We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. What to Buy Personal Care & Medical Devices After Testing 30+ Kits, These Are the Most User-Friendly At-Home COVID-19 Tests The best at-home COVID-19 tests are FDA-authorized, easy to use, accurate, deliver fast results, and also detect other viruses like the flu. By Nsisong Asanga, Nsisong Asanga Nsisong Asanga is a public health physician and field epidemiologist with several years of clinical and field experience. health's editorial guidelines Lauren Paige Richeson, Lauren Paige Richeson Lauren Paige Richeson is a writer and editor at Health. She's the author of Avocado Obsession Cookbook and covers a wide range of lifestyle and wellness topics for some of the world's most popular publications. health's editorial guidelines and Jessica Wozinsky Fleming Jessica Wozinsky Fleming Jessica Wozinsky Fleming is the Senior Editor for Health.com. She has more than fifteen years of experience as a writer and editor, and her writing has appeared in multiple publications. Jessica is an Ironman athlete, three-time marathoner and once ran up all 1,860 steps to the top of the Empire State Building. She continues to have a passion for health and fitness, but, these days, her main form of exercise is chasing around her four young sons. health's editorial guidelines Updated on November 26, 2024 Medically reviewed by Farah Khan, MD Medically reviewed by Farah Khan, MD Farah Khan, MD, is an allergist/immunologist that treats pediatric and adult patients in her private practice in Northern Virginia. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Health.com. He is a seasoned journalist and editor with over two decades of experience, he has held several leadership roles at major publications. health's fact checking process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews What to Look For Our Testing Process Our Experts What to Know About Who We Are Health / Leticia Almeida A reliable at-home COVID-19 test is an important addition to your medicine cabinet. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as cough, runny nose, and fever, or have been recently exposed but are asymptomatic, getting tested can help prevent spreading the virus. At-home COVID-19 tests are a quick and convenient way to get accurate results without a trip to the clinic.When choosing the best at-home COVID-19 test for your needs, consider the type of test, speed of results, and accuracy. In addition, David Souleles, MPH, the Chief of Staff of Health Affairs at UC Irvine, advises opting for FDA-authorized brands and always checking the test's expiration date before using it. In the Health Lab, we’ve tested over 30 at-home COVID-19 tests from the most reputable brands on the shelves. Although our testing didn't assess accuracy, we evaluated the ease of use and overall performance of each at-home test to identify the best options that deliver quick results through a seamless, user-friendly process. An allergist and immunologist on our Medical Expert Board also reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy regarding what to look for in at-home COVID-19 tests, when to use them, and when to contact a healthcare provider. Where To Find Free COVID-19 Tests If You're Insured: Depending on your coverage, you may qualify for free at-home COVID-19 tests. Check your insurer's website for more information. If You're Uninsured: Check the CDC’s Increasing Community Access to Testing for COVID-19 program to find free COVID-19 testing near you. What to Look for in At-Home COVID-19 Tests Here are a few important factors to consider when purchasing at-home COVID-19 tests to make sure you're getting a reliable and effective product: Test Type: The most common types of COVID-19 tests are antigen and molecular or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Antigen tests provide fast results from home, while PCR tests are more accurate but require mailing a sample to a lab. FDA Authorization: An FDA-authorized test guarantees it's been properly evaluated for accuracy and result consistency and meets the agency’s standards for safety, effectiveness, and quality. Shelf Life/Expiration Dates: Test components can degrade over time, so the expiration date or shelf life indicates how long a test is effective. Using an expired COVID test can result in inaccurate results. This date is usually printed on the packaging, but some tests may include a QR code or website link for updates. Result Speed: Antigen tests usually provide results within 15–30 minutes, but PCR tests can take a few days to process, so consider how quickly you need an answer when selecting a test. Our Top Picks Best Overall: CorDx TyFast Flu A/B & COVID-19 Rapid Test at Amazon $40 Jump to Review Easiest to Use: InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test at Amazon $16 Jump to Review Best Drugstore Test: CVS COVID-19 Test Kit at CVS $17 Jump to Review Fastest Results: SALE WELL life COVID-19 & Influenza A&B Home Test Kit at Amazon $30 $23 Jump to Review Best Value: Genabio COVID-19 Rapid Self-Test Kit at Amazon $900 Jump to Review Best Test Card: SALE Boson Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test Card at Amazon $33 $27 Jump to Review Best PCR Test : 3EO Health COVID-19 Starter Kit at 3eohealth.com Jump to Review Best Molecular Test: LUCIRA by Pfizer COVID-19 & Flu Home Test at Amazon $40 Jump to Review Best for Travel: FaStep COVID-19 Antigen Pen Home Test at Amazon $15 Jump to Review Best with App: iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test at Amazon $18 Jump to Review Best Overall CorDx TyFast Flu A/B & COVID-19 Rapid Test PHOTO: CorDx $40 at Amazon View on Al21.com View on Cordx.com Why We Like It We were very impressed with the CorDx At Home Multiplex Rapid Test, which can detect COVID-19, Flu A, and Flu B simultaneously. It provides results for all three in just 10 minutes and indicates if you are negative, have either of the flu viruses, have COVID-19, or have a combination of the three. The test instructions are very helpful, using icons like a timer and a stop sign to guide you through the process. Plus, the results section provides clear visuals for interpreting both COVID-19 and flu results, even when they're combined. We really like that this test uses softer, synthetic nasal swabs that feel higher quality than typical cotton ones. We also appreciated that each box is clearly labeled with an expiration date, and the manufacturer stresses the importance of not using an expired model. It's Worth Noting While the test says that all negative first covid tests will require another testing, it only comes with one test in the box. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swabResults Time: 10 minutes minutes Recommended Age for Use: Two and upShelf Life: 12 months PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang Easiest to Use InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test PHOTO: Amazon $16 at Amazon $16 at Walmart View on Inteliswab.com Why We Like It The InteliSwab At-Home COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test has a unique design that combines the swab and test card into one stick, making it the most straightforward and easy-to-use test we tried. To use the test, we had to insert the nasal swab into our noses and then place it in the testing vial to activate it. The results took a little longer than other tests we've tried, about 30 minutes. We liked that the screen on this test is large and easy to read, which is a major plus for anyone who has trouble reading small screens with other tests. It's Worth Noting While we liked that the test is simple, it can be a little uncomfortable for people whose first choice isn't a nasal swab. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swab Result Time: 30 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 years with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 24 months Best Drugstore Test CVS COVID-19 Test Kit PHOTO: CVS $17 at CVS Why We Like It For a reliable drugstore option, the CVS Health At Home COVID-19 Test Kit is user-friendly, provides quick results, comes with two tests, and is widely available, making it our top pick for convenience and accessibility. We found this kit straightforward to open and set up, the instructions were clear, with easy-to-follow illustrations. We appreciated that everything could be done neatly within the tray inside the box, which even has a built-in tube holder. Just a simple nasal swab and our results were available in just 10 minutes. The test strip features a clear, color-coded readout: blue for negative, blue for positive, and pink for invalid. The easy setup and fast results make the CVS Health option ideal for quick, affordable COVID-19 testing at home. It's Worth Noting Touching specific areas of the test strip could invalidate the test, so carefully read the instructions to avoid affecting the results. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swabResults Time: 10 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: Not listed PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang Fastest Results WELL life COVID-19 & Influenza A&B Home Test Kit PHOTO: Prime Screen Test $30 $23 at Amazon View on Primescreentest.com View on Welllifebio.com Why We Like It With the ability to detect COVID-19, Flu A, and B, the WELL Life Home Test Kit provides quick, accurate results for multiple common respiratory symptoms at home. The tests come in a pack of two and are straightforward to set up and use. They include a swab, tube, test strip, and a tube holder that provides stability during testing. This test gave us results in about four minutes, quicker than the ten minutes it was supposed to take. However, it's still advisable to wait the full ten minutes for the most accurate results. It's Worth Noting We noticed the expiration date is marked with a symbol, which could more clarity, especially for users unfamiliar with these icons. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swab Results Time: 10 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–14 with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 3 months PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang Best Value Genabio COVID-19 Rapid Self-Test Kit $900 at Amazon View on Genabio.com Why We Like It Sometimes simple is best, especially when you're not feeling well and want quick, clear results. That's why we loved the Genabio COVID-19 Rapid Self-Test Kit. The test was foolproof, with step-by-step instructions and images of what to do while testing. We also liked that we didn't have to use an app or watch a video to administer this test or get results. Even better than the easy instructions was the price tag at just $6 per test (though you may need to purchase a 2-pack, depending on Amazon product availability). This test was more comfortable than others we tested because of the shorter, softer swab and the tube came pre-filled with the reagent fluid, so we didn't have to contend with any unintentional spills. The wait time for results was 15 minutes, but it gave an accurate reading much sooner than that timeframe. It's Worth Noting Although we loved the pictures included with the directions, we wished that the instructions came in a language other than English, too. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swab Result Time: 15 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 years with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 18 Months PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Leticia Almeida PHOTO: Health / Leticia Almeida PHOTO: Health / Leticia Almeida Best Test Card Boson Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test Card PHOTO: Amazon $33 $27 at Amazon View on Bosoncovt.com Why We Like It A test card, like Bosons Rapid Antigen Test Card, is a simplified at-home COVID-19 testing option that offers multiple tests with reliable results in a compact and convenient way. This kit includes a swab, solution, test card, and tray for the vial. Instead of using a cassette, the sample is added to a small card containing the testing fluid, and the results are displayed on the card. Our results appeared in 15 minutes and were clear to read. Each pack contains up to eight test kits, which are about $4 per test, making it a great deal for families or those on a budget who need to test frequently. It's Worth Noting The extra step in the process that makes it different from most tests: you need to leave the swab in the solution for a minute before dropping it into the tester. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swab Results Time: 15 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 years with adult assistance; 15+ self-administeredShelf Life: 18 months PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao Best PCR Test 3EO Health COVID-19 Starter Kit PHOTO: 3EO View on 3eohealth.com Why We Like It 3EO Health's COVID-19 Test Kit is one of the few reusable at-home PCR tests available. This kit features a reusable cube molecular test analyzer that allows you to perform PCR-level self-testing at home without sending the sample to a lab. While the 3EO Health has a slight learning curve and a higher price tag, we think it is a good option for frequent testers who would benefit from its reusability and more precise results. The instruction manual seemed a bit overwhelming, but the instructional video, with its calm voiceover, made the process clear. We used the test kit by priming the test "key" and placing it in the cube. Then, we used the swab to take the sample, inserted the swab into the cube, and pressed the start button. The green "ready" LED stayed solid, flashed during the test, and turned off when the results were ready. We got our results in about 31 minutes using LED lights: green for negative and red for positive. The test is self-contained, so we just removed it and discarded the key with the swab still inside. It's Worth Noting Despite its user-friendly features, some steps require extra care, like priming the key and handling the loose swab guard.Refills have to be purchased. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swabResults Time: 30-35 minutes Recommended Age for Use: Not includedShelf Life: 4 months PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang Best Molecular Test LUCIRA by Pfizer COVID-19 & Flu Home Test PHOTO: Amazon $40 at Amazon $50 at CVS View on Walgreens Why We Like It Molecular tests are great for people who need more accurate results since they can detect even tiny amounts of the virus, making them more reliable than an antigen test. The LUCIRA by Pfizer is the first and only single-use molecular test that can detect COVID-19 and Flu A/B at home with no lab processing. This kit includes a test unit with batteries, a nasal swab for sample collection, and foil pouches for the test components. We found this test kit easy to use—everything’s labeled, so you know exactly what you’re handling. The instructions are straightforward, with a “Start Here” guide that breaks down each step and includes helpful drawings, making them easy to follow. There is also an LED light to indicate the test is ready to start, and it blinks while the test is running and then turns off when the test is complete. The test process was simple. We used the nasal swab and then inserted it into the test unit, which automatically began processing. The results took 30 minutes and were indicated with separate LED lights for COVID-19, Flu A, and Flu B. Disposal is simple, and there's a reminder to remove the batteries. It's Worth Noting The parts feel sturdy, but the single-use test unit seems to be made of a lot of plastic and is expensive for just one test. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swabResults Time: 30 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 18 months PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang Best for Travel FaStep COVID-19 Antigen Pen Home Test PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Amazon $24 at Walgreens View on Optum.com Why We Like It Unlike other tests with numerous pieces, the FaStep COVID-19 Antigen Pen Home Test is an excellent choice for travel due to its compact, all-in-one pen design. The test wasn’t immediately intuitive, but the instructions have detailed illustrations to guide the process. It is very easy to use, and we loved that it doesn’t require deep nasal insertion—only about a quarter inch into each nostril—which made sample collection comfortable. Each test includes a single foil-wrapped tube, so everything is neatly contained, and disposal is easy—just toss the test in the trash when done. We got our results in about 15 minutes, indicated by one line for negative, two lines for positive, or no control line for invalid results. The high-quality materials and sturdy design make FaStep COVID-19 Antigen Pen tests easy to carry in a bag or suitcase, ideal for quick, reliable testing on the go. It's Worth Noting The test recommends putting the swab a certain depth into the liquid testing base, but it was impossible to reach that depth. Fortunately, this didn't impact our results, but people should be aware of this flaw in the directions. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swabResults Time: 15 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 21 months PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang PHOTO: Health / Alexander Huang Best with App iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test PHOTO: Amazon $18 $16 at Amazon View on CVS $18 at Office Depot Why We Like It The iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test is a great option for those who want a simple test with the convenience of recording results in an app. The kit has just four components: a swab, solution, test card, and solution holder, and the setup was so intuitive that we barely needed the instructions. Our results took 15 minutes and were bright and clear to read. We like that the mobile app provides a convenient way to track and share results, which is convenient for families, work, and events. At about $17 for a pack of two, it’s affordable and easy, especially with the added app functionality. It's Worth Noting You need to pour the solution into the tube yourself (it doesn't come pre-filled like similar brands), which might get messy. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swab Results Time: 15 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–14 with adult assistance; 15+ self-administeredShelf Life: 15 months PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao Best Single Test Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Home Test Kit PHOTO: Walgreens $12 $8 at Amazon $10 at CVS $8 at Walmart Why We Like It For a single, convenient, easy-to-use test, FlowFlex's COVID-19 Antigen Home Test is a fairly priced single test we found exceptionally easy to use. There is no hassle, complex steps, extra technology, or hard-to-use components with this test. The compact packaging also makes it good for testing on the go. The test includes a pre-filled tube with liquid, a testing stick, and a swab. The instructions are intuitive—everything works just as we expected it to. Their site also has instructional videos and downloadable instructions in different languages. It's Worth Noting There's just one test in the pack, so you may need to get more than one in case something goes wrong while testing. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swab Results Time: 15 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 years with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 24 months PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao Best Bulk Tests On/Go COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test PHOTO: Amazon $9 at Amazon View on Letsongo.com Why We Like It For those interested in purchasing tests in bulk, the On/Go At-Home COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kit is available in single units or packs of eight, 12, or 288 test kits. The kit includes a swab solution, test unit, and tray, providing results in just ten minutes. The results were easy to read, but the small print may be difficult to see, so keep your reading glasses handy. For the number of tests and the price, we think this is a great pick for people who test frequently or for large groups and events. It's Worth Noting There's a warning not to read results after fifteen minutes. So while the test is great for getting results quickly, you have to make sure to read your results within a short, five-minute window. Product Details Collection Method: Nasal swabResults Time: 10 minutes Recommended Age for Use: 2–13 years with adult assistance; 14+ self-administeredShelf Life: 21 months PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao Our Testing Process To find the best at-home COVID-19 tests, we tested 31 antigen self-tests at home and in the Health Lab for 30 days. Our testing process evaluated each test based on its functionality and user-friendliness without assessing the accuracy of the results. We rated them based on the following criteria: Ease of Use: We paid close attention to how easy it was to remove the tests from their boxes and set them up. We carefully read through the instructions, checking both the written directions and illustrations to understand the process. We considered whether the instructions were clear and easy to follow or if any parts were confusing. We also noted how many times we needed to read them to fully grasp the steps.Performance: We followed the instructions and conducted the test on ourselves, recording how easy or challenging each step was in a real-world setting. After completing the test, we set a timer on our phone and monitored the results window for the specified time, watching for the final results. We also noted any technical issues that occurred during testing, such as malfunctioning parts or timing inconsistencies. Our Experts In evaluating COVID-19 tests, we spoke to multiple experts, including two experts that helped us specifically during the testing process to ensure proper adherence: David Souleles, MPH, Chief of Staff, Health Affairs, UC Irvine. Pia MacDonald, PhD, MPH, Senior Director, Global Respiratory Vaccines and Antivirals at Pfizer. Wilbur Lam, MD, PhD, professor and W. Paul Bowers Research Chair in the department of pediatrics and the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology. Dr. Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, professor of medicine and Associate Division Chief (Clinical Operations/ Education) of the Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine at UCSF/ San Francisco General Hospital. What to Know About At-Home COVID-19 Tests Antigen vs. PCR Tests Antigen and PCR tests are used to detect COVID-19, but they work differently. According to the FDA, PCR tests are best for accuracy, while antigen tests are useful for rapid, on-the-go testing. Antigen tests: Detect specific proteins from the virus and provide rapid results, usually within 15–30 minutes.Molecular/PCR tests: Detect the virus’s genetic material (RNA) and are highly accurate due to lab processing. Although PCR tests take longer—typically hours to days—they are better for confirming infection, especially in early stages. Result Accuracy The accuracy of COVID-19 test results depends on the type of test, but a less accurate test is better than no test at all, according to Dr. MacDonald. PCR tests are the most accurate, with sensitivity rates near 100%, and antigen tests have around 80-85% sensitivity rates. Dr. MacDonald explains that antigen tests are generally more accurate when someone has COVID-19 symptoms. If your at-home COVID-19 test is positive, you likely have the virus. However, if you test negative, there is still a chance that you may have the virus. The FDA recommends re-testing after 48 hours to avoid false negatives. Repeat the test once if you have symptoms and twice if you don't but think you may have been infected. Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned about your result accuracy or have questions about COVID-19 and your health. How to Take an At-Home COVID-19 Test Our experts, Dr. Lam and Dr. Gandhi recommend the following protocol to ensure the best results when taking an at-home COVID-19 test. Begin by washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.Remove all of the test's components from the kit box and ensure all the parts are included.Read the included instructions and follow them precisely to administer the test.Set a timer for the duration of time specified in the instructions and wait until the time has elapsed before checking the results. Who We Are Nsisong Asanga is a public health physician, field epidemiologist, and writer for Health. She has been actively involved in testing, surveillance, and prevention since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. She researches and shares information that helps people prevent the spread of COVID-19. Jessica Wozinsky Fleming is an award-winning health writer and the Senior Editor for Health. She has four children, so she prefers to buy large packs of tests at once, like the Boson Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test Cards from Amazon. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 8 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Commissioner, Office of the. “Covid-19 Test Basics.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/covid-19-test-basics#:~:text=Molecular%20tests%2C%20such%20as%20polymerase,called%20antigens%20from%20the%20virus. Accessed 23 Sept. 2024. Commissioner, Office of the. “FDA Clears First COVID-19 Home Antigen Test.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-clears-first-covid-19-home-antigen-test. Accessed 23 Sept. 2024. Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “At-Home Covid-19 Diagnostic Tests: Frequently Asked Questions.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-covid-19-diagnostic-tests-frequently-asked-questions#:~:text=The%20expiration%20date%20is%20set,as%20accurately%20as%20when%20manufactured. Accessed 23 Sept. 2024. Food and Drug Administration. At-home OTC COVID-19 diagnostic tests. Food and Drug Administration. FDA authorizes first over-the-counter at-home test to detect both influenza and COVID-19 viruses. Commissioner O of the. A closer look at covid-19 diagnostic testing. FDA. Published online August 9, 2024. What’s the difference between a PCR and antigen COVID-19 test? UMass Chan Medical School. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. At-Home COVID-19 Antigen Tests-Take Steps to Reduce Your Risk of False Negative Results: FDA Safety Communication.