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Buying Guides

Everything you need to know before making a purchase. Our in-depth buying guides break down the key factors, terminology, and considerations for every product category we cover.

Air Quality

Air Purifier Buying Guide

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Understanding CADR Ratings

CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) measures how quickly a purifier can clean air in a specific size room. Higher CADR means faster air cleaning. Look for a CADR that matches at least 2/3 of your room’s square footage.

Filter Types Explained

True HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. Activated carbon filters remove odors and VOCs. Some units combine both for comprehensive air cleaning.

Room Size Considerations

Always check the manufacturer’s recommended room size. For best results, choose a purifier rated for a space slightly larger than your room to ensure adequate air changes per hour.

Ongoing Costs

Factor in replacement filter costs when budgeting. Most HEPA filters need replacing every 6–12 months, costing $30–$100 depending on the model. Some units have washable pre-filters to extend HEPA life.

Air Quality

Dehumidifier Buying Guide

4 topics covered

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Understanding Pint Capacity

Dehumidifier capacity is measured in pints of moisture removed per 24 hours. A 30-pint unit suits moderately damp rooms up to 1,000 sq ft, while 50- to 70-pint models are needed for very wet basements or large open areas.

Drainage Options

Most dehumidifiers include a removable water bucket, but many also support continuous gravity drainage via a hose. Units with a built-in pump can push water upward to a sink or window, making them ideal for basements.

Energy Efficiency

Since dehumidifiers often run for extended periods, Energy Star certified models use 15% less energy. Check the Integrated Energy Factor (IEF) rating—higher numbers mean more moisture removed per kilowatt-hour.

Noise and Placement

Noise ranges from 40 dB (quiet library) to 55 dB (normal conversation). If you plan to use one in a bedroom or living area, look for models rated under 48 dB on their lowest setting.

Cleaning

Robot Vacuum Buying Guide

4 topics covered

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Understanding Suction Power

Suction power is measured in Pascals (Pa). Budget models offer 2,000–4,000Pa, mid-range units deliver 5,000–8,000Pa, and flagship models reach 10,000Pa or more. Higher suction is essential for deep carpet cleaning and pet hair removal.

Navigation Technology

LiDAR navigation creates precise room maps and is the most efficient. Camera-based (vSLAM) systems work well but may struggle in low light. AI-powered obstacle avoidance uses cameras and machine learning to detect and avoid objects on the floor.

Mopping Capabilities

Look for models with vibrating or spinning mop pads, automatic mop lifting on carpet, and docks that wash and dry the pads. Dual spinning mops generally outperform single-pad drag mops.

Dock Features

All-in-one docks can auto-empty the dustbin, wash mop pads with hot water, dry mops with hot air, and refill the water tank. While these docks are larger and pricier, they make robot vacuums truly hands-free for weeks at a time.

Kitchen

Air Fryer Buying Guide

4 topics covered

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Capacity & Household Size

For 1–2 people, a 3–5L basket is sufficient. Families of 3–4 should look for 5–7L capacity. Large families or batch cookers benefit from 8L+ or dual basket models that can cook multiple dishes simultaneously.

Single vs Dual Basket

Dual basket air fryers let you cook two different foods at different temperatures at the same time. This is ideal for families and meal prep. Single basket models are more compact and better suited for smaller kitchens.

Smart Features

Some air fryers offer app connectivity with guided recipes, remote monitoring, and preset cooking programs. While not essential, smart features can help beginners achieve consistent results and expand their cooking repertoire.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryers use significantly less energy than conventional ovens due to faster preheating and shorter cooking times. They’re an excellent choice for reducing energy bills while still achieving crispy, evenly cooked results.

Baby Essentials

Baby Monitor Buying Guide

4 topics covered

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Wi-Fi vs. Dedicated Frequency

Wi-Fi monitors let you check on your baby from anywhere via a smartphone app, but they depend on your home network and can be vulnerable to security risks. Dedicated frequency monitors (FHSS/DECT) offer interference-free, hack-proof signals with zero latency, but only work within their specified range.

Video Quality and Night Vision

Look for at least 720p resolution for a clear picture on the parent unit. 1080p is ideal for smartphone viewing. Infrared night vision is essential since most monitoring happens in dark rooms. Some premium models offer color night vision for a more natural image.

Health and Sleep Tracking

Advanced monitors now track breathing patterns, heart rate, oxygen levels, and sleep quality. While these features provide peace of mind, they are not medical devices and should not replace professional health monitoring.

Subscription Costs

Many smart baby monitors require a monthly subscription to unlock their full feature set, including video history, sleep analytics, and growth tracking. Factor in these ongoing costs when comparing prices. Some models work completely subscription-free.

Need more help deciding?

Each buying guide is paired with a full product comparison where we rank and review every model we tested. Visit any guide above to see our top picks, scoring breakdowns, and detailed pros and cons.