Bone conduction headphones have an open-ear design, allowing you to remain aware of your surroundings. While unconventional, this design tweak has some tangible benefits. For example, bone conduction headphones can keep runners and hikers alert to oncoming traffic and other people on the trail. They are also a preferable choice for people with certain types of hearing loss, ear canal issues and those prone to ear infections. The waterproof models, on the other hand, can help swimmers hear sounds underwater. Put simply, bone conduction headphones do everything that even some of the best 'regular' running headphones can't do.

That said, they may not suit everyone. Bone conduction headphones transmit sound through vibrations on the bones of the skull, bypassing the eardrum and directly stimulating the inner ear. As a result, they will not be able to produce the same audio quality or offer the same degree of noise cancellation as in-ear or over-ear headphones, Shruthi Raghavendra Ph.D., a cognitive neuroscience researcher specializing in hearing aids and consumer audio systems, told Live Science. If you want to know about the pros and cons of bone conduction headphones, scroll down to the FAQs section. Not sure where to start? Go to the How to Choose section for more buying advice.

Here are the top 12 air and bone conduction headphones we recommend this spring, from premium headbands designed for swimmers to budget-friendly picks. Most of these products we tried and tested ourselves, while some are highlighted due to their superior specifications and positive user feedback.

The quick list

The best bone conduction headphones we recommend in 2026

The best bone conduction headphones overall

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are our firm favorite and a go-to option for hikes, runs and many other outdoor activities. These bone conduction headphones delivered the best combination of comfort, sound quality and battery life of all the models we tested. We also liked their extensive customization. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 comes in two band sizes and three colors, and they feature six sound equalizer modes. As such, they can fit a wider range of people than nearly every other option in this guide, and have some of the most extensive sound settings of all the bone conduction headphones on the market. True, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are relatively expensive (they cost nearly $180 and are rarely on sale), but they offer excellent value for money for most people.

Specs-wise, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are quite unusual — they use DualPitch Technology, meaning they combine bone conduction with a dedicated air conduction speaker. This design tweak adds depth and clarity to the projected audio, making these headphones sound notably better than the headsets that use only bone conduction (such as the more affordable Shokz OpenRun, for example). This dual technology also helps reduce the vibrations that pass through the skull bones. We have worn our Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 on multiple day-long trips in the great outdoors and never experienced any discomfort or tension headaches.

Speaking of outdoor activities, these headphones are also very workout-friendly. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 stayed firmly in place during our hikes and runs, even when worn alongside sunglasses and hats, and its soft silicone finish did not irritate the skin, even during the most sweat-inducing exercises. That said, the wraparound headband may not suit people with certain hairstyles or clothing types.

On the downside, these headphones are not suitable for any water-based activities. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are only IP55 rated, meaning they can withstand splashes of water and light rain, but not a full submersion underwater. If you are a swimmer or triathlete, consider the excellent Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro instead.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best value bone conduction headphones

We are big fans of the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, but it is hard to deny that they will not suit everyone's budget. If you do not want to spend nearly $180 on these premium headphones, consider the Shokz OpenRun instead — they are around $50 cheaper, but they still deliver excellent value for money.

These bone conduction headphones look and feel very similar to the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2. They are slightly lighter — they weigh 0.91 oz (26g) as opposed to 1.06 oz (30.3g) — and come in a wider range of colors (four instead of three), but ultimately, they are just as sleek and secure-fitting as their more expensive sibling. We had no issues wearing them during hikes, runs and light-intensity workouts. The main difference, however, lies in the specs.

The battery life, for example. While the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 can last 12 hours on a single charge, the OpenRun has only eight hours of battery life. If you go on full-day hiking trips or take part in ultramarathons and similar sporting competitions, these bone conduction headphones may fall short of your expectations here.

Sound quality is another factor to consider. As we mentioned before, the Shokz OpenRun headphones use only bone conduction. While their audio quality is still relatively good, it is not as deep and clear as in the dual bone-air OpenRun Pro 2 headphones. We also found that these headphones can produce notable skull vibrations when listening to bass-heavy music. While we did not find this too uncomfortable, it may be quite disruptive for some sensitive individuals.

On the other hand, the Shokz OpenRun outperforms the OpenRun Pro 2 for waterproofness. While not suitable for swimming, these headphones are IP67-rated, meaning they can be safely submerged up to 1 meter under water for 30 minutes. In that sense, these bone conduction headphones are some of the most outdoor-friendly options in this guide.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best budget bone conduction headphones

The H20 Audio Tri Run takes the spotlight in the under-$100 category. These bone conduction headphones may not be as 'smart' and customizable as some of the high-end Shokz or Suunto models, but they still offer plenty of value — they fit well, they sound good, and they are durable enough to keep up with nearly all forms of outdoor exercise. In fact, they are even sturdier and more water-resistant than the Shokz OpenRun mentioned above.

The H20 Audio Tri Run are rated IPX8, meaning these headphones can be submerged in shallow water for over 30 minutes. While they can't be used for swimming like the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro, for example, they can still easily withstand sweat, rain and an occasional splash or fall into the creek. It is quite rare to see such a high IP rating in models under $100. If you spend a lot of time training outdoors, the H20 Audio Tri Run should not disappoint you.

That said, these headphones have some drawbacks, too. Most importantly, these headphones last only 6 hours on a single charge — the least of all the bone-conduction models mentioned in this guide. We also noticed that the H20 Audio Tri Run can produce noticeable skull vibrations at high volumes or when listening to bass-heavy music. In all fairness, though, this is quite common at this price point and not something we would particularly fret about.

Second-best

• Back to the top ⤴

Best bone conduction headphones for runners

Looking for bone conduction headphones that can survive multi-day camping trips and ultra-endurance running events? If you want something that can withstand dust, sweat and harsh weather conditions, the Suunto Wing 2 will be right up your street. These bone conduction headphones are durable, comfortable to wear and equipped with a host of unique runner-friendly features.

The Suunto Wing 2 are rated IP66, meaning they have been shown to withstand damage caused by dust and high-pressure water jets. They are also made of tough titanium and can function in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit) and as high as 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit). They are more outdoor-friendly and resilient to accidental damage than the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, and therefore more suitable for trail running, for example. That said, these bone conduction headphones are not suitable for submersion underwater. If you are a swimmer or triathlete, you may want to consider the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro or the H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro instead.

The battery life is another plus point for us. The Suunto Wing 2 can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, and up to 24 hours with a power bank included in the package — longer than any other bone conduction headphones we tested. The features are no less impressive. For example, they come with handy head gesture control (nodding your head instead of fumbling with the buttons), a neck mobility assessment, a jump test, and built-in LED lights to keep you visible on a running track after dark. You can even sync these headphones with your Suunto watch to receive real-time running feedback directly into your ears. It is a treat for fitness geeks like ourselves.

The Suunto Wing 2 are not perfect, though. Most importantly, they are quite expensive — $179, as much as the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2. Moreover, the sound quality does not hit all marks. While these bone conduction headphones do sound well and we thoroughly enjoyed them, we also found their bass to be quite flat and lifeless at times.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best bone conduction headphones for swimmers

There are two strong contenders for the title of the best bone conduction headphones for swimming: the Shokz OpenSwim Pro and the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro. Both headsets boast great specs, a thoughtful design, and a massive 32 GB of internal storage. (Note that Bluetooth does not work underwater, so every tune and podcast you want to listen to while swimming must be pre-loaded onto your headphones first.) However, it is the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro that narrowly wins this competition. Here's why.

First and foremost, these bone conduction headphones are more durable. The Shokz OpenSwim Pro headphones are IP68-rated, meaning they can be submerged in water up to two meters deep for two hours. The Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro, on the other hand, have an IP69 rating, which is the highest level of ingress protection against solids and liquids. These bone conduction headphones can be used underwater at 10-meter depths for up to 5 hours, and can withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. Put simply, the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro are more dust- and waterproof, and therefore slightly better suited for diving and open-water swimming than the Shokz OpenSwim Pro.

Secondly, these bone conduction headphones have a longer battery life — 10 hours as opposed to nine hours. They are also more adjustable. While both of these headphones come in one universal size, the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro also features an innovative 35-degree ear hook. This design tweak allows you to adjust the fit of your headphones so they do not get in the way of your swim caps and goggles. Moreover, this ear hook makes it possible to switch between open-ear and noise-canceling modes. Lastly, the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro costs $152.99, making it more affordable than the Shokz OpenSwim Pro ($179.95).

These bone conduction headphones are not flawless, though. Some online users have pointed out that the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro features fiddly controls that take some getting used to, and that the headset itself is relatively bulky.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best all-rounder bone conduction headphones

The H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro bone conduction headphones are best suited for swimmers, triathletes and other highly active individuals. True, they have their shortcomings — they cost a whopping $199, making them the most expensive model in this guide, and some of their specs leave much to be desired — but they have a better quality build and more comfortable fit than most models out there. These bone conduction headphones will easily keep up with your active lifestyle, whether you are hiking in the great outdoors, lifting weights in the gym or swimming in the sea.

Most importantly, they are waterproof. The H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro are rated IPX8, meaning they can withstand submersion up to 12 feet (3.6 meters) underwater for an unlimited amount of time. Of all the models we tested in this guide, only the Nank Runner Diver 2 Pro has better waterproof credentials than the H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro. Secondly, they are impressively functional. The H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro headphones come with 8GB of internal storage (which equals around 2,000 songs), a playlist creator, swimming earplugs and a hard traveling case.

We found them very secure-fitting, too. These bone conduction headphones remained firmly in place during vigorous training sessions, and they did not aggravate our ears or cause us any discomfort. If you are an active individual like us, you will not be disappointed there.

However, the H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro headphones are not without their flaws. Most notably, they have a relatively short battery life — six hours in memory mode, playing the songs stored on the headset, to nine hours in Bluetooth mode. They may not be the best option for multi-day camping trips and ultra-endurance sporting events.

We also found that these headphones can produce slight skull vibrations when listening to bass-heavy music. While we did not find this too uncomfortable, it may be quite disruptive for some sensitive individuals. In addition, we found the Bluetooth connectivity to be patchy one too many times. The H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro would either cut us off for no apparent reason or struggle with maintaining a consistent connection.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best open-ear headphones for portability

Bone conduction headphones are irreplaceable for situational awareness and water-based activities, but they also have some major disadvantages. Their size and fit, for example — bone conduction speakers are relatively big and bulky, and they rely on wraparound headbands or complex earpieces to stay firmly in place. They may not suit people with certain hairstyles or those prone to ear infections and tension headaches. The solution? Cuff-ear air conduction earbuds. Unlike bone conduction headphones, they clip onto the side of your ear and transmit the sound by air.

There are quite a few good cuff-ear earbuds on the market and it is not easy to pick the best product, but if we had to pick something that would suit most people, we would choose the JLab Flex. These open earbuds cost just $49.99, which is a tiny fraction of what you would typically pay for the more premium Bose Ultra or Soundcore AeroClip, but they do give you plenty of bang for your money. The JLab Flex stands out among its budget-friendly competitors with a relatively good sound quality, a dedicated app with a sound equalizer, and up to seven hours of battery life (21 hours with the charging case).

These cuff-ear earbuds are small and flexible enough to suit most ear shapes, but they do not compromise on sturdiness and build quality. We found them very comfortable to wear — the Jlab Flex did not cause us any ear pain or discomfort, even after several hours of continuous listening, and they did not tend to shift or fall off our earlobes. Still, cuff-ear earbuds are generally best suited for light activities, such as walking or domestic chores, and may not be secure enough to withstand movement-heavy exercises.

Moreover, the JLab Flex is not suitable for swimming. These earbuds are IPX4-rated, meaning they can be safely exposed to sweat, light rain or splashes of water, but they will not withstand full submersion. Not to mention, they would likely come off underwater anyway.

Second-best headphones for portability

• Back to the top ⤴

Best sounding open-ear headphones

Air conduction earbuds have plenty of advantages, but great sound quality is hardly ever one of them. This open-ear design prioritizes functionality and situational awareness, not rich bass and clear treble (and you can forget about any meaningful noise reduction, too.) The good news is that this rule is not set in stone. Some air conduction earbuds can indeed live up to the high standards of fitness-loving audiophiles — and the Shokz OpenFit Pro are one of those rare gems.

Hands down, the Shokz OpenFit Pro are some of the best-sounding open-ear earbuds we have ever tested. The bass was surprisingly deep and rich, the trebles were pleasantly clear, and even the more complex pieces of music seemed to hit all the right notes. Now, that's not to say the OpenFit Pro can compete with closed-ear headphones in regards to sound quality — at the end of the day, it is hard to bypass the limitations of the open-ear design — but music lovers should not be disappointed here.

The design of the Shokz OpenFit Pro also deserves a special mention. These earbuds are light and quite comfortable to wear, and if positioned correctly, they tend to stay in place during workouts. In our experience, they fit quite well. However, some people may find the OpenFit Pro a bit too bulky and loose-fitting for comfortable wear. Since these earbuds are only available in one size (unlike some other Shokz headphone models, for example), this feels like an oversight.

The price is another downside. The Shokz OpenFit Pro costs a whopping $249.95, making it one of the most expensive models mentioned in this guide. Given the advanced specs of these earbuds, though, we are willing to concede that this price is at least partially justified.

• Back to the top ⤴

Most comfortable open-ear headphones

Looking for something ever smaller and lighter than the aforementioned JLab Flex Open Earbuds? Then consider the OpenRock S2. Weighing just 0.25 oz (7g) each, they are one of the most discreet and unobtrusive air conduction earbuds on the market, and if our experiences are anything to go by, also one of the most comfortable to wear. Plus, they come with a hook-clip design and IPX5 sweatproof certification, making them suitable for high-intensity exercise. All in all, the OpenRock S2 earbuds are an excellent all-rounder for those prone to tension headaches or people with ear sensitivities.

We were also impressed by their battery life (the OpenRock S2 earbuds last up to 8 hours on a single charge, or up to 32 hours with a case) and relatively good sound quality, as well as their robust sound customization features and flawless multipoint connectivity. For less than $90, these earbuds deliver superb value for money.

That said, the OpenRock S2 may not suit everyone. These earbuds are available in one size only, and their hooks are not adjustable enough to fit certain ear shapes. Moreover, they are not a good fit for contact sports (the OpenRock S2 are quite secure-fitting, but they are unlikely to sustain direct impact), nor are they waterproof enough for swimming and diving.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best open-ear headphones for noise cancellation

Last, but not least, the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro — the first and only earbuds to combine both open-ear and Active Noise Cancelling forms, allowing you to switch from situational awareness to immersive sound at a moment's notice and without having to change the headset. While they do not fit neatly into this buying guide — the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro are neither bone conduction headphones nor open-ear earbuds — their unique design may offer a viable alternative to every other model we discussed above.

Now, that is not to say these earbuds can match the noise-cancelling properties typical of closed-ear headphones. The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro do not fully cover the ear or block the ear canal — at the end of the day, some unwanted sounds are bound to slip out. That said, the ANC on these earbuds is surprisingly good. If you need a moment of peace in a crowded gym or want to cut out the background noise on a busy running track, you would be hard–pressed to find a better model.

Speaking of exercise, the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro do a particularly good job here. The earhooks feel slightly flimsy and it took us a while to get used to putting them on, true, but once we got the hang of this novel design, the earbuds tended to sit firmly in place even during the more intense workouts. The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro are also IP55-certified, meaning they are dust- and sweatproof.

That said, we would not recommend wearing these earbuds while playing contact sports. These earbuds feel somewhat fragile in build and their adjustable earhooks may simply not survive activities that involve heavy impact.

The best bone conduction speaker for sleep

Bone conduction headphones are generally too bulky for comfortable sleep. If you like to doze off to the sound of music, we would recommend the Jabees Peace Pillow Speaker instead. It is a bone conduction speaker that you place under your pillow, allowing you to listen to your favorite albums and podcasts without aggravating your ears or disturbing others around you. The Jabees Peace Pillow Speaker can prove useful in many different scenarios, but it can be particularly handy for travellers, parents with young children and other users who need to stay aware of their surroundings while getting some shuteye.

The Jabees Peace Pillow Speaker is exceptionally light and compact, even when compared to other bone conduction speakers available on the market. It weighs only 1.59 oz (45g), which is no more than a stack of playing cards or half a chocolate bar, and measures just 3.39 inches in length and 2.28 inches in width (8.6 and 5.78 cm, respectively) — equivalent to the dimensions of a typical credit card. It is unlikely to cause you any discomfort during sleep.

The Jabees Peace Pillow Speaker harbors some pretty impressive tech for its size. For example, it can last up to 10 hours on a single charge. It also features an optional SD card with eight pre-loaded sleep soundscapes (repetitive sounds that can help you relax, such as rainfall or ocean waves crashing ashore), so even if your speaker is out of your device's Bluetooth range, you can still use it as a white noise machine. The cherry on top? It costs less than $40, making it one of the most affordable options in this guide.

However, any device of this size is also likely to move around during the night, especially if you toss and turn a lot. If you are a restless sleeper, you may want to consider investing in one of the best sleep headphones instead. It is also worth noting that bone conduction speakers can disturb your partner if they accidentally shift to their side of the bed.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best bone conduction headphones: comparison

Contributing experts & product testers

Best bone conduction headphones: Frequently Asked Questions

Latest updates

How to choose the best bone conduction headphones for you

Your choice of bone conduction headphones should be dictated by how you intend to use them, our experts agree. There are plenty of different models on the market: some are designed to suit the needs of professional runners and swimmers, others have a more general appeal, and certain models are used primarily as hearing aids. Think about the most important specifications for your needs and preferences, then let them guide your choice. "For example, if you are a runner or cyclist, prioritize lightweight, open-ear models; for office calls, look for built-in mic quality," Raghavendra said.

Once you decide what type of headphones you are looking for, consider factors such as sound quality, fit, battery life, cost and durability.

Sound quality. Premium models, such as the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, tend to offer richer and more bass-heavy sound than the more affordable bone conduction headphones, Parliament said.

Fit. Look for a snug but comfortable headband that does not shift during exercise.

Battery life. Long battery life can be particularly important for hikers and outdoor athletes.

Durability. "Established brands like Shokz (formerly Aftershokz) tend to have better tuning and durability," Raghavendra said.

How we tested these bone conduction headphones

How we test the best bone conduction headphones

As passionate music lovers, we know a thing or two about quality headphones. We must have tried dozens, if not hundeds of different headphones throughout our lifetime, always looking for the best possible user experience. You can put trust in our judgements — we would not recommend anything we would not happily use ourselves.

That said, we are aware that bone conduction headphones (or any type of headphones, by that matter) are difficult to test objectively. Different individuals have different ear shapes, hearing sensitivities and ideas as to what constitutes good quality sound. We tried our best to judge all headphones in this guide in an objective and balanced manner, which is why we assessed every product in this guide according to the same three criteria:

Design. We check the weight, fit and durability of the headphones. We assess how customizable they are (for example, how many sizes and colors they come in) and whether they are waterproof, dustproof and, if possible, comfortable to wear. We also note if they came with any useful accessories, such as a carrying case.

Features: We gave our verdict on the functionality of the headphones. We check their volume range, sound customization (if applicable) and connected apps (if applicable).

Performance: We assess the connectivity, battery life and sound-related specifications of the headphones in question. Whenever possible, we share our thoughts on the sound quality and general user experience, and always note any issues or problems that arose during the testing process.

Finally, we weigh these factors against the price of the product, and give a final score out of five.

Star projectors have taken social media by storm, and understandably so. Many of these clever little devices can transform your bedroom ceiling into a glittering night sky, offering a jaw-dropping stargazing experience from the comfort of your own home. Others, on the other hand, simply help you relax and unwind with colorful cosmic visuals. The best part? They do not have to be expensive. While many of the best star projectors can cost hundreds of dollars, you can still get a quality device for less than $40. We know, we have tried and tested numerous devices over the last several years.

Budget-friendly star projectors tend to be less scientifically accurate and advanced than their more expensive counterparts, but they still have plenty to offer. A well-picked device can ignite scientific curiosity in young children, while adults will appreciate its calming and ornamental effect. These gadgets have universal appeal, making them excellent gift ideas for all ages. Below, you will find our top selection of budget star projectors, all costing less then $40. We have tried and tested them all to the same standard.

For more information on the safety, features and potential benefits of star projectors, scroll down to the FAQs section on this page.

If you would rather gaze at the real night sky, consider one of the best telescopes for your next purchase - there's a whole lot to discover beyond the terrestrial, and it is very exciting if you can do it yourself.

The quick list

The best star projectors under $40 that we recommend in 2026

The best budget star projector overall

The Astronaut Starry Sky Projector takes the well-deserved top spot. This little device ticks all our boxes, from a thoughtful design and a good range of features to bright, beautiful visuals, and it costs less than $35. We also liked its universal appeal. The Astronaut Starry Sky Projector is a lovely space-themed ornament for kids and adults alike, and any science enthusiast would be thrilled to display it on their shelf. True, this star projector may not be particularly portable or scientifically accurate, but you would be hard-pressed to find better value in this price range.

The first thing we noticed about this little device is its unique design. The controls are located on the astronaut's backpack, while the visuals are projected from their space helmet. The head is magnetically connected to the rest of the astronaut's body, allowing you to direct the lights and lasers anywhere you like. Sounds flimsy? Not at all. This little device felt surprisingly sturdy and well-built. During our full Astronaut Starry Sky Projector review, we could pick it up by its head and the device would not come apart.

We were even more impressed by its visual performance. This device displays eight different nebula color combinations and laser 'stars', and all of its projections are bright, vibrant and largely visible in daytime. It is also very quiet — the Astronaut Starry Sky Projector can barely be heard while working, making it a suitable choice for bedrooms and studies.

It is easy to use, too. This star projector can be controlled with on-body buttons (located on the astronaut's backpack) or with a handy remote control, plus it comes with a 45- and 90-minute timer. The Astronaut Starry Sky Projector can be automatically switched off after you doze off to help with sleep and save energy.

Our only gripe is with its power supply. This star projector features a DC port, rather than the more universal USB port, and its cable is relatively short. This design tweak also makes it difficult to move around. Also, the Astronaut Starry Sky Projector seems to have plenty of dupes on the internet. If you see this device for less than $10, chances are it is not the version we tested and we can't vouch for its quality.

Read more: Astronaut Starry Sky Projector review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best educational star projector under $40

STEM toys are any playthings or kid-friendly gadgets that help introduce children to the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. They are designed to be both fun and educational, helping your little loved ones develop their scientific curiosity and problem-solving skills. Star projectors are a perfect example of STEM toys. The problem is, there are not that many quality kid-friendly devices for less than $30. The Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector is one of those rare exceptions.

Best suited for children aged between six and 10, this educational toy not only displays rotating constellations and stars, but also projects slides with NASA-derived images and even serves as a nightlight. It looks fun, too. This Brainstorm Toys set resembles R2-D2, a beloved Star Wars character, so many children and adults (ourselves included) will instinctively warm up to it.

This multi-functional device may seem too complex for very young children, but it could not be further from the truth. During the full Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector review, our little testers had no issues with changing the settings, manually adjusting the focus or switching between the three image discs supplied with the projector. In fact, the tactile nature of this star projector made them even more excited to play with it.

The Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector is powered by three AA batteries (not included) and weighs just 1.13 pounds (or 514 grams). This helps children move it around with ease and avoid getting entangled in cables — something that some other star projectors in this guide can be guilty of. At the same time, this Brainstorm Toys set feels sturdy and well-built. It features no risky lasers, either, so it is relatively safe for the youngest children.

There are some downsides to this star projector, though. The Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector is not powerful enough to cover large surface areas, and it requires relatively dark conditions. Secondly, this set does not come with paper booklets that would explain the displayed images. The educational materials can only be accessed online with a 'secret code', and they are not particularly exhaustive. That said, parents can still use the slides as conversation starters and a way to ignite scientific curiosity in their children.

This brings us to the last point. The Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector is a great kids' toy, but it lacks the educational value and the 'wow' factor that would appeal to pre-teens and teenagers.

Read more: Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best star projector for babies

The Mokoqi Star Projector Night Light is an inexpensive star projector designed primarily as a sleep aid for babies and young children rather than a scientifically accurate astronomy tool. Its projections feature bold, cartoon-like stars and moons.

The projector has a lightweight, plasticky construction and a domed design with a translucent star-patterned cover. This cover can be placed over the dome to convert the projector into a simple night-light, giving it dual functionality. It is operated using four buttons on the unit itself, with no additional features such as a remote control or built-in speaker. A red LCD display on the front shows the sleep timer, though in our hands-on review of the Mokoqi Star Projector, we thought that this display can be overly bright and distracting in a dark room.

You can power the unit via USB-C or batteries; it is nice to have the option. The projector offers several color options, including white, blue, red, and green, which you can choose individually or select the program that cycles through them.

While the Mokoqi provides a good amount of coverage across walls and ceilings, it must be noted that the projections can appear blurry and they cannot be focused like you can with the more premium models. Overall, this is a simple, affordable device designed to help children relax and fall asleep (if they like lights and star/moon shapes).

• Back to the top ⤴

Best lamp/star projector combo

The Jiawen Galaxy Projector Light is designed primarily to create a relaxing atmosphere rather than display scientifically accurate images of space. While it is marketed as a galaxy projector, its projections are abstract waves of color that resemble rippling light, it is a bit of a stretch to say they resemble a galaxy. Despite that, in our hands-on Jiawen Projector light review, we concluded that this unit is great at what it does, looks fantastic and offers a good range of colors and visual patterns for a pleasing mood-enhancing experience. It looks great as a bedside lamp even when it isn't switched on.

The projector can display 16 RGB color options or cycle through them automatically, and it can also function as a 'normal' bedside natural white light lamp. The light is bright enough for bedtime reading, and it can project colorful patterns across most of a room's ceiling and walls, creating a completely different ambience.

The device has a stylish cube-shaped design with a translucent acrylic cover and a wooden base, giving it a modern appearance suitable for a bedside table. Its build quality is surprisingly good for a budget device that costs a mere $20. It measures roughly 5.5 inches on each side, so it doesn't take up too much room but still makes a statement.

This star projector is controlled entirely via a remote control rather than buttons on the unit itself. Make sure you don't lose the remote. It can only be powered by USB, it is not rechargeable and cannot be battery-powered.

It is ultimately a basic star projector that doesn't feature additional functionality like a sleep timer, Bluetooth speaker, or white noise, but we like it.

• Back to the top ⤴

The budget star projector with the best color palette

The BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve is one of the best options for all the creative folks out there. This star projector costs a very reasonable $40, but its patented color-blending technology, beautiful pastel-like color palette and highly customizable projections make it feel more premium. It is also the only smart-enabled device in this guide.

The BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve works with the BlissHome app as well as smart home assistants like Google Home or Amazon Alexa. This is where you can unleash your creativity — the apps allows you to experiment with the brightness, color combinations and the speed of projection settings. During our full BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve review, we spent hours having fun with these features and creating countless stunning visuals. This exceptional customizability is the main reason we named this little device the best budget option in our guide to star projectors.

That said, you can't fully utilize this star projector without an app. If you are not a fan of smart features, you may need to look elsewhere.

We liked the design, too. The BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve may not have the child-friendly allure of the Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Projector or the futuristic looks of the Cadrim model, but it is compact, inconspicuous and highly functional. Unlike some other options in this guide, this star projector can easily blend in with various home decor. True, the plastic finish on the BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve makes it feel slightly flimsy, but for that price, we would not call it a deal-breaker.

It is also worth noting that this star projector is not fixed to the supplied base, so you it allows for 360-degree positioning flexibility, plus it features a generous sleep timer (anywhere from 1 minute to 24 hours). These two features are not something we see often in star projectors on a budget.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best portable star projector under $40

Most star projectors are designed as standalone units that sit on the shelves or bedside tables. This is understandable. Detailed, colorful projections require a good amount of tech behind it, so it is not easy to create them with a pocket-sized device. However, you can still have a star projector that is both travel-friendly and highly affordable. The BlissLights Starport USB star projector, for example, displays a beautiful starry sky and it only costs $19.99.

Now, the term 'star projector' is used loosely here. The BlissLights Starport is more of a portable laser projector than a full-fledged device for gasping at the cosmic wonders, but the visuals it creates are striking nonetheless. Available in either red and blue, this little device can add instant ambience to small spaces like cars or gaming rooms. Even though its projections are not scientifically accurate and can't be customized, the BlissLights Starport offers great value for money.

We also liked how hassle-free it was to use. Simply plug this teeny tiny star projector into a USB power source, adjust the direction of the laser and enjoy the starry display. And do not worry about the energy bill — the BlissLIghts Starport USB uses less than 1mW of power, a mere fraction of what full-sized star projectors would typically use.

All in all, this star projector is a lovely travel accessory and party trick, albeit devoid of any advanced features or functionality.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best budget star projector for aiding sleep

Looking for a budget-friendly sleep aid? Then this little device should land on your radar. This futuristic-looking device is the only star projector in this guide that can project the moon, and it also happens to be one of the quietest models we have ever tested. Not only that, but it also boasts a good quality build and exceptional portability — the Cadrim star projector is small enough to fit on a bedside table, and it runs entirely on batteries. The cherry on top? It can be controlled remotely and comes with a timer. That is a lot of value for less than $36.

The Cadrim star projector is also very customizable. An image of the moon that can be either turned off or displayed at three different brightness levels, whereas laser 'stars' can be set to two different modes. This device also features two preset modes for its nebula lights, both of which can be color-customized by playing around with the RGBW light settings. The patterns and lights created by the Cadrim star projector are relaxing and pleasant to the eye, albeit not to the same extent as in the Blisslights SkyLite Evolve.

Just like the Dinosaur Egg Galaxy star projector mentioned below, it has a built-in speaker. The Cadrim star projector even features a 'party mode' in which it flips the visuals between different colors and speeds to match the tempo of the music played. That said, the sound quality leaves a lot to be desired — which is understandable, given the price — and it may work better for podcasts and audiobooks than bass-heavy tunes, for example.

We were also slightly disappointed to see that batteries were not supplied in the package. For a non-rechargeable device like the Cadrim star projector, that is quite a big oversight.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best star projector gadget under $40

Not too fussed about space themes? Love a good gadget? The Dinosaur Egg Galaxy Star Projector will be right up your street. This quirky-looking device has 4-in-1 functionality: it is a star projector at its core, but it is also a night light, Bluetooth speaker and a white noise machine with 19 different sounds to choose from. We named is at the best option for dinosaur fans in our guide to the best star projectors, but even those not versed in paleontology are likely to fall in love with its unusual appearance. The best part? It costs less than $40.

Admittedly, we were not blown away by its visual performance during our full Dinosaur Egg Galaxy Star Projector review — our reviewer compared them to water reflections as they were not textured nor detailed enough to resemble cosmic nebulae. That said, we still think its projections were nice to look at and very effective at creating a cozy atmosphere. This star projector can be controlled both with on-body buttons and remotely, giving you a good degree of customization of light color and intensity.

Just like in the case of the Cadrim star projector mentioned above, its built-in speaker will not impress many audiophiles. Still, it is good enough for background music and podcasts. We particularly liked its 'musical rhythm mode' that changes the light and color projections to match the beat of the music. The white noise machine is quite impressive, too.

On the other hand, we were slightly disappointed with the controls on our Dinosaur Egg Star Projector. The on-body and remote buttons do not get illuminated, and we found them almost impossible to see in the dark. It is a minor gripe, but it can be annoying nonetheless.

Read more: Dinosaur Egg Galaxy Star Projector review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best star projectors under $40: comparison

Contributing experts

Best star projectors under $40: Frequently Asked Questions

Latest updates

How we tested these star projectors

How we test the best star projectors

Star projectors, even those on the more affordable end of the spectrum, are not created equal. They can vary dramatically in terms of build quality, visual performance and functionality. Some devices, for example, offer a better quality and sharpness of the projected images, while others may have less of a 'wow' factor but be more scientifically accurate. Either way, a good star projector needs to be easy to operate and enjoyable to use, especially if it is designed with children in mind. We check every device against strict criteria, with visual performance being just one of them.

For example, we assess how the lights and lasers are controlled and whether there is any degree of customization. We will evaluate how creative we can get with the color combinations, whether the laser and lights can be operated independently, and whether the star projector has a timer setting to automatically shut it off.

We also listen to how quiet the motor is when in operation, check whether there are any additional features (a built-in speaker, for example) and assess the portability of the device in question. Moreover, we carefully evaluate the build quality of each star projector as well as the quality of the packaging.

Whether you're hiking at dawn, stargazing with your telescope or running after dark, a reliable headlamp is an essential piece of gear — especially now the evenings are darker. Hands-free, lightweight and incredibly versatile, headlamps provide focused illumination where you need it, without the hassle of holding a flashlight.

With options ranging from ultra-bright models built for rugged adventures to compact lights suited to everyday tasks, we've rounded up a selection of the best headlamps available today, highlighting key features like brightness, battery life and durability to help you make an informed choice, plus models that feature red light to protect your night vision when doing astronomy.

The quick list

The best headlamps we recommend in 2025

Best overall

Our pick for the best headlamp overall, the Fenix HM55R, ticks all the boxes — reliable performance, bright with excellent battery life, and comfortable to wear. The HM55R is like a mini HM65R-T V2.0, and is ideal for multiple purposes, from astrophotography to running after dark, and it's the perfect pick if you want one headlamp to last you for years that you can use for pretty much any activity. We've spent 2 months reviewing it, and we're struggling to find anything we don't like about it.

The wide headband fits comfortably for long periods and is easy to adjust, plus you can detatch it from the lamp if you want to wash it — ideal if you've worked up a sweat during a hike or a run. The HM55R weighs just 3.7 ounces (105g) — not the most lightweight option in this guide, but we found it comfortable to wear for long periods. It's submersible with an IP68 water resistance rating, so it's ready for any weather conditions and the build feels rugged and durable despite its light weight.

It has 9 lighting modes, including 4 spotlight options with a maximum output of 1,200 lumens, 3 floodlight options with a maximum output of 350 lumens, alongside a constant red light and red flash. Plus, brightness memory is useful for preserving your night vision with the red LED if you're out shooting astrophotography, so you won't have to blind yourself (or others) by having to cycle through all the other modes to get back to the red light. It also has Intelligent Downshift, which automatically reduces the brightness when it senses that it's close to an object. Not only will this save the battery life, but it'll prevent burns and high temperatures if it accidentally gets switched on while in your backpack,

Operation is very straightforward as there's only one button, which turns the headlamp on and off and cycles through the different functions. Plus, the button is big enough to use when you're wearing gloves. On the back you'll find the USB-C port, and the battery compartment is accessed from the side. Plus, there's a battery indicator LED to check how much battery is remaining.

The battery life is impressive, ranging from 2 hours and 10 minutes on the 1,200 lumen turbo spotlight mode to 141 hours and 10 minutes on the lowest 5 lumen floodlight mode. Plus, it's it's USB-C charged, you can always top it up with a power bank if you're on a camping trip. Overall, we absolutely love this headlamp and there's not a single thing we dislike about it.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for astrophotography

The Black Diamond Storm 500-R is very similar to the Spot 400-R, but with extra green and blue lights for night vision, making it a better choice if you often head out to remote locations on dark nights with your astrophotography camera or are setting up your telescope after dark. While blue light is typically used more for following blood trails, the green light can provide better detail than red light if you're hiking to a remote location for a sunrise shoot.

In addition to these extra light colors, the 500-R is also brighter, with a maximum light output of 500 lumens on the highest setting. Plus, the battery life is much longer, with the 500-R giving you 7 hours on high as opposed to 4 hours on the 400-R.

The 500-R also features Brightness Memory, which is incredibly useful for preserving your night vision when you're out shooting astrophotography. The headlamp will remember your previous color and brightness level, so when you switch it back on after taking your photo, it won't revert back to the default white setting.

It also features a PowerTap function, which immediately adjusts to max power output without overriding your existing settings. This is located on the right side of the headlamp, and you just tap it once to activate it, and again to deactivate. It also has 5 different strobe settings and an SOS setting.

In terms of disadvantages, our main complaint is that it charges via micro-USB rather than USB-C, and while the integrated battery is great for rechargeability, it means you can't carry any spares. Plus, some users have noted that the PowerTap feature can be very sensitive and be activated too easily when adjusting the strap or angle of the lamp. Plus, the battery indicator LEDs are on the bottom of the headlamp, meaning there's a small amount of leftover light just above your eyes when you turn the main light off.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best budget

If you're looking for a simple headlamp without all the bells and whistles, the Petzl TIKKINA is a great option that'll only set you back $20.

It features an LED light with up to 300 lumens of light output with 3 brightness modes. It doesn't feature a red light, so we wouldn't recommend it for situations where you'd need to preserve your night vision. However, for walking your dog after dark or helping you find your way to the loo at a campsite in the middle of the night, it's perfect.

It's powered by 3 x AAA batteries, which are included. For the price, we wouldn't necessarily expect it to be rechargeable, but it is compatible with the Petzl Core rechargeable battery should you want to convert it to a rechargeable headlamp. However, the Petzl Core battery costs more than the actual headlamp itself, so it's worth considering whether you'd be better off investing in a more capable rechargeable headlamp if that's a dealbreaker for you.

The battery life is decent for casual use, and its IPX4 water resistance rating means it can withstand a light rain shower. Overall, we'd say it's good value for money if you just want a simple headlamp.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for camping

For casual day hikers, weekend campers and fair-weather walkers who want a lightweight headlamp that's more than powerful enough for trails and camp use, the Petzl Actik Core is a fantastic and affordable headlamp.

The Petzl Actik Core has two particular features that are worth boasting about. The first being its 600-lumen maximum light output, which is one of the highest in this list, enabling you to easily see trails up to 115m ahead. This is an attractive feature compared to the other similarly priced options, although it decreases to 100 lumens on the medium setting, which is quite a jump. It combines a wide flood light for pitching your tent or cooking, and a long spot beam for finding paths in the dark.

The second feature we love is its hybrid charging concept. It has the convenience of a rechargeable headlamp thanks to the included Core battery, alongside battery power with 3 x AAA's as a backup option. This is great news if you're out in remote locations away from any charging sources. The one drawback is the outdated micro-USB charging port, but this seems to be the case with many headlamps.

It has 3 brightness levels and an average runtime of around 2 hours on the highest setting. We'd like to see this improved slightly, but you'll still get up to 7 hours on the medium setting. The red light setting is good for preserving night vision and not disturbing wildlife or other people.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for hiking

For serious hikers, the Nitecore NU45 is an absolute dream. It can put out up to 1,700 lumens (on turbo mode), it's fully waterproof and has excellent battery life, giving you 8 hours of light on high (1,000 lumens). This headlamp will see you through any kind of terrain and weather conditions you can think of.

The actual headlamp housing is constructed from aluminum and is impact-resistant for drops up to 2 meters, which means it won't get ruined if you drop it or hit it against rocks when climbing or scrambling on challenging hikes. Plus, its IP68 waterproof rating means it's fully submersible.

The headlamp can also be removed from the strap easily, enabling you to wash the strap if it gets dirty or sweaty, or pop it into the diffusion sack to act as a lantern.

It's compatible with USB-C charging, and it charges to full capacity in just 1.5 hours, which is impressive. There's also a sensor on the front that will dim the brightness down to around 300 lumens if it detects anything directly in front of the light, preventing it from overheating and potentially burning your gear. There's no runtime stated for turbo mode, but users state that it stays at 1,700 lumens for around 3 or 4 minutes before automatically dimming — 1,700 lumens can get very hot!

It also features a red light mode to preserve your night vision, SOS mode and a slow flashing Beacon mode to attract attention while preserving the battery for a long as possible.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best ultralight

Although most headlamps tend to be lightweight, every ounce makes a difference when the weight is attached to your head. So if you're looking for an ultralight headlamp that you can wear comfortably for long periods, the Nitecore NU25 UL (the UL stands for Ultra Light) is a solid choice.

At just 1.66 ounces (47g), it's the lightest in this guide by a mile, but it doesn't compromise on features. It offers 4 brightness modes and can kick out up to 400 lumens on the highest setting, as well as having a red light setting to preserve your night vision. You can also choose between 3 white color temperatures: warm (3,000 kelvin), neutral white (4,500 kelvin) or cool white (6,500 kelvin). Plus, the SOS and beacon modes are a handy safety feature if you get lost and need to draw attention to yourself or be located.

It has impressive battery life for such a lightweight headlamp, and it charges via USB-C. There are just two buttons to power it on and cycle between all the modes, and the 4 LED battery indicator lights show you how much battery you have left.

With an IP66 water resistance rating, it's protected in heavy rain and against dust ingress, but it won't survive being submerged in water. It's also impact-resistant against drops from up to 1m.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for running

The BioLite Dash 450 is designed specifically with runners in mind, and its design and features reflect the thought and effort that's clearly gone into it.

It comes in a very small and lightweight package, weighing just 2.75 oz (77.9 g), with a 'no-bounce' fit ideal for running, and with the front panel only measuring 10mm thick, you'll forget you're even wearing it. It also features a rear red LED light and battery to balance out the weight distribution, which will help keep it in place when you're running.

The front light has a 4-position tilt lens, with a white spot, white flood, white spot and flood combo, and red flood light. You just press the button to cycle through the modes, and hold it down to gradually brighten or dim the light. The rear light only has 2 modes: a red flood and red strobe, and there's also a reflective strip on the back for added visibility.

On the brightest setting, you'll get 450 lumens for around 3 hours (plus a 1-hour reserve), which is pretty good. It also offers USB-C charging and a brightness memory in all modes.

An honourable mention in this category goes to the Petzl IKO Core, a 500-lumen lightweight headlamp for runners with hybrid charging technology and a streamlined, comfortable fit.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for trail running

The reason the Petzl NAO RL is worth shouting about is its Reactive Lighting ability (which is what the 'RL' stands for). Designed primarily for trail runners, but also suitable for mountaineering and search and rescue, the NAO RL will react and adapt its light strength and spread accordingly depending on where it's pointed, giving you just the right type of illumination whether you're reading a map in front of you or looking into the distance. Not only does this keep your hands free, but it also benefits the battery life. You do have the option to turn off the reactive lighting mode, which could be more reliable if it starts to react in heavy rain or snow.

It starts on the dimmest setting when you turn it on, which is good for not obliterating your night vision straight off the bat. The first setting is 300 lumens, which is still pretty powerful. The second is 800 lumens, and the brightest is a massive 1,500 lumens.

It's somewhat heavier than the other headlamps in this guide, weighing 5.1 ounces (144.6g), but with the battery and red light on the back, the weight is well distributed. That may not seem heavy on paper, but when it's on your head, every ounce counts. The battery supports USB-C charging, and the battery can also be removed and used as a power bank to charge your phone or GPS watch on the go. It also comes with an optional overhead strap for additional support, and a headlamp pouch for storage and to turn your headlamp into a lantern.

We're a little disappointed that it only features an IPX4 water resistance rating. It can handle rain and splashes, but it can't be fully submerged, which we think is a shame considering the high price. The one button on the headlamp is also quite receded, so it can be tricky to press if you're wearing gloves.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for bad weather

A headlamp that can withstand the elements is an essential feature for trail runners, hikers and even search and rescue (SAR) purposes. While many of the headlamps in this guide are water-resistant to some degree, the Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 has an IP68 rating, meaning it's fully waterproof and can be submerged underwater up to 2m — the USB-C charging port also has internal waterproofing. While it's unlikely that you'd need to take much advantage of that depth rating, you can rest assured that your headlamp will see you through heavy rain and snow without any issues.

Not only that, but it has both cool and warm color temperature options. The cool light is around 6,500 kelvin and the warm light is around 3,000 kelvin. Having the option to use a warm light is beneficial if you're out in foggy conditions because warm light penetrates through fog more effectively, which helps visibility and prevents glare and eye strain.

The battery life is also impressive, although it does differ slightly depending on whether you're using the warm or cool light on the highest setting of 1,600 lumens. The cool light can run on high for up to 3 hours or 6 hours on warm, and both temperatures have a battery life of 12 hours on medium (400 lumens) and 24 hours on low (130 lumens). There's also an eco mode of 5 lumens that can last up to 300 hours.

The headlamp itself is constructed from lightweight magnesium alloy, and the breathable strap can be easily removed if you want to clean it. The strap is easy to adjust with the wheel mechanism, so it can easily be adjusted while you're wearing it, and there's even a built-in whistle on the strap. It's impact-resistant up to 2m, and can withstand the bitter cold and extreme heat, working normally between temperatures of -31 degrees Fahrenheit to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best headlamps: comparison

Contributing experts & product testers

Best headlamps: Frequently Asked Questions

Latest updates

How we tested the best headlamps

How we test the best headlamps

To recommend the best headlamps, we evaluate key performance factors that matter most to real users, like brightness, battery life, comfort and durability. We compare lumen output and beam types (spot vs flood) to understand how well each headlamp performs in real-world conditions, from close-up tasks to long-range visibility. Battery performance is also a priority, with attention to both rechargeable and disposable options across different brightness settings.

We also assess comfort and fit, ensuring the headlamp stays secure without causing discomfort during extended wear. Ease of use, build quality and weather resistance ratings are reviewed to determine how each model holds up in challenging environments. Special features like red lights and strobe modes are factored in as well, helping us highlight the best headlamps for a range of activities.

If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the world, drones are the easiest way to soar above the Earth. Most drones are all about the cameras and are designed to capture sublime aerial photos and videos. But, drones can also be used for scientific purposes, like glacier mapping, deforestation tracking, animal population surveys and behavioral studies — the list goes on.

But wait — aren't drones now banned in the US? Yes and no. Only new DJI drones are banned from being imported and sold in the future (as of December 23, 2025). You can still buy from other brands, and any older or current DJI models are also still legally available. All of the models in this list are still available to buy in the US.

We put drones through rigorous testing during which our experts test all features and functionality in real-world situations. Of course, the specs are important, but we also look at how drones perform in a range of situations to assess their suitability for all types of drone pilots.

The quick list

The best drones we recommend in 2026

Best overall

The DJI Mavic 4 Pro is a flagship drone model that combines one Hasselblad wide-angle camera with two telephoto cameras to offer huge creative potential. This feature-packed drone is also competitively priced despite the advanced technology it offers, but it is a high-end model that many drone pilots may not need.

This drone features DJI’s folding design to reduce its size for transportation and storage. It also turns on automatically when unfolded to help you get up and in the air quickly. The Mavic 4 Pro features a new aerodynamic design with large propellers that help it to achieve impressive speeds, while the gimbal can be rotated to almost any angle thanks to a unique new camera and gimbal design.

This drone offers an impressive top speed of 60.4 mph (97 km/h) in Sport mode, while subject tracking tops out at 40.3 mph (65 km/h). Image quality across the three cameras is excellent, although it’s the main Four Thirds camera with an adjustable aperture that produces the best image quality of all. Video can be captured up to 6K, while photos can be captured at 25MP and 100MP with the main camera.

The Mavic 4 Pro features a 0.1-Lux Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing System, including lidar. There’s also a greatly improved Return to Home function, where the drone can take off and return without a GPS signal, and advanced subject tracking functionality for cars.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best sub-250g

While most sub-250g drones are aimed at newbies, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is, as the name suggests, much more than a beginner's drone despite its compact size and light weight. But it's a great option for novices, too, so don’t be put off by its more advanced credentials and higher price than the competition — there isn’t another sub-250g drone like it.

The Mini 4 Pro features the usual DJI folding design, which makes the drone extremely compact for travel and storage. Plus, at 249 g, it’s extremely lightweight and is much less restricted than larger and heavier drones, and you won't need to register it. One feature we love is the ability to rotate the camera 90 degrees, allowing photo and video capture in both landscape and portrait (upright) formats.

The image quality produced by the Mini 4 Pro is impressive overall. 4K video up to 100 fps is available, while 1080p can be captured at up to 200 fps. Video can be captured in Normal, HLG (HDR) and the flat D-Log M color profiles, while photos can be captured in both Raw and JPEG formats.

The Mini 4 Pro features Omnidirectional Collision Avoidance and Advanced Return to Home functionality, which puts it on a level with larger and more advanced DJI drones. Other features include Hyperlapse, MasterShots, Quickshots, Digital Zoom and QuickTransfer, for transferring photo and video files to a phone without having to switch on the controller.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best budget

The Potensic Atom 2 may be a beginner's sub-250g drone, but it’s packed with features and functionality that make it much more advanced than its price suggests. What’s more, some new features are due for release in future firmware updates, including the new P-Log flat color profile for capturing video that can be color-graded in a professional video workflow.

The Atom 2 is a compact and lightweight folding drone with excellent build quality. The controller breaks from the norm with its central smartphone holding position that makes it look and feel more like a smart controller, despite not actually being one. The fast-charging hub is also mains-powered, so battery charging is impressively fast.

Image quality is excellent, although RAW files do require manual vignette removal. 12MP and 48MP photo capture is also available, although the higher-resolution option is only available in JPEG format. Hopefully, a firmware update will make this available for RAW capture, too. Video can be captured at up to 4K, with slow-motion video also available.

Flight performance is excellent and reasonably fast. Useful features include Dynamic Home Point, which brings the drone back to the controller location rather than the take-off point when Return to Home is initiated, AI subject tracking, time-lapse and Quickshots automated flight patterns, among others.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best beginners

The Holy Stone HS900 is Holy Stone’s finest drone to date and one that competes well against other sub-250g models. Some of the features available aren’t typically seen on budget/beginner models like this, and although image quality isn’t perfect, it’s still very good and more than adequate for beginners.

With its folding design and great build quality, the HS900 follows a tried and tested design that works. Flight times typically average around 22 minutes in moderate to gusty winds, while the 2250 mAh batteries take just over an hour to charge in the drone via USB-C, which is good. This approach also allows for charging on location using a USB power bank.

The camera features a Sony 1/2.3 in 48MP CMOS sensor with a fixed focus f/2.6 lens, and image quality is good with sharp photos and videos. White balance is a little quirky and could benefit from adjustments in a future firmware update. The white balance presets are also a little off what you would expect, with Auto providing the best, yet not always perfect results.

The HS900 offers Level 5 wind resistance, which equates to wind speeds up to 24 mph (39 km/h). Features that you might normally only expect on more expensive drones include subject tracking, cruise control and time-lapse capture. There is, however, no collision avoidance, so beginners will have to take greater care when flying in the vicinity of obstacles such as trees.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best FPV

FPV drones are traditionally difficult to fly, but bucking this trend is the DJI Avata 2, which can be flown by absolute beginners and professional FPV pilots alike. It’s a huge amount of fun to fly, and the kit comes with everything you need, including DJI Goggles 3.

The Avata 2 follows the CineWhoop-style design, with guards around the propellers to protect them and any nearby objects in the event of a crash. The camera is mounted at the front of the drone on a two-axis gimbal paired with highly effective Electronic Image Stabilization, with both the goggle view and video recording being captured by the same camera.

Video can be captured in 4K at up to 60 fps, with 2.7K and 1080p offering frame rates up to 120 fps for slow-motion capture. Color profiles include Normal for straight-out-of-camera footage and the D-Log M flat profile for color grading and professional use. The drone can capture photos in JPEG format, but this is not really a drone for taking pictures.

The Avata 2 is all about immersive flight, but it can be controlled in two ways. With the intuitive DJI Motion 3 Controller, even absolute beginners can take flight with ease. Experienced pilots, on the other hand, can fly in manual/acro mode using the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3, which is available separately.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best selfie

The DJI Flip stands out from the crowd, even from other DJI drones, thanks to its unique design and intelligent multi-use functionality. The Flip can’t quite do everything that all drones are capable of, but it does an impressive job of covering multiple bases.

The Flip features a unique new folding design where four propeller guards fold out from beneath the airframe. The propeller guards help to protect both the drone and people during subject tracking. The drone is quite large for a sub-250g model, but with this low, regulator-friendly weight, U.S. pilots won’t need to register the drone with the FAA for recreational flights.

The Flip features a three-axis mechanical gimbal for smooth footage, while the camera offers a 24 mm equivalent focal length alongside a 12MP/48MP 1/1.3-inch Quad Bayer 4-in-1 sensor. Video can be captured in up to 4K at up to 60 fps in Normal and the 10-bit D-Log M flat color profile, while photos can be captured in Raw and JPEG formats.

The jewel in the Flip’s crown has to be its intelligent flight modes with AI subject tracking. Palm take-off and landing alongside vlogging and camera drone capabilities make it one of the most versatile drones currently available. What’s more, with multiple flight control options, you can approach flights in the best way for your desired outcome.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best drones: Frequently Asked Questions

Latest updates

How we tested the best drones

How we test the best drones

Drones are tested by our expert staff and freelance contributors who have a wealth of drone, photography and video knowledge and experience. Every drone test follows strict real-world testing, where every feature and all functions are tested to assess overall performance, and to fact-check the marketing hype.

For camera performance and image quality, a wide variety of test photos and videos are captured to assess sharpness, color rendition and ISO handling. All testing is conducted within the context of the type of drone being reviewed to ensure fairness, since higher-end drones will always be the best (although that doesn’t mean they’re necessarily the best option for you).

With complete editorial independence, Live Science is here to ensure you get the best buying advice on drones, whether you should purchase one or not and which model might be best for you. This makes our buying guides and reviews reliable and transparent.

We're in the thick of Amazon Prime Day (Prime Week!) and this is one of the best deals we've seen. Sure, it's still has a huge price tag, but if you've been holding out for a rare Sony A1 discount, the wait is over.

Walmart is selling the Sony A1, which our expert reviewer said 'can do just about anything for $5,075, a huge saving of $1,425.

Save 22% on the Sony A1 at Walmart.

The Sony A1 is undoubtedly one of the most expensive full-frame Sony Alpha cameras available. Still, in our hands-on Sony A1 review, our professional camera reviewer awarded it 4.5 out of 5 stars. They stated it's for professional photographers who want the absolute best, and thinks it outperforms the competition in every way. The only real reason .5 of a star was knocked off, is the affordability factor. It is an eye-wateringly expensive camera, but a saving of over $1,400 makes the pill a little easier to swallow.

• We're constantly checking the best prices on our Amazon Prime Day space deals page for big discounts on the best telescopes, binoculars, star projectors, cameras, drones, Lego, streaming and more.

The Sony A1 has earned no shortage of praise, but one of its standout strengths lies in its color accuracy. In our hands-on Sony A1 testing, it delivered some of the most accurate and life-like colors we've seen from a Sony camera to date, with dynamic range that surpasses both the Sony A9 and A7R II models.

Despite its ultra-high resolution (50.1MP) output, the A1's image processing speed is remarkably efficient. The buffer clears as you shoot, so you're never stuck waiting to resume shooting. Pair this with the 30fps continuous shooting speed, and you'll never miss a moment again. This is especially important in environments where timing is crucial — sports, fast-moving wildlife, and candid wedding photography are just a few examples. The real-time tracking and 425-point contrast-detection AF points will ensure everything is nicely in focus as well.

If you are an astrophotographer already or want to delve into the world of astrophotography, and have deep pockets, the A1 can help you capture your dream shots. Its superb noise handling makes capabilities make it a compelling choice for night sky imaging, with results that genuinely impress.

Key features: 50.1MP, 8K/30P video, full-frame camera. ISO range - 100-32,000 (expanded 50-102,400), lenses - Sony E-mount, weight - 1.62 lb (737g), memory card slots SD UHS-II and CFexpress x 2.

Price history: $5,075 is the lowest price we've ever seen for the Sony A1. This camera is rarely discounted, as Sony (and many pro-photographers would agree) believe the usual $6,499 price tag is justified by this camera's outstanding capabilities.

Reviews consensus: As we've mentioned already, we awarded this camera a whopping 4.5 out of 5 stars. We liked absolutely everything about it, apart from the huge price tag and the lack of a fully articulating screen. Aside from those things, the image quality and color accuracy are outstanding and its speed is blisteringly fast. Video shooting is enjoyable thanks to intuitive controls, and its real-time tracking and autofocus make shooting and capturing special moments worry-free.

Price comparison: Walmart $5075 | Amazon: $5,398 | Adorama: $5,398

✅ Buy it if: You can afford to. This camera will do everything you want it to and more.

❌ Don't buy it if: You can't afford to! There are plenty of incredible cameras available, but this one is really reserved for professional photographers who will make their money back through their work. See our best cameras buying guide for alternative (cheaper) models.

Check out our other guides to the best telescopes, binoculars, cameras, star projectors, drones, lego and much more.

Nothing is more pleasing than watching nature do its thing, with research indicating time in nature is good for our wellbeing. While the naked eye is as good an observation tool as any, sometimes we want to get a bit closer to nature. This is where some of the best wildlife observation equipment, such as binoculars, cameras, fieldscopes and microphones, amongst other things, can be useful. This equipment allows you to connect with nature on a more intimate level and see and hear details you may have otherwise missed.

Which observation tool you need will depend on what you are viewing. For example, if you're birdwatching, a pair of binoculars and a bird identification app would be useful, whereas if you're seeking to spot bats, one of the best bat detectors is a must-have. If you're trying to capture the mischievous thief who keeps taking your dog's toys from the garden late at night, a trail camera would be best suited. We've covered a broad range of wildlife observation equipment to help you select the most appropriate device for your time in nature.

The quick list

The best wildlife observation equipment we recommend in 2025: Hand-picked by our experts.

The best binoculars

The Nikon 12x25 S binoculars are a tiny and portable pair of compact binoculars, perfectly designed for wildlife enthusiasts. They measure only 10cm on their longest edge which makes them tiny. They fold away easily into a pocket while you're out and about, while their body design also makes them comfortable to carry in your hands, whether walking along or observing wildlife.

Weighing only 395 g, these binoculars can be carried around all day. Their weight means they can be carried around the neck without them pulling or tugging or causing any aches and pains. Furthermore, while observing wildlife, your arms and shoulders will take a while to ache as these are dinky and light.

The real bonus of the Nikon 12x25 S' are the image stabilization. While we haven't yet had a chance to fully review these binoculars, we have got our hands on them and have played about with the image stabilization at short and long distances. We were impressed and think they are some of the best image-stabilized binoculars on the market. The image stabilization is so easy to activate — simply press the power button on the top and it switches on. It's powered by two AA batteries that will give approximately 12 hours of battery life. Not only this but there is an automatic power-off function when the binoculars have been inactive for 60 seconds. This will help save battery life and is a thoughtful addition by the designers.

Furthermore, their close focusing distance of 3 meters makes them ideal for bird-watching and wildlife observation. You can focus at a distance but also pretty close up to see the finer details.

While there is a lot to love about these binoculars, no product is ever entirely perfect. They are an expensive pair of binoculars but if your budget stretches that far, they're a great investment. If not, you might want to consider a slightly cheaper image stabilized pair such as the Canon 10x20 IS binoculars, or even ditch the image stabilization completely and go for a cheaper compact pair such as the Nikon Prostaff P7 10x42.

If you are a glasses wearer, the eye relief on these binoculars is not so suitable to glasses and users have reported that the hinges become loose after a while.

Read more: Our review of the Nikon 12x25 S binoculars will follow soon.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best camera and lens

Weighing only 414 g, this Canon camera is ideal for traveling, which is also what makes it a great option for wildlife photography and observation. In our review of the Canon EOS R8, we noted that the grip was deep enough to be able to shoot comfortably for long hours. This is exactly what you need while wildlife observing, as you never know how long you might be waiting to spot the animal you're hoping to see with your camera poised. Plus, having a lightweight body is advantageous as telephoto lenses can be heavy and bulky. While we recommend the 70-200mm f/2.8 telephoto zoom lens to get great photos of your natural subjects, it does weigh over 1 kg, so you can see why having a lighter camera body can help.

If you're new to using a camera for wildlife observation, don't despair. The Canon EOS R8 is ideal for beginners as well as professionals. It has a decent autofocus for those who are new to taking photos of wildlife and animal eye detection. While it struggled with fast-moving forward subjects, such as dogs running towards the camera, for slow-moving animals, this function will come in handy.

This Canon also boasts one of the faster burst rates, with it being capable of 40 FPS when using the electronic shutter. However, the mechanical shutter can handle 6 FPS. For those new to this type of photography, the pre-shooting option gives you some wiggle room as it captures images half a second before the shutter is fully pressed. This is useful if you miss your subject by a whisker.

Another benefit of the Canon EOS R8 is that it performed well in low-light conditions during our testing period. This opens up a world of wildlife observation, allowing you to take photos at either end of the day when some animals may be most active.

Sadly, this camera isn't fully weather-sealed, so this is something to be mindful of if you're likely to be using it in wet or dusty environments.

Read more: Canon EOS R8 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best for underwater

With adequate waterproofing down to 10 meters, this GoPro is the perfect companion for anyone who prefers to do their wildlife spotting underwater. It even boasts a water-repelling lens cover that reduces flare, keeping any shots you capture crystal clear. While it has impressive underwater capabilities, it can also handle mud and snow making this a truly durable piece of wildlife observing equipment that you don't need to be fearful of ruining.

The GoPro Hero 13 captures videos at 5.3 k with HDR video, meaning you can capture professional-quality videos with vibrant colors. It is also the first GoPro with Burst Slo-Mo, allowing you to capture breathtaking slow-motion videos of natural phenomena. Furthermore, the 10-bit color enhances the color depth and provides a more realistic image, allowing you to capture the true colors in front of you. However, users report that it doesn't perform well in low light conditions so, for wildlife observation, this might not be the best option for dawn or dusk observations.

GoPros are well known for their image stabilization and the Hero 13 is no exception. Using HyperSmooth 6.0 technology for better video stabilization, you are guaranteed flawless videos. Because of this image stabilization, you can also take high-res stills from your videos.

Once you've captured your natural subject on video or via stills, you can easily transfer your footage from your GoPro to your phone. If you have a GoPro subscription, you also have access to unlimited cloud backup with everything being automatically backed up at 100% quality.

If you're concerned about battery life, the GoPro Hero 13 houses the new 1900mAh Enduro battery which has an improved connector for better efficiency. Plus, it can record continuously for 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to capture your natural subjects without the fear of your battery dying. However, the battery life does receive mixed reviews on Amazon with some users explaining it only lasts around an hour, not the 2.5 hours as advertised. Another downside is that this new battery isn't compatible with older GoPro models.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best spotting scope

The Nikon Prostaff 5 fieldscope 60-A has an objective lens diameter of 60 mm which means the scope is able to gather more light, giving you a clear, high-resolution and bright image. Because of the larger lens diameter, it can be used in low-light conditions, so either side of the day, when you may be more likely to see various animals as they rise. The multi-coated lenses and prisms also aid the brightness of the images. While some scopes can suffer from chromatic abberations, this is controlled and kept to a minimum on this fieldscope.

Weighing a little on the heavier side than a pair of binoculars, this fieldscope's design is ergonomic so even though it's heavier, it is still comfortable to handle. What's more, it is waterproof up to 1 meter for 10 minutes so it can easily handle a downpour. This makes it ideal for those who may spend hours in nature observing wildlife where the weather may be temperamental. Another additional benefit is that the Nikon Prostaff 5 60-A is fogproof so you don't have to worry about temperature changes causing fogging up of the lens.

While this fieldscope may suit those who are new to observing nature and wildlife through this means, it is an entry-level fieldscope so those with some experience or looking to add to their collection may want to look elsewhere.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best trail camera

As the name suggests, the Bushnell Core S-4K No Glow Trail Camera records in 4k giving you high-quality image and videos of wildlife. It also has a camouflage design, allowing you to easily hide it from wildlife. The design is not the only thing that makes it difficult for animals to detect — it is 'no-glow' which means it uses an infrared flash that is not detectable to humans or most animals. This is important when observing wildlife as the last thing you want to do is disturb them so they move. This trail camera also has a 110 ft night range, meaning it can capture images of animals 110 ft away in the dark using this infrared flash. However, some users report this not being the case, with some reporting that it struggled at around 30 feet.

While the trail camera is battery powered, taking six AA batteries that are not included, it is also solar compatible, meaning you can power it from solar panels. This allows you to have the camera working pretty much indefinitely, rather than having to change the batteries. This option is better for the environment which is something most wildlife enthusiasts will be concerned about. However, most people do not have solar panels and so this function may only be used by a few, with most people relying on batteries. This makes this product a little less climate-conscious.

Overall, reviews of the Bushnell Core s-4K No Glow Trail Camera are positive. People comment on the night vision being good, allowing for clear images. However, others note that it struggles to pick up quick animals, such as foxes, as these are too quick to be caught by the sensor. Furthermore, while it is water-resistant, it is not waterproof so caution should be used if leaving it out.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best parabolic microphone

This parabolic microphone monocular is actually a two-in-one device. It has a removable parabolic dish mounted to the front, next to the highly sensitive microphone, which channels distant and faint sounds through the equipment and outputs the audio straight to the included headphones. But the gun-shaped device also features a monocular mounted to the top of the unit so that observers can spot wildlife at a distance and reposition the microphone accordingly.

The microphone can record faint wildlife sounds (like birds, mammals, reptiles etc) at up to 300 feet (91 meters) with the sensitivity able to be adjusted through the dial on the side of the handset.

While the parabolic microphone monocular only has a 3.5mm jack audio output, this can be linked to your smartphone, tablet, laptop or other digital device so long as your device has a 3.5 mm jack input (or you purchase a compatible 3.5 mm jack to USB adapter). That allows wildlife observers to link up the much more sensitive microphone to wildlife calling apps, like the bird call app Merlin Bird app for improved sensitivity and therefore more detailed results.

Audio can be recorded in chunks of 12 seconds and features instant playback using the buttons on the side grip. This is useful for those that want to transfer the sounds to a smart device or computer, or save them for future playback through the headphones or sharing sounds with others in a group.

The shipment arrives with the microphone monocular, parabolic dish, headphones, a user manual and cleaning cloth for the optics but the 9V battery required to power the device is sold separately.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best for bird identification

The Merlin Bird ID App was designed and developed by Cornell University. It allows you to ID birds from photos or recordings so while you're out on a walk, you can hit the 'Sound ID' button and capture the calls of the bird you want to identify. The app listens carefully and suggests an identification. Once you have got your bird identified, you have the option to cancel the recording, so it is not saved, or save the recording. If you press save, the recording of the bird and your location will be stored for you to go back to later, if needed. This is useful if you want to remember where you heard a particular bird and revisit that spot to see if you can see them again. There is also the option to save your birds to your life list. This is great for birders who want to log what birds they've seen or heard.

Although experienced twitchers may be familiar with bird sounds, for those new to the hobby, the sound ID function on the app is particularly useful. After a while, you can start to identify birds by their calls. This is an amazing thing to be able to do and it can also help you to birdwatch more effectively — once you know what birds are around because you recognise their calls, it may also provide some hints of where to look.

Another way you can identify birds via the app is through the photo ID function. You may have a picture on your phone that you can upload or perhaps you've managed to snap a quick shot of a bird before it flew away. Once the image is uploaded, the app will suggest a match. The interesting thing about the Merlin Bird ID App is that it is based on community efforts. Every sound recording or photo you upload helps the AI suggestion tool to learn about what birds are found in what regions and then use this knowledge to inform others of the birds near them. However, due to this, there are sometimes inaccuracies in identification. For example, the app can sometimes struggle to identify birds if a bird is mimicking.

There is so much more on the app to explore beyond bird identification. Every day, you are suggested a 'bird of the day' where you can read about a bird likely to be seen or heard within your area. The app uses maps to show where birds are likely to be found and when, which is a helpful guide to anyone new to birdwatching.

And as if it couldn't get any better, the app is entirely free. Yes, free! The sound ID function also works totally offline so you don't need to be concerned about data and signal when out and about. You really can use this app anywhere. However, one downside is that the sound ID function isn't available globally just yet. They are always adding places but it's mainly available in the USA, Canada and Europe with some species in Central and South America and India also able to be identified through the sound ID function.

Available on both Apple and Google Play.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best field guide

If you're looking for a book to help you understand ecosystems, this is it. Sadly, it only covers Eastern United States so if you live elsewhere, it probably won't help you. Although, saying that, there may still be nuggets of information that you can generalize to elsewhere in the world.

Written by an outdoors expert, Janine M. Benyus, and published in 1989, some might think this book is dated but people are still purchasing it today. Reviews note that it is dated but still timely, with it receiving 4.6. stars on Amazon alone.

This field guide explains how flora, fauna and animals interact in their habitats, giving the reader a real sense of the relationships between various aspects of nature. It also gives observation tips on observing wildlife so you can apply what you've learned to areas you visit. Many people note the level of detail provided in this book of the 20 habitats found in Eastern United States. However, some readers mention that when the authors suggest where you can find these habitats, they only mention places within the national park system. Some readers would have liked other places noted.

Not only does this book provide generous detail of the habitats found within the region but there are illustrations to help you identify various elements of the habitats. This is particularly useful to those new to wildlife observation.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best GPS

The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS fits in your palm — it really is that tiny. This makes it great for popping in your pocket while you're out and about hiking. If you worry you'll get lost without cell signal, you won't need to worry if you have this stashed away. The BackTrack Mini can guide you back to your starting point with ease, as it tracks your trip.

Its rugged design makes it durable plus it's waterproof, allowing you to use it in all weathers. It also has an incredible battery life of 35 hours so you won't need to worry about it cutting out partway through a hike. And, for those who are climate conscious, it is rechargeable meaning there is no battery waste. It's simple to charge using a Micro USB.

While the BackTrack Mini captures your trips, connecting to the Bushnell Connect app via Bluetooth allows your trips to be stored. This means you can share your trips with friends which is a nice addition if you have spotted something in particular that you know your friends would also be keen to see.

Although this GPS is super small, the screen is a good size making up most of the device. The buttons can be used even if you're wearing gloves which is a thoughtful design decision. However, some users have commented that the buttons can be difficult to press with others commenting the device is a little too dinky.

Not only does this GPS track and store your routes, it can also give you elevation gain and decline as well as barometric pressure. If you've been out all day and are wondering when sunset might be to ensure you get back in time, this device can also provide that information as well as moonrise and moonset times. A very useful feature for those who may lose track of time while observing nature.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best compass

While technology gets us so far, if you were ever caught out without GPS, a compass would be essential. Although deemed as 'old-fashioned' now, a compass is an invaluable tool when we're out on our own, or with some friends, hiking and observing wildlife. You always want to ensure you can get back to base and a compass can be a last resort so it's always wise to carry one with you.

This military style compass is durable, being made from steel and glass. The solid metal construction does make it heavier than other compasses but this one is built to last. Rather than a plastic outing, the metal construction means this compass can withstand all sorts. Plus, it's weather-resistant, being waterproof and temperature-resistant. This means you can take it anywhere, any time of day, assured that it will perform well. It also handily comes with a hanging cloth bag and rope, meaning you can tie it onto your bag or belt to reduce the burden of its weight.

While you may be out in the middle of the day observing wildlife, if you were to take a hike in the early hours or at dusk, this compass is still a good companion. This is because the dial glows in the dark, allowing you to successfully navigate even in low-light conditions.

This compass has been thoughtfully crafted. There is a small magnifying glass allowing you to clearly see your orientation with immense accuracy and you can also measure the slope and gradient inclination of your route. As it is more than just a 360-degree compass, this makes it better suited to those who have used compasses before and can decipher the necessary information to track their route.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best wildlife observation equipment: comparison

With so much on offer in the way of solar viewing equipment these days — from eclipse glasses to solar telescopes — this guide features our top recommendations for making the most of solar viewing, ensuring that you don’t fall into the many pitfalls of selecting the kit that’s right for you — whether that's choosing the wrong product or making sure your gear is safe to view the sun with.

• 🕶️ Solar eclipse glasses: See the eclipse safely for under $10
• 🔍 Solar binoculars: Save up to 40% on handheld views
• 🔭 Solar telescopes: For detailed solar views
• ☀️ Solar filters: A great addition to your existing gear

Best solar eclipse glasses

Best solar filters

Best solar binoculars

Best solar telescopes

Contributing experts

FAQs

On August 12, there will be a total solar eclipse visible from Europe. If you'd like to witness it in its full glory, now is a good time to pick up a pair of the best solar eclipse glasses.

You should never look directly at a solar eclipse or a partial solar eclipse, even when wearing sunglasses. Specialized eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than standard sunglasses, giving your eyes the protection they need to look directly at the sun.

You might spot some brands labeling their solar eclipse glasses as 'NASA-approved' but we can confirm NASA does not approve any solar eclipse glasses, so be wary of these products.

Our picks of the best solar eclipse glasses will ensure you're safe to view the upcoming partial eclipse. That's because we've checked that they are all made to ISO 12312-2:2015(E) certification which requires specific testing to meet the International Standards Organization's parameters for safety.

If you want to get a closer look at the upcoming eclipse event, check out our guides to the best telescopes and the best binoculars (although bear in mind you'll need eye protection to use these, too). We also have a handy guide to the equipment you need to see the solar eclipse, which we'd recommend you take a look at to ensure you're fully prepared.

The best solar eclipse glasses to buy in 2026

Contributing experts

Frequently asked questions

Fancy saving a massive $1,000 on what we think is the best DSLR money can buy? The Nikon D850 has been reduced from $2,996.95 to $1,996.95, which is an unmissable discount if you're in the market for a leading DSLR. It's the first time we've seen the D850 come in at under $2,000, even beating out the Black Friday price (which was $2,200).

Editor's note: Walmart has a cheaper price at $1,859, although it's sold through a third party and strictly speaking, is not a deal as there is no previous RRP. But it's still live and better than Amazon.

Our resident camera expert James Artaius calls the D850 the best DSLR ever made, and as a result it's featured in our best camera for wildlife photography guide and we've chosen it as the best DSLR in our best astrophotography cameras guide. This is an all-singing, all-dancing camera packed with incredible features, and no matter what type of photography you're into, this camera won't disappoint.

Our sister site Space calls the Nikon D850 the best DSLR in their best camera buyers guide.

There's a long, long list of accolades to throw at the Nikon D850, but perhaps one of the most important is its high resolution compared to other DSLRs on the market. It's capable of capturing gorgeous imagery with a stunning level of detail, largely thanks to its back-illuminated sensor which works incredibly well in low-light conditions. Incidentally, that makes the D850 a great choice for astrophotography.

The Nikon D850 has a fantastic ISO ranging from 320 to 102400, and its 9fps continuous shooting range means it's capable of capturing fast-moving subjects — great if you like to photograph wildlife. We also think the autofocus detection is second-to-none on this camera: it goes as low as -4EV, which also helps when capturing the perfect wildlife action shot.

This DLSR camera deal is US-only. If you're not in the US, you'll find Nikon D850 deals for your region at the bottom of this post.

Key features: 45.7MP full-frame CMOS sensor, 9fps burst rate, 8K UHD video, ISO range from 32-25,600 (extendable to 32-102,400) and superb auto-focus.

Product launched: September 2017.

Price history: This is the cheapest we've seen, and beats last year's Black Friday/Cyber Monday price of $2,196.95.

Price comparison: The Nikon D850 is even cheaper at Walmart, although it's with a third-party seller — Walmart for $1,859 or at Best Buy for $1,999.95.

Reviews consensus: The D850 features in our best camera for wildlife photography buyers guide and buyers guide for astrophotography. It gets top marks across our sister sites thanks to its versatile performance. It's an incredibly powerful tool for almost every kind of photography and video. At this current price, the D850 is terrific value for such a highly-rated camera.

Live Science: ★★★★½ | TechRadar: ★★★★★ | Space: ★★★★½

Featured in guides: Best camera for wildlife photography and best camera for Astrophotography.

✅ Buy it if: You want mind-blowingly detailed images, 8K UHD video footage and a superbly versatile offering that makes the D850 one of the best DLSR cameras ever made.

❌ Don't buy it if: You want a lighter camera, then the Nikon Z8 or Canon R5 are two of the best mirrorless cameras around.

Check out our other guides to the best air purifiers, air purifiers for allergies, the best telescopes, microscopes for students, binoculars, rowing machines, electric toothbrushes and more.

Owning one of the best power banks or power stations ensures that your battery-powered devices won't lose charge when you're away from home. Whether you're camping, on an all-night astrophotography hike or heading to a festival, you'll want to keep your phone, camera or laptop charged.

Power banks tend to be pocket-sized, with enough juice to charge up a mobile phone a couple of times. They're ideal for short breaks away from home or overnight camping trips. Power stations, on the other hand, tend to be huge, heavy devices with enough charge for multiple devices over multiple days. You won't want to be carrying one of these around with you, however.

Whether you're heading to a nature reserve to photograph wildlife with one of the best cameras in tow or if you just want to keep your phone charged over the course of a camping weekend, you'll benefit greatly from a power bank.

The quick list

Best power banks and power stations we recommend in 2025

Best power bank overall

We've been using the Ugreen 25000mAh power bank for just shy of a year and we're still as happy as the first day we started using it.

This is an excellently-built power bank, one that feels every bit as premium as it looks. We can attest to how reliable it is too: Once a device is plugged in, it begins charging instantly, and via an LED display on the power bank, you can quickly see how much charge it has left in it.

That LED display is about the only "advanced" function the Ugreen 25000mAh power bank has on it, however, but it's all it needs. Anything more high tech would simply drain the battery, and we'd rather save the charge for our other devices that need it.

It certainly isn't the most lightweight or smallest power bank: it is heavier and bigger than other models with a compatible capacity, but still, 1.13 lbs (513 g) isn't unreasonable or too burdensome in a bag. Knowing it carries 25000mAh of extra power makes it worth that extra bit of weight, and the peace of mind that comes with it is priceless.

Overall we think this power bank is the perfect choice: a reliable, well-made power bank that performs well. As long as you don't need a monstrous power station to run multiple devices at once, this is easily our top recommendation.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best waterproof

This Otterbox model comes in three capacity sizes: 10,000 mAh, 15,000 mAh and 20,000 mAh.

The rubber casing protects it against impacts and drops, and its IP54 rating ensures complete protection from dust and partial protection from water. This makes it suitable for most weather conditions: It certainly isn't fully submersible, so don't go dropping it in rivers, but it can handle splashes and rain without any issues, which gives good peace of mind too.

What sets the Otterbox apart from most other power banks is the fact that it supports wireless charging. Providing your devices also support it, it means you don't need to worry about carrying around additional cables with you. It's a nifty feature that not many other power banks have.

For your devices that do need USB connection, however, there's only one USB-C and one USB-C port, so you're limited on charging multiple devices at one time. It also doesn't support pass-through charging, so that's something to bear in mind when deciding which model to buy.

You don't get real-time power management data like some models in this guide, either. Instead, there is just a basic LED indicator that indicates whether the device is charging, and when it's fully charged, though that might well be enough information for most users.

Overall, this is a solid unit that offers a little more peace of mind than models without a protective rubberized casing.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for power management

The Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank is a high-capacity power bank designed for users who need to charge multiple devices over a span of multiple days. On just one charge, this power bank can charge a mobile phone multiple times, keep a laptop powered up on a long journey, and charge your camera battery if you need to.

If you plan to travel with this power bank, however, do consider that its capacity just exceeds the maximum allowance on flights of 27,000mAh. If you are a frequent flier and want something you're able to take with you, then, you'll need to look for something a little smaller in capacity.

This Anker power bank also has a number of clever features that make battery charging efficient, and you can charge it with a 140W input via the USB-C ports. You can even use both input ports at once to recharge at a rate of 170W: this will enable you to fully recharge the device itself in less than 45 minutes, which could be very useful if you are often in a hurry, or forgot to charge overnight. There are two USB-C ports and one USB-A port

One of the standout features is the crystal-clear OLED screen — screens in this devices are usually LCD. This read out gives you real-time data about the power entering or leaving the power bank. There is also a compatible app that gives even more data and control, and a handy "Find My" feature if you're prone to losing things around the house or indeed elsewhere.

The Anker Prime Power Bank certainly isn't the cheapest on the market, but we still think it's good value for money considering its powerful performance and its many impressive features.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best 'in-between'

We're big fans of Ugreen at Live Science, and we have been looking forward to getting our hands on the Nexode 300W 48,000mAh since getting a sneak peek at it at CES 2024. It has four output ports and one input/output port, so you can charge multiple devices at once. The fastest ports are USB-C, one at 140 W and two at 100 W. The USB-A ports charge at 22.5 W.

We call it the best 'in-between' as it has far more capacity than a typical power bank, but much less than a small power station. For example, the UGreen 150W power bank which sits at the top of this guide has a capacity of 25,000mAh, and the UGreen PowerRoam 1200 power station has 212,800mAh. This model has 48,000mAh.

In other words, it might not have quite enough juice to run an off-grid bolthole for a few days, but it has more than enough for keeping phones, cameras and laptops full of charge while you're away from home for a long weekend. We tested the Nexode by keeping our very-heavily used Google Pixel 7 charged, and we managed to keep it alive for five days.

At just over 4 lbs (1.86 kg), it's a fairly weighty model, but the carry handle is useful for moving it around a campsite, and the integrated lamp is helpful too! It certainly doesn't feel cumbersome: the weightiness actually makes it feel solid and robust. Compared with some power stations, it only takes up a tiny bit of room in the car, too.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for laptops

Baseus might not exactly be a household name, but the company has been established since 2011 and has designed and manufactured practical, aesthetically pleasing products to keep up with changes in market trends.

The Baseus Blade HD has a 20,000mAh capacity, two USB-C and two USB-A ports, and weighs just under 1 lb (445 g). So, while it's not the lightest power bank on the market, its super-thin design means you can slide it into your laptop case in the supplied soft pouch rather than having to carry it separately.

Like a few models in this guide, a built-in display shows users the remaining battery life, real-time power output and time remaining until the battery is full.

It's stylish and functional, and because it's less than the 27,000 mAh limit, it can also be taken on airplanes, so you can continue working as you fly. This is especially handy for short-haul flights where there might not be any power sockets.

When testing the Baseus Blade HD, we were able to get one full charge of a Samsung Book from the powerbank, charging it to 100% in about 80 minutes. We were using the laptop at the time, however, so if it was idle it would have charged up much quicker.

The only little niggle we have is that you can't turn off the digital display of this power bank. It's not a huge deal though, and if you find it distracting you can simply turn the unit upside down!

• Back to the top ⤴

Best premium power station

This is an absolute beast of a power station, perfect for extended periods off-grid. While we had our hands on it, we actually struggled to drain it of power so that we could test the recharging stats — which were accurate, impressively. There are two versions, the 1500 (with a 1,440Wh capacity) and the 2000 (with a 2,096Wh capacity).

The Zendure SuperBase Pro Power Station has an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which means it can be used as an emergency backup power source in case of a powercut, but its design — on wheels, with a handle — means it can be easily towed around too. It's made to be moved across all types of terrain, so if you're going off grid it's easy enough to bring with you.

We think it would be excellent for festivals, when you might often have had to park a long walk away from where you actually end up staying. We certainly had no trouble, loading it up with camping gear on top and dragging it to our festival "base camp."

The only one real downside of the Zendure SuperBase Pro Power Station is that it can be rather loud: Its fans, which spin to keep it cool, are rather noisy. If you're a light sleeper, then, or easily disturbed by repetitive noises, you might find it too much to live with, particularly if it's set up in the same area where you're sleeping.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best power station for camping

The Bluetti AC240 is a highly versatile and powerful portable power station crafted to cater to a wide range of power requirements. It has a huge 1536Wh capacity, and a plethora of output options and recharging methods.

One thing that sets this power station apart from the rest is the fact it has an IP65 rating. That means it can tolerate most weather conditions, and its testing puts it up against low-pressure water jets from all directions. Not something we'd recommend purposefully recreating, but it means even heavy rain shouldn't be a problem when you have the Bluetti AC240 power station in tow.

It's also protected from dust ingress, so you don't need to worry about particles getting inside the unit. You could use it on the beach, for example, or be using it to run power tools in a dusty workshop without worrying about damaging it.

The only drawback is that it is heavy — really heavy — and there are no wheels. Sure, you could fashion some wheels yourself, or use a little sack cart, but given the weight, we'd have loved some clip-on wheels. It's not a power station you want to move around too often — perhaps it's best suited to people who will be camping in a recreational vehicle or on a boat (given the waterproof rating).

As we said before, though, if you are using it while sleeping under canvas, you at least don't have to worry too much about inclement weather.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best sustainable power bank

U.K.-based company Gomi has created one of the most sustainable power banks on the market. If you're conscious of your environmental footprint and want to ensure you're shopping as sustainably as possible, this is a great choice for you.

The USP of the Gomi Power Bank is that its body is made out of recycled plastic bags and waste aluminum. Furthermore, its batteries are taken from the battery packs of discarded e-bikes.

As with many products made from recycled materials, the nature of blending the different plastics together means that every power bank has a unique, marbled, multi-color design — a real conversation-starter, giving you the chance to boast about your power bank's green credentials!

The Gomi device is small and pocketable, so it's certainly convenient to carry around to make sure your phone doesn't run out of power, though it's not really meant for keeping all of your devices charged over multiple days off-grid. This is a power bank to slip into your day bag for an extra boost, rather than for taking on a multi-day trip.

The downside of the Gomi — as with a lot of sustainable products — is that it's pretty expensive compared with similar models or even those that have a larger capacity. Hopefully this will be addressed as the company continues to grow and sustainable materials become more readily available.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best power banks: Comparison

Best power banks: FAQ

• Back to the top ⤴

Latest updates

How we tested the best power banks

We're often approached by companies who claim to have the next best power bank or power station. We choose to review models based on the functionality they offer versus the competition, unique features, what type of user it would be best suited for and whether we think it is good value for money.

We look at charging times, output and input ports (and means of charging), and the capacity of the unit to see whether this is in line with what we would expect given its size and weight. We consider whether the brand is reputable and has a history of good quality products, and then we test the models against the manufacturers' specifications and claims.

• Back to the top ⤴

Editor's note October 9: This anti-Prime Day deal is still live, act fast before it ends.
If you missed out on the Nikon D850 last Prime Day, you'll be pleased to hear it's now back down to the same lowest-ever price of $2,197 at Adorama — and it was already on offer before the Prime Big Deal Days started.

Save $800 on the Nikon D850 in this Adorama camera deal.

Yesterday it was the best Nikon D850 deal on the internet, but today we've spotted Amazon running a Prime Day deal for the same discount, so it's up to you which store you buy from.

During our Nikon D850 review, we loved its incredible resolution and detail, making it a fantastic choice for any style of photography. While DSLRs are becoming less popular with the continuing advancement of mirrorless cameras, there's still a place for DSLRs thanks to their robust and durable construction, impressive image quality and reliability.

You might not think it would be one of the best astrophotography cameras because of its high resolution, but its ISO range of 64-25,600 (extendable to 102,400) offers excellent low-light performance and it even has backlit buttons to help you see what you're doing in the dark without needing a headtorch.

Although it doesn't have the quickest burst rate (7FPS without the optional battery grip), we still think it's one of the best cameras for wildlife photography due to its image quality and accurate autofocus. We took it to a zoo where we reviewed it and took some beautiful wildlife photos.

• Read our Amazon Prime Day deals page for big discounts on the best health and fitness kit and science gear as we enter the fall sales event.

• Discover the cheapest Prime Day binocular deals, Prime Day telescope deals and Prime Day camera deals to shop smart and save this October.

In this Nikon D850 Adorama deal, alongside the camera itself, you'll get a camera bag, a 64GB SanDisk card, an SD card reader and card wallet, a spare battery and a cleaning kit. We've also found it at Walmart for $2,040, although it's sold by a third-party seller so we can't attest to their reliability. The same deal is also matched today at Amazon during the Prime Day sales.

For professionals and serious enthusiasts who prefer the feel and reliability of a DSLR, the Nikon D850 is definitely worth buying at this price point. It's perfect for photographers who demand high resolution, speed and versatility, whether that's for studio work, landscape photography or high-end commercial shoots.

Key features: 45.7 Megapixel full-frame DSLR camera with Nikon F (FX) mount, 4K 30p video, 7 FPS (9 FPS with battery pack), fully weather sealed but no image stabilization, optical viewfinder and 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 2.36M dots, ISO range 64-25,600 (expandable to 32-102,400).

Product launched: August 2017

Price history: Priced at $3,296.95 on release, it's fluctuated between $2,500 / $2,800 for the past couple of years. Last Prime Day it went down to $2,196.95 was the lowest we've seen it, and now they've matched that price a day before this Prime Day starts.

Price comparison: Amazon: $2,197 | Walmart: $2,040 (third party) | Best Buy: $2,200 | B&H: $2,197

Reviews consensus: If you need both speed and resolution in a DSLR, the D850 is an absolute behemoth. Its 45.7MP stills are rich and detailed, giving you phenomenal image quality, and we think it's the best DSLR camera ever made.

TechRadar: ★★★★★ | Space: ★★★★½ | Live Science: ★★★★½ | Digital Camera World: ★★★★★

Featured in guides: Best astrophotography cameras, Best cameras for wildlife photography

✅ Buy it if: You're a professional and want the best DSLR ever made.

❌ Don't buy it if: You're a beginner, or want some of the latest tech of mirrorless models. Beginners would do great with the Nikon Zf or Canon EOS R8.

Check out our other guides to the best air purifiers, air purifiers for allergies, the best telescopes, microscopes for students, binoculars, rowing machines, electric toothbrushes and more.

New camera models don't tend to be included in the Prime Day deals, but if you're an experienced or professional user wanting mega-high resolution, the 61 Megapixel Sony A7R V is $400 off in this camera deal, now down to $3,499. It's not technically a Prime Day camera deal as it's been fluctuating up and down to its release price of $3,899 a lot recently, however, this Sony A7R V deal at Adorama also includes a few very handy accessories to sweeten the deal.

Get the Sony A7R V plus accessories for $3,498 at Adorama right now.

I reviewed the Sony A7R V over on our sister site last year and I was blown away. It was one of the first, if not the first Sony camera to include their incredibly clever AI-powered autofocus with deep learning technology, elevating their already class-leading autofocus to a whole new level of accuracy. It can predict how your subject might move, and even follows their eyes when they aren't looking at the frame — because of this, it makes one of the best cameras for wildlife photography.

It also has a whopping 61MP sensor for insanely detailed images, a ridiculously articulating touchscreen and 8K/25p video recording — it's truly a force to be reckoned with and if I could afford it, I'd buy one yesterday.

• Read our Amazon Prime Day science deals page for big discounts on the best health and fitness kit and science gear as we enter the summer sales event.

You'll find the Sony A7R V camera deal at the same price at most retailers currently, however, this Sony A7R V Adorama deal includes a camera bag, a spare battery and a 128GB Lexar memory card (and we all know photographers can never have enough batteries and memory cards!).

It gives a really solid low-light performance thanks to its 8 stops of image stabilization, meaning you can slow the shutter speed down in low light — I shot handheld at 1/3 second to make some light trails and the images were pin-sharp. However, due to the massive 61MP resolution, it isn't one of the best cameras for astrophotography as it's going to produce way too much noise. You can use the AI denoise tool in Lightroom or Affinity Photo to bring it back somewhat, but it would get tiresome doing that every time if you shoot a lot of astrophotography. 

Key features: 61MP full frame mirrorless camera, ISO 100 - 32,000 (expanded 50 - 102,400), 10FPS burst rate, 693 phase-detect autofocus points and AI-powered AF, 8K/25p video recording, Dual UHS-II SD/CFexpress Type A slots, 1.59 lbs / 723g including battery, fully weather sealed and 8 stops image stabilization.

Product launched: December 2022.

Price history: It's been consistently fluctuating between this price of $3,498 and its release price of $3,899 since it was released.

Price comparison: Amazon: $3,498 | B&H: $3,498| Best Buy: $3,499.99

Reviews consensus: The best autofocus on the market powered by AI, with insanely detailed 61MP images and stunning 8K video footage, you can't go wrong with the Sony A7R V if you can afford it.

TechRadar: ★★★★½ | Space: ★★★★½ | Digital Camera World: ★★★★½ 

Featured in guides: Best cameras for wildlife photography

✅ Buy it if: You're at a professional level and want the best autofocus money can buy with insane 61MP stills resolution — and you have the processing speed to be able to handle those very large files.

❌ Don't buy it if: You're a beginner and don't want the best of the best, or if you want to do frequent astrophotography and want a camera that won't produce so much noise — we love the Sony A7 IV. 

Check out our other guides to the best air purifiers, air purifiers for allergies, the best telescopes, microscopes for students, binoculars, rowing machines, electric toothbrushes and more.

Although it's almost 7 years old, we still rate the Nikon D850 as one of the best wildlife cameras and best astrophotography cameras, and we think it's the best DSLR ever made. 

With Prime Day fast approaching on July 16/17, and the July 4 deals now over, the Nikon D850 is currently at its lowest-ever price of $2,196.95 — that's a 27% / $800 saving!

We first saw this incredible deal on the fourth of July sales and it's fluctuated between the $2,500 / $2,800 mark for the majority of this year so far, but there's still a chance it could drop further during the Prime Day camera deals.

In this Adorama deal, alongside the Nikon D850 you get a 64GB Sandisk card, carry case, 2 batteries, a card reader and memory card wallet, screen protector, lens cleaning kit and either a Mac or PC software package (make sure you purchase the correct one). There's also another deal that includes an external flash for an additional $100. 

In our Nikon D850 review, we praised its phenomenal 45.7MP image quality, silent shooting (impressive for a DSLR, and great for wildlife photography), accurate stills autofocus and we thought it had a great battery life for long nights of shooting astrophotography out in the cold. It's certainly a camera that's stood the test of time and is an advanced tool for advanced users. 

Looking around, it's the same price at most of our trusted retailers (Amazon, B&HPhoto, Best Buy, to name a few), however, this Nikon D850 deal at Adorama has some extra accessories included for the same price, making this deal just that bit sweeter than the others. We have managed to find it for $2104.95 at Walmart, although that's only for the camera body and you're buying it from a third-party seller, so exercise some caution if you want to go down that route. (That said, they do seem to have positive reviews).

Key features: 45.7 Megapixel full-frame DSLR camera with Nikon F (FX) mount, 4K 30p video capabilities, 7 FPS burst speed (9 FPS with battery pack), fully weather sealed but no image stabilization, features an optical viewfinder and 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 2.36M dots, ISO range 64-25,600 (expandable to 32-102,400).

Product launched: August 2017

Price history: Priced at $3,296.95 on release, it's fluctuated between $2,500 / $2,800 for the past couple of years — $2,196.95 is the lowest we've seen it.

Reviews consensus: If you need both speed and resolution in a DSLR, the D850 is an absolute monster. Its 45.7MP stills are rich and detailed, giving you phenomenal image quality. 

Featured in guides: Best astrophotography cameras, Best cameras for wildlife photography

Buy it if: You favor the DSLR style of camera and are already invested in the Nikon full frame system with a good arsenal of lenses, or you're a professional wanting the best DSLR on the market.

Don't buy it if: You want a newer mirrorless camera with the latest tech with more frequent upgrades and software updates. 

The Nikon Zf might just be the mirrorless camera you've always dreamt of, if the tactility and aesthetic of a film camera but the convenience and versatility of a digital camera is what you're after.

Myriad retro-looking DSLR and mirrorless cameras are out there on the market, and they appeal to a range of photographers who love the look of the filmic SLRs of the past — but usually, they're compromised on performance and speed through one feature or another. That's not the case with the Zf.

While its 24.5 MP stills and 4K UHD 30p video are nothing to get over-excited about these days, what is impressive is that it sports the same flagship processing engine, the EXPEED 7, as found in the Nikon Z9 and Z8, both absolute powerhouses.

Plus, low light lovers should rejoice because the autofocusing on the Zf sees the accuracy drop down to -10EV. That's the lowest of any Nikon camera, ever, and the lowest we've ever tested here at Live Science.

Nikon Zf review

Nikon Zf: Design

• There's a button and a dial for almost everything we could wish for
• Small details, like a tiny LCD on the top, have been carefully planned out
• Shallow grip is reminiscent of film cameras

Do you want a shutter speed dial? You got it. ISO dial? Yep. Mode selector switch instead of a button? The Zf has that too. There's even a switch to move between stills, video and black & white modes. Each dial and switch gives a satisfying, audible 'clunk' as it's moved back and forth. No cheap, rattly thin plastic and clicks and taps. This sounds deep and solid.

The fact that this camera also has a fully articulating touchscreen means there's more than one way to do the same job. What we love about the dials and button layout is that everything is tactile. Not only does this appeal to the nostalgic photographer but it's actually practical. Muscle memory counts for a heck of a lot when it comes to shooting subjects, and the speed with which you can snap a shot or start recording is sometimes just as important as what settings you have dialed in.

Ever got frustrated with your smartphone when the apps update, change color, log you out and user interfaces move around with each iteration of the software? You won't find that problem with the Nikon Zf, because not only are the dedicated dials and buttons just there, their numbers and letters are etched into them, forever.

Clad in a beautiful texture that's similar to many vintage SLRs, we think the Zf looks good from any angle. A round viewfinder eyepiece is a nice touch but take a look at the top and you'll spot a teeny, tiny little LCD window. This displays the f/stop that's dialed into the lens. So sweet. So small. So cool!

There's even a threaded connection on the shutter release button which allows photographers to add a soft shutter release button. Some argue that this helps to reduce vibration when pressing the button, which would be useful for low-light shooting where longer shutter speeds capture camera shake blur easier. We didn't test this function ourselves, but the customizability of this is appealing. 

Nikon makes its own AR-11 soft shutter release which was originally designed for the Df, but there are many other colors and material types to help the aesthetically-conscious stand out from the crowd.

When it comes to standing out, if you're finding a black camera a little 2022, then pick from the six additional colors the Zf comes in. Blue, red, brown, green, gray and orange (with their own proprietary names) each have unique textures, too.

Nikon Zf: Performance

• Autofocusing is speedy and reliable
• Low-light performance is impressive, especially accurate white balance
• 14 FPS mechanical shutter and 30 FPS silent electronic shutter enough for most

The first performance test that really stood out to us was the autofocusing speed and reliability. Almost like a train it'll chug back and forth between subjects without so much as a breath. It does this all, of course, while rattling out up to 14 FPS still photos using the mechanical shutter which carries the same satisfying audible clunks as its dials.

It owes this in part to a combination of its Deep Learning technology — which gives appropriate tracking and subject recognition for people, cats, dogs, birds, bicycles, motorbikes, cars, aircraft and trains — and its ability to autofocus down to -10EV.

Autofocusing down to -10EV might not mean much to the regular user but believe us, it's huge! This refers to the lowest light level at which it can automatically focus on a subject accurately, and this is the lowest of any Nikon ever produced. Even the behemoth Nikon Z8 only steps down to -9EV, and that is jaw-dropping on its own.

Look at our example image above of a silhouetted suburban skyline and you can see that even on this moonless night the camera did an excellent job at latching autofocus onto the contrasted rooftops. It was instant as well: no hunting back and forth, just a straight latch.

Nikon states that across the ISO range 100-64,000 (expandable to 204,800) is the widest range among Z series cameras. By way of comparison, the Z8 can muster an ISO range of 64-25,600 (expandable to 102,400). We tested the limits of this in some low-light shooting and were impressed with the evenness of the image noise throughout the frame, even at high ISOs into the tens of thousands.

If you're a user that upgrades their camera gear every decade or so, you'll find that the image noise handling of the Zf when set to ISO 8000 is about the same as an equivalent full-frame DSLR set to ISO 1000-1500 from 10 or so years ago.

Take a look at our above example images and you can see just how well this image noise comes out. Even at ISO 8000 with only 1/2 second shutter speed at f/1.8 on a 24mm lens, this 100% crop into the image shows negligible noise, minimal color distortion (a little magenta) and uniform grain across the frame. ISO 250 is clean by comparison but this noise handling is impressive by any standards.

Nikon Zf: Functionality

• Hard to think of anything that it lacks
• Hot shoe on top makes it practical for studio and off-camera flash work
• B&W mode on the dial is great for those concentrating on tonality

For the users that this camera is designed for, it's really hard to figure out what else we would add to make it more appealing. Maybe the shallow grip could be deeper? But then there's a SmallRig grip adapter to deepen it, so that's covered. 

What about if it shot in microSD? Yep, dual card slots means Nikon have thought of that, too.

OK, we could boost the resolution and add a second memory card slot for dual shooting for the pros, but let's face it, they're going to drop some dollar on the Z8 or Z9.

Everything is solid. The dials clunk into place and that's the camera settings set. We can see what's going on, and the touchscreen is excellent too. Maybe we could split hairs and ask for a tilting touchscreen, but then we might lose the ability to fully articulate it, which is good for video and selfies.

It is a little frustrating that we have to fold out the touchscreen to take high- and low-angle shots, and we know from talking to some of our pro photographer friends that they prefer a tilting screen that doesn't fold fully out, because they're a little rough and ready with their gear and have broken a few screens in their time. But for everyone else, this isn't really an issue.

Should you buy the Nikon Zf?

As a full-frame mirrorless camera with all these specs and performance tucked away inside a stylish and immaculately designed exterior, we'd happily recommend the Zf to friends, family and photographers who love the retro feel.

If you're a pixel peeper and only care about the pure specifications, you may find the maximum image and video resolution and compatibility a little limiting. It'll create images and videos that can be displayed on big posters and the big screen, but it's not a cutting-edge spec designed for those that want to go pro.

The real take-home about this camera is that it effortlessly blends beauty and brawn. It looks good, it shoots well and it's got just enough oomph to land some truly stunning images without compromise. 

Add that to the unrivalled low-light performance and we think it's a steal for under $2,000.

If this product isn't for you

Not every photographer will need the aesthetic stylings of the Nikon Zf, and for those that want to stick with the company we'd recommend spending more and opting for the Nikon Z8 if your budget stretches to it — though this really only appeals to amateurs with deep pockets and working professionals.

The Nikon Z9 is the flagship model in Nikon's Z mirrorless line-up but again is only suited to professionals, and specifically those that need to shoot sports and fast-paced action or wildlife.

Want to keep the vintage stylings but spend around half as much? Then the Nikon Zfc may be the right option for you. It has those satisfying dials and switches but it jumps down in terms of performance too, with an APS-C crop sensor body. However, that crop sensor means a 1.5x magnification so telephoto lenses will look like they reach further — great for the bird and aviation photography enjoyed by many hobbyists at this price range.

The Nikon Z8 is referred to by Nikon as both "a baby Z9" and "the true successor to the Nikon D850". That’s high praise indeed, with the Z9 being the company’s cutting-edge, flagship mirrorless camera, and the D850 being widely regarded as the finest DSLR ever made. 

Both labels are wholly accurate, though, as the Nikon Z8 lives up to every inch of the hype. With 45.7MP resolution, 8K 60p video and up to 120fps burst shooting, this can handle almost anything you throw at it; its continuous shooting speed and ferocious autofocus obviously make it one of the best wildlife cameras on the market, but it’s also an absolute powerhouse for anything from astrophotography to portraiture. 

In fact, the Z8 is so good that it threatens to make the pricier, bulkier Z9 redundant. Unless you really need the vertical grip and beefier battery power (both of which are actually available to the Z8, if you buy an additional grip), there really isn’t much to justify the extra grand or so that the flagship will cost you. 

There are asterisks next to a couple of features, such as the fact that the 120fps bursts are limited to 11MP JPEGs, but all in all the Z8 can tackle any task – and it’s probably the best all-purpose camera that Nikon has ever made. 

Nikon Z8: Design

When Nikon calls this a "baby Z9", it isn’t kidding: while it packs the exact same technology as its big brother, the Z8 eschews the integrated vertical grip to deliver a camera body that’s a similar size to the Nikon Z6 and Z7. 

Taking a cue from Sony, this is the first flagship from Nikon (or Canon, for that matter) to offer a pro body without the vertical grip – in turn, making it appealing to a much broader market. Sure, if you’re going to be using it with big bulky primes or long telephoto lenses, the Z9 balances better. But for everyday and all-purpose shooting, I’m a much bigger fan of this smaller footprint. Mirrorless is supposed to be smaller and lighter than DSLRs, after all!

As you’d expect from a Nikon, the ergonomics are sublime; the Big N really knows how to make a camera that fits your hand like a glove. The controls feel premium and are positioned just where your fingers and thumbs expect them, and shooting with the Z8 is a dream. It also features a great in-body image stabilization system that delivers up to 5.5 stops of compensation (6 stops with specific lenses).

My only complaint here is that the camera doesn’t feature a fully articulating touchscreen, instead opting for a curious four-way tilting option. This certainly gives more flexibility than a standard tilt-only screen, but not being able to flip the screen all the way round is a sore point when shooting video – and extra baffling, given what a video powerhouse the Z8 is. 

The tilting screen is fantastically bright and detailed with good color reproduction even when comparing it to our 99% Adobe RGB color monitor in the studio but it's the restrictions of its tilting function which frustrate us a little.

Tilting the screen to the right and upwards from a normal shooting position we get around 180 degrees and about 200 degrees of movement respectively which is great for composing scenes with awkward shooting angles (such as framing foreground elements when capturing astrophotographs). However, the left and down tilt give little more than 30 or 45 degrees respectively. 

We're presuming that Nikon's thinking here is that it's more awkward to hold a camera in those latter positions and trigger the shutter release button, but it's a little confusing as to why they didn't opt for a fully rotating vari-angle style screen that competitor models like the Canon EOS R5 have as default.

Nikon Z8: Functionality

In short, there is nothing the Z8 can't do – it has been designed to conquer any and every shooting situation. The 45.7MP image sensor offers an incredible amount of resolution, and it's back-side illuminated to offer greater light-gathering capability and cleaner performance. 

However, this is also a stacked sensor – meaning that it boasts lightning-fast readout speeds, delivering incredible results for stills and video. For the former, it gives you the ability to shoot at previously impossible continuous burst speeds of up to 120fps – though this comes with a few caveats. 

When shooting at 120fps, the Z8 can only capture 11MP JPEGs. However, it can still shoot full-fat 45.7MP JPEGs at 30fps, or RAW files at 20fps – all with autofocus and autoexposure. Thanks to its cutting-edge image processor, the camera can record more than 1,000 RAW images at 20fps before any buffering kicks in – which is frankly astonishing!

The quick-as-a-hiccup readout speed of the stacked sensor also means that the rolling shutter phenomenon is virtually eliminated when shooting stills and video. Indeed, it's such a non-issue that Nikon hasn't even bothered to include a mechanical shutter in the Z8. It's electronic-only, boasts a blistering 1/32000 sec maximum shutter speed (which is 4 times faster than most high-end cameras!). 

The camera also boasts the same flagship autofocus system found in the Z9, with subject detection algorithms for everything from humans and animals to all manner of vehicles (in fact, it even beats its big brother by incorporating a new "aircraft" mode on top of the standard "airplane" tracking). 

And last but not least, the Nikon Z8 is one of the most capable cameras on the market when it comes to video, able to produce crystal clear 8K 60p as well as 4K 120p footage – all without the overheating issues and recording limits found in its rival, the Canon EOS R5. 

One exciting feature for astrophotographers is the night vision mode. Gone are the days of using a red flashlights and shutting our eyes every time a car goes past just to have the camera menu or image preview blast hot-white light into our eyes and ruining our night vision. Head into the custom shooting menu and navigate to d10 and we're met with Warm display color. Within it are two programmable modes to keep specific color balance settings on the rear screen and electronic viewfinder which are, by default, both set to red and to keep the screen dim.

"But now we can't see whether the color balance is true while shooting, everything is red!" we hear you say. Yes, but there are two caveats to this: one is that we should be shooting in RAW format anyway, so we can adjust this when image editing, and two, generally you'll only be checking the rear screen when setting up a composition. This would involve checking things like aperture, shutter speed and ISO, as well as monitoring the histogram to avoid dark clipping on the graph. Plus, you can just turn it off again if you truly want to check the color or brightness of the image. 

Nikon Z8: Performance

The Z8 is an absolute home run for Nikon in just about every department. The 45.7MP files it produces are stunning, dripping with detail to use straight out of camera and packed with plenty of data if you prefer doing post-production. The RAW files in particular reveal just how clean the images are, coming off the new sensor; even when you abuse the ISO, you're still getting beautiful images.

The 120fps continuous shooting is hilarious to the point of Schwarzenegger-like overkill. I can't fault it, but there's no reality in which I'm ever going to use it; the 11MP JPEGs are absolutely fine, but I'm not using a 45.7MP camera to take low-res photos! I'm also not going to sit flicking through thousands more images looking for another 100 versions of the decisive moment – the 20fps RAW shooting is more than enough.

However, the slightly lower resolution, super-fast burst speeds are honed for specific photographic disciplines. This includes action photojournalism and sports journalism where the camera would be rigged up to the internet to download a constant stream of images to a team of editors. These editors are then ready to make the perfect selection to publish online or in print, where every second counts when it comes to reader traffic and print deadlines.

Where things get a little bit tricky is with the autofocus. Now, compared to just about any other camera, the Z8's AF is phenomenal. It finds, follows and focuses on subjects with spooky degrees of accuracy… 98% of the time. When I took this out to shoot wildlife, there were occasions where it faltered – and any other camera would have faltered on those same occasions. Except for the Canon EOS R5. 

I have yet to point the R5 at a single animal, whether the AF has an algorithm for it or not, that it hasn't been able to focus on. That was not the case with the Z8, which struggled to find focus on some wild animals – and also completely failed to find a couple who were slightly obscured by foliage (in a way that the Canon doesn't struggle). 

It was also less than true for me when photographing sports, as the AF is slightly twitchy and apt to jump from player to player rather than sticking on the subject you want it to. Still, we really are comparing Lebron James to Michael Jordan here – coming second is more a reflection of how good the GOAT is, rather than a failing on the part of the Z8.

The tables are turned when it comes to video, an area where the R5 has a few caveats. That's not the case with the Nikon Z8; capable of 8- or 10-bit H.265, 10-bit Apple ProRes 4:2:2 HQ and 12-bit in-camera ProRes RAW HQ, video here is of the finest quality at all resolutions (unlike the uninspiring standard 4K of the Canon). You can also capture 120 minutes of 4K 60p footage, or 90 minutes of 8K 30p – again, a far cry from the limitations of the R5. 

The same AF limitations apply to video shooting, and again the lack of an articulating screen is a big misfire, but otherwise this is as much a monster when it comes to videography as it is to stills.

In low light photography we are all aware of just how much camera autofocusing systems struggle. As soon as twilight comes around, or when shooting in a dimly lit church or other low light venue, we boost up the ISO, slow the shutter speed and whack open the aperture just to have the autofocus hunt, whirring back and forth before giving up.

While mirrorless cameras on the whole are improving their low light AF, with some cameras dropping down to -6.5EV, the Z8 walks away with the prize offering a -9EV autofocus detection lower limit. To utilize this though, we have to turn on Starlight view (photo Lv) in d9 of the custom shooting menu. Once engaged it works both on the rear LCD screen and in the electronic viewfinder and it appears to ramp up the brightness of the screen to aid with composition in dark scenes as well.

Should you buy the Nikon Z8?

Do you want flagship level performance without flagship price or bulk? Do you want Nikon's finest ever camera technology? Do you need high-res 45MP stills or 8K video? Then the Nikon Z8 is an absolutely fantastic option. 

Is it the best option, though? For my money, I would actually recommend the Canon EOS R5 unless you genuinely need 120fps stills, 8K 60p video or the ability to shoot more than 20 minutes of 8K in one go.