There are plenty of gas and charcoal options across a variety of price points, so let’s dive right in, shall we?

What’s the best BBQ in the UK?

We reckon Char-Broil’s Gas2Coal hybrid model (buy now) is one of the best choices for most people, given its ability to use both gas and charcoal for cooking. You can even use gas to quickly and easily ignite the charcoal, making for a much faster all-charcoal experience, if you prefer.

Other BBQ recommendations

The Char-Broil’s Gas2Coal isn’t quite right for you? Fear not, for there are plenty of other grills we recommend:

If you’re looking for a portable BBQ, then check out our guide to the best portable BBQ, too.

The best BBQs in the UK you can buy today:

1. Char-Broil Gas2Coal

If you’re indecisive, then Char-Broil’s hybrid model is one of the best choices for you, thanks to its ability to convert from gas to charcoal in less than 60 seconds. Simply remove the supplied charcoal tray, and cook with regular gas burners if you’re short on time with hungry mouths to feed.

If you’ve got a hankering for old-fashioned charcoal though, load up the tray, and handily light the charcoal with the gas burners themselves — no chimney stacks or lighter materials required. The charcoal tray itself also helps prevent flare-ups, resulting in more even cooking.

Better yet, there’s a built-in side burner for additional cooking powers, along with a warming rack and porcelain-coated cast iron grates for longevity and easy cleaning.

2. Weber Master-Touch

Weber’s Original Kettle charcoal BBQ is one of the most iconic choices and one that will spring to mind for most people. But we’re big fans of the Master-Touch model, which keeps the essence of the Kettle, while serving up a multitude of improvements in the process.

It’s a little taller, for starters, making for a more comfortable grilling experience. The lid is a little deeper too, and can be handily stored in a built-in lid holder, which is an improvement over the original’s lid hook. The addition of Weber’s Gourmet BBQ System grill is another big draw, letting you swap out different modules like pizza stones for more versatility. It’s easy to clean too, thanks to a clever ash sweeping/collection system, and we think the Slate Blue variant, in particular, is rather dashing.

Overall, if you’re a charcoal fan, this is a BBQ that will serve you well for years to come, while looking superb in the process.

3. Landmann Triton MaxX 4.1

Landmann’s capacious four-burner entry has more than enough space to feed large, ravenous groups, with specially designed enamel-coated steel flame tamers to help distribute heat evenly across the grill. A built-in warming rack lets you serve everything at an appropriate temperature at the same time, while a modular cooking system supports extra accessories like pizza stones.

The real star of the show though, is the infrared side burner, which is capable of reaching a blistering 1500°F (800 °C). This makes it an absolute godsend for creating perfectly seared steaks in record time, letting you create perfect outer crusts without over-cooking the insides. Once you’ve tried infrared, you’ll never want to sear on anything else ever again.

4. Blackstone 36-inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle Station

If you’re sold on the wonderful world of flat-top griddles, then you can’t get much better than Blackstone. This huge gas-powered 36in model is one of the best BBQs in the UK, and features more than enough space for feeding smash burgers to a horde of hungry guests — though there’s nothing stopping you from using it for stir-fries, pancakes, eggs, or anything else you require.

Four independent heat zones provide plenty of control over your cooks, while there’s plenty of space on either side for storage/prep. If you find yourself cooking in cast iron skillets, why not cut out the middleman and cook directly on this massive surface instead? You won’t regret it.

5. Royal Gourmet Portable Table Top Gas Grill Griddle

Don’t be put off by the flat-top nature of this griddle. Yes, the lack of bars means no aesthetic grill lines, but it makes up for it in practically every other way. The flat surface means that everything from burgers and sausages, to steaks and vegetables will make full contact with a heated surface, resulting in a much better, more consistent Maillard reaction (aka, the delicious browning that makes food extra delicious).

This also makes it a perfect choice for smash burger fans, who can press down balls of mince to create super-slim and crispy patties for multi-layered burgers bursting with flavour. Throw in the fact that this is easily portable for both backyard and camping use, and it could potentially even replace your dedicated BBQ. Win-win.

6. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050

Masterbuilt’s Gravity Series is aptly named, with the 1050 model featuring a capacious gravity-fed hopper capable of fuelling your cooks for a whopping 12-15 hours of use. Supporting up to 9.9lbs (4.5kg) of lump charcoal or 15.4lbs (7kg) of briquettes, you can enjoy slow-cooked delicacies like brisket and ribs without being chained to your outdoor cooking station.

Cast-iron grates produce perfectly-seared results, while a digital control panel, complete with an accompanying Bluetooth/Wi-Fi controlled app, make keeping an eye on everything a breeze too. With convenient racks and numerous shelves, it’s got everything you need for a hassle-free backyard cookout.

7. Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill

This capacious, affordable charcoal grill features ample cooking space, along with porcelain-enamelled steel cooking grates for durability and performance. A built-in thermometer provides an easy way to keep an eye on the temperature at a glance, while a height-adjustable charcoal pan allows for quick and easy control over the level of cooking heat.

If that wasn’t enough, it also has a useful built-in offset smoker, complete with its own lid, letting you smoke anything from meat to vegetable side dishes for an extra dash of BBQ goodness. An included cover, utensil hooks, and a smoke stack, round off the features rather nicely. Plenty for your money, at this price.

8. Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Hub charcoal BBQ

If a BBQ has world-renowned chef Heston Blumenthal’s seal of approval, it’s not going to be cheap. Or ordinary. And the charcoal-fuelled Hub BBQ makes good on both.

Hefty price tag aside, you’re clearly getting something that’s far more refined than your average heap of industrialised, functional metal. With sharp lines, rounded corners, and angular legs, it’s as much a design talking point as it is a food-searing powerhouse.

On that note, it’s a heck of a performer too, managing to stand out from the rest of the competition with its built-in rotisserie system. From succulent chicken to mouth-watering pork, the possibilities for both taste and visual theatre are endless. And if you require something a little easier, there’s an electric-powered version too.

9. Tepro Grillwagen Toronto

While Tepro’s Grillwagen is lacking in the brand recognition department, it more than makes up for it with excellent bang for your buck. The cheapest offering on our list, this is a charcoal BBQ that offers plenty to love, including a speedy assembly time of just 30 minutes.

A generous grilling area is made even better by a built-in warming rack and handy ash collection tray, while a Grid in Grid system lets you pop in modular accessories like pizza stones if you wish to mix things up.

The best part, though, is a built-in handle that can be turned to raise and lower the coals, letting you change the intensity of the heat to achieve the perfect finish. If you’ve ever suffered from burnt buns or overly sizzled sausages in the past, this will be a particularly useful defence mechanism.

10. LotusGrill XXL

If you fancy that delicious charcoal flavour without the pesky smoke, then LotusGrill’s clever grill should be your first choice. Its built-in battery-powered fans not only help your coals come to temperature in a blistering five minutes, but the extra aeration they provide also results in far less smoke than a regular charcoal BBQ.

You can even adjust the speed of the fans to control the temperature, and the generous grill size of the XXL model should be good enough to feed around 20 people. It looks the part too, with a range of eye-catching colours and a UFO-like design.

Its closed-container nature also reduces the risks of flying sparks and escaping embers, providing extra peace of mind if you’re surrounded by curious pets and inquisitive toddlers.

11. Char-Broil Kettleman

Char-Broil’s answer to Weber’s iconic kettle BBQ is far from a mere shape-inspired copy. Thanks to some clever design features, it promises to do more with less charcoal. In other words, you can cut back on how much charcoal you use per cook, while getting more heat out of it. Neat.

The first of these clever design tricks is the 360-degree air inlet holes that surround the main body of the BBQ itself, letting plenty of oxygen get sucked in to fuel those flames at all times. Not only that, but the Kettleman also has Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared tech, which prevents flare-ups for more evenly cooked food.

This not only creates an even temperature across the entire grill surface, but the end result also provides juicier food than normal. Up to 50 per cent juicer, in fact, according to Char-Broil. Consider us sold.

12. Weber Genesis EPX-335

After the Lambo of gas grills? Look no further than Weber’s eye-wateringly expensive Genesis. Featuring three gas burners and an extra large sear zone, it also has an expandable top cooking grate for simultaneous grilling, letting you whip up mains and sides at the same time.

Its biggest trick though, lies in its smart real-time food temperature monitoring, which lets you keep an eye on internal meat temperatures remotely via your smartphone, letting you achieve perfectly delicious results without any guesswork involved.

Compatible with Weber’s Gourmet Barbecue System, you can add additional accessories as you see fit, and it even has built-in illumination, for night-time grilling sessions. With an extra side burner, generous side shelves, hooks, and a spacious cabinet, it’s practically an outdoor kitchen in its own right.

Is a charcoal BBQ or a gas BBQ better?

Choosing between a charcoal barbeque and a gas barbeque depends on several factors, we’ll go through them all below.

In terms of taste, a charcoal BBQ generally provides a smoky flavour that many grill enthusiasts love. The high heat and smoky aroma from the burning charcoal can enhance the taste of grilled foods significantly. On the other hand, while a gas BBQ may not impart the same intense smoky flavour, it can still produce delicious grilled food. Some gas grills even come with smoker boxes to add a hint of smokiness, though it may not be as pronounced as with charcoal.

Convenience is another major consideration. Charcoal barbeques take longer to heat up and require more effort to maintain a consistent temperature. Additionally, cleaning up ash and disposing of charcoal can be more time-consuming. In contrast, gas barbeques are quick to start and offer easy temperature control, making them more convenient for quick grilling sessions. Cleaning a gas BBQ is generally easier as well, with no ash to dispose of.

When it comes to cost, charcoal BBQs are typically less expensive upfront than gas grills. However, the ongoing cost of charcoal can add up over time, whereas gas can be more economical in the long run, as propane or natural gas is generally cheaper and more efficient than buying charcoal regularly.

When considering environmental impact, charcoal BBQs produce more carbon emissions and particulate matter, contributing to air pollution. Charcoal production also involves deforestation and can be less sustainable. Gas BBQs burn cleaner than charcoal, producing fewer emissions and making them a more environmentally friendly option.

In terms of versatility, charcoal grills offer higher cooking temperatures, which can be better for searing meat. They also allow for different cooking methods, such as direct and indirect grilling. Gas grills, however, provide precise temperature control and often come with additional features like side burners and rotisserie attachments, enhancing their versatility.

Ultimately, if you prioritize flavour and don’t mind spending extra time on preparation and cleanup, a charcoal barbeque might be the better choice. However, if you value convenience, ease of use, and a cleaner-burning option, a gas barbeque would be more suitable.

Now check out the best camping accessories.

Today, you can buy cracking handsets that are nigh-on inseparable from smartphones that cost twice as much, covering almost all of your needs without bleeding your wallet dry. From premium builds to nippy performance, all-day battery life, and even decent cameras, there are plenty of handsets out there that more than nail the basics, while capable of serving you well for years to come.

What is the best mid-range smartphone?

We think the Google Pixel 8a (buy now) is the best mid-range smartphone you can buy. It’s the latest phone in Google’s more affordable ‘a’ series. You’ll love its impeccable camera skills, punchy performance, minimalist Pixel design and pure Android experience.

Other mid-range smartphone recommendations

The best mid-range phone you can buy today:

1. Google Pixel 8a

The Pixel 8a is part of Google’s affordable ‘A’ series, which promises a similar Pixel experience to its more expensive siblings for less money. We think this makes it a superb bang-for-buck option. And there’s lots to love here.

From its impeccable camera skills and punchy performance to a minimalist Pixel design and pure Android experience, this could be the ultimate choice for Google fans. Previous Pixel A phones had a few specs that lagged behind some of the competition, but the latest 8a has fixed that, making it unquestionably the best mid-range smartphone around.

Okay, the charging speeds remain slightly behind rivals, and not all AI features are available to buyers in the UK and Europe, but unless you’re willing to spend nearly double the money on a flagship with even more versatile cameras, the Pixel 8a is everything you’ll ever need.

• Read more: Google Pixel 8a review

2. Apple iPhone SE (2022)

The new iPhone SE (aka the iPhone SE 3, released in 2022) is one of the best-value iPhones ever made. While it looks seriously old-fashioned by today’s standards thanks to its home button and thick bezels, it more than makes up for it on the inside — despite costing less than half the price of the iPhone 13, it’s still rocking the same incredibly powerful A15 Bionic processor.

If you prefer dinkier screens for easy one-handed use, then its 4.7in LCD display (sadly not OLED) will be an absolute joy to use, banishing over-stretched thumbs for good. If you don’t mind the fact that it’s only got a single camera, smaller battery, and no Face ID smarts, then this should definitely be a consideration for Apple fans on a budget. Is it the best affordable mobile on sale? No siree – but it is the best mid-range Apple one.

• Best iPhone: every Apple phone compared

3. Nothing Phone 2

Don’t be fooled by the see-through shell: the Nothing Phone 2 is no gimmick. Sure, the transparent design and lighting strips do plenty to catch the eye, but there’s also one of the best mid-range smartphone models on sale lurking beneath the surface.

The 6.7in OLED display punches above its weight, while the construction materials give it the feel of a more premium device. The CPU is last year’s flagship, so plenty potent: running Nothing’s minimalist take on Android 13, it operates very smoothly in day-to-day use, with no noticeable slowdowns.

Battery life is much improved over Phone 1, and while the revised rear camera hardware can’t dislodge Google as the best snapper going under £600, it still shows meaningful gains over Nothing’s debut effort. If you’re keen on a genuinely refreshing take on the affordable smartphone formula, Phone 2 should sit near the top of your list.

• Read more: Nothing Phone 2 review

4. Red Magic 8 Pro

Searching for an excellent value gaming phone? Your answer is the RedMagic 8 Pro. For a reasonable mid-range sum, you’re getting Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 power and 256GB storage, along with a seriously geeky, fit-for-purpose UI that’s perfect for gamers and tinkerers alike.

We particularly loved its large, uninterrupted near-bezel-less display in our review, along with its transparent back that offers something different from the norm. And while its camera won’t deliver best-in-class performance, it’s hard to argue with its overall features at this price — making it a great choice for the overall best mid-range smartphone as well as the best mid-ranger gaming phone.

• Read more: Red Magic Pro 8 review

5. Motorola Moto G82

Hitting the price-performance sweet spot, the Moto G82 is a welcome reminder that Motorola knows how to nail a keenly priced all-rounder. A surefire steal of a smartphone, it packs a superb OLED panel with high refresh rates, a giant 5000mAh battery and an optically stabilised 50MP main camera – all specs you’d expect to find in handsets costing a good chunk more.

It’s not the last word in performance for the money, and you can get more power for not much more cash. But Motorola’s marvellously minimalist take on Android runs bloat-free and briskly enough, while 30W charging means a full refuel in an hour. Provided you don’t need the option to record 4K video, you’re getting a lot of smartphone here for your readies.

• Read more: Motorola Moto G82 review

6. OnePlus Nord 2T 5G

The OnePlus Nord 2T 5G might have a horrifically convoluted name, but it more than makes up for it with a beautiful, premium design, bolstered by quality specs and performance in all the right places. Slathered front and back in gorilla glass, it’s available in grey or a head-turning Jade Fog finish, making it one of the best looking mid-range handsets money can buy.

Ready for super-fast 5G, it’s powered by MediaTek’s powerful Dimensity 1300 processor, which has made a name for itself as one of the best mid-range CPUs currently available. It’s got a triple-camera setup too, though its main snapper will be the one that gets the majority of the legwork done.

Throw in speedy Google, Samsung and Apple-trouncing 80W fast charging, a 90Hz AMOLED display, and a dual-SIM slot for extra flexibility, and you’ve got one of the top mid-range Android picks around.

• Read more: OnePlus Nord 2T review

7. Poco X5 Pro

A better budget gaming phone than its forebear, with a UI that runs delightfully smoothly – not always a given when talking this sort of cash. The Poco X5 Pro is also thinner and lighter than the phone that came before, and brings back great battery life (and fast charging).

Adding 4K video recording is welcome, but there haven’t been too many meaningful updates to the camera hardware, so this isn’t the phone for photographers with tight purse strings.

The screen doesn’t get quite as bright as the X4 Pro, and the weird-feeling plastic back won’t be to all tastes. But ultimately it doesn’t make you feel like you’re compromising in too many areas, so find one at the right price and it’s still a good buy.

• Read more: Poco 5 Pro review

8. Realme 9 Pro+

The Realme 9 Pro+ might just be the best overall choice for most people searching for the best mid-range smartphone (unless, of course, you’re after an iPhone).

Its primary selling points are a 90Hz OLED display, and a best-in-class main camera that genuinely goes toe to toe with premium flagships come day or night. It can even shoot HEIF 10-bit photos like the iPhone 13 Pro, for smoother gradients and colours for enthusiasts to work their editing magic. Its digital zoom isn’t too shabby either, and the same goes for its 8MP ultra-wide snapper.

As usual, the third macro camera isn’t really worth using more than a few times for experimentation, but given the imaging quality elsewhere, that’s fine by us. Powerful enough for smooth gaming with 60W charging thrown in for good measure, this is one of the best mid-range handsets currently available, at a borderline budget price tag.

• Read more: Realme 9 Pro+ review

9. Honor Magic 5 Lite

One of those phones for people who spend more time in Google Chrome than Call of Duty, the Honor Magic 5 Lite is a great-looking handset that sticks with a modestly mid-range CPU in order to go big in other areas, like its screen. A 6.67in AMOLED is a treat for the eyes, especially at 120Hz, and the 5100mAh battery is capable of excellent longevity away from the mains.

While its secondary snappers don’t add a whole lot of value, the main sensor does a decent job of justifying the price. The super slim dimensions, glass rear and choice of head-turning colours are what give the Magic 5 Lite its strongest appeal, so if you like your tech to make a design statement, it’s a great choice.

• Read more: Honor Magic 5 Lite review

How to choose the best mid-range smartphone for you

Choosing the best mid-range smartphone is a lot like choosing the best smartphone, but if you’re reading this then you’ve already defined a budget of between $450/£450 and $650/£650. If that’s still too much money, then you should check out Stuff’s guide to the best cheap smartphones.

These affordable mobiles tend to offer a good balance between features and affordability. You may miss out on some headline features, such as a super-zoom camera or massive OLED display, but if you want a phone that’s brilliant at the basics without anything flashy, then these are perfect for you.

As we mentioned in the introduction as well, performance shouldn’t be an issue, with mid-range processors from reputable brands like Qualcomm Snapdragon and MediaTek performing much better than they used to.

In terms of display, you should be looking for smartphones with at least Full HD (1080p) resolution and an IPS or AMOLED panel for vibrant colours and good viewing angles.

Despite being mid-range, you can expect a decent camera with multiple lenses and sensors (although, it may not be market-leading). You can look for features like optical image stabilization (OIS) or night mode.

If you’re looking for more specific buying recommendations, then you can check out Stuff’s guides to the best smartphone for gaming, the best smartphones for photography, and the best Android phones.

A VPN can help you surf safely and anonymously whether you’re watching sports or streaming on Netflix and other services.

What’s the best free VPN service?

1. Proton VPN Free

We think Proton’s free VPN service is one of the best around. One of its biggest selling points is the fact that it has no data limits, which means you never have to worry about hitting any pesky caps. Despite being free, it also offers key features like a kill switch (your connection drops if the VPN service goes down so you’re not left unprotected), and the superior WireGuard VPN protocol.

Obviously, you’re going to have some limitations. In this instance, you only have access to three locations — the USA, Netherlands and Japan. And while you can install Proton VPN on as many devices as you like, you can only connect to one at a time if you’re using the free package. Still, considering it’s one of the fastest VPN services around (even on the free tier), there’s very little to complain about here, as long as the limited country choice doesn’t affect your specific use case.

• View the latest Proton VPN Free deals

2. PrivadoVPN Free

While PrivadoVPN can’t match Proton VPN’s unlimited data allowance, it still offers a respectable 10GB monthly limit. We find this should be enough for more casual use on, say, a smartphone, but even if you do reach the maximum amount, you can still use an emergency server to get online. Sure, the latter is limited solely to the Netherlands with a crawling speed of just 1Mbps, but it’s better than nothing.

When you’re within the data limit, you have a generous choice of thirteen locations to choose from, with speedy 350Mbps connectivity to boot. The best part, though, is the fact that you can use the free version to unblock streaming services, including Netflix USA, Prime Video, Disney+, and more.

• View the latest Privado VPN Free deals

3. Windscribe Free

Windscribe stands out from the crowd in a few key areas. While it has the common 10GB monthly cap, you can install and use it on more than one device, which is a feature that many other free alternatives lack. We appreciate that you have the choice of 11 different countries as well, which is more generous than most.

Overall, it’s definitely worth considering — especially if you’re after light use across different devices like phones and tablets. Just be wary of that strict 10GB cap, and you’ll be good to go.

• View the latest Windscribe Free deals

4. Atlas VPN Free

While its 10GB monthly data allowance is decent enough, its Atlas VPNs Mac-specific allowance that really shines. If you’re a Mac user, like us, you can take advantage of a whopping 2GB per day, making Atlas VPN one of the most competitive free VPNs around.

There are, of course, some catches — namely the limit to just two countries (the Netherlands and the USA). Still, you can connect two devices simultaneously, and the speeds are far from shabby. While streaming site unblocking isn’t officially supported, some people have tried their luck and found success, so it could be worth a shot. Not that we condone that, mind.

• View the latest Atlas VPN Free deals

5. Hotspot Shield Basic VPN

Hotspot Shield’s free VPN service offers an unmatched unlimited data limit, letting you stream and surf to your heart’s content. There’s one major catch though — you can only connect via one USA-based location, which might be a dealbreaker for some users, depending on their needs.

If that’s not an issue for you though, then it’s hard to beat that glorious unlimited data allowance. If you can also live without a kill switch, then we think this is one of the best free VPN services.

• View the latest Hotspot Shield Basic VPN deals

Best VPN FAQs:

What is a free VPN?

A virtual private network (commonly referred to as VPN), is a powerful tool that enables you to cloak your whereabouts on the web. VPNs work by directing your online traffic through the servers of the VPN provider, which are often located in various parts of the world.

You could, for example, use a VPN service to simulate your presence in the USA, letting you access Netflix content that may not be available in the United Kingdom. While we don’t officially endorse such usage, this is just one example of a common VPN use case.

Additionally, for individuals travelling to certain regions such as China (where access to popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google are restricted), VPNs become indispensable tools, letting you use your preferred apps while helping you stay in touch with people back home.

Are free VPNs safe?

The safety of free VPNs is a significant concern, and the answer isn’t straightforward because it varies based on the provider.

Many free VPN services log user data and may sell this information to third parties. This practice can compromise your privacy, which is the opposite of what a VPN should do.

Free VPNs might not have strong encryption protocols, leaving your data vulnerable to interception.

To generate revenue, many free VPNs display intrusive ads and pop-ups. These ads can be annoying and, in some cases, may lead to malicious websites.

You may also find that free VPN providers may not have the resources or motivation to maintain robust security measures or provide customer support. This lack of accountability can result in a poor and potentially unsafe user experience.

To avoid these potential free VPN pitfalls, read the section below on how to choose the best free VPN, as well as our reviews above.

How to choose the best free VPN

If you’re worried about choosing a free VPN, then follow these steps:

First, you’ll want to look for reviews (like ours above) from reputable sources and user feedback. Investigate whether the VPN provider has a history of privacy violations or security issues.

You will probably also want to read the privacy policy carefully to understand what data the VPN logs and how it is used. A trustworthy VPN should have a clear and transparent privacy policy.

Some well-known, trusted VPN providers (like the ones included Stuff’s best VPN guide) offer limited free versions of their paid services. These options might be safer as they often use the same infrastructure and security protocols as their premium counterparts.

Finally, consider why you actually need a VPN. For basic tasks like bypassing geo-restrictions or casual browsing, some free VPNs might suffice, but for more critical activities, such as handling sensitive information, investing in a reputable paid VPN service is advisable.

Are VPNs illegal?

VPNs are absolutely not illegal (although there are some exceptions in certain countries so it’s always worth checking), and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to anonymise your personal data and internet activity. Still, this doesn’t give you a blanket excuse to then carry out illegal activity, such as the downloading of copyrighted material. This also means that you shouldn’t use a VPN to bypass per-country streaming rights for services such as Netflix.

Can VPNs protect you from viruses and malware?

Short answer? No. Using a VPN to browse anonymously is one thing, but you’re still susceptible to malware and viruses. Stay away from dodgy sites, and practice your usual (hopefully alert) levels of internet safety. In other words, don’t go downloading .exe files willy-nilly.

Will using a VPN make your internet slower?

Any VPN will have the unfortunate effect of slowing down your internet connection, which makes total sense when you think about the extra steps your traffic is taking when passing through various server locations. Still, if you’ve got a reasonably fast internet connection already, then you shouldn’t notice too much of a difference.

Are paid VPNs better than free VPNs?

Paid VPNs will offer more services in exchange for your cash. In most cases, this means that you have a larger selection of countries and locations to choose from, with more supported devices to boot. If you’re planning on light usage though, then one of the best free VPNs should be enough for your needs.

What to watch with a VPN

Want to watch the NBA from outside your own country? You can, with the help of a VPN and our series of ‘how to’ guides. We’ve covered how you can watch NBA, MBL, the Bundesliga and more, wherever you are in the world. Want to know more? Take a look on the links below:

• How to watch NBA basketball
• How to watch Major League Baseball
• How to watch German Bundesliga
• How to watch Spanish LaLiga
• How to watch Italian Serie A
• How to watch MLS football
• How to watch NFL

And if you’ve got a blockbuster budget, there’s no shortage of classy gear to transform your movie room. Need help to pick the right panel for your pad? We’ve tested a battalion of big-screen TVs to bring you the best 4K TVs fit for every budget (need to upgrade your audio? Check out the best soundbar too)

What’s the best 4K TV in the UK?

The best cheap 4K TVs:

1. Samsung UE43AU71000

When we go shopping for a new TV, few of us are looking for a flagship model. Buying an entry-level box? Samsung’s AU7100 doesn’t require you to make too many sacrifices.

With detailed, vibrant images, a solid build and a slick interface, the AU7100 represents excellent value – especially if you opt for the 43in version. Its materials might not be the most indulgent, but the AU7100 is flawlessly finished and built to last.

Front and centre is an LCD/LED panel with edge-positioned backlighting. It works best with native 4K content, serving up detailed, realistic images with nuanced tones – especially when there’s HDR10+ dynamic metadata involved. Motion is handled confidently, too. Things only really deteriorate when you drop below 1080p.

Sound from the 20W drivers is better than you might expect, although there’s no low-end punch. As long as you don’t watch lots of vintage content – and you’re not expecting the quality of the audio to match the quality of the pictures – this is one of the best ‘real world’ TVs around.

• Read more: Samsung UE43AU71000 review

2. Hisense A6BG

Hisense knows its stuff when it comes to delivering very good entry-level TVs, and this large 65in offering is an absolute bargain at this price. Serving up 4K resolution with HDR (including Dolby Vision support), there’s also an auto low latency mode for gamers, along with built-in Freeview HD. Oh, and it works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa too.

Naturally, given its price, there are a few compromises. The HDMI ports are 2.0, not 2.1, for starters, and the screen itself had fairly limited viewing angles and can struggle with darker scenes. But there’s a comprehensive selection of streaming apps on offer, and again, there’s not much to complain about at this price.

The perfect choice if you’re looking for something simple, straightforward, and really rather massive.

3. TCL 55C645

The TCL 55C645 gives us 90 percent of the performance we want for a lot less than 90 percent of the price. It’s got the technology, the functionality and the specification of a TV costing three or four times its asking price.

In terms of actual performance, the TCL 55C645 is pretty decent. The colour palette is quite extensive and the colour balance is naturalistic, it manages to keep a solid grip on on-screen movement of all kinds, and, although not an especially bright TV, the white tones it generates are clean and every bit as varied as its black tones

Now of course, you can’t expect perfection when you’re shopping at the entry-level – and sure enough, the TCL 55C645 isn’t perfect, but it gets way more right than it gets wrong, though, and in many ways, it outperforms its asking price to a significant degree.

• Read more: TCL 55C645 review

The best mid-range 4K TVs:

1. Philips 55OLED807

Philips has established itself as a hero of the 4K TV sweet spot, delivering great sets where affordability meets performance. And the 55OLED807 knocks it out of the park again. Nicely designed and robustly built, it shows no signs of corner cutting. Philips has even added some swivel adjustment for easier positioning.

Its feature set doesn’t come up short, either. The 55OLED807 works with every mainstream HDR standard and offers a stack of inputs, including a pair of HDMI 2.1 ports for next-gen console compatibility. Four-sided Ambilight also remains a perfect complement to pictures. We still found setup menus complex and relentless in testing, but the remote at least made it easier to battle through. And the reward is great picture quality in almost every circumstance.

Peak brightness is right up there with the best OLED panels, resulting in incredible contrast, with both white and black tones packed with detail. The colour palette is extensive yet natural, too. Spend time tweaking and you can also achieve smooth, expertly rendered motion. Upscaling is similarly effective and even the 2.1-channel sound system is pretty composed for the set’s size. In short, this is one of the best pound-for-pound TVs around right now.

• Read more: Philips 55OLED807 review

2. Samsung S95B OLED

Samsung’s S95B is incredibly bright for an OLED, although not as bright as any QLED (which is to be expected. Still, it’s bright enough, and colours are beautifully vivid, if not the most realistic. If you’re a stickler for colour accuracy without any tweaking, then you might want to look elsewhere. Most people though, seem to like punchy, saturated colours, and if you’re one of them, then all the more power to you.

Another thing to bear in mind, are the size options available. The S95B has two models: 55in and 65in. If size is key, and you’re after something bigger (or smaller), then you might want to look elsewhere. If it ticks all your boxes though, then you definitely won’t be disappointed.

• Read more: Samsung S95B OLED review

Hisense 65U7KQTUK

Audio or video, it doesn’t matter; you can rely on Hisense to take any expensive new tech and democratise it. Can you think of another TV brand able to combine quantum dot panel technology with MiniLED backlighting and every worthwhile HDR standard in a TV, and then charge less than £1500 for a 65in version? There’s only one brand that can offer that – Hisense.

Treat it to some native 4K content, ideally with an HDR element to it for good measure, and the 65U7KQTUK really impresses. An HDR10-equipped UHD Blu-ray of Christopher Nolan’s borderline-incoherent Tenet, for example, looks an absolute treat.

For an LCD TV, the 65U7KQTUK does really well with black tones, the colour palette is extensive, and it does good work controlling on-screen movement.

A big screen with a big specification but not all that big a price – and given the right stuff to work with, the Hisense 65U7KQTUK turns in a pretty big performance. At least as far as picture quality is concerned, anyway…

• Read more: Hisense 65U7KQTUK review

The best premium 4K TVs:

1. Sony XR-55A80L

In short, the Sony XR-55A80L is a great TV. Subtle, and vibrant, it makes the very best of any content you feed into it. No, it’s not the brightest OLED panel around, but the white tones it creates are clean, and there’s detail and nuance in spades — especially when it comes to accurate colour tones such as those found on skin.

HDR performance is solid, as is motion control, with smooth edge definition too. Combined, all of these attributes result in a beautiful, pleasant viewing experience, bolstered by strong upscaling performance and slick gaming capabilities. You’ll want to upgrade the sound with speakers or a soundbar though, as is the case for most of the picks on our list.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A80L review

2. Sony XR-55A90J

Throwing money at something isn’t always a solution. But in the case of the Sony XR-55A90J OLED, it very much is. Yes, it’s super expensive for a 55in television, but it’s also worth every penny. There’s a lot of cutting-edge tech here: the super-fast and deeply intelligent XR processor is present, with Acoustic Surface Audio+ trickery. Google TV has replaced Android TV, which is a major upgrade. Sony’s exclusive Bravia Core streaming service is included, too.

Performance, as the price demands, is profoundly impressive. The A90J is very bright by OLED standards, so contrasts absolutely pop from the screen. This TV can call on a seemingly limitless array of colours, and easily describe minute differences in shade and texture. It handles on-screen motion with casual effortlessness and can bring detail and subtlety to inky black tones. Plus it also upscales low- resolution content without having a panic attack.

The A90J’s feet can sit low or stand high enough to fit a soundbar beneath, but Sony is so pleased with its in-built audio that it’s fitted speaker binding posts on the back panel, so the entire screen can be the centre channel in a surround-sound setup.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A90J review

3. LG OLED65C3

The LG OLED65C3 has some obvious advantages over the C2 it replaces, not least in its HDR picture processing enhancements and the revision to its UI. Is that enough to tempt C2 owners into a costly upgrade? Probably not. The rest of us, though, can simply be impressed by what is the latest in a long line of high-achieving LG OLED TVs.

From strong gaming and upscaling performance to natural colour balance, true blacks, and wide-ranging contrasts, it’s a joy to behold. As is usually the case though, you’ll want to beef up it stock speakers with some external gear to do justice to the on-screen action.

• Read more: LG OLED65C3 review

4. Sony XR-55A95K

First out of the blocks with a QD-OLED telly, Sony’s A95K promises to combine the advantages of OLED – deep blacks and vivid colours – with the brightness of LCD. In practice, it’s one of the best out-of-the-box TVs you can buy.

All-screen from the front, build quality is everything you’d expect from a premium Sony product. Read: basically flawless. Its feature set is similarly superlative, with two out of four HDMI inputs supporting 4K at 120Hz. Less useful is the Bravia Cam, which attaches magnetically to the top. It will one day adjust settings based on ambient conditions, but for now it’s a glorified webcam.

Like all of Sony’s OLED TVs, the A95K’s screen itself acts as a speaker, reinforced by a couple of rear-firing subs. When it comes to fidelity, detail and outright punch, it can sonically match any TV without a separate speaker bar.

Star of the show, though, is the picture. While it isn’t startlingly brighter than the best non-QD OLEDs, the A95K can generate the most convincing and nuanced brightness of any OLED currently available. Detail is high across the board, colour fidelity is effortlessly natural and depth of field is almost three-dimensional, given the right material. All of which means the A95K is as enjoyable as 4K televisions get right now.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A95K review

The best luxury 4K TVs:

1. Philips 65OLED937

Ever since Philips began collaborating with Bowers & Wilkins for its high-end TV audio systems, the company has set itself apart with high-quality sound, in addition to the brilliant Ambilight feature. In a market where most televisions seem to be far too similar to each other, this has certainly been a refreshing development. Of course, this sort of differentiation doesn’t come cheap. But it’s worth it.

Philips’ gorgeously large eOLDE set delivers both stunning picture quality, and wide, immersive sound, thanks to the aforementioned partnership. A perfect,t high-quality TV for those who want the best experience with minimal faff, it’ll hit your wallet hard, and your eyes and ears even harder. Worth it.

• Read more: Philips 65OLED+937 review

2. LG G2 77in OLED

LG’s long been an OLED pioneer and the G2 is a top-spec telly to cement its reputation. With an upgraded panel, brand-spanking processor and improved heat dissipation, it promises brightness to rival the best LCDs.

LG calls the G2 its “Gallery Edition” for good reason: it’s designed to be wall-mounted. And in 77in guise, it does plenty to justify the framing, as well as the Picasso price tag. Hues are vivd, yet colour accuracy is second to none. Blacks are as inky as you’d expect, while its OLED evo panel is dazzlingly bright. Image clarity is similarly excellent, with clever AI upscaling to make older content look good in 4K. All of which combines to produce a masterpiece and definitely one of the best 4K TV options around.

Besides the occasional bug, LG’s updated webOS interface remains intuitive and clutter-free. A new gaming menu lets you tweak refresh rates, with all four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K at 120fps. The G2’s down-firing speakers also pull off a convincing Atmos experience, simulating virtual surround with decent punch – which you can’t say of many integrated TV speakers.

• Read more: LG G2 77in OLED review

3. Samsung S90C

Samsung’s OLED beast serves up glossy blacks and bright whites to deliver some seriously impressive performance, with plenty of nuance and shade in the tone department. Full HD upscaling is, as expected, formidable, with high details and solid contrasts on offer.

Gamers too, will appreciate the specs on offer here, which include more than enough HDMI 2.1 ports to satisfy multiple consoles, along with a low input lag and 4K 144Hz gaming. That’s pretty impressive for a TV whichever way you slice it, beating other 4K/120Hz sets in the refresh rate department.

Best of all, given the fact that most TV speakers tend to sound rather anaemic, the S90C’s built-in audio hardware actually provides a relatively decent experience — one that’s good enough to stop you from automatically hooking up a soundbar. Not that that would be a bad idea, mind.

• Read more: Samsung S90C review

The best 4K TVs in the US:

1. Samsung S95B

The S95B is one of the best 4K TVs for most people in the US, especially for those already used to (and happy with), Samsung’s TV experience, which includes fancy extras like its cloud Gaming Hub.

Gamers will be able to enjoy 4K, 120Hz gaming, thanks to a generous array of HDMI 2.1 ports, and other features like FreeSync.

Being a QD OLED affair, it offers a brighter viewing experience compared to something like the LG C2 OLED, while its single-stand design makes for convenient placement, even in the larger-screened models.

• Read more: Samsung S95B OLED review

2. Sony Bravia XR A95K

Sony’s A95K set is one of the most expensive 4K TVs around right now, and with good reason. Like Samsung’s excellent S95B, Sony’s offering also offers a stunning, bright QD-OLED screen, but also throws in some additional advantages — namely, support for Dolby Vision HDR, and Dolby DTS:X audio.

These extras, coupled with the A95K’s impeccable colour accuracy for enjoying content like the creator’ intended, make it one of the best premium TVs around. Until its successor lands, that is.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A95K review

3. TCL 5-Series

A Quantum Dot LED TV at this price is nothing to be sniffed at, which is why TCL’s 5-Series is our pick for the best budget 4K TV to buy in the US. With support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and HLG, you’re getting plenty of options for your money too.

HDR performance is, as expected, not the best you’ll find around, and you might find the highlights lacking in particular. Once you remember its comparative price though, it’s easy enough to forgive —

4. LG C2

Despite not having the latest QD OLED tech (and therefore not reaching the same brightness levels offered by the Sony and Samsung offerings on our list), the LG C2 remains one of the best 4K TVs in the US. Plenty bright enough (especially for viewing in dimmer rooms), it offers all the superb blacks and punchy colours that OLED displays are famed for.

Our pick of the range is the 42in model, which is not only easier on your wallet, but also ideal for use as a dual PC monitor/TV setup — especially when you take its more manageable screen size, 4K resolution, HDMI 2.1 support, and 120Hz gaming performance into account.

5. Hisense U8H

Hisense’s U8H is a very solid mid-range offering that serves up a 4K LED screen, powered by Google TV for access to all of your favourite apps and games at the touch of a button. Another win, especially at this price, is support for both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision HDR, which is something that cannot be said of its Samsung rival.

Obviously, given the nature of its LED panel, it can’t compete against the inky blacks and in-your-face immersion offered by OLED alternatives, but it gets plenty bright, with two HDMI 2.1 ports for next-gen gaming at a fluid 120Hz.

How to choose the best 4K TV for you

Buying a television is a big purchase, one that you’ll have to live with for a long time (much longer than a smartphone), so when buying a 4K TV there several crucial factors that should guide your decision-making process.

The first thing you’ll want to consider is the screen size. You need to get a TV that best suits your viewing environment. A larger screen can offer a more immersive experience, but it must fit comfortably within your available space.

There are also plenty of important specs and features you’ll want to look out for, such as HDR, OLED, refresh rates, and viewing angles.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) support is a must when buying a modern television. HDR enhances contrast and colour range, resulting in more vivid and lifelike images. Look for TVs that support popular HDR formats like HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG.

The type of panel is also important. OLED panels tend to offer superior contrast and colour accuracy but may come at a higher price point. LED/LCD TVs, on the other hand, are generally more budget-friendly, but can’t match OLED for contrast and colour accuracy.

The refresh rate is a key specification for reducing motion blur. This is especially important if you’re into gaming or watching fast-paced sports. Higher refresh rates like 120Hz or 240Hz can provide smoother motion.

Viewing angles can be important, especially if you have a wide seating arrangement. OLED TVs typically offer wider viewing angles compared to certain LED/LCD models.

Now, most modern 4K TVs are equipped with smart features, such as built-in streaming apps, voice control, internet connectivity, and the ability to stream content from your smartphone. If you have a favourite streaming service, make sure it’s available on the television before you buy it.

If you own multiple game consoles, media players, set-top boxes and streaming sticks, ensuring you have sufficient ports and connectivity options for your devices is crucial. You want to aim for around four HDMI ports, and if you plan to use your TV for gaming with next-gen consoles, make sure these ports have HDMI 2.1 support.

The TV’s audio quality should not be overlooked. While some 4K TVs have better built-in speakers than others, if you’re really serious about audio you’ll want to upgrade to an external sound system, like soundbars or home theater systems.

Finally, it’s important to note that design and aesthetics matter too. You’ll want a TV that fits well with your room’s decor. Slim bezels and sleek designs are popular choices, while you can now also get televisions that look like paintings when in standby mode.

• Read more: The 32 best things to watch on Netflix US right now

We’ve rounded up a selection of the best auto mowers below, including traditional ones that require laying down a boundary wire (to prevent them from rolling off into the sunset), and more high-tech versions which make use of fancy GPS, cameras, and sensor tech to help keep them on track.

Before you settle on the best robot lawn mower for your needs, it’s wise to double-check the size of your garden, and the angle of your steepest slope. If you don’t, you might end up with one that doesn’t have enough power to get the job done.

And remember — because most robot lawn mowers chop up grass so finely, you don’t have to worry about picking up cuttings after they’re done. In fact, the mulched grass cuttings are a handy source of nutrition, letting your garden flourish with less work required. Clever, eh?

What’s the best robot lawn mower?

The Segway Navimow i105 (read more) is more affordable, can cut shorter and have more smarts than the previous version. AI-assisted satellite mapping means no boundary wire; a 140° camera with built-in Al algorithms detects more than 20 types of common garden objects to dodge.

Other robot lawn mower recommendations

Want an alternative to the Navimow? You got it. Here are a few other top picks, ahead of our comprehensive list of the best robot lawn mowers:

The best robot lawn mowers you can buy today:

1. Segway Navimow i105

Segway’s first-gen Navimow impressed when it launched in the UK barely a year ago; now this new model supersedes it. The i105 and bigger-batteried i108 are more affordable, can cut shorter and have more smarts. AI-assisted satellite mapping means no boundary wire; a 140° camera with built-in Al algorithms detects more than 20 types of common garden objects to dodge. The camera also aids navigation if the satellite signal is poor, helping the mower stay within your boundary.

The new Navimow can also sense a rainy day and automatically hold off when conditions aren’t right for mowing. 4G is an optional extra (£100 including a year’s data), letting you track the mower and tinker with settings wherever you are.

Is it any good?

The Navimow triangulates satellite signals using a separate antenna for precise positioning without a wire. So you have to mount the antenna somewhere with plenty of sky, and the lawn itself shouldn’t be overshadowed by buildings and trees. The antenna mounts on a metal post and connects with a long wire to the mower’s charging dock, so you only need one power socket to serve both. Neat.

Setup was supremely easy out of the box: the app, Bluetooth pairing and Wi-Fi setup all just worked the first time. Then you use your phone like a remote control to take the mower around the lawn perimeter for mapping. It takes a bit of time to master this but it is, frankly, fun. You can store multiple lawns, add fancy stuff to the map – passages, no-mow zones around flowers or hazards – and define whether to straddle the edges of boundaries or not.

With the map made and uploaded, it took a single tap on the app to mow. And this is where the compact Navimow went from impressive to outstanding. I could see from the app that it was mowing the garden in long rows rather than randomly. Progress was visible on screen and the mowing results were efficient and neat. Not a blade of grass was missed and the edging performance was great; then it docked itself to await further instructions.

2. EcoFlow Blade with Sweeping Kit

The EcoFlow Blade is one of the most advanced robot lawnmowers currently available. Thanks to an impressive array of tech and sensors, it’s able to navigate your lawn to within an inch of accuracy, without the need for pesky boundary wire. And, thanks to a combination of visual sensors and LiDAR, it can intelligently recognise and avoid obstacles as well. Opt for the additional Sweeping Kit, and it will even helpfully collect leaves and other debris, leaving your lawn truly spotless.

3. Worx Landroid Vision L1300

This one doesn’t depend on a boundary wire or GPS to define where to mow: it uses a Full HD camera and AI to navigate. The mower identifies what is and isn’t lawn, aiming to cut up to the grass edge but no further. It also has a rain sensor and can postpone its work for drier conditions if necessary.

The AI evolves, learning from real-world experiences. That knowledge then helps to shape firmware updates, which are delivered over the air to all Vision mowers. This one handles lawns of up to 1300m², which won’t do if you live in Blenheim Palace; other models in the range have maximum mowing areas ranging from 600m² to 1600m².

Unlike some robot mowers, this one can just be popped on the lawn and left to do its thing. But it won’t run over non-grass areas: if you want it to cross a path and mow a second section of lawn, you can fit two RFID markers (supplied) in the grass – one on each side – to tell it where to make the crossing. It also comes with two bendy magnetic strips that you can embed in the lawn to fence off ‘no mow’ zones if you need to protect patches, but ordinary borders should be detected fine.

Is it any good?

The initial setup involved a firmware update (over the air or USB), but I’m assured that this isn’t usually needed. After app setup and charging, the mower set forth for a good explore. It didn’t mow – it just went around the perimeter until it got back to its charging base. It did get stuck once when a wheel overshot a brick border, but this was on me and my poor base placement. It didn’t happen when I set it up better.

Once up and mowing, it handled itself immaculately. Results were impressively consistent, even on the first mow, and the edges were great for a robot. The Worx’s styling is a bit ‘boy racer’ but its performance is hard to fault. It works well out of the box, figuring out the lawn for itself. It’s clever but doesn’t try too hard – this thing is not over-engineered. And while the tech is straightforward, it comes with accessories that let you direct it around more complex lawns.

4. Yard Force Compact 300RBS

Yard Force’s entry is one of the cheapest offerings on our list, making it a great entry-level option. Despite its price, it offers a respectable 300m² coverage area, which you can manually set yourself using a boundary wire. Its iRadar ultrasonic sensor tech helps it avoid obstacles, while Bluetooth for app control, coupled with the ability to return to its charging station when rain is detected, make for some impressive functionality at this price.

5. Stihl iMow 6

Here’s the only mower on test that works with a perimeter wire. In fact, it also needs a wire across the middle of the lawn – this guides the mower home to its docking station and also splits the garden into two independent zones.

This all-new model has a swing-tip blade system, a new design, jazzier lights and a new interface: large, simple buttons on top let you mow, stop, send it home or get info. The My iMow app has the same features as previous models, including scheduling, but adds controls such as changing the cutting height (17 choices between 20 and 60mm) or telling it to only mow one side of the lawn.

The iMow 6 has a generous mowing area of up to 3000m² and sits in the middle of Stihl’s 2024 range. The pricier Evo model (£2799) adds a 4G SIM card, so it doesn’t need to be in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi range for app control.

Is it any good?

This one mows quietly and the finish is excellent. Its three free-swinging blades ensure a clean cut and rotation changes direction regularly to extend their lifespan. Initial wire setup is straightforward, but dealer setup (from around £200) is best for large or complex gardens. There’s no drop sensor, but run the perimeter cable in from the edge, loop it around that pond and back out again and the iMow will cross the double wire OK but won’t go inside the single-wire loop. Clever.

And the app is nicely intuitive. It’s easy to schedule mowing and adjust settings, while an onboard sensor detects rain and pauses to protect wet grass, rescheduling to make up lost time. It also adapts speed to the terrain for an even cut, and works out the best way back to the docking station to avoid leaving tracks by going over the same route each time.

It will slow down when it detects an obstacle, only lightly touching it (yes, I stood in front of it repeatedly to test this). Security includes geofenced controls that lock if it’s taken away from its garden. I’ve tested previous models of the Stihl iMow and this is quite literally a cut above. And that wire gives supreme accuracy.

6. Husqvarna Automower 320 Nera

Bought solo, the Nera is a regular robo-mower that needs a perimeter wire. But I tested it with the Epos kit (taking the total to £4417), which makes it a modern machine that navigates via satellite location with no wire required.

It looks very cool, but be warned: because both the mower and the Epos kit need a good satellite link, it won’t cope well if your lawn is under tree cover. Two devices means it needs two outdoor power sockets too. The satellite mapping sets the perimeter and can also be used to map stuff like trees or garden furniture. The mower can navigate narrow paths too, varying its route to avoid leaving ugly tracks. It handles slopes well thanks to a pivoting front axis, but exactly how well is complicated: it can handle up to 50% in the middle but only 25% at the perimeter.

Is it any good?

Dealer setup is standard with the Epos, so a chap from Autocut delivered it and set it up. He figured out line-of-satellite-sight placement then navigated the Nera via an app, driving it like an RC car and laying digital waypoints at each turn to map the perimeter. Thanks to the satellite, pins are precise. The mowing results were impressive. Those digital waypoints ensure accuracy: very little grass was left unmowed at the edges, just a few centimetres.

But it doesn’t sense objects: instead, it bumps into them, stops, folds away its blades and turns to head in another direction. This works, but at this price, it’s surprising that it doesn’t have a camera or similar. Pricier Automowers use radar to sense and stop short of obstacles; if you’re going to the expense of a Nera with Epos, might as well go all the way with the 430X or 450X.

7. Bosch Indego S 500

The standout feature of this Bosch robot lawn mower is its LogiCut feature, which maps out your lawn to enable cutting in efficient, parallel lines, making for a faster session compared to some rivals. A MultiArea feature also lets it cut additional lawn areas, while it’s also clever enough to pass through passages as narrow as 75cm between its boundary wires. It also starts each session by cutting the borders of your lawn, for a neat, tidy finish,

8. Segway Navimow

Yes, Segway also makes a robot lawn mower, and it’s an impressive feat of grass-cutting engineering, thanks to its ability to accurately navigate your garden without the need for perimeter wire. With a rugged build and large tread wheels for coping with mud and rough terrain, it’ll trundle along merrily without complaint. Spring for the newer object recognition VisionFence Sensor module, and it’ll happily deal with obstacles too.

• Read more: Segway Navimow review

9. Ambrogio ZR Evo

This novel mini robot mower only has a cutting width of 18cm but who cares? There’s no rush because you don’t have to do the work. It trundles around for hours tending to your lawn. If necessary, it recharges then goes out a second time.

The Ambrogio is tiny. It weighs half as much as most robot mowers. It looks like a remote-controlled truck and you can pick it up easily with one hand – most are heavy to lug.

It features Bluetooth but not WiFi, so you need to be near it to change settings and schedules. Or when ordering get an optional, factory-fitted GSM Connect module to add 4G. This includes two years of data and adds geofencing and tracking as well as remote control from afar.

It uses high-frequency radar and AI analysis to sense grass, comparing it to a vast database. If it senses ‘not grass’ then it turns around, so it’s no good for lawns with stepping stones or bare patches. An ultrasonic cliff sensor spots drops but the sensitivity can be tuned, so it copes with a bumpy lawn yet doesn’t fall down steps.

You adjust cutting height manually with a special screwdriver. An onboard rain sensor means it can reschedule mowing if conditions are wet. And the blade should last at least a year because it reverses direction every 100 hours of mowing.

Is it any good?

The first thing that stands out about the Ambrogio is that you can mow immediately, ‘drop and go’. Take it out of the box, pop it on the lawn and press Start. You don’t need to program it or even set up the charging dock. Mowing uses onboard sensors, with no mapping. You DIY the rest. There’s no perimeter wire, just a short wire to guide the mower to its dock.

I was half-impressed with the performance. The mowing results were good, with a border of 10cm of unmown grass only on the edges beside a wall. This reduces to 7cm over time. But level borders were more of a challenge. If you have a level border at least 25cm deep, like a patio, the Ambrogio works brilliantly: it senses where the grass ends and overshoots on purpose, straddling the edge just enough to mow it all. But I tested it on a lawn which, like many gardens, had a single row of bricks separating the grass from the borders. This just wasn’t deep enough to meet its specs, so the mower crossed the brick, sometimes savaged the primroses and got stuck.

The mower has two chunky rear wheels, smaller castors at the front. The front axle is self-levelling, to keep four wheels on the ground at all times. Usually, if the mower overshot the brick border, it pulled itself back fine. But sometimes it got stranded, one castor stuck over the edge, and sent my phone a push notification to rescue it.

You can adjust sensitivities via app but really the solution is to tweak the garden. The easiest way was to rake out a little bit of soil on the border side of the brick. The mower’s ultrasonic cliff sensor detects drops of at least 5cm.

Get your borders compliant and mowing is impressive as long as you don’t have stepping stones or bare patches. The size and ability to ‘drop and go’ makes it the most portable robotic mower I’ve seen. You can carry it through the house and pop it on your front lawn. Hell, you could even mow a friend’s lawn… and who wouldn’t invite you for lunch if you promised to mow the lawn?! Stuff says Small, portable, affordable. Mows straight out of the box, but check it will work with your lawn edges.

10. Honda Miimo HRM 3000 Live

Top of Honda’s robotic range, the HRM 3000 Live has a huge 4,000m² mowing area (around an acre), mowing for around 90 minutes at a time before recharging for the next session. Its 3G/4G SIM card enables remote app monitoring from anywhere, while GPS tracking lets you view the mower’s location and create a geofenced operating area to protect against theft. Perimeter wire and a charging dock are included, while sensors detect bumps (objects, pets, people) and lifting or tilting, stopping the blades automatically.

11. LawnMaster L10

A great stepping stone into the world of robot lawn mowers, this wallet-friendly model is a simple, solid, reliable option, which uses boundary wire to get the job done. Once set up, the LawnMaster L10 does its thing automatically, and can be set to mow each day, or every other day depending on the size of your garden. It does all this without an app, for even less fuss. Self-charging, quiet, and with adjustable cutting heights, there’s a lot to love, especially at this price.

12. Husqvarna Automower 435X AWD

The Range Rover of the robot mowing world, with all-wheel drive, GPS – including theft tracking – and the ability to create different zones for different bits of your garden, the 435X AWD has enough power to mow lawns of up to 3,500m2 with slopes of up to 70%. The 435X looks like a small Bentley and costs much the same as a second-hand car, but if you’re looking for the ultimate robot mower, you’ll grin every time you see it and every time you look at your lawn.

13. Worx Landroid L

There’s plenty to love about Worx’s offering. It’s got an offset blade, for a start, which means a tidier edge than most rivals. Its charging station, too, has been thoughtfully designed to allow grass to grow through the grid-like base, letting it blend in with the rest of your garden. It’s also clever enough to learn about your specific lawn, automatically building itself the perfect schedule according to the growth rate of your grass. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

14. Husqvarna Automower Aspire R4

The Aspire R4 is fully compatible with smart home setups like Google Home and Alexa, and is clever enough to adjust its sessions according to your lawn’s growth rate. Special sensors let it navigate the slimmest of passages with ease, while a frost guard feature interrupts the mowing schedule in cold conditions, to help protect your precious grass. As with many of the other premium mowers in this list, it can easily be rinsed clean too, making for minimal maintenance.

15. Flymo EasiLife 250 Go

Ideal for small to medium gardens, the 250 Go is a fuss-free option that lacks screens or complex programming. Instead, it’s capable of automatically adjusting itself to a schedule based on the weather, although you can also tweak things via an app. The intelligent guide wire also allows for programmable starting points if you’re looking to cut multiple cutting areas of lawn, while it’s also capable of navigating through narrow passages without trouble.

16. Eeve Willow

Eeve’s long-awaited mower (crowdfunded as the Toadi) needs no perimeter wire… but it does need you to rethink what you expect garden tech to look like.

The Willow is available in C-3PO Gold, Solo Silver or Leia White (what, no Vader Black?). So yes, it’s designed by nerds, for nerds. You won’t find it at your local garden centre. It’s highly customisable, and you can also add a herbicide sprayer, while future plans include a leaf shredder, a brush and an edger.

Is it any good?

The compact Willow is the best-looking of this bunch, although the textured finish looks sure to hold onto dirt – especially in white. The little dock is contactless; it’s hard to tell if the Willow is charging. And the 1.5m power cable is too short for most garden setups. But if you have a patio on the same level as the lawn, it can dock there and drive itself to the grass.

App setup is easy: hold the QR code in front of the mower’s camera to pair up. You’ll see a satellite map; now draw the lawn and dock. This doesn’t set a mowing path – it just gives the Willow an idea of how much time to budget for a mow. Then it does a short exploratory trip to find edges and obstacles – in my case this left a weird set of lines on the lawn till next time.

I struggled with setup at times but the Willow has 4G built in for remote access. With your permission, an expert calls to help set this up. (4G is disabled after the first month unless you subscribe, but Eeve can activate it at any time, for example to locate the mower if it’s stolen.)

The lawn was a bit tufty at first but obstacle detection was great: the camera sensed trees, toes and climbing frames, and turned just short of them. Not so good was edge performance, which left 30cm unmowed. I got this down to 20cm by selecting the ‘Daredevil’ setting… but any more daring and it got stuck. The ambitious planned add-ons mean this is potentially more than a mower. But the absence of a display or buttons means it can be hard to fathom what it’s up to.

17. Gardena Silenio Minimo 250

The Sileno prides itself on being the quietest mower in its class, with a noise level of just 57db(A), making it ideal for close-knit neighbourhoods. Able to operate in all weather and terrain, it can also be easily rinsed off with a hose for quick and easy cleaning. Although it relies on boundary wire, it still uses clever AI for accurate mobility, and offers some pretty appealing functionality at a reasonable mid-range price.

18. Husqvarna Automower 405X

The 405X is packed with features, including the ability to create temporary stay-out zones via an accompanying app. On-board GPS creates a map and registers parts of your lawn it’s already covered, letting it create a more efficient mowing pattern. With a weather timer, smart home integration, GPS theft protection, and more, it’s a premium choice for those with lawns up to 600m².

How to buy the best robot lawn mower

When purchasing a robot lawn mower, several key factors should guide your decision to ensure you select the best model for your yard or garden.

First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the size and terrain of your lawn. Different models come with varying cutting widths and coverage capacities. It’s crucial to assess whether your lawn is flat or has slopes, as some robot mowers are better equipped to handle uneven landscapes.

The size of your lawn will also determine what battery life you’ll need the robot lawn mower to have. Make sure the robot mower’s battery life is sufficient to cover your entire lawn in a single mowing session.

Secondly, pay attention to the cutting height and cutting options provided by the robot mower. You’ll want to look for models that offer adjustable cutting heights to match your preferences. Some mowers even feature multiple cutting modes like mulching or side discharge, providing additional versatility when mowing.

The cutting system and blades of the mower should not be overlooked. Most robot lawn mowers use rotating blades underneath – it’s a good idea to look at the cost of replacements as these can often get damaged.

The navigation system and sensors are critical parts of a robot mower, and this has seen a massive change in recent years. Older robot lawn mowers use boundary wires, which you’ll need to place around the edge of your lawn. The robot will then bounce around inside the boundary wire. Newer models now feature GPS and other sensors, which makes the setup and obstacle avoidance much easier.

These more modern robot mowers will also often come with smart features, such as smartphone connectivity. Like the best robot vacuums, this enables you to schedule mowing sessions, monitor progress remotely, and make adjustments as needed.

If you plan you leave your mower outside rain or shine, you’ll have to look out for a model with weather resistance. This allows the robot mower to withstand various weather conditions, including rain and UV exposure.

You’ll be happy to know that the best robot lawn mowers are typically quieter than their traditional counterparts. This is important because your robot mower will be working a lot more regularly than a traditional mower. But, while the noise levels are generally quieter, the levels can still vary, so if you don’t want to annoy your neighbours, look for models with lower decibel (dB) ratings.

Lastly (although by no means least), if you’re worried about safety, most mowers have tilt sensors that halt blade rotation if the mower is lifted. You can also look for more advanced safety features, such as collision sensors to prevent accidents with obstacles.

If you prefer to get the job done yourself and don’t want a robot stealing your job, check out Stuff’s guide to the best cordless lawn mowers for wire-free mowing.

From portable party starters to properly hefty stereos, the round-up below features our pick of the top outdoor speakers for every space and budget. Some can slip in a backpack, while others require more muscle to move. Size aside, each option in our list is designed to deliver sweet beats outside while shrugging off surprise showers.

Not sure which is best for your picnic party? We’ve also shared some handy buying tips to help you decide. The playlist’s up to you. Once you’ve read this list, you might want to check out Stuff‘s guide to the best Bluetooth speaker, which is full of great options as well.

What’s the best outdoor speaker you can buy?

The best outdoor speaker for most people is the Tribit StormBox Micro (buy now). Despite its incredibly compact size, it still produces crisp, clear, loud, and bassy results, with the added benefit of a waterproof rating for true on-the-go performance. Easy to take anywhere and affordably priced, it won’t let you down.

Other outdoor speaker recommendations

Don’t feel like grabbing the Tribit StormBox Micro? No worries. There are plenty of other candidates for the best outdoor speakers for you:

The best outdoor speakers you can buy today:

1. Tribit StormBox Micro 2

The award-winning StormBox Micro 2 is a seriously tiny speaker that’s won fans over with incredible power, clarity, and bass for its size. Despite its pocketable stature, it still offers 12 hours of use per charge, with fast USB-C charging thrown in for good measure.

An IP67 waterproof rating lets it shrug the elements off with ease, while a handy clip lets it attach to anything from bags and handlebars, to poles and tree branches.

2. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

Capable of impressive sound despite its more compact package, the Wonderboom 3 offers enough juice to blast out tunes for 14 hours, with 360-degree sound ensuring that no one misses any notes.

Waterproof, dustproof, and with the ability to float on water for maximum pool fun (it can even be submerged), it’s an ideal solution for those looking for a hardy compact speaker in a wide range of bright colours.

3. JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi

Forget tepid beer and charred patties: backyard grilling is all about that bass. And if meaty tunes are on the menu, this waterproof whopper is what you need. Beefy at 6.7kg, it pairs an 80W sub with two passive radiators to fatten up the beats. Plus this edition is seasoned with Wi-Fi. Still hungry? Use PartyBoost to create a sonic salad with compatible JBL jukeboxes.

4. Sonos Roam

From main stage to acoustic tent, open-air audio is served in many settings. Don’t know your way around an equaliser? This satchel-friendly Sonos does the adjusting for you: shift to a different arena and Auto Trueplay tunes the output to suit your surroundings. Its premium build is worth of a headline slot, while IP67 waterproofing makes it an all-weather performer.

• Read more: Sonos Roam review

5. Bose SoundLink Flex

Boat parties might be a holiday highlight, but a submerged speaker will soon sink the vibes. Keep the fun afloat with this hardy hailer: buoyant by design, it’ll bob back up if you drop it in the drink. A steel grille and silicone shell reinforce its hardcore credentials, while PostionIQ smarts optimise the audio based on its orientation – whether hanging dry or lying on deck.

6. Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore

Nothing says rugged like a built-in carabiner. Made small but tough, B&O’s clippable barrel is designed to take a beating. At 637g, its anodised aluminium armour can survive adventures without being a burden on your backpack.

Beneath its sheath lives a battery good for 27 hours, as well as drivers that deliver omnidirectional audio refined for the great outdoors.

7. Sony SRS-XG300

Sony’s rather attractive minimalist speaker has curves in all the right places, along with the promise of clear sound, with plenty of bass to get things thumping. And if you aren’t convinced by the latter, the addition of a dedicated Mega Bass button should soon put your mind at ease.

With an IP67 water and dustproof rating, 25 hours of battery life, and some subtle lighting effects thrown in for good measure, it manages to combine all the right elements without being too gaudy.

8. Samsung ST40B Sound Tower Speaker

If you need some serious audio chops for your next house/pool party, look no further than Samsung’s 160W tower. With a wide soundstage capable of reaching the far corners of even the largest gardens (with plenty of bass to match), your guest will love it.

Though we can’t say the same for any close neighbours. IPX5 water resistance offers peace of mind, while 12 hours of battery life is a respectable figure for something of this size and power. Built-in RGB lights, and the ability to play music from multiple connected devices are welcome additions to an already impressive bit of kit.

9. Tribit StormBox Blast

With a room-filling 90W power output and IPX7 waterproof rating, Tribit’s aptly-named StormBox Blast is ready for any party, inside and out. Its crisp, clear, and bassy results are matched by accompanying RGB lighting effects which, naturally, put on a light show in time with the music (in addition to indicating the current volume level).

You can switch the effects/colours on offer, or turn them off entirely if you’re after something more low-key, while a handy built-in handle and impressive 30 hours of battery life round off the specs rather nicely.

10. Marshall Middleton

Between big gigs and tour bus benders, life on the road can take its toll. Luckily, this mini amp from Marshall has the build to match its rock-star styling. Reassuringly solid at 1.8kg, the mighty Middleton is dustproof and water-resistant.

A multi-directional driver setup immerses all your roadies in the post-show playlist, while Stack mode lets you build a wall of sound. Its sturdy shell also uses recycled plastic, because nothing says punk like sustainability.

11. Sony SRS-XE300

Putting the ‘fun’ in fundamental scientific principles, this pentagonal player employs the physics of diffraction to spread the aural energy. Channelling sound through a narrow slot, it distributes waves over a wider area. The result? A consistent listen, front and side.

Shock-tested and shielded against the elements, it also saves battery by adjusting for background noise, while non-circular diaphragms use pressure to amp up the punch.

12. Ultimate Ears Hyperboom

Toddlers might be entertained by empty boxes, but it takes more than cardboard to start a proper party. This megalithic cuboid hits the right angles: with power in spades, it majors on outdoor oomph. An IPX4 rating means it’s safe to splash, while an integrated mic helps it adapt the boom to the room. And thanks to four sources, you can divide the DJ duties.

13. Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus

Trekking wisdom dictates that shoulders are for supplies. The trouble is, there are only so many melodies you can make by drumming on mess tins. Leave the backpacks to your hiking buddies and haul this hi-fi into the hills. Lug it by belt or handle and your reward will be 20 hours of punchy waterproof audio. Adjust it via the Soundcore app for better backcountry beats.

How to buy the best outside speaker

Buying an outside speaker is a lot like one of the best wireless speakers, Bluetooth speakers, or even the best cheap Bluetooth speakers.

Of course, the most important thing about buying an outdoor speaker is its weather resistance, since outdoor speakers will be exposed to the elements. It’s crucial, then, that the speaker you buy has some form of weather resistance or weatherproofing. Look for speakers with an IPX rating that indicates their resistance to water and dust. The higher the ratings, for example, IP55, IP56, IP57 etc, the more protection you’ll get.

It’s important to note that outdoor environments often require speakers with higher power ratings to overcome ambient noise and cover a larger area. So if you’re planning a backyard bash, you’ll want to consider the wattage of the speakers to ensure they can deliver the volume you need without distortion.

Consider also how you plan to play music from your outside speaker. Bluetooth speakers are easy to set up and use with mobile devices, while Wi-Fi speakers might offer better range and multi-room capabilities.

Once you’ve read this list, you might want to check out Stuff‘s guide to the best Bluetooth speaker, which is full of great options as well.

That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the very best gas and charcoal outdoor grills to help make your buying decision that little bit easier.

If you’re in the UK, then you can check out our guide to the best BBQ.

What’s the best outdoor grill?

We reckon the Blackstone 4-Burner Griddle (buy now) is one of the outdoor grills in the US, thanks to the sheer convenience offered by its massive flat griddle surface area. Perfect for smash burgers, stir-fries, and much, much more, it’s as versatile to use as it is easy to clean.

Other best outdoor grill recommendations

If the Blackstone 4-Burner Griddle isn’t your cup of tea, no worries. There are plenty of other grills we know you’ll like.

The best outdoor grills in the US you can buy today:

1. Blackstone 4-Burner Griddle

Some people are put off by the lack of grill grates on a BBQ, which means they’re forever missing out on the joy that flat griddles can bring to your outdoor cooking game — and this gas-powered offering from Blackstone is one of the best ones around.

Its large flat surface makes it ideal for producing perfect smash burgers, thanks to the vast surface area on offer, making for complete contact with patties for a truly crispy finish. Anything from stirfries, and vegetables, to pancakes, steak, and more are all fair game, while built-in air-fryer drawers will come in incredibly handy for side dishes like fries.

If you can get past the lack of a flame-grilled finish, this is easily one of the best outdoor grills in the US that money can buy.

2. Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18in Charcoal Grill

Instantly recognisable and undeniably eye-catching, Kamado Joe’s 18in charcoal grill features a thick-walled, heat-resistant shell that locks in delicious smoke and moisture for sumptuous slow-cooked perfection.

Its two-tier system lets you tackle multiple dishes at once, while a cast iron top vent lets you maintain consistent air settings for smoking at temps from 225F all the way up to a smouldering 750F.

With a whole host of compatible accessories to let you mix and match cooking styles, the results are bound to be as delicious, while cleanup is easily taken care of by a handy slide-out ash drawer.

3. Traeger Timberline XL

The Traeger Timberline XL is a premium bit of kit for those who love deliciously juicy, smokey, slow-cooked delicacies. Capable of slow-cooking and smoking its contents for more than 24+ hours, the fall-off-the-bone results will make you a legend in your circle of BBQ enthusiasts.

It’s all thanks to a built-in capacious wood pellet container (complete with automatic pellet feeder), which, combined with a handy app, lets you keep on top of cook times and temps too. This means you can spend more time with guests, and/or chilling inside while the Timerline XL works its magic.

With enough space for 12 chickens, 16 rib racks, or 12 pork butts (and a built-in induction cooktop for cooking and searing side dishes), this is an investment that will pay mouth-watering dividends for years to come.

4. Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Grill

This compact two-burner grill is ideal for smaller places where space is a premium, with folding side shelves reducing its total footprint to impressively minute levels.

While it might not be enough to feed an entire Superbowl party, it’s more than enough for small gatherings, and can be converted for use with natural gas quickly and easily, thanks to dual energy valves.

With angled stainless steel flame tamers to prevent dripping and flare-ups, wheels for easy transportation, and slick electronic ignition, it’s a masterclass in compact flame-grilled convenience.

5. Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500

Black never goes out of fashion. It’s stealthy. It’s mysterious. It absorbs light like no one’s business. And if you yourself embrace the shadows, then you can’t get a more suitable grill than the Phantom Prestige from Napoleon.

Clad in black from lid to wheel, its imposing presence is matched only by its barbequing prowess. Standout features include a large 500-square-inch cooking area, a warming rack, an infrared side burner (perfect for searing steaks), and even a rotisserie kit.

Throw in a reliable ignition system, built-in thermometer, and LEDs for comfortable low-light use, and you’ve got yourself a grill that Bruce Wayne himself would be proud to have lurking in the nooks of the Batcave.

6. Pit Boss Platinum Laredo 1000

Pit Boss’ more compact pellet grill and smoker is a more affordable alternative to Traeger’s Timberline XL, making it more suitable for those tight on space and/or budget.

With a smart black/chrome finish, it looks the business, with app connectivity for letting you manage your cook remotely and two stainless steel meat probes included for extra accuracy.

Built-in grill lighting will come in handy for nighttime cooks, while an ash cleanout system makes for a tidier post-meat coma cleanup.

How to buy the best outdoor grill

In the market for an outdoor grill or barbecue? There are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice for your outdoor cooking needs.

The first thing you’ll need to decide on is the type of grill you want. You can choose from three main options: charcoal, gas, or electric grills (more on that in the next section).

Size matters definitely matters when it comes to grills – think about how many people you typically cook for. Do you regularly host larger gatherings and special events, or do you cook a few burgers at the weekend for yourself and your partner? A grill that’s the correct size will make your life much easier.

If you don’t need a large grill, then you could consider a portable grill, which allows you to grill in multiple locations.

Grill material is another crucial aspect to consider. Stainless steel or cast iron grates are highly recommended due to their durability and their ability to retain heat effectively.

This also has an impact on the ease of cleaning and maintenance (this is essential for the long-term care of your grill). You’ll want a grill with removable grates and a drip pan for efficient grease collection.

If you’re serious about outdoor cooking, heat output is paramount for achieving that perfect sear and cooking various types of food effectively. You’ll want to check the grill’s BTU (British Thermal Units) rating to gauge its heating power and suitability for your needs.

On top of this, you’ll want precise temperature control for achieving consistent cooking results. Opt for a grill with adjustable controls to fine-tune the heat to your liking.

For really serious grillers, some models come with extra features such as side burners, warming racks, rotisserie kits, and integrated thermometers.

Charcoal vs. Gas vs. Electric

Are you having trouble deciding between a charcoal, gas or electric grill? Here’s a rundown of the pros and cons of each model.

Charcoal grills offer a unique, almost primal, grilling experience, characterized by their ability to impart a smoky flavour to food. They excel in achieving high temperatures, making them ideal for searing steaks and achieving a crispy exterior on meats.

However, charcoal grills come with a learning curve, as lighting and temperature control can be more challenging. Cleanup can also be messy due to charcoal ash, and they typically take longer to preheat.

They are, however, affordable and portable, making them a popular choice for many.

Gas grills provide unparalleled convenience, starting quickly with the push of a button and offering precise temperature control. They are known for consistent and even heating, making them versatile for various cooking techniques. They also produce minimal mess and are relatively easy to clean.

Gass grills do, however, lack the smoky flavour of charcoal, you can enhance it by adding wood chips or chunks. Gas grills can be more expensive upfront, but they come with features like side burners and rotisserie attachments. They also require a steady supply of propane tanks or a natural gas connection.

Finally, electric grills are incredibly user-friendly, ideal for beginners and versatile for both indoor and outdoor use. They don’t require any fuel; you simply plug them in, and they’re ready to cook within minutes.

While they lack the smoky flavour of charcoal or gas, they offer even heating and consistent results. Electric grills are compact and may lack the cooking area of larger gas or charcoal models.

They are, of course, dependent on access to electrical outlets, which may not be practical in all outdoor settings.

Now check out the best camping accessories.

Some providers like BT and Virgin offer their own mesh network add-ons with select packages that work specifically with their home hubs; other router makers incorporate mesh smarts into their modems to tempt you into staying with the same brand if you expand your network.

In truth, it doesn’t really matter which network you opt for as most will work with your provider. They’re not exactly cheap, but could come in cheaper than a kneejerk reaction to upgrade your broadband package. Here are some that we like the look of.

What’s the best mesh Wi-Fi system?

The Amazon eero 6 mesh (buy now) offers up Wi-Fi 6 speeds for a lot less, that’s why we think it’s the best mesh Wi-Fi network for most people. Amazon’s eero system adds plenty of bang for your buck, with friendly, curvy looks to match.

Other mesh Wi-Fi system recommendations

Before we jump into the full list of the best mesh Wi-Fi systems you can currently buy, here’s a quick look at our top three alternative selections:

The best mesh Wi-Fi routers you can buy today:

1. Amazon eero 6 mesh Wi-Fi 6 router system

If you’re after Wi-Fi 6 speeds for a lot less, then we think Amazon’s eero system offers plenty of bang for your buck, with friendly, curvy looks to match.

Capable of supporting speeds up to 900 Mbps (and with a pair of routers covering 140 square metres), they’re clearly not as souped-up as Netgear’s super-premium Orbi rivals above. But it’s hard to argue against the still-decent features, combined with the far, far more palatable price.

Throw in built-in Zigbee smart hub powers, Alexa support, and support for more than 75 devices, and you’ve got one of the best home mesh router setups for most people.

2. Netgear Orbi WiFi 6E RBKE963B

The first thing you’ll notice about the Orbi RBKE963B (beyond its delightful model number), is its slick, menacing, and oh-so-stylish black paint job. While it also comes in white, we’re hopelessly besotted by its Sith-like looks — but less so with its absolutely eye-watering price tag.

Comfortably the most expensive option on our list, it’s a choice for only the most bleeding-edge users, who want one of the fastest, most high-end setups around, with the gear and workload to match.

With blistering-fast speeds of up to 10.8Gbps, along with the latest 6GHz band to support the latest Wi-Fi 6E devices, you’ll be enjoying unhampered speeds with any Wi-Fi 6-toting PCs, smartphones, and more.

With multiple ethernet ports per router and two satellites covering a massive area of around 700 square metres between them, this is one of the very best home internet solutions around, period. If you’ve got the cash, and the need for speed, look no further.

3. Google Nest Wi-Fi Pro

Google’s homegrown Wi-Fi 6E mesh router system will turn heads with its fat Tic Tac-like design, and it won’t be for everyone. But if you’re after something different, glossy, and minimal, then there’s a certain charm to them that we can’t argue against.

Looks aside, they offer a very reasonable package for the price, with the latest Wi-Fi standards, nippy speeds, and up to 120 square metres of coverage per individual unit. 

Amazon’s eero system has it beat when it comes to value for money, but if you’re a fan of the Google ecosystem and/or love the curvy design, then this is the option for you.

4. Devolo Magic 2

While the Devolo Magic 2 is technically one of the best powerline adaptors, it’s we think it deserves a place on this list because it also doubles up as a mesh network, offering the ultimate in wired/wireless flexibility.

Capable of reducing dead zones and providing important devices like PCs with Ethernet connectivity, this is a fairly inexpensive way to get the best of both worlds. Sure, there are faster alternatives out there, but its Wi-Fi speeds should still be more than enough for most people, especially at this price.

5. Asus ZenWiFi Pro ET12

If you’re serious about home networking and don’t mind paying through the nose for one of the best offerings out there, then you might want to consider the high-end Asus ET12.

It justifies its eye-watering price with a Wi-Fi 6E mesh system, with blistering top speeds of 11Gbps, covering an area of 6,000 sq ft. Other standout features that we appreciate include a 6 GHz band to minimise interference, the ability for 12 simultaneous streams, clever RangeBoost Plus technology, and a design that looks like it’s been lifted from the dashboard of an alien starcruiser.

6. TP-Link Deco XE200

TP-Link’s new Deco XE200 is packed to the circuit boards with the latest and greatest tech, making it one of the best home mesh routers currently available.

Using a 6 GHz band to minimise congestion (with speedy, robust connectivity to boot), it’s powered by an AI-Driven Mesh, which intelligently learns your network environment to provide the best Wi-Fi setup for your home. Not only that, but it’s capable of supporting a massive 200 devices at once, over a generous 6,500 sq ft range, covered by two mesh devices.

Throw in 16-Stream Wi-Fi (which provides simultaneous data transmission with 16 streams for greater bandwidth so multiple users can stream, game and work without problems), and you’ve got yourself a seriously comprehensive bit of kit. You’ll pay a hefty price for it, mind, but if you and your family are forever streaming, downloading, uploading, and generally hammering away at your network, this could be the solution for you.

7. TP-Link Deco PX50

The Deco PX50 stands out from the crowd by offering something that’s truly unique, and, quite frankly, extremely useful.

At first glance, this pair appears to be like any other mesh router offering, with an understated black and white cylindrical design that’ll help them blend in with the rest of your smart home setup. Their real beauty though, lies in their built-in powerline skills.

Rather than relying on wirelessly chaining up their Wi-Fi signals, so to speak, individual PX50 units can rely instead on powerline technology to share their connections, making them an absolute godsend for larger homes and/or those with incredibly thick walls.

Not only are you getting up to 1500 Mbps Wi-Fi 6 speeds, but a pair will also comfortably cover up to around 420 square metres. If you’re worried about having to spend more on a triple-pack with other brands, then the PX50’s built-in powerline magic could save you some cash, with more reliable performance to boot.

• Read more: Best powerline adaptors

8. Linksys AXE8400

Linksys was hot off the blocks in 2017, launching one of the first true home Wi-Fi mesh networks. In truth, we found the original Velop system to be pretty buggy and the nodes suffered from numerous dropouts.

But superfast broadband wasn’t built in a day… and now Linksys has something new. The AXE8400 system retains the brand’s usual straight-up tower-like design, only now it packs in Wi-Fi 6E technology for blazingly fast speeds and superspreading of the good sort: bandwidth. In fact, Linksys says it can manage the demands of more than 65 devices.

The catch is that it’s very expensive indeed – about a grand for a three-node pack – but then, each node is supposed to be good for 3000ft2 of coverage. It’s worth noting that the AXE8400 is also backwards-compatible.

9. Tenda MW6 dual-band mesh Wi-Fi system

Three mesh units at this price make for one of the best value options around in our opinion, with a total covered area of up to 500 metres square making for a formidable whole-home solution.

Naturally, you’ll be compromising a bit on speed and tech, with older Wi-Fi 5 on the cards. Still, max speeds up to 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867 Mbps on 5GHz are far from shabby, and should still be more than enough to meet even the needs of heavy users.

If you need to cover a lot of space and aren’t fussed about reaching the absolute best top speeds (which most of us rarely need anyway), then we think this is a great, sensible option, with the added bonus of futuristic-looking cubes thrown in for good measure.

How to choose the best mesh Wi-Fi system for you

Mesh routers are an amazing solution for covering each and every corner of your house in strong, speedy Wi-Fi. Rather than relying on a single router which wouldn’t be able to cover such large distances, mesh nodes placed around your home ensure a strong and stable connection, while acting as a single access point to connect to, no matter what room you’re in.

The very best mesh Wi-Fi systems will come with advanced features like a 6 GHz band to minimise interference, the ability for multiple simultaneous streams for busy households, and the latest Wi-Fi 6 and 6E standards for maximum futureproofing.

You might not need all those though, and often, you can pick up a cheaper solution with specs that are more than good enough for your needs. Read through our suggestions below, click on the links to learn more, and see which one is best for you.

• Check out Sky’s featured deals

Trouble is, there are almost too many Sky services and packages to choose from, which is where we come in. We’ve searched high and low for the best Sky deals, and have highlighted some of our top picks below. Happy viewing and/or surfing…

Best Sky broadband deals

Sky has numerous broadband deals on offer, with speeds up to 900Mb/s. We’ve highlighted the best deals below, but you’re welcome to check out this full range of Sky broadband deals directly, if you prefer.

• Sky 145Mb/s Ultrafast Broadband / £28/month, 18 months, £0 setup fee: If you’re after Sky broadband with no extras, this 145Mb/s package is definitely your best bet, costing only £1 more a month than the 36Mb/s package.

• Sky 500Mb/s Ultrafast+ Broadband / £34/month, 18 months, £0 setup fee: Fancy faster speeds for a little more? the 500Mb/s package has you covered.

• Sky 900Mb/s Gigafast Broadband / £42/month, 18 months, £0 setup fee: If speed is everything, then you can’t go wrong with this top-tier package. It might be overkill for some, but if you’re regularly dealing with large downloads in the form of things like large AAA games and multiple simultaneous streaming across different rooms, then this is the package for you.

Best Sky TV and broadband deals

If you’d like a mix of TV and broadband, there are a few choice deals available below, or you can check out Sky’s full range of TV and broadband deals.

Note, for the packages that include Sky Stream (aka, Sky’s dishless streaming box), it’s worth noting what it actually includes — over 300 channels (plus over 100 channels to Freeview), and award-winning Sky Exclusives and Originals. It’ll cost you extra if you want to add things like Sky Sports, Sky Kids, or Sky Cinema.

• Sky Stream, Netflix Standard with Ads & Ultrafast 145Mb/s Broadband / £39/month, 18 months, £0 setup fee: This bundle includes a Sky Stream box (extra subscriptions required), along with the ad-tier version of Netflix, and a broadband package that should be more than fast enough for most people.

• Sky Stream, Netflix Standard with Ads & Ultrafast 500Mb/s Broadband / £39/month, 18 months, £0 setup fee: The same as above, but with a huge leap in broadband speed, up to 500Mb/s. There’s also a 900Mb/s package for £53 a month, but we reckon this particular package hits the price-to-performance sweet spot.

Best Sky TV deals

Already got your internet sorted? Then check out Sky’s full range of TV deals. Our personal picks are below:

• Sky Stream, Sky TV & Netflix / £31/month (£0 for the first month), 31-day rolling contract: This bundle includes a Sky Stream box (including Sky Entertainment consisting over over 300 channels, plus 100+ channels of Freeview, Sky Exclusives, and Originals), along with the ad-tier version of Netflix. The first month is free, after which it’s £31. We particularly like that this is a rolling contract too, which is ideal if you don’t want to commit for a year or more.

• Sky Stream, Sky Sports, Sky TV & Netflix / £46/month (£20 for the first month), 18 months: The same as above, but with the addition of nine dedicated Sky Sports channels.

• Sky Stream, Sky Cinema, Sky TV & Netflix / £36/month (£10 for the first month), 18 months: And if you like movies, this is the package for you, thanks to the inclusion of Sky Cinema.

Best Sky Glass deals

Got your sights set on the Sky Glass TV? Luckily for you, there are plenty of deals for that too.

• Sky Glass 43in UHD TV / £14/month 0% APR, or £699 upfront when taken with a Sky TV & Netflix subscription (£0/month for 3 months, then £26/month): If you’re really looking for an all-in-one, zero hassle solution, then you might as well go for a Sky Glass package which covers not only a new telly, but also Sky TV to help kick things off. Available in 43in, 55in, and 65in sizes.

Best Mobile deals

There are also all manner of deals for Sky Mobile. We’ve picked a couple of our favourites below:

• iPhone 15 Pro Max / From £35/month: Apple’s latest and greatest handset can be yours from as little as £35 a month for the 256GB model, although that only includes 100MB of data. The 25GB/month plan will bump the monthly cost up to a still-respectable £47.
• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra / From £41/month: Samsung’s stunning do-it-all flagship is available from £41 a month for the handset only. This goes up to £56 a month if you want a generous amount of data, around the 50GB/month mark.

• Read more: Best Apple iPad deals — how to save money on the latest Apple tablets

• Read more: Sony Xperia 1 VI review: the golden ratio

Its biggest draw is a whopping 5000mAh battery which, while not a world record holder, is certainly more than acceptable, with two days of use promised per charge. That might not be enough for a week in the desert at Burning Man, but it’s still ideal for a weekend getaway if you’ve forgotten your charger. Sony is also touting its Xperia Adaptive Charging technology, which promises to ensure that the batter stays healthy for three years by continuously monitoring the handset’s charging process to prevent unnecessary strain.

Despite its 6.1-inch Full HD+ OLED display, the Xperia 10 VI is a relatively lightweight handset, tipping the scales at a respectable 164g (the iPhone 15, for comparison, weighs 171g). This, combined with its hardy resin body material, Gorilla Glass Victus, and IP65/68 waterproof and dustproof performance, should offer peace of mind while you’re throwing tumultuous cider-fuelled shapes in a field somewhere.

Round the back, you’ll find a dual camera setup serving up three focal lengths (16mm, 26mm, and 52mm) for shooting, along with OIS and a 2x optical zoom equivalent. Sony is also targeting Reel Enthusiasts with a Video Creator app which generates short videos from your captured photos and video footage.

Another feature worthy of note is an honest-to-goodness, 100% organic, 3.5mm headphone jack which, in this day and age, is an absolute treat. It’ll also go some way to helping preserve that precious battery life, sapping far less energy than Bluetooth headphones or speakers. Sony’s DSEE Ultimate upscaling tech also aims to upscale audio from things like streaming services to a higher, uncompressed quality.

If that all floats your boat, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Xperia 10 VI will be available in Blue, Black and White from the middle of June onwards for £349 / €399 (US pricing and release information TBC). Pre-orders start from the 15 May, directly from Sony or Amazon.

• Read more: This reborn Nokia 3210 is a dumbphone time machine