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Essential · $100GoodNo Upgrade pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · $130BestEssentialSmall size and strong clamps
AbsolutePower rated up to 12 liters
Essential · NOCO Boost Plus
Reviewers found it the smallest jump starter they tried, weighing under two pounds, with an IP65 water-resistant case. Its clamps open wide and grip well, and several reviewers called them the best they used. It started a drained 4-liter V6 three times in a row and has a boost mode for dead batteries.
Pro: A compact, rugged jump starter with strong clamps that starts small to midsize vehicles.
Con: Its small battery may manage only one or two jumps per charge; leads are short.
No Upgrade pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · Gooloo 6000-Amp
It is rated for all gas engines and diesels up to 12 liters, and started a test car using boost mode. It doubles as a power bank with many ports, including 100-watt USB-C, and recharges fully in 1.4 hours. Its larger clamps are easy to use with gloves on, and its standby time is up to 24 months.
Pro: Power rated for all gas engines and diesels up to 12 liters, not just 3.
Con: It likely won't fit a glovebox, and its screen can be hard to read.
Essential · $66Good
Upgrade · $139Better
Absolute · $153BestEssentialStops at a set pressure
UpgradeAir mattresses and rafts
AbsoluteFour pressure presets and stored fittings
Essential · Avid Power Cordless
A cordless inflator that runs on its own 20-volt battery or plugs into the car's 12-volt outlet. You set a target pressure on the digital display and it shuts off when reached. It has an LED light, a USB port for charging a phone, and valve adapters. It weighs 2.6 pounds and took 4:14 minutes to reach 30 psi.
Pro: A cordless inflator that stops at a set pressure and runs off the car socket.
Con: Not recommended for larger truck tires, and still a bit loud.
Upgrade · DeWalt 20V
It runs from a 20-volt tool battery, the car's 12-volt socket, or a wall outlet with an added adapter. A dial sets the target pressure, and it stops automatically there. A high-pressure hose handles tires, and a high-volume hose fills and deflates air mattresses and rafts. The gauge reads within 1.5 psi.
Pro: Fills heavy-duty truck tires to 80 psi, which the Essential isn't recommended for.
Con: Battery and charger sold separately, and it is bulkier than most portable inflators.
Absolute · Milwaukee M18
A console-style inflator that runs on an 18-volt tool battery. It holds four pressure presets, stops at the target, rechecks after three seconds and tops up if needed. It has a 36-inch hose, a brass screw-on chuck and stored fittings for bike tires and balls. It weighs 8.7 pounds.
Pro: Fills a tire to 45 psi in 2:47, about three times faster than the Essential.
Con: Needs a tool battery sold separately, has no other power source, and is heavy.
Basement
Kitchen
Essential · $100GoodNo Upgrade pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · $210BestEssentialCrisping raw, frozen and chilled foods
AbsoluteSmall footprint and generous capacity
Essential · Cosori TurboBlaze
It holds 6 quarts, draws 1725 watts and heats from 90°F to 450°F. Its ten presets each set a fan speed shown on the display. It browned frozen foods evenly, kept meats juicy, left vegetables tender-crisp and crisped faster than others tested. Its basket and crisper plate are dishwasher-safe. It ran at 58 decibels at 400°F, quieter than most.
Pro: A six-quart basket that crisps food quickly, with fan speeds set by each cooking mode.
Con: Small pieces of food can fall through the crisper plate and get stuck underneath.
No Upgrade pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · Ninja Double
It stacks two five-quart baskets for 10 quarts in all, in a narrow footprint. Each basket can be programmed on its own, and a sync feature finishes both at the same time. It has six modes and reaches 450°F. Wire racks in each basket let it cook four foods at once.
Pro: Two baskets that cook two foods at different temperatures at the same time.
Con: Results can be uneven, and the interface takes time to learn.
Essential · $48Good
Upgrade · $112Better
Absolute · $160BestEssentialSoft produce, herbs, meat and poultry
UpgradeThinner, cleaner ribbons of delicate herbs
AbsoluteMeat, poultry, dense produce and aromatics
Essential · Victorinox Swiss
It arrives sharp out of the box and cuts most everyday foods cleanly, from soft produce to meat and poultry. Its light weight and rounded spine make it easy to use for long stretches without tiring the wrist. The textured handle grips securely even with wet hands, and the blade sharpens easily.
Pro: A light, sharp everyday knife with a grip that holds even when wet.
Con: The softer edge dulls faster, and dense foods take extra pressure.
Upgrade · Global Classic
A thin, very sharp blade on a light body makes it nimble for fine slicing and delicate mincing. The blade and hollow handle are one piece of steel, weighted with sand for balance, with no seams to trap food. It stays sharp with little upkeep and moves easily through aromatics, poultry and soft produce.
Pro: Cleaner, finer cuts on delicate herbs that the Essential left bruised.
Con: Its all-steel handle can turn slippery when wet, and dense foods take extra force.
Absolute · MAC Professional
A thin, very sharp blade is curved enough for rocking yet straight enough for push-pull chopping. Dimples along the blade help keep sticky foods from clinging, and the light, balanced build is easy on hands and wrists. It holds its edge for a long time, needing a whetstone only about once a year.
Pro: Great results on tough produce where the Essential struggled.
Con: The hard, thin edge can chip on very hard foods and rusts if left wet.
Essential · $35Good
Absolute · $149BestEssentialRemovable silicone handle sleeve
UpgradeBowl-like shape with more space
AbsoluteFive layers aluminum stainless steel
Essential · Tramontina Skillet
This heavy-gauge aluminum pan heats quickly and evenly, and its reinforced coating let eggs, omelettes and pancakes slide out without sticking. It weighs about 2 pounds and has flared edges and a removable silicone handle sleeve for a cool, secure grip. It is oven safe to 400°F with the sleeve on and 500°F without it.
Pro: A light 10-inch aluminum nonstick pan that releases eggs and cooks evenly.
Con: It does not work on induction cooktops.
Upgrade · OXO Ceramic
This 10-inch pan has a hard-anodized aluminum body with a diamond-reinforced ceramic coating that heats evenly and releases food easily. Its bowl-like shape gives up to 35% more cooking space, and the stainless steel handle stays cool and feels balanced. It works on all stovetops, is oven safe to 600°F and can go in the dishwasher.
Pro: A pan that also works on induction cooktops.
Con: Its nonstick was not the slickest, with minor sticking in the first couple of uses.
Absolute · Made In Cookware
It is built from five layers of aluminum and stainless steel and heats quickly, evenly and consistently. Eggs, fish and frittatas slid out without effort, and it cleans easily. It works on all cooktops including induction, is oven safe to 500°F and has a stay-cool handle.
Pro: A slicker surface that lets eggs slide off without oil.
Con: Its steep angled sides make the cooking area small, too small for several pancakes.
Essential · $21Good
Upgrade · $87Better
Absolute · $270BestEssentialMeat juices and produce
UpgradeCut large foods without moving pieces aside
AbsoluteResists deep cuts, heals itself
Essential · OXO Good Grips Utility
A plastic board about 15 by 10 inches, sized for everyday prep. Silicone strips on the short sides help hold it in place on the counter. One side has a groove that catches meat juices, and the other is flat. The nonporous surface keeps odors at bay, and it can go in the dishwasher after every use.
Pro: A nonslip plastic board with a juice groove that goes in the dishwasher.
Con: It wears out within a couple of years, and knives slide on its slick surface.
Upgrade · John Boos Chop-N-Slice
A thick, reversible maple board with a large surface for prepping several ingredients at once. Its weight holds it in place on the counter without nonslip features, and you can flip it between tasks. It takes a beating from knives yet stays soft enough to spare the edge, and it can be sanded if the surface roughens.
Pro: A wood board that lasts decades with oiling, not a couple of years.
Con: It is heavy, must be washed by hand, and has no juice groove.
Absolute · Boardsmith Maple
An end-grain maple board on feet that keep it firmly in place during hard chopping and let it dry underneath. The surface resists deep cuts, heals itself and is soft enough to keep knives sharp. It needs regular oiling, and juice and finger grooves can be added.
Pro: No deep gashes and a still-straight profile after three years of use.
Con: It is big and heavy, which makes it hard to clean.
Essential · $117GoodNo Upgrade pickSome candidates were set aside.
Absolute · $369BestEssentialStrength control and mid-brew pause
AbsolutePrecise temperature control and showerhead
Essential · Cuisinart PerfecTemp
It brews up to 14 cups, or about 70 ounces, which works out to about five to six normal mugs. It has a 24-hour timer, regular or bold strength, a 1-to-4-cup setting and a pause to pour mid-brew. The warming plate held coffee at 176°F after an hour, and the carafe and basket are dishwasher-safe.
Pro: Big pots of hot coffee with strength control and a 24-hour timer.
Con: The carafe lid must come off to pour, and small brews run weaker and cooler.
No Upgrade pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Absolute · Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV
It brews up to 10 cups, about 40 ounces, in roughly 4 to 6 minutes. A copper heating element holds water near 200°F, and a showerhead with multiple outlets wets the grounds evenly. Two switches run it, one for power and one for a half or full pot, and a hot plate keeps the glass carafe warm.
Pro: More flavorful coffee, which a tasting panel rated significantly better than most machines make.
Con: There is no timer or auto-brew, so you flip a switch to start each pot.
Essential · $200GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
EssentialPrecise temperature by the degree
Essential · Fellow Stagg EKG
A dial and an LCD screen let you set the temperature in one-degree steps and read it. It also has a hold setting and a timer. Its ergonomic handle and long, narrow spout make precise pouring easy. It holds 0.9 liters and reached a boil in under four and a half minutes.
Pro: An electric gooseneck kettle that heats water to a temperature you set by the degree.
Con: The slow flow can frustrate tea or French press, and the spout tip is sharp.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
Essential · $100Good
Upgrade · $180Better
Absolute · $440BestEssentialFast crushed ice with no chunks
UpgradeFully liquefied fibrous greens, no sediment
AbsoluteGentle starts for hot liquids
Essential · Ninja Professional
This 1,000-watt blender has a 72-ounce jar, three speeds and a pulse button. Its removable blade spins up the center, so ingredients cannot hide under it. It made dips and nut butter and crushed frozen loads without water, the blade never sticking. Suction cups hold the base steady, and the lid pours through a spout.
Pro: A full-size jar that crushes frozen loads to fine snow in seconds.
Con: It leaves unblended bits in fibrous ingredients, especially in bigger batches.
Upgrade · Cleanblend Commercial
This 1,800-watt blender has a 64-ounce jar, speed dial, pulse switch and tamper. Its smoothies were among the smoothest tested, with hardly any seeds left after straining. It crushed frozen loads for drinks and made an even emulsified dressing in seconds. The jar is hand-wash only. Its motor held up through five years of regular use.
Pro: Fibrous greens fully liquefied with no sediment, where the Essential leaves unblended bits.
Con: Its lowest speed still starts fast, sending hot liquid up to the lid.
Absolute · Vitamix 5200
It has a tall, tapered 64-ounce jar, a 10-speed dial, a high-speed switch and a tamper. Its jar shape and strong motor form a vortex that pulls ingredients down into the blades. It smoothly blended nuts into butter and can heat ingredients through friction alone. Its lowest speed starts slowly, so hot liquid is less likely to shoot up.
Pro: Fibrous ingredients liquefied even in a full jar, where the Essential struggles with big batches.
Con: At over 20 inches tall, it will not fit under many standard cabinets.
Essential · $23Good
Upgrade · $60BetterEssentialSearing meat and browning baked goods
UpgradeLighter and easier to maneuver
AbsoluteCleaner food release and deep crust
Essential · Lodge
It heats evenly and sears meats with beautiful crusts. Baked goods come out evenly golden and release cleanly. It arrives pre-seasoned and grows slicker the more it is used. Cleanup takes little more than warm water and a wipe. A helper handle helps carry its weight with two hands.
Pro: An even-heating skillet that sears meats and releases baked goods cleanly.
Con: Just over 5 pounds at 10.25 inches, it is hard to lift and tilt.
Upgrade · Lodge Blacklock
Slightly thinner walls make it about a pound lighter than the classic version, and it comes triple-seasoned, ready to cook. It is very nonstick, and baked goods release without sticking under a deep golden brown crust. It heats up fast and sears meats well. Cleanup needs only hot water or a wipe.
Pro: About a pound lighter to lift and easier to maneuver than the Essential.
Con: Its curved handle is hard to grip one-handed, especially in an oven mitt.
Absolute · Field Company
Its polished surface releases food neatly and is a little less likely to hold burnt bits. At about 4.5 pounds, it is lighter than most cast iron. A long handle adds leverage when carrying a full pan. It heats evenly and develops a nonstick surface after a few uses. Flared sides make pouring out fats easy without spouts.
Pro: Cleaner food release than the Essential, from seared meats to baked goods.
Con: It has no pour spouts, so liquids are more likely to spill.
Essential · $47GoodNo Upgrade pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · Sold outBestEssentialRead from any angle
AbsoluteReadings in under one second
Essential · ThermoWorks ThermoPop 2
Its large backlit display rotates automatically, so you can read it from any angle, even in the dark. It is accurate to about 1°F and rated IP67, so it survives a quick dunk in water. A sheath protects the rigid probe and clips to a pocket, and the battery is rated for 4,000 hours.
Pro: A pocket-size probe thermometer that reads temperature in two to three seconds.
Con: It does not turn on by itself and is slower than higher-end models.
No Upgrade pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · Typhur InstaProbe
Its OLED display shows white numbers on black that are easy to read in any light. The display rotates automatically, so it works in either hand and at any angle. It is rated IP67 waterproof and has a magnet for sticking it on the stove or fridge. It runs on two AAA batteries, which come in the box.
Pro: Readings in under one second within half a degree, versus two to three seconds.
Con: The probe point is always exposed, so you need care when reaching for it.
Essential · $40GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickSome candidates were set aside.
EssentialDeep bowls with snug lids
Essential · Cuisinart Stainless
A set of three stainless steel bowls in 1.5, 3 and 5 quarts, each with a snug plastic lid for storing food. Tall sides keep splashes from a hand mixer in the bowl. They are dishwasher-safe, nest for storage and can work as a double boiler, but not in the microwave.
Pro: Deep stainless steel bowls with snug lids that keep hand-mixer splatter in the bowl.
Con: The tall, narrow shape makes folding airy batters and pouring out contents harder.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Essential · $25GoodNo Upgrade pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · $35BestEssentialCookies and pizza bottoms
AbsoluteGolden-brown cookies and vegetables
Essential · Chicago Metallic Commercial II
This aluminized steel pan has an uncoated surface and a rolled rim reinforced with wire rods to resist warping. Reviewers found it heated evenly, browning cookies and pizza bottoms without burning them. It is dishwasher-safe, though hand-washing is recommended. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pro: An uncoated aluminized steel pan that browns evenly and resists warping.
Con: It is a bit heavier than aluminum pans and stains with use.
No Upgrade pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · Nordic Ware Naturals
This aluminum half sheet has an encapsulated galvanized steel rim that helps prevent warping. Reviewers found it heated evenly, turning out golden-brown cookies and crisp roasted vegetables. It weighs about 1.65 pounds and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees F. It carries a lifetime warranty.
Pro: A lighter aluminum pan that is easier to lift with one hand.
Con: It scratches and stains easily and must be washed by hand.
Essential · $280Good
Upgrade · $580Better
Absolute · $800BestEssentialEven heating across a full range
UpgradeGood heat retention at high heat
AbsoluteEven browning and steady simmering
Essential · Cuisinart MultiClad
This tri-ply set heats evenly, with no hot or cool spots. It includes two saucepans, a sauté pan, a stockpot, two skillets and a steamer insert. Pieces are light and well balanced, easy to tilt and toss food in. Handles are comfortable, and high sides keep splatters in. It sears meat well and works on induction.
Pro: Even heating across a full range of pots, pans and a steamer insert.
Con: It heats fast and can run too hot, so the heat needs watching.
Upgrade · All-Clad D3 7-Piece
This tri-ply set heats evenly, holds that heat and handles high heat well. It has a frying pan, a saucepan, a sauté pan and a large stockpot, with lids. Lids fit well and handles stay cool in use. Meats and vegetables cooked evenly and flipped without sticking. It survived repeated damage tests; hand washing is advised.
Pro: Good heat retention at high heat, where the Essential's thinner base can get too hot.
Con: The pieces don't nest or stack, so storing them takes room.
Absolute · All-Clad D3 10-Piece
This tri-ply set with an aluminum core heats evenly, browns well and keeps sauces at a steady simmer. It comes with two frying pans, two saucepans of different shapes, a sauté pan and a stockpot. Pieces are light to lift, well balanced, and oven-safe to 600°F. Pans resisted scratching and their flat bottoms don't warp under high heat.
Pro: More even heating and less sticking than the Essential.
Con: The handles could be more comfortable to hold, and overheating oil left cosmetic stains.
Essential · $91GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
EssentialScraping bowls clean with mini sizes
Essential · Get It
Ten tools, mostly silicone heat-proof to 550 degrees F, including a ladle, whisk, peeler, two spoons and five spatulas. The spatulas scraped bowls clean, and the mini sizes handled small batches in tight spaces. The whole set is dishwasher safe and held up through a year of regular use.
Pro: Ten tools including three spatula sizes for folding, small-batch mixing and scraping corners.
Con: The set does not include a pair of tongs.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Essential · $110Good
Upgrade · $170Better
Absolute · $220BestEssentialGrain cooked tender rather than mushy
UpgradeSous vide water-bath cooking
AbsoluteCrisp frozen foods and tender vegetables
Essential · Instant Pot Duo
It pressure cooks, slow cooks, steams, sautes, makes yogurt and keeps food warm. Two pressure settings, high and low, give more control over delicate foods, which may help keep them from overcooking. It comes in 3, 6 and 8 quart sizes, and the inner pot is stainless steel. Its detachable cord suits storing it in a tight cabinet.
Pro: A pressure cooker that also slow cooks, steams, sautes, makes yogurt and keeps food warm.
Con: Pressure took a long time to release naturally.
Upgrade · Instant Pot Pro
It pressure cooks, slow cooks, steams, sautes, makes yogurt, sterilizes and cooks sous vide, with 28 presets and five savable custom programs. Its stainless steel inner pot has handles and works on stovetops and in the oven. Saute heat has five levels, and a switch releases steam quickly and safely. It comes in 6 and 8 quart sizes.
Pro: Sous vide water-bath cooking, which the Essential's seven functions lack.
Con: The many settings and buttons can overwhelm a beginner.
Absolute · Instant Pot Duo Crisp
It pressure cooks, slow cooks, steams, sautes and cooks sous vide under one lid, and air fries, roasts, bakes, broils and dehydrates under a second. The unit senses which lid is on. It holds 8 quarts in a stainless steel inner pot and also comes in a 6-quart size. The pot and pressure lid can go in the dishwasher.
Pro: An extra air-frying lid that turns out crisp frozen foods and tender vegetables.
Con: It builds pressure more slowly than most, and the lower basket layer crisps less.
Essential · $28Good
Upgrade · $79Better
Absolute · $160BestEssentialPower for batters and whipping
UpgradeThick cookie and bread doughs
AbsoluteThick batters without struggle
Essential · Hamilton Beach 6-Speed
It has six speeds, a 250-watt motor and a boost button that adds power at any speed. It whipped cream easily and made smooth batter. Its back rests on the edge of the bowl so the beaters do not drip, and a snap-on case holds the attachments. Its handle was comfortable to hold.
Pro: A six-speed mixer with a power boost button for batters and whipping.
Con: It struggles to mix thick, dense doughs thoroughly and has no dough hooks.
Upgrade · Cuisinart Power
It has nine speeds changed with touch buttons, a 220-watt motor and a digital screen showing the speed. It comes with beaters, a whisk, two dough hooks and a spatula, all stored in a snap-on case. It handled thick doughs and its whisk made stiff peaks in under two minutes.
Pro: The power to get through thick cookie and bread doughs the Essential finds tough.
Con: It runs loud at its top speeds, louder than most other mixers tested.
Absolute · Breville Handy
It has nine speeds on a scroll wheel, a pause button and a count-up timer. A light shines into the bowl, and rubber-coated beaters run quietly and scrape the sides of the bowl. It senses which attachment is fitted and adjusts its speed range. It comes with two beaters, two whisks and two dough hooks in a snap-on case.
Pro: The strength to mix thick, dense cookie dough with ease where the Essential struggles.
Con: It is heavier than most hand mixers and can tire the hand over long mixing.
Essential · $152Good
Upgrade · $430BetterEssentialHeavy dough and whipping
UpgradeChunky batter and smooth dough
AbsoluteStiff, low-moisture doughs without moving
Essential · Hamilton Beach Electric
A 4-quart tilt-head mixer weighing under 10 pounds, with a top handle for carrying from cabinet to counter. It kneads dough evenly, whips to stiff peaks and holds speed with thick, heavy mixtures. Seven speeds, a splash guard and dishwasher-safe attachments come with it.
Pro: A light, easy-to-lift mixer that handles heavy dough and whipping.
Con: Its head bobs and rattles under heavy dough, and starts can splatter.
Upgrade · KitchenAid Tilt-Head
A 5-quart tilt-head mixer with a 325-watt motor, 10 speeds and a bowl with a handle. It whipped, combined and kneaded reliably, evenly and thoroughly. It can beat chunky batter and knead a double batch of dough into a smooth ball. A front hub takes more than 10 attachments sold separately, and the bowl and attachments are dishwasher safe.
Pro: Kneads a double batch of dough into a smooth ball, where the Essential's head bobs.
Con: It wobbles at high speed or when full, and weighs nearly 23 pounds.
Absolute · Ankarsrum Original
A mixer with its motor in the base that spins the bowl, with a 7-quart bowl, 600-watt motor, speed dial and timer. It comes with a dough roller, scraper and hook, plus a smaller second bowl with whisks for whipping and batters. It stayed still through heavy kneading and whipped to stiff peaks in 35 seconds.
Pro: Handles stiff, low-moisture doughs without moving, where the Essential's head bobs.
Con: It takes time to learn, has many parts to store, and its bowls lack handles.
Essential · $150Good
Absolute · $270BestEssentialEven golden toast in batches
UpgradeCrispy fries and wings
AbsoluteBroiled chicken breasts that look grilled
Essential · Panasonic FlashXpress
This compact toaster oven measures 13 by 12 by 10.25 inches and fits four slices of toast or a 9-inch pizza. It toasted bread to an even golden-brown medium in two and a half minutes. Presets cover toast, frozen waffles, rolls, frozen pizza, frozen hash browns and reheating leftovers. The rack slides out when the door opens.
Pro: A compact toaster oven that toasts bread evenly and faster than any other tested.
Con: It has no fan for air frying or convection baking, and holds only one rack.
Upgrade · Ninja Flip & Air
This air fryer toaster oven flips up onto its back edge to free counter space between uses. Its wide chamber fits an 11-inch pizza or six slices of bread. Its eight functions are air fry, air roast, air broil, bake, bagel, toast, dehydrate and keep warm. In side-by-side tests, it always beeped first during preheating.
Pro: A fan and air fry mode that crisps fries and wings.
Con: Its low ceiling rules out bulky foods like a whole chicken and makes cleaning harder.
Absolute · Breville Smart Pro
This convection toaster oven fits up to six slices of bread and a 13-inch pizza. It is spacious enough for larger items like a whole chicken or a quarter sheet pan. Its 10 functions are toast, bagel, bake, roast, broil, pizza, cookies, reheat, warm and slow cook. Three dials set function, temperature and time.
Pro: A roomier chamber that fits a whole chicken or a quarter sheet pan.
Con: It is quite large for a countertop, and its convection fan is loud.
Essential · $37GoodEssentialFluffy rice and steaming food
UpgradeLong-grain rice and soak time
AbsolutePorridge and three white rice textures
Essential · Aroma Housewares
It holds 4 cups of uncooked rice, about 8 cups cooked, sized for individuals, couples or smaller families. Several kinds of rice came out fluffy and evenly cooked, and a display counts down the remaining cooking time. It switches to keep-warm on its own when cooking ends, and the pot and paddle can go in the dishwasher.
Pro: Fluffy white and brown rice from a few clear settings, plus a quick-cook mode.
Con: Large batches of long-grain rice turned gummy, and some parts felt flimsy.
Upgrade · Cuckoo Micom
It holds 6 cups of uncooked rice, 12 cups cooked, with 11 menu options including brown rice and porridge. You can set how long rice soaks, how hot it gets and how long it cooks. An auto-clean mode uses steam to loosen stuck food in 25 minutes.
Pro: Particularly good long-grain rice right out of the bowl.
Con: The lid springs open hard enough to rock the unit, risking a blast of steam.
Absolute · Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy & Warmer
It holds 5.5 cups of uncooked rice, about 10 cups cooked, and adjusts time and temperature as the rice cooks. Presets cover white rice in three textures, brown rice, porridge and a quick mode. Handles on the inner pot and a retractable cord make serving and storage easier.
Pro: Excellent rice in large batches, where the Essential's turned gummy and mushy.
Con: Cooking is slow: white rice took 48 minutes, brown rice nearly two hours.
Essential · $90Good
Upgrade · $139Better
Absolute · $313BestEssentialEven crust that held together
UpgradeProteins release easily, wiped clean
AbsoluteTight lid holds in moisture
Essential · Lodge Enameled
In bread tests it gave an even, crisp crust that held together without flaking. It heated quickly, browned meat well and braised it tender, with very good ratings for even cooking. The enamel interior needs no seasoning, stands up to acidic foods and cleans easily. Wide side handles are easy to grip with a towel or mitts.
Pro: An enameled cast-iron pot that browns, braises and bakes bread with an even crust.
Con: It weighs over 13 pounds, and its enamel rim chipped when knocked with a spoon.
Upgrade · Caraway
This ceramic-coated aluminum pot weighs about 6 pounds and has wide, roomy handles that are easy to grip in oven mitts. Its nonstick interior let proteins release easily, kept sauces from sticking and wiped clean with water and a sponge. It baked bread with an even, crisp crust and kept a steady simmer.
Pro: A lightweight pot of about 6 pounds to lift, against the Essential's over 13.
Con: It holds heat less well than cast iron, sears paler, and cannot take metal utensils.
Absolute · Le Creuset Round
This enameled cast-iron pot heated quickly, seared meat to a crusty brown and braised it tender. It cooked foods the most evenly in one test, and its tight lid holds in moisture. Wide looped handles are easy to hold even with an oven mitt. Its light interior makes browning easy to watch.
Pro: A pot about 3 pounds lighter than the Essential, easier to lift when full.
Con: Its light interior stains with use, and one test found weaker heat retention.
Essential · $17Good
Absolute · $40BestEssentialMedium cans in eight to ten cranks
UpgradeSide-cut lids with smooth edges
AbsoluteCrank-free opening leaves smooth edges
Essential · OXO Good
This is a classic manual rotary opener with wide, cushioned, nonslip handles and an oversized knob. Reviewers found it bites in cleanly and turns smoothly, opening medium cans in about eight to ten cranks. It has a built-in bottle opener and survived two drops onto concrete without damage.
Pro: A manual rotary can opener with cushioned nonslip handles and a built-in bottle opener.
Con: It cuts from the top, leaving a sharp, jagged lid edge, and needs handwashing.
Upgrade · Kuhn Rikon
This safety opener cuts around the side of the can, so the lid edges are smooth and will not cut fingers. Its long knob sits on top of the can, so either hand can turn it, and it gives good leverage. A side button works small pliers that lift the lid off without touching it.
Pro: Side-cut lids with smooth edges instead of sharp ones.
Con: Its plastic button and knob may not hold up, and there is a learning curve.
Absolute · Hamilton Beach
This plug-in electric opener clamps the lid's lip between two gears and cuts through the side, leaving smooth edges. You lock the can in place and hold down a lever, and it opened cans in about 8 to 11 seconds. It opened 28-ounce cans without tipping over, though it takes up counter space.
Pro: Electric, crank-free opening that still leaves smooth edges.
Con: It has no auto shut-off, and running past one turn can leave metal slivers.
Essential · $22Good
Upgrade · $34Better
Absolute · $60BestEssentialSlippery tough foods, woody stems
UpgradeDelicate herbs without bruising
AbsoluteSharpest cuts on bulky packaging
Essential · OXO Good
Micro-serrated blades grip slippery and tough foods, cutting through meat, skin and woody herb stems. Spacious, cushioned handles with an opening of about 2.75 inches stayed comfortable and kept hands from slipping, even when oily. The 4-inch blades come apart for cleaning, and a built-in stripper pulls leaves off herb stems.
Pro: Sturdy serrated shears that grip and cut through tough foods and packaging.
Con: Serrated blades can bruise delicate herbs and catch on paper.
Upgrade · Misen Scissors
Long 5-inch blades and extra-wide handles suit larger hands and long, even cuts such as breaking down larger poultry. Micro-serrated edges grab slippery skin, while pointed, sharp tips make quick, precise snips. Silicone-lined handles add grip, and the shears felt light for their size.
Pro: Delicate herb cuts without the bruising the Essential's serrations can cause.
Con: Handles can feel flimsy and hard to control for smaller hands.
Absolute · Shun Classic
One straight blade and one finely serrated blade make it versatile, and the blades felt razor-sharp. Thin, nimble blades with tapered tips make precise snips and move around bones and joints easily. Built-in extras include a bottle opener, nutcracker and bone breaker, and the blades come apart for cleaning.
Pro: Poultry bone cuts that match spring-loaded poultry shears, where the Essential struggles slightly.
Con: Takes extra force through tough items and bone, and handles may feel small.
Essential · $20GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickSome candidates were set aside.
EssentialHard cheese and vegetables
Essential · Cuisipro 4-Sided
This mostly stainless steel box grater has four sides: coarse and medium holes, fine holes for zesting, and a slicer. Its sharp etched teeth handle hard and soft cheeses, carrots and potatoes with little effort. It has etched measurements on the side and a removable base.
Pro: A very sharp stainless steel box grater with four sides that all work well.
Con: It has few extras, and the ginger-grating surface on its base felt like an afterthought.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Essential · $24GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
EssentialTiny holes drain fast
Essential · Bellemain Micro-Perforated
A 5-quart stainless steel colander on a tall metal ring base that lifts the bowl above the sink. Its many tiny holes drain fast without clogging and hold small foods like orzo. The wide handles stay cool after boiling water, and it is dishwasher-safe. It is light but sturdy and did not dent in durability tests.
Pro: A stainless steel footed colander whose tiny holes drain fast and keep orzo in.
Con: Bulky to store, and a few food bits got stuck under its rim.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
Essential · $47Good
Upgrade · $53Better
Absolute · $100BestEssentialPlate slots and drip tray
UpgradeCapacity and fully loaded stability
AbsoluteSwivel spout drains into sink
Essential · OXO Good
This aluminum and plastic rack has an upper level with plate slots and a ridged drip tray below that keeps glasses and pots raised. Folded, it lies flat and works as a drying mat. The tray has no spout, but water pours cleanly from its corners.
Pro: Dish rack that folds flat to under two inches for cabinet storage.
Con: Tall glasses and stemware do not fit well upright.
Upgrade · KitchenAid Full-Size
This large stainless steel rack holds four place settings plus a 10-inch skillet, and can stand sheet trays and cutting boards upright. Its angled drainboard sends water into the sink, and a clip-on utensil holder frees space for dishes. It needs room on the counter, since it has to sit at its widest orientation.
Pro: A drain board that sends water into the sink, so dishes dry fully overnight.
Con: Stemware has no secure upright spot, so tall glasses can tip.
Absolute · Simplehuman Steel
This stainless steel rack held dinner settings for four, a 10-inch skillet and a Dutch oven with its lid. It has a wine rack for up to four glasses, four cup hooks and a utensil holder divided into three sections. A swivel spout drains water into the sink however the rack is placed.
Pro: Plate wires spaced to hold thick stoneware upright, plus a dedicated stemware rack.
Con: It takes up a lot of counter space and is slow to clean.
Essential · $41GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickSome candidates were set aside.
Essential · Tramontina
It heats evenly with no hot spots, and grains and sauces came out without sticking or burning. The handle stays cool, and it lifts and pours with one hand even when full of boiling liquid. Its eight-inch width lets a whisk or spoon reach into the corners. It works on induction and goes in the oven up to 500°F.
Pro: An even-heating everyday saucepan that is easy to lift and pour with one hand.
Con: Its shiny surface picks up minor water spots and smudges from washing and handling.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Essential · $40GoodNo Upgrade pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
EssentialEven, fast heating for poultry
AbsoluteCrisp, golden crust on meat
Essential · Tramontina
A fully clad three-ply pan about 12 inches across, weighing about 3 pounds, oven-safe to 500°F and working on induction. It heats evenly and responds quickly to temperature changes, browning poultry evenly and cooking fish without sticking. Its rounded handle is comfortable to hold and stays secure even when gripped with a towel.
Pro: Even, fast heating that browns meat and fish and sautes vegetables.
Con: Sloped sides leave less flat cooking room, and the base can warp slightly over time.
No Upgrade pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · All-Clad D3
A three-ply pan with an aluminum core and a tight-fitting lid, oven-safe to 600°F and induction-compatible. It heats as fast as others tested, with temperature differences under 15 degrees across the surface. It sears meat and fish to a crisp, golden crust and is light enough to maneuver with one hand.
Pro: More consistent browning of poultry.
Con: Its grooved handle can dig into bare hands, and the surface stains from oil.
Essential · $28GoodNo Upgrade pickOther well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · $105BestEssentialEvenly cooked baked pasta
AbsoluteEven baking and crisp edges
Essential · Pyrex Deep
This deep glass dish holds 5 quarts, with room for large batches. In tests, baked pasta came out well browned and evenly cooked, and baked goods stayed moist. Clear glass lets you watch food cook and won't absorb stains or flavors. A tight-fitting lid stores leftovers. Stacking, hand washing and dishwasher runs left it without cracks or chips.
Pro: A deep glass baking dish with a lid that bakes evenly and handles the dishwasher.
Con: Its narrow tab handles feel less secure, and it cannot go under the broiler.
No Upgrade pick. Other well-backed products sit too close to the chosen ones to be a separate level.
Absolute · Great Jones
This ceramic dish is about three inches deep and holds roughly 4 quarts, with room to stack up layered casseroles. Large looped handles give a secure grip with oven mitts, even when it is full. It baked evenly, held heat well, and cleaned easily by hand since nothing stuck. It is also safe in the dishwasher, microwave and freezer.
Pro: A ceramic dish that can go briefly under the broiler, which the Essential's glass cannot.
Con: Metal utensils can scratch it, and two of four units in one test arrived broken.
Essential · $70Good
Upgrade · $180Better
Absolute · $250BestEssentialSlicing or shredding, with bowl scraper
UpgradeSix slicing thicknesses, thick to paper-thin
AbsoluteKneading pizza dough on its own
Essential · Hamilton Beach With
A 450-watt motor and a two-level dial run one blade and one reversible disc for slicing or shredding. A three-pronged scraper turns with a knob to clear the bowl's sides, so you open the lid less. Setup is easy, and the dial is simple to use.
Pro: A food processor that chops, slices and shreds, with a built-in bowl scraper.
Con: It is very loud, and its scraper misses the bottom inch of the bowl.
Upgrade · KitchenAid
It has a 13-cup bowl, a 500-watt motor and low, high and pulse settings. It comes with a multipurpose blade, adjustable slicing disc, reversible shredding disc and dough blade, all stored in a caddy inside the bowl. The bowl snaps on without twisting, and the lid hinges shut.
Pro: Six slicing thicknesses, from thick cuts to paper-thin slices.
Con: Its feed tube is small, so large tomatoes and potatoes need cutting first.
Absolute · Cuisinart Custom
It has a 14-cup bowl, a 720-watt motor and just two paddle buttons, one for on and one for off or pulse. It comes with an S-blade, a slicing disc and a shredding disc, and the parts are dishwasher-safe. Reviewers found it quiet while running.
Pro: Kneading pizza dough on its own, with no hands-on help or creeping across the counter.
Con: Assembly is fussy, and at about 18 pounds it is heavy to lift.
Essential · $8Good
Upgrade · $59BetterEssentialHulling strawberries, peeling apples, shelling shrimp
UpgradeStrawberries, shallots and tomato skin
AbsolutePrecise, delicate prep, petite blade
Essential · Victorinox
Its thin, flexible, spear-point blade is good at in-hand jobs like hulling strawberries, peeling apples and shelling shrimp. It is very light, at under an ounce, and its grippy plastic handle does not slip even when wet. The 3.25-inch blade is long enough to halve medium-large apples. Its straight edge suits coring and slicing better than mincing.
Pro: A light, sharp paring knife for peeling, hulling and coring in hand.
Con: It loses sharpness over time, and its thin blade struggles with squash or potatoes.
Upgrade · Global Classic
This 3.5-inch paring knife is made from a single piece of stainless steel, with no handle joints or rivets to clean. It is light and well balanced, and reviewers needed next to no effort to hull strawberries, peel shallots and slice delicate tomato skin. It also supremed orange segments quickly.
Pro: An edge that stayed sharp through months of testing, while the Victorinox dulled 78%.
Con: Its all-metal handle can get slippery when wet or greasy.
Absolute · Wusthof
This 3.5-inch paring knife has a compact, slim handle and a petite stainless steel blade suited to precise, delicate prep. Reviewers found it sharp and well balanced, and it peeled, sliced and cut beautifully. It hulled strawberries without slipping and made a perfect apple peel and neat orange segments.
Pro: A slightly curved blade that makes mincing a shallot easy.
Con: It needed more pressure to slice through a tomato than one rival knife.
Essential · $16GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
Absolute · $149BestEssentialButternut squash and soft cake
AbsoluteCrusty baguette and sourdough
Essential · Mercer Culinary M23210
Its 10-inch serrated blade has a textured rubber-and-plastic handle that reviewers found grippy and comfortable. It sliced crusty sourdough, tomatoes, cake and even butternut squash cleanly. It is the heaviest of the tested knives at about 6 ounces but well balanced. One reviewer has used it for four years with no obvious wear.
Pro: A 10-inch serrated knife that slices crusty sourdough, tomatoes and soft cake cleanly.
Con: It is less sharp than top rivals and needs more effort on crusty loaves.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
Absolute · Shun Classic
This 9-inch serrated knife has a high-carbon VG-MAX steel core that resists dulling. It sliced tomatoes thin and crusty baguette and sourdough like butter, and soft bread fell into neat slices. Its wide, low serrations and tall blade add cutting force, and reviewers found it comfortable and well balanced.
Pro: A sharper edge that cuts crusty sourdough with almost no resistance and stays sharp longer.
Con: Its 9-inch blade struggles to cut across wider boules without angling the knife.
Essential · $41GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickSome candidates were set aside.
EssentialSoft and firm produce easily
Essential · Zwilling 4-Stage
You pull the blade heel to tip through one of four slots, coarse and fine at both 10 and 15 degrees, for Western and Japanese-style knives. It is simple to use and suits beginners, though the instructions are bare-bones. Sharpened blades came out smooth and polished with no scratches or chips, and cut soft and firm produce easily.
Pro: A pull-through sharpener with coarse and fine slots for both eastern and western knives.
Con: The grip can be hard to hold steady, even with its nonslip bottom.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Essential · $249GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
EssentialHeats quickly and holds its heat
Essential · Made In
This 8-quart, five-ply pot of steel and aluminum heats quickly and holds its heat. Its short, wide shape lets you reach the whole interior and see the food. Roomy, flat handles grip well with or without oven mitts, and the flared rim pours cleanly. The lid stays put and holds steam, and burnt-on food wiped off with a sponge.
Pro: Wide, balanced stockpot that carries comfortably when full and pours cleanly.
Con: Its surfaces discolored after testing, and it whined while heating on induction.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
Living Room
Essential · $56Good
Upgrade · $85Better
Absolute · $140BestEssentialSimple grid and large app selection
UpgradeFaster processor that loads apps
AbsoluteBuilt-in Ethernet port and smart home panel
Essential · Roku Stick 4K
This small stick plugs straight into the TV's HDMI input and can draw power from the TV's USB port. It supports 4K with all the major HDR formats and offers a wide selection of streaming services. Its remote works through walls and cabinets, has TV power and volume buttons, and includes a microphone for voice search.
Pro: A 4K stick with a simple app grid and a remote that controls the TV.
Con: Slower than the other picks to load apps, move through menus and answer voice queries.
Upgrade · Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
This stick plugs into the TV's HDMI port and streams in 4K with all the major HDR formats and an immersive sound format. Its voice remote lets you search and control playback by speaking, and it supports Wi-Fi 6E for faster connections with a matching router. It also streams console games through a subscription app with a Bluetooth gamepad.
Pro: Faster app loading and smoother menu navigation than the Essential.
Con: Its interface is stuffed with ads and puts its own video service first.
Absolute · Google TV
This small box sits near the TV and streams 4K with all the major HDR formats and immersive sound. Its home screen gathers what you were watching across services, and a smart home panel controls thermostats and lights and shows camera feeds on the TV. A button on the box makes the remote ring when it is lost.
Pro: Instant app launches and seamless switching between apps, where the Essential is much slower.
Con: It uses older Wi-Fi 5, and voice control needs a button press on the remote.
Essential · $998Good
Upgrade · $1,400Better
Absolute · $2,300BestEssentialVery high brightness
UpgradeDeep blacks without glow
Essential · Hisense U8QG
It reaches more than 1,300 nits on highlights and holds 780 nits across the full screen. Its anti-reflection screen and high brightness make it well suited to bright rooms. All three of its HDMI 2.1 ports support gaming at 4K and 165Hz. Its built-in 4.1.2-channel speakers give an immersive sound field with height channels, without a separate soundbar.
Pro: A very bright screen with an anti-reflective coating for sunlit rooms.
Con: The picture loses contrast and color when you sit off to the side.
Upgrade · LG C6
Its screen delivers deep blacks, punchy highlights and excellent contrast. Peak HDR brightness measured 1,438 nits, up from its predecessor's 1,180. All four HDMI 2.1 inputs take 4K at 165Hz with variable refresh rate. Input lag measured 4.6 ms with its game boost mode on. Wide viewing angles keep colour and brightness steady off to the side.
Pro: Color and brightness that hold up for viewers seated off to the side.
Con: Its glossy screen shows mirror-like reflections when watched in bright rooms.
Absolute · Samsung S95H
It shows rich, accurate, vivid colors and deep blacks with no glow around highlights. A matte coating makes reflections a non-issue, even in the brightest rooms. It measured about 2,780 nits on a 10% HDR window. Four HDMI 2.1 ports handle 4K at 165Hz with variable refresh rate. Image quality stays consistent when viewed from an angle.
Pro: A picture that stays consistent for seats off to the side.
Con: Black levels rise and look hazy when bright light hits the matte screen.
Essential · $219Good
Upgrade · $489Better
Absolute · $1,075BestEssentialCrisp vocals and dialogue
UpgradeDialogue easy to follow
AbsoluteClear dialogue and wide soundstage
Essential · Sonos Ray
A 22-inch bar with two tweeters and two woofers that connects to your TV by optical cable. Reviewers found its sound surprisingly wide for its size, with crisp vocals and dialogue that is much easier to understand. Bass is thin next to systems with a subwoofer, and there is no microphone for voice control.
Pro: A compact bar that widens TV sound and makes dialogue much easier to understand.
Con: It has no HDMI port and uses optical only, so it cannot play Dolby Atmos.
Upgrade · Sonos Beam
A compact bar under 26 inches wide that plays Dolby Atmos through processing rather than up-firing speakers. Side-firing speakers widen the sound, and reviewers found dialogue easy to follow and the Atmos height convincing for its size. It also offers Wi-Fi streaming, AirPlay 2 and built-in Alexa or Google Assistant. Overhead effects fall short of bars with dedicated height speakers.
Pro: Dolby Atmos over HDMI eARC, for fuller, more dynamic film and TV sound.
Con: Deep bass is weak without a separate subwoofer, and it has only one HDMI port.
Absolute · Sonos Arc
A 46-inch single bar with 14 drivers, including up-firing and side-firing ones, for 9.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos sound. Reviewers praised its clear dialogue, wide soundstage and strong Atmos height, and found it good for music too. It streams over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and has built-in Alexa. Its size can crowd small stands or block low-set TVs.
Pro: Deep, impressive bass from the bar alone, without buying a separate subwoofer.
Con: There is no HDMI passthrough or extra input, and it does not support DTS:X.
Essential · $19Good
Upgrade · $178Better
Absolute · $250BestEssentialCompact, powerful spot cooling
UpgradeWhole-room cooling on a pedestal
AbsoluteBlanket of cool air
Essential · Honeywell HT-900
This compact circulator comes ready to use out of the box, weighs 2.6 pounds, and works on a table, on the floor or on a wall. A back dial sets three speeds, and the head tilts 90 degrees to aim the air. On high, a cold blast reached 10 feet and a light breeze about 18 feet.
Pro: A small, powerful fan that aims a concentrated stream of air at one person.
Con: It does not oscillate, and its three-speed dial clicks loudly with every turn.
Upgrade · Shark FlexBreeze
It converts from a pedestal to a desktop fan and runs corded or on battery, indoors or outside. Five speeds, 180-degree oscillation and a 55-degree tilt aim the air, with a remote. The battery lasts up to 24 hours on the lowest speed but two hours on the highest. A hose-fed mister adds a cooling haze outdoors.
Pro: Whole-room cooling as a pedestal fan, not just a stream for one person.
Con: At 12.2 pounds it is heavy for a desk fan, and a little top-heavy.
Absolute · Shark TurboBlade
This bladeless tower has two arms that pivot from vertical to horizontal, with vents that tilt independently to aim air two ways. It offers 10 speeds, an adjustable height, a timer up to 12 hours and a magnetic remote. It runs at 38 to 40 decibels on its lowest speed, and a dust screen wipes clean.
Pro: 180-degree oscillation that cools an entire room, not one fixed spot.
Con: At 15 pounds it is bottom-heavy and awkward to move between rooms.
Essential · $1,298Good
Upgrade · $2,498Better
Absolute · $4,499BestEssentialBig, bright, fairly accurate picture
Upgradeover twice the measured brightness
Absolutemotorized lens shift and zoom
Essential · Hisense M2
The Hisense M2 Pro is a small 4K projector that makes a big, bright image with fairly accurate colors and an optical zoom. It supports HLG, HDR10, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, and motion looks smooth without judder. It weighs 3.9kg and tilts up and down to aim the picture.
Pro: A small 4K projector that throws a big, bright, fairly accurate picture.
Con: Only one HDMI input, thin-sounding speakers, and less popular apps may be missing.
Upgrade · Hisense C2
The Hisense C2 Ultra is a 4K laser projector on a tilting, swiveling stand, with built-in streaming and a robust speaker system. Wirecutter measured about 2,200 lumens with above-average contrast, and it supports all major HDR formats, including Dolby Vision. Gamers get low lag and Designed for Xbox certification.
Pro: Over twice the measured brightness, so the picture holds up in brighter rooms.
Con: It needs its bulky stand and is not ideal for a dedicated theater room.
Absolute · Epson LS9000
The Epson LS9000 is a 4K laser 3LCD projector rated at 2,200 lumens, with a motorized zoom, wide lens shift and lens memory. Its 3-chip design avoids the rainbow effect, and Natural mode gives accurate color out of the box. Two HDMI 2.1 ports handle 4K at 120Hz for gaming.
Pro: Motorized lens shift and zoom for a dedicated theater room, where the Hisense isn't ideal.
Con: No built-in speakers or streaming, and no dynamic HDR tone mapping.
Home Office
Essential · $88Good
Upgrade · $298Better
Absolute · $458BestEssentialPunchy, detailed sound
UpgradeCrowds, vehicles and voices
AbsoluteMedium and high frequencies
Essential · Sony WH-CH720N
These over-ear headphones are made mostly of plastic, which keeps them light at 192 grams and comfortable for hours. Noise cancelling focuses on low-frequency sound and ambient noise, making commutes less disruptive. Sound is bass-led and punchy, with clear, detailed mids and bright treble. Battery lasted up to 40 hours with noise cancelling on.
Pro: Light, comfortable noise-cancelling headphones with punchy, detailed sound you can wear for hours.
Con: Noise cancelling can make one nearby voice stand out, and calls sound average.
Upgrade · Sony WH-1000XM5
Noise cancelling handles low drones and higher-pitched chatter, using eight microphones that adapt quickly to your surroundings. Sound is rich and detailed, though bass can feel heavy until you adjust the app's equaliser. Padded earcups and a light build make them easy to wear for long stretches, and calls sound good. Battery runs 30 hours with noise cancelling on.
Pro: Noise cancelling that also quiets nearby voices the Essential lets through.
Con: The earcups don't fold, so they are bulkier to store and carry.
Absolute · Sony WH-1000XM6
Twelve microphones and a faster chip drive noise cancelling that blocks medium and high frequencies, including voices. Sound is detailed and balanced, and a 10-band equaliser tames a bass-heavy default. Calls stay clear, with background noise reduced while your voice comes through. The earcups fold for carrying, and battery lasts about 30 hours with noise cancelling on.
Pro: Noise cancelling that shuts out nearby voices the Essential lets through, plus transit rumble.
Con: A thin headband can press on the head, limiting comfortable wear to about seven hours.
Essential · $34Good
Absolute · $240BestEssentialCompact typing with three devices
UpgradeBacklit keys you can read
AbsoluteMagnetic switches for each key
Essential · Logitech Pebble
The Pebble Keys 2 K380s is a thin, low-profile keyboard without a number pad that fits in front of a laptop and suits travel. Its round keys have a typewriter-like feel with a satisfying tactile response, and it does not creak or flex under spirited typing. Two included AAA batteries are rated for up to 36 months.
Pro: A compact, lightweight Bluetooth keyboard that switches between three devices.
Con: No backlighting, and its round keys and small arrow keys take getting used to.
Upgrade · Logitech MX
The MX Keys S is a full-size keyboard with low-profile scissor-switch keys, full-size arrow keys and a number pad. Its backlight turns on as your hands approach and adjusts to the room's light. It connects wirelessly over Bluetooth or the included Logi Bolt receiver, pairs with three devices and recharges over USB-C.
Pro: Backlit keys you can read in the dark.
Con: Battery lasts about 10 days with the backlight on, versus five months with it off.
Absolute · Keychron Q1 HE
The Q1 HE is a 75 percent wireless mechanical keyboard with a solid aluminum chassis and magnetic switches whose actuation point you can set for each key. Sound-dampening foam gives it a comfortable, nice-sounding typing feel. Switches on the back choose wired, 2.4GHz or Bluetooth and Windows or Mac mode.
Pro: A wired cable mode alongside 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth.
Con: It weighs 3.75 pounds and its battery lasts about 100 hours.
Essential · $170Good
Upgrade · $747Better
Absolute · $3,248BestEssentialCharges a laptop over one cable
UpgradeThunderbolt 4 hub with Ethernet
AbsoluteBrighter HDR from mini-LED dimming zones
Essential · BenQ GW2486TC
This 24-inch, 1080p screen suits documents, spreadsheets and other light office work. Its USB-C port supplies 65 watts, so one cable carries video and charges a laptop. The stand adjusts for height, tilt, swivel and pivot, and a 100Hz refresh rate smooths motion. It covers the full sRGB color space and can daisy-chain a second screen.
Pro: A 24-inch screen that charges a laptop and carries video over one USB-C cable.
Con: Its screen measured only 241 nits and can look washed-out in sunny rooms.
Upgrade · Dell UltraSharp 32 4K Thunderbolt
This 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black screen offers a sharp image, a 3,000:1 rated contrast ratio and a 120Hz refresh rate. Its Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C ports supply 140 watts, enough to charge most laptops, beside HDMI and DisplayPort. Built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet, a pop-out USB hub and a KVM switch let it stand in for a laptop dock.
Pro: A brighter, anti-glare screen that holds up in bright rooms where the Essential washes out.
Con: It has no built-in speakers and a slow response time that dedicated gamers may notice.
Absolute · Apple Studio
This 27-inch mini-LED screen has 5K resolution, 2,304 dimming zones and a 120Hz refresh rate. It reaches 2,000 nits peak in HDR and measured 100% sRGB and 98.3% DCI-P3, with a Delta E of 0.49. Its Thunderbolt 5 and USB-C ports work as a dock, and it builds in a 12-megapixel webcam and six speakers.
Pro: Incredibly high brightness, where the Essential's screen can look washed-out in bright light.
Con: Its picture looks only subtly different from the maker's standard model.
Essential · $70Good
Upgrade · $130BetterEssentialDual mics and adjustable field of view
Upgradeautofocus and auto white balance
AbsoluteClose focus and 4K capture
Essential · Anker PowerConf
It records sharp 2K video by default and can drop to 1080p or lower. Software lets you switch the field of view between 65, 78 and 95 degrees. Dual microphones pick up your voice clearly, and a built-in cover slides shut for privacy. Autofocus is quick, and the f/2.0 aperture helps in darker rooms.
Pro: A 2K webcam with dual mics, a privacy cover and adjustable field of view.
Con: The one-piece mount is awkward to tilt and can't swivel left or right.
Upgrade · Logitech Brio 500
It records 1080p at 30 frames per second or 720p at 60, with a 90-degree view you can narrow. Its light correction gave evenly lit images in both low and overexposed lighting. Two noise-reducing mics, a twist-to-close privacy shutter and Show Mode for pointing it at your desk are built in.
Pro: Crisp, clear video with autofocus and auto white balance that worked better in testing.
Con: The mount can be finicky to fit and remove, and may leave gummy residue.
Absolute · Logitech MX
It records 4K at 30 frames per second or 1080p at 60 using a Sony Starvis sensor. HDR helps it handle low light, and it focuses unusually close, quickly and accurately. Twin beamforming mics cut background noise, and a twist of the lens ring closes the privacy shutter. You can pick a 65, 78 or 90-degree view.
Pro: Smoother 1080p video at 60 frames per second, plus 4K capture.
Con: It is bulky and lacks Windows Hello face login support.
Essential · $220Good
Upgrade · $499Better
Absolute · $1,585BestEssentialBreathable mesh with adjustable lumbar support
UpgradeArmrests adjust five ways, in and out
AbsoluteBack flexes with your spine
Essential · Boulies EP200
It pairs a flexible, breathable mesh back with adjustable lumbar support, seat depth and seat height, plus armrests that swivel and change height. The back reclines to 95, 113 or 135 degrees, and an adjustable head and neck support helped keep an upright posture. Its firm mesh seat won't sag but may feel hard on the tailbone.
Pro: A breathable mesh chair that stays supportive through full workdays.
Con: The seat fabric showed wear, such as creasing, after a couple of hours of use.
Upgrade · Branch Ergonomic Pro
It pairs a breathable mesh backrest that follows the curve of the back with a decently soft high-density foam seat. Seat depth and height, lumbar height and depth, recline resistance, forward tilt and tilt lock all adjust, and the armrests move five ways, including in and out. Users over six feet may want the optional taller cylinder.
Pro: A seat that held up through two years of testing with only slight fabric pilling.
Con: The recline tension knob does little, and the armrests have a slight wobble.
Absolute · Steelcase Gesture
Its armrests rotate a full 360 degrees and slide up, down, in, out, forward and back. The back flexes as you recline and holds the chosen angle, with height-adjustable lumbar support and a four-position back stop. Seat height and depth adjust, and it holds up to 400 pounds.
Pro: A seat that stays as comfortable after years of heavy use as on day one.
Con: Its foam and fabric don't breathe well, so it can retain heat.
Essential · $808GoodNo Upgrade pickNo product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pickSome candidates were set aside.
EssentialStable even at full height
Essential · Uplift V3
It has a dual-motor frame with four memory presets and lifts up to 355 pounds. Its height runs from 22.6 to 48.7 inches, which fits people from about 4-foot-9 to 6-foot-8. It moves smoothly and quietly, and every desk comes with a cable management tray. It has a 15-year warranty.
Pro: A sturdy electric sit-stand desk with a wide height range and many custom options.
Con: Slightly more front-to-back wobble than rival desks at heights of 40 inches and above.
No Upgrade pick. No product at this level has enough backing.
No Absolute pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Essential · $190Good
Upgrade · $285Better
Absolute · $647BestEssentialBorderless photos and special media
UpgradeKeyed bottles stop mix-ups and drips
AbsoluteAuto duplex and document feeder
Essential · Brother All-in-one
It prints, scans and copies, and connects by Ethernet, USB or Wi-Fi Direct. Reviewers found text very sharp and photos clear, and it can print borderless photos and other special media. It prints standard documents at 17 pages per minute and is quiet while printing. A touchscreen sets up prints and runs the scanner.
Pro: A color inkjet all-in-one that prints, scans and copies with sharp text and photos.
Con: Tiny ink cartridges that are used up fast and give poor ink economy.
Upgrade · Epson EcoTank ET-2980
This wireless color all-in-one has a flatbed scanner, and its ink is poured from bottles into tanks at the front. Keyed bottles stop mix-ups and drips, and it connects by Wi-Fi or USB with AirPrint and Mopria support. Text comes out sharp and colors vibrant, though printing is slower than a laser.
Pro: Ink rated for 8,500 black and 6,500 color pages, versus the Brother's poor ink economy.
Con: No automatic document feeder and a small screen, so big scan jobs are a chore.
Absolute · Canon Color
This color laser all-in-one prints, copies, scans and faxes, with auto duplex and a document feeder. Its main tray holds 250 sheets, with 50 more in a multipurpose tray that takes envelopes and labels. A responsive 5-inch touchscreen simplifies copying and scan jobs and walks you through clearing paper jams. Text prints sharp, and color documents show detail.
Pro: Laser printing measured at 26.5 pages per minute, where the Epson is slower than lasers.
Con: Heavy and bulky, with higher per-page running costs than most ink tank printers.
Essential · $799GoodNo Upgrade pickSome candidates were set aside.
Absolute · $1,399BestEssentialLaptop-charging port hub
AbsoluteDozens of spreadsheet columns
Essential · Dell U3425WE
This 34-inch, 3440x1440 ultrawide has an IPS Black panel with better contrast than typical IPS, and a 120 Hz refresh rate. Colors tested accurate and even across the screen, and it gets bright enough for office work. A Thunderbolt 4 port charges a laptop at up to 90 W, with Ethernet, many USB ports and a KVM switch.
Pro: A 34-inch ultrawide with a sharp 120 Hz screen and a laptop-charging port hub.
Con: It lacks variable refresh rate, and HDMI can't carry full resolution at 120 Hz.
No Upgrade pick. Some candidates were set aside.
Absolute · Dell U4025QW
This 40-inch, 5120x2160 ultrawide has an IPS Black panel and a 120 Hz refresh rate, and it supports variable refresh rate. It is accurate enough out of the box for most people. A Thunderbolt 4 port charges compatible laptops at up to 140 W, beside Ethernet, many USB ports, a KVM switch and split-screen for two computers.
Pro: A bigger, sharper 5120x2160 screen that fits dozens of spreadsheet columns at once.
Con: Its brightness and contrast tested about 25% below advertised, and its stand can wobble.






