logo
The Best Vibrators, tested in real life, of 2025

The Best Vibrators, tested in real life, of 2025

USA Today18-03-2025

Vibrators are an essential part of modern sexual wellness. Today, they're more sophisticated than ever and designed with anatomy, pleasure, and user experience in mind. They range from discreet bullet vibes that fit between your fingers to powerful wands ready to rewire your neural pathways. Some focus on clitoral stimulation alone, while others target the G-spot or multiple erogenous zones at once.
Since their rise as a consumer good starting in the 1960s, they've revolutionized how women experience pleasure—and played a key role in bridging the orgasm gap for those who have sex with men. Today's variations in shape, size, material, and smart features mean that finding the right one requires knowing yourself and what's available.
That's where this guide comes in. Our Sexperts have tested dozens of vibrators, from the best G-spot vibrators to bullet vibrators we don't want to live without. We've distilled those tested findings to highlight the best options across multiple categories so you can find a perfect match at a glance. Whether you're buying your first vibrator or your latest, we've got you covered.
Our standout winner? The Magic Wand Rechargeable (available at Amazon) . This updated version of the 1968 classic delivers deep, rumbly vibrations—and when the battery dies, you can plug it into the wall and keep going. Or coming.
Credit: Reviewed / Tim Renzi
It's durable and easy to clean.
Best Vibrator Overall
Magic Wand Rechargeable (HV-270) Vibration patterns: 4
4 Material: Silicone
Silicone Waterproof: No
No Rechargeable: Yes
Hitachi's Magic Wand has been an iconic vibrator and bedside table standby for over 50 years, with several variations now on the market. During testing, our Sexperts attribute the Magic Wand Rechargeable's staying power to its 2.25-inch surface area and its four intensity levels. Don't let its soft, silicone head and semi-flexible neck fool you into thinking it'll be gentle. The Magic Wand packs a powerful orgasm, or four, one after another. The big vibrating head and relentless motor can zap your whole clitoral region, offering a result that translates to big, rolling orgasms instead of quick, jerking ones.
Hitachi does make a smaller version, the Magic Wand MINI, which it advertises as having the "same legendary power" as the Original version in a more compact, 9.6-inch size. Pros Great orgasms
Good massager
Easy to clean Cons Loud
Heavy Buy now at Amazon
$131.95 from eBay
$125.95 from Walmart
Credit: Reviewed / Timothy Renzi
The Dame Arc has the perfect shape for solo and couple play.
Best G-Spot Vibrator
Dame Arc Vibration patterns: 5
5 Material: Medical-grade silicone
Medical-grade silicone Waterproof: Water-resistant
Water-resistant Rechargeable: Yes
Out of the box, the Dame Arc looks like a classic G-spot vibrator, although it's quite pretty, which many wand vibrators are not. Behind its design is the best G-spot vibrator on the market right now.
The Dame Arc has a lot going for it. It's lightweight and relatively long, making it easy to grasp and integrate into partnered sex. It's also quiet.
While most of the other G-spot vibrators we tried featured blunt, rounded ends, the Dame Arc tapers into an angular ridge. You can press this ridge against your G-spot—or use it externally on your clit. This shape, combined with the toy's rumbly vibrations, offers a more powerful sensation than more rounded or buzzy vibrators. The experience can be intense. Even without being a particularly girthy or heavy toy, this is the G-spot vibrator we'd recommend to anyone who wants that 'aches so good' sensation.
The Dame Arc's battery can last 81 minutes on the highest setting in our experience—not bad for a rechargeable toy (although the brand says 90 minutes). Although the packaging claims it is waterproof, our tests found that it's probably better described as splash-proof, as full submersion can damage the motor. For a quick shower, though, the Dame Arc works great.
She's good alone, good with partners, good when you turn it down, and good when you crank it up. The angular design is simple but effective, letting the user quickly increase the intensity by adding more pressure. Pros Wide range of vibrations
Easy to use alone or with partner
Comfortable to hold Cons
Took on an annoying rattling sound after we submerged it in water $98.99 from Amazon
$99.00 from Dermstore
$49.99 from Walmart
Credit: Reviewed / Womanizer
Best Suction Vibrator
Womanizer Premium 2 Vibration patterns: 14
14 Material: Body-safe silicone
Body-safe silicone Waterproof: Yes
Yes Rechargeable: Yes
If you're up for it, the Womanizer Premium 2 Clitoral Stimulator can keep you engaged for a whopping four hours before its batteries need to be recharged. Vah-voom! It also operates as softly as a whisper and stays in standby mode unless it's touching skin, making it a great investment for your pleasure sesh if you have thin walls.
This high-end sex toy comes with small and medium-sized nozzle heads for personal suitability and an autopilot mode that randomly changes up the play between intensity levels, so you never know what's coming.
If you like practicality with your pleasure, the Womanizer boasts an impressive five-year warranty. Pros 14 intensity levels
Sucking function
Waterproof Cons
Learning curve to using it Buy now at Amazon
Credit: Reviewed / Timothy Renzi
This perfectly palm-sized bullet vibrator has a pleasantly tactile feel, equipped with a variety of settings to please you.
Best Bullet Vibrator
Maude Vibe Personal Massager Vibration patterns: 3
3 Material: Platinum-grade silicone
Platinum-grade silicone Waterproof: Water-resistant
Water-resistant Rechargeable: Yes
At just under 5 inches long, shaped like a pear, and designed to fit right in the palm of your hand, the Maude Vibe proves you don't have to be fancy to be effective.
Unlike many of the other bullet vibrators we tested, this minimalist toy doesn't have countless vibration speeds or patterns. Instead, it has three speed settings, meaning there's virtually no learning curve for beginners.
We found the Maude Vibe delivers rumbly-style vibrations up to around 182 hertz (Hz), meaning it offers deeper, more intense stimulation compared to buzzy alternatives.
Its conical shape makes it easy to grip and maneuver around the labia, especially compared to some lipstick-shaped bullet vibrators we tried. It was one of the quietest toys overall, too.
Its matte, water-resistant silicone makes cleaning it a breeze.
Our only gripe is its battery life. Although it is rechargeable, it took up to two hours to fully charge and could only run for about 49 minutes at a time. It won't go the distance if you want to use it with a partner. Some user reviews have claimed the battery tends to brick within about a year or so, and considering the Maude Vibe is only covered by a one-year warranty, this could be a sticking point. Pros Quiet
Easy to use
Beginner-friendly
Powerful, rumbly-style vibrations
Comes with a travel pouch Cons
Limited battery life Buy now at Amazon
Credit: Reviewed
Internal and external stimulation from the popular brand.
Best Rabbit Vibrator
Lelo Soraya Wave Vibration patterns: 8
8 Material: Body-safe silicone, ABS plastic
Body-safe silicone, ABS plastic Waterproof: Yes
Yes Rechargeable: Yes
Our favorite rabbit vibrator comes from the Swedish sex toy brand Lelo. In case you're not in the know, this popular style of women's vibrator delivers dual, internal, and external stimulation at the same time, and the Wave takes it to another level by introducing a 'finger-like' motion to the mix. In addition to vibrating, the shaft of the toy curls up and down a la 'come hither' to maximize G-spot stimulation.
She is pretty and easy to clean, with her dulcet silicone exterior that comes in three colors. The Soraya Wave also features a loop in the base that makes her easy to hold. Spend some time with her—she's not meant for a quickie and goes far beyond clitoral stimulation, according to our Soraya Wave reviewer.
Our favorite feature: It delivers fast, powerful orgasms inside and out.
If you're trying to indulge in some discrete self-pleasure, the Soraya Wave probably isn't the best tool for the job. We were surprised at how loud it is. This toy is best suited for solo use—it's simply too big and bulky to use during intercourse. Pros Unique finger-like motion
Maximum G-spot stimulation
Easy to clean
Easy to hold Cons Loud
Too big for use during intercourse Buy now at Amazon
$214
$238 at eBay
$109.00 from Walmart
Credit: Reviewed / We-Vibe
Ready to add vibration? The We-Vibe Ditto is ideal for beginners and experienced players, and can be controlled from an app or with a hand-held remote.
Best Anal Vibrator
We-Vibe DItto+ Vibration patterns: 10
10 Material: Body-safe silicone
Body-safe silicone Waterproof: Yes
Yes Rechargeable: Yes
A small yet satisfying vibrating butt plug, the We-Vibe Ditto+ provides a titillating experience for beginners and still feels like a delight to anyone more experienced. A rounded tip widens into a curve that tapers to a narrow neck, so it's easy to insert and you don't have to stress about it moving around once it's in place.
The base is off-center, which makes for comfortable wear during solo or partnered sex and gives people with vaginas the possibility of receiving vaginal penetration. The vibrations are rumbly and powerful, and the toy lets you know when its battery is low—a feature that will have you wondering why every other sex toy doesn't do the same.
Control the Ditto with a hand-held remote, buttons on the base of the toy, or the We-Vibe app. The app allows you to switch between up to four We-Vibe toys, and—best of all—to sync with a partner who can then control the vibration patterns and intensity from anywhere with an internet connection. Pros Easy to insert
Comfortable
Alerts you to low battery
Pairs to phone Cons
None that we could find Buy now at Amazon
Credit: Rewviewed / We-Vibe
Best Hands-Free Vibrator
We-Vibe Sync O Vibration patterns: 10
10 Material: Body-safe silicone
Body-safe silicone Waterproof: Yes
Yes Rechargeable: Yes
The O in this vibrator's name doesn't just stand for orgasms. It also literally refers to the innovative shape of the insertable arm, which features a little loop. You squeeze it on both sides to insert it, not unlike you would with a period disc or diaphragm. The O-shape ensures that it stays in place for genuine hands-free stimulation.
A frequent problem with C-shape vibrators is that they shift around during use, which kills the "put your hands somewhere else" vibe. However, the Sync-O doesn't budge, making it an excellent option for use during partner sex. Vibration patterns go from soft and steady to rumbly and intense, and it operates quietly no matter the intensity.
You can control the device using the We-Connect app or the included remote, so you don't have to reach down and seek out a button to cycle through the different modes. Pros Good for couples
App enabled
Stays in place Cons
None we could find Buy now at Amazon
What to Consider When Buying Vibrators
Who would use a vibrator?
If you're wondering, 'Who would use a vibrator?,' the answer is: anyone. All that using a vibrator says about you is that you like using a vibrator. But how do you find a vibrator you like using?
Like with many other types of products, the cheapest sex toys are probably not worth your time, and the most expensive aren't necessarily the best. Between those two extremes, however, the selection can be overwhelming.
Especially if you're new to vibrators, you will probably have to explore different options to find out what works best for you. Since sex toys are not returnable, trusted sources for reviews can help you make an informed decision. If you already have one or two you know you love, think about what you love about them—the specific vibrations, the size, the shape—and use that as a starting point to find others. If you've never used a vibrator before, head to your local feminist sex shop and try out the floor models (in your hands) to get an IRL feel for the following features.
Key features
Noise levels and types of vibration: When you're thinking about vibrators, a good place to start is the motor. Vibrators generally fall into two categories—rumbly and buzzy—based on the frequency of their vibrations. Rumbly vibrations are lower frequency, deeper vibrations that penetrate more deeply into the body. They tend to feel bigger and more intense without leading to numbness. Rumbly motors typically vibrate at between 40 to 180 Hz, and because of their lower frequency, they also sound quieter. Buzzy vibrations are high frequency, surface-level, and create a sharp, tingling sensation. While they can feel interesting at first, they can lead to temporary desensitization with prolonged use. Buzzy motors can vibrate at 10,000+ Hz, making them louder and more intense, but not necessarily more enjoyable.
While individual taste varies, the clit is made up of receptors that respond best to frequencies between 5 and 15 Hz—far lower than most vibrators on the market. This means that no matter which vibrator you choose, your clit will notice it, but buzzy isn't better.
If you visit a sex shop and test a vibrator on your hand, keep in mind that it will feel different during actual use. Ultimately, the best choice depends on what feels good to you. If you prefer deep, penetrating vibrations, a rumbly motor might be ideal. If you like a sharp, intense buzz, a higher-frequency option might be more your speed.
Materials: It's important to know that sex toys are not regulated, so the only way to tell whether one is made of safe materials for vibrators is to do your research. Most body-safe vibrators are made of medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, or a combination of the two (think the Magic Wand Rechargeable, which has an ABS body and silicone head). Since unsafe materials appear similar to safe ones to the naked eye, look for the words 'body-safe,' 'medical-grade,' or 'platinum' silicone. The key factor with your sex toy material is two-fold: making sure the toy isn't porous, and therefore won't trap and fester bacteria, and making sure the toy is phthalate-free, because phthalates are endocrine disruptors. This makes stainless steel and certain types of glass fantastic sex toy materials as well.
Material What to expect Silicone Body-safe, hypoallergenic, and comes in a range of textures from soft to hard and shiny to matte. Just make sure to stick to water-based lube, since silicone lube will degrade silicone toys over time ABS plastic Inexpensive, common, hard, and safe to use with any type of lube. Stainless steel Weighty, hard to damage, and easy to clean. Stainless steel sex toys often feel luxurious for the same reason they can be challenging choices for extended sessions: they're heavy. Glass Glass sex toys have the advantage of being non-porous, and the disadvantage of being, you know, glass. If you want to try a glass vibrator (likely a glass dildo with a hole in the bottom for a bullet vibrator), look for borosilicate glass, which is what Pyrex used to be made of, or tempered soda-lime glass. Stay away from 'tempered borosilicate,' since borosilicate can't be tempered so that term can indicate the manufacturer isn't being transparent about something. And vibrating or not, stay away from glass butt toys—a shard of glass in the vagina requires medical attention, but a shard of glass in the rectum is a medical emergency.
Design: After materials, evaluate the toy's other design elements by how you want to use it. For the bath, a waterproof vibrator is mandatory—while for the shower, splash-proof should be sufficient. If you're planning to use it alone, cleaning it with soap and water is enough, but if you're planning to use or share it with partners, then look for one that is dishwasher safe so you can disinfect it. Finally, some vibrators are more travel-friendly than others, with travel locks or even carrying cases.
Stimulation and smart technology: Vibrators often have several intensity settings, as well as one to several patterns. On some toys, like the Magic Wand Rechargeable, these are separate buttons. On others with only one control button, like the We-Vibe Ditto+, you cycle up through the intensities and then through the patterns. If you're enjoying a setting and accidentally press the button, you'll often have to cycle through all the intensities and patterns until you reach the one you liked again.
However, some vibrators—again like the Ditto+—are controllable via apps, which can give you or a long-distance partner more specific control over the vibration patterns or intensities. For example, the We-Connect app allows you to choose more easily between patterns or even create and save your own. It also has a chat and video function—and a robust privacy policy, following concerns that led to a settlement in 2017.
Care, maintenance, and warranty
There are two types of vibrator users: those who already clean their vibrators after every time they use them, and those who should start. You can clean any waterproof vibrator with anti-microbial soap and warm water. For splash-proof and unspecified vibrators, consult the manual for what's safe to get wet. Make sure to dry it thoroughly afterward with a clean towel. If the idea of getting out of bed and cleaning something right after an orgasm is a huge buzzkill, bedside sex toy wipes are better than nothing. Even if you use your vibrator alone and don't share sex toys, it can still harbor bacteria and fungi that can lead to bacterial vaginosis or urinary tract infections.
After it's clean and dry, store your vibrator in a dust bag somewhere cool and dry. Think more along the lines of a nightstand drawer out of the sun, rather than a bathroom cupboard or windowsill display (save that choice placement for your solid stainless-steel butt plug collection). Keep your vibrator battery in good shape by using it until it dies, charging it fully, and removing it from the charger once it's done. If you have a vibrator with removable batteries, remove them when you aren't using it.
FAQ: What to Know about Vibrators
How many different types of vibrators are there?
There are lots of types of vibrators. Here are a few of the most common:
Bullet, egg, and lipstick vibrators: Compact, portable, and often discreet, these small vibrators are perfect for targeted clitoral stimulation. While typically less powerful than larger models, their precision and convenience make them ideal for beginners or for taking on the go. Many bullet vibrators feature multiple intensity settings despite their small size, and some are surprisingly rumbly.
Compact, portable, and often discreet, these small vibrators are perfect for targeted clitoral stimulation. While typically less powerful than larger models, their precision and convenience make them ideal for beginners or for taking on the go. Many bullet vibrators feature multiple intensity settings despite their small size, and some are surprisingly rumbly. Rabbit vibrators: Rabbit vibrators are internal/external vibrators that hit your G-spot and clit at the same time. They're called 'rabbit vibrators' because in 1984 the clitoral stimulator of the very first one looked like tiny fluttering bunny ears. Today, the clitoral stimulator is often a nonrepresentational appendage with a firmness that varies by toy.
Rabbit vibrators are internal/external vibrators that hit your G-spot and clit at the same time. They're called 'rabbit vibrators' because in 1984 the clitoral stimulator of the very first one looked like tiny fluttering bunny ears. Today, the clitoral stimulator is often a nonrepresentational appendage with a firmness that varies by toy. Wand vibrators: Known for their deep, rumbly vibrations, wand vibrators are some of the most powerful, still-portable vibrators on the market. They feature a proportionately long handle, which may or may not vibrate, and a larger head, which does. Like their back massager predecessors, many wand vibrators are now rechargeable and cordless—but also like their back massager predecessors, the most powerful and longest-lasting models plug into the wall.
Known for their deep, rumbly vibrations, wand vibrators are some of the most powerful, still-portable vibrators on the market. They feature a proportionately long handle, which may or may not vibrate, and a larger head, which does. Like their back massager predecessors, many wand vibrators are now rechargeable and cordless—but also like their back massager predecessors, the most powerful and longest-lasting models plug into the wall. G-spot vibrators: These internal vibrators have a curve towards the anterior wall of the vagina to stimulate the G-spot. They often have a somewhat-to-very pronounced head for the same reason, and the best ones are also easy to grip for added thrusting.
These internal vibrators have a curve towards the anterior wall of the vagina to stimulate the G-spot. They often have a somewhat-to-very pronounced head for the same reason, and the best ones are also easy to grip for added thrusting. Remote-controlled vibrators: Perfect for partner play or anyone who hates fumbling around for out-of-sight buttons with lube-covered fingers, remote-controlled vibrators can be controlled wirelessly, either by a physical remote in the same room or by smartphone app from anywhere with an internet connection.
Do vibrators have options for couples' play?
With the right attitude, any vibrator is a couple's vibrator—but some are easier to use with a partner than others. Think about your favorite sex positions, and use that as a starting point to determine which vibrators might work best. For instance, if you prefer a T-position and there's a lot of space between your bodies, the Magic Wand is a powerful addition, and your pelvis or torso can support some of its weight. But if you love back shots and have the wrists of someone reading this on their phone right now, the Maude is smaller and lighter.
You can also take a wearable approach. C-shaped vibrators are worn internally by someone with a vagina and can stimulate the clitoris, G-spot, or both. You can wear them while receiving penetration, under a strap-on harness, or even under your clothes, and the best ones will hit the spot and stay out of the way. And vibrating butt plugs are also a versatile hands-free option.
And don't forget: If you or your partner's favorite toy on this earth is a rabbit vibrator and you don't feel like anal this evening, there's no phrase hotter than 'I want you to watch/I want to watch.'
Are there any health and safety concerns I should know about?
When you're vibrator shopping, safety is as important as stimulation. Here are a few things to look for:
Body-safe materials: Stick to non-porous, hypoallergenic materials like medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, or stainless steel. Avoid anything made of jelly polymers, rubber, or an unknown material, since it could contain phthalates or other harmful chemicals. If you don't know what a sex toy is made of, and want to use it anyway, you can also protect yourself by covering it with a condom.
Stick to non-porous, hypoallergenic materials like medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, or stainless steel. Avoid anything made of jelly polymers, rubber, or an unknown material, since it could contain phthalates or other harmful chemicals. If you don't know what a sex toy is made of, and want to use it anyway, you can also protect yourself by covering it with a condom. Reputable brands: Sex toys are largely unregulated, which means you have to find manufacturers you can trust. Personally, I have purchased and used a vintage vibrator from Etsy, just to see how it would be. (Answer: loud.) But professionally, I recommend sticking to reputable brands that clearly disclose their materials. A cheat code for finding reputable brands is to look at those carried by sex-positive sex shops like SheVibe, the Pleasure Chest, or Smitten Kitten—these companies have been curating sex toys for years, and are knowledgeable about materials and safety.
Sex toys are largely unregulated, which means you have to find manufacturers you can trust. Personally, I have purchased and used a vintage vibrator from Etsy, just to see how it would be. (Answer: loud.) But professionally, I recommend sticking to reputable brands that clearly disclose their materials. A cheat code for finding reputable brands is to look at those carried by sex-positive sex shops like SheVibe, the Pleasure Chest, or Smitten Kitten—these companies have been curating sex toys for years, and are knowledgeable about materials and safety. Certifications: Check for material certifications like 'phthalate-free,' 'body-safe,' or 'medical-grade silicone.' You can also research whether the manufacturer has won any relevant industry or product awards.
Check for material certifications like 'phthalate-free,' 'body-safe,' or 'medical-grade silicone.' You can also research whether the manufacturer has won any relevant industry or product awards. Red flags: A strong chemical smell, sticky or tacky texture, and unclear or contradictory material labeling are red flags. Avoid vibrators with visible seams in the material—even if it's silicone—or gaps where bacteria could collect. If for some reason you want to use one of these anyway, again, cover it with a condom.
Can I trust retailers to be discreet with their packing when mailing a vibrator?
Sex toy manufacturers and feminist sex shops know their audience. In most cases, your sex toy will arrive in plain, opaque packaging and with a label with a shipping name that ranges from discreet to unrecognizable. For instance, SheVibe ships toys from the shipping manager's name, 'SV,' or 'SV Inc.,' and We-Vibe ships toys from 'WOW Tech USA Ltd.'
Many other sex toy companies and shops also have shipping pages on their websites that specify the packaging and labeling—a top reason to buy directly from the manufacturer or sex shop instead of from Amazon.
Why You Should Trust Our Expertise
Ryan Yates shared their deep expertise in sex toys in this guide by addressing the questions about vibrators how to care for them, and key features you should look for. They have been reviewing sex toys and sexual health products since 2011, including for publications like The Daily Beast, Autostraddle, Nylon, and, of course, Reviewed. They were Autostraddle's NSFW Editor from 2013 to 2018, and wrote the weekly NSFW Sunday sex column from 2011 to 2021.
Reviewed's various Sexperts tested all the vibrators included in this guide, and you can read more in-depth reviews across the site.
What Other Reviewers Are Saying about the Best Vibrators
The experts seem fairly united on what the best vibrator is—which is a surprise, since the actual best vibrator is the best vibrator for you. But to save you some time and trouble, we've collected the top picks from other Sexperts. Spoiler alert: the Magic Wand Rechargeable is a crowdpleaser.
Wirecutter: Wirecutter's top pick is the Magic Wand Rechargeable, noting that the cordless version is well worth the investment over the corded original. We completely agree.
The Strategist: The Strategist's top pick is also the Magic Wand Rechargeable, highlighting its reputation as strong and consistent and noting that while its appearance is no-frills, it gets the job done time and again.
Good Housekeeping: GH's best overall vibrator is—surprise—also the Magic Wand Rechargeable, highlighting that it's great for beginners and noting that you, unlike its battery, might need a moment to recharge after use.
What Owners Are Saying about Our Best Vibrators
While the best vibrator is always at least a little bit personal, user comments about vibrators also love the Magic Wand Rechargeable and our other top picks. We're pulling these user reviews from sources other than Amazon because Amazon isn't the best place to buy sex toys.
Reddit/BuyItForLife: Over at Reddit's BIFL, one user posted that an earlier version of our Womanizer Premium 2 pick, still looks and runs like new after seven years of use. Some users affirmed that they can orgasm with it in minutes or seconds. Other users shouted out the Magic Wand.
Reddit/SexToys: Over at Reddit's Sex Toys, one user who tested 32 wand vibrators over 7 months determined that the over best was the Magic Wand Rechargeable, noting as well that because it's been around for so long it's compatible with lots of attachments. However, they also note that the BMS Palmpower Extreme was their personal favorite, because of an angled head that makes it easy to hold and easy to position between bodies during sex.
Dame.com: On the Dame website, users of the Dame Arc internal G-spot wand give it 4.8 stars and highlight the good design, Dame customer service, and in one case the fact that it survived an accidental trip through the washing machine. And one user notes it's great in combination with—you guessed it—the Magic Wand.
Beyond small differences in taste and sensation, the most common complaints about the Magic Wand Rechargeable are that it doesn't look like anything special—including from users noting that it is.
Read More About Vibrators and Other Sex Toys on Reviewed

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Here's How AirTags Compare To Other Trackers
Here's How AirTags Compare To Other Trackers

Buzz Feed

time2 hours ago

  • Buzz Feed

Here's How AirTags Compare To Other Trackers

If you haven't purchased a Bluetooth tracker yet, there are plenty of reasons to do so. With the help of one of these gadgets, you can easily find your phone, keys or wallet and save yourself a headache if you're prone to losing them. You can keep track of your luggage while you're traveling. You can attach a tracker to your pet's collar to make sure you always know where they are. Simply put, Bluetooth trackers can be one of those inventions you didn't know you needed until you bought it. But which one is best? You've probably heard the most about Apple's AirTags, which are reader-beloved. But they're not the only ones on the market, and they aren't compatible with non-Apple devices. Below, we broke down some of the best Bluetooth trackers and what makes each of them stand out, so you can choose the best option for your needs. To create our list, we only considered options with a minimum 4-star rating on Amazon, which eliminated products like the Chipolo Pop and Pebblebee Clip. The undefeated Apple AirTag for Apple users Highlights: Works with Apple's Find My network, ultra-slim and small design, most precise location tracking, water- and dust-resistant with IP67 ratingDrawbacks: Doesn't work with Android devicesThe AirTag was crowned one of the best Bluetooth trackers by Wirecutter, and for good reason. The AirTag's ultra-wideband technology is extremely accurate for helping you find lost items. (Note that it won't work on iPhone 6s or earlier models, but devices of this age are also no longer supported by Apple.) The AirTag setup is also ridiculously easy, as it uses the Find My network — so if you have an Apple device, you don't even need to download a separate app. You can put the AirTag into Lost Mode so that you get a notification when it's detected in Find My, and the AirTag also has a built-in speaker so it can play sounds when you're looking for it.(Yes, AirTag batteries can be replaced, but there are reports that certain bitterant coatings can cause incompatibility. While Apple specifically suggests using a Duracell 2032 lithium battery with bitterant coating, anecdotal online evidence suggests that even this Apple-recommended battery doesn't work. The brand also advises looking for batteries that clearly advertise compatibility with AirTags.)Bottom line: If you're already an Apple user, this is a no-brainer choice for convenience of setup. The ultra-precise location tracking is also a great reason to choose this it from Amazon for $24.95. The Tile by Life360 Pro for unbeatable battery life Highlights: works with both iOS and Android, can send an SOS alert or make a silenced phone ring, 500-foot range, has a replaceable battery, water- and dust-resistant with IP68 ratingDrawbacks: The most expensive tracker, bigger than some alternativesThe Tile Pro is bigger and more expensive than the AirTag and some of Tile's other offerings (more on those later), but it works with more devices (iOS and Android) and uses the Life360 app, which you may already have downloaded. It boasts a 500-foot Bluetooth range and a few features the AirTag lacks, like the ability to send loved ones an SOS alert if you're ever in an unsafe situation. The Tile Pro's battery, which lasts a year, can also be replaced with affordable batteries to help the device last even line: The Tile Pro is a great choice for Android users, and the extra few dollars over other models may very well be worth it thanks to the replaceable it from Amazon for $34.99 (also available in 2- and 4-packs). The Tile by Life360 Mate, for a cheaper and smaller option Highlights: Smaller and more affordable than the Pro, has many of the Pro's same features, comes in multiple colors, water- and dust-resistant with IP68 ratingDrawbacks: Has a shorter Bluetooth range, battery is not replaceableThe Tile Mate can add some fun to Bluetooth tracking with more color options, as pictured here. It's cheaper, shorter and narrower than the Tile Pro, so if you're hoping for a less clunky design that still has the SOS alert capability and the convenience of using Life360, the Tile Mate is for you. Just note that the Mate has a range of 350 feet compared to the Pro's 500, and that you can't replace the line: This may be a good starter tracker if you're not sure about committing to the Pro yet, and stands out from the pack with its fun it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in six colors). The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 for Samsung users Highlights: One of the more affordable trackers, uses ultra-wideband technology like the AirTag, water- and dust-resistant with IP67 ratingDrawbacks: Only compatible with Samsung Galaxy devicesThe Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 uses Samsung's SmartThings Find app to help you keep track of your things with ultra-wideband technology (this is similar to the AirTag using the Find My network). The SmartTag 2 can send out audible signals to help you find your lost items. Lost Mode also displays your contact information and a message on the smartphone of whoever found line: If you have Samsung Galaxy devices, this could be a good way to keep track of them, but it probably won't be relevant for most it from Amazon for $19.05. The Tile by Life360 Slim, designed specifically for wallets Highlights: Great for wallets, notebooks and other flat items, three-year battery life, works with Life360, water- and dust-resistant with IP68 ratingDrawbacks: May not fit all wallets, is not bendable, some reviewers say it's a little quietWhile many things you want to track may have clips to attach trackers, that can be trickier with something like a wallet. Enter the Tile Slim, which is designed to be as thick as two credit cards and slide right in a wallet, passport holder, notebook or tablet case. You can use the Life360 app to ring the Slim when it's within 200 feet to make it easier to find. Just make sure you check the dimensions of your wallet before you buy so you're certain the Slim can line: This is a great idea for keeping track of wallets and similar items, but it'll only make sense for you if it actually fits the places you want to store it from Target for $29.99. The lesser-known Chipolo ONE Spot, which is basically a cheaper AirTag Highlights: The most affordable option, works with the Find My appDrawbacks: Has mixed reviews for battery life and durability, less water-resistant and not dust-resistant with IPX5 ratingIf you want the ability to use the Find My network without paying so much for an individual AirTag, the Chipolo ONE Spot can provide an alternative. (Right now, it's only avaiable in a four-pack on Amazon, but each tracker comes out to less than half the price of an AirTag.) Unlike the AirTag, this has a keyring hole so you can directly attach it to your items. Based on the reviews summary at Amazon, it seems like the quality overall for this one may not be as great long-term as the other options on this list, and the price reflects that. (It does still have a 4-star rating, indicating reviewers find it to be a good value.)Bottom line: We don't recommend this one over the more popular options above, though if you're looking for a cheap option, this could it from Amazon for $17.

I thought $149 was too cheap for a good espresso machine, but De'Longhi proved me wrong
I thought $149 was too cheap for a good espresso machine, but De'Longhi proved me wrong

Tom's Guide

time3 hours ago

  • Tom's Guide

I thought $149 was too cheap for a good espresso machine, but De'Longhi proved me wrong

Getting into coffee feels like learning a new language — and that's coming from someone who literally has a professional background in it. Don't even get me started on the specialist equipment that looks like medieval torture devices. While it's definitely worth getting one of the best coffee grinders and best coffee scales, all this equipment can be really daunting at the start. So I'll help you out by recommending the De'Longhi Stilosa. The best espresso machines are often around the $1,000 mark, especially big names like Breville. The De'Longhi Stilosa is one of the best beginner-friendly budget-friendly espresso machines. Although it needs some practice and finesse to get café-quality shots, I'll teach you exactly how to achieve that right now. I discuss everything in 2,000-word detail in my 4-star De'Longhi Stilosa review, but here's the TLDR: the Stilosa is a remarkable machine considering its price. It makes technically wonderful espresso, heats up quickly, and has a very powerful steam wand capable of aerating velvety milk. More often than not, when you try and snag a cheap espresso machine, you're left with watery, weak espresso that takes nothing like the cafe down the road, or even the Starbucks across town. Not the De'Longhi Stilosa, though. As promised, I'll teach you exactly how to turn this $149 gadget into an almost-Breville coffeemaking machine. Don't get me wrong, right out of the box, the Stilosa is great. It's capable of reaching 15-bar pressure and comes with single-walled portafilter baskets for 'proper' espresso. But for just $149, some sacrifices will have been made, and that comes in the form of accessories. First, I'd recommend repurposing the tamper that comes with the Stilosa and getting a cheap metal tamper. As the Stilosa has a 51mm portafilter basket (where the coffee goes, as you can see in the picture below), you'll need one of the same size. You can get a budget one for $6-9 on Amazon or a spring-loaded one for $42 on Amazon. Next, you'll need either an accurate kitchen scale, or one of the best coffee scales. This is to ensure you've got your ratios right. You should be aiming for around a 1:2 coffee to espresso ratio. For a double shot, I always dose 18g of finely-ground coffee for 36g of espresso. With my Wacaco Exagram Pro scale, this is very easy to achieve. Last, but very much not least, you'll need to check out the best coffee grinders. For my testing, I used the Eureka Mignon Specialita and the Comandante C40 MK4, but the Baratza Encore ESP is much more affordable and will be more than enough. With just the $199 Baratza grinder and the $49 Wacaco scale, you're well on your way to cafe-quality coffee with this $149 De'Longhi machine. You should also know that if you don't have a proper grinder, you will never achieve perfect espresso. Even if you have a $2,000 Breville Dual Boiler machine, your espresso will not be right. A good grinder is more important than the espresso machine itself — and the De'Longhi Stilosa is case in point. With a good grinder and professional technique, you can achieve technically perfect espresso with just a $149 machine. For more thorough info, I've already written about tips for making perfect coffee at home. Although I have a background in professional coffeemaking (barista-ing doesn't really have the same ring to it), it's very possible to get these results without fancy, professional equipment. The Baratza grinder and Wacaco scale I recommended above are both very reasonably priced for what they are, and can help you achieve results like this. The steam wand on the De'Longhi Stilosa is very powerful — at first, I thought perhaps even too powerful. However, with a little practice, I was able to get deliciously velvety microfoam. To do this, I just had to control my steaming angle. I held the milk jug at about a 45° angle and put the tip of the steam wand halfway in the milk. After tweaking a little to create a vortex, I aerated the milk and was able to pour the gorgeous latte art you can see above. The Stilosa's steam wand performs like a $500 espresso machine's, and I was incredibly impressed by it. This is truly a latte-art lover's dream. Don't get me wrong — I know the Stilosa doesn't look great. With a plasticky finish and an almost flimsy weight of just 2 pounds, it looks like it costs $149. Even so, I didn't find that this design impacted performance. Actually, the compact size of just 8 x 11 x 12 inches could actually be a plus for people with small kitchens. Although the Stilosa is very plasticky, you can't really ask for everything for something so affordable. It's just $149 (the U.K. version is £104), and some sacrifices will have been made to get achieve this super-low price. Function is, of course, more important than appearance, so I think it's reasonable to look past this plasticky aesthetic. However, it could raise some questions about longevity. As I'm often reviewing espresso machines simultaneously and in quick succession, I haven't had a chance to put the Stilosa to the long-term test yet. Sometimes plastic drip trays can erode and get a little flaky after long-term use, and sometimes plastic attachments can break off. However, De'Longhi offers a minimum warranty of one year, and my parents' De'Longhi Icona Vintage (£126, not available in the U.S. anymore) is still clinging onto life at nine years old. So, I'd have some faith in the cheap and cheerful Stilosa. In terms of cheap espresso machines, there's really no competition. No other budget machines I've used can rival the Stilosa. Let me know what you think in the comments. Do you think that the Stilosa worth $149/£104? Do you think it could go head-to-head with a pricier espresso machine?

Amazon.com (NasdaqGS:AMZN) Announces US$5 Billion AWS Expansion in Taiwan
Amazon.com (NasdaqGS:AMZN) Announces US$5 Billion AWS Expansion in Taiwan

Yahoo

time6 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Amazon.com (NasdaqGS:AMZN) Announces US$5 Billion AWS Expansion in Taiwan

recently announced the launch of its AWS Asia Pacific Region in Taipei, marking a significant $5 billion investment targeting technological expansion. This, along with ongoing investments in data centers in North Carolina and Chile, highlights Amazon's commitment to enhancing its cloud service capabilities. The stock's 12% rise over the past month aligns closely with the broader tech market's positive sentiments, reinforced by the general economic confidence shown by a strong May jobs report. The company's expansion efforts in AI and cloud infrastructure undoubtedly contributed positively to market performance, mirroring broader sector gains. Buy, Hold or Sell View our complete analysis and fair value estimate and you decide. Uncover the next big thing with financially sound penny stocks that balance risk and reward. The recent announcement of Amazon's AWS expansion in Taipei, alongside its significant investments in North Carolina and Chile, enhances the company's cloud infrastructure. Over the past three years, (NasdaqGS:AMZN) has achieved a robust total return of 79.00%, reflecting strong investor confidence. This is in contrast to the tech industry, where Amazon's one-year performance matched the broader US Multiline Retail industry at a 13.3% return, showcasing its resilience in a competitive market. The AWS and AI expansion initiatives are likely to fuel future revenue and earnings growth, with analysts projecting revenue growth at 8.9% per year. The focus on operational efficiency in fulfillment services is expected to bolster margins, positively impacting profitability. However, significant investments may present cost challenges, affecting earnings forecasts if these ventures do not yield projected outcomes. Amazon's current share price of US$185.01, compared to the analyst price target of US$239.33, indicates potential upside, with a 22.7% gap to the target. Analysts voice varied expectations, highlighting the necessity for investors to align these insights with their own assumptions. Maintaining confidence in Amazon's capacity to innovate and expand effectively will be crucial in realizing projected financial outcomes. Gain insights into historical outcomes by reviewing our past performance report. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include NasdaqGS:AMZN. This article was originally published by Simply Wall St. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store