\nproducts. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about
\n our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.\n<\/p>\n
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Health \/ Leticia Almeida<\/p>\n <\/span> \nIf you\u2019ve been exposed to COVID-19 or feel symptomatic, it\u2019s important to test yourself so you can avoid spreading the virus. However, getting a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test requires a lab visit that can be time-consuming and take days to get your results back. Fortunately, rapid tests allow you to test yourself for the virus without leaving your home, and you can see your results in a matter of minutes. Plus, rapid tests can be used on the go, and are suitable for administering while you\u2019re traveling or at work.\n<\/p>\n iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test is our best overall pick because it\u2019s incredibly easy to use, has minimal testing components, and produces clear results. The Celltrion DiaTrust COVID-19 Ag Home Test is budget-friendly while being easy to administer.<\/p>\n \nSo who should be taking at-home COVID-19 tests? Pretty much anyone\u2014vaccinated as well as unvaccinated. Although vaccination provides some protection from COVID-19, you can still get the disease if you\u2019re vaccinated.<\/span> If you\u2019re experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 such as cough, runny nose, or fever, it\u2019s better to test yourself to be sure of whether or not you have the virus. It\u2019s also recommended that you test if you plan on attending a large gathering such as a wedding, and you want to ensure you don\u2019t mistakenly infect others. \n<\/p>\n \nAt-home COVID-19 tests are typically designed for adult administration. In most cases, adults need to administer them to children aged two to fourteen years, but older kids and adults can test themselves. And it\u2019s a good idea to stick to brands authorized by the FDA and to check expiry dates before use, according to David Souleles, MPH, director of the COVID-19 Response Team at University of California, Irvine. \n<\/p>\n \nWhen looking for an at-home COVID-19 test, you should consider each test\u2019s ease of use, comfort, speed, cost, size, and supportive technology. We tested at-home COVID-19 tests in our lab to narrow down your search. While we didn\u2019t test for accuracy, we did test for ease of use and clarity of instructions to ensure you have the smoothest testing process possible.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nHere are the best at-home COVID-19 tests according to their ease of use.\n<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/p>\n <\/span> <\/p>\n Buy on Amazon<\/span> \nWhy We Like It: <\/strong>This test has minimal components, it\u2019s easy to use, and the results are extremely clear.\n<\/p>\n \nIt\u2019s Worth Noting: <\/strong>You need to pour the solution into the tube yourself (it doesn't come pre-filled like similar brands), which might get messy.<\/p>\n The iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test is an FDA-authorized, over-the-counter, self-administered test that delivers results in 15 minutes. It easily slid into our best overall spot because its results are clearer than most and it has minimal components, which makes testing a breeze.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nThe test requires you to insert about half an inch of a simple nasal swab into your nostril. People aged 15 years and above can administer this test independently, but those aged 2\u201314 years will need assistance from an adult.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nOur testers loved how the test was intuitive enough that you barely needed the printed instructions. \u201cFiguring out what to do with each [component] was straightforward, even without the instructions. So with the instructions, it seems impossible to get wrong,\u201d our tester said. There are also optional step-by-step instructional videos available through the mobile app. The app is available for Apple and Android users and allows an administrator to track results for small group members, which can be useful for events, schools, or work.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nPrice at time of publication: $17<\/strong><\/p>\n Product Details:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Leticia Almeida<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n Amazon<\/p>\n <\/span> Buy on Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n \nWhy We Like It: <\/strong>This at-home test comes in a pack of two at a low price point and is easy to use.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nIt\u2019s Worth Noting:<\/strong> Its instruction booklet isn\u2019t as easy to read as other kits.<\/p>\n Celltrion DiaTrust COVID-19 Ag Home Test is a great option for anyone looking to avoid a high price point. At only $14 for a pack of two, you won\u2019t have to break the bank to test yourself at home with this kit. Our testers said the results are very fast and the color of the strip is exceptionally bright and easy to read. It\u2019s also FDA-approved and has an extended shelf life of 12 to 18 months, so you don\u2019t have to use it right away after purchasing.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nAnd while the test itself was pretty straightforward, we did find that the instruction manual was a little harder to read. Our tester suggested the manual would be improved significantly with a few more illustrations. It\u2019s also important to note that the collection vial included has a rounded shape, so you have to hold it while you collect the nasal swab sample. For that reason, this test may not be great for anyone traveling or on the go. However, for the low price point, we think this test makes up for any negatives.<\/p>\n Price at time of publication: $14<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n \nProduct Details:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Leticia Almeida<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n Buy on Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n \nWhy We Like It:<\/strong> This budget-friendly home COVID-19 test delivers faster results than similar products.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nIt's Worth Noting:<\/strong> The print used in the instructions is pretty tiny and could be harder to read for those with poorer eyesight.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nOn\/Go At-Home COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test delivers results in ten minutes, which is noticeably faster than similar products. Plus, our testers noted that the results were easy to read. The components include a swab solution, test unit, and tray.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nIt\u2019s important to note that there's a warning not to read results after fifteen minutes. So while the test is great for getting results quickly, you have to make sure to read your results within a short, five-minute window.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nOur testers also noted that the tiny print could be a challenge for some, so if you use reading glasses, make sure to have them handy. Overall, if speedy results are crucial, or you don't have time to wait, this test delivers.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nPrice at time of publication: $20<\/strong>\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nProduct Details:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Jessica Juliao<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n Buy on Target<\/span> \nWhy We Like It:<\/strong> Our tester said the instructions were super intuitive.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nIt's Worth Noting: <\/strong>It comes with just one test in the box, so you may need to get more than one to use as a backup in case anything goes wrong.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nAt-home testing can be uncomfortable and stressful, especially for a first-time user. That's where the FlowFlex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test can come in handy. We found it the easiest to use above all other tests. With this test, there\u2019s no hassle, complicated steps, extra technology, or hard-to-use components.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nThe test components include a tube pre-filled with liquid, a testing stick, and a swab. The instructions are intuitive\u2014everything works \u201cjust how you expect them to,\u201d our tester said. There are instructional videos on their site and downloaded instructions in different languages. The compact packaging also supports testing on the go.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nThe only downside is that there's just one test in the pack, so you may need to get more than one in case something goes wrong while testing.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nPrice at time of publication:<\/strong> $8<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n \nProduct Details:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Leticia Almeida<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n Amazon<\/p>\n <\/span> Buy on Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n \nWhy We Like It:<\/strong> It has concise instructions, delivers quick results, and contains up to eight tests in a pack.\n<\/p>\n \nIt's Worth Noting:<\/strong> You need to follow instructions closely because there's an extra step in the process.\n<\/p>\n \nTesting as a family can be expensive and inconvenient. But the Boson Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test Card makes it somewhat easier. Each pack contains up to 8 test kits, which can serve a family of two or more or can be used by a single user multiple times.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nThis FDA-authorized kit contains a swab, solution, test unit, and a tray for the vial. The instructions also have drawings which make them easier to understand. There's also an instructional video available online for more details. And results are pretty quick, coming in at only fifteen minutes.\n<\/p>\n \nHowever, it's important to note the extra step in the process that makes it different from most tests: you need to leave the swab in the solution for a minute before dropping it into the tester.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nPrice at time of publication: $43<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n \nProduct Details:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Leticia Almeida<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n Buy on Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n \nWhy We Like It: <\/strong>It's easy to open, use, and read. And it includes five tests, which makes it a great option for frequent testing or testing large groups.\n<\/p>\n \nIt's Worth Noting:<\/strong> The instructions are in tiny print, and there's an extra step in the process.\n<\/p>\n \nWhen you have to test frequently or you have to test a crowd, you need a product that's easy to use, easy to read, quick, and affordable. This product was designed to be used without assistance and with minimal hassle. This kit has a unique port on the box that you could punch in and use as a holding slot for the testing vial, which our tester loved. \u201cIt is a clever little thing and made the testing so much easier to do,\u201d our tester said.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nHowever, the instructions are written in very small font, so you\u2019ll want to have your glasses nearby. And there\u2019s an extra step in the process that requires you to leave the swab in the testing solution for one minute before dropping it on the test strip.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nPrice at time of publication: $35<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n \nProduct Details:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Leticia Almeida<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n Amazon<\/p>\n <\/span> Buy on Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n \nWhy We Like It: <\/strong>It's easy to use, gentle on the nasal cavity, and comes in a small box that you can easily carry around.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nIt's Worth Noting:<\/strong> At 20 minutes to receive results, it's not the fastest test. And opening some parts of the packaging may be a struggle.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nIf you are going to be away from home for a few days, and you don\u2019t want to expose others to COVID-19 unwittingly, it makes sense to carry a self-test along with you. The Indicaid COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test is easy to administer, read and understand. It's gentle on the nasal cavity and small enough to fit into your hand luggage. There's no app or video to worry about, and its minimalist packaging means less waste and less strain on the environment.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nHowever, our testers noticed that opening some parts of the test kit\u2014such as the packaging for the nasal swab\u2014was tough. Also, the results came in 20 minutes, which is longer than similar products.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n \nPrice at time of publication: $17<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n \nProduct Details:\u00a0<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Jessica Juliao<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n \nThe Health <\/em>team tested the most popular at-home COVID-19 tests to determine which ones were easiest to use and which ones had the easiest results to understand. We paid particular attention to things like the number of steps you needed to take, how easy it was to follow the instructions, and whether or not you needed additional technology or assistance to complete the test.\n<\/p>\n Health \/ Jessica Juliao<\/p>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/p>\n
\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\nTested & Approved<\/h3>\n
Our Recommendations <\/span> <\/h2>\n
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Best Overall: iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"at-home](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/3-A5lPYPTFLI9Bf4xBO7SN02mK4=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/ihealth-covid-19-antigen-rapid-test-472df6c0b59a49029cecd8ec153b2660.jpg\")
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\nBuy on Walmart<\/span>
\nBuy on Bed Bath & Beyond<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Best Best Budget: Celltrion DiaTrust COVID-19 Ag Home Test <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"Celltrion](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/IcCB82fb33oPINCYx5ljqm6TcuU=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/covidtests-1767e24af182429684a9e666e4562a62.jpg\")
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Best for Quick Results: On\/Go At-Home COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Test <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"at-home](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/GAwtG_8DhlMszSqY-9T9GSJ-pl8=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/ongo-on-go-covid-19-antigen-self-test-61273a64236842ea921d128f97f3a760.jpg\")
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![\"On\/Go](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/Z-I9yEZz-KB3qxPb3NmgjvYWinE=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/hlt-home-covid-test-on-go-rapid-antigen-self-jjuliao-7428-9ca834f1576f43e784c9c251c2e1f496.jpg\")
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Easiest to Use: FlowFlex COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Home Test <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"at-home](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/gFMb3TgleCuDeH0wfXoCD7NkEMI=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/flowflex-covid-19-antigen-rapid-home-test-kit-67eaf7dd9df2425084d259587d543767.jpg\")
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\nBuy on CVS<\/span>
\nBuy on Riteaid.com<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n
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![\"FlowFlex](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/uBEf1FRFL5mgXrg8MLS3xvlDTSQ=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/hlt-product-flowflex-covid-19-antigen-home-test-lalmeida-8200-9231191203fd431dbf9203f55246002d.jpg\")
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Best for Families: Boson Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test Card <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"Boson](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/Xu6ZMUXu1mI_AnS2D-FafoMIyZA=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/Boson-Rapid-SARS-CoV-2-Antigen-Test-Card-7684167625e84bdea0304704dc38a46c.jpg\")
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![\"Boson](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/7NFgVrGBpOB3V675afPfx5iNA1o=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/hlt-product-boson-rapid-sars-cov-2-antigen-test-card-lalmeida-0156-696b28dd56944704b33be234b827b397.jpg\")
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Best for Frequent Testing: Clinitest Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"Clinitest](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/RO4HxGmMERS6c2xSm8hbNG5Zisg=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/clinitest-rapid-covid-19-antigen-self-test-convenient-5-pack-07c8d11d7beb4929b8b5cf6f964eaea0.jpg\")
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![\"Clinitest](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/2Wx79Sh9LxInnP64Mjww43DYqc8=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/hlt-product-clinitest-rapid-covid-19-antigen-self-test-lalmeida-0120-f2d9a3eddfe54344800c02833add9a50.jpg\")
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Best for Travel: Indicaid COVID-19 Rapid Antigen At-Home Test <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"Indicaid](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/eqVDbUL17EO9VxeduAHbN61Jse0=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/Indicaid-COVID-19-Rapid-Antigen-At-Home-Test-5b199f6dc3f94c5db1c595b07e59653c.jpg\")
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\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Our Testing Process <\/span> <\/h2>\n
![\"Testing](\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/thmb\/K-oM0HFWfbyE_atf7iDFEgCnJLE=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/hlt-home-covid-test-celltrion-diatrust-jjuliao-7556-220781a0b887408286e1ed1fd2310f67.jpg\")
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