can handle both bands, but most manufactured in recent years support these standards. On either band, if you’re getting sub-optimal WiFi speeds and seeing buffering wheels more often than you’d like, you can still change the wireless channel used in the 5GHz range or the 2.4GHz one. Check out your router’s help pages for more information on your options.

Control the bandwidth

Internet use can quickly eat up your available bandwidth, especially on slow connections or those shared among multiple people. So if you’re struggling to get a decent speed, try investigating what else is happening on your network. For example, running Netflix alongside Hulu while you take multiple video calls probably isn’t the best way to maximize your streaming speed.