Best Golf Drivers
Top Golf Drivers 2025
By S. Dee Davis
We tested many of the drivers that are out there in the market today and came up with our top 10 list. There are a couple holdovers from last year. Testing and consideration were given based on distance and accuracy with the same neutral swing speed (110) in a controlled distance environment (testing facility). Otherwise the golf drivers were rated based on the following factors:
1 Comfort on setup
2 Grip comfort and control
3 Shaft response and control (stiff shafts were used)
4 Distance at 110 swing speed
5 Ball trajectory
6 Accuracy to center line
7 Ball control in flight (indicating a spinning or no spin ball flight)
Lofts: 9.00° and 10.50° |
I hit the 10.5 version of the Ping G best. This is a very long and very accurate driver and the best on the market in my opinion. The combination is tough to come by… read more
Loft: 9 or 10.5 |
Several important factors make this the top driver this year. First, a large sweet spot and hot, flexible face makes this driver long off the tee with less effort and max forgiveness. It is fully adjustable…read more
915D2: 460cc, RH lofts 7.5°, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, Standard lie 58.5°, 45″ |
Titleist doesn’t flood the market with new drivers every 6 months, but they wait two years to unveil their latest masterpiece. The 915D2 &D3 are truly masterfully designed drivers…read more
Lofts: 9.00° and 10.50° |
The best feature of PING’s new G30 Driver aren’t the “turbulators” or the ridges on the driver that reduce aerodynamic drag, it’s the stability through impact that the re-designed weighting in the crown provides and the larger, sweeter face …read more
Models: 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
The big draw, so to speak, on the Big Bertha Alpha 815 is the amount of adjustability, coupled with a hotter more flexible face design, similar to the XR driver. However, the ability to dial in your game completely…read more
Lofts: 9.5, 10. 5, 12 14 |
The new R15 Driver from TaylorMade may seem like the SLDR reincarnated with a different paint job, but there is some new technology sure to get your drives out there, longer & straighter. The clean-looking head boasts…read more
Adjustable 8.5 to 12.5 degrees |
The NIKE Vapor Pro driver, used by Rory McIlroy, has a stiffer rear half of the club which, in theory, provides more flex or give in the front half of the driver to help your increase your ball speed off the face. The new ‘FlyBeam’ structure… read more
Adjustable 8.5 to 12.5 degrees |
The Vapor Flex Driver, with ‘FlexFlight’ technology utilizes the same Flybeam & Compression Channel tech as the Vapor Pro to stabilize the head, but has a carbon-enhanced RZN Cavity that adjusts the center of gravity… read more
8.5° / 9.0° / 9.0° Draw / 10° / 10° Draw / 11° / 11° Draw / 11.5°* |
By using the new “Flipzone” weighting technology, the Cobra Fly Z+ Driver allows you to adjust the Center of Gravity (CG) setting with a 15-gram moveable weight for either a higher or lower launch condition, whichever you prefer. Adjustability… read more
D2; 460cc; 46.0″; LH for 10.5 club |
Wilson has developed a very light and very adjustable driver, while many companies have struggled to do either well. The D-200’s loft can be adjusted six ways, including three draw settings. The face which varies in thickness… read more
Loft: 8 setting from 7.5 to 11.5 degrees |
The Mizuno JPX-850 sits like an old-school driver, but boasts an incredible amount of adjustability, allowing you to set the club up any way you want it with the new Fast Track system. You may have to tinker some on the range… read more
Golf Driver Buying Guide
Choosing the Right Driver
Steps for Finding the Right Driver to put in your bag
-
A) First Narrow your Choices by knowing your handicap or level. Obviously, the best driver on the market for top tour pros may be different than the driver a high handicap golfer needs. If you are a high handicap golfer consider drivers that have:
- A larger sweet spot
- Drivers designed with high handicap golfers in mind
If you are a low handicap golfer consider:
- The shaft flex and control for your swing speed (have your swing speed tested)
- The club head position at set up and whether you need an adjustable face and loft
-
B) If possible test clubs at a course, golf shop, or golf testing center to determine what club feels best to you. This is really one of the only ways to find out which club you like best.
-
C) Play with various shaft combinations, lengths and grips to determine what is best for you. For example, to avoid hooking the ball, I elongated my shaft with a plug and changed out my grip for a bigger more full feel. Some hit a graphite shaft better and some an aluminum composite shaft.
-
D) Consider whether you have a tendency to hook or slice the ball off the tee and purchase your driver to avoid this outcome. Makes common sense, but worth pointing out, do not purchase a driver that promotes the same bad shot shape.
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As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis |
Featured Golf Balls Articles
Buy the Right Golf Ball to Lower Your Golf Handicap
Many golf balls these days contain a rating for various optimum swing speed ranges. Look for it on the packaging or the manufacturer web site to find out. It’s easy to find your average swing speed. Most high end golf stores have speed reading meters on their simulated driving ranges. It … [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Golf Putters
Although some of selecting a putter is about “feel” there is more to it than that. We rate the best putters below on the following criteria: Appearance, “feel”, how well the ball rolls off the putter face, alignment characteristics, weighting balance and price/value. See the putter comparison … [more]
Top 10 Golf Wedges
A club class of its own, the wedges have high lofts, the short shafts, and the heavy clubheads. Out of all the irons wedges take all of these to the extreme. The purpose of a wedge is to aid players in making accurate short-distance “lob” shots, to get the ball onto the green and out of hazards….[more]
Top 10 Golf Balls
The following list of the best top ten golf balls was determined from the authors opinion using the following criteria: Consistency in length off the tee, spin control and the ability to hold greens, “feel” of the ball around greens for chipping and putting, durability, and price/value. Combining … [more]
Top 10 Golf Clubs
Following are some of the factors that we felt are most important in evaluating the top 10 golf club iron selections. Clubs were tested at a testing facility and loosely measured for the below quality points: 1. Comfort at Setup (Instilling Confidence), 2. Solid Feel at Impact, 3. Workable Ball Flight … [more]
Top 10 Golf Bags
The following are our top 10 Golf Bag choices based on the following criteria: Durability, Price, Stability of Stand, Access and Organization, Extra Pockets for Accessories, Comfort of Harness strap… [more]
Top 10 Golf Rangefinders
Following are our choices for the top 10 golf rangefinders for the year after some testing and research. We’ve taken price, quality, and value into account when developing these ratings. Rangefinders were tested based on the following factors… [more]
More Golf Drivers
Best French Door Refrigerators
Top 10 Rated French Door Refrigerators 2025
By John E. Moore
Refrigerators with French doors and bottom freezers combine style with function. While this style typically comes with a higher price tag, it also provides the advantage of arraying your food selection at eye-level. As we looked at various French door, bottom freezer refrigerators, we considered the following qualities while making our top 10 selections:
1. Effective storage
2. Good organization
3. Temperature control
4. Pleasing design
5. Convenient features
6. Price and value
22.7 cu. ft. |
This French door, bottom freezer refrigerator from GE maximizes its space by giving you wide slide-out shelves and adjustable door bins in the fridge and two access bins in the freezer. While the freezer may claim a bit of the… read more
Capacity: 25.5 cu. ft. |
With handsome stainless steel doors and handles, the Samsung RF261BEAESR is a capacious French Door refrigerator with a simple, uncluttered appearance. Inside, it has five tempered glass shelves that are easy to readjust… read more
Capacity: 22.6 cu. ft. |
For kitchens with limited space, this counter depth refrigerator from Electrolux fits nicely and still has the modern style that’s all the rage these days: French doors and a bottom freezer… read more
Capacity: 19.7 cu. ft. |
For kitchens requiring a 30-inch refrigerator, this LG French door fridge is an excellent choice. The bright LED lighting makes the interior look glowing and inviting. While the two glass shelves are stationary, they stretch across the width of the … read more
Capacity: 27.6 cu. ft. |
What makes it special: This new 2011 model refrigerator from LG enters our top 10 list due its ultra large storage capacity and convenient design. This is the largest standard width french door refrigerator on the … read more
Capacity: 28 cu. ft. |
This popular model has the signature EZ Open Kid Friendly handle which accompanies the Flex Zone drawer for those that want their elementary school age kids to be able to help themselves. The Flex Zone drawer … read more
Capacity: 22.6 cu. ft. |
Arranging food in this French door Frigidaire refrigerator becomes easier due to its four sliding glass shelves and six adjustable door bins, which can hold gallon jugs. Space is split… read more
Capacity: 25 cu. ft. |
Another stainless entry with the elegant top french door bottom freezer design. The Price point is attractive at $1650 and the size is unique at 25 cu. ft. – an in between size without many participants … read more
Capacity: 22.6 cu. ft. |
Counter Depth Refrigerators are very important to todays design community. And surprisingly even though they contain less overall storage capacity they cost more. At $2999 this is not an inexpensive fridge … read more
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John E. Moore has been reviewing kitchen goods and refrigerators for 8 years as the leader of cookswarehouse.com. Cooks Warehouse sells more than 400 kitchen items and accessories. John is also a self-described computer tech geek…. See more about John |
Featured Refrigerator Articles
GE GFSF6KKY vs. Electrolux EI23BC36I: Comparing Two French Door, Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
Both the GE GFSF6KKY and the Electrolux EI23BC36I are refrigerators in the popular modern style with French doors and the freezer on the bottom. This arrangement makes it easy to see and grab the foods you use most without having to lean … [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Refrigerators
Looking for the best refrigerators? Below you will find the top 10 refrigerators as rated by our experts. We rate the units on effective storage (The usable amount of storage compared to the actual amount), temperature control, energy efficiency, price and convenience features. Taking these into account we think you will find the best refrigerator for you, see the refrigerator comparison and ratings below with a … [more]
Top 10 Counter Depth Refrigerators
Looking for the best counter depth refrigerators? Below you will find the top 10 counter depth refrigerators as rated by our experts. We rate the units on effective storage (The usable amount of storage compared to the actual amount), temperature control, energy efficiency, price and convenience features. Taking these into account we think you will find the best refrigerator for you, see the counter depth … [more]
Top 10 Side by Side Refrigerators
Looking for the best side by side fridges of 2012? Look no further, here is our top 10 side by side refrigerators list … [more]
More French Door Refrigerators
Best Counter Depth Refrigerators
Top 10 Rated Counter & Cabinet Depth Refrigerators 2025
Looking for the best counter depth refrigerators? Below you will find the top 10 counter depth refrigerators as rated by our experts. We rate the units on effective storage (The usable amount of storage compared to the actual amount), temperature control, energy efficiency, price and convenience features. Taking these into account we think you will find the best refrigerator for you, see the counter depth refrigerator comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each.
Capacity: 20.7 cu. ft. |
We like the clean design of this french door, bottom freezer unit. It doesnt have the distracting water and ice dispenser which is the #1 cause of complaints in refrigerators today. It’s got decent storage at 20.7 cu. ft. The price is reasonable …read more
Capacity: 21.8 cu. ft. |
This is an attractive French door fridge with very unique interior design layout. Some will love it, some will not. The drawers and shelving sometimes fit American packaging pretty well, and it has a cool modern feel…read more
Capacity: 20.5 cu. ft. |
The LG LFX21976ST has 20.5 cubic feet, which is perfect for the average family. The stainless steel French door fridge has a water and ice dispenser through the door, controlled by a self-explanatory LED…read more
Capacity: 22.5 cu. ft. |
This fridge has Samsung’s twin cooling system and an impressive 22.5 cu. ft. of storage (for a counter depth fridge). The feature set is very complete with external ice and water and that attractive French door design that’s…read more
Capacity: 22.6 cu. ft. |
Counter-depth refrigerators are very important to today’s design community because people are more eager to maximize their living space. And surprisingly even though they contain less overall storage capacity, these refrigerators cost more. At $1899, this is not an inexpensive fridge, but it has some good build…read more
Capacity: 22.6 cu. ft. |
A pretty good price conscious model with the side by side design, spill proof glass shelving, and space saving highly organized interior design, Frigidaire FFSC2323LS is priced at $1450 and change. This will likely be one of the lowest prices…read more
23.4 cu. ft. |
This expensive and well-built option comes with convenient electronic controls with child locks and has very good energy efficiency. The GE PZS25KSESS detects when the fridge is opened frequently and lowers…read more
Capacity: 24 cu. ft. |
This LG fridge has an attractive French door design that’s become popular in recent years, and it has a larger capacity than most counter depth refrigerators at 24 cubic feet. That extra storage comes in handy…read more
Capacity: 20 cu. ft. |
This French door counter depth fridge has an internal water dispenser and 20 cubic feet of storage, which puts it in the full size category. The Maytag has adjustable full-width and half-width removable spill-proof…read more
Storage Measurement Capacity
Counter Depth and Cabinet Depth Refrigerator Dimensions
John Moore, Contributing Editor
First off, counter depth and cabinet depth are interchangeable terms and have the same meaning as far as refrigerator dimensions go. It’s just a matter of preference which term one uses. What is considered a counter depth refrigerator? Generally speaking any refrigerator of 24″ or less is classified as counter depth. This does not include the door handles and may or may not include the door depth depending upon the manufacturer Read More…
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John E. Moore has been reviewing kitchen goods and refrigerators for 8 years as the leader of cookswarehouse.com. Cooks Warehouse sells more than 400 kitchen items and accessories. John is also a self-described computer tech geek…. See more about John |
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Refrigerators
Looking for the best refrigerators? Below you will find the top 10 refrigerators as rated by our experts. We rate the units on effective storage (The usable amount of storage compared to the actual amount), temperature control, energy efficiency, price and convenience features. Taking these into account we think you will find the best refrigerator for you, see the refrigerator comparison and ratings below with a … [more]
Top 10 French Door Refrigerators
Refrigerators with French doors and bottom freezers combine style with function. While this style typically comes with a higher price tag, it also provides the advantage of arraying your food selection at eye-level. As we looked at various French door, bottom freezer … [more]
Top 10 Side by Side Refrigerators
Looking for the best side by side fridges of 2012? Look no further, here is our top 10 side by side refrigerators list … [more]
Counter Depth Refrigerator Archive
Best Golf Clubs
Top 10 Golf Clubs 2025
By S. Dee Davis
Following are some of the factors that we felt are most important in evaluating the top 10 golf club iron selections. Clubs were tested at a testing facility and loosely measured for the below quality points:
1. Comfort at Setup (Instilling Confidence)
2. Solid Feel at Impact
3. Workable Ball Flight
4. Consistency of Distance
5. Pure Distance
6. Shaft Quality and Consistency, Standard included shaft
7. Ability to Spin the Ball
8. Spin Control
9. Grip Feel and Quality
3-PW set |
Feel, distance and control are all present in this new club from Mizuno. The irons are on the heavy side and the weight distribution is low toward the sole which gets the ball up quickly.
Read More
Steel Shaft AWT 2.0 Ascending Weight Technology |
The G series Ping is very forgiving and has an average of .66 bounce width. This provides stability, forgiveness and distance. The G series has a slightly larger,
Read More
3-PW set |
The new RSi irons from TaylorMade look amazing and feature vertical face slots on the longer irons that visually help you line up shots quickly and accurately. The feel of the forged carbon-steel face…
Read More
4-PW, Game improvement irons |
The XR iron is designed for mid to higher handicap players, but only because better players don’t like to look at much offset at address. That being said, these irons are light in the head, are solid sounding at impact…Read More
3-PW set; Machine milled geometry balances the CG for max ball speed, straight leading edges, minimal offset, narrow sole, one-piece forged 1025 steel construction, True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts, Golf Pride Tour Velvet grips |
The NIKE Vapor Pro irons may be the most playable irons we tested this year. Nike has come a long way in iron design and development in the last two years, and the Vapor Pro irons may be their greatest achievement…Read More
5-PW set is $675.99, Cup 360, spring-like face promotes insane ball speed, two-piece construction includes a thinner sole & narrow sole. For better players |
The Callaway XR Pro is for better players who want maximum distance with incredible control. The two-piece clubhead design accomplishes this feat, giving this iron the ability to be shaped, along with an incredible…Read More
4-PW set, GW available, thinnest forged face ever, Ultra CNC Pocket Cavity, Grain Flow Forged 1025 Boron, stock True Temper shafts, Mizuno Golf Pride M-31 0.058” round grips. |
Mizuno has made some subtle, but sexy changes to their players iron but switching from carbon steel to boron-infused steel, a material that is lighter and about 30% stronger than carbon steel to create a powerful…Read More
4-PW set, Nippon NS Pro 1050 GH steel shafts, great for golfers with swing speeds from 85-105 |
The Cleveland CG (Center of Gravity) Black CB irons are a great combination of additional ball speed off the face, coupled with vibration dampening in the club head in an iron that would appeal…Read More
4-PW set |
The J15 DF greatest strength may be its ability to produce high, consistent ball flights and great direction on shots hit all over the face. Our test produced excellent forgiveness and good distance control for…Read More
4-PW set, (PW is 45 degrees) game Improvement irons |
Stronger, progressive lofts of the new G30 irons and the bounce profiles of these clubs prevent digging into the turf, which make them a welcomed addition to the 2015 line-up. The G30’s performance was very good…Read More
3-PW set, Tungsten inserts in heel and toe position the CG directly behind impact zone, aluminum backplate encased in Thermoplastic Rubber, stock KBS Tour shaft, stock Lamkin 3GEN Crossline grip, swing weights D3 (3-9), D4 (PW). |
These new irons from Cobra feature forged carbon steel, and undercuts on the 3 through 7 irons that allow it to flex more off the face. They felt heavier at the head than most we tested, but the playability…Read More
3-PW set runs about $999.00, Launch: mid-high, stock True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts, Lamkin UTx Full Cord Red grips, Double laser milling on face, produces two different patterns for better spin. |
The new Z 545 satin-finish irons from Srixon would be best suited to mid-handicappers, and their look is super, even if its performance doesn’t quite match it’s style. The distance control was good, and distance…Read More
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As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis |
Beginners Golf Club
Tommy Armour Silver Spot – Beginners Golf Club
This is a great set for the beginner made by a venerable and well-respected club manufacturer so you can feel comfortable about your clubs no matter who you are playing with. They will never know the clubs cost so little with the Tommy Armour name on them. The set comes with 4 metal … [more]
How to Choose the Right Golf Club
Guide to finding the right golf club
Confidence, feel, contact, consistency, spin control – our iron game can pretty much be summed up by those words. If we make good contact, distance takes care of itself as high quality steel on cast urethane produces the crushing blow that launches the ball. The heavy blade makes a punishing … [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Golf Putters
Although some of selecting a putter is about “feel” there is more to it than that. We rate the best putters below on the following criteria: Appearance, “feel”, how well the ball rolls off the putter face, alignment characteristics, weighting balance and price/value. See the putter comparison … [more]
Top 10 Golf Drivers
We tested many of the drivers that are out there in the market today and came up with our top 10 list. There are a couple holdovers from last year. Testing and consideration were given based on distance and accuracy with the same neutral swing speed (110) in a controlled distance … [more]
Top 10 Golf Balls
The following list of the best top ten golf balls was determined from the authors opinion using the following criteria: Consistency in length off the tee, spin control and the ability to hold greens, “feel” of the ball around greens for chipping and putting, durability, and price/value. Combining … [more]
Top 10 Golf Wedges
A club class of its own, the wedges have high lofts, the short shafts, and the heavy clubheads. Out of all the irons wedges take all of these to the extreme. The purpose of a wedge is to aid players in making accurate short-distance “lob” shots, to get the ball onto the green and out of hazards….[more]
Top 10 Golf Bags
The following are our top 10 Golf Bag choices based on the following criteria: Durability, Price, Stability of Stand, Access and Organization, Extra Pockets for Accessories, Comfort of Harness strap… [more]
Top 10 Golf Rangefinders
Following are our choices for the top 10 golf rangefinders for the year after some testing and research. We’ve taken price, quality, and value into account when developing these ratings. Rangefinders were tested based on the following factors… [more]
More Top Irons
Best Golf Drivers
Top Golf Drivers 2025
By S. Dee Davis
We tested many of the drivers that are out there in the market today and came up with our top 10 list. There are a couple holdovers from last year. Testing and consideration were given based on distance and accuracy with the same neutral swing speed (110) in a controlled distance environment (testing facility). Otherwise the golf drivers were rated based on the following factors:
1 Comfort on setup
2 Grip comfort and control
3 Shaft response and control (stiff shafts were used)
4 Distance at 110 swing speed
5 Ball trajectory
6 Accuracy to center line
7 Ball control in flight (indicating a spinning or no spin ball flight)
Lofts: 9.00° and 10.50° |
I hit the 10.5 version of the Ping G best. This is a very long and very accurate driver and the best on the market in my opinion. The combination is tough to come by… read more
Loft: 9 or 10.5 |
Several important factors make this the top driver this year. First, a large sweet spot and hot, flexible face makes this driver long off the tee with less effort and max forgiveness. It is fully adjustable…read more
Lofts: 8.5, 9.5, 10. 5, 12 |
The new M1 drivers from TaylorMade is great for players that like to play a strong fade. I lost distance and accuracy when drawing this driver. The club face sits… read more
915D2: 460cc, RH lofts 7.5°, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, Standard lie 58.5°, 45″ |
Titleist doesn’t flood the market with new drivers every 6 months, but they wait two years to unveil their latest masterpiece. The 915D2 &D3 are truly masterfully designed drivers…read more
Lofts: 9.00° and 10.50° |
The best feature of PING’s new G30 Driver aren’t the “turbulators” or the ridges on the driver that reduce aerodynamic drag, it’s the stability through impact that the re-designed weighting in the crown provides and the larger, sweeter face …read more
Models: 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
The big draw, so to speak, on the Big Bertha Alpha 815 is the amount of adjustability, coupled with a hotter more flexible face design, similar to the XR driver. However, the ability to dial in your game completely…read more
Lofts: 9.5, 10. 5, 12 14 |
The new R15 Driver from TaylorMade may seem like the SLDR reincarnated with a different paint job, but there is some new technology sure to get your drives out there, longer & straighter. The clean-looking head boasts…read more
Adjustable 8.5 to 12.5 degrees |
The NIKE Vapor Pro driver, used by Rory McIlroy, has a stiffer rear half of the club which, in theory, provides more flex or give in the front half of the driver to help your increase your ball speed off the face. The new ‘FlyBeam’ structure… read more
Adjustable 8.5 to 12.5 degrees |
The Vapor Flex Driver, with ‘FlexFlight’ technology utilizes the same Flybeam & Compression Channel tech as the Vapor Pro to stabilize the head, but has a carbon-enhanced RZN Cavity that adjusts the center of gravity… read more
8.5° / 9.0° / 9.0° Draw / 10° / 10° Draw / 11° / 11° Draw / 11.5°* |
By using the new “Flipzone” weighting technology, the Cobra Fly Z+ Driver allows you to adjust the Center of Gravity (CG) setting with a 15-gram moveable weight for either a higher or lower launch condition, whichever you prefer. Adjustability… read more
D2; 460cc; 46.0″; LH for 10.5 club |
Wilson has developed a very light and very adjustable driver, while many companies have struggled to do either well. The D-200’s loft can be adjusted six ways, including three draw settings. The face which varies in thickness… read more
Loft: 8 setting from 7.5 to 11.5 degrees |
The Mizuno JPX-850 sits like an old-school driver, but boasts an incredible amount of adjustability, allowing you to set the club up any way you want it with the new Fast Track system. You may have to tinker some on the range… read more
Golf Driver Buying Guide
Choosing the Right Driver
Steps for Finding the Right Driver to put in your bag
-
A) First Narrow your Choices by knowing your handicap or level. Obviously, the best driver on the market for top tour pros may be different than the driver a high handicap golfer needs. If you are a high handicap golfer consider drivers that have:
- A larger sweet spot
- Drivers designed with high handicap golfers in mind
If you are a low handicap golfer consider:
- The shaft flex and control for your swing speed (have your swing speed tested)
- The club head position at set up and whether you need an adjustable face and loft
-
B) If possible test clubs at a course, golf shop, or golf testing center to determine what club feels best to you. This is really one of the only ways to find out which club you like best.
-
C) Play with various shaft combinations, lengths and grips to determine what is best for you. For example, to avoid hooking the ball, I elongated my shaft with a plug and changed out my grip for a bigger more full feel. Some hit a graphite shaft better and some an aluminum composite shaft.
-
D) Consider whether you have a tendency to hook or slice the ball off the tee and purchase your driver to avoid this outcome. Makes common sense, but worth pointing out, do not purchase a driver that promotes the same bad shot shape.
![]() |
As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis |
Featured Golf Balls Articles
Buy the Right Golf Ball to Lower Your Golf Handicap
Many golf balls these days contain a rating for various optimum swing speed ranges. Look for it on the packaging or the manufacturer web site to find out. It’s easy to find your average swing speed. Most high end golf stores have speed reading meters on their simulated driving ranges. It … [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Golf Putters
Although some of selecting a putter is about “feel” there is more to it than that. We rate the best putters below on the following criteria: Appearance, “feel”, how well the ball rolls off the putter face, alignment characteristics, weighting balance and price/value. See the putter comparison … [more]
Top 10 Golf Wedges
A club class of its own, the wedges have high lofts, the short shafts, and the heavy clubheads. Out of all the irons wedges take all of these to the extreme. The purpose of a wedge is to aid players in making accurate short-distance “lob” shots, to get the ball onto the green and out of hazards….[more]
Top 10 Golf Balls
The following list of the best top ten golf balls was determined from the authors opinion using the following criteria: Consistency in length off the tee, spin control and the ability to hold greens, “feel” of the ball around greens for chipping and putting, durability, and price/value. Combining … [more]
Top 10 Golf Clubs
Following are some of the factors that we felt are most important in evaluating the top 10 golf club iron selections. Clubs were tested at a testing facility and loosely measured for the below quality points: 1. Comfort at Setup (Instilling Confidence), 2. Solid Feel at Impact, 3. Workable Ball Flight … [more]
Top 10 Golf Bags
The following are our top 10 Golf Bag choices based on the following criteria: Durability, Price, Stability of Stand, Access and Organization, Extra Pockets for Accessories, Comfort of Harness strap… [more]
Top 10 Golf Rangefinders
Following are our choices for the top 10 golf rangefinders for the year after some testing and research. We’ve taken price, quality, and value into account when developing these ratings. Rangefinders were tested based on the following factors… [more]
More Golf Drivers
Best Blu-Ray Players
Top 10 Rated Blu-Ray Players 2025
Blu-Ray players are becoming increasingly more advanced while not surging to ridiculously high prices. Several new models coming out in 2015 offer smart TV viewing options, with the ability to search for movies, apps, and entertainment sites. We selected 10 of the best Blu-Ray players that showed the greatest technological advances and connectivity options. Other features we considered:
1. User-friendly interface
2. Sleek, compact design
3. Stunning full HD 1080p video
4. Ability to access personal photos, videos, and files on USB storage devices
5. Fast streaming capabilities
6. Rich audio that enables surround sound
7. Quick boot-up and loading
8. Built-in Wi-Fi
9. Multiple HDMI inputs
2 HDMI inputs |
The Samsung BD-H6500 is an ultra-slim, sleek 3D Blu-ray player fully loaded with many useful features. A big improvement over previous models is the inclusion of 4K upscaling, which is relatively …read more
Full HD 1080p |
This updated for 2013 blu-ray player has all the features you’ll need to get the most out of your HDTV and Blu-ray discs. They player is equipped with built-in wifi, so there is no need to worry about those silly dongles…read more
1080p |
The LG BP350 is an affordable Blu-Ray player at less than $100. The good part is that is it Wi-Fi enabled and will allow plenty of streaming options right to any…read more
Wi-Fi enabled |
For only $99.05, the Samsung BD-J5900 is a valuable 3D-enabled Wi-Fi Blu-ray player. This lightweight, compact model won’t take up much space in your entertainment station, and it includes…
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Full HD 1080p |
Well known for producing high-quality electronic devices that are easy to use and are thoroughly tested before being released, Sony’s BDPS5500 Blu-Ray player is no exception. This model…
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Playback: Blu-Ray, DVD, CD, USB |
This player contains many of the same great functionality as the BDP-S590 but it adds considerable up-converting capability…
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Wi-Fi connectivity |
The Panasonic BDT230 is a full HD 3D Blu-Ray player with some cool and convenient features. With VIERA Connect, users can access endless web content, including popular…
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1 HDMI, 1 USB, 1 Ethernet, 1 HDMI-CEC |
For only $77.99, the Samsung BD-J5100 is an ideal bare-bones Blu-Ray player that has a surprisingly fast loading time. This lightweight, compact model won’t take up much space…
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Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve |
Featured Blu-Ray Player Articles
Blu Ray Home Theater Systems: The Pros and Cons
Many home theater in a box audio systems today come with a built-in DVD or Blu-ray player. This simplifies things if you don’t already own one of these players, but what are some other benefits or perks to this feature? If the home theater in a box you select doesn’t have an integrated Blu-ray or DVD player, it’s not the end of the world….[more]
Related Top 10 Lists
Top 10 LED TVs
Following are the models our electronics category editors JB Burden and Bob Wiley think are great mid-range LED TV choices in terms of the quality/value/price/features equation. We have reviewed these or similar offerings from the manufacturers and we recommend and rated these models …[more]
Top 10 32″- 42″ LCD TVs
The small LCD TV category is still very important to the average North American consumer. We’ve included a solid list of the Best LCD TVs for 2012 based on the following qualitative and value criteria: Solid Picture Quality based on…[more]
Top 10 HDTVs
Our expert TV editors pull together the Top 10 most impressive best quality HDTVs for 2012. Editors noted several factors in helping them decide which HDTVs to include in the list including: 1. Black Level Depth 2. Side Angle Viewing Quality 3. Clarity and Clearness of Images on Screen…[more]
Top 10 Home Theater Systems
Today more and more families are picking up home theater systems, or “home theaters in a box.” It’s no wonder why—these systems conveniently link surround sound to the TV, sometimes with a built-in DVD or Blu-ray player. As we surveyed the vast selection of home theater systems, including some Panasonic models…. [more]
Best TV Series
This simple list shows off some of the best TV shows of the past few years that have a box set available. With the popularity of HBO/Showtime type shows you can get lost in finding the next great TV show (or last great)…. [more]
More Blu-ray Players
Best Men’s Backpacks
Top 10 Rated Backpacks 2025
By S. Dee Davis
Following are some of the primary factors we considered when selecting our top 10 backpacks (for men) list. Please see our complete backpack buying guide for more information on how we chose, and you should choose the right backpack for your hiking or camping adventure.
1. Comfort and Wearability
2. Volume Capacity
3. Weight Efficiency
4. Compartmental Features
5. Hydration Capabilities
6. External Straps and Stability Features
7. Frame Support
8. Cost/Value
Capacity: 75 liters |
Available for $129.99, the High Sierra Appalachian 75 Internal Frame Pack offers a great value with its top-loading design and a generous capacity…
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Capacity: 4,760 cubic inches |
At the intersection of performance and cost lies this pack. A large one (based on torso size) carries enough gear for a full week of three-season trekking, and it’s as comfortable as anything on the market …
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Capacity: 6,500 cubic inches |
With this pack, you’ll be able to stay out long enough that they’ll send search and rescue teams after you. When the teams get there, you’ll see that they use the same pack…
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Capacity: 3000 cubic inches |
A favorite among avid hikers and travelers, the Osprey Packs Atmos 50 Backpack combines a sharp look with super comfort on the trail. Its suspension system…
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Capacity: 20 liters |
The Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre is an excellent choice if you’re just getting into backpacking. Cost-effective, reasonably lightweight, and smaller than…
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Capacity: 7,000 cubic inches |
When you need to get away for a really long time, this is the pack you want on your back. The Denali Pro was also designed for professional guides, and with its whopping 7,000 cubic inches of cargo space…
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Capacity: 3950 cubic inches |
This is another good one if you’re a first-time backpacker. The Terra 65 is a little smaller, and it can be found relatively cheap. The downside is it uses polyester, which isn’t quite as durable…
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Capacity: 1342 cubic inches |
As soon as we put on the Arcteryx Arro 22 backpack, we noticed that it was built for comfort—which is great if you’re looking for an all-purpose hiking/camping backpack. This backpack rests high on the back…
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Capacity: 3,950 cubic inches |
It’s not technically an ultralight pack – that’s a different top-ten list for a different time – but this pack sure does feel that way. Checking in at less than four pounds, it still can pack nearly 4,000 cubic inches …
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Backpack Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Backpack for your Hiking/Camping Trip
There’s a reason why backpacking and hiking are considered two separate disciplines by outdoors junkies: The backpack. A day hiker can carry everything they need to get from trailhead to destination and back in the same pack that a fourth grader carries to school every day. But when it comes to multi-day trips with everything needed for human survival on your back, the pack becomes the integral piece of equipment that allows you to enjoy all your time away from the comforts of civilization.
With that in mind, it’s vitally important that you choose the right backpack for you and the expeditions you’re planning on taking. The right pack filled with the right equipment can be the difference between a comfortable, exciting trip and a miserable one (or the difference between a safe trip and a hazardous one). Use these rules when considering the pack you’re going to buy, and always be sure to put on a few packs at your local retailer as well to get a feel for their features.
The most important factor to consider when choosing a pack? Comfort, comfort, comfort. You’re going to be carrying everything you need to survive on your back; depending on the nature of your gear, you could have as much as 90 pounds in that bag. While every spine is unique in the way it interacts with a pack, one backpack fact is universal: The more points of contact between the load and your body, the less pressure on each individual point. Try lifting a loaded grocery bag with one finger sometime, then do so again using your whole hand. Much easier, right? Extend the same concept to a backpack. A multi-day pack will have a hip belt, which encircles your waist and transfers the weight of the load onto your hips; the ubiquitous shoulder straps and a sternum strap, which crosses from one shoulder strap to the other across your chest and takes pressure off your shoulder muscles.
Make sure you check those points of contact when you’re shopping around for a pack. Do the shoulder straps sit comfortably? Where on your chest does the sternum strap cross, and is that a spot that won’t chafe when you’re wearing the pack eight hours a day? And most of all, the hip belt. Backpacks are designed with a frame system to help transfer weight down the side closest to your body (hereafter referred to as the front), and eventually that weight is transferred onto the hip belt. This is good – the muscles in your legs and the bones in your pelvis and thighs are much stronger than your back and shoulders, and they are much better-equipped to bear weight for a long day of hiking. The hip belt should be able to fit snugly, resting just atop your hip bones on both sides. Again, test the belt for chafe points (although any good backpack is designed with ample padding in the hip area) and be sure that it doesn’t slide down below the crest of your hips (which will render its load-transfer feature worthless). All the straps should be adjustable; test the straps for the ease of adjustment as well.
Next, the frame. The front of the backpack can be shaped to the intricacies of your spine, which will further the comfort when carrying a load. If you’re buying from a retailer, be sure to ask them to help you custom-fit the pack. Some packs have flexible metal rods that run vertically down the front and can be bent to mimic the curves of your spine; some have removable pads that can actually be heated in an oven and then formed to your lumbar region.
Now that we’ve covered comfort, let’s turn to more of the bells and whistles of a multi-day backpack. Before you start looking at the features of individual packs, though, consider what you’ll be using your pack for. Where you go, what you do when you get there and how long you plan on staying out will have a vast impact on what you need your pack to do. You’re going to need a lot more gear for a week-long expedition in the Canadian Rockies than you will for a traverse of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the summer; select a pack accordingly. Here are a few of the key factors to consider once you know where you might be taking your pack:
Volume
The more space inside of your pack, the more stuff you can carry. Again, refer to the wide variance in gear you’ll need based on where you travel. A pack with 4,000 to 5,000 cubic inches is considered appropriate for a trip of five to seven days under summer conditions (bear in mind that in the mountains, it can get cold any time of the year).
Weight
You have to decide for yourself how much you want to carry. A larger pack with more bells and whistles can allow you to carry additional gear for a mountaineering expedition or a two-week backpacking epic, but that’s more weight on your back. Even the best load-transfer system can’t hide the fact that you’re carrying 30 to 40 percent of your own body weight on your back.
The Compartments
Some packs have a large aperture at the top through which all gear must pass; some are compartmentalized with a separate space at the bottom that opens onto the back side of the pack. Usually this compartment is designed to hold a sleeping bag. Many packs have side zippers in this area even if the pack has just one large compartment. There are also smaller pockets on the sides as well as pockets in the “brain” (a smaller component that covers the top of the main compartment).
Hydration capabilities
You won’t survive on a backpacking trip without ample water, so make sure that your pack can carry it. Packs typically have water bottle pouches on each side just above the hip belt; make sure that these pouches are large enough to carry your bottles. Also, many newer packs are designed to carry a water bladder on the interior, with a hose that hangs around your neck area for easy drinking while walking.
External Straps
Whether you’re carrying a bulky sleeping pad, extra pair of shoes or sandals or a bulky cookpot that doesn’t readily fit inside your pack, it’s helpful to have numerous tie-down straps on the back side of your pack. In addition to allowing you to carry more gear than the internal volume would suggest, these straps can also be tightened down to stabilize your load.
Remember, always keep in mind what you’re using the pack for. Also consider that extra features are generally easier to live with than live without; generally, the trade-off for additional features is extra weight and increased cost.
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As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years… See more about S. Dee Davis |
Featured Backpacks Articles
What to Take on a Backpacking Trip
As stated already in the buying guide, how much gear you’re carrying will have a huge impact on what kind of bag you use. Here is a rough list of essential things you’ll want with you on a backpacking trip. Depending on … [more]
More Backpacks Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Women’s Backpacks
Following are some of the primary factors we considered when selecting our top 10 women’s backpacks list. These packs vary slightly in construction to benefit a women’s different build. Please see our complete backpack buying guide for more information on how we chose, and you should choose the right backpack for your hiking or camping adventure… [more]
More Backpacks
Best Home Theater Systems
Top 10 Home Theater Systems 2025
Today more and more families are picking up home theater systems, or “home theaters in a box.” It’s no wonder why—these systems conveniently link surround sound to the TV, sometimes with a built-in DVD or Blu-ray player. As we surveyed the vast selection of home theater systems, including some Panasonic models coming out this year, we looked at the following qualities in choosing our top ten:
1. Crisp, pure sound quality
2. For DVD models, upscaling to near HD quality
3. Straightforward setup process
4. Flexibility in speaker arrangement
5. Wireless subwoofer
6. Audio Return Channel (ARC)
7. Bluetooth or USB port for playing music
8. Comprehensive system for media streaming
9. Easy-to-navigate interface
10. Attractive design
11. Value
6 pieces |
Whether you have a small or large entertainment space, the Energy 5.1 Take Classic home theater system will fill it with rich sound. The sleek, glossy black set…Read More
5.1 Channel |
For a superior 3D Blu-ray surround sound system from 2015, the Samsung HT-J5500W offers plenty of features to turn up the volume of your movies. The built-in Wi-Fi gives any TV…Read More
No HDMI inputs |
With built-in Wi-Fi, the LG HB6730S is an extremely convenient addition to your TV or movie room. The wifi connection makes it fast and simple…Read More
Component and HDMI outputs |
Movie fans no longer have to worry about replacing all their DVDs with Blu-Rays; thanks to the Panasonic SC-XH170 their standard definition DVDs are up-converted to near high…
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Optical component inputs |
For sharp, pure sound, the Panasonic SC-HTB350 is a solid purchase, ringing in at about $299.99 For that, you get multi-positional speakers, which you can either…
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240 watts |
A widescreen HDTV is not complete without a home theater system that vastly enhances the sound. The Panasonic SC-HTB20 offers the ability to boost and enrich the…
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2 HDMI inputs |
With built-in Wi-Fi, the LG LHB535 makes accessing music, videos, and photos convenient and fast, without having to mess with dongles that take up space. Not only can you…
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3 HDMI inputs and 2 optical inputs |
Ideal for smaller homes or apartments, the Sony HT-CT150 offers quality sound for a reasonably priced sound bar system…
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Home Theater System Buying Guide
How to pick the best home theater
So you want to simplify your home entertainment system and enjoy a cinematic experience from the comfort of your living room. Buying a home theater in a box is an affordable option that provides high quality surround sound and sometimes other special features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
What you need to know beforehand
Choosing a home theater in a box can be tricky if you don’t know what would best suit your home. The first thing you need to consider is what you already have—TV, DVD or Blu-ray player, game console, HDMI cables, etc. Even consider practical factors. Do you have the furniture for a TV stand arrangement, or do you favor a wall mount setup?
Also think about the size of your room, which may determine how many speakers you need. Home theater systems classify themselves with a number such as 7.1, 5.1, 2.0, and so on. These numbers let you know how many speakers come in a system (designated by the first digit) and whether it has a subwoofer for low frequency bass (shown by either a 0 or a 1 after the decimal point). So how do you know which number is right for your home? Let’s break it down.
- The bigger the room, the more speakers you’ll want to get the richest sound. Think 3.1 at the minimum. Smaller rooms can make do with smaller systems—2.1 or 1.1, for instance.
- If ease of setup and cost are major concerns, then be aware that the more speakers you have, the higher the price and the trickier it will be to set them up and adjust them to optimize the sound.
- For an audio experience closest to a movie theater, spring for the extra speakers. The deep bass provided by subwoofers contribute to this effect, making you feel the rumble of special effects as well as see and hear them. If, however, you don’t want that ground-shaking bass (say you live in an apartment), then avoid systems with a subwoofer.
Figuring out inputs and outputs
If you already have special components such as a Blu-ray player, Xbox 360, Playstation 3, etc., then make sure the home theater in a box you choose has an adequate number of inputs and outputs to connect these components to the audio system. These include HDMI, digital audio, USB, headphone jack, and docking port for smartphones/tablets. Based on the components you have (or plan to have), look for a home theater in a box that won’t limit you in the number of sources you can connect to it.
Other special features
Once you know the number of speakers and input/output ports to look for, then it’s time to consider other special features that can make your home theater experience more immersive and fun. Like playing music? Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream music and other media from your iPod or iPad. Other systems have a docking station or USB dongle to connect these devices.
With the rising popularity of Blu-ray, you may wish to consider a home theater system that’s compatible with 3D Blu-ray. Some systems come with a built-in Blu-ray player, which is handy if you don’t already have one. Additionally, many of these systems also give you access to various apps and streaming services like Netflix, Vudu, Pandora, and more.
Think about the features you most desire, and shop around for prices. Obviously, the more you pay, the more you get, but quality home theater systems are available for less than $1000, some at half that price. Budget models give you the basics for an affordable price and suit those who don’t need a lot of bells and whistles. Once you know what you’re looking for, you’ll be better prepared to find it at a great value.
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Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve |
Featured Home Theater System Articles
Blu Ray Home Theater Systems: The Pros and Cons
Many home theater in a box audio systems today come with a built-in DVD or Blu-ray player. This simplifies things if you don’t already own one of these players, but what are some other benefits or perks to this feature? If the home theater in a box you select doesn’t have an integrated Blu-ray or DVD player, it’s not the end of the world….[more]
Related Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Blu-Ray Players
Blu-Ray players are becoming increasingly more advanced while not surging to ridiculously high prices. Several new models coming out in 2012 offer smart TV viewing options, with the ability to search for movies, apps, and entertainment sites. We selected 10 of the best Blu-Ray players…. [more]
Top 10 HDTVs
Our expert TV editors pull together the Top 10 most impressive best quality HDTVs for 2012. Editors noted several factors in helping them decide which HDTVs to include in the list including: 1. Black Level Depth 2. Side Angle Viewing Quality 3. Clarity and Clearness of Images on Screen…[more]
Top 10 LED TVs
Following are the models our electronics category editors JB Burden and Bob Wiley think are great mid-range LED TV choices in terms of the quality/value/price/features equation. We have reviewed these or similar offerings from the manufacturers and we recommend and rated these models …[more]
Top 10 32″- 42″ LCD TVs
The small LCD TV category is still very important to the average North American consumer. We’ve included a solid list of the Best LCD TVs for 2012 based on the following qualitative and value criteria: Solid Picture Quality based on…[more]
Best TV Series
This simple list shows off some of the best TV shows of the past few years that have a box set available. With the popularity of HBO/Showtime type shows you can get lost in finding the next great TV show (or last great)…. [more]
More Home Theater Systems
Best Tennis Racquets
Top 10 Rated Tennis Racquets 2025
By S. Dee Davis
There are tennis racquets available for all player levels with different designs, weights, and feels. Judging racquets based on their intended level, we selected the top 10 based on the following qualities:
1. Heavy enough to add a punch to shots and provide great control
2. Light enough to be easy to maneuver (and easy to arm)
3. Solid feel and response
4. Reduced vibrations
5. Produces a good spin on the ball
6. Suited for hitting balls at the baseline and volleying at the net
7. Strong, sturdy construction that maintains its quality
8. Good value for the price
9. Good length and comfortable grip
27.5 inches |
Available for nearly $70, the Head Ti S5 Comfort Zone Tennis Racquet is perfectly suited to intermediate players seeking control and comfort. This racquet, which has a 107 square inch…read more
100 sq. in. headsize |
If you’re a serious tennis player hoping to improve your game, then you’ll love the Prince EXO3 Hornet 100 racquet, which offers the greatest precision and accuracy in shots. The head…
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Black and green |
The Wilson Tour Slam Adult strung tennis racquet is an excellent choice for beginners with its lightweight yet powerful construction. It is also small enough to not overwhelm new tennis players…read more
Black and white |
A sturdy racquet from Wilson, the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Strung Tennis Racquet has a large headsize to provide a large sweetspot. You’ll definitely feel the power in your hands with this lightweight…
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98 sq. in. headsize |
Suited to intermediate and advanced players, the Dunlop Hotmelt 300G tennis racquet has a 98-square-inch head and long length of 27 inches. Its special, durable construction and thick throat bridge…
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98 sq. in. headsize |
For the advanced player at level 4.5 or higher, this Volkl Organix 10 tennis racquet provides excellent control and a smooth response. At 10.4 ounces, the racquet isn’t so heavy that it’s difficult…
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11.3 oz. |
The Babolat AeroPro Drive GT has a 100-square-inch head and long length of 27 inches, providing a satisfying pop to your swings while also…
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112 square inches head size |
A tennis racquet from Head made of liquid metal, this racquet is stronger than typical titanium racquets. If you’re an avid tennis player…
read more
102 sq. in. headsize |
For true versatility, the Babolat E-Sense Comp Tennis Racquet is a winner. It handles shots well from the baseline and the net, and its 102-square-inch head has a great sweet spot, letting…
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Tennis Racquets Buying Guide
A Guide to Selecting a Tennis Racquet
Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate, or an advanced tennis player, you should understand the basic principles behind tennis racquets and what makes one suited to a special kind of player. It can be daunting trying to select a tennis racquet due to the number of brands, sizes, shapes, and prices to choose from. Whenever possible, you should handle the racquet in person before making a purchase because each player operates at a different skill level and has a unique feel for the racquet.
You can judge a racquet by the size, stiffness, length, and weight of the frame.
- A large frame provides great power and is less likely to twist in your hand when you hit balls off-center. The larger the frame, the larger the sweet spot, or area of the strings where you’re least likely to feel the impact of the ball.
- A stiff frame also delivers great power and a bigger sweet spot. It helps distribute the impact of the ball across all the strings, giving you a uniform, solid-feeling response.
- The longer the racquet frame, the greater speed you’ll get when you swing it. The greater the velocity, the more power and spin you’ll get in your shots. A long racquet is also good for increased leverage and control. Racquets range from 27 to 29 inches long.
- A heavy frame, while difficult to wield for long periods without wearing out the arm, produces the greatest power. It yields a large sweet spot and also transmits fewer vibrations.
Also consider the head, or hoop, size. Racquets range from about 85 to 135 square inches.
- Beginners and intermediate players typically thrive with large-headed racquets. It’s easier to make shots even when the ball hits the racquet off-center, and you get great power due to the large sweet spot.
- Advanced players look for greater control with a small-headed racquet. Because of their advanced skill, they’re able to provide the power in the swing.
Weight and balance directly affect the unique feel of the racquet. They can either be heavier in the head or in the handle.
- Head-light racquets are preferred by most professional players because they offer the greatest maneuverability and control. Again, advanced players supply their own power, so they don’t need to rely on a heavy head to punch the shots.
- Head-heavy racquets are designed to be lighter overall without taking the weight and stability from the head. They’re still powerful, but some players complain that they don’t feel as solid as the traditionally balanced racquets. Others worry that lightweight racquets cause more tennis injuries because they transfer more vibrations through the player’s arm.
The string pattern has an effect on how the ball impacts against the racquet. Strings can be in either an open or closed pattern.
- Open string patterns feel loose and deflect the ball more upon impact, producing a great spin. However, these type of racquets require more maintenance because the strings are less durable and prone to breaking.
- Closed, or dense, string patterns produce less spin but provide greater control and durability. Look for racquets with a dense string pattern if you hit the ball hard with a topspin. You also won’t have to replace the strings often.
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As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis |
Featured Tennis Articles
5 Tips for Tennis Racquet Care
As you well know, a tennis racquet is your primary instrument for playing the sport, and it can be quite an investment. Some racquets cost well over $100, and you want to take proper care of them so you get the most out of them…[more]
Find Your Tennis Racket Grip Size
Getting the right grip size for your tennis racquet will make all the difference, not only with the quality of your game but also with the comfort of your hand, elbow, and arm. You don’t want the grip of your racquet to be too long…[more]
Prince EXO3 Black 100 vs. Prince EXO3 Rebel 95
Prince has developed the EXO3 series of racquets, designed for the advanced player. Two racquets, the Prince EXO3 Black 100 Tour Series and the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95, are both high-end racquets with several different factors. Let’s compare the two models to see if one has a distinct advantage… [more]
Understanding a Tennis Racquet’s Sweet Spot
A tennis racquet with a large, stiff head provides an expanded sweet spot, as you’ve probably heard several racquet manufacturers say. If you’re new to tennis, you’re probably wondering what exactly is the sweet spot, and how does it affect how the ball hits the … [more]
Related Tennis Racquet Lists
Best Women’s Tennis Racquet
Tennis is a sport that can be learned and mastered in youth and carried on for a lifetime. If you’re a woman looking for the tennis racquet that’s just right for you, then this guide may help you find what you need… [more]
More Tennis Racquets
Best Booster Seats
Top 10 Rated Booster Seats 2025
Picking out the right booster seat involves making multiple decisions based on what you’re looking for in a child restraint system. We reviewed a number of boosters and selected our favorites based on what parents and caregivers value the most.
1. Lightweight and easy to transfer from one car to another
2. A compact fit to make it easy to put as many as three boosters in the back seat
3. A snap to install, with clear instructions and diagrams that are easy to understand
4. A safe seat that passes government safety tests and automotive crash tests
5. Affordability, so working families won’t break the bank to buy one
6. Good quality workmanship with enough safety features to provide extra protection in a crash
7. The ability to convert into a larger, or even backless, seat to accommodate growing kids
Rear-facing seat: 5 – 40 lbs. |
A versatile car seat/booster seat, the Diono RadianR100 can be the only car seat your child needs from 5 to 100 pounds. And thanks to its slim…
read more
8.2 pounds |
With a back that easily adjusts to six different heights, the Evenflo Big Kid AMP booster car seat is a great, lightweight option for kids old enough to sit up straight…
read more
Dimensions: 29 by 20 by 36.1 inches |
Going up against other child restraint systems, the Graco Nautilus holds it own. It’s designed to hold kids 20 pounds up to 100 pounds, and has a five-point…
read more
Dimensions: 16 by 9 by 17 inches |
Cosco’s Juvenile Highrise Belt-Positioning Backless Booster Car Seat is a mouthful, but basically this seat is designed for kids who have outgrown …
read more
Dimensions: 17 by 18 by 25.50 |
Another strong contender in the booster seat arena is the Harmony Juvenile Dreamtime Comfort booster, with a whole host of endorsements…
read more
Dimensions: 8 by 5 by 5 inches |
The BubbleBum inflatable booster seat doesn’t have as much name recognition as some of the more well-known brands, but it’s still a good seat…
read more
Dimensions: 18 by 26 by 18 inches |
The name may sound strange, but the manufacturer of the Clek Oobr uses all North American-made materials for its products…
read more
Dimensions: 27.6 by 20 by 18.6 inches |
In its quest to make a booster seat safe for kids, Recaro made the ProBooster to transport children 30 to 120 pounds, and 37 to 61 inches tall…
read more
Dimensions: 17 by 17 by 11 inches |
As booster seats go this is a fairly tall one. Weight-wise the 11.5-pound Go Hybrid falls in the middle of the pack, heavier than some but lighter than others…
read more
Dimensions: 27 by 19.5 by 23 inches |
Britax has had its share of troubles with product recalls, but this time it dodges the bullet with the Frontier 85 Combination booster seat…
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Valerie Baldowski is passionate about writing about everything from childrens safety and juvenile products to gardening tools. She is the mother of a high energy 8 year old child so she is accustomed to researching childrens products and services. Her writing and researching began at an early age… See more about Valerie |
Related Articles
5 Benefits of Play for Children
Children learn about the world around them and develop mentally and physically through play. Researchers have found that unstructured play not only keeps kids occupied and entertained, but it’s key to a children’s natural development. It’s so important, in fact, that in 1989 the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights… [more]
Related Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Car Seats
Parents looking for a safe infant car seat have the daunting task of wading through dozens of brands and models to find the one seat right for their child. We compared the seats on the market and chose which ones are the best ones based on safety and … [more]
Best Baby Monitors
As we surveyed the wide selection of baby monitors available on the market, we kept the following important qualities in mind: Wide range, Secure, interference-free channels, Clear reception Low battery/out of range indicators… [more]
Best Baby Stroller
Parents faced with picking just one stroller out of the hundreds of brands and styles on the marketplace have a daunting task. Whether it’s a lightweight, umbrella, standard, jogging or double stroller, the factors to consider include price range, features and options, and if there’s a recall history. See the stroller comparison… [more]
Best Jogging Stroller
As a parent there are many reasons why a jogging stroller would be a necessary addition to your life. You want to stay fit, but don’t have anyone to watch your baby for an hour every day. Taking your baby on a jog might be a good change… [more]
Best Baby Cribs
There are oodles of infant cribs out on the market and the sheer number of brands and styles can boggle the mind. Many of them are fairly homogenous with similar or identical features, but close scrutiny reveals a few key differences which make some brands a better bargain than others…. [more]
Best Baby Strollers
Top 10 Rated Baby Strollers 2025
Parents faced with picking just one stroller out of the hundreds of brands and styles on the marketplace have a daunting task. Whether it’s a lightweight, umbrella, standard, jogging or double stroller, the factors to consider include price range, features and options, and if there’s a recall history. See the stroller comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each.
8.5-inch tires |
A sturdy single stroller for the parent on the go, this Baby Jogger 2014 City Mini GT is ideal. We fell in love with the lightweight yet quality design… more
41.5 pounds |
A high-quality jogging stroller from Baby Trend, the Expedition LX Travel System is perfect for parents who like to keep up with their exercise with the baby in tow. The large, rubber… more
11 pounds |
A lightweight, affordable single stroller, the Cosco Umbria comes in a snazzy zigzag pink or blue design. The three-point harness is easy to snap… more
11.8 pounds |
A great, compact single stroller available for as low as $57.88, the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller weighs just under 12 pounds. This stroller folds… more
30.7 pounds |
If you have twins or two little ones of different ages, then you’ll really appreciate the Graco DuoGlider Classic Connect Stroller, which has a great value at $154.99. The tandem… more
Dimensions: 31.5 by 46 by 42 inches. |
For parents of twins the Skylar Double Jogger gives them another choice when they want to take their kids along on a run. The built-in … more
33 x 19.5 x 11.5 inches |
The Schwinn Arrow Single Stroller has two wheels in back and one in front. Billed as a great stroller for everyday use as well as jogging, it has 16-inch wheels with aluminum… more
15.8 pounds |
This high-end Italian stroller has some nifty perks. The Peg Perego Vela Easy Drive Stroller, designed to make traveling with the baby easier, is compatible with the Primo Viaggio… more
34.5 pounds |
A high-quality twin stroller from Chicco, this stroller has side-by-side seats that recline independently and feature umbrella shades with rear flaps that can unzip. We were… more
Jogging Strollers Buying Guide
Good Quality Jogging Strollers Exist in All Price Ranges
The evolution of the “perfect” stroller has come a long way over the years, and now active parents have another choice in addition to the traditional four-wheeler. A number of manufacturers have jogging strollers on the market in varying price ranges. Compared to other types of strollers they’re not cheap, but many families have embraced them as a convenient way of combining the daily jog with taking the little one out for a stroll.
Baby Jogger, Schwinn, Jeep, InStep and BOB were brave enough to radically redesign strollers and create their own versions of single, double and even triple jogging strollers with only one wheel in the front. The changes resulted in dramatically different handling and increased mobility. Wheeling around more than one little one at a time can get expensive. These strollers fall in the price range of less than $150 to more than $900, plus extra for the accessories. In addition to these top five, there are more than a dozen other jogging stroller manufacturers.
Baby Jogger , billed as “the original all-terrain strollers,” first came out with a jogging stroller in the early 1980s, opening the door for other stroller manufacturers to follow. The idea came from newspaper journalist and runner Phil Baechler, who founded the company to be able to spend more time with his infant son without cutting back on his jogging. He quickly learned four-wheeled strollers couldn’t strand up to the strains of jogging on various terrains, so designing a three-wheeled version filled a need in the running community.
Schwinn has gained named recognition over time through its bicycles. Its line of jogging strollers, with its large, spoked wheels resembling bike wheels, was a logical progression. Initially InStep made strollers for Schwinn, but then both companies were sold to Pacific Cycle. Despite the brand name, Schwinn jogging strollers bear a close resemblance to other InStep models.
InStep has affordable strollers slightly lower in quality than BOB or Baby Jogger, but still providing a good value for the money. Its line of seven fixed-wheel and swivel wheel jogging strollers runs for between $53 and $185. Some of the accessories available include trailer couplers, bug screens, weather shields and lambskin seat covers. The similarities between Schwinn and InStep’s jogging strollers are so close, some accessories fit both brands of stroller. The InStep and Schwinn Safari TT and Suburban Safari Mall Cruiser Single stroller sun cover is an example.
Similar to Schwinn, Jeep gained named recognition through its line of rugged automobiles, so branching out into jogging strollers made it easier to compete. Jeep makes several different models of strollers, which include single, double and lightweight. Many of its jogging strollers cost hundreds, but it does have one model which is an inexpensive traditional four-wheel stroller costing less then $75. One of its most popular jogging strollers, the Overland Limited, received a Best Budget Jogging Stroller award. This model is equipped with a speedometer, odometer and speakers for an MP3 player.
BOB was founded in 1994 by a group of outdoor enthusiasts in California, and grew into a company making top of the line jogging strollers for fitness-minded parents. The name “BOB” evolved from the company’s original name, Beast of Burden. The company makes it strollers with lightweight, durable aircraft aluminum frames. With styles sporting names like the Ironman Stroller, the Sport Utility Stroller, the Revolution Stroller and the Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller, it’s easy to see where the company values lie.
The highly popular jogging stroller will no doubt spur more changes in the industry, so be sure to keep up with the latest breakthroughs in the field. With so many companies competing for sales, it’s a consumer’s market in terms of the vast number of choices. At the very least, parents looking to enjoy sharing their love of running with their young children can find a high quality stroller to fit their family’s lifestyle.
Brands of Jogging Strollers:
Baby Jogger | Baby Trend | BOB | Britax | Bugaboo | Bumbleride |
Burley | Chariot | Chicco | Easy Walker | Graco | InStep |
Jeep | Joovy | Kelty | Kolcraft | Micralite | Maclaren |
Mountain Buggy | Phil and Teds | Schwinn | The First Years | Tike Tech | Valco |
Valerie Baldowski is passionate about writing about everything from childrens safety and juvenile products to gardening tools. She is the mother of a high energy 8 year old child so she is accustomed to researching childrens products and services. Her writing and researching began at an early age… See more about Valerie |
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Stroller Recalls – Overreaction or Necessary Evil?
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Children learn about the world around them and develop mentally and physically through play. Researchers have found that unstructured play not only keeps kids occupied and entertained, but it’s key to a children’s natural development. It’s so important, in fact, that in 1989 the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights… [more]
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Best Jogging Stroller
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Parents looking for a safe infant car seat have the daunting task of wading through dozens of brands and models to find the one seat right for their child. We compared the seats on the market and chose which ones are the best ones based on safety and … [more]
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Top 10 Rated Baby Car Seats2025
Parents looking for a safe infant car seat have the daunting task of wading through dozens of brands and models to find the one seat right for their child. We compared the seats on the market and chose which ones are the best ones based on safety and workmanship.
1. Endorsements and certifications from the government and consumer advocate groups
2. Well-made car seats that have withstood the test of time, with no recalls
3. Seats that are light enough to tote around without pulling your arm out of the socket
4. Ergonomically designed car seats with handles easy to grip without twisting the arm
5. Seats that can readily convert from rear-facing to forward-facing
6. Affordable car seats for families on a budget
7. Units with easy-to-follow installation instructions and diagrams
8. Seats that can extend to accommodate taller children
9. Extra foam padding to provide more protection in an accident
Weight: 15 pounds |
Parents on a budget can find an economical car seat in the Safety 1st Comfy Carry Elite Plus. This rear-facing model holds infants four to 22 pounds…
read more
Forward-facing car seat holds children from 20 to 100 lbs. |
Graco has already made a name for itself for its other baby care products, including strollers, travel systems, play yards, swings, high chairs and baby monitors…
read more
17.5 by 19.5 by 27.5 inches |
This is one of the heavier car seats in our Top 10 Review, but despite its weight, the True Fit Recline Convertible Model C650 is a good quality…
read more
28.5 by 17 by x 16 inches (open) |
Doing side by side comparisons of the weight of each car seat, the Sunshine Kids Diono Radian R100 is the Mac Daddy of them all. It’s up there almost in the stratosphere…
read more
Weight 21 pounds |
The Italian-made Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP 5-70 Convertible has the dual role of being either rear-facing or forward facing, depending on the age…
read more
Weight: 12.6 pounds |
Evenflo has gained recognition in the baby care industry with its line of baby bottles, so making infant car seats is a logical progression…
read more
Weight: 21.1 pounds |
The KeyFit 30 is designed for an infant from four to 30 pounds, and has a removable insert for newborns and smaller babies…
read more
Weight: between 7.7 and 9.65 pounds |
Unlike some car seats, the Baby Trend Flex-Loc comes with the base included so there is no need to purchase it separately. It’s designed to carry infants…
read more
Weight: 10 pounds |
Britax is another international baby products manufacturer, and its rear-facing Chaperone brand infant car seat has won several awards…
read more
Valerie Baldowski is passionate about writing about everything from childrens safety and juvenile products to gardening tools. She is the mother of a high energy 8 year old child so she is accustomed to researching childrens products and services. Her writing and researching began at an early age… See more about Valerie |
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Car Seat LATCH System
Once upon a time the rules for installing infant car seats were informal and left up to individual families, but now the rules are much more stringent. In 2002 the government mandated the LATCH restraint system, (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) which is a standardized system… [more]
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Need a Car Seat when Travelling? Make Plans in Advance
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New Baby Trend Convertible Car Seat
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Children learn about the world around them and develop mentally and physically through play. Researchers have found that unstructured play not only keeps kids occupied and entertained, but it’s key to a children’s natural development. It’s so important, in fact, that in 1989 the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights… [more]
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Best Baby Stroller
Parents faced with picking just one stroller out of the hundreds of brands and styles on the marketplace have a daunting task. Whether it’s a lightweight, umbrella, standard, jogging or double stroller, the factors to consider include price range, features and options, and if there’s a recall history. See the stroller comparison… [more]
Best Jogging Stroller
As a parent there are many reasons why a jogging stroller would be a necessary addition to your life. You want to stay fit, but don’t have anyone to watch your baby for an hour every day. Taking your baby on a jog might be a good change… [more]
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As we surveyed the wide selection of baby monitors available on the market, we kept the following important qualities in mind: Wide range, Secure, interference-free channels, Clear reception Low battery/out of range indicators… [more]
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Best Baby Monitors
Top 10 Rated Baby Monitors 2025
As we surveyed the wide selection of baby monitors available on the market, we kept the following important qualities in mind:
1. Wide range
2. Secure, interference-free channels
3. Clear reception
4. Low battery/out of range indicators
5. Ample battery life
6. Minimal static
7. Two-way audio communication
8. Adjustable volume and sensitivity
9. Bonuses like nightlight, camera, or lullabies
2.8-inch screen with 25 fps |
Parents will appreciate the peace of mind that comes with this digital video baby monitor from Motorola. The model offers three screen sizes…
read more
18-hour battery life |
A sleek baby monitor from Philips, this Avent device lets you hear the slightest cooing and breathing from your infant. If you prefer, you can turn down the volume…
read more
Includes movement sensor pad, sound monitor, and 2 parent units |
For parents of premature infants or who worry about SIDS, the Angelcare movement sensor can offer a sense of security. The pad rests under the baby…
read more
1.31-inch screen |
This Angelcare baby sound monitor has remarkably little static and offers eight channels for minimal radio interference. The baby monitor includes a gentle night light …
read more
White |
You’ll feel relieved to be able to hear and see your baby sleep with this Levana Astra digital baby video monitor. The camera monitors your child while you go about your business…
read more
2.4-inch LCD screen |
The Lorex Sweet Peek Video Baby Monitor offers ample range of up to 450 feet. The video monitor provides decent video coverage of your child in his or her crib. You’ll get a clear picture…
read more
900 MHz |
We were impressed with the Graco Secure Coverage Digital Monitor for its static-free reception and its reasonable price of $44.87. The parent unit is light…
read more
5-inch screen |
Parents will appreciate being able to see their child sleeping with this Summer Infant baby video monitor…
read more
900 MHz technology |
An affordable baby monitor from Sony, this model provides a wide service range with an out-of-range indicator. The monitor conveniently clips to a belt…
read more
DECT 6.0 technology |
For a no-frills baby monitor, this Safety 1st model provides remarkably clear audio from your infant’s room. With a belt clip, you can easily carry around…
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Baby Monitor Buying Guide
A Baby Monitor Buying Guide
A baby monitor gives parents some freedom to do tasks around the home while their child sleeps, all the while letting them monitor their child’s noises so they know when he or she awakes. If you’re looking for a baby monitor, you first need to decide if you want digital video in addition to audio. Video monitors are generally more expensive than traditional audio monitors, but some parents like the peace of mind that comes from being able to see their baby at any time, day or night. With the frightening reports of SIDS deaths, some parents are also springing for monitors that detect movement and sound an alarm if the baby stops breathing.
Whichever type of monitor you choose, keep the following aspects in mind as you shop:
Range
A baby monitor with a long range gives you greater mobility, but it can also pick up more interference the farther you stray from the transmitter. Look for models that include an out of range signal.
Analog vs. Digital
Analog monitors are less expensive, but the sound quality can suffer, and nearly anyone can pick up the radio signal. Digital monitors generally have better sound quality and are more secure, giving you privacy.
Video
If you spring for a video monitor, consider models that allow you to pan and zoom, letting you view the nursery as well as the baby. Most video monitors have night vision. Some include perks like a nightlight, a camera, and preloaded lullabies.
Sound lights
No matter how clearly a monitor receiver picks up sounds from the nursery, you may not be able to hear it if you’re vacuuming or running the dishwasher. Look for models that feature LED sound lights, which show you the noise level in your baby’s room. Some baby monitors also vibrate, so you’ll be sure to notice when your baby needs you.
Low battery indicator
You don’t want your batteries to run out, leaving you under the illusion that your little one is sleeping peacefully when he may be crying frantically. A good monitor should include a low battery indicator that lets you know when it’s time to charge it.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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Parents looking for a safe infant car seat have the daunting task of wading through dozens of brands and models to find the one seat right for their child. We compared the seats on the market and chose which ones are the best ones based on safety and … [more]
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There are oodles of infant cribs out on the market and the sheer number of brands and styles can boggle the mind. Many of them are fairly homogenous with similar or identical features, but close scrutiny reveals a few key differences which make some brands a better bargain than others…. [more]
Best Baby Stroller
Parents faced with picking just one stroller out of the hundreds of brands and styles on the marketplace have a daunting task. Whether it’s a lightweight, umbrella, standard, jogging or double stroller, the factors to consider include price range, features and options, and if there’s a recall history. See the stroller comparison… [more]
Best Jogging Stroller
As a parent there are many reasons why a jogging stroller would be a necessary addition to your life. You want to stay fit, but don’t have anyone to watch your baby for an hour every day. Taking your baby on a jog might be a good change… [more]
Best Baby Cribs
Top 10 Rated Baby Cribs 2025
There are oodles of infant cribs out on the market and the sheer number of brands and styles can boggle the mind. Many of them are fairly homogenous with similar or identical features, but close scrutiny reveals a few key differences which make some brands a better bargain than others. The decisions were based on:
1. Price of the crib
2. Construction quality
3. Safety certifications and features
4. Features like changing into a toddler bed or having wheels
5. Weight of the crib
6. Recall history
7. How well all these are used together
Dimensions: |
Parents reluctant to spend big bucks buying more than one bed as their kids grow can rest easy with the Eastland Lifetime. This crib, which received the highest rating…
read more
Dimensions: |
The Graco brand is one widely recognized by parents not only for its infant cribs but also its strollers and other products. The Graco Lauren Classic converts from a crib…
read more
Dimensions: |
The Dream on Me Madison is similar in construction to other brands of convertible cribs, but has a few more extras. This crib has two adjustable settings for the…
read more
Dimensions: |
Carter’s is already well-known as a manufacturer of baby and children’s clothes, and the Carter Manchester 4-in-1 is a good bargain. This crib has four mattress…
read more
Dimensions: |
The Orbelle Trading Sleigh Crib converts from a crib to a toddler bed to a day bed, and then to a full size bed when needed. The mattress can be adjusted…
read more
Dimensions: |
This sleigh style convertible crib is a wonderful addition to any nursery. It is missing the large drawer that many cribs offer at the bottom. That shouldn’t be a problem…read more
Dimensions: |
The AFG Baby Daphne Convertible crib, billed as “perfect for the space conscious family,” is like two pieces of furniture in one. The Baby Daphne…
read more
Dimensions: |
The Bloom Alma Papa Crib has modern lines, with open slats on all four sides to maximize air flow around the baby. The crib mattress can be adjusted…
read more
39.6 pounds |
This Union model crib has its good points but some drawbacks as well. The crib frame is made of New Zealand pine wood with a non-toxic finish free of lead and phthalate…
read more
Dimensions: |
Parents wanting a crib radically different from the traditional can consider the Dragon Fly Finial Round Crib. It’s something not normally seen in stores…
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Baby Crib Buying Guide
So you’ve got a bun in the oven and you need a good quality crib. There are so many on the market, which one to choose? Measure what you want in a crib, how much you have to spend, and the track record of the individual model you’re considering. Then add a pinch of what others are saying about the crib, for comparison, a dash of online research and a helping of in-person store shopping. The end product can help narrow down hundreds of cribs to your favorite two or three.
How safe is it?
Safety is the number one concern. Online marketers are trying hard to sell their cribs, but beware of frilly, cute product descriptions that leave out information like Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification. Many websites plainly reveal if the crib is JPMA certified, but consumers interested in a particular product sometimes may have to dig a little to find out if it’s certified at all. Although drop side cribs are now banned, every so often a website turns up marketing cribs billed as having drop sides. When shopping in person, ask the salesperson for proof of JPMA certification.
Recalls have been issued for lots of cribs, so checking the recall list compiled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) can shed some light on the search. Drop side cribs are no longer sold because of the high number of recalls. The CPSC has recalls on its website dating as far back as 1978. The most recent recalls listed from 2011 are all for drop side cribs. The brands include Dutailier, Yu Wei, Dream on Me, ducduc, Delta Enterprises, IKEA and The Land of Nod. Recalls of fixed-side cribs include Albee Baby, Child Craft, Simplicity, Stork Craft and SunKids brands.
How expensive is it?
There are cribs to fit every budget. Some are less than $100, mid-range cribs fall somewhere in the $100 to $250 price range, and the high end cribs run upwards of $300. Some custom-made cribs cost in the thousands, but those of us who aren’t celebrities will focus on how practical the crib is. Inexpensive, portable cribs aren’t necessarily less safe than their pricier counterparts. Much depends on how well they are constructed. Some families prefer a more lightweight, collapsible crib that’s easier to move. Others prefer a more modern style. Still others look for a crib that’s easy to assemble, convertible to a toddler or day bed as the baby grows out of infancy and long-lasting and durable to accommodate younger siblings when they come along.
How easy is it to find?
Online research yields lots of brands, but not all of them will be available when you walk into your local brick-and-mortar store. Some brands are sold at major retailers like Target, Sears, Wal-Mart, K mart, Babies R Us and Toys R Us. Others you won’t find at any store but are easy to order online. That’s fine, although you won’t get a chance to closely inspect the merchandise before you buy it. Some consumers don’t mind ordering their child’s crib online, but others prefer to shop the old-fashioned way. Some cribs can be ordered from overseas manufacturers, but details – such as safety information – can be sketchy.
What are others saying about it?
The most confusing aspect about shopping for a crib can be weighing what others are saying about it against what you want. Some consumers report a particular brand is hard to assemble, while others say just the opposite. Some will say the construction is shoddy and the finish scratches easily, while others will trumpet the praises of that brand. There may be recall information out on a certain brand, yet some parents will report it’s a wonderful crib that looks beautiful and fits their budget.
A thorough search can take weeks, or even months. Even the most popular brands can, over time, have issues. Some brands or styles that were considered safe a few years ago may have had recalls issued over the past few years. Checking your choice against the CPSC website can help clear up confusion. Remembering what’s at stake when purchasing a crib can help you stay focused.
Valerie Baldowski is passionate about writing about everything from childrens safety and juvenile products to gardening tools. She is the mother of a high energy 8 year old child so she is accustomed to researching childrens products and services. Her writing and researching began at an early age… See more about Valerie |
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Popular Baby Cribs
More than one factor comes into play when deciding on what infant crib to buy when a little one is on the way. The most methodical way is to read up on reviews published by consumer groups and federal agencies monitoring the safety of cribs. But being human, many consumers make their decisions based on word of mouth…[more]
Baby Crib Safety Standards
It’s been said that not all cribs are alike. Despite the homogenous nature of this product, seemingly minor differences one brand has from other brands can add up to a safer crib. An example can be a comparison between the Babyletto Harlow 3-in-1 and the…[more]
Cribs Come in a Variety of Styles, Shapes and Sizes
Consumers searching for the right infant crib to buy are swamped with choices, but not all cribs are created equal. Compared to cradles, bassinets and Moses baskets, cribs are the safest alternative for babies. Cribs are regulated…[more]
New Store for Online Crib Shopping
TheCribHub.com announced its presence in the competitive baby furniture arena in November 2011. The Crib Hub, an online retail business based in California’s Central Valley, sells a variety of cribs as well as other baby furniture and infant products certified…[more]
Look for Small but Important Differences in Cribs
At first glance it may appear infant cribs are a homogenous product, but look again. They may all be designed for the same task, but more differences than just the price tag are evident. Some cribs offer more bang for the buck. A comparison between the DaVinci and LA Baby brands is a good example. They’re both good quality…[more]
Baby Cribs are Now Required to Meet Tougher Standards
Going forward, parents, caregivers, and businesses that make cribs available to the public are expected to abide by newer, more stringent federal standards regulating cribs. That means child care facilities, foster homes, retail outlets, churches, hospitals and the hotel/motel industry will need to follow the new rules…[more]
When Crib Shopping, Beware of those Scary Recall Histories
Parents-to-be are swamped with details to take care of before the baby arrives, and one of the most important detail is finding just the right crib. That’s no easy task considering the numerous recalls that have been issued over the years on a number of cribs for various reasons…[more]
Decide What You Want in a Mattress for Your Baby’s Crib
Crib basics include infant blankets and sheets, hanging mobiles, and of course a mattress that fits snugly against the side of the crib. A few crib manufacturers sell the mattress with the crib, but most are sold separately. Now parents must decide whether to purchase…[more]
When Comparing Crib Models and Styles, Choose Safety First
Glitzy made-to-order cribs don’t necessarily equate to a safe bed for your infant. Many, if not most, high-end cribs have no consumer safety certification readily available. Childrens products manufacturers recognized for their effective marketing techniques….[more]
Take Care when Choosing an Alternative to a Crib for Baby
Most consumers searching for the right type of infant bed will choose a crib, but the alternatives to a traditional crib are Moses baskets, cradles and bassinets. Unlike cribs, Moses baskets and bassinets have no federal regulations to ensure their safety…[more]
5 Benefits of Play for Children
Children learn about the world around them and develop mentally and physically through play. Researchers have found that unstructured play not only keeps kids occupied and entertained, but it’s key to a children’s natural development. It’s so important, in fact, that in 1989 the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights… [more]
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As we surveyed the wide selection of baby monitors available on the market, we kept the following important qualities in mind: Wide range, Secure, interference-free channels, Clear reception Low battery/out of range indicators… [more]
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Picking out the right booster seat involves making multiple decisions based on what you’re looking for in a child restraint system. We reviewed a number of boosters and selected our favorites based on what parents and caregivers value the most…. [more]
Best Baby Stroller
Parents faced with picking just one stroller out of the hundreds of brands and styles on the marketplace have a daunting task. Whether it’s a lightweight, umbrella, standard, jogging or double stroller, the factors to consider include price range, features and options, and if there’s a recall history. See the stroller comparison… [more]
Best Jogging Stroller
As a parent there are many reasons why a jogging stroller would be a necessary addition to your life. You want to stay fit, but don’t have anyone to watch your baby for an hour every day. Taking your baby on a jog might be a good change… [more]
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Best Toys for Children Age 5, 6, 7
Top 10 Educational Toys for Chidren Ages 5-7 2025
For school kids ages 5 to 7, the best educational toys disguise learning as fun and games. We found the following 10 toys to be exceptional for such qualities as:
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Reinforcing reading and math skills
Interactive design that encourages hands-on learning
Involved enough for kids to enjoy for years
Sparking interest in science, reading, history, math, and other subjects
Improving problem solving, logic, critical thinking, strategy, and spatial awareness
Durability and quality of construction
Encouraging social interaction
Includes a folding game board, 42 playing cards, chips, and instructions |
A fun board game for families that are tired of Candyland, Sequence for Kids is entertaining for both children and their parents. By drawing cards and matching …
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Kit includes tools and instructions for home science experiments |
You don’t need to be a chemistry major to enjoy this Mind Blowing Science Kit with your young children. The experiments are interesting, fun, and engaging and will prompt scientific…
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Includes 54 cards |
A fast-paced, exciting card game that teaches kids memory and strategy while improving their basic addition skills, Rat-a-Tat Cat is a sure-fire hit for the whole family…
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Personalized learning tablet for kids with accessible games, apps, flash cards, and digital books |
A personal tablet just for kids, the LeapPad Explorer accepts over 100 apps and games that make learning fun and entertaining. The device is durable and has a bright 5-inch color …
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6 double-sided Zingo cards |
A family-friendly game that helps kids practice counting, addition, grouping, and word recognition, ThinkFun Zingo 1-2-3 is Bingo with an energetic twist. The Zinger dispenses the tiles and kids have to be the first to grab…
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16 illustrated word blocks and over 50 letters |
Watch your young child learn spelling the old-fashioned way, with colorful alphabet blocks that fit into wooden word cards with delightful illustrations. Melissa & Doug is known…
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32 design tiles in 6 shapes and 4 colors |
You’ll be amazed at how intently kids work at these Magnetic Mighty Mind puzzles. Each card has a tangram-like design that you have to fill with different shaped tiles—squares, circles, rhombuses, triangles…
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Includes game board, 4 game pieces, 2 number dice, and 1 operation die |
Kids as young as 5 or 6 will love learning basic math skills playing this Sum Swamp Addition and Subtraction Game from Learning Resources. Reinforcing the basic …
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Device includes keypad, stylus, and retraceable surface |
Ideal for young children preparing for school, the LeapFrog Scribble and Write is fun and simple enough for 3- and 4-year-old children to pick up, but advanced enough for older…
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51 pieces |
Puzzles are great tools for teaching kids to focus for extended periods of time and patiently match pieces together. The end result is a colorful representation of the United States…
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
More Articles
10 Best Children’s eBooks
Children have always loved storybooks, and today’s e-readers and tablets take advantage of children’s natural affinity for technology. You and your kids will enjoy reading stories together on an iPad or Kindle Fire with all the brilliantly colored illustrations… [more]
Should Children Play with Smartphones?
More and more parents today are handing over their smart phones and tablets to their children. Kids are little pros when it comes to pulling up videos, downloading apps, and navigating…[more]
5 Benefits of Play for Children
Children learn about the world around them and develop mentally and physically through play. Researchers have found that unstructured play not only keeps kids occupied and entertained, but it’s key to a children’s natural development. It’s so important, in fact, that in 1989 the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights… [more]
Knowing What Toy Materials Aren’t Safe for Children
In recent years, parents have become increasingly aware of dangerous materials found in common children’s toys, often those made overseas. We now have regulations on what materials are safe and which ones should be avoided in children’s toys and other consumer products. BPA, or Bisphenol A, is an organic compound found in many plastics…[more]
Toys That Help Kids Read
If your children are just learning how to read, then you understand how important it is to encourage them to practice and develop reading skills. It’s helpful to look for ways to incorporate reading lessons into everyday situations—for instance, asking kids to sound out words on billboards as you’re driving… [more]
A Child’s Development level from Ages 5-7
Once your child reaches early school age, he or she will have already become fairly self-sufficient and will only become more so. Each day provides new opportunities to learn, explore, and discover more about the world. The educational toys that kids at this developmental stage play with enhance the skills that they’re learning in school…. [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Educational Toys for Children Ages 2-4
Toys for tots ages 2 to 4 are not only entertaining but educational, helping them develop fine motor skills, concentration, dexterity, problem solving, creative play, and imagination. As we looked at a number of toys for children in this age range, we looked for a number of important factors, including: 1. Educational value, 2. Durability, 3. Easy storage and … [more]
Top 10 Educational Toys for Kids Ages 8-12
As children advance from the 3rd grade to preparing for middle school, they learn even more complex subjects in school: history, science, social studies, health, etc. We looked for educational toys that not only enhanced the skills kids possess from ages 8 to 12, but made learning and discovering new things fun and entertaining. Our top 10 toys involve: 1. Fun for … [more]
Best Toys for Kids Age 8, 9, 10, 11
Top 10 Rated Toys for Kids Age 8, 9, 10, 11 2025
As children advance from the 3rd grade to preparing for middle school, they learn even more complex subjects in school: history, science, social studies, health, etc. We looked for educational toys that not only enhanced the skills kids possess from ages 8 to 12, but made learning and discovering new things fun and entertaining.
Our top 10 toys involve:
1. Fun for the whole family
2. Creativity, imagination, and working out puzzles
3. Social interaction
4. Strategy, logic, and problem solving
5. An advanced appreciation for science, engineering, and creating models
6. Games that encourage competition and teamwork
Includes 108 wooden tiles, drawstring bag, and instructions |
In a clever twist on the game Uno, players attempt to build lines of blocks featuring the same color or shape. The grid of tiles that develops resembles … more
40x, 100x, and 400x magnifications |
Leaps and bounds ahead of cheap, plastic microscopes, this sturdy, heavy-duty microscope is very reasonably priced at $65.60. A scientific instrument like the ones… more
Includes a hands-on kit and 32-page illustrated book |
An human anatomy book and model set for kids ages 8 to 12, this Squishy You kit includes a 12-inch plastic human model with 9 removable squishy organs. Kids … more
Includes over 60 snap-together pieces and illustrated manual |
For the inquisitive child who loves engrossing, hands-on projects, the Snap Circuits SC-300 kit will provide hours of delightful electronic fun. This set includes over 300 … more
12” geopolitical globe includes 10,000 questions suitable for 3rd grade and up |
Not only does this globe serve its obvious purpose as a model of the modern world, but it also includes over 10,000 quiz questions suitable for kids ages 8 and up. A clear … more
Includes 9 dice with symbols and pictures on the sides |
The charm and excitement of Rory’s Story Cubes lie in its simplicity. Players roll the 9 dice and come up with a story based on the pictures showing. Your family can create … more
Includes 300 cards, a timer, and a score pad |
An entertaining game for adults, Mad Gab is suitable for kids at least 10 years old. Warning: Playing the game can prompt uproarious laughter and silliness. Each card features a word … more
Includes over 1,000 cards |
A big hit in recent years, Apples to Apples is a fun game you can enjoy with the family or at parties. The rules are relatively simple, but provide a lot of creativity and … more
Educational Toys Buying Guide
Playing Board Games with the Family: The Advantages for Kids
Having a game night is not only a fun, inexpensive way for the family to spend time together, it’s also an opportunity for children to learn important skills. Children young and old benefit from the time you spend together playing cards or board games, much more so than from plugging in to electronic devices or watching TV.
Consider what children learn from these interactive experiences:
- A healthy sense of competition and the importance of teamwork
- Recognizing different shapes, numbers, and words
- Grouping, counting, and sorting items
- Social skills, such as waiting for other players to take their turns
- Fine motor skills, such as handling cards and game pieces
- Problem solving, strategy, and logic
- A chance to improve and excel
- Winning and losing gracefully
Games don’t even have to be specifically educational. Classic games like Jenga foster concentration, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills as players try to extract the pieces of a tower without knocking it over.
Card games require kids to think ahead about their plays, so they learn strategy. With only so many cards in a traditional deck, they also learn about the laws of probability, an advanced concept for children.
Monopoly is a classic board game, but one that takes a long time to play—something difficult for young kids and parents alike. Monopoly Junior uses smaller denominations and takes less time to play, making it more accessible to young kids as they learn the basics of adding, reading, and color recognition.
Many board games have different levels of difficulty, or you can adapt the rules yourself to accommodate younger players. You’ll love seeing brothers and sisters getting along, helping the youngest members with the complicated aspects of the game. For the entertainment it provides the whole family and the benefits to your kids’ cognitive development, consider adding game night to your weekly routine.
Featured Educational Toys Articles
10 Best Children’s eBooks
Children have always loved storybooks, and today’s e-readers and tablets take advantage of children’s natural affinity for technology. You and your kids will enjoy reading stories together on an iPad or Kindle Fire with all the brilliantly colored illustrations… [more]
Should Children Play with Smartphones?
More and more parents today are handing over their smart phones and tablets to their children. Kids are little pros when it comes to pulling up videos, downloading apps, and navigating…[more]
5 Benefits of Play for Children
Children learn about the world around them and develop mentally and physically through play. Researchers have found that unstructured play not only keeps kids occupied and entertained, but it’s key to a children’s natural development. It’s so important, in fact, that in 1989 the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights… [more]
Knowing What Toy Materials Aren’t Safe for Children
In recent years, parents have become increasingly aware of dangerous materials found in common children’s toys, often those made overseas. We now have regulations on what materials are safe and which ones should be avoided in children’s toys and other consumer products. BPA, or Bisphenol A, is an organic compound found in many plastics…[more]
5 Educational Apps for Children
Kids naturally clamor for your smart phone or tablet because they like the fun games. You yourself probably enjoy a few mindless, addicting apps when you have time to kill. Fortunately, there are also several apps that serve an educational purpose, and kids will still find them entertaining. 1. Word Book and Puzzle Box HD: For preschoolers to first-graders, Aids with … [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Educational Toys for Children Ages 2-4
Toys for tots ages 2 to 4 are not only entertaining but educational, helping them develop fine motor skills, concentration, dexterity, problem solving, creative play, and imagination. As we looked at a number of toys for children in this age range, we looked for a number of important factors, including: 1. Educational value, 2. Durability, 3. Easy storage and … [more]