Best overall		Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850		SEE IT	An all-in-one workhorse for small businesses and busy homes.
Best for photos		Epson SureColor P900		SEE IT	A powerful device for professional quality photographs.
Best budget		Epson Expression Home XP-5200		SEE IT	A simple yet capable all-in-one with a budget-friendly price.

Epson printers cover the full spectrum of needs, from workhorse office all-in-ones to high-end photo printers and budget-friendly home printers. Chances are, if you need a printer, Epson makes something that will fit your needs. Plus, the company has been in the game for a long time, making high-quality and trustworthy products. No matter what you are looking for, the best Epson printers will offer quality results, wide connectivity options, and plenty of productivity features.

• Best overall: Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850
• Best for photos: Epson SureColor P900
• Best all-in-one for photos: Epson EcoTank ET-8550
• Best monochrome: Epson EcoTank ET-M1170 
• Best portable: Epson WorkForce WF-110
• Best budget: Epson Expression Home XP-5200

How we chose the best Epson printers

Epson’s lineup of printers is expansive, with devices suitable for just about every need. As such, we aimed to choose printers for various users, including businesses, photographers, and families. Although Epson is known for quality devices, its printers are not all created equal. We prioritized those that produce high-quality prints and, when applicable, scans. We also evaluated build quality, connectivity options, and any additional features. We based our selections on hands-on experience, user feedback, and editorial reviews.

It’s important to note that while buying a printer typically requires choosing between a laser or inkjet printer, Epson recently announced it was phasing out laser printers for environmental reasons. While you may be able to find the odd Epson laser printer for sale, they are becoming less common. As a result, we have only selected inkjet printers in this guide. 

The best Epson printers: Reviews & Recommendations

While most of our lives exist in the digital realm at this point, there are still plenty of situations that call for physical copies of documents or materials. It is much more convenient to print in your own home or office, in the comfort of your office chair, at your own computer, instead of hunting down a printer elsewhere. Whether you are looking for a printer for a busy family home, a bustling small business, or for producing art prints for clients, one of the devices below is likely to fit your needs. 

Best overall: Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850

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Specs

• Functionality: Print, scan, copy, fax
• Print speed: 25 ppm
• Maximum print size: Up to 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 39.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 16.73 x 19.7 x 13.8 inches

Pros

• Superb print quality
• Large ink tanks save money on ink
• Fast print speeds
• Full all-in-one capabilities

Cons

• Pricey
• Bulky

Epson’s EcoTank Pro ET-5850 is a seriously impressive printer for businesses and busy homes. This all-in-one printer is feature-rich, offering printing, scanning, copying, and even faxing abilities. Plus, it automatically prints, scans, copies, and faxes two-sided documents, saving you loads of time. It can print up to 25 ppm for both color and black and white and can print borderless up to 8.5 by 14 inches. 

The ET-5850 offers a 500-sheet capacity to keep you from running out of paper mid-document. An auto document feeder (ADF) allows you to feed in large documents all at once. A large 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes using the printer extremely easy. Or you can print from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. It offers WiFi. WiFi Direct, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. It even offers voice-activated printing. In short, there’s no shortage of ways to print with this Epson printer. 

Perhaps most importantly, the ET-5850 produces extremely high-quality prints. Text and graphics come out sharp and clear. The photos won’t be museum quality, but are good enough for most homes and businesses. Unfortunately, the upfront cost of this device is rather high. But it uses Epson’s large ink tanks, which Epson claims will save you up to 80 percent on ink. The ink bottles also use significantly less plastic (since you’ll be buying them less frequently), which is great for those working to reduce plastic use.  

Best for photos: Epson SureColor P900

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Specs

• Functionality: Print
• Print speed: 1 ppm
• Maximum print size: Up to 17 inches wide
• Weight: 35.3 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.7 x 18.6 x 29.3 inches

Pros

• Very accurate color reproduction
• Excellent levels of detail
• Accommodates rolls and sheets of paper
• Switches between photo and matte black automatically

Cons

• Roll adapter is a separate purchase

Professional photographers and artists require different specs and features compared to office use. Most notably, they need highly accurate colors and excellent resolution for producing detailed prints. The Epson SureColor P900 is one of the best photo printers across any brand, making it a top choice for professionals. 

The SureColor P900 uses Epson’s UltraChrome PRO10 pigment ink, which should result in prints that last up to 200 years in color and 400 years in black and white. The printer uses ten colors—cyan, light cyan, vivid magenta, vivid light magenta, yellow, gray, light gray, violet, photo black, and matte black—which results in far more accurate colors than a four-color printer (as long as you use proper ICC profiles and a color-calibrated monitor). It also switches automatically between photo and matte black, so you don’t need to swap out ink cartridges.

This Epson photo printer prints up to 17 inches wide on media up to 1.5mm thick. It is compatible with both sheets and rolls, though you’ll need to purchase the roll adapter separately. But, with a roll of paper installed, you can print up to 129 inches long, resulting in epic panoramic photos or banners. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes the printer easy to set up and use. It connects via Ethernet, WiFi, or USB and supports mobile device printing. It’s not a cheap device, but this Epson printer is the way to go for pros needing the best. 

Best all-in-one for photos: Epson EcoTank ET-8550

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Specs

• Functionality: Print, scan, copy
• Print speed: 16 ppm monochrome, 12 ppm color
• Maximum print size: 13 x 19 inches
• Weight: 24.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 16.9 x 20.6 x 29.8 inches

Pros

• High-quality prints, even photos
• Ink tanks save on ink costs
• Easy to setup and use
• All-in-one functionality

Cons

• No ADF

The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 balances between a high-quality photo printer and a general-purpose device. As an all-in-one, it can print, scan, and copy. While the lack of a document feeder doesn’t make it suitable for office use, it certainly can tackle general printing needs. It’s a wide-format printer, meaning that it can print up to 13 inches wide. That’s ideal for artists who don’t want to be stuck with small sizes. 

Despite the wide-format abilities, the printer is relatively compact, occupying minimal space on your desk. I think it also looks pretty nice, thanks to the sleek, minimal design. When not in use, everything folds up, hiding the USB port and SD card reader on the front. A 4.3-inch touchscreen is easy to navigate, providing quick access to settings and options. Multiple paper trays are intended for different media types, including one at the back of the printer for A3-sized paper and thicker media.  

In terms of office use, the ET-8550 can automatically print double-sided on one pass, which is very convenient. Printed text and graphics look sharp and clear. The scanning bed is able to scan up to A4 size (8.27 by 11.69 inches) and at resolutions up to 1200 x 4800 dpi. The scans are excellent, with lots of detail. You could absolutely use it for digitizing artwork. 

The ET-8550 is very good for photo printing. It doesn’t quite match the quality of the P900 mentioned above, but for an all-purpose device, it is impressive. It uses Black, Photo Black, Gray, Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow ink (all but Black are dye-based) to produce vibrant colors. Overall, I found the colors to be mostly accurate when you dial in all the various factors that impact that. As an EcoTank printer, it uses bottled ink, which is much more economical than traditional printers, so you can save on ink costs as you print your work. For most creatives, this Epson printer offers an ideal balance of printing costs, quality, and features. 

Best monochrome: Epson EcoTank ET-M1170 

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Specs

• Functionality: Print
• Print speed: 20 ppm
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 9.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.8 x 13.7 x 5.9 inches

Pros

• Ink tanks result in low printing costs
• Compact size
• Excellent print quality
• Two-year warranty

Cons

• Not as fast as laser printers

Epson no longer makes laser printers, but the EcoTank ET-M1170 is essentially a black-and-white laser printer alternative. It is solely a printer, so it doesn’t offer any scanning or copying abilities. But because of the single-function design, it is quite compact. It won’t take up much desk space at all. 

As an EcoTank printer, it uses large ink tanks and bottled ink instead of traditional cartridges. This results in extremely low printing costs, coming in at only a third of a cent per page. The printer comes with ink, so you won’t need to buy any for a while. And when you do need to fill up, since it only uses black in, you won’t be spending much. 

This monochrome Epson printer offers a 250-sheet paper tray and auto duplexing. It offers plenty of connectivity options, including wired and wireless printing, as well as voice activation. The 20 ppm isn’t as fast as laser printers, but it is speedy enough for most. But perhaps most importantly, it produces high-quality prints, so your documents will come out clean and clear. 

Best portable: Epson WorkForce WF-110

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Specs

• Functionality: Print
• Print speed: 6.7 ppm monochrome, 3.8 ppm color
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 4.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 9.1 x 12.2 x 8.5 inches

Pros

• Battery powered
• Compact and lightweight
• Excellent print quality
• WiFi and WiFi Direct connectivity

Cons

• Slow print speeds
• No auto duplexing

The Epson WorkForce WF-110 is a compact, portable printer. It’s an ideal choice for those with printing needs while traveling or working in locations without a power source. Measuring only 9.1 by 12.2 by 8.5 inches and weighing just 4.6 pounds, it won’t weigh down your bag much when on the go. It can run off the built-in lithium-ion battery, allowing you to print without an outlet nearby. When you need to power up, it charges via USB or AC adapter. 

Despite the diminutive size, the WF-110 offers excellent print quality. It is capable of a 5,760 x 1,440 resolution, resulting in extremely sharp text and graphics. It is even capable of highly detailed photographs, albeit with some color inaccuracy. This portable printer can print up to legal size, allowing plenty of flexibility. 

You’ll have access to wireless printing via WiFi or WiFi Direct, as well as the ability to use a micro USB. Unfortunately, there is no USB or SD card slot. But with the Epson iPrint companion app, you can print with voice activation, which may be handy for some. It features a 1.4-inch color LCD with a control panel, giving you easy access to settings. The print speeds are quite slow; we wouldn’t recommend this as a replacement for a home or office printer as a result. But it is quite an impressive portable device. 

Best budget: Epson Expression Home XP-5200

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Specs

• Functionality: Print, scan, copy
• Print speed: 14 ppm monochrome, 7.5 ppm color
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 11.9 pounds
• Dimensions: 19.8 x 14.8 x 7.4 inches

Pros

• Quite compact
• Automatic duplex printing
• Reasonably fast print speeds
• Affordable

Cons

• High cost per print

A budget printer will be plenty if you only have casual printing needs. The Epson Expression Home XP-5200 is one of Epson’s most affordable devices, yet it still has plenty to offer. It is an all-in-one with printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. It is very compact, freeing up space in your home.

Setting up the XP-5200 is simple, as is using it. A 2.4-inch color display allows for easy navigation. It offers USB, WiFi, and WiFi Direct connectivity and supports mobile device printing with voice activation. You can even scan documents directly to various cloud services, so you don’t need to have a computer connected to scan. There is no ADF, so you’ll need to scan and copy documents one page at a time. But the 150-sheet paper tray means you won’t need to remember to add paper constantly.

Despite the budget price, the XP-5200 produces high-quality prints with sharp text. It even produces good photos, ideal for printing family snapshots to hang on the fridge. It can print quite speedily for the price as well, which is nice to see in a best value buy. Unfortunately, like most budget printers, the running costs are quite high. It uses standard cartridges instead of the more economical bottles of ink. But if you rarely print, that won’t be as much of an issue anyway. 

What to consider when shopping for the best Epson printers

Epson makes such a wide range of printers that it can be confusing to figure out which is best. The first step to choosing your Epson printer is putting thought into what and how often you will be printing. A printer designed for busy office use will be overkill for a home. Likewise, A photographer wanting to produce pro-grade prints won’t be served very well by a text-focused office printer. Putting some time up front to figure out your printing needs will save you from buying a device that doesn’t live up to your expectations or spending money unnecessarily. 

Epson printer line

Epson offers multiple lines of printers, with the most popular being the WorkForce, Expression, SureColor, and InkTank lineups. The company tailored each line to specific needs, though there is a lot of overlap. 

The WorkForce line, as the name suggests, is designed for business use. As a result, most offer fast print speeds and are able to handle a high workload. The Expression lineup, intended for home use, offers all-in-one functionality in relatively compact packages. 

SureColor printers are built for professional creatives, with subcategories for different creative needs. The SureColor P-line is built for photographers. Finally, the InkTank line features large ink tanks to save on ink costs and cut down on plastic waste. Like the SureColor lineup, InkTank printers come in a variety of formats for different needs, including office, photography, and general home use. 

Functionality

Beyond printing needs, you may also need the ability to scan, copy, or fax. Luckily, most Epson printers are all-in-ones, which, at minimum, offer printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. Faxing abilities are less common, so you’ll want to pay close attention if that is an important feature for you. 

If you would prefer a single-function printer, your options are a bit more limited but not nonexistent. Most of Epson’s single-function printers fall in the WorkForce lineup, though the pro-grade photo printers are also single-function.  

Productivity features

Across all printers, including Epson’s, you will find a range of productivity-focused features. These can cut down on hands-on work on your part, which may be crucial if you use the printer frequently.

• Automatic document feeder: An ADF automatically feeds a stack of documents through the device for either copying or scanning. If you frequently work with many-page documents, this will be a huge time saver. 
• Paper capacity: Each printer will offer a different paper tray capacity. If you don’t like frequently adding paper, look for a printer with a large capacity. However, keep in mind this will result in a bulkier printer. 
• Auto duplexing: Duplexing refers to double-sided printing. Some printers can do this automatically to keep you from feeding the page back through the device in the correct orientation. Likewise, some offer automatic duplex scanning, allowing you to scan both sides of the document without needing to complete two separate scans.
• Duty cycle: The duty cycle is the maximum number of prints the device can handle over the course of a month. This may not be very important for casual home use, but if you have large printing needs, you will want to pay close attention to the duty cycle. 

Size

For most, the size of the Epson printer will be important. If you have limited space in your home or office, look carefully at the dimensions of the printer. Epson’s Expression printers are some of the most compact, so you may want to focus your search on that series. 

The other thing to consider related to printer size is how large you need to print. Most of Epson’s printers will do the job for basic 8.5 by 11-inch paper, or even up to legal size. It does make some compact photo printers that only print up to five by seven inches, though. If you need the ability to print larger sizes, look for a wide-format printer. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Epson printers

• Best overall: Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850
• Best for photos: Epson SureColor P900
• Best all-in-one for photos: Epson EcoTank ET-8550
• Best monochrome: Epson EcoTank ET-M1170 
• Best portable: Epson WorkForce WF-110
• Best budget: Epson Expression Home XP-5200

Epson makes an incredibly wide range of printers. Whether you are a business owner looking for an office printer, a family in need of a device for school projects, or an artist producing professional-quality reproductions, there is bound to be an option that fits your needs. No matter what, it’s important to consider what you will be using the printer for before choosing the best Epson printer for your needs. 

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.

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Best overall		Celestron NexStar 8SE		SEE IT	It offers powerful magnification and a useful Go-To mount for finding celestial objects.
Best smart		Unistellar Equinox 2		SEE IT	Ponder the heavens and take photos of space from the comfort of your couch.
Best budget		Sky-Watcher 8" Flextube 200P		SEE IT	A budget-friendly option with plenty of magnification and light-gathering capabilities.

Telescopes for deep space allow you to gaze at the wonders of our universe in a way that wouldn’t be possible with other telescopes. These powerful devices use larger apertures to gather loads of light, illuminating what would be too dim to see otherwise. Many even offer motorized mounts to move to the celestial objects you want to admire automatically. Whether you are a new astronomer or a seasoned pro, the best telescopes for deep space will broaden your horizons.

• Best overall: Celestron NexStar 8SE
• Best smart: Unistellar Equinox 2
• Best splurge: Celestron Advanced VX 8 Edge HD
• Best compact: Vaonis Vespera
• Best budget: Sky-Watcher 8″ Flextube 200P

How we chose the best telescopes for deep space

Telescopes for deep space have more specific requirements than general telescopes. Because of this, we selected powerful scopes with large apertures and plenty of magnification. Beyond those two factors, we also looked for options with and without motorized mounts. Finally, we assessed the quality of the optics, build quality, mount type, and any extra features. We selected based on a mix of hands-on telescope experience, expert insight, editorial reviews, and user feedback. 

The best telescopes for deep space: Reviews & Recommendations

If you want to see beyond planets and our moon, you’ll need a telescope for deep space. These powerful scopes will open up the ability to gaze at deep sky objects (DSOs), such as star clusters, nebulas, and galaxies, providing new opportunities for epic stargazing sessions.

Best overall: Celestron NexStar 8SE

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Specs

• Optical design: Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Mount: Computerized alt-azimuth  
• Aperture: 203mm (8 inches)
• Focal length: 2032mm
• Eyepiece: 25mm (81x) Plössl
• Weight: 24 pounds
• Dimensions: 42.01 x 23.66 x 12.99 inches

Pros

• Computerized mount makes tracking easy
• Very sharp across entire field of view
• Large aperture
• Portable

Cons

• Slewing results in some lag

Our best overall pick comes from one of the most trusted telescope manufacturers. The Celestron NexStar 8SE is a relatively portable Schmidt-Cassegrain scope. It weighs 24 pounds but is quite compact, so you can bring it to dark-sky locations if needed. 

This telescope for deep space offers a minimum useful magnification of 29x and a maximum useful magnification of 480x, making it a versatile tool for viewing a wide range of celestial objects, including planets. Plus, the eight-inch aperture captures plenty of light for DSOs. Provided you don’t have much light pollution, you’ll be able to see nebulas, galaxies, and more clearly.  

This type of telescope requires collimation, but Celestron’s SkyAlign makes it quick and easy, even for beginners. Another plus for beginners and pros alike is the included alt-azimuth mount, a fully automated Go-To mount. You can select from a database of 40,000 objects, and the telescope will automatically find it and track it across the sky for you. It also comes with a 25mm eyepiece, StarPointer finderscope, visual back, and mirror star diagonal. The NexStar 8SE is pricey, but you get a lot of value for that price that is hard to beat.

Best smart: Unistellar Equinox 2

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Specs

• Optical design: Newtonian reflector
• Mount: Computerized alt-azimuth  
• Aperture: 114mm
• Focal length: 450mm
• Eyepiece: Not applicable (no eyepiece)
• Weight: 19.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 18.6 x 11.2 x 30.4 inches

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Can be used from a distance
• Filters out light pollution 
• Portable
• Good battery life

Cons

• Expensive
• Lack of an eyepiece isn’t for everyone

For those who want to gaze into the heavens from the comfort of their couch, the Unistellar Equinox 2 is the way to go. This smart telescope is unique in that it doesn’t feature an eyepiece. Instead, you pair the scope with the easy-to-use Unistellar app and view from there. This won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but it makes deep space observation easier for groups and kids. It also came in handy for those mosquito-ridden Florida nights, as my husband and I could stargaze from inside.

The Equinox 2 features a sturdy base with a computerized alt-az mount. After an easy alignment process, you can search a database of 5,000 objects, including DSOs. Then, the telescope will automatically find and track them across the night sky. Or, you can use the in-app joystick to browse on your own. 

One of the best features of the Equinox 2 is its Deep Dark Technology, which filters out light pollution. This opens up stargazing even to those living in cities. Though I don’t live in a large city, there is a lot of light pollution, and it was remarkable what I was able to see with this setting turned on. Should you want to travel to dark sky locations, the telescope is relatively compact and portable, and you can even purchase a bundle with a backpack for easier transportation. Want an even more up-to-date (but also more expensive) model? Check out the newly announced Odyssey Pro.

Best splurge: Celestron Advanced VX 8 Edge HD

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Specs

• Optical design: Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Mount: Computerized equatorial mount 
• Aperture: 203mm (8 inches)
• Focal length: 2032mm
• Eyepiece: 12mm (150x) and 40mm (38x)
• Weight: 61 pounds (full kit)
• Dimensions: ‎9.1 x 9.1 x 9.1 inches

Pros

• Very compact
• Accurate Go-To mount
• Extremely high-quality optics
• Excellent for both astrophotography and observation

Cons

• Mount isn’t sturdy enough for long-exposure astrophotography
• Expensive

Our splurge pick is also one of the best telescopes for astrophotography. It features high-quality optics that fully correct for coma and field curvature, resulting in a truly flat field. Plus, the StarBright XLT coatings provide better light transmission for bright, sharp images. 

The included equatorial mount makes tracking objects easy, so you can make long observations or take long-exposure photos. It is computerized with Go-To functionality, making it easy to find and automatically track objects of interest. The mount even features ports for hand control, an autoguider, and two AUX ports for optional accessories. All those ports make it an ideal option for seasoned pros or for beginners who want something to grow into. 

Adding to the versatility of this scop is the ability to use three different f-stop configurations. You can attach a camera to the scope for f/10 or attach the eight-inch EdgeHD focal reducer to shoot at f/7. Finally, the EdgeHD is Fastar/Hyperstar compatible, making it possible to shoot at f/2. It is also quite compact, albeit fairly heavy, making it feasible to travel with. This is an expensive telescope for deep space, but you won’t be disappointed if you want something to last a long time or are looking for extremely high-quality optics.

Best compact: Vaonis Vespera

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Specs

• Optical design: Apochromatic (APO) quadruplet refractor
• Mount: Computerized alt-azimuth  
• Aperture: 50mm (2 inches)
• Focal length: 200mm
• Eyepiece: Not applicable
• Weight: 11 pounds
• Dimensions: 15 x 8 x 3.5 inches

Pros

• Very compact and portable
• Helps remove light pollution
• Sleek, futuristic design
• Ideal for group observations

Cons

• Images aren’t very high-quality

The Vaonis Vespera is one of the best options If you love to travel and want a telescope for deep space to take along. Weighing only 11 pounds and measuring 15 by 8 by 3.5 inches,  the Vespera is very compact for what it provides. It also features a futuristic design, which will look nice sitting in your home. 

Like the Unistellar telescope, this option doesn’t offer an eyepiece. It can pair with up to five smartphones or tablets via the Singularity app, making it a fun way to stargaze with friends. Also like the Unistellar, it can filter out light pollution so that you can view DSOs even in cities. The telescope and app are both easy to use, so you’ll have no issues if you are a complete novice. 

The Vespera uses a Sony IMX462 image sensor to produce images. Unfortunately, this isn’t a great option if you want high-quality images of celestial objects. It only offers a resolution of 1920 by 1080 pixels, and users report that images are a little on the soft side. But it uses your phone’s GPS to calibrate yourself and automatically tracks objects, taking the work out of stargazing.

Best budget: Sky-Watcher 8″ Flextube 200P

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Specs

• Optical design: Newtonian reflector
• Mount: Dobsonian
• Aperture: 203mm (8 inches)
• Focal length: 1200mm
• Eyepiece: 10mm (120x) and 25mm (48x)
• Weight: 52 pounds (full kit)
• Dimensions: Base: 29.5 x 20 inches

Pros

• Included mount is very sturdy
• Very large aperture for the price
• Comes with two eyepieces and an eyepiece tray
• Smooth movements for manual tracking

Cons

• Not motorized Go-To functionality

Telescopes for deep space are not cheap; there’s no getting around it. But the Sky-Watcher 8” Flextube 200P offers a much more budget-friendly option for deep sky observation. Coming in well below $1,000 when writing, this device provides a large eight-inch aperture for plenty of light gathering. 

The Flextube 200P comes with two eyepieces, offering more versatility. It also includes an eyepiece tray to keep your accessories organized. The 1200mm focal length offers plenty of reach for deep space viewing, with a maximum useful magnification of 400x. The high-quality mount allows for smooth movements as you scan the sky.

This is not a lightweight device at 52 pounds (the base and scope combined). But it is relatively compact so that it will fit well in smaller spaces. Should you need to transport the scope, it comes apart in two pieces to make it easier. The Flextube 200P also doesn’t feature a motorized mount, meaning it requires manual input for finding and tracking objects. Purists will appreciate that, but it may take some getting used to for novices. It comes with a 50mm finder, though, which makes it easier to find what you are after.

What to consider when buying the best telescopes for deep space

Telescopes for deep space have some specific requirements beyond most scopes. Add to that all the highly technical jargon that goes along with telescopes, and it can be extremely confusing what to actually pay attention to when shopping. Below are some key features you’ll need to consider when choosing your new telescope to look out at the cosmos’ wonders. 

Aperture

The aperture is the most important aspect of a telescope for deep space (yes, this is even more important than magnification). A telescope’s aperture controls how much light is let in. It is measured in millimeters or inches. If you want to check out deep-space objects, you’ll need a telescope with a large aperture to gather as much light as possible. Broadly speaking, your best bet is to choose the largest aperture you can afford. 

The exact type of object you want to check out could also guide your decision. Celestron suggests a minimum of 5 inches (120mm) for open star clusters and at least 8-11 inches (200-280 mm) for galaxies. 

Focal length & magnification

The focal length of your telescope is a measurement (measured in millimeters) of the distance between the primary lens or mirror and where the light comes in to focus at the other end. Focal length matters because it is part of what determines its magnification. 

While it might be somewhat counterintuitive, you don’t need crazy high magnification to view deep-space objects (DSOs). In fact, too much magnification may prevent you from seeing the object in the best light. Depending on what exactly you hope to check out, a focal length of 800 to 1250mm or so is best. 

Eyepiece

The other piece of the magnification puzzle is the eyepiece. Most telescopes will come with two eyepieces, providing different levels of magnification for better versatility. You can also purchase eyepieces separately if you want more options. 

Keep in mind that each telescope will have a minimum and maximum useful magnification. If you choose an eyepiece with too much magnification for your telescope, you will see objects larger, but it won’t be any sharper, so you may not get a very clear image. On the other hand, if you go with too little magnification, there will be a vignette around your view, and you won’t see the entire field of view. 

Without getting too into the weeds, there are also multiple types of eyepieces, each with its pros and cons. The most common ones that you’ll find are Barlow and Plössl eyepieces. Barlow lenses feature optical elements that increase magnification by either twice or triple as you step up. Plössl eyepieces offer a wider field of view, which makes them ideal for deep sky viewing. 

Optical design

There are many types of telescopes, but broadly speaking, there are three categories for consumers: Refractor, reflector, and catadioptric.

Refractor telescopes use lenses (typically made of glass) to allow the light to travel in a straight path from the front objective lens to the eyepiece at the back of the telescope. These are easy to use, reliable, and require little to no maintenance. However, if you want a large aperture, they are quite long. They also get expensive, especially for high-quality refractors, since the glass lenses are pricey to produce well. 

Reflector telescopes, including Newtonian and Dobsonian types, use mirrors to bounce light inside the device, allowing for a shorter design than refractor scopes. Mirrors are cheaper to make than glass lenses, so reflector telescopes are generally more affordable when compared to the same aperture as refractor scopes. They can, however, be quite bulky and heavy and need to be collimated (the process of aligning the mirrors), which adds a step before you can use your scope. 

Finally, catadioptric telescopes use both mirrors and lenses, allowing for a compact, portable design. Schmidt-Cassegrains and Maksutov-Cassegrains are two types of catadioptric telescopes that you’ll encounter. 

Mount type

The type of mount your telescope uses will impact how you can use it. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, there are three primary types you’ll encounter: Dobsonian, alt-azimuth, and equatorial.

Alt-azimuth mounts (also called alt-az) are the simplest and, therefore, most affordable. They allow for altitude (vertical) and azimuth (horizontal) adjustments. High-quality alt-az mounts also provide smooth tracking abilities; some even feature a motor for automated tracking. 

Dobsonian mounts use a platform much like a lazy susan. As a result, they need to be placed on sturdy, flat surfaces, such as a table. They provide excellent stability, as long as you have a good place to put it. They are not very portable, though, so these are best suited for homes where you can set it up and leave it. 

Finally, equatorial mounts counteract the Earth’s rotation, allowing you to focus on a single object and track it across the night sky. As a result, they are the preferred choice for serious astrophotography and long observations of single celestial objects. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best telescopes for deep space

• Best overall: Celestron NexStar 8SE
• Best smart: Unistellar Equinox 2
• Best splurge: Celestron Advanced VX 8 Edge HD
• Best compact: Vaonis Vespera
• Best budget: Sky-Watcher 8″ Flextube 200P

Telescopes for deep space have specific requirements that make them more expensive than basic scopes. But, if there’s room in your budget, they allow for epic stargazing, opening up new discoveries. And although they may be more advanced than cheap telescopes, most are still very beginner-friendly.

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 telescopes for deep space in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e		SEE IT	With full all-in-one functionality, quality prints, and fast print speeds, this small printer punches above its weight.
Best compact		HP OfficeJet 250		SEE IT	This portable printer will give you all-in-one features when on the go.
Best mini		HP DeskJet 2755e		SEE IT	This tiny printer transforms your digital photos into instant film prints.

For those with limited space, small printers can be hugely beneficial. These compact devices can even be assets for those with printing needs while traveling. Despite the compact size, these printers can often offer all-in-one capabilities, wireless connectivity, and excellent print quality. They come in all varieties, from laser and inkjet to miniature Zero Ink devices. The best small printers will meet your printing needs while taking up significantly less space in your home or office. 

• Best overall: HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e
• Best compact: HP OfficeJet 250
• Best mini: Fujifilm Instax Link Wide
• Best laser: Brother HL-L2350DW
• Best budget: HP DeskJet 2755e

How we chose the best small printers

When selecting the best small printers, we, of course, prioritized size. However, we focused on more than just portable devices and included options geared toward stationary use as well. Beyond device footprint, we also evaluated print quality, features, connectivity, and print speed. We made our selections based on a mix of hands-on experience, user feedback, and editorial reviews. 

The best small printers: Reviews & Recommendations

Don’t let the diminutive size fool you; small printers can still output plenty of quality with top-notch features, even for demanding folks. Plus, they typically come at lower price points than larger printers, which is an added benefit. 

Best overall: HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e

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Specs

• Printing technology: Color inkjet
• Functions: Print, copy, scan, fax
• Maximum print speed: 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 18.4 pounds
• Dimensions: 13.43 x 18.11 x 9.21 inches

Pros

• Comes with six free months of Instant Ink
• All-in-one functionality
• Good print quality
• Relatively fast print speeds

Cons

• Photo quality is lacking
• Doesn’t support duplex scanning

Our top pick isn’t portable, but it is compact enough to take up minimal space on your desk or counter. The HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e is a full-function all-in-one, meaning it can scan, copy, print, and fax. It’s a great choice for busy homes or small offices. It comes with six months of HP Instant Ink, the company’s automatic ink delivery service. It includes cartridge recycling, which we appreciate. 

Though this printer isn’t breaking any speed records, it is able to print up to 20 ppm in black and white and 10 ppm in color. It offers USB, WiFi, Ethernet connectivity, as well as Apple AirPrint and Mopria Print Service. You’ll even be able to take advantage of self-healing WiFi, keeping you from fussing with settings as frequently. 

The OfficeJet Pro 8025e is capable of auto duplexing (automatic two-sided printing), though it cannot duplex scan. The automatic document feeder is ideal for scanning or copying multi-page documents. It prints high-quality documents with sharp and clear text. It does lack in photo quality, though that’s to be expected in an office-oriented all-in-one. Overall, this HP printer is one of your best choices if you need a well-rounded printer with a small footprint. 

Best portable: HP OfficeJet 250

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Specs

• Printing technology: Color inkjet
• Functions: Print, scan, copy
• Maximum print speed: 10 ppm black, 7 ppm color
• Maximum print size: 8.5 × 14 inches
• Weight: 6.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.96 x 7.8 x 3.6 inches

Pros

• Very compact and lightweight
• Battery is rechargeable
• Plenty of connectivity options 
• Includes a 50-sheet paper tray

Cons

• Pricey
• Doesn’t come with a USB cable

The HP OfficeJet 250 takes small to the next level while maintaining full functionality with plenty of features. This portable printer weighs 6.5 pounds but is small enough to fit into a backpack or larger briefcase. It can run off of an internal rechargeable battery, which provides a life of roughly 225 prints. The battery power is a big plus for those needing to print receipts or documents at events.

Despite the compact size, the OfficeJet 250 is an all-in-one with everything but fax functionality. It features an auto-document feeder and a sheetfed scanner. There’s also a 50-sheet paper tray, so you don’t need to add paper one by one like some portable printers. The color touchscreen makes it easy to adjust settings without needing to pull out your phone or computer. And you can connect via USB (though you’ll need to buy a cable), WiFi, or USB flash drive. 

The portable form factor doesn’t result in lower quality, either. It produces high-quality scans, sharp text, and color prints that easily meet professional business standards. Just be aware that you will be waiting for those prints. The print speeds are on the slow side, with only 7 ppm for color prints when plugged into a power source. That slows down slightly when running on the battery. It’s also not a cheap printer. But if you need access to printing, scanning, or copying on the go, the OfficeJet 250 is the best available. 

Best mini: Fujifilm Instax Link Wide

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Specs

• Printing technology: Instant film
• Functions: Print 
• Maximum print speed: 12 seconds per print
• Maximum print size: 2.4 x 3.9 inches
• Weight: 0.75 pounds
• Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.8 x 7.6 inches

Pros

• Very portable
• Comes with a stand
• Photos are vibrant and sharp
• Doesn’t use ink

Cons

• Only for photos
• Film can get expensive

Fujifilm is perhaps best known for its party-friendly Instax cameras. But the company also makes mini printers that print instant photos as well. The Instax Link Wide prints the largest version of Instax film, which results in a 2.4 by 3.9-inch print. Should you want an even smaller miniature printer, the Instax Mini Link 2 produces even smaller two-by-three-inch prints.  

Once you download the Instax Link WIDE app, pairing the printer to your phone via Bluetooth is easy. Printing is simple and relatively quick, though you’ll need to wait for it to develop since it is an instant film photo. The app provides lots of tools, including the ability to crop, adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation, or add filters. You can even add text and stickers, create collages, or add a QR code. The app also tells you the battery life and how many shots you have left. 

The printer itself is very small, weighing less than a pound, and easily fitting in a backpack. It comes with a handy stand, which allows it to sit upright. It charges via micro USB, and Fujifilm promises 100 prints per charge. Considering each film pack only contains 10 shots, that’s plenty, even for most vacations. Because this printer uses instant film, you won’t need to worry about purchasing ink. The film will run you roughly a dollar per shot at the time of writing. 

The prints from the Instax Link Wide are excellent, with sharp details and vibrant, true-to-life color. I’ve been very impressed by the print quality. It is significantly better than other zero-ink printers, so it made our list. Of course, this mini printer is only designed for photos, so those wanting to print documents must look elsewhere. But it is fun to turn your digital photos into a physical, retro-looking print. Plus, you can print multiple at a time, making it a great choice for parties or gifting prints to friends and family. 

Best laser: Brother HL-L2350DW

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Specs

• Printing technology: Monochrome laser
• Functions: Print
• Maximum print speed: 32 ppm
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 15.9 pounds
• Dimensions: 14 x 14.2 x 7.2 inches

Pros

• Excellent text quality
• Very fast print speeds
• Auto duplexing
• Low cost-per-print

Cons

• Print only
• Monochrome isn’t for everyone

For those needing a simple printer to handle occasional text documents, a monochrome laser printer can be a great way to save money. This Brother laser printer is reasonably priced with a compact footprint to take up minimal space in your home office. The toner cartridges are high-yield, meaning you won’t need to buy new toner very often. When you do buy toner, they are relatively affordable, so you’ll save money in the long run compared to a color inkjet printer. 

The Brother HL-L2350DW is a single-function printer, so you won’t be able to scan or copy. It’s also a monochrome printer, so you can only print in black and white. But what it does, it does extremely well. It produces very clear and sharp text. Graphs also look excellent from this printer. It offers auto duplexing, meaning it can print two-sided documents without you needing to flip the page just the right way. 

The HL-L2350DW offers plenty of connectivity options, including USB, WiFi, and NFC. A 250-sheet paper tray keeps you from constantly reloading paper. Or there is a manual feed slot that works with a variety of paper types and sizes. Though this printer may lack the functionality that some desire, it’s a fantastic choice for a basic workhorse office printer. 

Best budget: HP DeskJet 2755e

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Specs

• Printing technology: Color inkjet
• Functions: Print, scan, copy
• Maximum print speed: 7.5 ppm black, and 5.5 ppm color
• Maximum print size: 8.5 × 14 inches
• Weight: 7.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.97 x 16.7 x 6.06 inches

Pros

• Very affordable
• Compact
• All-in-one functionality
• Useful mobile app

Cons

• Operating costs are high

You don’t have to spend a lot to get a quality small printer. The HP DeskJust 2755e comes in under $100, with frequent sales that bring the price even lower. It has a tiny footprint, taking up minimal space on your desk or counter. And despite that, it is an all-in-one with the ability to print, scan, and copy. You can even fax (send only) using the HP Smart app. That makes it an ideal choice for busy families and home use. 

This color inkjet produces sharp text and good photos. They won’t be professional lab-quality photos, but that’s not surprising for such a budget-friendly printer. It is easy to set up, and the mobile app offers a lot of functionality. You can connect via WiFi, which is self-healing, as well as USB. Mobile printing is also available. 

The primary downside to this printer is ink costs. The cost-per-page is quite high compared to other printers. You can save some money with HP’s Instant Ink subscription service, but this is something to keep in mind if you print a lot. 

What to consider when shopping for the best small printers

Choosing a small printer is the same as selecting any printer, though with a focus on compact devices. Of course, you’ll first need to decide how small is necessary. Are you wanting to travel with your printer? If so, a portable, battery-powered device may be best. Do you want to print small photos when out with friends? A mini photo printer will be the way to go. Or do you just want a compact option to sit on your desk in your home office? Then, a traditional all-in-one with a small footprint may be your best bet. 

Beyond that, there are a handful of other things that are important to consider when choosing the best small printer for your needs. 

Inkjet vs. laser

When choosing a printer for your home or business, you must first decide between inkjet and laser printers. These two types of devices produce prints in different ways, each with pros and cons. 

Inkjet printers use small nozzles to spray liquid ink or dye onto paper. The liquid ink results in more vibrant photos or graphics with smoother gradients, which is why inkjet printers are the technology of choice for artists. But that ink can smudge if not handled properly immediately after printing. Also, the ink can dry in the nozzles and clog them up if you don’t use the printer frequently. But they are more affordable to buy, which is why they are typically the preferred option for home use. 

Laser printers use toner cartridges that contain powder. The printer then uses static electricity to attract the powder and heat to imprint the toner onto the paper. Because of this printing method, laser printers can sit inactive for much longer periods than inkjet printers. They are also better at producing sharp, detailed text and handling high volumes, so they are the most common choice for offices. Although toner is more affordable than inkjet cartridges, laser printers are more expensive to buy.

Functionality

Printers typically offer anywhere from one (only printing) to four (print, scan, copy, and fax) functions. Even small printers come with all-in-one functionality, though those won’t be the smallest options. If you only need to print, you can skip the all-in-ones to save on space and cost. However, if you also want to scan or copy, focus on an all-in-one.

Connectivity

All printers offer wireless connectivity at this point, but those wireless options may vary across printers. Also, some may offer features like USB or SD card printing. If you want lots of options for how you print, be sure to look closely at connectivity options. 

Print speed

Sprint speed isn’t important to everyone. But if you don’t want to wait around for prints, you should prioritize printers with fast print speeds. For the impatient folks out there (or those who do a lot of printing), printers with a print speed faster than 20 pages per minute (ppm)—and ideally over 30 ppm—are your best bet. 

Print size

Finally, you’ll want to consider how large you plan on printing. For basic home or office use, 8.5 by 11 inches is standard and will suit you just fine. You won’t find a small printer that prints larger than 8.5 by 14 inches, however. For that, you’ll need a wide-format printer. But, if you want a printer strictly for casual photos, a smaller device that tops out at 5 by 7 inches may be the smart move. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best small printers

• Best overall: HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e
• Best compact: HP OfficeJet 250
• Best mini: Fujifilm Instax Link Wide
• Best laser: Brother HL-L2350DW
• Best budget: HP DeskJet 2755e

There are lots of reasons to purchase a small printer. Whether you simply don’t have much space, need a portable device, or only want to make small prints, these compact devices offer a lot despite their minimal footprints. The best small printer for your needs will depend on what you need a printer for, so be sure to plan ahead before purchasing. 

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 small printers for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Canon 12×36 IS III		SEE IT	If you want sharp, bright, colorful, stabilized, distortion-free images, you want Canon binoculars.
Best high power		Celestron SkyMaster 25X100		SEE IT	Essentially the equivalent of a telescope in your hands, these Celestron binoculars offer a whopping 25x magnification and an objective lens measuring 100mm so you’ll see epic details in the night sky.
Best budget		Celestron UpClose G2 10×50		SEE IT	While they require collimation—the alignment of the lenses—these budget binoculars use multi-coated optics, resulting in a quality image with good contrast and mostly accurate color once adjusted.

While telescopes are popular for stargazing, binoculars for astronomy offer a more portable option for gazing into the heavens. Binoculars are extremely versatile, working well for general terrestrial observations as well as more celestial surveying. You can even use them handheld or on a mount. Whether you want to observe the moon or casually stargaze, the best binoculars for astronomy are great to take into nature and bring you closer to the stars. 

• Best overall: Canon 12×36 IS III
• Best splurge: Canon 10×42 L IS WP
• Best high power: Celestron SkyMaster 25X100
• Best compact: Nikon PROSTAFF P7 10×42
• Best budget: Celestron UpClose G2 10×50 

How we chose the best binoculars for astronomy

Binoculars for astronomy require more specific specs than general-purpose binoculars, so we prioritized options with larger objective lens size and higher magnification. We also aimed to select options at various price points suitable for everyone from beginners to expert stargazers. While binoculars with image stabilization are excellent for astronomy use, they are quite expensive, so we’ve included models both with and without stabilization. In making our selections, we considered optical quality, size and weight, eye relief, and build quality. 

The best binoculars for astronomy: Reviews & Recommendations

Binoculars for astronomy will allow you to gaze up at the moon, spot deep space objects, check out planets, and more. While these advanced optics can be used handheld, we’d recommend a tripod or mount of some variety to offer more stable, high-quality night sky views.

Best overall: Canon 12×36 IS III

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Specs

• Objective lens diameter: 36mm
• Magnification: 12x
• Field of view: 5 degrees
• Eye relief: 0.57 inches (14mm)
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 5 x 6.85 x 2.76 inches

Pros

• Effective image stabilization
• Relatively lightweight and compact
• Image stabilized
• Excellent optical quality

Cons

• Pricey

Canon makes some of the best image-stabilized binoculars available, so it should be no surprise that our top pick comes from the imaging giant. The Canon 12×36 IS III binoculars for astronomy offer the company’s typical high-end optics and Porro II prisms, resulting in a sharp, bright, colorful image. It also features a double field flattener, which produces a distortion-free image.

The 36mm objective lens diameter is slightly lower than what is typically recommended for astronomy use. However, these still offer plenty of light gathering for stargazing. You’ll also be able to use them for things like bird watching, adding to their versatility. Plus, the smaller objective lens results in a more compact size ideal for most people, which is why it earned our top spot. These Canon binos provide 12x magnification, allowing you to see details on the moon’s surface. 

What really makes these optics stand out is the image stabilization. Canon built these with technology similar to what they use in their EF lenses, resulting in much sharper images when holding the binoculars. You’ll need two AA batteries for power, and they will typically get up to 12 hours of use. Simply put, once you use IS binoculars, you won’t want to go back to anything else. 

Best splurge: Canon 10×42 L IS WP

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Specs

• Objective lens diameter: 42mm
• Magnification: 10x
• Field of view: 6.5 degrees
• Eye relief: 0.63 inches (16mm)
• Weight: 2.4 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.4 x 6.9 x 3.4 inches

Pros

• Excellent stabilization
• High-quality optics
• Rugged build 
• Plenty of eye relief

Cons

• Expensive
• Fairly heavy and bulky

If money is no object and you want the best of the best, the Canon 10×42 L IS WP binoculars are the way to go. These powerful binoculars for astronomy offer a large objective lens of 42mm, capturing tons of light for viewing even dim celestial objects. The 10x magnification is plenty for most astronomical observations and offers plenty of eye relief for a range of users.

Like the pair mentioned above, these feature Canon’s impressive image stabilization. It will almost look like you are using a tripod, giving you sharp, clear views. The ‘L’ in the name refers to Canon’s top-tier line of optics. These feature two ultra-low dispersion (UD) lens elements (on each side), which effectively corrects for chromatic aberration. Images will be sharp, bright, and vibrant, offering excellent views of the stars. 

Of course, there are downsides to these binos. First, they are expensive. If you are a casual user, they will be overkill. Second, they are fairly bulky and heavy. You likely won’t want to hold them for long periods, and they will add weight to your pack if you are hiking. But this is the pair to get if you are serious about stargazing with your binoculars. 

Best high power: Celestron SkyMaster 25X100

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Specs

• Objective lens diameter: 100mm
• Magnification: 25x
• Field of view: 3 degrees
• Eye relief: 0.59 inches (15mm)
• Weight: 8.75 pounds
• Dimensions: 10.1 x 5.1 x 15.28 inches

Pros

• Massive object lens diameter gathers tons of light
• Lots of magnification
• Comes with a tripod adapter
• Excellent image quality

Cons

• Very bulky and heavy
• Not for handholding

Celestron is one of the top telescope producers, so it makes sense that the company would also produce top-notch binoculars for astronomy. Celestron SkyMaster 25×100 is essentially the equivalent of a telescope in your hands. It offers a whopping 25x magnification and an objective lens measuring 100mm. That massive lens will let in tons of light. Paired with the high level of magnification, you’ll see epic details in the night sky, such as Jupiter’s belts, star clusters, and more. 

These binos feature BaK-4 prisms and multi-coated lenses, enhancing contrast for superb viewing quality. They are ruggedly built with a water-resistant design. The SkyMaster also utilizes a rubber-armored housing, which protects them from damage and provides a better grip. 

Unfortunately, such power comes with great responsibility. In this case, that means lots of weight. The SkyMaster weighs 8.75 pounds and, naturally, is larger than any other option on our list. They also don’t offer any image stabilization. As a result, you won’t want to hold these by hand for very long. Luckily, it has a built-in tripod adapter, making it easier to hook up to a tripod for hands-free use. All of this also comes at a rather reasonable price, so you don’t have to break the bank to see craters on the moon. 

Best compact: Nikon PROSTAFF P7 10×42

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Specs

• Objective lens diameter: 42mm
• Magnification: 10x
• Field of view: 7 degrees
• Eye relief: 0.62 inches (15.7mm)
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.91 x 5.12 x 2.17 inches

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Waterproof and fogproof
• Adjustable eyecups and long eye relief
• Versatile

Cons

• No tripod adapter

Weight is an important consideration when backpacking or hiking, even when you hope to take advantage of the dark skies. That’s where the Nikon PROSTAFF P7 binoculars come into play. They are very compact and lightweight, coming in at just 1.3 pounds and just under six inches long. It will be much easier to bring them along on your trips. And, it will be easier to hold for longer viewing sessions as well. 

The PROSTAFF P7 are also ruggedly built and suited for adventures. They are waterproof to 3.3 feet and nitrogen-filled for fogproof performance. The 0.62-inch eye relief works well for those who wear glasses, and the turn-and-slide eyecups are adjustable to work well for a group of people. A rubber-armored body protects from drops and bumps and makes them easier to hold. Nikon used a water- and oil-repellent coating on both the objective and eyepiece lenses, which helps keep them free of water and fingerprints. 

Although these are not specifically designed for stargazing, they will definitely do the job. The 10x magnification is enough for casual night sky viewing, and the 42mm objective lens will gather plenty of light. Nikon designed these with high-quality optics and Phase-Correction coating for superb image quality and clarity. It also features a dielectric high-reflective multilayer prism coating, which maximizes light transmission. Finally, the locking diopter ring, typically only found on much more expensive optics, keeps your setting locked in.

Best budget: Celestron UpClose G2 10×50 

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Specs

• Objective lens diameter: 50mm
• Magnification: 10x
• Field of view: 6.8 degrees
• Eye relief: 0.47 inches (12mm)
• Weight: 1.69 pounds
• Dimensions: 8 x 7 x 2.5 inches

Pros

• Very affordable
• Water-resistant
• Rubber coating prevents slips
• Good optical quality

Cons

• Requires collimation
• Not nitrogen-filled

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get started with binoculars for astronomy. This budget-friendly pair also happens to be great for beginner stargazers. They are compact and lightweight, making them ideal binoculars for hiking. Yet they still offer 10x magnification and a 50mm objective lens. Those specs will allow you to see the moon in all its glory easily, as well as some star clusters and more.

Celestron built these with a rugged design, including a rubber coating to protect from drops and improve grip. They are water resistant, so you won’t need to panic if you get caught in a rain shower. They are not nitrogen-filled, though, so they tend to fog up. 

The main downside to this budget set of binos is that they require collimation—the alignment of the lenses. While not difficult, it does take time away from your stargazing. The good news is that Celestron used multi-coated optics, which results in a quality image with good contrast and mostly accurate color. If you are just getting started or want some kid-friendly binoculars for astronomy, these will do a great job.

What to consider when shopping for the best binoculars for astronomy

Binoculars are, for the most part, rather simple devices without much in the way of fancy technology. But, there is some specific lingo that you should be aware of when shopping for binoculars for astronomy to ensure you pick the right optics for viewing the night sky.

Magnification 

All binoculars include two numbers in the name, such as 10×50. The first number refers to magnification. For stargazing, you’ll typically want at least 10x magnification. If you want to see the moon or planets in more detail or search for smaller deep space objects, 12x will be better. However, remember that more magnification will exaggerate movement while holding the binoculars. So, if you will only handhold the binos, we suggest sticking to 10x or lower.

Objective lens

The second number tells you the size of the objective lens, measured in millimeters. In our example above, that would be 50mm. The objective lens is the lens closest to the object you’re viewing, or the one opposite of the eyepieces. This number tells you how large the binoculars are and how much light they let in. 

Larger objective lenses collect more light, which is better for stargazing. But it also means larger binoculars, which makes them harder to handhold. As a result, you’ll need a balance unless you only plan on using a tripod or mount of some type. For astronomy use, you’ll want at least 40-50mm, though 50-60mm will allow you to see fainter celestial objects. 

Image stabilization

If you’ve ever spent time looking through binoculars, you may have noticed how hard it is to keep them steady. That movement gets even more dramatic in higher-powered binoculars for astronomy, which can make detailed observations quite challenging. If you want superb image quality and don’t always want to rely on a tripod, look for a pair of image-stabilized binoculars. 

There are different types of image stabilization in binos. Some offer passive stabilization (also called mechanical stabilization) with suspended prisms, which don’t require any batteries. Other types of stabilization include digital, optical, and hybrid stabilization (a combination of digital and optical). Each type has pros and cons, though hybrid stabilization offers the best results, albeit at the highest cost. 

Roof prism vs. Porro prism

There are two varieties of binocular design: Roof prisms and Porro prisms. In Porro prism binoculars, the objective lens is offset from the eyepiece, requiring the light to travel in a zig-zag pattern. This design can result in a higher quality image, but they are bulky and heavy compared to roof prism binos. 

The prisms in Roof prism binoculars line up closely, allowing the objective lens to be in a straight line from the eyepiece. The Roof prism design results in a more compact, lightweight form factor. However, it is a more complicated design, which results in a much higher price tag compared to Porro prism binoculars. 

Exit pupil

Exit pupil refers to the round, bright image you see when looking through the eyepiece. The larger the diameter, the brighter the image, which is important for astronomy. To calculate this, divide the objective lens diameter by the magnification. So, for example, a 10×50 binocular would offer an exit pupil of 5mm. 

The key here is to find binoculars for astronomy with an exit pupil roughly the same size as the human pupil when dilated for darkness. In dark conditions, most pupils dilate to around 7mm. Opting for binoculars with an exit pupil of 2.5mm will make the image look quite dark.

Eye relief

Eye relief is the distance from the eyepiece lens to the exit pupil, where the image is formed. Put simply, it is how far you can hold the binoculars away from your eyes and still see the full image without vignetting. If you wear glasses, you’ll need binoculars with longer eye relief. Be sure to go with an eye relief greater than 14mm if you use glasses.  

Weight

Weight might not be the first thing that comes to mind when choosing binoculars for astronomy. However, it can be incredibly important. If you plan on handholding your binoculars, look for a more compact, lightweight option. Otherwise your arms will tire quickly, but more importantly, they will be hard to hold steady. And if you can’t hold them steady, you won’t get a very good view of the night sky. 

If you opt for a heavier option or plan long observation sessions with high magnification, we recommend mounting the binoculars to a tripod. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best binoculars for astronomy

• Best overall: Canon 12×36 IS III
• Best splurge: Canon 10×42 L IS WP
• Best high power: Celestron SkyMaster 25X100
• Best compact: Nikon PROSTAFF P7 10×42
• Best budget: Celestron UpClose G2 10×50 

Binoculars for astronomy can serve as an excellent alternative to bulky telescopes. These optics allow you to view celestial objects on the go, making it a great choice for camping, hiking, or travel of any type. Binoculars are also easier to store, which is ideal for those living in smaller spaces. Despite their convenience, they still allow you to see plenty of wonders in the night sky.

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 binoculars for astronomy in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Levoit Core P350		SEE IT	This is a great overall choice for anyone who owns pets and a pair of lungs.
Best for large rooms		GermGuardian Air Purifier		SEE IT	This burly model cleans the air in a space up to 1,760 square feet.
Best splurge		Molekule Air Pro		SEE IT	This high-end model covers a large area with more features for a price.

Without an air purifier for pets, our furry friends’ dander can get the better of us. As much as we love our animals, they are ripe with allergens, which can cause serious issues for those with sensitivities. But living with a cat or dog doesn’t have to result in misery for those with allergies. The best air purifiers for pets offer multiple levels of filtration to capture everything from dander and other pet allergens to clumps of loose fur and even odors, getting rid of that wet dog smell. 

• Best overall: Levoit Core P350
• Best splurge: Molekule Air Pro
• Best for large rooms: GermGuardian Air Purifier
• Best for small rooms: Molekule Air Mini+
• Best budget: Winix A231 Tower H13

How we chose the best air purifiers for pets

My household comprises a dog whose favorite thing is rolling in the grass, a cat, and a husband who is allergic to all three things. As a result, air purifiers are a must in our household to combat the constant barrage of allergens. When selecting the best air purifiers for pets, we prioritized devices with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, as these offer the best results for reducing allergens. We then looked at other filtration methods (some offer multiple varieties in a single air purifier), room size coverage, and odor-reducing features. Finally, we factored in device size, noise levels, and any additional features, such as timers and connectivity options. We based our selections on hands-on experience, customer feedback, and editorial reviews. 

The best air purifiers for pets: Reviews & Recommendations

Having pets in your home doesn’t mean you must be miserable and simply deal with allergies, thanks to air purifiers. Purifiers for pets can provide significant relief from the effects of dander and other allergens, like what gets tracked in the house after a long walk, and even get rid of those less-than-pleasant pet odors and floating fluff. 

Best overall: Levoit Core P350

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Specs

• Filter type(s): Fabric pre-filter, True HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter
• Maximum coverage area: Up to 218 square feet
• Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches
• Weight: 7.5 pounds

Pros

• Quiet
• Compact
• Plenty of settings and controls
• Pet Lock keeps settings from changing if it gets bumped

Cons

• No app connectivity

The Levoit Core P350 earns our top slot thanks to its balance of features, design, quality, and price. Levoit purpose-built this air purifier for pets, as is evidenced by the Pet-Lock function to keep your furry friend from accidentally changing settings on the touchscreen display. It’s also a bonus in households with kids. 

The Core P350 features a three-in-one filtration system. The Non-Woven Fabric Pre-Filter traps pet fur to reduce the amount of hair on your floors. The Efficient Activated Carbon Filter neutralizes pet odors to keep your home smelling fresh. It effectively removed the dog smell from my office, where the dog crate lives. And finally, the True HEPA filter cleans the air to remove allergens. 

All three filter types are packed in a relatively compact package with a sleek, attractive design that will fit well in just about any space. It’s powerful enough to purify a 219-square-foot room in only 12 minutes, yet can produce as little as 24 decibels. Three fan modes allow you to fine-tune noise levels and cleaning effectiveness, and a night mode turns off lights so you can sleep without distractions. 

The primary downside to the Core P350 is that it doesn’t pair with an app and doesn’t offer an air quality sensor. But at $130, it’s hard to beat all that this air purifier for pets has to offer. 

Best splurge: Molekule Air Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Filter type(s): PECO, True- HEPA, and carbon filters
• Maximum coverage area: Up to 1000 square feet
• Dimensions: 23.1 x 10.9 inches
• Weight: 22.9 pounds

Pros

• Very quiet
• Automatic mode detects changes in air quality
• Six manual speeds offer lots of control
• Attractive design
• Tackles odors, smoke particles, dust, and more

Cons

• Expensive

If thorough air-cleaning abilities, smart design, and broad coverage are of utmost importance, the Molekule Air Pro is your best bet. This larger air purifier for pets covers up to 1,000 square feet in rooms with ceilings up to eight feet. The modern design will look smart in your home, and the vegan leather handle makes it easier to move when cleaning a different room.

The Air Pro features a True HEPA filter to capture 99.7 percent of small particles. A carbon filter removes odors and gases. But what makes it unique is the light-activated PECO technology, which destroys organic pollutants instead of simply trapping them. In 2023, scientists at the Florida International University published a preclinical study in Nature examining how PECO filters reduce allergic reactions to cat dander. The team found that the PECO filter was more effective at destroying cat dander, thus reducing allergy responses. The air in the room where I have my Air Pro definitely smells fresher since getting this purifier up and running. 

On top of effective air purifying abilities, Molekule’s Air Pro is also extremely smart. Thanks to the built-in air quality sensor, it offers two automatic modes. One automatically adjusts the fan speed when it detects increased particles and chemical levels. When I burned some food while cooking, the fan spun up to clear out the smoke faster. The other automatic mode does the same, but silently. There are also six manual fan speeds, so you can take full control when you want. It operates at noise levels between 30-65 decibels, with the lowest level barely noticeable over normal white noise in your home. 

The Molekule app is easy to navigate and provides daily and weekly air quality assessments. With the Air Pro, you can even break these down into specific pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, VOCs, and various particle sizes. It will remind you when to change filters, and you can subscribe to receive new filters automatically. The Air Pro is expensive, to be sure. But it is ripe with features, scientifically backed, and attractively designed. The steep price tag is the only reason this didn’t earn our best overall designation.

Best for large rooms: GermGuardian Air Purifier

SEE IT

Specs

• Filter type(s): True HEPA, UV-C light, carbon pre-filter
• Maximum coverage area: Up to 1760 square feet
• Dimensions: 9.65 x 15.95 x 20.87 inches
• Weight: 13 pounds

Pros

• Cleans up to 1,760 square feet
• Three fan speed settings
• UV-C light reduces germs, viruses, and bacteria
• Removes odors

Cons

• Two fan speeds are quite loud
• A bit bulky

Large spaces require more robust air purifiers for pets. The GermGuardian can purify rooms up to 1,760 square feet, fitting the bill. In rooms that size, it can circulate the air one time per hour. Or, for faster cleaning, it can cycle the air 4.8 times per hour in 365-square-foot spaces. It features three levels of cleaning, including a True HEPA filter, a carbon pre-filter to remove odors and trap pet hair, and a UV-C light to reduce airborne germs. 

The GermGuardian is roughly the size of a dehumidifier, though slightly more narrow. It will require some space, but since it’s made for large rooms, that shouldn’t be too much of an issue for most. It’s relatively affordable for the large coverage as well, which is nice to see. A night mode turns off the device’s lights. And an eight-hour auto-off timer keeps it from running unnecessarily. 

Our main complaint with the GermGuardian is the fan speed settings. There is not much difference in noise between two levels, and both are quite loud. The third setting is barely noticeable, so we primarily keep it at this setting. Having more even differences between the three levels for more control would be nice. There are no sensor or automatic controls, so you must manually change fan speeds. But, overall, it seemed to cut back on our allergies when running and effectively removed odors as well, which is appreciated. 

Best for small rooms: Molekule Air Mini+

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Specs

• Filter type(s): PECO, True- HEPA, and carbon filters
• Maximum coverage area: Up to 250 square feet
• Dimensions: 8.26 x 8.26 x 12 inches
• Weight: 7.3 pounds

Pros

• Extremely quiet
• Pairs with the Molekule app 
• FDA-cleared as a medical device
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Pricey for the size

The Molekule Air Mini+ is essentially a smaller version of the Air Pro mentioned above. It features the same proprietary PECO-HEPA Tri-Power to purify air from various allergens and pollutants effectively. Like the Air Pro, the Air Mini+ is DA-cleared as a 510(k) Class II medical device to destroy viruses, bacteria, and mold. 

The Air Mini features a particle sensor to detect and track PM2.5 levels over time, which you can view in the app. The automatic mode spins up the fan as needed, adapting to the current conditions in your room. Or you can manually adjust with five different speed settings, resulting in noise levels from 39 to 62 decibels. 

This compact air purifier for pets can purify up to 250 square feet. We’ve had ours in our bedroom and have noticed much-improved allergies while trying to sleep. The vegan leather handle makes it easy to move if you need to bring it from room to room with you. Although the PECO filter is light-activated, it is very dim and doesn’t cause much of a glow in a dark room at night. There are controls on the top of the device that are easy to use, or you can change settings via the Molekule app as well. Overall, it’s a sleek, effective little air purifier.

Best budget: Winix A231 Tower H13

SEE IT

Specs

• Filter type(s): Washable fine mesh pre-filter, activated carbon filter, True HEPA filter
• Maximum coverage area: Up to 230 square feet
• Dimensions: 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.6 inches
• Weight:

Pros

• Washable pre-filter saves money
• Carbon filter reduces odors
• Automatic mode with built-in sensor and air quality indicator
• Offers a dedicated sleep mode

Cons

• Fairly loud, even on lower settings

The Winix A231 offers quality air purification even for those on a tight budget. And despite the friendly price, it still has plenty of features, making it our best value pick. Most notable for an air purifier for pets at this price is the built-in sensor and automatic mode. Plus, the air quality indicator will alert you to changes in air quality with different light colors on the top of the device.  

This Winix air filter features three levels of purification. The True HEPA filter captures 99.97 percent of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns in size. The carbon filter reduces odor-causing VOCs to keep your room smelling fresh. A washable fine mesh pre-filter traps larger airborne particles, including pet hair. We love to see a washable design since it saves you money and reduces the environmental impact. 

Unique to this air purifier is the Winnix PlasmaWave Air Cleaning Technology, which can be turned on or off. Winix says this acts as a permanent filter to break down odor, allergens, chemical vapors, and other pollutants. Unfortunately, users have reported that it is loud even on the lowest fan speed, though the sleep mode does provide quiet operation. But for the price, you’ll be hard-pressed to find as many features or quality in other options.

Things to consider when shopping for the best air purifiers for pets

Air purifiers for pets can vary from extremely simple devices with just a few settings to tech-heavy options with all sorts of fancy features. No matter what variety you are looking for, there are some key things to look out for to ensure you get a quality purifier that will actually clean your air. 

Filter types

The most important aspect of any air purifier is the thing doing the purifying—the filters. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the best available, so prioritize air purifiers with this type of filter for best results. That’s because HEPA filters can remove 99.97 percent of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, or any other airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, according to the EPA. 

However, you’ll want to pay close attention to HEPA filter mentions on air purifier listings. There are True HEPA filters, which are highly effective. But there are also HEPA-like filters, which are not certified to meet the standards mentioned by the EPA. 

Many air purifiers rely on multiple types of filters, so there are other filter types to pay attention to—some feature activated carbon filters, which work to reduce odors. For households with pets, this may be an extremely important feature. If you have extra furry friends that make it impossible to keep up with vacuuming, look for devices with a pre-filter, which will catch loose hair to prevent it from blocking up the HEPA filter. Some air filters also feature a UV light to kill airborne bacteria. 

Room size

As with any air filter, manufacturers build pet air purifiers for specific room sizes. This will be listed in square footage. A small purifier meant for a 350-square-foot room won’t work well in a vast, open space. On the other hand, a large air purifier meant for over 1,000 square feet will be overkill for a tiny bedroom. Be sure to consider where you will put the filter and roughly how many square feet it is before selecting.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) refers to the volume of filtered air an air purifier delivers. The CADR is broken into separate scores for tobacco smoke, pollen, and dust. The CADR of your air purifier should be equivalent to at least two-thirds of the room’s area, according to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). For example, for a 120-square-foot room, it “would be best to have an air cleaner with a smoke CADR of at least 80.” 

Using an air purifier with a CADR number larger than two-thirds of the room’s square footage simply means that it will clean the air more often and faster, which isn’t bad. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers will list CADR numbers. But it is worth checking to see if they are provided.  

Replacement filter cost

To keep your filter working, you’ll need to replace filters occasionally. Some are reusable, though they will still require proper cleaning. If you are on a budget, be sure to factor in the cost of replacement filters on top of the initial cost of the air purifier for pets. Some companies, such as Molekule, offer subscription services to send you new filters when it’s time automatically. If you tend to forget such things, you may want to opt for a device with a subscription service to keep your air clean. 

Noise levels

Air filters use a fan to pull air through a filter, inevitably producing noise. Some are louder than others, though. Manufacturers will occasionally list decibel levels; if noise is a concern for your household, check to see if the decibel level is provided on the models you are considering. 

Luckily, many devices provide multiple fan levels. That means you can turn it up when you want a boost of cleaning and then lower the fan noise when you are trying to watch TV. You can even find models with specific sleep modes to keep the volume down when it’s time for bed.

Additional features

Beyond the necessities, you may find additional features on air purifiers for pets that could be of interest. Some offer timers so that you aren’t constantly running the unit. Others feature air quality sensors to keep you aware of the air quality in a given room. Others provide app connectivity with reminders to change filters, remote control features, and more. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air purifiers for pets

• Best overall: Levoit Core P350
• Best splurge: Molekule Air Pro
• Best for large rooms: GermGuardian Air Purifier
• Best for small rooms: Molekule Air Mini+
• Best budget: Winix A231 Tower H13

As much as we love the animals in our lives, they put out an awful lot of allergens. Even those without serious allergies may suffer from minor reactions to all that dander and associated pollutants. The best air purifier for pets will keep the air clean even with a small zoo in your house, making it more comfortable and safer for everyone involved. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best air purifiers for pets in 2024, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ		SEE IT	This feature-laden model offers a great mix of performance and price.
Best for astrophotography		Celestron Inspire 100AZ		SEE IT	Easily attach any smartphone to the eyepiece to capture impressive shots of the night sky.
Best for deep space		Sky-Watcher Classic 200		SEE IT	This model’s chunky design peers further into space than the competition.

Budget telescopes are a great way to dip your toes into cosmic exploration without needing a fortune of galactic proportions. While you may miss out on advanced tech and smart features found in more expensive options, budget-friendly telescopes still allow you to view stars, planets, nebulas, and more. Choosing an affordable telescope can be challenging, though. Read on to discover our favorite picks and what you should look for in the best budget telescopes. 

• Best overall: Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ
• Best portable: Celestron Astromaster 70AZ
• Best for smartphone astrophotography: Celestron Inspire 100AZ
• Best for kids: Orion Observer II
• Best for deep space: Sky-Watcher Classic 200

How we chose the best budget telescopes

While budget telescopes will result in limited selection compared to higher-price items, there are still plenty of options for those on tight budgets. When selecting the telescopes for this guide, we prioritized those from well-established brands to ensure quality, durability, and reliability. You’ll notice that Celestron is well-represented, and for good reason. Celestron is truly the heavy in the consumer telescope world, and it tends to dominate on the more accessible end of the spectrum. We then considered the optical design, mount type, aperture, and focal length, choosing a variety of options suitable for different stargazing needs. Finally, we assessed build quality, optical quality, and included accessories. 

The best budget telescopes: Reviews & Recommendations

Manufacturers of budget telescopes inherently need to make sacrifices to keep prices down, but that doesn’t mean all budget-friendly devices are cheaply made or of poor quality. The options below will offer a balance of quality, features, and price so you can get the most for your money at a lower price point. 

Best overall: Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ

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Specs

• Optical design: Newtonian reflector
• Mount type: Alt-azimuth
• Aperture: 130mm (5.11 inches)
• Focal length: 650mm (25.59 inches)
• Magnification: 26x and 65x
• Weight: 18 pounds
• Dimensions: 38.98 x 16.93 x 8.98 inches

Pros

• Easy to set up and align
• Sharp, quality optics
• Bright aperture
• Excellent value for the price

Cons

• Manual control only
• Included eyepieces offer limited magnification

Our top pick offers an impressive amount of quality for its sub-$500 price. This Newtonian reflector telescope features a 5-inch primary mirror with highly reflective coatings to produce sharp, clear images. The 130mm aperture gatherers lots of light, so it’s plenty bright in many conditions. Those light-gathering skills also come in handy when taking photos if you want to practice astrophotography. 

This budget telescope comes with an alt-azimuth mount and a sturdy, full-height tripod. Despite its robust base, it’s still relatively lightweight, so bringing it to a spot with less light pollution won’t be too challenging. It also includes 10mm and 25mm eyepieces, offering 26x and 65x magnification, respectively. That makes seeing star clusters, nebulae, planets, and more possible. 

We especially like that the 130AZ comes with a phone deck. With your phone mounted to the telescope, you can use the StarSense app to identify which objects you want to look at. It will then guide you to where you need to be, which is fun for beginners and more experienced stargazers alike. If you want to use it without your phone, it also has a red dot finderscope to help guide you. 

Best portable: Celestron Astromaster 70AZ

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Specs

• Optical design: Newtonian reflector
• Mount type: Alt-azimuth
• Aperture: 70mm (2.76 inches)
• Focal length: 900mm (35 inches)
• Magnification: 45x and 90x
• Weight: 18 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.96 x 5.12 x 3.94 inches

Pros

• Includes everything you need to get started
• Comes with 10mm and 20mm eyepieces
• Very simple to set up
• Lightweight and portable

Cons

• Manual control only (no motor)
• Limited magnification

The Celestron Astromaster 70AZ Newtonian reflector is an extremely popular budget telescope thanks to its ideal balance of features, size, and price. It comes with an alt-azimuth mount and two eyepieces—10mm and 20mm—so you won’t need to purchase any extras to get started viewing the stars. It’s also easy to assemble, so you’ll be stargazing just a few minutes after opening the box. 

We like the Astromaster 70AZ partly because it is relatively compact and lightweight at roughly 18 pounds. It’s easier to bring with you on trips to find skies free of light pollution. The lightweight design also makes it a good choice for kids. The two eyepieces allow for 45x and 90x magnification, allowing you to view planets easily. 

Of course, as a budget telescope, there are some downsides. The 70mm aperture won’t allow you to see deep-space objects very well. And the panning handle doesn’t allow for very precise adjustments. It’s best for beginners, as a result. But, it provides quality optics at a very affordable price, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

Best for smartphone astrophotography: Celestron Inspire 100AZ

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• Optical design: Refractor
• Mount type: Alt-azimuth
• Aperture: 100mm (3.94 inches)
• Focal length: 660mm (25.98 inches)
• Magnification: 33x and 66x 
• Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 38 x 33 x 52 inches

Pros

• Quality optics
• Lightweight and portable
• Very easy to set up
• Lens cap serves as a smartphone mount

Cons

• Some fringing

The Celestron Inspire 100AZ is a great choice for those wanting to explore the possibilities of astrophotography with just a phone. That’s in part thanks to the clever dual-purpose lens cap. When you’re ready to take photos, simply attach the lens cap to the eyepiece, then strap your phone into place, and you’re all set. 

The Inspire 100AZ is an achromatic refractor scope. It offers a 100mm aperture for plenty of light gathering and a 660mm focal length. You’ll be able to view the moon and planets easily and some brighter star clusters. It won’t quite cut it for deep space, however. That’s typical of this type of telescope.

This budget telescope features an alt-azimuth mount and comes with a sturdy tripod. It’s quick and easy to set up and break down. You’ll also get the StarPointer Pro red dot finder to help you find celestial objects and 10mm and 20mm Kellner eyepieces. And it offers a built-in red light to help you find your accessories in the dark without blasting your eyes with light. Unfortunately, there is some fringing, which is unsurprising for a budget refractor model. But for those just getting started, we think it’s still an excellent option.

Best for kids: Orion Observer II

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• Optical design: Refractor
• Mount type: Alt-azimuth 
• Aperture: 60mm (2.4 inches)
• Focal length: 700mm (27.5 inches)
• Magnification range: 28x, 70x
• Weight: 4.3 pounds
• Dimensions: 29.3 x 10.9 x 7.5 inches

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Comes with fun and useful books and maps
• Includes two eyepieces
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Not for viewing deep space

If a star projector piqued your child’s interest in the cosmos, a to-scale telescope is a logical next step to keep their interest growing. The Orion Observer II is a great starter kit for kids. It will allow them to check out craters on the moon or even the rings on Saturn, expanding their minds as they view our vast universe.

The anti-reflection-coated 60mm achromatic objective lens gathers enough light for budding astronomers and produces clear views while keeping the cost down. The 700mm focal length paired with the included 10mm and 25mm Kellner eyepieces result in 28x and 70x magnification, respectively. It features an alt-azimuth mount for easy tracking and comes with a tripod that’s easy to set up, even for kids. 

Part of what makes the Orion Observer II stand out for kids is the books and guides that come with it. The Orion MoonMap 260 shares 260 interest features to look for on the moon. The Star Target planisphere helps you figure out what you can see in the night sky for every night of the year. And the Exploring the Cosmos book introduces space and the stars for your budding astronomer. 

Best for deep space: Sky-Watcher Classic 200

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• Optical design: Dobsonian
• Mount type: Alt-azimuth
• Aperture: 8 inches
• Focal length: 1200mm
• Magnification range: 48x, 120x
• Weight: 45 pounds
• Dimensions: 49 x 27 x 18 inches

Pros

• 8-inch mirror captures lots of light
• Sharp, clear optics
• Comes with 25mm and 10mm eyepieces
• Sturdy and well-made

Cons

• Bulky and heavy

For viewing deep into the depths of space, you’ll need a telescope with lots of light-gathering abilities. That means a Dobsonian telescope, a type of telescopes commonly called “light buckets.” The Sky-Watcher Classic 200 is an excellent budget-friendly Dobsonian, offering a lot of quality for the price. 

The large eight-inch aperture will allow you to view even faint nebulas, galaxies, and star clusters. The 1200mm focal length provides lots of reach, resulting in 48x and 120x magnification when using the included 10mm and 25mm Plössl eyepieces. It also comes with a two-inch Crayford focuser, a 1.25-inch eyepiece adapter, and a 9×50 straight-through finder scope. There is a built-in eyepiece tray to keep it all organized as well, which we appreciate.

Sky-Watcher designed this scope with Teflon bearings for smooth azimuth movement and patented tension control handles for accurate adjustments. It is very well made and will last a lifetime. The main downside to this budget telescope is its size. It weighs 45 pounds when fully assembled. It also doesn’t come with a stand, so it must be placed on a sturdy, level surface. This telescope is not one that you will want to travel with or move around much as a result. Instead, it’s best suited for homes where you can set it up and leave it be. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best budget telescopes

There’s lots of technical jargon associated with telescopes, so figuring out what it all means can be overwhelming. We spoke with Dr. Jason Aufdenberg, Associate Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, to get his advice on telescope shopping. He explained that it may be tempting to opt for the largest magnification you can afford and ignore all the other features, but that’s not necessarily the right call. Below are some key things to pay attention to when choosing a budget telescope, or any telescope, for that matter. 

Optical design

There are three primary types of optical designs in telescopes: Refractor, reflector, and catadioptric or compound. 

Reflector telescopes use glass lenses to focus light into an eyepiece. Light needs to travel in a straight path to the eyepiece in reflectors, which results in devices that are longer than they are wide. Reflector telescopes tend to result in chromatic aberration, otherwise known as fringing. To avoid this, Dr. Aufdenberg explained that manufacturers rely on complicated multi-element lens systems, which makes them expensive. But they are sturdy and relatively maintenance-free, making them one of the most common types available. 

Reflector telescopes—which include Dobsonian and Newtonian—use mirrors to reflect the light into focus. These bounce light back and forth in the optical tube, which allows for a shorter design. They also cost less to make, so most cheap telescopes are reflectors. Dr. Aufdenburd suggests a Dobsonian for beginners because it offers the most light collection per dollar. However, this type of telescope will require what’s called collimation, which is an alignment of the mirrors. It usually only takes a few minutes, but it is an additional step. 

Finally, catadioptric telescopes use both lenses and mirrors, resulting in a compact form factor. If you’re looking for a portable option, a catadioptric is your best bet. Schmidt-Cassegrains and Maksutov-Cassegrains are two common varieties of this type of telescope. 

Mount type

Dr. Aufdenberg stressed that the telescope mount is just as important as the other features. That’s because the mount controls how and where the telescope can move, which impacts what you can do with it. There are three primary types of mounts to consider: Alt-azimuth, Dobsonian, and equatorial. 

Alt-azimuth mounts are the simplest and, thus, most affordable mounts available. These allow for altitude (vertical) and azimuth (horizontal) adjustments. Quality alt-az mounts allow for smooth tracking across the sky, which makes them an ideal choice for shorter astrophotography captures. Some are even computerized for automatic tracking.

Dobsonian mounts sit on lazy susan-like platforms that must be placed on sturdy surfaces like tables or mounted to platforms. They are intended to support massive Newtonian telescopes, but many compact telescopes also use this mount type as well. They provide more stability than the other mount types, as long as you have a stable surface to mount it to. 

Equatorial mounts essentially counteract the Earth’s rotation, making them perfect for long observations and serious astrophotography. With an equatorial mount, you can focus on a specific celestial object and guide it across the sky to keep it centered. You can either do this manually or with an electric motor for automatic tracking. 

Lens

Once you decide on your optical design and mount type, you’ll need to select the diameter of the primary lens, also known as aperture. The aperture is measured in millimeters or inches and indicates how much light the telescope lets in. A larger aperture will allow for shorter exposure times for astrophotography and allow you to see dimmer objects—such as nebulae—faster. You should choose the largest lens that you can afford and that is as portable as you need it to be.  

Magnification

Lastly, you’ll want to think about the type of objects you want to view and what magnification is required to view those objects. To see details such as Jupiter’s moons or Saturn’s rings, you’ll want at least 30-40x magnification. 

Magnification is, in part, determined by the focal length of your eyepiece. Many telescopes will come with multiple eyepieces, providing more versatility. To determine the magnification with a specific eyepiece, divide the focal length of the optical tube by the eyepiece. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best budget telescopes

• Best overall: Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ
• Best portable: Celestron Astromaster 70AZ
• Best for smartphone astrophotography: Celestron Inspire 100AZ
• Best for kids: Orion Observer II
• Best for deep space: Sky-Watcher Classic 200

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality, fun-to-use telescope. By prioritizing the features and technology that you will actually use, you’ll be able to save money while getting a device that will last you for years to come. Whether you are a novice to stargazing or someone with more experience, the budget telescopes above will get you searching the cosmos for less. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best budget telescopes for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra		SEE IT	The Galaxy S23 Ultra is packed with the latest smartphone technology, including five cameras, a high-refresh-rate screen, and one of the strongest smartphone processors available.
Best for small hands (and pockets)		ASUS Zenfone 10		SEE IT	The latest Zenfone is easy to carry but still packs plenty of power with all-day battery life, high refresh rate, and an IP68 rating.
Best budget		Google Pixel 7a		SEE IT	The Pixel 7a offers a camera and performance well beyond its budget-friendly price.

There are a lot of Android phones out there. The wide variety of devices and manufacturers bringing new ideas to the platform is a huge selling point for die-hard fans but also a barrier to entry for people who just want a new phone that works well. You can find good Android devices for as little as $200 or as much as $2,000. Some are better for photography. Others are mobile gaming powerhouses. Android itself even changes from manufacturer to manufacturer. It can be overwhelming to newcomers and long-term Android fans alike. Luckily, our guide for the best Android phones has all the info you need to sort through the crowded marketplace to find your next device.

• Best overall: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Best for small hands: ASUS ZenFone 10
• Best budget: Google Pixel 7a

How we chose the best Android phones

We selected our picks for the best Android phones based on our experience with many of these phones, as well as trusted sources and professional reviewers. Since there are so many Android devices on the market, each with its own hardware and features, we made sure to select a variety of devices at various price points and unique use cases that we’re confident will match your specific needs in a smartphone.

The best Android phones: Reviews & Recommendations

Even if you know what you want from your next smartphone, it’s hard to assess a phone’s quality based on spec lists alone and even harder to parse the differences between models with seemingly identical components. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best Android phones currently available. 

We used the criteria outlined above to find the best Android phones overall, plus the best options for specific uses like photography and gaming, the best folding phone, and the best 5G phone at an affordable price point to give a range of devices we think are worth your time. Or, at the very least, give you a good place to start your search.

Best overall: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

SEE IT

Specs

• Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED (3,088 x 1,440 px resolution; 1 to 120 Hz variable refresh rate)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
• RAM options: 8GB, 12GB
• Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
• Battery: 5,000 mAh
• Charging: 45W wired
• Cameras: Front: 12MP (f/2.2);  Rear: 200MP main (ƒ/1.7); 12MP ultrawide (ƒ/2.2); 10MP telephoto (3x optical zoom, ƒ/2.4), 10MP periscope telephoto (10x optical zoom, ƒ/4.9).
• Size: 6.4 x 3.1 x 0.35 inches; 8.2 ounces
• Android OS version: Android 13 (One UI 5.1)

Pros 

• Big AMOLED display with dynamic refresh rate
• Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 CPU
• Good battery life on a single charge
• Multi-lens rear camera with two telephoto lenses

Cons 

• Wall charger and other important accessories sold separately
• No MicroSD card support

Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra is the company’s strongest flagship yet and our pick for best Android phone overall. It’s an incredibly expensive phone, starting at $1,200, but its features and performance are worth that sky-high price.

Videos, apps, and games look great on the S23 Ultra’s 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, and an optional dynamic refresh rate setting shifts from the standard 60Hz mode up to as high as 120Hz or as low as 1Hz, depending on what’s on the display. 

The Galaxy S23 Ultra also features a sharp, versatile camera. The primary, wide-angle camera provides a whopping 200 megapixels for highly detailed images. There are also two separate 10-megapixel telephoto lenses (one with 3x optical zoom and the other 10x) and a 12-megapixel ultrawide. Additionally, it offers helpful shooting modes to get the perfect shot. Qualcomm’s current-best chipset, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, powers these features and is strong enough to handle demanding apps, games, and general multitasking. 

Battery life, another smartphone pillar, also shines. You can expect about a day’s worth of use on a single charge, and it juices up quickly over wired or wireless charging. Performance will fluctuate depending on how often the screen uses the higher refresh rate modes, but only slightly, and you can lock the screen to 60Hz if it’s an issue. Charging does present a small issue, though: The Galaxy S23 Ultra ships with a USB 3.0 cable, but you need to buy a wall charger separately (unless you own a compatible one from a previous Android device). 

Speaking of extra accessories, the Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with the S Pen stylus. But you will need a specific case if you want to store the stylus on the phone itself. Unlike many previous Galaxy devices, the S23 Ultra does not have a MicroSD slot for expandable storage, so you’re locked into the onboard space for the model you buy.

Even with minor quibbles like the lack of a MicroSD card slot and having to buy one or two necessary accessories, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the most well-rounded flagship Android phone, making it the best choice for most people.

Best small phone: ASUS ZenFone 10

SEE IT

Specs

• Display: 5.9-inch AMOLED (2400 x 1080 px resolution; 144 Hz refresh rate)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
• RAM: 8GB, 16GB
• Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Battery: 4300mAh
• Charging: 30W wired, 15W wireless
• Cameras: Front: 32MP Rear: 50 MP (f/1.9) main, 13MP ultrawide
• Size: 5.8 x 2.7 x 0.4 inches; 6 ounces
• Android OS version: Android 13 (confirmed to get Android 14, in beta as of publication)

Pros

• The size
• 144 Hz refresh rate on compatible games, 120 Hz otherwise
• All-day battery life
• Bluetooth 5.3 with support for all the codecs
• 3.5mm headphone jack
• Wireless charging + a power adapter

Cons 

• Not the brightest screen
• No MicroSD card slot
• Cameras struggle with contrast/saturation

The ASUS Zenfone 10 goes big on features without going big on body, a welcome change from the increasing dimensions of so many smartphones. Being more pocketable and a one-hand-friendly flagship doesn’t make this compact package less powerful, however. Inside the IP68 body is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset smoothly running Android 13 (with two years of OS updates promised).

ASUS knows a thing or two about portable gaming (check out the ROG phone line, as well as the ROG Ally handheld console), and that performance trickles down to this handset, even if the overall experience is naturally far more cramped. The action, even at the highest settings, is impeccably smooth, even if icons, etc., are compressed on the 5.9-inch screen. Speaking of visuals, the cameras, which use the Sony IMX766 sensor, have seen a bump to 50 MP (f/1.9) main, 13MP ultrawide, with a 32MP selfie shooter. And they’re absolutely satisfactory, with clarity and color, though far from a marquee feature.

Our primary use for the Zenfone 10 is as a digital audio player, aka a DAP, aka a fancy iPod. ASUS loves to pack its top-tier handsets with all the latest codecs, which in the Zenfone 10 include standard SBC, Apple’s favored AAC, Sony’s higher-resolution LDAC protocol, as well as aptX/HD/Adaptive and the far more rare and exotic aptX Lossless. Thanks to the Bluetooth 5.3 standard and Snapdragon chipset, the Zenfone 10 is compatible with and futureproofed for all manner of wireless headphones and ANC earbuds—including some pairs, like the Denon PerL Pro (which we view very positively), that approach CD-like streaming quality. Still prefer wired headphones? Not a problem. This is one of the remaining smartphones with a 3.5mm headphone jack—one that uses the Qualcomm WCD9380 DAC to deliver 24-bit/192 kHz output. If you pay for a hi-rez streaming service, the ASUS Zenfone 10 will allow you to take full advantage of it in a way that several other 2023 smartphones (sadly looking at you, iPhone 15) won’t without a USB-C dongle or other external hardware. The Zenfone 10 has been packed in many a backpack as we tested the noise cancellation of various gear while traveling.

Despite all these features, the Zenfone 10 battery lasts all day. Our recommendation to get the most out of this pint-sized powerhouse: Get the largest storage and save albums/playlists while on WiFi for offline listening to avoid cellular dead spots and sucking down your battery while you suck up all your data plan; really live that upgraded iPod lifestyle.

For $699 – $799, the ASUS Zenfone 10 offers you a lot of phone—or a little, depending on how you look at the form factor.

Best budget: Google Pixel 7a

SEE IT

Specs

• Display: 6.1-inch OLED (2400 x 1080 px resolution, 90Hz)
• Processor: Google Tensor G2 Titan M2
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB
• Battery: 4385 mAh
• Charging: 18W fast charging, wireless charging
• Cameras: Front: 12MP (ƒ/2.2) Rear: 64MP (ƒ/1.89), 13MP (ƒ/2.2) ultrawide
• Size: 6 x 2.9 x 0.3 inches; 6.8 ounces
• Android OS version: Android 13

Pros

• Superb photo quality
• Wireless charging compatible
• Bright, responsive touchscreen
• Purest Android OS experience

Cons 

• Not as powerful as flagship phones
• Battery life is only okay

The Pixel 7a is a worthy pick for the best budget Android phone and anyone trying to upgrade to a 5G phone without spending a thousand bucks or more. At just $500, the Pixel 7a offers respectable mid-range specs, 5G network support, and advanced camera technology. It comes 13 right out of the box, and Google supports older devices for years after launch. It routinely adds new features and fixes bugs, meaning this phone has several years of updates ahead of it. 

The Pixel 7a offers the smallest screen of the Pixel lineup, but it’s the ideal size for most people. The Tensor G2 chip is the same one found in Google’s more expensive phones, which allows for snappy performance for just about anything. The touchscreen is bright, colorful, and responsive, and the adaptive brightness quickly adjusts to the current light conditions.

The camera of the 7a is where this phone really shines. We found it to be the best camera available on a cheap Android phone. It offers a 64MP main camera with optical image stabilization, a 13MP ultra-wide camera, and a 12MP selfie camera. The photos aren’t overly processed or sharpened, looking natural but polished. There are plenty of camera modes for different situations, including nighttime images, and you’ll have access to Google’s AI-based editing tools.

Of course, as a budget-friendly option, there are some sacrifices. It’s not as powerful as more expensive phones. And you miss out on a dedicated telephoto camera, which is a bummer. Plus, the battery life is so-so. It won’t last all day if you use your phone a lot, so you’ll want a power bank if you’re going to be away from a power source for a bit. But the Pixel 7a punches above its weight in most regards, and given how new it is, you’ll get update support for years to come, saving you even more money down the line.

To read more about the Google Pixel 7a, check out our full review.

Here are even more Android phones to consider:

• Best value: OnePlus 11
• Best for photography: Google Pixel 8 Pro
• Best folding: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
• Best for gaming: Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Android phones

• Best overall: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Best for small hands: ASUS ZenFone 10
• Best budget: Google Pixel 7a

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is the best smartphone you can right now. It’s expensive, sure, but it excels in every single category. Of course, there are always tradeoffs for picking one device over another. We can confidently say that all of these phones have qualities that make them one of the best Android phones. All are worthy of your consideration, at least until someone comes along and makes something better.

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 Android phones 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		Sony RX100 VII		SEE IT	While quite expensive for a point-and-shoot, this camera offers a lot of quality and high-end features in a tiny package, so we think it’s worth the price.
Best for travel		Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III		SEE IT	The one-inch sensor is larger than in a typical compact camera, translating into better low-light shooting, even when not using the built-in flash, and built-in autofocus pixels help track objects for sharp shots even when your subject is moving.
Best instant camera		Instax Mini 11		SEE IT	There’s just something special about a camera spitting out an image, and the wait for it to appear seemingly magically to kids of all ages.

Point-and-shoot cameras may be less common these days, in part thanks to smartphones, but there are still some worthy reasons to invest in these pocketable cameras. For starters, even though smartphone cameras have become quite impressive, the sensors in compact cameras are still larger. And the lenses typically have more to offer as well. Plus, sometimes it’s nice to keep the phone tucked away but still be able to take photos. The best point-and-shoot cameras offer great image quality, easy-to-use controls, and compact designs, making them ideal for a wide range of people and situations.

• Best overall: Sony RX100 VII
• Best for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
• Best waterproof: Olympus Tough TG-6
• Best film camera: Ilford Sprite 35-II Reusable 35mm Film Camera
• Best instant camera: Instax Mini 11
• Best for street photography: Ricoh GR IIIx
• Best for content creators: Sony ZV-1
• Best budget: Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80

How we chose the best point-and-shoot cameras

The writers and editors at Popular Science have decades of combined experience writing about and reviewing cameras because they’re also the writers and editors of Popular Photography. These picks come from a mixture of personal experience, spec comparisons, user reviews, and editorial reviews.

The best point-and-shoot cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

When picking our favorite point-and-shoot cameras, we emphasized models that perform in a variety of different situations while keeping their sizes small. While some of these models climb up over $1,000, we tried to keep the price relatively low for most selections because these aren’t the most advanced models.

Best overall: Sony RX100 VII

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/2.8-4.5 9-72mm (35mm equivalent: 24-200mm)
• Weight: 10.65 ounces
• Dimensions: 4 x 2.29 x 1.69 inches

Pros

• Exceptional autofocus
• Versatile zoom range
• Large sensor
• 4K video

Cons

• Pricey for a point-and-shoot

The Sony RX100 VII is an awesome little camera. Despite the tiny body, it’s packed with a large, one-inch sensor, resulting in excellent image quality for the category. It also has the best autofocus of any point-and-shoot camera, meaning you’ll get more images in focus even when working with moving subjects.

This compact camera offers a 24-200mm equivalent lens, which is a versatile zoom range. And it is capable of 4K video, making this a well-rounded camera suitable for just about everyone. The only downside is the price. It is quite expensive for a point-and-shoot. But it offers a lot of quality and high-end features in a tiny package, so we think it’s worth the price.

Best for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 20.2MP 1″ Stacked CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/1.8-2.8 8.8-36.8mm (35mm equivalent: 24-100mm)
• Weight: 1 pound
• Dimensions: 4.13 x 2.4 x 1.63 inches

Pros

• Large sensor
• Versatile lens
• Manual control options
• Solid flash

Cons

• A little pricey

The one-inch sensor is larger than what you’ll find in a typical compact camera. This translates into better low-light shooting, even when not using the built-in flash. And the sensor has built-in autofocus pixels that help track objects for sharp shots even when your subject is moving. 

The 4.2x optical zoom lets shooters capture more distant objects without sacrificing image quality, and the 3-inch tilting LCD screen allows for shots from creative angles. Finally, raw photo capture provides extra flexibility for travel photographers who want to perfect images with photo editing software once they return from their trip. It’s a great camera for beginners and more experienced shooters alike.

Best waterproof: Olympus Tough TG-6

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 12MP BSI CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/2-4.9 4.5-18mm (35mm equivalent: 25 to 100mm)
• Weight: 8.92 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.45 x 2.6 x 1.28 inches

Pros

• Waterproof
• Extremely tough
• Versatile lens
• Underwater shooting modes
• Compatible with tons of accessories

Cons

• Small sensor

This point-and-shoot camera can go pretty much anywhere. It’s waterproof down to 50 feet without a separate case. It’s totally dust-proof, so it won’t suffer if you take it to the beach or deep in the desert. Plus, it’s crush-proof up to 220 pounds, so you can sit on it by accident and still go shooting later in the day. Most compacts can’t stand up to that kind of abuse. 

Toughness isn’t worth much if the camera isn’t very good. This compact offers a relatively small sensor, but it has a versatile 4x zoom lens that will cover most common scenarios on your adventures. And if you fall in love with the camera, Olympus offers a ton of different accessories like action camera mounts and underwater lights to go with it. (Looking for something cheaper but still waterproof? We’ve got you.)

Best film camera: Ilford Sprite 35-II Reusable 35mm Film Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: N/A
• Lens: f/9 31mm
• Weight: 4 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.6 x 1.7 inches

Pros

• Comes in eight fun color combinations
• Very affordable
• Fixed settings make it easy to use
• Features a built-in flash

Cons

• Fixed settings may be limiting
• Plastic lens results in some softness

If you want to get your feet wet with film, the Ilford Sprite 35-II is a fantastic and fun choice. It’s similar to disposable camera in that it has a plastic lens with a fixed aperture and shutter speed. But it’s reloadable, thus producing less waste. And it simply looks cooler than a disposable camera as well.

The Sprite 35-II features a 31mm lens with a fixed f/9 aperture to ensure that your scene is in focus. It also has a fixed 1/120s shutter speed. There is a built-in flash for low-light situations, perfect for shooting indoors. You won’t get precisely sharp and perfect results from this camera, but we think that’s half the fun. It’s a great outlet compared to highly technical cameras and fun to bring along on outings with friends and family. And since it has no settings at all, it’s a true point-and-shoot that is extremely simple to use, even with it being a film camera.

Best instant camera: Instax Mini 11

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: N/A
• Lens: f/12.7 60mm
• Weight: 10.34 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.24 x 4.77 x 2.65 inches

Pros

• Affordable
• Produces fun, tiny instant prints
• Easy to use
• Includes a selfie mirror on the lens

Cons

• Results aren’t the sharpest

There’s just something special about a camera spitting out an image, and the wait for it to appear seemingly magically. The best instant cameras are easy to use and result in attractive prints, which is true of the Instax Mini 11. The results aren’t pristine like you may be used to with your phone or digital camera, but we think that’s part of the charm.

The Instax Mini 11 features a fixed 60mm lens with an f/12.7 aperture that focuses from 11.8 inches to infinity. Or, you can turn the lens to Selfie Mode for a close focusing range of 11.8 to 19.7 inches. And there is a built-in flash, which is ideal for indoor shooting. It is a little slick to hold but comes with a lanyard to prevent drips.

I recently let my nieces and nephews—all under 12—use the Instax Mini 11, and seeing how excited they were was a blast. They all wanted to keep taking photos despite the limited quantity of film I had and ran around showing the rest of the family what they captured. And despite some of them being quite young (and impatient to take a photo), they all managed to take a clear and relatively sharp photo. 

Best for street photography: Ricoh GR IIIx

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/2.8 26.1mm (35mm equivalent: 40mm)
• Weight: 9.2 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.4 inches

Pros

• Large sensor provides excellent image quality
• Compact and pocket-friendly
• 40mm lens is sharp and versatile

Cons

• No zoom
• Battery life isn’t great

Ricoh’s GR IIIx is a fantastic pick for street photography, largely thanks to its compact design. It is pocketable, so you can easily keep it on you when out and about. And it won’t draw much attention when you take it out to snap a photo. It also has slick all-black styling and an easy-to-hold design, even when shooting with one hand.

This discreet look is furthered by the lack of a zoom lens. It uses a fixed 40mm focal length (35mm equivalent), so you won’t lose the compact size when taking photos. 40mm is also an ideal focal length for street photography, as it is wide enough to get some context in the scene but not so wide that you end up with loads of extra space around your subject. If you do want something wider, the GR III is essentially the same, except it features a wider 28mm equivalent lens.

The GR IIIx image quality is excellent, partly thanks to the relatively large sensor. Images are sharp all the way to the edges, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. And it produces vibrant, attractive colors. Interested in learning more? Check out our full review of the GR IIIx on Popular Photography.

Best for content creators: Sony ZV-1

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/1.8-2.8 9.4-5.7mm (35mm equivalent: 24-70mm)
• Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.15 x 2.36 x 1.71 inches

Pros

• Excellent lens
• Large sensor
• Very compact for its specs
• Above-average autofocus features

Cons

• Can feel a little cramped with big hands

Sony’s ZV-1 is a camera truly designed for vloggers and, as a result, is packed with features to make recording yourself easier. The auto exposure settings keep your face bright and clear. It even centers your face and quickly adjusts background blur with the push of a Background Defocus button. And the little camera gets Sony’s impressive autofocus abilities, so if you are showcasing other people or products, the camera will quickly find focus for you.

The forward-directional onboard mic and detachable windscreen will help you get great sound, leaving you fussing with levels in post less. There’s also a handy flip screen so you can preview the frame and capture the perfect shots and angles, making it one of the best point-and-shoot cameras for vlogging.

Best budget: Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80

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Specs 

• Sensor: 18.1MP 1/2.3″ MOS sensor
• Lens: f/2.8-5.9 3.6 to 215mm (35mm equivalent: 20-1200mm)
• Weight: 1.35 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.7 x 4.7 inches

Pros

• Massive zoom range
• Responsive autofocus
• 4K30p video recording
• Easy to hold

Cons

• Not as compact as other options

Panasonic’s Lumix DC-FZ80 is an affordable bridge camera, offering a DSLR-like body with easy-to-use controls. Because of the deep hand grip, it’s an easy camera to hold than the other point-and-shoots mentioned on our list. It isn’t as compact as a result, so it is a tradeoff, but for many, the classic feel is preferred. 

The built-in lens provides a whopping 60x zoom, making it suitable for just about any situation you find yourself wanting to photograph. And it’s autofocus is quite responsive, so you’ll be more likely to get sharp photos as well. And it’s capable of 4K video, making it a good tool for getting started with video as well. And best of all? It’s cheaper than most alternatives.

Things to consider when shopping for the best point-and-shoot cameras

Point-and-shoot cameras are small and compact cameras that can create sharp, vibrant images. This makes them the best camera for beginners, a good option for travelers, and even a worthy choice for some professional uses. Here are some features to consider when choosing the right one for you.

Are you a true beginner?

A point-and-shoot camera is designed to make the process of photography as simple as possible. They typically feature fully automatic exposure and focus so that you can, as the name implies, point the camera and snap a photo with nothing more than a press of a button. If you are a true beginner and want the easiest-to-use camera, you’ll want to look for models with simple menu systems and fully automatic controls. 

That said, some point-and-shoots offer more settings than others. If you are slightly beyond beginner status or want a camera to grow into, check to see what settings the camera allows you to change. You may want to adjust things like ISO, shutter speed, and aperture down the line, as opposed to relying on auto exposure modes.

Will you travel with your camera?

One of the main purposes of a compact camera is that the camera is, well, compact. With typical dimensions of roughly 2.5 x 3.5 x 1.5 inches, point-and-shoots are specifically designed to easily fit into pockets, purses, fanny packs, and other small compartments. And unlike hefty DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, point-and-shoot cameras weigh way less than a single pound. And if you’re worried about safety, the discreet size of compact cameras makes them less of a target for theft.

While all point-and-shoot cameras are pretty compact, there are still size differences across available cameras. Be sure to pay attention to the dimensions and weight of the cameras you are considering if that is something important to you.

Do you need a tough camera for an active lifestyle?

If you live for the outdoors—hiking steep mountain trails or backpacking through desert Canyons—you need a point-and-shoot camera that can handle adventure. Rugged and waterproof cameras are built to endure and capture the extreme environments you love exploring. Taking electronics to the beach is usually a big no-no, as even a single grain of sand can cause damage. Yet rugged models can resist sand, allowing you to take all the sunset shots you want.

For us less risky folk, these tough cameras can survive your average accidental drops, spills, and kicks. Some of them may be overkill for general use, however. If you don’t intend to take your camera on rugged adventures, you may be able to save some money by getting a camera without extensive protective qualities. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best point-and-shoot cameras

• Best overall: Sony RX100 VII
• Best for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
• Best waterproof: Olympus Tough TG-6
• Best film camera: Ilford Sprite 35-II Reusable 35mm Film Camera
• Best instant camera: Instax Mini 11
• Best for street photography: Ricoh GR IIIx
• Best for content creators: Sony ZV-1
• Best budget: Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80

No matter the setting, creative vision, skill level, or age of a photographer, there are high-quality options that meet every need. The ultimate advantage of a point-and-shoot is its size and portability, making it the perfect camera for travel and adventure, as well as documenting day-to-day life.

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 point-and-shoot cameras 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		GoPro Hero 12 Black		SEE IT	The Hero 12 offers class-leading stabilization with exceptional video quality and durability.
Best for vlogging		DJI Osmo Action 4		SEE IT	The Osmo Action 4 offers excellent low-light performance and dual touchscreens for easy use.
Best for 360-degree video		Insta360 X3		SEE IT	The Insta360 X3 provides immersive 360-degree footage of your adventures.

Action cameras are a high-speed ticket to capturing the most immersive and engaging footage possible. They bring viewers as close to your experiences as they can be without actually being there. These video cameras excel in environments where stability and durability are key to attaining the highest caliber of footage, so they are popular amongst surfers, bikers, climbers, and other athletes. Plus, vloggers, video production teams, and hobbyists of all kinds can benefit from the compact and easy-to-handle design. From travel photography to underwater photography, the best action cameras provide a totally unparalleled video production experience to users of every interest and passion.

• Best overall: GoPro Hero 12 Black
• Best for vlogging: DJI Osmo Action 4
• Best for 360-degree video: Insta360 X3
• Best small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
• Best for beginners: Insta360 GO 3
• Best budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE

How we chose the best action cameras

Some writers and editors at Popular Science are also writers and editors at Popular Photography and have decades of experience with just about every camera brand and genre out there, including action cameras. As an adventure-lover and active individual, I have found myself in my fair share of situations ideal for action cameras. We chose the cameras included here through a mix of hands-on experience, user and editorial reviews, and brand knowledge. 

When selecting the best action cameras, we focused on a variety of features and specifications. They should foremost be compact and offer easy mounting solutions, making them easy to use without obstructing the action. Action cameras should also be durable and able to withstand epic adventures, including water trips. Lastly, we looked at video and photo quality, stabilization, and other camera-specific features. 

The best action cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether climbing, mountain biking, surfing, or simply wanting to document your travels, these action cameras will help you capture your best (or sometimes worst) moments. 

Best overall: GoPro Hero 12 Black

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps
• Max framerate: 240 fps at 2.7K
• Photo resolution: 27 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 33 feet
• Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 5.4 ounces

Pros

• Improved photo performance
• Longer run times with the Enduro battery
• Award-winning stabilization
• Vertical video support

Cons

• Not much of an upgrade over the Hero 11
• Low-light performance is still mediocre

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is among the most well-known models of action cameras thanks to its durable and full-featured reputation. This latest model features the same sensor as the Hero 11, which is the largest sensor in a GoPro yet. The large sensor makes it possible to crop video to vertical orientation without losing out on most of the scene so that you can share your epic adventures on social media. And it allows you to change digital lenses for different perspectives. 

The camera specs of the Hero 12 remain largely the same as the Hero 11. It’s capable of stunning 5.3K video recording at up to 60 fps, though now you can record HDR video at this highest quality. Or, you can get up to 240 fps at 2.7k if you want dramatic slow-motion. The photo quality remains at 27 megapixels, and you’ll still have access to time-lapse and night modes, including star trails and light painting.

What is new is the Bluetooth audio connectivity options. Now you can connect a wireless mic for better audio quality. Or you can connect wireless headphones to monitor audio levels and help with voice commands in noisy settings. The Hero 12 also offers improved battery life, which was a pain point in past versions. Combined with the Enduro battery, you can get twice the battery life of the Hero 11. That means you can record continuous 5.3K 60p video for up to 70 minutes. And a standard tripod thread on the underside of the camera opens up mounting possibilities even more.

GoPro improved its already impressive stabilization in the Hero 12 with HyperSmooth 6.0. Even videos of the most rugged activities will be smooth. The new AutoBoost option will automatically reduce cropping, keeping your framing as you saw it while shooting. It’s waterproof to 33 feet without a case, and GoPro built it with improved cold weather performance, so you can use it for capturing your winter sports. The Hero 11 is a well-rounded, impressive action camera ready for anything you throw at it. 

Best for vlogging: DJI Osmo Action 4

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 4K at 120 fps
• Max framerate: 240 fps at 1080p
• Photo resolution: 10 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 59 feet
• Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 5.1 ounces

Pros

• Image quality has been improved
• Waterproof down to 52 feet
• Front and rear touchscreen
• High-capacity battery for long recording sessions

Cons

• Video quality tops out at 4K
• Limited photo quality

DJI built plenty of upgrades into the fourth iteration of its action camera, and it is ready for seriously epic adventures. It’s waterproof down to 59 feet without special housing and features a color temperature sensor to automatically adjust the color of your video even if you are deep below the surface while scuba diving. Should you want to go even deeper, with a waterproof case, the camera can go to 210 feet. 

For activities on land, the camera can function as cold as -4 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll be able to document even your freezing-cold ski trips. It utilizes a unique magnetic quick-release plate that is convenient and easy to use. And you can mount the camera vertically, meaning no cropping is required in order to create social-media-ready video. For vloggers, the live stream support at multiple resolutions is a huge benefit. 

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is capable of image-stabilized 4K video up to 120 fps. DJI claims that there are no recording limits other than the promised 2.6-hour battery life when recording 4K 60p video, so long, single takes are possible. It offers the equivalent of an 11mm full-frame lens, so you can catch all of the action. The RockSteady stabilization does a great job of smoothing out video. And the HorizonSteady mode keeps your shots level and adjusts for any horizontal rotation. Unfortunately, photo resolution is limited to 10 megapixels, but if your focus is vlogging, that likely won’t matter as much anyway.

Best for 360-degree video: Insta360 X3

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 5.7K 360-degree, 4K single-lens
• Max framerate: 60 fps at 4K
• Photo resolution: 72-megapixel 360-degree, 18-megapixel single-lens
• Waterproofing: 33 feet
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 6.3 ounces

Pros

• Impressive stabilization
• 360-degree video is highly immersive
• Lots of editing options
• Excellent photo and video quality

Cons

• App is a little confusing to use

If you want truly immersive videos of your action adventures, you can’t beat the Insta360 X3. This camera can record 360-degree video at up to 5.7K and 30 fps. Then, you can use either the Insta360 mobile or desktop apps to edit your video and reframe your shots how you want to showcase the best parts of each moment or show off the full 360-degree view at once. 

This action camera is highly versatile, thanks to the ability to use a single lens along with the dual lenses used for recording 360-degree video. You can either record selfie content with the rear lens or show off what’s in front of you with the front-facing lens. And it features a handful of shooting modes, such as up to 8K 360-degree timelapse and 4K slow-motion. The 2.29-inch touchscreen makes it easy to adjust settings and see what you are recording. 

The X3 is a durable camera and is waterproof down to 33 feet without a separate housing. It features a 6-axis gyroscope and uses Insta360’s FlowState stabilization for smooth video, even with activities like mountain biking. And the Horizon Lock mode keeps the shot level even as you move and rotate. 

Best small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps
• Max framerate: 240 fps at 2.7K
• Photo resolution: 24.7 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 33 feet
• Dimensions: 2.1 x 2 x 1.5 inches
• Weight: 4.7 ounces

Pros

• Tiny form factor is less intrusive 
• Award-winning stabilization
• Excellent video quality
• Two mounting points

Cons

• No display for framing
• No dedicated photo mode

For those who are extra concerned about wind resistance and drag, the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is the way to go. This camera is 13 percent smaller than the Hero 11 Black, making it more suitable for mounting on a motorcycle helmet, surfboard, or airplane. It also features mounting feet on the bottom and back of the camera, opening up more options for how you mount it. 

Despite the smaller size, the Hero 11 Mini gets many of the same features and specs as its big brother. It uses the same larger sensor, allowing for vertical videos, and is still capable of 5.3K 60p video with class-leading stabilization. Unfortunately, there is no photo mode on the Mini version. Instead, you’ll have to rely on grabbing 24-megapixel stills from videos. 

Another difference between the Mini and regular-sized Hero 11 is the lack of a screen on the Mini. That means you’ll need to rely on the Quik app for camera setup and framing help, but it’s one less thing to break on the camera, which is nice. It also features a built-in battery, so you won’t be able to swap batteries out when one dies. But GoPro promises 73 minutes of battery life when recording 5.3K 30p, which is plenty for most situations. 

Best for beginners: Insta360 GO 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 2.7K at 30 fps
• Max framerate: 120 fps at 1080p
• Photo resolution: 6.6 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 16 feet
• Dimensions: ​​2.1 x 1 x 0.9 inches
• Weight: 1.3 ounces

Pros

• Stabilized video
• Unique magnetic mounting options
• Versatile modular design with the Action Pod
• Tiny size is very convenient

Cons

• Photos are only INSP or DNG
• Built-in memory is limiting

If the GoPro Hero 11 Mini isn’t small enough for you, the Insta360 GO 3 is the smallest form factor that action cameras come in. It weighs just 1.3 ounces, which is light enough to put on your hat and barely notice. The tiny size makes it feasible to put in locations that you otherwise couldn’t. This modular camera utilizes a unique magnetic mounting system that is fast and simple to use. And it comes with a few different mountain devices right in the box to get you started, including a magnet pendant and Easy Clip for wearing the camera on your person. 

The GO 3 tops out at 2.7K 30p video, which is the main disadvantage of this camera. But if you just want to capture memories or share your action adventures on social media, 2.7K is more than enough. And there are no recording limits at that resolution, so you can record long takes. It also allows for 120fps when backing off the resolution to 1080p, offering up slow-motion footage. And you’ll have access to Insta360’s impressive stabilization for smooth video.

This tiny action camera is waterproof to 16 feet on its own. It comes with the new Action Pod, which, although it adds bulk, extends the battery life from 45 minutes to 170 minutes. It also adds a 2.2-inch flip touchscreen, which is very convenient and adds versatility to the camera. And it’s all very easy to use with simple controls and AI editing tools to take most of the work out of your hands. 

Best budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 4K at 30 fps
• Max framerate: 120 fps at 720p
• Photo resolution: 20 megapixels
• Waterproofing: IPX7, 131 feet with included case
• Dimensions: ‎2.44 x 1.61 x 1.26 inches
• Weight: 4.64 ounces

Pros

• Comes with waterproof housing
• Front and rear-facing screen 
• Stabilization is fairly effective
• Affordable

Cons

• Photo and video quality are lacking
• Image stabilization results in heavy crop

Most action cameras are quite expensive and come with extensive lists of features. Not everyone needs the latest and greatest camera, though. If you just want a durable, basic action camera to document your travels, the AKASO Brave 7 LE is a great choice. This isn’t the latest Akaso model (that would be the Brave 8), but the balance of features and price make it worth the purchase. The camera itself is IPX7 rated, but it comes with a case that makes it waterproof to 131 feet. The case also makes it more rugged and durable, allowing you to worry less about dings and falls. 

The Brave 7 LE is capable of 4K 30p video or 720p at 120 fps for slow motion. It offers 6-axis electronic stabilization, which is pretty good considering the price of the camera. It does result in a significant crop in your footage, though. For still photos, it can take up to 20-megapixel images. 

This budget action cam features a front and rear screen, which makes it easier to frame your shots no matter which way you point the camera.  It comes with two batteries, a remote, waterproof housing, and multifunction mounting kits, so you have everything you need to get recording right away. And it supports a WiFi connection, making transferring your photos and videos easier. 

Things to consider when looking for the best action cameras

The best action camera for your needs will depend on the nature of the filming environment and your ultimate use of the footage. Considering the size, waterproofing, video quality, and budget is essential whether you’re traveling, vlogging, or just starting out on your action camera journey.

Stabilization

One of the most important aspects of any action camera is how effective its image stabilization is. Action sports typically result in jarring movements, making footage unwatchable if it isn’t stabilized effectively. That said, if you’re primarily using an action camera for casual use on your travels, you may be able to get away with less stabilization than others. And you can make some adjustments in editing if you would like. But, if you are a mountain biker, trail runner, or recording any type of activity with lots of movement, you will want to look for a camera with the best possible stabilization. 

Mounting options

An action camera won’t do you much good if you can’t mount it in a way that enables you to actually record your activity without holding it. For example, you may want a way to mount the camera to a helmet or the end of a surfboard, which are two very different mounts. So, before purchasing a camera, be sure that the company makes a mount specifically for the activity you want to record.

Waterproofing and build-quality

Action cameras should be durable since they are meant to be used for, well, action. Most are ruggedly built and able to withstand lots of abuse. That said, depending on what type of sports or activities you plan on using the camera for, you may want to invest in more protection for the lens or camera as a whole. If so, be sure to check what accessories are available prior to purchasing. 

For those who want to take their camera underwater, knowing the waterproofing is key. Most cameras these days are waterproof to fairly deep without any additional case. For example, the GoPro can be submerged down to 33 feet. But if you want to use the camera for scuba diving, you’ll need to invest in a case to take it deeper than that. We always recommend purchasing waterproof housing directly from the company that made the camera to ensure proper fit, as you don’t want to risk the case flooding with water.

Photo and video quality 

What photo and video quality you need from your action camera depends on how you intend to use the footage. If you are just wanting the camera to document your travels and adventures for the sake of memories or maybe to share on social media, you don’t necessarily need 4K video quality. But, if you want to create YouTube videos of your content, or maybe even have grander plans than that, then you will want to go with the highest quality possible. 

Likewise, if you primarily want to record videos, you don’t necessarily need to pay attention to photo specs. But, if you want more flexibility, be sure to check what the camera can produce in terms of still photos as well.

Size

While all action cameras are compact, some are smaller than others. If you partake in sports or activities where drag and wind resistance is critical, such as surfing, motorcycle or automotive sports, or flying an airplane, the smaller the camera, the better. Smaller cameras also allow for more unique mounting opportunities, as they can be placed in locations that larger cameras cannot. Of course, there are usually sacrifices with smaller cameras, including lower video and photo quality and shorter battery life. It’s simply a matter of deciding what is most important to you.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best action cameras

• Best overall: GoPro Hero 12 Black
• Best for vlogging: DJI Osmo Action 4
• Best for 360-degree video: Insta360 X3
• Best small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
• Best for beginners: Insta360 GO 3
• Best budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE

The main traits found in all the best action cameras on the market are high resolution, high-speed video capture, and compact durability. Whether you’re looking for a camera for beginners, a waterproof camera, a vlogging camera, or some combination of all three, consider the main activities and the environment that you plan to film to help you make your final choice.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best action cameras 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 bike computer		Garmin Edge 1040 Solar		SEE IT	This computer provides nutrition and hydration alerts, ride-specific maps, turn-by-turn directions,  group ride features, and more.
Best headphones		Shokz OpenRun Pro		SEE IT	These comfortable, lightweight headphones allow cyclists to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to their favorite tunes.
Best multi-tool		Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool		SEE IT	Lightweight and encased in durable aluminum, this gadget features 19 tools that should help cyclists fix all kinds of bike emergencies.

Whether the cyclist in your life commutes to work on a bike or trains for triathlons, having the right gear is important. But it can get expensive. In the United States, households collectively spent about $8 billion a month on bicycles and accessories, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. In the interest of cutting down on waste and gear that never gets pulled out of the closet, we’ve rounded up the best devices and accessories available to help cyclists ride safely, track performance and health metrics, and still have fun. Here’s some of what your favorite cyclist might be hoping they get to unwrap before their next century.

• Best bike computer: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
• Best power meter pedal: Garmin Rally RS100 or Rally RS200
• Best heart rate monitor: Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor
• Best indoor trainer: Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer V6
• Best indoor bike with classes: Peloton Bike Plus Indoor Stationary Bike
• Best electric bike: Ride1Up Rift
• Best phone mount: Peak Design Out Front Bike Mount + Mobile Universal Adapter
• Best bike bag: Rapha Bar Bag
• Best multi-tool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool
• Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best tail light: Garmin Varia RTL515
• Best bike light: Garmin Varia UT 800 Smart Headlight
• Best bike lock: Kryptonite Combo Bike U-Lock 
• Best bib shorts: Pearl Izumi Pro Bib Short
• Best water bottle: Camelbak Podium Chill

Best bike computer: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar

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Even if the cyclist in your life isn’t focused on collecting data from their rides, a bike computer is still an important and worthwhile tool. The Edge 1040 provides nutrition and hydration alerts, a range of ride type-specific maps, turn-by-turn directions, incident detection, bike alarm functionality, and group ride features. It will help keep your rider safe, fueled up, and on course. The Garmin Edge 1040 also accurately tracks distance, provides training tools and recommendations, syncs training plans, and measures cycling dynamics. The large display is easy to see at a glance, and the solar display adds to the already impressive battery life that can last up to 45 hours in demanding use cases. If you like the idea of picking up a bike computer but want a more budget-friendly option, the Edge 530 is also a fantastic device.

Best power meter pedal: Garmin Rally RS100 or Rally RS200

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Power meters are a must if the cyclist in your life is data-obsessed or serious about their performance. These devices measure the force on the bike pedals using strain gauges and convert that to power, measured in watts. The Garmin Rally series provides extremely accurate data, and lots of it. It can provide insight into power, cadence, left and right balance, pedal smoothness, and time spent standing or sitting. The Rally is very easy to swap between pedal bodies using a conversion kit, making it the best choice for those who may have a bike for mountain biking and one for road rides. It pairs seamlessly with Garmin’s bike computers as well.

You can purchase a single pedal (RS100) to save some money or a dual-sensing version (RS200) for even more precise data. Also, Garmin makes different versions of the Rally that are compatible with different types of cleats. The RK line works with Look Keo cleats, the RS line is for Shimano SPD-SL cleats, and the XC line is made for Shimano SPD cleats. Functionally, they are all the same, but the cleat compatibility differs.

Best heart rate monitor: Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor

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The Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor works with many different sports watches and fitness apps, including Garmin, Apple, Strava, and Nike. It can support iOS mobile devices with iOS 13 or later, BS Android mobile devices with Bluetooth 4.0 capability, and Android 7 or later. That versatility makes this chest strap one of the best heart rate monitors for cycling. But it excels as one of the best monitors for Peloton and cycling in general, as its accurate reader and comfortable fit don’t falter at high speeds thanks to silicone dots that help it stay firmly in place. — Andrew Waite

Best indoor trainer: Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer V6

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For most of us, there are, unfortunately, days when getting outside on the bike isn’t feasible. Whether it’s because of a gnarly ice storm or nonstop rain, riding inside can unlock new training opportunities. The Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer V6 is among the best trainers, thanks to its accurate speed, distance, cadence, and power data. It’s easy to set up and provides a smooth, realistic, yet silent ride, so your cyclist can easily watch a movie during their ride without turning the volume way up. The built-in WiFi also makes this direct drive trainer stand out from the competition, as it allows for faster data transfer and easier firmware updates.

Best indoor bike with classes: Peloton Bike Plus Indoor Stationary Bike

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If the cyclist in your life is motivated by live instruction and competition, the Peloton Bike provides an unrivaled experience. Purchase of the bike and a $44 monthly membership provides access to thousands of classes, including live sessions, bike boot camps, boxing, and yoga. The 21.5-inch HD touchscreen lets you feel like you’re right in the studio, and the two stereo speakers help complete the immersive experience. With a 4-foot by 2-foot footprint, this bike can fit in a range of spaces. Peloton also tracks your heart rate, output, and cadence in real-time and you can measure your progress against other members.

Best electric bike: Ride1Up Rift

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Think your favorite cyclist would appreciate a new electric bike? Consider the Ride1UP Rift for those leisurely days when they want to stretch their legs, but their calves and quads need a little rest and recovery. Almost ready to go out of the box, it provides a stupendously smooth ride whether they’re upgrading from a different electric bicycle or have always ridden an analog bike. It strikes the right balance between easy assembly, ease of use, comfort, and overall design. Learn more about our picks for the best electric bikes. — Brandt Ranj

Best phone mount: Peak Design Out Front Bike Mount

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The Out Front Bike Mount easily installs onto bike handlebars, putting the phone front and center at an optimal viewing angle. Your cyclist will be able to quickly see their maps or keep an eye on the time. The mount also flips up so that they can film their ride. They will need either the Mobile Universal Mount Adapter or a Peak Design phone case, as the bike mount utilizes the company’s magnetic locking system, called SlimLink. This magnetic system is ultra secure, so they won’t need to worry about their phone falling off when they hit some bumps on the road. And it makes their phone compatible with all sorts of other Peak Design accessories like the phone tripod, wallet, and more.

Best bike bag: Rapha Bar Bag

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Having a space to stow essentials like your phone, keys, and maybe a snack is important on a commute or long ride. Rapha’s sleek bike bag is made of waterproof polyester, so essentials will stay dry during an unexpected downpour. It provides a roomy 2 liters of space and comes with two durable straps cyclists can attach either to their handlebars or the frame. The buckles are quick-release, and once the rider arrives at their destination, this versatile bag easily converts into an over-the-shoulder bag.

Best multi-tool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool

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A bike multi-tool is a must for every cyclist, both on rides and in a home tool kit. This Crankbrothers tool includes a range of hex wrenches, spoke wrenches, multiple screwdriver types, a t-25 drive, and a universal chain tool. All in all, there are 19 different tools in this one device. Whether you’re fixing your bike or adjusting your cleats, this multi-tool likely has the right option. Everything is encased in lightweight aluminum and only weighs 6.2 ounces. And the 3.5-inch length means that it will easily fit in a small saddle pack for rides.

Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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Bone conduction headphones are great for cyclists because they allow you to hear your music and podcasts while still staying alert to the world around you. The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones offer a secure, lightweight fit under your helmet that’s comfortable even for long rides. They produce clear, high-quality sound with plenty of volume, even when you’re near traffic. They also feature a mic so that you can call your cyclist when they are out. And the 10 hours of battery life will keep them from needing to charge their headphones constantly.

Best tail light: Garmin Varia RTL515

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A quality tail light is a crucial safety item for road cyclists, whether riding day or night. It alerts drivers to your presence long before they would otherwise see your bike. The Garmin Vari RTL515 is a bit of a splurge, but it is the best out there, thanks to the built-in radar. This light pairs with your phone, Garmin Edge bike computer, or other Garmin wearables and alerts you with both visual and audio queues that cars are approaching from up to 153 yards away. It’s super bright, providing daylight visibility up to one mile away. There are multiple modes, including a low-intensity light for group rides. And it offers up to 16 hours of battery life in day flash mode to last for your longest rides.

If you want the utmost safety for your rider, you can bundle the front light below with the Varia RTL515. Or, if the Garmin is too much of a splurge, the Bontrager Flare RT is also a great rear light with a budget-friendly price, albeit without the radar.

Best bike light: Garmin Varia UT 800 Smart Headlight

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When the days are shorter, your favorite cyclist is likely getting some miles in when it’s dark. A reliable bike light is essential for safety. Garmin’s Varia UT 800 Smart Headlight is visible up to a mile away. It provides 800 lumens of light for up to 1.5 hours—about the same amount as a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb. Cyclists can switch between five light modes: high, medium, low, night flash, and day flash. This bike light can also sync with compatible Garmin Edge computers, which can detect the ambient light to control brightness. And it’s available in versions that attach either to the handlebars or to a helmet.

Best bike lock: Kryptonite Combo Bike U-Lock 

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As much fun as biking can be, theft is unfortunately common. More than 200,000 bikes are stolen in the United States each year, according to the FBI. That’s why a reliable bike lock is important. Kryptonite’s Combo Bike U-Lock is designed with a 12mm steel shackle that protects against wire cutters. The U shape makes it easy to attach the lock to a variety of locations, from bike racks to fences. It features a combination lock that you register with the company website, so you don’t have to worry about lost keys. And weighing in at just a pound, it’s lighter and more affordable than many of the other bike locks on the market.

Best bib shorts: Pearl Izumi Pro Bib Shorts

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A quality pair of bibs can make a surprising difference in the comfort of your bike ride. After trying numerous brands, Pearl Izumi’s bibs, including the Pro version, have firmly landed the spot as my favorite thanks to the material the company uses. It is incredibly soft, smooth, and stretchy, unlike anything from other brands. It breathes well and easily wicks away sweat, keeping me comfortable even on the hottest, most humid days. The seamless design means that there’s less chance of chafing even on long rides. And the chamois offers just enough padding in all the right places without being overly thick. They come in both men’s and women’s and are available in a handful of colors and designs.

Best water bottle: Camelbak Podium Chill

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Most of us can’t have too many water bottles. They have a tendency to get scuffed and dented, start leaking, get lost, or stay filled up for far too long and start molding, needing replacement. However, weight has to be considered when it comes to a ride. The Camelbak Podium Chill is an insulated bottle that keeps drinks cool even on hot rides. It is designed to fit securely in most bottle cages and is easy to squeeze to get water out efficiently. The cap is self-sealing, so it won’t leak when it inevitably gets thrown in the backseat of the car. And it’s available in a range of colors, so you can pick something up that matches the color scheme of your cyclist’s bike.

The post The best gifts for cyclists from Garmin, Wahoo, Peloton, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best for pros		Nikon Z8		SEE IT	The Z8 offers impressive specs across the board for pros.
Best APS-C		Fujifilm X-T5		SEE IT	It’s simply a fun and fantastic camera to shoot with.
Best low-light		Nikon Z6 II		SEE IT	NIkon’s Z6 II excels when the light gets dim.

If you have been paying attention to the camera market over the last decade, you’ve noticed mirrorless cameras overtaking DSLRs as the most dominant category in interchangeable-lens cameras. While Canon, Nikon, and Pentax still sell plenty of DSLRs, more than a half-dozen companies—including Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and Sony—are fully committed to their mirrorless systems. The market has expanded so much that there are now mirrorless cameras for every type of shooter, from the video-focused to the photography purist. No matter what you are looking for, the best mirrorless camera will help you get the shot.

• Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for pros: Nikon Z8
• Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1 
• Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
• Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony A7C
• Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best budget: Canon EOS R100

How we chose the best mirrorless cameras

We have been writing about and reviewing cameras for decades and have personally used most of the major cameras released in recent years. This list is a result of extensive hands-on testing, market research, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons. While the mirrorless market has grown substantially in recent years, there are still only a handful of companies making the cameras that you really want to buy. We looked at the entire mirrorless camera landscape and chose the models that best fit the needs of different kinds of shooters. 

Best mirrorless cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

The options for mirrorless cameras have expanded to include something for just about every situation you may find yourself in. Whether you want a compact, budget-friendly vlogging camera, a professional-level, high-resolution beast, or something in between, there is a mirrorless camera that will work for you.

Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5

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Specs

• Resolution: 45 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.62 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.84 x 3.46 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor
• Articulated screen
• Up to 8 stops of stabilization with some lenses
• Advanced video features

Cons

• Expensive

Although it’s a little pricey, the full-frame Canon EOS R5 delivers excellent stabilization. You’ll get up to 8 stops in combination with some Canon IS lenses. Other impressive parameters include speedy (and accurate) autofocus and tracking thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system. It’s dust and water-resistant to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography and comes equipped with dual memory card slots, including a CFexpress. This is essentially the mirrorless version of Canon’s stalwart 5D DSLR line. As a result, it can handle just about anything a pro photographer could need it to do in a relatively compact body.

If you don’t need the 45-megapixel resolution and super-high-res video chops found in the R5, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers much of the same in terms of focusing and stabilization with a more reasonable 24.2-megapixel resolution and matching SD card memory slots. You can read more about the R6 Mark II in our full review.

Best for pros: Nikon Z8

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Specs

• Resolution: 45.7 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B/XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 4.7 x 3.3 inches

Pros 

• Fantastic image quality
• Offers lots of on-body controls
• Fast burst shooting
• High-quality video

Cons

• No mechanical shutter
• A bit difficult to get right now

The Nikon Z8 is essentially the Z9 in a more compact and affordable package. It’s $1,300 less than the flagship Z9 yet features the same sensor, processor, and autofocus capabilities. And it weighs more than half a pound less than the Z9. Of course, that’s in part because the Z8 lacks a built-in vertical grip, but the more compact form factor makes it an ideal choice for videographers or those who prioritize weight in their setup. 

The Z8 is a true hybrid camera with impressive specs and features across the board. It’s capable of 8K 60p 12-bit raw recording internally in the N-RAW format. You can record at 8K 30p for roughly two hours continuously. And it offers 4K 120p for slow-motion footage. 

The 45.7-megapixel sensor results in excellent image quality for photos. And if you like a still from a video clip, you can grab 33-megapixel stills from 8K footage or 11MP stills from 4K footage. The Z8’s autofocus is also superb, with accurate and fast subject detection and tracking. 

Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1

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Specs

• Resolution: 50.1 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.07 x 3.81 x 2.74 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor for superb detail
• Advanced and impressive autofocus
• Fast burst shooting
• Plenty of tactile controls

Cons

• Expensive

The Sony a1 is a camera built for those who want serious performance from their camera. The specs are impressive across the board. It offers a 50.1-megapixel sensor with stacked back-illuminated design and integrated memory. That sensor allows for 15 stops of dynamic range and the ability to capture tons of detail from a scene. It also handles noise extremely well, so you can get away with higher ISOs.

One area that the a1 really shines is burst shooting. It’s capable of up to 30 full-sized raw frames per second with the electronic shutter. That’s faster than just about everything available at that quality. The autofocus is equally impressive. It’s extremely fast and accurate, and it can focus down to -4 EV, so you can shoot in dark situations and still use autofocus. 

The a1’s electronic sensor is able to read out at a whopping 1/260th second, which allows you to sync a flas at up to 1/200th second. And, with the mechanical shutter, you can sync flash up to 1/400th second without relying on a high-speed sync. It’s an ideal camera setup for studio photographers and sports photographers alike. And with the 8K 30p and 4K 120p video, it makes for an excellent tool for videographers or hybrid shooters as well.

If the burst shooting isn’t as important to you as resolution, the Sony a7R V offers an impressive 61 megapixels, resulting in truly stunning image quality even for the most serious pixel peepers. The a1 produces massive files, though, so be sure to have hard drives ready.

Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.5 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B / XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.3 x 4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

• Superb image quality overall, but especially in low-light
• Intuitive controls and menu systems
• Compact
• Exemplary metering system

Cons

• 24-megapixels may feel a little low for some shooters

The well-rounded, full-frame Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera is equipped with great still and video features. Its low light capabilities range from minimal image noise at high ISOs and, critically, excellent low light AF—down to -4.5EV, one-stop lower than its Z6 predecessor. That means it can focus in the moonlight—even when it’s less than a full moon. As a bonus, the Nikon Z6 II is equipped with a special low-light autofocus mode that takes its capabilities an additional two stops, providing a good balance between minimal levels of image noise and effective autofocus in very low light.

The Sony A7S is another solid option, especially if you shoot a lot of video or you don’t need a ton of megapixels. The 12-megapixel resolution seems paltry to many still photographers, but that low resolution comes with extremely clean high-ISO images.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1

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Specs

• Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches

Pros 

• Compact and lightweight
• Excellent stabilization
• Good in-camera audio
• Superb autofocus abilities

Cons

• Low resolution isn’t great for photography
• Single SD card slot

The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame mirrorless camera tailored to serious vloggers and content creators. Unlike its smaller sibling—the ZV-1 II—the ZV-E1 is an interchangeable lens camera, allowing you to choose from the vast selection of Sony and third-party lenses available for E-mount. Despite the full-frame sensor, the camera is very compact and lightweight, weighing only slightly over a pound, making it easier to hold even if you are filming yourself. 

The ZV-E1 is capable of 4K 120p video or full HD up to 240p. The Cinematic Vlog setting makes it easy to create cinematic footage with a single touch, putting controls such as aspect ratio,  frame rate, look mode, mood, and AF modes on one screen. The 5-axis optical image stabilization is highly effective. And when you need even more stabilization, the dynamic active mode stabilization utilizes AI recognition and tracking to crop footage automatically to keep focus on the subject. 

As we’ve come to expect from Sony cameras, the ZV-E1’s autofocus abilities are very advanced. It offers Multiple Face Recognition to track multiple people in a single frame, and the Product Showcase Setting makes it easy to switch focus between a product and subject. The main downside to this camera is the 12.9-megapixel sensor. While the 12.9-megapixel sensor could be limiting in terms of still photos for some, for professional vloggers, this camera is the best choice at the moment.

If you are a vlogger who doesn’t want to fuss with lenses or spend so much on a camera, the ZV-1 II is the next best thing. It features a built-in 18-50mm equivalent lens with 4K 30p video and plenty of content creator-specific tools.

Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony a7C

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 4.9 x 2.8 x 2.4 inches

Pros 

• Compact form factor fits in camera rigs
• Flip-around screen makes for easy vlogging
• Advanced autofocus tracking with nearly 700 AF points
• 4K and 1080p footage at high bitrates

Cons

• No viewfinder might be a downside for hybrid shooters
• No 4K at 60 fps

Size and weight matter when you’re holding a camera pointed at yourself all day long, and Sony’s A7C is one of the most compact full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market. It has everything a vlogger needs, including 4K capture, a screen that flips forward so you can monitor your shot in real time, and a microphone jack for accessories. It also offers advanced autofocus that keeps you or your subject in focus without much fuss on your end. 

The small, rectangular form factor makes attaching gimbals and other filmmaking equipment easy. That comes in handy when you’re trying to maximize your production value and have viewers slamming those like and subscribe buttons on YouTube. There isn’t an electronic viewfinder, which makes it a bit harder to use in bright sunlight, but video is rarely shot while looking through a viewfinder anyway. 

Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5

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Specs

• Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor results in lots of details
• Capable of up to 20 fps
• 6.2K maximum video resolution
• Excellent feel to the controls

Cons

• Viewfinder feels small compared to full-frame models

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a truly fantastic camera. In fact, one of our editors calls it one of the most enjoyable cameras he’s ever used. It offers lots of tactile controls, including an ISO dial and physical switch for shutter drive modes. These keep you from digging into menus nearly as often as other cameras. The body feels like a small SLR, including a physical dial for shutter speed, which makes the camera feel like an analog one. 

Fujifilm built the camera around a high-resolution 40.2-megapixel sensor that does a great job of grabbing lots of detail from a scene. It comes with Fujifilm’s excellent film simulation modes, which could save you time when it comes to throwing it up on a monitor and editing. And the autofocus is responsive and accurate.

While the camera is primarily for still shooters, there are plenty of impressive features for video creators. For example, it can shoot up to 6.2K 30p video or oversampled 4K footage. And it offers plenty of video capture formats, including F-LOG2 and Apple ProRes Raw.

Best budget:  Canon EOS R100

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Image stabilization: None
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
• Weight: 12.6 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

• Extremely compact and lightweight
• Affordable
• Compatible with all RF lenses
• 4K 24p video

Cons

• Fixed rear display
• No touchscreen functionality

The Canon EOS R100 is a relatively new release that happens to be the most affordable camera in Canon’s R line yet. It’s also the smallest, weighing just 12.6 ounces with the battery and memory card. Despite the small size and affordable price, it has a lot to offer. For starters, the 24.1-megapixel sensor will provide image quality on par with the M50 Mark II. But you get the benefit of RF lenses, as well as EF lenses with an adapter. That opens up a lot of possibilities for glass.

The R100 is capable of cropped 4K 24p video or full HD at 60p. It utilizes Dual Pixel AF with 3,975 autofocus points and supports subject detection and Eye Detection AF. And Eye Detection works even when the subject is further away for full body shots. Unfortunately, the rear screen is fixed, meaning it can’t be flipped around for selfies or vlogging, and it isn’t a touchscreen. But, for the price, the R100 is hard to beat for those wanting a casual yet capable camera. 

What to consider when shopping for the best mirrorless camera

Choosing the best mirrorless camera for you depends on your needs. Are you looking for a mirrorless camera for beginners or something more specialized? Buying something below or at your level may hinder your development as a photographer or videographer when you outgrow its features. However, buying a pricy pro body may clutter up your shooting experience with features you’ll never even use. We’ll take a look at some of the parameters that will help you make the best choice.

In-body image stabilization

Image stabilization, which is available in some cameras and lenses, goes by different acronyms and names across brands—VR (vibration reduction), OIS (optical image stabilization), and SteadyShot, to name a few. Image stabilization senses the movement of the camera while you’re taking the picture and makes adjustments—either in the camera or in the lens or both—in order to counteract that shake and prevent blurry photos. It can also help smooth out video when shooting handheld. 

Many mirrorless cameras offer IBIS (in-body image stabilization). One of the great things about IBIS is that, by default, every lens you use is image-stabilized, which is like an instant upgrade to your current non-IS lenses. As a bonus, IBIS and IS lenses can often work together to deliver even greater levels of stabilization.

Image stabilization is measured in steps or exposure stops. Put simply, each step or stop of IS decreases the shutter speed needed to maintain a blur-free image. Obviously, the more stops, the better when you’re shopping for a mirrorless camera with IBIS. It’s important to realize, however, that some of those numbers reflect a combination of in-body stabilization and lens stabilization to get the maximum effect.

Low-light performance

Photographers often encounter low-light situations where the choices are either to boost the ISO and risk image noise, miss the shot, or use a flash. The latter isn’t always the best option, especially if you want to capture the scene’s ambiance, or flash is prohibited. Keep in mind that most mirrorless cameras do not have built-in flash anyhow; rather, they have a hot shoe to attach an external flash.

Flash aside, there are three basic elements of low-light photography to consider. First, full-frame cameras are typically better at low-light photography since their larger sensor size gathers more light. You also need to consider how well the camera keeps image noise at bay while maintaining good detail and sharpness and whether the camera’s autofocus can function well in low light. The latter is measured as minus “x” EV.

Low-light performance will be key to getting the shots you want if you frequently shoot indoors—whether at parties or indoor sporting events. And even if you shoot outdoors, higher ISO settings can come in handy for capturing fast action like sports, which requires extremely short shutter speeds to freeze motion. Higher ISO does result in higher noise levels, but you can improve noise with a laptop and some time editing.

Video

While you can vlog or record video with pretty much any mirrorless camera, there are features that make vlogging easier and combine to deliver the best footage possible. Two key features in a mirrorless camera for video are an articulated LCD and a microphone jack. The former lets you flip the LCD out and away from the camera to view yourself as you’re filming. At the same time, an external microphone can be mounted on the camera’s hotshoe without blocking the LCD. In-body image stabilization is ideal since it steadies the shot regardless of what lens you use and can help steady video when handholding the camera.

In the end, vlogging doesn’t always require 4K resolution, but it’s always better to have the option if and when you need it.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best mirrorless cameras

• Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for pros: Nikon Z8
• Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1 
• Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
• Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony A7C
• Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best budget: Canon EOS R100

Shopping for the best mirrorless camera is really a personal issue. It’s important to think about what kind of images or videos you want to capture and then find the features that make it possible—whether it’s low light, video for vlogging, or action shots. Don’t be fooled into thinking you need the latest and greatest to make the best decision. There are plenty of solid options at various price points, including budget models.

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 mirrorless cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Sawgrass SG500		SEE IT	The Sawgrass SG500 offers a high resolution and is ready to print sublimation right out of the box.
Best inkjet		Epson EcoTank ET-2720		SEE IT	This Epson EcoTank printer is easy to convert into a sublimation printer.
Best budget		Canon Selphy CP1500		SEE IT	This budget printer is also portable so you can print sublimated photos on the go.

Sublimation printing allows you to print photos and artwork using special inks to transfer to items like T-shirts, mugs, canvases, and more. But gone are the days of sublimation printers being primarily for high-end production businesses. More companies are now producing these special devices for general consumer use, making the art of dye sublimation more approachable. Should one of those not fit the bill, most inkjet printers can also be converted to the sublimation process. The best sublimation printers are a great way to create custom products in your home or office without paying a third party to handle them. 

• Best overall: Sawgrass SG500 
• Best for photos: DNP DS620A
• Best for beginners: Epson SureColor SC-F170
• Best inkjet printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2720 
• Best budget: Canon Selphy CP1500

How we chose the best sublimation printers

For this selection of the best sublimation printers, we chose current models from some of the major brands that produce these types of printers. Those meeting most users’ needs earned the top spots on our list.  We researched and selected models that included the broadest spectrum of features and capabilities, such as connectivity options, print speed, ink capacity and price, printer footprint, maximum print size, and more.

The best sublimation printers: Reviews & Recommendations

While you can convert most inkjet printers to sublimation printers, more companies have started to offer dedication sublimation options for creators. Converting an inkjet printer has benefits, but for most, buying a sublimation printer ready to run right out of the box is the preferable choice. Just add laptop (and your own brand/creativity, naturally). We’ve included out-of-the-box dye-sub devices in this guide, though with a few traditional inkjets thrown in as well. 

Best overall: Sawgrass SG500

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Specs

• Maximum resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: ‎32.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 15.75 x 17.25 x 8.5 inches
• Type: Purpose-built sublimation printer

Pros

• Comes with a set of Sublijet UHD sublimation inks
• WiFi connectivity
• 2-year product warranty and In-house support

Cons

• Somewhat pricey
• Ink is expensive

Sawgrass is well known for its sublimation printers, with the SG500 sitting at the entry point of its lineup. It offers a high resolution for detailed prints and produces accurate, vibrant colors. You can print on media up to 8.5 by 14 inches and use it to create and apply custom graphics to a wide variety of items, including mugs, coasters, phone cases, apparel, and more.

The Sawgrass SG500 fits easily onto the top of a desk thanks to its small size. But, it’s still a powerful dye-sublimation printer that can be used on many projects, whether you’re a hobbyist or you own a small business or kiosk operation. It offers WiFi connectivity for wireless printing, so you don’t have to stay tethered to your desk. 

Since this is a purpose-built sublimation printer, you won’t need to worry about converting anything to get started. Set up is easy, as is printing. It comes with Sawgrass Print Manager, a software utility that automatically adjusts the ink output to ensure optimal quality while also reducing wasted ink. That’s ideal since ink for this printer is expensive, which is one of the main downsides. It also doesn’t hold very much, so if you print frequently, you’ll be refilling ink a lot.

Best for photos: DNP DS620A

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Specs

• Maximum resolution: 300 x 300 dpi
• Maximum print size: 6 x 8 inches
• Weight: 26.4 pounds.
• Dimensions: ‎10.8 x 14.4 x 6.7 inches
• Type: Purpose-built sublimation printer

Pros

• Excellent performance and very fast
• Prints high-quality photos
• Offers several different print sizes
• You can print either glossy or matte finish

Cons

• Pricey
• Not for transfers

The DS620A printer is ideal for event and wedding photographers and content creators who want to quickly produce many quality photos to hand out at an event. What’s also nice about this printer is that, unlike cheaper purpose-built sublimation printers, it can print in three different sizes: 4 x 6 inches, 5 x 7 inches, and 6 x 8 inches. 

The DNP DS620A is very fast, too. The company says it can print 400 prints per hour. You can also place a watermark on the back of all your images and use the same media to produce either glossy or matte photos. It features a standby mode to lower costs by making the most efficient use of energy. The printer also provides advanced status information from the driver, enabling you to check on remaining media, media format, printer status, printer life counter, color control data, firmware version, and serial number.

It’s important to point out that this is strictly a photo printer. It is not meant for transfer purposes, so you won’t be able to print photos to transfer to mugs, shirts, etc. But this is an excellent choice if you want to produce high-quality and durable photos for clients. 

Best for beginners: Epson SureColor F170

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Specs

• Maximum resolution: 1440 x 720 dpi
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 27.7 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.8 x 19.8 x 7.4 inches
• Type: Purpose-built sublimation printer

Pros

• Affordable inks
• Easy to get started and use
• Works with a wide range of blanks
• Excellent print quality

Cons

• Can’t print larger than 8.5 x 14 inches

Epson makes some of the best home office printers, all-in-one printers, and even photo printers. So it should come as no surprise that it also makes an excellent sublimation printer. The SureColor SC-F170 is ready to produce dye-sub prints right out of the box. It features a 150-feet auto-feed tray to keep you from loading media constantly. And the large ink tanks mean you won’t need to refill as often, saving you money and reducing the plastic you use. 

This printer for sublimation offers a 144 x 720 dpi resolution and produces vibrant, detailed prints. You’ll be able to transfer your prints to a variety of blanks, from mugs and metal panels to mousepads, shirts, and more. It connects via USB, Ethernet, or integrated wireless, giving you plenty of options. It is easy to set up and easy to use, getting you printing faster with less fuss.

Best inkjet: Epson EcoTank ET-2720 

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Specs

• Maximum resolution: 5760 x 1440 dpi
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 8.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 13.7 x 14.8 x 8.7 inches
• Type: All-in-one inkjet printer

Pros

• Easy to convert to a dye-sub printer
• Ink tanks can hold months’ worth of ink
• Easy to set up
• Has both wireless and hands-free voice-activated printing capabilities
• Includes built-in scanner

Cons

• Requires conversion, which voids your warranty

If you’d prefer to convert an inkjet printer for dye-sub printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is a great choice. The printer itself is affordable, saving you money in upfront costs. Its large tanks hold a lot of ink, so you won’t have to refill as often. And the 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution will produce detailed prints for transferring.

Converting the printer is as simple as adding sublimation ink, so you don’t need to be a tech guru to get started. As an all-in-one, it features a built-in scanner, allowing you to use it for more than just printing. It offers plenty of connectivity options as well, making it easy to print from anywhere. Finally, the relatively small footprint won’t take up much room on a desk. Just keep in mind that using sublimation ink will void the warranty of the printer. If it breaks, you’ll be left dealing with repairs or replacement on your own.

Best budget: Canon Selphy CP1500

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Specs

• Maximum resolution: 300 x 300 dpi
• Maximum print size: 4 x 6 inches
• Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Dimensions: 7.2 x 2.3 x 5.2 inches
• Type: Portable photo dye-sublimation printer

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Easy to use
• Portable
• Can print on four media sizes, including small stickers
• Can print directly from SD memory card (via memory card slot)

Cons:

• Not for heat transfers 
• Not very versatile

There’s a lot to like about the Canon Selphy CP1500 dye-sub photo printer, provided that you’re okay with being limited to printing only 4 x 6-inch photos. Also, Canon didn’t make this printer for what transfers, so you won’t be able to create images for mugs, shirts, and so on. But if you just want a compact, portable, affordable printer for quality and durable photos, the CP1500 is a great choice.

Beyond being a great budget option, the Selphy CP1500 is also the best portable dye-sub printer. It will fit in any small office or anywhere else in the home and is easy to tuck away or take with you on the go. There are also several options when you want to connect with the printer. You can connect to it via a USB port for a wired connection, print directly from an SD card or USB flash drive, or print wirelessly via WiFi. You can even print from your smartphone or tablet through the SELPHY Layout app, Canon’s PRINT app, Apple AirPrint (for Apple devices), or Mopria (for Android devices).

An AC adapter powers the printer. It also supports the Canon NB-CP2LH battery, allowing up to 54 prints on a single charge. The Selphy CP1500 also sports a small 3.2-inch LCD, which allows you to preview any images you’d like to print directly from your memory card or thumb drive.

What to consider when buying the best sublimation printers

For many of you, it’s quite possible that you’ve never even heard of sublimation (or dye-sublimation) printers before. You might be wondering: How does a dye-sublimation printer work, and how does it differ from the process inkjet printers use to create images and prints? Essentially, during the printing process, heat is applied to the layers of solid ink, which causes them to sublimate, which means it skips the liquid form and goes directly to the gaseous state. Then, once the ink hits the paper or other material, it transitions back to a solid, producing the image. The printer then finishes by applying a clear protective coating to prevent smudging. 

What will you be using the printer for? 

Sublimation printing is used for two main types of processes: Printing photos or printing images and graphics for transfer. Some printers can do both, but some are only intended for one or the other. So, when you buy a sublimation printer, you’ll want to be clear on what you’ll be using it for. The media type that works in the printer will determine what you can use it for. 

Sublimation technology is especially common in compact, portable photo printers. That is partly because sublimation photo prints are more durable than standard inkjet prints due to this heating process. They come out of the printer totally dry and won’t smudge if touched too soon. They are also more resistant to fading. You can also find larger devices that use this method of printing, but those can get rather pricey.

Many creatives and small business owners use sublimation printers in order to transfer images or designs onto fabric or a range of hard materials, such as mugs or metal sheets. To do this kind of dye-sublimation printing, you first create a graphic or photo and produce a dye-sub print (which is printed in reverse) onto transfer paper. Once the ink is dry on the transfer paper, the photo or graphic can be transferred onto an object by heating it. Heat is applied to the ink, at which point it’s vaporized and transferred to an object. 

Type of printer

If you’re interested in placing your photos or graphics on customized gifts, like baseball hats, cell phone cases, mugs, or t-shirts, you have two options. First, you can convert an inkjet printer to a dye-sublimation printer. This process is as simple as adding sublimation ink instead of the ink that comes with your printer when buying a new device. You should be aware, however, that when you decide to convert your printer to the sublimation process, you will no longer be able to use it as an inkjet printer. It also voids your printer’s warranty since you are not using ink intended for the printer. Also, not all inkjets can be converted. So, be sure to do some research to find out if your model can be converted. 

Your other option is to buy a purpose-built sublimation printer. These are becoming more common, with more brands offering consumer-level devices suitable for home or office settings.  

Print size

Before purchasing a printer, you’ll want to consider what size you will be printing. Some printers can only print up to four by six inches, while others can print up to 13 inches wide. If you are primarily creating small graphics to put on mugs and other promotional items, a smaller printer will save you money and still work well for your needs. But if you want the ability to create large graphics, focus on printers that support larger print sizes. 

What other equipment and supplies will I need on hand? 

If you are purchasing a sublimation printer in order to transfer images to objects or other materials, you will also need a heat press. Heat presses come in different forms, with some specifically built for mugs, hats, or other oddly shaped objects. You’ll also need to invest in sublimation paper, ink, heat-resistant tape, and blanks to transfer your images onto. Be sure to factor all these costs into your budget when choosing a printer. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best sublimation printers

• Best overall: Sawgrass SG500 
• Best for photos: DNP DS620A
• Best for beginners: Epson SureColor SC-F170
• Best inkjet printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2720 
• Best budget: Canon Selphy CP1500

Sublimation printers can be a fun way to either create durable, long-lasting photos or to transfer images and designs to all sorts of objects and materials. There are a range of sublimation printers out there for all experience levels, project types, and budgets. You can even convert inkjet printers, adding even more options. No matter what, be sure to consider what type of images you want to print and how you will be using those images in order to choose the best printer for your needs. 

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 sublimation printers 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 sneakers		Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes		SEE IT	These sneakers are designed specifically for cold weather, with water-repellent features and grooves to keep you from slipping.
Best smartwatch		Garmin Forerunner 965		SEE IT	Designed for serious athletes, the Garmin Forerunner 965 tracks advanced performance metrics and provides up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
Best hydration vest		Salomon Adv Skin 12		SEE IT	This well-fitting vest features two soft flasks, and extra bladder for water, and plenty of pockets for snacks and other essentials.

Running seems simple enough: Put one foot in front of the other in a semi-speedy fashion. It’s free, it’s safe, and dare we say, it’s fun. The equipment, too, seems appealingly uncomplicated. All you need are clothes and running shoes, right? While that’s technically true, some specialized running gear can make jogging a whole lot more pleasant. Plus, when you feel good, you run good. It’s simple science. Here’s our list of some of the best gifts for runners:

• Best smartwatch: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Best heart rate monitor: Garmin HRM-Pro
• Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best treadmill: NordicTrack T Series
• Best massage gun: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun
• Best cold-weather sneakers: Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes
• Best outerwear: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody
• Best underlayer: Ibex Men’s Woolies Tech Long-Sleeve 1/4 Zip
• Best safety gear: Brooks Run Visible Collection
• Best running vest: Nike Aeroloft Women’s Running Vest
• Best running tights: Reebok Women’s Puremove Leggings
• Best gloves: Arc’teryx Venta Gloves
• Best socks: Smartwool Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Sock 
• Best face covering: Nike Therma Sphere Hood 3.0
• Best hat: TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat 
• Best compression sleeves: Hyperice Normatec Go
• Best hydration vest: Salomon Adv Skin 12
• Best T-shirt for trail running: Arc’teryx Cormac Crew SS Shirt
• Best running shorts for women: Kari Traa Nora 2.0
• Best running skort: Outdoor Voices The Exercise 3″ Skort
• Best sunglasses: Tifosi Sunglasses

Best all-weather running gear

Best smartwatch: Garmin Forerunner 965

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While you don’t need a watch for running, it certainly helps if you are aiming to track your progress and work toward goals. Garmin’s smartwatches are some of the best around for all types of physical activity, but that’s especially true for running. Its Forerunner lineup is the company’s dedicated running line, with the Forerunner 965 sitting at the top. 

The Forerunner 965 features a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen display with up to 31 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 23 days in smartwatch mode. As with any Garmin watch, it offers advanced training metrics and tools, including VO2 max, performance condition, training effect, wrist-based running power, load ratio, and more. You can plan your race strategies and receive daily suggested workouts right on your wrist. It also offers built-in mapping, music storage, Garmin Pay, and safety features. It’s a watch built for serious athletes and adventurers, so if you know a newer or more casual runner, the 265 would be a cheaper, smaller, more approachable option.

Best heart rate monitor: Garmin HRM-Pro

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Most running watches provide wrist-based heart rate measurements, but the accuracy of those tools still doesn’t match what you can get with a chest-based monitor. The Garmin HRM-Pro is a premium heart rate monitor with dual ANT and Bluetooth Low Energy technology. It easily pairs with Garmin devices, online training apps like Zwift, or compatible gym equipment. Beyond heart rate, this monitor also gathers running dynamics, including vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, vertical ratio, and more. It can even store data when your watch is out of range, such as during a swim. And it’s comfortable to wear; I barely notice it, even on long runs or bike rides.

Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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Most people prefer to run with music or podcasts, but traditional in-ear headphones can pose some safety concerns. Bone conduction headphones are a fantastic option for runners because they allow you to hear your music while still staying alert to the world around you. The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones offer a secure, lightweight fit that is comfortable even for long runs. They produce clear, high-quality sound with plenty of volume, even when running near traffic. It also features a mic so that you can call your runner when they are out. And the 10 hours of battery life will keep them from needing to charge their headphones constantly.

Best treadmill: NordicTrack T Series

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Whether it’s a blizzard or extreme heat, there are times when it’s not safe to run outside. That’s why it can be helpful to invest in a treadmill. We recommend NordicTrack’s T series. There’s a reason why NordicTrack treadmills are considered some of the best treadmills on the market: they’re reliable, durable, long-lasting, and come with several luxe features to mirror gym-quality workouts. 

This model comes with incline controls up to 15 percent, a 10-inch interactive HD coaching touchscreen, and 30 days free iFit membership, which comes with several on-demand and live workouts with automatic trainer control. also easily folds up and can be stored away for more space-saving. While it’s more expensive than other models, we believe it’s the best if you’re serious about running, want to invest in a higher-end product for the long haul, and are looking for a piece of equipment that mimics what you’d find in a high-end gym.

Best massage gun: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun

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Recovery is key for runners. A massage gun can help relieve those tired leg muscles to promote recovery after runs, preventing injuries and keeping your runner active even during busy training schedules. The Turonic GM5 is a relatively affordable massage gun that still packs a punch. It comes with a range of attachments for different parts of the body and a handy case to keep it all organized even during travel. It offers variable intensity between 1200 and 3200 rpm, so they can fine-tune how intense their massage is. And it’s quiet, so they can even massage their muscles while you watch a movie.

Best cold-weather running gear

Best cold-weather sneakers: Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes

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Let’s get started with the basics: sneakers. There’s nothing worse than missing a carefully calculated step and landing right into a puddle on a cold and rainy day. To avoid this mishap, Nike took one of its most popular running shoes, the Pegasus, and winterized it with a water-repellent upper material and an outsole with wet weather traction to keep you from slipping on the slick pavement. The outsole’s micro grooves feature multidirectional shapes that displace the water when the shoe makes contact with the pavement, so your feet can leave and arrive home dry and warm.

Best outerwear: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody

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Layers are essential when it comes to cold-weather running. Arc’teryx’s sleek Squamish hoodie provides plenty of assistance, keeping you warm without slowing you down. The lightweight shell is windproof yet protects you against rain and snow. It’s also made from nylon that is moisture-wicking and allows sweat to escape, helping to keep your body temperature steady during frigid runs. Plus, this minimalist option is a cinch to roll up into a backpack or carry-on. It’s available in men’s and women’s styles.

Best underlayer: Ibex Men’s Woolies Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt

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Speaking of layering, a merino wool base is the way to go for those frigid days. This long-sleeve base layer has a nylon lining that will help keep you warm and dry all day. The company’s Pro Tech fabric is comfy and lightweight, but still wicks moisture away and keeps odor under control. They’re available in four matte colors (Deepest Red, Deep Ocean, Black, and Ginger Bisquite), you can pair the zippered top with the Woolies Tech Bottoms for full-body coverage.

Best safety gear: Brooks’ Run Visible Collection

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Some of the best gifts for runners aren’t only about keeping warm—they’re about keeping people safe. When North America is experiencing the shortest days of the year—with the sun rising around 7 a.m. and setting by 5 p.m.— that means if they’re trying to squeeze in a run before or after work, they’re probably going to be doing at least some of those miles in the dark. Brooks Running’s Run Visible collection features clothing—from hats to windbreakers and leggings—that all come equipped with 3M Scotchlite Carbon Black Stretch Reflective material with neon colors. The material and coloring (which covers the most visible part of the light spectrum in low-light conditions) are strategically placed in so-called motion zones. That includes the joints that move the most while you’re jogging, like elbows, wrists, and ankles, so they can run safely no matter when they’re able to get that jog in.

Best running vest: Nike Aeroloft Women’s Running Vest

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In addition to keeping hands and feet from freezing, maintaining a warm core will keep the rest of your body toasty without adding too much bulk that could make you overheat mid-run. When looking for the best gifts for runners (or yourself), Nike’s Aeroloft running vest provides necessary warmth where you need it most. It also has pockets to store your keys, cell phone, or anything else you might need mid-run.

Best running tights: Reebok Women’s Puremove Leggings

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Many runners have a love-and-hate relationship with running tights. You need a pair that fits in just the right places for them to work well and feel comfortable. To make that happen, Reebok used its Motion Sense Technology (that the company originally designed for sports bras) to fill its tights with a material that stays liquid-like when in stasis and becomes more solid upon impact. This gives you a full range of movement on a run, while adding support precisely

Best gloves: Arc’teryx Venta Gloves

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Running in the cold sometimes feels like a tease. When you first step outside, the frigid temperatures can be startling, making you want to bundle up with extra pant and shirt layers. But as you ease into the miles, you can quickly overheat with all those clothes. Instead, wear lighter layers (unless the conditions are truly frigid) and focus on making sure your core and extremities are well-protected. Arc’teryx’s Venta glove uses Gore-tex’s Infinium material, which protects from water and wind and is extremely thin and light. Plus the mitten design allows your body heat to keep all your fingers tight and warm.

Best socks: Smartwool Run Cold Weather Crew Socks

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In addition to keeping their hands warm, snuggly and comfy feet also make for a happy run. Smartwool’s Run Cold Weather Socks are made of sweat-wicking wool that also provides comfort and durability. The mid-crew length hits that perfect sweet spot of not too short to let wind in but not too long to cause overheating. Lastly, the socks have the company’s Light Elite cushioning that provides targeted support in the ball and heel of the foot. Otherwise, too much layering between your feet and shoes can restrict blood flow.

Best hat: TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat

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When cold weather hits, a good hat is essential. But for those with longer hair, stuffing your long locks into a hat can be annoying at a minimum and cause a headache at the worst. Trailheads’ ponytail hat features an opening in the back to fit your hair through so it doesn’t get trapped, tangled, or bungled in your hat as you run. The piece is also made of quick-drying polyester fleece and flaps so your head and ears can stay warm for the duration of your run.

Best face covering: Nike Therma Sphere Hood 3.0

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When the wind is howling and moisture from your eyes is starting to freeze on your face, it’s time to call in the reinforcements. Nike’s Therma Sphere Hood is a balaclava-style head covering that’s made with Therma-Sphere fabric that helps wick moisture away. It’s designed to be comfortable and customizable, with a foldover design you can adjust to cover more or less of your face and neck as the day warms up.

Best compression sleeves: Hyperice Normatec Go

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Colder weather can cause arteries to tighten and restrict blood flow. Runners can recover better from workouts with Hyperice’s Normatec Go. These wearables are designed to be strapped to the runner’s calves and provide a symmetrical massage to increase circulation and reduce pain in the lower body. The Bluetooth-enabled controls and associated app allow the runner to choose between seven levels of compression for a better recovery and the battery lasts up to three hours.

Best warm-weather running gear

Best hydration vest: Salomon Adv Skin 12

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For those who enjoy long runs or running in all sorts of weather, a hydration vest is a critical tool. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 comes with two soft flasks that fit snuggly on the chest straps, providing quick and easy access to hydration without stopping. It can also hold a hydration bladder for hot days that call for extra water. Additionally, the pack offers plenty of pockets to hold a jacket, snacks for fueling your run, and attachment points for stashing poles. It fits snugly and comfortably without jiggling around on runs, and the pockets are easily accessible so as not to slow you down. It will keep the runner in your life prepared when hitting the trails.

Best T-shirt for trail running: Arc’teryx Cormac Crew SS Shirt

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When the warm weather comes and a runner is out everyday in the sun, it’s great to have a trusted T-shirt to rely upon. Arc’teryx’s Cormac Crew SS Shirt is designed for trail running and hiking. Made with recycled fabric, this T-shirt is designed to wick moisture away and is odor-resistant. Should the gift recipient get caught in a shower, this shirt also repels water. When the sun is out, this T-shirt provides 50+ UPF protection. And it’s available in five colors.

Best running shorts for women: Kari Traa Nora 2.0

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Good running shorts can be hard to find, but the Nora 2.0 shorts from Kari Traa are a fantastic choice and have been my favorite pair since discovering them. They feature a loose fit with no liner to keep airflow going. The material is very lightweight and effectively wicks away sweat. They feel dry even when running in the Florida heat and humidity, which is very impressive. The elastic waistband offers a drawstring, and there’s a small zippered pocket at the back to store keys or a gel. They are definitely the most comfortable running shorts I’ve used in a long time.

Best running skort: Outdoor Voices The Exercise 3″ Skort

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Running skorts are a great alternative to shorts in part because they feature built-in compression shorts to help prevent chafing. The skirt design also means that you won’t be constantly adjusting the legs of your shorts while running. Outdoor Voices’ The Exercise is one of the best skorts for running that I’ve tried for many reasons. The compression shorts are made with sticky grippers at the bottom hem to keep them in place, and they are long enough to prevent chafing successfully. The liner also offers pockets to hold a phone, and there’s a zippered side pocket on the skirt for keys or snacks. The material of the skirt is very flexible and sweat-wicking to keep you moving freely and dry on runs.

Best sunglasses: Tifosi Sunglasses

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If you haven’t heard, Tifosi Sunglasses makes some of the most brilliantly colored UVA-/UVB-protected sunglasses on the market. With frames that come in enough colorways to match nearly any aesthetic, the Swank and Swick lines (and more), offer bright polarized lenses that will keep your eyes safe even on the snow or sand. These sunglasses are one of the best gifts for runners, as well as people who like extreme sports, desert hikers, and skiers alike.

The post The best gifts for runners who put in the miles all year round appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		OLIGHT S2R II		SEE IT	The S2R II is a bright light with up to 60 hours of runtime.
Best budget		RECHOO S3000L Flashlight		SEE IT	This rechargeable flashlight won’t break the bank.
Best watch		Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2)		SEE IT	This smartwatch offers a 200 lumen dimmable flashlight right on your wrist.

Rechargeable flashlights are extremely useful tools to keep on hand and are a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. Plus, you won’t need to make sure you have the right type of batteries on hand, saving space in your drawers. Many are even more powerful than battery-powered options. Like all flashlights, rechargeable ones come in all shapes and sizes suitable for different situations. If you’re looking to illuminate your life, the best rechargeable flashlights will be there to lend a hand. 

• Best overall: OLIGHT S2R II
• Best budget: RECHOO S3000L Flashlight
• Best compact: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash
• Best watch: Garmin Epix Pro Smartwatch
• Best headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 325

How we chose the best rechargeable flashlights

When selecting the best rechargeable flashlights included in this guide, we evaluated numerous brands and models to choose the best for a variety of situations. Brightness and battery life were two of the most important aspects of the lights we looked at, as a dim flashlight that doesn’t last very long isn’t useful to anyone. We also considered ease of charging, size, waterproofing, and durability. Finally, some flashlights offer extra features that set them apart, such as the ability to charge other devices, magnetic parts, clips, and different lighting modes. We made our decisions based on a mix of hands-on testing, editorial reviews, and user feedback. 

The best rechargeable flashlights of 2023: Reviews & Recommendations

For many people, your smartphone is the only rechargeable flashlight you might think you need. But you should probably conserve phone battery if you’re in the kind of situation where you really need to use a flashlight (and you don’t want to drop that expensive phone trying to fish it out of your pocket in the dark, cracking the screen). So dedicated rechargeable flashlights are ideal for a range of needs, from filling out emergency kits, adding light on camping trips, or illuminating your car while tinkering away. The options below are sure to add light to any situation. 

Best overall: OLIGHT S2R II

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Specs

• Lumens: 1,150 Lumens
• Charging method: Proprietary magnetic charger
• Max run time: 60 hours
• Weight: 3.4 ounces
• Dimensions: ‎0.91 x 0.91 x 3.94 inches

Pros

• Features a magnetic base and clip
• Six lighting modes
• Provides a max throw of 443 feet
• IPX8 rated and drop tested to 4.9 feet

Cons

• Controls aren’t intuitive
• Pricey

The OLIGHT S2R II earns our top spot thanks to its superb brightness, long battery life, and rugged design. It offers up to 1,150 lumens with 4,600 candelas and a maximum throw of 443 feet. It’s an intensely bright light, and because of that, the brightest setting is best used exclusively outdoors. Luckily, you can select between turbo (the brightest setting), moonlight, and strobe mode for more control over your light. 

One feature that makes the S2R II stand out is the battery indicator. Not many rechargeable flashlights offer that. Green, yellow, and red lights tell you how much charge is left in the battery, so you aren’t guessing before heading out into the night. The light charges with the included MCC 1A charger, a magnetic charging system that snaps onto the end of the flashlight. 

The S2R II offers six different lighting modes, including turbo, moonlight, and strobe. The dimmest setting provides a run time of 60 days, while the brightest will last for just under four hours. It’s made of a textured aluminum alloy so that it won’t slip out of your hand. And if it does happen to fall, it’s drop-tested to 4.9 feet. It also features an IPX8 rating, so it will survive even if it falls in a puddle. 

Best budget: RECHOO S3000L Flashlight

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Specs

• Lumens: 1,500 Lumens
• Charging method: USB-C
• Max run time: 10 hours
• Weight: 5.6 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.45 x 1.05 x 5.45 inches

Pros

• Charges via USB-C
• IP65 rated
• 5 lighting modes including a SOS mode
• Affordable
• Telescoping head to adjust the beam

Cons

• Battery life isn’t as good as others

Most rechargeable flashlights are relatively expensive, but the RECHOO S3000L offers a more affordable alternative. Despite its $15 price, it still has plenty to offer, making it a worthy choice for emergency kits or daily use. It provides up to 1,500 lumens, which is plenty of brightness for most situations. Unfortunately, RECHOO doesn’t provide a max throw or candela, but it does feature a telescoping design that allows you to adjust the beam width depending on what you need. 

The S3000L offers five different lighting modes, which include three brightness levels and a one-click emergency mode. It is made of military-grade aluminum alloy and is built to be highly durable, with an IP65 rating. A clip on the side allows you to keep it secure in a pocket, and the textured metal keeps it from slipping from your hand.

One thing we really like about this light, besides its price, is that it charges via USB-C, which is what most devices use these days. That means you’ll likely always have one on hand. Unfortunately, you’ll be charging it more than other options. On the dimmest setting, it only offers around 10 hours of battery life, which is lower than other options on our list. But the price is hard to beat. 

Best compact: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash

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Specs

• Lumens: 120 Lumens in flashlight mode, 150 as a lantern
• Charging method: USB
• Max run time: Up to 7 days
• Weight: 2.4 ounces
• Dimensions: 3.66 x 1.5 inches

Pros

• Functions as a flashlight or lantern
• IPX6 rated
• Very compact and lightweight
• Built-in battery indicator 

Cons

• Not very bright

If weight and size are key considerations for you, perhaps because you’re looking for a rechargeable flashlight for backpacking, the Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash is the best option. It weighs just 2.4 ounces and is only 3.66 inches long, so it won’t take up hardly any space in your pack. It’s also IPX6-rated and built to last. 

One unique feature of this Goal Zero light is that it can work as a lantern or flashlight. A ring at the top allows you to hang it from your tent or backpack when you want broad, filling light. In lantern mode, it offers up to 150 lumens. You’ll get up to 120 lumens when using it as a flashlight. There are plenty of different modes to adjust the brightness as well.

Depending on what brightness setting you use, you’ll get anywhere from 7 to 170 hours of runtime. It charges via USB and can be fully charged within 3.5 hours. Should you need more battery life when in the backcountry, you can pick up the Nomad 5 solar panel, which will provide the same charge time as plugging into the wall if you have enough sun (and Goal Zero makes some of our favorite solar generators, so you can trust it works). Should you want a similar light that can also charge other devices, the Lighthouse Micro Charge offers the same light features but with the additional feature of serving as a battery pack.

Best watch: Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Smartwatch

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Specs

• Lumens: 200 Lumens
• Charging method: Proprietary charger
• Max run time: Up to 16 days
• Weight: 2.22 ounces (42mm version)
• Dimensions: 1.65 x 1.65 x 0.56 inches (42mm version)

Pros

• Available in three sizes and three colors
• Excellent battery life
• Bright, colorful display
• Battery life offers variable intensity, a strobe mode, and red safety light
• Lots of performance and health tools

Cons

• Expensive

It may seem odd to include a watch in a list of the best rechargeable flashlights. But this Garmin smartwatch features a built-in LED flashlight that is extremely useful. The light is built into the bezel of the watch on the top end so that it naturally points in a useful direction without needing to contort your wrist awkwardly. A quick double tap of a button turns it on, and you can select between four different intensity levels, a red mode, and a strobe function. 

I find myself using the flashlight on my epix Pro on a nearly daily basis. It’s perfect for early morning walks in the dark with my dog or trying to find things in the back of dark cabinets. At 200 lumens, it is surprisingly bright for how little it is, easily illuminating what I need. 

Beyond the flashlight, the epix Pro is an incredibly capable fitness watch. It features a long list of sensors to track and calculate a variety of health and performance metrics, including heart rate, sleep, VO2 max, and much more. It can even act as an ECG to detect irregular heart rhythms. The built-in adaptive training tools can help you keep your fitness progressing. You’ll have access to detailed maps with topographic information, weather overlays, and plenty of navigation tools. And it’s built to military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance. If you want a flashlight that is so much more and can keep your hands free, the Garmin epix Pro is hard to ignore. 

Best headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 325

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Specs

• Lumens: ‎325 Lumen
• Candela: Not provided
• Charging method: microUSB
• Max run time: ‎40 hours
• Weight: 1.7 ounces
• Dimensions: ‎2.05 x 1.97 x 8.27 inches

Pros

• Lightweight
• Sits flat and is stable on the head
• Charges via microUSB
• Material is moisture-wicking

Cons

• Hard to open the charger

If bulky, heavy headlamps make night hikes a headache, consider the BioLite HeadLamp 325, a lightweight light in the dark. It only weighs 1.7 ounces, and it doesn’t bounce around while running or doing a cartwheel. The headlamp charges via microUSB—an incredibly common charger you most likely already have around the house. A rear reflective strip alerts those behind you that you’re there, and an articulating front bezel allows you to angle the light where you need it with just one hand. 

We recently took it on a trip to Arizona and were pleased with how its moisture-wicking fabric kept our forehead comfortable during nighttime jaunts to the bathroom or campfire. Plus, it laid flat to our heads—something we can’t say with other headlamps we’ve tried.

We named its beefier cousin, the BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro, as the best headlamp for hiking. If you’re more of a casual wanderer or just need something to illuminate the way to take out the trash, the HeadLamp 325 packs a powerful, portable punch.

Things to consider when buying rechargeable flashlights

Rechargeable flashlights aren’t typically fancy pieces of equipment with endless options in regard to features. But different situations may call for a different type of light than others. Below are some of the most important things to look out for when choosing a rechargeable flashlight. 

Lumens & candela

A flashlight doesn’t do much good if it doesn’t illuminate well. But you don’t always need the face of the sun in your hand, either. There are a few different factors that impact how bright a flashlight appears: Lumens and candela. 

Lumens is likely a familiar term to most. The number of lumens a rechargeable flashlight has tells you the amount of light it produces. Broadly speaking, the more lumens, the brighter the light. However, this measurement is taken at the very front of the light source, so it doesn’t give you any indication of how far it shines or how wide of an area it covers. 

That’s where candelas come in. Candela refers to how focused and intense the light from a flashlight is. Candela measurements get a bit complicated, but put simply, a large candela number means the beam will be more focused, which is ideal for when you need to illuminate things in the distance. A low candela number refers to a broad beam of light, which is better for when you need light up close. 

Not many companies list candelas, but they may provide a beam distance measurement instead.

Size & weight

Rechargeable flashlights come in a range of shapes and sizes and thus weights. What you need a flashlight for will determine what size is best. For example, a large, heavy flashlight is fine for in your home in case the power goes out. But you won’t want to take that backpacking with you or hold it while working on your car. Size is more important for certain applications than others, but be sure to check the weight and dimensions prior to hitting that buy button. 

Light modes

Some rechargeable flashlights will offer various light modes and even different intensity levels. Dimming adds to the versatility of a torch since you’ll be able to adjust the brightness depending on the conditions. If you will be using your light when camping, in an emergency kit, or in similar situations, a strobe light or SOS setting may be valuable to have. If that’s the case, look closely at what light modes are available in the models you are considering. 

Battery life & charging

As with any electronic device, rechargeable flashlights will offer various levels of battery life. If you need a flashlight for emergency situations or when roughing it in the outdoors, long battery life is incredibly important. However, if you have access to a charger and know you’ll only need the light for short periods, a short battery life may be okay. 

Also worth considering is how you’ll charge your light. Some feature built-in USB ports that are easy to access. Others use rechargeable batteries that you will have to take out and charge with an adapter. Which is best is largely a matter of preference, though charging via a port is typically more convenient.

Additional features

Beyond the basics listed above, there are a handful of additional things to look out for when choosing a rechargeable flashlight. Waterproofing or IPX ratings may be essential if you need to use the light on a boat or in a hurricane preparedness box. A clip, magnet, or strap could be crucial if you are trying to use it hands-free. Some lights can also act as a battery for other devices, which is ideal for camping or emergency situations. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best rechargeable flashlights

• Best overall: OLIGHT S2R II
• Best budget: RECHOO S3000L Flashlight
• Best compact: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash
• Best watch: Garmin Epix Pro Smartwatch
• Best headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 325

Rechargeable flashlights are becoming more and more common, with options constantly expanding. What flashlight is best for you depends on how you intend to use it and your specific needs. Paying attention to a light’s brightness, throw distance, durability, battery life, and charging options will help you choose an option that best illuminates your life.

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 flashlights of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Beyond its energy drinks, Red Bull is well known for its support of high-intensity, barrier-breaking sports. In line with this, the company hosts an annual international photography competition called Red Bull Illume Image Quest. In its seventh year, the competition nets thrilling images of a long list of adventure sports, including climbing, kayaking, big mountain skiing, surfing, and more, many of which highlight the diverse landscapes found on our planet. There are 10 distinct categories that applicants submit to, covering a broad range of types of images and levels of photographers. 

[Related: Check out some of the winners of the latest iPhone Photography Awards]

This week, Red Bull announced the top 50 finalists from the thousands of entries, chosen by a jury of 52 photography industry experts. The winners of individual categories and an overall winner will be announced at the Red Bull Illume Winner Award Ceremony in Sölden, Austria, from November 28 to 30. Following that, the exhibit will set off on a worldwide tour, so you may have a chance to see the images in person. You’ll also be able to purchase a book of the images if you find them inspiring enough. Here are some of our favorites, but be sure to head over to the full gallery to explore them all. 

The post The Red Bull photo contest illuminates epic landscapes and adrenaline-pumping scenes appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Toybox 3D Printer for Kids		SEE IT	The Toybox is one of the few 3D printers specifically designed for kids and includes a large catalog of ready-to-print toys.
Best budget		XYZprinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless		SEE IT	The enclosed printing area and budget-friendly price make this a great kid-friendly 3D printer.
Best for teens		Monoprice Voxel		SEE IT	The Voxel offers plenty of bells and whistles for more flexibility as your teen learns to 3D print.

Dedicated 3D printers for kids can be a fantastic and fun way to encourage young minds to create and learn. 3D printers once required huge budgets and hyper-specific skills, but they have become very accessible in recent years. Now, these devices come in small, affordable versions that you can keep in your home. Some are even specifically designed for kids and can encourage problem-solving and creativity. They can also help teach subjects like science, art, and engineering. Whether you are looking at a device for fun, education, or both, the best 3D printers for kids offer an ideal mix of usability, flexibility, and accessibility.

• Best overall: Toybox 3D Printer for Kids
• Best budget: XYZprinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless
• Best for speed: AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer
• Best for teens: Monoprice Voxel
• Best for learning: FlashForge Finder 3

How we chose the best 3D printers for kids

When choosing the best 3D printers for kids, we evaluated more than 15 printer brands and over 40 models of printers. We looked at performance, price, safety features, customer reviews, built-in features, and lifespan. We evaluated warranties and feedback from experts. Best-seller lists and purchaser responses were also taken into account. We included products that are appropriate for a variety of ages and skill levels to offer a well-rounded list for readers and those interested in child-friendly 3D printers.

The best 3D printers for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

While there are some very easy-to-use and kid-focused 3D printers, be aware that depending on the age of the child, a 3D printer will likely require adult supervision and help. The components of 3D printers get hot, and it can take some problem-solving to design items and use some of these devices. Luckily, the devices below are all ideal for beginners, making it easier for you to get started, even if you are new to the world of 3D printing. 

Best overall: Toybox 3D Printer for Kids

SEE IT

Specs 

• Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 7.4 x 7.4 x 9.05 inches
• Build volume: 2.7 x 3.1 x 3.5 inches
• Compatible materials: PLA plastic
• Print speed: Up to 60 mm/s

Pros

• Simple, one-touch function
• Comes with a growing catalog of ready-to-print toys
• Includes multiple colors of filaments
• Uses non-toxic PLA

Cons

• Pricey for what it is
• Build space is rather small

The Toybox 3D Printer for Kids is an ideal model for kids as young as eight who are interested in 3D printing. It was specifically designed with younger kids in mind, which means ease of use and simplicity at every turn. Printing is a single click away, with buttons and clickable images on the display screen so kids can easily run the show once they get the hang of it. Our reviewer found it to be a “fun factory for kids and beginners.”

With a huge catalog of toys, all you have to do is load and hit “print.” New toy builds are added weekly, creating an endless supply of projects to create. But you aren’t limited to what’s in the catalog; the Toybox app also allows for custom designs. The Toybox comes with eight rolls of filament in different colors, so you can get started right away without pricing out sizes or styles.

The Toybox is also our top 3D printer for kids due to its excellent safety features. It features an enclosed print area to keep curious hands away from hot elements. The easy-peel print bed means kids can take the prints out without needing a knife. And it uses non-toxic PLA (Polylactic Acid) plastic for filament, so you don’t have to worry about any harmful fumes. The small footprint and lightweight design are also a plus. 

Best budget: XYZprinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 22.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.18 x 13.19 x 15.36 inches
• Build volume: 5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches
• Compatible materials: PLA, Tough PLA, PETG, Carbon PLA, Metallic PLA
• Print speed: Variable

Pros

• Compatible with laptops, personal computers, or smartphones
• Can heat to the suggested printing temperature in less than one minute
• Offers a resolution of up to 200 microns
• Affordable compared to other 3D printers

Cons

• Only compatible with size 600G filament
• No integrated display

The Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D printer is one of the best budget 3D printers thanks to its absurdly fast heat-up time, which eliminates any downtime before printing. It requires very little setup; simply plug it in, connect your device, and go. This is a great feature for kids (or impatient adults). It’s also a surprisingly rare feature among 3D printers; most require assembly or calibration before they’re functional. Meanwhile, a boxed-in printing area prevents the potential for burns and locks away heated progress from small hands. 

You can use this 3D printer with a variety of filament types, including multiple types of PLA and PETG, though they each must be 600G. Speeds are kept in check with a nozzle and print bed that move simultaneously without sacrificing small details. A 200-micron printing delta will also keep projects accurate and looking great, but printing at that highest resolution will slow down the print time significantly.

At just 22.1 pounds, the Da Vinci Mini can easily be moved or stored away while still offering sizable printing abilities. As a “mini,” it’s extremely versatile and able to tackle a number of projects larger than its size suggests. Keep in mind that there is no integrated display, meaning it requires you to connect a device such as a laptop or phone in order to work. 

Best for speed: AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 20.94 pounds
• Dimensions: 21.77 x 20.27 x 12 inches
• Build volume: 8.66 x 8.66 x 9.8 inches
• Compatible materials: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and PLA-CF (Carbon Fiber)
• Print speed: Up to 500 mm/s

Pros

• Easy assembly with 3-step setup
• One-click printing with access to free model library
• Very fast printing
• Accepts many different materials

Cons

• Rather noisy
• No display

Waiting around for a print to finish isn’t fun for anyone, especially impatient kids. But before you even get to printing, you’ll have to build the 3D printer. Luckily, the AnkerMake M5C is quick and easy to set up, with only three steps. You can be up and running in roughly 15 minutes. When it comes time to print, it is one of the fastest 3D printers on the market, with speeds up to 500 mm/s. You’ll still get 0.1mm print precision with those speeds, so you’ll have quality prints as well. 

The MC5 works with a wide range of filament types and can even print multicolor designs. You’ll have access to a free model library, so don’t need to figure out how to design your own if you don’t want to. It features automatic bed leveling and an easy-to-remove printing surface, which are both ideal features for beginners. 

There are some downsides to the M5C, especially as a 3D printer for kids. This isn’t an enclosed printer, so it is best suited for older children or used with supervision. There isn’t a built-in display, so you’ll need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone in order to print. And the fan is pretty loud, which may be an issue for some. But it offers quality prints at a budget-friendly price, so we think those issues are worth it for those focused on fast printing speeds. 

Best for teens: Monoprice Voxel

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 28.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 15.9 x 15.7 x 15 inches
• Build volume: 5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches
• Compatible materials: Any
• Print speed: Up to 60 mm/s

Pros

• Supports all of the most common types of filament
• 2.8-inch touchscreen control panel 
• Built-in camera to monitor print jobs
• Easy to set up and use

Cons

• Lengthier heat time
• Touchscreen is cramped

The Monoprice Voxel is a 3D printer that comes with plenty of upgrades, including assisted leveling and hotspot capabilities. You can connect even without WiFi and then watch the progress from a built-in camera that allows you to check in or adjust when you’re out of filament. These alone are a perk for the price, let alone combined. Plus, they are both extremely rare in the world of electronics; few 3D printers offer their own hot-spotting abilities or remote camera options built directly into the device. 

The Voxel is easy to set up and use, so your teen should have no issues getting the hang of it. You can swap the print nozzle out in seconds with no tools needed. What tools you need come with the device, so you won’t have to hunt them down on the internet. It features a built-in sensor that alerts you to low filament levels and even pauses prints until you reload. 

Meanwhile, it prints at 60mm per second, whipping through any project up to 5.9 by 5.9 by 5.9 inches. The removable and flexible print bed makes it easy to remove your models when printing is done. Should it get damaged, you can swap it out for a new one. The entire printing area is enclosed, providing a level of safety for peace of mind. Offering lots of bang for the buck, this printer has plenty of bells and whistles without complicated knowledge to put it into action. 

Best for learning: FlashForge Finder 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: ‎36.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 15.9 inches x 16.4
• Build volume: 7.7 x 7.9 x 7.5 inches
• Compatible materials: ABS, HIPS, PETG, PETG PRO, TPU 95A flexible filament, and third-party filaments
• Print speed: Up to 180 mm/s

Pros

• No assembly required
• Operates at just 50 decibels for quiet printing
• Multiple connectivity options
• Comes with two interchangeable build plates

Cons

• Not fully enclosed
• Requires bed leveling before you can start printing

The FlashForge Finder 3 is designed for beginners wanting to learn the art of 3D printing. It comes fully assembled and comes with any tools you may need for maintenance down the road. You will need to level the bed before you start printing, but the process is quick and easy with the on-screen prompts.

The Finder 3 works with all of the most common filament types, even those from other manufacturers. That includes flexible filaments for when your child gets the hang of the basic materials. There is a low filament sensor and print recovery function so that you can resume printing where you left out should the power go out or you run out of filament mid-print. 

One big plus of the Finder 3 in a home setting is the quiet operation. It runs at 50 decibels, so if your kid is an avid printer (maybe they’re just getting into cosplay and working through some kinks), you won’t have to deal with constant loud noise. You’ll get two different build plates—a glass plate and PEI magnetic steel sheet—allowing you to experiment with printing on different surfaces. It also works with multiple sizes of nozzles, providing even more flexibility as you learn. 

Things to consider before buying a 3D printer for kids

When choosing the best 3D printers for kids, you have some decisions to make. Like any technology, there are products with flashy add-ons (and the flashy price tags to go with them), 3D printers that offer the basics, and everything in between

Learning curve and ease of assembly also play huge factors in whether or not your little one will enjoy the overall process. Kids can have shorter attention spans than adults, while 3D printers that have complicated maintenance issues will go over young users’ heads. 

Safety

When it comes to choosing a 3D printer for kids, safety is one of the first features you’ll want to keep in mind. One of the best ways to ensure a 3D printer is safe for kids is to purchase a version that is fully enclosed. A 3D printer with an open printing area can expose hot elements to curious hands, while a boxed-in version will be closed off while printing. If you opt for an open design and are using the device with young kids, you will want to supervise the printing process closely. If you are buying a printer for an older kid, however, you may be fine with an open 3D printer.

Another important safety consideration is the type of filament you’ll be using. Some filaments, such as ABS, PETG, and nylon, can produce harmful fumes while printing. You’ll need to use these in an area with proper ventilation but may want to avoid them altogether with kids around. PLA is one of the best filament types for kids as it is considered food-safe and non-toxic. Not all 3D printers can use every type of filament, however, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.

Printing speed

Kids are typically not the most patient folks. As a result, a 3D printer with relatively fast printing speeds may be a smart move to keep them engaged. Many devices will offer various printing speeds based on print quality (listed as resolution). Faster speeds generally mean lower resolutions. A print speed of at least 60 mm per second will be a good starting point, but you can also opt for a model with faster speeds.

Another aspect to consider is how long it takes to load your next printing color or to replace parts after they’re worn down. This can often take place mid-print, and if you don’t do your research, you could be stuck with a model that needs ample cooling or load time. 

3D printing with kids and sensory disorders

If you have a child who is sensitive to various senses, planning around that factor is at the forefront of your mind at all times. Take note that some senses that may trigger kids include loud noises, strange sounds, smells, and the feel of the plastic at various stages. 

Luckily, you can plan around these changes. Some models offer quiet printing, while the fully enclosed 3D printers for kids may help with fumes and noise as well. Be sure to look carefully at specs and features if you need to be cautious about sensory disorders. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 3D printers for kids

• Best overall: Toybox 3D Printer for Kids
• Best budget: XYZprinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless
• Best for speed: AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer
• Best for teens: Monoprice Voxel
• Best for learning: FlashForge Finder 3

While many people still consider 3D printers advanced machines meant for older users, the current generation of devices can be a great way for little ones to flex their engineering and creative muscles. We recommend something that’s easy to set up and use but still offers room to grow for those who really take to it. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best 3D printers 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.

Sometimes, amazing science happens in the background with little to no public attention. All those years of hard efforts and incremental progress are left unseen except by those living and working through it. Now, a new book detailing the making of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) aims to change that by sharing photographs, diagrams, and behind-the-scenes information of the science and pioneers behind the project. 

Inside the Star Factory: The Creation of the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA’s Largest and Most Powerful Space Observatory gives us a full-body summary of an astronomical feat that required more than 100 million hours of labor over the course of 30 years. It covers everything from the initial conception of the idea to the Christmas Day launch in 2021, providing a robust picture of what went into designing, engineering, and testing such a masterpiece. Science writer Christopher Wanjek provides an in-depth overview of the history of JWST, but even more, the book serves as an “illustrated guide [that] shows readers the heady world of scientific discovery at the very limits of human knowledge.”

All of the 100-plus images of the telescope’s construction were taken by Chris Gunn, who joined the project 15 years ago and was the only photographer given such extensive access to the development and launch of JWST. Over his long career, he’s focused on creating intricate images and videos related to science and technology, with previous experience capturing the last servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. His work puts faces to NASA’s biggest telescope endeavor, humanizing the entire assignment and showcasing those who dedicated so much of their time to a single goal. 

We had a chance to speak with Gunn about his new book to find out more about his process and experience. Here’s what he revealed. 

PopSci: How did you get involved with NASA and JWST? 

Gunn: I worked as a photographer on the last servicing mission to Hubble from 2006 to 2009. When that mission ended, I was asked to join the JWST team. I had never imagined being on such a long-term project. 

PopSci: What was the most challenging part about photographing the project? 

Gunn: The most challenging part about photographing this project was also the most exciting: the constantly evolving subject. Seeing parts of the observatory come together was amazing, but the trick was to keep a consistent look and feel in my photographs throughout the project. I started to pay more attention to the environments that I was shooting and bring elements of these environments into my compositions. When I could light my subjects, I took great care to do it subtly. Eventually, I realized that JWST’s geometry photographed beautifully but any distortion ate away at that beauty. Over time I became a more selective shooter with more restraint. 

PopSci: What’s your favorite moment (or moments) from your time with the team? 

Gunn: My favorite moments include the arrival of the first mirrors, the first time I saw the optical system deployed inside of NASA Johnson’s test chamber, and the mating of the optical system to the sunshield and main spacecraft bus. During each of these project milestones the cleanrooms were filled with a sense of awe and wonder. They aren’t particularly noisy in general, but they were super quiet for these moments. I had a sense that I was witnessing something great that humankind was achieving. 

PopSci: What were your go-to cameras and lenses? 

Gunn: One of the most interesting things about being on such a long-term project is seeing the progression in photographic technology as the years passed. I initially shot with Nikon’s D3s and D3X cameras, and finally settled on D4s for several years. Nikon’s 14-24mm 2.8 lens was my favorite lens early on. 

After the observatory was built, I switched to a medium-format Hasselblad-H camera boasting 50 megapixels. The Hassy gave me more resolution, and more importantly, allowed me to shoot with less distortion. Later in the project I acquired a mirrorless Hasselblad, which I used with adapted H lenses. The Hasselblad 50mm was probably my favorite lens as it offered a sharp, undistorted, and wide perspective. The medium format cameras also forced me to slow down and concentrate on composition. 

PopSci: Do you have a no. 1 photograph from the series? 

Gunn: I have quite a few favorites—they’re all in the book. If I had to choose one, it’s the image used for the cover. It was made at the tail end of a long day and depicts the one and only time that the secondary mirror was deployed using the flight motors. That’s the smaller mirror in the center. The center section of the primary mirror reflects the secondary mirror, and you can see the primary mirror in this reflection. Look closely and you also can see me in this reflection. The selfie was unintentional.

Buy Inside the Star Factory: The Creation of the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA’s Largest and Most Powerful Space Observatory here.

The post This NASA photographer documented the 30-year journey to build the James Webb Space Telescope appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		BenQ PhotoVue SW272U		SEE IT	This BenQ monitor is built for creatives with an anti-glare finish and highly accurate color right out of the box.
Best color accurate		Eizo ColorEdge CG319X		SEE IT	The Eizo monitor features a built-in color calibration sensor to automatically calibrate your display.
Best budget		Dell S2722QC		SEE IT	This Dell monitor will help you edit your videos without breaking the bank.

Monitors for video editing offer the color accuracy and resolution needed in order to get your raw footage looking polished and complete. Most consumer-focused monitors won’t cover the color range or contrast that video editing demands, leaving you with inconsistent and less polished results. The best monitors for video editing will help you streamline your editing process and allow you to put out consistent quality to keep clients or viewers coming back. 

• Best overall: BenQ PhotoVue SW272U
• Best color accurate: Eizo ColorEdge CG319X
• Best ultrawide: LG 40WP95C
• Best portable: Intehill U15NA 4K Portable Monitor
• Best budget: Dell S2722QC

How we chose the best monitors for video editing

When selecting the monitors for video editing included in this guide, we prioritized color accuracy, resolution, screen technology, and connectivity options. As everyone has a different preference for display size, we aimed to choose a variety of options. It was also important to include a range of price points and features for video editors at every level. Finally, we have spent countless hours in front of screens editing videos and photos, which guided our decisions, along with editorial reviews and user feedback.

The best monitors for video editing: Reviews & Recommendations

Unfortunately, shooting your videos is just half the process. You’ll then need to spend time cutting all that content together, messing with audio levels and music, color grading, and more. But with one of these monitors for video editing, you’ll have an easier time tackling all that and be able to trust your results. 

Best overall: BenQ PhotoVue SW272U

SEE IT

Specs

• Screen size: 27 inches
• Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels)
• Color space coverage: 100% sRGB, 99% Adobe RGB, 99% DCI-P3
• Brightness: 400 nits
• HDR compatibility: HDR10, Hybrid Log Gamma
• Built-in speakers: None

Pros

• Excellent color accuracy out of the box
• Plenty of connectivity options
• Adjustable stand is very sturdy
• Lots of features specific to editing

Cons

• Pricey
• No speakers

BenQ is one of the top producers of monitors for creatives, including video editing. The SW272U earns our top spots because of its list of features specifically tailored to creatives and its impressive performance. It comes calibrated and tested for color accuracy right from the factory for Delta E ≤1.5 accuracy. A certification report even comes with the monitor. It covers 99 percent of DCI-P3, is Calman verified and Pantone validated, and offers 10-bit support for 1.07 billion colors. You can edit straight out of the box without fussing with monitor settings. 

The 4K resolution will work well for even the most particular editors. I use this monitor in a room with south and west-facing windows and have no issues seeing my screen, thanks to the 400 nits of brightness. The monitor also comes with plenty of settings and features specific to creatives. That includes a P3 color preview to ensure accurate colors before you deliver a video to clients. For hybrid creatives needing to print photographs, the Paper Color Sync allows you to fine-tune color settings without burning through precious photo paper and ink. 

In terms of ergonomics and build, this IPS monitor features an anti-glare coating to essentially eliminate reflections, making it more comfortable to look at for hours on end. It has a sturdy stand with plenty of adjustment options and a leatherette base. There aren’t any built-in speakers, but a 3.5mm headphone jack allows you to plug in headphones for audio adjustments. The included Hotkey Puck G3 makes it easy to change settings with shortcuts. It’s an expensive monitor, but it offers truly outstanding quality, a robust feature set for creatives, and excellent ergonomics for those long editing sessions. 

Best color accurate: Eizo ColorEdge CG319X

SEE IT

Specs

• Screen size: 31.1 inches
• Resolution: 4K (4096 x 2160 pixels)
• Color space coverage: 99% Adobe RGB, 98% DCI-P3
• Brightness: 350 nits
• HDR compatibility: Hybrid Log Gamma
• Built-in speakers: None

Pros

• Superb color accuracy
• Built-in automatic color calibration
• 31.1-inch size offers lots of space
• Dual HDMI 2.0 and dual DisplayPort 1.2 connectivity

Cons

• Premium price tag

If money is no object and you want the best of the best, the Eizo ColorEdge CG319X is the way to go. It offers a larger 31.1-inch display size along with a higher resolution of 4096 x 2160. This results in a dense 149ppi (pixels per inch), which allows you to see fine details when video editing along with photo retouching. It features a contrast ratio of 1500:1 and a maximum brightness of 350 nits. 

The ColorEdge CG319X also offers truly excellent color accuracy with 98 percent coverage of DCI-P3. But one of the best features of this premium monitor is the built-in calibration sensor. You won’t need to purchase a separate calibration tool, as the monitor contains everything necessary. It can even be set to automatically calibrate at designated times, keeping your work time free of that task.

As we would expect for one of the best monitors for video editing, the ColorEdge CG319X provides plenty of connectivity options, including dual HDMI 2.0 and dual DisplayPort 1.2 connectivity. There’s also one upstream and three downstream USB 3.0 ports. It comes with a monitor shade to help reduce glare, an ergonomic stand with a quick release, and a built-in carrying handle on the back of the monitor. It’s an expensive monitor, to be sure, but it offers a lot of quality and features that pro-level video editors demand. 

Best ultrawide: LG 40WP95C

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Specs

• Screen size: 39.7
• Resolution: 5K2K (5120 x 2160 pixels)
• Color space coverage: 98% DCI-P3
• Brightness: 300 nits
• HDR compatibility: HDR10
• Built-in speakers: Yes, 2 x 10 W

Pros

• Excellent color accuracy
• Massive display size with 5K2K resolution
• Thunderbolt 4 support
• Includes an ambient light sensor

Cons

• Lower contrast and brightness don’t work well in bright rooms

Sometimes, bigger is better. Editing videos typically involves working with long timelines, and an ultrawide display will allow you to see more of that at once without compressing it to an unusable point. LG 40WP95C offers a massive 40-inch display size with a 21:9 aspect ratio. Despite the larger size, it maintains a 140ppi thanks to the 5K2K resolution, so you’ll still be able to see plenty of detail. 

On top of excellent resolution, this LG monitor also provides highly accurate colors. It covers 98 percent of the DCI-P3 colorspace, so you can trust that your color grading will be spot on. It supports HDR10, resulting in vibrant color as well. Should you want to maintain accurate color, it is hardware calibration ready. 

The LG 40WP95C offers numerous connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 with 96W power delivery. It supports daisy chaining, should you want an epic multi-monitor setup. The built-in ambient light sensor can automatically adjust the display’s brightness based on lighting conditions in your office, providing appropriate brightness at all times. However, this monitor for video editing won’t work well in very bright spaces, as it tops out at 300 nits of brightness and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. If you’re a fan of the classic editing cave-type setup, though, it will more than get the job done. 

Best portable: Intehill U15NA 4K Portable Monitor

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Specs

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels)
• Color space coverage: 100% DCI-P3
• Brightness: 500 nits
• HDR compatibility: HDR compatible
• Built-in speakers: Yes, 2 x 2 W

Pros

• Only 0.4 inches thick and 1.6 pounds
• 100% DCI-P3 coverage
• Plenty bright
• Can run off your laptop’s power

Cons

• Integrated stand can slide on smooth surfaces

Many videographers travel a lot for their shoots, and bringing a full-size desktop monitor on your trips is far from ideal. But editing on a single, small laptop screen isn’t great either. The Intehill 4K Portable Monitor is a fantastic solution for those on the go, offering excellent quality in a highly compact and portable package. It is less than half an inch thick, so you can slide it into your laptop bag with your computer to bring along wherever you go. 

This portable monitor offers a 4K resolution with 282ppi for plenty of detail while editing videos. It covers 100 percent of DCI-P3 color space, so you could even use this for precise color work. The 500 nits of brightness and 1000:1 contrast ratio result in a bright, vibrant screen even when working in bright locations. 

Unlike many portable monitors, setup and connection is extremely easy with the U15NA. If you work from a laptop or iPad, you won’t need an external power source as it draws from those devices. It offers two USB-C ports and a mini HDMI port, comes with all the cords you’ll need, and even comes with a mini HDMI to full-sized HDMI adapter. You could even connect this monitor directly to your camera to use as a larger display when filming yourself, which makes recording videos on the go much easier. 

Best budget: Dell S2722QC

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Specs

• Screen size: 27 inches
• Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
• Color space coverage: 99% sRGB
• Brightness: 350 nits
• HDR compatibility: HDR support
• Built-in speakers: Yes, 2 x 3 W

Pros

• Affordable
• 350 nits of brightness
• Sharp 4K resolution

Cons

• Color coverage isn’t’ great

Monitors for video editing are typically expensive, but the Dell S2722QC offers a much more affordable alternative. Despite the sub $400 price, it provides a 4K resolution with 163ppi for plenty of detail. The 350 nits of brightness is superb, allowing you to view this screen in bright rooms easily. 

Of course, as a budget monitor, there are some sacrifices to keep the price low. The most significant issue is the less-than-robust color space coverage. It covers 99 percent of the smaller sRGB space but doesn’t support the newer and wider DCI-P3 color space. The HDR mode is also a bit lackluster. But it features two built-in speakers, an ergonomic stand, and plenty of connection options. If you are new to the world of video editing, this monitor will be a great option to get you started. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best monitors for video editing

Monitors for video editing have a different set of requirements compared to a general monitor for web browsing or work. There are lots of techy terms and features mentioned with monitors in general, but that’s especially true in the world of purpose-built monitors. Below, you’ll find some of the most important things to look out for when choosing your monitor for video editing to help you sort through all the noise. 

Display size

The best display size largely comes down to personal preference, but some factors can help guide your decision. On the more practical side, you’ll need to figure out how much room you have for a monitor. While it may be tempting to get the largest available, that could leave you with zero desk space for anything else (unless you invest in a monitor wall mount). How far away you’ll sit from the monitor also impacts what size may be best. If you like to sit really close to your screen, you’ll have to spend more time looking around the display to actually see everything you need to if you have a massive monitor. 

For most people, 27 inches is a sweet spot of plenty of screen real estate without getting too large. However, if you want more room for long video timelines, a larger ultrawide may be the way to go. 

Resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on your screen. The more pixels, the more detail you’ll be able to see. What resolution you need comes down to what resolution your output will be and how important fine details are to you. 4K monitors are becoming more common and more affordable, which is why all of the models we’ve selected offer 4K resolution. However, they aren’t necessarily a requirement for video editing. 

If you export your videos at 1080p or less, you can get away with a monitor with a resolution below 4K. But if you need to export 4K footage for clients or simply want high-production videos with precise color grading, a 4K monitor will be the way to go. 

Screen technology

Without getting into the weeds regarding display types and screen technology, you’ll want to look for an LCD monitor with an IPS (in-plane switching) panel monitor for video editing. IPS monitors use aligned liquid crystals, which provide better color performance, consistent brightness across the entire screen, and wider viewing angles. That means that you’ll be able to get consistently accurate color from your display, though we’d still recommend regular calibration if you’re serious about color accuracy. You also won’t have to worry about overly dim or bright spots on the edges and won’t have any loss of contrast if you are looking at the display from an angle, both of which can make editing video more challenging. 

Color accuracy

Color accuracy is one of the most crucial components of any monitor for video editing and photo editing. In fact, it’s the main factor that makes these monitors stand out from general, consumer-focused models. In order to maintain accurate colors, you’ll want your monitor to offer wide color gamut coverage; the closer to 100 percent, the better. For video editing, look for at least 95 percent coverage of the DCI-P3 color space in particular. You will likely also see sRGB, Rec .709, and Rec. 2020 mentioned in the specs sheets. sRGB and Rec.709 are not as wide as other color spaces, so 100 percent coverage is common on high-quality monitors. 

Speakers

If you’re editing video, chances are you’re also working with audio. For those connecting laptops to their monitors for video editing, speakers built into your monitor may be irrelevant. However, if you’re working from a desktop computer without speakers, you’ll need some way to hear the sound of your films. 

While the speakers built into monitors won’t match the quality of the best desktop or powered speakers, it will save you money as you build out your setup. Not all monitors have built-in speakers, though, so be sure to pay close attention if you need that in your model. 

Connectivity

The last piece of the monitors for video editing puzzle is how you’ll actually connect the display to your computer. Monitors will offer different connectivity options, including some combination of ​​HDMI, Thunderbolt, DisplayPort, or USB-C. If you don’t want to use an adapter or hub, you’ll want to pick a monitor that can connect directly to your computer. For MacBooks, that means USB-C connectivity. Most PCs will work with HDMI or DisplayPort options. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best monitors for video editing

• Best overall: BenQ PhotoVue SW272U
• Best color accurate: Eizo ColorEdge CG319X
• Best ultrawide: LG 40WP95C
• Best portable: Intehill U15NA 4K Portable Monitor
• Best budget: Dell S2722QC

As with most things, there isn’t necessarily a one-size-fits-all monitor for video editing. Every video editor comes to the desk with slightly different needs and priorities, not to mention different skill levels and budgets. But no matter what, the best monitors for video editing will offer superb resolution for clearly seeing details, accurate colors, plenty of brightness, and an ergonomic stand to help you stay comfortable during those marathon editing sessions.  

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 monitors for video editing in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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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

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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

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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. It’s also a 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. This waterproof smartwatch can go as deep as 164 feet, so your teen can wear it during swim team practice to keep track of their workouts. 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 it 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. Keeping track of their sleep can help you get your kids on a healthy sleep schedule, which will only have benefits down the road.

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