With an increasing number of options on the market, it’s becoming harder to sort through the noise and find the best Battery For Home Backup that suits your particular needs.
That’s why we’re here to assist you in picking the best Battery For Home Backup . We have gone through the difficult process of evaluating every product in detail to find the best one. Whether you’re buying for the first time or looking for an upgrade. Brace yourself for everything you need to know about buying the best product available.
So Without further ado, let’s jump right in!
Here is our Top 10 Recommendations!
Top 10 Best Battery For Home Backup in 2023
- 600VA / 330W battery backup power supply
- 7 Outlets (NEMA 5-15R): 5 Battery Backup and Surge Protector; 2 Outlets with Surge Protection Only
- 1 USB Charger Port (1.5A) for cell phones, portable electronics
- 5' Power Cord, right-angle 3-prong wall plug (NEMA 5-15P), wall-mountable. Plus free Windows PC power-management software (Mac OS uses native "Energy Saver" Settings)
- Replaceable Battery. Easily replace the battery back up with a genuine APC replacement battery, model APCRBC154 (sold separately)
- 【Expandable Capacity】DELTA Pro can expand capacity from 3.6kWh to 25kWh with Extra Batteries, Ecoflow Smart Generators and the Smart Home Panel for battery backup power supply. A single DELTA Pro unit packs a 3600W AC output, which can be expanded up to 4500W with X-Boost technology. Power 99.99% heavy-duty devices at home, outdoors, or at work. You can even pair two units together to achieve 7200W. Replace noisy, smoky generators with a silent, fume-free home backup power station.
- 【X-Stream Fast Charging】Fully recharge the DELTA Pro in 1.8 hrs with 240V outlets(3000W), 2.7 hrs with 1800W wall outlets or solar charged in 3.5-7 hours with 3*400W solar panels thanks to the industry-leading solar conversion efficiency of up to 23%. Ideal for juicing up the battery between short outages. EcoFlow’s X-Stream charging technology isn't just fast, it's safe too with the battery management system.
- 【5 Ways to Charge】Pick from EV station charging, solar, wall outlets, using the smart outdoor generator or via a car outlet. Faster than any other 3000 watt solar generator. Keep going for miles when your electric vehicle runs out of battery. Either at home or on the go, DELTA Pro will have you back on the road in no time.
- 【Smart App Control】Integrate DELTA Pro with your home using the EcoFlow Smart Home Panel, then use the EcoFlow app to break down your energy habits or customize your energy usage to fit your needs. The EcoFlow DELTA Pro ecosystem stores energy during the day, reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering your bills by combating peak energy rates.
- 【Portable RV Power】Bid farewell to noisy, fume-filled gas generators and relish peaceful, green, maintenance-free power wherever your RV adventures take you. Charge your camping accessories, or plug into a shore power outlet to directly power your RV's electrical system. Please note that shore power cable is not included.
- 650VA/390W Ecologic Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System uses simulated sine wave output to safeguard workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment
- EIGHT NEMA 5-15R OUTLETS: Four battery backup & surge protected outlets; Four surge protected outlets (Three ECO controlled); INPUT: NEMA 5-15P right angle, 45 degree offset plug with five foot power cord
- MULTIFUNCTION LCD PANEL: Displays immediate, detailed information on battery and power conditions
- ECO MODE: When the UPS detects a computer is off or in sleep mode, it will automatically turn off power to computer peripherals connected to ECO mode outlets, reducing power usage and lowering energy costs
- 3-YEAR WARRANTY – INCLUDING THE BATTERY; dollars 100,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee and FREE PowerPanel Personal Edition Management Software (Download)
- APC UPS 1500VA / 900W battery backup power supply
- 10 Outlets (NEMA 5-15R): 5 surge protector with battery backup; 5 outlets with Surge Protection Only
- Boost Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): instantly corrects low/high voltage fluctuations without discharging the battery, and is Active PFC compatible
- Replaceable Battery: Easily replace the battery back up with a genuine APC replacement battery, model APCRBC124 (sold separately)
- 1 GB network dataline protection, 6' Power Cord, right-angle 3-prong wall plug (NEMA 5-15P), and free Windows PC power-management software (Mac OS uses native "Energy Saver" Settings)
- Keep Recording During Blackouts: Even when the power is out, eufy Backup Battery keeps your eufy outdoor security camera running at full strength.
- Eight Hours of Power: eufy Backup Battery is long-lasting, ensuring that your eufy Security system keeps running until the power company gets the lights back on.
- Compatible with eufy HomeBase 2: No matter what happens, eufy Backup Battery powers HomeBase 2 to always keep your eufy Security system protecting your home.
- Just Plug In: The extra battery is easy to install with a simple plug-in concept, allowing you to focus on your family when it matters most.
- Small Enough to Store Anywhere: The compact design means you can put eufy Backup Battery on the kitchen counter or shelf without it being a distraction.
- Never worry when the power goes out with battery light bulbs: These self-charging emergency light bulbs allow you to keep a light on even when the power is off and can function similarly to a flashlight in emergency situations
- Portable and rechargeable light bulbs: similar to the ebulb emergency light bulbs, the backup battery bulb will automatically recharge when the electricity is on, providing reliable light in any situation
- Replaces your 60-Watt light bulbs: Get the efficiency of low wattage in emergency light bulbs for power outages. These battery powered light bulbs are the easiest way to cut costs without sacrificing brightness or reliability
- LED light bulbs that stay on even when the power is off: Keep your lights on whenever you need them with the GE rechargeable light bulbs. These backup battery light bulbs will provide up to 5 hours of light at 95 lumens when fully charged
- Don't lose out on brightness: These A21 LED rechargeable light bulbs will perfectly replace your traditional 60 watt LED light bulbs as they use low energy each day, even when charging for backup functionality
- ⚡【High-Performance Portable Laptop Charger】►TECKNET power station features 1 AC Outlet 110V/150W (Peak 300W) and is a pure sine wave inverter power bank with ac outlet. With better stability, it can charge a number of devices and protect your sensitive devices. You can use it to power smart electronics such as laptops (45W), phones, GoPros, cameras, drones, etc. As a portable emergency power station, it is an ideal selection for outdoor activities or hurricane and other power outage situations.
- ⚡【Multi-Outputs Provide Better Convenience】►The standalone AC/DC can charge different devices at the same time. Battery pack with ac outlet (150W)can charge your laptops, Christmas lights etc; PD 45W high-speed charge ports supply power for camera, mini fan, game console, etc; Three 18W QC 3.0 USB ports can charge your GoPros, phones, drones, tablets, etc.
- ⚡【LED Display and LED Lighting】►LED display adopting Bluetek technology to achieve more accurate digital display. It would show you the remaining energies when charging, discharging, and in AC outlet and DC output status, so you can never worry about sudden power failure to delay your activities. The built-in LED flashlights features normal lighting mode and SOS mode. The strobe comes in handy for emergency use while being outdoors.
- ⚡【High Capacity And Compact Body】►A powerful 42000mAh capacity portable power station, 155 Wh battery pack. High-grade gray aluminum alloy anti-oxidation shell, durable and wear-resistant. With dimensions of 9.2*3.2*3.2 inches(8.1*8.1*22.7CM), weight only 3.75lb(1.7KG), and a soft and tough leather handle, it is easy to carry wherever you go.
- ⚡【Reliable Power Safety Protection】►TECKNET portable laptop charger with built-in battery management system (BMS) protects the power supply from over-current, over-voltage, and over-temperature. It also features a built-in cooling fan to reject heat when charging, providing you and your devices all-round protection.
- The Most Reliable Emergency Power Supply: Industry-leading safety and reliability designed with electric-vehicle-grade battery cells. Every unit undergoes 52 reliability and safety tests and is covered by a 5-year limited warranty.
- Long-Lasting Capacity: 1,002Wh (278,400mAh). Offers up to 7 days of power supply to your crucial devices and home appliances on a single charge.
- Powerful Output: 3 AC outlets with the pure-sine wave, supporting 1000W rated power and 2000W surge power at 110V.
- Wide-Range Compatibility: 2 USB-C outputs with PD 18W, 1 USB-A with 5V/2.4A, 1 USB-A with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, and 1 car outlet with 12V/10A.
- Easy Recharge: Recharge from your car, AC outlet, or with the SolarPower ONE solar panel power generator.
- ✅ Portable Battery backup: Featuring 146Wh capacity with AC, DC, QC 3.0 USB ports, you could get a power source to charge your laptop, smart phone, CPAP machine, drone,Mini-refrigerator or other device while you are on a road trip, camping, fishing or other power outgage occasions.
- ✅ Quick charge: support QC3.0 USB port, it could help you charge the device (phone, tablet, or other compatible device) faster without any harming the device. Besides, you could know your power station status clearly with the LCD display.
- ✅ Rechargeable anywhere: Not only charged by AC wall outlet and car, but also could be charged by solar panel(Need buy solar panel separately). Especially Built-in MPPT technique, it will help maximize power extraction at all. And the Smart Energy Control could ensure the charge efficiently and save the power.
- ✅ Reliable Emergency power: Built-in Battery Management System ( BMS ) with the protection of over-temperature, over-voltage, over-power, over-current, and short circuits, to keep your charged device safe. We also provide 12-month warranty. If you have any question, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
- ✅ ONLY under 100-watt devices supported. How to turn on the 110V AC? Click the Power Button, and then press and hold the AC button for 2 seconds, then the AC outputs will be turn on. We cannot guarantee for any heating products because the instant power may be much higher than the rated power when they are working, it may be far exceeding the 100 watts that our power station can power. Please turn off the AC output if not in use, otherwise it will keep working until the power run out.
- 【Multiple Charging Outputs Provide More Options】DELTA features 6* AC outlet (100V-120V 1800W 3300W Peak), 2*USB-C port, 2* USB-A ports, 2*USB-A fast charge and 1* standard DC 13.6V port , power your smartphone, laptop, camera, drones, in-car appliances, CPAP machine, refrigerator, blender and more at anytime without worry.
- 【Triple Rechargeable Modes Efficient Solar Generator】EcoFlow power station is equipped with a lithium battery pack, it can be charged by the 10-65V solar panel (not included), AC wall adapter and car charger efficiently. We do not recommend using third-party solar panels.(If you must use it and need a DIY wiring, kindly please refer to the product description for the correct method)
- 【Recharge From 0% TO 80% Within 1 Hour】EFDELTA can be recharged from 0% to 80% in 1 hour and to 100% in 2 hours. X-STREAM TECHNOLOGY: ECOFLOW patented X-Stream Technology empowers EFDELTA recharged at 10 times the speed of most portable power stations in the market with just a standard AC cable. (NO HEAVY, BULKY ADAPTOR or BRICK).
- 【High Performance and Handy Power Source】DELTA is a portable power station with 1260Wh,which to meet different kinds of electricity demands outdoor usage for home, travel, camping, backseat on long road trips.
- 【Product Guarantee & What You Can Get】 EcoFlow provides our dear customers with Guarantee of 24 months from the date of purchase and friendly customer service. WHAT YOU GET: 1 EFDELTA 1260Wh portable power station, 3 types of charging cable (1*AC plug, 1*Car Charge Cable, 1*Solar to XT60 Solar Panel Cable), 1*EFDELTA Bag , 1*User Guide.
- ☼【Designed For Mobility】The multi-interface output power stations support fast charging function for laptop, cell phones, iPad, Switch, camera, LED light, speakers, camping fan, airpods, etc. Also serves as an emergency charging station for camping supplies within 80W such as drones, CPAP machine, 12 volt refrigerator, camping air conditioner, etc. (Solar Panel Not Included)
- ☼【Versatile Power Source】Armed with a 83.25Wh rechargeable battery pack, solar generator features 1x 110V/80W(Peak 120W) AC outlets, 2x USB port(18W QC3.0) and 1x USB C port(PD 30W) that deliver stable and secure power as you expect. It's a great choice for car tent, mobile office, hurricane emergency supplies, RV camping accessories, road trip must haves, home appliances.
- ☼【Flashlights For Camping】LED flashlight of power supply provides 4 different levels of brightness and SOS mode. Camping lights can last up to 94 hours, 13 hours and 30 hours in power saving, super bright and SOS modes respectively. Perfectly suit outdoor adventures, hiking, fishing, power outage, emergency situations, truck bed tent, reading, etc.
- ☼【Triple Rechargeable Modes】The portable generator can be charged via AC adapters, car chargers, or in direct sunlight via 12-22 volt solar panels(not included). It is ideal battery backup kits for car camping, overland journey, air travel, outdoor off-grid activities and etc. So you can recharge power anywhere you want without worrying about low power and diminishing battery capacity.
- ☼【Portable & Safe Charging】The solid handle makes power generator easy to carry, heat dissipation holes designed on the back and safe battery management system which support overload, over voltage, over current, over temperature and short circuit protection during charging to ensure itself and the powered equipment are not damaged.
- 【80000mAh Back-up Power Supply】VTONCE P302 is equipped with a 296 watt-hour(14.8V 20Ah) lithium-ion battery pack, which features 4* AC outlets(110V Rated 300W - Peak 600W) , 1* PD 100W port, 1* QC 3.0 port, 2* USB-A Ports, 4* DC ports and 1* DC car socket. It provides 13 power output ports to charge multiple devices at the same time, such as laptop, phone, drone, car fridge and cameras, etc.
- 【AC Fast Charge& Easy to Carry】You can recharge your power station with an AC adapator when at home, driving the car outlet during a road trip or simply use a VTONCE power station. Portable handle makes it easy to carry around for outdoor activities，particularly convenient to carry.
- 【Excellent Safety BMS】VTONCE power station is equipped with the Excellent Battery Management System (BMS), protect devices through temperature control, overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and short circuit protection functions. And detects short circuits and overloads when performing incorrect operations.
- 【Outdoor Backup Power】Designed lightweight-just 6.6 lbs and has a solid handle for easy to carry. Equipped with an 18W bright emergency flashlight on the back, which can project a powerful beam of up to 500 meters and is suitable for large-area lighting. It is perfect for outdoor camping and disaster prevention. There are 4 lighting modes you can easily switch (weak→medium→strong→SOS).
- 【What You Get】You will receive 1* VTONCE Portable Power Station, 1*AC Adapter & Cable, 1*USB-C to USB-C Cable, 1*Cigarette Lighter Plug Cord, 1*Car Cigarette Lighter Socket, 1* User Manual and 12 months of customer service. Any questions, please feel free to contact us.
- 【HIGH CAPACITY & PORTABLE POWER STATION】Apowking power bank with AC outlet 296Wh (80,000mAh) can power plenty of your devices, such as phone, laptop, tablet, Macbook, light, fan, TV, projector, small blender, car refrigerator, drone, switch, camera and CPAP machine with rated power less than 500 watts. NOTE: 500W is the output power, NOT the battery capacity. It is recommend that CPAP users use DC converter to work with this portable battery pack for better effect.
- 【MULTI FUNCTION OUTPUTS】This portable laptop charger is equipped with 2*pure sine wave AC output ports (110V/500W), 4*QC USB (5V/2.4A, max 12W) and 1*DC vehicle output port (12-16V/10A max) to power different devices according to your needs. What's more, the built-in cooling fan will auto cool down the unit when the working temperature rises too high after a long time use. Please turn off the AC output when not in use to save the battery power.
- 【FAST CHARGING & 3 WAYS TO RECHARGE】When recharged by a solar panel (DC 13-23V, 40-120W, solar panel NOT included) under direct sunlight, it becomes a solar powered generator to provide eco-friendly green power. You can also recharge it with AC wall outlet at home or car outlet in your car. Besides, it supports 15V/9A Max fast charging when you press the fast charge button next to the solar input port, which will charge quicker and take shorter time than normal recharging.
- 【LIGHTWEIGHT, PORTABLE AND SOLID】With a light weight and a compact size, Apowking solar power portable laptop charger is customized for portable carry-on with a solid handle, making it easy and comfortable enough to be carried around for your outdoor camping, road trip, rv trip and indoor blackout. Besides, the built-in led flashlight with light-strobe-SOS modes makes this portable power bank with ac outlet convenient for outdoor activities and inddor emergency uses.
- 【WHAT YOU GET】You will receive 1*Apowking HP500 portable solar generator, 1*AC adapter, 1*12V car charging cable, 1*user manual, 7*24 hrs prompt and friendly customer service. Any questions, please feel free to contact us. This portable power bank for home use is also suitable for camping, fishing, traveling and powering festival led lights. It is a practical present to your families and friends.
- ▲ GIGANTIC 42000mAh BATTERY WILL COVER ALL YOUR NEEDS: The AIMTOM SPS-155 Portable Generator, which has an IMMENSE 42000mAh 155Wh power capacity, is ideal for powering appliances at a campsite, a tailgate party, home improvement projects or can even double as a flashlight for emergencies.
- ▲ ONE POWER GENERATOR FOR ALL YOUR DEVICES: Power up your laptop, stereo or any other home appliances via the 110V/100W AC outlet. Use the 3 x 5V USB outputs to charge your mobile phone, iPhone, iPad, GPS or action cameras while the 3 x 12V DC outputs are perfect for car refrigerators, fans and more.
- ▲ TAKE YOUR POWER SUPPLY WITH YOU ANYWHERE: Even though our power station features a HUGE 42000mAh lithium battery, it weighs ONLY 3.48lbs. Plus, the comfortable and ergonomic handle will make carrying your outdoor emergency power sources a breeze. Just slip it in your car trunk and embark on your next adventure.
- ▲ SO QUIET, EFFICIENT POWER: Rest assured that your portable battery will not disturb you or your loved ones, since it utilizes a built-in power inverter and runs quietly. It can be recharged via supported solar panels (Not included), car port, or AC wall outlets. Its built in MPPT controller automatically optimizes charging process and maximizes power extraction from solar panels under all conditions.
- ▲ ADVANCED BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: The built-in BMS protects you against overcurrent, overvoltage, and over-temperature, ensuring the safety of you and your devices and prolonging battery life. It also features a built-in cooling fan to avoid overheating when charging.
- Wide Application: Our 166Wh portable generator is provided with three outputs: two 110V AC outlets charge CPAP machine/tablet/laptop/ camera/drone/ fan etc, three USB ports (2 of them are quick charge ports) help for smart phone/ ipad/GPS and any electronic devices, and two DC ports can be used for vehicle tools like car cleaning and type replacement; Suitable for travel camping, fishing, outdoor activities, medical care and any emergency situations.
- Specific Features: With 45000mAh capacity, pure sine wave, 150W AC continuous power and 200W AC peak power, this power supply pack is able to more stably charge a number of devices for many times; Compact and lightweight design (only 4.5lb) make it more convenient taken outside.
- 3 Ways to Recharge: There are 3 options for you to recharge the large-capacity power bank: the wall outlet, solar panel (not included in package) and 12V car socket. And their accessories like power adapter, cigarette lighter adapter and car charger are all included in the package.KINDLY NOTE THAT THE POWER STATION CAN NOT BE CHARGE AND USE AT THE SAME TIME.
- Safety Performance: This power station is provided with overheat protection, short-circuit protection, low-voltage protection, lock-on protection, over-voltage protection and over-current protection which prevent your devices from damaging and make you use it at ease.
- Portable Power Source: Simple to use, there is a power button on the middle to turn on the generator, so you won’t be pulling any ripcords to turn on it; it will allow you to camp and recharge power without running a noisy, super cool product for your outdoor camping and travel.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Battery For Home Backup
Now, when you do research prior to buying the best Battery For Home Backup, there are certain things you need to consider. Because these considerations come into play by ensuring that you do not end up with the wrong choice.
Finding the perfect Battery For Home Backup is not rocket science and doesn’t require extensive research. Some important features which you should look out for are described below.
Brands
While there are numerous brands on the market, the truth is not all of them can give you the features you may need.
We’ve done the legwork of locating the most reputable brands around for you. Choosing from these, you’ll be much less likely than going to a store and grabbing something without considering the brand and everything behind it.
Durability
Durability is one of the primary features which are important for most products. They don’t often have long lifespans and require replacement every now then.
Before you buy any product from the store, make sure you know about the material well. Sometimes, many people buy the wrong product even after spending a lot of bucks. Why do they do that? Probably because they don’t know which material ensures ultimate durability.
You should always focus on the quality of a product before getting it. Make sure it’s sturdy and built to last. No matter whether it’s made of wood, metal, plastic, aluminum or steel.
Features of Battery For Home Backup
Before deciding on a specific product, be certain that it has all the necessary features you require.
If you’re unsure concerning something, don’t hesitate to ask the manufacturer. That way, you can make the right purchase that provides precise results.
Quality of the Battery For Home Backup
The quality of the product is an important factor. If you happen to get one with low-quality material, you will have a tough time trying to maneuver them.
Whatever you choose to buy, the quality should be first-rate. You don’t want to waste money on something that looks or feels cheap when what you desire is elegance, coziness, and style.
Cost
Cost shouldn’t be an issue if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality product. An inexpensive product often has great features, so you get great value for your money.
However, expensive products don’t necessarily mean to be of exceptional quality. We prefer to say you select something that fulfills your needs.
Ease of Use
People feel more comfortable using products that come with a straightforward process of use.
So, you should always look for the ones that come with an easy to use process. You can find different designs, so you should choose the one that comes with more convenient features.
Warranty
It is always recommended to have a product with a warranty, however, it’s not compulsory. However, if the brand provides warranties for a certain timeframe, then certainly, it’s a favorable deal.
Size
The product size is one of the most important aspects to consider before purchasing a Battery For Home Backup. You need to know what kind of product you want to buy to best fit your needs.
It is essential to buy a product that addresses your needs based on your product dimensions. Spending money on something you will likely need is a waste of money. You should choose a product that will meet your needs based on its power.
Design
Many products with countless designs are available in the market. Some designs are redundant, and others aren’t as efficient. Make sure you know what you do and whether the tools you choose will help you do your job better.
Safety Measure
No matter how passionate you are about your occupation or work, your safety must always be a top priority. Since you’ll be using Battery For Home Backup make sure it has all the features that ensure the safety of the users. You do not want to experience any kind of accident.
Don’t just pick any brand, no matter how excellent, inexpensive, or available it is. Ensure that safety measures have been considered.
Materials of the Battery For Home Backup
We advise not to buy products from brands that don’t specify the materials they use unless we’re sure the product is made with good quality materials. It’s important to be confident about a purchase before you make one, so when the materials used aren’t clearly specified, it makes us doubt the product’s quality.
It’s imperative to consider what material will work best for your requirements before you make an investment since you could find yourself wasting your money.
Types
As you know by now, there are various types of Battery For Home Backup available in the market. You have to understand the pros and cons of individual types of products before picking the perfect one for your needs.
It is best to compare the advantages with each other before determining the perfect type.
Instruction Manual
Before you can utilize a product, often there are some fundamental guidelines that must be followed to get the most out of it. While some people may be able to just figure it out on their own, others may need an instruction manual.
Instruction manual is designed to provide you with information about how to use the product. The manual also goes over the safety precautions and explains how to recognize potential hazards. So you should buy the product that comes with an instruction manual.
Performance
When you are planning to buy a Battery For Home Backup, you will definitely think of its performance because nobody wants to waste his money buying a wrong product. So, check ins and outs of the Battery For Home Backup from user’s review, forums and expert people before you pick a specific model.
Versatility
It can be frustrating when you buy something and then it turns out three days later that it is not what you need. With a little thought and effort, it is possible to avoid this by purchasing a versatile product that has multiple uses. You can use one product for many purposes. This can save time on products that may not get used up quickly.
You can also use the product in different ways, depending on the need at the time. In this way, you can also save money as you’ll just need to purchase the perfect one.
Accessories
When you are planning to buy a Battery For Home Backup, you will definitely think of the accessories availability in the market. Because anytime soon, it may cause damages due to unwanted accidents at any stage of its usages.
Some products also come in bundles, where they have a combo package of the necessary items that you may need with it.
Colors
Yup, color does matter! When you are planning to buy a Battery For Home Backup from dozens of models, you will definitely wish to get your desired color. As, color is the symbol of choice, aristocracy and represents your personal taste.
We have reviewed some of the best Battery For Home Backup considering this option of course.
Compactness
A Battery For Home Backup is highly compact in order to have a high usage capacity. Compactness also ensures good portability and easy handling of a unit. Because if Battery For Home Backup doesn’t comes handy, you may face it tough to manage while using it.
After reading our buying guide, you will get the answers for the following questions:
Final Words
Selecting the best item from a group of choices is a difficult job. We hope that our effort in finding the best Battery For Home Backup has contributed something to you.
To help you make the right choice, we have included reviews of our top choices, a thoroughly researched buying guide, and a simple comparison.