When I’ve used some of the best air fryers to make dinner, for instance—and a few of them make this list—they end up replacing other cooking methods for their convenience. My preferred way of cooking bacon and salmon is by air fryer. And, in the case of oven-style ones like the Cosori 26-Quart Ceramic Air Fryer Oven, my favorite way of toasting bread as well.

While not everything included here is an air fryer, there are some hybrid options, as well as a microwave or two. Everything included here is a fantastic addition to your kitchen. Plus, every countertop oven included here has been thoroughly reviewed by us at Top Ten Reviews (and I’ve included links as well so you can plumb the depths of what makes these appliances worth getting).

Read on for our top picks for best countertop ovens, which we’ve thoroughly tested and reviewed.

The quick list

Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best countertop ovens we recommend in 2024

Our team has thoroughly reviewed the products featured in our buyer's guides. We strive to provide comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations consider top-rated brands and essential features to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions at the best value.

The best countertop oven overall

When I first unboxed the Cosori 26-quart Ceramic Air Fryer Oven, I was impressed by its size. After all, it’s big enough to cook a full-sized chicken. That large capacity is quite useful, from roasting vegetables to cooking a family-size serving of salmon. This offers much more capacity to cook all sorts of things and multiples of them than the smaller air fryers most of us think of.

Beyond size, this air fryer oven has plenty of other factors going for it. For example, it has 13 different cooking functions, a bunch of different trays for different types of recipes, and even a digital thermometer that reads out on the display. Despite the different functions on offer, it’s still intuitive and easy to use.

While the Cosori 26-Quart Ceramic Air Fryer Oven’s combination of size and multi-functionality – it does a pretty consistent job cooking as well – put it as our top pick overall, it is a little pricier. And for a more expensive model, it does have a strange quirk in that you’ll see steam escaping through the door – something I mistook for smoke for a long time.

It's a little less surprising, but still frustrating, that it’s not the easiest to clean inside, typical of oven-style air fryers. At least all the trays can stand a quick run through the dishwasher.

There may be a few minor issues with this air fryer oven. Still, this model, with its size and multiple cooking functions, is an easy recommendation for families and those wanting to make larger than bachelor-size portions.

Read our full Cosori 26-Quart Ceramic Air Fryer Oven review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best budget countertop oven

The Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer may not be cheap compared to the lowest priced air fryers on Amazon, but it’s the cheapest on this list and retails at a fairly reasonable price, not to mention that oven-style models are typically pricier than the more modest basket-style air fryers. Plus, with its sub-$200 price tag, it still has a fairly durable build along with a three-year warranty.

This air fryer and convection oven was reviewed by our contributor Joanne Lewsley, who found it easy to use and also appreciated its chic look thanks to its charcoal steel colorway and analog controls. While our reviewer didn’t have any issues with those controls, she did note that many users find the more analog dials to be less accurate.

On the brightside, there are seven different cooking functions – a bit less than many of the alternatives on here, but still plenty for most people. Joanne, regardless of the cooking function she used, found the Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer to produce consistent, well-cooked results. It helps that this model heats up quickly.

The Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer does have a strange quirk in that it produces condensation that escapes out of the sides of the viewing door, leaving some moisture on surrounding countertops. So if you’re considering this model, you might want to give it some extra countertop space even if its physical footprint isn’t particularly large for a countertop oven. Still, the price, multiple cooking functions, and attractive look make this air fryer a solid option for those with limited cash.

Read our full Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best premium countertop oven

The Brava Glass Oven might be the crème de la crème of countertop ovens. Of course, it also comes with a price to top all others. As multi-featured as this countertop oven is, its price is prohibitive and not for the faint of heart… or those on a budget.

Despite the price, our reviewer, Terri Williams, was impressed by several aspects of this countertop oven. There’s a lot to like here, after all. The wireless temperature sensor is a plus. The fact that there’s an internal camera that lets her see her food cooking is a major plus, especially considering that she found the glass viewing door not all that helpful since the handle somewhat obstructs the view.

She also enjoyed using the five-inch color display, specifically for the recipes with step-by-step instructions. The display also allows access to that internal camera.

Despite not having multiple compartments or drawers, the Brava Glass Oven does implement an interesting feature as it uses six heating lamps layered in three zones that can be used independently, meaning that you can potentially cook up to three dishes at the same time. And our reviewer found it to cook three different items simultaneously well. However, Terri did find that if she didn’t use the right proportions of a given veggie or meat, any preset cooking time resulted in under or overcooked items. A level of precision is required when following Brava’s instructions.

Read our full Brava Glass Oven review

The best large capacity countertop oven

On the pricier side, we have the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, which our contributor Molly Cleary reviewed. While we’ve singled this model out for its large capacity – it has the largest on this list and can fit a whole chicken and, apparently, 13 slices of toast – Molly liked quite a few things about this model.

For instance, it offers 13 different cooking functions, including some that are not always available, like dehydrate and slow cook. They’re easy to navigate through via the large display and polished feeling knobs.

It can also go from 80 to 480 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 249 degrees C). It does a fantastic job cooking and implements an algorithmic solution called “Element IQ” to intelligently adjust temperature for even results. She particularly liked how quickly it would heat up. After all, its super convection setting can cut cooking time down by 30%, according to Breville.

It’s more than a large-capacity convection oven, which is obviously a boon. However, its large capacity can’t be overstated: It has a cubic-foot interior, big enough to cook a 14-pound bird.

It has the usual shortcomings of an oven-style air fryer, as the interior can be tough to keep spotless, and the price is on the higher end. Still, if you’re looking for a lot of capacity, look no further.

Read our full Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best countertop oven with microwave functionality

This unique countertop oven found its way into the hands of another one of our contributors, Marah Eakin. While she found it on the bulky side, as it takes up a decent amount of countertop space, it also can save some by making a separate microwave obsolete. That counts for a lot.

Of course, the interior capacity isn’t enough to cook multiple dishes at once, not to mention that there’s only one cooking surface as opposed to the multiple trays that can be used with other models. So, there is still some competition when it comes to multi-functionality when it comes to air fryers. However, having that microwave functionality might be key for some.

Luckily, during her testing, Marah found both the microwave and convection settings to work flawlessly, whether she was microwaveing a bowl of soup or roasting chicken wings. Plus, this countertop oven employs Breville’s “Element IQ” technology, which redirects power to where it’s needed most, resulting in consistently and evenly cooked dishes.

She also found it sturdily made and the auto-off function a welcome safety feature. The large display is also easy to read and use.

All the functionality in this 3-in-1 model comes at quite the price, as this goes for $500. That’s substantial even compared to plenty of the other countertop ovens we’ve looked at, which we call pricey. That said, you’re getting an air fryer, convection oven, and microwave functionality in one, and adding that microwave feature eliminates the need for an extra kitchen appliance.

Read our full Breville Combi Wave Microwave review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best dual compartment countertop oven

Like most of the countertop ovens on this list, the Ninja 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven Air Fryer has twelve different cooking features, including air-frying, roasting, and the all-important pizza, as well as dehydration.

More impressively, it has dual compartments that sit on top of each other and have their own temperature and time settings. When I tested this air fryer, I was very satisfied with the results—and that’s not just because I ate them.

I found both compartments to cook evenly. Plus, I was able to use an included feature that allows the two compartments to finish cooking at the same time. I basically set the time and temperature in each compartment, press the button, and it will start one first and then the other at a time when they both finish concurrently.

On the negative side, the inside is tough to clean, partially because it’s an oven-style air fryer but also because there’s so much more surface area with the two compartments, not to mention cleaning an extra tray or two. Still, having those two compartments is a time-saver when making dinner.

Considering there are air fryers, albeit much smaller and more limited, available for under $100 / £100, it’s to be expected that you’ll have to pay a price for all these features. Yes, it’s not close to the most expensive model on this list, but it’s still a bit pricey. However, its dual functionality makes the Ninja 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven Air Fryer a keeper.

Read our full Ninja 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven Air Fryer review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best smart countertop oven

As Paige Cerulli, the Tovala Smart Oven’s reviewer, noted, this kitchen appliance is ideal for one to two people. Its diminutive size means that, while it won’t take up too much countertop space, it can only cook small portions at a time. Regular trays and pans won’t fit in here, either. Paige notes that cleaning the interior gets frustrating since it gets dirty pretty quickly due to its small size.

But, for some people, the Tovala Smart Oven is worth it. Other models on this list have smart features, but none do quite what this one does. Yes, there’s an app, and this toaster oven-sized appliance connects to WiFi (but only has 2.4GHz networks for some reason). But, more interestingly, it has a barcode reader.

Tovala offers subscription meals that come with a barcode. For the ones used in her review, Paige had to scan the barcode, do whatever minimal meal prep was required, and pop it in. The Tovala Smart Oven automatically picks the temperature and time based on the code. Plus, it can scan the barcodes for other manufacturers and do the same.

The Tovala Smart Oven also works well for meals made from scratch. Choosing from one of the five settings, Paige made pork chops, fries, and even toast. While the number of settings is somewhat limited, you do get the most important ones, like air fry, reheat, and broiler.

Read our full Tovala Smart Oven review

• Back to the top ⤴

How to choose the best countertop oven for you

Several factors should guide your decision to ensure your countertop oven meets your cooking needs and lifestyle.

Size and Capacity: Measure your countertop space and the oven size to ensure the oven fits comfortably without crowding your workspace. Look for an oven that can accommodate your typical meal size, whether it's a small pizza or a big casserole. If you cook for a small family or entertain guests often, look for one that fits your oven's internal capacity.

Cooking Functions: Your countertop oven can bake, broil, toast, and air fry. If versatility is important to you, choose a model with multiple functions so you can experiment with different cooking techniques.

Power and Efficiency: Consider the oven's wattage; higher wattage generally means faster cooking and more efficient heating. However, if you plan to use it often, look for ovens with good insulation and energy-saving features.

Controls and Ease of Use: It's important to have user-friendly controls. Digital displays, intuitive knobs, and preset cooking programs can make meal prep a breeze. Additionally, think about whether you prefer manual controls or a touch screen.

Countertop oven FAQs

Are countertop ovens worth it?

The most significant advantage of countertop ovens is their compact size. They fit easily on countertops, so they're great for small kitchens. Countertop ovens can also be stored away when they're not in use, making your kitchen layout more flexible.

Countertop ovens have many cooking functions, including baking, broiling, toasting, and air frying. Because of their multifunctionality, you don't need multiple appliances to make a variety of dishes. If you like experimenting with different cooking techniques, a countertop oven can be a great addition to your kitchen.

Using a countertop oven can save energy, especially for smaller dinners. They require less preheating time and use less energy, making them an eco-friendly option.

With compact size and efficient heating elements, countertop ovens cook food faster than conventional ovens.

The countertop ovens tend to be cheaper than traditional ovens, so they're an affordable option for those on a budget. They can also serve as a secondary cooking appliance, which is great for larger households or entertaining.

How much do countertop ovens cost?

A countertop oven usually costs $50 to $1,300. Budget models, often basic toaster ovens, are typically found at the lower end of this spectrum, so they're great for toasting and reheating. Most mid-range models come with extra features like convection cooking and digital controls. They usually cost between $100 and $500 and are more versatile.

You can find high-end countertop ovens with advanced features, bigger capacities, and better build quality. These ovens often have multiple cooking functions, smart technology, and energy efficiency. Some high-end models can reach baking temperatures and have steam and rotisserie features.

Brand reputation plays a big role in countertop oven prices; well-known brands with a history of quality may get more expensive. The materials used in construction, such as stainless steel vs. plastic, can also affect price. Digital displays, programmable settings, and extra accessories (like baking trays) add to the cost.

How long to countertop ovens last?

When considering a countertop oven, it's important to consider its lifespan. Depending on several factors, countertop ovens can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years.

The brand and quality of the countertop oven play a significant role in its longevity. A high-end model from a reputable brand has better materials and construction, which makes it last longer. With proper care, premium brands can last up to 10 years.

Using your countertop oven frequently can wear it down, especially if you use it for high temperatures frequently. Alternatively, if you use it occasionally for specific tasks, it might last longer.

Cleaning, avoiding overloading, and using the appliance according to the manufacturer's instructions is crucial for extending the life of your countertop oven. If you keep the oven's heating elements clean and ensure it's well-vented, you can make it last longer.

A countertop oven may need replacement if it's experiencing issues like inconsistent heating, strange noises, or visible damage to the cord or exterior.

When is the best time to buy a countertop oven?

There's no better time to buy a countertop oven than during major sales. Many retailers offer big discounts during holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day. You can find great deals on high-quality models at these sales. After the holidays, many retailers may cut prices on kitchen appliances to clear out inventory, so January is a great time to buy.

A great time to buy is when new models come out. Manufacturers usually release their newest models in the spring or fall. As new ones hit the market, older models are discounted. It's a great time to get a countertop oven at a lower price if you don't care about having the latest features.

How we tested the best countertop ovens for this guide

At Top Ten Reviews, we take our testing seriously. Our goal is to ensure that every countertop oven featured in our buyer's guide has been thoroughly evaluated by our experts.

When it comes to reviewing countertop ovens, we dive into every detail over several weeks. From the initial setup to cooking various meals, we share our genuine, hands-on experiences to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

I’m pleased to say that each countertop oven highlighted in this guide has undergone extensive testing. We will continue to evaluate both popular and new models to keep this guide current and ensure that you always get the best value for your money.

Find out more about how we test.

While I haven't personally reviewed any of the air fryers featured in this guide, I have tried out plenty of air fryers over the years. Myself and the reviews panel (Molly, Joanne and James) have awarded the Cosori Lite Smart Air Fryer as the best small air fryer for one person. While it is compact, it can cook enough fries, sausages and / or fish for up to 3 - 4 people. It also has a list price of under $100 making it a great entry-level choice too.

The best small air fryers for one person do typically cost between $60 and $120. At the higher end of the scale, premium features often include intuitive digital displays and extra cooking functions such as pre-heating, grilling, roasting, and baking. A good time to buy a small air fryer is during sales events such as Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. This will give you the best chance to score a new air fryer with those premium features you've been lusting after for so long. Read on to find out which of these compact countertop appliances made my shortlist. 

The quick list

Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best small air fryers for one person we recommend in 2024

Our team has thoroughly reviewed the products featured in our buyer's guides. We strive to provide comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations consider top-rated brands and essential features to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions at the best value.

The best small air fryer overall

The Cosori Lite Smart Air Fryer is an Amazon favorite, but does it meet expectations? We reckon so. Throughout our thorough testing process, the 1500-watt air fryer consistently put other well-respected small air fryers to shame, cooking food evenly and speedily. It also can cook for 3 - 4 people, making it suitable for small families.

Design: At a quick glance, it may appear that the compact, 9-lb air fryer can’t possibly handle the demands of a small family. However, the four-quart tray is surprisingly spacious. Cooking for a group larger than 3 - 4 people would be overambitious. It has a single-basket design, so unfortunately, you can't grill, bake, roast, or dehydrate.

Available in a range of muted gray, white, or green, the Cosori Lite offers a good choice of colors to suit your kitchen's aesthetic. The digital control panel displays the temperature and timer settings, and there are additional buttons to select from seven different functions (bacon, veggies, steak, fries, chicken, preheat, keep warm) or adjust the temperature and timer. Overall, it looks clean and modern, although the control panel does show up greasy fingerprint marks.

Performance: The Cosori Lite produced perfectly crispy results with fries, chicken tenders, and bacon, so long as the food was flipped partway through. Conveniently, it offers a preheat setting and a shake function to help fries cook evenly. All worked as intended; the fries were particularly fluffy, but there was little space to spread them in the tray.

Some excess oil may pool at the bottom of the tray when cooking fries. However, it's a breeze to clean, whether you prefer hand-washing or using the dishwasher for the basket and grill plate.

Price: At $111.98, the Cosori Lite isn't the most budget-friendly or expensive air fryer. However, it's just about right for the number of functions and space it offers. Budget models are available for half this price, although they'll lack the same functionality.

Read more: Cosori Lite Smart Air Fryer review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best small air fryer on a budget

Being on a budget doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice quality. The Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer is powerful and compact. It features 1700 watts of power, a spacious six-quart tray, and five functions, all for just $119.99.

Design: The Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer has a unique shape for an air fryer: it is narrow in width but long from front to back. This shape slots easily into a slim space on the countertop. Nevertheless, the six-quart basket is surprisingly family-sized; Instant claims it can fit a 4-lb chicken or a 2-lb bag of fries.

You may find that this Instant air fryer gives you a new lease of life in the kitchen, as it’s just so easy to use. You're shown a progress bar and a countdown clock after selecting a time, temperature, and cooking function. An attractive jingle also prompts you to shake the basket halfway through, which is key to getting evenly cooked food when using an air fryer.

Performance: The Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer performed well in our thorough testing process. In just a few minutes, it achieved evenly cooked asparagus, a crispy family-sized portion of thin-cut fries, great chicken nuggets, and super-crispy bacon rashers.

The pre-heat function crisps up food even more, although it’s a little too powerful sometimes, so you may need to shorten the cooking period.

Getting rid of any leftover grease is tricky by hand, but the basket and grill plate are dishwasher-friendly. The rubber side holds are the only parts that are hard to clean.

Price: The Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer costs $111.99, although it’s often on sale. Either way, it’s quite a bargain, considering that it offers various cooking functions and has 1700 watts of power.

Read more: Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best small toaster oven

The Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Mini Oven is a versatile powerhouse that can take over the roles of your toaster, oven, and grill. Its stylish convection oven design offers seven functions in one compact appliance, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Design: The Cuisinart TOA-60, which weighs 23 lbs, requires some elbow grease to set up. This is because it packs in an oven rack, a baking tray, and the standard air fryer tray.

Naturally, with all these different parts, the model is a bit on the larger side, too, which will either be a downside if you have a very small kitchen or a big plus if you're cooking for a family. Given its lack of maneuverability, it’ll need a permanent 1.5 - 1.7 sq. ft. Parking space on your counter.

The air fryer's matte charcoal steel exterior with glints of silver exudes a classic charm. While it lacks a digital display, the retro control dials allow you to select from seven cooking settings and set the temperature and timer. Its versatility is its most attractive feature; it can air fry, bake, toast, grill, make paninis or toasties, roast, or bake pizzas, offering a wide range of cooking possibilities.

Performance: The Cuisinart TOA-60 is a reliable performer, consistently delivering impressive results across various dishes, from bacon and chicken to nachos and even a full Victoria sponge cake. While it may produce some condensation when cooking moist foods, this is a minor trade-off for its excellent cooking performance, giving you the confidence that it can handle any dish you throw at it.

You’ll need to keep up with cleaning; Cuisinart recommends wiping away grease with a damp cloth and liquid soap after every use. There is a pull-out crumb tray.

Price: The Cuisinart TOA-60 costs $170 from Amazon. That makes it the most expensive small air fryer in our round-up and $60 - 70 more than the Cosori Lite and Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer. However, the TOA-60 has such a quality design that we reckon it’s a reasonable ask. The three-year warranty is also three times the standard. 

Read more: Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Mini Oven review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best simple small air fryer

From the creators of the Nutribullet blenders, the Magic Bullet Compact Air Fryer is a straightforward and affordable solution for air frying. Its simplicity is its strength, making it a user-friendly option for those new to air frying.

Design: When something is labeled as ‘simple’ or ‘basic,’ to a certain extent, you need to have realistic expectations. As a simple air fryer, the Magic Bullet Compact Air Fryer lacks the functionality you get with more premium air fryer models. It has one main cooking method (air frying), so it works only as intended.

The Magic Bullet Compact Air Fryer lives up to its name, being truly compact with just a 2.5-quart drawer. If you live alone or in a small space like a dorm room, it’s the perfect fit. Weighing just 7.9 lbs, it's easy to store when not in use, and its sleek black design adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

The manual temperature dial has a good temperature range of 180 to 400 °F. There are also six pre-sets with suggested methods for cooking fries, vegetables, chicken wings, frozen chicken wings, fish, and poultry. The manual timer can also prevent food from overcooking.

Performance: The downside of using a manual dial is that getting your timings spot-on is tricky. If you only want to run the air fryer for five minutes, you may accidentally add on a few minutes. The drawer is also a bit cramped, limiting the portion sizes, but being non-stick, it is easy to clean. Everything our reviewer air-fried was tasty despite the model’s few limitations.

Price: The Magic Bullet Compact Air Fryer costs $49.99 directly from Nutribullet. It’s hard to find an air fryer cheaper than that that still works a treat. You do miss out on the pleasure of grilling, baking, and so on, but that’s to be expected at this price point.

Read more: Magic Bullet Compact Air Fryer review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best designed small air fryer

If you want to cook healthy air-fried bacon and fries while still having enough countertop space for family food prep, the Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer should be a great choice.

Some smaller, budget air fryers simply can’t handle the demands of a family. However, this glossy air fryer strikes a good balance between saving space and consistently meeting the demands of a family.

Design: The Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer, accompanied by a handy recipe book, is designed for your convenience. Its matte-black exterior may not be flashy, but the sleek LED digital display with timer and temperature buttons and the function selection buttons make it easy to use. Whether preheating, reheating, drying, baking, proofing, warming, air frying, roasting, broiling, or cooking from frozen, this air fryer has you covered.

With a DC motor and 1725 Watts of power, the air fryer has the potential to cook food evenly and quickly. The six-quart drawer is also family-sized, fitting up to five salmon fillets and good family-sized portions of potatoes even when they're spread out.

When you pull out the drawer, the air fryer automatically shuts off, a thoughtful safety feature for families. Even during use, the exterior of the air fryer remains cool, providing an added layer of safety, especially if you have curious little ones around.

Performance: The model cooks powerfully, although this can be a double-edged sword if you’re not careful. It overcooked food a few times during our tests, so much so that our reviewer had to shave a few minutes off the recommended cooking times. Therefore, some mental mathematics is required for the perfect crisp.

The non-stick drawer is easily cleaned with soap and water or in the dishwasher.

Price: The Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer, available directly from Cosori, costs $119.99. That's over double the price of the Magic Bullet model we reviewed. However, it packs an impressive number of functions and is also very powerful, so it should be well worth it.

Read more: Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer review

• Back to the top ⤴

How we test the best small air fryers for this guide

We like to test all of the products we feature in our buyers' guides, and the best air fryers for one person are no exception; our review panel has reviewed all.

We've delved deep into the world of air fryers for one person, spending at least two weeks with each one. Every specification has been meticulously fact-checked, and we've evaluated the ease of setup and cleaning. But what you want to know is how they perform. We've tested them with a diverse range of foods, from vegetables to fries and even cake, showcasing their versatility and adaptability. 

Price and availability: We evaluate the air fryer's price, features, and durability to determine value. We also check availability in stores and online and review warranty and customer support.

First Impressions & Setup: We assess the air fryer's packaging and contents for protection and completeness and evaluate the clarity and ease of the setup process and user manual.

Design: We consider air fryer size and aesthetics for different kitchens, assess control panel design and programmable settings, and evaluate construction materials, portability, and adaptability.

Performance: We evaluate the air fryer's cooking efficiency, temperature control, and durability to ensure reliable performance and consistent results.

Care & Maintenance: We consider the air fryer's ease of cleaning and maintenance, including grease removal and surface cleaning, as well as its durability and long-term performance.

Read more about our in-depth testing process.

How to choose the best small air fryer for you

When choosing a small air fryer, there are a few important factors you’ll always want to keep at the back of your mind.

Size

If you’re considering small air fryers, you’ve likely already identified size as a key factor. However, there’s a significant difference between air fryers that can cook for one to two people and those that can cater to up to six—the more spacious the drawer, the less compact the air fryer. If you’re a family with limited space, a solution is to find a lightweight air fryer that can be stored in your pantry between uses. The crucial step is to measure your kitchen space before purchasing a small air fryer, ensuring you make an informed decision rather than relying on guesswork.

Wattage

The higher the wattage, the more powerful your small air fryer will be. This, in turn, means that you will experience faster cooking speeds. The main downside is that higher-wattage air fryers use more electricity, resulting in higher energy bills.

Cooking functions

Many buy an air fryer to create popular air-fryer dishes such as bacon and fries with minimal oil. However, they can also replace kitchen appliances such as a toaster, grill, or microwave. The more cooking functions a small air fryer has, the more expensive it is. If you’re new to air frying, you will also want to keep your eyes peeled for small air fryers with pre-set modes for items like fries, bacon, veggies, and chicken. These will provide the ideal temperature and timer settings, so you don’t have to do any mental mathematics.

Cleaning

Due to their size, most small air fryers require very little maintenance. The exterior can be wiped down using a wet cloth and a little dish soap. Air fryers with dishwasher-friendly parts are ideal if you don’t want to waste time hand-washing the basket. Otherwise, you may find yourself having to soak and scrub the tray after every use. Keeping the air fryer clean ensures it works safely and effectively and maintains longevity.

Price

Depending on the brand, size, features, and wattage, a small air fryer can cost between $60 and $120. At the lower end of that scale, you should expect basic air frying settings and a small capacity suitable for just one to two people. At the higher end of the scale, the air fryer might offer additional roasting, baking, and grilling cooking functions and spacious drawer-fitting portions for up to five or six people.

My team and I have tried out all of the battery-powered lawn mowers in this guide so that we can share our real-life, honest opinions about them with you. We have followed the same testing criteria, from set-up to charge time to performance. Other factors, such as the noise level (dB), have also been recorded.

I can tell you now that the cordless lawn mower that has received our highest praise is the Husqvarna Lawn Xpert LE322R. It's perfect for small to medium lawns and has self-propelled technology to help take out any struggles on an incline or uneven ground. Additionally, it has 3-in-1 bagging, and the grass catcher can hold 2.3 cubic feet. If you're after something larger, I recommend the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP. When I tried it out in my backyard, I found it was just too big and heavy for a yard any smaller than 200sq.m.

If you'd like a more in-depth analysis of each of these options or, indeed, you want more choice, read on to find out what is the best lawn mower for you.

The quick list

Want to get straight to the best cordless lawn mowers? You'll find a quick roundup of our top choices here. You can then jump to a more in-depth write-up for each product, and see the latest deals on them.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best cordless lawn mowers we recommend

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best lawn mowers in our list. Each one has been extensively tested by either myself or a team member, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best cordless lawn mower overall

With the Husqvarna Lawn Xpert LE-322, our reviewer Alex Temblador liked the battery life and runtime a lot. This mower makes mowing easy with a rear-wheel drive system and a large cutting deck. Users can also customize their cutting experience with the adjustable handle and control panel.

With two batteries, the mower runs for 75 minutes, though a typical runtime is about an hour. Battery life can be influenced by the mowing style and grass thickness, but Alex mowed two-thirds of her half-acre yard before one battery ran out. After charging one battery for about an hour, she mowed the remaining half of the yard in 20 minutes.

With the self-propelled system, moving around obstacles and on slopes was easy. Thanks to the rear-wheel drive, Alex was able to mow in straight lines with little effort. She loved the different cutting modes, especially the sensing mode, which optimized power consumption based on cutting needs.

As well as delivering an even mow, the Husqvarna's larger cutting deck made it easier to maneuver around trees and other obstacles. The intuitive control panel on the handle makes shifting between cutting modes easy, and the manual clearly instructs you on changing the grass catcher, the rear discharge chute, and the mulch plugs.

Since the charger only accommodates one battery at a time, Alex had to make sure both batteries were charged before mowing. Even so, the mower's battery life and good performance outweighed the drawbacks.

Read our full Husqvarna Lawn Xpert LE-322 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best cordless push mower

Our reviewer, Jason, tested the DeWalt 60V MAX Brushless Push Mower on his 6,800-square-foot lawn. It had great battery life and cutting performance, and it managed to do his entire yard for 80 minutes with just one battery. This was especially impressive for Jason since his previous mower had a short runtime. Only a couple of times did he need both batteries, even when dealing with taller grass or using the bag attachment.

Jason couldn't believe how well the dual-blade system cut tough patches without leaving behind stray grass blades. Despite not having cords or complicated mechanisms, the mower stood out for its power and ease of starting. Even though the cutting deck was smaller than many other mowers Jason had used, it proved to be efficient and effective. He could trim his lawn with precision while balancing maneuverability and cutting power.

Also, Jason found the DeWalt mower really easy to use. It was easy to set up, and unfolding the handle was a breeze. Even his 4-year-old could adjust the height. Its lightweight design made it easy to maneuver, which made it fun to mow.

In his opinion, however, the 45-minute charge time was misleading. The battery took longer to charge from empty, likely because the fast charger was missing. Despite the long charging time, this mower's outstanding performance and battery life made it a worthwhile investment for efficient lawn care. A faster charging option would certainly make it better.

Read our full DeWalt 60V MAX Brushless Push Mower review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best cordless lawn mower for mulching

Our reviewer, Jonathan, reviewed the Toro 60V Max 22in Recycler Lawn Mower and was very impressed with it. He particularly liked the battery life and strong performance. With its self-propelled feature and adaptive power delivery, mowing became a breeze. Even though it took more time to charge than expected—about three hours and 40 minutes versus 150 minutes—the longer runtime was a big plus.

On a single charge, Jonathan managed to mow for around 50 minutes, which outperformed the expected 40 minutes. Using the mower's battery efficiently contributed to a seamless mowing experience since he was able to finish his yard and his dad's without having to recharge.

According to Jonathan, the Toro 60V Max is easy to handle, especially when dealing with tall grass and morning dew. Its motor provides more power for longer grass but is quieter and more efficient for shorter grass.

This mower also had a 22-inch cutting deck, which allowed Jonathan to mow faster and with fewer passes. With a simple push-button start and intuitive setup, Jonathan had no issues using it.

In addition, the mower's foldable handle made it easy to store and transport, and the wheel settings made it easy to maneuver. Despite the longer charge time compared to other models, Jonathan was able to mow all day without interruptions, so the Toro 60V Max 22in Recycler Lawn Mower is a good investment.

Read our full Toro Flex-Force Power System 60V Max 22in Recycler Lawn Mower review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best cordless lawn mower for small to medium yards

The Worx 20-inch Cordless Lawn Mower is an efficient tool powered by a 20V battery, perfect for small to medium lawns. It's not easy to cut through long grass, but it's easy to set up, easy to use, and quick to recharge.

I found that using two 20V batteries lets me mow my 400-square-foot backyard in one go. After about two hours of tackling some overgrown areas, I did need to recharge the batteries. If you have other Worx PowerShare products, you can use them as a backup. It took under two hours to recharge, which is good. If you're doing extended or tougher mowing sessions, you might need more power.

On short, lush grass, the mower worked fine, but it struggled on longer, tougher blades, which meant it didn't run as long. The 30-cm blade cuts precisely, and with seven adjustable cutting heights, I could easily set it to my preferred level. I picked a height of four, which worked well on uneven ground and even cut an apple without getting too messy.

The cutting deck is 20 inches, so I had no trouble navigating obstacles and tight spots. It took just 10 minutes to set up, and the instructions were clear. Its lightweight design and adjustable handlebars make it easy to use. Moreover, the grass clipping collection system makes cleanup easy. The Worx 20-inch Cordless Lawn Mower has a battery level indicator and quick recharging, so it's a great lawn care tool.

Read more: Worx WG743 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best cordless lawn mower for large yards

The EGO Power+ 21-inch Select Cut Lawn Mower took a long time to charge and had a heavy battery, but it cut really well. Although the first 25% charge only provided a quarter of the expected runtime, the 56V Arc Lithium battery delivered a workable runtime once fully charged.

Due to its weight, maneuvering the mower was a challenge, but I was able to get used to the self-propelled feature eventually. Even though my backyard was uneven and patchy, the mower handled it pretty well. With its adjustable cutting height and powerful blades, it's great for all kinds of terrain. While I initially struggled to get it started and adjust the speed, the push-start button and self-propelled speed control simplified the process.

While its wide cutting deck ensured effective grass trimming, the size often made maneuvering around obstacles difficult, often requiring several attempts to turn at the bottom of the yard.

After unboxing and assembling, it took less than an hour to reach a full charge. The mower arrived with a 25% charge. As heavy as it is at 2.9kg and loud when charging, these minor drawbacks were outweighed by its precision cutting and ease of use once I got used to it. The EGO Power+ 21-inch Select Cut Lawn Mower worked well for lawn care.

Read our full EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-inch Select Cut Lawn Mower review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best cordless lawn mowers: Side-by-side comparison

Also consider

There are several other options for cordless push lawnmowers that you may not have previously considered: robot lawnmowers and riding lawnmowers. A robot lawn mower is a hands-free approach to cutting the grass in the yard, whereas a ride-on lawn mower is designed for large yards of up to four acres. Both of these lawn mower types can be powered by batteries.

The John Deere Z370R ZTrak Electric Zero-turn Riding Lawn Mower scored full marks from our reviewer, Alex Temblador. It's suitable for cutting up to two acres on a single charge and can reach a speed of up to 7MPH. Alex found maneuvering around trees, outdoor furniture, and garden beds easy. The fact that it is battery-powered meant that very little maintenance was required, apart from recharging the battery. It does cost a steep $6,399, though, so for (almost) half the price and fewer obstacles, Alex recommends the EGO TR4204 Power+ 42in T6 Lawn Tractor.

A panel of contributors, including myself, challenged a selection of robot lawn mowers.  I reviewed the Worx Landroid S WR165, better suited for small to medium-sized lawns. While setting up the boundary wire was time-consuming, and we had a little boundary wire mowing incident, I found it so easy to use - and it did a fantastic job of keeping the lawn nicely trimmed, too. If you prefer a robot mower without the boundary wire, then Pete Wise recommends the Segway Navimow i105N. It's the same price as the Worx Landroid S WR165, yet it is easy to set up, has a "stunning mowing performance" (Pete's words), and is a simple-to-use app. 

You might be surprised that brands such as Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, and Honda are not on the list. This is because we haven't had hands-on testing with either of these brands' cordless lawn mowers. Certain DeWALT lawn mowers, such as the DeWALT DCMWSP244U2 Cordless Self-Propelled Mower, have also not been included. This is because it is being recalled, along with three other mowers, due to safety fears.

How to choose the best cordless lawn mower for your yard

We asked the experts to explain the best ways to choose a cordless lawn mower for your yard. Nathan Cord, a gardening expert with Generators Direct, cited budget, yard size, cutting width, range of cutting heights, battery life, voltage, and weight among the top things to look for.

Price

Cord said: "Cordless lawnmowers are priced from $150 to well over $500. When determining how much you will spend, consider the features and durability with the price."

Matt Davies, lawn specialist and managing director at GardenLawncareGuy, added: "For basic models, if you are on a budget, you can save some money by looking at less established brands that haven't yet built up a reputation for quality or reliability. In general you will also see less premium materials like plastic parts and perhaps most importantly a smaller cutting width and grass collector box." 

Yard size

The size of the mower's cutting deck will determine its cutting width on each pass, so the larger the deck, the quicker you can mow your lawn. For guidance, a 30-inch deck is ideal for a smaller yard, while a 42-inch one is better suited for large gardens.

Cord told Top Ten Reviews: "A wider cutting width reduces the mowing time for larger lawns but may be less practical for smaller, intricate gardens. My best advice is to opt for a cutting width of 11.8-15.7 inches, 15.7-18.5" and 18.8" or more for large yards."

He continued: "The size of your yard will dictate the type of mower you need. Larger gardens may require more powerful mowers with longer battery life, while smaller gardens can do well with compact models." 

"Higher-end machines will have a larger cutting and collector box," said Davis. "This is particularly important if you have a mid- or larger-sized property, and it will mean less time mowing and emptying the box of clippings. 

"Some of these machines will also have features like a rear roller, which can produce lawn stripes in your grass and be self-propelled so they will drive themselves forward - meaning less work for you pushing the unit."

Voltage

Your lawn mower's battery capacity and voltage will affect run time and cutting power. 

"A lower voltage (18-24V) is suitable for smaller, less demanding gardens; medium voltage (36-40V) is good for medium-sized lawns, while a higher voltage (48V and above) is best for large and dense lawns," said Cord. 

Runtime

This can vary depending on mower type, lawn size, and terrain, so before you buy a battery-powered mower, ensure the capacity is enough to get the job done.

For a battery mower, this can range from 30 minutes for a small electric push mower to 12 hours for a large electric riding mower. Also, pay attention to what power outlet you need to charge your battery.

Davies said: "Depending on the size of your lawn, most cordless mowers will produce several mows off a single charge.

"The number of cuts you can expect on a single charge will be reduced if you don't cut your lawn very often, as longer and overgrown grass puts more demand on the motor. Regular mowing not only improves the health of grass but also means you'll get more cuts from a single charge."

Weight

"The weight of the mower affects its ease of use," explains Cord. "Lighter models are easier to maneuver but might compromise power and battery size. Choosing a lightweight model will be easier to push and handle, ideal for smaller gardens. Contrastingly, heavier models are often more powerful and better for larger gardens but can be harder to maneuver.

"Look for a balance between weight and features to suit your needs. Considering these factors, you can choose a cordless lawn mower that fits your yard size and specific requirements."

Budget

According to the research, you'll likely find lawn mower deals in a few critical times throughout the year.

The best time to buy a cordless lawn mower is early spring, usually between March and April. Retailers and manufacturers are gearing up for the mowing season and offering discounts and promotions. As the mowing season ends, retailers are clearing out their inventory to accommodate the following year's models. This is when you'll find the deepest discounts and clearance sales.

Retailers often offer special promotions and sales during holiday weekends, such as Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day, to capitalize on increased consumer spending.

Major events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday later in the year also offer big discounts on cordless lawnmowers.

How we tested the best cordless lawn mowers for this guide

We've tested all cordless lawnmowers in this guide for at least four weeks in our backyards to ensure they are the best option for you. I've made it a personal mission to ensure we get hands-on with all the products featured in our guides, and this one is no exception.

On a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides, we are upping our game on how we test cordless lawnmowers at Top Ten Reviews. The most crucial element of our review process is that we are consistent with our testing to draw accurate comparisons. This means that our review panel has strict criteria to follow from the point of delivery of a cordless lawn mower right through to the cleaning and maintenance of the machine.

The cutting performance has been challenged with long spring and fall grass. We also take into account the battery life and runtime, as well as the charge time, to ensure that we are only featuring the best battery-powered lawnmowers. A decibel meter measures how noisy the cordless mowers are when running and how loud the battery charger is (if it's kicking up some racket). In cases where we continue using lawnmowers, we also test for cleaning, maintenance, and longevity - we'll update our reviews and this guide with our key findings.

Evaluating what they are physically capable of when running up our lawns means using tools like the decibel meter reader and items such as an apple (to test the blade strength) so that we can award the mower a score out of 10.

These scores will be echoed in our standalone reviews where you can read more about the in-depth analysis. Read more about how we test.

Meet the team

Also, consider the grill's placement. Portable options may be the most suitable if you plan to use it in a camping or RV setting. 

This guide is designed to help you make the right decision, and every entry below has been tried and tested by our team of experts. In hands-on testing, we have considered everything from packaging and ease of setup to design and cooking performance. You'll also find a mix of portable, gas, charcoal, and more.

Keep reading to discover which grills we rate as the best then, head to our guide to the best pizza ovens for cooking some dough outside.

The quick list

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grills we recommend in 2025 

The best grill overall

The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is a high-tech ceramic grill that promises precise temperature control and convenient digital features. From the challenging delivery and assembly process to the impressive cooking performance, we were eager to test the innovative outdoor cooking appliance.

Setup: The Konnected Joe arrived in a massive 180kg wooden crate, and our reviewer needed help from a neighbor to move the heavy ceramic grill inside. Assembling the cart and aligning the grill was challenging, and connecting to power and setting up the Kamado Joe app were the final steps in a challenging delivery and assembly process.

Design: The Konnected Joe boasts a visually stunning design, with a bold red finish and a ceramic dome featuring a textured surface. Its lower section houses a digital screen, control dials, buttons, an automatic Firestarter, and three meat probe ports, giving it the 'Konnected' name.

The grill offers convenient temperature management with a built-in fan and allows for remote monitoring through the Kamado Joe app. The Air Lift hinge facilitates easy opening, revealing grates, ceramic tiles, and an ash tool for charcoal maintenance. Sturdy construction and user-friendly features make it a standout option for grilling enthusiasts.

Performance: The Konnected Joe offers a convenient and precise grilling experience, especially for slow cooking and smoking, and it's a great addition to any outdoor cooking setup. The built-in temperature display and meat probes provided excellent control over the cooking process, and the ability to adjust the temperature quickly using the app's control panel was a game-changer—even allowing our tester to monitor the cooking progress remotely.

The grill performed exceptionally well, producing juicy and flavorful results, especially beef steak, chicken wings, and salmon. The quick temperature adjustments made a noticeable difference in the cooking process. Still, the grill's ceramic material retained heat for a prolonged period after cooking, which could be a drawback for some users.

Read more: Kamado Joe Konnected Joe review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grill on a budget

Despite minor challenges, the sturdy and compact design and the NK14's efficient performance make it a convenient option for outdoor grilling. The classic kettle shape ensures even heat distribution, while the grill's portability makes it suitable for outdoor adventures.

Setup: The NK14 tabletop grill is easy to assemble, but the instructions, although detailed, only feature pictures. Despite trial and error, attaching the handle, legs, ash catcher, cooking grids, and latches was straightforward. The adjustable air vent allows for airflow control. Assembly took under 30 minutes, resulting in a sturdy grill.

Design: The Napoleon NK14 offers the classic kettle shape in a compact design, perfect for smaller spaces. Its black porcelain enamel finish withstands adverse weather and wear. The kettle shape ensures even heat distribution, complemented by stylish silver accents. While lacking a lid rest and featuring slightly flimsy latches, the grill plates, and ash catcher are easily removable for cleaning.

Performance: Lighting the grill was challenging, especially with the windy conditions during testing. As a novice with charcoal grills, our reviewer used fast-light charcoal and fire lighters to get it going. Following the instructions, they waited 20 minutes before adding food, which included pork sausages, halloumi, and courgette slices. The 150 square inches of cooking space proved sufficient to feed 2-3 people at once.

While the grill doesn't offer precise temperature control or different cooking areas, our tester found that the food cooked quickly and had a delicious smoky flavor. The grill also cooled down surprisingly fast after use, making it easy to pack away. 

Read more: Napoleon NK14 Portable Charcoal Kettle Grill review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best propane grill

If you're looking for a high-performance grill with exceptional design, the Weber Genesis EPX-335 is worth considering.

Setup: You will need help moving the Weber Genesis EPX-335. It takes a while to put it together, but it's worth it. The large cabinet can fit a gas canister and all your cooking supplies. Just be careful with the flimsy plastic plug on the door.

Design: The stainless steel grill is heavy but feels super high-quality. It has a large cooking area with four burners, including an extra powerful one for searing. There's even a second grill for cooking off the direct heat source. The side tables offer plenty of space for prepping and holding plates, and there are hooks for all your grilling tools. The only downside is that the stainless steel finish gets smudged easily, so you'll need some cleaning supplies.

Performance: Our reviewer spent some time adjusting the temperatures across the grill due to its four burners, but once they got the hang of it, the food cooked evenly. The whole chicken I cooked turned out great - crispy skin, moist, and flavorful, ready in just over an hour. The sear zone helped achieve a beautiful pattern on my steaks.

 What sets this model apart is its versatility. You can swap out the cooking grate for the custom Weber grillwork (available for purchase separately) and use it for baking, steaming, roasting, and stir-frying.

Read more: Weber Genesis EPX-335 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grill for tailgating

The Weber Traveler is a portable gas grill that is easy to set up and transport. With its durable construction, attractive design, and decent grilling area, this foldable model is ideal for outdoor cooking, camping, or tailgating.

Setup: The Weber Traveler grill is easy to assemble in 15 minutes. Attaching the wheels may require effort, but it's simple to slide them through the axle and secure them with pins. Due to its weight, the grill may require assistance when maneuvering.

Design: The Weber Traveler is a durable and reliable grill with an attractive black and chrome design. It's easy to set up, and the lid locks automatically when folded for easy transportation. The rubberized wheels are sturdy enough for most terrains, and the grill is compact enough to fit in a decent-sized trunk or back seat.

The grill has one burner and a solid side return that can hold a dish or a couple of plates, with hooks for utensils and a side table on the right. The only downside is that the small gas bottle must be unhooked before folding the grill.

Performance: The grill heats up rapidly and can reach temperatures of 500 degrees, making it ideal for cooking steaks and burgers. However, it has only one temperature control, which might make it difficult to cook at very low temperatures. The grill performs well, and if you stick to simple dishes like burgers, you can easily serve around ten people without needing to cook multiple batches. You can also prepare burgers, steak, and veggies for a group of 4-6 people all at once on this grill.

Read more: Weber Traveler review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grill and smoker

The Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Series Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker offers modern features such as automatic ignition and Smart technology, but assembly and maintenance can be frustrating. Despite minor drawbacks, it consistently produced delicious food and provided a great grilling experience.

Setup: The grill arrived in two boxes, and assembly was frustrating due to unclear instructions and a bent piece. Connecting the Smart technology was easy, but our reviewer encountered an error code upon startup. Seasoning the grill took a long time, but protecting the cast iron from rusting is necessary.

Design: The Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Series Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker resembles a traditional grill but incorporates modern features. Made of metal and plastic, it includes two wheels for mobility. To prevent rust, it requires protection from the elements. The digital control panel, side tables, and storage hooks enhance usability. The AutoIgnite function ignites charcoal efficiently, although cleaning the hopper is crucial for optimal performance.

Smart technology connects the grill to a mobile app, providing real-time temperature monitoring and notifications. While AutoIgnite may occasionally fail, the app offers valuable alerts and control capabilities for an enhanced grilling experience.

Performance: The grill consistently produced delicious food, including salmon, pork loin, steak, chicken, and various vegetables. Its built-in fan maintained the desired temperature without requiring manual adjustments. Our tester particularly enjoyed the cast iron grates and QuickSear plate, which created beautiful sear marks on the food.

However, they noticed that the sides cooked faster than the middle section, and cleanup was a bit of a hassle. The grill also took a while to cool down after use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the grill's ability to simultaneously grill and smoke the food resulted in flavorful, juicy dishes.

Read more: Masterbuilt AutoIgnite Series 545 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best value grill

The Weber Spirit II E-310 gas grill is a powerful and stylish appliance that offers efficient grilling. It boasts a modern, classic design, sturdy stainless steel construction, and sleek lines. Its three powerful burners and ample cooking space produce delicious, evenly cooked food.

Setup: The Weber Spirit II E-310 gas grill takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to assemble with two people. It is a large, sturdy appliance, but the instructions are detailed and easy to follow. All required hardware is included. Essential tools and a level surface are necessary.

Design: The Weber Spirit II E-310 gas grill has a modern and classic design, with sturdy stainless steel construction and sleek lines. It comes with two wheels, making it easy to move around. The foldable side tables provide ample space for food preparation and serving, and they feel robust and sturdy. The GS4 grilling system is great, with tapered burners delivering consistent gas flow for even heat distribution. The grill also features an instant ignition button and a lid thermometer for easy lighting and temperature monitoring.

Performance: The Weber Spirit II E-310 gas grill is perfect for family gatherings or cookouts. With its three powerful burners and spacious cooking area, it consistently produces delicious, evenly cooked food. The GS4 grilling system ensures even heat distribution, while the precise and user-friendly temperature dials make it a breeze to use. We appreciate how quickly it heats up and cooks food efficiently. The large cooking area allows us to grill multiple burgers or steaks at once, and the stainless steel burners are easy to clean even after repeated use.

Read more: Weber Spirit II E-310 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grill for apartment balconies

The Weber Q1200 is a compact, portable gas grill, perfect for small outdoor spaces. Its stylish design, easy assembly, and reliable performance make it perfect for couples or small families who enjoy a quick meal al fresco.

Setup: The tabletop grill's box was larger than our reviewer expected, but assembling it was easy. You can have it up and running quickly - attach the lid and handles, insert the grates, and screw in the gas. It's simple, even for non-technical people.

Design: The Weber grill comes in six colors and features a stylish design, but it's quite heavy at 31 lbs. The cooking grates are made of cast iron with a porcelain coating, providing even heat distribution. With only one burner, it's easy to use, and the side tables fold out on each side for convenient storage. The grill is powered by small gas tanks, but it may be worth investing in an adapter kit and hose to connect to a regular-size gas bottle if you plan to use it as the main barbecue in your backyard or on a balcony.

Performance: The small, affordable grill is perfect for couples or families. It has a small cooking area and only one burner, which makes indirect cooking impossible, but it is ideal for a quick supper after work, with enough space for steaks or burgers. The grill heats up quickly but takes a while to get back to the desired temperature once the lid is closed again. The griddle plate for half of the grill adds some flexibility, perfect for an al fresco breakfast for RV campers. The grill has a grease tray that fits Weber's disposable foil trays and can be easily cleaned.

Read more: Weber Q1200 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grill for beginners

The Weber gas grill is sturdy and space-saving, making it ideal for small families or couples who enjoy outdoor cooking.

Setup: The detailed instruction manual simplifies assembling the Weber gas grill. Begin by attaching the legs, side tables, and propane tank holder. Then, attach the cooking grates and warming rack to the grill.

Design: The Weber gas grill is known for its stylish and functional design. Constructed from durable materials such as aluminum, cast iron, and plastic, it is built to last. Its enameled exterior can withstand the elements, although it is recommended to store it in a garage or house after use.

The grill is equipped with two all-weather wheels, making it easy to move around. Additionally, its side tables provide ample prepping and serving space. The porcelain enameled cast iron cooking grates are more resistant to rust and corrosion than standard cast iron.

Performance: The grill features two stainless steel burners that produce 21,700 BTUs per hour, allowing for quick and even heating to ensure thorough and consistent cooking. Its 393-square-inch cooking area is ideal for small families or couples, enabling multiple items to be cooked simultaneously. Additionally, the grill includes an easy-start ignition system and a removable catch pan for easy cleaning.

Read more: Weber Q3200 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best grill for outdoor kitchen

The Napoleon Freestyle 425 is a high-quality grill that is compact, durable, and easy to assemble. The assembly process is quick and easy, allowing you to start grilling in no time. Whether you're an experienced griller or a beginner, the Napoleon Freestyle 425 is an excellent choice.

Setup: The Napoleon Freestyle 425 gas grill is easy to assemble with clear instructions and a sturdy base with wheels for easy mobility. It's compact yet durable, perfect for smaller outdoor spaces, and features a heavy cookbox and lid with a 10-year warranty.

Design: The Napoleon Freestyle 425 gas grill boasts a graphite grey porcelain enamel finish, giving it a sleek and premium appearance. Its rounded edges facilitate easy mobility, and the sturdy wheels on the base ensure stability. The warming rack provides additional cooking space, while the spacious cooking area can accommodate up to 26 burgers.

The cast iron porcelainized enamel cooking grids feature Napoleon's signature wavy sear marks, and the retro-style temperature gauge adds to its charm. The aluminum firebox creates a convective oven effect, and the folding table on the right-hand side includes three hooks to keep your grilling tools within reach.

Performance: Our reviewer initially experienced issues with the grill's ignition system, but eventually figured it out without further problems. Although the grill heated up quickly, the temperature dropped rapidly when the lid was opened, and there was a cooler area towards the front.

Despite these minor issues, the grill cooked everything well, but it burned very hot, requiring some practice to achieve the right temperature. We achieved a nice sear on the steaks and cooked a whole chicken over indirect heat for around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Read more: Napoleon Freestyle 425 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best 5 burner grill

The Napoleon Phantom Rogue SE 425 RSIB is a high-quality gas grill suitable for large gatherings. It features a stainless steel exterior, five burners, and a side table that combines style and function.

Setup: Assembling the Napoleon Phantom Rogue SE 425 RSIB gas grill can be challenging. It requires technical knowledge, and it's recommended that two people work on it. The process may take up to three hours, and some users find the instruction manual confusing. Precision and skill are required to attach the burners to the main body, and it's crucial to ensure all screws and bolts are tightened correctly for stability.

Design: The Napoleon Phantom Rogue SE 425 RSIB is a classic-looking barbecue with a stainless steel exterior that can resist weather elements. It has four wheels, making it easy to move around patios or porches, but it may struggle on grass. This model uses temperature dials to control the heat of five burners, which is a great addition compared to touch controls. It also has a side table and a side burner for prepping and serving, eliminating the need for an additional table outside. The barbecue needs to be covered after use but doesn't need to be moved indoors.

Performance: During our testing, the Napoleon Phantom Rogue SE 425 RSIB stood out for its features. It helped us cook delicious burgers and chicken. The instant JETFIRE ignition system effortlessly lights the grill at the push of a button, and the temperature gauge permits you to keep track of the grill's temperature while cooking. The side burner caters to dietary requirements and helps prepare garnishes while cooking. The wheels make it easy to move around on hard surfaces, but it can struggle on grass or dirt. The stainless steel construction makes it incredibly easy to clean, while the matte black color helps it retain heat for slow cooking or smoking.

Read more: Napoleon Phantom Rogue SE 425 RSIB review

• Back to the top ⤴

How we tested the best grills

How we test the best grills

At Top Ten Reviews, we are committed to providing consumers with the best possible purchasing advice. To achieve this, we conduct extensive product testing, beginning with the unboxing and assembly and followed by examination of performance, storage, and maintenance. 

When reviewing grills, we time and assess the ease of assembly. Our reviewers then conduct precise cooking tests, including chicken breasts, steaks, burgers, whole chicken, and vegetables. During these tests, they evaluate the range of temperatures the grill can achieve, cooking times, the evenness and consistency of temperature, and any accessories that come with the grill. 

Once the cooking tests are completed, we often consult experts on the best ways to clean, store, and maintain the grill. For more, visit our dedicated page on how we test.

• Back to the top ⤴

How to choose the best grill for you

Selecting the ideal grill for your needs can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider. We've simplified the process by outlining the key features to look for. By considering these features, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect grill for you.

Size

When selecting a grill, consider the amount of cooking space you need based on your household size and how often you entertain guests. Some grills can cook three to eight burgers at a time, which is usually sufficient for most families, but if you frequently host gatherings in the summer, you might want to consider a grill that can accommodate 12 burgers at once.

Also, the grill's size and dimensions should be chosen carefully to ensure it fits well in your yard or patio space, especially if you have a limited area. The number of burners on a gas grill should also reflect the size of the grilling area.

If you plan to entertain family or friends during the summer, choosing a grill with ample cooking space is ideal. However, keep in mind that you may not always need to use all the burners, particularly if you're only cooking a couple of burgers.

Heat consistency

Achieving an even cooking pattern is crucial for mastering your grilling skills. This ensures that your food is evenly cooked without being charred on the outside and raw on the inside. Some grills have features that help distribute heat evenly, making the cooking process much smoother for the chef in charge.

Gas grills are perfect for those who want to grill quickly or need precise temperature control, as they allow for easy temperature adjustment. On the other hand, charcoal grills require more skill and attention to maintain the desired temperature.

Charcoal grills are also known to reach higher temperatures compared to gas grills. Achieving a temperature of at least 600 degrees Fahrenheit is necessary for a perfect sear on meat, and charcoal grills can reach up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit, making it easier to achieve that perfect sear. Although gas grills can reach these temperatures, they are more expensive.

Portability and storage

When storing your grill for the winter, consider placing it in a garage or shed. If you have multiple outdoor dining areas, choose a model with built-in wheels that are lightweight and easy to transport. There are even tabletop models that are convenient to take along for a tailgate in the back of a truck. Some grills have extendable sides that can be lifted to provide additional storage or cooking space. These sides can be lowered when not in use, making the grill more compact and easier to store.

Portability may not be a significant concern if you plan to keep your grill outside all year round. However, for most people, having the option to move their grill to a different location, such as the garage, or take it with them on camping or beach trips is a nice feature.

Design

Design and portability are important factors to consider when looking for a new grill. Many grills have stainless steel exteriors, which are not only durable but also add to the overall aesthetic. Additionally, most grills come with a cast iron grate, known for its superior cooking performance.

• Back to the top ⤴

Grill FAQs

Which is better—charcoal or gas?

Gas grills are often considered the top choice for everyday home use due to their user-friendly features and lower environmental impact compared to charcoal grills. They offer convenience, temperature control, and faster heating, making them ideal for those who prioritize ease of use.

While charcoal grills provide a distinct smoky flavor and high temperatures, they are more challenging to operate. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between the two types of grills, but gas grills tend to be favored for their practicality and cost-effectiveness. Also, gas grilling reduces the health risks associated with excess smoke, making it a safer option.

You can read more on the debate in our guide to gas vs charcoal grills.

How much do grills cost?

When it comes to grills, the price range can vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. The main differences lie in the size of the unit, and the number of burners and power (measured in BTUs) for gas models. Also, the build quality and warranty offered by different brands can greatly impact the overall cost and longevity of the grill.

Cheaper models may end up costing more in the long run due to repair and maintenance expenses. It's important to consider the materials used in the construction of the grill, as they directly affect its durability, especially considering the extreme heat fluctuations grills endure.

Higher-priced models may also offer additional features, such as folding side tables, more storage, side burners, and advanced ignition systems. When weighing the options, consider the long-term value and benefits of investing in a higher-quality grill.

• Back to the top ⤴

Of course, with such a variety of cordless, corded, robot, self-emptying and self-cleaning options, it can be bewildering when it comes to making a choice. Wet/dry vacs vary widely in size, power, filtration systems and included accessories, too.

That's where our expert buyer's guide comes in. Myself and one other review have hands-on tested all the top wet/dry vacuums featured here. We spent weeks running each model through a rigorous battery of tests on all types of wet and dry messes. Evaluations covered suction strength, ease of use, maneuverability, noise levels and more. From hands-free vacuums that do all the work for you, to handheld cordless vacuum cleaners that can be whipped out for small messes, plus everything in between, we've got the best wet/dry vacuum cleaner for you.

The quick list

Here’s your at-a-glance intro to our top-rated wet/dry vacuum cleaners of 2024. Scroll further down to read our findings from testing each product hands-on. You can also use the links on the left to jump to the wet/dry vacuums that interest you the most.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best wet/dry vacuums we recommend

The best wet/dry vacuum overall

While I personally haven't had hands-on experience with the Dyson V15s Detect Submarine, one of our US-based freelancers, Terri Williams, took it for a spin around her home in Alabama instead.

What you need to know: The Submarine is the company's newest cordless vacuum cleaner and the first to offer both vacuum and mopping capabilities in one machine. Building on the success of the previous V15 Detect model, the V15s Detect Submarine adds a wet mopping roller head and drip tray to its impressive array of vacuum accessories and tools. As is typical for Dyson, the V15s Detect Submarine arrives with a full suite of tools and accessories packaged neatly and protected to prevent scratches. The main vacuum body appears larger than expected but attaches to the various heads to create a surprisingly lightweight 7-9 lb unit. Accessories include the illuminated cleaner head, digital motorbar for carpets, crevice tool, combination tool and more

Design: The Dyson cordless vacuums have a consistent design with a main unit featuring a battery, trigger handle, and dust bin. Interchangeable cleaner heads include an illuminated soft brush bar for hard floors, a digital motorbar for hard floors and carpets, and a wet roller head for mopping (V15 Detect Submarine model). The vacuum can be used as a handheld with tools for upholstery, dusting, and crevice cleaning. Accessories include a wand clip for tool storage and a docking station for wall mounting.

Performance: Terri found operation pretty straightforward with an auto mode to optimize suction power, battery that lasts up to 60 minutes, and an LED screen displaying remaining runtime, power mode and particle sizes detected. She praised the vacuum for excelling at edge cleaning, navigating furniture, and lying nearly flat to clean under low surfaces. The laser illuminator on the cleaner head reveals hidden dust and debris. In her testing, Terri found the V15s transitioned seamlessly from carpets to hard floors, with useful attachments for vents, appliances and tight spaces. The mopping performance, while imperfect, worked reasonably well using just water rather than proprietary cleaning solutions. Overall, she reckons the Submarine makes a compelling option for those wanting a high-powered stick vac that can also handle light mopping duty.

Versatility: While Terri found that the mopping function doesn't quite reach the level of a dedicated mop, she thinks Dyson deserves credit for making it a self-contained, easily swappable component. Unlike some wet/dry vacs that require the entire vacuum to be cleaned after mopping, the Submarine's wet roller head can simply be removed, allowing you to continue dry vacuuming with the other tool heads. Terri reckons this versatility helps offset the roller's somewhat streaky and occasionally leaky mopping performance in our at-home tests.

Price: The Dyson V15s Detect Submarine is priced at $947.00 on Amazon and $949.99 on the Dyson website.

Read our full Dyson V15s Detect Submarine review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best robot vacuum and mop

What you need to know: This self-emptying, self-cleaning vacuum offers hands-free cleaning. The Eufy X10 Pro Omni is an advanced wet-dry vacuum pairing powerful 8000Pa suction with a rotating mop system for thorough floor cleaning. It features intelligent navigation technology like AI obstacle detection and LiDAR mapping to avoid getting stuck, while pentagonal mop heads scrub floors and reach edges while automatically lifting over carpets.

Design: The Eufy's large base station holds tanks for dirty water and clean water, and the large dustbin captures up to two months of debris. Encased in matte black/charcoal plastic, both the robot and the base station are robust and well-designed. A detachable ramp allows the robot to slide into the base station. While the base unit is bulky and has quite a large footprint, the robot’s rounded shape and angled mops mean it reaches edges and corners better than circular-shaped models. The low profile helps it get under furniture too.

Performance: During my testing, I focused on pickup of debris like pet hair and the unit’s mopping capabilities across different spill types and flooring. It earned strong scores for completely removing all traces of flour, crumbs, and oats from hard and carpeted surfaces. The dual mops made easy work of liquids like water and milk but struggled with stickier liquids such as honey and ketchup.

Versatility: The app is also super easy to use, with an intuitive interface. We liked the Eufy Lab, where you can try out the latest features in testing, such as the Smart Track Cleaning, which has the robot follow and clean the floor after you, perfect if you’ve just walked in from a muddy afternoon in the garden! You can also look back at your cleaning history, boost your carpet cleaning suction power, set voice control and manually control the wet/dry vac from your phone, among other things.

Price: The Eufy X10 Pro Omni retails at $799.99 (£599.99) on the Eufy website and Amazon. While it’s not as expensive as a Dyson Viz Nav or a Samsung JetBot, it's still an expensive piece of kit for many. However, with advanced smart features like customizable voice control and powerful pickup packed in, the Eufy X10 Pro OmniVac is excellent value, especially compared to premium brands .

Read our full Eufy X10 Pro Omni review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best wet/dry vacuum for battery life

What you need to know: The Roborock Dyad Pro Combo is a versatile 5-in-1 wet/dry vacuum cleaner that promises to tackle any household mess. It combines an upright wet/dry vacuum, a handheld vacuum, and attachments for crevices, beds, and upholstery cleaning. The app provides extensive control and customization options for the Roborock Dyad Pro vacuum. With it, you can adjust cleaning settings like suction power, water flow, brush speed, and detergent levels. You can configure the self-cleaning and drying cycles, scheduling them for specific times or having them run after each cleaning. Additional features include do-not-disturb mode, voice options, maintenance alerts for filters and brushes, troubleshooting tips, firmware updates, and more - allowing you to fully utilize the capabilities of this robotic vacuum cleaner.

Design: While I loved the retro-futuristic design aesthetic, I found some aspects of how the vacuum components connected could be improved through better user testing. The handheld unit's handle placement was also uncomfortable for prolonged use.

Performance: I found the Dyad Pro Combo to be impressive. It effortlessly picked up spills, sauces, dry debris like cereal and flour, and pet hair from carpets and hard floors. The powerful 17000Pa suction and the mopping function with auto-adjusting cleaning solution dispenser left floors sparklingly clean. The edge-to-edge cleaning capability and the self-cleaning and self-drying features were also highlights during testing.

Overall, I recommend the Roborock Dyad Pro Combo for those seeking a total cleaning solution with impressive performance. However, it might not be right for you if you prioritize a premium feel, have limited space, or vacuum carpets extensively due to the handheld unit's design.

Versatility: While it might seem like a large outlay at first, the reality is you're getting a wet/dry vacuum and a handheld cordless vacuum in one. That, combined with the accessories such as the multi-surface brush, motorized mini brush, 2-in-1 cleaning tool, and wand/baton, makes the price much more reasonable.

If you'd rather have a totally hands-free experience, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni will do everything for you, including vacuuming, mopping and self-emptying. But you'd better have a much bigger budget as it retails for hundreds of dollars more!

Price: The Roborock Dyad Pro Combo retails for around $659.00/ £575 with resellers such as Amazon and Lowe's, and will soon be available to buy direct from the Roborock store.

Read our full Roborock Dyad Pro Combo review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for big cleans

What you need to know: The NaceCare GVE 370 George Wet/Dry Vacuum is a versatile and powerful cleaning machine that can handle dry vacuuming, wet vacuuming, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, hard floor washing, and even unclogging drains. Henry's big brother packs a punch in suction power with its 1.6 HP motor, 110" water lift, and 95 cfm airflow.

Henry's sturdy big brother George is all set to tackle any cleaning job you throw its way. Whether dealing with carpets, upholstery, or hard floors, George's special turboflo vacuum turbine and power flo pump system promise professional-level cleaning. It comes with detergent, a wide selection of accessories for every household job, and two nozzle/extractors - one for carpet cleaning and one for your car, stairs, or upholstery. Setup is quite involved though and you’ll need to switch several components when switching from wet to dry vacuuming. While heavy and bulky to maneuver, George is very sturdy and well-built with quality components. Suction power is strong but also quite loud at 61 decibels. You’ll also need to empty the dirty water tank frequently during bigger jobs.

Design: Everything feels super sturdy and well-designed. Valve and connection points are made of brass for a professional finish, and all connections click easily into place. Each accessory pushes smoothly into the hose for use. The accessories are also sturdy and well-made, and the dust brush is super soft, so you can feel comfortable dusting all the surfaces in your home without worrying about damage or scratches.

Performance: In my at-home testing, George excelled at dry vacuuming debris, pet hair, and spills on carpets and hard floors. It did well with water-based messes for wet cleaning but struggled with stickier spills like sauces. The hard floor washing tool was impressive, scrubbing and extracting dirty water to leave floors nearly bone dry. The upholstery and carpet cleaning tools also worked well to revive soiled furniture and carpets.

Versatility: Over the course of testing, my sofa was given a new lease of life with old food stains removed and no more doggy smells; the hallway runner was spot-cleaned and came up brighter; a desk chair was finally rid of an old coffee ring, and the car's carpets and seats were given a mini valet. George can even unblock a drain! This new household buddy seems to be able to turn himself to any task.

If you'd prefer an upright wet/dry vacuum, the Ultenic AC1 Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum promises to vacuum and mop your hard floors or sealed wooden floors simultaneously, taking care of two chores in half the time. While it won't vacuum carpets, it was impressive at picking up dirt and debris on hard floors in our testing

Price: George may be an investment price-wise, but I reckon it’s one that could pay off by combining the functionality of several cleaning appliances into one heavy-duty machine. With a 2-year warranty and Nace Care's reputation for reliability, it's a compelling option for deep cleaning floors, carpets, upholstery and more around the home.

Read our full NaceCare GVE 370 George Wet/Dry Vacuum review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best wet/dry vacuum for pet owners

What you need to know: The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Plus Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vacuum is an innovative 3-in-1 appliance that vacuums, mops, and steams hard floors all at once. Designed specifically for homes with pets, it uses steam to powerfully clean up stuck-on messes and pet stains. Special features include LED lights to illuminate pet hair, a tangle-free brush roll, and an odor-eliminating self-cleaning function. In addition to using the Clean Out Cycle and the cleaning solution after every use, Bissell recommends regularly removing and cleaning the roller brush in warm water and detergent, then leaving it to air dry for 24 hours. This may frustrate users who want to use it every day, though, so it's a shame Bissell doesn't include an extra brush roller in the box.

Design: The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Plus Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vacuum is quite traditional in design, and has a similar look and feel to many of Bissell's other upright vacuum cleaners. Mine came in a grey and black colorway. Key features, such as the trigger on the handle for wetting the rollerbrush and operating the steam function and the release switch for the dirty water tank, are picked out in a bright lime green.

Performance: In my testing of the Crosswave Hydrosteam it excelled at tackling a variety of spills and dried messes on hard floors. It easily powered through sticky substances like honey and thick sauces, as well as dry debris such as cereal and flour. The steam function provides an impressive deep clean. However, the dirty water tank requires frequent emptying, around every 6 minutes during use. The vacuum is also quite loud at 75 decibels during operation, around the same as a noisy restaurant. If you have people in your home who are sensitive to noise, you may want to give it a miss.

Versatility: While it's not designed for carpets, you can use this wet/dry vacuum to refresh your area rugs. This includes picking up dry debris, which I tested using flour and oats. It coped very well on my carpet but it does leave behind a slightly damp finish, which is something to be aware of. One standout use was around litter boxes - the vacuum thoroughly cleaned and sanitized the surrounding areas.

Price: The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Plus Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vacuum provides good value by combining a vacuum, mop and steam cleaner into one unit. But the lack of extra accessories feels like a missed opportunity given the premium price point. Overall, it's an effective hard floor cleaner that pet owners will appreciate.

Read our full Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Plus Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vacuum review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for quick and small cleans

What you need to know: The Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless Wet & Dry vacuum is a handy, affordable portable vacuum cleaner designed for quick cleanups around the home. Retailing for $39.99, it offers 14,000Pa of suction power and includes a squeegee, crevice tool, and brush in a compact, easy-to-store 2.4 lb design. While conveniently sized for storage in tight spaces, battery life is just 10 minutes per charge, so it's best for quick cleanups, not prolonged use. The loud 75 dB operating volume is another downside for sensitive users.

Design: Overall, the design of the Black+Decker Dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum is no-nonsense and very practical. It's made of plastic so it's light and easy to handle, and it comes in a black and blue colorway, with the power button and the dustbin release button picked out in gray.

Performance: My testing focused on the vacuum's ability to effectively clean up wet and dry spills on floors, furniture, and in the car. It performed well on liquids like water and milk, but struggled with thicker sauces that it tended to smear around, such as ketchup and honey. It was impressive scooping up dry crumbs and debris like flour and oats from hard and carpeted surfaces. However, lacking a roller brush, it wasn't well suited for pet hair clean up beyond surface clumps.

Versatility: Whereas most handheld units like this are designed with cars in mind, the Black+Decker Dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum can be used practically anywhere, from the kitchen to the bathroom. It makes quick work of dry, liquid and combination spillages. While it won't replace your regular vacuum, it's a handy tool to have around the home.

Price: For its reasonable $40 price tag, the Black+Decker Dustbuster delivers good value as an on-hand cleaner for minor liquid spills and dry debris. It can't replace a full-size vacuum but makes an excellent supplementary tool for quick daily home messes, especially in the kitchen. More pet-friendly vacuums may suit homes with heavy shedding.

Read our full Black+Decker Dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum review

• Back to the top ⤴

How to choose the best wet/dry vacuum for your home

Choosing the right wet/dry vacuum cleaner can make a big difference in tackling cleaning tasks around your home. Here are some essential tips to factor in when considering how to choose a wet dry vacuum:

• Capacity: Determine the tank size that suits your cleaning needs. Larger tanks mean fewer interruptions for emptying during big jobs but also make the vacuum heavier and more cumbersome to move around.
• Power and suction: Look for wet/dry vacuums with powerful motors and high suction capabilities. This ensures efficient pickup of both dry debris and liquids. Higher airflow and greater suction power translate to better performance.
• Accessories: Consider the range of attachments and accessories included with the vacuum. Extension wands, crevice tools, floor nozzles, and specialized attachments like car cleaning nozzles or upholstery tools can make your vacuum much more versatile.
• Mobility: Have a think about the vacuum's weight and portability. Wheeled bases or casters can significantly improve maneuverability, especially when dealing with heavy loads. Top-mounted handles and cord storage options are also a good idea.
• Brand: Reputable brands like Dyson and Bissell are known for their durability and reliability. While they may be more expensive, these models are usually built to last longer.
• Warranty: Look for wet/dry vacuums with decent warranty coverage, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years, to ensure protection against any manufacturing defects or premature failures.

How we tested these wet/dry vacuum cleaners

How we test the best wet/dry vacuum cleaners

Our expert reviewers are experienced and knowledgeable about the product categories they operate in. They know exactly how to put a product through its phases to ensure it’s built to the highest quality standards and will last you as long as possible.

All of our products are tested using in-depth and repeatable testing methods. As much as possible, we try to have the same person reviewing every product in a category in the same environment. We favor the home environment over a lab as we believe it brings authenticity to the testing. We use the products we test just as you would at home, ensuring our testing is reflective of real-life usage.

Our testing protocols are comprehensive and include everything from unboxing and assembly to care, maintenance and durability. For example, when reviewing these wet/dry vacuum cleaners we would ask our reviewer to examine the following:

• Unboxing: Make a note of the packaging (recyclable, quantity, etc). Look at the instructions - are they detailed enough, clear enough?
• Assembly: How long does assembly take from start to finish? Does it require more than one person? Does it require heavy lifting?
• Sound test: With a decibel counter, measure how loud the wet/dry vacuum cleaner is on its different settings. Compare with other objects/scenarios for clarity (eg “the same as a quiet office” “the same as a carn horn”, etc).
• Performance: Use the wet/dry vacuum cleaner on a different floorsings such as carpets, wood floors, laminate floors, etc. Run through the cleaning modes (if applicable). How easy is the wet/dry vacuum cleaner to operate? Make a note of the performance using a series of tests, for example, how easy is it to mop up spilt cereal, thick and sticky liquids like honey and sauces, and how good is it at vacuuming dry debris?
• Cleaning, storage and maintenance: Where should the vacuum be stored? Can it fold up into smaller dimensions? How should it be cleaned, and how often? Is it easy to do? What is the recommended maintenance?

Read more about how we test.

Best wet/dry vacuum cleaners: FAQs

Can you use a wet/dry vacuum on carpet?

Yes; you can use a wet/dry vacuum cleaner on carpet. These household appliances essential double up as being a carpet cleaner, as well as a vacuum cleaner. Most will do a great job at deep-cleaning the carpet, removing dust, pet hair and debris for a fresher cleaning (and odor-free) living environment.

The best part about pizza ovens is they're actually great for cooking more than just pizza. Essentially, you're really only limited by the size of the oven itself and the amount of fuel you have for it which means you can cook veggies, casserole, steak, or almost anything else you can think of. Most of them have built-in thermometers and granular temperature controls making it easier than ever to cook great pizza. 

There's no shortage of choices when it comes to pizza ovens; electric, countertop ovens are super easy to use and will fit nicely in your kitchen while some higher-end gas and wood-powered ones can cook your pizza in as little as 60 seconds. 

To help you hone in on the best pizza oven for you and the family, we've tested every option on this list for a minimum of two weeks and cooked as many different types of pizzas and other foods as we could in order to get a complete picture of what each one is like to use. We made note of the cleaning and maintenance procedures involved and any fuel or setup requirements necessary. Keep scrolling for your next purchase.

The quick list

Below we've compiled the most important details you need to know for each product we tested. If you want to learn more about any of the ovens, click the links below to dive deeper into our analysis.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pizza ovens we recommend in 2024

The best pizza oven overall

The Pi Prime pizza oven from Solo Stove is the latest in their wide range of high-quality outdoor furniture. It combines a lot of great features with an affordable price tag making it easy to rate it as the "Best Overall" pizza oven for most people. 

Design: The circular design of the Pi Prime keeps the overall size of the oven relatively small which means it can fit almost anywhere in your backyard. It's even small and light enough to make it portable so you can have pizza night at a friend's house or even at the campground. It's not quite as small and light as the Ooni Fyra, but it's quite manageable. The best part is there's hardly any setup involved. Simply insert the stones and connect your propane tank and you're ready to go.

The stainless steel construction makes it durable so you can leave it outside without having to worry about it getting damaged. If you don't have a covered porch or other weather-proof place to store it long-term, I'd recommend picking up the cover for it, but it will still last even without it. 

I do wish there was a built-in temperature gauge, but it's not the end of the world. 

Performance: I was most impressed by how quickly the Pi Prime heated up. Every other oven I've tested took at least 25-30 minutes to be ready to cook, but the Pi Prime was ready for pies in about 15 minutes. And once preheated, nearly every pizza was fully cooked in about 90 seconds. 

Luckily, we didn't have to sacrifice quality to get that speed. Every pizza I cooked, from plain cheese to tomato-basil was exceptional. The thin crust on the bottom was nice and crisp and the edges had that light airy texture you get from restaurant-quality pizza. 

Value: My favorite thing about the Pi Prime is that you get all of this - a great design, fast cook time, and excellent flavor - all at a very affordable price. At $349, the Pi Prime is right in line with some of the more inexpensive ovens we've tested. If you want a wood-fired flavor, the Ooni Fyra is the same price and if 90 seconds isn't quick enough for you, the Gozney Arc will cook in as little as one minute. 

Read our full Solo Stove Pi Prime review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best wood fired pizza oven

The Ooni Fyra is a tried-and-true wood fired pizza oven from a brand that's been making quality pizza ovens for years. Our tester, Helen, found it easy to use and great at cooking authentic style pizza. 

Design: The best part of the Fyra's design is how simple and compact it is. There are no screws or bolts required and all the pieces simply slot and twist together. The simple design also makes it portable. It's easy to pack up, head out, and be up and running in a minute or two. 

Helen appreciated the thoughtful design features like the pellet scoop being the perfect size for loading the right amount of pellets into the fuel tray and how the pellet hopper gravity-feeds the fuel tray. It takes a bit of practice to learn how many pellets you need to keep the oven at the right temperature, but you'll pick it up quickly. 

Performance: The Ooni Fyra exceeded expectations for Helen, particularly in how easy it was to light and fully heat the oven. The included lighter had the pellets burning quickly and the oven was ready in about 15 minutes. She highly recommends purchasing a digital infrared thermometer as there's not one included on the Fyra. 

You'll also need a pizza peel. Loading ('Launching' in the industry vernacular) and removing the pizzas will take some practice so don't be disappointed with a few oddly shaped pizzas on your first few tries. You'll learn quickly though, as you'll need to turn the pizzas regularly while they're cooking. And patience is key as you'll need to let the pizza stone reheat between each one. 

Value: At $349 retail, the Ooni Fyra lands itself right in the middle of the pack for some of the best pizza ovens we've tested, but we've seen it for as low as $270 on Amazon. Above that you'll find something like the Gozney Arc at $699 which cooks restaurant-quality pizzas in as little as 60 seconds. There's also the Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven that sits right on your kitchen counter and is the simplest on our list to use.  

Read our full Ooni Fyra 12 Review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best indoor pizza oven

Cuisinart is no stranger to kitchen appliances, so it makes sense they would make a solid, kitchen-ready pizza oven. The Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven is compact, so it fits well on the kitchen counter and it's incredibly easy to use.

Design: Cuisinart's design language here is pretty smart in that it's quite inconspicuous. It doesn't stand out too much and honestly looks like any other large toaster oven might. That means it fits quite comfortably into any aesthetic and the silver, black, and red colors can match pretty much any decor.

With a simple dial for setting the temperature and a basic timer on the side, there's not much to think about when it's meal time. And the big front window and oven light let you watch the pizza cook in all it's glory. They've even included some suggested temperature settings right on the window for you.

Best of all, they include all the accessories you need, and aside from the pizza stone, they're all dishwasher safe so cleaning up is a cinch.

Performance: I was impressed with the results of the pizza oven, particularly considering it's not gas or wood-fired. I noticed it does tend to cook a little hotter on one side than the other (not uncommon for pizza ovens) so I recommend turning it halfway through cooking. 

The crusts fluffed up nicely and the pepperonis had those nice crispy edges. Deep-dish pizza cooked just as well, but just be aware the deep-dish pan is quite heavy when full so you'll need two hands. 

Value: Cuisinart lists the oven for $399, which is not the most expensive on our list, but it's also not the least. Luckily, it's easy to find on sale for less. The price isn't too unreasonable because you're really getting a completely uncomplicated pizza oven. The convenience and simplicity of it alone makes it a great option for your first pizza oven.

Read our full Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best compact pizza oven

The Gozney Arc is the latest pizza from one of the top names in the business. They've brought their extensive experience of building commercial pizza ovens into your backyard with a compact, premium designed pizza oven that can cook delicious pizza in as little as 60 seconds. 

Design: The Gozney Arc looks similar to what you might find in a professional pizza kitchen, and for good reason: it's heavily inspired by Gozney's own commercial-grade pizza ovens. Unlike the professional-grade ovens, however, there's very little setup or installation required for the Arc. Once it's out of the box, there's a few small pieces to slot in place and that's it. The unique dome shape allows the flame to 'arc' up and across the entire roof of the oven which cooks every pizza quickly and evenly. 

The Arc is also the most premium-looking oven we tested. It looks stunning in the backyard and will be certain to turn some heads at your next pizza night. It's easy to tell how well crafted the Arc is and that quality design language extends to Gozney's accessories as well. The serving peel, turning peel, pizza rocker and cutter our tester received were all high quality as well. 

Performance: I was quite impressed that Gozney's claim of being able to cook a pizza in 60 seconds held true. Once it fully preheated to the desired temperature, the pizza was fully cooked in just one minute. The big downside here is that to reach that peak temperature of 950 degrees F, the oven had to preheat for a full hour. But the results were well worth it as the pizza was cooked perfectly every time with a thin, crispy bottom crust and a delicious, airy edge. 

The design of the Arc allows for much more than just pizza to be cooked in it and I also had great success with cooking a steak, veggies, and homemade tortilla for tacos. 

Value: The Gozney Arc is expensive, but for someone look to spend a little extra for top-tier pizza experience it's worth the investment. For something a bit more affordable, the Solo Stove Pi Prime is a great gas-powered pizza oven while the Breeo Live Fire Pizza Oven is the top-of-the-line.

Read our full Gozney Arc review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pizza oven for indoor or outdoor use

Ooni is so good at making pizza ovens that they've secured two of our "Best of" categories. The Volt is their first electric-powered pizza oven, but as you'd expect, the quality is just as amazing as the rest of their lineup.

Design: The Ooni Volt 12 certainly takes inspiration from Ooni's other pizza ovens with it's trapezoid-like shape. It differs from the others in that it has no chimney (thanks to electricity) and no long legs to stand on. The downside is all those extra electrical components add some significant size and weight to it. The upside is that it retains heat incredibly well and is safe enough to use inside. 

Even with the added bulk, it's also the simplest Ooni to use. The entire thing is operated with just three dials and is perfect for anyone just starting out on their pizza-making journey. The controls are granular enough that you can even adjust the heat balance in the oven while the pizzas are cooking. 

Performance: Our tester, Dan, could not say enough great things about the quality of the pizza cooked in the Ooni Volt. He was impressed with how well the electrically-powered Volt was able to match the quality of other wood and gas-fired ovens he's tested. 

Aside from a classic cheese pizza, he tested cold meats like prosciutto, salami, serrano ham, pepperoni and, of course, plenty of veggies. Everything he tested cooked perfectly evenly without needing any adjustments to the oven during the process - certainly not something that can be said for every pizza oven. 

Value: Not only is the Ooni Volt the most expensive Ooni pizza oven on the market, it's also one of the most expensive we've ever tested. Even premium, gas-powered ovens like the Gozney Arc aren't this pricey. And Ooni's own wood-fired pizza ovens cook remarkably great pizza for hundreds of dollars less. 

That being said, it's hard to argue with the combination of convenience and quality offered by the Ooni Volt. Sure, it's expensive, but it's also the least amount of work to get incredibly good pizza. 

Read our full Ooni Volt 12 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best premium pizza oven

The Breeo Live-Fire Pizza Oven will elevate your pizza night in almost every way possible. From the incredible quality and durability of the oven itself, to the wonderfully delicious pizza you get every time, it's hard to go wrong with it. It's not hard to see how much care, thoughtfulness, and intention goes into Breeo's products so you know you're getting what you pay for.

Design: The simple, modern design of the Breeo Live-Fire Pizza Oven (and accompanying fire pit) will add plenty of elegance and beauty to any backyard. The stainless-steel construction means it not only cooks well, but it can also withstand the elements and retain it's clean, industrial look for years to come. 

The thicker pizza stones help retain more heat so there's less reheat time between pizzas and the temperature gauge on the side means you've got everything you need to start cooking great pizza (you'll still need a pizza peel, of course).

Performance: The great build quality extends beyond just the looks of the pizza oven. Every pizza we cooked in it came out hot, fresh, and delicious. The open window at the bottom gave us easy access to the fire below making it easy (and fun) to adjust the temperature of the fire as needed. 

The design of the oven contributed to every pizza being cooked quickly and evenly, without too much charring on the bottom even after almost and entire half of pizza toppings were spilled on it. 

Value: There's no getting around how expensive the Breeo Live-Fire Pizza Oven is. The oven itself is nearly as much as the Ooni Volt, but you also can't even use it without a Breeo fire pit, which also are a tad pricey. For quite a bit less you can grab the premium and fast-cooking Gozney Arc and our best overall recommendation, the Solo Stove Pi Prime, starts at only $350.

That being said, you certainly get quite a lot for the price. The Breeo pizza oven will last for years to come and gives you delicious pizza consistently, every time you use it. Plus, the live-fire cooking experience is truly enjoyable. 

Read our full Breeo Live-Fire pizza oven review

• Back to the top ⤴

How to choose the best pizza oven for you

If you're considering a pizza oven, there's a few things you'll want to keep in mind during you're search for the best one for you: 

Size
While most every pizza oven we tested will cook about the same size pizza (12-14 inches), they varied quite widely in the physical size of the oven itself. The first thing you'll need to find is a place for your oven to live. Some indoor ones will fit well on a kitchen counter, while others will need a dedicated spot outside. It's a good idea to find a good place for it first so then you'll have an idea of how big an oven you can get.

Fuel
The fuel source is critical to your decision. If you don't have a lot of room to store firewood or you live in a place that's difficult to get natural gas or propane (like a small apartment, say) you might want to look at an electric one. Some might prefer a wood-burning oven so you can try out different types of wood to experiment with the flavors a bit. The fuel source can also impact the cook time and consistency so keep that in mind as well. 

Cleaning and maintenance
One of the best things about pizza ovens is that there is typically very little cleaning or maintenance involved, but there's still some depending on the type of oven you purchase. For the most part, you'll need to brush or gently wash down (no soap) the stone(s) along with the peel and that's about it. For the fire-burning ovens, you'll need to clean out any ash left every so often, and for the gas ones, just make sure you have enough propane for your next cook. That's essentially it. 

Price
As you've seen from our list here, the prices for pizza ovens vary quite a lot so knowing your budget is one of, if not the first, step in your buying process. While the lowest end of the spectrum starts at around $150, our recommendations start at closer to $300-$350. At the very top of the list is the Breeo pizza oven - with accompanying fire pit - for a cool $2,749 before taxes (luckily they're nice enough to offer free shipping for that price). 

For our part, we found that every oven we tested cooked good pizza (certainly better than most fast-food pizza shops) with the differences being mainly in the time it took from start to finish and the versatility of the oven. 

How we tested these pizza ovens

How we test the best pizza ovens

All pizza ovens we tested either met or exceeded our expectations. The pizzas were crisp and evenly cooked with only a few burnt pieces, mostly due to user error. We tested a range of fuel sources and pizza oven designs - everything from simple toaster-style electric ovens to beautifully designed live-fire pizza ovens that cook over a fire pit. In every case, we were able to get great tasting pizza that will rival almost any restaurant and certainly beat frozen pizza any day. 

Each oven also varied quite widely in the amount of work required to both operate the oven itself, and cook the pizzas. Some were literally plug-and-play ovens with a plug and a few dials to operate. Others required us to build and maintain a full fire throughout our cooking. 

One of the best things we discovered is that almost every pizza oven we tested is perfectly capable of cooking more than just pizza. From focaccia bread and veggies to a full-blown skirt steak, whatever you can feasibly fit into the over should cook pretty well. There are dozens, if not hundreds of recipes out there for cooking a whole range of foods in your pizza oven. 

We also found the cooking experience with almost all of these ovens to be quite enjoyable. While you technically can cook pizza well in a typical household oven, have a dedicated pizza oven outside really elevated our pizza nights to a fully enjoyable experience with friends and family. It's hard to put a price on that. 

Quick tip: there's usually very little cleaning and maintenance required for pizza ovens, but just be careful to never use soap on the pizza stones as that can cause them to crack and break. Warm water and/or a steel brush is all you need. 

Find out more about how we test pizza ovens and other small and major appliances.

Shark may still be a relative newcomer to the cleaning world, launching in 2007, but it's incredibly popular thanks to its affordability. Regarding performance, it still gives close rivals Dyson and Miele a run for their money.

Our team has handpicked and tried all the bestselling Shark vacuums to help you find your perfect match. So whether you need a vacuum for pet hair, a fuss-free handheld for the car, or the sound of a robovac doing the hard work, we've got you covered. 

We've looked at price, value for money, design, performance, pros and cons, and who each appliance is best suited to. Read on to find out what our testers thought of the best Shark vacuum cleaners, and make sure you check out our guide to the best vacuum cleaners, too. Don't miss out on the Prime Day deals for Shark vacuums, as you might find some great discounts on the bestselling models.

The quick list

Short on time? Use this quick list to skim through the best Shark vacuum cleaners. When you see a machine you like, simply jump down to read a more detailed review of the model, including pros and cons, standout features, and who it is best suited to.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best Shark vacuum cleaners we recommend in 2024

The best Shark vacuum cleaner overall

The Shark Cordless Vacuum is a powerful and versatile cleaning tool that offers a pleasant aroma while you vacuum. Unfortunately, the scent isn't for everyone, and there aren't many alternatives. Using it upright can be challenging for some people due to its heavy floorhead.

The Shark Stratos Cordless came in minimal recyclable packaging, which our reviewer, Jennifer, appreciated. Inside, she found a DuoClean floorhead, a flexible wand, and a bunch of accessories. After setting it up, she tried it on the carpet and found it was easy to maneuver. CleanSense IQ technology adjusts suction power automatically, and a scented odor cartridge makes it even better.

In spite of resembling a standard stick vacuum, Shark has a lot to offer. The floorhead has Clean Sense IQ, which alerts you when it's time to clean. The vacuum also comes with an odor-neutralizer with an adjustable intensity dial. Thanks to its MultiFlex technology, the wand bends so you can clean under furniture and folds so you can store it compactly. An ergonomic handle lets you switch between three power modes: Auto, Eco, and Boost. Duster Crevice Tool and Anti-Allergen Brush are included.

For two months, Jennifer used the Shark Stratos Cordless in her home, and it was great with her toddler's daily mess. Its self-cleaning brush roll cleaned cereal, cake crumbs, and long hair. The handheld mode made it easy to handle stairs. Recharging took just three hours and 60 minutes.

Read more: Shark Stratos Cordless review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best value Shark vacuum cleaner

The Shark Cordless Detect Pro Auto-Empty System with QuadClean Multi-Surface Brushroll Vacuum is an excellent choice if you want a lightweight cordless vacuum that makes cleaning easier. This innovative vacuum features auto-sensing technology that optimizes cleaning performance across various surfaces. The auto-empty station keeps your vacuum charged and ready for 30 days.

Our reviewer, Alex, assembled the vacuum in only five minutes. The instructions were on the box, and she connected the handheld unit and vacuum head easily and then plugged in the dust-bag-less station.

Stylish and compact, the Shark vacuum fits well in modern homes. It's lightweight, so its removable head allows you to reach floors and high ceilings. There are a couple of drawbacks, though: the shaft doesn't bend, so you have to bend down for lower areas, and the headlock can sometimes kick in unexpectedly. Besides having a circular screen that shows power, suction levels, and battery life, the vacuum has a HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of dust and allergens.

The Shark vacuum did great on hardwood, laminate, and thick carpet. It works in three suction modes: eco, auto, and boost. The vacuum optimizes suction with DirtDetect and FloorDetect sensors, and the DirtDetect Sensor alerts you when you need to clean more. The head swivels smoothly, so you can maneuver it easily.

Read more: Shark Cordless Detect Pro

• Back to the top ⤴

The best Shark vacuum cleaner for pet hair

If you don't mind using a power cord, the Shark Vertex Bagless Corded Canister Vacuum with DuoClean Powerfins is a great option. The unit comes in a big, recyclable box, and assembly is easy—just connect the hose, floorhead, and handle. The instructions are mostly visual, so you can figure out how to use them.

Black with gold accents, this vacuum stands out from Shark's more affordable models in terms of aesthetics. With its dual brushroll, it's great for carpet cleaning while being gentle on hard floors. It's got an intuitive control panel for quick adjustments and a holder for accessories. With its light frame and four wheels, it's easy to maneuver. With its self-cleaning brush roll, it tackles hair tangles, and its HEPA filter captures over 99.9% of allergens, complemented by LED lights for visibility in dim spaces.

Our reviewer, Helen, said the vacuum effectively lifted her carpet, revealing more debris than she expected, even from recently cleaned areas. While it excelled in cleaning hard floors, and the transition between surfaces was seamless, edge cleaning on carpets wasn't as effective, particularly with oats near baseboards. It was easy to use the crevice tool, although overhead vacuuming was a bit heavy. The canister was easy to maneuver, especially on stairs.

This vacuum is lightweight because it has a bagless dust bin that's easy to empty. It also has washable filters and a five-year warranty for non-wearable parts, so maintenance costs are low. It's compact, so it fits in any space.

Read more: Shark Vertex Bagless Corded Vacuum review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best Shark vacuum cleaner for overhead cleaning

Shark's Vertex Pro Cordless Vacuum is easy to clean and user-friendly. Our reviewer, Helen, liked that Shark vacuums come in recyclable cardboard and paper packaging. Getting started is easy, and the instructions are easy to follow. The battery takes about 3.5 hours to charge, and it's removable for convenient charging. Overall, it's easy to understand how the vacuum works.

While the design is bulkier than many other cordless models, its functionality compensates for this drawback. Its handle has a display panel and easy-to-use controls, but users with smaller hands might find it uncomfortable. With two brush rolls and the DuoClean PowerFins floorhead, this vacuum effectively gets rid of dirt and dust. It's got LED lights and self-cleaning so hair doesn't tangle. This vacuum cleaner has two main modes and adjustable suction levels for versatility, including a "powered lift-away mode" for overhead cleaning.

Its bottom-heavy design makes it light and easy to maneuver around corners, but its bulkiness makes it hard to get under low furniture. Lift the pod off the wand to reach tight spaces. While it produces 78dB on boost mode, similar to a busy restaurant, it transitions smoothly between surfaces, efficiently picking up fine dust, larger debris, and pet hair. In lift-away mode, disassembly is easy, but Helen would have prefered onboard tool storage.

Read more: Shark Vertex Pro Cordless review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best Shark robot vacuum cleaner

Shark's Detect Pro vacuums well, but its features and app performance aren't the best.

Shark Detect Pro arrived in a compact package, so the setup was easy. After connecting the self-emptying base and downloading the app, our reviewer, Danielle, named the robot “Tony Shark.” The mapping feature worked fine, so it could navigate different surfaces. In spite of the vacuum's impressive performance, the app doesn't differentiate rooms, which makes it hard to use.

Despite being 14 x 13 x 8 inches, the self-emptying base fits well in smaller spaces. The sleek design combines shiny and matte black finishes, so it blends in anywhere, but the black color tends to attract dust. Danielle didn't experience any unpleasant smells from the bagless dust bin, which claims to hold dirt for 60 days. While it comes with an odor-neutralizer, she didn't find it necessary.

In tests on both hard and carpeted floors, Tony Shark initially handled a mess of sprinkles on laminate well in "DirtDetect" mode, but its erratic cleaning pattern left some crumbs behind, raising questions about its "EdgeDetect" technology. Danielle wasn't happy with the side brush's slow movement.

When she spread flour and oats, the vacuum struggled more, failing to pick up all debris even after activating "DirtDetect." Some junk fell out during the return to base, producing 75 dB of noise.

It was disappointing that the Shark app didn't support multiple maps, so Danille had to delete previous ones. It worked better on carpets but missed finer hairs.

Read more: Shark Detect Pro Self Empty Robot Vacuum review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best handheld Shark vacuum cleaner

Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro is a powerful, stylish vacuum for pet owners. It weighs just 2.8 pounds, so it's easy to handle. It's good at removing pet hair and other debris, but the battery only lasts about ten minutes, and it's pretty loud at 70 dB, just like a washing machine.

Despite the noise, its suction power efficiently lifted pet hair off couch cushions. The vacuum's assembly is super easy—just take it out of the box, attach the accessory, charge it if needed, and you're ready to go.

This sleek black design has a removable, transparent dustbin 20.82 x 3.82 x 4.35 inches. The dual airstreams enhance suction, but the 0.45 QT dustbin needs to be emptied regularly, especially with the short battery life. You can easily access the washable filter, too, and the vacuum has a "CleanTouch dirt ejector" for easy emptying.

Despite having only one power mode, Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro comes with three attachments: a self-cleaning pet brush, a crevice tool, and a scrubbing brush, so it's versatile. The crevice tool allows you to reach tight spots where dust tends to accumulate. It's good at picking up fine dust and larger debris, like Cheerios.

Read more: Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro review

• Back to the top ⤴

Shark vacuum cleaner FAQs

Are Shark vacuums better than Dyson?

If budget is an issue, Shark ($100-$500) is significantly cheaper than Dyson ($300-$1,050) while still providing excellent cleaning power and performance. 

Both machines are well-made, efficient, and flexible, although Dyson has a higher price tag due to its technological innovation and advanced features.

Can you wash the Shark vacuum canister?

Yes, you can wash the Shark vacuum canister. When you’ve removed it, all you need to do is rinse it in warm water and then place it on its side with the lid open to air dry (ideally for 24 hours before use).

Do Shark vacuums have HEPA filters?

Some HEPA vacuums don’t effectively seal their filter, so dust, allergens, and irritants can be blown into your home. That’s why Shark invented the anti-Allergen Complete Seal version of the HEPA filter. 

The high-efficiency particle air filter is contained within a completely sealed vacuum cleaner, so the only route out for the air is through the filter. This means almost all the dust and allergens (Shark claims 99.9%) are captured and trapped inside the machine.

When is the best time to buy a Shark vacuum?

Timing can impact your decision and savings when getting a Shark vacuum deal. The best time to buy a Shark vacuum usually aligns with significant sales events throughout the year. Many Shark vacuums are on sale on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which happen in late November. You can buy a high-quality vacuum cleaner at a great price when retailers offer deep price cuts.

As consumers prepare to freshen up their homes, many retailers promote sales of home cleaning products around spring cleaning season, typically in March and April. You might find great deals on Shark vacuums during this time, along with bundles with cleaning accessories.

In addition, check out holiday sales like Labor Day or Memorial Day, which feature discounts on home appliances, like Shark vacuums, as retailers try to clear out stock.

How we test the best Shark vacuum cleaners

We at Top Ten Reviews take testing Shark vacuum cleaners very seriously. The vacuums are tested in our reviewers' homes for two weeks to two months. During this time, they are intensely used, cleaning various floors and different types of dirt and dust.

We'll try the various programs and record the noise level to see if they suit those living in shared accommodation or for households of different sizes.

Cleaning and maintaining the Shark vacuum cleaners is an important consideration, too. Once done cleaning, we'll determine how easy it is to maintain and keep clean. 

Read more about how we test vacuum cleaners and other appliances.

• Back to top

One of the many big pluses of these machines is that they're much cleaner and more convenient than bean-to-cup or filter coffee makers. Each coffee comes in its own sealed pod, so there's no need to worry about getting grounds all over the countertop. The best models are super clean and fast, so you'll have an excellent espresso in no time.

Some of the best coffee makers have smart features and additional options, including integrated milk frothers or carafes. While the most affordable models are plastic, there are also some very pretty stainless steel models, such as the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista, which we think is the best Nespresso machine.

Remember to watch for Prime Day coffee maker deals. There are often great discounts on pod coffee machines and other coffee makers. It's a perfect opportunity to upgrade your morning routine and find a fantastic deal on the best models.

If you're an espresso drinker, a simple, one-touch machine should be all you need. If you prefer a luxurious latte, look for models with integrated milk frothers. And if you take your coffee seriously, you might want to explore models with carafes and the ability to customize the settings to get every drink just right.

The quick list

If you're in a rush, use this quick list to browse the best pod coffee machines. When a coffee maker captures your attention, jump down to read a more detailed review of the model. This will explain exactly who the machine is suited to and why you should or shouldn't introduce it into your kitchen.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pod coffee makers we recommend

The best pod coffee maker overall

The Morning Machine has a great formula that can help you quickly get quality espresso. This quality pod coffee machine takes specialty capsules with bespoke brew profiles, which picky coffee drinkers should appreciate. The app also makes it incredibly easy to adjust the settings.

Design: To use The Morning Machine, you must be comfortable using a smartphone app. The rotatable wheel on the front of the machine can be used to browse the ten ready-to-brew recipes, but it's easier and quicker to set up your recipe on the app. This makes The Morning Machine more complicated than simple single-button coffee machines but lets you customize your bew.

The design does not feature a milk frother, so latte drinkers may want to keep browsing pod coffee makers or buy a separate device. When using the coffee maker, empty the capsule bin every few days as it holds 8 - 10 capsules.

Performance: Before The Morning Machine pours coffee, there is a 20-second lag where the machine heats up. This is far quicker than many of the other models we've reviewed. The timings and how hot the coffee is are dependent upon the recipe. Our reviewer measured coffee temperatures between 125 - 170 F. The machine is also quiet; it produces 68 dB max.

The espresso flavor is fruitier than Nespresso coffee. It’s also possible to get quite a thick crema. If you’re interested in specialty coffees from smaller roasters, this machine is for you. If not, you might struggle with the nuanced taste.

Price: Costing $445, The Morning Machine is more expensive than most comparable Nespresso machines but offers way more brew settings. If you don’t want a complicated machine, you can save money by getting a coffee maker with a single-button configuration.

Read more: The Morning Machine review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best Nespresso pod coffee maker

Good looks, a household brand name, and an integrated milk frother—what else could you possibly ask for? The Nespresso Vertuo Creatista is our top pick if you want a Nespresso pod coffee machine. Made from stainless steel, it looks stunning on the countertop and delivers frothy lattes and delicious espresso time and time again.

Design: The Nespresso Vertuo Creatista is as professional-looking as a pod coffee machine can get. It has a barista-style steam wand and other sleek parts, including a drip tray with a temperature sensor and buttons to configure brew settings. That being said, the machine is bulky and requires much counter space.

As one of Nespresso’s Vertuo range models, it reads a unique barcode on the Vertuo capsule before brewing a coffee according to these settings. The bin holds 6 - 10 capsules and three different height positions for cups. The milk has three heat settings: 140 F, 155 F, and 176 F.

Performance: The Nespresso Vertuo Creatista takes approximately one minute to heat up, 55 seconds to brew a single espresso and 1 and 45 seconds to brew an 8-oz coffee. It’s also fairly quiet (78 dB). However, you can't control the coffee temperature, which is usually between 140 and 160 F.

Milk coffee drinkers may be looking for a thick, rich crema, but our reviewer found it thin and bubbly.

User reviews: Amazon reviews mention that the machine is prone to a ‘machine too hot’ error. Aside from this, the feedback is largely positive, with many reviews praising the taste of the coffee and how straightforward the coffee maker is to use.

Price: At $749, the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista is the most expensive model in our round-up, but it looks and plays the part. It’s available on Amazon or Nespresso.

Read more: Nespresso Vertuo Creatista review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best single serve pod coffee maker

Smart features make the Keurig K-Supreme SMART a stand-out pod coffee maker. It can automatically recognize K-cups to brew espresso quickly. It's also entry-level; the single-serve coffee maker retails for $180 and offers easy ways to customize your drink without feeling overwhelmed.

Design: The Keurig K-Supreme SMART is a good starting point if you’re new to brewing coffee at home. Its black, gray, or white plastic design is compact and lightweight. It has a 66-ounce water tank with a handle that is easy to refill.

The intuitive digital screen features options for four brew sizes (6, 8, 10, and 12 oz), five strength settings, and six temperatures. You can brew over ice or use hot water. The BrewID settings will automatically recognize K-cups and adjust the brew settings for you. However, there is no milk frother, which means no lattes or cappuccinos.

Performance: These features make the coffee maker a breeze to use. It brews espressos in just a few seconds. However, one of its quirks is that the BrewID only works quickly when connected to Wi-Fi, which can be frustrating if you want to use it manually.

User reviews: Most reviews on the Keurig website agree that the K-Cups offer enough variety to please different tastes. One reviewer added that it’s a ‘step up from the regular serve coffee maker.’ A few negative reviews mentioned having to refill the water tank regularly and the ‘flimsy’ plastic design.

Price: At $179.99, the Keurig K-Supreme SMART is cheaper than the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista and The Morning Machine. It’s great value for money if you don’t tend to drink milk coffee.

Read more: Keurig K-Supreme SMART review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best budget pod coffee maker

Weighing just 2.3 lbs, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is a compact pod coffee machine that makes a mean espresso. It only costs $179… imagine the long-term savings when you ditch shop-brought espressos.

Design: The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a single-serve coffee maker, part of the Original Nespresso coffee line. Everything from brewing coffee to clearing out the used pods and cleaning the machine is straightforward. It's also ideal if you're limited on counter space. Couples and singles who drink espresso only should get on with it.

It doesn't have fancy features like milk frothers. Instead, it can be brewed in an espresso or lungo, requiring a small or large cup. There’s one button for each option and a tiny 20.3-oz water tank at the back that needs to be refilled regularly. The drip tray and pod holder slide out easily, making cleaning easy.

Performance: Our reviewer has been using the Nespresso Essenza Mini since 2019 without problems. It's easy to use and gets your coffee sorted in a few minutes flat. Latte drinkers will have to steam milk separately.

User reviews: A few reviews on the Nespresso website report leaks. Otherwise, users seem happy with how easy the machine is to use and how much it speeds up their morning routine.

Price: $179 is attractive for a pod coffee maker, no matter how basic. It’s available from Amazon, Wayfair, and Sur La Table. It’s one of the cheapest models in our round-up, but it’s worth noting that the Keurig K-Supreme SMART costs just $1 more and lets you customize the strength and temperature of your espresso.

Read more: Nespresso Essenza Mini review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pod coffee maker with a carafe

The Keurig K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker has a carafe that takes both K-cups and ground coffee, which means it can get messy.

Design: The coffee maker has a generously sized water tank that holds 60 ounces of water, which will be handy for families. If one person has one cup per day, they could go five to six days without re-filling the tank. Still, the overall design is sleek and compact, even with the additional carafe. There is also an Auto-Off safety feature.

The K-Duo has settings for four different cup sizes and different brew strengths. Using the LCD screen and illuminated buttons, you can direct it to make coffee simultaneously every day. The digital clock is also handy for timekeeping.

Performance: This machine is quieter than others we’ve reviewed; brewing only amounts to 52 dB. The taste is on par with barista-grade coffee and is not too bitter. Our reviewer noted that you can get a better brew by using the carafe rather than by inserting a pod, which is to be expected with fresh coffee grounds.

User reviews: The coffee maker got 3.5/5 stars on the Keurig website from 1832 reviews but 4.4/5 stars on Amazon, which probably reflects the experience of regular coffee drinkers versus the average Joe. On Keurig, users loved brewing a full pot or single cup but mentioned that the machine could be leaky and coffee grounds get all over the counter.

Price: We reckon that $189.99 is quite a bargain for everything you get. We’ve seen the Keurig K-Duo on sale for $98.99 in the past and for $78.14 on Amazon too.

Read more: Keurig K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pod coffee maker for a variety of brews

The L'OR Barista Coffee & Espresso System is a machine of many talents, supporting multiple capsule kinds: not just its own but also Nespresso and Peet capsules.

Design: The machine is compact and lightweight, which makes it a good choice if you don’t have a lot of space to dedicate to a coffee/espresso machine. It features a removable 40-ounce water tank, two-piece coffee dispensing spout, used capsule drawer, drip tray, and cup tray.

Performance: The noise level is around 56dB, so it’s not quite a quiet machine, but since the beverage brews so quickly, we didn't consider that a deal-breaker. The 19-bar high pressure creates a delicious layer of crema, which adds to the rich and satisfying taste of the cup of coffee, and the machine is quick to deliver and easy to clean.

User reviews: On Amazon, nearly 1,000 reviewers have given it 4.6 out of 5 stars. They say, "The taste is outstanding" and "absolutely delicious and no mess." Another adds, "...super easy to use, clean, and tastes great."

Price: The L’OR Barista is available on Amazon for a list price of $189. It’s the same official price on the L’OR website, but it’s currently on sale for $159 at the time of publication. It’s not cheap, but it is a fair price for a pod coffee maker with a 19-bar pump that produces a rich crema layer.

Read more: LOr Barista System review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pod coffee maker for iced coffee

You can rely on the Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker for iced coffee in the comfort of your backyard. It's modern, easy to use, and only costs $189.99 before sale.

Design: Re-filling the water tank isn’t an everyday chore, as the Keurig K-Elite has a generously sized 75-oz water tank. The brew settings are also quite generous; there are settings for five different cup sizes, different temperatures, dispensing hot water, and brewing 'strong' or iced coffee.

The Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker design isn’t very elevated, but it's still modern and comes in three colors. It has a digital clock, illuminated buttons, an auto-off button, and just one single-serve area with a drip tray. It does not have a milk frother, which may be a deal-breaker if you occasionally love a latte or cappuccino.

Performance: The ‘strong’ coffee may not be as intense as desired, but the machine excels at making iced coffee, and the hot coffee tastes earthy and high quality.

User reviews: With an average of 4.3 stars from 4,259 reviews on Keurig, it’s clear that this is a popular coffee machine. Many reviews talk about having owned the machine for years without any faults.

Price: The Keurig K-Elite costs $189.99, but it’s often on sale for up to $80 less on the Keurig website or Amazon. This is an average price for a pod coffee maker, although you can find similarly priced models with a milk frother, which the K-Elite lacks. Negative reviews mostly discuss one-off technical issues.

Read more: Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pod coffee maker for quick brews

If you dislike waiting for your espresso, the Bruvi BV-03 Black Coffee Brewer will keep you on track. As a single-serve coffee maker, it’s not the most sophisticated machine. However, it still offers ways to customize your brew size and type.

Design: The Bruvi BV-03 Black Coffee Brewer cannot brew milk coffee, and there is also a limited selection of B-pods. However, it can customize brews using different settings for size and styles, such as espresso and cold brews. The touchscreen lights up, a small but significant design feature that makes things intuitive.

The machine is sleek despite having a very large 70-oz water tank. It’s a little larger than most pod coffee machines and weighs 13.2 lbs. While the machine is made of plastic, it feels sturdy and reliable.

Performance: Flavourful coffee is a must, and the Bruvi BV-03 Black Coffee Brewer delivers. However, the best part about the machine is that it makes an espresso in two minutes flat without heating it first. Aside from sending a notification when the coffee is brewed, the app isn't very helpful.

User reviews: The Bruvi BV-03 Black Coffee Brewer has a 4.7/5 rating from 269 reviews on the Bruvi website. Users praise the strong, delicious coffee, but some complain about poor customer support when encountering issues.

Price: The coffee machine costs $373 from Bruvi, which is more expensive than most single-serve pod coffee machines. It’s a good job. The machine has a few flaws, but don't forget about the lack of pod variety and that there is no way to brew lattes or cappuccinos.

Read more: Bruvi BV-03 Black Coffee Brewer review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best pod coffee maker for lattes

If you’re a latte or cappuccino drinker, you should perk up when reading about the K-Café Special Edition Single Serve Coffee Latte & Cappuccino Maker. It’s modern, easy to use, and can still brew a latte, cappuccino, or regular espresso in just a few minutes.

Design: The design of the K-Café Special Edition Single Serve Coffee Latte & Cappuccino Maker Is straightforward. There are several buttons where you can select options like brewing a latte or cappuccino, adjusting the size of the brew, descaling, adding water, or adjusting the milk settings.

Several design flaws are noticeable, like the loose reservoir lid and lines being hard to see on the milk frother. It’s larger than most Keurig coffee machines, so you’ll need plenty of countertop space. There’s also no LCD screen, although the buttons are large and illuminated.

Performance: Using and cleaning the K-Café is quick and intuitive. The coffee taste is on par with creamy barista-made coffee. The ‘strong’ button is also handy for a stronger, earthier brew. The machine also heats up within a few minutes.

User reviews: The coffee maker on Amazon has 4.7 stars out of 10, with over 7,000 five-star ratings. Users loved the strong setting, the coffee taste, and how easy it was to clean the milk frother.

Price: Costing $200 from Amazon or Keurig, the K-Café is about $20 cheaper than the Ninja Dual Brew Pro and almost $300 cheaper than the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima, other good milk coffee pod machines. That makes it very attractive.

Read more: K-Café Special Edition Single Serve Coffee Latte & Cappuccino Maker review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best low maintenance pod coffee maker

Not only does the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima look gorgeous, but it's also easy to clean and comes equipped with a steam wand that can froth milk to perfection.

Design: The first thing to say about the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima is that it looks sleek and modern. Still, it has an unusual and desirable balance between modern features like auto pod recognition and a milk frother and simplicity. There are just four buttons, for example.

The machine uses auto pod technology to brew an espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug, XL, or carafe. The Vertuo pods offer a variety of flavors, although Nespresso isn’t known for having the most nuanced flavors. The removable water tank holds 54 ounces, and the milk tank holds 16 ounces, which should be plenty.

Performance: The milk frother has six parts, so it can be fiddly put back together when cleaning the machine. Pouring coffee takes two to three minutes, which is quick. It also doesn’t splash coffee, helping to prevent messy countertops.

User reviews: On Amazon, reviewers liken the coffee to barista-grade buys. They note that the machine is modern and well-designed. In the very few negative reviews, some users complain of lukewarm coffee.

Price: The Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima costs nearly $300 more than the K-Café Special Edition Single Serve Coffee Latte & Cappuccino Maker. Sometimes, it can be sold at Nespresso, De’Longhi, or Best Buy for around $370, as opposed to the full price of $499.

Read more: Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima review

• Back to the top ⤴

How we tested the best pod coffee machines

Our reviewers tested the best pod coffee machines in their homes. The team is made up of regular coffee drinkers who have varied tastes. They have tested every part of the process, from unboxing and setting up the machine to brewing and cleaning coffee. They also rigorously try the different settings and features, recording noise levels and identifying potential problems. Read more about how we test coffee makers and other appliances.

How to choose the best pod coffee machine for you

Choose a budget: Our round-up most affordable pod coffee machine is the Nespresso Essenza Mini, which costs $179. Other capsule models sit around the $180 - 220 mark. However, these machines are mostly basic single-serve models. While they can produce a good espresso, a higher quality model costing between $300 and $500 has additional features such as a steam wand, extra customizable settings, or even a carafe. Your first step should be to decide which features you're willing to pay more for and how flexible your budget is.

Look at your space: Some pod coffee machines take up much counter space, especially if they have a large water reservoir (50 - 60 oz or more) or features such as a carafe or a milk wand. You should measure your space against the machine's dimensions before you purchase. Smaller machines are usually more basic in design. You will also need to fill their water tanks more regularly.

Design considerations: Does the design match your modern kitchen appliances? Does the color match? Does plastic or stainless steel look best on your countertop? These are all important questions to ask yourself before you buy a pod coffee maker.

Pod types: If buying a Nespresso pod machine, you must buy the correct Vertuo or Original pods. Vertuo machines feature auto pod recognition, meaning the pod you buy dictates your coffee's flavor, size, and strength. If you’re buying K-Cups or another type of capsule, they must also be compatible with the machine. There are many different flavors of capsules, and some pods cost more than others, impacting your monthly budget.

Milk frother: If you only drink espressos, getting a pod coffee maker with a milk frother will only eat into your budget. However, if you’re a huge fan of a morning latte or cappuccino, having a coffee maker with a steam wand may be worth the additional money. Cold milk can make your coffee lukewarm, whereas a milk wand adds a creamy layer to your coffee and keeps it hot.

Pod coffee machine FAQs

How does a pod coffee maker work? 

At the most basic level, a pod coffee maker pierces a specially designed pod or capsule inserted into a chamber. The machine runs hot water through the coffee grounds inside the pod, which dispenses a cup of coffee into a mug. Different pod coffee maker models offer different strength and size settings. Some models also feature a milk wand, which steams milk and adds it to the coffee. We have written a more detailed breakdown to answer the question, ‘How do pod coffee machines work?’.

How do you keep a pod coffee maker clean?

A pod coffee maker needs descaling every few months using a 1:1 ratio of distilled vinegar and water. This solution should be added to the tank by running a rinse cycle or initiating the machine’s descale settings. After approximately an hour, you should run two to three rinse cycles using plain water.

Basic cleaning of a pod coffee maker is easy. The machine can be wiped down using a damp cloth. Parts such as a drip tray or milk frother can be soaked and cleaned using warm water and dishwashing liquid.

Is Keurig better than Nespresso? 

Keurig coffee makers are easy to use and compact, with some models measuring as little as five inches wide. However, they are usually less sturdy than Nespresso models, predominantly made from thicker plastic. Nespresso models can, therefore, feel higher quality than Keurig coffee makers.

Nespresso and Keurig pods are also very different, with the former producing thicker coffee. Nespresso pods are also made from 100% aluminum, making them easier to recycle than Keurig capsules, made from plastic and metal. Therefore, to conclude the debate of Keurig VS Nespresso, while Keurig is best for speed and small size, Nespresso machines feel higher quality and produce thicker coffee.

Vertuo machines offer innovative features like auto pod recognition and customization options for different needs and tastes.

Consider your coffee-drinking habits when choosing a Nespresso machine. Machines with a milk frother are perfect for lattes and cappuccinos, while models without frothers are great for espresso. To ensure your machine meets your specific requirements, you'll need to consider things like water tank capacity, noise level, appearance, and cleaning ease.

If you're interested in alternatives to Nespresso, explore our guide to the best espresso machines or our recommendations for pod coffee makers from other brands.

The quick list

Use the quick list to browse the best products and narrow down which Nespresso machine suits you based on first impressions. You can jump down the page to read more detailed reviews of each product and why they should get a prized spot on your kitchen counter.

The best Nespresso machines we recommend

The best Nespresso machine overall

The Nespresso Vertuo Creatista stands out as an attractive and clever coffee machine. By reading the barcode on Vertuo capsules, it automatically adjusts the brewing settings to ensure every cup is just right. One of the best features is the automated milk wand, which makes perfectly frothed milk, perfect for creamy coffee drinks.

However, it's worth noting that this machine is significantly larger than other Nespresso models. If counter space is a concern, you might want to rethink your purchase or see if you can fit it. Instead of plastic, the stainless steel looks sleek and professional, giving you the feeling of having a barista in your own kitchen.

The Nespresso Vertuo Creatista incorporates user-friendly features; for instance, the steam wand can be tilted up easily using a finger loop. When you pick a temperature and choose your desired froth level, the machine does the rest. Based on the Vertuo capsule barcode determines exactly how much water is needed to brew each drink.

Amazon reviews praise the machine's simplicity and the taste of the coffee it makes. Some customers report getting a 'machine too hot' error when using it.

Although the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista is designed to be user-friendly, it can still be a bit confusing at first. You use a lever and a button to brew. The capsule bin holds 6 to 10 capsules, and there are three height settings. Even though the machine brews coffee in just two to three minutes, the main drawbacks are that there are limited options for stronger or hotter coffee, and the crema can be thin and bubbly instead of rich and creamy.

Read more: Nespresso Vertuo Creatista review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best budget Nespresso machine

Despite its simple design and vibrant color options, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop stands out for its stylish appearance. It's 16.5 inches in diameter, so it's perfect for people who don't have much counter space. If you're looking for something sweet to pair with your coffee, it's just under $200, so you have some extra cash to spend.

Easy to use. It has just one lever and a button, and a small water tank that holds 20 fl oz—so you can make about two cups of coffee with it. Although it's simple, it has some limitations, especially if you're looking for an integrated milk frother. Using centrifusion technology, the Vertuo Pop creates a rich crema layer when you add milk.

With the Vertuo, you can get four coffee sizes: a 40ml espresso, an 80ml double espresso, a 150ml gran lungo, and a 230ml mug. Vertuo pods come in strength ratings from 1 to 10, so you can customize your taste.

Coffee is ready in just 20 to 30 seconds after inserting a pod. However, adding cold milk will require extra steaming time, potentially leaving your coffee lukewarm.

Nespresso's user reviews say the machine has great taste and a lightweight, colorful design that makes it a popular choice for coffee lovers. Whether you're a couple or just a single coffee drinker, the Vertuo Pop is a chic and functional option.

Read more: Nespresso Vertuo Pop review

• Back to the top ⤴